Music can heal cancer, says psychiatrist

Hypertension, the pain of cancer and general anxiety - all these have a common healer in music, world renowned psychiatrist Richard Kogan said in Indian capital.

Kogan, himself a concert pianist, said: "Music has unparalleled capacity to reduce pain and anxiety". "For cardiac patients, music can reduce blood pressure. It can also reduce cortisone (a hormone triggered by stress, which can lead to various illnesses) in the human body," Kogan said. He was addressing a session on "The power of music in healing".

Music can also help patients who have difficulties in speech after having suffered strokes, he said, adding: "Music can also help unlock memories". Giving the example of German composer Ludwig van Beethoven, Kogan said the master pianist, despite suffering from deafness at a very young age, managed to create some of his best pieces because of the healing power of music.

"This science is really exciting," Kogan, who himself uses music to heal patients, said. Demonstrating the power of music, Kogan, who conducts a private practice in New York, played bits of musical pieces on the piano during the session.

Emphasising the importance of music in treating mental illness, he said: "Mental illness is significantly over represented. All great painters, artists and musicians have significantly more problems than the general population".

He, however, felt that when it came to music, it was individual preference which mattered. Any music that appeals is likely to heal, he said.

Top 10 Benefits of Meditation

Top 10 Benefits of Meditation

Our country India is the famous for spirituals and lot of Yogis and Gnanies were lived very long years since they were used the Meditations and Pranayamams.

Now a days our life style is very difficult to live normal, because we our working atmosphere and food items. So we are struggling with hypertension, diabetics, asthma and lot of major difficulties.  Atleast we  have control our above mentioned disease we have to follow some meditations.  There are may type of meditations are there, in this we have to do any meditations daily twice in our life.

Below are the top 10 most significant positive effects of meditation:

1.  It is thought to promote cardiovascular healthy by slowing the heart rate and pace of breathing, as well as increasing the flow of blood to the heart. This effect is thought to lower blood pressure, increase exercise capacity and reduce stress, all of which promote cardiovascular wellness.

2.  May help individuals with chronic illnesses manage their conditions by lowering stress levels, which is known to lead to a healthier mind and body.

3. Practicing the mind-body exercise on a regular basis may help strengthen an individual’s immune system by stimulating blood flow, inducing relaxation and helping the body eliminate free radicals, which are known to cause cellular damage.

4. Shown in multiple studies to reduce a person’s response to pain. This may be especially beneficial for individuals with chronic migraines, fibromyalgia or other conditions in which regular discomfort is experienced.

5. Individuals who meditated on a regular basis may find that they have improved self-esteem and a more positive outlook on life. This may be due to a number of physiological factors, such as increased serotonin levels, as well as a clearer sense of one’s self stemming from introspection.

6. People with fears or phobias may be helped by meditation, since the mind-body practice is thought to help individuals resolve their inner problems.

7. Many benefits for the career-minded, as it may help increase creativity, strengthen one’s ability to focus and improve memory. Moreover, the stress-relieving benefits of the practice have been helping businessmen and women reduce workplace tension for many years.

8. People who meditate may also find themselves becoming more compassionate individuals, as introspection has strong potential to promote empathy.

9. Help individuals deepen their spiritual connection with a higher being, or simply become more aware that they have a spiritual side. Today, many people unfortunately overlook this aspect of themselves.

10. Living in the moment by pushing aside the worries of the past or future is known to help people achieve a more fulfilled existence. A focus on the present is what meditation is all about, so people whose minds are constantly occupied with concerns may want to give the mind-body practice a try.

If you want to learn some different type of yoga you have learn through Vazhga Vazhamudan, Isha Yoga and some other spiritual centers, it will help you to follow very easy to do the meditations.

Top 10 benefits of walking

Top 10 benefits of walking

There’s just one thing you should start doing to get fitter, let that be walking. Here are 10 reasons why!

1. Its great exercise:

Walking at a steady pace for 30 to 45 minutes a day has been proven to be an excellent fat burner. Do this six times a week, along with following a healthy diet and you will see a change in your weight. A good speed of walking is 6km/hour. In other words, it should take you 10 minutes to cover a kilometer.

2. It’s good for the heart:

Walking is known to reduce blood pressure, improve blood circulation and all round cardiovascular functions

3. It increases stamina:

Walking regularly at a good speed also improves muscle strength and endurance

4. Promotes mental health:

Walking is a great stress buster. And if you’re able to walk outdoors, there’s nothing like it. The combination of fresh air and exercise is an excellent mood booster and you’ll definitely find yourself feeling happier as well as healthier

5. It’s good for your bones:

Walking is a great way of strengthening your bones. Walking 30 minutes a day actually increases bone density and slows down bone loss in the legs. This low-impact exercise also targets your spine, legs and hips.

6. Prevents type 2 diabetes:

Studies show that walking 150 minutes per week can reduce the risk of diabetes, which is why doctors highly recommend it to anyone who has a history of diabetes in their family.

7. Reduces risk of breast and colon cancer:

Studies show that regular walking can reduce a person’s chances of getting breast and colon cancer.

8. Safer than running:

Many experts believe that walking is actually better than running because it’s easier on your knees and joints. It leads to fewer injuries and if you’re just starting to exercise, it’s a good beginner workout.

9. Anyone can do it:

Walking is truly a democratic exercise because anyone at ANY fitness level can do it. If you’re completely out of shape, start by walking 20 minutes a day and then slowly increase the time every week.

10. It’s free!:

Unlike most other forms of exercise, all walking requires is a pair of good walking shoes. Walk in the park; on the road; up the stairs; on a treadmill; in a long corridor, it really doesn’t matter. You don’t need expensive equipment or a partner to do this. So if you’re in the mood for a good, safe workout, just start walking!

