Yoga for Workaholics

BuddhaRocks ☸ Meditation

Yoga for Workaholics


Yoga for Workaholics

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 07:00 AM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

Most people perceive Yoga as a difficult and time-consuming activity. On the contrary, Yoga, when understood, is considerably easy to follow. Also, following its routines won't take up a lot of time, unless you have to go to a Yoga class to work out. So, it's an advantage to know the routines yourself. A few hours a day of Yoga yields so many benefits, not only for the body, but for the mind as well. For those people who are always on-the-go and working several hours a day, Yoga is very useful, since its main effect is to soothe tired muscles and ease the exhausted mind. So save time and be healthier by practicing Yoga in your home.

Learn some Yoga exercises by following these simple steps:

Prepare a pair of socks. Put a pebble (at most half a pound in weight) in each and tie them together.

Sit on a chair and enfold your ankle with the tied socks. Don't forget to sit up straight. Begin by exhaling and inhaling gradually. Move your leg upwards, making it in a horizontal line with your thigh, then shift to your original position. Repeat the upward and downward movement of the leg. Continue breathing slowly while doing the routine.

That was just the warm-up of the exercise. Carry on doing it and make a dozen or so leg movements. When you feel you are ready for more complicated ones, try to refine the routine by slowly moving the heel away from your body. Then, turn your toes towards you with the knee pulled up gently. With a few hours of doing this routine everyday, you're sure to keep your leg and knees in top shape. Knee and leg pains can also be prevented. In addition, this routine can aid for the speedy recovery of injured knees. It can also be a preparation technique for knees that will undergo a surgery.

About the Author

Glen Wood – The Yoga Teacher. Glen is a yoga expert who loves to teach you how to lose your neck, shoulder and back pain with yoga.

Dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back Pain.

Free Video Reveals No 1 Secret to Losing Your Back Pain with Yoga. Go here for more information.

http://www.yogateachingwithglen.com has the tips and guides you need to be successful in losing your Back Pain today tomorrow and whenever you have the need. Our guides are methods that work and are in use by many former Back Pain Sufferers. Do you want to learn more? Join us at http://www.goodbyetobackpain.com/secrets

Anxiety Stress Relief with Yoga

A few yoga moves to create more room in the heart for joy

Video Rating: 5 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Gym Rat Transformed Into a Yoga Nerd

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 06:02 AM PST

Article by Yoga Born

Phillip Askew New York City Vinyasa

A form of flow, a flow of forms, Vinyasa Yoga is a plural practice; existing in the space between traditions, & in their interaction. www.phillipaskew.com Music by ISAN

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Gym Rat Transformed Into a Yoga Nerd

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 05:00 AM PST

Article by Yoga Born




Yoga Helping Brain Injury Survivor PART 2

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 04:04 AM PST

Article by Yoga Born




Yoga Maintenance to Lower Stress Levels

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 03:00 AM PST

Article by Yoga Born

refuge was divine…over some time

I was side swiped last week. Not in a physical manner as you might imagine.

I was baited into a conversation by someone I believed was a friend. Without any warning of the accusations that would be dumped on me I felt very threatened and unsafe.

Customarily I would have become physically numb, emotionally overwhelmed and energetically launched like a shiny pinball in a machine.

However as I would later reflect this was the point that the success of my 'work' revealed itself…I paused and allowed myself to become sensitive, feel, listen and breathe. I remained steady and spoke with my most authentic voice and walked away feeling like I had quite eloquently survived a battle. Little did I know that this interaction was just the beginning of more internal work to be done.

Day one I felt attacked and guiltyDay two I felt shell shocked and powerlessDay three I was enragedDay four I felt overwhelmedDay five I felt irritatedDay six I was absolutely exhaustedDay seven I nurtured optimism

As the snow fell in Connecticut during these seven days I knew the brazen conversation was an awakening. Up until now my life had been spent being dumped on by others and my critical self. The snow piled up and I turned my attention to the layers of 'compost' inside me.

Relationships evolve and I think many of us have experienced noticeable shifts with people who may not like the changes that yoga has brought into your lives. This can create friction in relationships and be frightening to people that have known us to be certain way(s).

The work we do on the mat prepares us in a variety of ways for the churning on life. The work I am focusing on right now is my new armor for the battlefield of life. My old armor felt very heavy and eclipsed my passions I feel more confident in my new armor, it feels weightless. I feel naked yet totally protected.

Through our practice of yoga we becom! e strong er to handle relationships and most importantly the relationship with ourselves. It's vital that we remember that nothing is more important than us feeling wonderful while we live as fully as we can.

For added support I made contact with my trusted advisers; my dear friends and my loving family. I made time to visit with the healers that I've benefited from over the years. I received body work, I did my "maintenance yoga" and I meditated. I was totally determined, "I am done giving up my power that allows me to feel small and unworthy".

my "maintenance yoga"childs posetablelow lunge (each side)standing forward foldlow lunge with twist (each side)standing forward foldside stretch with gentle twisting

Making a comfortable seat I turn my focus on my easy natural breath as I sit. I chant and pause. When an emotion sparks inside me I direct my full attention to it stating, "dear one I am here for you, I am here for you". I repeat this over and over until I am soothed.

I need to connect to the earth in a serious way, to stand as steadily as possible and fiercely with love for my life remembering and envisioning my dreams.

I went deep and felt what was at my core. As much as my old habits would have me running for the hills I stayed to be the witness to the epic immersion. I needed the great pause that yoga has taught me and challenged me to hone. I had to not react with emotions but rather deep wisdom. Understanding that there are ways to respond that might temporarily feel satisfying however I know using my authentic tools is best overall.

Yoga calls us out of some dark corners inside ourselves drawing us towards the brilliance of our hearts to come out and play. We pause and look around at the panoramic view and remind each other that now more than ever the world needs us to shine brightly with our passions. Turning inward we find inspiration from our breath using yoga poses to bring intelligence to the surface and with great discernment ! we stand tall using our gifts to bring joy into the world.

We dream to be living and sharing our gifts with the world and together we'll live our dreams.

About the Author

Dawn Greenfield is Founder of Yoga Born: Delivering Yoga Services in homes. A yoga teacher dedicated to leading yoga students of all physical abilities. Dawn has over 7,000 hours working and training in yoga and has taught over 8,000 people yoga since 2005. Dawn has more than 500 hours experience working with Traumatic Brain Injury survivors. With a GROWING specialty in Yoga for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Dawn values you ! With open-hearted compassion, helps you become skilled in the physical practice of yoga, offers gentle and relevant assists, is respectful and caring and is well versed in building a sense of community.Through her workshops, classes, and one on one, Dawn shows her students how to experience freedom inside and out to create an abundant life they LOVE.




Knee and Back Pain with the Help of Yoga Part 4

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 02:00 AM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

Knee And Back Pain with the Help of Yoga Part 4

Sciatica described as the pain along the Sciatic Nerve or start from the buttock to the back of the leg. Sciatica may also cause numbness and tingling or pain in the sacrum. In Sciatica, the pain in the posterior thigh, lower leg or foot can be much worse than the lower Back Pain. Osteoarthritis and Fibromyalgia are the most common forms of arthritis.

The most common treatment for Back Pains includes medication, exercise, and a change in lifestyle, sometimes surgery for sever Back Ailments. Yoga is a mild form of physical activity which can help in strengthening Back Muscles and Skeletal system.

