Permanent Facial Hair Removal

In this article we will discuss permanent facial hair removal methods: how they are done, how many treatments they involve and how much these treatments cost. First of all, popular, body hair removal methods vary somewhat by the location, density, and color of the body hair to be removed. In this ar...
In this article we will discuss permanent facial hair removal methods: how they are done, how many treatments they involve and how much these treatments cost.
First of all, popular, body hair removal methods vary somewhat by the location, density, and color of the body hair to be removed. In this article we will concentrate only on permanent removal of facial hair, both in women and men. Facial hair can be embarrassing for women, especially if dark and dense, and can be annoying for men and may certainly take too much time shave every morning. Besides some men have problems with irritated skin because of shaving.
Let's see what can be do about all those inconveniences.

First, there are only two PERMANENT hair removal techniques that can be used on face, and are called laser and electrolysis.
In men, shaving beards is by far the most popular option, but as we all know, it is by far not the one that lasts long. For male beards electrolysis can be permanent, but it requires a serious commitment of time and money. It takes very long time, not to mention money, and must be done by someone with a lot of experience, otherwise patient might get scarred, which is especially the case with heavier beards. Some even recommend laser for light skin and dark hair, but there is limited data on how long it will last and what is the success rate of laser.







The same is true for women, although they do not have heavy beards. Electrolysis is most recommendable, but it is important that electrolysis is done by someone with experience; or laser, which may also be found for women with lighter skin tone and darker hair, but as with men there is a limited date on long-term effectiveness and success rate.
Nevertheless, it is essential for both men and women to make their own research, talk with at least few doctors specialized in this field and then decide what is the best option for them.

Laser hair removal

Laser hair removal is done by delivering light at a specified wavelength from handpiece into the skin, where the laser targets pigment in hair. This is done in order to cause thermal and mechanical damage to a hair follicle while sparing surrounding tissues.

Laser hair removal can be achieved with the use of several available lasers. Hair removal that lasts several months can be done in almost all patients, however, permanent laser hair removal is possible only in low percentage of patients.
Laser hair removal is not painful, but it is uncomfortable: this is simply because every hair follicle is surrounded by nerve endings. However, anesthetic cream can be applied half hour before treatment in order to relief discomfort during the procedure.
It is simply not possible to benefit from one or two treatments, not in the long term. Most patients require three to six treatments, or when hair is darker and coarse, as with male beards even more.
Facial hair removal by laser requires very little time: upper lip takes about 5 minutes, while full face is done in about 15 minutes. Treatments are repeated approximately once a month, and we already mentioned patients requite three to six treatments.
The most evident advantages of facial hair removal is that there is a great chance of permanent hair reduction, but if regrowth of hair occurs, it comes back lighter in color or finer in texture. Laser is most appropriate for people with dark hair and light skin, but not for unpigmented (gray) hair or blond and red hair. or However, long-term data on safety and effectiveness has not been accurately established.
Improper laser treatment can cause burns, lesions, patchy patterned skin regrowth and skin discoloration which can last several months.
Cost of facial hair removal by laser depends on every clinic (how they establish the price), and of course it also depends on individual patient and his or her hair growth pattern: all patterns of hair growth are unique, therefore the cost of laser hair removal will also be unique. For that reason some clinics want to have consultation before pricing laser hair removal. Some clinics decide for price on flat free basis, which may be on a per treatment basis or a package of treatments basis, others decide on the basis of time, and some determine their fee according to pulse.


Electrolysis hair removal

Electrolysis is comparing to laser removal for most patients permanent hair removal, of course of performed correctly. Electrolysis is comparing to laser older hair removal method. Electrolysis was invented over 100 years ago in the United States. During electrolysis, a hair-thin metal probe is slid into a hair follicle and an electrical pulse is sent through the needle. (Proper insertion does not puncture the skin.) If this particular hair follicle is in the active growth stage at the time of treatment, it will probably not grow again.

There are three basic types of electrolysis hair removal:

• Galvanic - An electro-chemical current produces a bit of lye (Galvanic electrolysis works by causing salt and water in the skin around the probe to be chemically altered to produce a small amount of sodium hydroxide, or lye, which is the active ingredient in some crystal drain openers. If enough lye is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth.)



• Thermolysis - A heat current is produced by and a radio wave (works by causing water molecules in the skin around the probe to vibrate, which creates heat, and if enough heat is produced, it can damage the cells that cause hair growth.)



• Blend - An electro-chemical reaction is produced more quickly by a combination of the above methods.

Comparing to laser electrolysis has by far the best and longest track record of results. It is very important that person performing electrolysis is well trained, otherwise you might end up with scars. However, there are some common side effects of electrolysis: pain during procedure (depends on the coarseness of the hair being removed, the sensitivity of the area- local topical anesthetic can be applied), redness, swelling.

Electrolysis is comparing to laser more effective on the long run, but it also demands more commitment and most of all more time. While one laser treatment for upper lip hair removal takes approximately 5 minutes electrolysis hair removal will take 20 minutes. Patient that has decided for laser removal will have to repeat approximately 5 treatments, while one who decided for electrolysis will have to return up to 20 to 45 times! One laser removal treatment for upper lip will cost $50-$150, while electrolysis $15-$30, which means that average cost for upper lip removal with laser will cost $400-$800, while average cost for upper lip electrolysis removal will cost $450-$1035 .

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Consequences of over-masturbation

First, we have to clear one thing: in this article we are not trying to lobby anti-masturbation behaviour and we are not doing this for religus reasons. We think masturbation is a very healthy and perfectly normal sexual behavior. But, like any other behaviors, when over practiced it can lead to bot...
First, we have to clear one thing: in this article we are not trying to lobby anti-masturbation behaviour and we are not doing this for religus reasons. We think masturbation is a very healthy and perfectly normal sexual behavior. But, like any other behaviors, when over practiced it can lead to both psychological and physiological imbalances. So, this is our goal: to explain psychological and physiological imbalances that can be caused by over-masturbation.

How much is over-masturbation?

Well for start over-masturbation would be several times a day. Some doctors even recommend to keep ejaculation (not masturbation) frequency down to two or three times a week. That leads to conclusion that sexual activity can be experienced more often if man learns how to achieve orgasm without ejaculation, which is one of tantric sex principles. According to %26ldquo;old knowledge%26rdquo; achieving orgasm without ejaculation stores bioenergy and makes penis firmer, hence your erections last longer and the volume man ejaculates is bigger.
But we would agree that masturbation and its frequency also depends on persons age and sometimes even period in life. It is normal that 16 year old masturbates more often than 40-year old. Isn't it? A 16-year old just started to show some affection for his (all of a sudden erected part), while 40-year old is %26quot;over%26quot; it. (We are talking about frequency).
Some people relax this way. Well, on steadyhealth we are not really sure whether this is best way to relax.





Guess not. Maybe occasionally, but if you simply don't feel horny and if you feel tense, rather take a walk or go play basketball than developing a behaviour that could potentially lead to addiction.

So, what about effects of over-masturbation?

Internal body temperature is a bit higher than external body temperature. Internal body temperature increases with masturbation- this is the reason you feel more hot or sometimes even sweaty after masturbating. Considering that, we found following information: when person ejaculates, a %26ldquo;peristaltic movement of absorption takes place and by effect of the emptiness, the seminal vesicle tries to fill and humid air is absorbed through the penis which is later absorbed from the seminal vesicle to the lymphatic system, arriving at the brain producing a thermal shock and cold spaces between the cerebral neurons and cells and this affects cerebral, physical and nervous normality%26rdquo; (anael.org). Well, the same thing happens when having sex and not ejaculating in partner, but using removal method (which is very popular among steady couples), and not one source mentions that. Later on same source mentions that seminal vesicle absorb air, which is transferred into brain, which may leads to stupidity and insanity. We think this is nonsense! Simply ask yourself- do you feel more stupid or more insane before/ after masturbation?!

Sperm contains DNA, which is carrier of the heredity genetic code, and RNA which contains enzymes, proteins, glucosides, lecithin, calcium, phosphorus, biological salts, testosterone, etc. However, the sperm is by far not the only substance in our body that contains DNA and RNA. When ejaculation is carried out, a very small percentage of this components (enzymes, proteins, glucosides, lecithin, calcium, phosphorus, biological salts, testosterone) are eliminated from the body. For example, when extracting calcium from the body one could cause him/ herself fatigue and pain in the bones. But we all know calcium (and all other components) are easily substituted with food. Actually, it is normal to extract 'old' components and replace them with new ones.

