"The Land of Opportunity is an attitude.
It is an openness to new ideas,
a willingness to listen,
an eagerness to learn,
a desire to grow,
and the flexibility to change."
BJ Gallagher and Warren H. Schmidt
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Self Meditation 111
Meditate on any hindrance (irritation/aversion, craving/desire, sleepiness, restlessness, doubt) that arises in your practice; see it arise, observe its features, soften and receive it, let it go.
The more you practice the three trainings of ethics, meditation, and wisdom, the more difficult it will become for you to act in a way that is contrary to an ethical, compassionate attitude.
When you are angry, do not be centered on the person who has aroused it.
Let him or her be on the periphery.
Become the anger and allow it to happen within.
Do not rationalize.
Do not say that the other person has created it.
Feel the wound and be grateful to the other person for helping you recognize this.
Your awareness will let you become the emotion.
You will be relieved of it through this awareness.
The more you practice the three trainings of ethics, meditation, and wisdom, the more difficult it will become for you to act in a way that is contrary to an ethical, compassionate attitude.
When you are angry, do not be centered on the person who has aroused it.
Let him or her be on the periphery.
Become the anger and allow it to happen within.
Do not rationalize.
Do not say that the other person has created it.
Feel the wound and be grateful to the other person for helping you recognize this.
Your awareness will let you become the emotion.
You will be relieved of it through this awareness.
Disease
"To know that you do not know is the best.
To pretend to know when you do not know is disease."
Lao Tzu
To pretend to know when you do not know is disease."
Lao Tzu
Finely Tuned
"Maintain a state of balance between physical acts and inner serenity,
like a lute whose strings are finely tuned."
Buddha
like a lute whose strings are finely tuned."
Buddha
Acceptance
Happiness lies in accepting everyone in our lives EXACTLY as they are.
We cause ourselves untold misery whenever we believe others to be imperfect and try to change them.
This is the number one rule for happier relationships with others.
We cause ourselves untold misery whenever we believe others to be imperfect and try to change them.
This is the number one rule for happier relationships with others.
Using Water To Curb Your Appetite
Hungry already? If it isn’t snack time yet, try drinking a glass of water first to curb your appetite.
While there’s nothing wrong with eating when you’re famished, sometimes it’s hard to tell if you truly need food.
Sometimes our body sends out mixed signals and we can confuse hunger with thirst.
So if you can’t figure out why you’re starving already, try downing eight ounces of H2O first.
Drinking an extra glass of water is never a bad thing, and it could help you quench your thirst and recognize that those hunger signals were a false alarm.
While there’s nothing wrong with eating when you’re famished, sometimes it’s hard to tell if you truly need food.
Sometimes our body sends out mixed signals and we can confuse hunger with thirst.
So if you can’t figure out why you’re starving already, try downing eight ounces of H2O first.
Drinking an extra glass of water is never a bad thing, and it could help you quench your thirst and recognize that those hunger signals were a false alarm.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Your Actions Will Define You
"Do you want to know who you are?
Don't ask.
Act!
Your actions will delineate and define you."
Thomas Jefferson
Don't ask.
Act!
Your actions will delineate and define you."
Thomas Jefferson
Two Voices
You have two voices with which you speak:
your MindVoice and your SoulVoice.
These two voices are also always speaking to you.
Which voice you listen to will determine
which voice you speak with.
God invites you to listen to, and speak with, your SoulVoice.
This will vastly improve your personal
communications -- to say nothing of your mood.
your MindVoice and your SoulVoice.
These two voices are also always speaking to you.
Which voice you listen to will determine
which voice you speak with.
God invites you to listen to, and speak with, your SoulVoice.
This will vastly improve your personal
communications -- to say nothing of your mood.
Losing Inches For the Summer Season
Lose Inches for the Summer Season
If you've been enjoying a cozy winter, and are concerned about losing a few inches before it's time to don your bathing suit once again, don't worry, you still have time! Working out to lose inches requires knowledge about how the body works.
Many people get frustrated when their workouts result in bulking rather than slimming, so follow the following steps to make sure you are targeting your workouts to find a sleeker, slimmer figure in time for summer.
1. Workout to burn calories. Do aerobic exercises that burn off more calories than you have consumed, to help the body burn off fat. Within a workout, try alternating between aerobic and anaerobic exercises.
2. Strength train for endurance, not muscle mass. Simply put, do more reps with lighter weights. You can also do more exercises that utilize your own body weight for resistance instead of machine exercises designed to increase muscular bulk.
3. Change Your Diet. Cut out junk food, processed foods, and high fat foods. Eat more whole foods and drink plenty of water.
4. Think Sustainable. Make dietary changes and adapt workouts that you can continue over time, unless you plan on gaining the weight back after swimsuit season.
If you've been enjoying a cozy winter, and are concerned about losing a few inches before it's time to don your bathing suit once again, don't worry, you still have time! Working out to lose inches requires knowledge about how the body works.
Many people get frustrated when their workouts result in bulking rather than slimming, so follow the following steps to make sure you are targeting your workouts to find a sleeker, slimmer figure in time for summer.
1. Workout to burn calories. Do aerobic exercises that burn off more calories than you have consumed, to help the body burn off fat. Within a workout, try alternating between aerobic and anaerobic exercises.
2. Strength train for endurance, not muscle mass. Simply put, do more reps with lighter weights. You can also do more exercises that utilize your own body weight for resistance instead of machine exercises designed to increase muscular bulk.
3. Change Your Diet. Cut out junk food, processed foods, and high fat foods. Eat more whole foods and drink plenty of water.
4. Think Sustainable. Make dietary changes and adapt workouts that you can continue over time, unless you plan on gaining the weight back after swimsuit season.
