Archive for May, 2007

exercise and heart health a life giving marriage

Thursday, May 31st, 2007

Exercise and Heart Health: A Life Giving Marriage

Writen by Nicholas Webb

Most people get their health out of a bottle these days, be it a bottle of vitamins or pharmaceuticals. However, with a little effort and dedication you really can get a hold on your life, turn it round and live it to the full!

If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease or are at risk of developing heart disease regular exercise is essential for the health of your heart, body and mind. In fact, aerobic exercise and heart health really do go hand in hand.

With busy lifestyles and lack of time, regular use of home equipment, such as a treadmill, an elliptical trainer, a stationary cycle, a stair-climber, etc. is becoming increasingly popular. These items are now precision health giving apparatus that really can help get you in shape. Gyms are also getting more and more members, but often people slack off because of time restraints. If this is you, working out at home may be the answer for you

However, before jumping into your gym shoes talk to your doctor about your desires and objectives. Your doctor may be able to give you some useful insights you didn’t consider as well as coaching from a medical point of view. If your doctor gives you the OK, try to work some exercise into your daily routine. The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests, for example, that patients start by walking five minutes a day, then increasing gradually to 30 minutes over several weeks. Walking is a wonderful way to start, as it is low impact, you need no special equipment, and it costs nothing. Swimming may be another good choice. This type of exercise is called aerobic training that involves large muscle groups, such as the legs, and keeps your heart rate pumping for a set amount of time. Unless there are deformities of the heart muscle, aerobics and heart health are often found together and not only does the heart benefit, there are other advantages too.

Aerobic Exercising and Heart Health

As you can see, take it slow initially; it’s really not necessary to sign up at the local gym or aerobic class. Although, after some time you might want to do just that.

Depending on where you live walking or swimming may not be an option. In such cases, you may like to consider a piece of home aerobic equipment such as a treadmill, stationary cycle or elliptical trainer. However, before purchasing a home trainer consider whether you will really use it. If the answer is yes, best get the best home aerobic equipment you can afford. Your heart will thank you.

Lack of exercise and heart disease

The American Heart Association has now added “lack of exercise” to the list of major risk factors for heart disease. The other risk factors are smoking, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol.

Exercise not only helps fight heart disease and gets you in shape, but if you live a sedentary lifestyle, a regular exercise routine can also:

  • help control high blood pressure,
  • reduce the risks of type II diabetes,
  • help prevent osteoporosis,
  • improve your general wellbeing and help fight depression, anxiety and stress,
  • greatly help to lose weight
  • Those are just some of the benefits of doing regular exercise. I wanted to make a list of some of the disadvantages, but I can’t think of any!

    In an ideal world, in order to get the best results possible you should exercise three to five times a week for 30-60 minutes within your target heart rate. But even normal day to day events, such as taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking to work, walking the dog, or gardening can help. You can do many things to increase physical activity during the day; just try thinking about what you can do. The benefits are well worth the effort.

    Another thing that has proven to be effective is cross training. In cross training you participate in 2 or more different types of exercise during the week, for instance: Monday walking, Tuesday treadmill, Wednesday swimming, Thursday elliptical training, etc. You may also like to insert some strengthening exercises too, such as weight lifting.

    Not only will cross training help to tone your whole body, it will help stop boredom setting in. Many people stop training not because they don’t have the time (that’s the reason they don’t start), but because they get bored. If you can arrange a routine where you do something different each day, it is going to be difficult to get bored.

    So, talk with your doctor and start now! Once you notice the result, nothing will stop you. You’ll loose weight, be more toned and fit, will have a sharper outlook on life and, oh yes I almost forgot, you’ll live longer!

