Mind Of Peace

Peace and Love To All Of You!!

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 16:06:00 +0000

Happy New Year MOP Heads!!

shanti,
MOP

Pass The Butter ~ This is interesting

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 23:34:00 +0000

Margarine was originally manufactured to fatten turkeys. When it killed the turkeys, the people who had put all the money into the research wanted a payback so they put their heads together to figure out what to do with this product to get their money back. It was a white substance with no food appeal so they added the yellow coloring and sold it to people to use in place of butter. How do you like that?
DO YOU KNOW...the difference between margarine and butter? Read on to the end...gets very interesting!
Both have the same amount of calories.
Butter is slightly higher in saturated fats at 8 grams compared to 5 grams.
Eating margarine can increase heart disease in women by 53% over eating the same amount of butter, according to a recent Harvard Medical Study.
Eating butter increases the absorption of many other nutrients in other foods.
Butter has many nutritional benefits where margarine has a few only because they are added!
Butter tastes much better than margarine and it can enhance the flavors of other foods.
Butter has been around for centuries where margarine has been around for less than 100 years.

And now, for Margarine...
Very high in transfatty acids,
Triple risk of coronary heart disease.
Increases total cholesterol and LDL(this is the bad cholesterol) and lowers.
HDLcholesterol, (the good cholesterol).
Increases the risk of cancers up to five fold.
Lowers quality of breast milk.
Decreases immune response.
Decreases insulin response.
And here's the most disturbing fact....
Margarine is but ONE MOLECULE away from being PLASTIC...
This fact alone was enough to have me avoiding margarine for life and anything else that is hydrogenated (this means hydrogen is added, changing the molecular structure of the substance).
You can try this yourself:
Purchase a tub of margarine and leave it in your garage or shaded area. Within a couple of days you will note a couple of things:

No flies, not even those pesky fruit flies will go near it (that should tell you something)
It does not rot or smell differently because it has no nutritional value
Nothing will grow on it. Even those teeny weenie microorganisms will not a find a home to grow.

Why?
Because it is nearly plastic. Would you melt your Tupperware and spread that on your toast?
Share This With Your Friends..... (If you want to "butter them up")!

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MOVING INTO THE LIGHT-by Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 23:15:00 +0000

Somewhere along the way, we've lost our peace of mind. It's time to find it. Finding our peace of mind requires that we build a sense of trust in ourselves. Although life can sometimes be very difficult, we have to understand that we can learn and grow from it all. >From the worst that life can give us, we can find, when we look for it, a sense of meaning and purpose. It's all about learning how to create peaceful thoughts within that help us push through out fears and heal our hurts and our hearts.

Somewhere along the way, we've lost our ability to appreciate. It's time to find it. Yes, it sometimes feels as though we are drowning in bad news. But that shouldn't prevent us from moving into the light and seeing all that's good in our lives. If you feel there isn't any good in your life, take another look. It's there. As you focus on the good, the bad doesn't seem as overwhelming. In fact, as we focus on the good, the world looks rather wonderful. It's all about where we choose to look.

Somewhere along the way, we lost our joy. It's time to find it. Where did it go? It went the way of the complexity of life. We work so hard and play so little. There's something wrong with that picture. A little play makes us touch a special part within that allows us to know that we can lighten up, have fun, enjoy our loved ones, and balance our life with many riches. Yes, the big splashes of brilliance in our lives are wonderful, but more importantly, we need to take in the joy of the simple things.

Somewhere along the way, we lost our ability to be honest with ourselves. It's time to find it. We think of ourselves as giving people, but most of us focus primarily on the getting. We want to out-do everyone else when it comes to money, looks, popularity, and the like...winning at all costs. That doesn't sound like giving to me. We need to strive to do our very best, not to outdo someone else...but to become the strongest and most loving that we can be. And that definitely includes helping the world in our own special way. By definition, that is truly winning the game of life.

Somewhere along the way, we lost our sense of power. It's time to find it. The world has become so big, so complicated, so seemingly out of our reach. We often feel there is nothing that we can do to change the way it is. Nothing can be further from the truth. I ask you to stop for a moment, just take a look around, and you will see so many ways that you can help your world in your own personal way. As one of my teachers so many years ago taught me, "Stand where you are, make a circle, see what needs to be done, and do it!" I have listened to his advice and it has made all the difference in the world.

Somewhere along the way, we've lost sight of all the love that could be created in this world. It's time to find it. To move into the light, we need to do all we can to change what is creating all the hate that puts our globe in peril these days. No matter where we live, we all have the power to take a stand on the side of love. We can't allow judgment and self-righteousness, which can ultimately lead to death and destruction, rule our world. We have to find loving solutions, not those that create anger, hate and killing.

Somewhere along the way, we've lost the light. It's time to find it. Many years ago, before I became a writer of self-help books, I had the following dream: I was standing on a little hill and I noticed that when I looked to the left there was sunshine, beach, peace, delicious warmth, and a glowing sense of life. And when I looked to the right there was a very dark sky and parched dry earth with many people shivering in the cold with a palpable sense of gloom and doom.

I decided to take action. I ran over to the people in darkness and started shouting "Look, look over there! It's beautiful. Just get up and move yourself into the light and warmth!" But to my amazement, no one would listen. After a while, I realized I couldn't really control anyone else's behavior. I could only control my own. With a sigh, I decided to simply move myself out of the darkness and walk into the light...which is exactly what I did. When I reached the beautiful warm sand, I found a comfortable spot, sat myself down, and began embracing the beauty. I immediately felt at peace.

And then a strange thing happened: One person on the side of misery turned around and looked at me enjoying the warmth and the light. Very slowly, he picked himself up and began walking toward me. When he reached the spot where I was sitting, he simply sat down next to me, and joined me in taking in the beauty. I thought to myself, "Aah! I'm so happy someone else sees what I am seeing!" And, lo and behold, soon another person came and joined us...and another...and another...and another. Soon the beach was filled with people spreading their joy from one person to another. It was a heavenly scene, indeed.

It was in that peaceful state that I suddenly woke up trying very hard to hold on to my dream. I thought to myself, "What was that all about?" My answer to myself was this: "I too used to live in the dark and over the years, I had many wonderful teachers show me the way into the light. I want to do the same for others. I realize that I can't force others to see what I can see. I can only put my own knowledge and experiences out there...and then go take my place in the sun...with the possibility that others will join me." And through the many books and audios I have created, that is what I have done: put what I have learned out there for the world to see. As if by magic, my dream has come true. I receive such wonderful feedback from so many of you around the world thanking me and telling me that, metaphorically speaking, you looked my way and made the decision to move out of the darkness and join me in the light. Welcome!

My dream is a lesson for us all: We can't change the thoughts and behavior of others, but we can all serve as a model to others as we learn the secrets of moving ourselves from a place of darkness into the light. And for those of you who are just beginning this wonderful journey, not to worry...trust that you are slowly, but surely, finding your way.

Recycled Information provided by© 2007 Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.
www.susanjeffers.com
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WHAT ARE VEDAS?

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 21:45:00 +0000

The Vedas are the recordings of sages to whom the mantras were revealed. They proclaim the transcendental Truth, which is not changed by time or place. They indicate the means to prosperity and security for the denizens of the three worlds. Veda is derived from the root "Vid", which means, "to know". The Veda teaches how to achieve purity of heart, getting rid of impurities.

The Vedas have been declared to be infinite and hence beyond the comprehension of common people. In the beginning there was only one Veda. To study it considerable time and effort were needed. Vyasa divided it into different parts to enable people to study as well as practice the teachings of the Veda. Out of the countless number of hymns, Vyasa gathered some Rks and compiled them in the Rg Veda, collected some yajus to form the Yajur Veda and some Samans to make up the Sama Veda.

The Rg Veda is mainly devoted to hymns in praise of various deities. The Yajur Veda consists of mantras for worshipping the deities. The mantras of the Yajur Veda are used in the performance of yagas and yajnas and in doing acts of charity. Each Veda has three sections: Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads.

The Vedic mantras were utilized in yagas and yajnas (ritual sacrifices) for promoting the well being of society and the world. They were intended to secure timely rains so that the crops may be good and there may be prosperity all round. The mantras, which form part of the Karma Kanda (the path of rituals), were regarded as conducive to the promotion of general well being and happiness.

The great sages who listened to these mantras as revelations from the Divine found the key to them in eight basic letters. All the Vedic mantras with their musical rendering were remembered by reflecting on the eight letters: " A, Ka, Cha, Ta, Tha, Pa, Ya, Sa." The great seers fostered the Vedas by the use of these letters.

Each of the Vedas had several saakhas (branches) and upasaakhas (sub-branches). Out of the 20 branches and 21 sub-branches of the Rg Veda, only three have survived today. Likewise out of 96 branches of Yajur Veda only two have survived the ravages of time. Sama Veda, which had 1000 branches, retains today only three branches.

What is meant by Veda? One meaning is eruka (awareness). Another is thelivi (intelligence). A third meaning is viveka (discrimination). All those who wish to develop discrimination should be deeply interested in the Vedas.