Self Meditation 110
Let go of the habit of clinging to the people and material things in your life
and to your beliefs, ideas, and opinions.
and to your beliefs, ideas, and opinions.
Tao Translation In Modern Words--#69
Those who know, don't talk.
Those who talk, don't know.
Shut your mouth.
Be still.
Relax.
Let go of your worries.
Stay out of the spotlight.
Be at one with the world and get right with Tao.
If you get right with Tao,you won't be worried about praise or scorn,
about winning or losing,
about honor or disgrace.
Those who talk, don't know.
Shut your mouth.
Be still.
Relax.
Let go of your worries.
Stay out of the spotlight.
Be at one with the world and get right with Tao.
If you get right with Tao,you won't be worried about praise or scorn,
about winning or losing,
about honor or disgrace.
The Present Moment
Do not dwell in the past.
Do not dream of the future.
Concentrate the mind on the present moment.
BUDDHA
Do not dream of the future.
Concentrate the mind on the present moment.
BUDDHA
The Light That Will Lead Us Home
We blindly follow paths on numerous journeys...
searching for a singular destination...
and yet...
our illuminated souls have always contained
the Light that will lead us home.
Kristin Jongen
searching for a singular destination...
and yet...
our illuminated souls have always contained
the Light that will lead us home.
Kristin Jongen
Libido Issues
Sex drive MIA?
Oral contraceptives or other medications could be to blame. Ask your doctor if they could be interfering with your libido.
If your sex drive is lower than you’d like, don’t keep it to yourself. Many medical conditions and medications could be getting in the way of your desire or your ability to perform. A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, for instance, shows a link between oral contraceptives and sexual dysfunction. Antidepressants are also a common cause. Always talk to your doctor first to rule out underlying conditions or medications, and never stop taking prescribed pills without discussing it first with your physician.
Oral contraceptives or other medications could be to blame. Ask your doctor if they could be interfering with your libido.
If your sex drive is lower than you’d like, don’t keep it to yourself. Many medical conditions and medications could be getting in the way of your desire or your ability to perform. A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, for instance, shows a link between oral contraceptives and sexual dysfunction. Antidepressants are also a common cause. Always talk to your doctor first to rule out underlying conditions or medications, and never stop taking prescribed pills without discussing it first with your physician.
Monday, June 28, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#26
Doing your best will depend on whether you are refreshed in the morning or tired at night.
Your best will depend on whether you are content or upset, healthy as opposed to feeling ill.
Under any and all circumstances, ALWAYS DO YOUR VERY BEST.
In this way, you will avoid self-judgement, self-abuse, and regret.
Your best will depend on whether you are content or upset, healthy as opposed to feeling ill.
Under any and all circumstances, ALWAYS DO YOUR VERY BEST.
In this way, you will avoid self-judgement, self-abuse, and regret.
Inner Peace
"We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves."
Dalai Lama
Dalai Lama
Mindfulness Defined
For mindfulness,
you need non-judging,
patience,
a beginner's mind,
trust,
non-striving,
acceptance,
and letting go.
you need non-judging,
patience,
a beginner's mind,
trust,
non-striving,
acceptance,
and letting go.
Leadership
"A leader is most effective when people barely know he exists.
When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, his people will feel they did it themselves."
Lao Tzu
When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, his people will feel they did it themselves."
Lao Tzu
30 Tactics To Outsmart Food Temptations--#7
Phone a friend.
When you want to
blow your calorie bank,
quit your gym
membership or eat a
tube of cookie dough,
tell a supportive friend.
He or she will distract
you until the urge passes.
When you want to
blow your calorie bank,
quit your gym
membership or eat a
tube of cookie dough,
tell a supportive friend.
He or she will distract
you until the urge passes.
Fiber
On a diet? Adding fiber to your meals may help you eat fewer calories and drop more weight.
Adding bulk to your diet can help take bulk off your frame. Research shows that dieters who ate the most fiber had the greatest amount of weight loss. According to a study in Nutrition Review, people who increased the amount of fiber in their diet by 14 grams a day ate 10 percent fewer calories.
Eating just half a cup of Fiber One will get you there. Other evidence suggests that dietary fiber is inversely related to obesity, meaning lots of fiber equals lots less weight and body fat. The average American gets just half of the recommended 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day.
To avoid stomach distress, add fiber gradually to your diet and drink plenty of water. Believe it or not, adding fiber to your meals may even help keep your body from absorbing as many calories.
Adding bulk to your diet can help take bulk off your frame. Research shows that dieters who ate the most fiber had the greatest amount of weight loss. According to a study in Nutrition Review, people who increased the amount of fiber in their diet by 14 grams a day ate 10 percent fewer calories.
Eating just half a cup of Fiber One will get you there. Other evidence suggests that dietary fiber is inversely related to obesity, meaning lots of fiber equals lots less weight and body fat. The average American gets just half of the recommended 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day.
To avoid stomach distress, add fiber gradually to your diet and drink plenty of water. Believe it or not, adding fiber to your meals may even help keep your body from absorbing as many calories.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Two Handles
"Every tomorrow has two handles.
We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith."
Henry Ward Beecher
We can take hold of it with the handle of anxiety or the handle of faith."
Henry Ward Beecher
A Proper Breathing Exercise
Proper breathing is an underestimated, but critical building block of good health. Slow, deep breathing gets rid of carbon dioxide waste and takes plenty of clean, fresh oxygen to your brain and muscles. More blood cells get the new, oxygen-rich air instead of the same old stale stuff. Experts estimate that proper breathing helps your body eliminate toxins 15 times faster than poor, shallow breathing. You'll not only be healthier, but you'll be able to perform better (mentally and physically) and, of course, be less stressed and more relaxed.
