Getting The Right Amount Of Vitamins

If you eat healthy and balanced meals each and every day, you will get all of

the necessary vitamins and minerals your body needs to function. Even though we
all have different dietary needs, we all need vitamins in order to live healthy
lives and prevent diseases. Vitamins have been around for hundreds of years,
providing us with a way to live our lives in a healthy manner.



Although there are many different vitamins out there, you’ll need a certain
amount of each one to keep your body healthy. There are many different
classifications of vitamins, including A, B, C, and E. These vitamins are
extremely important, with each one serving a unique purpose for both your body
and your health.



When it comes to the type of vitamins, B vitamins are the most diverse. This is
a very important vitamin, one that was discovered by mixing several chemicals
together. With the B vitamin being so diverse, scientists understand the complex
well enough to isolate the vitamin into eight different variations of the B
vitamin family. These variations include B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12.



As with other vitamin classes, a deficiency in the B vitamin can result in
several different conditions such as weight loss, weakness, stress, diarrhea,
dementia, anemia, and other things. A deficiency in B vitamins isn’t good for
anyone, as the entire family contributes to your body. If you have a deficiency
of any of the variation of this vitamin, you should always do something about it
just as fast as you can.



As a whole, the B vitamin family will work to give you healthier skin, a faster
metabolism, and an overall better immune system. They can also help you to fight
back against depression and stress as well, which is something we could all use.
No matter how you look at it, this family of vitamins could greatly improve life
as you know it. Although other vitamins are essential to your diet as well, the
B family is among the most important. All of these vitamins should be included
in your daily diet, as they greatly improve your body and your health.



Even though you may be on a healthy diet, you may not be getting what you need
of the B vitamin family. If this happens to be the case, you should look into
vitamin supplements that will give you the doses of the B vitamins you need.
Although you may not realize it, going without B vitamins can be very bad on
your body and your health. If you make the smart choice and get yourself some B
vitamin supplements - you’ll know that you are getting exactly what you need to
live a healthy life.

Read more...

Getting Energy From Vitamins

The biggest complaint that doctors often hear from patients is a lack of

energy, or the constant feeling of fatigue. Due to these types of complaints, it
really isn’t a surprise that people want to know the best types of vitamins and
supplements they can get for energy. All vitamins are ideal for staying healthy,
as well as keeping your body performing in top shape.



Among vitamins and supplements, one of the most common for energy is folic acid.
Folic acid is a B vitamin that has been proven to increase energy levels. Even
though you can look for vitamins that provide energy, it would be in your best
interest to find those that can be effective with fighting fatigue as well.
There are vitamins, nutrients, and supplements that are great for fighting
fatigue and helping the body stay alert.



The vitamin known as NADH is very powerful for energy, although many people
aren’t aware of it. People who use vitamins on a regular basis would find
themselves very impressed with the boost NADH provides. It is often used with
chronic fatigue, although the way it works can be quite complicated indeed.
Other vitamins that are great for providing energy include the msm supplement
and gingko biloba.



If you happen to be on a blood thinner, such as aspirin, you should always
consult with a doctor or other trained specialist before you take gingko biloba,
as it is a blood thinning agent. Even though it is considered to be an energy
vitamin, if you use it with aspirin it can thin your blood down a bit too much.
If you get your blood too thin, it may lead to medical problems later on in life
that can prevent you from doing the things you love.



With any vitamin that you take as a source of energy, you should always consult
with your doctor. If you have any type of heart or other serious medical
condition, you may not be able to take the vitamin you are interested in. For
this reason, you should always consult with your doctor and ask for his advice.
After a few tests and exams, your doctor will be able to tell you what type of
vitamins you should or shouldn’t take.



In the world of vitamins and supplements, there are many alternative sources
that you can take for energy. Whether you are a senior citizen looking to do
more activities or an athlete looking to get more energy, there are many
different vitamins out there that can give you what you need. Before you rush
out and explore your options though, you should always consult with your doctor
first and see if there are any vitamins you shouldn’t be taking.

Read more...

Discount Vitamins

Instead of paying full price for the vitamins and supplements you need, you

can always save a bit of money and go with discount vitamins. There are several
ways to find vitamins on discount, with the most common way being sales at your
local nutrition store. Even though this is the most common way to find discount
vitamins, it can also be one of the hardest ways to find the vitamins you need.



When local nutrition stores have discount sales, they normally have a limited
supply of the vitamins that have on sale. Once they have been sold, that is
normally the end of that particular vitamin being offered at discount price for
the duration of the sale. Other times, the time frame of the sale may make it
hard to get to the store. If you don’t know about the sale in advance, it may
conflict with your schedule and you miss out on it.



Many stores that are going to be having discount vitamin sales will run coupons
and fliers in local papers and magazines. The Sunday paper for instance, is
always full of magazines and coupons, which is normally where they advertise the
sales. Even though there may be a lot of advertisements found in the Sunday
paper, it is normally where you find the best deals. If you spend some time
going through the advertisements, you can normally find some great sales,
including sales at your local nutrition store.



Another great way to get discount vitamins is buy them in bulk. A lot of people
underestimate buying bulk, as they don’t understand just how great this can be.
If you buy bulk at your local nutrition store, you are more than likely going to
get a great deal. Even though your local store may be offering discount vitamins
through a sale, buying bulk is sometimes cheaper than even their best sales.



The reason for this, is the fact that bulk purchases off the best possible
prices on discount vitamins. If you are looking to take certain vitamins on a
frequent or daily basis, buying in bulk may be the best decision. If you buy
vitamin A or vitamin C in bulk, you can get it at a great price with enough of a
supply to last you for a long time. When buying in bulk, you’ll get a great
price and enough of the vitamin to keep you from going back to the store for
quite a while.



If you buy in bulk, you should make sure that you can use the vitamins before
the expiration date expires. There are many vitamins out there that have
expiration dates, after which they must be discarded if they aren’t used. Even
though buying in bulk is always the preferred way to buy your discount vitamins,
you should make sure that you can use the vitamins before they expire. You
should never feel pressured or even tempted to buy in bulk unless you know for
sure you can use all of the vitamins.



With many options available to you, discount vitamins are the ideal purchase to
get the vitamins and supplements you need. Millions of us all across the United
States take vitamins on a daily basis, making them a sound investment. Even
though you can buy vitamins on sale at your local nutrition store or online,
buying bulk is always the best way to make your purchase. You can get a great
price on your vitamins - and have more than enough to keep you going for a long
time.

Read more...

Bee Pollen Supplements

Even though a lot of people don’t actually realize it, a lot of antioxidant

foods that we consume are from vegetables. Vegetables such as broccoli,
cauliflower, tomatoes, and peppers are all excellent choices with some great
benefits for your body. When consuming vegetables, you should always go for
those that are rich in color, as they are high in what is known as
phytonutrients.



Phytonutrients are nutrients found in the skins of several fruits and
vegetables, which give the food color as well as flavor and scent.
Phytonutrients are quite simply the best types of antioxidant foods that you can
find anywhere. If you are looking for a supplement value, the coq10 offers you a
high level of antioxidant value.



Although fruits and vegetables are the best sources for antioxidants, the
problem with them is that they are produced by the use of chemical herbicides,
pesticides, and different types of fertilizers. Over the years, studies have
shown that fruits and vegetables which are organically grown are high in
antioxidants, and boast a much higher concentration than those that have been
produced commercially.



