http://amindybodyandspirit.com/Mind/Mind.php Welcome to A Mind Body and Spirit : Mind Category http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Jitbit RSS Feed Creator Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:31:41 +1100 Making The Law Of Attraction Work For You You've read/seen The Secret and it didn't work.. Did you wish for $1million? And then sat down on the couch and expected it to appear? pile of money There's a famous saying that sums that up "stupidity is doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results" You broke up with your boyfriend and got back together.. 3 times! Had you changed? Really? had he changed? If that were true would the pattern have been the same again? I think you get the idea. Whats my point? The secret law of attraction piece of the puzzle thats missing is that you have to take action to move towards the goals you put "out there". Positive action. If for example you wanted $1million but you save every dollar, never donate and always use coupons then chances are this won't happen. Why not? Because you have such a tight grip on the money you have it shows there's probably a negative emotion buried in you somewhere in regards to money. You are not behaving abundantly therefore you can't be. Beliefs about money come in to play especially when someone wins lotto or has a huge windfall. Do you know anyone who has come into a lot of money only to be broke again 6 months to a year later? Having doubts about your worthiness produces negative energy. Negative energy produces negative results. If you don't think you deserve a new Porsche, you won't get it. If you don't think the Law of Attraction works, it won't work for you. Porsche,car Focusing your thoughts on getting that new Porsche, picturing yourself driving it, truly believing you deserve it, and allowing it to come to you is the way to get it. You have to emotionally detach from the outcome. Every time I've done that the Law of Attraction has worked. Just asking is only the first step in the Law of Attraction. Feeling and acting as if you've received it is the second, knowing you deserve it and allowing it to come to you is the third. Positive energy is the only way to get positive results. And positive energy is only produced by positive thoughts. Light and Vegemite Lis http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/The%20Law%20of%20Attraction.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:31:41 +1100 A subliminal message is a signal or message embedded in another medium, designed to pass below the normal limits of the human mind's perception. These messages are unrecognizable by the conscious mind, but in certain situations can affect the subconscious mind and can negatively or positively influence subsequent later thoughts, behaviors, actions, attitudes, belief systems and value systems. The term subliminal means "beneath a limen" (sensory threshold). This is from the Latin words sub, meaning under, and limen, meaning threshold. Subliminal definition from Wikipedia.org subliminal WHAT IS YOUR SUBCONSCIOUS TELLING YOU?? Every day, your subconscious mind picks up messages. No matter what you're doing, your brilliant subconscious mind will pick things up--good or bad--and those things will change you before you even realize what is happening. DID YOU KNOW... The subconscious mind is much more powerful than most of us realize. It has a huge amount of control over our behavior. Each and every day, our subconscious mind determines much of what we do--whether we like it or not. TAKE CONTROL OF SUBLIMINAL MESSAGES AND USE THEM TO HELP YOU! Large retail stores use subliminal messages to reduce theft. Celebrities such as Tiger Woods and Anthony Robbins say that subliminal messages are a key part of their success. If these people can use subliminal messages to help them, so can you! There are a few ways to do subliminal training one is mp3's the other main way is subliminal programming. I'VE TRIED A FEW OF THESE... Numerous mp3's (In the process of making my own) I've tried 3 subliminal programs that run on your computer and flash affirmations randomly on your screen at 100 milliseconds it's so fast that your conscious mind can't read them. Thats the idea. These affirmations go straight into your subconscious. Your conscious mind can't comprehend these messages, but your subconscious instantly understands and acts upon them. The first program I got was free and it kept crashing my computer (very useful) the second was by an Australian developer. I'd like to think of myself as computer savy but I got lost in the instructions. It was all too hard. The 3rd one I got is called "Subliminal Power". It starts up when you start windows and you just tick which programs you'd like it to run. There's an add on disc that has great music with tones and another 100 programs. Going to see if the "play tennis like a Pro" can help me improve my game so I don't lose 1-6 again! IT'S EFFORTLESS ON YOUR PART! With Subliminal Power software, YOU decide what subliminal messages to use--even write them yourself. With Subliminal Power software, you are your own subliminal message editor, creating your own subliminal messaging modules to help you succeed in any area you wish. ** Lose weight without "going on a diet" ** Quit smoking because you want to ** Study more to get better grades ** Be more confident in your work ** Succeed in relationships ** Change bad habits forever ** Create positive change in your life ** Find motivation to do anything you want ** Much more! http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/Subliminal.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:30:46 +1100 "Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me" Remember that old favorite your parents used to teach you to say when the school bully used to pick on you? “Words will never hurt me?” Words are the most powerful thing any of us have. Words start wars, words can pick you up when you are down, words can tell somebody how you feel about them, words can both start and end relationships, communicating with words can be very powerful. One of our major focus’ in NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming) is communication. Did you know there are two forms of communication? That’s right; the first one is called outward communication while the second and most important is called internal communication. Every second of every awakened moment we are doing one of these sometimes we are doing both at once. Now be honest how much of your day is spent talking to yourself? My experience tells me you would spend quite some time in conversation with yourself. My question is how you are talking to yourself is it in a positive way or a negative way? They way you talk to yourself will be indirect proportion to your levels of success. If you are talking to yourself in a negative way i.e. “I am fat and I could never lose weight” or “Nobody likes me because I am ugly and stupid” (imagine that stupid AND ugly can you get any lower?) you are not only giving away your power but you are also running emotions through your body that are not serving you in any way at all. It’s time for a change.... But what to do? I have a belief that you can ask your brain any question and it will always come up with an answer even if there isn’t one. Let’s look at an example above if you asked your brain why am I fat and can never lose weight. Now we both know there is no answer for this question but you will get an answer like “Because you eat like a pig and have no will power” or “Its all your parents fault” In NLP we say "better questions get better answers" try this “How can I lose some weight and keep it off?” or better still “How can I lose some weight, keep it off and have fun during the process?” A different way of putting the same question but now your brain will come up with a million ways of doing this. Another part of NLP is the focus of your thoughts. Do you know it’s impossible not to think about what you don’t want to think about without thinking about it? Try this don’t think of a pink tree, now in order for you not to have thought about a pink tree you would have had to thought about a pink tree. In other words when you start thinking about the things you don’t want in any given situation you are in fact bring them into your life. So think positive it is always there if you look for it and self talk in positive ways, you will be amazed at how these small changes will impact your life and your success! Scott Gilson NLP Master Practitioner http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/NLP.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:30:11 +1100 The benefits of Meditation People are now going back to ancient practices because they know that the modern times have been causing them too much stress. Of all the means of relaxation out there, more and more people are looking forward to experience the benefits of meditation. Because of its effectivity in terms of calming the mind and developing a person's level of intuition, meditation has now being performed not just a means of clearing the mind and inner reflection but also to heal various illnesses in the mind, emotions, and physical aspects. One of the most celebrated benefits of meditation is that it greatly helps the person's physical state. Among the physical benefits of meditation involve the heart through a deep rest because it decreases the person's metabolic rate as well as the heart rate, which leads to the reduction of workload for the heart. Aside from that, it is also known to lower the levels of a person's cortisol as well as dissolving the chemicals that are closely associated with everyday stress. Other physical benefits of meditation also include reduced free radicals in the body by eliminating oxygen molecules that are unstable, decreases a person's high blood pressure, develops the ability to have more resistant skin, lowering or totally dropping the person's level of cholesterol, improve air flow to the lungs to aid easy breathing, delays biological aging and increases the levels of DHEAS in older people. When it comes to psychological factor, meditation aids in increasing the person's brain wave coherence, decreasing anxiety levels, often irritability, deep-set depression, and swing of moods, improves the person's memory as well as his or her learning ability, increases the person's ability for self-actualization, increases the person's feeling of youthfulness and rejuvenation as well as vitality, leads to positive outlook in life and joyfulness, and increases a person's emotional status and stability. Other noted benefits of meditation for an individual and his or her community include: - Relaxation to the person's the body, mind, and soul. - Rejuvenation of energy to face the heavy challenges and stress ahead. - Healing of various illnesses that are closely-associated with the mind and the body. - Making a more stable person in terms of emotions. - Developments of relaxed family life and instilling positive outlooks in life to younger people. - Enhances the person's ability to make his or her mind function properly. - Letting a person discover his or her inner self, this in turn releases the creativity in them. - It helps people to free themselves from various vices and addictions such as alcohol and cigarettes as well as in various medications such as tranquilizers and narcotics. - It also helps a person to gain higher self-confidence, thus, resulting to stronger power of the will. - It can be an effective and safe way of discovering one's self instead of focusing the attention to other unhealthy practices. - It aids in the development of the power of the mind. The list goes on about the benefits of mediation in an individual and to his or her community. In so many cases, these are positive benefits but once mediation has not been used properly, people should be aware of the side effects. To avoid this from happening, people who are planning to get serious in meditation should always consult a professional before performing any meditation techniques. To get started meditating the easy way, or just to find out more about the brain states of meditation, click here Here's what I think about Holosync http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/Meditation.