Don’t cut the dairy
Although the high levels of fat in dairy products make those who want to get slim without hitting the gym wary, it turns out that eating cheese, milk and other dairy products actually promotes weight loss. The study was conducted in Australia and the researchers suggest that the protein levels in dairy products may help people feel fuller for longer and therefore make them less likely to snack on calorific food

Top 10 Health Benefits of Walking

Top 10 Health Benefits of Walking

1. It’s great exercise. Walking at a steady pace for 30 to 45 minutes a day has been proven to be an excellent fat burner. Do this six times a week, along with following a healthy diet and you will see a change in your weight. A good speed of walking is 6km/hour. In other words, it should take you 10 minutes to cover a kilometre.

2. It’s good for the heart. Walking is known to reduce blood pressure, improve blood circulation and all round cardiovascular functions

3. It increases stamina. Walking regularly at a good speed also improves muscle strength and endurance.

4. Promotes mental health. Walking is a great stress buster. And if you’re able to walk outdoors, there’s nothing like it. The combination of fresh air and exercise is an excellent mood booster and you’ll definitely find yourself feeling happier as well as healthier. 
Although the high levels of fat in dairy products make those who want to get slim without hitting the gym wary, it turns out that eating cheese, milk and other dairy products actually promotes weight loss. The study was conducted in Australia and the researchers suggest that the protein levels in dairy products may help people feel fuller for longer and therefore make them less likely to snack on calorific foods.

5. It’s good for your bones. Walking is a great way of strengthening your bones. Walking 30 minutes a day actually increases bone density and slows down bone loss in the legs. This low-impact exercise also targets your spine, legs and hips.

6. Prevents type 2 diabetes. Studies show that walking 150 minutes per week can reduce the risk of diabetes, which is why doctors highly recommend it to anyone who has a history of diabetes in their family.

7. Reduces risk of breast and colon cancer. Studies show that regular walking can reduce a person’s chances of getting breast and colon cancer.

8. Safer than running. Many experts believe that walking is actually better than running because it’s easier on your knees and joints. It leads to fewer injuries and if you’re just starting to exercise, it’s a good beginner workout.

9. Anyone can do it. Walking is truly a democratic exercise because anyone at ANY fitness level can do it. If you’re completely out of shape, start by walking 20 minutes a day and then slowly increase the time every week.

10. It’s free! Unlike most other forms of exercise, all walking requires is a pair of good walking shoes. Walk in the park; on the road; up the stairs; on a treadmill; in a long corridor, it really doesn’t matter. You don’t need expensive equipment or a partner to do this. So if you’re in the mood for a good, safe workout, just start walking!

RELAXATION Benefits / Poses

RELAXATION Benefits / Poses

The practice of relaxing the muscles of the body will bring rest to the body and to the mind also. The tension of the muscles will be relieved. People who know the science of relaxation do not waste any energy. They can meditate well.

SAVASANA

(Core – Pose)

This is an asana for relaxation of all muscles, nerves etc. It should be performed at the very end of your asana practice. (Mritasana is another name for this pose.)

Technique: Spread a soft blanket. Lie flat on your back. Keep the hands on the ground by the sides of your body. Stretch the legs quite straight. Let the feet drop outwards. Close the eyes and breathe slowly. Relax all the muscles, nerves, organs, etc. Start the relaxation process from the toes. Then proceed to the calf-muscles, muscles of the back, chest, arm, forearm and hands, neck, face etc. See that the abdominal organs, heart, chest and brain are also relaxed. Relax the plexus of nerves also. Now repeat OM, OM, and OM. Think of Atman. Meditate gently with a feeling of purity. Do not sleep. Continue the meditation for 15 minutes. You will enjoy perfect peace, ease, comfort and relaxation. Every one of you should enjoy it. Words are imperfect; they cannot adequately describe the feeling.

Benefits: Savasana combines pose and meditation. It gives relief, comfort and ease. After 15 minutes relaxation you will be wonderfully refreshed and rejuvenated. You will be more efficient and effective in whatever you do.

Relaxation is a very important factor in muscular exercises. The muscles that are put under severe strain demand relaxation and rest. It is savasana that promptly and efficiently ensures complete relaxation and rest. In halasana, sarvangasana, paschimottanasana, dhanurasana and ardha-matsyendrasana you know pretty well that all the muscles of the back- lattisssimus dorsi, psoas magnus and quadratus lumborum – the abdominus rectus, pectoralis major of the chest, biceps triceps, the deltoid of the arm and sartorius of the thighs are all stretched and contracted to an enormous degree. During intense muscular activity the metabolism is increased. Metabolism is the anabolic and catabolic changes that take place in the body (wear and tear in the system). Anabolic changes are constructive and catabolic changes are the destructive ones. During metabolism all the muscular tissues are supplied with fresh oxygenated blood or plasma through capillary oozing, and carbon-dioxide is taken back through the veins to the right auricle of the heart. This is termed tissue respiration. Just as interchange of oxygen and carbon-dioxide takes place in the lungs, so also interchange of carbon-dioxide and oxygen takes place in the tissues also. Mark the wonderful creation and working of the internal mechanism of the body. How marvelous is the machinery. Can a scientist make a single atom, a single cell, a single organ of the body? Bow with folded hands before the Creator of this wonderful mechanism of the body. Repeat OM, OM. Enter into silence. Meditate. The whole mystery of creation will be revealed unto you through His grace.

VARIETIES

1. Jeshthikasana:This is an exercise for relaxation like savasana. This must be done at the end of all the asanas. In this the hands are kept on the ground bythe sides of the head, while in savasana the hands are kept at the sides.

2. Adhvasana: Lie down quite flat, keeping the belly and chest on the ground. The hands will be at sides, palms facing upwards. Stretch the body well. This is a reverse pose of savasana with the same benefits. For some time keep the right cheek on the ground and for some time the left cheek.