The Vedas have emphasized that man will be truly human only when he lives up to human values and practices the good life. The Vedas have a universal outlook, embracing all that is noble and sacred. They have taught the principle of samatwa (equality) in respect of everything. They have proclaimed the concept of oneness. They taught men to face joy and sorrow with equal serenity.

The Vedas have been mainly concerned with the Pravritti Marga (the Path of Action). All the different branches of knowledge--physics, chemistry, botany, economics, music, etc.--are covered by the Vedas. These are concerned with the external world. Hence the Vedas have been considered dualistic. Only the Upanishads have taught the Nirvritti Marga (the Path of Knowledge) by going within oneself. This means that, of the four Purusharthas, the four main goals of man- Dharma , Artha, Kama and Moksha--the Vedas have been concerned with only the first three.

The Upanishads declared that the nature of the Supreme can be grasped only by the Path of Knowledge. That knowledge is found in Vedanta. The Upanishads come at the end of the Vedas. The essence of all the Vedas is to be found in them. While Veda is dualistic, Vedanta is Advaita (nondualistic). It is only when you understand the essence of the Vedas as expounded in the Upanishads and put into practice the message of the Vedanta, you will realize the true meaning of Advaita (Non-dualism).

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Ayurveda Healing

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 22:26:00 +0000

There was once a celebrated doctor, associated with Vedic, post-Vedic and even pre-Vedic sages, called Caraka who believed that human body is composed of innumerable cells. He lived in the second century of our era and was one of the greatest physicians that has ever lived. Caraka recorded the fact that the gods themselves were perplexed by the continued existence of disease, which was a hindrance to humanity's progress to enlightenment.

These same gods, he says, therefore prepared the way for Ayurveda, which literally means the “ The Science of Longevity” to be taught to the human race. Caraka (stands for an intelligent person) revised the Carakasamhita in the light of the new knowledge. The Carakasamhita today is held in high esteem as the most authentic of all the extant works on the Ayurevedic system of medicine. Carakasamhita was translated from Sanskrit into Persian and from Persian into Arabic. Al-Beruni's chief source of medicine was the Arabic edition of Caraka. Ayurveda tradition requires at least seven years of intensive training.

Ayurveda "Mother of All Healing" “ Knowledge of Life” “The Science of Life”
“The Science of Longevity” ” World Medicine”

Ayurveda, the most holistic and comprehensive medical system available,
teaches you how to live in a true and natural balance.

Not being able to answer the question, the rishis approached Sage Bhrigu. To reach a solution after a direct ascertainment of reality, Sage Bhrigu first went to Satyaloka, the abode of Lord Brahma.

Vedic Rishis “Seers of Mantras” taught Ayurveda in an oral tradition.

Rishis also became Vaidyas (physicians of Ayurveda). The sage ~ physician ~ surgeons were deeply devoted holy people, who saw health as an integral part of spiritual life. The Rishis acknowledged that everything that existed in nature had a common source. If they found the ultimate source of their "Self" they would find the origin of all things in nature.

Vedic Rishis did not venture out and collect herbs and experiment with their effects to discover Ayurveda, but rather went into deep internal meditation. Their knowledge of the use of various methods of healing, prevention, longevity and surgery came through “Divine Revelation” (they heard the hymns of the Gods). There was no guessing or testing and harming animals.

These revelations were transcribed from the oral tradition into book form, in elaborately detailed texts written in Sanskrit ~ the ancient language of India. As a result Ayurveda developed into a respected and widely used system of healing in India. What is fascinating is Ayurveda's application of herbs, foods, aromas, gems, colours, yoga and mantras in daily living.

The healing art of Ayurveda had spread outside of the strictly Hindu community around the 6th century BC. Wise men from China, Tibet, the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Persians and many more came to learn about this world medicine and its religious scriptures it sprang from.

Ayurveda established Islamic medicine and assisted to form the foundation of the European tradition in medicine. In 15th Century Europe “Paracelsus” celebrated physician and reformer of therapeutics is a phenomenon in the history of medicine, a genius tardily recognized, who impetuously sought to overturn the old order of medical thinking.

He worked with brutal determination to substitute more comprehensive healing system for what seemed to him was archaic and flawed in therapeutics. Paracelsus, who is also known as the Father of Modern Western Medicine, stressed the healing power of nature and attacked venomously many other medical malpractices of his time and hissed mercilessly at worthless pills, salves, infusions, balsams, electuaries, fumigants, and drenches, much to the delight of his student-disciples.

He was the first to declare that, if given in small doses, "What makes a man ill also cures him," an anticipation of the modern practice of Homeopathy. Paracelsus, in fact, contributed substantially to the rise of modern medicine, including psychiatric treatment. He journeyed to Egypt, Arabia, the Holy Land, and Constantinople seeking out the best practitioners of alchemy from whom he could learn their most effective medical treatments. His employment of such knowledge soon won him widespread acclaim for his treatments.

It is not surprising that Paracelsus was called a magician because at the time science and magic were still entwined; the study of one meant the study of the other. However, he was sceptical of the magic performed in rituals by magicians and sorcerers.

He believed in natural magic (power) and that it existed in all things. Such natural magic, he claimed, was a "Power that comes direct from God." When directed toward a doctor it manifested itself in the ability to heal. Included in Paracelsus' belief in natural power was astrology. He held that the stars and planets influenced life and matter.

Paracelsus believed in self-discovery. He thought it could be achieved through the power of imagination. One of his most significant beliefs was that man's soul and body were inseparable as he claimed in the following:

Man is not body. The heart, the spirit, is man.
And this spirit is an entire star, out of which,
he is built. If therefore a man is perfect in his
heart, nothing in the whole light of Nature is
hidden from him.

Paracelsus contributed significantly to modern medicine particularly in the areas of diagnosis and chemical treatment. His studies and work laid the foundation for modern chemical physiology. He publicized and practiced a system of medicine which borrowed heavily from Ayurveda, which emphasizes prevention of disease, rejuvenation of our body systems, extension of life span and offers a unique blend of science and philosophy that balances the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components necessary for holistic health.

Ayurveda, is not simply only a health care system but a form of lifestyle adopted to maintain perfect balance and harmony within the human existence, from the most abstract transcendental values to the most tangible physiological expressions, it is the art of healthy living that enables you to create harmony in daily life by applying self- knowledge and self-care.

The Ayurvedic approach to life requires listening to and addressing the unique needs of your body, recognizing and balancing your mental and emotional states and deepening your connection with your spirituality. You are the only one who can do this, because you are the only one who will truly benefit from your actions or suffer from your abuses. Your whole life and lifestyle ought to be in harmony before you can enjoy true wellbeing.

You can bring balance to your body through daily practices including yogic exercise, rest, massage and the foods you eat and how you eat them.

One can learn to heal themselves or remain healthy by staying in equilibrium. It is not limited only to the proper functioning of our mind, body and soul, but extends further in establishing a natural and balanced relationship with the nature as a whole. There can be no mental health without physical health, and vice versa. In Ayurveda, the mind (or consciousness) and the body (or physical mass) not only influence each other ~ they are each other, together they form the mind ~ body. Ayurvedic philosophy and practices link us to every aspect of ourselves and remind us that we are in union with every aspect of nature, each other, and the entire universe.

This includes a balanced relationship between us and all the creatures, our family members, our friends, our colleagues, the climate and the society we live in, our ideas, customs and much more. When we maintain this balance we stay healthy, the moment we are out of “sync” imbalance comes, joined by unhappiness, misery and shortly after that disease follows.

Many aspects, both internal and external, act upon us to disturb our balance. Examples of some of these emotional and physical stresses are: one's emotional state, diet and food choices, seasons and weather, physical trauma, work and personal relationships.

Balance is the natural order, imbalance is disorder. Health is Order ~ Disease is Disorder. Within the body there is a constant interaction between order and disorder. Once one understands the nature and structure of disorder, one can re-establish order.

Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and encourages maintaining health by paying close attention to balance in one's life through appropriate thinking, diet, lifestyle and herbs. Knowledge of Ayurveda enables one to understand how to establish balance of body, mind and consciousness according to one's own individual constitution and how to make lifestyle changes to bring about and maintain this balance.

Just as everyone has an individual face or thumb print, according to Ayurveda, each person has a particular pattern of energy ~ an individual combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics, which is his or her constitution.

Ayurveda identifies three basic types of energy ~ Doshas (in original Sanskrit words Vata, Pitta and Kapha) that are present in everybody and everything. Energy is required to create movement so that fluids and nutrients get to the cells, enabling the body flawless function.
Vata is dosha of movement, Pitta of digestion or metabolism and Kapha of lubrication and structure.

All people have Vata, Pitta and Kapha, but one is usually primary, one secondary and the third least prominent. With Ayurveda, we acknowledge that beneficial daily habits are different for each person, given that each person is a unique combination of these three energies. Everybody has all three energies- although people experience each of them to a greater or lesser degree.

The cause of disease in Ayurveda is seeing as the lack of proper cellular function due to an excess or deficiency of Vata, Pitta or Kapha and/or the presence of toxins. In Ayurveda, body, mind and consciousness work together in maintaining balance. They are simply viewed as different facets of one's being.