    About the Author:
    Nicholas Webb, of AllAbout Heart Disease, speaks and writes with a passion telling it is as it is; helping others to live life to the full. This article is extracted from his newsletter “The Web’s Heart”. To subscribe, or read other articles visit The Web’s Heart

    To learn more about how to beat heart disease and get into shape visit: http://www.AllAbout-Heart-Disease.com

    a guide to herbal sleep aids

    Thursday, May 31st, 2007

    A Guide to Herbal Sleep Aids

    Writen by Dan Ho

    Difficulty sleeping can affect many aspects of life. People who don’t get the recommended amount of sleep for their age groups can have a myriad of negative affects.

    Daytime crankiness, difficulty concentrating, frequent illness, depression, and accidents are all common problems associated with poor sleep habits.

    For some people, getting more sleep is not as easy as going to bed earlier. If you suffer from insomnia, you know how wearisome it can be to lie in bed, unable to sleep.

    Doctors can prescribe medication to help, but these medications have undesirable side effects. Stomach problems, dizziness, daytime drowsiness, difficulty awakening, accidents, and poor coordination are all common.

    Not only do prescription sleep medications have negative side effects, they also don’t cause healthy sleep. They cause sedation or unconsiousness–not the restful, healing sleep you need.

    But you don’t have to choose between sleep deprivation and unwanted medication–nature has provided us with many natural remedies for sleeplessness.

    Whether you want a little help falling asleep occasionally or a long-term supplement that will help restore your body’s natural sleep rhythms, you should be able to find an herbal sleep aid that will work for you.

    Chamomile

    Chamomile is one of nature’s oldest and gentlest herbal sleep aids. It is most often drunk as a tea, which has a mild and pleasant taste. In addition to promoting calm and restfulness, chamomile is also used in cases of stomach irritation.

    The benefits of chamomile works when taken occasionally, and is mild enough that it can be used daily for extended periods of time. It doesn’t cause dependency, and has no side effects. It may, though, be an allergen for people who are allergic to daisies.

    Experts are not sure how chamomile works to induce sleep. US Pharmacist reports that apigenin, a flavonoid in chamomile, may help to promote sleep, but that other components are probably also involved.

    Valerian

    Valerian is a root that has long been used as an herbal sleep aid. It has a characteristic smell, like old socks, which comes from isovaleric acid. Valerian can be used to help occasional sleeplessness, but is also particularly helpful taken long-term.

    Many studies have shown valerian root to be an extremely safe and effective way to promote sleep. Patients who take valerian report that they feel less anxious and nervous, and have better rest at night.

    Clearly, there are many benefits of valerian, and it causes none of the negative effects on concentration and alertness that prescription medications, thereby making it an excellent choice for people who suffer from chronic insomnia. Very high doses may cause certain side effects such as nausea, headaches, and dizziness.

    Melatonin

    Melatonin is a hormone that the body produces at night. It is sometimes called the “sleep hormone” because it is so important to healthy sleep. People who are blind, who suffer from jet lag, or who live in places with extended sunlight hours may have trouble sleeping because their bodies do not produce enough melatonin.

    Patients looking for a short-term sleep solution may be helped by taking melatonin supplements, as will persons whose natural wake/sleep cycles have been disturbed. Melatonin is also helpful to people who are trying to wean themselves off of sleep medications.

    SAMe

    SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) is an amino acid derivative, and is found normally in the body. It is typically used as an antidepressant, but is also commonly used to treat chronic fatigue syndrome or as an herbal sleep aid. Its actions in the body help to promote healthy sleep cycles, especially when taken daily for several weeks.

    Mario Kyriazis, M.D, author of The Anti-Aging Plan (Element, 2000) explains that SAMe helps to promote sleep by increasing serotonin, a nerotransmitter important to sleep and mood. SAMe also works with the hormone melatonin to harmonize the body’s natural day/night rhythms. SAMe is extremely safe, with no known serious side effects. Minor possible side effects in high dosages may include nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.

    Tryptophan

    Tryptophan is an amino acid that is a precursor to seratonin. Low seratonin levels can cause irritability, anxiety, and sleeplessness, so adding more tryptophan to your diet can help you relax and will promote healthier sleep patterns.

