Acupuncture is the basic foundation for Traditional Chinese Medicine and is based on the belief that there are two opposing and inseparable forces within our body.  They are known as the Yin and Yang of the entire person. The Yin is representative of the cold, slow, or passive principle, and yang represents the hot, excited or active principle.  A healthy state is achieved by maintaining a balance state of the yin and yang.  This is done through vital pathways or meridians that allow for the flow of qi, or vital energy.  The vital energy flow occurs along pathways known as meridians. These meridians connect over 2,000 acupuncture points along the body.  There are 12 main meridians, and 8 secondary meridians.  Although traditional western medicine does not completely understand how acupuncture works, the proof that it does work has been shown in several studies conducted by western medical facilities.

Now, let’s move to the question of does it work?  According to the National Institute of Health, the answer would be yes.  Acupuncture has been shown to be effective in many areas of health care.  Areas such as postoperative nausea, chemotherapy side effects, osteoarthritis, low-back pain, headache, menstrual cramps, addiction, carpal tunnel syndrome, and asthma, just to name a few.  The study revealed that acupuncture was able to provide pain relief, improve function and mobility of joints due to arthritis inflammation, and served to complement standard care.

Although there are many who would doubt the effectiveness of acupuncture, once they are a patient, they are believers.  It has been proposed that acupuncture works and produces its effects through regulating the nervous system.  The theory proposes that since acupuncture produces its effect through regulation of the nervous system, it induces the release of endorphins and immune system cells at specific sites on the body. There is also the theory that acupuncture alters the brain chemistry by the changing the neurotransmitters in the brain.

Without doubt acupuncture was a benefit in the study, and as a patient myself, I can vouch for the wonderful effect it has had on my back.  Although acupuncture is classified as an alternative medicine therapy, and there is still much to be understood about the way it works, it is a proven aid in maintaining optimal health.

But what about the well individual, can acupuncture provide a benefit to them?  Absolutely.  Because acupuncture works off the belief that we must maintain balance of our vital energy flow in order to remain healthy, acupuncture serves as the tool for realignment.  Our vital energy flow can be out of balance, and we still feel and appear quite healthy.  It is in this capacity that acupuncture serves as a sort of preventive medicine.  Checking and balancing the flow of energy on the meridian points in your body is like your car receiving a tune-up before it is in need of a repair.

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Many times in your life you felt lonely and, sadder than that, you felt there was nobody you could turn to, in order to ask for help. Being uncomfortable when you’re alone is a natural reaction, because human beings are creatures that need social contact, just as much as they need to breath. In other words, like it not, we need friends!

But what should you do if you realize one afternoon that you want to leave office earlier, which you haven’t done in seven years since you got hired, but there is nobody in your agenda that you can call and invite to join you for a cup of coffee, precisely because you practically never stopped working for the last years?

There are no such things as true friends for rent, or if there are, they are called shrinks and you have to get an appointment, so how can you manage to find or to make a new friend, especially in those horrible moments, when you feel you’ll do anything not to be alone anymore?

It is indeed correct that a true friendship means time investment, and, in the case of adults, it takes even more time to establish an honest connection with a new person. But what about those times in your life when work did not occupy 90% of your time? Everybody had friends during childhood. Experts show that those bonds established during our infancy are the strongest and, as a result, why trying to build something from the ground, when there is something already built that only needs renovation?

That is why, specialists strongly advice you to reestablish connection with your old friends. The first step you should take, before dialing their number, is to invest some time and meditate on what led to this apparent lost of contact? If it was something you did wrong, don’t be afraid to admit it. Imagine that somebody comes to you after several years, begging pardon for something he or she did wrong. Wouldn’t you accept that person’s apologies? Of course you did and the same will do the friends you plan to contact.

When talking to them express you sincere feelings and don’t be afraid to ask for moral support or spiritual counseling, if you need it. Put yourself in their position, and you’ll realize they surely cannot deny your request. But don’t take advantage of them! Friendship is also about giving back, so always be ready to help the ones that helped you once.

If you discover you had no friends in your early years, turn your feelings towards your family, because between the relatives there is a connection that nobody can break.

But what if you decide that you got nothing in your past or in family that could make you feel you have a support? What if you never found a true good friend? Than, no matter how old you are, it’s high time you looked for one! Pay attention to the people you know and especially to the new people you meet. Invite them out, but be careful not to become too aggressive. When people insist too much, we always tend to be more suspicious. That is why, you have be patient, as a friendship takes time to build.

Nevertheless, never stop looking for new friends! Follow your intuition and maybe you’ll get to be the friend of somebody who is in the same situation as you are – seeking true friendship!

