Learning About Mindfulness - Questions and Answers
Learning About Mindfulness - Questions and Answers |
- Learning About Mindfulness - Questions and Answers
- The High Quality of Chopard Watches Reproduction to the Pattern Mindful
- Quashing the Self-Improvement Urge
- Yoga for Women
- What Do I Need to Know About Buying a Hearing Aid?
- Powerful Mind and Body Techniques for Stress Reduction
- Swine Flu May Cause Baldness
- The Roots Of Bonsai In Asia
- Be the body
- How Meditation and Music helps in deepening Kundalini Yoga practice
- Neapolitan pizza and real Zen
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- How to start and end a perfect Kundalini yoga session
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| Learning About Mindfulness - Questions and Answers Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:00 PM PST Article by Peter In the past few years, there has been a lot of talk among psychology circles about mindfulness. If you are interested in learning more about this practice or have unanswered questions about it then this article will help clear up the mysteries surrounding mindfulness practice. How do you define mindfulness practice?Mindfulness is basically both an accepting attitude towards whatever is currently going on and a heightened awareness of the present moment. Hence, the practice is to be mindful of your surroundings and yourself without any type of agenda of what must happen or what you expect will happen. Why do people do mindfulness meditation? It seems like a waste of time.Mindfulness meditation is enjoyable in itself. Most people do not take the time to just be alone by themselves. I don't necessarily mean physically alone but mentally. We always feel rushed, ruminating over the past, or focusing constantly on future problems or goals. Mindfulness is a type of mental exercise that both clears away the unnecessary junk and strengths the mind. So, this is a Buddhist practice right?While mindfulness was introduced to the West by Buddhist monks such as Thich Nhat Hanh, there have always been people in the world who did a form of mindfulness practice whether they were atheists, Christians, or Buddhists. Today, mindfulness is even taught at universities like Brown University and the University of Pennsylvania because it has proven to have positive effects for one's mental and physical health despite one's religious beliefs. How long does it take to master mindfulness?Mindfulness is not really a skill you ever finish practicing. It is more like a state of mind or attitude that one continually builds upon. It is very easy to learn, it can literally take less than five minutes to get the basics. But it takes a life time of practice, and the rewards are always there. Will mindfulness meditation make me a happier person?Yes and no. Mindfulness w! ill help you stop the cycle of negative habits and mental conditioning that plague the majority of people throughout the day. It will cultivate a more open, accepting attitude towards life whether pleasant or painful experiences occur. You will feel more relaxed, peaceful, and in tune with your mind and body. However, this does not mean that painful experiences will just end. Life still continues on, but you are no longer mired in the past or future. But, now, you can have a great life in the present moment. Where do I go to learn more about mindfulness?There are numerous centers, teachers, and books on mindfulness now. Some recommendations would include Emotional Alchemy by Tara Goleman or Mindfulness by Ellen Langer. There are several psychology programs that now actively teach mindfulness practice. You can also find independent teachers throughout the world such as Tara Brach in Washington DC area. You could also join a Buddhist group and do mindfulness or vipassana meditation with them. About the AuthorPeter has been doing meditation for over five years and attributes much of his happiness and success to it. In his everyday life, he wears many hats as a developer, teacher, and student. His latest design website can be found at eb5 Facial Cream which is definitely the best anti aging product out there. Thich Nhat Hanh- Mindful Movements 
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| The High Quality of Chopard Watches Reproduction to the Pattern Mindful Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:00 PM PST Article by ALfrowrlg Mosslowty Why spend total worth for any chopard after you will get our lovely Duplicate Chopards for the good deal a lot less? Chopard Watches for adult men and ladies are entire world famous for their excessive-high high quality, their extreme precision motion, their lovely workmanship and beautiful great appears. The watches are created by Geneva-based largely Chopard, a 100 fifty-yr outdated maker of deluxe chronometers, jewelry and add-ons. The company is probably going certainly one of the several enjoy producers where ever on this world to manufacture in-home essentially every one of the aspects that go into its watches. The company's interesting line of guys and women's watches operate reliable chrome metal and 18-karat gold casings, with quartz and diamond actions. Chopard Watches for adult males are distinguished by their rugged masculinity and precision quartz steps whilst the women's line replicate the company's lively creativeness and progressive spirit. The organization is a person between four brand names to take part in the Fleurier Qulaity Groundwork, which guarantees that its watches meet quite high-ranges of great excellent and workmanship. In consequence, handful of objects of non-public jewelry make added profound an announcement about one's standing in existence, flavor and elegance that a Chopard Look at. Now you will be capable to own the identical beautiful fantastic appears to be like, precisely the same precision and also the identical focus to aspect for just a fraction with the worth in the special with our high-high excellent Reproduction Chopard Watches. With our Duplicate Watches, you don't need to be considered a millionaire to come to feel like a person. Our commitment to top quality and ingredient assures that there's no these kinds of issue for a discernable noticeable distinction in between our Reproduction Chopard Watches and genuine Chopard Watches. No matter if it is actually men's common Chopard Watches these mainly because the L.U.Do, , the 100 Miglia o! r even t he Jacky Ickx, or womens favorites these types of due to the fact the Relaxed Activity, Entirely satisfied Spirit and La Strada, we have Chopard Reproduction Watches for no matter what your fancy might be. Why spend hundreds and also numerous pounds much more for these masterpieces after you might have our beautiful Duplicate Watches for a lot less? Diamond watches will be the most common kind costly ladies watches made use of right now. To adult females, useful stones are usually not merely regular jewelries nevertheless they're the epitome of magnificence, social course and type. Diamond womens watches are available in a large vary of designs, types and purity. You'll find womens watches with diamond bracelets and absolutely various with diamond bezels. The precise assortment of diamond watches will not likely only be helpful and aesthetic nonetheless these also can functionality a treasure. Remember, just simply because our Reproduction Chopard Watches are less expensive isn't going to counsel you may be compromising on substantial good quality or appears. Our replicas combine high-high top quality elements precision steps and strong workmanship to provide you with exceedingly higher price with your funds. Our unflinching eye for particulars implies that every of our Duplicate Watches can be a devoted reproduction with the genuine each of the way right down to the tiniest detail. In addition as we also promise speedy delivery of our outstanding watches where ever likelihood is you will be. As being a producer of high-high superior Chopard Observe Replicas we provide the type of prompt and wonderful services befitting the proprietor of the good chronometer comparable to a Chopard Look at. Does one really have to ever before want any guidance, you could find out that we are the many time there available for you. About the AuthorCartier Pasha ReplicaCartier Roadster ReplicaCartier Santos ReplicaCartier Tank Replica Calm Lake at Sunset with Sounds of Relaxing Crickets 