3. Makarasana (Dolphin Pose):Lie on the ground face downwards as in adhvasana. Rest the forehead on the crossed wrists.

Mental Relaxation

Mental poise and calmness may be brought about by the eradication of worry and anger. Fear really underlies both worry and anger. Nothing is gained by worry and anger, but on the contrary much energy is wasted by these kinds of lower emotions. If a man worries much and if he is irritable, he is indeed a very weak man. Be careful and thoughtful. All unnecessary worries can be avoided. Relaxation of the muscles reacts on the mind and brings rest to the mind also. Body and mind are intimately connected.

Sit for 15 minutes in a relaxed and easy comfortable position. Close your eyes. Withdraw the mind from outside objects. Still the mind, Silence the bubbling thoughts. Think that the body is like a coconut shell and you are entirely different from the body. Think that the body is an instrument in your hands. Identify yourself with the all-pervading spirit or Atman. Imagine that the whole world and your body are floating like a piece of straw in this vast ocean of spirit. Feel that you are in touch with the Supreme Being. Feel that the life of the whole world is pulsating, vibrating and throbbing through you. Feel that the ocean of life is gently rocking you on its vast bosom. Then open your eyes. You will experience immense mental peace, mental vigour and mental strength.

Health Benefits of Honey

Health Benefits of Honey

Honey is a first-class food and tonic. It is very easily digested and assimilated and a most nutritious natural food. It will strength a weak heart, a weak brain and a weak stomach. Honey is the product of the nectar of flowers. It is a mistake to say that honey is gathered by bees from flowers. Bees are nature’s sweet makers. They manufacture sweets better, finer and healthier than any sweet makers. They manufacture sweets better, finer and healthier than any sweetmeat maker – with all his skill, dexterity, ingenuity and many ingredients – can ever make.

Green plants manufacture sugar for their own use. This is carried with the cell sap to the different parts of the plant either for direct as simulation or future use. All the flowering plants concentrate a quick supply of food at the bease or the bottom part their flowers to help the proper growth of the ovaries. The excess solution is thrown out at the base of the flowers. This solution of the cell sap with sugar is known as ‘nectar’. This nectar is changed into honey in their mouths by the honey bees. Every hive imparts a new flavor because in every hive the nectar is drawn from different flowers and plants.

Honey contains all the mineral elements found in the human body. It contains 80 per cent nutriment in a most assailable form. It contains the sugars laevulose and dextrose, formic acid, iron and various accessory components. Because it contains enzymes which disintegrate or breaks up complex foods into substances that can be easily digested and absorbed, honey does not require digestion at all. It is ready for absorption into the blood without any change, and goes into the blood stream directly. It should form part of your diet. A teaspoonful of honey per day will keep the stomach in order.

Honey is a heart stimulant. It is useful in cases of malnutrition, and should be given for general physical repair. Honey kills bacteria and thus enables the body to overcome diseases. Disease germs cannot grow in honey. Honey is useful in bronchial catarrh, sore throat, coughs and colds. Ti also acts as a laxative. As soon as a child is born its tongue is smeared with honey. This is the first food that the child takes.

Honey can be taken with milk, cream or butter. It is a restorative after serious illness. It invigorates, energizes and vitalizes the system and improves health. It is more stimulating than alcohol.

Honey is a diffusible stimulant. If you take a tablespoonful of honey in hot water when you are tired or exhausted by over-exertion it will brace you up immediately. You will become strong and active again. (If the honey is bitter do not take it.)

Soak 10 almonds in water at night. Remove the skin in the morning. Take them in the morning with one or two tablespoonfuls of honey. This is a potent brain tonic.

Health Benefits of Sun Bathing / Sun Light

Health Benefits of Sun Bathing / Sun Light

The sun is the source of all energy and power. You derive energy and power from the sun. If the sun does not shine for a day or two on account of clouds, your vitality falls to a low level and you are not in good spirits. Flowers, plants, animals and men rejoice as soon as the sun rises above the horizon. The sun supplies energy to all plants and living beings and yet its energy is never exhausted. Its energy is inexhaustible because it derives its energy from the inexhaustible source – the Atman.

The rays of the sun bestow on us wonderful health. The Vedas have glorified the rising sun. Ayurveda has extolled its efficacy. The sages have sung its praise in a variety of ways.

Build your house on the western side of a river, lake or tank. Then you will daily enjoy the reflected light, which is more beneficial and potent than the direct rays. The rays of the rising sun are a blessing from God for the preservation of health as well as for the cure of diseases. The rays of the sun possess antiseptic and germicidal properties. Expose your blankets, bed-sheet, pillows and mattress to the sun once in fifteen days. In the rays of the sun you will find a cheap and easily available tonic, a disinfectant, an antiseptic and potent germicide.

Sunlight is a food. You can make Vitamin ‘D’ by exposing your naked body to the sun. The skin and the nerves will absorb the energies of the sunlight. The sunlight provides the heat needed to sustain life.

Sunlight as a healer of leprosy and various other skin diseases was known to the ancients. They built temples dedicated to the sun. The temple of Konarak was built upon a tradition that Samba, the son of Sri Krishna, was stricken with leprosy because he saw his father in the act of connubial pleasure. When entreated to be forgiven, Krishna asked Samba to worship the sun in order to be freed of the loathsome disease. Accordingly he did so and was cured. In Egypt, the sun god is Ra; in Greece, Apollo ‘in Phoenicia, the sun. In Syria also the sun and moon are worshipped. In France and Germany the peasants even now take off their hats to the rays of the sun. The sun is looked at and worshipped by Hindus when they take a bath in the morning.

The morning sun gives out ultra-violet rays, as does also the evening sun. If persons suffering from leprosy and other skin diseases strip themselves of all clothing and remain in the sun naked till their body is properly tanned, then the sun’s rays will penetrate their body and work wonders there. Only the head must be rotated from the sun. Besides leprosy, tuberculosis, rheumatism, obesity, anemia, neurasthenia, eczema, colds, coughs, rickets, diseases of the teeth, etc, can also be treated with the sun’s rays.