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When do people usually quit smoking? Unfortunately, they wait until one morning when they look in the mirror and notice how yellow their teeth are, how bad their skin looks and how awful they cough; in other words, much more later than they should. If you find yourself in the same situation or close to it, that means you’ve just become or you’re about to become conscious about the fact that you have a problem.

Once you realize what your problem is, you get down to business and try to solve it – obviously by quitting smoking. First week after quitting cigarettes is idealistic – you breathe easier, your hands don’t smell bad anymore and, since you’re so determined, you think you can break any records.

Nevertheless, you should also expect to go through a period when you feel capable of killing for a smoke. Lack of nicotine will also affect you physically, not only mentally. You’ll find yourself in great pain, in a bad mood, just as if you quitted taking drugs. When you go through precisely the period described above, keep away thoughts like: I’ll smoke only one more and then I’ll realty quit – once you start smoking again, you suffered all that pain in vain. On the other hand, try not to:

• Start drinking, instead of smoking. It’s even worse.
• Keep any lights around or ashtrays – they will represent too much of a temptation.
• Encourage you friends to smoke next to you, just to show them how tough you are.

Keep in mind that there are thousands of people on this planet trying to quit smoking, so you are not alone. Try to get more information regarding the amount of evil cigarettes do to you. Watch TV, read magazines, go on line, or even try to get professional help, because once you did made your decision to quit smoking and you respected it for more than two weeks, it’s a pity to give up.

Many persons, and not only women, have confessed that they are afraid to gain considerable weight, when quitting smoking. Specialists have not denied this fear. They do admit that we have to use something in order to compensate for the cigarettes we don’t smoke anymore. Usually lack of cigarettes is compensated by candies, which served in great quantities will result into a lot of body fat; chewing gum, which actually stimulates our gastric juice and makes us hungry more often.

Nevertheless you have to assume all those risks and try to diminish the unpleasant effects by exercising a lot, because otherwise, the problems to deal with will be even more considerable than a few extra pounds.

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If your issue has to do with loosing weight, be sure you can solve it by using this method. Keeping a diet is something everybody feels he knows how to do, but nevertheless, the advice not always works for everybody. That is why specialists strongly suggest you should find your own ways to loose weight efficiently and without major discontent. This does not mean you cannot pay attention or get inspired by other people’s experiences, but do not forget that, in what concerns your own person, you’re the one who knows better.

How do you start your own meditation plan? First of all, gather as much information regarding the manner in which other people solved the problem, including the information you disagree with – you can place that one on the not to do list. Where can you find the information? As soon as you start digging you’ll realize it’s everywhere: TV, magazines, internet, friend’s advice etc.

Next step, once you got all the material you need, is to take the time to analyze it, meditating as well, on how you can adapt it, in order to best fit your needs. Remember to be responsible when keeping a diet, as otherwise, your own health might be in danger, so never exaggerate!

Here are some tricks that always work, if you adapt them a little bit to your personality:

• Whenever you do something tough, for which you need determination, think about how to make it fun: cook weird foods, for example; try eating things you never tried before or do whatever makes you feel that keeping a diet is enjoyable. Let your brain help you a little bit and you’ll see how easy and fun things can turn out!
• Set a goal. It is important to know what you are fighting for, but, however, do no exaggerate. Meditate thoroughly on what the goal means to you, what changes it could bring to your life and if you set your goal too high or to low.
• Don’t forget that help is something we all need. Think which sort of help could serve you best: a doctor’s advice, a counseling group, a specialized magazine, talking to your friends, listening to your own intuition etc. Do not be afraid to make the choice you consider the best, because, remember, nobody knows you better than yourself.
• Remember to enjoy yourself. No matter how difficult something seems to be, always try to determine a way to find pleasant and enjoyable things about it! In order to enjoy yourself, you have to perform actions that make you have a good opinion about your own person. For example, reading a book, taking care of a pet or of a sick person, sharing with others your efforts, followed by the deserved accomplishments,  etc. are all things that feed your inner spirit and make you feel good about yourself.

Once you got the answers to the questions you gathered in the first place, you can build the list with the things to do and the ones always to avoid. Remember that this list should be a mirror of yourself, the result of your own meditation, so never distrust it and be sure you’ll see the results!

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The first thing we should be aware of is that each of our bodies is unique – there are not two human beings exactly the same. Because of this it is hard to come up with a precise dosage of vitamins that you need on a daily basis. Vitamin intake is largely dependant on your diet. As many people already know, fruits and vegetables are the best source for the top vitamins that we need to live a healthy life. They provide good amounts of vitamins A, C, D and E (and several other) that rank highest on the importance scale.