In the busy world of today, it can be very tough to eat like we should, nor can
we eat organic fruits and vegetables all the time. If you can’t or don’t have
access to organic fruits or other sources of antioxidant foods, you should look
into nutritional supplements that offer you the phytonutrients you need in your
diet.



Supplements that contain phytonutrients do have advantages when compared to
certain fruits, such as carrots - which can elevate your blood sugar level to a
very high level. Phytonutrients found in supplements are the extract of pigments
where nutrients are concentrated, meaning that they draw the best from
antioxidant foods, leaving the calories and sugar behind.



Don’t get the wrong idea here, fruits and vegetables are indeed good for you.
They are high in antioxidants, although those that are produced commercially
generally come with chemicals and such that aren’t so good for you. Canned
fruits and vegetables come with high levels of sugars and calories, which
antioxidant supplements don’t have. The supplements offer you the levels you
need, without any chemicals, sugars, or calories. This way, you don’t have to
worry about consuming anything that isn’t good for you.



No matter how you look at it, healthy eating for your body starts and end with
foods that contain antioxidants. There are several types of foods that contain
antioxidants, although fruits and vegetables contain the most amounts. Steak and
meat are also great sources of antioxidants, along with other great benefits,
such as protein. Anytime you can’t get foods that contain antioxidants - you can
count on supplements to deliver the amount you need to stay healthy.

Read more...

Antioxidant Supplements

A key ingredient to improving your lifestyle and living a healthy life is

antioxidants. There are several antioxidant supplements out there that can help
you live a healthy life, that are natural and won’t cause you any damage. You
can also eat different types of food that contain antioxidants as well, although
supplements are the ideal way to get the right amounts of antioxidants.



If you take in more antioxidants through food and supplements, there are a few
benefits that you’ll have, with the first being cell protection. Antioxidants
can help to protect your cells from damage, which helps to fend off diseases.
Many times, you can have a lack of vitamins in your body, which will cause you
to recover from diseases or injury very slow. If you have the right amount of
vitamins and antioxidants in your body, you’ll notice the differences.



In most cases, you can get antioxidant supplements in the form of herbal or
natural, which will greatly help your body. They have a lot of benefits as well,
such as preventing various diseases, keeping blood clotting under control, and
restoring libido. Nutrition and proper dieting is a very important part of life,
therefore you should always keep your health under control and make sure you eat
well.



There are non synthetic supplements out there as well, that are ideal for
keeping your health maintained. They can be easily absorbed by your body, unlike
that of synthetic supplements. Synthetic supplements are well known for their
absorbing, as it can take a long time before you see any type of results. Non
synthetic on the other hand, gives you almost immediate results, as they are
easily absorbed by the body and don’t have any type of side effects.



Keep in mind that even though you may be taking vitamins that contain
antioxidants, you’ll still need to remain on a healthy diet. You’ll need food
that contains the minerals and vitamins you need as well, although the
supplement vitamins will give you more. You can also use vitamins and
supplements that contain antioxidants if you aren’t able to eat the right foods
that contain these precious nutrients.



For more reasons than one, you should always make sure that you include foods
and supplements that contain antioxidants in your diet. If you aren’t taking in
the right amount of antioxidants, you’ll be at a risk for disease or other
harmful effects. Antioxidants do a lot for your body, which is why you want to
ensure that you are taking in the right amounts. You can find many different
vitamins and supplements that include them, all you need to do is make sure that
you are eating right and doing all you can to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Read more...

All About Vitamin A

Vitamin A was first discovered back in 1912, by a Polish biochemist named

Casimir Funk. He came up with the word vitamine, which was later given the name
vitamin. Funk was the first to discover vitamins as we know them today, although
vitamin A was actually the first one discovered, hence the letter “A” in the
title of the vitamin.



You can find vitamin A in natural foods such as oranges and yellow fruits. It
can also be found in vegetables as well, such as spinach and fats. When found in
vegetables, vitamin A is water soluble, coming in the form of beta carotene. The
beta carotene form of vitamin A can be eliminated from your body through natural
processes, making it an excellent way to get vitamin A.



Vitamin A is required by the body on an every day basis to maintain healthy skin
and keep your eyesight on track. There are many people who say that carrots
provide enough vitamin A to prevent you from getting night blindness. The fact
is, ancient Egyptian doctors prescribed liver in their time, which they said
contained enough vitamin A to combat night blindness. Vitamin A is also known as
an antioxidant, which makes it ideal to prevent cancer and anti aging. Along
with these benefits, it also helps with your immune system as well.



To get the proper absorption of vitamin A, you’ll need to consume fat. Those of
you who happen to be on a low fat or restricted diet, simply may not be getting
the right amounts of vitamin A from your supplements that you may think. To get
the proper absorption of vitamin A in your diet, you’ll need to consume a high
enough level of protein. Protein combines with vitamin A to make it stronger,
and help it move through your body.



On a normal day, you should be consuming around 5,000 international units (IU)
of vitamin A. Depending on your health and your age, you may need to consume
more or less. The safest form of vitamin A is beta carotene as mentioned above,
and it can be taken in much larger doses. No matter what age you may be, you can
feel safe to consume high amounts of vitamin A in the form of beta carotene.



If you don’t consume enough vitamin A in your diet, you’ll end up with a
deficiency. A deficiency is never a good thing, as it normally results in skin
problems, increased infections, and even night blindness as well. A prolonged
deficiency in vitamin A can put you at a risk for cancer as well, and you’ll
also miss out on any effects of anti aging that the vitamin might have. Although
you should begin taking it immediately if you have a deficiency, the effects
wouldn’t be the same as they would be if you stayed up to date with the right
amount on a daily basis.



On the other hand, if you are getting too much vitamin A, you’ll put yourself at
risk for pain in your joints, abdomen, and your bones. Even though too much or
not enough can cause you serious side effects, you should always get the right
amount in your diet. Vitamin A is very important, and should always be included
in your diet. You can find it in many foods, or take supplements that include
the well needed vitamin. If you are going to take supplements, you should make
sure that they provide the right amounts - with no side effects.

Read more...

A Lack Of Vitamins

Everyone knows that the human body needs a certain amount of vitamins and

minerals everyday to function properly and remain healthy. A well balanced diet
can supply your body with the vitamins it needs, although problems and disorders
can arise if your diet doesn’t supply your body with the vitamins it needs. The
symptoms of vitamin deficiency will normally present themselves when the lack of
vitamins is at an advanced level.



Those who don’t get enough of vitamins A, B1, and B2 for example, will always
feel tired, along with a loss of appetite. Other symptoms include mental and
emotional stress, chapped lips, and other annoying or painful habits.



The most common causes of deficiency include a poor diet, alcoholism, stress, a
lack of vitamins, or medicine that interferes with your ingestion of vitamins.
If you are always feeling tired or feeling a lack of energy, you are probably
short on the vitamins that your body needs to have on a daily basis. If you
visit your doctor and tell him the problem, he will probably recommend vitamins
and supplements that will give you want you need. Whatever you do, you should
never overdo it and try to catch up on what you’ve been missing - as this will
do you more harm than good.



Even though you may be following a healthy diet, you’ll still need to take
vitamins and supplements. No matter how healthy you eat, you should still use
the right vitamins and supplements to give your body what it needs. Vitamins are
a great back up source, as they will provide your body with the minerals and
nutrients it needs in the event of your diet failing you.