To gain knowledge of how to balance the body, mind and consciousness one requires an understanding how Vata, Pitta and Kapha work together.
The key method for returning and maintaining the balance of body and mind is through our diet. There are general recommendations of diet, however, a qualified Ayurvedic physicians, who has undergone at least seven years of training, must treat more serious illness. He or she will recommend a more finely tuned diet as well as special therapeutic techniques to attempt to readdress serious imbalances.
There are three main Ayurvedic texts still used today. The Charak Samhita (collection of the oldest book Atreya Samhita), Sushrut Samhita and Ashtangha Hridaya Samhita.

These books are believed to be over 1,200 years old. It is because these texts still contain the original and complete knowledge of Ayurvedic world medicine, that Ayurveda is known today as the only complete medical system still in existence. Other forms of medicine from various cultures, although parallel are missing parts of the original information.

Ayurveda is an affordable, accessible daily practice for creating health and harmony in your body and in your environment. Once you begin to incorporate Ayurveda principles in your daily activities, you will see positive benefits in every aspect of your life.

Recycled Information provided by-http://yoga.org.nz/Ayurveda-Healing.htm
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Colour Therapy

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 22:35:00 +0000

In colour there is life. To understand this power, is living.
Colour could very well be the most magnificent experience we take for granted. Look around; it's everywhere, surrounding and embracing us. We interpret life as much through colour as we do shape, texture and sound.
The truth is, the power of colour is the very essence of life.

Our most important energy source is light, and the entire spectrum of colours is derived from light. Sunlight, which contains all the wavelengths, consists of the entire electromagnetic spectrum that we depend on to exist on this planet.
Light flows through our eyes and triggers hormone production, which influences our entire complex biochemical system. This biochemical system then affects our being. And light does not travel alone. Light travels with other energies as shown below.

We know that each colour found in the visible light spectrum has its own wavelength and its own frequency, which produces a specific energy and has a nutritive effect. We know some rays can be dangerous if we are exposed to them. But the visible light, the rainbow, has a soothing effect on us.
Light is the only energy we can see, and we see it in the form of colour.

Our body absorbs colour energy through the vibration colour gives off. All organs, body systems, and functions are connected to main energy centres.
Through colour we receive all the energies we need to maintain a health body, mind, and soul. The National Institute of Mental Health has done studies showing that our mental health, behaviour, and general efficiency in life depends to a great extent on normal colour balance. When something goes wrong, or is out of balance, we can strengthen our energy centres through the conscious use of colour.

Light consists of the seven colour energies: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet. Each colour is connected to various areas of our body and will affect us differently emotionally, physically, and mentally. By learning how each colour influences us, we can effectively use colour to give us an extra boost of energy when we need it.
If you wake up in the morning with little energy, or you need to prepare for a business meeting, this is where the power of colours can help. All you have to do is reflect on the type of day you have planned; choose the colour that will help you meet the demands of the day; and then absorb that particular colour. It's like fuelling your system with the right kind of gas!

BRIEF HISTORY OF COLOR AND LIGHT THERAPY

Healing by means of color and light was the first type of therapy used by man. The sun's rays kept him warm, the colors of the flora fed him and accounted for his mood. The Egyptian Pharaohs and the Inca Indians worshipped the Sun as God and used plants as medicinal herbs.

In 6th century BC, Orpheus, the founder of the first metaphysical mystery school in Greece utilized vibrational medicine of color and light as a means of healing and spiritual awareness. Both Pythagorus and Plato were strongly influenced by his teachings.

In 125 AD - the ancient scientist, Apuleius experimented with a flickering light stimulus used to reveal epilepsy.

In 200 AD - Ptolemy observed patterns of color rays coming from the sun into the eyes produced a feeling of euphoria.

In the 17th century - French psychologist Pierre Janet used flickering lights to reduce hysteria for hospital patients.

1876 - Augustus Pleasanton used blue light to stimulate the glandular system. In this same year, Seth Pancoast utilized red light to stimulate the nervous system.

1878 - Dr. Edwin Babbitt used variant colors to produce healing of internal organs.

1908 - Aura Soma developed in England used colors to heal physical and emotional symptoms and promote psychological change.

1926 - C.G. Sander specified that application of particular colors was necessary for normal health.

1930 - The Father of Spectro-Chrome Metry, Dinshah P. Ghadiali compiled an encyclopedia of treatment with the use of color and light for over 400 various health related disorders.

1941 - Dr. Harry Riley Spitler formulated "The Syntonic Principle" stating that light by way of the eyes balances the autonomic nervous system.

1943 - Dr. Max Lucher developed psychological color testing to reveal information hidden in the subconscious mind which is still used today.

1980 - Dr. Thomas Budzynski - used phototherapy to accelerate learning.

1991 - Dr. Harrah Conforth applied color and light to facilitate whole brain synchronization and Dr. Robert Cosgrove utilized colored light for sedative properties prior to , during and immediately following surgery.

Color Research
That color affects us all is an undoubted fact. Its significance has been investigated and the results utilized in merchandizing, selling, home decorating, the workplace environment, industry, plant growth, nutrition, physics, physiology, psychology, ecclesiasticism and art. In fact, color is so much a part of our lives that we tend to take it for granted.

Physical healing is encouraged by directing colored light towards diseased areas of the body or to the eyes. In conventional medical treatment, phototherapy and photochemotherapy are used in current dermatological practice e.g. in the treatment of psoriasis, and blue light has been shown to be effective in the treatment of hyperbiliruminemia in the newborn.

There is a wealth of evidence to support the psychological effects of color and Dr Max Luscher's The Luscher Color Test contains ample evidence of this (be advised that many of the references in this book are in German).

In conventional medical practice, the use of blue light in the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia has been proven by many researchers including Vreman et al with their study "Light-emitting diodes: a novel light source for phototherapy". Creamer and McGregor of St John's Institute of Dermatology, London. UK published a paper in January 1998 entitled "Photo (chemo) therapy: advances for systemic or cutaneous disease", exploring the value of light as a treatment. Griffiths of the University of Manchester, UK, in July 1998, published a paper on "Novel therapeutic approaches to psoriasis" and in October 1998, The Archives of General Psychiatry ran four articles on light therapy. Regrettably, where treatment of a broader spectrum of disorders is concerned, the evidence is largely anecdotal.
Research in the agricultural field lends support to the potential for color as a therapy in humans as the following examples show:

1. In 1997 researchers at the School of Agriculture and Forest Science at the University of Wales, UK used red and blue light to establish whether these would increase activity and reduce locomotion disorders in meat chickens. They showed that in 108 chicks walking, standing, aggression and wing stretching all increased in intensity when reared from day 1-35 in red light. Where blue light was used, there was a high incidence of gait abnormalities. Prayitno DS., Phillips CJ and Stokes DK. 1997. The effects of color and intensity of light on behaviour and leg disorders in broiler chickens. Poultry Science 76(12): 1674-81.

2. Michael Kasperbauer, a researcher at the US Agricultural Research Service Center in Florence, South Carolina, showed that using red plastic sheeting under tomato and cotton plants produced a 15-20% higher yield than plants grown over traditional black or clear plastic. Also turnips grown under blue plastic had an improved flavour when compared with those grown under green sheets. Analysis of those grown under the blue plastic revealed that they had higher concentrations of glucocinolates and vitamin C (glucosinolates being the compounds which give turnips and horseradish their traditional "bite"). Kasperbauer and his team have also investigated the link between color and pest control. Michael Orzolek of Pennsylvania State University proved that aphids and the plant viruses they transmit are generally attracted to yellow and repelled by red and blue. This finding echoes the work of Babbitt a century earlier when he wrote "The electrical colors which are transmitted by blue glass often destroy the insects which feed upon plants." Boyce N. Rainbow Growing. New Scientist. 24 October 1998.

Future research could focus on the clinical efficacy of color therapy and, the neurobiological mechanism of action. Extensive anecdotal evidence of the value of color therapy in the treatment of countless physical disorders over many decades deserves to be revisited. However, this evidence needs to be subjected to rigorous scientific research in order to establish (or otherwise) a sound basis for color therapy. Developing instruments for applying color could provide a commercial incentive for clinical trials.
A major resource for researchers is the Faber Birren Collection Of Books on Color which was presented to Yale University in 1971. Faber Birren (1900-1988) was a leading authority on color and the collection's holdings are the most extensive to be found anywhere. A complete online bibliography can be found at the Yale University Library website.
from the chapter on Color Therapy by Therese M Donnelly in the Clinician's Complete Reference to Complementary & Alternative Medicine by Donald W Novey MD, published by Mosby, 2000.