    Many foods naturally contain tryptophan. Increasing the amount of turkey, cottage cheese, peanuts, soy, brown rice, or milk in your diet will help your body to manufacture seratonin. Tryptophan supplements are also available.

    Choosing your supplement

    With all of the natural and herbal sleep aids available, it can seem tough to choose one. The choices don’t have to be overwhelming, though.

    Some supplements are meant to be used only occasionally, while others work better when used long-term. Many supplements have additional benefits, so it’s often easy to pick one supplement to meet several needs. Naturopathic physicians, dieticians, and herbalists can help you choose the best herbal sleep aid for you.

    References:

    Cauffield, Jacintha S., Pharm.D., BCPS. “Supplements Used to Treat Sleep Disorders.” http://www.uspharmacist.com/oldformat.asp?url=newlook/files/Comp/sleep.htm&pub_id=8&article_id=729

    Kyriazis, Marios, M.D. “Depression and SAMe.” http://www.smart-drugs.com/depression-SAMe.htm.

    Dan Ho is chief editor of Nutritional Supplement Info Spotlight, which offers unconventional and unique solutions for common health issues. Claim your FREE subscription to his newsletter now at his Nutritional Supplement and Herbal Supplement Guide Site

    eating chocolate ice cream every full moon promotes weight loss

    Thursday, May 31st, 2007

    Eating Chocolate Ice Cream Every Full Moon Promotes Weight Loss

    Writen by Adam Kessler

    Are these the kinds of stories that we as health professionals are trying to write to enlighten the public or gain fame and notoriety? I read this story several days ago about some doctor who claims if you limit your flavors and pick a flavor of the day you will lose weight and has the case studies to prove it. C’mon!! First we have the Atkins diet, then the cabbage diet, and now this. I mean if you really want to prey on the many people who are so desperate to lose weight then do a case study on the above title. I’m sure you will sell some copies for that book as well.

    Now, if someone didn’t read the story very carefully they’re going to say, “Hmmm, I’ll start with a bowl of cherries, that’s healthy. Then move on to cherry ice cream, then some cherry pie, and let’s wash it down with some cherry coke.” Laugh, but trust me those people are out there. They are the same people that think a French fry is a vegetable.

    I shouldn’t be too hard on this guy because most of the time the health professionals that have these wacky new fads at least go for something that is usually considered a sin. The Atkins diet lets you eat bacon and hamburgers, just set that bun down okay. This diet still suggests that you eat fruits and vegetables, except eat one particular fruit for the whole day. Yummy, I think I’ll eat apples today. I’ll have Fuji apples for breakfast, red ones at lunch, and those green ones for dinner. Is that really going to attract a whole bunch of people to buy this book?

    Here’s my point. It is almost getting to the point where eventually there will be a book called, “The Sit Down With Remote in Hand Weight Loss Diet.” This is what people want and as a personal trainer, I’m getting sick of reading these articles. What was that recent book called, “The French Diet???”

    Look do you really want to lose weight?? Then, I’m going to tell you the bad news; you are going to have to work at it. Yes you are going to have to watch what you eat, and exercise. If you notice all these articles on these new diet trends, even this last one on the flavors, they all have a one or two line blurb saying, “oh by the way you might want to exercise as well.” I’m tired of seeing my clients try the latest new diet that has them lose weight only to gain it back and then some.

    America wake up and smell the coffee. There is not going to be some magic pill that will make you lose weight. If there were, someone would be making money off it. Right now the only people who are making money are all the authors of these so-called diets that are lining their pockets with your hard earned cash, while you follow diets that don’t work. Or if they do, it only works for a small percentage.

    Suck it up people. Take charge and control of your destiny. Accept the fact that you will have to exercise for the rest of your life. You will have to watch what you eat, even though you can splurge once in awhile. If you have to lose weight, yes it might take some time, but it will come off (it didn’t come on in a day did it?). If you accept these facts and implement them right now, I guarantee you will have a very fulfilling life that will be so much better than wondering how many peaches you have to eat today.