Before or after every meal that you consume, you should take vitamins or
supplements. If you have a deficiency in a certain vitamin or vitamins, you
should make sure that you never miss taking the vitamin you need. Even though
you may not realize it, being deficient in a vitamin can greatly damper your
performance as well as the overall health of your body.



When you look for supplements, you should always look for those that contain
vitamins B6, B12, D, E, and folic acid. Along with being considered dietary
supplements, these well known vitamins will help to fight cancer and help your
heart remain healthy. The combination of these vitamins will help your body to
remain healthy, boost your immune system, and keep you feeling refreshed.



To remain healthy and keep your body operating as it should, you’ll need to
invest in vitamins and supplements. You can find them online or at local
nutrition stores, many of which won’t cost you much money at all. No matter what
your age may be, you’ll need to ensure that you are eating the right foods and
taking the right foods. Keep in mind that you should never replace food with
vitamins, as they are more less meant to give you additional nutrients and
minerals.



Anytime you aren’t able to eat the right food, you should always turn to vitamin
supplements to give your body what it needs. Supplements and vitamins are one of
the best investments you can make, as everyone needs vitamins in their body.
Even though the costs may add up over time, it is more than worth it when you
think about. For what you spend in vitamins and supplements, you’ll be keeping
your body healthy - and preventing a deficiency in vitamins. Although vitamin
deficiency is very common these days, it doesn’t have to be.

Read more...

The Use of Incense in Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy refers to the use of various scents to provide particular mental and physical outcomes. There are many benefits to aromatherapy. The finding that aromatherapy provides certain mental and physical results have been proven by both the spiritual and scientific. In this article, we will expound on the many benefits of the use of incense in aromatherapy.

While many people implement the use of aromatherapy by applying and/or inhaling certain fragrances, it has been found that the use of incense can be just as effective. If you decide to implement the use of incense, it should be noted that you use the proper precautions to ensure that you and your surroundings are kept safe. You should use the proper incense burning tools, and never leave the incense unattended.

The following represents a list of various types of incense and how they are used in conjunction with aromatherapy. This is just a small list of the benefits of different types of incense and their uses in aromatherapy. You can generally look up an incense fragrance to see what kind of benefits it will provide you mentally and physically online, or through books in your local library.

1) Dragon’s Blood incense has been used through the ages for numerous things. In the area of aromatherapy, burning Dragon’s Blood incense has been proven effective in the relief of diarrhea, reducing fevers, helps to alleviate the symptoms of stomach viruses, and assists in relieving the pain of ulcers as well.
2) Sandalwood incense has been used to alleviate stress and to bring one closer to spiritual awareness.
3) Lavender incense is noted for its ability to calm and soothe.
4) Amber incense is a great scent for balancing the body’s various systems.
5) If you suffer from depression and similar mood disorders, you may consider burning Indian Cedar incense.
6) To balance hormones in the body, or to stimulate sexual activity, you may consider burning Jasmine incense. Jasmine incense benefits both men and women in the area of hormones and all things related to hormones.
7) Patchouli incense has been found to help soothe the nerves in the body. It has also been found to make the nerves stronger.
8) Rose incense helps to promote balance with your spiritual side. It has also been noted to assist in meditation and focusing one’s attention.

The use of incense in aromatherapy can be very beneficial. You can generally purchase incense at the rate of ten or twenty sticks for a dollar. In some cases, you can even purchase a larger amount with a variety of different scents. It is ideal to try to find the larger packages with more of a variety of scents to choose from so that you get the most from your money.

Aromatherapy is extremely beneficial and safe. There are no dangerous side effects to the use of aromatherapy, so, it can be performed at any time. The use of incense of aromatherapy has been proven effective for many years now. Numerous other scents provide aromatherapy benefits. You can find these scents by doing a simple internet search, or looking up books on it at your local library.

Read more...

Reaping the Benefits of Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has recently started to gain in popularity. With research showing that, many medical treatments have had detrimental side effects, people long for something safer. In addition, medical treatments have also started to rise in costs. Aromatherapy is relatively inexpensive and can be performed without a medical license, easily. There are numerous questions about aromatherapy still floating around, though. In this article, we will review those questions and the basic benefits of aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is the use of various scents through oils that have been attained from herbal and plant sources. These scents aid in the resolution of many ailments that invade the body. These ailments may be physical and/or mental. The essential oils that are used for aromatherapy are pure and untampered with. This is to ensure that the person reaps the full benefits of aromatherapy. The essential oils are kept at a certain temperature, in a certain type of container, and are not tampered with in any way.

Aromatherapy is quickly gaining in popularity, but it is not a new concept. The fact of the matter is, we got the idea of aromatherapy from the Greeks who practiced this form of medicine centuries and centuries ago. Research has been going on to see if there is any real evidence, that aromatherapy helps in various ailments. Since it has been proven that aromatherapy is beneficial to many ailments of the mind and body, more people have started to invest more time and money in participating in aromatherapy techniques.

It must be noted, that will the use of aromatherapy may help to soothe the symptoms of many illnesses and conditions, it has not yet been proven to totally cure these things. Aromatherapy can assist in alleviating many symptoms, and helps to relax and soothe the mind, but other than that, it does not do full cures. Aromatherapy is a form of mental and physical strength that a person can develop to help deal with other ailments that cannot be cured by this method.

Aromatherapy can help to build the immune system of a person. It can help that person to fight off possible infections and other ailments that can invade the immune system. If you run across a person or a product that ensures that you will be “cured” of any type of disease and/or condition through the use of aromatherapy, you should practice caution, as this is a false claim.

There are numerous ways that a person can implement aromatherapy. One person may choose to use incense; another may choose to use oils. Other people have applied essential oils directly to the part of the body that they are having issues with, and some even use candles in aromatherapy. How you choose to implement the aromatherapy is entirely up to you. With the use of the proper essential oils, you are sure to reap the benefits of aromatherapy, no matter how you implement it.

Read more...

Free Online Aromatherapy Resources

Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils derived from various plants and herbs to achieve relief of various physical and mental ailments. It has been found that the use of aromatherapy is beneficial because there are no harmful side effects and it is easy to do. If you would like to learn more about aromatherapy, this article is for you. In this article, we will be expounding on the many free online aromatherapy resources.

The first free online aromatherapy resource is a free online course that can be found at Suite101. You can link directly to the course by clicking on the following link: http://www.suite101.com/course.cfm/17518/seminar . This free online course reviews the history of aromatherapy, what is can be used for, and even provides many recipes and tips on how you can make your own aromatherapy items.

Aromacaring.co.uk offers a wide variety of information on aromatherapy. This is, by far, one of the best free online resource for all things aromatherapy. They offer an encyclopedia of essential oils, free online courses, an outline on the olfactory sense in the body, and numerous other similar items of interest. You may point your browser at the following link to see what they have to offer: http://www.aromacaring.co.uk/free_stuff.htm .

If you are interested in free online resources for aromatherapy, you should visit AGORA, or Aromatherapy Global Online Research Archives, by going to http://www.nature-helps.com/agora/agora.html . You can find out past and current research on everything to do with aromatherapy. You can also find out in depth information on the various essential oils and applications of aromatherapy by visiting this website.