When your body receives less vitamins than it needs you will experience several negative effects, manifested in different forms. Too little C vitamin, for example, will lower your defense mechanism against viral infections, while a lack of the A vitamin can lead to poorer eyesight. There are several factors that can cause a need for more vitamins. You may need to help your body out with vitamin supplements if you are eating irregularly or if your main diet is formed from fast food items or processed foods. Making physical efforts for long periods of time also puts more stress on your organism, which, in turn, will demand more resources in order to replenish your energy.

However, vitamin supplements should also be used cautiously, as they can lead to a vitamin overdose. Vitamins A and D, taken alone, may have serious side effects if they are not accompanied by other multi vitamin supplements. Some people respond negatively to higher doses of C and E vitamins. Calcium, an essential mineral for our bone system, needs to be accompanied by D vitamin. Otherwise, the body only keeps a small amount of Calcium and eliminates the rest. The D vitamin helps your body absorb Calcium better. Other mineral – vitamin combinations are especially effective, such as the B6 vitamin and Magnesium. Tandems such as the ones mentioned above work well together because each component balances the other by helping the body to make the most of their presence.

Insufficient vitamins may lead to a weakened immune system that is very permissive with viruses, highly increasing your chances of getting sick. Tiredness, apathy and low energy levels may also appear when your vitamin equilibrium has been altered.

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1. Vyadhi – This obstacle refers to physical or mental illness. Practicing yoga si even more difficult when you are not in great health. A balanced, healthy life style ensures victory on this obstacle, by preventing any form of sickness.                                             2. Styana – The second major difficulty related to yoga refers to an advanced state of apathy, which interferes with you willingness to commit to your responsibilities. We neglect and avoid practice by procrastinating and this, in turn, leads to coming up with excuses for not doing our work.

3. Sanshaya – One other major interference in the practice of yoga is related to the issue of doubting the benefits of practicing it. This problem also arises when faith in your own capabilities is low. This leads to a deviation from the original goals, making you more susceptible to outside interference.

4. Pramada – When lack of persistence and will is notices, the 4^th yoga obstacle comes in place. Yoga requires a unique approach, as it is a combination of arts and sciences. If you practice yoga without the proper emotional and mental states, you may turn its positive aspects into negative ones.

5. Alasya – A lazy and inert state of mind and body will prevent you from receiving yoga’s full benefits. Most people have a hard time dealing with their own will power, creating the perfect conditions for this obstacle to appear. The road to success is hard most of the times and a strong will power can support your ascent. A passive approach, on the other hand, will almost certainly lead to a slow and ineffective advance.

6. Avirati – Physical objects hold a magnetic attraction to the majority of people. Yoga needs you to let go of these ropes that tie you to the material world and make progress in the realm of the spirit. Removing the weight of physical things is vital while practicing yoga.

7. Bhrantidarshan – Misunderstanding the path you are taking while practicing yoga can lead to disappointment. Avoid this by keeping your hopes in good contact with reality.

8. Alabdha-bhumikatva – We are often victims of our own discouragement. When a failure occurs we fall into a state of self-depreciation and low optimism levels. Failing to reach a step on your road to achieving your ideal can lead to aggravated forms of this obstacle.

9. Anawasthitatwa – Poor yoga practice may also lead to the incapability to reach and hold a higher level of consciousness. This can be frustrating and result in disappointment.

Overcoming these obstacles is possible by helping your mind to focus on single elements a one time. Do not allow any of these obstacles to increase in power, as the others will soon follow. The passing of time and a strong will and commitment is usually very effective in dealing with the 9 yoga obstacles.

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A calm and focused mind has a better chance of reducing the harmful effects of eating disorders. Yoga has been proven to reduce depression and recreate a state of balance and well being. Different yoga practices encourage heightened levels of self esteem and promote a positive view of your own body. This is a crucial factor in eating disorders and has been shown to significantly increase recuperation and healing. By eliminating self judgment, yoga establishes a strong connection between mind and body, allowing the two elements to work together in decreasing any negative effects. Anorexia affects your body’s energy levels and reduces the bone density, creating unwanted negative effects at a physical level. Regular yoga practice also increase the overall fitness level of the body, giving it a good chance of fighting against illnesses.

The yogic system identifies eating disorders as a problem related to the first chakra and different poses are used to balance it: crab, full wind, pigeon, locust, staff etc. Strengths and courage can be increased by using grounding postures such as mountain, goddess, standing squat and prayer squat. The postures reestablish the strong mind-body connections and help overcome most physical obstacles. Most back bending poses help reduce depression and forward bends usually calm the spirit and reduce the effects of anorexia.