Wear a thin light garment and walk on the western bank of a river, on the west side of the sea, a lake or tank early in the morning at sunrise. Run also. You will doubtless enjoy a sunbath. Practice asanas and physical exercises in the sun. Expose your mouth to the rays of the rising sun. Open it wide. Let the rays penetrate your nostrils also. Close your eyes when you expose your mouth. Practice deep-breathing exercise and pranayama in the sun.

The various parts of the body should receive a regulated sun-bath. Turn the body round frequently. Bask in the sun. Expose your body to the rays of the sun for a short time. Lie down on the ground on blanket or lie on a cot. (If the rays are very hot, cover your back with a green plantain leaf.) This will prove useful in lumbago and rheumatism and diseases of the skin.

Have sunlight treatment for the eyes. You will have clear vision. You need not take recourse to spectacles. First, sit in the sun, Close your eyes. Slowly move your head from side to side. Let the sun shine directly on the closed eyelids for ten or thirty minutes. Let the sun shine directly on the closed eyelids for ten or thirty minutes. Let the eyeballs also move with the movement of the head, and not against. Now, turn your back to the sun or come into the shade. Do not open your eyes. Cover the eyes with the palms of the hands for five or ten minutes. This is palming. Have the sun treatment in the morning and evening, 7a.m. and 5p.m. Let the exposure of the eyes to the sun be gradual. When the eyes get accustomed to the light, you can gradually have stronger light.

The sages of yore who had knowledge of the curative power of the rays of the sun revealed the mysteries of the sun and its beneficial rays, and the uses of this radiant energy.

Even in the West, doctors are using the rays of the sun as a powerful therapeutic agent in the treatment of diseases. They call this heliotherapy. In the sanatoriums in the Alps the consumptive

Patients are directly exposed to the mild rays of the sun. In olden days in India babies were put in the cradle and their bare bodies exposed to the rising sun. In California and other parts of the West boys and girls now take sun-bath.

When comes the mysterious power in the sun which causes the seeds to germinate and flowers to turn into fruits? When comes this radiant energy in the sun which bestows wonderful health, power and vigour to living beings? Whence comes this power to heal? Whence comes the vital energy in the sun that invigorates and galvanizes the young and rejuvenates and vitalizes the old? Whence comes this vegetative vigour which enables the plants to synthesize the vitamins? The sun derives its power and energy from Atman or the Eternal, the Absolute, the Sun of suns, the Light of lights, the Source of everything , the first of all causes, the store-house of all energies. Brahman willed; the sun came into being to bestow health and happiness to all beings.

Repeat the twelve names of the sun at sunrise;

MITRAYA NAMAH, RAVAYE NAMAH, SURYAYA NAMAH, BHANAVE NAMAH,

KHAGAYA NAMAH, PUSHNE NAMAH, HIRANYAGARBHAYA NAMAH,

MARICAYE NAMAH, ADITYAYA NAMAH, SAVITRE NAMAH, ARKAYA NAMAH,

BHAASKARAYA NAMAH.

He who repeats this at sunrise will possess wonderful health, vigour and vitality. He will be free from any kind of disease of the eye. He will have powerful eyesight. Pray in the sun in the early morning before sunrise;

O Lord, Suryanarayana, the Eye of the world, the Eye of God,

Give me health and strength, vigour and vitalitry.

Repeat the prayer of the Isavasys Upanishad, slokas 15 and 16;

The face of Truth is covered by golden vessels. Remove, O Sun, the covering, so that I, who am devoted to truth, may behold it. O Pushan (nourisher of all), the only seer (sole traveler of the heavens), controller of all, Surya, son of Prajapati, disperse thyrays and gather up thy burning light; I behold thy glorious form, I am He, the purusha within Thee.

In the words of the Yajur Veda;

O Sun of suns you are all-energy, give me energy; you are all-strength, give me strength; you are all-powerful, give me power.

Top 10 Reasons People Should Laugh More - Health

Top 10 Reasons People Should Laugh More - Health

The daily routine and the various problems you encounter at work and at home are no laughing matter, but rather stressful, frustrating and overwhelming. In fact, the statistics indicate that adults laugh 80 times lesser than children. Perhaps this is why most people associate childhood with a carefree and happy time when the world was yours to discover and conquer. Nonetheless, regardless of what life throws at you, you have plenty of reasons to laugh. Following is the top 10 reasons why people should be encouraged to laugh more.

1. Laughter is the best pain medication

It is said that there is no better medication than laughter: while you laugh, the brain releases a high amount of endorphins that induce an overall happy feeling. At the same time, laughing is the best distraction from pain and it leads to a pleasant muscle relaxation. Therefore, next time your head or belly aches, you should try laughing at it.

2. Laughter prevents cardiovascular diseases

A study at the University of Michigan shows that patients who suffer from various cardiovascular diseases are 40% less likely to laugh compared to perfectly healthy individuals. The research on the matter indicates that laughter not only lowers blood pressure, but it also affects the blood flow in a positive way. According to specialists who conducted the study, 15 minutes of laughter per day can compensate for a regular working out program.

3. Laughter improves inter-human relationships

Without a doubt, laughing is a very contagious gesture: if you smile at a person, you will immediately observe that he/she will smile back at you. At the same time, laughter is perceived as an universal phenomenon that happens in every culture with the same goals: connecting, bonding and establishing a rapport with somebody.

Besides, nobody feels comfortable or enjoys being around a person who is always sad, depressed and has an overall grim vision of the future. The best place to clearly observe this issue is at stores, where the vast majority of customers prefers to wait in line in order to interact with the happy, smiling shop assistant and will only work with the grumpy ones if they are forced to. In general, people prefer the company of happy individuals as the overall mood of is elevated and the relationships gain more quality and consistency.

4. Laughter is the best way to counter the harmful effects of stress

According to clinical research when you laugh, your body is more prone to releasing T cell antibodies that boost and protect the immune system. To put it simply, happy people are less likely to get sick compared to individuals who prefer to see the empty half of the glass. Furthermore, laughter is also proven to reduce the levels of four types of hormones that are currently being linked to stress. Even if laughter provides a short period of happiness, its long term effects against stress cannot be denied.