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:29:40 +1100 This page is waiting on Sally to write her article. You can check out what she does here http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/Clearing.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:29:21 +1100 Enjoy your life: Change your point of view "Two men look out through the same bars: One sees the mud, and one sees the stars."- Frederick Langbridge, A Cluster of Quiet Thoughts If you’ve placed second in a writing contest, will you jump for joy and push for better results the next time or will you be discouraged and find an excuse not to join again? In life, you are always filled with choices. You may opt to have a pessimist’s view and live a self-defeated life or you may decide to take the optimist’s route and take a challenging and fulfilling life. happy So why nurture an optimist’s point of view? And why now? Well, optimism has been linked to positive mood and good morale; to academic, athletic, military, occupational and political success; to popularity; to good health and even to long life and freedom from trauma. On the other hand, the rates of depression and pessimism have never been higher. It affects middle-aged adults the same way it hits younger people. The mean age of onset has gone from 30 to 15. It is no longer a middle-aged housewife’s disorder but also a teen-ager’s disorder’ as well. Here’s how optimists are in action and researches that back up why it really pays to be an optimist: Optimists expect the best The defining characteristic of pessimists is that they tend to believe bad events, which will last a long time and undermine everything they do, are their own fault. The truth is optimists are confronted with the same hard knocks of this world. What differs is the way they explain their misfortune---it’s the opposite way. They tend to believe defeat is just a temporary setback, that its causes are confined to this one case. Optimists tend to focus on and plan for the 'problem' at hand. They use 'positive reinterpretation.' In other words, they most likely reinterpret a negative experience in a way that helps them learn and grow. Such people are unfazed by bad situation, they perceive it is a challenge and try harder. They won’t say “things will never get better,” “If I failed once, it will happen again” and “If I experience misfortune in one part of my life, then it will happen in my whole life.” Positive expectancies of optimists also predict better reactions during transitions to new environments, sudden tragedies and unlikely turn of events. If they fall, they will stand up. They see opportunities instead of obstacles. People respond positively to optimists Optimists are proactive and less dependent on others for their happiness. They find no need to control or manipulate people. They usually draw people towards them. Their optimistic view of the world can be contagious and influence those they are with. Optimism seems a socially desirable trait in all communities. Those who share optimism are generally accepted while those who spread gloom, panic and hysteria are treated unfavorably. In life, these people often win elections; get voted most congenial and sought for advice. When the going gets tough, optimists get tougher Optimists typically maintain higher levels of subjective well-being during times of stress than do people who are less optimistic. In contrast, pessimists are likely to react to stressful events by denying that they exist or by avoiding dealing with problems. Pessimists are more likely to quit trying when difficulties arise. They persevere. They just don’t give up easily, they are also known for their patience. Inching their way a step closer to that goal or elusive dream. Optimists are healthier and live longer Medical research has justified that simple pleasures and a positive outlook can cause a measurable increase in the body's ability to fight disease. Optimists’ health is unusually good. They age well, much freer than most people from the usual physical ills of middle age. And they get to outlive those prone to negative thoughts. Why not look forward to success in all your endeavors? Why not be resilient? Like everybody else you are bound to hit lows sometimes but don’t just stay there. Join the optimist club arry yourself out of the mud and improve your chances of getting back on the right track. And why not inspire others to remove their dark-colored glasses and see life in the bright side? Become an optimist and think positively towards a more fulfilled life. To get started, sign up to our newsletter and download your FREE E-book "Change your mind, change your life" http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Mind/Mind.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:28:34 +1100 Yoga: does standing on your head really help your health? Practiced in India for over 5000 years, yoga is credited with enhancing calmness, mental clarity, and general well-being. Styles of yoga include Hatha, Bikram, Iyengar, Kripalu, Kundalini, and Ashtanga, among many others. While the styles differ in emphasis and the rigor of the practices, most combine some form of breathing technique, physical postures, and meditation or relaxation. Yoga has become increasingly popular in many parts of the world as an element of a healthy lifestyle. Recent studies by medical researchers suggest that yoga also has value in treating certain chronic medical conditions. Researchers are studying the role of yoga in the treatment of asthma, chronic low back pain, allergies, insomnia, fatigue, depression, multiple sclerosis, digestive disorders, cancer, and anxiety. Meditation, an essential part of most yoga practices, appears to slow age-related mental decline. While all yoga’s health benefits have not been proven, it is clear that the practice of yoga can: - Improve mood and sense of well-being; - Counteract stress; - Reduce heart rate and blood pressure; - Increase lung capacity; - Improve muscle relaxation; - Improve overall physical fitness, strength, and flexibility; and - Have a positive effect on levels of certain blood and/or brain chemicals. Yoga Different yoga postures, or asanas, have different effects on the body and mind. Some are energizing, while others are relaxing. Some asanas relieve back strain, while others are good for digestion. Restorative yoga is more directly therapeutic and aims to restore function after an injury or illness. Risks of injury from yoga are minimal, but people with medical conditions should steer away from certain postures. For example, shoulder stands and headstands can exacerbate neck injuries. People with detached retinas or who have had recent cataract surgery should not do inverted postures, in which the head moves below the heart, putting pressure on the eyes. The asanas that benefit pregnant women change with the trimester. People with serious medical conditions should consult with their medical providers before starting yoga. Yoga is easily adapted to the individual. Some yoga classes focus on specific conditions or stages of life. Many yoga teachers offer private sessions and can design yoga practices to meet personal needs. More and more physicians understand the value of yoga in overall health and support integrating yoga into a treatment plan. Yoga can be practiced at home and in classes. Most urban areas have yoga classes in private studios, medical centers, gyms, community centers, or adult education programs. Costs vary according to the settings. CDs are readily available for home practice. Opportunities for practicing yoga abound and the benefits can be truly life-enhancing. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Yoga.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:26:14 +1100 Making use of supplements Keeping up with your body’s demands Today’s busy lifestyle means that most of us are at work and on the go for at least eight hours each day, making it more difficult to give your body the right amount and quality of daily nutrients. Who has time to spend several hours at home preparing five or six meals to take with you on your schedule? But if you are still dedicated to make those muscles grow or lose weight after your gym workout and meet your muscles fuel demands, then quality nutritional supplements can be useful for you. How do supplements work? Taking nutritional supplements after resistance exercise helps provide a hormonal environment to promote muscle growth. Supplements do this by either providing additional nutrients to top up your dietary intake, or they stimulate the muscles to grow. Such supplements are usually found in meal replacement formulas, which are a very convenient substitute for solid food meals. So a high protein and low fat meal replacement drink is healthier and often a cheaper alternative to a fat-loaded meal of fast food. Protein A key ingredient for both weight loss and gaining muscle is protein which is not always easy to consume in the correct amount for your body from meals on the go. That’s why Whey Natural offers Natural Whey Protein and Whey Protein Blend, both designed for meal replacement. Our Whey Blend formula has only 1.1g fat per serving so you know you are replacing your meals with both high quality protein and low fat. Creatine Creatine is another important supplement scientifically proven to increase muscle size and stamina by refueling energy stores, boosting muscle cell volume and switching on protein synthesis. Stimulating your muscles also increases weight loss. Taking creatine supplements in combination with protein immediately after a workout can actually create more powerful and effective muscle gain compared to taking each supplement on its own. That is why Whey Natural also offers Creatine supplements, which when combined with Whey Natural Protein, work as a team after your training. L-Glutamine The amino acid L-Glutamine has many benefits if you are participating in an exercise program. Glutamine promotes muscle recovery, stimulates the synthesis of glycogen, and boosts immune function. A protein-rich diet may provide your body with a sufficient supply of glutamine, however if you are unsure, supplementing your diet with 5-10 grams per day of L-Glutamine gives you added re-assurance and can help prevent potential muscle loss from L-Glutamine deficiency. Whey Natural also offers L-Glutamine for those who want that extra assurance. Remember: Cardio is a great way to burn calories that will assist you losing weight, but the calorie burning stops soon after you finish, so don’t go past weight training. Weight training at the gym not only burns calories while there but as your muscles are repairing after your gym session you are still burning calories to repair and build them. When you feel that soreness after a weights workout this means you are still burning extra calories, and that is a good thing! Glenn "Vegas" Fitzmaurice @ wheynatural.com.au Save 5% on any orderr placed at Whey Natural when you use promo code "mindbodyspirit" http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Vitamins%20and%20Supplements.