Have you ever wanted your very own aromatherapy dictionary, but found that they are quite expensive? It could be that the resources in your community do not provide you with the ability to purchase one. Well, look no further! You can have your very own aromatherapy dictionary by free download by visiting bestsoftware4download.com. Simply click on the following link to download your free aromatherapy dictionary now: http://www.bestsoftware4download.com/download/t-free-mb-free-aromatherapy-dictionary-software-download-lslalofc.html .

If you are in the market for aromatherapy supplies and need a good solid list of places to visit for the best of the best in products, you can find a free list by visiting nerdworld.com. For specific aromatherapy items, click on the following link: http://www.nerdworld.com/nw1803o1o0.html . You can discover all kinds of essential oils, what the oils are used for, an aromatherapy encyclopedia, and more by visiting this spectacular website!

Last, but certainly not least, you can visit astrostar.com for a wide assortment of information on aromatherapy by clicking on this link: http://www.astrostar.com/Resources-Aromatherapy.htm . You can find out the history of aromatherapy, specific blends, and resources on where to purchase specific blends and supplies, and much more!

The internet is full of free online resources in all things aromatherapy. All you have to do is type in certain keywords, such as “aromatherapy”, “essential oils”, and similar words to find the information that you are looking for. Among the best search engines for aromatherapy, related resources are Google and Yahoo.

Read more...

Essential Oils in Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is an age-old method of using a variety of common scents to arouse certain results in common ailments of the mind and body. The use of scents to produce certain results has been used for many centuries. The scents that are used for the purpose of aromatherapy have been developed from numerous herbs, flowers, fruits, and other common and uncommon plants.

The scents that are derived from the above-mentioned resources are normally started as an essential oil. Essential oils have a high level of the scent contained in them so that they may be broken down into smaller versions of the scent and not lose any of the aromatherapy value that they are intended for. There are many things that a person should understand when dealing with essential oils in aromatherapy.

One of the most important things that a person should understand when they are dealing with essential oils is that these oils are concentrated very highly. The storing of these essential oils is very important. First, the essential oils should be kept in areas that are cool and lack a lot of light. Additionally, these oils should be kept in bottles that are dark in color, or that are not clear. It is preferred that you keep essential oils in a bottle that is amber, or brown, in color. This will reduce the chance of light damaging the oil.

The way that essential oils work in aromatherapy is that the smells are released into the air, the olfactory sense in the body takes in these senses, and they are then turned into signals. The signals then go into the body through nerves and are sent to the brain. Once they are in the brain, they are interpreted. Once they are interpreted, your body takes those scents and have a healing impact on the body. Certain smells produce different responses in the body.

Essential oils can be used to send scents throughout the air, or they can be used to be applied directly to the skin. Both methods are wonderful ways to make the most of the aromatherapy value of the scents. If you suffer from a painful condition, such as arthritis, or muscle cramps, you can take the essential oil, and massage a small amount onto the area that is painful. You should start to receive almost immediate results. You can also do this for use with headaches, backaches, and even carpal tunnel.

Aromatherapy is very beneficial to many people. A wide array of ailments of the mind and body can be treated using aromatherapy and essential oils. All it takes is a little patience, and research to find the methods that work best for you and your situation. You can do simple internet searches on aromatherapy and essential oils in conjunction with certain ailments of the mind and body to determine which ones will work best for you.

Read more...

Aromatherapy with Candles

The use of incense and essential oils are popular when it comes to aromatherapy. However, there is an even more popular way. That is the use of candles in aromatherapy. Candles have recently gained in popularity among people who enjoy the benefits of aromatherapy. Due to the recent demand for candles in aromatherapy, literally thousands of designs, sizes, scents, colors, and textures have been created. Most people prefer candles to incense and other aroma giving scents because they are safer to use. Additionally, they offer more convenience.

In addition to being more safe, and convenient, candles have been found to be more relaxing than other scent methods. Having a candle in a room, that is giving off a beautiful scent, can not only contribute to aromatherapy, but also add comfort and coziness to the room. Candles make beautiful home décor and add a certain “flare” to the room that they are in.

Once you start burning an aromatherapy candle, you will find that it allows a steady flow of a particular scent into the air. Aromatherapy candles have more scent than those of a standard candle. The smells of the various herbs and plants used to create the aroma will send signals to your brain. Once these signals are received, they will transmit to various parts of the body. Therefore, producing a positive impact on mental and physical ailments that you may be experiencing.

If you wish to achieve the maximum mental and physical attributes, you must ensure that you are purchasing the proper product. There are numerous candles on the market today. You must ensure that you are buying the appropriate candles for aromatherapy. You can find colored candles, scented candles, and more. You will want to find candles that are labeled “aromatherapy”. The aromatherapy candles are the ones that offer the most as far as benefits to the mind and body are concerned.

If you are interested in aromatherapy, you must have a reason. Maybe you want to alleviate the symptoms of constant headaches, pain, and/or depression. In order to get the most from aromatherapy candles, you should ensure that you are gaining the appropriate supplies for that ailment in which you wish to alleviate. If you wish to alleviate more than one symptom, you may consider purchasing and burning more than one aromatherapy candle. The combination of scents can have a great impact on the relief that you seek.

Once you begin using aromatherapy candles, you should immediately start working in the candles as much as you possibly can. This will enable the body to get used to the scent and maximum it to its fullest potential. Excessive exposure can make a big difference as far as the results that your body experiences.

Read more...

Aromatherapy Recipes

Aromatherapy is quickly gaining in popularity because it is a quick, inexpensive, and safe alternative to treating common medical ailments. The medical ailments that aromatherapy has been noted in treating is both physical and mental. Aromatherapy is successful in treating these conditions because it activates the olfactory sense in the brain, and it can be applied on the skin.

In order to create your own aromatherapy recipes, you only need a couple of things. The first and most important thing that is required in aromatherapy recipes is an essential oil. Essential oils come in a variety of scents. Some of these scents are standard, such as “rose”, and some of these scents are considered magical, such as “fast luck”. The type of essential oil that you purchase will depend on your background and the results that you are wishing to achieve.

Once you have established what kind of essential oil that you will be requiring, you should establish how you want the aromatherapy administered. You can choose to administer the aromatherapy with direct application, incense, candles, and more. If you wish to administer the aromatherapy in any way but direct application, you will need the appropriate materials to do so.

If you wish to administer the aromatherapy with incense, you must decide whether you want to use stick or cone incense. You can also select from a variety of sizes ranging from mini to incense sticks up to 19 inches long. Once you have determined whether you want sticks or cones, and what size, you must purchase the unscented incense version of your preference. You must also purchase blending oil. You should then take a small container, mix at least 1/3 blending oil to 2/3 essential oil and/or fragrance. You then should allow the incense to sit for at least 24 hours, and dry for approximately 48 hours after removing it from the mixture. As a special note, the more blending oil you add to the incense, the less smoky the incense will be.

If you wish to administer the aromatherapy through candles, you must decide the type and size. You must also decide if you are going to make the candles yourself, or simply soak a candle in the essential oil of your choice. If you choose to soak the candle, you must ensure that you leave the wick exposed. You may then take a sewing needle, and place various holes throughout the candle to ensure that the essential oil gets in the core. Place the candle in a container of the essential oil and allow it to soak for at least 24 hours. You may then remove the candle, and allow it to dry for 12 hours. If you wish to make your own candle, simply mix the essential oil in the mixture that is used to compose the candle.