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| Quashing the Self-Improvement Urge Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:00 PM PST Post written by Leo Babauta.One of the driving forces of my life for many years was the need to improve myself. It's one of the driving forces for people who read my work as well. It's an incredibly pervasive urge: we are always trying to improve, and if we're not, that's something we should improve. It's everywhere. Where does this urge come from? It's embedded in our culture — in the U.S. from Benjamin Franklin to the early entrepreneurial titans, everyone is trying to better themselves. It goes deeper, to ancient Western ideals of the perfect well-rounded person. But it flourished in the 20th century, from Dale Carnegie and Napoleon Hill to Stephen Covey. And now it's in full bloom, with blogs. And yes, I'm part of this movement. So what's the problem? You could say it's great that people are constantly trying to improve themselves, but where does it end? When is anyone ever content with who they are? We are taught that we are not good enough yet, that we must improve, and so … we always feel a little inadequate. This is true no matter how much you've accomplished. You might have achieved a thousand goals, but do you have defined abs? Are you boobs big and bouncy? Do you have perfect skin? Have you read every classic in literature? Do you know fine wines, fine art, and every great musician from classical to jazz to punk to rock? Do you have success as an entrepreneur, as a writer? Can you speak several languages, and have you traveled the world? Do you own fewer than 100 things, or a small house? Are you a fast runner, and have you run a 100 miler? Can you Crossfit, or lift 1,000 pounds in the Big Three lifts? Do you have the perfect home, and can you cook gourmet meals? Are you the perfect parent, or have perfect work-life balance? Can you do yoga, meditate, juggle and do magic? Do you brew the perfect cup of coffee, or tea, or beer? Can you recite Shelly, Shakespeare, Homer? Are you good at picking up women, are you the perfect friend, the perfect lover, a romantic husband, a wife who meets her husband's needs, a master craftsman, a knitter or sewer, a home-repair expert, knowledgeable in investing and real estate, do you know the perfect system for goals and use the perfect to-do software, is your phone as nice as his, or your bag as nice as hers, do you have cute boots or a manly shave? Are you debt free, or car free or gluten free? Do you give to charity or volunteer at shelters or build schools for Africa? Is your TV as large as mine, or you penis? Are you adequate? Are you confident of that? We are never adequate, never perfect, never self-confident, never good enough, never comfortable with ourselves, never satisfied, never there, never content. And it becomes the reason we buy self-help products, fitness products, gadgets to make us cooler, nicer clothes, nicer cars and homes, nicer bags and boots, courses and classes and coaches and retreats. It will never stop, because we will never be good enough. We must improve. We must read every self-improvement book. When we read a blog, we must try that method, because it will make us better. When we read someone else's account of his achievements, his goal system, his entrepreneurial lifestyle, her yoga routine, her journaling method, her reading list, we must try it. We will always read what others are doing, in case it will help us get better. We will always try what others are doing, try every diet and every system, because it helped them get better, so maybe it will help us too. Soon, we will find the ultimate solutions, soon we will get there. No, that hasn't happened yet, but maybe this year will be the year. Maybe 2012 will be the year we reach perfection. Or maybe it will never stop, until we die, and that's a part of life — life is a constant striving for improvement, and we'd hate to ever stop wanting to improve, because that means we're dead, right? Even if that means that as we die, we wonder if we could have been better, and our last thought is, "Am I adequate as a person?" Even if that means we are never happy with ourselves, at least we are striving to be happy with ourselves, right? What if instead, we learned to be happy with ourselves? What would happen? Would we stop striving to improve? Would that be horrible, if we were just content and didn't need to better ourselves every minute of every week? Would we be lazy slobs, or would we instead be happy, and in being happy do things that make us happy rather than make us better? And in being happy, perhaps we would show others how to be happy? And crazy as it might sound, maybe we'd start a little mini-revolution of happiness, so that people wouldn't feel so inadequate, or need to spend every dime on products, or spend all their time on self-improvement. A revolution of contentment. Think of how this might simplify your life. Think of how many self-improvement books you read, or listen to in the car. Think of how many products you buy to make yourself better. Think of how many things you read online, in the hopes of being better. Think of how many things you do because you feel inadequate. Think of how much time this would free up, how much mental energy. Realize that you are already perfect. You are there. You can breathe a sigh of relief. The urge to improve yourself will come up again. Watch it, like a funny little clown trying to tease your soul, but don't let your soul feel worse for the teasing. Don't let yourself react to this little clown. Let him do his dance, say his funny things, and then go away. Quash the urge to improve, to be better. It only makes you feel inadequate. And then explore the world of contentment. It's a beautiful place. Read More @ Source
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:00 AM PST Article by Jeet Kumar Yoga has been one of the foremost ways of attaining a balanced mind, body and soul for many years now. Yoga integrates the body with the inner consciousness. For its proven scientific base and methodology, yoga has been thoroughly popular since many years. One can unite his own consciousness with the universal consciousness. The highest state of spirituality becomes clearer through this gradual process of self-realization. One can easily control his/her mind, body and soul by practicing any form of yoga, Kundalini yoga, Kriya yoga or Hatha yoga. Yoga music plays a pivotal role in aiding the entire process of meditation. Music has the power to turn away tensions, stresses. Music has the power to bring out a person from her current state to a state of oneness with god. Music is universal, and when it is teamed up with yoga it can emancipate a person from all the worldly worries and thoughts. Music has a tremendous impact on all three types of yoga structures such as yoga poses, meditation and breathing exercises. With its tunes that touch the heart, music has the power to increase the concentration level drastically. Spirit Voyage offers a huge array of yoga music CDs and DVDs which will assist anyone who want to learn and practice Yoga. Blessings of a woman by Satkrin Kaur Khalsa is one such Yoga DVD which pushes the women to uplift themselves to become one with God. Women are the centre of our universe. They deserve to lead a healthy life. For making the woman of 21st century ready for the day-to-day challenges, yoga comes to aid for many of them. Yoga and meditation music will go hand-in-hand in making a woman achieve that perfect state of well-being that she desperately needs right now. Yoga music has been phenomenal in helping woman deal with the stress and the inner turmoil in these turbulent times. Yoga is beneficial for them in a way that they don't need to sweat it out in a gym as Yoga is a low-impact exercise. Women can enjoy Yoga at any age without being in top physical condi! tion. Yo ga music along with it relaxes a women to prepare her for the day-to-day challenges. The psychological benefits are immense and so are the physical changes. At every stage of life, women can enjoy the benefits of Yoga. They will be more aware about their strengths and weaknesses. Their flexibility will improve and so will the coordination of muscles. Every system in the body gets a thorough work-out, be it cardio-vascular, respiratory and circulatory system. All the common problems in women are alleviated. For instance lower back pain before menstruation and during pregnancy subside with regular yoga exercise. During pregnancy mild yoga exercises will help the mother to remain fit without putting stress on the baby. Yoga strengthens the heart but keeps the blood pressure low. Under proper guidance, Yoga can ease a women into motherhood. Many yoga forms such as Kundalini Yoga will put any woman on top of her physical conditions. Meditation music offered by Spirit Voyage is soothing and has been created by some of the most illuminating minds of our times. I am a woman by Yogi Bhajan is a Yoga DVD which stands out from hundreds of them available in Spirit Voyage. Yoga makes everyone happy, spirited and healthy. So, go ahead and transform yourself into a better human-being altogether. About the AuthorThe author writes for Spirit Voyage which is engaged in offering various kinds of yoga music and meditation music. The company offers different CDs and DVDs for practicing kundalini Yoga and other yoga forms. 