Over-masturbation, or more accurately said over-ejaculation stimulates parasympathetic nervous functions, which results in the over production of sex hormones: acetylcholine, dopamine and serotonin. Abnormally high levels of sex hormones cause brain and adrenal glands to perform excessive dopamine-norepinephrine-epinephrine conversion. In other words: there is a big change of body chemistry when man or woman practices over-masturbation.
Hmm... is something wrong with body chemistry? Well, actually not- if there is balance. But if there is no balance, some other symptoms might occur. We are still talking about over-masturbation, not just masturbation!
Another source (herballove.com) points out that people who over-masturbate could experience problems with concentration and memory, which is supposedly a clear sign of %26ldquo;being over drained of acetylcholine%26rdquo;. According to herballove.com over-masturbating can also drain the motor nerves, neuro-muscular endings, and tissues of acetylcholine and replace it with too much stress adrenalin which is where absentmindedness, memory loss, lack of concentration, and eye floaters come from.
They also point that over-masturbation may be linked to male pattern baldness. Male baldness is namely directly related to DHT (dihydrotestosterone), the same as the production of DHT is related to sex and masturbation. If person over-masturbates (over-ejaculates) testosterone is converted into DHT. Following that high levels of DHT overload the body causing baldness. This thesis needs more debate! We all know baldness is hereditary, and that older people that didn't used to be bals eventually start loosing their hair. What about their DHT levels?

We at steadyhealth say these are myths! But they are not alone, here are some others, like masturbation leads to blindness, baldness, impotence, mental illness. Myth is also thesis that it can permanently reduce libido, sexual performance and the quantity or quality of semen. All myths! And not only that: Masters and Johnson (physicians who pioneered the field of sexuality) have demonstrated no negative short-term or long-term medical health effects from masturbation.
However, there is psychical aspect to masturbation. For example, if masturbation occurs in marriage as a substitute for sex, it could potentially damage the self-esteem of the partner not involved. However, it is not the the masturbation %26ndash; it is another problem: lack of communication. Over-masturbation could also lead into addition or obsession, which may consequently lead to diversion of income toward sex merchandises (all sort of sex toys, pornography...) and may limit person to participate in other (social) activities.
It is also true (and you might already experience that): frequent and vigorous masturbation (again over-masturbation) may produce skin irritation/ abrasions or even superficial bruising, sometimes temporary discoloration. The condition improves with time, if of course not masturbating.

In conclusion

Generally %26ndash; masturbation (nor over-masturbation) is a perfectly normal and safe sexual behaviour for both men and women. Actually, it is recommended to explore yourself: this way you'll know what you like and what you don't like, it may help you become more comfortable with your own sexuality. You'll be more able to develop stronger and satisfying sexual relationship. It may even be helpful to reduce stress (although we also recommend other relaxation techniques). And most of all it is better to masturbate than to play around with no protection: masturbation eliminates the potential for transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. Same is true for pregnancy.

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Cardio vs Weight Lifting

Which exercise is better? Cardiovascular or weight lifting? All exercisers ask themselves that question, whether beginners or not. Correct answer to that question is neither. Both, cadio and weight lifting are essential to your health, and it does make a difference whether person is just into cardio...
Which exercise is better? Cardiovascular or weight lifting? All exercisers ask themselves that question, whether beginners or not. Correct answer to that question is neither. Both, cadio and weight lifting are essential to your health, and it does make a difference whether person is just into cardio or just weightlifting.

What is cadiovascular exercise?

Cardiovascular or also known as aerobics focuses on developing and strengthening the cardiovascular system (which is the heart and blood vessels and improves circulation) through aerobic training. This way cadio training increases both heart and lung capacity and causes your body to produce an increased number of blood vessels, which means they all, individually and together, work more efficiently. Or in other words: cadio exercise uses large muscle groups for a continuous period of time, and during that time muscles need more oxygen to handle this exercise. Consequently your heart starts to beat faster and breathing gets faster and heavier to meet the demand for more oxygen. This way toxins and waste products are quickly removed from your body, while nutrients and oxygen are delivered to every cell of your body. Not only that: heart is a muscle that needs regular conditioning, because only well-conditioned heart can pump a large amount of blood with fewer beats than a weak heart, and only exercise can make your heart more resistant to stress, heart attack, and other health problems.





There is many health benefits of cardiovascular exercise: decreased incidence of heart attack and stroke, lower blood pressure, lower %26lsquo;bad%26rsquo; cholesterol and higher %26lsquo;good%26rsquo; cholesterol, decreased risk of most cancers, decreased risk of osteoporosis, etc. Of course, for those who want to burn fat- cardio exercise is solution: it burns fat. And not only that- for those who want to perform better strength training program: it is easier to lift with greater intensity for longer periods if person exercises cardio also: person is more tolerant to fatigue of lactic acid burn.
On the other hand, lack of exercise leads to changes in the body that may threaten person's heart. And if lack of exercise is combined with overeating, the result is obesity and higher levels of bad cholesterol, which leads to heart disease, circulation problems
When person trains (runs ...) he or she is increasing the efficacy of system, which mean meeting higher and higher levels of aerobic endurance. This results in increased energy and ability to preform better physically as well as mentally. Cardio exercise is also a great way to prepare for older age: research namely proves that adults who maintain a higher level of cardio exercise throughout their early and middle life, comparing to people who don't exercise, live fuller and more productive lives as seniors.
Typical cardiovascular exercise: cardiovascular exercise is any exercise that will make your heart beat faster and breathe deeper: running, walking, hiking, jogging, bicycling, dancing, aerobics, swimming... Doctors recommend 30 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise at least 3 to 4 times a week.

What about weightlifting?

Weightlifting or weight training strengthens the muscles by lifting weights. When overall muscle strength increases, also the support of the body increases: muscles are namely connected to each other and they are the ones who hold up the skeleton. So, what are the benefits of weightlifting? As we already mentioned stronger connective tissue and greater joint stability, increased metabolism, better coordination and balance if working with free weights, decreased body fat and greater lean muscle mass, stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis.
Many researches show the age-reversal effect of weightlifting training: people performing only moderate weight training demonstrated muscle mass, cardiovascular fitness, coordination and bone density comparable to those who were 20 years younger than them. Reason for that was partly because the increased growth of hormone secretion.

What is better?

There is no better. Every smart exerciser knows the optimum lies in both %26ndash; cardiovascular and strength exercise. Both 'methods' are essential for developing healthiest body possible. They namely target different systems: cardiovascular exercise strengthens lung, vessels and heart, while weight training uses the stamina of cardiovascular exercise to build muscles that support skeleton and organs.

What is the best combination?

Some say it is best to keep cardiovascular and strength exercise separate, so you can pay attention to each type of training, while others claim it would be best to combine them. So, why not combine? Mostly because when combining the two in the same workout it is more likely that whatever you do second will suffer since you have the most energy at the beginning of your workout, except if you're doing both types of exercise in shorter intervals, which is often unpractical. Ones who support that method claim it is best to do cardiovascular exercise one day and strength exercises another day. You can do that way or combine cardiovascular and strength exercise at different times on the same day, which gives opportunity to rest before doing the second activity. Another option would be doing cardio and strength exercises during the same workout session or simply exercising a combination.
Other claim best combination of cardiovascular and strength exercise is swimming, which is represented as ultimate aerobic conditioner as well as muscle builder. Because of water environment muscles concentrate more on working than on supporting your body. Besides it is not easy at all to swim all those laps. Try it- you'll see. If deciding for swimming it is best to combine different styles of swimming: freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke... And then rotate the strokes so your muscles are continually surprised and challenged.

In conclusion

Smart exerciser knows there is no better and there is no choosing between cardiovascular exercise and weight training. The best programmes incorporate both cardiovascular and weightlifting since only this way maximum development and body strength can be achieved.

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Yoga-General Info

Yoga is time tested, 5000 years old practice, comprised of stretching and breathing exercises designed to attain liberation: yoga is one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, focusing on meditation as a path to self-knowledge and liberation through enabling bodily and mental control thereby improv...

Yoga is time tested, 5000 years old practice, comprised of stretching and breathing exercises designed to attain liberation: yoga is one of the six schools of Hindu philosophy, focusing on meditation as a path to self-knowledge and liberation through enabling bodily and mental control thereby improving physical and mental health.

History of Yoga

It is said that yoga is as old as civilization, but there is physical evidence that supports this claim. The earliest evidence of yoga comes from archaeology: stone seals with depict figures of Yoga Poses were found and they place yoga's existence 3000 years B.C.

Scholars on the other hand believe that Yoga existed long before that and place its beginnings in Stone Age Shamanism: namely both, shamanism and yoga have similar characteristics- they aim to heal community and act as religion.

However, Yoga history and development can be divided into four periods: the Vedic Period, Pre-Classical Period, Classical Period, and Post-Classical Period.
The earliest written evidence of yoga can be found in the Sanskrit hymns of the Aryan people, known as the Vedas, therefore the Vedic period (3000BC- 1200BC). The Sanskrit word Veda means %26ldquo;knowledge%26rdquo;; other three Vedas are Yajur Veda (knowledge of sacrifice), Sama Veda (Knowledge of chants), and Atharvana Veda (knowledge of Atharvana). In that period people believed in a ritualistic way of life: for example: rituals, sacrifices and ceremonies was considered a means to connect people to the spiritual world.