It can help in controlling and preventing the occurrence and re-occurrence of Back Injuries which can lead to some Chronic or Acute Back Ailment.

The practice of Yoga can be helpful to diagnosed disc problems after the acute stage has passed. The Proper Diet and no smoking lifestyle which are part of Yogic Lifestyle will facilitate fast recovery and prevention for Osteoporosis and Herniated disc. Asanas can tone your Back Muscles, make it more flexible, alleviate pain and improve your posture. Yoga lifestyle, Yoga Poses combined with medical attention can decrease the debilitating power of Back Pains.

Unilateral movements can stress the Sacroiliac joint. These are yoga postures such as Tree pose and Warrior 3 which involve balance on one leg. Deep standing postures may also stress the joint but done lightly may be beneficial. If a posture feels like it is causing greater pain patterns it should be avoided or at the least modified.

Lifting weights, riding a bike, running and even skiing don't involve the muscle groups required to facilitate correct posture. Such routines often encourage the development of certain muscle groups and can delude individuals into feeling these are all that are required to stay in shape. Exercise regimens like yoga, Pilates, dancing and swimming all focus on working muscles in the chest, back ! and abdo men which, in turn, do help maintain a healthy posture. The body's core muscle groups are exercised which allows a greater body work out, strengthening the physique overall and not just specific areas.

In theory, yoga helps people concentrate their energy on breathing and maintaining posture. The methodical breathing increases oxygen flow to the brain and sets a rhythm within the body and mind. This action coupled with the poses and sometimes meditation is said to dissipate stress and anxiety, therefore, relieving back pain caused by psychological and emotional factors.

Continued...

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher, dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back and Shoulder Pain.

To help you further with your shoulder/back pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com

YOGA EXERCISES: Cleansing and Opening

www.YogaBodyNaturals.com - "Double your flexibility in 28 days using Gravity Poses & superfood supplements." In this episode guest teacher Tara Er will teach you * Two postures to cleanse and open your body. * Fun ways to use a chair in yoga. WANNA SEE THE NEXT ONE? www.YogaBodyNaturals.com

Video Rating: 5 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Yoga for Drivers Neck and Shoulder Pain Part 3

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 01:00 AM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

Yoga for Drivers Neck and Shoulder Pain Part 3

A 2005 study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that practicing yoga postures was more effective than traditional treatments for chronic lower-back pain. Here's a little guide to a pose for the achey places.

It's a Half Locust Variation:

Lie on your stomach, head turned to the left and hands crossed over the lower back with palms up. On an inhale lift your chest and head, stretch the left hand out in front of you, palm down, upper arm alongside your ear. At the same time lift your right leg about 6 inches off the floor while turning your head toward the centre.

On an exhalation lower your head, chest, and leg and bring the outstretched left arm behind you to rest ion your back. As you lower your head, turn it to the right and return it to the mat (the reverse of your starting position). Repeat on the other side. When your ready, repeat the set six times, each time bringing the leg slightly higher. This will be good for helping your back pain.

There are several ways in which the human body feeds back relative to what you are doing with and to it. Part of this feedback system is a pain response. The pain response comes in several forms, levels, or degrees. For example an achey pain might indicate stretching of muscle. A sharp pain might indicate excess elasticity demanded on the tendon.

Yoga postures focus on building core shoulder strength, opening the chest and relaxation of the upper shoulder and neck muscles. Yoga is not a fad; it is a science that is recognized all over the world, re-establishing its credibility as an ancient discipline dating back ten thousand years ago and will help you with shoulder and back pain.

Yoga practitioners have long touted this ancient exercise as a back pain treatment. Now there's scientific evidence to support this claim. A major study on the use of alternative therapies found that almost 60% of people who consulted a medical doctor for back pain had tried so! me sort of alternative therapy.

In yoga therapy, you use a set of posture designed specifically for your individual problems and imbalances to heal your body. A six week program is designed for people with low back pain who wish to return to yoga practice or explore yoga as a method of managing their back pain.

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher, dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back, Shoulder and Neck Pain.

To help you further with your shoulder/back pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com

Breath of Fire Kundalini Yoga Breathing Exercise

www.anmolmehta.com (free article with full details). Key Kundalini Yoga Breathing Exercise with a huge list of benefits, including, opening energy pathways in the body, detoxifying the system, weight loss, vitality and more.

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Meditation The Easy Way To Relieve Stress

Posted: 27 Dec 2011 12:00 AM PST

Article by Jeff Hansel

Have you ever been so stressed out from work, kids, relationships or the other millions of things that you just want to pull your hair out? I know you have, we all have. When we are upset by someone at work or in society, danger signals are sent to our brain and our heart starts beating faster and our blood pressure rises. However, we don't usually run away and we usually don't start fighting physically. We hold it all in, perhaps showing a smile on the outside. If this is kept up all day, the stress builds and if it continues over a long time it can damage our heart.There is a very easy, relaxing solution to relieve the pressures of modern day life, and it has been there the whole time, its meditation. Many people all around the world use different techniques to meditate but the end result is very similar - "Relaxation". One of the most popular ways is by listening to meditation cds. You may be thinking you just don't have time to meditate, but trust me if you just start making a few minutes a day to lock yourself away and find the peace within yourself it will be well worth its weight in gold. If you just start out meditating for a few minutes at a time and stick with it you will find that it is so enjoyable and relaxing you will find it is hard to pull yourself away from it. You'll soon find that you look forward to grabbing your favorite meditation cd and sitting back to seek peace and harmony.To practice meditation we don't need to follow a particular religion; anybody can meditate, the only requirement is our conscious aspiration to silence the thoughts of the mind. In fact, one of the important aspects of meditation is that it is a form of sense withdrawal. When you become adept at this technique it relieves stress and is just as effective as going away to the top of a forested mountain or sitting alone on a sandy beach. You'll find that many meditation cds will take you away to beautiful special places in your mind...more beautiful than you can imagine without experiencing it yourself. Th! ere are many positive results that you will get from meditating, besides just a relaxation tool. If you can teach yourself to focus on goals you would like to achieve or something you would like to improve about yourself you will find many answers to a great number of things in the silence of meditation. For thousands of years people have been using this method to obtain the things that they want and the things that they dream of. Many great leaders in history and very successful people have been using meditation to do their most productive thinking and soul searching. Some say there is no connection to the universal energy like the one you will find when develop the skills of a very deep relaxing meditation. Walking meditation is also becoming more popular these days because you can get both mental and physical benefits and some say it is more effective as it is easier for most people to be more intense and more easily aware of their bodies while walking, as compared to sitting.It is truly amazing some of the story's I have heard about people that have overcome illness and many other disorders with simple meditation. A real possibility of a compassion and wisdom-based world exists, replacing the fear-based world that we find ourselves living in, but it has to begin with each of us taking the time to understand our "selves." It is one thing to talk about peace and love but it is only when we meditate that we can experience these qualities as a living reality. Our ability to meditate is not some special skill out of human reach. Every human being looking for peace in life should practice meditation and experience how it will relieve mental stress and suffering. To find out more about meditation and get some very helpful tools including some wonderful meditation cds to get you started in finding real inner peace go to http://www.easy-meditation-cd.com.

