Eliminate Physical And Mental Weakness Through Understanding And Choosing

What is your weakness

What ever conflict we might have in our body and minds, through disease or other aspects. We are thrown, or throw ourselves into spiral of development or growth. This we can as well, see in nature. Animals or plants defend themselves or adapt to the environment and usually it is accomplished through suffering or need. This applies to us as human beings as well and as humans we have something which animals doesn?t have and that is plenty of free choice and that means responsibility to ourselves when we make choices of good or bad which influence our health and being. We go after desires without moderation and create suffering for ourselves. Through that suffering we have to develop compassion towards ourselves, we might be forced to. That means forced discipline or natural discipline as consequence of internal compassion.

In the western society we have plenty of food and choices of it. It is this choice which makes us learn to be either healthy eating or unhealthy or somewhere in between. We can create disease in our body through our choice. For example if someone is eating very spicy food and red meat, drinking excessive alcohol, it can create lots of heat in the persons body. According to chinese medicine all these foods are very heating for the body. This person could have signs like red face, constipation created by dryness or the heat, anger, not tolerating heat very well, insomnia etc.

But since we are individuals it can come about in a different way for different people. We all have weaknesses. One can have tendency for weak stomach and someone else can have tendency for weak lungs. There we come back to yin and yang. In all of us there a weak aspect and strong aspect. What it means in practical terms is that for fulfilling life we need to work on the weak aspect and nourish or utilise our strong aspect. This can sometimes be unconscious process. The more we listen to our gut feeling and trust it, the more we get to hear it. It is very simple, if you choose to hear you will, if you choose not to hear then you won?t. That is the adventure.

For example if the lungs are weak we might choose to work on them with breathing exercises. As well we might want stop smoking. Being a smoker you might be fulfilling some need according to your weakness. But in a negative way. Smoking can be stimulating as well as calming. It could be hiding your weakness by suppressing with chemistry of smoking. Lets say it influences the lungs. In chinese medicine the emotion sadness and grief are connected to the energy of the lungs. So by smoking you are influencing the whole system towards false equilibrium and by doing that you damage it with toxins.Another example is alcohol. In chinese medicine the liver can be cause for stagnation of energy. So free flow in the body is impaired. By drinking alcohol you might release that stagnation. Also abusing any substances causes imbalance in the body which might not have been there in the first place.

So our responsibility is great. But our lack of understanding keeps us away from solution. I hope you gained a bit more understanding by reading this.

Be well.

I am dedicated to bringing solutions for physical, mental and spiritual health through the internet and by other means. For more information visit my site: http://www.globalmindcare.com

You can also join my newsletter at: globalmindcare@aweber.com

Peppers Naturally Healthy and Delicious

Your Grandma always told you that ?an apple a day keeps the doctor away? There is much to be said about this. There are natural ways to keep us in good shape and it all depends greatly upon our eating habits.

You have tried an apple a day, but did you ever try peppers a.k.a. capsicums?

Peppers are rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Zinc, two nutrients which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. They is also high in vitamins A, C, rutin (a bioflavonoid), beta carotene, iron, calcium and potassium.

Peppers contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex vitamins, sodium and selenium. These combinations of minerals and vitamins make peppers a powerful food for natural remedies.

The Cayenne Pepper was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus which was also known as ?Guinea Pepper. ? In 1597, Gerard referred to Capsicum as extremely hot and dry and prescribed it for throat and skin infections.

Health practitioners of the nineteenth century called phsysiomedicalists, used peppers to counteract rheumatism, arthritis, depression and chills.

It is an excellant anti-coagulant and lowers the blood pressure as well as cholestrol, thus it is recommended for heart patients.

It has even been perscribed for some for balding. One cure says to soak the red pepper in Vodka for 2 weeks, strain and apply the liquid on the balding patch, daily for six weeks.

Peppers are said to be a great help for Bronchitis patients as they mucus secretions and clear congestion. Peppers are also said to help in strengthening bones and keeping rheumatism under control.

Homoeopaths use capsicum in their mother tincture to cure many patients of such maladies as letharargy, joint pains, home sickness, obesity and hysteria.

Imp: According to doctors. the use of peppers should be avoided for those who suffer from piles and gastric ulcers.

Steve Arun is an Internet Marketing Consultant for Modernsage Inc the nationally-acclaimed women?s healthy living print magazine based in Long Island, New York, is now a women?s online community.

Stop by ModernSage Online Blog today for insightful articles, expert advice and an active community that cares about natural health, alternative medicine, home remedies, living well, quick healthy meals, inspiration, work and family, working from home and the essential daily dose of humor.

An Acne Fetish is No Laughing Matter

While it may be easy to scoff off an acne fetish with remarks like, ?I don?t have that problem,? this condition is more common than properly acknowledged. A fetish is an object of unreasonably obsessive attention or regard. Thus, extreme attention given to zits and pimples characterize an acne fetish. Two clinical forms of an acne fetish include excoriated acne and imagined acne.

Excoriated acne occurs when an acne patient continues to pick at or squeeze acne formations on their face, never allowing the skin to heal. This constant picking aggravates the acne condition and often times leaves severe scarring. Imagined acne happens when a patient is convinced she has acne but in reality does not. This person may have one small pimple and blow the existence of the pimple out of proportion and view it as a severe case of acne.

Underlying both of these acne fetishes is the fear of being ugly, or dysmorphophobia. It?s an easy psychological state to acquire in a society that increasingly places more value on superficial looks than personal traits.

Steps to combating an acne fetish include: Spending less time self-critiquing in front of the mirror; and Embellishing your talents.

Even a hiatus from mirror visits may help an acne fetish. If you do look in the mirror, focus on elements of your face besides the zits. For instance, look at the color of your eyes or the size of your lips, without criticizing of course. You may have lovely eyelashes or the perfect eyebrows. Whenever you look in the mirror stop making negative judgments about yourself. If you do find yourself ridiculing yourself and wanting to burst a zit in a rushed desire for clear skin, just remind yourself that every zit that you prematurely pop may encourage the formation of 3 completely new zits.

Focus on your greatest assets as a person, or cultivate new skills. You may be an awesome guitar player or fabulous singer, give yourself recognition for your strengths. Do something that you?ve always wanted to do, but did not do because you felt having acne precludes you from this activity.

In the final analysis, healing an acne fetish starts with recognizing that this condition has serious medical repercussions. An acne fetish can debilitate one?s self-esteem while encouraging needless facial scarring. If you think you have an acne fetish, you can get help from a qualified dermatologist, psychologists or just talk it over with some really cool and understanding friends.

Naweko San-Joyz is creator of the Acne Messages program, the only acne program to combine the latest scientific research and ancient wisdom to deliver an acne cure as unique as the acne sufferer. As there are millions of people with acne, there are a millions cures, find your unique cure with Acne Messages. ISBN: 0974912204 available at Amazon and Noixia.com, Home of Six Billion Natural Cures for Acne

Normalizing Low Body Temperatures Often Critical to Restoring Good Health

Are you suffering from fatigue, migraines, PMS, hair loss, depression, inability to lose weight, muscle and joint aches, heat and/or cold intolerance, or other baffling symptoms that your doctor can?t explain? Fixing a low body temperature might quickly and easily solve your health problems.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome (WTS) is a condition that causes symptoms characteristic of decreased thyroid system function. It is best identified by its reproducible and predictable response to a special thyroid hormone treatment protocol developed by E. Denis Wilson, MD. It is the cluster of often debilitating symptoms especially brought on by significant physical or emotional stress that can persist even after the stress has passed (due to a maladaptive slowing of the metabolism). It is characterized by a body temperature that runs, on average, below normal and routine thyroid blood tests are often in the normal range.

Symptoms can result when the average body temperature is less than 98.6 degrees (checked by mouth with a mercury thermometer); however, low temperatures classic for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome sufferers are 97.8 degrees or lower.

Virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place in our bodies are catalyzed by enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that are dependent upon their shape, or conformation, for their activity. When enzymes are too hot they are too loose; when they are too cold they are too tight, and in either extreme the enzymes are not the right shape and cannot function optimally. When the body temperature is too low, nearly all of the enzymes in the body function less effectively. This can cause a wide variety of complaints.