5. Laughter promotes losing weight

Have you ever laughed so much that your tummy ached? Well, this is because this activity is known to act like a 15 minute intense workout. Laughing means working out the diaphragm, contracting the abdominal muscles and exercising the shoulders, all at the same time! In addition, laughter is known to raise the heart rate and metabolism. As a consequence, if you engaged in a weight losing program, you will get faster results if you surround yourself with happy people and make a habit out of watching comedies and sitcoms daily.

6. Laughter improves breathing

Out of all the positive physical effects laughter has on the body, this is by far the most interesting one: during laughter, the lungs release more air than they take in, hence resulting in a cleansing effect for the respiratory system. In a way, laughter has the same positive effects on the body as deep breathing techniques. Due to this fact, some physicians believe that laughter can be especially helpful for people suffering from chronic respiratory conditions (E.G. Asthma).

7. Laughter endorses creativity and learning

Statistics indicate that students are more likely to learn easier from a teacher who is able to break the classroom routine with humorous stories. A teacher who enjoys laughing manages to create a more relaxed and positive environment in the classroom. Moreover, if the information presented can be associated with jokes or a humorous part, there are better chances that the students will remember the main points of the class. On a side note, studies also indicate that laughter helps students see things from a different perspective.

8. People who laugh live longer

You have probably heard that optimists have a longer life expectancy than pessimists. According to a study conducted on the elderly, the seniors who expect good things to happen and think of the future with optimism are 55% less likely to develop conditions or die from causes that typically affect the pessimists. The study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry also point out that seniors who engage in physical activities, do not have unhealthy habits and are overall optimistic are 71% less likely to get sick or die unexpectedly.

9. Laughter is one of the best coping mechanisms

As previously mentioned, laughter is a good distraction from various pains and aches. At the same time, research shows that laughter is also an excellent coping mechanism that is able to take people’s focus away from negative emotions, anger, stress, sadness and other unpleasant sentiments cause by the events of everyday life. In other words, laughing will divert your mind from the problem that is bothering you, will make you happy and will induce a positive state of mind. Because it is associated with reduced tension and stress and because it is known to diminish irritability and anxiety, laughter can also decrease the levels of sadness proprietary to depression.

10. Laughter helps keep hormone levels under control

Laughing increases the production of health enhancing neurotransmitters, while decreasing the levels of the hormones associated with stress; especially cortisol, adrenaline and dopamine.

TYPES OF YOGA for all ages

TYPES OF YOGA for all ages

This is among the most practiced forms of yoga. Here, the aim is to get rid of anxieties or apprehensions that usually clutter our mind. This also includes letting go of one’s ego or desires that can often become compulsive or addictive. This kind of yoga is particularly useful for those who are struggling to let go of a disturbing part of their past.

JNANA YOGA

This is among the more advanced forms of yoga that is not meant for beginners or those struggling to get their focus right. Also referred to as the yoga of higher knowledge, Jnana Yoga teaches its followers to use the mind to transcend any bodily pain or conflict. This kind of yoga requires a lot of self-discipline and the ability to be honest with oneself. Meditation is an integral part of yoga here and often Jnana Yoga experts talk about liberating the mind. Here, the idea is not to gain more intelligence but to gain from greater self-realization. This requires deep meditation and often, months of practice.

MANTRA YOGA

As the title suggests, Mantra Yoga stresses upon voicing chants or prayers. This usually includes repeating typical sounds or mantras to alleviate the pain or psychological problems. A single phrase or word might have to be repeated endlessly. There is usually a way of recommending the syllables to a follower, based upon the kind of pain or problem and his overall, bodily constitution.

KUNDALINI YOGA

Considered one of the oldest, most effective forms of yoga, it is usually followed by yogic gurus. Kundalini Yoga has often engaged controversy too due to its slightly-confusing approach of combining abstinence and indulgence in sex. This form of yoga teaches going celibate to attain spiritual growth as sexual activities are regarded detrimental to self-introspection or enlightenment. Later, sexual interaction is used in a particular manner as a means of enhancing one’s spiritual gains. Also called Tantric Yoga, this branch of yoga stresses upon using the Kundalini—a kind of psychic energy that can be tapped if sexual restraint and indulgence are systematically used.

These are just some of the many types of Yoga practiced across the world. Some yoga forms have been modified and renamed by popular yoga gurus though the basic aim of every variation of yoga remains the same. Learning a bit about various types of yoga and finding a capable, learned yoga teacher is perhaps the first step towards approaching yoga, correctly.

Top 10 Most Nutritious Pizza Toppings|Food Tips

Top 10 Most Nutritious Pizza Toppings|Food Tips

The word pizza is actually a Latin verb, which means to press, but its pronunciation is in Italian form. Nonetheless, this word is actually of Greek origin. It is also spelled as pita in byzantine Greek, which means pie. Although it is originally created in Greece but it has been apparently considered as one of the most favorite food in the world, aside from pasta, burger, rice, and potato, which are all numbered as major staple foods. It is part of the cuisine in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern part of Asia, although this term was first used in South Italy, specifically in the town of Gaeta around 997 A.D. The typical pizza is composed of specific types of bread, along with its main and original toppings such as tomato and cheese. For the past centuries, there were improvements on the tastes and presentation of pizzas in the market, which are results of innovation. However, it is named as one of the unhealthiest foods that should be avoided that contains high levels of carbohydrates and other sordid toppings. Nonetheless, there are various pizza parlors that actually serve nutritious and healthy pizzas because of its healthy toppings that would not stop your cravings while keeping you healthy and fit.