Here's an exercise that will help you get the full benefits of good breathing. The techniques in this exercise are ones you should try to develop in your normal breathing, and that could take practice. Try to take about 10 minutes, but it can happen in five by cutting the time for each step in half. Most of it can be done anywhere you need to relax or clear your head:
Get Ready (2 minutes) Make the room dark, or at least darker. Lie down flat on your back, or sit against a wall. Use a pillow for comfort. Make sure no part of your body is strained or supporting weight. Close your eyes. Just pay attention to your breathing for a minute or two. Don't try to change it, just notice how it feels. Imagine the fresh blood flowing through your body. Listen to your surroundings.
Stage I (2 minutes) Practice breathing in and out of your nose. Exhaling through the mouth is okay for quick relaxation, but for normal breathing, in and out the nose is best. Take long breaths, not deep breaths. Try not to force it, you shouldn't hear your breath coming in or out. You're drawing slow breaths, not gulping it or blowing it out. Feel the rhythm of your breathing.
Stage II (3 minutes) Good breathing is done through the lower torso, rather than the upper torso. Each breath should expand your belly, your lower back and ribs. Relax your shoulders and try not to breathe with your chest. Put your hands on your stomach and feel them rise and fall. If it's not working, push down gently with your hands for a few breaths and let go. Your stomach should start to move more freely. Relax your face, your neck, your cheeks, your jaw, your temples, even your tongue.
Stage III (3 minutes) Feel the good air entering your lungs and feel the stale air leaving your body. "In with the good, out with the bad" is definitely true here. Make your exhale as long as your inhale to make sure all the bad air is gone. Remember, long slow breaths. Most people take 12-16 breaths per minute. Ideally, it should be 8-10. Now try to make your exhale a little longer than your inhale for a while. Pause after your exhale without taking a breath. Focus on the stillness and on not forcing an inhale. Your body will breathe when it needs to.
Here's an exercise that will help you get the full benefits of good breathing. The techniques in this exercise are ones you should try to develop in your normal breathing, and that could take practice. Try to take about 10 minutes, but it can happen in five by cutting the time for each step in half. Most of it can be done anywhere you need to relax or clear your head:
Get Ready (2 minutes) Make the room dark, or at least darker. Lie down flat on your back, or sit against a wall. Use a pillow for comfort. Make sure no part of your body is strained or supporting weight. Close your eyes. Just pay attention to your breathing for a minute or two. Don't try to change it, just notice how it feels. Imagine the fresh blood flowing through your body. Listen to your surroundings.
Stage I (2 minutes) Practice breathing in and out of your nose. Exhaling through the mouth is okay for quick relaxation, but for normal breathing, in and out the nose is best. Take long breaths, not deep breaths. Try not to force it, you shouldn't hear your breath coming in or out. You're drawing slow breaths, not gulping it or blowing it out. Feel the rhythm of your breathing.
Stage II (3 minutes) Good breathing is done through the lower torso, rather than the upper torso. Each breath should expand your belly, your lower back and ribs. Relax your shoulders and try not to breathe with your chest. Put your hands on your stomach and feel them rise and fall. If it's not working, push down gently with your hands for a few breaths and let go. Your stomach should start to move more freely. Relax your face, your neck, your cheeks, your jaw, your temples, even your tongue.
Stage III (3 minutes) Feel the good air entering your lungs and feel the stale air leaving your body. "In with the good, out with the bad" is definitely true here. Make your exhale as long as your inhale to make sure all the bad air is gone. Remember, long slow breaths. Most people take 12-16 breaths per minute. Ideally, it should be 8-10. Now try to make your exhale a little longer than your inhale for a while. Pause after your exhale without taking a breath. Focus on the stillness and on not forcing an inhale. Your body will breathe when it needs to.
Moving Forward
"Sometimes there is no evidence that this is the right time to pursue your dream.
But by believing in it and acting on that belief, you make your dream possible.
Moving forward on what you believe is paramount and creating a new belief is the first step in changing it."
Marcia Wieder
But by believing in it and acting on that belief, you make your dream possible.
Moving forward on what you believe is paramount and creating a new belief is the first step in changing it."
Marcia Wieder
Friday, June 25, 2010
A Different Kind of Knowing
"With the timeless dimension comes a different kind of knowing.
This knowing does not destroy the sacredness and mystery of life,
but contains a deep love and reverence for all that is."
Eckert Tolle
This knowing does not destroy the sacredness and mystery of life,
but contains a deep love and reverence for all that is."
Eckert Tolle
Too Virtuous
When we become too virtuous, when we think
ourselves to be oh, so right, we become dangerous
to ourselves and others.
Be careful of those who imagine themselves to be on
the High Road while everyone else is walking the Low.
If they really are on the High Road, they will offer to take
everyone else with them, not simply tell others that they
are going the wrong way.
ourselves to be oh, so right, we become dangerous
to ourselves and others.
Be careful of those who imagine themselves to be on
the High Road while everyone else is walking the Low.
If they really are on the High Road, they will offer to take
everyone else with them, not simply tell others that they
are going the wrong way.
Self Meditation 109
Take a little time to contemplate the experience of suffering in your life.
Choose one painful incident in particular and either write or think about it.
Can you locate the underlying energies of wanting the experience to be different?
Can you see the energy of desire or craving?
Can you contemplate another way of holding the experience that includes letting go of this desire or clinging?
What does freedom or enlightenment mean to you?
Do you think you have the capacity to find freedom?
Could you reframe your definition of freedom to give yourself this possibility?
Choose one painful incident in particular and either write or think about it.
Can you locate the underlying energies of wanting the experience to be different?
Can you see the energy of desire or craving?
Can you contemplate another way of holding the experience that includes letting go of this desire or clinging?
What does freedom or enlightenment mean to you?
Do you think you have the capacity to find freedom?