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:25:50 +1100 Superfoods to Rejuvenate Body, Mind and Spirit When the goal is rejuvenating the body, mind and spirit, the method should be smaller, more frequent snacks and meals. This will help keep energy levels on an even keel, and regulate your blood sugar levels to avoid spikes and dips. When you choose the right combination of foods, your body gets the much-needed boost it needs to sustain itself properly, even through those slumps later in the day. So dump those high sugar junk foods and reach for the following foods and get that boost you need. some strawberries Any fresh fruit, especially with skins or seeds like peaches, apples, pears, oranges, and strawberries, is a great source of vitamins and fibre. In the summer you can choose a peach and get plenty of dietary fiber, niacin (vitamin B3), potassium, beta carotene and vitamin A, plus high amounts of vitamin C. Niacin is important for providing energy for cell tissue growth. Along with regulating fluid balance, potassium helps maintain the electrical stability of the cells of your heart and nervous system and is important for cell and muscle growth. Vitamin B12 plays a role in red blood cell formation, nerve function, and metabolizing protein and fat. Dried Apricots and Almonds combination provides a high amount of vitamin A, iron protein and dietary fiber. Both foods are low in cholesterol and sodium, and apricots are a great source of potassium, which is important in regulating your body's fluid balance. The vitamin A in apricots contributes to healthy vision, bone growth, and reproduction, and helps fight infection. Raisins are a healthy, low-fat, low-cholesterol, and low-sodium snack with significant amounts of potassium, phosphorus, copper, and iron, and when mixed with low-fat yogurt, you also get riboflavin (vitamin B2) and vitamin B12, as well as a high amount of calcium, which is needed not only for strong bones and teeth but also plays a key role in the normal functioning of the heart and other muscles. lady with carrots Baby carrots and sesame sticks are a tasty treat that will provide significant amounts of beta carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, iron, potassium, copper, and fiber. Beta carotene helps protect against diseases like heart disease and some cancers. Vitamin A is important for healthy skin, for better night vision, and to fight infection and respiratory ailments. Folate, or vitamin B9, is essential to human life, helping to form red blood cells and break down proteins, and playing a key role in cell growth and division. Low fat cheese on some whole grain crackers (biscuits) is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and fiber. Celery is stuffed with numerous vitamins, minerals, and is high in fibre. Add a piece of fresh fruit for extra fibre. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Superfoods.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:25:12 +1100 Exercise And Sleeping Better The amount of physical exercise that you exert during the day is one of the key ingredients to helping you get a good sleep at night. The more active your body is during the day, the more likely you are to relax at night and fall asleep faster. With regular exercise you'll notice that your quality of sleep is improved and the transition between the cycles and phases of sleep will become smoother and more regular. By keeping up your physical activity during the day, you may find it easier to deal with the stress and worries of your life. You should try and increase your physical activity during the day. The goal here is to give your body enough stimulation during the day so that you aren't full of energy at night. Your body requires a certain amount of physical activity in order to keep functioning in a healthy manner. It is also important to note that you should not be exercising three or four hours before you go to bed. can't sleep The ideal exercise time is in the late afternoon or early evening. You want to make sure you expend your physical energy long before it is time for your body to rest and ready itself for sleep. You should attempt to exercise at least three or four times a week for a period of 30 minutes or so. You can include walking or something simple. If you prefer, you can include strenuous activities such as running as well. The goal here is to increase your heart rate and strengthen the capacity of your lungs. By adding a regular exercise activity to your daily schedule will help you to improve your overall health and help you emotionally as well. Along with running and walking there are several other physical activities that you can add to your daily life to increase your level of physical activity. If you are battling Insomnia you'll find aerobic exercise to be the best. Your goal with exercise is to increase the amount of oxygen that reaches your blood stream. Overall, there are many types of aerobic exercise for you to choose from. The activities include running, biking, using a treadmill, dancing, and jumping rope. There are also some non aerobic exercises that you may find beneficial to help you solve your insomnia problem. Yoga Yoga is an exercise that has a stimulatory effect on your nervous system, especially the brain. Yoga utilizes breathing techniques and yoga postures to increase the blood circulation to the brain, promoting regular and restful sleeping patterns. The regular practice of yoga will help you to relax as well as relieve tension and stress. To find out more about Yoga click here Tai Chi Tai Chi is an ancient art of breathing and movement that was developed by the Chinese monks. The movements involved are slow and precise, which is ideal if you have joint pains or you are unable to participate in high aerobic exercises. Research has shown that Tai Chi can help with insomnia by promoting relaxation. If you discover that you don't have any time to exercise on a regular basis, you should try to sneak moments of activity into your schedule. Whenever possible, you should take the stairs instead of the elevator, as little things will start to make a difference for your body. Another idea is to park your car around the corner and walk that extra block or two to get to your destination. As you may know, there are many small things you can add to increase the activity in your life. Your overall goal here is to have a healthy and well balanced life - with plenty of sleep. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Sleep%20Remedies.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:24:34 +1100 Organic Skin care "If it can be done naturally, why go for artificial means?" - this is the basic premise on which ‘organic skin care’ works. Organic skin care is the most natural way of ‘skin care’. In fact, ‘organic skin care’ was probably the first one to be used by man when it first woke-up to the needs of his skin. ‘Organic skin care’ is not only friendlier to skin, but also inexpensive. If exercised in the right way, organic skin care can prevent the occurrence of a lot of skin disorders and can help keep your skin healthy and young-looking for a much longer time.Organic fruits and vegetables are the most popular things on organic skin care routines e.g. cucumber is very common in organic skin care routines. Turmeric, apple, papaya, ginger are others that find a wide use in organic skin care routines. These organic materials have a very refreshing and vitalizing effect on your skin. Almost every skin care book/guide has section on organic skin care (including the actions of various fruits and vegetables on skin). So choose the ones that are more suitable for your skin type and start experimenting with them until you finally select the ones that are most suitable for inclusion in your organic skin care routine. It’s important that you use fresh organic fruits/vegetables. Don’t try to utilise the rotten ones for your skin, their only place is the garbage bin. skin care Milk is known to posses good cleansing properties; in fact, the name of some skin care products contains the word ‘milk’ in them. A combination of milk with ground oatmeal acts as wonderful cleanser. Ground oatmeal is especially good for oily skins and is a popular ingredient in organic skin care regimen. It is used in various combinations e.g. with egg, honey, milk and fruits, for preparation of organic facial packs. Wheat germ is another ingredient in organic skin care procedures. It is rich in vitamin E and is known for its exfoliation as well as moisturising properties. Wheat germ, in various combinations with other organic materials, is used to prepare facial masks for normal and dry skin types.Wheat germ oil is another way in which wheat germ is used for organic skin care. Yogurt and sour cream are other organic materials that are popular for their exfoliation and moisturising properties. Use of organic honey is also popular in organic skin care products. It helps in retention of moisture and helps impart a glowing look to skin. Rose water takes its place as a toner in organic skin care routines. Lavender water is popular too.‘Organic skin care’ uses combinations of various organic materials that complement each other and enhance each other’s effectiveness. Moreover, these combinations are also helpful in over-riding the harmful effects (if any) of various organic materials that form them. Organic skin care is really an art that, once perfected, can give wonderful results in a very cost effective manner. Mineral make-up http://www.skinrich.com.au/ http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Skin%20care.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:23:36 +1100 Snacks... Here's the first of many great recipes.. Blair's Balls just don't eat too many.. Although they are full of healthy stuff there is plenty of sugar (energy) in the fruit so 2 max per day. Blairs' Balls (named after Blair @ Camp Eden in Queensland) Ingredients: * 1 cup of Cashews * 1 cup of Almonds * 1 cup of Sunflower seeds * 2 cups of Dates * 1 cup of Currants * 1 teaspoon Vanilla essence or Peppermint essence * 1 tablespoon Carob or Cocoa * Dessicated Coconut Method: Add the Vanilla or Peppermint Essence and the Carob or Cocoa to the other ingredients. Blend together in a food processor for 5 minutes or until smooth. Roll into small balls and then into coconut. Store in the fridge. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Recipes.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:22:50 +1100 http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Pilates.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:22:38 +1100 http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Natropathy.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:22:27 +1100 This page is waiting patiently for the wisdom of the best Kinesiologist I've ever been to - Rebecca. http://www.MyWebSite.com/item.html Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:21:36 +1100 Wake Up...It’s Time To Create Consistency To Get Results: "I don’t have time..." "I’m too busy..." "I’m not a morning person.." "I can’t commit to a routine...” These excuses are so common with clients in their initial meeting with me for personal training. One of them is probably your excuse too! With the busy lifestyles that we live it’s hard to create an exercise and nutritional routine that will ensure that we get results. Or is it? jogging girl The best way to get results is to ensure that you have a consistent routine in place. It has to be a routine that is based on your health and fitness goals and something that will complement other factors and commitments in your life. Work commitments are the most common excuse or reason for people not being able to create a routine. Long or inconsistent work hours can make getting to the gym or having time to cook healthy meals very hard for most people. The best way to overcome this is to plan your workout sessions in the gym in the morning. It doesn’t necessarily make exercise a priority over work, but it will ensure that your workout is done for the day and you can then focus on your work and not have that little voice in the back of your reminding you to get to the gym after work. How many times have you planned to go to the gym after work but never got there because you had a hectic day at work and didn’t finish till late? Or simply didn’t feel like you had enough energy at the end of the day to do a workout? Its 6am...beep beep beep! The sound of your alarm wakes you and you reach for the snooze button! But wait...don’t press it! Once you can get past the initial shock of waking up earlier and hitting the snooze button, you’ll find that your body responds extremely well to exercise in the morning because your body has an internal clock that loves routine. It’s called your Circadian Clock and it regulates your body on a 24-hour cycle. This clock is the mechanism behind why you wake up around the same time each day, feel hungry around the same time every day, feel tired around the same time each night, and get jet-lagged when you cross time zones. So by creating a consistent routine your body will reward you for your efforts. Studies have shown that exercise in the morning can increase your mental sharpness for 4-10 hours after your workout. It also ‘jump starts’ your metabolism for the day and keeps it elevated for hours, sometimes up to 24 hours. So that means you're burning more calories all day long because you got to the gym and exercised in the morning! Key Points to Creating a Consistent Routine: * Create consistency in your sleeping patterns by going to sleep and waking up at the same times each day. * Ensure your routine and exercise complements your other commitments (work, family, etc). * Have specific workouts planned by a personal trainer focussed on your goals to maximise your workout and exercise time. * Plan your meals and meal times for the week and always have a protein shake (powder and shaker) in your bag ready to go if you get hungry throughout the day. And Remember that 90% of people who exercise consistently, exercise in the morning. So make exercise a part of your everyday life, which is the key to a healthy lifestyle! Ricky Kildea Personal Trainer Fitness First -South Yarra Yarli Personal Training Ph: 0431 117 088 http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Fitness%20and%20weight%20loss.