1. Onions

Onion is one of the most powerful toppings that can be found in any of the meals that we prepare at home. It is known for its strong flavor that actually fights in lowering blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol, since it contains Vitamin C, fiber, and chromium that also fights cancer and other diseases

---

2. Black Olives

It’s up to you if you want to consider it or not, but being part of this top 10 most nutritious pizza toppings will actually give a strong affirmation that it’s indeed healthy, despite of the strong taste that it gives. You just have to put some of it in minimal quantity if you don’t like the taste. It contains healthy non-saturated fat and with no cholesterol at all. It also fights heart diseases and also contains flavanoids and polyphenols

---

3. Bell Pepper Slices

It’s up to you if you want the green one or the red one, although the red bell pepper is much healthier compared to green bell pepper. They are packed with Vitamin A, C, B6, and antioxidants. It does not only add color to your pizza, but it also adds crunchiness to the overall taste.

---

4. Garlic

You rarely see pizza parlors putting garlic on your favorite pizza. But there are some that places that offer it. It could be in a form of sauce by mixing chopped garlic in olive oil that could be spread on the pie, if you plan to make your own pizza at home. Garlic is the number one prescription to all patients who are experiencing increase in blood pressure. It is actually a member of the heart healthy fat family that is commonly found in olive oil. You may also roast pieces of garlic and it could add crisp, sweetness, and flavor to your pizza

---

5. Raw/Cooked Spinach

This is not just Popeye’s source of muscle power, but it is also one of the secret healthy toppings for pizza. It contains antioxidants, iron, zeaxanthin, and lutein, which are good against macular degeneration and excellent for healthy eyes. In fact, it does not matter if you would put it raw or cooked on your pizza. It actually complements well with your favorite non-fat cheese and tomatoes. It also contains Vitamin K and other 13 kinds of flavonoids that also fight cancer

---

6. Pineapple

If you have pineapple bits or slices on your pizza, then you don’t have to worry if you are going to take in so much pizza into your body. Based on healthy facts about pineapple, it contains an enzyme known as bromelain, which is good for the digestion process. It actually breaks down all saturated and unsaturated fat in the body, ensuring that it will not be converted to unhealthy fats. It has Vitamin C and it is also good in relieving muscle pain and it is recommended as an anti-inflammatory aid.

---

7. Mushroom

It is also one of the common toppings that can be found in any pizza flavors. It is considered part of the top 10 most nutritious pizza toppings, which is packed with nutrients, riboflavin, selenium, and Vitamin B. It provides a defense against the formation of cancer cells

---

8. Skinless Cooked Chicken

If you are really conscious when it comes to meat, then skinless cooked chicken is preferred, although you could also have a choice of lean ham rather than the typical ham, which is one of the common toppings for pizza. This is recommended, especially if you would just prepare your own pizza at home. Whole chicken meat is healthy already, but its skin contains a high level of cholesterol, which can be comparable to any red meat

---

9.  Tomatoes

Aside from the good effects that it can give to our skin, it is one of the original toppings that cannot be replaced by any other selection. It is always partnered with other toppings. Aside from the juiciness and sweetness that it gives, it also contains low percentage of calories. It contains vitamin C which is good for the body and lycopene that fights certain cancers. You could actually read in many valuable sources, whether in books or online content, about the healthy benefits that tomatoes give to our body

---

10. Non-Fat Cheese

The full-fat cheese products is the main topping for all pizzas, especially to all fast food pizza that typically load their pie with cheese to make it flavorful and umami tasty. Based on studies, cheese contains high level of calories. Based on the average record, it’s about 100 calories per ounce, while its fat ranges from 6% to 9%. In fact, it is the main culprit for triggered increase in blood pressure that might result to heart attack and stroke. Nonetheless, there are pizza parlors these days that are now using non-fat cheese, instead of the typical tasty cheesy toppings. The result is still the same without thinking that you can’t eat too much of the cheese on your pie

---

10 Tips to Help You Look Younger|Health

10 Tips to Help You Look Younger|Health

If you want to have a quality life when you are in your 60s 70s, no other thing can help you out but yourself. Having a sound mind, body and spirit are the only things that can make you look vibrant and a sharp mind even when you are getting old. Keeping your brain in a perfect order, exercising properly for a sound body can give you a very long and healthy life. Eating proper food that contains essential minerals and vitamins good for your health is also one of the best anti aging tips.
When we are young we always have this feeling in us that we are the ones, and all the really good things do not actually appear good to us, but as it is said that when you get older you become wiser. Well along with all the experiences that we have in our lives we have to follow some tips that can still make us look younger and healthier. Other than the exercising, keeping the brain busy and so many other things we must also be update with the makeup trends that makes us look pretty even in our old age.
So, here I have this post about some tips to look younger that actually do work for you when your age starts drying and thinning

1. A perfect Primer and liquid foundation helps immensely in filling up your wrinkles and makes them less visible. Firstly use the primer to fill the small wrinkles and then do not apply a thick layer of foundation as it breaks and cracks appear on your skin but use moisturizer and a light liquid foundation to add a skin plumping effect in you.

---

2. Make your eyes look pretty and do not go for the overly done clown eyes. As you know that your eye sight might a little weak so use a good magnifying mirror to do the eye makeup and enhance the shape of your eye. The usage of eye liner is very much important and use mascara to give the illusion of thick eye lashes. Use sophisticated and light eye shade with a little shimmer that gives you a vibrant look.

---

3. While applying the foundation don’t forget to put that on your lips too as you would love to have lips that do not have a bleeding lip color but using a foundation or moisturizer plumps up your lips, use a lip pencil to make the shape of your lips and then fill in with it, after that use the lipstick brush to apply the lipstick.

---

4. Reduce dark circles and rejuvenate the tired eyes by getting proper rest and reduces eye puffiness. If you have dark circles then it may be because of too much pigmentation so use creams that are rich in vitamin c plus you can also use cucumber for your eyes as it has a very soothing effect on them.

---

5. Sunglasses are not only a great fashion but it also makes you look younger and stylish. It is among the ways in which you can keep your eyes safe from sun damage but also saves you from getting more wrinkles on your skin.