Could you reframe your definition of freedom to give yourself this possibility?
Gandhi On Jesus
"A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world.
It was a perfect act."
Gandhi
It was a perfect act."
Gandhi
Worry
"It is not work that kills men;
it is worry.
Worry is rust upon the blade."
Henry Ward Beecher
it is worry.
Worry is rust upon the blade."
Henry Ward Beecher
Your Body Is Sending You A Message
These days, people are constantly "connected" to their hand-held devices, whether it is their cellular phones, portable video games like Nintendo DS, e-readers such as Amazon Kindle, or they are just using apps on an iPhone. A Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that young people 8-18 years old spend in excess of seven-and-a-half hours a day using some form of mobile media. As a result, this younger demographic will surely be developing a condition known as forward head posture (FHP).
As technology advances in the market of hand-held mobile devices, it's important to understand that where the head goes, the body will follow. If you have forward head posture, then you will have rolled shoulders. With rolled shoulders, a concave chest can follow, and often a pelvic tuck, all of which can contribute to progressive pain and dysfunction over time.
Because the demographic of people ages 13-27 is one of the largest groups of texters, we can expect to see a large increase of medical and chiropractic conditions within the next decade. The amount of time spent in a forward head tilt while texting or gaming, surfing or browsing the Web has increased as hand-held mobile devices such as cell phones, video games, and MP3 players have become smaller, mobile and essentially a direct extension of the person.
Look around you and you will see people with FHP using hand-held mobile device at tables in restaurants, at red lights in their cars, walking through the mall, in line at the grocery store, and even sitting in doctors' reception areas. We are a society that is "connected," now more than ever before, and we are suffering the health consequences.
Of course, forward head posture is not a new condition. Healthcare professionals have been treating and educating patients on the dangers of FHP for years, and the health conditions that FHP or anterior head carriage contribute to are well-researched and documented.
With all this said, it's important to understand the negative effects of a repetitive stress syndrome and appreciate how many hours you are using your hand-held mobile devices and how many hours your children, and even you, are using these devices.
As technology advances in the market of hand-held mobile devices, it's important to understand that where the head goes, the body will follow. If you have forward head posture, then you will have rolled shoulders. With rolled shoulders, a concave chest can follow, and often a pelvic tuck, all of which can contribute to progressive pain and dysfunction over time.
Because the demographic of people ages 13-27 is one of the largest groups of texters, we can expect to see a large increase of medical and chiropractic conditions within the next decade. The amount of time spent in a forward head tilt while texting or gaming, surfing or browsing the Web has increased as hand-held mobile devices such as cell phones, video games, and MP3 players have become smaller, mobile and essentially a direct extension of the person.
Look around you and you will see people with FHP using hand-held mobile device at tables in restaurants, at red lights in their cars, walking through the mall, in line at the grocery store, and even sitting in doctors' reception areas. We are a society that is "connected," now more than ever before, and we are suffering the health consequences.
Of course, forward head posture is not a new condition. Healthcare professionals have been treating and educating patients on the dangers of FHP for years, and the health conditions that FHP or anterior head carriage contribute to are well-researched and documented.
With all this said, it's important to understand the negative effects of a repetitive stress syndrome and appreciate how many hours you are using your hand-held mobile devices and how many hours your children, and even you, are using these devices.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Impartial Eyes
He who experiences the unity of life sees his own Self in all beings,
and all beings in his own Self,
and looks on everything with an impartial eye.
Buddha
and all beings in his own Self,
and looks on everything with an impartial eye.
Buddha
Divine Light
Gently eliminating all obstacles to his own understanding, he constantly maintains his unconditional sincerity.
His humility, perseverance, and adaptability evoke the response of the universe and fill him with DIVINE LIGHT.
Lao Tzu
Tao Te Ching
His humility, perseverance, and adaptability evoke the response of the universe and fill him with DIVINE LIGHT.
Lao Tzu
Tao Te Ching
Karma
I am the owner of my karma.
I inherit my karma.
I am born of my karma.
I live supported by my karma.
Whatever karma I create, whether good or evil, that (karma) I shall inherit,
and I alone.
Buddha
I inherit my karma.
I am born of my karma.
I live supported by my karma.
Whatever karma I create, whether good or evil, that (karma) I shall inherit,
and I alone.
Buddha
Taking Ourselves Too Seriously
"Laugh at yourself and at life.
Not in the spirit of derision or whining self-pity,
but as a remedy, a miracle drug, that will ease your pain, cure your depression, and help you to put in perspective that seemingly terrible defeat and worry with laughter at your predicaments, thus freeing your mind to think clearly toward the solution that is certain to come.
Never take yourself too seriously."
O.G. Mandino
Not in the spirit of derision or whining self-pity,
but as a remedy, a miracle drug, that will ease your pain, cure your depression, and help you to put in perspective that seemingly terrible defeat and worry with laughter at your predicaments, thus freeing your mind to think clearly toward the solution that is certain to come.
Never take yourself too seriously."
O.G. Mandino
Alcohol and Weight Loss
Alcohol and weight loss are enemies, but an occasional drink can have a place in a healthy lifestyle. In fact, many experts note the health benefits of consuming a single drink per day, including a reduced risk for high blood pressure. If, however, you are exceeding one drink daily, you might be sabotaging your weight loss plans.
Alcohol is metabolized differently than other foods and beverages. Under normal conditions, your body gets its energy from the calories in carbohydrates, fats and proteins that need to be slowly digested in the stomach—but not when alcohol is present. When alcohol is consumed, it gets special privileges and needs no digestion. The alcohol molecules diffuse through the stomach wall as soon as they arrive and can reach the brain and liver in minutes. This reaction is slightly slowed when there is also food in your system, but as soon as the mixed contents enter the small intestine, the alcohol grabs first place and is absorbed quickly. The alcohol then arrives at the liver for processing. The liver places all of its attention on the alcohol. Therefore, the carbohydrates (glucose) and dietary fats are just changed into body fat, waiting to be carried away for permanent fat storage in the body.