High fevers (107 degrees F) can cause brain damage and even death. Severe hypothermia (less than 90 degrees F) can also be a life-threatening medical emergency. A temperature of 100 degrees (1.4 degrees above 98.6) can produce familiar symptoms of fever. It is easy to see how mildly depressed temperatures (1 - 1.5 degrees below 98.6) can also produce a very characteristic set of symptoms. It is obvious that to function optimally, the body must be at the optimal temperature. Under conditions of severe physical or emotional stress, the body can slow down and the temperature can go down to conserve energy, as a coping mechanism. That's normal. But sometimes, the temperature can remain persistently low even after the stress has passed. That's not normal. Examples of severe stresses that can knock the body out of balance include childbirth (the number one cause), divorce, death of a loved one, job or family stress, and surgery or accidents.

The body temperature is regulated by the thyroid hormone system. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to produce Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 (thyroxine) which is the raw material used to make the active thyroid hormone T3. T4 is also converted to Reverse T3 (RT3) which is physiologically inactive. 80 percent of the active thyroid hormone T3 is produced outside the thyroid gland, in the periphery of the body. T4 is converted to T3 by an enzyme called 5' Deiodinase. This enzyme is inhibited by stress, acute and chronic illness, fasting, cortisol (steroid), and other things. Under stress and fasting, the body converts less T4 to T3 and more T4 to RT3 to conserve energy (with less T3, the cells of the body slow down). It is likely that the increased levels of RT3 that result can then further inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3, with even more T4 being converted to RT3, less to T3, and so on, with the body getting stuck in a vicious cycle, a sort of coping mechanism gone amuck.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is treated by using a special T3 therapy protocol developed by Dr. Wilson. With proper treatment patients can usually bring their temperatures up to normal. When the temperatures are normal the symptoms usually disappear. The hallmark of T3 therapy for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is the resetting phenomenon. The temperature and symptoms usually remain improved even after the treatment has been discontinued. T3 therapy for WTS does not need to be taken for life. The T3 medicine that is on the market is instant release. T3 therapy is much more effective and better tolerated when the T3 is mixed with a sustained-release agent. The T3 preparation needs to be carefully made (compounded) by skilled and experienced pharmacists, and taken twice a day, every 12 hours.

More information about WTS can be found at http://www.WilsonsTemperatureSyndrome.com

Accutane Side Effects: Should Depression Be A Concern?

Medical professionals and acne-pestered adolescents have no doubts about the effectiveness of the severe acne drug isotretinoin. It?s the looming possibility of side effects such as depression and fetal damage that makes people uneasy when considering using this medication.

Accutane (isotretinoin) is one of Hoffman-LaRoche?s most popular and controversial pharmaceuticals. This week, a study published in the Archives of Dermatology vindicated isotretinoin from causing depression. In this report, Christina Y. Chia, MD, from Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center, St. Louis, and colleagues examined whether patients with moderate to severe acne treated with isotretinoin experienced an increase in depressive symptoms compared with patients treated with a topical antibiotic, topical retinoid, and an oral antibiotic.

Dr. Chia found that ?The use of isotretinoin in the treatment of moderate-severe acne in adolescents did not increase depressive symptoms. On the contrary, our study shows that treatment of acne improves depressive symptoms?.

Five years earlier, in 2000, the isotretinoin-depression link still appeared misleading. That time, the Archives of Dermatology posted study, headed by Dr. Susan S. Jick, from the Boston University School of Medicine, which found no evidence that isotretinoin increases the risk for depression, suicide, or other psychiatric disorders.

Even though isotretinoin finds ample support among dermatologists and psychiatrists, a host of parents, politicians and medical professionals hail isotretinoin as a medical misfortune. For instance, Dr. David J. Graham, the Associate Director for Science and Medicine in FDA?s Office of Drug Safety, recently warned that Accutane should be taken off the market.

And while there are few studies with any negative observations about isotretinoin, Dr. Douglas Bremner?s research at of the Emory University School of Medicine has linked isotretinoin treatment with changes in brain function. At the conclusion of this study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, Dr. Bremner concurred with Dr. Graham?s view that isotretinoin proves too dangerous for human use.

Dr. Bremner explains that to invoke depression, isotretinoin must influence the brain. During the investigation, brain function of the subjects was measured using positron emission tomography (PET) before and after four months of treatment with isotretinoin. Isotretinoin treatment was associated with decreased brain metabolism in the orbitofrontal cortex- the area of the brain known to mediate symptoms of depression. Yet, there were no differences in severity of depressive symptoms between the isotretinoin and antibiotic treatment groups before or after treatment.

The pessimistic effects of isotretinoin also caught the attention of Diane K. Wysowski PhD. Dr. Wysowski noted that in June 2000, isotretinoin ranked among the top 10 drugs linked to depression and suicide attempts in the FDA's Adverse Event Reporting System database. In 2001, Dr. Wysowski examined isotretinoin?s depression inducing potential and posted her findings in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Dr. Wysowski concluded that more studies of isotretinoin are needed. She also advised patients and their parents to immediately report mood swings and symptoms that are suggestive of depression such as sadness, crying, loss of appetite, unusual fatigue, withdrawal, and inability to concentrate to their prescribing physician. These protective measures can avoid more serious side effects and permit appropriate treatment, including consideration of drug discontinuation and referral for psychiatric care.

While dissension among researchers still exists about whether or not isotretinoin causes depression, one idea most of them can agree on is that more research on the side effects of isotretinoin are desirable. If you are not in the mood for being an isotretinoin guinea pig, Geoffrey Redmond MD, author of The Good News about Women?s Hormones, suggests using hormone therapy and/or using Retin-A if isotretinoin seems too chancy for you.

Health author and Stanford University graduate Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include ?Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne? (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work ?Skinny Fat Chicks, Why we?re still not getting this dieting thing? (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com

Eliminate Physical And Mental Weakness Through Understanding And Choosing

What is your weakness

What ever conflict we might have in our body and minds, through disease or other aspects. We are thrown, or throw ourselves into spiral of development or growth. This we can as well, see in nature. Animals or plants defend themselves or adapt to the environment and usually it is accomplished through suffering or need. This applies to us as human beings as well and as humans we have something which animals doesn?t have and that is plenty of free choice and that means responsibility to ourselves when we make choices of good or bad which influence our health and being. We go after desires without moderation and create suffering for ourselves. Through that suffering we have to develop compassion towards ourselves, we might be forced to. That means forced discipline or natural discipline as consequence of internal compassion.

In the western society we have plenty of food and choices of it. It is this choice which makes us learn to be either healthy eating or unhealthy or somewhere in between. We can create disease in our body through our choice. For example if someone is eating very spicy food and red meat, drinking excessive alcohol, it can create lots of heat in the persons body. According to chinese medicine all these foods are very heating for the body. This person could have signs like red face, constipation created by dryness or the heat, anger, not tolerating heat very well, insomnia etc.

But since we are individuals it can come about in a different way for different people. We all have weaknesses. One can have tendency for weak stomach and someone else can have tendency for weak lungs. There we come back to yin and yang. In all of us there a weak aspect and strong aspect. What it means in practical terms is that for fulfilling life we need to work on the weak aspect and nourish or utilise our strong aspect. This can sometimes be unconscious process. The more we listen to our gut feeling and trust it, the more we get to hear it. It is very simple, if you choose to hear you will, if you choose not to hear then you won?t. That is the adventure.

For example if the lungs are weak we might choose to work on them with breathing exercises. As well we might want stop smoking. Being a smoker you might be fulfilling some need according to your weakness. But in a negative way. Smoking can be stimulating as well as calming. It could be hiding your weakness by suppressing with chemistry of smoking. Lets say it influences the lungs. In chinese medicine the emotion sadness and grief are connected to the energy of the lungs. So by smoking you are influencing the whole system towards false equilibrium and by doing that you damage it with toxins.Another example is alcohol. In chinese medicine the liver can be cause for stagnation of energy. So free flow in the body is impaired. By drinking alcohol you might release that stagnation. Also abusing any substances causes imbalance in the body which might not have been there in the first place.

So our responsibility is great. But our lack of understanding keeps us away from solution. I hope you gained a bit more understanding by reading this.

Be well.

I am dedicated to bringing solutions for physical, mental and spiritual health through the internet and by other means. For more information visit my site: http://www.globalmindcare.com

You can also join my newsletter at: globalmindcare@aweber.com

Treating Depression with Reiki

Discover-Reiki 7 Part Reiki Master Course

Part 1 - Treating Depression With Reiki

Reiki Masters believe that thought is energy vibrating at a very high frequency while the human body is energy vibrating at a lower frequency. Vibrations produce actions and actions produce reactions at grosser and grosser levels of frequency in a ripple effect!

While positive thoughts are universally acknowledged to manifest as health, negative thoughts are held to produce disease or lack of ease. Mental disease is manifested as depression, depressive psychosis, mania or even schizophrenia.