Period of pre classical yoga covers a period of approximately 2000 years until the second century. Fromthat time the 200 scriptures of the Upanishads describe the inner vision of reality resulting from devotion to Brahman and explain three subjects: the ultimate reality (Brahman), the transcendental self (atman), and the relationship between the two. Gnostic texts, called the Upanishads further explain the teachings of the Vedas, and speak in detail about the self and ultimate reality appeared. Just as the Upanishads further the Vedas, the Gita builds on and incorporates the doctrines found in the Upanishads. The central teaching of the Gita is, to do your duty and not expect the fruit of action. In the Gita three facets must be brought together in our lifestyle: Bhakti (loving devotion), Jnana (knowledge or contemplation) and Karma (selfless actions).
Thrid period- classical period is marked by another creation, called the Yoga Sutra, which is composed of 195 aphorisms or sutras. Yoga Sutra was written by Patanjali around the second century as an attempt to define and standardize Classical Yoga. He believed that each individual is made up of matter (prakriti) and spirit (purusha), thus he advocated that yoga would restore the spirit to its absolute reality, a teaching that saw a shift from non dualism to dualism.
The Middle Ages brought us the Hatha Yoga Pradipika which went into further detail of the yogic way of physical practice and spiritual enlightenment. Postclassical yoga teaches Vedanta (philosophical system based on the teachings of the Upanishads): ultimate unity of everything in the cosmos. For example: previous eras saw yogis laying emphasis only on meditation and contemplation, while in postclassical period Yogis began to probe into the hidden powers of the body.

Yoga Styles

Hatha Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, and Astanga Yoga are the most common disciplines of Yoga. They give you the strength, relaxation and flexibility. But there're are various other disciplines and kinds of Yoga, that we will explain more in detail in second article: Iyengar, Bikram, Kripalu, Sivananda, Viniyoga, Raja-yoga, Bhakti-yoga, Mantra-yoga.

Yoga exercises and Yoga postures (Asanas)

The practice of Yoga Exercises means practicing both your body and your mind, which means yoga postures take the willpower and perseverance to accomplish them.
The practice of Yoga Exercises or Asanas can improve your health, increase your resistance, and develop your mental awareness. Moreover Yoga has postures and breathing techniques for almost all diseases, health disorders, allergies, pains, for example digestive disorders, back pain, depression, arthritis, diabetes etc. Many of the exercises are simple and have a magical effect on most disorders. Breathing is an essential part of every assana. If you are a beginner, it would be helpful to sign up for some Yoga classes where a professional teacher would guide you through each Yoga Pose and make sure you are doing the exercise correctly.
Yoga postures are divided into following sections: warm-up poses, standing poses, seated poses, twist yoga poses, supine poses, inverted postures and balance poses, backbends and finishing poses.
We will represent just two exercises from warm up and standing section.
In general, warming up depends on the Yoga Style that you practice. Warming poses for example include eye training, neck exercises, shoulder lifts... We will present cat pose or also known as Bidalasana. This pose teaches to initiate movement from the centre and to coordinate movement and breath, which is very important in every asana. However, you must know that cat pose is not recommendable for those who have chronic back pain or some sort of back injury.
Start on your hands and knees (hands directly beneath your shoulders and your knees directly beneath the hips)
Your fingers are fully spread with middle finger poiting straight ahead. Back is horizontal and flat. This position is called 'neutral'. When you're ready to begin breathe in deeply: as you exhale turn hips into cat tilt by gently pulling the abdominal muscles backward toward the spine, tucking the tailbone down and gently contracting the buttocks. As you inhale turn your hips into Dog Tilt by releasing the grip of the buttocks, reversing the tilt of your pelvis, and curving your spine into a smoothly arched backbend. The pubic bone will move backward through the legs, the sitting bones will turn upward, and the sacrum will change its angle. The navel is kept backwards toward the spine as you do this: continue pressing downward into your hands to lengthen the arms and stay lifted out of the shoulders. Lift your chest away from the waist, lift your head, slide the shoulder blades down your back, and either gaze at a point on the floor in front of you or upward toward the ceiling. You may also close your eyes and immerse yourself in the way this feels.
One of standing poses that is often used to pay attention to position, concentration and breathing is called Mountain (Tadasana). Stand up straight with both feet at hip-width. Your heels are turned a little outward, which means your weight rests on your toes. Let your arms hang downwards along your body and the palm of your hands are pointed towards your body. Draw in your ribs a little in the direction of your belly and make the back of your pelvis move away from your lower back. Breathe in and out a few minutes with full concentration. Shoulders are relaxed, the same is with breathing: it is free and relaxed. Look straight ahead of you at at spot within your vision.

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Yoga and Spiritual Awareness

The word Yoga origins from the Sanskrit and means 'spiritual union' or 'spiritual awareness'. Root Yog and means to bind, to connect or to join. We could conclude it means a union or communication of the soul to Godas a complete science of the human being yoga takes into account the physical, metaph...

The word Yoga origins from the Sanskrit and means 'spiritual union' or 'spiritual awareness'. Root Yog and means to bind, to connect or to join. We could conclude it means a union or communication of the soul to God as a complete science of the human being yoga takes into account the physical, metaphysical and spiritual aspect. It means unity and harmony: it harmonizes person's life, actually it is a path of self-discovery that leads to harmony and balance by enhancing every facet of physical fitness.

As said in the previous article, where I was writing about yoga history, the first written in the yoga spiritual process are found in the Vedas (spiritual knowledge). Vedas are the oldest scriptures, where the practice od spiritual disciplines are defined. Yajna (yajna was used before word yoga) and the practice of spiritual disciplines and it translated into word 'sacrifice'. However, the Latinn meaning of sacrifice is 'sacred doing', which leads to conclusion that yoga is sacred doing or better said spiritual practice. Therefore, when someone says 'I do Yoga', it is like saying 'I do spiritual union' or 'I do religion'.
But Westerns aren't very familiar with the spiritual 'side' of yoga, and how much of the spiritual aspect of Yoga should be incorporated into Yoga training? In western world mostly Hatha Yoga is practiced and yet, Hatha yoga is believed to have both spiritual and physical aspects the two that are most important.





Since the beginning of Yoga, as said in the previous article approximately 5000 years ago, Yoga has been attached to Hinduism, which is one of the oldest major religions today. Today Yoga has been detached from Hinduism, but the spiritual aspect of Yoga is still readily apparent.
Yogic philosophy does not conflict with any religion: yogic philosophy follows the same basic principles as any other religion, so there is no conflict between basic principles. However, yoga is not a religion. For example, people of many religions, Christians, Muslims, Jews as well as atheists, practice yoga because of its numerous benefits: because of asanas (postures or exercises), for which even doctors, who are traditionally not prone to alternative medicine, claim to be extraordinarily healthy. One the other hand there are people who practice yoga because of meditation in order to contact their higher consciousness. Many who practice yoga meditation are deeply religious or are just seeking verifiable experience and personal transformation.
Person who is dedicated to yoga strives to live in an ongoing state of harmony- to achieve living in higher consciousness: body, mind and spirit are brought into union.

Types of Yoga and its Spirituality

There was something written about Yoga types in previous article, in this section we will look more deeply into it.
Bhakti Yoga or also known as devotional yoga is the most natural path for those who seek emotional fulfillment and well being. It is practiced by meditating or visualizing the Lord and feeling his love. Bhakti is the Sanskrit term that signifies a blissful, selfless and overwhelming love of God as the beloved Father, Mother, Child, Friend or whichever relationship or personal aspect of God that finds appeal in the devotee's heart.
Karma Yoga refers to the universal principle of cause and effect- it means 'to do'. Karma Yoga is also known as Buddhi Yoga or 'the discipline of action'. Karma Yoga focuses on duty (dharma) while being detached from the reward. It's basic principle is that someone can attain Moksha (salvation), which could also translated as 'love of God' by performing duties, but not expecting any pleasure out of that. In short, Karma Yogi lives for God or for higher self, and not for ego anymore.
Jnana Yoga is the path of wisdom, as Jnana means wisdom or discernment and is often interpreted to mean %26quot;knowledge of the true self%26quot;. Jnana yoga is one of the four basic paths in yoga (jnana, bhakti, raja and karma.), according to Yoga and Vedanta philosophies.
Raja Yoga is referred as Ashtanga (eight-limbed) yoga because there are eight aspects to the path to which one must attend. It is concerned principally with the cultivation of the mind using meditation to further one's acquaintance with reality and finally achieve liberation. Raja means royal or kingly. Raja yoga meditation is generally based on directing one%26rsquo;s life force to bring the mind and emotions so into balance that the attention may be easily focused on the object of meditation, or the Lord directly.
Mantra Yoga involves mantras, which are words or phrases which are chanted thoughtfully and with growing attention until the mind and emotions are transcended and the superconscious is clearly revealed and experienced. It is said that the music of mantra rescues the mind and brings it back to the object of one%26rsquo;s meditation. There are thousands of mantras which are mainly from the ancient Sanskrit language. Typical on the other hand are:

• Aum (meaning Spirit, the Word of God, which creates, preserves, and transforms),



• Aum Mani Padme Hum (Om the jewel is in the Lotus Hum)



• Asato Ma Sat Gamayo (Lead me from the unreal to the Real)