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning that it causes water loss and dehydration. Along with this water loss you lose important minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and zinc. These minerals are vital to the maintenance of fluid balance, chemical reactions, and muscle contraction and relaxation.
Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram and offers NO nutritional value. It only adds empty calories to your diet. Why not spend your calorie budget on something healthier? Alcohol affects your body in other negative ways. Drinking might help induce sleep, but the sleep you get isn't very deep. Ultimately, as a result, you get less rest.
Alcohol can also increase the amount of acid that your stomach produces, causing your stomach lining to become inflamed. Over time, excessive alcohol use can lead to serious health problems, including stomach ulcers, liver disease, and heart troubles.
Alcohol lowers your inhibitions, which is detrimental to your diet plans. Alcohol actually stimulates your appetite.
While you might be full from a comparable amount of calories from food, several drinks might not fill you up. On top of that, research shows that if you drink before or during a meal, both your inhibitions and willpower are reduced. In this state, you are more likely to overeat—especially greasy or fried foods—which can add to your waistline. To avoid this, wait to order that drink until you're done with your meal. Many foods that accompany drinking (peanuts, pretzels, chips) are salty, which can make you thirsty, encouraging you to drink even more. To avoid overdrinking, sip on a glass of water in between each alcoholic beverage. Skipping a meal to save your calories for drinks later is a bad idea.
Many drinkers know they'll be having some alcohol later, whether going to a bar, party, or just kicking back at home. Knowing that drinking entails extra calories, it may be tempting to "bank" some calories by skipping a meal or two. This is a bad move. If you come to the bar hungry, you are even more likely to munch on the snacks, and drinking on an empty stomach enhances the negative effects of alcohol. If you're planning on drinking later, eat a healthy meal first. You'll feel fuller, which will stop you from overdrinking. If you are worried about a looming night out with friends, include an extra 30 minutes of exercise to balance your calories—instead of skipping a meal.
What are more important, calories or carbs? You might think that drinking liquor is more diet-friendly because it has no carbohydrates, while both wine and beer do contain carbs. But dieters need to watch calories, and liquor only has a few calories less than beer or wine. Plus, it is often mixed with other drinks, adding even more empty calories. Hard liquor contains around 100 calories per shot, so adding a mixer increases calories even more. If you are going to mix liquor with anything, opt for a diet or club soda, instead of fruit juice or regular soda. Sweeter drinks, whether liquor or wine, tend to have more sugar, and therefore more calories. In that respect, dry wines usually have fewer calories than sweet wines.
Alcohol is metabolized differently than other foods and beverages. Under normal conditions, your body gets its energy from the calories in carbohydrates, fats and proteins that need to be slowly digested in the stomach—but not when alcohol is present. When alcohol is consumed, it gets special privileges and needs no digestion. The alcohol molecules diffuse through the stomach wall as soon as they arrive and can reach the brain and liver in minutes. This reaction is slightly slowed when there is also food in your system, but as soon as the mixed contents enter the small intestine, the alcohol grabs first place and is absorbed quickly. The alcohol then arrives at the liver for processing. The liver places all of its attention on the alcohol. Therefore, the carbohydrates (glucose) and dietary fats are just changed into body fat, waiting to be carried away for permanent fat storage in the body.
Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning that it causes water loss and dehydration. Along with this water loss you lose important minerals, such as magnesium, potassium, calcium and zinc. These minerals are vital to the maintenance of fluid balance, chemical reactions, and muscle contraction and relaxation.
Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram and offers NO nutritional value. It only adds empty calories to your diet. Why not spend your calorie budget on something healthier? Alcohol affects your body in other negative ways. Drinking might help induce sleep, but the sleep you get isn't very deep. Ultimately, as a result, you get less rest.
Alcohol can also increase the amount of acid that your stomach produces, causing your stomach lining to become inflamed. Over time, excessive alcohol use can lead to serious health problems, including stomach ulcers, liver disease, and heart troubles.
Alcohol lowers your inhibitions, which is detrimental to your diet plans. Alcohol actually stimulates your appetite.
While you might be full from a comparable amount of calories from food, several drinks might not fill you up. On top of that, research shows that if you drink before or during a meal, both your inhibitions and willpower are reduced. In this state, you are more likely to overeat—especially greasy or fried foods—which can add to your waistline. To avoid this, wait to order that drink until you're done with your meal. Many foods that accompany drinking (peanuts, pretzels, chips) are salty, which can make you thirsty, encouraging you to drink even more. To avoid overdrinking, sip on a glass of water in between each alcoholic beverage. Skipping a meal to save your calories for drinks later is a bad idea.
Many drinkers know they'll be having some alcohol later, whether going to a bar, party, or just kicking back at home. Knowing that drinking entails extra calories, it may be tempting to "bank" some calories by skipping a meal or two. This is a bad move. If you come to the bar hungry, you are even more likely to munch on the snacks, and drinking on an empty stomach enhances the negative effects of alcohol. If you're planning on drinking later, eat a healthy meal first. You'll feel fuller, which will stop you from overdrinking. If you are worried about a looming night out with friends, include an extra 30 minutes of exercise to balance your calories—instead of skipping a meal.
What are more important, calories or carbs? You might think that drinking liquor is more diet-friendly because it has no carbohydrates, while both wine and beer do contain carbs. But dieters need to watch calories, and liquor only has a few calories less than beer or wine. Plus, it is often mixed with other drinks, adding even more empty calories. Hard liquor contains around 100 calories per shot, so adding a mixer increases calories even more. If you are going to mix liquor with anything, opt for a diet or club soda, instead of fruit juice or regular soda. Sweeter drinks, whether liquor or wine, tend to have more sugar, and therefore more calories. In that respect, dry wines usually have fewer calories than sweet wines.