About the Author

To find out more about meditation and get some very helpful tools including some wonderful meditation cds to get you started in finding real inner peace go to www.easy-meditation-cd.com

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL RELAXING PIANO MUSIC

www.stevenaitchison.co.uk This is a beautiful piece of music that I used to create a guided meditation. I thought the music was so good a wanted to make a quick video and put it on youtube so others could hear it.

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Yoga and Back Pain Part 3

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 11:00 PM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

Exercise

Exercise in an important aspect of treating tension headaches. Yoga exercises for back pain. There are special exercises for relieving your back pain through yoga. A combination of stretching, extending and aerobic exercises will also aid recovery as well as giving you the best chance of avoiding future back injuries. Appropriate stretching exercises, which are best used in the morning and during and after a stressful work day, can be provided by a qualified health care professional.

Another important element to include in an exercise program is a form of cardiovascular exercise done two or three times a week and this can also be yogic. How can exercise help one look good and feel better at the same time? Good posture, proper body mechanics, and exercise will help you prevent back pain. Treatments may include trunk strengthening, range of motion/ stretching exercise, initiation of aerobic exercise program, posture and spinal mechanics instruction, soft tissue mobilization, myofascial release, joint mobilization, and modalities for pain control such as heat, ice, ultrasound, and/or electrical stimulation.

Body

Body Awareness: Doing yoga will give you an increased awareness of your own body. A large percentage of our patients suffer from repetitive strain injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, elbow pain, back pain, knee injures, and a wide variety of other musculoskeletal conditions throughout the body. Some medical conditions can cause pain to spread to the back from other parts of the body (referred pain). It is important to position yourself so that you can sit comfortably and minimize stress on any one area of your body. Applying ergonomic principles -- designing furniture and tools to protect the body from injury -- at home and in the workplace can greatly reduce the risk of back injury and help maintain a healthy back.

The best way to correct imbalances in the entire body from all injuries is a prevention exercise program with yoga. This ! tug-of-w ar from upper body back muscles verses lower body leg muscles has now caused vertebrae joint instability which can lead to numerous conditions and various pain levels such as stenosis, inflammation, nerve impingement, bulging, or herniated disc, ligament, tendon muscle, hyper-mobility, and so much more.

Relief

Treatment strategies aim to provide pain relief and restore flexibility and mobility. Exercise is amazingly effective in providing pain relief. A doctor said "mind and body effects" help bring pain relief.

Yes, doing yoga for your back may give you the benefit of pain relief, but establishing a yoga for back pain practice that is safe and meaningful for your condition requires that you know more about why and how to do selected yoga poses than the average yoga student.

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher. Glen is a yoga expert who loves to teach you how to lose your neck, shoulder or back pain with yoga. He is dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.

To help you further with your back, neck and shoulder pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com

Yoga in the Park

Video Rating: 0 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

The Incredible Health Benefits Of Meditation

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 10:00 PM PST

Article by Susan Masters

Meditation is, without any doubt, a healing key to a variety of medical problems and nowadays, it seems that more and more individuals are acknowledging the health benefits of meditation. Can meditation really improve our health? Can it make us feel better and healthier? For sure it can. Let's see why and how.

What Does Meditation Do to Our Body?

Meditation implies, besides the specific techniques, relaxation and, more importantly, certain breathing exercises. All these three aspects of meditation have relevant benefic effects, starting from slowing down our heart rate (as and effect of the slow breathing) and settling our blood pressure at a normal level. Since the body is functioning at a slower rate, our immune system is actually strengthened and, furthermore, our body seems to produce more desirable hormones and to produce less adrenaline.

The explanation is quite simple: when we are focusing upon a certain part of our body, we are actually sending positive energy and blood to that specific part. As a result, the cells receive an extra amount of oxygen and other kinds of necessary nutrients.

Besides all the above health benefits of meditation, it is useful to know that meditation can also reduce headaches, it reduces the tension (not only at a muscle level, but at a psychological level, as well), it reduces anxiety and other such medical problems. In addition, studies show that meditation helps the body recover after surgeries or traumas, it helps the patients suffering from various allergies and, due to the fact that it strengthens the immune system, it helps the organism fight better against unwanted pathogens.

What Is the Role of Meditation in Substance Use and Addictions?

Another one of the wide range of health benefits of meditation is the fact that meditation is important when dealing with certain substance abuse, such as nicotine, drugs and alcohol. In this case, meditation affects the patient's condition indirectly - the patient manages to clear! his/her mind with the help of relaxation and meditation techniques in order to change his/her attitude or relation with this life and health damaging substances.

Can Meditation Have Side Effects upon Our Health?

One of the most important aspects of the health benefits of meditation is that they do not have any contra arguments. More precisely, meditation does not imply any side effects and can not damage our body in any way. As opposed to most medications and medical therapies, meditation can be used freely, without worrying about the negative parts of the healing process.

In addition, meditation does not imply any financial costs, nor does it presuppose the use of specialized equipment. Meditation is there for everyone who wants to relief stress and tension, who wants to have a better heart and a stronger immune system.

What Other Benefits Does Meditation Have?

Besides the impressive range of health benefits of meditation, relaxation and meditation also imply a wide range of other benefic effects upon our mood and feeling of well being. Obviously, a better health implies more happiness, a better tonus, extra vitality and more joy in our life. But the principles of meditation itself are focused on a more fulfilling and complex inner life, going back to our roots, to our deepest emotions and feelings and concentrating upon the positive things in life. All in all, mediation has a great variety of positive results and effects that enhance our health and life.

About the Author

Want to calm your mind & super-charge your energy level?  The health benefits of meditation techniques are well documented.  Click here to get FREE audio instruction.

Guided visualisation relaxation - The Beach

Guided visualisation relaxation A walk to the beach relaxationsanctuary.blogspot.com

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

A Simple Meditation Preparation

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 09:01 PM PST

Article by Laurie Desjardins

Binaural beat Anxiety

Sample of the binaural beat sound wave file, use stereo headphones to listen to the beat . This will produce a theta brain wave for meditation / hypnosis. you can get the full version here www.davidcorcoran.com To get a full copy of the Stress and anxiety file including clinical suggestions please email david@davidcorcoran.com

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Knee and Back Pain with the Help of Yoga Part 3

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 08:00 PM PST

Article by Glen wood - The Yoga Teacher

Knee And Back Pain with the Help of Yoga Part 3

Jean started practicing yoga in 1990, in part, to relieve back pain that she had since the age of 11. Yoga gave temporary relief, but the pain always returned. She also tried massage, chiropractic and physical therapy, with no lasting results. In 2002, she walked, into the Balance Centre for the first time and experienced immediate relief from her chronic low back pain. Jean was hooked and stayed on to take classes, eventually completing the 2 years Teachers' Training program. She now teaches Foundations, yoga, privates and is the CEO for the Balance Centre.

Sarno proposes that TMS (Tension Myositis Syndrome) is the major cause of pain in the back, neck, shoulders, buttocks, and limbs, and that it is caused not by structural abnormalities but by the mind's effort to repress emotions. Not that the pain is all in your head, but rather that your mind is generating a real physical disorder that may affect muscles, nerves, tendons, or ligaments. An injury may trigger the disorder, but isn't the true cause of the the resulting pain. The mind refocuses its repressed emotion into the body generating pain in your muscles, nerves, tendons, or ligaments.