Generally mantra meditation involves chanting out loud at first until the body is calm and the atmosphere around oneself is serene and pleasant for meditation, and then the whispering meditation occurs automatically, which means that the life force begins to withdraw inward from %26quot;out-loud%26quot; chanting to whisper chanting. Whispering means the life force in the body is balanced and harmonized and prepared for the way of balanced mind and emotions and to a deeper state of serenity.
In Laya Yoga you need the aid of a teacher to learn laya yoga meditation: there are 5 main energy centers in your spine (tailbone, sacrum, spinal cord, heart center, throat center) and two in your head (third eye, crown of your head). The teacher knows how to locate them and helps reach the doorways to different realms of higher consciousness.
In Tantra Yoga word Tanra means %26quot;expansion%26quot;, which means that Tantra Yogi concentrates on expanding all levels of his or her consciousness to unveil and realize the Supreme Reality. Tantra Yoga has been abused by some self-proclaimed adherents, and it is not concerned with sexuality, but with the creative force and transmuting this energy into higher channels.
Hatha Yoga is widely spread in Western world because of its benefits for health and vitality. In Sanskrit, ha means sun, tha means moon. In short, Hatha yoga is the practice of harmonizing the body%26rsquo;s inner currents: feeling, thinking, willing, acting until they are in perfect balance.
Kundalini yoga involves a combination of raja, hatha, tantra, laya and mantra yogas. Its principal goal is the stimulation of the spiritual life force at the base of the spine so that it will rise from the lower centers of your being into the spiritual centers in your head where higher consciousness is perceived and, ultimately, lived in.
Kriya Yoga is a blend of raja, jnana, and bhakti practices. The word kriya means %26quot;to do, to make an effort,%26quot; or %26quot;to transform.%26quot;

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Different Types of Weight Training

Weight training is a common type of strength training which is practised in order to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. During weight training often specialized equipment is used in order to target specific muscle groups and types of movement. Weight training is a part of every athle...

Weight training is a common type of strength training which is practised in order to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. During weight training often specialized equipment is used in order to target specific muscle groups and types of movement. Weight training is a part of every athlete's training regime.

In this article we will describe three types of weight training known:

• bodybuilding



• weightlifting



• powerlifting

Bodybuilding

Bodybuilding is the process of developing muscle fibres through the combination of weight training, increased calorie intake and rest: it is an act of putting on muscle by working out and shaping diet in a matter to put on more muscle mass. Person that engages in bodybuilding is referred as bodybuilder. Bodybuilding may be done for recreation, for personal appearance or as a competitive sport. As a sport, bodybuilding is called competitive bodybuilding, bodybuilders demonstrate a number of poses intended to accentuate certain muscle groups to a panel of judges, who assign points based on their aesthetic appearance. In such manner, bodybuilding as a sport is not athletic and should not be confused with weightlifting or powerlifting. Reason for that is that is bodybuilding the focus is on muscle mass and bodybuilding aesthetic, and not strength or agility. For that aesthetic part large part of competitive bodybuilders spend half of their trainings perfecting their posing routines.






Many people see bodybuilders bodies as unrealistic, unnatural and pumped up. They actually do pump up their bodies and there are a number of techniques that used for weight gain and shaping muscle mass. There is only a difference whether this is done naturally and slowly through a regular routine, or quickly. Those who gain weight and shape muscles quickly harder gain strength and are often referred as hardgainers.
So, how is it done.
Most common technique requires being able to lift more and more weight each week. There are few techniques focusing on that: for example, some bodybuilders advocate a training program of moderate weight with numerous repeatings, followed by occasional high-weight sets, while others focus on very heavy weights with lower number of repeatings and lower number of sets.
Diet is essential in bodybuilding. Bodybuilder must increase intake of protein, minerals and vitamins. There are many supplements available on the market, some of them contain testosterone or other chemical supplements. Use of those supplements is prohibited in most competitive arenas, moreover they may have serious health-related side effects. Thus best and most natural technique for bodybuilding is proper workout and high-protein diet, combined with plenty rest.

Weightlifting

Weightlifting is a sport where competitors attempt to lift heavy weights mounted on steel bars. Weightlifting is the only Olympic sport in which heavy weights are used.
There are two standard lifts, the the two hands snatch (Snatch) and the the two hands clean and jerk. In the snatch, the bar and weights are lifted in one explosive motion from the floor to full arm's length overhead. In order to perform lift easier, athletes bend their legs quickly while the bar is rising in order to catch the bar at arm's length. The best super-heavyweight weightlifters have lifted nearly 500 lb./227.5 kg with snatch.
The clean and jerk is done in two parts, but they must be completed one immediately after the other. Since the the bar is liften in two stages heavier weights can be lifted than in the snatch. The best super-heavyweight lifters in history have lifted nearly 600 lb./272.5 kg. in clean and jerk lift.
In the first part (clean) the bar is raised in an explosive motion from the floor to a point of rest approximately at the level of the shoulders (rule permits lifting the bar within a zone from the chest above the nipples to a position above the shoulders, as long as the arms are in a fully bent position with the bar resting on the hands in the latter case); the second part, called the jerk, consists of bending the legs and then extending both the arms and the legs to bring the bar to full arm's length over the head in one explosive motion.
Lift is performed easier when athletes drop into %26quot;split%26quot; position, or simply bend their legs quickly while the bar is rising in order to catch the bar at arm's length.
There is also a third lift, known as clean and press (or simply press). This one differs from the clean and jerk. In clean and press weight is pressed directly up from the chest in slow controlled motion, while with clean and jerk with an explosive motion. This lift was practiced in the Olympics until 1972, but then it was eliminated because it was too difficult to judge whether the lift was performed correctly.

Powerlifting

Powerlifting is comparing to weightlifting and bodybuilding relatively modern origin, and is very popular in Western Europe and North America. First formal competitions occurred in the mid 1960s, and is just as weightlifting and bodybuilding open to both men and women; it also just like weightlifting offers weight categories allowing athletes to display relative strength: however, powerlifters do lift over five times of their own body weight.
Powerlifting is also about weightlifting and it is about strength. Comparing to weightlifting powerlifting movements are shorter. Powerlifting is consisted of three events: the squat, the bench press, and the deadlift; and then the maximum weight lifted in each event is totalled for a final score.
In squat athlete stands under a racked barbell which is loaded with weight; than grabs the bar from behind, the bar is put onto the top of the back and rests on the trapezius muscles. Than the athlete walks clear of the rack and squats down (until the top of the thigh at the hip joint is lower than the top of the knee).
In bench press the athlete lies on a bench, while loaded barbell rests on racks above the eye level of the powerlifter. The athlete removes the bar from the racks with the help of one or more spotters. Powerlifter lowers barbell to the chest, pauses and then presses up to the full extension of the arms; and then carefully returns the weight to the rack. There are some additional rules that vary between states; however the powerlifter is disqualified if buttocks lift off the bench, the feet move during the lift or if body makes any extraneous movement during the lift.
In deadlift athlete grasps the barbell from the floor and lifts until the legs and back are straight and upright, and the chest proud. Athlete then returns the barbell to the floor: athlete's back have to be straighten and knees locked in a balanced position. Athlete is disqualified if dropping the bar to the floor after the lift is finished.

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Martial Arts in Western Culture

In this article I will define Martial Arts, look into their history and background and I will try to seek explanation why martial arts, especially other but western martial arts are so popular in Western culture. Most of all, I will try to bring out the long forgotten martial arts of Western culture...

In this article I will define Martial Arts, look into their history and background and I will try to seek explanation why martial arts, especially other but western martial arts are so popular in Western culture. Most of all, I will try to bring out the long forgotten martial arts of Western culture.

Definition of Martial Arts

Martial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for combat. Martial arts cover involve broad spectrum of activities, including fighting techniques, self-defense, sport or physical exercises, methods of mental discipline, meditation, character development or even building self-confidence. In short, today martial arts are used for athletic competition, self-defence, law enforcement, sport and consequently physical and mental health.
Very broadly speaking martial arts share a common goal, although there is always a deeper understanding and spirituality to that: to defeat a person or to defend oneself from physical threat. Of course when training very common method is used, particularly in the Asian martial arts, and it is a form of kata. Kata is a set routine of techniques performed alone, or sometimes with a partner, and is performed mostly as training. Of course each style and each martial art has different facets that make them unique from other martial arts.

History and overall concept of Martial Arts

Martial arts developed in countries that have been historically isolated from the Western world: in Asia (China, Japan and India).