Self Meditation 108
It takes less energy to get an unpleasant task done
now
than to worry about it all day.
now
than to worry about it all day.
Naming and Reframing
"Do not say, 'It is morning,' and dismiss it with a name of yesterday.
See it for the first time as a newborn child that has no name."
Rabindranath Tagore
"Call a plant beautiful, and it becomes a flower.
Call it ugly, and it becomes a weed."
Shakespeare says, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet," but I disagree. There is great power in naming. "Urban wall art" and "graffiti" are very different, even when they are identical.
Think of other word pairs, like "flower" and "weed" - "antique" and "used" - "freedom fighter" and "terrorist" that greatly color our perception of the object or person being described.
Exercise: Consider the words that you and others in your life use to describe you. If the words are not complimentary, take action to change how you refer to yourself, and encourage others to speak differently of you. For example, if you describe yourself as "shy," choose a more positive term, such as "reserved."
See it for the first time as a newborn child that has no name."
Rabindranath Tagore
"Call a plant beautiful, and it becomes a flower.
Call it ugly, and it becomes a weed."
Shakespeare says, "What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet," but I disagree. There is great power in naming. "Urban wall art" and "graffiti" are very different, even when they are identical.
Think of other word pairs, like "flower" and "weed" - "antique" and "used" - "freedom fighter" and "terrorist" that greatly color our perception of the object or person being described.
Exercise: Consider the words that you and others in your life use to describe you. If the words are not complimentary, take action to change how you refer to yourself, and encourage others to speak differently of you. For example, if you describe yourself as "shy," choose a more positive term, such as "reserved."
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#25
Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings, sadness, and drama.
If all humans would communicate with impeccability of the word, all of our relationships would change.
There would be no wars,
no violence,
no misunderstandings.
If all humans would communicate with impeccability of the word, all of our relationships would change.
There would be no wars,
no violence,
no misunderstandings.
Belonging To Each other
"If we have no peace,
it is because we have forgotten
that we belong to each other."
Mother Teresa
it is because we have forgotten
that we belong to each other."
Mother Teresa
A Visualization and Intention Exercise
A technique of BIG achievers
With your body relaxed, form a mental picture of what you want.
Concentrate!
Hold that picture for two minutes.
Picture it so clearly that you can see yourself doing it, or being it, or having it.
With your body relaxed, form a mental picture of what you want.
Concentrate!
Hold that picture for two minutes.
Picture it so clearly that you can see yourself doing it, or being it, or having it.
Nuts and Cholesterol
Working on getting your cholesterol levels down?
You may be able to get your numbers in check by adding a handful of nuts to your diet.
A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reports that eating more nuts is associated with lowered cholesterol levels. According to the research, participants consumed an average of 2.4 ounces of nuts a day and reduced their total cholesterol by 5 percent. Their “bad” LDL levels went down an average of 7.4 percent. Triglycerides declined as well, though only in people who had elevated levels (above 150) to begin with.
Because nuts are high in calories and fat, be sure to swap out another high-calorie snack to avoid weight gain.
You may be able to get your numbers in check by adding a handful of nuts to your diet.
A study in the Archives of Internal Medicine reports that eating more nuts is associated with lowered cholesterol levels. According to the research, participants consumed an average of 2.4 ounces of nuts a day and reduced their total cholesterol by 5 percent. Their “bad” LDL levels went down an average of 7.4 percent. Triglycerides declined as well, though only in people who had elevated levels (above 150) to begin with.
Because nuts are high in calories and fat, be sure to swap out another high-calorie snack to avoid weight gain.
Consciousness in Participation
"It’s the Consciousness with which we participate in activities that makes the difference."
Michael Beckwith
Michael Beckwith
30 Tactics To Outsmart Food Temptations--#6
Start with soup.
Research has found
that eating a broth-based
soup at the
beginning of a meal
can help prevent
overeating.
Soups
are high-volume
foods but often low
in calories. Choose
low-sodium varieties
or make your own.
Research has found
that eating a broth-based
soup at the
beginning of a meal
can help prevent
overeating.
Soups
are high-volume
foods but often low
in calories. Choose
low-sodium varieties
or make your own.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#24
All the sadness and drama that you have experienced in your life has been rooted in making assumptions and taking things personally.
The entire world of control between humans is based on that.
Take a moment, and consider this truth.
The entire world of control between humans is based on that.
Take a moment, and consider this truth.
30 Tactics To Outsmart Food Temptations--#5
Mix up some milk.
If you're craving
creamy chocolate treats
and nothing else will do,
mix up a cup of low-fat
milk with some
chocolate syrup, then
slowly savor each rich,
sweet sip.
Bonus: You'll
get a boost of calcium.
If you're craving
creamy chocolate treats
and nothing else will do,
mix up a cup of low-fat
milk with some
chocolate syrup, then
slowly savor each rich,
sweet sip.
Bonus: You'll
get a boost of calcium.
Balance
Try not to spend too much time exclusively in your mind.
It is a magnificent tool, but it has a limited perspective.
Try not to spend too much time exclusively in your soul.
It has a much wider perspective, but you cannot negotiate
physical life from only that place. If you could, you
would not have been given a mind.
Here is the trick: balance.
Spend some time each day nourishing and exercising
the mind and the soul.
You know how to do both.
It is a magnificent tool, but it has a limited perspective.
Try not to spend too much time exclusively in your soul.
It has a much wider perspective, but you cannot negotiate
physical life from only that place. If you could, you
would not have been given a mind.
Here is the trick: balance.