Reiki deals with depression as negative energy. Negative energy manifests at the aura level as imbalance in the Chakras or energy centres and is visible to the Reiki practitioner as grey or black spots in the aura. Imbalance of the energy centres causes reactions at a physical level, for the energy centre governs the health or disease of the organs and endocrine glands located within its purview.

The Chakra System and Depression

The Chakras that are usually blocked in a person who is depressed are the lower--the root chakra, the naval chakra, and to some extent the solar plexus chakra, which is part of the middle group.

The Root Chakra anchors the person to the earth. It represents the physical will and is associated with the spinal column, bones, teeth, nails, anus, rectum, colon, prostrate gland, blood and the building of cells. The Suprarenal glands, which produce adrenalin and influence body temperature, are governed by condition of the root chakra. The person whose root chakra is out of balance cannot accept life or enjoy physical existence. The creative energy of such a person is low and self-expression is not considered necessary. The person will have a tendency to overindulge in sensual pleasures such as overeating, alcohol, sex etc. He or she becomes selfish, self-centred. Physically the person becomes overweight and suffers from constipation. When challenged the person becomes irritable, aggressive, upset, violent and displays a complete lack of trust. If the Chakra is completely blocked the person will lack physical and emotional stamina and will be filled with feelings of uncertainty.

The Naval Chakra is the creative and reproductive centre of the being. It is associated with the pelvic girdle, kidneys, bladder and all liquids such as blood, lymph, gastric juices and the regulation of the female menstrual cycle. The glands associated with this chakra are the Prostrate, gonads, ovaries and testicles. If this energy centre is active and free of blocks the person exhibits freedom in self-expression and life appears interesting. Interpersonal relationships are regarded as beautiful. A disharmonious chakra induces the person turn off sensual messages and display low self-esteem, emotional paralysis and sexual coldness. Life does not seem worth living and suicidal tendencies manifest themselves.

The Solar Plexus Chakra is the power centre of the being. A harmonious Chakra gives the person a feeling that he has the power of shaping things. It is associated with the lower back, abdomen, digestive system, stomach, liver, spleen, gallbladder and the automatic nervous system. The organ that is governed by this Chakra is the Pancreas. The body absorbs solar energy through this chakra. This nurtures the ethereal body and energizes and maintains the physical body. Emotional energy is also governed by this Chakra. Personality traits and social identities are determined by it. Since it is located between the lower and higher chakras it has the additional function of purifies the basic instincts and directing the creative energy to higher values of life. It is also connected to the astral body and helps us integrate our feelings, wishes and experiences harmoniously. A block solar plexus chakra deprives the individual of the zest for life. The person feels gloomy, unbalanced and moody. Negative vibrations impact the individual through this chakra. The person is restless and attempts to manipulate everything in accordance with his or her own wishes. There is a persistent feeling of inadequacy, which drives them to ceaseless activity. The person gets easily threatened and tends to feel dejected and discouraged. The person insists that obstacles are preventing them from realizing the true goals of life.

It is clear that the symptoms of a person in the grip of acute depression are as much physical as emotional and psychological. A block will exist in the root chakra, the naval chakra and the Solar plexus Chakra. The creative energies of the person will be at an all time low and the person will avoid situations where he or she has give expression to his or her feelings. He is self indulgent, selfish, self-centred and suffers from a large number of ailments related to the stomach and has a tendency to put on weight. He or she will lack physical stamina and will be moody, irritable, aggressive and defensive. He will have no interest in life and will refuse to socialize. In extreme cases he will attempt suicide.

If you are serious about learning Reiki, check out www.discover-reiki.com

Case Study:

Ms.L, an obese woman (she weighed 180 Kgs), had not stepped out of her front door for the last ten years. She was convinced that she could not walk without support and that she would fall down if she tried. She spent entire days in the house, refusing to talk with visitors. She had a compulsive need to eat and would cook and consume huge quantities of Chicken, eggs and meats at odd times of the day. She had tried anti depressant drugs and other methods of treatment that included Homeopathy, acupressure, acupuncture and anything that was recommended to her by her sister and brother in law. She was convinced that she was born unlucky and she would never be normal again. She would begin a treatment with lukewarm enthusiasm, but would soon slip into lethargy and refuse to go on with the treatment. When Ms.L was referred for Reiki, she had convinced herself that she had not long to live and had told her sister not to be surprised if she found her dead one-day. Her sister-- alarmed--rushed to the Reiki clinic for help.

Day 1: Since the patient would not come to the clinic, I decided to visit her home. It was clear from Ms.L's posture that she was in the grip of acute depression. She was seated on a sofa with her feet up on a footstool. Her body limp, her head bowed and her shoulders drooping. Her arms lay lifelessly at her sides. She seemed lost to the world and did not even look up when we entered the room. She merely lifted her eyes to look at us without enthusiasm when she was talked to. An aura scan revealed that her root chakra and the naval chakra were completely blocked and her solar plexus chakra was partially blocked.

With a lot of persuasion from her sister and myself, she got up and went to lie down on her bed. I noted that she used the walker even though she was perfectly able to walk without it. She seemed to cling to it as a means of support. I kept up a general chatter as I started the treatment. She continued looking at the ceiling blankly. After some time, she started to pay a little more attention. Her muscles would twitch and she lifted her head to see what we are doing. She called her sister near and asked her whether we were using some chemicals as she was feeling some heat where my hand rested. When she was assured that no chemicals were being used, she subsided once more into indifference. Slowly and visibly she began to relax. She soon fell into a deep sleep and began to snore. As the round of treatment was over, we let her sleep.

Day 2: Ms.L was waiting for me. She looked relaxed and calm. On enquiry, she replied, I slept deeply and dreamlessly for the first time. I feel well. She then went willingly and lay down on her bed. After chatting with her for some time on a variety of topics (she did not reply), I started the treatment. While doing Reiki, I continued to chat and Ms.L replied in monosyllables to the questions being addressed to her. At the end of the hour she remarked, That felt nice.

Day 3: Mrs. L was ready for me. She was lying down and eager to start the treatment. She began to talk about the weather all the time keeping an eye on me. When I agreed that it was hot, she began telling me how the heat was affecting her and how she could not eat as much as she used to. I made sympathetic noises to encourage her. She seemed to feel reassured and gradually opened up--almost as if she were talking to herself and occasionally asking me a question. Then, her tone changed and she became more emotional and personal. She poured out her feelings. She insisted that she was very depressed because God had taken away her husband and her children had all flown away to distant lands and nobody cared for her. She said she had hated God from the day he had taken her husband and she had not gone to church or prayed for a long time. Since she had been very religious, she felt guilty that she had forsaken God but, she hated him and she did not want to pray to him. She then began weeping and ranting at God and exclaiming that she should not be doing it! This emotional outburst lasted for almost an hour, during which I continued the treatment, unfazed. Finally, exhausted by emotions and relaxed by the Reiki, Ms.L fell asleep.

Day 4: Ms.L was waiting for me--a little shamefaced and diffident. She greeted her with a defiant I was carried away a little yesterday. I am sorry. I assured her that it was ok and that she must not hold back her emotions and that I do not mind her talking to me about anything. She then, asked me a little suspiciously 'Do you think your treatment is making me unbalanced?. Well that was a tricky question at this stage and I was not very sure whether I should admit to the fact or assure her that it was not so. I intuitively felt that it would be better to explain to Ms.L and so I told her that Reiki dives deep into the psyche and stirs up emotional blocks for release. I explained that what she was experiencing was the release of emotional blocks and it was nothing to be alarmed about. It would help her come out of her lethargy and feel more enthusiastic about life. She was silent for some time and then said that she was glad that I had been honest with her. She only requested that whatever she said to me should be kept confidential. I agreed and she said she was looking forward to the treatment. As we went through the various hand positions, she started asking me about Reiki and what it was all about. I explained to her about energy centres and how imbalances in energy caused illness. She expressed eagerness to learn it herself. I told that it could be easily arranged. She then began to talk to me about her husband and the wonderful man that he had been and how cancer had eaten into his insides unsuspected. She described the shock they had experienced when the disease was diagnosed at a terminal stage. She described the trauma of waiting for death to part them. She re-lived the pain she had felt when he went to the hospital for the last time and she could not be with him during his last minutes, as she was laid up in bed at home with a fracture. She felt she had let him down and was guilty of continuing to live when he had died such an agonizing death. She then sobbed quietly till she fell asleep exhausted by her emotions.