In China and India there were artifacts found, which are more than 4000 years old: they show paintings of people performing martial arts poses. Further more, Qigong is one of the systems that may be considered a martial art. It orginates from China and some historians believe that is more than 5000 years old. Qigong means energy cultivation: it is a system that increases the flow of the body's qi (male, active energy), which is universal life energy responsible for health and strength. This spiritual aspects are present in every single Eastern martial art: actually there is no physical and mental or spiritual aspect of martial arts: both are incorporated and they both form specific martial art. Thus martial arts involve physical techniques, but also intellectual and spiritual concepts. Moreover, they are influenced by many of the religious and philosophical systems of the East.
From China, martial arts spread to Japan and other Asian cultures, where many, many new variations developed. In Japan they developed under the influence of Zen Buddhism and by the samurai warrior tradition, which refined many weapons and many methods of fighting. In China martial arts were under influence of buddhism, for which is believed to have introduced breathing methods, meditation, and techniques of mental and spiritual awareness in martial arts, and under influence of confucianism, which was concerned with ethical behavior in daily life.
Eastern Martial arts were unknown to the Western world until after 1945. That was the time when American veterans of World War II brought from occupied Japan Japanese martial arts. However, at that time eastern martial arts were not as popular as they started to be during 70s. This was partly due to charismatic actor Bruce Lee and partly because of the 'start of Aquarius era' and Hippy generation that showed great interest for all Eastern and spiritual. Today, martial art, including well known Karate (Japanese generic form of martial arts), Thai-chi, Mau-Thai, Kick-boxing, Capoeira (Brazilian martial art) etc, ect. have largely made their way to America and into other parts of Western world. Actually, today martial arts industry represents multi-billion dollar industry: martial arts represent popular activity for sport, self-defence, exercise and spirituality.

Western martial arts

However, there is another aspect of Western martial arts and Western civilization. Despite the fact we have more than 2500 years old military tradition, we are, comparing to our Eastern friends, relatively new to martial arts. A growing number of modern research has centered on the historical methods of using various types of Medieval and Renaissance swords and weaponry. Comparing to Eastern martial arts, Western martial arts are also systematic skills or disciplined methods of close-combat for single-combat and battlefield survival: they all had cultural, social, athletic, recreational and ritualistic components. However, through the centuries and with the change in military and social conditions, their martial necessity decreased, and lately even became less popular than to Westerns foreign Eastern martial arts. The history of European martial arts is closely connected with development and innovations: as new tools were invented, so too new methods were for using them.
With the phrase 'Martial art' we link Eastern martial arts. It is interesting that the word 'martial' derives from phrase 'arts of Mars' (Mars was the Roman God of war). The term martial arts was used, well not as early as Orient world, but as early as 1550 in the English fencing manual, although as early as from 12th century, professional instructors of fencing existed across Europe. Before that time only specific civilian weapons were used: they were used primary for military purposes rather than private self-defense and also fencing was primary military art.
European (Western) martial arts are still somehow with us today, although Eastern are much more popular and somehow more interesting to our culture. The truth is that the industry revolution swept away all the science that lied in old European martial arts. Simply- they were no longer needed because more efficient methods for battlefield were invented. From the times of the ancient Greeks to Modern western civilization there has always been a source of innovations, which means that European contributions to martial arts are far-reaching.

In conclusion

When one says 'martial art' we think of Karate or something associated with East Asian cultures. All I am trying to say is that martial arts are by no means unique to this region. For example: capoeira is an athletic movement, created in Brazil by slaves based on skills brought with them from Africa; Native Americans for example have a tradition of open-handed martial arts that includes wrestling.
Martial arts associated with East Asian cultures may be the oldest, but definitely are not the only ones. Practically- where ever a people lived, there some sort of martial art developed.


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Capoeira-Brazilian Martial Art

In this article I will present more and more popular Brazilian martial art, called Capoeira, an unique Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, dance, music and acrobatics. I will demonstare its history, Capoeira styles, music and its role in today's modern culture.What isCapoeira?...

In this article I will present more and more popular Brazilian martial art, called Capoeira, an unique Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, dance, music and acrobatics. I will demonstare its history, Capoeira styles, music and its role in today's modern culture.

What is Capoeira?

Capoeira is an unique Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, dance, music and acrobatics. When learning Capoeira one develops physically, emotionally, and mentally. Capoeira was developed in Brazil, but its history extends to Africa and tribes from Angola, thus Capoeira has two main styles, known as 'regional' and 'Angola'.

Capoeira was developed by slaves, living on Brazilian plantations. They weren't allowed to openly practice traditional forms of self-defense, so they developed dance-like movements, which were combined by singing and the rhythms of simple instruments.

Capoeira was developed: a game of fluid movements, spinning kicks, headbutts and acrobatics, followed by clapping and singing of spectators. Participants form a roda (circle) took turns playing instruments, singing, and sparring in pairs in the centre of the circle, where technique and strategy are the key elements to playing a good game. The winner won a partner, usually female.

Capoeira does not focus on injuring the opponent.





Capoeiristas show the movement without completing: emphasizing their skill in the roda.


History of Capoeira

Capoeira is a 400-year-old martial art that combines music, dance, singing, and acrobatics to create a holistic approach to teaching self-defense.
Capoeira orginates in Africa and was brought to Brazil by captured slaves from Angola. Slaves used this practice in order to defend themselves against their violent overlords. But only that: capoeira was developed to secretly practice art, transmit culture, and lift spirits.
When in 1888 slavery was abolished, the free people moved to the cities of Brazil and since they had no employment, many of them joined or even formed criminal gangs. This is where they practiced capoeira and were actually linked to criminal and anti-government activities. Consequently, capoeira was outlawed in Brazil in 1890 and the punishment for practicing was cutting the tendons on the backs of the practitioner's feet. However, capoeira continues to be practiced, but was moved underground: in places with plenty of escape routes. Even a special rhythm was added to the music to warn players that the police were coming. Practitioners even adopted nicknames or as they said apelidos, which made it more difficult for the police to discover the true identity of capoeiristas. Even today, when person is baptized into capoeira at the batizado ceremony, he or she may be given an apelido. Prosecution of capoeira ended 28 years later, in 1918.
In 1937 first formal instruction where capoeira was taught was open. It was a contribution of Mestre Bimba, a person who contributed to the preservation of the art and most of all its popularity. He and his students demonstrated capoeira at an event at which Getulio Vargas, the president of Brazil at that time, was present, and he was so impressed that with the discipline and devotion of Mestre Bimba's students he declared capoeira the national sport of Brazil.
Since prior to the legalization of the art, capoeira was associated with the criminal activity and the poor underclass Mestre Bimba removed many of the rituals and traditions. 'His' capoeira is called Capoeira Regional, or simply Regional.
Although regional capoeira gained popularity, in 1942 an effort was made to prevent the art from losing its traditions and rituals. Mestre Pastinha opened the first formal academy for instruction in the traditional form of the art, known as Capoeira Angola.

Music and Capoeira

Music is an important part of this art: it sets the style and the tempo of the game. Typical for angola capoeira is slow tempo, while typical Regional is faster. The music is composed of instruments and song. It is sang about many things: about history and stories of slaves or famous capoeiristas, about what is going on within the roda (cycle), about life, about lost love. Some songs attempt to inspire players to play better.
There are three basic kinds of songs in capoeira:

• ladainha (litany): narrative solo usually sung at the beginning of a roda, often by the Mestre (Master)



• chula or louva%26ccedil;%26atilde;o: ladainha is followed by a chula, its a call and response pattern that usually thanks God and the teacher



• corrido: song that is sung while a game is being played, corrido also follows the call and response pattern.

The instruments are played in the row called the bateria:
Bateria is consisted of three berimbaus, two pandeiros (tambourines), Reco-Reco (rasp), and an Agogo (double gong bell), Atabaque (conga-like drum). The later is considered an optional instrument.
Berimbaus look like an archer's bow using a steel string and a gourd. Berimbaus is played by striking the string with a stick, while the pitch is regulated by a stone. Legend even says that in the old times knives were attached to the top of the berimbaus in case a large fight broke out.

Capoeira styles

Two main classifications of capoeira are traditional and modern.

• Angola is considered a traditional since it is the oldest form with roots in African tradition. It is characterized by slower and sneakier movements closer to the ground, where players also play closer to each other.



• Capoeira Regional is considered a modern style and was developed as said before by Mestre Bimba: it is faster and emphasizes more athletic play.



• Capoeira Contempor%26acirc;nea (contemporary) was developmed by other people from Bimba's regional. It is characterized by high jumps, acrobatics, and spinning kicks.

Capoeira and modern culture

In popular culture capoeira is expressed through films, music and video/ computes games. One of the recent films from 2004 Meet the Fockers features capoeira in several short, but memorable scenes, also Carowoman displayed some capoeira moves during some fights scenes.
In music, some of the po, rock and metal artists, such as Soulfly, Sepultura etc. have published albums that contain few tunes featuring the berimbau.
In dancing capoeira is expressed in breakdancing, although there we can mostly see some elements of kung fu styles. However, capoeira is well expressed in slamming, style of dancing expressed among Southern Californian hardcore metal scene.

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Facts about Irritable Bowel Syndrome

There are many people suffering from digestive system problems or disorders, but they have no clear diagnosis. In some cases, they don’t even know what the problem is. However, it is possible this is simply an irritable bowel syndrome.For all those people, it may be worth their while to learn ...
There are many people suffering from digestive system problems or disorders, but they have no clear diagnosis. In some cases, they don%26rsquo;t even know what the problem is. However, it is possible this is simply an irritable bowel syndrome.





For all those people, it may be worth their while to learn the facts about this problem. It may be surprising to hear that this is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in the world.

What is the irritable bowel syndrome?