Spend some time each day nourishing and exercising
the mind and the soul.
You know how to do both.
Healthy Kids
Encouraging Kids To Be Healthy: Start Young
Everyone wants their children to grow up to be healthy and happy. As parents, it falls to you to encourage your children to develop healthy habits early in life that they can continue as adults. In doing so, the focus should be how much fun healthy activities are, and how much better it feels to be active and eat properly.
Focusing on diets, weight, and appearance can lead children to develop unhealthy attitudes about their bodies and contribute to body image issues that may cause lasting psychological and wellness issues.
Children should start participating in activities at a young age. At two and three, the majority of the classes available are often geared toward parent participation as well. Swimming lessons, for example, are conducted with an instructor leading the parents through a series of activities designed to let children have fun while they get used to being in the water. By five, kids are ready to take classes on their own.
Look for classes that match their interests- if your child continually hangs upside down off the swing set, for example, a gymnastics class might be a good idea. On the other hand, if they spend all their time running around the backyard and kicking pine cones, soccer might be a better bet.
Encourage your children's activities and allow them to pursue a variety. Having different kinds of physical activity will be helpful, and will create a more balanced body and mentality. Don't push them further than they want to go with a sport, and if you sense that they are developing unhealthy attitudes, suggest that they step back and try something else.
Mix activity classes with at home activity- riding bikes through the neighborhood, playing baseball in the back yard, doing a morning yoga routine, etc. This will help them learn that they can have an active life outside of scheduled classes.
Everyone wants their children to grow up to be healthy and happy. As parents, it falls to you to encourage your children to develop healthy habits early in life that they can continue as adults. In doing so, the focus should be how much fun healthy activities are, and how much better it feels to be active and eat properly.
Focusing on diets, weight, and appearance can lead children to develop unhealthy attitudes about their bodies and contribute to body image issues that may cause lasting psychological and wellness issues.
Children should start participating in activities at a young age. At two and three, the majority of the classes available are often geared toward parent participation as well. Swimming lessons, for example, are conducted with an instructor leading the parents through a series of activities designed to let children have fun while they get used to being in the water. By five, kids are ready to take classes on their own.
Look for classes that match their interests- if your child continually hangs upside down off the swing set, for example, a gymnastics class might be a good idea. On the other hand, if they spend all their time running around the backyard and kicking pine cones, soccer might be a better bet.
Encourage your children's activities and allow them to pursue a variety. Having different kinds of physical activity will be helpful, and will create a more balanced body and mentality. Don't push them further than they want to go with a sport, and if you sense that they are developing unhealthy attitudes, suggest that they step back and try something else.
Mix activity classes with at home activity- riding bikes through the neighborhood, playing baseball in the back yard, doing a morning yoga routine, etc. This will help them learn that they can have an active life outside of scheduled classes.
Learn To Become Still
"Learn to become still.
And to take your attention away from what you don't want, and all the emotional charge around it,
and place your attention on what you wish to experience."
Michael Beckwith
And to take your attention away from what you don't want, and all the emotional charge around it,
and place your attention on what you wish to experience."
Michael Beckwith
Self Meditation 107
A few relaxed breaths can make a big difference.
Let your fears exist.
Face them to master them.
Let your fears exist.
Face them to master them.
Tao Translation In Modern Words--#68
The Masters don't make up their minds.
They turn their thoughts to other people.
They are good to good people,
and they're good to bad people.
This is real goodness.
They have faith in the faithful,
and they have faith in the unfaithful.
This is real faith.
A Master throws himself into the world completely,
forgetting everything he's been told.
People pay attention to him
because he lives a life of child-like wonder.
They turn their thoughts to other people.
They are good to good people,
and they're good to bad people.
This is real goodness.
They have faith in the faithful,
and they have faith in the unfaithful.
This is real faith.
A Master throws himself into the world completely,
forgetting everything he's been told.
People pay attention to him
because he lives a life of child-like wonder.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Leave A Trail
"Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Limiting TV Time
Limiting toddler’s TV time now prevents health problems later, suggests a new study in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine.
Does your TV serve as an electronic nanny when you’re trying to get things done around the house?
A study published in last month’s Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine suggests that too much TV for toddlers can lead to lasting health, academic and social problems later on.
What’s too much?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids watch no more than one to two hours daily, while kids under 2 need none.
Does your TV serve as an electronic nanny when you’re trying to get things done around the house?
A study published in last month’s Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine suggests that too much TV for toddlers can lead to lasting health, academic and social problems later on.
What’s too much?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that kids watch no more than one to two hours daily, while kids under 2 need none.
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#23
Assumptions are made so quickly and unconsciously because we have agreements to communicate this way.
We have agreed that it is not safe to ask questions.
We have agreed that if people love us, they should know what it is that we want and need, and also how we feel.
These assumptions are not true!
We need to clearly communicate what we need and how we feel.
We also need to ask questions to obtain more precise information from others about their needs and feelings.
We have agreed that it is not safe to ask questions.
We have agreed that if people love us, they should know what it is that we want and need, and also how we feel.
These assumptions are not true!
We need to clearly communicate what we need and how we feel.
We also need to ask questions to obtain more precise information from others about their needs and feelings.
Gossip
"Great minds discuss ideas;
average minds discuss events;
small minds discuss other people."
Eleanor Roosevelt
average minds discuss events;
small minds discuss other people."
Eleanor Roosevelt
Positive Intention
If I have the belief that I can do it,
I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it
even if I may not have it at the beginning.
Gandhi
I shall surely acquire the capacity to do it
even if I may not have it at the beginning.
Gandhi
Fleeting Pleasures
As human beings we chase after fleeting pleasures
like a child licking honey off a sharp knife
or a person carrying a torch against the wind.