The practical application of a specific colour for a bodily condition requires common sense and experimentation. Generally, dis-harmony that produces a cold, wet condition requires red. Conditions of a hot, thermal nature require blue to calm and effect a stabilization of the subtle body in question. Therefore, contra-indicated to any red condition is the use of a red colour application such as with sunstroke. The use of red will aggravate the problem. The same is true of any blue condition; ie, contra-indicated for colds or pneumonia is the use of cold blue.
Some color therapists believe colours contain energy vibrations with healing properties. Exposure to a color and its vibrations can be used to assist the body's natural healing and recuperative powers to achieve and maintain health and well-being.
The are seven natural colours in the visible light spectrum (rainbow): red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Each color vibrates at its own individual frequency. In Color Therapy each color corresponds to one of the seven chakras (energy centres in the body), which in turn can influence a specific gland, organ, or tissue of the body. for example, the color red, which corresponds to the root or base chakra, can be used for problems with the adrenal glands, kidneys, and bladder. The color rays may be in the visible or invisible spectrum and can be administered through colored lights or applied mentally through suggestion.

RED
Red is called "The Great Energizer" and "The Father of Vitality." Red is warm, vital, heating. It loosens, opens up clogs, releases stiffness and constrictions. It is excellent for areas that have become stiffened or constricted.

RED is the first visible colour we see after the infra-red band is passed. Red is thermal, heating, warming, yang and positive. It has many tendencies including the promotion of cellular growth and activity, stimulating the Will aspect, corresponding to our life force, or the circulatory system. It is therefore indicated for all colds, sluggish or dormant conditions, such as pneumonia, bursitis, paralysis, arthritis, anaemia, as a liver stimulant, an energy builder, for raising the blood pressure and increasing circulation
Red is called "The Great Energizer" and "The Father of Vitality." Red is warm, vital, heating. It loosens, opens up clogs, releases stiffness and constrictions. It is excellent for areas that have become stiffened or constricted.

Red links with and stimulates the root chakra, at the base of the spine, causing the adrenal glands to release adrenalin. This results in greater strength. Red causes hemoglobin to multiply, thus increasing energy and raising body temperature. It is excellent for anemia and blood-related conditions.

RED VITALITY, COURAGE, SELF CONFIDENCE
Use when you need to meet a demanding day, or when you feel drained of energy. The colour red provides the power from the earth and gives energy on all levels. It connects us to our physical body. Everything that is to be commenced needs the life vitality of red.

ORANGE
Orange in the true color of the sun. Orange has a freeing action upon the body and mind, relieving repressions.

Because orange is a blend of red and yellow, it combines physical energy with mental wisdom, inducing a transformation between lower physical reaction and higher mental response. Thus, it is often referred to as "The Wisdom Ray."

Orange is warm, cheering, non-constricting. Through orange, we are able to heal the physical body (red) and, at the same time, induce within the mind (yellow) greater understanding on how the body may be kept in good repair. Orange helps assimilate new ideas and stimulate mental enlightenment. It is also helpful in dealing with excess sexual expression.

Orange in the true color of the sun. Orange has a freeing action upon the body and mind, relieving repressions.
Because orange is a blend of red and yellow, it combines physical energy with mental wisdom, inducing a transformation between lower physical reaction and higher mental response. Thus, it is often referred to as "The Wisdom Ray."
ORANGE - joy and constructivity - animates like red, although different cures are effected by this ray. Included are inflammation of the kidneys, gallstones, prolapses, menstrual cramps, epilepsy, wet cough and all sinus conditions.
Orange is warm, cheering, non-constricting. Through orange, we are able to heal the physical body (red) and, at the same time, induce within the mind (yellow) greater understanding on how the body may be kept in good repair. Orange helps assimilate new ideas and stimulate mental enlightenment. It is also helpful in dealing with excess sexual expression.
ORANGE HAPPINESS, CONFIDENCE, RESOURCEFULNESS
Brings joy to our workday and strengthens our appetite for life! Orange is the best emotional stimulant. It connects us to our senses and helps to remove inhibitions and makes us independent and social.

YELLOW
Yellow helps strengthen the nerves and the mind. It helps awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality. Thus, it is an excellent color for nervous or nerve-related conditions or ailments.

Yellow links with and stimulates the solar plexus, or psychic center. It can be used for psychic burnout or other psychic-related conditions or ailments.

Yellow can be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines. It helps the pores of the skin and aids scarred tissue in healing itself. It also has a very enriching effect upon the intellect and the brain.

YELLOW is stimulating to the nervous system and the intellect. These rays have an alkalizing effect which strengthens the nerves, and are awakening, inspiring and vitally stimulating to the higher mind or manas, aiding self-control. Typical diseases treated by yellow are constipation, gas, liver troubles, diabetes, eczema and skin troubles, leprosy and nervous exhaustion.
YELLOW helps strengthen the nerves and the mind. It helps awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality. Thus, it is an excellent color for nervous or nerve-related conditions or ailments.
Yellow links with and stimulates the solar plexus, or psychic center. It can be used for psychic burnout or other psychic-related conditions or ailments.
Yellow can be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines. It helps the pores of the skin and aids scarred tissue in healing itself. It also has a very enriching effect upon the intellect and the brain.
Like the color of gold, yellow represents the highest of the physical colors. "Worth its weight in gold" applies to yellow.
YELLOW WISDOM, CLARITY, SELF-ESTEEM
Gives us clarity of thought, increases awareness, and stimulates interest and curiosity. Yellow energy is related to the ability to perceive and understand. The yellow energy connects us to our mental self.

GREEN
Most people associate blue with healing. However, green is the universal healing color. The ancient Egyptians and Chinese used green as the primary color of healing. Why is that? Because green is midway in the color spectrum; therefore, it contains both a physical nature and a spiritual nature, in equal balance and in equal harmony. Thus, green can be used for just about any condition in need of healing. When in doubt, green will always work.

Green is the color of Nature and the earth. It is balance and harmony in essence and possesses a soothing influence upon both mind and body. It is neither relaxing nor astringent in its impact.
In a more practical sense, green affects blood pressure and all conditions of the heart. It has both an energizing effect and a moderating or soothing effect.
GREEN BALANCE, LOVE, SELF CONTROL
GREEN is the colour of balance, harmony, nature, neutrality and of non-resistance. It was the colour of the first system from which we evolved and remains with us to this day as the calming, peaceful green of spring and nature. Green corresponds to the heart center on the physical plane and heals many illnesses of this nature, specifically including heart troubles, decreasing and stabilizing blood-pressure, ulcers, cancer, headaches, nervous disorders and influenza, and acts as a general tonic.

Helps relax muscles, nerves, and thoughts. Cleanses and balances our energy, to give a feeling of renewal, peace and harmony. Green connects us to unconditional love and is used for balancing our whole being.

Green is the color of Nature and the earth. It is balance and harmony in essence and possesses a soothing influence upon both mind and body. It is neither relaxing nor astringent in its impact.

In a more practical sense, green affects blood pressure and all conditions of the heart. It has both an energizing effect and a moderating or soothing effect.

BLUE
Dr. Edwin Babbitt, in his classic, "The Principles of Light and Color," states that "The Blue Ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world."

Blue is cooling, electric, astringent. It helps bleeding, decreases fevers, and cures soar throats. Blue can have a sedative effect, as expressed in the remark of "feeling blue." It is a very positive color, indicating loyalty and reliability, as expressed in the sentiment of being "true blue."

BLUE, on the other hand, is at the opposite end of the visible spectrum and is electric, cooling, yin and negative. Dr Babbitt has called blue one of the greatest antiseptics in the world. Blue light will stop bleeding of the lungs, decrease fevers, cure sore throats, give relief to most inflammations of the skin and gums, and can be used with infants for pain while teething. Blue is also used for goitre, measles, chickenpox, cuts, bruises and burns. Relaxing, soothing blue rays will also bring great calm and peace to the mind that is worried, excited, or in a constant nervous state. More diseases are treated by blue light than by any other colour, which is not surprising considering that cosmic fire in our system is clear cold blue.
Dr. Edwin Babbitt, in his classic, "The Principles of Light and Color," states that "The Blue Ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world."

Blue is cooling, electric, astringent. It helps bleeding, decreases fevers, and cures soar throats. Blue can have a sedative effect, as expressed in the remark of "feeling blue." It is a very positive color, indicating loyalty and reliability, as expressed in the sentiment of being "true blue."

Blue links with and stimulates the throat chakra. The throat chakra is often referenced as the "power center" and "the greatest center in the body" because it is the primary center of expression and communication, through speech. Thus, the effect of blue upon this center and the aura, in general, is quite profound.

Blue can be used for any type of ailments associated with speech, communication, or the throat. Solarized blue water is an excellent tonic for laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx.

BLUE KNOWLEDGE, HEALTH, DECISIVENESS
This is a mentally-relaxing colour. Blue has a pacifying effect on the nervous system and brings great relaxation. Ideal for sleep problems, and hyper-active children. Connects us to holistic thought, and gives us wisdom and clarity enhancing communication and speech.

Blue can be used for any type of ailments associated with speech, communication, or the throat. Solarized blue water is an excellent tonic for laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx.

INDIGO
Indigo is a great purifier of the bloodstream and also benefits mental problems. It is a freeing and purifying agent.

Indigo combines the deep blue of devotion with a trace of stabilizing and objective red. Indigo is cool, electric, and astringent. It is, also, the color ray used by Spirit to help entrance a medium.