Read more...

Headaches During Pregnancy

Although we do not really know what causes headaches in general, because migraines and tension-type headaches (which are the most commonly seen form of headache) appear far more frequently in women than they do in men, it is reasonable to assume that hormones play a role in triggering headaches. It is no surprise therefore to find that during pregnancy, when hormone levels are changing dramatically, headaches are a common occurrence. It is also not surprising to find that headaches which are very prevalent at the start of pregnancy tend to tail off during the second and third trimesters when hormone levels begin to settle down.

Fortunately we rarely have to allow headaches to bother us these days and there is a great deal that we can do to prevent them in the first place and to treat them once they arrive.

One common trigger for headaches is stress and this is something which most women will experience during pregnancy. This is one reason why gentle exercise and some form of quiet daily meditation are often recommended for pregnant mothers.

Another common trigger is a lack of sleep and so getting proper rest is also essential as fatigue can not only bring on a headache but can also lead to more severe headaches. Here however it is important to recognize that you need to not only get the right amount of sleep but also to get regular and restful nightly sleep. If you are feeling tired during the day then by all means take a short nap but do not throw out your routine so that you are then unable to sleep at night.

Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can be a touchy subject with some people saying that you should not drink alcohol at all while others are saying that alcohol in moderation is fine. Of course this then leads on to a discussion about just what is meant by 'moderation' but we do not need to go there at the moment. As far as headaches are concerned the point to remember is that, if you do drink, then you should be careful to avoid drinks which are likely to cause a headache. Red wine for example can produce a headache in many people even when consumed in quite small quantities.

Another common trigger for headaches is caffeine and you should cut down on your consumption of both tea and coffee. If you are one of those women who likes to start the day with a double-strength latte then pregnancy is a good time to switch back to just a small regular cup of coffee to begin your day.

On the subject of caffeine it is also worth noting that some common headache medications actually contain caffeine because, in small quantities, it can be helpful. However, if you are using such medications and drinking caffeine at the same time you could make matters worse rather than better, so read the labels on all medications carefully before taking them for a headache.

Finally, on the subject of medication it is generally agreed that paracetamol and similar medication is suitable during pregnancy but that both aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided. If however you are in any doubt about medication, and particularly about such things as migraine medicines then you should play safe and consult your doctor.

Read more...

Food and colour

We all have colours that we like and dislike. How we react to a particular colour can give us an indication how that colour can be used to help with our well-being. Most of us when we are shopping for food don’t notice how we are drawn to a product by the colour of the packaging or by the colour of the item itself. This can be an indication of the body trying to direct us to the foods we need to re-balance our health.

Foods have two different kinds of colour energy – one is the colour of the food and the other is the colour of the energy it supplies e.g. chocolate (don’t we just love it?!) – it’s not red in colour but because of the instant energy it gives us it is considered a red energy food.

Choosing food by colour

• Food colours that we are attracted to temporarily reflect the immediate nutritional needs of our body

• Foods that display our favourite colours will always be needed because they give us the particular energy that supports our body’s function

• Foods belonging to the least-favourite or even disliked colours will provide the nutrition and colour energy we are lacking

• If you have problems corresponding to certain colours, you may wish to introduce food of that colour into your diet to help your body with its healing

Red coloured foods and red energy foods

Red foods are generally rich in minerals and provide good sources of protein. They are good for increasing energy levels so are useful for people suffering from anaemia, light-headedness, lack of stamina and low energy levels

Watercress and parsley are both green in appearance but because they are high in minerals they are red energy foods. Red wine – red in colour and provides iron but because of its high alcohol content it is also contains violet energy as well as red energy.

Red foods include: strawberries, cherries, tomatoes, peppers, onions, beetroot, meat and fish

Red minerals include: iron, magnesium, zinc

Orange coloured foods and orange energy foods

Orange foods help with the release of toxins from the body, they help to support the reproductive system and encourage creativity. They help with the release of toxins from the body by encouraging the system to become more efficient in the removal of waste. If you are not getting enough orange or orange energy foods you may suffer from constipation, stiffness in your muscles or joints, stagnation on an emotional level e.g. artists block. Introducing orange/orange energy foods into a tired or toxic body is easier for the body to handle than the strong, direct energy of red foods.

Orange fruits include: oranges, peaches, apricots

Orange vegetables include: carrots, peppers, pumpkins

Other orange foods include: brown rice, sesame seeds, oats (all provide roughage), shellfish

Orange minerals include: calcium (for healthy bones/muscle relaxation), copper (helps absorption of iron, improves flexibility or arteries)

Yellow coloured foods and yellow energy foods

During our daylight hours, the sun gives us our main source of yellow. However, as modern life uses up a lot our yellow energy due to pollution, chemicals, indoor living, and high stress levels, most of us need to eat yellow foods.

Lack of yellow can lead to irritability, tension, poor memory, digestive problems, a tendency towards hot flushes, depression and an inability to make decisions.

Yellow foods include: lemons, bananas, grapefruits

Yellow vegetables include: peppers, pumpkins, grains such as rice, corn

Other yellow foods include: eggs, fish, oils, fatty acids food

Yellow minerals include: sodium and potassium (for healthy blood pressure, function of the cells and the muscles), phosphorus (for healthy bones, teeth, kidneys, nerves and energy levels), iodine (for healthy arteries, balanced thyroid)

Green coloured foods and green energy foods

Food that is green or works in a green way tends to be rich in vitamins and minerals. If you are not getting enough green energy this can make you feel depressed or trapped and give you low self esteem or breathing difficulties. A quick, easy way to bring green energy into your life is to go out in the open air and be around natural surroundings (ok, I know this can be difficult for some of us living on urbanisations but you will have to go out looking!)

All minerals act in a green way as do herbs. Eating foods in their natural season or locally grown foods allows our bodies to settle into the patterns/rhythms of our immediate surroundings.

Green fruits include: apples, pears, avocados, green grapes, limes, kiwi fruits

Green vegetables include: cabbage, broccoli, sprouts, green beans, leeks, spinach, peas

Other green foods include: herbs such as marjoram, basil, oregano

Blue/Violet coloured foods and blue/violet energy foods

There are not many foods that are blue or violet in colour but there are foods that contain blue or violet energy. Blue foods are useful when you have problems with your voice, glands/organs of the neck or need help communicating.

Violet energy foods have a powerful effect on the workings of the mind. Food additives/colourings create illusion (a violet function) and some additives also have an addictive quality (another violet trait) Both alcohol and sugar belong in this category when they are used to excess to escape the real world – e.g. comfort eating or drinking to blot out feelings.

Top Tip from Reiki Healing Spain. Blue/violet fruits include: plums, blueberries, black grapes

Blue/violet vegetables include: all seaweed products, asparagus, aubergines. Blue/violet minerals include: iodine (enhances the function of the thyroid gland), potassium (keeps oxygen supplied to the brain)

Read more...

How to get rid of Headaches naturally

Headaches are one of the most common health problems but because they vary so much, it can be difficult to find the right cure. It is important to identify what triggers your headache.

Keep a headache diary

To identify what triggers your headaches, keep a detailed diary noting down your emotions during the day, the weather, your menstrual cycle, what you ate and when/how you slept. If the same situation or emotions appear before each headache you know what to try and avoid in the future. It is common knowledge that chocolate, cheese and red wine can trigger a migraine but it is better to note down all foods you have eaten in the 48 hours before an attack to see if the same foods are causing the problem.