Day 5: Ms.L was looking very anxious when I entered her room. She immediately piped up Do you think God is cruel? I cautiously replied No. She then asked, Do you think I should begin to pray to him? Do you think he will hear my prayers now? I have abused him so much! I was impressed. I said, Yes, you should. God is very forgiving and he is always happy to welcome his children, however abusive they have been! She was content with my reply and got ready for the treatment. While I worked the hand positions she continued telling me how much she loved God and how she had missed her conversations with him. She then told me she is convinced that her husband was waiting for her in heaven and she would join him when God felt that it was time. Meanwhile she had a lot to do. She had written to her son and asked him to come back home to keep her company and was in hourly expectation of hearing from him. She then began thanking me for the wonderful treatment that I was giving her and she was convinced that God had sent me to her when she was most depressed.

Days 6-21: Followed with the patient very enthusiastic and cooperative. She gradually left off her walker and her posture improved and she stuck to mealtimes with determination. She even consented to step out of her house and take short walks in the corridor with her sister. A month later she attended a course in Reiki and even visited a textile showroom to select some dress material for her. She invited me over for a party she held to celebrate her Son's return home. (The boy had left his job to take up one closer home to be with his mother). She was bubbling with energy and extremely enthusiastic about life. A quick scan of her chakras revealed that the energy levels were normal and the grey spots in her aura at the root and naval chakra had disappeared. The Solar plexus Chakra was also open.

Combining Reiki With Other Therapies.

Many Reiki practitioners combine crystal therapy with Reiki to stimulate the chakras. Limonite, Lapis Lazuli, Pietersite, and Turquoise are used to stimulate the sacral Chakra Wardite, Mesolite, Jasper, and Jet, help the base chakra open up. The Solar Plexus Chakra is stimulated by chrysanthemum stone, gypsum, jasper, obsidian and rutilated quartz.. Wadeite is used to stimulate all the chakras. I personally, combine Reiki treatment with Bach Flower treatment and crystal therapy as I find that it accelerates the healing and gives the patient a psychological satisfaction.

As is evident from the above case study, that Reiki brings about immediate and dramatic improvement in condition of persons suffering from depression. It is also evident from countless testimonials that persons who have come out of their depression by using Reiki have not had a recurrence of the same. Many hospitals round the world are recommending Reiki as a parallel system of treatment for persons suffering from depression. The efficacy and impact of Reiki is best understood when it is personally experienced.

If you are serious about learning Reiki, check out www.discover-reiki.com

Warmest regards,

Peter Tremayne Learn Reiki In 7 Days! - www.discover-reiki.com

Peter Tremayne has published an ebook - 'Discover-Reiki' written by Reiki Master Stephen Leigh.

The ebook is a simple, step by step guide for anyone wanting to learning Reiki from the comfort of your own home.

Normalizing Low Body Temperatures Often Critical to Restoring Good Health

Are you suffering from fatigue, migraines, PMS, hair loss, depression, inability to lose weight, muscle and joint aches, heat and/or cold intolerance, or other baffling symptoms that your doctor can?t explain? Fixing a low body temperature might quickly and easily solve your health problems.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome (WTS) is a condition that causes symptoms characteristic of decreased thyroid system function. It is best identified by its reproducible and predictable response to a special thyroid hormone treatment protocol developed by E. Denis Wilson, MD. It is the cluster of often debilitating symptoms especially brought on by significant physical or emotional stress that can persist even after the stress has passed (due to a maladaptive slowing of the metabolism). It is characterized by a body temperature that runs, on average, below normal and routine thyroid blood tests are often in the normal range.

Symptoms can result when the average body temperature is less than 98.6 degrees (checked by mouth with a mercury thermometer); however, low temperatures classic for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome sufferers are 97.8 degrees or lower.

Virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place in our bodies are catalyzed by enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that are dependent upon their shape, or conformation, for their activity. When enzymes are too hot they are too loose; when they are too cold they are too tight, and in either extreme the enzymes are not the right shape and cannot function optimally. When the body temperature is too low, nearly all of the enzymes in the body function less effectively. This can cause a wide variety of complaints.

High fevers (107 degrees F) can cause brain damage and even death. Severe hypothermia (less than 90 degrees F) can also be a life-threatening medical emergency. A temperature of 100 degrees (1.4 degrees above 98.6) can produce familiar symptoms of fever. It is easy to see how mildly depressed temperatures (1 - 1.5 degrees below 98.6) can also produce a very characteristic set of symptoms. It is obvious that to function optimally, the body must be at the optimal temperature. Under conditions of severe physical or emotional stress, the body can slow down and the temperature can go down to conserve energy, as a coping mechanism. That's normal. But sometimes, the temperature can remain persistently low even after the stress has passed. That's not normal. Examples of severe stresses that can knock the body out of balance include childbirth (the number one cause), divorce, death of a loved one, job or family stress, and surgery or accidents.

The body temperature is regulated by the thyroid hormone system. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to produce Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 (thyroxine) which is the raw material used to make the active thyroid hormone T3. T4 is also converted to Reverse T3 (RT3) which is physiologically inactive. 80 percent of the active thyroid hormone T3 is produced outside the thyroid gland, in the periphery of the body. T4 is converted to T3 by an enzyme called 5' Deiodinase. This enzyme is inhibited by stress, acute and chronic illness, fasting, cortisol (steroid), and other things. Under stress and fasting, the body converts less T4 to T3 and more T4 to RT3 to conserve energy (with less T3, the cells of the body slow down). It is likely that the increased levels of RT3 that result can then further inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3, with even more T4 being converted to RT3, less to T3, and so on, with the body getting stuck in a vicious cycle, a sort of coping mechanism gone amuck.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is treated by using a special T3 therapy protocol developed by Dr. Wilson. With proper treatment patients can usually bring their temperatures up to normal. When the temperatures are normal the symptoms usually disappear. The hallmark of T3 therapy for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is the resetting phenomenon. The temperature and symptoms usually remain improved even after the treatment has been discontinued. T3 therapy for WTS does not need to be taken for life. The T3 medicine that is on the market is instant release. T3 therapy is much more effective and better tolerated when the T3 is mixed with a sustained-release agent. The T3 preparation needs to be carefully made (compounded) by skilled and experienced pharmacists, and taken twice a day, every 12 hours.

More information about WTS can be found at http://www.WilsonsTemperatureSyndrome.com

Depression and the Magnesium Deficiency Debate

Depression is a social epidemic these days. It seems that more and more people are suffering from depression than ever before. Is that because that statement is true or because our awareness of depression has grown over the years? The common result of being diagnosed with depression, either professionally or personally, is taking prescription medication to resolve the problem. What most people fail to realize is that depression is the symptom of a bigger picture. There are many vitamin deficiencies that can cause many things, depression being one of them. A Magnesium deficiency is a big culprit for most of the problems that people face, so let us take a look at how you can find out if running low on magnesium could be causing your problems as well.

A Magnesium deficiency can cause many different problems throughout the body. From the nervous system to the muscles and skin, the lack of magnesium in your body will cause major problems for your health. Things such as muscle tension, muscle soreness, twitches, cramps, neck and back pain, tension headaches and even TMJ (jawbone) dysfunction can be caused by a lack of magnesium in the body. Nervous system symptoms such as tingling, numbness and vibration sensations can be common as well. Finally, things like constipation, menstrual cramps, sensitivity to loud noises and changes in light, cravings for salt and chocolate and even carbohydrates can trigger a red flag in your mind as you are reading this.

So the laundry list of things that can result from a deficiency in magnesium is enough to scare even the toughest of skeptics. So why are people breaking down the doors of their therapist to get their hands on prescription medication? Maybe its a lack of knowledge or maybe people are looking for the band-aid fix and not looking at the major problems. We need to take a step back and find the things that our diets are lacking, the things that will make us better as a whole and figure out what we need to do to make ourselves healthy again. But that really is a totally different topic for another day. So until then, visit our website and see how magnesium and vitamins can help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. (http://www.emmasnaturalliving.com/)

Stacy Kupiec is the owner and operator of the Emma's Natural Living website. She has done extensive research on the topics of natural cures and vitamins and how they affect your overall lifestyle. For more information on Stacy or the products that she endorses, visit her website on vitamins by clicking the vitamins link.

Treating Depression with Reiki

Discover-Reiki 7 Part Reiki Master Course

Part 1 - Treating Depression With Reiki

Reiki Masters believe that thought is energy vibrating at a very high frequency while the human body is energy vibrating at a lower frequency. Vibrations produce actions and actions produce reactions at grosser and grosser levels of frequency in a ripple effect!