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:20:01 +1100 Chinese Medicine Over 2000 years old, traditional Chinese medicine focuses on balancing energy within the body and with the natural world. Chinese medical treatments include, among others, acupuncture, diet, and herbal remedies. Acupuncture is one of the most well known methods of Chinese medicine. It involves inserting very thin, sterile needles into specific points along pathways of the body called meridians. Health problems arise when the flow of energy is blocked; acupuncture aims to open up and balance that energy flow. Although western science lacks proof that acupuncture is an effective therapy, evidence shows that it relieves chemotherapy nausea, dental pain, soft tissue problems, menstrual cramps, backache, asthma, and emotional disturbances. chinese medicine Acupuncture is highly effective in treating a wide array of disorders. Acupuncture is successful in treating many types of non-surgical infertility. Evidence shows it can improve the chances of conceiving if done right before or after in vitro fertilization and continued for about three months. Along with herbs, acupuncture improves ovarian function and increases blood flow to the endometrium. It addresses problems that impair fertility such as an under- or over-functioning thyroid. Cupping is a type of acupuncture treatment. The acupuncturist heats a glass cup from inside to create a vacuum then places the cup on acupuncture points on the body. Cupping improves circulation and relieves discomfort from congestion, swelling, or pain. It is particularly effective for relieving low back aches, reducing sprains and other soft tissue injuries, and relieving fluid in the lungs. Cups are left on the body for five to fifteen minutes; a round bruise results which lasts for a few days. While there are no inherent dangers to cupping, it should not be done over cramps, convulsions, or ulcerated sores or when the patient has a high fever. Cupping is not advisable over the low back or abdomen of pregnant women. In Chinese herbal medicine, herbs are combined in formulas of up to 25 herbs to address the needs of the individual patient. As with all methods of Chinese medicine, herbal treatment seeks to remedy imbalance in the body. Like herbal treatment, dietary therapy is based on the condition of the patient. A balanced diet leads to good health, so dietary recommendations aim at rebalancing the body. Whether used by itself or as a complement to western or other eastern therapies, traditional Chinese medicine has an important role in modern medical treatment. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Chinese%20medicine.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:19:27 +1100 Happy New 2009! Hows your body after Christmas and all the festivities? Is it time to detox? Detoxification is something that our body does naturally. This is the reason why our excretory system is very important in maintaining the health of each vital organ. Without the ability to release these harmful substances through our excretory organs, we will be poisoned by the many toxins that we have ingested and those that our body secretes. If we eat the right kind of food, do exercise regularly, and maintain a stress-free lifestyle, the natural body process of detoxification will go on completely and thoroughly without any needed assistance from us. If thats you then you don't need to read any further... bucket and brush Nowadays, we are confronted with a lot of choices in making our life more relaxed or busier, our environment is now more condusive to over eating and indulging in too much alcohol, our lifestyles are more stressful on our bodies than ever before. The air we breathe isn't so clean and we are inhaling pollutants to our systems. Toxins accumulate, and each day more are being absorbed by the body without the possibility of being expelled. The natural means of detoxification cannot cope and are overwhelmed by the amount of toxins that invades the body each day. We are more prone to fatigue and mental draining. Metabolism deteriorates, our fat storage increases, and our energy is zapped out for no apparent reason. Therefore, there's a need for a conscious, deliberate detoxification. A whole body cleanse (detoxification) returns back to the cells the energy that it needs and refreshes their ability to expel toxins. It also improves appetite by cleaning out digestive system of any left particles were not successfully excreted and hence makes digestion more complete. Besides, nutrients are also not filtered out, but will be absorbed better. Our immune system is boosted, our vital organs are protected, and our excretion becomes efficient. You will feel lighter, better, and more active than before the detoxt. Stress for most, will always be a part of life. Stress releases bad toxins to the body like cortizol. Coping with it is therefore very important in body detox home remedy. Think of ways in combating the effects of stress, like engaging in enjoyable hobbies, yoga exercises, and in meditation. Lastly, always think that while exercise will definitely make you stronger in terms of power and strength, it also makes your body sweat toxins out. In maintaining and being conscious of health, you will not only be guaranteed of a longer lifespan, but also a quality life. Learn how to detox your body gently, safely and effectively to lose weight and be energized. P.S Before you go running for the hills it's not about being on a liquid diet for weeks! A 7 day detox diet where you actually eat food and not a lemon juice detox drink in sight! If I can do it so you can you! Light and Vegemite Lis http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Body.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:19:08 +1100 How to Efficiently Decode People’s Inner Feelings and Emotions Through Their Body Movements, and How You Can Use This Knowledge to Succeed in Your Career, Relationships, and Personal Life!” What I am about to tell you might shock you. Many people think that the most popular way of communicating with other people is through the mouth. But what they didn’t know is that actual verbal communication accounts to only around 10% (or even less) of the overall means to convey a message. Moreover, you can never determine the truthfulness or sincerity of people by what they say alone. In fact, words transmitted verbally oftentimes do not reflect what people really think or feel. The only way you can determine their true inner feelings and thoughts is by reading their body language. Have you ever wondered what it would be like if you can "see through" the emotions of other people? Let’s say you asked a person if he can do an important task. He says “ok.” But deep inside, you are questioning yourself, “Is he really willing to do this job?” or “Does he have the confidence to finish this assignment? You can’t question him directly because that would be like belittling him. And even if you ask him those questions, his replies will not be indicative of what he really feels or thinks. The ultimate solution? Read his body movements and gestures. The Body Never Lies! Through body language, you will be able to decode hidden emotions. You may even decipher if a person is telling the truth or not. Moreover, you can apply body language techniques to convey your intentions to other people. This will ultimately lead you to a successful career and fruitful relationships. You can use the knowledge of body language to identify if confidence, dominance, and other characteristics are inherent in people. On the contrary, you may also perform these gestures when you want to convey certain personality traits to subconsciously influence others. Cool, isn’t it? http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Body%20Language.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:18:08 +1100 Ayurveda means "science of life." Ayurvedic medicine derives from religious scriptures that record the health care practices of ancient Indians. While the exact origins of Ayurvedic medicine are not known with certainty, the tenets were first written down 3500-5000 years ago; the practices themselves date from even earlier times. This traditional medicine of India is still widely practiced in Southeast Asia and has been adapted by western users. Ayurvedic Ayurvedic medicine is a system of preventive medicine grounded in the close connection between spirituality and health. The practice seeks to eliminate illness by looking at the whole person and treating underlying causes, not just symptoms. Balance within the body and harmony with the universe help people stay vital and realize their life potential. Ayurvedic treatment is individualized according to a person’s constitution. The constitution involves the elements air, fire, water, and earth; good health occurs when the elements are in balance. Ayurvedic medicine uses a variety of healing methods to bring the three elements into balance and restore the body and spirit. Ayurvedic remedies may include herbs, foods, aromas, gems, meditation, colors, yoga, massage, and lifestyle changes. By integrating healing practices into daily life, Ayurveda seeks to promote general well-being and treat specific illnesses. Certain practices require working with a trained practitioner. One example is Ayurvedic massage, in which one or more therapists massage oil into the skin to release toxics. Another is herbal treatment. While the public has easy access to herbs and herbal formulations, herbs can have potent effects. It’s important that a knowledgeable practitioner supervise herbal treatment. Other practices, like diet, yoga, and stress management, become part of a person’s daily routine. Ayurvedic medicine is particularly effective in treating chronic, non-communicable, lifestyle-related conditions. Skin conditions and emotional problems often respond well to Ayurvedic treatment. Obesity is treated through exercise, mental and physical exertion, and reduced sleep. Using weight-reducing herbs and avoiding food high in carbohydrates and oils are also part of the regimen. Like all non-traditional medical practices, Ayurveda has its skeptics. Integration with western medicine has brought greater acceptance of the value of this ancient system of health and well-being. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Body/Ayurvedic.