Types of headaches

1. Cluster headaches – this type usually strikes with little warning. The pain usually affects just one side of the face, centring on the eye. It typically lasts for between 15 minutes and 3 hours and may return up to 10 times a day for 6 to 10 weeks (the cluster period) before disappearing for months or years.

The cause – doctors are not sure of the exact cause but it is thought that some sort of irritation to the facial nerves may be to blame. Cluster headaches are more common in men especially those who smoke or drink.

2. Tension headaches – this is the most common type and is characterized by a dull, steady pain on both sides of the head. The sufferer often feels as if a tight band, or heavy weight, were pressing down on them.

The cause – these headaches are usually a direct result of stress, which causes the muscles of the neck and scalp to knot up. It can also be brought on by bad posture, sitting in a draught, bright light, too much noise or sitting in an awkward position.

3. Migraines – these can be divided into two main categories. Classic migraines are usually preceded by a visual disturbance such as flashing light, zig-zag patterns and general blurring. With common migraines there is little or no warning. The pain develops slowly into a throbbing ache, often aggravated by movement or noise. Nausea and vomiting are common with both types.

The cause – the Migraine Association claim that migraines are the result of changes in neurotransmitters and blood vessels in the brain. What causes these changes however is unknown. Triggers include: stress; foods such as cheese, chocolate and alcohol; irregular meals or lack of food; fatigue or hormonal factors such as periods. 10% of female migraine sufferers suffer from menstrual migraines which are thought to relate to the drop in oestrogen at this time of the month.

4. Chronic daily headaches – for a headache to be termed “chronic”, the pain has to occur on more than 15 days every month.

The cause – this could be due to a neck or head injury such as whiplash or the over-use of painkillers. If you take painkillers every day a vicious circle can develop. As the painkillers wear off there is a rebound headache so you take more painkillers and the painkillers start to fuel the headache and so on and so on.

Feverfew

The City of London Migraine Clinic carried out a trial which showed that in 70% of cases the herb Feverfew either prevented or lessened the severity of the headaches of the people taking part. It also lessened the symptoms of nausea and vomiting. You can buy Feverfew tablets from health shops; take them as directed on the packet.

How complimentary therapies can help

Stress has been identified as a significant migraine trigger so any therapy that encourages relaxation can help. Manipulation therapies can encourage blood flow to the brain and help to relieve any postural or musculo-skeletal problems that could be at the root of the headache. Eastern therapies, based on the belief that blocked energy causes headaches aim to restore the smooth flow of energy in the body. Here are some therapies which can be particularly helpful for the relief of headaches and migraines.

Acupressure

Acupressure works on the principle that headaches are due to blocked energy in the invisible energy channels (known as meridians) that run through our body. To relieve pain, gentle pressure is applied to certain points, and this stimulates the body’s own healing powers. Acupuncture is based on the same concept but uses needles instead of finger massage.

Acupressure is particularly useful as it is something you can do yourself. Try the following when you next get a headache - find the acupoint in the web between your forefinger and thumb then press firmly on the point with the ball of your thumb or tips of your fingers for a couple of minutes, gradually increasing the pressure.

Chiropractic

A chiropractor can manipulate the spine to try and correct any displacement of the vertebrae, as this is believed to disturb the electrical impulses carried by the nerves, leading to headaches and migraines. This type of therapy is especially good if the migraine is related to spinal problems.

Cranial osteopathy

Cranial osteopaths say they can sense the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (this fluid protects and nourishes the membranes around the brain) by placing their hands around a patient’s head. Any imbalance in the flow is said to indicate pressure on the cranial bones, or tension/trauma elsewhere in the body caused by injury, illness or emotional stress. They believe these pressures or trauma can manifest as headaches which may be eased by gently manipulating the cranial /spinal bones to regulate the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Homeopathy

It is advisable to consult a practitioner who will prescribe remedies according to your symptoms and individual circumstances.

Indian head massage

Because this treatment concentrates on the upper part of the body, in particular the upper back, shoulders, neck and scalp it is very effective in treating people who suffer regularly with headaches. It is very relaxing and excellent for getting rid of tension.

Massage

Massage is good for releasing muscle tension and encouraging the blood to flow normally to the blood vessels in the head, face and scalp. You can either go to a fully qualified therapist or give yourself a massage. Massaging around your temples in circular movements using a blend containing lavender and peppermint essential oil is a good way to help relieve tension headaches (add 2 drops lavender and 1 drop peppermint to 5ml of carrier oil)

Reflexology

Reflexology works on the principle that every part of the body is reflected in points on the hands or feet. By pressing on these points, reflexologists say they can relieve tension in the corresponding parts of the body.
These Headache aids are available here at: holistic therapies spain.

Read more...

What is self esteem?

Most people’s thoughts about themselves fluctuate daily based on their everyday experiences. How your friends treat you, how well you have done at something, changes in your romantic relationship can all have a temporary impact on your well-being.

Your self-esteem, however, is something more fundamental than the normal “ups and downs” of everyday life. If someone has healthy self esteem normal “ups and downs” may lead to temporary fluctuations in how they feel about themselves but only to a limited extent. For someone who has poor self-esteem these “ups and downs” can make all the difference in the world.

Where does our self esteem come from?

Self-esteem is largely developed during our childhood. It evolves throughout our lives as we build an image of ourselves through our experiences with different people and activities. When we are growing up, our successes and failures and how we are treated by our immediate family, teachers and our peers all contribute to the creation of our self-esteem.
For example experiences in childhood that lead to healthy self-esteem include:

• Being praised
• Being listened to
• Being spoken to with respect
• Having trustworthy friends
• Experiencing success in school

Experiences that lead to low self-esteem include:

• Being badly criticized
• Being shouted at
• Being ridiculed, teased or ignored
• Experiencing failure in school
• Being expected to be “perfect” all the time

What does your “inner voice” say?

Everything we have experienced in the past is still alive inside us in the form of an “inner voice”. We don’t often “hear” this voice in the same way we would a spoken one but it acts in a similar way, constantly repeating those original messages to us.

For people with healthy self-esteem our inner voice reassures us and sends positive messages. For people with low self-esteem the inner voice becomes a harsh critic constantly criticizing and belittling their accomplishments.

The three “characters” of low self-esteem

Most of us have an image of what someone with low self-esteem looks like but it is not always obvious. Below are 3 examples of types of people who suffer from low self-esteem:

1. The Impostor – this person always acts happy and successful but is actually terrified of failing. They need continuous success to maintain their mask of positive self-esteem and this can lead to problems with perfectionism, procrastination, competition and ultimately burn-out.

2. The Rebel – this person acts as if the opinions of others – especially important or powerful people – don’t matter. They always need to prove that other’s criticisms or judgements don’t hurt and they carry around a lot of anger about not feeling “good enough”. This can lead to problems like blaming others all the time, breaking the law or rules or fighting against authority.

3. The Loser – this person is unable to cope with the world and they wait for someone to come to the rescue. They tend to use self-pity or indifference as a shield against fear of taking responsibility for changing their life. This can lead to problems such as under-achievement, excessive reliance on others in relationships or lacking any assertiveness skills.