INDIGO
Indigo is a great purifier of the bloodstream and also benefits mental problems. It is a freeing and purifying agent.
INDIGO, as previously stated, is the colour of our solar system. It has been particularly beneficial in treating cataracts, glaucoma and various eye problems. Other uses of indigo include purification of the blood and of the mind. Ear and nose complaints, diseases of the lungs, asthma, infantile convulsions and mental complaints may be remedied through the use of indigo.

Indigo combines the deep blue of devotion with a trace of stabilizing and objective red. Indigo is cool, electric, and astringent. It is, also, the color ray used by Spirit to help entrance a medium.

Indigo links with and stimulates the brow chakra (third eye) and controls the pineal gland. It governs both physical and spiritual (not psychic) perception; that is, clairvoyance, clairaudience, and clairsentience. Thus, it can be of great assistance in dealing with ailments of the eyes and ears, as well as assisting in problems or conditions related to mediumship.

Finally, indigo is considered the ray of the Holy Spirit.

INDIGO INTUITION, MYSTICISM, UNDERSTANDING
The indigo energy connects us to our unconscious self, and gives us the experience of being part of the whole universe. Strengthens intuition, imagination, psychic powers, and increases dream activity.

VIOLET
Violet is truly the color of the divine Spirit. Violet works only on the levels of the Spirit. It is generally not used for physical conditions; however, some color experts believe that it does provide nourishment to the cells in the upper brain and does have a link with the crown chakra. Furthermore, it helps expand the horizons of our Divine understanding.

Violet should be used only for spiritually-related problems.

Leonardo da Vinci proclaimed that you can increase the power of meditation ten-fold by meditating under the gentle rays of Violet, as found in Church windows.

VIOLET is the last colour we can see before light passes on to ultra-violet. This colour is an excellent remedy for neurosis, diseases of the scalp, sciatica, tumors, rheumatism, cerebro-spinal meningitis, concussion, cramps and epilepsy. Violet animates and cleans the venous blood. Esoterically violet is white and synthesizes all form manifestation.

Violet is truly the color of the divine Spirit. Violet works only on the levels of the Spirit. It is generally not used for physical conditions; however, some color experts believe that it does provide nourishment to the cells in the upper brain and does have a link with the crown chakra. Furthermore, it helps expand the horizons of our Divine understanding.
Violet should be used only for spiritually-related problems.
Leonardo da Vinci proclaimed that you can increase the power of meditation ten-fold by meditating under the gentle rays of Violet, as found in Church windows.

VIOLET BEAUTY, CREATIVITY, INSPIRATION
Purifies our thoughts and feelings giving us inspiration in all undertakings. The violet energy connects us to our spiritual self bringing guidance, wisdom and inner strength. Enhances artistic talent and creativity.

WHITE
White is the perfect color; for it is all color, in perfect balance and harmony. It is the color of the awakened Spirit; the light of perfection; the light of the Christ and Buddhic consciousness. It is also the Divine Light.

Just about everyone has heard of surrounding people with the "White Light of Healing and Protection." Directing white into the aura helps stimulate the person's own divine nature into healing the self.

Recycled information provided by www.alteredstates.net

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Our Organic Garden

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 22:13:00 +0000

Biomass

Biomass refers to living and recently dead biological material which can be used as fuel or for industrial production. Most commonly, biomass refers to plant matter grown for use as biofuel, but it also includes plant or animal matter used for production of fibres, chemicals or heat. Biomass may also include biodegradable wastes that can be burnt as fuel. It excludes organic material which has been transformed by geological processes into substances such as coal or petroleum. It is usually measured by dry weight, and is the total mass of living matter.

The term biomass is useful for plants, where some internal structures may not always be considered living tissue, such as the wood (secondary xylem) of a tree. This biomass became produced from plants that convert sunlight into plant material through photosynthesis.

Sources of biomass energy lead to agricultural crop residues, energy plantations, and municipal and industrial wastes.

Biomass is grown from several plants, including miscanthus, switchgrass, hemp, corn, poplar, willow and sugarcane.[1] The particular plant used is usually not very important to the end products, but it does affect the processing of the raw material. Production of biomass is a growing industry as interest in sustainable fuel sources is growing.[citation needed]

Though biomass is a renewable fuel, and is sometimes called a "carbon neutral" fuel, its use can still contribute to global warming. This happens when the natural carbon equilibrium is disturbed; for example by deforestation or urbanization of green sites. These activities are termed "carbon leakage".

Biomass is part of the carbon cycle. Carbon from the atmosphere is converted into biological matter by photosynthesis. On decay or combustion the carbon goes back into the atmosphere or soil. This happens over a relatively short timescale and plant matter used as a fuel can be constantly replaced by planting for new growth. Therefore a reasonably stable level of atmospheric carbon results from its use as a fuel. It is commonly accepted that the amount of carbon stored in biomass is approximately 50% of the biomass by weight.[2]

Despite harvesting, biomass crops may sequester (trap) carbon. So for example soil organic carbon has been observed to be greater in switchgrass stands than in cultivated cropland soil, especially at depths below 12 inches.[3] The grass sequesters the carbon in its increased root biomass. But the perennial grass may need to be allowed to grow for several years before increases are measurable.[4]

Although fossil fuels have their origin in ancient biomass, they are not considered biomass by the generally accepted definition because they contain carbon that has been "out" of the carbon cycle for a very long time. Their combustion therefore disturbs the carbon dioxide content in the atmosphere.

Other uses of biomass, besides fuel:

Building materials
Biodegradable plastics and paper (using cellulose fibres)
In a few decades the fossil energy sources like oil and coal we use nowadays will be exhausted.
To avoid this we either must change our lifestyle and the habit of wasting energy or we have to find other ways to get energy without exploiting the earth.
One way of doing this is getting energy from biomass with the following advantages.

Biomass is very abundant. It can be found on every square meter of the earth as seaweed, trees or dung.

It is easy to convert to a high energy portable fuel such as alcohol or gas.

It is cheap in contrast to the other energy sources.

Biomass production can often mean the restauration of waste land (e.g. deforested areas).

It may also use areas of unused agricultural land and provide jobs in rural communities.

If it is produced on a renewable basis using biomass energy does not result in a net cabon dioxide increase as plants absorb it when they grow.

It is very low in sulphur reducing the production of acid rain.

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The Religion of Love <3

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sun, 14 Oct 2007 09:50:00 +0000

Namaste Lights of the World!

We hope are all well in Mind, Body and Soul. We are delighted that you have come to share this sacred space with us. It seems October is a rather festive month for all religions of the world. So MOP would like to wish you all joy, positivity, light and love during these auspicious days.

We thought the following quote would be appropriate to share with you all:

There is only one religion
the religion of love
There is only one language
the language of the heart
There is only one caste
the caste of humanity
There is only one God, and
he is omnipresent.

Quote By: Shri Sathya Sai Baba
Image provided Australian EJournal of Theory.

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SPECIAL BLOG NEWS

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 17:22:00 +0000

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Global Warming 101

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 16:52:00 +0000

Eco-Friendly Products,

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:43:00 +0000

Rumi

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sun, 07 Oct 2007 21:36:00 +0000

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FOOD AND HEALTH

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 21:30:00 +0000

Every activity of man is dependent on the energy he derives from the intake of food. The spiritual sadhanas he ventures upon depends on the quantity and quality of the food taken by the sadhak, even during the preliminary preparations recommended by Patanjali. The most external of the five sheaths that enclose the Atmic core, namely the Annamaya Kosa, has impact on all the remaining four - the Pranamaya, the Manomaya, the Vijnanamaya and the Anandamaya. The Annamaya Kosa is the sheath consisting of the material flesh and bone, built by the food that is consumed by the individual.

Food is generally looked down upon by ascetically minded sadhaks and seekers and treated as some thing which does not deserve attention. But since the body and the mind are mightily interdependent, no one can afford to neglect it. As the food, so the mind; as the mind, so the thought; as the thought, so the act. Food is an important factor which determines the alertness and sloth, the worry and calm, the brightness and dullness. The scriptures classify food as sathwic, rajasic and thamasic and relate these three types to the three mental modes (gunas ) of the same names.

Man is the only living being who dislikes raw food found in the natural state. All other animals eat things as they are - grain, grass, leaves, shoots, fruits. Man boils, fries, melts, mixes and adopts various methods of cooking in order to satisfy the cravings of the tongue, the eye and the nose. As a consequence, the food value of these articles is either reduced or destroyed. When the seeds are fried, they do not sprout; that is clear proof that the 'life force' is eliminated. Therefore, uncooked raw pulse just sprouting, is to be preferred. Also nuts and fruits. The coconut, offered to the gods, is a sathwic food, having a good percentage of protein besides fat, starch and minerals. Food having too much salt or pepper is rajasic and should be avoided; so also too much fat and starch, which are thamasic in their effects on the body.

An intake of too much food is also harmful. Simply because tasty food is available and is being offered, one is tempted to over-eat. We have air all around us but we do not breathe in more than we need. The lake is full but we drink only as much as the thirst craves for. But overeating has become a social evil, a fashionable habit. The stomach cries out, 'Enough', but the tongue insists on more, and man becomes the helpless target to disease. He suffers from corpulence, high blood pressure and diabetes. Moderate food is the best medicine to avoid bodily ills. Do not rush to the hospital for every little upset. Too much drugging is also bad. Allow nature full scope to fight the disease and set you right. Adopt more and more the principles of naturopathy, and give up running around for doctors.