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:17:17 +1100 What is Tarot? Tarot is a tool that may assist us when we are at a crossroad in our life. As far back as the Egyptians, the Tarot was known as ‘The Royal Road of Life’. This refers to important milestones that mark special or significant events along our life’s journey. tarot cards How does Tarot work? Tarot taps into our unconscious and brings issues to the surface in order to make us conscious of them. We then have the opportunity to change things, rectify the situation, make things better, turn our life around and achieve our goals more effectively. We can easily associate with Tarot because of the pictures. Every item in the picture is an archetypal symbol. This means that it has a standard or basic specific energy eg: the father is the authority figure. Because we dream in pictures, these symbolic messages are what connect us more easily with the Tarot. When is it a good time for Tarot? You may choose to read either one card per day or seek guidance from a weekly spread. People consult the Tarot around their birthday to see what energies lay ahead for the New Year. I have been invited to many a Hens Nights to do readings for the bride to be and her guests. It is also trendy lately to have Tarot readers at special work events or functions, such as end of year parties or openings of centres. Please visit my website for more ideas on having Tarot readings My main readings however are for people who are experiencing a time of confusion, or feel they are at crossroad in their life. People usually have a plan A or a plan B and having a Tarot reading during this time may assist you to confirm the best path to follow. In fact, clarification may come immediately through the symbolic pictures. Want to know more? I suppose Tarot works the best for those that are questioning or looking for a deeper meaning in life. When both parties have some understanding of Tarot, it allows us to tap into many more levels. The deeper you go the more you will see, and it always surprises me how much more there is still to explore. The best part of Tarot is how it gives us the opportunity to open up to Spirit. When we have Spirit in our lives we feel fulfilled. There is no void within us and we feel wholesome and content. However our ego will fight tooth and nail to make us avoid Spirit at whatever cost, it will make up excuses so it survives and remains in charge. Our ego does not want our Spirit to wake up. I find when someone is in need of a Tarot reading, or interested in joining one of my Tarot in Action programs, I see a person who is looking for something more from life. They are ready to connect with Spirit and at some level they know it. I feel that I’m the lucky one because following a Tarot reading or after completing my program, I see their eyes opening up. I see the Spirit awaken and then the magic really starts to happen. I welcome your questions and enquiries. For further information on my classes and readings please visit my website at Tarot in Action Heaps of Specialness Ruanna http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Tarot.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:39:06 +1100 Can a person have both wealth and a connection to spirit? Sages and ordinary people have considered this question for centuries. Jesus is credited with saying that an elephant could fit through the eye of a needle more easily than a rich man could go to heaven. The Christian Bible urges followers to give their money to the poor. Jews are urged to give away some, but not all, of their money. Poverty is not a virtue. The distress of poverty can make people lose sight of their spiritual sides and can undermine their self-confidence and self-esteem. People cannot contribute to the life of the community from an impoverished, victimized position. candles The medieval Jewish philosopher Maimonides held that material wealth is useless as an end in itself, but can be useful in the pursuit of greater spirituality. Judaism asserts that seeking wealth is a noble pursuit if the money is used to perform good deeds and no one is hurt in the quest for wealth. Money is not inherently bad; it doesn’t necessarily interfere with the spiritual life, but it’s surely not the source of it. Money is of limited use because value and security can only come from within, not from an external, material source. The Buddha taught, “If you have little, give little; if you own a middling amount, give middling amount; if you have much, give much. It is not fitting not to give at all…I say to you, share your wealth, use it. Tread the path of the Noble Ones. One who eats alone eats unhappily.” Buddhism views material wealth as a source of desire and attachment, which are detrimental to spiritual growth. But poverty can also become an attachment when it is pursued intentionally or on principle. Buddhism eschews poverty if it adds to the inherent suffering of life. If there is one common theme among the disparate philosophies, it is that money cannot create spirit. But can a person pursue both wealth and a spiritual life in one lifetime? Can material wealth and spirituality exist together or does money destroy spirit? I have seen many virtuous people give so much of themselves to other people that they have forgotten how to give to themselves. There is too much guilt around having an abundance of money. As a result many people create lives whereby they have none. Money isn’t the totality of wealth but don't think you can grow to your full spiritual capabilities without money because you can’t. You can’t study different cultures, read books, do courses without it. Are Martyrs anymore spiritual than financially abundant people whom set up schools in third world countries? Food for thought. Love light and vegemite Lis http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Spirit.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:38:15 +1100 Energy Healing 101: Pranic, Tantric, and Reiki You have probably come across exotic-sounding terms such as “chakra”, “prana”, “aura”, and tantra” in your course of reading books on spirituality, sex, and healing in the New Age literature section of the bookstore. But what’s the real scoop behind these exotic vocabularies? Chakras Are All Energy Healings the Same? Chakra or energy center is a term used in Pranic healing, an ancient Hindu system of energy healing. “Prana” means life energy. “Aura” is another terminology traced to Pranic healing. Aura is a non-physical body that consists of energy, which exists along with our physical body. The aura that covers our body is said to have seven layers pertaining to the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of an individual as manifested by energy. Studying the color and thickness of auras give ideas on the state of health of individuals.Six colors are associated with aura and interpreted into six personalities. These colors are all present in an individual but one or two are more pronounced: Green - ambitious achiever Blue - spiritual peacemaker White - unconventional chameleon Red - activist Orange - creative communicator Violet - psychic Although Tantra is popularly associated with the peculiar practice of sex and spirituality, it is another method of energy healing. It comes from the word “tan” which means to spread or expand. The concept of connectedness is a recurring theme in Tantric writings on sex and spirituality. As a method of healing, spirituality and sex figure prominently. It is presupposed that the union of man and woman can reach spiritual levels during orgasm, which removes the body and mind off collected impurities. These impurities being negative energies can in turn manifest as physical illnesses. Unlike Pranic and Tantric healings, which have Hindu origins, Reiki originated from Japan. It is relatively younger than Pranic and Tantric healings having been rediscovered in the early 1900’s. Reiki stands for universal energy, an energy brought forth by higher intelligence. Students of Reiki are taught how to tap this energy to heal physical, emotional, and mental illnesses. Although Pranic, Tantra, and Reiki are all systems of energy healing, they differ in the type of energy tapped for healing: life energy, sexual energy, and universal energy respectively. The concepts of the connectedness of mind, body, and spirit; the connection of individuals to all living and nonliving things around them and to the universe; and how energy impacts physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being are some of the salient similarities of these three healing methods. Why Do People Turn to Energy Healing? Pranic, Tantric, and Reiki are considered alternative methods of healing. In spite of the availability and relative accessibility of modern medicine, how come more and more people are being drawned to them? Here are some possible reasons: · Energy healing worked where modern medicine failed. For several reasons both explainable and unexplainable, modern medical treatment failed to heal ailments and conditions in several if not many persons. Research or data may not be able to support this statement. But for the families of the dying as well as for the dying patient, they would take the risk of using alternative methods ranging from herbals and organics, faith healers, witch doctors, and New Age healing techniques just to be get well. · People perceive modern medicine to be isolating. Medical treatments are oftentimes focused on the disease and its causative agent, which can make a patient feel isolated and treated like a mere host of the disease. Although recent developments in hospital practice are gradually promoting the holistic treatment of a patient, the perception still persists. Unlike in energy healing, since energy and spirituality are intimately linked, the patient feels that all aspects of his health are being attended to. · Energy healing is non-obtrusive and natural thus it is safer. Repeated surgical procedures are physically and emotionally traumatic for most patients. It is but a logical and attractive option to both patient and families to look for less stressful health interventions. Moreover, with the rising popularity of New Age religions, going natural is the way to go. · Energy healing is a good way of relieving stress. Meditation is part and parcel of energy healing methods and this is an added come-on for highly stressed people. Moreover, sophisticated equipment is not required thus it becomes all the more convenient for students and future students of energy healing. The battle between alternative healing and mainstream medicine continues as both present the benefits of their approach. But in the final analysis, what matters is the restoration of good health. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Reiki.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:37:41 +1100 This page is waiting on my favourite Kinesiologist Rebecca. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Kinesiology.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:37:14 +1100 Huna is one of the original arts and sciences of healing and spiritual development. It comes from ancient times and may be as old as 35,000 years. It is a part of the original teachings of the peoples of the earth which were centered in Hawaii on a continent that no longer exists. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Huna.