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS, is a relatively common syndrome of abdominal discomfort or pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. IBS is the most common gastrointestinal complaint in the United States, affecting up to 40 million people. It can affect men and women of all ages. However, for unknown reasons it most often strikes the young and female. IBS generally first appears in people in their 20s to 40s, and women are roughly three times more likely to suffer from this.

It seems that 24% of women in the United States suffer from IBS. Moreover, women with IBS seem to have more symptoms during their periods, suggesting that reproductive hormones may play a role. The pain or cramping with IBS can be a dull ache over one or several areas of the abdomen. For some, the pain can be intolerable and without relief. Some people with IBS suffer predominantly from constipation, while others suffer predominantly from diarrhea. Some IBS patients have alternating bouts of both.

IBS involves an abnormality of the muscular action that passes food along the colon. This condition is also described as increased nerve sensitivity in the colon. It is important to know that IBS is not categorized as a disease, but as a syndrome, since it represents a collection of symptoms. IBS is considered as functional disorder because there is no identifiable pathology and it can strike otherwise healthy people. Biological, psychological, and social factors can all contribute to symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome.

IBS Symptoms

The most common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are:

* abdominal or stomach pain
* relief by defecation, opening the bowels, and passing stool
* change in frequency or consistency of stool
* irregular pattern of defecation for at least two days a week
* altered stool frequency
* altered stool form
* altered stool passage
* passage of mucus
* bloating or feeling of abdominal distension

If you have some of these symptoms, then you probably have IBS. Similar symptoms include loose or watery stools, rushing to the toilet, needing to go to the toilet just after going, and needing to loosen clothes after eating.

Facts about IBS

* While IBS often causes a great deal of discomfort and distress, it does not cause permanent harm to the intestines. Furthermore, it does not lead to intestinal bleeding, and it does not cause cancer or inflammatory bowel diseases. (Examples for such disease are Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.)
* IBS symptoms vary in frequency, where some people can go on for weeks or months with no symptoms, while others may experience symptoms daily.
* Some patients can identify the triggers of their symptoms and can make lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and stress reduction. In some cases, these changes could improve the symptoms. Medication may also help with symptoms of the irritable bowel syndrome.






* Certain types of food, such as chocolate, high-fat foods, milk products, or large amounts of alcohol, may trigger attacks of IBS. Caffeine can cause loose stools even in some people without IBS, but it is particularly problematic for people with this problem.
* IBS is manageable, but we cannot say there is cure for this syndrome.
* IBS may include other symptoms such as constant fatigue, tiredness, and even depression. Depression and anxiety disorders can aggravate IBS, and IBS can contribute to depression and anxiety disorders as well.
* Some research indicates that IBS may be more common among people who were abused as children.
* While stress may aggravate IBS symptoms, other factors, particularly colon motility and sensitivity of the nerves in the colon, also play an important role.

What causes IBS?

The gastrointestinal tract contains a network of nerves. A chemical neurotransmitter known as serotonin regulates the movement and sensitivity of the bowel. Abnormalities in serotonin levels relate to the irritable bowel syndrome.





Abnormalities in serotonin levels also relate to depression, just as IBS.

IBS is rarely debilitating, but in some cases, it can restrict the ability to attend school or social functions. It could also impair a patient%26rsquo;s work, or even travel short distances. IBS has many names including colitis, mucous colitis, spastic colon, spastic bowel, and functional bowel disease, all referring to the same problem. Some of these terms are inaccurate; colitis for instance, means inflammation of the large intestine. IBS, however, does not cause inflammation. That is why this condition should not be confused with ulcerative colitis. There is no evidence that IBS leads to more serious medical problems such as colitis or cancer. Irritable bowel syndrome also does not affect life span in any way. However, if left untreated, the symptoms will often persist, leading to ongoing pain and discomfort.

Diagnosing IBS

To be diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, the patient must have had 3 months or more of abdominal discomfort or pain. If this pain is relieved by defecation, or associated with a change in stool frequency or constipation, diagnosis might be IBS. If you have two or more of the symptoms 25% or more of the time (a change in stool frequency or form, altered stool passage, mucus in the stool or bloating), your diagnosis may be IBS.

Treatment of IBS

Lotronex or alosetron is now FDA-approved for the treatment of IBS for patients with moderate to severe diarrhea as their predominant symptom. This medication was pulled from the market due to severe adverse reactions. Ischemic colitis occurred in a few patients with constipation-predominant IBS. Each doctor who prescribes Lotronex must participate in a special program aimed to avoid this complication.

Doctors were approving zelnorm or tegaserod maleate in July 2002 for the treatment of IBS in those whose primary symptom is constipation. The major side effect is diarrhea, usually during the first week of treatment.

Celexa or citalopram is an antidepressant in the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) class. This may help women with IBS who are constipated, anxious, and who have difficulty sleeping, but side effects may include weight gain and decreased libido.

How to relieve the irritable bowel syndrome?

Some food may worsen the symptoms, but different patients find different things cause trouble with their irritable bowel syndrome.





Keeping a diary of symptoms related to food eaten may help. This way it is easier to find out which things disagree with your bowels and what you should avoid. Fatty foods strongly stimulate the bowel to contract and are commonly found to cause problems by people with IBS. Avoidance of oils, butter, margarine, cream, sausages and fatty meats may help relieve symptoms. Beans and legumes are causes of problems for some patients as well. Artificial sweeteners may cause problems, as can the sugar in certain fruits. If this happened to you, try to avoid this kind of foods.

Caffeine in tea and coffee, as well as alcohol, may aggravate symptoms in some people with IBS. In some cases, people may also have a disease called lactose intolerance. This disease prevents them being able to take unprocessed milk products. A good diet is usually one high in carbohydrate, low in fat, and high in fibers. Since the cause of IBS is unknown, it is not possible to prevent the condition reliably.

Does stress play a part in IBS?

Stress may intensify bowel contractions, and there is some evidence that people with irritable bowel syndrome do not handle stress as well as others. This is not surprising given that sufferers do not feel well at all. In fact, it may be surprising that people with irritable bowel syndrome are not under greater stress then others. Managing stress effectively, especially when it relates to human health, is an individual matter. Breaking any stress feedback cycle is important. Remembering that IBS is not associated with any more serious or life-threatening underlying bowel disease is a good place to start.

A patient might find help through relaxation, or perhaps just by taking regular physical exercise. Adequate sleep and avoidance of fatigue is something each doctor recommends. Meditation may be of assistance in handling life%26rsquo;s stresses, and it is of great help for some people with IBS. Avoiding stressful situations, learning new ways of coping with them, or using biofeedback to control one%26rsquo;s response may all have roles to play in this problem. Remember to consider the possibility that you%26rsquo;re lacking important essential vitamins and minerals. This might be especially important for people who avoid milk products, as they may miss calcium. These people should take additional calcium supplements to relieve possible symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.







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Benefits of Gyrotonic Expansion System

Gyrotonic Expansion System was developed as a dream that a machine could help a dancer achieve turn or piroutte. In this article we will explain what Gyrotonic Expansion System, we will look into its history, but most of all we will try to represent the Benefits of Gyrotonic Expansion System.What is...

Gyrotonic Expansion System was developed as a dream that a machine could help a dancer achieve turn or piroutte. In this article we will explain what Gyrotonic Expansion System, we will look into its history, but most of all we will try to represent the Benefits of Gyrotonic Expansion System.

What is Gyrotonic Expansion System and its History

Gyrotonic Expansion System was developed by a principal dancer in the world renowned Romanian State Opera around 1977, when he moved to St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands. There he built a humble dwelling in the mountains and continued an intensive study and practice of yoga, which he called 'yoga for dancers'.
What exaclty does Gyrotonic Expansion System mean? For start, gyrotonic comes from the word %26quot;gyro%26quot;, which means spiral or circle and from the word %26quot;tonic%26quot; that means to tone or invigorate.
Gyrotonic Expansion System is an equipment is made from wood, aluminium and handcrafted components. There are two parts of the machine:

• 7-ft. pulley tower with leather straps for hands and feet



• movable bench with two rotating disks attached to its edge

Both parts work together in synch to stretch, strengthen and increase range of motion.






The system is based on and combines Kundalini yoga, ballet, swimming, dance, tai chi and gymnastics: it represents fluid system of exercises, where either in sitting or lying position, hands and feet are used through the wheelbases and suspended pulleys to create resistance. In other words, by using weights, cams and pulleys, circular movements are possible in limitless directions allowing rehabilitating clients to stimulate injured areas. It is possible to maintain and expand postural integrity, and continue to progress in patterns that are unaffected by injury. More than 50 sets of exercises with over 130 variation can be performed on Gyrotonic Expansion System: it is possible to stretch, bend, twist and turn muscles with minimal effort. Most of exercises are circular and three-dimensional: exercises that increase motion, balance and coordination and exercises that improve cardiovascular and aerobic stimulation and neuromuscular rejuvenation can be performed. System works for anyone who wants to gain strength, flexibility and coordination.
This is relatively new system that uses Gyrokinetics as the basis to exercise the musculature while mobilizing and articulating the joints: there is no pressure on the joints, although ligaments and joints are strengthening. Pattern motions are very natural and completely turbulence free, which results is a balanced support system for the skeleton and also the spine, which enables less injuries. Exercises can also be performed with either rhythm or melodic expression, and each exercise must be synchronized with a corresponding breathing pattern.
Gyrotonic Expansion System is popular in Europe and used in 150 exercise dance centers In United States.
When Juliu Horvath returned to New York in the 1980's and began teaching his %26quot;method%26quot; at %26quot;Steps on Broadway%26quot; and in Central Park, and then he opened studio, called White Cloud Studio. In 1991 Gyrotonic Expansion System was awarded a medal at the 7th International Invention Convention in Pittsburgh.