In these pages you will find all the information you need to reduce lower back pain with special yoga exercises for back problems. Perhaps even heal your lower back completely.

Not sure if your posture is on point? Check it out by standing in front of a full-length mirror, and assume your usual stance. Don't be surprised if your shoulders round and fall forward as your pelvis rotates back. If you pull your shoulders back and tuck your pelvis forward, you will immediately add one inch to your height. Turn sideways and repeat. Ideally, there should be a straight line from the ear, shoulder, hip, knee and ankle. You can also obtain a high-tech posture analysis at a physical therapy and spine centre for about 0.

Remember most important rule in practicing yoga posture is that any sligh! test pai n is indication from you body that something is wrong and come out of it. If starting yoga practice, it is strongly recommended that you begin in presence of qualified yoga teacher and do listen to your doctor's advice. Some health care professionals are really open to yoga, some are not, so keep an open mind.

Treatments for Scoliosis include the use of braces or sometimes, surgery. Others try electrical muscle stimulation, chiropractic manipulation and exercise. Though exercise cannot stop Scoliosis alone but it can help in promoting overall health and well-being.

Continued...

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher, dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back and Shoulder Pain.To help you further with your shoulder/back pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com




SAFETY IN SPIRITUAL DEVELOPMENT MEDITATIONS

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 07:00 PM PST

Article by Keith McGregor

In our fast paced world we should try and commandeer as much time as we can to focus on our spiritual and psychic growth.

Because of the demands of family, work and our non- stop lives, it is often hard to find the time to attend a psychic school to learn spiritual meditation so we seek out downloadable meditations that we can use whenever we have a few minutes spare.

When we sit in a psychic school or spiritual development circle or group we feel protected by the proficiency of the medium who is in control of the circle. So are downloadable meditations for spiritual growth and meditation exercises safe for us to use on our own?

What you should be sure of when purchasing any meditations is that they are specifically aimed at your spiritual development and that the source you are purchasing from is legitimate and that they have taken serious consideration into the safety of their meditations.

Some of the safety features that should be installed into all the meditations are:

Accesses to a website were you can research the process of spiritual development.Professionally recorded meditations so you can be sure that you are getting quality. Opening and closing of chakra to guide you into and out of a proper guided meditative state. Meditations focused on spiritual development for the highest of good. Explanation of each meditation you are purchasing. More then 3 definite processes installed into the meditations to be sure you will come back when the meditation finishes, for instance;A. being counted out of the meditation more than once,B. changes in sound reverberation between the actual meditation and the chakra opening and closing,C. a loud sound or bell to make you aware of yourself, amongst others. Meditations split into levels of experience so you know you are doing the right meditation for yourself.

Once you have found and downloaded your meditations, the other safety precaution you must take is not to listen to the meditations to help you go to sleep, They! are spe cifically for spiritual personal development not a sleep remedy.

A good download meditation site will offer you meditation tips, such as finding a quiet place were you can sit with your feet earthed to the ground and you can be certain that you are ready and prepared to enhance your spiritual journey, safely and with guidance.

All that is left for you to do is to enjoy your meditations and open yourself to the understanding of the universe.

About the Author

Keith McGregor is a partner of Strawberrysoup, a web design agency with offices in Chichester and Bournemouth. Strawberrysoup specialise in creative web design, content managed websites, search engine optimisation, search engine marketing and graphic design

How to Grow a Mandala

premaspace.com This simple and easy method of mandala drawing is also a powerful form of meditation, relaxation, prayer, and creative expression similar to methods that have been practiced for thousands of years. Give it a try! It only takes 5 minutes to learn and you only need a paper and pen or pencil. Share it with your friends.

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

How Does Meditation Work?

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 06:00 PM PST

Article by Bruce Channers

There is so much talk about meditation and its benefits - but how does meditation work? A lot of study has gone into how exactly meditation brings about the benefits felt by people who practice it regularly. Research studies reveal that meditation induces a healthy relaxed state resulting in a lower heart rate, lower respiratory rate, and lower pulse rate. In fact, it is a wonderfully easy way to rest the body. Meditation increases alertness, creativity and cultivates clarity of thought. There is proof that the benefits of meditation are both psychological and physiological.

Specific Changes That Occur From Meditation:

Meditation works by lowering the metabolic rate of the person, providing them deep relaxation. There is lower consumption of oxygen soon after the person begins to meditate. According to studies, the individual who meditates consumes lesser air and takes lesser number of breaths each minute. The blood pressure falls to normal even with those suffering from hypertension. In the nervous system, there is a reduced amount of activity, making us calmer. In fact, meditation also controls several organs and muscles including activities like sweating, the breathing process, our digestion etc. automatically while we practice it.

Those who begin the process of meditation feeling tense and anxious, experience a lowering of blood lactate levels, thereby calming them since there is an increased blood flow. Because of this, more oxygen goes to the muscles bringing down the production of lactate.

Meditation techniques basically work with the mind. In very simple terms we can even look at meditation as a form of rest. After a hard day, every one needs to relax. Just like the body the mind also needs to relax. Even though sleep helps to an extent, there is still a residue of all the stress we go through in our subconscious mind. These carry over as stress and anxiety. Here is where meditation works. It accesses the subconscious mind when you are conscious and helps you chang! e your e ntire attitude towards these negative feelings. Meditation gives you a better understanding of your own mind, teaches you how to reach a relaxed and calm state and gives you the ability to assess everything objectively.

The Effects Of Meditation:

So how does meditation work? The first thing you become aware of after you meditate for some time is a sense of stability. Since it deals with breathing, you will find it easy to concentrate on whatever you do without getting distracted. Meditation also brings about a great clarity of mind, letting you arrange your thoughts properly allowing you to think clearly. It brings about an end to stress, through intense relaxation and therefore improves health.

However, those who suffer from serious mental disorders would do well to consult their health care providers before they take up meditation to relieve their symptoms, so that the process of healing is not delayed, since there are cases where meditation without proper guidance can make some symptoms worse.

Certain meditation methods involve exercises in focus while others involve an analysis of the mind, resulting in alertness and giving direction. It quells the wandering mind, urging it to focus on the matters at hand. The mind then connects with the body and through regular practice, meditation can yield great benefits.

About the Author

To discover many unusual and fascinating secrets about meditation retreats, please go to:Online Meditation Guru.

Robert Haig Coxon - The Light

Robert Haig Coxon, The Light, from "The Silent Path" 1995. This is my very first video, so please don't hesitate to leave a comment, I'm still learning :). I was trying to express the feeling of light but without focusing on it, it's rather a presentiment of the subtle presence of the light everywhere, so gentle and untouchable as all the music of the great Robert H. Coxon. Enjoy!

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Can Yoga Help My Back Pain? Part 5

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 05:00 PM PST

Article by Glen Wood - the Yoga Teacher




3 Keys to Creating a Sacred Meditation Space

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 04:00 PM PST

Article by Anmol Mehta

We all know the profound benefits that meditation practice bestows. The two important aspects though, in order to extract the wonderful benefits from meditation, is that the practice needs to be consistent and long term. To that end, one of the biggest obstacles to a long term, daily meditation practice, is the lack of a meditation space in your home.