While positive thoughts are universally acknowledged to manifest as health, negative thoughts are held to produce disease or lack of ease. Mental disease is manifested as depression, depressive psychosis, mania or even schizophrenia.

Reiki deals with depression as negative energy. Negative energy manifests at the aura level as imbalance in the Chakras or energy centres and is visible to the Reiki practitioner as grey or black spots in the aura. Imbalance of the energy centres causes reactions at a physical level, for the energy centre governs the health or disease of the organs and endocrine glands located within its purview.

The Chakra System and Depression

The Chakras that are usually blocked in a person who is depressed are the lower--the root chakra, the naval chakra, and to some extent the solar plexus chakra, which is part of the middle group.

The Root Chakra anchors the person to the earth. It represents the physical will and is associated with the spinal column, bones, teeth, nails, anus, rectum, colon, prostrate gland, blood and the building of cells. The Suprarenal glands, which produce adrenalin and influence body temperature, are governed by condition of the root chakra. The person whose root chakra is out of balance cannot accept life or enjoy physical existence. The creative energy of such a person is low and self-expression is not considered necessary. The person will have a tendency to overindulge in sensual pleasures such as overeating, alcohol, sex etc. He or she becomes selfish, self-centred. Physically the person becomes overweight and suffers from constipation. When challenged the person becomes irritable, aggressive, upset, violent and displays a complete lack of trust. If the Chakra is completely blocked the person will lack physical and emotional stamina and will be filled with feelings of uncertainty.

The Naval Chakra is the creative and reproductive centre of the being. It is associated with the pelvic girdle, kidneys, bladder and all liquids such as blood, lymph, gastric juices and the regulation of the female menstrual cycle. The glands associated with this chakra are the Prostrate, gonads, ovaries and testicles. If this energy centre is active and free of blocks the person exhibits freedom in self-expression and life appears interesting. Interpersonal relationships are regarded as beautiful. A disharmonious chakra induces the person turn off sensual messages and display low self-esteem, emotional paralysis and sexual coldness. Life does not seem worth living and suicidal tendencies manifest themselves.

The Solar Plexus Chakra is the power centre of the being. A harmonious Chakra gives the person a feeling that he has the power of shaping things. It is associated with the lower back, abdomen, digestive system, stomach, liver, spleen, gallbladder and the automatic nervous system. The organ that is governed by this Chakra is the Pancreas. The body absorbs solar energy through this chakra. This nurtures the ethereal body and energizes and maintains the physical body. Emotional energy is also governed by this Chakra. Personality traits and social identities are determined by it. Since it is located between the lower and higher chakras it has the additional function of purifies the basic instincts and directing the creative energy to higher values of life. It is also connected to the astral body and helps us integrate our feelings, wishes and experiences harmoniously. A block solar plexus chakra deprives the individual of the zest for life. The person feels gloomy, unbalanced and moody. Negative vibrations impact the individual through this chakra. The person is restless and attempts to manipulate everything in accordance with his or her own wishes. There is a persistent feeling of inadequacy, which drives them to ceaseless activity. The person gets easily threatened and tends to feel dejected and discouraged. The person insists that obstacles are preventing them from realizing the true goals of life.

It is clear that the symptoms of a person in the grip of acute depression are as much physical as emotional and psychological. A block will exist in the root chakra, the naval chakra and the Solar plexus Chakra. The creative energies of the person will be at an all time low and the person will avoid situations where he or she has give expression to his or her feelings. He is self indulgent, selfish, self-centred and suffers from a large number of ailments related to the stomach and has a tendency to put on weight. He or she will lack physical stamina and will be moody, irritable, aggressive and defensive. He will have no interest in life and will refuse to socialize. In extreme cases he will attempt suicide.

If you are serious about learning Reiki, check out www.discover-reiki.com

Case Study:

Ms.L, an obese woman (she weighed 180 Kgs), had not stepped out of her front door for the last ten years. She was convinced that she could not walk without support and that she would fall down if she tried. She spent entire days in the house, refusing to talk with visitors. She had a compulsive need to eat and would cook and consume huge quantities of Chicken, eggs and meats at odd times of the day. She had tried anti depressant drugs and other methods of treatment that included Homeopathy, acupressure, acupuncture and anything that was recommended to her by her sister and brother in law. She was convinced that she was born unlucky and she would never be normal again. She would begin a treatment with lukewarm enthusiasm, but would soon slip into lethargy and refuse to go on with the treatment. When Ms.L was referred for Reiki, she had convinced herself that she had not long to live and had told her sister not to be surprised if she found her dead one-day. Her sister-- alarmed--rushed to the Reiki clinic for help.

Day 1: Since the patient would not come to the clinic, I decided to visit her home. It was clear from Ms.L's posture that she was in the grip of acute depression. She was seated on a sofa with her feet up on a footstool. Her body limp, her head bowed and her shoulders drooping. Her arms lay lifelessly at her sides. She seemed lost to the world and did not even look up when we entered the room. She merely lifted her eyes to look at us without enthusiasm when she was talked to. An aura scan revealed that her root chakra and the naval chakra were completely blocked and her solar plexus chakra was partially blocked.

With a lot of persuasion from her sister and myself, she got up and went to lie down on her bed. I noted that she used the walker even though she was perfectly able to walk without it. She seemed to cling to it as a means of support. I kept up a general chatter as I started the treatment. She continued looking at the ceiling blankly. After some time, she started to pay a little more attention. Her muscles would twitch and she lifted her head to see what we are doing. She called her sister near and asked her whether we were using some chemicals as she was feeling some heat where my hand rested. When she was assured that no chemicals were being used, she subsided once more into indifference. Slowly and visibly she began to relax. She soon fell into a deep sleep and began to snore. As the round of treatment was over, we let her sleep.

Day 2: Ms.L was waiting for me. She looked relaxed and calm. On enquiry, she replied, I slept deeply and dreamlessly for the first time. I feel well. She then went willingly and lay down on her bed. After chatting with her for some time on a variety of topics (she did not reply), I started the treatment. While doing Reiki, I continued to chat and Ms.L replied in monosyllables to the questions being addressed to her. At the end of the hour she remarked, That felt nice.

Day 3: Mrs. L was ready for me. She was lying down and eager to start the treatment. She began to talk about the weather all the time keeping an eye on me. When I agreed that it was hot, she began telling me how the heat was affecting her and how she could not eat as much as she used to. I made sympathetic noises to encourage her. She seemed to feel reassured and gradually opened up--almost as if she were talking to herself and occasionally asking me a question. Then, her tone changed and she became more emotional and personal. She poured out her feelings. She insisted that she was very depressed because God had taken away her husband and her children had all flown away to distant lands and nobody cared for her. She said she had hated God from the day he had taken her husband and she had not gone to church or prayed for a long time. Since she had been very religious, she felt guilty that she had forsaken God but, she hated him and she did not want to pray to him. She then began weeping and ranting at God and exclaiming that she should not be doing it! This emotional outburst lasted for almost an hour, during which I continued the treatment, unfazed. Finally, exhausted by emotions and relaxed by the Reiki, Ms.L fell asleep.

Day 4: Ms.L was waiting for me--a little shamefaced and diffident. She greeted her with a defiant I was carried away a little yesterday. I am sorry. I assured her that it was ok and that she must not hold back her emotions and that I do not mind her talking to me about anything. She then, asked me a little suspiciously 'Do you think your treatment is making me unbalanced?. Well that was a tricky question at this stage and I was not very sure whether I should admit to the fact or assure her that it was not so. I intuitively felt that it would be better to explain to Ms.L and so I told her that Reiki dives deep into the psyche and stirs up emotional blocks for release. I explained that what she was experiencing was the release of emotional blocks and it was nothing to be alarmed about. It would help her come out of her lethargy and feel more enthusiastic about life. She was silent for some time and then said that she was glad that I had been honest with her. She only requested that whatever she said to me should be kept confidential. I agreed and she said she was looking forward to the treatment. As we went through the various hand positions, she started asking me about Reiki and what it was all about. I explained to her about energy centres and how imbalances in energy caused illness. She expressed eagerness to learn it herself. I told that it could be easily arranged. She then began to talk to me about her husband and the wonderful man that he had been and how cancer had eaten into his insides unsuspected. She described the shock they had experienced when the disease was diagnosed at a terminal stage. She described the trauma of waiting for death to part them. She re-lived the pain she had felt when he went to the hospital for the last time and she could not be with him during his last minutes, as she was laid up in bed at home with a fracture. She felt she had let him down and was guilty of continuing to live when he had died such an agonizing death. She then sobbed quietly till she fell asleep exhausted by her emotions.