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:36:49 +1100 What is Feng Shui? Feng Shui is a unique and ancient Chinese science that was first developed some 6,000 years ago. By utilizing a system of techniques and methods, which are based on a very comprehensive set of guidelines and mathematical formula, Feng Shui analyses our environment and assists us to make use of the good influences and reduce or avoid the bad ones. By applying this knowledge a qualified professional consultant can guide you in the selection, design and arrangement of your new or existing home or business. This in turn can create a living or work space that will better support financial prosperity, good health and harmonious relationships and help you to fulfill your life potential.Feng Shui – the art of discovering the energy of a place and making changes to ensure that harmonious energy flows around you whether at home or in the work environment. Ox year of the ox 2009: Chinese Year of the Earth Ox - Kung Hei Fat Choi! Chinese New Year or ‘Chun Jie’ (meaning Spring Festival) starts from the first day of the lunar calendar, which is the 26th of January, and lasts for 15 days. The festival signifies a fresh start in one’s life and is deep rooted in the Chinese culture. Celebrations and traditions take place with much fanfare and include dragons, fireworks and cleaning house! These traditions are very important and ensure that any negative energy from the previous year is cleared away and the fresh, vital energy of the New Year is able to circulate throughout homes and businesses. Effects and Influences of the Earth Ox Year The Year of the Earth Ox (Ji Chou ??) actually commences on the 4th February and is symbolized by the two elements of Yin Earth sitting on top of the Earth Ox and this is indeed a rare time where Heaven and Earth do not ‘clash’. The Chinese Character for Yin Earth represents a garden and gives a sense of peace and tranquility, while the Ox also carries the connotation of an animal grazing contentedly in a field. As such our hope is that this year will bring more harmony and peace to the world and be a time of healing and rebuilding. The Year of the Ox is traditionally considered as conservative and one of traditions and values. This is not a year to be outrageous, but rather a time to proceed at a slow and steady pace. The Ox year is believed to bring stability and growth, where patience and diligence is rewarded and where we reap what we sow. Entrepreneurs however should still take a cautious approach to business this year. ‘Double Spring’ also coincides this year with a Leap Month and refers to the fact that there are two dates in the Chinese Hsia Calendar for the beginning of Spring. This means that 2009 is an ideal year to get married and start a family, particularly during the 4th and 8th months. Yin Earth Person – Barack Obama The character of a Yin Earth person is one of moderation, peace, intellectualism, charm and charity. Barack Obama is a Yin Earth man and therefore it is hoped that he can bring about significant change to the United States and also to those parts of the world that are affected by their often controversial foreign policies. Thus the focus of Barack Obama, and other world leaders during 2009, should be on Earth related areas such as international relationships, the economy, housing, agriculture and global warming. Climate The Earth elements of the Year of the Ox do not contain any Fire so cooler weather should prevail and this includes snow storms and hurricanes. In recent years global warming and the melting of the polar ice cap have continued at an alarming rate and no significant measures have been undertaken to reduce global CO2 emissions. 2009, with its harmonious Earth elements, should encourage some positive steps in this area and we are more likely to see improvements in the health of our planet. This relates not only to the damage that the Earth has endured through both natural disasters and wars, but also to the human suffering that has occurred as a result of ongoing cultural and religious differences. Instead of pursuing these senseless and endless conflicts the Earth energies for 2009 encourage us to nurture our precious planet, care for our fellow man and do something positive to make a difference for the generations that are to come. Stock Market and Industry In general the Stock Market for 2009 will continue to show signs of cooling down as investors remain cautious and conservative. A more sustained recovery is not likely to occur before 2010. Overall however it should be a more stable year with a steady upward trend. Wood and Fire related industries, such as fashion, textiles, publications, furniture, entertainment, finance and energy should perform well in the Year of the Ox. Earth industries such as property, hotels, mining, insurance, Feng Shui and the environment should also be active. Metal and Water industries however, which include machinery, engineering, computers, shipping, communication, beverages and aviation, may not do so well this year. Health As I have mentioned in previous newsletters, the five basic elements of Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood represent different parts of our body. In 2009 we have an absence of Fire and this element relates to the heart and circulation. Therefore people with a weak heart may experience more health issues with this major organ during the year. In addition to this the absence of Fire leaves the Earth element relatively weak and this is likely to affect our stomach and digestive systems. It can also manifest as food poisoning, diarrhea, obesity, diabetes and even cancer, as these are all triggered by an imbalance of Earth. Chinese Astrology – IV Pillars of Destiny This is of course the Year of the Ox and in general we say that people who are born in Ox years lack flexibility, accept adversity and often don’t take advantage of opportunities. On the other hand they also approach things in a very firm and orderly fashion and make very dependable long term employees. This is very general however and the actual interpretation of our individual IV Pillars Charts is far more complex and insightful. Clashes If you are born in the Year of the Goat, or have a Goat anywhere in your Chart or Luck Pillars then you have a ‘Clash’ with the Ox this year. A ‘Clash’ is a strong dynamic of energy that has the potential to unsettle or disturb some aspect of your life. For people with Goats in their Charts 2009 may bring challenges, movement and travel and this could manifest in things such as changing job or moving house. To harmonize this influence you should actually use this year to either travel, move house or relocate your office. However if possible you should avoid traveling directly towards the North East, as this is the direction of ‘The Grand Duke’ and can bring difficulties or obstacles to hinder you. The clash between the Goat and the Ox is associated with Earth related accidents such as landslides, building collapse, sporting injuries, mountaineering falls, racing car collisions and road incidents. Therefore if you have a Goat in your Chart you could be facing quite a turbulent year and it is advisable to wear or carry the pendant of a Rat for the duration of 2009. This will help to attract away the unsettling influence of the Ox and minimize its impact. Penalties In addition to this, if you have a Dog in your Chart or current Luck Pillar, then you have a ‘Penalty’ with the Ox during 2009. This is particularly so if you also have a Goat, as this joins with the Dog and the Ox and increases the potential for disharmony, worry or some sort of irritation and could even increase your risk of a hidden illness related to the stomach, digestive system, heart or circulation. It can even manifest in diabetes or cancer, so therefore it is very important this year to focus on your health and diet. Increase your intake of anti-oxidants, Omega 3 oil or COQ10, as this will help to protect against cardiovascular disease and the free radicals that cause cancer. Also wear or carry the pendant of a Rat to minimize the unfavorable influence. It is often said that when the year comes around that coincides with your year of birth then it will be a good time for you. This is not necessarily accurate as someone born in the Year of the Ox is said to be ‘offending the Grand Duke’ and may in fact experience challenges during 2009. Once again they should wear or carry the pendant of a Rat to minimize the unfavorable influence. Flower of Romance and Travel Star For people who are born in a Horse Year, 2009 will bring a ‘Flower of Romance’. This will make you more attractive and sociable this year and if you are single then it can even bring you more opportunities to develop a friendship, romance or stimulate marriage. Finally if you are born in a Tiger Year then 2009 will bring you a ‘Travel Star’. This can make you more restless and manifest as travel, moving house or changing jobs. Feng Shui Changes for 2009 As you are aware, Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese knowledge that studies how the environment affects our well being. There exists around us different kinds of energies, or natural forces, some of which are positive and enhance our prosperity and others are negative and may cause bad health or misfortune. We call these energies ‘Flying Stars’ and they are dynamic and changing. These Feng Shui energies change from year to year and in order to ensure that things remain harmonious for your household it is necessary to locate the unfavorable ‘annual Flying Stars’ at the beginning of each year and apply remedies to minimize their effects. The yearly influences actually moved to their new locations on the 4th of February and the three major ‘bad luck stars’ to identify are the numbers 2, 3 and 5. The Flying Star 5, otherwise known as ‘Five Yellow’, is located this year in the North and means obstacles and misfortune and can even lead to financial ruin. To weaken this influence it is necessary to hang a metal wind chime with six hollow rods in this location. wind chime As 5 is of the Earth element the metallic sound of the wind chimeis able to exhaust the Earth energy of the number 5. Alternatively you can also hang a metal bell in the North, as long as you ring it at least once every day. Red coloured objects such as cushions, rugs or pictures are not recommended for this location. Rather you should include items that are black and white in your decor for this year. The Flying Star 2 is located this year in the West and brings sickness and obstacles. It is also of the Earth element and the traditional cure needed to reduce its effect is a string of 6 metal coins. Red coloured objects are also not recommended in this location for the year. Black and white is the preferred option, as this will help to exhaust the challenging energy. Another remedy for the ‘illness star 2’ is the brass ‘wu lou’ or gourd. This is a powerful symbol of good health and long life and is said to be the container for the nectar of immortality. We often see it carried by Sau, who is the god of longevity; Quan Yin, who is the goddess of mercy and compassion and by one of the Taoist Eight Immortals. Therefore it is considered by many to be an excellent energizer for good health and a powerful cure for the illness star 2, as its metallic energy will help to suppress any influences that may affect your well being. The Flying Star 3 is located this year in the North East and this means anger, conflict and robbery. The number 3 belongs to the Wood element and the traditional cure is to use the colour red in order to reduce its negative effects. It is recommended to place a red coloured picture, light, carpet or other decorative object in the West for the duration of 2009. One should also pay attention to the Flying Star 7, which we call the ‘old star’ because it represents past prosperity. This year it is located in the East and symbolizes communication problems, gossip and scandal. It is also often associated with violence and burglary. This energy can be dissolved by placing a vase of fresh flowers or 3 to 4 pieces of Chinese Water Bamboo grown in a clear glass vase in the East location. The Grand Duke Each year the dominant energy comes to your home from the direction of the current Chinese animal. This year it is the Ox and he is located in the North East. Therefore this means that the energy known as the ‘Grand Duke’ comes to your home during 2009 from the North East. The Grand Duke brings obstacles to hinder you so avoid renovations, digging or major changes in this sector during the coming year and never sit directly facing him. If your front door is located in the North East then it is recommended that you hang a small Bagua mirror with an inwardly curved concave surface above the door. This will reflect the Grand Duke back and make