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| What Do I Need to Know About Buying a Hearing Aid? Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:04 AM PST
[This is the second of two columns on hearing aids; read How Do Hearing Aids Work?] About one in three Americans over age 60 suffers from loss of hearing, which can range from the inability to hear certain voices to deafness. However, only about one in five people who would benefit from a hearing aid uses one. Hearing aids have a microphone, amplifier and speaker. Sound is received by the microphone, which converts the sound waves to electrical signals and sends them to an amplifier. The amplifier boosts the signals and then sends them to the ear through a speaker. It's important to understand that a hearing aid will not restore your normal hearing. With practice, however, a hearing aid will increase your awareness of sounds and what made them. The two primary types of electronics used in hearing aids are analog and digital. Analog aids convert sound waves into electrical signals, which are amplified. Analog programmable hearing aids have more than one setting; the user can change the aid for listening in different environments. Digital aids convert sound waves into numerical code before amplifying them. Because the code also includes information about a sound's pitch or loudness, the aid can be specially programmed to amplify some frequencies more than others. These aids also can be programmed to focus on sounds coming from a specific direction. Hearing aids vary in price according to style, electronic features, and local market conditions. Price can range from hundreds of dollars to more than $ 2,500 for a programmable, digital hearing aid. There are many kinds of hearing aids. Behind-the-ear hearing aids are made of a plastic case with electronic components worn behind the ear and connected to a plastic earmold that fits inside the outer ear. There are also open-fit behind-the-ear hearing aids. Small, open-fit aids fit behind the ear completely with only a narrow tube inserted into the ear canal, enabling the canal to remain open. Some prefer the open-fit hearing aid because their voices do not sound "plugged up." In-the-ear hearing aids fit completely inside the outer ear. Some of these aids may have a small magnetic coil that allows users to receive sound through the circuitry of the hearing aid instead of a microphone. This feature helps with phone conversations. Canal hearing aids fit into the ear canal and are available in two styles. The in-the-canal hearing aid is made to fit the size and shape of a person's ear canal. A completely-in-canal hearing aid is nearly hidden. A middle ear implant is a small device attached to one of the bones of the middle ear. Rather than amplifying the sound traveling to the eardrum, an middle ear implant moves these bones. Both techniques improve sound vibrations entering the inner ear. A bone-anchored hearing aid is a small device that attaches to the bone behind the ear. The device transmits sound vibrations directly to the inner ear through the skull, bypassing the middle ear. The following are some important questions you should ask when getting a hearing aid:
If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of "How to be a Healthy Geezer" at http://www.healthygeezer.com/. All rights reserved © 2011 by Fred Cicetti More from the Healthy Geezer:  Read More @ Source 
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| Powerful Mind and Body Techniques for Stress Reduction Posted: 13 Dec 2011 10:00 AM PST Article by Cliff Yvon Stress Reduction, Relaxation Breathing Exercise Om Ah Hum 
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 11:04 AM PST
Here's a reason to get your flu shot that you probably haven't considered: infection with swine flu may trigger baldness. A new report from Japan suggests a link between alopecia areata, a condition in which patches of hair fall out, and swine flu. The researchers report that seven patients experienced hair loss one to four months after developing the illness. The exact cause of alopecia areata is unknown, but it is thought to occur when the immune system attacks a person's hair follicles, causing the hair on their head to fall out. Rarely, patients may lose all the hair on their head, or on other parts of their body. While the condition may have a hereditary component, a "trigger" from the environment, such as a traumatic event or illness, may also be needed to set off the disease. Previous studies have linked viral illnesses, including infections with the Epstein-Barr virus, and onset of alopecia areata. The new findings suggest flu infection may be another trigger of this form of baldness, said study researcher Dr. Taisuke Ito, an assistant professor of dermatology at Hamamatsu University School of Medicine in Japan. Between 2009 and 2010, the researchers examined seven patients with hair loss following swine flu infections that caused high fever. Four of the cases were recurrences of the condition, and three were first-time occurrences. On average, hair loss occurred 1.5 months after swine flu infection in those who experienced recurrences, and 2.7 months after swine flu infection in those who experienced first-time hair loss. All of the patients were under 30 years old, and four were under 10. Three of the cases involved females. In one case, a 4-year-old girl first experienced alopecia areata in 2006, but recovered completely. Then in 2010, she contracted swine flu and had hair loss two months later. "I consider it very plausible," that a flu infection could trigger hair loss, said Nanette Silverberg, director of pediatric and adolescent dermatology at St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City, who was not involved in the study. "I definitely have seen individuals develop autoimmune conditions," after infection with common viruses, Silverberg said. (An autoimmune condition is one in which the immune system attacks the body's own tissues, rather than foreign germs.) The fact that more than half of the cases were recurrences of alopecia areata further suggests that certain people are genetically predisposed to develop the condition, Ito said. Individuals who have had alopecia areata in the past should consider getting their flu vaccination, Silverberg said. The study was published online Dec. 5 in the Journal of Dermatology. Pass it on: Swine flu infection that occurs with a fever may be a trigger of hair loss. Follow MyHealthNewsDaily staff writer Rachael Rettner on Twitter @RachaelRettner. Find us on Facebook. Read More @ Source [Civilization and Innovation 2008-10-30 HQ] Mindfulness Temple 1/2 
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 07:00 AM PST Article by Andrew Kozlowski The Chinese began creating miniature landscapes in containers more than one thousand years ago. This art, known as "penjing," or "pun-sai," translates to scenery in a pot. The artists used stones and bits of plants such as lichen and moss to make tiny garden landscapes that portrayed scenes in nature. The smaller the materials used and the more detailed the landscapes, the more powerful they were thought to be. The practice of growing a single tree in a pot, "bonsai," arose from this practice. To the ancient Chinese, these trees' gnarled trunks and roots resembled dragons and mountains and contributed to myths about the mountain kingdoms of spirit beings. The artistic creations of bonsai were thought to represent harmony between heaven and earth. To some of the ancient Taoist spiritual seekers, the trees were the highest expression of nature's art. Bonsai was also a way to bring nature inside their temples, and peace and tranquility to the gardener. As Buddhism began to spread throughout Asia, many Chinese Taoist groups became Chan Buddhists, and they continued to practice the art of bonsai. During the 12th century, bonsai was introduced to Japan with the spread of Zen Buddhism. The initial bonsai artists in Japan were monks who continued to refine the art of creating individual trees or landscapes in shallow bowls. The more curved and deformed a tree looked, the more it was thought to possess spiritual powers. Over time, bonsai was introduced to the Japanese aristocracy and became an accepted practice among the Japanese elite. Bonsai were brought indoors and displayed on special shelves during certain times of the year. In addition to growing trees, the Japanese began to create art with naturally shaped stones, focusing on each stone's texture, color, and shape. This form of Japanese Zen art was called "suiseki." Over time, both bonsai and suiseki became less associated with monasteries and the upper classes and became part of everyday Japanese culture. During the 17th and 18t! h centur ies, the practice of training trees by trimming, pruning, and shaping them with wire became part of the art of bonsai. During the 19th century, travelers from around the world came to Japan and then spread the word about tiny trees in ceramic containers that mimicked full-sized trees in nature. In 1900, bonsai trees were placed on display at the Paris World Exhibition, and bonsai were soon exhibited in London and Vienna. Bonsai specialty magazines were founded in Japan, and organizations for bonsai enthusiasts were created. The basic bonsai styles were developed, and nurseries devoted to the growth and training of bonsai trees were established. Bonsai trees in Japan today are still highly regarded across all classes as cultural symbols, and a flowering bonsai tree on its "tokonoma," or special niche, is always on display during the Japanese New Year's celebration. Want to learn more about the origins of bonsai in China and Japan? Visit my website at http://www.bonsaitreeanswers.com to learn all about how to buy, grow, and care for beautiful, healthy bonsai trees. About the AuthorAndrew Kozlowski is a naturalist, amateur botanist, and author of articles and books on topics ranging from plant care and gardening to home downsizing. For more than 20 years Andrew has managed environmental programs in the U.S., Europe, Africa, and Latin America. He resides in San Francisco. 