Day 5: Ms.L was looking very anxious when I entered her room. She immediately piped up Do you think God is cruel? I cautiously replied No. She then asked, Do you think I should begin to pray to him? Do you think he will hear my prayers now? I have abused him so much! I was impressed. I said, Yes, you should. God is very forgiving and he is always happy to welcome his children, however abusive they have been! She was content with my reply and got ready for the treatment. While I worked the hand positions she continued telling me how much she loved God and how she had missed her conversations with him. She then told me she is convinced that her husband was waiting for her in heaven and she would join him when God felt that it was time. Meanwhile she had a lot to do. She had written to her son and asked him to come back home to keep her company and was in hourly expectation of hearing from him. She then began thanking me for the wonderful treatment that I was giving her and she was convinced that God had sent me to her when she was most depressed.

Days 6-21: Followed with the patient very enthusiastic and cooperative. She gradually left off her walker and her posture improved and she stuck to mealtimes with determination. She even consented to step out of her house and take short walks in the corridor with her sister. A month later she attended a course in Reiki and even visited a textile showroom to select some dress material for her. She invited me over for a party she held to celebrate her Son's return home. (The boy had left his job to take up one closer home to be with his mother). She was bubbling with energy and extremely enthusiastic about life. A quick scan of her chakras revealed that the energy levels were normal and the grey spots in her aura at the root and naval chakra had disappeared. The Solar plexus Chakra was also open.

Combining Reiki With Other Therapies.

Many Reiki practitioners combine crystal therapy with Reiki to stimulate the chakras. Limonite, Lapis Lazuli, Pietersite, and Turquoise are used to stimulate the sacral Chakra Wardite, Mesolite, Jasper, and Jet, help the base chakra open up. The Solar Plexus Chakra is stimulated by chrysanthemum stone, gypsum, jasper, obsidian and rutilated quartz.. Wadeite is used to stimulate all the chakras. I personally, combine Reiki treatment with Bach Flower treatment and crystal therapy as I find that it accelerates the healing and gives the patient a psychological satisfaction.

As is evident from the above case study, that Reiki brings about immediate and dramatic improvement in condition of persons suffering from depression. It is also evident from countless testimonials that persons who have come out of their depression by using Reiki have not had a recurrence of the same. Many hospitals round the world are recommending Reiki as a parallel system of treatment for persons suffering from depression. The efficacy and impact of Reiki is best understood when it is personally experienced.

If you are serious about learning Reiki, check out www.discover-reiki.com

Warmest regards,

Peter Tremayne Learn Reiki In 7 Days! - www.discover-reiki.com

Peter Tremayne has published an ebook - 'Discover-Reiki' written by Reiki Master Stephen Leigh.

The ebook is a simple, step by step guide for anyone wanting to learning Reiki from the comfort of your own home.

Peppers Naturally Healthy and Delicious

Your Grandma always told you that ?an apple a day keeps the doctor away? There is much to be said about this. There are natural ways to keep us in good shape and it all depends greatly upon our eating habits.

You have tried an apple a day, but did you ever try peppers a.k.a. capsicums?

Peppers are rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Zinc, two nutrients which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. They is also high in vitamins A, C, rutin (a bioflavonoid), beta carotene, iron, calcium and potassium.

Peppers contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex vitamins, sodium and selenium. These combinations of minerals and vitamins make peppers a powerful food for natural remedies.

The Cayenne Pepper was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus which was also known as ?Guinea Pepper. ? In 1597, Gerard referred to Capsicum as extremely hot and dry and prescribed it for throat and skin infections.

Health practitioners of the nineteenth century called phsysiomedicalists, used peppers to counteract rheumatism, arthritis, depression and chills.

It is an excellant anti-coagulant and lowers the blood pressure as well as cholestrol, thus it is recommended for heart patients.

It has even been perscribed for some for balding. One cure says to soak the red pepper in Vodka for 2 weeks, strain and apply the liquid on the balding patch, daily for six weeks.

Peppers are said to be a great help for Bronchitis patients as they mucus secretions and clear congestion. Peppers are also said to help in strengthening bones and keeping rheumatism under control.

Homoeopaths use capsicum in their mother tincture to cure many patients of such maladies as letharargy, joint pains, home sickness, obesity and hysteria.

Imp: According to doctors. the use of peppers should be avoided for those who suffer from piles and gastric ulcers.

Steve Arun is an Internet Marketing Consultant for Modernsage Inc the nationally-acclaimed women?s healthy living print magazine based in Long Island, New York, is now a women?s online community.

Stop by ModernSage Online Blog today for insightful articles, expert advice and an active community that cares about natural health, alternative medicine, home remedies, living well, quick healthy meals, inspiration, work and family, working from home and the essential daily dose of humor.

Normalizing Low Body Temperatures Often Critical to Restoring Good Health

Are you suffering from fatigue, migraines, PMS, hair loss, depression, inability to lose weight, muscle and joint aches, heat and/or cold intolerance, or other baffling symptoms that your doctor can?t explain? Fixing a low body temperature might quickly and easily solve your health problems.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome (WTS) is a condition that causes symptoms characteristic of decreased thyroid system function. It is best identified by its reproducible and predictable response to a special thyroid hormone treatment protocol developed by E. Denis Wilson, MD. It is the cluster of often debilitating symptoms especially brought on by significant physical or emotional stress that can persist even after the stress has passed (due to a maladaptive slowing of the metabolism). It is characterized by a body temperature that runs, on average, below normal and routine thyroid blood tests are often in the normal range.

Symptoms can result when the average body temperature is less than 98.6 degrees (checked by mouth with a mercury thermometer); however, low temperatures classic for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome sufferers are 97.8 degrees or lower.

Virtually all of the chemical reactions that take place in our bodies are catalyzed by enzymes. Enzymes are proteins that are dependent upon their shape, or conformation, for their activity. When enzymes are too hot they are too loose; when they are too cold they are too tight, and in either extreme the enzymes are not the right shape and cannot function optimally. When the body temperature is too low, nearly all of the enzymes in the body function less effectively. This can cause a wide variety of complaints.

High fevers (107 degrees F) can cause brain damage and even death. Severe hypothermia (less than 90 degrees F) can also be a life-threatening medical emergency. A temperature of 100 degrees (1.4 degrees above 98.6) can produce familiar symptoms of fever. It is easy to see how mildly depressed temperatures (1 - 1.5 degrees below 98.6) can also produce a very characteristic set of symptoms. It is obvious that to function optimally, the body must be at the optimal temperature. Under conditions of severe physical or emotional stress, the body can slow down and the temperature can go down to conserve energy, as a coping mechanism. That's normal. But sometimes, the temperature can remain persistently low even after the stress has passed. That's not normal. Examples of severe stresses that can knock the body out of balance include childbirth (the number one cause), divorce, death of a loved one, job or family stress, and surgery or accidents.

The body temperature is regulated by the thyroid hormone system. The hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland to produce Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce T4 (thyroxine) which is the raw material used to make the active thyroid hormone T3. T4 is also converted to Reverse T3 (RT3) which is physiologically inactive. 80 percent of the active thyroid hormone T3 is produced outside the thyroid gland, in the periphery of the body. T4 is converted to T3 by an enzyme called 5' Deiodinase. This enzyme is inhibited by stress, acute and chronic illness, fasting, cortisol (steroid), and other things. Under stress and fasting, the body converts less T4 to T3 and more T4 to RT3 to conserve energy (with less T3, the cells of the body slow down). It is likely that the increased levels of RT3 that result can then further inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3, with even more T4 being converted to RT3, less to T3, and so on, with the body getting stuck in a vicious cycle, a sort of coping mechanism gone amuck.

Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is treated by using a special T3 therapy protocol developed by Dr. Wilson. With proper treatment patients can usually bring their temperatures up to normal. When the temperatures are normal the symptoms usually disappear. The hallmark of T3 therapy for Wilson's Temperature Syndrome is the resetting phenomenon. The temperature and symptoms usually remain improved even after the treatment has been discontinued. T3 therapy for WTS does not need to be taken for life. The T3 medicine that is on the market is instant release. T3 therapy is much more effective and better tolerated when the T3 is mixed with a sustained-release agent. The T3 preparation needs to be carefully made (compounded) by skilled and experienced pharmacists, and taken twice a day, every 12 hours.

More information about WTS can be found at http://www.WilsonsTemperatureSyndrome.com

Tame Migraine Headaches Naturally

New data revealed June 27, 2006 at the 48th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Headache Society, migraine headaches cost American employers more than $24 billion a year in direct and indirect healthcare costs and lost productivity.