    Copyright 2006 Adam Kessler

    Adam Kessler is President of Fitness Planning Consultants, in Columbus, Ohio. Sign up for his fact-filled free report called “16 Tips for Looking and Feeling Better Than You Have in Years” at http://fitnessplanning.com/free_reports.htm

    are weight loss supplements worth it

    Wednesday, May 30th, 2007

    Are Weight Loss Supplements Worth It?

    Writen by Valerie de Armas

    What do you think of the hundreds of weight loss supplements out there on the shelves today? Are they worth the money? Will they actually help you lose weight? How do you know which ones are going to work for you? Is there any proof that these products work?

    I’ve taken some time and researched some of the most popular product to try to find the answers for you. The truth is, most products won’t help you lose anything but money. There are a few, however, with some research behind them that prove that they actually work.

    What are these supplements that work? It seems that only four products hold the best promise for those of us who want to slim down. They are Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), Hydroxycitic Acid (HCA), phaseolomine, and possibly 5-HTP.

    1. Conjugated Linoleic Acid, CLA, has a number of research studies behind it. It is a fatty acid that has been found to reduce cancer risks, body fat and to increase lean muscle tissue. The Journal of Nutrition reported a Scandanavian Research team found CLA to increase the lean body mass of humans and also to decrease the fat mass. Subjects also had lower blodd fat and cholestrol after taking CLA. CLA does occur naturally in meat and dairy products, but the levels are pretty low. Also, if you’re following a healthy low-fat diet, you tend to not get as much meat and dairy, so supplementation may be the answer for getting a healthy dose of CLA.

    2. Hydroxycitic Acid, HCA, is derived from a fruit, Garcinia cambogia or Malabar tamarind. It seems to work by inhibiting an enzyme that converts carbohydrates to fat. It also seems to suppress the appetite. Studies on humans have had mixed results with one study showing significant weight loss in participants. Another study using a high fiber diet, showed HCA had no effect on weight loss. Critics think the high fiber diet prevented absorbtion of the HCA. So, if you’re on a high fiber diet, HCA may not be for you.

    3. Phaseolomine is derived from the white kidney bean. It works by reducing your body’s absorbtion of starchy carbohydrates. Since you absorb fewer calories, you lose weight. Seems like this supplement would be great to take if you knew you were going to indulge. Research has also shown that you burn more fat while taking phaseolomine. Subjects in one study lost 10% of their body fat in 30 days. Phaseolomine is typically found in carb blocker products.

    4. 5HTP works by increasing the level of Serotonin in the brain resulting in more stable emotions, better sleep and weight loss. I take 5HTP myself and have found it to be an excellent appetite suppresant as well as a mild mood booster. In one study where women were given either a placebo or 5HTP and a 1200 calorie diet, those who took the placebo lost 2.28 pounds and those who took 5HTP lost 10.34 pounds. This was accomplished in 6 weeks. Are there other supplements that work? There may be others that will stand the test of time and research, but for now these are the best non-prescription supplements I’ve found to enhance your weight loss efforts. Good luck losing the weight you want to lose!

    Valerie de Armas ©2003

    All Rights Reserved

    About The Author

    To find other weight loss tips, advice, articles and resources, visit Valerie’s Best Weight Loss web site at http://www.best-weightloss.com Be sure to subscribe to Valerie’s free newsletter, “Best Weight Loss Tips” for all the best ways to lose weight.

    valerie@best-weightloss.com

    cholesterol treatments options statins

    Wednesday, May 30th, 2007

    Cholesterol Treatments Options: Statins

    Writen by Antoinette Boulay

    Satins are pharmacuetical drugs that work by restricting the enzyme HMG CoA reductase. This is an enzyme which regulates how fast a rate cholesterol is produced in the body. By slowing down production of this enzyme, statins are able to lower LDL cholesterol levels more efficiently than many of the other cholesterol drugs on the market.