The type of food that you consume decides the degree of concentration you can command; its quality and quantity decide how much your self-control is lessened or heightened. Polluted air and water are full of maleficent viruses and germs and have to be avoided at all costs. There are four pollutions against which man has to be vigilant - of the body (removable by water); of the mind (removable by truthfulness), of reason (removable by correct knowledge) and of the self (removable by yearning for God) . Vaidya Narayano Harih, the Sruthis declare. God is the doctor. Seek Him, rely on Him, you will be free from Dis-ease.

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Where Is the Compassion?

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 21:16:00 +0000

1)Chickens, Brazil, © Martin Usborne / CIWF.
For their short 40-day lives chickens are confined to a crowded shed. Their eyes may sting with ammonia from the faeces they stand in. Growing faster than their young hearts and lungs can cope with, many become lame and shuffle painfully, panting in the heat.

2)Cows at a goshala, India, © Amit Pasricha / CIWF.
Worn out and abandoned cows at a goshala (cow shelter or sanctuary).

Images and related information provided by www.CIWF.CO.UK

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Mahatma Gandhi Talks

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Tue, 02 Oct 2007 22:09:00 +0000

Gandhi Jayanti - Oct 2n- Observence of International Day of Non Violence/ Ahimsa

Salutations To Our Mother Earth

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 22:39:00 +0000

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Wrinkle FREE!

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 20:16:00 +0000

Avocados: Loaded with Vitamin E, that rejuvenates the skin, they also contain antioxidants that get rid of toxic build-up and have a softening, smoothening effect on your skin. Eat them raw or make dips that go well with party snacks.

Almonds and other nuts/seeds: Make it a habit to pop a handful of nuts and seeds everyday. You can take your pick from walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, macadamia, pistachio nuts, all of which are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids that give your skin its lustre.

Aloe Vera: Get rid of your wrinkles with this natural alternative to Botox. It increases collagen production and keeps skin young looking and plump. Eat it fresh (scrape only the inside gel) or mix with fruits. The perfect combo.

Barley: Whether you eat it for breakfast or as a thickening agent for your soups, it's one cereal that's a must-have because not only is it high in fibre, but also helps metabolise fats, cholesterol and carbohydrates.

Beans and lentils: Stock your kitchen larder with chickpeas, soybeans, peas and different kinds of lentils. They will help you cut cholesterol and fill up on antioxidants, folic acid and potassium.

Chillies / bell peppers: The spicier, the better! Not only do they contain anti-oxidants, but are rich in Vitamin C and can burn fat reserves. So you can do without strenuous exercises and instead sweat it out on the dining table!

Garlic and onions: Yes, they smell, but the benefits are many such as helping the liver eliminate toxins and carcinogens. And besides, they add a lot of flavour to healthy pastas and soups.

Sprouts: Eat them as salads with your meals or make pastes/dips out of them and team with a plateful of raw veggies. They're a great source of protein and Vitamin C and works at developing your immune system.

Wheat grass: If you don't know where to buy it everyday, just grow a potted plant on your windowsill. Drink one glass of wheat grass juice daily or powder it and add to rotis. They have greater levels of nutrients than green leafy vegetables and also help cholesterol, blood pressure and develop immunity.

Yoghurt: Bacteria that are good for you are what creamy yoghurt contains and the calcium can help in maintaining a svelte figure. Make shakes, eat straight from the pack or add to curries, it's high on taste too.

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Healing Music

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 19:49:00 +0000

Healing Yourself with Sound

Sound healing has been known since ancient times as one of the simplest and most effective ways to bring balance and calm to your entire being. This wonderful excerpt gives step-by-step instructions for making a series of sounds that can align your body, mind, and spirit. No fancy equipment or expensive ingredients are needed here, just you and your voice.
Even if you can’t carry a tune in a paper bag, this method can make you feel better, clearer, and calmer in just a few minutes.

SIMPLE SOLUTION: "Chakras" are energy centers located along the center of the body that correspond to major glandular systems.
All sounds should be made softly and gently, for no more than five minutes each.

1. Begin with an “UH” sound (as in the word “huh”) that is the very deepest sound you can make. Focus your attention on the base chakra, located at the base of the spine. If you would like to add a color visualization to this exercise, use the color red. The sound you make can be very soft and gentle. It does not have to be loud. Close your eyes while you are making this sound. Become aware of where the sound is resonating in your body. The sound will always resonate in your throat, but become aware of where else that sound is resonating. Now visualize the sound resonating at the base of your spine and in your reproductive area. Feel the sound vibrating the area and, as it does, become aware that the energy center associated with that area is also resonating, becoming balanced and aligned. Make this “UH” sound for a minute or two, or however long you feel comfortable. We suggest that you do this for no more than five minutes.

2. Now focus your attention on the second chakra, located about three inches below the navel. The vowel sound for this chakra is “OOO” (as in the word “you”). A color that will compliment a visualization for this sound is orange. Begin to tone an “OOO” sound, making it a little less deep and a bit higher in pitch than the last sound. Close your eyes and become aware of where the sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on the second chakra and project the sound there. Experience this energy center balancing and aligning with the other charkas. Make this “OOO” sound for a minute or two.

3. The sound for the navel chakra, located at the navel area and several inches above, is “OH” (as in the word “go”). Yellow will compliment your visualization. Begin to tone a very soft and gentle “OH” sound, that is beginning to fall in the mid range of your voice. This sound should be higher than the last sound. Become aware of where that sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on the navel and solar plexus area and focus the sound there. As the sound resonates this area, experience this energy center balancing and aligning with the other chakras.

4. The vowel sound for the heart chakra, located in the middle of the chest, to the right of our physical heart, is “AH” (as in the word “father”). “AH” is often a sound we make when we are in love and the heart chakra is the center associated with love. If you wish to add a color to compliment this sound, use green. Begin to tone a soft and gentle mid-range “AH” sound, higher in pitch than the last sound. Become aware of where the sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on your heart chakra and project the sound there. As you resonate the heart chakra with sound, experience this energy center balancing and aligning with the other chakras.

5. The vowel sound for the throat chakra, located at the throat, is “EYE (as in the word “I”). A color to compliment this sound is blue. Begin to tone a soft and gentle “EYE” sound which is still higher in pitch than the last sounds. Become aware of where the sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on the throat chakra and project sound there. As the sound resonates the throat chakra, experience this energy center balancing and aligning with the other chakras.

6. The vowel sound for the third eye, located in the forehead between the two eyes and slightly above them, is “AYE” (as in the word “say”). A color that works well with this sound is indigo. Begin to tone a soft and gentle “AYE” sound higher in pitch than the last sounds. Close your eyes while making this sound and become aware of where that sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on this chakra and project the sound to that area. As the sound resonates the third eye, experience this energy center aligning and balancing with your other chakras.

7. The vowel sound for the crown chakra, located a the top of the head, is the very highest “EEE” (as in the word “me”) sound that you can create. A color that is used here is purple. Begin to tone the highest “EEE” sound that it is possible for you to make. Make this sound soft and gentle. Close your eyes and become aware of where that sound is resonating in your body. Now focus your attention on your crown center, and begin to project sound there. As the sound resonates the crown chakra, experience this energy center balancing ad aligning with the other chakras.

At the completion of this exercise, you may feel light-headed. We suggest you sit in a state of meditation and enjoy this experience. Are there any images or thoughts which are coming to you in this state? Take adequate time when you have completed this exercise for processing the experience you have had with sounding the charkas in this manner. What did you feel like before you began this exercise? What do you feel like now that you have completed it? If you wish to ground the energy that you have moved up from the root chakra to the crown chakra, tone the deepest “UH” sound you can make.

Free Tips For Using Music for Transformation
& Healing.

These helpful free tips show how to listen to music for transformation and healing. This free information reveals secrets to support recovery, meditation and spiritual growth through music healing. All music can be healing especially when it is played in sequence using the entrainment principle.

The following information gives you guidelines on creating your own healing music sequence, even if you do not play an instrument! However, for your convenience, you may wish to use music that has already been created for this purpose.

1 Select Appropriate Music.
Most of us choose music that we “like” but will this give us the best results? In fact, often the music we are least attracted to will have the greatest benefit (when played in the right sequence). Let’s say you are very angry. So your first instinct is to put on some really angry music. Does it really help, or does it kind of perpetuate how you feel? Yet, on the other hand if you play some light and happy music, by comparison to how you are currently feeling, it will probably make you feel angrier! As you see, selecting music is not a simple one-shot process.

2 Consider Music Sequencing.
Sometimes it is necessary to first choose music that totally matches your current mood rather than the mood you wish to acquire. Consider arranging a series of different musical compositions in sequence that are customized just for your needs. For example, if you are dealing with depression, select a composition which represents depression in its extreme form, to you. Follow this with one that is only mildly depressing. Then select a neutral composition, and end with a composition which is clearly uplifting and motivating. Listening to music in a sequence like this allows for your current stress level or mood to be first honored and then to be gradually transformed.