it smaller so that it has less of an impact on your home. You can also place a Dragon Tortoise each year in the position of the Grand Duke as this is said to appease him. Clash Position and The Three Shars It is also not recommended for you to sit with your back against the North East in 2009. This is known as ‘The Three Shars’ or ‘3 Killings’ direction and is an unfavorable influence. As well as this the ‘Clash Position’ is located in the South West and therefore you should not have your back against the South West this year. Good Fortune Stars The Flying Stars 8 and 9 hold the best fortune for you this year as they generate prosperous energy. The number 8 is located in the South East and the number 9 is located in the Tai Ji or centre. If your front door is located in the South East sector then clean up any junk or clutter in this area so that you can take full advantage of this auspicious energy. If your home office is located in either of these sectors then your business should also be well supported this year. Summary If you choose to follow these recommendations and harmonize the challenging effects of these annual Flying Stars, then you are more likely to feel in tune with the dominant energies of the Earth Ox year. It is incredibly beneficial for your home or business to not only locate your auspicious energies every year, but to also know where your afflictions have flown. By noting where all your misfortunes, accidents, loss, ill health, quarrels and robbery are you can then update your remedies each year to ensure that your personal environment remains as prosperous, supportive and harmonious as possible. If you would like to book an annual update or if you wish to purchase any remedies then log onto my new online shop at www.fengshuistyle.com.au Janene Laird Diploma and Certificate of Feng Shui Certificate of Chinese Astrology Email: janene.laird@shenchi.com.au Web: www.shenchi.com.au http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Feng%20Shui.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:36:03 +1100 Crystals are becoming ever increasing in popularity due to the rising consciousness of humanity. Many cultures, people & civilizations have used crystals for many different reasons. Legends and folklores involving crystals date back to the beginning of time. It was believed that crystal forces set the electromagnetic field of the earth, so human souls could incarnate. Stories from Atlantis say that crystals generated power for whole cities and it was the abuse of these energies that resulted in the eventual destruction of that civilization. Some Egyptologists say that the pyramids were capped with crystal to channel cosmic forces into these structures. The mineral kingdom connects with us on a vibrational level, thus helping us to overcome, release, ground, protect and connect to higher self and the angelic and devic realms. Their magic can inspire & uplift, heal & add beauty to your life. Experiencing crystals is such an intuitive process. Crystals can be found in many forms. You may find a natural, uncut stone draws you to it without you really knowing why. It is said the crystal chooses you rather than you choose the crystal. They all have their specific qualities. A few examples are as below. Tumbled Stones Clusters Spheres Generators Single Terminations Double Terminators Druzy Wands Lightbrary Geodes Phantom Crystals Crystals are widely used for meditation and healing. They work on a vibrational level, and they correspond to our chakras or energy centres of our body. The 7 Chakras The chakras are whirling vortexes of energy located throughout the body. An imbalance or blockage in a chakra can have physical and emotional effects. The seven major chakras are: 1. Root Chakra The root chakra is related to the drive for survival. Thus, this chakra is associated with food, security and procreation. Crystals – Smoky Quartz, Black Tourmaline, Hematite, Obsidian. 2. Sacral Chakra The sacral chakra is associated with the pursuit of pleasure. Thus, sex, eating and playful activities are all related to the second chakra. Crystals – Carnelian, Bloodstone, Garnet. 3. Solar Plexus Chakra The solar plexus chakra is associated with power. Self-control, self-discipline and assertiveness stem from this chakra. Citrine, Golden Calcite, Tiger eye, Pyrite. 4. Heart Chakra The heart chakra governs the search for love, joy and companionship. Crystals - Rose Quartz, Rhodonite, Rhodochrosite, Aventurine, Pink Calcite. 5. Throat Chakra The throat chakra is related to creativity and expression. Thus, artistic pursuits, speaking and the search for cultural experiences emerge from this chakra. Crystals - Lapis Lazuli, Sodolite, Blue Quartz, Aquamarine, Angelite. 6. Third Eye Chakra The third eye is associated with the search for meaning. Spiritual pursuits, and mental disciplines are associated with this chakra. Crystals, Amethyst, Azurite, Kyanite, Lapis Lazuli, Charoite. 7. Crown Chakra The crown chakra is related to surrender to the Divine, whatever you perceive it to be. The crown chakra governs Divine guidance, and communication with the Divine. Crystals – Clear Quartz, Clear Calcite, Herkimer Diamond, Danburite. Cleansing your Crystal Cleansing your crystals is very important. When you first receive a new crystal you must cleanse it of any energy it has absorbed before. You also need to cleanse a crystal after each use such as healing, meditation or just holding onto it for the day. You can tell that a crystal needs to be cleansed by holding the crystal in your hand (if you are energy sensitive) or by the 'spark' the crystal has. If your crystal has become dull, or darker in colour its likely that it needs a cleanse. When you see a cleansed crystal it is full of light, shiny and sparkly. It looks clear and has an aura. This is how you know your crystal has been cleansed properly. Below is many different methods of cleansing your crystals. You may use a few methods together or just one. Go with what you feel is right for you and the crystal. Following your intuition is best. Mother Earth Mother earth is a powerful cleanser of our human body as well as our mineral friends. Crystal come from the earth so they love to be placed on the earth to absorb the healing energies. You may bury the stone pointing down for deep cleansing. Make sure you know where you have put it by marking the area or placing it in a natural fiber sock before burying it with the top sticking out. Moonlight Each full moon is a wonderful ritual you can do for yourself and your crystals. Take some time placing your crystals on the earth (i normally make a medicine wheel out of them). Let them bath in the moonlight all night and take them in again in the early morning. I usually like to leave them long enough to get some early morning sunlight as well. Don't leave them in the sun for long as this may fade the colours of the stones. I do this with all of my crystals each full moon if they are cleansed or not. Its wonderful for recharging. Water Placing your crystals under cool running water is a simple, quick method of cleansing. I usually imagine that the crystals are under a white light waterfall and i watch the light penetrate the crystals on its way down. They sparkle and shine after this. Please be aware that porous crystals such as selenite, angelite, celestite and many natural unpolished mineral specimens must not be wet as they will crumble or loose their luster and shine. Other methods are best for these types of stone. Sea Salt Placing your crystals in dry sea salt will negate the crystals of all energies. It is a powerful way of cleansing your crystals. Place some dry fine sea salt into a glass or crystal bowl and cover your crystals completely, taking care not to have them touching each other. Depending on the humidity the more porous crystals will not like this method. Crystal Clearing Gem Elixir The Crystal Clearing Essence is a gem elixir in my newest batch of gem elixirs available. It is made from very clear and clean stones that are a representative of cleansed crystals and cleansing. They were all individually programmed especially for cleansing crystals. Spray your crystals with the mist making sure it falls over all surfaces of the crystal. I have used this essence extensively, and the clearing is immediate, the crystals love it. Fire Fire is a great cleanser of our soul as with the crystals. You may place your crystals next to or near a fire (making sure they dont get too hot or they will crack) to cleanse or pass them through a flame. Reiki Reiki is a powerful pure healing energy. It is one of my favourite cleansing methods opf crystals as the energies are so beautiful. Hold the crystal in your hand if you are attuned and enjoy the meditation. You may also use symbols over them. The crystal will not only cleanse but will also take on the healing energy of reiki. White Sage Smudge Smudging with Organic White Sage to cleanse your crystals is an enjoyable way. Using a feather fan first of all smudge yourself making sure the smoke goes over your whole aura. Once you have been done you may now fan the smoke over the crystals. Alternatively you can just pass the stone through the smoke. Make sure you breath deeply as sage is a fantastic herb for the lungs. Another way to use the herbs is to place the crystals directly on the dry herb. Only use organic herbs. Amethyst and Citrine Clusters Placing your crystals on clusters is a 'set and forget' way to cleanse. Amethyst and Citrine Clusters are the most popular. Pop them on for a few days or so and you will know when they are ready. Angels Simply find a quite space, breath deeply, hold the crystal in your right hand and ask the angels to cleanse your crystal. Some examples of Crystals Lemurian Believed to be programed and buried by the magical people of Lemuria. Lemurians assist us in reaching high meditative states and when in laser formation are extremely powerful hands on healing tools. They are primarily feminine in their nature and assist us in accessing the divine compassionate love of oneness. They are protective, sweet, wise and have a powerful beauty. They are waiting for us all to open our hearts to them, and other beings like them, to become a part of the magnificent grid of light they exist in. Enhydro This beautifully formed natural crystal is an Enhydro and contains water bubbles that have remained unchanged and pure for thousands and perhaps millions of years. This crystal is full of vibrational potency from its shape and the very ancient water inside. Natural Enhydro like this can help one to put oneself in the "shoes of another," helping one to recognize and understand the other's true feelings. They provide life-sustaining energy, aiding in adaptability in potentially stressful situations. They also assist in continued change and reforming of the self. In healing, it helps bring the body to the state one is attempting to attain. Enhydro is Greek for "water within". These are crystals that contain pockets of pure water, mysteriously trapped in ages gone by. As water has always indicated the emotions in terms of the 4 elements (earth-body, water-emotions, air-mind, fire-spirit), these crystals can have a profound effect on our emotional life. Water that cannot move becomes stagnated - as emotions that cannot be expressed stagnate. Enhydro contain water trapped in very limited space, but the water has remained clean and pure for millennia. The signature of these crystals indicates a protection and purification of the emotions. The combination of water and quartz in this way is an extremely valuable and powerful tool for those with an understanding of the properties of both. The ability of water to instantly hold subtle impressions, and the ability of quartz to structure, store, amplify, focus, transmit and transform those impressions, has extensive possibilities. Enhydro also contain a life sustaining energy, initiating adaptability in situations that could, otherwise, become stressful. It is strength to help other minerals perform in the requisite manner. This