    Actually, some studies have concluded that these cholesterol-lowering drugs can lower bad cholesterol by up to 60%, which can be good news for people with highly raised LDL-cholesterol. Some studies have also shown that Statins may contribute to lowering triglyceride levels and even slightly raising HDL cholesterol levels.

    The statins most used today are lovastatin (Merck’s Mevacor), pravastatin (Pravachol), fluvastatin (Lescol), atorvastatin (Lipitor from Pfizor) and simvastatin (Zocor). All the aforementioned benefits make statins among the most commonly used drugs for lowering cholesterol. The pharmacuetical company Merck is even trying to get approval from the FDA to sell their cholesterol drug Mevacor over the counter

    If you take statins to lower your cholesterol, you can expect to see results in a few weeks. You need to take your medications with food, at night.

    Although statins have less adverse side effects than many other cholesterol-lowering drugs, some patients may experience cramps, gas, stomach upset, constipation and other digestive problems. In many cases, these symptoms go away by themselves or at least become less severe as the body adjusts to the statins. In some case, your doctor may suggest taking a lower dosage in order to control side effects.

    More serious problems from statins include the risks of muscle problems and liver complications. Such issues are quite rare in patients who take statins, but if you notice any pain or unusual symptoms while taking statins, you will want to seek medical help right away.

    Antoinette Boulay is writes about cholesterol treatments at http://www.xp9.biz, where you can read tips about how to lower cholesterol.

    acne scars

    Wednesday, May 30th, 2007

    Acne Scars

    Writen by Edward Group

    Acne is an inflammation of the skin that affects people from every country and every culture around the world. In the US, acne is predominantly thought of as a teenage dilemma, as more than eighty percent of teens and preteens will develop some form of acne. However, the condition certainly affects a large number of adults and even infants. The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. There are various types of acne that range in annoyance, severity, and healing time. The most severe type of acne may even lead to scars that if not treated properly, may be visible for a lifetime. If you or a loved one is troubled by severe acne, here’s what you need to know about acne scars and what you need to do to avoid and care for them.

    How Does Acne Form?

    Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a potential cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne is also aggravated by milk or dairy products, red meat and fast food. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin’s oil glands. Acne occurs when these overactive oil glands become blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.

    Types Of Acne

    Acne blemishes are categorized into four grades, ranging from mild to very severe.

    Grade I: Mild acne falls into this category. People with grade I acne generally have blackheads and whiteheads but pimples are not present. Grade II: The condition is considered moderate acne when blackheads, whiteheads, and small pimples are present, but they are confined to the face and the inflammation they cause is minimal. Grade III: Severe acne includes blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper pimples with more pronounced swelling. Grade IV: acne is considered very severe when it occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. Pustules and deeper cysts occur with very severe acne and scarring may result if the condition is not cared for properly. Preventing Acne Scars

    The most important rule for acne sufferers to remember is that you should never pick or squeeze acne blemishes. This can lead to the spread of acne and the development of acne scars. Instead, there are a number of herbal, homeopathic, and traditional formulas that can be used to treat acne and prevent the development of acne scars. Herbs work naturally with the body to reduce acne blemishes and prevent the development of acne scars. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action. Witch hazel has excellent astringent properties and may be very effective on acne.

    Relieving Acne Scars

    Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve acne, and prevent the development of acne scars.

    Surgery: In moderate to severe cases of acne, doctors may use surgery to open up the blemishes and remove blackheads and whiteheads. Unlike medication treatments, the effects of acne surgery are usually more immediate. And surgery is also effective in reducing the development and visibility of acne scars.

    Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.

    Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 3 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org. These products should help prevent acne scarring.

    Dr. Group is heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.

    Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.

    ftc complains of health food claims

    Tuesday, May 29th, 2007

    FTC Complains of Health Food Claims

    Writen by Lance Winslow

    The Federal Trade Commission complains that many groups make false claims or rather unsubstantiated claims about certain health foods, which may not do much of anything. Actually in looking at the total picture this is rather hilarious in that the Federal Trade Commission has never once been able to prove that it has actually reduced fraud.

    In fact I have never seen one scientific research paper proving that the FTC actually helps consumers, not one, from any reputable University research department. I have never seen any empirical proof they crime, fraud or misrepresentation has been reduced by the FTC. This is not to say that their claims are not real when they state they are helping the consumer. It is to say they cannot prove it. And since they cannot prove it then by their own rules, they cannot say it right? Fair is fair, let’s be honest?

    Indeed I dare to ask the question is the United States Justice Departments Federal Trade Commissions Consumer Protection Division attacking and suing Health Food Companies because of the claims they make that they believe to be false or because they have been persuaded too by politicians who have been paid under the table by drug company lobbyists?

    That is my final question; no other questions your honor. Think on this 2006.

    Lance Winslow

    helpful tips to keep in mind for those afflicted with xeroderma pigmentosum

    Tuesday, May 29th, 2007

    Helpful Tips to Keep in Mind for Those Afflicted with Xeroderma Pigmentosum

    Writen by Dave Smithy

    Xeroderma pigmentosum is a rare medical condition whereby individuals are unable to have direct contact with the sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet rays. Although it is classified as a rare disorder, it is one that is particularly burdensome and serious for those afflicted with xeroderma pigmentosum. The following paragraphs will provide some general tips for those afflicted with this condition to keep in mind.

    Avoid All Ultraviolet Light Whenever Possible

    As the symptoms individuals experience are due to direct contact with sunlight and other ultraviolet light sources, the most important guideline to follow is to avoid all contact with ultraviolet light. This is the best way to attempt to control symptoms from occurring due to the xeroderma pigmentosum.

    Maintain Copies of Diagnosis

    It is important that other individuals who need to know about the xeroderma pigmentosum have copies of the doctor’s diagnosis. This will help to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to keep the individual out of the sunlight.

    Obtain Handicapped Parking Decal

    Should it be necessary for the individual with xeroderma pigmentosum to travel in the car, it is extremely important that the individual and their family have a handicapped parking sticker for the vehicle. This will enable them to get the closest spot possible and avoid any prolonged sunlight exposure.

    Keep Necessary Receipts

    Receipts which come from the purchase of necessary items for the individual with xeroderma pigmentosum should be saved for tax reasons. Since these are necessary items for one’s survival, they may be able to be deducted when one files their tax returns.

    Find a Doctor Who Has Evening Hours or Makes House Calls

    Since this medical disorder is one of a special nature, one may be able to find a doctor who is willing to schedule late evening appointments or come to the house for medical visits. This will help to prevent the individual from getting into the direct sunlight to go in for an office visit.

    These are just some things which may help the individual with xeroderma pigmentosum to deal with their medical condition in the best way possible.

    healing power of asanas part vi

    Tuesday, May 29th, 2007

    Healing Power of Asanas (Part VI)

    Writen by Grata Young

    Ardhamatsyendrasana: This is the half position of Matsyendrasana, which is named after the great sage Matsyendra. Sit erect on the ground, stretching your legs in front of you. Insert your left heel in the perineum, keeping the left thigh straight. Place your right foot flat on the floor, crossing the left knee. Pass your left arm over the right knee and grasp the big toe of your right foot. Grasp your left thigh from the rear with your right hand. Turn your head, neck, shoulders and trunk to the right bringing your chin in line with the right shoulder. Maintain this position for a few seconds, gradually increasing the duration to 2 minutes. Repeat the same process on the other side for the same duration.

    This asana exercises the vertebrae and keeps them in good shape. It helps the liver, spleen, bladder, pancreas, intestines and other abdominal organs, and also stretches and strengthens the spinal nerves. This asana is beneficial in the treatment of obesity, dyspepsia, asthma and diabetes.