3 Speakers Are Ideal.
It is ideal to listen to the music through speakers rather than headphones so that the cells of the body themselves may “listen” to the sound.

4 Prepare Yourself to Listen.
Take off your shoes. Stand relaxed, sit or lie down and breathe.

5 Listen All the Way Through.
It is preferable to listen to the musical composition all the way through, without interruption. This allows for the optimum response to the transformation process.

6 Foreground, Not Background.
We all have the tendency to use music for the background of other activities. Try developing the technique of just listening to the music, not doing anything else. This way, you will get the best benefit.

7 Your Response is What is Important.
It is through your response that the emotional/cellular memory may be released. Do not think that you have to just stay still and concentrate on the music! In fact, if the music inspires you to get up and do something or your mind begins to wander, allow, allow, allow! Allow all responses without judgment. On the other hand, do not begin listening to the music while you are already doing other unrelated activities. The important thing is to let the music embrace you totally.

8 Listen Actively, Not Passively.
Allow the music to reach your inner feeling, and respond freely to it. Everyone has a different manner of expression. You may experience visual images, thoughts, movement, an intensification of emotion, physical vibrations, sleep, or nothing at all.

9 Observe Mind/Body Connection.
A lot of research has been done recently showing that there is a definite connection between the mind and the body. (Actually this refers to the emotions too but it sounds succinct to say “mind/body.”) Even though music healing is often related to relaxation and emotional issues, there is the likelihood that this indirectly could have a benefit on physical illnesses as well.

10 Enjoy the Silence!
When the music stops, it is suggested that you bask in the silence for many moments. This will help integrate the feelings.

Tips provided By Howard Richman & Healing Yourself with Sound - Adapted from Healing Sounds by Jonathan Goldman (Inner Traditions, 2002).

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Burmese riot police attack monks

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 01:20:00 +0000

This is totally insane! Shown here, a shot uploaded to Flickr yesterday by "gmhembree" -- "A monk bleeds from his head where he was beaten during the clash with police. This is on U Thaung Po road, east of Shwedagon." More photos here, and a search for "Burma" plus "monk" yields more.

Go to the BBC website to read more about what's going on.

Om Shanti, Om Shanti

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Myanmar government imposes curfews against Buddhist Monks

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:09:00 +0000

The military government banned assemblies of more than five people and imposed curfews in Myanmar's two largest cities on Tuesday, after thousands of Buddhist monks and sympathizers defied orders to stay out of politics and protested once again.

Read the full article here

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Mantra, Chanting and Positive Affirmations

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 18:14:00 +0000

Many people in today's rushed Western society have taken up the practice of repeating mantras or positive affirmations as part of an effort to focus the mind, to meditate or to calm and destress themselves. Chanting is the process of repeating a mantra or positive affirmation either aloud or silently, with the number of times being dependent on the time or the tool used (mala, rosary, etc). Chanting can be quite beneficial during meditation, while driving, washing dishes or other tasks that don't require constant focus or if one finds oneself in a situation where emotion is quickly leaving joy and happiness for anger or sadness.

There lies a perceived difference among people between mantra and positive affirmation. A mantra is a religious or mystical syllable or poem, typically from the Sanskrit language, and varies according to the school and philosophy associated with the mantra. A positive affirmation is a word or phrase that evokes a positive state in a person, such as the word "love" or "peace" or the sentance "I am strong and beautiful".

Beyond being sacred sounds and having millenia of strength of use behind them, Sanskrit (or Buddhist, etc) mantras also have the benefit of being foreign, thus they normally do not have a negative belief already attached to them.

For instance, if one is using "I am divine" as a positive affirmation that phrase, repeated long enough, will "re-wire" the brain and the sub-conscious will begin to believe it - it will become truth. But if one's subconscious, or subjective mind, hears "I am divine" and starts to go off on a tangent about how I cannot be divine because I yelled today and I'm always yelling, etc, etc, then the phrase has negative beliefs deeply ingrained and will, in essence, backfire on the user.

One often has little idea how deeply ingrained or hidden negative beliefs are, so using a Sanskrit mantra like "Om Namah Shivaya", meaning I bow with respect to the divine (in me and in the universe), can often be more beneficial as it does not have any negative beliefs attached to it. But the bottom line remains: use what you feel works the best for you. Experiment with both during meditation or while driving and see what resonates with you. Once you find the phrase that works best it will become a valuable tool for you to find your way to inner joy and happiness - santosha.

Mantra History
Mantra is from the sanskrit root "man"- to think, and "tra"- to liberate; thus, to liberate from thought. Mantras are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that instill one-pointed concentration in a person. Mantras originated in the Vedic religion of India, later becoming an essential part of the Hindu tradition and a customary practice within Buddhism, Sikhism and Jainism. The use of mantras is now widespread throughout various spiritual movements which are based on, or off-shoots of, the practices in the earlier Eastern religions.

Mantras have two components of primary importance - Meaning and Sound. First is the actual meaning of the word or words and the second is the effective sound (vibration).

Aum: The most basic mantra is Aum (or Om), which in Hinduism is known as the "pranava mantra," the source of all mantras and the first sound/vibration created, as the universe is sound. For this reason, Aum is considered to be the most fundamental and powerful mantra, and thus is prefixed and suffixed to all Hindu prayers. While some mantras may invoke individual Gods or principles, the most fundamental mantras, like Aum, ultimately focus on the One reality. A very common mantra is formed by taking a deity's name. Called Nama japa and saluting it in such a manner: "Aum namah ------" or "Aum Jai (Hail!) ------" or several such permutations. One of the most common is Aum namah Shivaya (Aum I bow to Lord Shiva, considered to be the One Holy Diety / God).

Mantra Japa means repetition of mantra, and has become an established practice. It involves repetition of a mantra over and over again, usually in cycles of auspicious numbers (in multiples of three), the most popular being 108. For this reason, Hindu malas (bead necklaces) developed, containing 108 beads and a head bead (sometimes referred to as the 'meru', or 'guru' bead). One performing japa using his/her fingers counts each bead as he/she repeats the chosen mantra. Having reached 108 repetitions, if he/she wishes to continue another cycle of mantras, one must turn the mala around without crossing the head bead and repeat.

It is said that through japa one attains one-pointedness, or extreme focus, on the chosen deity or principal idea of the mantra. The vibrations and sounds of the mantra are considered extremely important, and thus reverberations of the sound are supposed to awaken the prana (chi or spiritual life force) and even stimulate chakras (energy centers within the body) according to many Hindu schools of thought.

History of Mantra in Other Traditions
Transcendental Meditation, also known simply as 'TM', uses what the group refers to as 'simple mantras' - as a meditative focus. They believe the practice can result in a number of material benefits such as relaxation, reduced stress, better health, better self image; but it can also benefit the world by reducing violence and crime, and generally improve quality of life. The founder was well versed in Hindu tradition, but TM attempts to separate itself from that tradition these days. Simple two-syllable mantras are used.

Mantra practice has also been enthusiastically taken up by various New Age groups and individuals, although this is typically out of context, and from the point of view of a genuine Hindu or Buddhist practitioner lacks depth. The mere repetition of syllables can have a calming effect on the mind, but the traditionalist would argue that mantra can be an effective way of changing the level of one's consciousness when approached in traditional way.

Some forms of Jewish meditation use mantras, although they do not call them by that name. Hasidic Jews sing phrases from the Hebrew Bible over and over, in a form of rhythmic chant, often accompanied by drumming on the table. They also use wordless sacred meditation tunes called niggunim, which are revealed through the higher consciousness of the Rebbes (Hasidic leaders). This practice is done to achieve deveikut which means "cleaving (holding on) to God."

In the Islamic Sufi tradition, chants of the 99 Names of Allah are popular invocations of attributes as are the names of the Prophet.

In Christianity, repetitive prayer using prayer beads such as a rosary includes well known mantras such as the Our Father and Hail Mary. A form of Christian meditation was taught by Dom John Main that involves the silent repetition of a mantra.

Mantra history information excerpted from Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia.

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The world is an illusion

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:07:00 +0000

Your eyes vs your brain...
If your brain works.. this will be neat !
This is another example of an amazing illusion!!! The last sentence is so true.

If your eyes follow the movement of the rotating pink dot, the dots will remain only one color, pink.

However if you stare at the black " + " in the center, the moving dot turns to green.

Now, concentrate on the black " + " in the center of the picture. After a short period, all the pink dots will slowly disappear, and you will only see only a single green dot rotating.

It's amazing how our brain works. There really is no green dot , and the pink ones really don't disappear. This should be proof enough, we don't always see what we think we see. ? ?

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Spread The Love

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:01:00 +0000

Let It Flow
Be Here Now

Love Yourself & One Another

Breathe deep and put the mind to rest...