crystal can help one to put oneself in the shoes of another, and to recognize and understand the true feelings of that person. The Enhydro assists in metamorphosis and continued change throughout all times, it provide for concentrated determination of both the acceleration and the ease of reformation of self. In healing, it is useful to have an Enhydro available as it assists in bringing the body to the state or specified condition that one is attempting to attain. Tangerine Quartz Tangerine quartz is a wonderful healing stone after trauma or shock. It is also used in past life healing and is beneficial in situations where one feels a need to make up for past damages done. It activates and balances the sacral hara chakra. It leads one to a more positive vibration in life. Tangerine quartz is sometimes used to enhance sexuality and creativity. Tangerine Quartz is a stone of Creativity and has been called the Muse Crystal! It heightens Intuition is said to expand etheric vision. Tangerine Quartz helps strengthen our conscious connection to our higher self, and to align our etheric bodies while providing grounding. Tangerine Quartz is a wonderful second chakra Ally, useful for all second chakra issues. Quartz Lightbrary Cathedral Cathedral Lightbraries are Quartz crystals that appear as one large crystal with many smaller crystals contacting and interpenetrating one another and unified in one singly terminated crystal. The crystals that form upon the body of the “mother” are similar to data banks in the sense that they can gather universal knowledge. These data banks are open and clear until conscious thoughts and intentions are projected in them. The energies in the Cathedral Lightbraries project outwards as they stand open to receive the impressions of the universal mind as well as collective thought forms. These crystals are capable of receiving and relaying information. Lightbrary crystals may contain the sacred knowledge of the “Akashic Records”. Dioptase Dioptase is a stone of healing that has a refreshing energy. It can help heal in many ways emotionally, including helping get one started clearing one's issues, and releasing negative emotions. It promotes healing from abuse, neglect, sadness, and despair. It is called a stone of "Living in the Moment" because it helps one overcome these hurtful past energies and find the joy of the current moment, bring calm, confidence, and self-worth. Spiritually, dioptase is good for alignment and attunement with the spiritual energies of your choice. Physically, dioptase is helpful for heart burn, physical heart problems, meniere's disease, and deep healing in general. Dioptase is related to the heart chakra. Love light n'smiles Kylie Davidson www.krystallove.com.au http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Crystals.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:35:04 +1100 Akashic Records The Akashic Records is a new age term for what is also known as “The Book of Life.” It is comparable to the universe’s super computer system and it acts like the central storehouse for every individual who has ever lived. The Akashic Records store a reservoir of events, every deed, word, feeling, thought and intent that any person has ever had in the history of the world. It is also believed that the Akashic Records are interactive and they have influence upon everyday life, relationships, feelings and beliefs. While commonly compared to a super computer system, there is no complex of computer systems and collective databases that can even come close to the memory or recording capacity of the Akashic Records. records They contain the entire history of every soul since the beginning of creation and continue to record on a daily basis. Every thought, every deed is recorded. The Akashic records mold our very consciousness. They are an unbiased judge and jury, which try to guide, educate and change each individual to become the very best. Information referring to the Akashic Records can be found in folklore, in myth and throughout the Bible. This Book of Life can be traced as far back as the Semitics and included the Arabs, Assyrians and the Hebrews. Among these people there was always the belief that there was some sort of celestial tablets in existence that contain the history of mankind and spiritual information. The Akashic Records are more than an account of data, they also have an ongoing creative stimulus. Akashic Record Types Many people who want to access the Akashic Records wonder just what types of readings there are and what information can actually be drawn and accessed from the Akashic Records. There are several deposits of records and they each have a distinct purpose and reason for existing. First are the Earth Records. There is a location very near our Earth that contains the individual experiences of the souls that reside here. These Records also contain the creative experiences of all the residents here. These two areas of records hold all the emotions that were used in gathering this information. The Records are contained within the body of the soul force. This is very near the physical form. The other set of Records is held in an energy band that circles around the planet. These are the Records for the Earth’s Solar System. From this energy band there appear to be strings connected to the other records that are held within the solar system and beyond. The first set of strings reach to a deposit of planetary experience that is considered the solar system. These records contain the planetary records for that system. There are no records here for the individual souls that have inhabited the planets in the past or the present. There is also a band of records for our galaxy, and the Universe. Each one has its own information stored there, but is connected to the others for access to those who are able to reach the Akashic Records. A band of what is described as angels guards the Universal Records. Though they are not the angels we have come to know. They are a level of Source that interacts with experience. Benefits of an Akashic Reading Many people know about Akashic Records in general, but not many know the benefits associated with an Akashic Reading. akashic records Having an Akashic reading, or finding your own way to tap into the Akashic records yourself can be a life altering experience. They can change the personal outlook on life and give a general sense of understanding. Many people who seek an Akashic reading are looking for answers or are seeking the truth. Others receive a reading in order to receive guidance or to make some sort of life transition. And still others have a reading out of pure curiosity. The main reason for readings is to provide valuable information that will lead the individual to a better life. Readings can provide important guidance on how to work through problems and can present opportunities for growth. Many also experience clarity to the thought process and are able to sort out difficult life transitions. Since the Akashic Records hold all knowledge to the past, present and future, it is only natural people would want to know what the future holds in store for them. Many clairvoyants who are true to their profession are able to visit the Akashic Records to find the information for their clients. They are able to read the energy vibration that translates into images, forms, symbols, imagery and language that the mind can comprehend. It is important though that if you are seeking out a reading that you find a reputable Akashic Record reader. There are many fakes out there who are just in it to take your money and scam you with general knowledge that can fit into almost any person’s life. Specific Accounts of Akashic Records There are many people who claim to have had experiences with Akashic Records. C.W. Leadbeater was one of the best known. He was a renowned clairvoyant who conducted research into the akashic records, which he states he inspected at the Theosophical Society headquarters in Adyar, India during the summer of 1910. C.W. Leadbeater recorded his findings in his book “Man: How, Whence, and Whither?” This book also records the history of Atlantis and other civilizations as well as a future society of Earth in the twenty-seventh century. Another such famous believer who has his own specific accounts of the Akashic Records is Edgar Cayce. He stated that each person is held to account after life. They are eventually confronted with their personal Akashic Record of what they have or have not done karmacilly in life. The Akashic Records are comparable to the biblical ‘Book of Life” in which the consulted is judged to see whether they are admitted into heaven or not. Ervin Laszlo wrote a book called “Science and the Akashic Field and the Reenactment of the Cosmos”. This book brings the latest science of the A-Field and the function as the source of everything flowing in and out via the vacuum field. This field is also known as Zero Point Energy and he equates this to the Akasha, or cosmic mind, universal consciousness and the field that unifies everything. The authors of these books all claim to have visited the Akashic Records themselves and write from their own experience. http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Akashic%20records.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:34:16 +1100 Can you be spiritual and be wealthy at the same time? Can a person have both wealth and a connection to spirit? Sages and ordinary people have considered this question for centuries. Jesus is credited with saying that an elephant could fit through the eye of a needle more easily than a rich man could go to heaven. The Christian Bible urges followers to give their money to the poor. Jews are urged to give away some, but not all, of their money. Poverty is not a virtue. The distress of poverty can make people lose sight of their spiritual sides and can undermine their self-confidence and self-esteem. People cannot contribute to the life of the community from an impoverished, victimized position. candles The medieval Jewish philosopher Maimonides held that material wealth is useless as an end in itself, but can be useful in the pursuit of greater spirituality. Judaism asserts that seeking wealth is a noble pursuit if the money is used to perform good deeds and no one is hurt in the quest for wealth. Money is not inherently bad; it doesn’t necessarily interfere with the spiritual life, but it’s surely not the source of it. Money is of limited use because value and security can only come from within, not from an external, material source. The Buddha taught, “If you have little, give little; if you own a middling amount, give middling amount; if you have much, give much. It is not fitting not to give at all…I say to you, share your wealth, use it. Tread the path of the Noble Ones. One who eats alone eats unhappily.” Buddhism views material wealth as a source of desire and attachment, which are detrimental to spiritual growth. But poverty can also become an attachment when it is pursued intentionally or on principle. Buddhism eschews poverty if it adds to the inherent suffering of life. If there is one common theme among the disparate philosophies, it is that money cannot create spirit. But can a person pursue both wealth and a spiritual life in one lifetime? Can material wealth and spirituality exist together or does money destroy spirit? I have seen many virtuous people give so much of themselves to other people that they have forgotten how to give to themselves. There is too much guilt around having an abundance of money. As a result many people create lives whereby they have none. Money isn’t the totality of wealth but don't think you can grow to your full spiritual capabilities without money because you can’t. You can’t study different cultures, read books, do courses without it. Are Martyrs anymore spiritual than financially abundant people whom set up schools in third world countries? Food for thought. Love light and vegemite Lis http://amindbodyandspirit.com/Spirit/Spirit.php Mon, 02 Feb 2009 21:33:34 +1100