Benefits of Gyrotonic Expansion System

Gyrotonic Expansion System incorporates Kundalini yoga, ballet, swimming, dance, tai chi and gymnastics. The technique is used for sport-specific, therapeutic and general human body conditioning.
Its main benefits:

• stretches and strengthens musculature



• improves posture



• releases the tension in the body



• increases flexibility and strength



• increases range of motion



• develops body strength



• develops body alignment awareness



• develops coordination



• develops the musculature



• enhances balance and stability



• articulates the spine



• puts no stress on joints



• creates balanced support system for the skeleton



• improves circulation



• reconditions the nervous system



• by developing breath-movement coordination revitalizes flow of energy



• prevents injuries



• rehabilitates

However, there are also downsizes. Main is the price. Its a killer workout, but it might be too costly and complex for widespread use: it namely typically requires six to ten one-on-one lessons, that costs over $50, and comparing to pilates sessions which are half the price, it is expensive. Besides, if you get hooked and you want to use the machine at home, it will set you back at least $2,500. If you want to practice in a studio, there are not many teachers: for example only 150 dance studios in United States is familiar with the machine.
There is another drawback: it can be very frustrating- remember the rubbing of your stomach while patting your head? Like that, only harder... Unless you're a very good co-ordinator you'll need time to learn the circular moves. Of course the machine requires a degree of commitment and full concentration, which leads to conclusion this workout is not very particularly sociable. If you prefer the support of exercising in a group, I am afraid Gyrotonic system is not for you.
It may be hard at the beginning, and it may not be very sociable, but hey- you can get some coffee or juice with your friends afterwards!
Do not forget all the positive things about it!

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Nose drops addiction

You probably know someone who has had a runny nose for more than a week, maybe even more than a month. New research has found that it may not be wise to use nose drops periodically, because it can be addictive. If you have a minor nasal-related problem, you should try some other solutions first, suc...
You probably know someone who has had a runny nose for more than a week, maybe even more than a month. New research has found that it may not be wise to use nose drops periodically, because it can be addictive. If you have a minor nasal-related problem, you should try some other solutions first, such as saline. If you have serious problems, seek a doctor%26rsquo;s advice. Most doctors include nose drops as a simple treatment option, but how easy is it to develop nose drops addiction?

Medical term for nose drops addiction

Rhinitis medicamentosum, or RM, is a fancy name for being addicted to nose drops that many people use. Do we really know what happens when the nose becomes stuffy and we cannot sleep? We just use the nose spray and open the breathing pathways quickly, so we can rest easily. However, later on the nose clogs up again, and we use the drops again, maybe more that the first time. In the beginning, we only use them every 12 hours or so, then every 8, and then every 6 hours. Some people even reported they have to use nose drops every 4 hours. Although we know the bottle says %26ldquo;only use for a few days%26rdquo;, the nose plugs up unless we use the drops. Meanwhile, some people experience nervousness and irritability.





This is the adrenergic effect of the drops, whether taken orally or as nasal spray.

There are some common nasal sprays that can cause Rhinitis medicamentousm, such as Oxymetazoline, known as Afrin, Phenyleherine or Neosynephrine, and Xylometazoline known as Otrivin or Inspire. Any constrictor nose drop can cause you to become addicted. There is evidence that although Afrin shrinks the nasal tissue, BZK irritates it so that you need more Afrin. The important conclusion is, products without BZK may not cause RM. There is high incidence of RM probably because these medications are so readily available.

It is easy to tell the patient to stop using the product, but their misery is quite severe and often willpower does not work to keep them away from the addictive cure. One solution is a course of prednisone with antibiotics, which shrinks the nose and reduces inflammation.

What to do when you become addicted to nose drops

First, you might try with prednisone with antibiotics, as stated above, but you could also dilute the drops you are using gradually. You can get a program of gradual reduction of the nasal drops through a company known as Rhinostat Systems. They are able to make a solution for you so that you gradually reduce the dose. Since you are no longer getting the rebound effect, this is a preferred method.

In some cases where you%26rsquo;ve been using the medication for a long time and you are already addicted, the cilia fail to resume good movement right away. This is why the nose may still feel as though it is stuffy. Hot tea, chicken soup, or compresses to the sinus area may help relieve this symptom. The Hydro Pulse nasal and sinus irrigator pulses at a rate to best restore normal cilia speed, so you could try this as well.

Is there a way to prevent nose drops addiction?

If you want to prevent nose drops addiction, try to avoid nose drops altogether. If you do get a stuffy nose on the first day, just take it easy, and don%26rsquo;t rush to the medicine cabinet. Plenty of tea and rest may be all you need. Once you start overusing nasal sprays, you can wind up addicted. This happens not because you are weak, but because of the rebound effect of these medications. Doctors should emphasize that willpower is not the issue here. The RM caused by usage of nose drops is a chemical condition caused by the rebound of the medication. Patients with RM need assistance to quit the nose spray habit, but the best cure, of course, is not to get started. Cortisone sprays, saline sprays without benzalkonium, and Breathe.ease XL spray, do not cause Rhinitis Medicamentosum.

Sinusitis and addiction

Nasal decongestants may help the sinuses drain, but antihistamines may actually make the sinus infection worse, as they sometimes make the mucus thicker and harder to drain. Topical decongestants, such as the nose drops and sprays, make the child feel better but at a terrible price. Overuse of these products actually makes the lining of the nose addicted to them, so that the child cannot breathe well without using them. That is why a doctor should recommend staying away from nose drops as much as possible. A better treatment is salt water.

How to use nose drops properly?

Blow your nose gently, then drop the required number of drops into each nostril. The aim is to get the liquid to spread over the entire inside surface of the nose, including the upper surface. A good position is to lie on the bed with your head hanging back over the edge; you should stay like this for two minutes after putting in the drops, so that the liquid does not immediately run out of your nose or down the back of your throat, but stays for a while in the nose cavity. Kneeling or bending forward is an alternative, but it is harder to stay like this for two minutes. You should not put in nose drops by tilting your head back when standing or sitting. This way the upper surface inside your nose will not be covered by the liquid.

Each consumer of nose drops should ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice before starting a new type of nose drops. Between doses, you should keep the bottle closed and store in a cool, dark place. Do not let anyone else use your drops and do not use anyone else%26rsquo;s drops yourself.

Do not use nose drops more often or for longer than advised. In addition, everyone who uses nose drops should know addiction with nose drops is not like getting hooked on weed or pain pills. It is not as you get a mellow feeling and want to go for the drift off. With nose drops, you need more and more just to breathe, which is a serious problem. You can mess up your natural nose reactions and then you would need to spray just to get air in, so be very careful when you start using nose drops.

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Strenuous Running and Endorphins

People often look at runners with admiration, wondering why she or he would get up at five in the morning and go for a run before a start of a stressful day. The answer of a runner would be: 'I need it!'. And yes, they need it. Reason for that are endorphins- chemicals released by pituitary gland. I...

People often look at runners with admiration, wondering why she or he would get up at five in the morning and go for a run before a start of a stressful day. The answer of a runner would be: 'I need it!'.
And yes, they need it. Reason for that are endorphins- chemicals released by pituitary gland.
In this article I will present the benefits of running, what are endorphins, their action and effect on humans.


Benefits of running


Most people run because they want to stay in shape or because they want to achieve their ideal weight. Studies show that combination of diet and exercise is the most effective way to loose weight. Running is cardiovascular exercise that allows people to burn 100 calories per each mile she or he runs. The most important factor on the loss of calories is not how fast that person runs, but this person's weight. Most runners lose weight at first, but then their weight stabilizes.

Another, even more important reason for running is health. Running is cardiovascular exercise, which means its primary benefits are cardiovascular. Running strengthens heart: for example an inactive person beats 36,000 more times each day than that of a runner. Running namely keeps the arteries open and the blood flowing smoothly, which also helps lowering blood pressure: when person runs, arteries expand and contract more than usual, which contributes to their elasticity.





Running also influences lung's potential, which is done by forcing the lungs to take deeper breaths and this way forcing them to use more tissue. Some doctors claim that even smokers can sometimes recover full lung potential through running.


Besides physical benefits there are also psychological advantages of running: because of endorphins release (more about that later) running is often used to treat clinical depression and other psychological disorders. Running works as natural tranquilizer: it namely makes person less depressed, tense and less confused or fatigued. Besides that, running is often used as self-hrlp to treat addictions, such as drugs and alcohol or even cigarettes.

What are endorphins and how do they work?