Can migraine headache suffers find relief for the pain without breaking the bank? A study completed by P.E. Strang, W.H. Crown, R. Bizier, et al suggests preventative approaches are far more effective than is commonly believed. Preventative measures can eliminate the need for pharmaceuticals or natural remedies, as well as pain/suffering and lost work.

The most common prevention techniques include, but are not limited to:

?Decrease stress
? Affirm yourself: ?I relax into the flow of life and let life provide all that I need easily and comfortably. Life is for me.?
? Decrease Caffeine--drink decaffeinated tea/coffee and eliminate all other drinks with caffeine
? Discover any food allergies/sensitivities?chocolate, cheese, nuts, alcohol, MSG, eggs yolks, wheat, yeast, beef can trigger?eliminate the foods that trigger allergy or sensitivities
? Eat Right for Your (Blood) Type
? Maintain healthy body weight
? 7 to 8 hours of sleep ? preferably at least 1 hour of sleep before midnight
? Exercise?aerobics, calisthenics, power walks, hiking or weight training?at least 2 times a week
? Use a natural Detox system to cleanse the liver, kidneys, and colon. Buildup of toxins and poor liver functioning can be responsible for headaches because of the body's inability to eliminate toxins from the diet or the environment.
? Low blood sugar levels can also bring on headaches, especially if you have skipped a meal. Eliminate all processed sugar and foods with processed sugar or corn syrup. Not only will you eliminate headaches you will lose weight and/or avoid weight gain.

Resource: Stang, P.E., Crown, W.H., Bizier, R., et al. ?The Family impact and costs of migraine,? American Journal of Managed Care, May 2004:313-320.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, Author, International Speaker specializes in: Mind, Body, Spirit healing and Physical/Sexual Abuse Prevention and Recovery. As an inspirational leader, Dr. Neddermeyer empowers people to view life's challenges as an opportunity for Personal/Professional Growth and Spiritual Awakening. http://www.drdorothy.net

Is The Conflict Within You Created By Duality Or Yin And Yang

Where there is yang there is yin and where there is yin there is yang. Neither exists without each other. Balance between both sustains harmony or whole and imbalance between both creates to much of either. This is aspect of duality. We are surrounded and internalised by this duality. If we look at our own bodies and start from the top then we know that our brain is split into right and left brain which controls different way of thinking. There is also two eyes two openings in the heart, two lungs, the liver splits in two, there are two kidneys etc. This duality in the body applies to the yin or the solid organs in the body. The yin organs in the body hold and the yang organs excrete, more about this later.

Looking at the outside world we can see the yin and yang in the aspect of day and night, hot and cold, light and dark, sun and moon, left and right, wet and dry, heavy and light, below and above, contraction and expansion, slow and rapid, descending and rising, water and fire, solid and gaseous, growth and death, passive and aggressive, heaven and earth and many other possibilities. The play between all these qualities create result or action and reaction and consequence. The more one aspect dominates the other, the stronger is the reaction in the environment which it influences. For example if there is too much heat and sun like in desert there is no growth. If it is too cold and little sun like in the arctic there is no growth. If there is equal amount of day and night like it is at the equator, there is easy growth.

The further the yin and yang is from each other, the more conflict it can be. This is very true in relation to our relationship with other people. If we take for example right wing and left wing politics. There was a wide gap between these two ideology. It created one of the greatest conflict ever we have seen in this world. It almost brought us on the brink of destruction. But from that conflict there was creation of even greater aspect into our mass consciousness and that was the demand of peace and brotherhood. There has never been so many organisations and individuals fighting for human mankind to bring awareness of non-conflict or tolerance towards difference of being and demand of peace. This is still going on and even today the need is great since we are seeing great conflict between two ideology and cultures again in a different way.

So what does all this politics got to do with health. Well, what is above is below and what is outside is inside. The laws of the universe are everywhere the same. In fact the Chinese philosophy talks about the universe being reflected in our bodies. This is not only in Chinese philosophy but in others philosophies as well. So in our bodies there is conflict between yin and yang and the further the yin and yang splits apart the more serious consequence there is. If there is to much yang there is too much heat if there is too much yin there is too much cold.

Good example of conflict between yin and yang might be manic depression or bipolar syndrome. This mental disease can be described as swinging between the extremes of over joy and depression. This creates great suffering for the person involved. Both ends have the potential to be destructive and the person fights in between against one and the other. In our everyday life we are constantly making decisions between so called right and wrong behaviour or action. This can create stress in our life?s and constant indecision. This is an example of conflict and it can be trivial or very serious. Who doesn?t know the feeling of the devil on one shoulder and the angel on the other shoulder, of course metaphorically speaking.

It is always the middle path that is the most generous, but so hard to stay on it. Understanding and trusting that understanding is our key. Intuition is the fluid which brings us back to the balance.

Be Well

I am dedicated to bringing solutions for physical, mental an spiritual health through the internet and by other means. For more information visit my site:

http://globalmindcare.com

You can also join my newsletter at:

globalmindcare@aweber.com

The Use of Chinese Herbs for Lyme Disease

A number of Chinese herbs can be useful for the many different facets of Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is a bacterial infectious disease caused by the spirochetal organism, Borrelia Burgdorferi. It is usually caused by a tick bite. The prevalence of the disease is greatest in the northeastern United States, but there have been cases of the illness in all lower 48 states. The disease is easy to treat with antibiotics in its initial stages, but it is often not detected at that point. There is a bull?s eye rash that is characteristic of the disease, but many people never get the rash. The rash looks different in people with darker pigmentation, making it easy to mistake it for other skin conditions, including bruising or eczema. The wide variety of symptoms that a person can have in its later stages makes it hard to obtain a proper diagnosis, and the medical testing for the illness is still not very accurate in many cases.

People with later stages of Lyme need treatment on a number of different levels. At the very basic level, herbs that are anti-bacterial, specifically against spirochetal bacteria, are an important component of treatment. Herbs that have been shown to have activity against spirochetal bacteria include coptis (huang lian), andrographis paniculata (chuan xin lian), isatis (ban lan gen/qing dai), phellodendron (huang bai), scute (huang qin), forsythia (lian qiao), smilax (tu fu ling), and gardenia (zhi zi). Garlic is also a useful antibacterial supplement for those with Lyme Disease.

Lyme disease can lower body temperature and create poor blood circulation. A person is also likely to feel cysts, lumps, and swellings in different areas of their body that often change and move. The bacteria walls itself off, and creates an environment in which it can grow and thrive and the person with the disease ends up in severe pain, with horribly low energy, and neurological problems. The disease thrives in a low temperature, low oxygen environment, and that is the environment it creates within the body. People with the disease often have signs and symptoms similar to someone with severe altitude sickness (also caused by a low oxygen environment). Chinese herbs that clear blood stasis and break blood stagnation can be very useful for this aspect of the disease. The herb, pseudoginseng (san qi), can be extremely beneficial for people with Lyme Disease. It promotes blood circulation and oxygenation in the body, and can force open the cysts that protect the bacteria from being killed off. It also can help clear some of the brain fog that people with this disease have by improving blood circulation and oxygenation to the brain. Frankincense (ru xiang), and myrrh (mo yao) can also help by improving blood circulation, especially to the joints, where the bacteria often hides in cartilaginous tissue where blood circulation tends to be poorer. An herb that is frequently used by people with Lyme Disease, teasel root, is beneficial because it improves circulation in the body and also has a warming affect. All of these herbs can help significantly with the intense and chronic pain that those with later stages of Lyme disease experience.

Certain Chinese herbs can be used to reduce the person?s sensitivity to cold and improve microcirculation in the body. Herbs such as clove, cinnamon, ginger, and siegesbeckia can be useful for this purpose.

The lymphatic system and the metabolism are often compromised in people with Lyme Disease. The bacteria frequently hides inside the walls of white blood cells, and results in swollen and congested lymph glands. People with the disease often have symptoms of hypothyroidism and a slowed metabolic rate even if all of their thyroid tests are normal. In Chinese Medicine, herbs that treat phlegm are frequently used for conditions related to a slow metabolism and a congested lymphatic system. The Chinese herb, prunella vulgaris (xia ku cao), and scrophularia (xuan shen) are very useful for inflammation, congestion, and infection of the lymphatic system. Herbs such as citrus aurantium, kelp, epimedium, and Siberian ginseng, can be beneficial for improving a sluggish metabolism in people with Lyme Disease who have signs or symptoms of an underactive thyroid.