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 07:00 AM PST
This approach helped me soldier through some tough times. But there were costs. Many pleasures were numbed, or they flew over – actually, under – my head. I didn't feel deeply engaged with life, like I was peering at the world through a hole in a fence. I pushed my body hard and didn't take good care of it. When I spoke, I sounded out of touch to others, emotionally distant, even phony; my words lacked credibility, gravity, traction. Because of these costs, I've worked with this issue and come to appreciate the benefits of being aware of the body, coming down into it, inhabiting it – most fundamentally, being it. For starters, being the body is simply telling a truth. What we experience being – thoughts and feelings, memories and desires, and consciousness itself – is constrained, conditioned, and constructed by the body via its nervous system. The fabric of your mind is woven by your body. Further, being aware of your body and its signals gives you useful information about your deeper feelings and needs. Tracking your body's subtle reactions to others also tells you a lot about them. Coming home to your body helps you feel grounded, and it gives you reassuring feedback that you're alive and basically alright. It's exhilarating to feel the vitality of the body, even sitting quietly, and to experience the pleasures of the senses. In particular, experiencing your body as a whole – as a single, unified gestalt in awareness, with all its sensations appearing together at once – activates networks on the sides of your brain. These lateral networks pull you out of the planning, worrying, obsessing, fantasizing, and self-referential thinking – "me, myself, and I" – that's driven by another neural network in the middle of the brain. Consequently, abiding as the whole body draws you into the present moment, reduces stress, increases mindfulness, and lowers the sense of self to help you take life less personally. How?First off, a caution: for some people, it's disturbing to experience being the body. In particular, this is understandable and not uncommon for people who have chronic pain, a disability, or a history of trauma. If this applies to you, try these practices carefully, if at all. But for most people, it feels good and brings value to be the body. And there are numerous ways to deepen the sense of this:
Wherever we go, whatever we're doing, there's always a doorway to a deeper sense of presence and peace: being the body. Related posts:
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| How Meditation and Music helps in deepening Kundalini Yoga practice Posted: 13 Dec 2011 06:00 AM PST Article by Raj Malhotra Kundalini Yoga is an ancient Yoga form which enables the human mind to tap the infinite potentials that lie dormant. This form of Yoga believes that there is a powerful energy that lies dormant at the base of the spine, curled up like the lock of a hair or a coiled serpent. This tremendously infinite energy or Kundalini energy is the essence of our lives and Kundalini Yoga aims to tap this energy. Through meditation and other techniques such as Yoga exercise and mudras and breathing techniques, a person becomes much more aware of oneself. He is able to live in the present and is able to successfully ward-off the unnecessary thoughts. Accompanying meditation music in a person's Yoga pursuits is a wonderful thing. Spirit Voyage is a premier online music company which offers various meditation music CDs and Yoga DVDs which will surely help in deepening a person's Kundalini Yoga practice. It is known that music has a tremendous impact in our psychological pattern. Music has the power to charge us up and calm us down instantly. People attach memories with music. The mind replays those memories when the a particular music are played. Music is thus, related to the mind. Yoga gurus have devised certain music patterns which benefit the mind and the over-all psyche of the person. There are various Yoga DVDs which have been created to assist a person in his/her Yoga pursuits and also enable him/her achieve deeper insights. Kundalini Yoga has been the harbinger of love, peace and happiness throughout centuries to those who have practiced it. Kundalini Yoga achieves the result many times faster than other forms of Yoga. There are seven chakras in the human body and another on top of it. These chakras, or the energy centers are the main focus in Kundalini Yoga. Through Yoga exercises as well as meditation routine, these chakras or the energy centers are activated, thereby proving beneficial to the body parts they are related. Yoga classes of today incorporate music in meditation. Yogi Bhajan believ! ed that through music in meditation, a person's meditation experience achieves a divine state. Meditation music CDs such as Liquid Bells Tibetan Bowl, Into Grace and Kundalini Meditation available in Spirit Voyage will surely help a person. These albums have been created by some of the world renowned singers such as Snatam Kaur, WAH!, Donna De Lory and Dya Singh will surely help you to achieve a state of divinity. Spirit Voyage also offers a variety of Yoga books that helps one to explore the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of yoga. Furthermore, Spirit Voyage also offers variety of yoga accessories such as yoga mats, yoga and meditation rugs, cushions and many more. The Yoga mats have tremendous significance. Intense positive energies are developed during a yoga routine. Yoga mats help in protecting the positive energies by insulating them from dissipating into the earth. Wearing right kind of yoga apparel is necessary. Spirit Voyage offers a variety of Yoga clothes that are stitched in natural fabric and comfortable. A practitioner can thus perform the asanas with all ease. Spirit Voyage offers yoga clothes for Kundalini yoga, yoga tops, jeweleries and more. There are cotton, linen and rayon shirts, pants and shorts. Spirit Voyage also offers meditation malas. Meditation malas help enhance the mediation session. The use of a mala can help focus on your meditation. The unique properties of the mala help to improve the power of meditation. Music, with specific tones and rhythms tend to create a soothing ambiance and take the mind to higher, spiritual realms. With spirit Voyage meditation music, enlighten your inner self and experience an eternal bliss. About the AuthorThe author writes for Spirit Voyage, an online music store that offers different CDs and DVDs for practicing kundalini Yoga and other Yoga forms. It also offers Yoga Mats and Yoga Clothes . ANTI MIGRANE & ANTI STRESS 3 YOGA LIVE 
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 06:00 AM PST
As far as Zen realization is concerned, like my enjoyment of Neapolitan pizza, it goes to a profound depth which is far beyond the tastes of popular culture. Let me be frank. Real Zen is not popular Zen. It is not about formal sitting (zazen) or wearing robes anymore than Neapolitan pizza is just flour, oil, sauce, cheese and pepperoni. Real Zen, like eating the best Neapolitan pizza, is all about depth! How far we are willing to dive into ourselves looking for the very stuff of our temporal thoughts is at the heart of Zen. Unfortunately, our culture makes it too easy for us to become superficial, from eating pizza to the study of Zen. But there is so much more to life than living superficially. This includes the practice of Zen meditation which is not really about just sitting as some Zen enthusiasts believe. Meditation is really about diving into the depths of our thoughts trying to connect with the living substance they're made of—tathata.
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| Hatha Yoga Or Ashtanga Yoga - Which One Should You Practice? Posted: 13 Dec 2011 05:00 AM PST Article by Brain Goodwin Yoga is a very ancient form of exercise that has come into vogue these years because increasing numbers of people are realizing that it is a very powerful tool to beat stress and to maintain health. Yoga is also very effective at regularizing various processes of the body and also at delaying the onset of aging. There are various types of Yoga that you could practice and they all have very different emphasis and therefore different effects on the body. In case you have to choose between Hatha Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga, you do have to know more about each type of Yoga before you proceed. Hatha Yoga dates back to the 15th century and it is this type of Yoga that is most familiar to people in the United States as regular Yoga. Yoga consists of lots of asanas or positions that a person has to follow in addition to doing regulated breathing exercises. This combination of breathing and stretching exercises is essential to regulate blood circulation and metabolism, and this in turn helps you to control high blood pressure and diabetes. Hatha Yoga places a lot of emphasis on spiritual development in addition to maintaining the health of the body. It is a very sedate form of Yoga that involves a lot of Yoga meditation and spirituality. It is not uncommon to hear Hindu devotional music in the Yoga classes while you practice the asanas, and there is usually some time apart for chanting in Sanskrit. If you are looking for a fit and toned body that is the envy of others, then Hatha Yoga is definitely not what you should be practicing. The kind of Yoga that Hollywood stars and other celebrities practice is Ashtanga Yoga. This is a variant of Hatha Yoga that uses pretty much the same asanas, but it is done very rapidly, and there is no emphasis on spirituality. Ashtanga means eight limbed, and the term is easy to understand given that this type of Yoga is to be done in a progressive sequence of asanas unlike in Hatha Yoga where you have to wait after finishing one asana before start! ing anot her one. Ashtanga Yoga is a very intense form of exercise, and you have to synchronize your breathing with each movement in order to increase the level of physical workout. This form of exercise is very physically demanding and this is a very effective way of toning your body and losing weight. Both types of Yoga are very different from each other and they have different uses. In case you have never tried Yoga before, it would be best to start with Hatha Yoga. Once you get the hang of it you can try out Ashtanga Yoga courses to tone your body. You could also go on Yoga retreats occasionally in order to give yourself a wellness holiday. It is considered to be best for you if you can practice various types of Yoga in order to get the maximum benefit from it. About the AuthorWe love talking about Yoga! Click below for all your Yoga Sydney needs. Get the best tips and advice so you can do it at home. Your completeYoga Sydney guide - we have it all covered! 