    Paschimottanasana (Posterior stretching pose):

    Sit erect. Stretch your legs out in front of you, keeping them close to each other. Bend your trunk and head forward from the waist without bending your knees and grasp the big toes with your rest your forehead on your knees. With practice, the tense muscles become supple enough for this exercise. Old persons and persons whose spine is still should do this asana slowly in the initial stages. The final pose need be maintained only for a few seconds. Return to the starting position gradually.

    Paschimottanasana is a good stretching exercise in which the posterior muscles get stretched and relaxed. It relieves sciatica, muscular rheumatism of the back, backache, lumbago and asthmatic attacks. It is also valuable in constipation, dyspepdis and other abdominal disorders.

    Gomukhasana (Cow-face pose):

    Sit erect on the floor, with your legs outstretched. Fold your leg back. Place your left foot under the right hip. Similarly, fold back the right leg and cross your right foot over your left thigh. Place your right heel against the left hip. Both soles should face backwards, one over the other. Now interlock your hands behind your back. See to it that if your right leg is over the left, then your right elbow should face upward and the left elbow downward.

    This position is reversed when the leg position is changed. Hold the pose for 30 seconds and then repeat the procedure reversing the process. The practice of gomukhasana will strengthen the muscles of the upper arm, shoulder, chest, back, waist and thigh. It is beneficial in the treatment of seminal weakness, piles, urethral disorders and kidney troubles. It also relieves varicose veins and sciatica.

    To learn more about the energy principle in healing, please read:

    Cost-free Miracle Asthma Cure
    Overcome Type I Diabetes and Type II Diabetes Naturally
    Alternative Treatments for Incurable Diseases made easy

    how important is your health

    Monday, May 28th, 2007

    How Important Is Your Health?

    Writen by Jan Wilhelm

    Does the title sound like a silly question to you? Everyone knows that health is extremely important. Good health allows you to enjoy life- to live it to the fullest.

    Nutrition is essential to good health. There is so much “junk food” available now. It is so easy to grab a high calorie snack which is totally lacking in nutrition. It is just as easy to run to the fast food place for dinner instead of cooking a nutritious meal. Without proper fuel, an automobile will not give you good mileage and may eventually stop running. The same is true with the body. Keep fresh fruits and vegetables around for snacks. Take the time to fix healthy meals. Don’t run out of good fuel.

    Another major contributor to good health is exercise. You cannot just sit and be healthy. Sorry you couch potatoes, but you need to move. Get that blood pumping. Get those muscle moving. There are many enjoyable ways to exercise. Get outside and take a walk. Go out in the backyard and play with the kids. Find a sport you enjoy (tennis is my choice). If everyone is watching television, get down on the floor and exercise. Even sitting on the couch you can do leg lifts, some light weights with your arms, or just tense and relax muscles. You will find that when you exercise, you will have more energy and feel better.

    The other contributor to good health is a healthy, active mind. It needs to work out just like the body does. Learn something new. That will work out your mind. I just turned 60 and I am now learning HTML. Talk about a foreign language! It has been a challenge and I still have a long way to go, but I feel a sense of accomplishment for learning as much as I have.

    For the last 7 years I dreamed of starting my own business. I have used my mind and researched the “at home” industry. A few months ago I started a business. That is a challenge also. What I have found out is that all you have to do is make up your mind and then use your mind and do it. I think most of us dream of being our own boss. Think about it.

    I have always tried to eat the right foods and exercise. Now that I am giving my mind a top-notch work-out I feel like I am young again. All 3 elements are in sync.

    LIVE… ENJOY… DREAM… GO AFTER THAT DREAM…

    Jan Wilhelm is an active person, always advocating good health. Visit her website at http://www.profitsr4u.com

    She recently researched and set up a “Find Your Own Home Business” directory. If you have ever dreamed of being your own boss, visit this site.