As the mental component plays an important role in eating disorders, meditation can reduce harmful thoughts and feelings. An active, specifically targeted meditation practice will prove to be very effective. Less obvious results can also be obtain by using a general mediation technique. The yoga poses work best when the exterior elements are left aside and concentration focuses on inner aspects of yourself. Paying special attention to breathing and inner sensations will take you to a state of calmness and increased awareness. This new state will allow you to go further an explore new concepts that will enable you to achieve goals that proved problematic in the past.

Being aware of the problem and showing a constant and strong desire to change that is a great method to reduce the effects of bulimia and anorexia. An early adoption of yoga practices would make the patient more aware of the problem, thus contributing to an early cure. However, these yoga techniques are usually used in the recuperative stages of the illness. Most people suffering from anorexia or bulimia go through a strong denial stage, which aggravates their condition even more. As with all illnesses, yoga works best in the prevention stage of the problem, when the negative effects are still low and easier to eliminate.

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Meditation is also a recommended practice when holiday stress factors become active. Meditation helps you prepare for any potential stressful situations and is invaluable during and after these obstacles are gone. A detached state of consciousness that allows you to get a better understanding of the realities around you is referred to as sakshin. Pratyahara is a state of peace obtained by reducing to a minimum all outside intereferences. The mind gets calm and relaxed, focusing towards the inside of your own body. By using pranayama you are able to calm yourself in almost any difficult situation by regulating your breathing and thus harmonizing the energies in your body.

Being prepared for any stress factors is vital for a successful holiday. Anticipating a potential problem doesn’t mean worrying about it before hand. It means that when the problem does occur you should already have a good understanding of why it happened. You will always get much better results by addressing an issue with a clear and calm head, rather then acting on an impulse.

When a situation occurs try to “step out” of your body and see yourself in that particular setting. Objectivity is hard to reach, especially when it comes to your own self, but it helps to get a neutral perspective on things. Directing an action by the guidelines of an objective mind will prove more successful than jumping in head first into a situation. Concepts like “I couldn’t help myself” should be constantly discouraged from your own vocabulary and thoughts. Take control of your inner self and you will have better control of what’s outside your body in the surrounding world. You should first feel you body’s reaction to an outside element and only react afterwards, when a clear judgment dictates what to do. Breathing techniques are of great help when it comes to relaxing an impulsive spirit and bringing calm to a particular event or situation.

You need to interrupt the actions of your subconscious mind before you are able to take control of a situation. Initial responses are hasty and often very hard to avoid, but it is essential that, through practice, you get a constant feeling of control over your reactions. The first reaction to a negative element can be either that of fighting back or that of fleeing. In any of the two cases a considerable amount of tensions fills you body, and it could be days or weeks before you manage to get over this unfortunate event. A calm and balanced response has chances of eliminating any sort of tension before it even gets a chance to start growing. Remember that most holidays are short and you can’t afford to spend half of your stay in a negative mood. After all, you are there to try to recharge your energy, not to try to waste it on meaningless tensions.

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Little by little, all the extra care they show towards us gets to annoy us tremendously. At the beginning, we try to keep it to ourselves, so that we don’t bother anybody, then, we try to avoid visits and telephone calls, just to make sure we won’t start a scandal. Nevertheless, the more we try to stay away from any uncomfortable talks, the pushier our parents get.

The question arising is how to find equilibrium? How to escape the daily phone calls, which provide you with unnecessary advice, without making your parents feel bad, rejected or misunderstood.

Depending, obviously, on the parents, there are a few strategies that you can try. For example, if you know your mother is going to call you at 8 am sharp, in order to tell you what the weather is like outside and what you should wear that day, ring her up five minutes earlier than she would normally call. Act natural, like you didn’t plan in detail the call. Ask her how she slept, how the dog is and inform her on the weather. Tell her you just watched the weather forecast ten minutes ago and she should definitely wear warm clothes, in case she goes shopping. First, she’ll have the impression she forgot to call at the regular hour and inform you about the weather, but then she will start thinking that you follow her advice and you check the forecast before leaving for work.

We always have to remember that, although we grew up, our parents keep on seeing in us children in need to receive help and advice. That is why, they constantly try to be present in our lives and protect us, in the way they consider best.

But, in spite of all the good intentions, an over caring parent can be a problem to anybody. So what do we do when the only hobby our parents have, is to go on taking care of the poor 30 years old child, meaning your own person? If no method, like proving we are capable of handling things by our own, works, than you definitely have to start finding another hobby for your parents. It might take a while, but you can’t give up! Keep our mind open and think about options like: getting them another pet; subscribe them to dancing club which organizes daily meetings – this way they’ll be busy, healthy and also tired and they might give you a break; call their friends and invite them to pay them visits more often etc.

You’ll see that reaching the purpose is much easier than you expect, but be sure that, after a while, you will accept those phone calls, so don’t make the mistake to totally break the relations with your parents!

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