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The Religion Of Love

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 12:29:00 +0000

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Yoga By Swami Ramdev

noreply@blogger.com (Mind Of Peace) — Sat, 22 Sep 2007 21:00:00 +0000

Swami Ramdev was born as Ramkishan Yadav in Alipur, Mahendragarh district of Indian state of Haryana. He attended school through the 8th grade in Shahjadpur. Thereafter, he joined a yogic monastery (gurukul) in Khanpur village to study Sanskrit and Yoga. Eventually, he renounced worldly life and entered into Sanyas (monastic living) - taking the name Swami Ramdev.

Then he went to Jind district and joined the Kalva gurukul and later imparted free Yoga training to villagers across Haryana. It is said that he travelled the Himalayas for several years before he settled in Haridwar. He discovered several medicinal plants in the Himalayas which he uses in treating his patients. Swami Ramdev started relentless efforts to popularise Yoga in 1995 with the establishment of Divya Yoga Mandir Trust, along with Acharya Karamveer and Acharya Balkrishna.

Swami Ramdev has taught several aspects of traditional Indian scriptures such as Ashtadhyayee, Mahabhashya and Upanishads along with six systems of Indian Philosophy in various Gurukuls (traditional Indian systems of education). He has helped establish Gurukuls in Kishangarh, Ghashera, and Mahendragarh in India. He has also founded the Patanjali Yogpeeth Trust which has built several institutions. In addition to helping people learn about Yoga and spirituality, these institutions also provide a comprehensive facility that promotes the practice of Ayurveda - the traditional system of holistic medicine developed in India.

He teaches Pranayama which is a series of techniques for breath control that were developed as a part of the ancient Indian system of Yoga. Heretofore, these techniques were often thought of as being esoteric and complex and portrayed as being unsuitable for lay people. Consequently, their use was often limited to advanced practitioners of Yoga and undertaken only under the strict supervision of an experienced teacher. Swamiji has worked diligently to break these barriers and help make the practice of Pranayama achievable by the ordinary layperson.

He has devised a set of six simple Pranayama breathing exercises which are as following:-

1. Bhastrika Pranayam
2. Kapal Bhati Pranayam
3. Baharya Pranayam
4. Anulom Vilom Pranayam
5. Bhramri Pranayam
6. Udgeeth Pranayam

Bhastrika Pranayama

Blower in Sankrita is called as Bhastrika. Hence exhalation of breath forcibly and quickly is the main feature of Bhastrika Pranayama. One should inhale and exhale breath like a blower. It is in a way a combination of Kapalbhati and Vjjayi. Among all the Kumbhakaras, this Pranayama is considered the best.

Method

Sit in Padmasana and Siddhasana stretch your head, neck and back. Put your hands in lap or on the knees. Inhale and exhale rapidly your or five times like a blower. Similarily contract and expand the lungs. A peculiar rusting sound will be produced during the practice of this Pranayama. But the performer must practice this Pranayama rapidly and without stopping even once. At the completion of one cycle (Avartana) the performer must inhale breath as deeply as possible and retain it as long as possible. Ultimately exhale as much breath as possible. Thus a cycle (Avartana) of Bhastrika completes. After resting a while, perform another cycle of this Pranayama. Perform three cycles of the Pranayama in a go. If not possible, perform only single cycle. Perform this Pranayama twice-once in morning and evening each in winters, and only once a day in summers.

Duration : 2 mins atleast. 5 mins max.

Benefits

-With the practice of Bhastrika, swelling of the throat is corrected, appetite is kindled and the cough is removed. Diseases of the nose and chest like asthma, tuberculosis etc. are also corrected.

-Diseases caused by imbalance of wind, cough and bile (Vata, Cough and Pitta) are also corrected by this Pranayama.

-If no other means to warm the body is available, it can be heated with the help of this Pranayama.

-Pores of Sushumna nerve are opened by Bhastrika.

Kapal Bhati Pranayama

Kapal is a Sanskrit word that means skull, while Bhati means lighting or glowing. Thus Kapalbhati is such a kind of Pranayama, practicing which the skull begins to glow.

Method

Sit down in Padmasana or Siddhasana. Rest both of your hands on the knees, and close the eyes. Now like the blower of a blacksmith, begin to perform Puraka and Rechaka (inhaling and exhaling of breath). This exercise must be performed laboriously. There is no Kumbhaka or holding of breath stage. Inhalation and exhalation of breath play the all important role. Your nerves will reverberate in this exercise and you will sweat profusely. It is an extremely powerful exercise performing which all of your cells, neurons and nerves vibrate rapidly. In the beginning, exhale only once per second. Increasing your speed slowly then exhale twice per second. Initially practice a cycle of ten exhalations. Increase the number of exhalation slowly.

Duration : Start with 30 times or 1 min. increase upto 5 mins min. upto 10 mins max.

Benefits

Kapalbhati clears your skull, respiratory tract and the sinus.

Destroying the cough that clogs the trachia Kapalbhati leads to the cure of asthma.

By practice of Kapalbhati, air cells in the lungs receive ample amount life giving oxygen, hence germs of diseases like tuberculosis cannot harm them.

Carbon dioxide The gaseous waste of respiration process is exhaled out in large amount thus purifying the blood.

This process also activates the heart and enhance the capacity of the respiratory system, circulation system and digestive system.

Tips : heart and high BP patients, and weak people do it slowly.

Bhramri Pranayam

Procedure : Close ears with thumb, index finger on forehead, and rest three on base of nose touching eyes. Breathe in. And now breathe out through nose while humming like a bee.
Duration : 10 mins
Benefits : tension, hypertension, high BP, heart, heart blockage, paralysis, migraine pain, confidence, concentration

Detailed Procedure

Breathe in till your lungs are full of air. Close your ears with both the thumbs and eyes with the middle fingers of your hands on respective sides with little pressure. Press forehead with both the index fingers lightly. Close both the eyes. Then press eyes and nose bridge from the sides with the remaining fingers. Concentrate your mind on Ajna Chakra (between eye-brows) . Close your mouth. Begin slowly exhaling, making humming sound of a bee, while reciting “OM” mentally. Repeat the exercise 11 to 21 times according to your capacity.

Shiva Sankalpa (Vow) at the time of performing Bhramari Pranayama:
This Pranayama should be done with the thought that your individual consciousness merges with the divine cosmic consciousness. Your mind should be full of the thought that divine bliss is descending on you, that deep divine wisdom fills your entire being. Exercising this Pranayama with such thought will endow you with divine light and you will be able to meditate effortlessly.

Benefits:

With the practice of this Pranayama the mind becomes steady. It is beneficial in conditions like mental tension, agitation, high blood pressure, heart disease etc. It is also useful for meditation.

Baharya Pranayam

Procedure : Breathe air out, touch chin to chest, squeeze stomach completely and hold for a while. then release chin, breathe in slowly.
Duration : 3 times to 5 times normally. max upto 11 times. and extremely max upto 21 times (in winters).
Benefits : stomach(udar), hernia, urinal, uterus
Tips : not for heart and high BP patients

Anulom Vilom Pranayama

It is a yoga breath control technique.

Procedure : Close your eyes. Hold your right nasal with thumb, breathe in from left. Now open right nasal and close left nasal with middle and ring finger and breathe out from right nasal. Now breathe in from right nasal. Now close right nasal and open left and breathe out and in from left nasal and so on.

Duration : At least 5 mins. To get maximum benefits, one should do this pranayama 250-500 times a day.

Benefits : Heart, high BP, heart blockage, vat-cuf-pit, arthritis, cartilage, bent ligaments, sinual fluid reduced, parkinson, paralysis, neural related, depression, migraine pain, asthma, sinus, allergy

Tips : Breathe into lungs not to stomach because no organ in stomach absorbs oxygen. Do not hurry. Do it slowly. Rest whenever needed (in any pranayam).

Udgeeth Pranayam

Procedure : Breathe in deeply, and chant 'Om'kar. OOOOOOm ( long O and small m )
Duration : 10 mins or more
Benefits : meditation

Details

"Omkar Japa" (Muttering the mantra “OM”)

After performance of the six Pranayamas mentioned here above concentrate your mind on the respiration and meditate on the sacred mantra “OM”. God has fashioned the shape of our brows like OM. This body and the universal cosmic body are filled with this mantra. It is not the figure or expression of any individual thing, but it is divine energy, which regulates the entire functioning of the universe. With every act of breathing in and breathing out, mentally go on repeating the mantra “OM”. The speed of respiration should be so slow and subtle that you yourself also may not be aware of its sound, even if a piece of cotton is placed in front of the nostril it should not move by the effect of the air exhaled out. Slowly practice and make the duration of one inhalation and exhalation to one minute. Likewise, try to visualize the breath inside the body. Initially the breath can be felt only in the nostrils but gradually it will be felt deep inside. In this way, visualizing the breath and continuous chanting of ‘OM’ will lead to Dhyana automatically. Your mind will develop a feeling of concentration and your body will be filled with the feeling of OM. The Gayatri Mantra from the Vedas can also be chanted meaningfully along with Pranayama. This way the Sadhaka can attain the joyful stage of Samadhi by going through the various visualizations of god and supreme powers. Also if this is practiced at bedtime, one will get peaceful sleep without any perverted dreams etc.

Information provided by www.yogahealthcare.org

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