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| How to start and end a perfect Kundalini yoga session Posted: 13 Dec 2011 04:00 AM PST Article by Ayaz Khan The word Yoga means "yuj" which means "yoke" or "to unite". Yoga and its various forms such as Raja Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Hatha Yoga or Ashthanga Yoga, all ultimately lead an individual's consciousness to 'yoke' with that of the universal consciousness. Yoga enables a person to think clearly and perform his/her everyday tasks with equal clarity and concentration. A person's ability to deal with the changing circumstances dramatically increases when he/she regularly performs Yoga. Meditation is an integral part of the Yoga routine. Meditation enables a person to delve inside himself/herself and become more aware of the surroundings and as a result, is able to concentrate on many things at once. Meditation, when it is done with music becomes more effective. Yoga instructors around the world are waking up to the healing properties of the music in Yoga. Spirit voyage is an online music stores that offers a host of meditation music CDs and Yoga DVD which assist a person in delving deep into this beautiful centuries old phenomenon. Crossing the Hour by Yogi Bhajan and Ashtanga Yoga Beginners Practice by Nicki Doane are perfect Yoga DVD which will surely aid a person. Kundalini Yoga lays special emphasis on meditation and it has risen to become one of the most formalized style of Yoga that is currently taught throughout the world. A typical Kundalini Yoga class lasts for 60-90 minutes and has been divided into the following sections : 5-10 minutes of warming up, 30-45 minutes of Kriya, 5-15 minute lay-out and 11-31 minutes of meditation. A Kundalini Yoga session typically comprises of six major components : 1) tuning-in with the Adi Mantra, 2) pranayam or warm-up, 3) kriya, 4) relaxation, 5) meditation and 6) close with the blessing song, "May the Long Time Sun Shine Upon You". Practicing this entire session on proper Yoga mats helps in practicing some of the most difficult poses, without running the risk of injuring the body. These Yoga mats or Yoga rugs also assist us in another aspect. There i! s a trem endous amount of energy that resides in the body of a person. During the entire process of Yoga, a considerable amount of positive energies are re-vitalized. Yoga mats prevent these positive energies generated within the body from coming in contact with the earth, and getting neutralized.. A perfect Kundalini Yoga session must begin and conclude in the same way. There is a specific purpose of these tasks and they should be done correctly. Before actually beginning the Yoga routine, a person must sit quietly and focus on his/her breath. But unlike the normal breaths, these breaths must be from the belly. A person is required to calm down and create a virtual space around his/her body. In the next step, the tuning-in, a person must chant the "Adi mantra". While sitting down in a meditative posture with an erect spine and hands clasped making a sixty degree angle with the chest while the thumb touches the heart. While focusing on the third eye point, one must chant "Ong na Mo" which means "I call on the infinite universal consciousness." The vibration which occurs in us automatically tunes into the higher consciousness. The next chant is the "Guru Dev Na Mo" which means "I call on the divine wisdom". This chant connects us with our higher selves. Now, since the session connects us with our higher selves, we need to honor this. Proper Yoga clothes do just that. They not only enable us to be at par with our higher selves but also enable us to practice the Yoga without any inhibitions. The Yoga clothes are durable and will last long. Concluding a Kundalini Yoga routine is another important aspect. The concluding exercises brings a person back to reality. The set of exercises are a series of stretches and finally a meditation. The meditation should be done by concentrating at the heart center. A happy conclusion is to sing this song: "May the long time sun shine upon you, all love surround you, and the pure light within you, guide your way on". Repeat. Then chant three long Sat Nam's. "Saaaaaaaaaat! " is lon g and "Nam" is short. Sprit Voyage boast prominent artists like Liquid Mind, Dya Singh and Guru Shabad Singh Khalsa who have rendered their soulful voices into music CDs like Into grace and Dya Singh 300 which amply help a person in his desire to know Yoga. Yoga has been phenomenal in helping shape the lives of the people to make them healthier, happier and holier. About the AuthorThe author writes for Spirit Voyage, an online music store that offers different CDs and DVDs for practicing kundalini Yoga and other yoga forms. It also offers Yoga Mats and Yoga Clothes. Yoga Chant For Concentration Of Mind 
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| Early Morning Buddhist Inspiration - 12/13/2011 Posted: 13 Dec 2011 04:00 AM PST  "Living without hope is like burying oneself." ~Buddhist Quote  Technorati Tags: Buddha Buddhist Buddhism Meditation Dharma      Read More @ Source 
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| Tube Ninja Marketing Approaches - A 6 Figure Company From Your Laptop Posted: 13 Dec 2011 03:00 AM PST Article by Herman Suarez Teaching in the environment of real action prepared ninja for getting capable to function out immediate and spontaneous response to the alterations in the setting, stir up spare capacities of one's entire body, use artistic pondering and make up quick non-typical choices in severe disorders.The review-approach centered on actively-dynamic strategies of psychophysical teaching implied paying special focus to building the conditions of true battle. The ninja were taught how to battle using ninja swords and other weapons in the most accelerated way and extreme rhythm and at the exact time preserve internal calmness, satisfactory perception, and productive coordination of movements. The ninja had to operate out their talent with the enable of exclusive "work out machines" as made use of in the well-identified Shaolin monastery - from death-corridors to automated mannequins.Zen-buddhism teaching considerably influenced the ninja's solution to training, specially the thought of giving preference to intuitive way of perception. The ninja had to set cost-free their brain from superficial information, formal logic, and offspring of standard way of thinking.The Key IdeasZen-buddhism labored out the ideas of purely natural regulation that enable the particular person to use one's instinct for choosing the optimum way of acting.one. Graduality - The intensification of schooling assignments, pace and power of blowing really should be gradual and consequent. Ninja had to avoid rushing and untimely turning to far more difficult and back-breaking kinds of teaching.two. Continuity - this principle was the critical to ninja's profitable schooling. It implied regular, systematic education with no prolonged breaks. If a ninja commenced instruction one particular day, he had to continue on this practice each day with no exception and continue to keep to the particular schooling routine.three. Moderateness - ninja considered that in buy to get accomplishment in schooling, they demanded moderateness in every thing, pri! marily r elative to eating and other sensual pleasures. Eating meat, drinking alcohol and sexual relationships had been strictly prohibited not to diminish the usefulness of education. If a man could not alter his routines, he was advisable to modify the course of his lifestyle - to become a peasant, an official, or somebody else - but not a spy-warrior. The exception was only the situation when satisfying the process, a ninja had to break the rules and do the elements prohibited while in his tarini9ng course of action.4. Self-Management and Self-Restraint - Even below the most excessive situations, a ninja qualified to remain relaxed and self-possessed. He did not give way to his feelings - fear, aggressiveness, egocentrism and so on. In significant scenarios ninja ended up to be established, belief in their strength and techniques of martial arts.5. Courtesy - a ninja student had to behave in the most organized, disciplined, respectful and industrious way. The code of ethics of Confucianism not by incident became the considerable part of any martial arts - it first of all celebrated filial respect.Some Precise Examples of Ninja TeachingTo provide the full psychophysical education of ninja pupils, they handed not only by the complicated of gymnastic exercise routines and respiratory gymnastics but also psychological workouts aimed at developing intuition, fast reaction, combined way of considering, etc. it assisted ninja greater sense their opponents in fighting, guess his maneuvers and react in a trice.For case in point, a instructor held a piece of paper with his thumb and index finger and then suddenly allow it drop down. About the AuthorI appreciate painting extremely considerably and even now I carry on painting as a type of play. I am not quite skilful but I love it, for me it's a pleasure. No one possesses the know-how concerning the events of tomorrow this implies we do not know when our life will cease. Due to the impetuousness of youth I produced lots of errors concerning my life this was till the age of forty.budo uniform, budo uniform, tabi shoes Dogen teach Zen 2/2 