This article will help you overcome this issue by providing helpful insights on how to set up your personal meditation space. Having such a meditation space, vastly increases the chances that you will develop a consistent and deep practice. The space helps counteract some of the resistance that thoughts will no doubt put up in your efforts to practice meditation on a daily basis. Having an inviting, inspiring meditation space ready to go, allows you to get busy with your session as soon as it's time or as soon as inspiration strikes.

Here are the 3 key components for setting up this important, sacred space in your home.

1. Find a Quiet Space: Try to find a quiet, peaceful place in your home to set up your meditation space. Meditation and spiritual growth can be called the business of silence. Although, the silence you will encounter in meditation practice is that of the infinite creative force, silence in the environment will help you with the concentration required to penetrate into these depths. So, as best you can, ensure that the area is situated such as to minimize sounds and distractions.

2. Get the Right Equipment: Yes, just like a professional tennis player needs the right equipment in order to perform at his maximum potential, so will the right equipment help you achieve your highest spiritual potential. This equipment includes important items such as a Zafu or meditation cushion, loose clothing that will not cut off your circulation, a chair if necessary, and a meditation timer to set your meditation time with.

Don't underestimate the benefits of the above items. When your meditation practice deepens, you will! like to sit for longer periods of time, and this can prove to be uncomfortable on your knees and back. A Zafu or chair will go a long way in helping curb this problem. Proper clothing, for similar reasons, is also very helpful. One of the most common complaints in sitting meditation, is that one's legs tend to fall asleep and having proper meditative attire will help prevent this.

A meditation timer is also a must. Once you commit to sitting for a particular period of time, you need to see that through. Early in your practice, the body and mind will greatly dislike being told what to do in this way. They are both used to running the show, and all of a sudden being told to be still and concentrate on a particular thing is going to greatly upset them. The timer should be the only factor determining the end of your meditation session. Until it goes off, you should remain frozen in time and attentive to your practice. The timer will also be of value in helping you gauge your capacity to sit in meditation for long periods of time.

3. Add Inspirational Items: Place items in this location that inspire and uplift you. They can be anything from pictures, idols, symbols to books. You may also wish to keep some incense or a candle handy, as that can greatly enhance the ambiance of a meditative space.

Summary:

A personal meditative space is a must. There is very little chance of establishing a strong and significant practice without it. Over time, you will find this space filled with positive vibrations and just entering it will uplift your spirit. Try to keep this space clean and exclusively for meditation, this might just become your favorite place on Earth.

About the Author

Anmol Mehta is a Yoga & Meditation expert. For Free Online Guided Meditation Techniques visit, Free Yoga Meditation & Kundalini Yoga Videos or Free Guided Meditation, Kundalini Yoga Poses & Zen Blog.

Abraham-Hicks: Before Doing It, Align With It!

Abraham-Hicks: Mexico Cruise 2007: Before doing it, Align with it! (Watch in 480p!)

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Yoga For Shoulder Pain Caused By Arthritis

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 03:00 PM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

It is not only the overuse of muscles which causes shoulder pain, arthritis is another culprit. The cartilage which protects the joints of the shoulder bones wears down, which could be because of aging and repetitive use. The cartilage could be repaired and the shoulder pain could go away. But it could more than a year before a new cartilage could develop.

Shoulder pain could cause a lot of disruption, it can cause problems with sleeping at night and could interfere with daily activities. To deal with the pain, a cold or hot pack could be placed on the shoulder for 15 minutes. It could also be used for back and other body pains. Hot moist pack is recommended during the start of the pain, before going to bed and even in the middle of night when the ache strikes.

There are even drugs injected (cortisone injections) to reduce inflammation. Some would take pain relievers and relaxing and gentle exercises. Pool exercise monitored by a physical therapist is a kind of gentle exercise.

Yoga, on the other hand, is one of the complementary and alternative medicine and therapy that most doctors recommend. Orthopedic surgeons would also recommend yoga exercises and positions to heal the body. For more that 5,000 years, yoga has been known to restore physical, mental and emotional health.

Yoga therapy is fitted to cater each person's needs. Yoga therapy addresses not the symptoms but the causes of the imbalances. There are series of exercises and postures which are very appropriate for those who have shoulder, neck and back pains.

These yoga postures could provide strength to the joints and reduce risk of stiffness. Since yoga addresses the causes of the pain, it could also lead to a healthier lifestyle. This could help your body build resistance against arthritis and other sickness. However, shoulder pain could also be sign of a more serious problem. It is important to assess the kind of pain and its history.

Simple asanas and yoga postures could go a long way. It is! just a matter of being prepared and decided to do it to help you and your body.

Free Video Reveals No 1 Secret to Losing Your Back Pain with Yoga. Click here for more information.http://www.goodbyetobackpain.com/secrets

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher, shows you how to lose your back, neck and shoulder pain with yoga.

Free Video Reveals No 1 Secret to Losing Your Back Pain with Yoga. Click here for more information.

http://www.goodbyetobackpain.com/secrets

Yoga Girlfriend - Fri 4/08/2011 - Joke of the Day (Wholesome Lane)

Who knew that one of the requirements of yoga class was being unnecessarily shirtless? Subscribe: www.youtube.com www.wholesomelane.com Tweet twitter.com Facebook: www.facebook.com Wholesome Lane is a sketch comedy channel. Our shows include: "Happy Sad Song" - covers of the saddest songs, "Write Three Words" - you give us three words and we make a comedic sketch out of it, and other fun and interactive games and videos.

Video Rating: 3 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Yoga For Your Dosha

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 02:01 PM PST

Article by Yoga Freak

Ayurveda talks about the three subtle energies, called doshas, which play an important role in human health. These energies are Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Each dosha is a combination of two natural elements: Vata dosha is made of space and air, Pitta dosha is made of fire and water, and Kapha dosha is made of water and earth. These doshas play an important role in defining an individual's natural constitution or prakriti.

According to Ayurveda, these doshas should be in a balanced state for physical and psychological well being. Any imbalance in tridoshas (the three doshas) causes a state of unhealthiness and disease. Yoga can help us to keep tridoshas in a balanced state.

But before practicing yoga one should always remember that every one has their own natural constitution according to their doshas. So always choose a yoga program that best suits you according to your doshas.

Yoga for Vata: Vata dosha governs all the movements in the body. It controls blood flow, elimination of wastes, breath, and the movement of thoughts across the mind. Vata is considered as the leader of the three doshas in the body. It is very important to keep Vata in a balanced state. Following yoga practices can help you to keep Vata in a balanced state:

Palm Tree Pose, Cobra Pose, Crocodile Pose, Bow Pose, Camel Pose, Arrow Pose, Cat Stretch Pose, Roaring Lion Pose, Lord Shiva's Pose, Stretched Leg Pose, Raised Arms Pose, Leg Lock Pose, Plough Pose, Chest Breathing, Alternate Nostril Breathing, and The Psychic Breath.

Yoga for Pitta: Pitta governs all metabolism, transformation and heat of the body. The yoga practices to keep Pitta in a balanced state are:

Tiger Pose, Hare Pose, Striking Cobra Pose, Equestrian Pose, Waist Rotating Pose, Swaying Waist Rotating Pose, Triangle Pose, Fish Pose, Locust Pose, Psychic Network Purification, Humming Bee Breath, Hissing Breath, and Cooling Breath.