Consequences of low self-esteem

• It can create anxiety, stress, loneliness and increased chances of developing depression
• It can cause problems with relationships and friendships
• It can seriously impair job and academic performance
• It can lead to underachievement and an increased vulnerability to alcohol or drug abuse

How to improve your self-esteem

Before you can even attempt to improve your self-esteem you must first believe that you can change it and also you must need to want to change it. Change doesn’t happen overnight and is not always easy but it can happen! Once you have accepted that you have the power to do something there are 3 steps you can take to begin to change your self-esteem.

1. Challenge the inner critic - here are typical examples of the inner critic’s voice and how you can challenge what it is saying:

Inner critic: Unfairly harsh – “People said they liked what I did but it was nowhere as good as it should have been. I can’t believe no-one noticed all the mistakes I made” Challenge: Be reassuring – “They really liked it. Maybe it wasn’t perfect but I did a good job. I am proud of myself. This was a success”

Generalising unrealistically – “I got a really low mark in this test. I am such an idiot, I don't understand anything. I shouldn’t be doing this course” Be specific – “I didn’t do as well on this test but I have done ok on the others. There are some things I don’t understand yet but I have done well in other classes that were just as tough as this”

Makes leaps of illogic – “He is frowning at me. He hasn’t said anything but I know it means he doesn’t like me” Think it through logically – “Ok, he’s frowning but it may have nothing to do with me, he could have something worrying him – maybe I should ask him?”

Turning everything into a catastrophe – “She turned me down for a date. I’ll never find a partner. I’ll always be alone” Be objective – “That was a bit embarrassing. Still, I know I’m a nice and attractive person. I’ll find someone else”

It sounds so simple doesn’t it? But you would be surprised at how many people find it difficult to challenge their inner critic! With practice it can be done….

2. Look after and value yourself – you are a deserving and competent person who deserves the best out of life. If you introduce the following tips into your life you will feel a lot better about yourself:

• Get enough sleep, eat healthily, take regular exercise, practice good hygiene
• Go to the cinema, take a nap, have a massage, adopt a pet, spend some time in the garden – DO WHAT YOU ENJOY
• Spend time with positive friends, compliment yourself for achieving something, buy yourself something
• Remind yourself of your strengths/achievements, keep a list of all the things you like about yourself, keep mementos of things you have achieved where you can see them, keep a “success” file of any certificates/awards etc you have and refer to it on a regular basis
• If you make a mistake, just forgive yourself and move on. None of us are perfect!
• “Fake it” until you can “make it” – when you continue to treat yourself well you will feel better about yourself even if initially you don’t believe you deserve it.

3. Get help from others - this is not always easy for people with low self-esteem as they feel they don’t deserve help. However, since low self-esteem is often caused by how others have treated you in the past, you may need the help of others in the present to challenge negative past experiences.

• Ask for support from friends – ask them to tell you what they like about you or what they think you do well
• Ask someone to just listen whilst you “vent” your feelings for a while without trying to “fix” things
• Ask for a hug
• Ask someone who loves you to remind you that they do and why

Sometimes low self-esteem can feel so painful or difficult to overcome that the help of a therapist or counsellor is needed.

Tip from Counselling Spain: One of the advantages of talking to a therapist or counsellor is that you can say anything in a confidential environment without being judged or having your feelings dismissed as “silly”.

Read more...

Lavender

If any of my clients ask me which one essential oil I would not be without I always reply without hesitation “Lavender”.
Why? Simply because it is the most versatile of all the essential oils and very safe to use. It has a wide range of properties - it is an antibiotic, anti depressant, anti septic, bactericidal, insect repellent, sedative and an immune booster to name but a few! For me this essential oil is best summed up though as being calming, soothing and above all BALANCING….

Lavender is a native of the Mediterranean and there are several varieties in cultivation. However, the most important variety in terms of aromatherapy is the “common” or “true” Lavender – known as Lavandula Angustifolia, Lavendula Officinalis or Lavandula Vera.

Lavender is beneficial for so many different conditions. Here is just a selection…..

Burns

It was Rene Maurice Gattefosse’s observation of the dramatic healing effect of Lavender oil when he burnt his hand in a laboratory accident that led him to research essential oils in greater depth and coin the word “Aromatherapie”.
A French army surgeon called Dr Jean Valnet used Lavender oil to treat serious burns and injuries during the War. It is the antiseptic and painkilling properties that make Lavender an ideal choice for burns. It also promotes rapid healing and helps to prevent scarring.

Colds, coughs, Flu….

It is a valuable treatment for colds, coughs, and flu – steam inhalation being the most effective treatment for these conditions. It will soothe, decongest and attack the bacteria which cause secondary infections leading to catarrh and sinusitis. A little Lavender oil massaged on the throat helps to relieve a tickly cough. Massage one or two drops along the bony ridges of the eyebrows and on either side of the nostrils to help catarrh.

Headaches

Massaged into the temples, Lavender will help to relieve many forms of headaches. You can also place a cold compress of Lavender on the forehead or back of the neck.

Insomnia

Everyone knows Lavender is the number one choice for insomnia regardless of the cause! Adding a few drops to the bath before you go to bed is probably the most best way to get to sleep but you can put a few drops of oil on a hankie or on the pillow case to help you doze off…zzzzzzz

Muscular pain

One of the most important uses for Lavender is for the relief of muscular pain, whatever the cause. Use it with a carrier oil to massage the affected area or add some drops to your bath. The pain of arthritis, sciatica and rheumatism is greatly reduced as the oil will lower the reaction to pain of the central nervous system, reducing inflammation and generally toning the system. This would also help with period pains.

Skin Care

The soothing, antiseptic and anti inflammatory properties of Lavender make it unbeatable for many skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis. You can add it to unperfumed creams or lotions if you prefer not to use oil.

What do you do if you can’t stand the smell of Lavender? It is important to remember that when using essential oils they will not be as effective if you don’t like the smell. The easy solution is to blend the Lavender with another oil which is more pleasing to your nose!
Lavender blends well with citrus oils (e.g. Lemon, Orange), Patchouli, Geranium and Pine; it is also worth mentioning that when using Lavender with other oils it enhances the effects of the other oils!

AROMATIP from Counselling in Spain. If the oil you buy does not have a Latin name on the label (usually underneath the common name) it may not be 100% essential oil. Another way to check if the oils are not just cosmetic, is the pricing. If you can buy Rose essential oil for the same price as Lavender it is NOT the real thing! Rose oil is extremely expensive whereas Lavender is one of the cheapest you can buy

Read more...

Aromatherapy – Cleansing & Protection

Unseen energies are a part of life and, although invisible, affect us deeply and can even change the course of our actions. How often have you heard someone say about someone else “they drain my energy” and although there is no energy to see you know exactly what they mean!

Even though we don’t always know how to describe “invisible” energy we know it exists, if invisibility meant non-existence there would be no such thing as mobile telephones or televisions as these are the receivers that interpret bits of invisible information floating through the air. Our bodies are receivers of
other, natural unseen energies, some of which are not welcome in our lives.

In dealing with invisible forces, people all over the world have often used fragrance as a protective shield between them and perceived negativity. In several Native American cultures Sage is used to purify the surroundings. In some Arab homes, Frankincense is burnt in a censer and carried through the home to expel evil sprits and invite angels in. In the Egyptian souks there are people who make a living going from stall to stall burning Frankincense to dispel any negative energy customers may have left behind, making the environment more inviting to new customers.