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| Mastery in the Art of Meditaion Posted: 13 Dec 2011 02:00 AM PST Article by Pam Bradbury Copyright (c) 2009 Pam Bradbury & Associates Meditation is now familiar to most of us. However not everyone knows all the variants. These simple overviews give you a glimpse of the oldest systems of creating peace within our busy lives.One of these methods may suit you. You really only need to find 5 to 10 mins each day to gain great results. Inner healing is a type of prayer therapy that is used to resolve important root issues and heal the emotional basis of one's illness to restore the spirit and the mind which is damaged by various forms of traumatic experiences. There are different ways to experience inner healing and below are some of them: Meditation Meditation is a type of discipline used by a person who desires to get beyond the "thinking" and "conditioned" mind into a deeper and more concentrated state of awareness and relaxation. It is recognized as an element of many religions and is said to have been practiced all over the world for more than 5,000 years now. Different meditative disciplines envelope a wide variety of psychophysical and/or spiritual practices which may focus on different goals from achieving a higher state of consciousness or awareness to greater self-awareness or creativity, focus or simply a more peaceful and relaxed frame of mind. According to some who have been practicing meditation for their inner healing testify that they have enjoyed so many benefits from it; emotionally, spiritually and physically alike. Some of them are: It reduces the use of oxygen. It lowers the breathing rate. It increases the tolerance for exercise in heart patients. It increases the blood flow while slowing down the heart rate. It leads a person to experience a deeper level of relaxation. It lowers down the blood lactate level thereby reducing anxiety attacks. It builds self-confidence. It reduces emotional distress The above were just few of the many benefits of practing regularly. Guided Meditaion Guided meditation is the! act or practice of leading one's imagination to a particular journey with the intent and purpose of achieving realizations and healing through a purposeful reflection and contemplation. This method of guided meditation allows the words to take the student on an inner healing journey deep into the subconscious mind. Guided meditation started after meditation as a discipline has been recognized to become a great way to achieve inner healing. Some of the common benefits one may get from practicing guided meditation are as follows: Deep relaxation is achieved. Negative beliefs and emotions are released. Results can be that you replace negative thoughts in your mind with more self confidence and higher self esteem. If you want to experience the above benefits of guided meditation, there are many tools available through retail outlets, music shops, book shops and the internet. Shaman Meditation Shaman Meditation is based on the practice of Shamanism which has been a traditional knowledge for more than 100,000 years now. Shaman is known as the keeper of a traditional healing body of knowledge. Shamans were the first healers who were responsible for the community's well-being and health. Through the so called "Shaman meditation", the Shamans enter the non-ordinary reality and connect their power animals and power sources. Some of the benefits a person practicing Shaman meditation are as follows: It heals the body, mind and spirit, It integrates the body, mind and spirit with its healing process. It makes a person symptom-free as without any symptom; then everything in a person is well and free. It doesn't only deal with physical illnesses; it also extends his/her powers to influence the community problems as well as emotional dysfunction and interpersonal relationship. Zen Meditation Zen meditation is the central part of the Zen practice and is known in Japan as "zazen". This meditation practice originated from the Zen Buddhism. Zen practitioners assume a sitting position like ! half-lot us, lotus, postures or Burmese. One of its goals is to regulate a person's mind and this is done by directing the awareness towards watching or counting the breath or putting one's breath below the navel in the energy center. The benefits of the Zen meditation include the following: It takes a person to the state of absolute emptiness and stillness. Increased level of concentration even in the presence of distractions. Greater calmness and awareness. Improvement in mind body balance. General health improvement. Buddhist Meditation. There have been many basic teachings that appear in many areas around the world talking about the teachings of Buddha. Certainly, Buddhist meditation exists based on the practices Buddha, being the man. The concept of Buddhist meditation aids in the bringing out the true nature of one's mind which is peaceful, clear and expansive. Our minds are often so busy that we are caught up in a never-ending stream of thoughts leaving us tired and agitated. By practicing Buddhist meditation, we can experience the following: Find the peace of mind Become happier Develop wisdom By meditating, each one of use can finally understand the very nature of reality that we can actually develop an inner peace experience as well as the happiness that we always have regardless of external circumstances. Healing from within is what we need in our busy lives. We have everything yet at times we are depressed, tired and anxious. What we need is the inner healing that would clear all the roots of our suffering. Let's all learn how to heal from deep within. Peace is an inner state that is achievable to us all through the practice of Meditation. Peace and Joy are the natural states for all Human Beings. Meditation is a great tool to enhance this aspect of being a Human. About the AuthorMeditation is often taught in group situations until the student is adept at using the methods themselves. Pam Bradbury has used different meditation practises with her students over the last 20 years. She is a professional teacher who has assisted hundreds of her students to meditate with tremendous results. Buddhist Priest Brian Vaugh: the Zen Precepts 
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| Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:00 AM PST By Katie Silver Last updated at 1:51 AM on 13th December 2011 Feeling proud to be British makes you feel good about life in general, according to scientists. They found that the kind of pride that makes people happiest is when they feel they 'belong' to a country, regardless of ethnicity. Researchers studied interviews of 41,000 residents of 31 European nations and found civic pride was most linked to a general feeling of well being.  Researchers have found that, regardless of ethnicity, a pride in one's country increases their feelings of happiness and belonging This is often because those who felt a country's laws, traditions and institutions made them feel they belonged often had a better quality of life overall. The study was conducted jointly by political scientists and sociologists at Washington's American University and Belgium's Catholic University. They found the links between national pride and happiness were high across Europe. But they were highest where a person felt the country in which they lived contributed to their overall lifestyle rather than their own ethnic background.  French fan: National pride led to an increase in overall happiness across 31 European nations National pride - where a person declares, for instance, that they are proud to be a German, or a Brit or a Spaniard - led to an increase in overall happiness. But the increases were greater among those who expressed a civic pride - defined as a respect for the way their country is run which defines their everyday lives. Matthew Wright, of American University and Tim Reeskens of Catholic University, said it was more than pure flag waving patriotism that made people happy. The study, published in the journal Psychological Science, said: 'Civic nationalism is more inclusive, requiring respect for a country's institutions and laws for belonging. 'Unlike ethnic nationalism, that view is open to minorities or immigrants, at least in principle.' It added: 'More national pride correlated with greater personal well-being. 'But the civic nationalists were on the whole happier, and even the proudest ethnic nationalists' well-being barely surpassed that of people with the lowest level of civic pride.' Matthew Wright said: 'You have to look at how people define their pride.' Read More @ Source Buddhism - Part 1 
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| A Guide for Healing and Spiritual Growth For Kundalini Yoga Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:00 AM PST Article by Inovajank A meditation area offers umteen benefits but numerous of us are so fancy dealings with the pressures of daily time that we pay young period fond for our own wellbeing. We end up falling ill or processing degenerative diseases. Connatural personalty are seen in the full rates of anxiety and incurvature pioneer in the cohort of today. A thoughtfulness area that combines the benefits of yoga with trenchant solutions for treating the symptoms of anxiety and incurvation can straighten a man of number to our caliber of aliveness.The 21-day musing withdraw offered by Paramahamsa Nithyananda, Inward Rousing, uses the ancient study of yoga to channelize unsounded experiences of thoughtfulness that effectively rub out anxiousness, formation, and all separate symptoms of neo ailments.During the Inward Wakening reflexion area the incomparable and rarefied people command Nithyananda is able to waken the torpid vigour, famous as kundalini, within each contestant. Having perfect yoga himself, Nithyananda transmits the have of kundalini which carries with it meaningful healthful benefits.As a meditation crawfish, Internal Awakening not exclusive addresses symptoms of anxiousness and imprint but it also cleanses the intent and body of moody blockages. This is through through yoga and reflection techniques that target the chakras, or prima forcefulness centers in the embody. Participants instruct the power of chakra healing, symptoms of a obstructed chakra, and reflexion techniques for purifying apiece chakra. Holding the embody's liveliness centers unsoiled finished musing also contributes to coverall wellbeing by inaugural up new pathways for kundalini energy to motion.The Intrinsical Rousing 21-day contemplation retire gives participants a standing fissure in consciousness which provides the necessary clearness to accomplish all successes in period. Areas of wellbeing, riches, and relationships are all direct addressed through mutual meditation composer with Nithyananda. This includes daily yoga sessions for al! l levels and provides the tools necessary to maintain an merry and winning lifestyle. The Inside Wakening thoughtfulness withdraw brings the uppercase clearness and deeply transformative undergo that instrument animate all participants. Inside Wakening rumination move: Get the breath.21-day reflection retreat gives participants a stable motion in cognisance which provides the needful uncloudedness to accomplish all successes in account. Areas of wellbeing, riches, and relationships are all straight addressed finished mutual meditation sessions with Nithyananda. This includes regular yoga composer for all levels and provides the tools needful to defend an spanking and prosperous way. The Privileged Rousing reflexion locomote brings the extraordinary limpidity and deeply About the AuthorHi... Its me inova... I always like to write articles. I conduct meditation retreat programs in many places. Now i am doing research about kundalini yoga. 