---

6. Hairs trimming are very much important, as with the passage of time your hairs start falling down then get a proper hair cut and maintain your hairs. A hairdo must be in such a way that it adds volume to your hairs and style them in a sophisticated manner. You know you will be having grey hairs soon, so do not fret about the grey hairs.

---

7. Exfoliation is a very good tip for keeping your skin fresh, scrub your face and body regularly to remove the dull skin. Apply this all very gently and do not scrub too hard as it will put rashes on your skin.

---

8. Bleach your skin every month or two as the aging spots will appear on your skin and hydroquinone is the ingredient necessary for your skin which lightens your skin.

---

9. Eat healthy food for a sound body, for a glowing skin you can eat salmon as it is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, eat fruits for proper vitamins and minerals plus the most important part i.e. quit smoking.

---

10. Other tips include teeth whitening, moisturizing your hands properly and softening your heels which are very much important. Similarly while going out use sunscreen thoroughly and see a dermatologist after sometime for more care and safety of your skin.

---

Top 10 Morning and Evening Yoga|Health

Top 10 Morning and Evening Yoga|Health

Rolling Vinyasa (Part 1)

This strengthens the shoulders, triceps, back, and core, building stamina and boosting confidence and endurance. Start on your hands and knees with your hands under your shoulders and your knees under your hips, then tuck your toes under and straighten your legs to come into Downward Facing Dog.

Rolling Vinyasa (Part 2)

From here, start to round the spine beginning at the tailbone. Tuck the chin and roll forward until your shoulders are over your hands (imagine a wave starting at the base of your spine and rippling toward your head).

Rolling Vinyasa (Part 3)

Bend your elbows (keeping them tucked close to the body) and then lower your shoulders and arch your back into Upward Facing Dog. Now reverse the body roll. Starting with the base of your neck, round the back, as if you're pressing the spine against the ceiling. Roll back with a rounded spine, easing slowly into Downward Facing Dog. Do this exercise 3 to 5 times.

Floating Frog, Fighting Frog (Part 1)

This exercise strengthens core and shoulder muscles. It also heightens yang energy, so that you can confront fear, take risks, and move forward. Plus, it improves balance and agility, confidence, assertiveness, and teaches you to get up off the ground and go. Start in Downward Facing Dog. Bend your knees deeply, look between your hands, engage your abs.

Floating Frog, Fighting Frog (Part 2)

Then jump your feet to the outside of your hands into Frog pose.

Floating Frog, Fighting Frog

From there, pop up into a fighting stance -- arms and fists up, feet spread wide, knees bent, left foot in front of the right, as if you're hopping up onto a surfboard. Repeat this exercise 5 times.

Fighting Buddha (Part 1)

This exercise moves you through three states of being -- at peace, defending, and attacking -- without losing your center. Start with a wide, squatting straddle stance, with your toes pointed out and knees bent, hands in praye

Fighting Buddha (Part 2)

Shift your weight to the left, straightening the right leg and bending the right arm, drawing the left arm over your head.

Fighting Buddha (Part 3)

Then reverse, shifting your weight over your right knee, chambering the left arm and punching the right fist forward. Return to the starting position. Repeat 3 times.

This exercise helps maintain the natural curvature of the lower spine, which is often flattened by long periods of sitting; stretches the front of the spine and softens any tightness around the heart, which can feed imbalance; creates more space in the lungs, increasing your ability to receive breath, which also helps alleviate depression. Lie on your belly with elbows under shoulders. Look straight ahead. Hold for 3 minutes.

Sphinx Pose

This exercise helps maintain the natural curvature of the lower spine, which is often flattened by long periods of sitting; stretches the front of the spine and softens any tightness around the heart, which can feed imbalance; creates more space in the lungs, increasing your ability to receive breath, which also helps alleviate depression. Lie on your belly with elbows under shoulders. Look straight ahead. Hold for 3 minutes

Reclined Twist

This exercise settles the emotional body, creating a sense of calm, while toning and massaging the abdominal organs; opens the outer hips and lower back; aids digestion, elimination, and detoxification, helping restore your body's natural balance. Lie on your back with feet on the floor and knees bent. Cross left knee over the right and drop knees to the right, twisting the torso, keeping as much of your upper back as possible on the ground. If your knees don't come to the floor, place a blanket under them. Left arm stretches out straight along the floor; right hand rests over the torso. Look to the left. Stay 2 to 3 minutes twisted to each side.

Wide Child's Pose

This exercise relieves tension in the hips and lower back; draws attention inward; brings you in touch with your contemplative side; quiets the mind and calms the emotional body. Sit on your shins with your knees bent. Open your knees as wide as they will go (place a blanket underneath your shins if you need more cushioning). Fold forward and rest your head on your stacked palms -- with your arms bent and elbows out to the side. If you have a tight lower back and need more height, rest your forehead on a folded blanket. Stay 3 minutes.

Savasana

This exercise allows the body to rest and absorb the effects of the session; promotes relaxation, clarity, and calm. Lie on your back with a rolled-up blanket under your knees. Keep your legs separated. Let your arms rest about 6 inches from your body with your palms facing up. Close your eyes and feel your breath gently rise and fall on its own. Let your body sink slowly into the floor as your thoughts grow quiet. Stay in this position for at least 5 minutes, or longer if you like.

Baked potato triggers positive memories!|Health

Baked potato triggers positive memories!|Health

The smell of a baked potato can actually make us feel happier, scientists say.

LONDON: The smell of a baked potato can actually make us feel happier, scientists say.

Researchers have discovered that the aromas given off during the cooking process can trigger positive memories in the brain, the Daily Mail reported.

As part of the study, subjects were presented with a Maris Piper, baked in the oven for an hour 140 degrees, and asked if it inspired any feelings.

Findings revealed the majority of participants were uplifted by comforting childhood memories – including favourite grandparents and meals with the family.

Avinash Kant, who lead the research, said the positive emotions were triggered by what is called the “Maillard Effect”.