Yoga for Kapha: Kapha dosha is mainly responsible for the growth and protection of the body. The! yoga pr actices to keep Kapha in a balanced state are:

Pawanmuktasana Part 1 (Anti Rheumatic Group), Pawanmuktaasana Part 2 (Digestive Group), Cobra Pose, Bow Pose, Dynamic Energy Pose, Double Angle Pose, Sun Salutation, Back Stretching Pose, Legs Spread Back Stretch Pose, Head To Knee Pose, Half Spinal Twist, Inverted Pose, Shoulder Stand Pose, Universal Spinal Twist, Eagle Pose, Natrajasana, Psychic Network Purification, Humming Bee Breath, Frontal Brain Cleansing, and Bellows Breath.

About the Author

Patresia Adams is a Yoga enthusiast who loves to spread the goodness of the divine knowledge. In order to promote her passion, she has partnered with Divine Wellness to write blogs on the subject of Yoga poses and how it leads to good health and peace of mind.




Yoga for Back Pain Part 4

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 01:00 PM PST

Article by Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher

Yoga, which has its roots in India, uses exercises (asanas) to relax and tone the muscles and to massage the organs, breathing techniques (pranayama) to regulate the body's energy levels, meditations to calm the mind, and relaxation postures to reduce and eliminate stress and anxiety.

Aggressively working to improve strength or flexibility at this stage can backfire, causing even more pain, inflammation, and injury. Try breathing exercises and a gentle asana practice as soon as the first day of pain, then balance with strengthening with stretching. While the actual practice of yoga is extremely extensive and detailed, in its essence yoga focuses on three concrete components: Body position/posture breathing meditation/state of mind in general, yoga is a very safe form of exercise for most people.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy back pain is a common complaint of most pregnant women and can be cured with a little effort. If you have a weak body constitution and you avoid exercising your body as well, you may experience back muscle pain during pregnancy.

Back pain is a very common phenomenon, with most pregnant women reporting some form of pregnancy back pain to their doctors at one time or the other during pregnancy. Besides yoga, you should also take a nutritious diet to aid muscle development and avoid excess fat around your waist to keep the muscle pain at arm's length during pregnancy.

A woman in the advanced stages of pregnancy might have increased curvature in her lower back and her hips pushed forward. For many women pregnancy is their first introduction to yoga and often becomes an integral part of their lives. It is ideal to do yoga during pregnancy as the practice will help the mother to have a healthy pregnancy and will also help to prepare the body for birth. Importance of Yoga in pregnancy, you will realize the importance of Yoga in pregnancy, when you come to realize how much you will have to go through.

Movement

Movements inspired by the sun salutat! ion pose s and a warrior pose series transition into core strengthening exercises and deep stretching. Without complete and full movement of the hips, the muscles tend to stiffen and weaken, further inhibiting your ability to move.

Together, the pelvis, hips and low spine offer manoeuvrability that is capable of initiating and supporting movement for the whole body. There are muscles around the hip joint that power movement of the leg and pelvis. The rotary movement provided by the hip joint (called a ball and socket type joint) is what allows you to make leg circles, to turn your leg in and out, and to move them forward, back, to the side and to places in between.

The basic movement of the cobra is to arch the spine backward. The slow movement and focus encouraged me to push past a lot of the things I was scared to do, and into positions I was guarding against and I realized that there is no longer any pain in those positions. I could literally feel the yoga movements opening up tight areas, getting muscles in balance again, and helping me relax and connect with my body. Many factors can contribute, including tight or weak muscles, poor posture, obesity, emotional stress, and limited range of movement in the peripheral joints (shoulders and hips).

About the Author

Glen Wood - The Yoga Teacher. Glen is a yoga expert who loves to teach you how to lose your neck, shoulder or back pain with yoga. He is dedicated to unlocking the Real Secrets of Back, Neck and Shoulder Pain.

To help you further with your back, neck and shoulder pain you need to sign up for your FREE "Yoga and You" report at http://www.YogaTeachingwithGlen.com

BEGINNING YOGA FOR STRETCH AND STRENGTH - CLASS 1

Easy Yoga poses with basic stretching and simple body conditioning. After this 9 minutes session you will feel relax, restore and re-engerized! Buy this DVD www.yoga4man.com Namaste~ Vicki

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

5 Different Ways To Meditate

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 01:00 PM PST

Article by Trevor Johnson

There are many different ways to meditate. Each one is a different method with broadly the same end result. Check out these different meditation methods to see which suits you best.

Walking meditation

This is one of the easiest ways to meditate, although obviously it isn't as separate from the rest of the world as you need to be aware of your surroundings. With a walking meditation you pay attention to your feelings and your surroundings. Allow yourself 20 minutes or so and if possible choose a place where you're away from traffic. A local park is good. Then go for a gentle walk and take in the area. Notice the smells and sounds and pay attention to what you see.

Breathing meditation

At its simplest, you find a quiet place where you won't be disturbed and start to take deeper breaths than you'd normally take. Breathe in a long, slow, deep breath. If possible hold it for a second or two before releasing it, again slowly. Repeat this over again, at least 5 times and ideally more. You'll find that this is a quick way to bring about a more relaxed state in your body.

Binaural beats meditation

This is the "modern" way to meditate and is the method I personally use regularly. You can purchase this kind of meditation and then play it on your CD or MP3 player. You need to find a place where you won't be disturbed for the length of the track, which is typically 30 to 60 minutes. The track will play a background noise - usually rainfall or music - as well as binaural beats. These beats play two slightly different tones, one into each ear. Your brain then tries to resolve the small difference between the tones and it is this which brings out a meditative state with next to no effort on your part. This kind of meditation is very powerful - don't get taken in by its simplicity!

Cosmic meditation

Quite similar to the binaural beats meditation, this is usually linked to Cosmic Ordering which is a structured form of Napoleon Hill's ideas from Think and Grow Rich. A! cosmic meditation usually takes the form of a guided meditation which will get you relaxed and then allow you to send your current wish or goals liston to the cosmos.

Guided meditation

There are many of these available on the internet. They usually last between 20 and 60 minutes. Typically a guided meditation will start with a relaxation procedure so that you're relaxed and receptive for the main part of the meditation. It will then move on to the actual aim of the meditation, whether this is deep relaxation, healing your body, contacting your higher self or any other goal you have chosen. You can choose a single guided meditation or they are often sold in bundles of several guided meditations.

Whichever way of meditation you decide to use, you'll find that it helps to relax you and relieve the stresses and strains that seem to accompany our modern lifestyle.

About the Author

Discover more ways to meditate and decide which is the best meditation method for you.

Relaxation. Sounds of nature, wind chimes and morning song birds.

Relaxation music. The sound of wind chimes and morning songbirds. Just give it 30 seconds or so and the volume/sound level will improve.

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Meditation For Women Who Do Too Much

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 12:00 PM PST

Article by Susan Masters

Meditation can have different goals, roles, health effects and can come in various types - one of them is known as meditation for women who do too much. In today's world, when women are challenged to be career women, mothers and wives, all at the same time, meditation can be essential in a woman's life and can help her overcome daily problems, both professional and personal life-related problems.

How Can Meditation Help Women's Health?

There are numerous health benefits of meditation to be mentioned when talking about women's health and pregnancy, especially from a psychological and psychiatric point of view. For starters, women are predisposed to develop anxiety problems and even phobias and meditation is the one that manages to work as a calming technique and manages to solve a wide range of neuroses and fears. In addition, meditation helps women in the sense that it helps them overcome the daily stress and the tension that is caused by being, at the same time, a wife, a mother, a career women and a housekeeper - and such a complex woman needs the meditation for women who do too much.