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| People happiest when they feel like they 'belong' to a country Posted: 13 Dec 2011 01:00 AM PST By Katie Silver Last updated at 8:22 AM on 13th December 2011 Feeling proud to be British makes you feel good about life in general, according to scientists. They found that the kind of pride that makes people happiest is when they feel they 'belong' to a country, regardless of ethnicity. Researchers studied interviews of 41,000 residents of 31 European nations and found civic pride was most linked to a general feeling of well being. Researchers have found that, regardless of ethnicity, a pride in one's country increases their feelings of happiness and belonging This is often because those who felt a country's laws, traditions and institutions made them feel they belonged often had a better quality of life overall. The study was conducted jointly by political scientists and sociologists at Washington's American University and Belgium's Catholic University. They found the links between national pride and happiness were high across Europe. But they were highest where a person felt the country in which they lived contributed to their overall lifestyle rather than their own ethnic background. French fan: National pride led to an increase in overall happiness across 31 European nations National pride - where a person declares, for instance, that they are proud to be a German, or a Brit or a Spaniard - led to an increase in overall happiness. But the increases were greater among those who expressed a civic pride - defined as a respect for the way their country is run which defines their everyday lives. Matthew Wright, of American University and Tim Reeskens of Catholic University, said it was more than pure flag waving patriotism that made people happy. The study, published in the journal Psychological Science, said: 'Civic nationalism is more inclusive, requiring respect for a country's institutions and laws for belonging. 'Unlike ethnic nationalism, that view is open to minorities or immigrants, at least in principle.' It added: 'More national pride correlated with greater personal well-being. 'But the civic nationalists were on the whole happier, and even the proudest ethnic nationalists' well-being barely surpassed that of people with the lowest level of civic pride.' Matthew Wright said: 'You have to look at how people define their pride.' Read More @ Source 
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| Convey the summation of Buddhism with Buddhist Tour Posted: 13 Dec 2011 12:00 AM PST Article by Mr. Subrato Mukherjee India is one of the most spiritual country in the world. Many religious leaders around the world have visited the country in search of spirituality and redemption. Two of the major religions places are Jainism and Buddhism originated in India. It is from the Indian state of Bihar, which Buddhism arose. Bodhgaya is a place where Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment after meditating for three days and three nights. Later, Buddhism spread to other regions such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Japan, Tibet, etc. Many Buddhist scholars and preachers of these countries have visited India to have a Buddhist tour, which led to more exchange of culture and tradition.Many Buddhists devotees in the world travel to India to enjoy Buddhist tour. Sometimes, the Buddhist pilgrims also tour the temples of India in research of peace of mind. In this era of unrest and terrorism, humanity finds peace in his life. Buddha pilgrimage tour will give you peace of mind. Bodhgaya is one of the most revered Buddhist pilgrimage in India. This is where Prince Gautama attained enlightenment and came to be known as the Buddha. It was an important place of pilgrimage. Another important objective is the Lumbini. This is the place where Buddha was born, so it is an important Buddhist tourist destination. Lumbini is located near the foothills of the Himalayas in Nepal and is a beautiful destination.Bodhgaya, a small town in Bihar state is a sacred place where the Buddha engaged in an intense meditation to achieve self-enlightenment and this place is the heart of the Buddhist Tour in India. Fans around the globe visit Bodhgaya tour, to witness the origins of the religion known as Buddhism. The main attractions are the Mahabodhi Temple, the Jain temple, Buddhist monasteries, and the many others.You can also know about the glory of Buddhism in India by celebrating festivals like Buddha Jayanti - Purnima Festival, Losar Festival, Hemis Fair & Festival, Ullambana Festival, Sangha Day - Magha Puja Festival, Asalha Day Festival and Pa! varana D ay Festival which are celebrated joyfully here. If you want to explore the true essence of Buddhism in India then Buddhist tour is the best way for you. This tour will give you mental peace and rejuvenate your body. It is believed that we should atleast once in a life visit this tour as visiting this religious place washes away all your sins. Get enriched physically and mentally in your vacations by visiting Buddhist Tour which will make you relax, de-stress and calm. About the AuthorAuthor is an eminent and experienced Content Writer in Travel & Tourism related topics. He has written several articles on India Tour Packages, Buddhist Pilgrimage and Bodhgaya tour etc. The Buddhist Monks Sakya Tashi Ling - I Wanna Fly 
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| Car hire in New Zealand lets you rest and relax in the country’s best Spa destinations Posted: 12 Dec 2011 11:00 PM PST Article by CarRental Expert New Zealand, a country known for its breathtaking scenery, culture, adventure sports and wine is also a fantastic destination for those looking for an unsurpassed spa and relaxation holiday. Ranging from tranquil waterfalls to hot thermal springs, New Zealand will refresh your body and mind. With two distinct driving routes giving you access to some of the best spa locations in the country, car rental in New Zealand is the perfect way to explore! Rotorua & the Thermal Explorer Highway Situated on the North Island, the thermal explorer highway takes you through some of New Zealand's best spa locations including Auckland, Taupo, Napier and Rotorua. This route is well known for its geological wonders, and makes a stunning location for a spa holiday. With a great range of rental cars in New Zealand, we can assist you in getting to this region whether you are travelling with your partner or a group of friends. With vehicle stations located at Auckland, Napier and Rotorua, Europcar makes getting to the places you want on The Thermal Explorer Highway a piece of cake. The highlight of this route is Rotorua, where you can experience thermal mud treatments and therapies in some of the country's most stunning spa complexes. Rotorua is also home to natural geothermal pools that are known mainly by locals and are hidden deep within mountains and lakes. Also located just outside Rotorua is Kakahi Falls at Hells Gate, the Southern Hemispheres largest hot waterfall, a location that Maori warriors traditionally bathed in to heal their battle wounds. Discover NZ's Maori Culture with car hire in New Zealand Soaking in the regions geothermal pools is not the only way to experience traditional Maori wellbeing, with the Maori also being practiced in the art of massage for hundreds of years. Two types of Maori massage, romiromi, an intense acupressure deep tissue massage or mirimiri, a gentler soft tissue massage will leave you rested and relaxed. Relax and indul! ge on th e Alpine Pacific Triangle driving Route Located on the South Island north of Christchurch lies the Alpine pacific triangle driving route which encompasses 3 towns, Waipara - known for its wine and food, Kaikoura - known for its wildlife encounters and Hanmer Springs - famed as one of the best spa towns in New Zealand. With two handy locations in nearby Christchurch, be sure to use our great range of rental cars in New Zealand to get you there. Hamner Springs is a highlight of this region with its award winning thermal pools. Set against a breathtaking landscape featuring forests and mountains, Hanmer Springs includes 9 open air thermal pools, 3 sulphur pools, and 4 private thermal pools for those who are after a bit of privacy. With these natural pools ranging from 33-42 degrees Celsius you can push away those aches and pains and unwind. So if you are looking to unwind and relax in some of New Zealand's finest regions and you enjoy the freedom that car rental in New Zealand can offer you, visit our website today for a great deal on a range of vehicles that will suit your travelling needs. http://car-rental.europcar.co.nz/new-zealand-car-hirehttp://car-rental.europcar.co.nz/north-island-car-hirehttp://car-rental.europcar.co.nz/south-island-car-hire About the AuthorExpert in writing informative and quality articles on topic such as car hire in New Zealand, rental cars in New Zealand and many more. How To Calm Down In 10 Seconds (Fast Relaxation Trick to Stop Anxiety and Stress) 
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| Japanese Garden Design- Dry Water Posted: 12 Dec 2011 10:00 PM PST Article by Russ Chard JAPANESE GARDEN DESIGN -DRY WATER An Article by Russ Chard