He said: “Food aromas and their recognition is a complex brain function which we’ve only recently started to understand.”

TOP 10 BEST MYTHS ABOUT HOME REMEDIES-Health Tips

HOME REMIEDIES

Below mentioned some useful tips about home remedies and colds.  This has referred by some leading First Aid / CPR personnel:

Myth 1: Butter on burns helps with healing

This is not the case. DO NOT put butter on burns. It will only cook the skin and the wound even more when exposed to light or heat. You also placed an unclear and foreign object on an opening that could easily be infected. Run the burn with cold war for 10 minutes Use ointment/topical cream and dressing to cover.

Myth 2: Cue tips clean out dirty ears

This is not the case. Do not insert any objects into your ear, especially cue tips. People are prone to do this all time. If ear becomes contaminated flush it out with water. There are specific tools which will allow you to do so. Check your local drug mart for more details

Myth 3: If dressing not put on properly, remove it.

No. Once the dressing is on, do not remove it. It is already doing its job by trying to suppress the blood. If you need to put more dressing then do so, but DO NOT remove ones that are on the wound.

Myth 4: Vinegar compresses help sunburns

Do not add any compresses that may cause stinging or an unwanted reaction. Remember that vinegar is an acid that will burn your skin, especially with sunburns. Use cold war compresses instead.

Myth 5: Use peroxide on scrapes and cuts and leave open to the air.

No. This kills body cells that are helping the body eliminate bacteria.

Myth 6: Apple Cider Vinegar helps beat heartburn

No it does not. It mostly is used to kill germs and weight loss. There is no evidence of heartburn remedies.

Myth 7: White rum with lemon juice and water to reduce fever

Alcohol cools down the body to shivers. Do not attempt to do this.

Myth 8: Do not go outside with wet hair

Colds are caused by viruses and not by cold weather. You thus cannot get a cold from having wet hair.

Myth 9: Drink tea with lemon and honey to cure voice loss

Tea and lemon are acidic. This can case a problem to the voice. The vocal folds are made of delicate tissues. The acid may cause acid reflux.

Myth 10: Hot Toddies to help raspy voices

Many doctors advise to stay away, especially from warming drinks that have alcohol in them. The drink may not go into the inflamed area.

5 Low-Stress Jobs for IT Pros|Health

5 Low-Stress Jobs for IT Pros|Health

Bangalore:  Before beating up with high blood pressure, if you are really down with your stressful IT jobs, you can try out less-concentrated IT jobs. One of the blogger in techrepublic.com, Justin James filtered out the low-stress jobs in one of his article. It is true that IT jobs have to be treated seriously as any mistakes can have an impact on the industry. .

1. Computer sales:

Along with the pay check, most of the IT holders are taking their highly deadline project to home. Have you thought of  in  It will be one of the best low-stressful IT job you can pursue as your career. Why can’t you develop communication skills to interact with customers?  Most of them should not have a vivid picture of what they want when they come for purchasing.  They must be having a partly lined idea of what they want to buy. Instead of shutting your mouth for a whole day in front of heavy project, can’t you pick the job where you can associate both passion and personality for earning your check?

---

2. Desktop support technician:

As the professional works aided by computer network often demands a support. When the computer is not working, the work may get delayed. Help them and earn. Most of you may disagree with this job as you want to deal with really irritated, panicked or obstructed customers. But, desktop support can be easy if you have a supply of PCs to offer for the customer. While they ask for back up and the problem is bad enough to solve immediately, give them a system to finish their work so that you get time to fix the machine.  Don’t you agree while it can be little easy kind of job than working as a that will give you more responsibility of an entire company or an entire department?

---

3. Backups administrator:

Today, many of the companies have created a sub-department, ‘backups administration’ for managing backups of their database, you can join for the role of a backups administrator. Restoring the backups will be a rare issue which you need to fix. Apart from the occasions when backups corrupted, lost or affected with malware, you can relax. That doesn’t mean you will not have any work, of course

---

4. Configuration (or presales) engineer:

. Once the purchased order got sanctioned, you can move to next client.  The stress will be less here as you are working with customers who are aware of the technology. Of course, you need to examine, query and clean up the requirement asked by the client. Sometimes it can be head-aching when you find out the components are mismatched, out of stock or if the configured system will not work as if they want.

---

5. Computer lab support:

Being a computer lab supporter will be one of the least stressful IT job you can find. Many of the educational organizations such as schools and colleges are having at least one computer lab, computer lab supporters can be accommodated easily. Here, you need not be worried about unbreakable IT projects. You will be asked to explain the basic things in which you are already an expert. Yeah, as the stress is low, pay package also is very low

---

Mind Your Breakfast For Stress-Free Life|Health

Mind Your Breakfast For Stress-Free Life|Health

London: People skipping breakfast had better mend their ways, as a new study shows how the morning meal reduces stress and improves mental and physical performance throughout the day.
Volunteers who ate after waking up benefited from an 89 percent reduction in anxiety when faced with a challenging situation, the Daily Mail reported.
They were typically able to deal with the dilemma seven percent quicker than on days when they went without it, the mental and physical tests have revealed.
Participants in the study performed a series of tests on two days -- one when they had their breakfast and one when they hadn't.
According to The Cognitive Effects of Breakfast study, in total 61 percent showed an improvement in English and arithmetic tests after eating.
Hand-eye coordination also improved significantly, with the number of mistakes made by participants falling by 75 percent, the poll and research by baker Warburtons found.
Conversely, some participants found they were unable to concentrate long enough to complete the series of 25 tests properly if they had not eaten.
In Britain, 48 percent of adults admit to skipping breakfast at least once during the working week, the poll of 2,000 people found.
It leaves over half of them feeling "stressed", "lethargic", "unproductive" and "grumpy". Those aged 25 to 34 are particularly affected if they do not eat, the research showed.
The research was conducted at the Mindlab laboratory based at the Sussex Innovation Centre, Brighton city.
Source: IANS