Why Is Meditation Important to Modern Women?

Nowadays, women make extra efforts in order to deal with their daily duties and responsibilities. Since they have to function at multiple levels, women tend to become tired and exhausted. This extra solicitation implies more stress, more tension and more worries. But the fact is that there is a cure for tension, stress and worries and that is called meditation for women who do too much. Together with relaxation, meditation has the main role to calm women, to release the unwanted stresses and to focus on the positive things in life. In addition, meditation also improves the focus, the attention and concentration, three key elements that are essential when conducting daily duties, both in a personal and in a professional department. With the help of relaxation techniques and positive thinking, women can overcome their daily problems and manage to s! ucceed w ith their tasks.

How Should Women Meditate?

Meditation for women who do too much is not limited to a specific technique or to a single method. As a matter of fact, women are advised to find that perfect relaxation and meditation method that brings the best results. Women can choose from active or "still" meditation, they can meditate while walking in the nature or while relaxing in the most comfortable armchair at home. For maximum efficiency, it is advisable to meditate in a silent environment, without being interrupted by children or by the telephone, in a space that can offer calmness and peace.

The most important technique of meditation for women who do too much refers to freeing the mind, while plentifully enjoying the calmness and the peaceful moments. Women who are modern and dynamic and who are overwhelmed by daily duties need this peaceful, silent meditation method most. A very important part of meditation for women is represented by the breathing exercises, since these do wonders for the women's mood and energy - today, many women are so busy that they even forget to breathe in the optimum way for their body and mind. Slow and long breaths with pauses are perfect in order to release the tension and to purify the organism.

Meditation for women who do too much has an essential role in a woman's life, health and general tonus. A few minutes every day can work as a true healing and relaxation exercise in order to deal with the daily responsibilities better and more efficiently.

About the Author

Want to calm your mind & super-charge your energy level? We've created a FREE meditation for women e-course to get you started. You'll get guided meditations to help you transform your life from the inside-out. If your happiness is important click here.

Thunder and Rain 20mins Sleep Video

MP3 Downloads of many of my videos at www.texashighdef.net Taped in Austin Texas

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

The Benefits of Meditation.

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 11:00 AM PST

Article by Andrew Tomkinson

"Select a clean spot, neither too high nor too low, and seat your- self firmly on a cloth, a deerskin, or kusha grass. Then, once seated, strive to still your thoughts. Make your mind one-pointed in meditation and your heart will be purified................................"

These words originate from the Bhagavad Gita, one of the best known and most influential of the Hindu scriptures. This book provides an entire section on the practice of meditation which is central to the Hindu way of life. It is also an important part of other eastern religions, Buddhism and Zen but it also has its place in Christianity and Judaism. However meditation does not require adherence to any of the faiths and religions that advocate it.

The benefits to be gained from meditation are many. Those people who meditate regularly believe that it leads to a significant lowering of tension and negative emotions. At the same time meditation can increase efficiency at work and deepen the sense of inner calm.

This feeling of well-being will bring a number of physical benefits. Regular meditation will eliminate or reduce stress, ease migration and tension headaches, reduce blood pressure, benefit the the heart and reduce the pain of menstrual cramps.

What we seek to achieve through meditation is a state of passive alertness that transcends the day to day level of thought and distraction. This 'higher level' of consciousness can be achieved by every person and does not require a knowledge of religious or spiritual teaching. Meditation is a straightforward way of freeing the mind, forgetting about everyday stresses and focusing upon mental relaxation.

In its simplest form meditation is nothing more than allowing the mind to concentrate upon a simple repetitive sensation such as the running of a fountain or repeating a word over and over again. Any of these and more can be used as something onto which the mind concentrates so strongly that problems and anxieties disappear. When described in its more re! fined an d mystical guise, it is a means to a state of self fulfilment, being completely at one with the universe.

Meditation is not a time consuming process nor is it a form of self-hypnosis. If done correctly it is a life saving experience during which any preconceived opinions and ideas fade, the intellect and senses are refined and the ability to concentrate is improved.

Meditation has existed for several thousands of years but it was only in the 1960's that it became popular in western culture and today many thousands of people benefit greatly from its effects. Meditation slows down the heart rate and reduces oxygen and carbon dioxide production. It also raises levels of skin resistance to pain or to an electrical current, which tends to be lower when we are stressed and anxious. This indicates an increase of muscle relaxation and can be explained for phenomena such as lying on a bed of nails or walking through fire.

During meditation there is also a reduction of activity in the nervous system and an increase in blood circulation. This slows down the metabolism resulting in the body achieving a hypometabolic state. This is a different state than what the body experiences during sleep or while under hypnosis and is best described as deep and prolonged relaxation.

Meditation has also be shown to have a major effect on the way that the brain works. During meditation the brain produces a balanced pattern of both alpha and theta brave wave rhythms. This may indicate that while in a state of deep relaxation the brain is better able to find a balance between its logical and rational and creative and imaginative sides. This results in more healthier, productive and fulfilled individuals. If it is practised regularly meditation will help to fight depression, reduce hypertension, and relieve anxiety, migraine and psychosomatic illness. Concentration, memory and creativity are also improved through regular practice of meditation.

Regular practice of meditation is also of benefit to people ! who have difficulty in sleeping and suffer from low energy levels. The quality of sleep will improve when meditation is practised regularly and most meditators testify to feeling less tired during the day, needing less sleep at night and waking up feeling more refreshed.

When starting to meditate it is important to find a quiet, peaceful place and to use this place regularly. Soft background music, incense or low lights are helpful in creating a conducive atmosphere. There are two stages involved in the process of meditation. Firstly comes physical relaxation, where the focus of attention is on the body and tension build up is tackled and when the body is relaxed the clarifying and emptying of the mind can begin.

About the Author

If this Article has been of interest to you please visit my Web Site at http://www.fitnesshealthnutrition.org

"Sleep Video" 45mins of Raindrops Natural Sounds

MP3 Downloads of many of my videos at www.texashighdef.net Taped in Austin Texas

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Yoga For Health And Fitness

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 10:00 AM PST

Article by Yoga Freak

Health is not merely absence of any disease but a state of complete physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Unfortunately, life has become so sedentary today that it has become a dream for most people to attain complete health and fitness. Daily new diseases are hitting headlines, challenging modern medical science and taking their toll on people's health and fitness.

In such a scenario, yoga can enlighten you and show you the path of holistic health. Yoga with its wide-ranging philosophy and science helps one to maintain not only a good physique but also a balanced mental, emotional, and spiritual state. People around the world are turning towards it because of its multi-faceted utility.

Yoga practices like asana and pranayam work very gently on human body. They detoxify and tone up the entire body and its organs, and bring them in a harmonious state. Yoga practices improve blood circulation throughout the body, slow down metabolic rate and heart rate, lower cholesterol level, and improve the functioning of all internal organs.

Yoga practices have proved their efficacy against many diseases like asthma, obesity, hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes, which are still challenging modern medical science. Yoga also advances the functioning of brain and prevents many diseases on regular practice.