Dry water is very common in Japanese gardens, and it is very eye catching too. Wait a minute, I can hear you questioning the term 'dry water'- it's a contradiction in terms isn't it? Well, YES and NO! And it's the NO part I am going to concentrate on in this small article. But let me clarify the rules of water sources and features in Japanese gardens. Water sources in Japanese gardens should appear as natural as possible and blend in with the surroundings. Fountains do not exists in Japanese gardens, waterfalls yes, but fountains no. They are man made and not 'natural' in appearance. Don't get me wrong I am not 'fountainist' it's just with Japanese gardens there are certain rules that have to be observed. If you really wanted a fountain in a Japanese garden, it's not a heinous crime but your garden would not be wholly authentic! Streams- nearly always man-made are a big part of Japanese gardening, they often are built with curves giving them a more natural appearance. The positioning of lanterns is more often than not by streams or ponds within a garden. This represents the female and the male elements of 'water' and 'fire'. This concept is known in Japanese tradition as YIN and YANG. Any stream in a Japanese garden will have deliberate imperfections designed into it, so as to give the 'water' a 'natural' look and an organic feel. The shapes of ponds must also look natural for this reason as well. Water is never placed in the centre of the garden- particularly ponds. these will often have larger stones within them to simulate islands. Sometimes it is common for them to have a smallish waterfall. The use of stones is always very structural and symmetrical. This also applies to the Japanese and Zen garden. Ok, that's the wet stuff out of the way. Let's move onto the concept and usage of 'Dry Water' in Japanese and Zen gardens. In Zen gardens it is fairly straight forward- sand is used to replicate! water a nd this makes smaller landscape reproductions far easier. A Zen garden will more often than not show a miniature landscape with mounds for mountains and sand to depict water. The sand is raked to give it's 'watery' appearance and can be raked in different styles over and over again. In Japanese gardens 'Dry water' is featured more often than not in 'Karesansui' gardens. It's one of the most popular types of Japanese gardens and in the English language it means 'Dry mountain stream'. These types of Japanese gardens are know simply as 'Dry' gardens and are heavily influenced by Zen Buddhism. They are peaceful, simple and waterless- rocks are used to symbolise land masses and the 'Dry water' -or- SAND is raked to make it look like the sea. Brilliantly clever and with meaning too. Many hundreds of years ago this type of garden was built by 'Senzui Kawarami' in a simple English translation this means 'Mountain, Stream and Riverbed people'. They were master craftsmen by trade and vocation and specialised in building these stunning Zen influenced gardens. It is generally accepted by Scholars that these types of gardens design originated in China as does a good deal of Japanese garden history and influences. But that is another story...... For more information about JAPANESE GARDENS CLICK HERE About the AuthorRuss Chard lives in the UK and is an Japanese and Zen garden enthusiast who has been writing on the subject for 5 years. Website: http://www.japzengardens.org Zen Master Seung Sahn: "Wake up!" (part 4 of 6) 
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| Chico called a meditation 'Mecca' Posted: 12 Dec 2011 09:58 PM PST By LARRY MITCHELL - Staff Writer CHICO — If you're looking for meditation teachers and groups, Chico is a great place to hunt, said Margaret DuFon, a Chico State University professor who started a meditation group herself. "I think Chico really is a kind of spiritual Mecca," she said in an interview. "We have so many meditation teachers, some with national recognition. And there are so many groups, Christian centering prayer, a Sufi group, various secular groups and Buddhist groups. It's a very rich community." Mindful Campus, the group DuFon started at Chico State University, sponsored a day of meditation on campus Friday. Eight local meditation teachers volunteered to give one-hour workshops during the day, for students, faculty, staff and community members. The idea was to help people relax at the semester's end — right before final exams. Nancie Brown Ferguson said she was going to teach insight meditation, which is also known as vipassana. "We use the breath as a focus to keep the attention steady. By doing the practice, we learn to accept more fully the variation of our experience — the fear and joy." After doing this kind of meditation for 30 years, "I have found it is easier for me to accept the upsets in life as they come along, illness and aging. I seem to more take whatever comes without having it throw me out of the boat." Marlene Marron is a co-leader of the Ananda Chico Meditation Center. Her group practices something called Kriya Yoga. "There are many, many kinds of meditation on this path," she said. On Friday, she planned to lead "mantra-based meditation," among other things. She said she would teach participants how to repeat a mantra (a word or phrase) to themselves while doing a breathing and concentration technique. She'd have them do that for a while and then ask them to stop and, for a time, "just feel the experience," she said. Marron said she's followed this way of meditation since 1984. "I think it's helped me to find that joy that we're all looking for. I feel I've been given some very sacred tools." Bill Martin has taught Taoist meditation for many years and has written books about it. Taoism teaches "there's a natural quality to life that's available to every person, which allows life to be lived with an effortless grace," he said. Taoism originated in China, about 2,500 years ago, when Lao-tzu wrote a small book, "Tao Te Ching." "From the Taoist tradition, meditation is merely being here — just sitting and not doing anything," Martin said. "Culturally, we have a hard time sitting and being quiet." In Taoist meditation, he said, "there's no state of mind we're looking for. We're just being quiet and seeing what the mind does and being with what is. "The Taoist tradition is a very organic, earthy, natural, somewhat humorous look at life, in the sense of 'isn't this interesting?'" 
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| U.S. Seniors Maintain Happiness Highs With Less Social Time Posted: 12 Dec 2011 09:53 PM PST WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The more time Americans spend socially with family and friends, the more likely they are to report enjoyment and happiness in their lives without a lot of stress and worry. Overall, Americans' self-reported mood improves with each hour of social time they spend in a day, up to about seven hours. Though the relationship is present among all age groups, Americans aged 65 and older are more likely than their younger counterparts to maintain a positive mood with fewer hours of social time.The percentage of seniors reporting a lot of enjoyment and happiness without a lot of stress and worry increases more than 20 percentage points between those with no hours of social time the previous day and those with three hours. Among adults younger than 30, it takes more than six hours of social time to see as much of an increase in positive mood. Among Americans overall who report less than one hour spent socially the previous day, 30% say they experienced a lot of enjoyment and happiness without a lot of stress and worry that day. That figure rises to a majority among those who report at least six hours of social time before leveling off. Americans 65 and older, however, are almost as likely to be in a positive emotional state with three hours of social time as they are with seven or eight hours. That is good news because the average amount of social time Americans get drops considerably with age. Adults younger than 30 report spending an average of 8.1 hours socializing the previous day, compared with 5.7 hours among those 65 and older. However, older Americans who felt enjoyment and happiness without a lot of worry and stress the previous day averaged 6.1 hours. In terms of its relationship to positive mood, the social time "shortfall" is actually lower among seniors than among younger Americans. Implications As a recent analysis of Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index tracking surveys demonstrated, Americans' emotional wellbeing rises significantly after about age 60. This does not seem to simply be an effect of retirement; in fact, seniors are about as likely to experience enjoyment and happiness without a lot of stress and worry whether they are working full time (61%) or are out of the workforce (63%). This greater emotional resilience may help seniors as they enter life stages when they are less likely to have children at home or to spend all day with coworkers at a full-time job. This is not to say social interactions are not an important component of wellbeing for everyone. Research has demonstrated the benefits of social activity to overall health and even mental acuity among seniors. However, it may be comforting to know that Americans' emotional state does not necessarily suffer as the average time they spend daily in the company of others declines with age. About the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index tracks wellbeing in the U.S., U.K., and Germany and provides best-in-class solutions for a healthier world. To learn more, please visit well-beingindex.com. Survey Methods Results are based on telephone interviews conducted as part of the Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index survey Jan. 2-Nov. 28, 2011, with a random sample of 31,486 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia, selected using random-digit-dial sampling. For results based on the total sample of national adults, one can say with 95% confidence that the maximum margin of sampling error is ±1 percentage point. Subgroups have a maximum margin of sampling error of ±7.5 percentage points. Interviews are conducted with respondents on landline telephones and cellular phones, with interviews conducted in Spanish for respondents who are primarily Spanish-speaking. Each sample includes a minimum quota of 400 cell phone respondents and 600 landline respondents per 1,000 national adults, with additional minimum quotas among landline respondents by region. Landline telephone numbers are chosen at random among listed telephone numbers. Cell phone numbers are selected using random-digit-dial methods. Landline respondents are chosen at random within each household on the basis of which member had the most recent birthday. Samples are weighted by gender, age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, education, region, adults in the household, and phone status (cell phone only/landline only/both, cell phone mostly, and having an unlisted landline number). Demographic weighting targets are based on the March 2010 Current Population Survey figures for the aged 18 and older non-institutionalized population living in U.S. telephone households. All reported margins of sampling error include the computed design effects for weighting and sample design. In addition to sampling error, question wording and practical difficulties in conducting surveys can introduce error or bias into the findings of public opinion polls. For more details on Gallup's polling methodology, visit www.gallup.com. 
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As a kid, I was really out of touch with my body. I hardly noticed it most of the time, and when I did, I prodded it like a mule to do a better job of hauling "me" – the head – around.
After having enjoyed great Neapolitan pizza from its special flour to the sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes, for some unexplained reason, I thought about the pizza I had just eaten trying to connect it with Zen. 
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