When person runs, swims, cycles and performs any other strenuous exercise, pituitary gland releases endorphins: chemicals that release feeling of euphoria and that block sensations of pain. Endorphins are very closely linked to addictions, they were even discovered by accident when scientists were carrying out research on addictions and drugs. Researchers discovered that human brain contains its own neuro-chemicals, which are far more potent than heroin, opium and morphine. They also discovered that endorphins release in times of stress %26ndash; in case of runners: after strenuous running. Endorphins make runner feel great after exercise and this effect is often referred as 'runner's high'. And it doesn't stop there: endorphins are also motivational. They namely help runner to feel energized throughout their whole day.
There is no such sport as running %26ndash; besides swimming and cycling, running it is the only sport, that elevates the leves of endorphins so high. For example, researchers from the Department of Health and Sports Science at the University of Richmond in the United States tried to determine whether weightlifting can also heighten endorphin levels, and the results showed that blood-endorphin levels were not different after weightlifting than before.
Endorphins production occurs during and after strenuous exercise; during long, continuous workouts, when the level of intensity is between moderate and high, and breathing is difficult; when muscles use up their stored glycogen and begin functioning with only oxygen
Running is not the only sport that produces endorphins. Other sports are are most likely to produce endorphins are cardiovascular exercises, like swimming, aerobics, bicycling, cross-country skiing, long distance rowing, football, basketball, soccer.
Besides strenuous sport activities, clinical researchers reporte, that insertion of acupuncture needles into specific body points triggers the production of endorphins and that higher levels of endorphins were found in cerebrospinal fluid after patients underwent acupuncture.

Endorphins addiction

Is that even possible? How can a person by doing something healthy like exercising become addicted?
It is possible and people do become addicted. This is a positive addiction, but still.
Exercise is a powerful drug: it takes us into Zen-like state and its power can be so strong that it can turn enthusiasts into addicts. And even though running or any other type of strenuous exercising is a very healthy habbit, it can turn into unhealthy addiction. Exercise abuse was first studied by Dr. William P. Morgan in 1979 and he discovered that that excessive exercise can cause physical and mental harm.
People who abuse exercise exhibit three common characteristics. They excessively rely on exercise. They continue to exercise when they are injured or sick. They have withdrawal symptoms when exercise levels are decreased or temporarily halted. In short, they have typical symptoms of drug addiction and drug. Exercise becomes their number one priority in life: everything is scheduled around exercising- the same as with any other addition. They often feel out of control and become dependent on their workouts that they can't and won't stop, no matter what the cost. They often disregard warning signs of physical limitations and continue to work out and push themselves even when having high temperature or even pneumonia! The consequences of such behavior are serious and can lead to permanent physical disability.

Endorphins are not released only during strenuous exercising; endorphins are released:

• during all pain, including behaviors like masochism;



• by overexposure to light



• laughter and tickling



• stress



• sexual activity and orgasm



• eating spicy foods



• eating sweets (sweets rush)



• during freeze or immobility



• during acupuncture and shower massages and scalp massages, that may stimulate acupressure points and scalp nerve endings



• during crying



• during calming music and during alpha rhythm drums



• during stimulation of erogenous zones

At the end- running is beneficial, but everything good can turn into bad, if its 'consumption' is too high. Thus, run- it is healthy and good for you! But be careful not to turn this healthy and beneficial activity into night mare.

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Macrobiotic Principles

The history of macrobioticThe word macrobiotic origins from Greek and means "long life". The macrobiotic diet and the philosophy behind it were developed by a Japanese philosopher and educator George Ohsawa. He sought to integrate Zen Buddhism, Asian medicine, Christian teachings, and some aspects o...

The history of macrobiotic

The word macrobiotic origins from Greek and means %26quot;long life%26quot;. The macrobiotic diet and the philosophy behind it were developed by a Japanese philosopher and educator George Ohsawa. He sought to integrate Zen Buddhism, Asian medicine, Christian teachings, and some aspects of Western medicine: he believed that simplicity is the key to optimal health: he namely recommended ten progressively restrictive stages, the last of which was consisted of only brown rice and water. His version of the macrobiotic diet is very restrictive and is not widely recommended by macrobiotic diet counselors.
On the other hand, Michio Kushi expanded on Ohsawa's macrobiotic theory and opened the Kushi Institute in Boston in 1978. He brought macrobiotic diet somewhat closer to the masses or let's say at least he is the one responsible for popularization of macrobiotic in Western world. He is the leader of macrobiotic lifestyle: according to his teachings, macrobiotics is not just a diet and not just a type of therapy- macrobiotics is a way of living.

Macrobiotic diet

Just like most people that eat 'ordinary' diet, follow food diet, so exists the macrobiotic pyramid, recommended by Kushi institute.

50-60% of each should be consisted of whole grains. Whole grains include: brown rice, whole wheat berries, barley, millet, rye, corn, buckwheat, and other whole grains.





They are best eaten cooked. On the other hand rolled oats, noodles, pasta, bread, baked goods, and other flour products can be eaten occasionally.
Vegetables represent 25 to 30% of daily food intake. It is best if up to one-third of the total vegetable intake can be raw. Otherwise vegetables should be steamed, boiled, baked, and sauteed. On of the main macrobiotic principles claims it is best to eat season and local vegetables.
Local fruits are allowed to eat several times a week, while tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple, papaya should be avoid.

Follower of macrobiotic diet should eat 5-10% of daily food intake, which is one or two bowls of soup per day. In macrobiotic diet miso and shoyu soups are eaten.
Cooked beans or products made of beans, such as tofu etc. are also important part of daily food intake. They represent 10% of daily food intake.
Seaweed represents 5% of macrobiotic diet, while animal food, such as fish or other seafood is allowed to be eaten several times per week. If consuming seafood, it is recommended to eat horseradish, wasabi, ginger, mustard, or grated daikon to help the body detoxify from the effects of fish and seafood.
Other animal products, such as meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products are not allowed.
Seeds and nuts are allowed to eat in moderation. The same is with desserts, which can be eaten several times a week, but only by people who are in good health. Sugar, honey, chocolate and other sweeteners must be avoid.
Oils that are used in macrobiotics are unrefined vegetable oils. Commonly used is dark sesame oil, also corn oil and others.
Macrobiotic diet also allows seasonings, such as natural sea salt, shoyu, brown rice vinegar, umeboshi vinegar, umeboshi plums, grated ginger root, fermented pickles, gomashio (roasted sesame seeds), roasted seaweed, and sliced scallions. Besides that, there are other factors that must be taken into consideration when following macrobiotic diet. The composition of macrobiotic diet is a subject of the time of the year. For example, in spring food with decreasingly powerful energy should be eaten, such as wild plants, germs, lightly fermented food, grain species, fresh greens. In spring it is recommended to apply light cooking styles, such as steaming and cooking for shorter time. In winter on the other hand hot and powerful food including root vegetables, round vegetables and pickles is recommended, with more miso, shoyu, oil, and salt. Food preparation techniques include steaming, boiling, raw, ohitashi, nishime, nitsuke, kinpira, sukiyaki, nabe, oven baking, baking in a pressure cooker, tempura, frying, and must be used according to the time of the year.
Macrobiotic diet also depends on the time of the day. It is also important that the dish is consisted of 5 colors: red, white, blue, yellow, and black; and that the flavours of the products used in the dish are sweet, bitter, sharp, sour and salt.
It is also important to take into consideration individualized based on factors such as climate, season, age, gender, activity, and health needs.
Very important macrobiotic principle is balance between Yin and Yang.

Principles of Macrobiotic

No matter you eat macrobiotic or not it is important to eat along your traditional dietary principles. For example, Chinese eat rice as main grain, Native Americans corn, Italians use olive oil rather than butter and pickles instead of umeboshi plums, etc.
Do not waste anything is another very important macrobiotic principle.
Third principle is: eat locally grown and in season. This is one of the primarily principles in macrobiotics. Eat food native to the climate and fresh food.
As mentioned above, it is important to adapt cooking to season of the year. During winter cook longer, in spring shorter or even better steam. Spring and summer are influenced by upward energy, thus during that time eat light dishes and light oil, and only some strong and long-cooking dishes to keep your energy up. In autum and winter we need more fire and energy to keep us warm. During that time, use more oil and salt, and more stew type of cooking and more root vegetables.
Fifth principle teaches us to balance the yin (expansive energy) or yang (contractive energy): both yin and yang are used in classification of vegetables, grains, seaweeds, seasonal changes, type of cutting.
One of primary macrobiotic principles teaches us how to balance water, fire and salt in our daily lives.

Strengthens and weaknesses of macrobiotic diet

Main strengthens of this diet are fiber-rich whole grains, vegetables and beans. All that is lacking in our modern, fast-living world. Macrobiotic diet is low in saturated fat and high in phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens help balance women's hormones and help with PMS, menopause and are a prevention against breast cancer.
On the other hand, there are also some dangers in macrobiotic diet, which is low in meat, proteins, dairy product sugar, vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, and calcium. By some nutritionists macrobiotic diet is considered too restrictive and lacking in nutrients, as already mentioned.

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