Besides physical well-being, yogic practices like pranayam and meditation also lead to a healthy state of mind. According to the yogic philosophy, yoga is the cession of all mind fluctuation. Thus, yoga works more profoundly on the human psyche. Yoga balances the emotions, leads them in a healthy direction, and keeps mind healthy. Yogic practices strengthen the mind and prepare it to meet daily challenges of life. Yoga protects one from anxiety, stress, depression etc. and enriches one with a well developed psyche and physique.

Some yogic practices that can be done by people of all age groups to attain health and fitness are: Palm Tree Pose, Cow Face Pose, Relaxing Pose, H! alf Spin al Twist, Sun Salutation, Alternate Nostril Breathing, and Humming Bee Breath.

About the Author

Patresia Adams is a Yoga enthusiast who loves to spread the goodness of the divine knowledge. In order to promote her passion, she has partnered with Divine Wellness to write blogs on the subject of Yoga poses and how it leads to good health and peace of mind.




Meditation: Who Practices It and Why

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 09:01 AM PST

Article by Ace Smith

Have you ever gone to the beach and just looked at the sunset, smelled the saltiness of the sea in the air, felt the fineness of the sand beneath your feet? Have you ever sat beside a river and listened to the sound of rushing water? Or have you taken a quiet time and listened to the song of the birds of the air, or just concentrated on the voices of the crickets calling out to each other? Did you know that you were already meditating then, or did you just realize that truth now?

Many people meditate for different reasons: some to get away from the "realities" of life, some do so to relax, while others just want to be alone. Meditation is not limited by religion. Yes, there are religions that have meditation as one of their important practices, though they may call it by different names, but the concepts are the same. Buddhists, Zen Buddhists, those who practice Hinduism, Taoism, most of the other Eastern religions, these are the people who practice meditation because it is infused in their belief systems. Even Christians meditate in their own practice. So basically, whether you are a Hindu or a Christian, a business tycoon or a doctor, a student or a professional, whatever your religion, whatever your beliefs, whatever your gender, whoever you may be, you can and have every right to meditate.

Why do people meditate?

In many articles, it said there that meditation aids in the reduction of stress. Meditation strengthens our immune system and fortifies our body's defenses. So in effect, meditation helps us not be sick and live longer lives. This fact has been the focus of many researches over the years, while even more developments are being discovered about meditation and health.

Originally, meditation techniques such as yoga and tai chi were used for clearing the mind and strengthening the spiritual energy. But as time passed, people became less interested in the meditation part and focused more on the body sculpting aspect. Yoga and tai chi became popular forms of exerc! ise inst ead of just meditation techniques. Yoga and tai chi are often integrated into exercise routines for individuals or group sessions.

Aside from the physical goals meditation practitioners aim for, many persons meditate because of mental benefits. Even psychiatrists and behavioral psychologists use meditation to help calm their patients. In some cases, it helps them deal with traumatic experiences, overwhelming grief, and other emotional problems. Some persons who reach their retirement age use meditation to avoid ailments related to ageing, such as Alzheimer's disease and muscular pain.

Professionals and students alike use meditation to improve their concentration. There have been studies that determined how meditation helps in cognitive receptiveness of its practitioners. They become more attentive and are able to retain more information through the help of meditative practice.

In relation to religion, meditation enabled practitioners to attain full enlightenment and a virtuous state of mind. It enables them to gain wisdom and a deeper understanding of the subconscious. It also enables them to achieve a higher level of spirituality, which results to qualities such as compassion, kindness, and all others.

About the Author

Ace Smith is a prolific writer touching base on topics like Technology, Travel, Health and others. For more information you can drop by his web sites that deals with: Credit & Finance, Africa and Jewelry.

Great Message and you will be surprised at the teacher

Tween shares her thoughts on what its like to meditate on God, why people have egos and where they come from...and successful dating!

Video Rating: 4 / 5


This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

Vipassana Meditation - Chiselling the Walls of Illusion

Posted: 26 Dec 2011 08:03 AM PST

Meditation
by ario_

Article by Vijay Raisinghani

More than 2500 years ago, the Great Enlightened Master - Gautama Buddha gave the world a beautiful meditation technique. That wonderful technique of meditation was to form the foundation of Spiritual Enlightenment of hundreds of thousands of meditators throughout the ages. Till this date, the meditation technique that Buddha gave has enlightened more persons than all the other meditation techniques combined together.

Buddha gave the world the meditation technique called Vipassana. "Vipassana" is a Pali word and it means "Pure Watchfulness". It implies watching and observing the reality around us as it is, without any bias whatsoever. Vipassana is also called "Anapansati Yoga". It's the meditation technique that's practised by a majority of the Buddhist meditators.

The technique of Vipassana essentially involves watching the breath and the breathing process. Through this watching, the mind calms, the awareness of the meditator improves dramatically over time. He is able to witness the reality and true nature of things as they are, without any mental bias whatsoever. He comes out of all conditionings and this inner cleansing gives rise to immense tranquillity and bliss.

The Vipassana Meditator is a blissful person and has a great sense of humour. His mental sharpness improves and he is not attached by anything. Life becomes a drama and he enjoys every moment of it. The awareness that arises in the time of meditation gradually spreads to all the activities of the day. This mental focus and dexterity also brings great success and accomplishments to the Vipassana meditator in all the spheres of his life as an added bonus. This success comes as he participates in the activities of his day to day life totally and not partially.

The small but powerful ray of awareness that starts initially from being aware of the breath, gradually spreads into the more subtle realms of the mind like the thoughts, feelings, emotions and the subconscious mind. Hence layers after layer! s of the inner mind are peeled gradually and one gets freed of those conditionings. This releases a lot of trapped energy that was entangled in these negative layers of the subconscious mind.

Thus the Vipassana meditator is always in a great state of relaxation and is like a reservoir of energy. His life force is not wasted and leaked in the continuous thought process that goes on always in the ordinary mind uncontrollably. He becomes a true master of himself and his mind. He is able to use it as an equipment rather than being used by it.

In the beginning stages, the meditator needs greater time and silence to get deeper into the Alertness. Witnessing is an art that needs to be learnt gradually. Slowly the mind calms and is not distracted easily. A 10 day meditation retreat is very helpful as it serves as a foundation for the beginner and he gets easily grounded into the watchfulness and learns the knack of Awareness. Then he can practise the meditation and remain watchful uninterrupted even in the most distracting place.

The benefits of Vipassana meditation are numerous. It improves the patience and frees from all vices like addictions and uneasiness. The gains of Vipassana can be felt right from the very first session, but they require regular and continuous practise for the deeper gains to materialize over time. It requires commitment and perseverance on the part of the meditator.

By and by the meditator is able to chisel his way through the illusions of the world and achieve a total clarity. He becomes aware of his own being and true self. He is a true winner and his triumph is beyond words. Vipassana can be done on a standalone basis or can be done along with other meditation techniques, which can greatly enhance the overall results of meditation.

About the Author

Vijay Raisinghani is a Successful Currency Trader in Jakarta, Indonesia. His interests include Spirituality, Meditation, Buddhism and Zen. Check out www.gurumaa.com, www.soulcurrymagazine.com and www.yogawonders.com for your free demo of Gurumaa's Life Trasforming Meditation techniques.




Popular posts from this blog

The Ultimate Yoga Guides

Benefits of the Vajra Guru Mantra

The 6 Important things about Yoga