Another aspect of Lyme Disease is severe and debilitating fatigue and a total lack of energy. This can be due to a host of different factors. Poor oxygenation and blood circulation and lowered metabolism and body temperature are part of the picture. The person?s adrenal glands may not be functioning properly either. Someone with Lyme Disease may also have a host of digestive problems that result in a lack of adequate nutrition. The disease itself can trigger chemical changes in the brain that create severe depression and an inability to concentrate, which is debilitating as well.

In Chinese medicine, herbs that nourish the qi and blood can help this lack of energy. The herbs can improve the person?s digestive functioning, support the functioning of the brain, support proper functioning of the adrenal glands, and improve the person?s ability to handle stress. They can also help the proper functioning of the mitochondria in their production of ATP in the cells, which helps a person?s energy at a very fundamental level. Siberian ginseng, schizandra, licorice, and astragalus are all good herbs for improving a person?s energy level, digestive functioning, and their ability to handle stress. White peony, dong quai, and wolfberry nourish the blood and reduce fatigue. Polygonum and eucommia can help improve a person?s adrenal response and can improve brain functioning. Bupleurum, longan fruit, zyzyphus seed, dragon bone, oyster shell, and magnolia bark can be beneficial for the depression, anxiety, lack of concentration, and sleep problems that people with Lyme Disease experience.

As you can see, Lyme Disease is a complex illness with many facets. Chinese herbal medicine has numerous herbs in its pharmacopia that can treat the many different aspects of this disease in a comprehensive and holistic manner.

Farah Khan is a licensed acupuncturist and Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She developed an interest in Lyme Disease after contracting the illness in October of 2001, and developing late stage Lyme Disese by June of 2002. She has used numerous methods to recover from this insidious illness, including her own training and expertise in Chinese herbal medicine. She offers herbal and essential oil formulas related to this condition on the web at http://www.yinessence.com. She can be reached at farah@yinessence.com.

Depression and the Magnesium Deficiency Debate

Depression is a social epidemic these days. It seems that more and more people are suffering from depression than ever before. Is that because that statement is true or because our awareness of depression has grown over the years? The common result of being diagnosed with depression, either professionally or personally, is taking prescription medication to resolve the problem. What most people fail to realize is that depression is the symptom of a bigger picture. There are many vitamin deficiencies that can cause many things, depression being one of them. A Magnesium deficiency is a big culprit for most of the problems that people face, so let us take a look at how you can find out if running low on magnesium could be causing your problems as well.

A Magnesium deficiency can cause many different problems throughout the body. From the nervous system to the muscles and skin, the lack of magnesium in your body will cause major problems for your health. Things such as muscle tension, muscle soreness, twitches, cramps, neck and back pain, tension headaches and even TMJ (jawbone) dysfunction can be caused by a lack of magnesium in the body. Nervous system symptoms such as tingling, numbness and vibration sensations can be common as well. Finally, things like constipation, menstrual cramps, sensitivity to loud noises and changes in light, cravings for salt and chocolate and even carbohydrates can trigger a red flag in your mind as you are reading this.

So the laundry list of things that can result from a deficiency in magnesium is enough to scare even the toughest of skeptics. So why are people breaking down the doors of their therapist to get their hands on prescription medication? Maybe its a lack of knowledge or maybe people are looking for the band-aid fix and not looking at the major problems. We need to take a step back and find the things that our diets are lacking, the things that will make us better as a whole and figure out what we need to do to make ourselves healthy again. But that really is a totally different topic for another day. So until then, visit our website and see how magnesium and vitamins can help you achieve a healthier lifestyle. (http://www.emmasnaturalliving.com/)

Stacy Kupiec is the owner and operator of the Emma's Natural Living website. She has done extensive research on the topics of natural cures and vitamins and how they affect your overall lifestyle. For more information on Stacy or the products that she endorses, visit her website on vitamins by clicking the vitamins link.

Peppers Naturally Healthy and Delicious

Your Grandma always told you that ?an apple a day keeps the doctor away? There is much to be said about this. There are natural ways to keep us in good shape and it all depends greatly upon our eating habits.

You have tried an apple a day, but did you ever try peppers a.k.a. capsicums?

Peppers are rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Zinc, two nutrients which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. They is also high in vitamins A, C, rutin (a bioflavonoid), beta carotene, iron, calcium and potassium.

Peppers contain magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex vitamins, sodium and selenium. These combinations of minerals and vitamins make peppers a powerful food for natural remedies.

The Cayenne Pepper was introduced to Europe by Christopher Columbus which was also known as ?Guinea Pepper. ? In 1597, Gerard referred to Capsicum as extremely hot and dry and prescribed it for throat and skin infections.

Health practitioners of the nineteenth century called phsysiomedicalists, used peppers to counteract rheumatism, arthritis, depression and chills.

It is an excellant anti-coagulant and lowers the blood pressure as well as cholestrol, thus it is recommended for heart patients.

It has even been perscribed for some for balding. One cure says to soak the red pepper in Vodka for 2 weeks, strain and apply the liquid on the balding patch, daily for six weeks.

Peppers are said to be a great help for Bronchitis patients as they mucus secretions and clear congestion. Peppers are also said to help in strengthening bones and keeping rheumatism under control.

Homoeopaths use capsicum in their mother tincture to cure many patients of such maladies as letharargy, joint pains, home sickness, obesity and hysteria.

Imp: According to doctors. the use of peppers should be avoided for those who suffer from piles and gastric ulcers.

Steve Arun is an Internet Marketing Consultant for Modernsage Inc the nationally-acclaimed women?s healthy living print magazine based in Long Island, New York, is now a women?s online community.

Stop by ModernSage Online Blog today for insightful articles, expert advice and an active community that cares about natural health, alternative medicine, home remedies, living well, quick healthy meals, inspiration, work and family, working from home and the essential daily dose of humor.

How to Choose a Clinical Hypnosis Professional

The major dilemma in deciding to pursue hypnotherapy is selecting a qualified Hypnotist.

You need to decide whether you want to work with a psychiatrist or other licensed mental health practitioner who includes hypnosis as a part of their practice, or if you want a hypnotist who uses hypnosis exclusively as a healing modality.

Psychiatrists and other licensed mental health practitioners at times use hypnosis in treating people; however certified hypnotists have more in-depth training. The psychiatrist or licensed mental health practitioner may have attended a weekend workshop and learned how to induce hypnosis but may have little or no experience in communicating with the mind in its subconscious mode.

The first question to ask anyone with whom you consider working is Are you a certified hypnotist and by whom? The National Guild of Hypnotherapists is the oldest and largest worldwide non-profit certifying organization cited by Congress in the Congressional Record of May 11th, 1993 as the foremost hypnosis organization in the country.

Although, one assumes all licensed professionals are highly qualified, that does not hold true with hypnosis, a licensed professional needs to be certified in hypnosis in addition to their license. Therefore, whomever you choose, be sure they are certified by a certifying institution or recognized organization and have had a minimum of 100 hours of training?not just a weekend seminar.

In addition, it is important to consider a Hypnotist, who is also a certified Regression practitioner. The reason it is important to choose a Hypnotist, who is also a certified Regression practitioner is because the root cause of your issue is more often than not rooted in your past experiences?therefore, regression to those experiences to heal the emotional issues is necessary. A certified Hypnotist has little or no training in regression work. Therefore, to have the most qualified Hypnotist make sure they are a certified Hypnotist and certified Regression practitioner.

The International Board for Regression Therapy (IBRT) Inc. as an independent examining and certifying board www.ibrt.org is the foremost regression certifying organization. Its mission is to set professional standards for practice, evaluate the preparation and qualifications of practitioners and the quality of training programs, and to issue certificates to those who pass the rigorous evaluation process. It is a not-for-profit corporation registered in New York State.

Another area to explore is how much experience the prospective therapist has had in your area of need. How long have they been in full-time practice? What are their specialties? Do they have experience in addressing the problem you want to address or in attaining the goal you want to achieve? How many clients have they treated? How many successfully?

Another question particularly helpful is What is the law regarding the practice of hypnotherapy in your state? In Illinois, it is PA473. The reason it is important that any prospective hypnotist know the law is because hypnotherapy must be practiced in strict conformity with it. Be suspicious of anyone who doesn't know the limits of their practice.

Finally, if you are satisfied with the responses to all other questions, ask yourself one final question. Am I comfortable with this person? Attempting to work with someone who maybe highly qualified but with whom you have no rapport or with someone you don't feel you can trust will only serve to interfere with your progress.

Dorothy M. Neddermeyer, PhD, a Certified Hypnotist and Regression practitioner has 25 years experience in healing many issues. http://www.drdorothy.net