In Medieval Europe, “witches” were seen as bad spirits and rituals were carried out at pivotal points in the year with the aim of dispelling them from the area. These rituals often involved walking through the village waving bunches of smouldering, fragrant herbs to send the aroma into every nook and cranny – Juniper and Rosemary were widely used.

Fragrance is also widely used to cleanse buildings especially those used for spiritual practices. When Mohamet II captured the church of Sancta Sophia in Constantinople in 1453 and turned it into a mosque, it was first cleansed with Rose.

The energy in our homes

Our home should be our “sanctuary” – a place where we feel safe, comfortable, happy and can be “ourselves”. For most of us this is the case but if you are unlucky enough to get burgled your house can feel very contaminated and unclean. Many people want to move straight away but this is seldom a practical possibility.

It is not only the energy of those who are present that we have to consider, but also the energy of those who have passed through that particular space before. Walls are said to hold the energy of people who occupied that room in previous times. The emotions, good and bad, become imprinted in the very fabric of the building. It is certainly true that walls hold ancient smells.
After a burglary, or when moving into a new home it’s a good idea to spiritually cleanse the place as well as physically clean it. Even people we invite into our homes can leave their vibrational energy behind. If they are negative people or full of sadness they can be a real burden on the energy of the premises as well as us. They leave your house feeling recharged but you and the house feel drained!

When a building holds energies which are having a detrimental effect, it can feel as if the place is never really “clean” (even though it may look clean to the eye). There can be a general feeling of discomfort or you may just feel depressed when you walk through the door. These negative energies can also account for physical symptoms such as feeling tired all the time or getting regular headaches. If you suffer from these symptoms it is obviously always advisable to consult your doctor to see if everything is ok but don’t underestimate the power of negative energy in your surroundings.
Think how different the atmosphere in a room feels when there has just been an argument compared to the atmosphere in the same room when people are having a party of celebrating.

Clearing the atmosphere

Rooms can have a different atmosphere which cannot always be attributed to things such as décor, lighting, ceiling height or even good or bad Feng Shui – the flow of Ch’i energy - around a home. Rooms also have an aroma which reflects what goes in them e.g. the smell of cooking in the kitchen.

Another factor is cleanliness. If the energy flow doesn’t feel good in a room it may simply need a good clean. Washing windows is especially good for energy flow. The outside of your home looks better and the inside of your home feels different. . Add essential oils to the water or the cloth – citrus oils such as Lemon, Orange or Grapefruit are particularly good for this job.

Spiritually cleansing is different to physically cleaning; it involves more thought and a little preparation. Here are two ways you can try to change the energy in a room for the better.

• Ask that the cleansing will bring in light and peace
• Mix a tablespoon of salt with 2 drops of Frankincense essential oil and leave it to dry.
• Open a window or door which allows outside air to circulate in the room
• Sprinkle a tiny amount of the mixture around the room, including the corners, gradually moving towards the open door/window

Or

• Walk around the room with a bowl of salt water, wetting the fingers and flicking the water in all directions – don’t be too heavy handed as you don’t want to damage certain fabrics and furniture!
• You can add essential oils to this water-salt mix such as Pine, Sage or Lemon.
Some people pray or chant when cleansing, others play loud music to get the energy up and moving – do what feels right for you. When the atmosphere feels lightened spray a blend of essential oils in a plant mister throughout the room, use a diffuser or simply add the essential oils to a bowl of very hot water. Finally, bring in some fresh flowers to the room.

Cleansing Blends

• Frankincense x 7 drops, Benzoin x 2 drops & Myrrh x 1 drop
• Lemon x 3 drops, Orange x 3 drops & Grapefruit x 4 drops
• Clove x 3 drops, Black Pepper x 3 drops & Cinnamon x 4 drops
• Sage x 2 drops, Cedar wood x 6 drops & Juniper x 2 drops

Sprays & Misters

One effective method of distributing the essential oil molecules around a room is by using a plant mister or spray. It is best to use a new one; put in half a pint of warm water then add 6 to 10 drops of essential oil – screw the cap back on and shake well each time before spraying. Spray high into the air, making sure the spray will not fall on any fabrics or furniture that may be damaged. You can also spray the space around people with these sprays but make sure they keep their eyes closed!

Water Bowls

Hot water releases the essential oil molecules and sends them rising into the air. Any glass or china heat-proof bowl or container can be used. Drop 3 to 10 drops of essential oil into the water and place the bowl (s) in the corner(s) of the room.

Essential oil cleansing stripes

You can make a collection of smelling strips by cutting up a piece of white absorbent paper into long strips. Put your chosen essential oils on these. They can be tied together with bows like a bunch of flowers or plaited. Use them to spread cleansing and energy-enhancing fragrance around a room.

Salt

No, it’s not just for putting on your food! There are many ways to use salt as part of spiritual cleansing. It can be used on its own or mixed with essential oils. It can be put in water and used to purify rooms, spaces, objects or even people! It can be added to baths.

Essential oils can be added to salt and crushed minerals such as crystals and used to purify rooms and objects or put in baths. Which essential oils and crystals you used depends on what you are setting out to achieve.

The sea is very polluted nowadays and sea-salt may carry some of this vibration, however it will obviously also contain the energy of the sea. holistic therapy costa blanca uses Rock Salt in its holistic therapies. Rock salt on the other hand carries the energy vibration of the earth and the mountains.

Read more...

Cholesterol Laden Foods

There are many foods that you need to be aware of that are laden with cholesterol. It is important that you are aware of the many types of foods for the sake of your family's health.

A List of Cholesterol Laden Foods

Interesting enough, a sheep or beef brain is on the top of the list for the most cholesterol in foods. Makes you wanna run out and buy a couple, eh? Well, rest assured I won't be anytime soon!! That is for sure.

Next on the list is fish oil. While there are many good attributes for it, there are also precautions that you must know about. Fish oil has a lot of cholesterol.

Chicken liver anyone? - Well, coming in as number three on the list is tasty chicken liver. I think that I will pass on this one as well. I am sure that many of us will.

Raw eggs (especially the yolk) - I am sure that there are many people out there who love the incredible edible egg, right? Yeah, I do but it doesn't like us so we need to eat them in moderation.

Beef bi-products - Liver or tongues anyone? Nah, I didn't think so. There are many people who like to fry up a batch now and again. If the grease isn't bad enough, then eat some bi-products to add more to your already high cholesterol.

Canned crustaceans? - Uhm you mean as in shrimp and fish? I don't think so. There are many that you think in your mind are very good for you. So since they are 'good' for you, you decide to go ahead and fry them; making them better? I sincerely doubt it. They are still high in cholesterol.

Fast foods - Well, this is definitely a no-brainer (to say the least). Uhm, maybe or maybe not, who knows. Maybe you didn't know that those morning biscuits and sausage were loaded with all the fattening grease? Perhaps you don't think about it while driving down the road on your way to work? Who knows, but now you do.

Pork anyone? - Did you know that pork is high in fat and cholesterol already. They are some of the nastiest animals and eat just about anything. They are full of cholesterol and sadly enough, many people fry them in grease.

There are many types of food that are loaded with cholesterol. We can choose to be knowledgeable in what we do or we can continue feeding our bodies junk. The choice is yours: continue eating foods that are bad for you, or take an active part in reducing the elevated cholesterol levels Makes a sobering thought, doesn't it?

Read more...