Buddha
like a child licking honey off a sharp knife
or a person carrying a torch against the wind.
Buddha
Friday, June 18, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#22
The problem with making assumptions is that we believe our assumptions are the TRUTH.
We initially misunderstand,
then take it personally,
and then finally send emotional poison outwards with our words.
This creates a whole bag of drama for nothing.
We initially misunderstand,
then take it personally,
and then finally send emotional poison outwards with our words.
This creates a whole bag of drama for nothing.
Talk About A Strong Metaphor!
Feeling bad about the chips you just ate? A study in the journal Science says the simple act of washing your hands alleviates guilt.
Having regrets about the monster burrito you just ate or the expensive flat-screen you bought? No sense in dwelling on the past or beating yourself up. Just wash your hands of it — literally.
A University of Michigan study published in the May 7 issue of Science suggests that washing your hands “wipes the slate clean,” by removing doubts about recent choices. According to the study’s author, psychologist Spike W. S. Lee, “the results show that as much as washing can cleanse us from traces of past immoral behavior, it can also cleanse us from traces of past decisions, reducing the need to justify them.”
Having regrets about the monster burrito you just ate or the expensive flat-screen you bought? No sense in dwelling on the past or beating yourself up. Just wash your hands of it — literally.
A University of Michigan study published in the May 7 issue of Science suggests that washing your hands “wipes the slate clean,” by removing doubts about recent choices. According to the study’s author, psychologist Spike W. S. Lee, “the results show that as much as washing can cleanse us from traces of past immoral behavior, it can also cleanse us from traces of past decisions, reducing the need to justify them.”
Being Genuine
"Always be a first-rate version of yourself,
instead of a second-rate version of somebody else."
Judy Garland
instead of a second-rate version of somebody else."
Judy Garland
Mutual Toleration
"The golden rule of conduct is mutual toleration, seeing that we will never all think alike and we shall always see Truth in fragment and from different points of vision."
Gandhi
Gandhi
Settling Our MInds
We already have perfect compassion, perfect wisdom, perfect joy.
We only need to settle our minds so they can rise from deep within us.
Buddha
We only need to settle our minds so they can rise from deep within us.
Buddha
Wake Up Everybody
WAKE UP EVERYBODY
Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes
Wake up everybody no more sleepin in bed
No more backward thinkin time for thinkin ahead
The world has changed so very much
From what it used to be so
There is so much hatred, war an' poverty
Wake up all the teachers time to teach a new way
Maybe then they'll listen to whatcha have to say
Cause they're the ones who's coming up
And the world is in their hands
When you teach the children teach em the very best you can.
Chorus:
The world won't get no better if we just let it be
The world won't get no better
We gotta change it yeah, just you and me.
Wake up all the doctors make the ol' people well
They're the ones who suffer an' who catch all the hell
But they don't have so very long before the Judgement Day
So won'tcha make them happy before they pass away.
Wake up all the builders time to build a new land
I know we can do it if we all lend a hand
The only thing we have to do is put it in our mind
Surely things will work out they do it every time.
Harold Melvin and the Bluenotes
Wake up everybody no more sleepin in bed
No more backward thinkin time for thinkin ahead
The world has changed so very much
From what it used to be so
There is so much hatred, war an' poverty
Wake up all the teachers time to teach a new way
Maybe then they'll listen to whatcha have to say
Cause they're the ones who's coming up
And the world is in their hands
When you teach the children teach em the very best you can.
Chorus:
The world won't get no better if we just let it be
The world won't get no better
We gotta change it yeah, just you and me.
Wake up all the doctors make the ol' people well
They're the ones who suffer an' who catch all the hell
But they don't have so very long before the Judgement Day
So won'tcha make them happy before they pass away.
Wake up all the builders time to build a new land
I know we can do it if we all lend a hand
The only thing we have to do is put it in our mind
Surely things will work out they do it every time.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Whales In Danger
Next week the International Whaling Commission (IWC) will vote on a plan to legalize commercial whaling again.
What's most disturbing? There are reports the U.S. is on the fence and could vote FOR whale hunts.
We can't let this happen. Please tell President Obama Americans want whales protected.
Many whale species are finally starting to come back from the brink of extinction after decades of rampant and unchecked whaling. We can't sellout the whales now.
The U.S. has considerable weight on the IWC. Thousands of letters to President Obama could make the difference.
Please send a letter to President Obama before the IWC votes »
The IWC meeting starts Monday, so it's critical for Care2 members to take action today.
What's most disturbing? There are reports the U.S. is on the fence and could vote FOR whale hunts.
We can't let this happen. Please tell President Obama Americans want whales protected.
Many whale species are finally starting to come back from the brink of extinction after decades of rampant and unchecked whaling. We can't sellout the whales now.
The U.S. has considerable weight on the IWC. Thousands of letters to President Obama could make the difference.
Please send a letter to President Obama before the IWC votes »
The IWC meeting starts Monday, so it's critical for Care2 members to take action today.
Self Meditation 106
Labeling your feelings, such as "anger" or "frustration", can lessen their impact.
By not indulging in these unproductive thoughts, you can find some peace of mind.
By not indulging in these unproductive thoughts, you can find some peace of mind.
Brave and Calm
A brave and passionate man will kill or be killed.
A brave and calm man will always preserve life.
A brave and calm man will always preserve life.
Of these two which is good and which is harmful?
Lao Tzu
Tao Translation In Modern Words--#67
What's more important, fame or your well-being?
What's worth more, your money or your life?
What is more dangerous, winning or losing?
If you are too attached to your possessions,
they will bring you misery.
If you hang on to your riches,
you will suffer substantial loss.
If you know when you have enough,
you will never be disgraced.
If you practice moderation,
you can stay out of trouble.
What's worth more, your money or your life?
What is more dangerous, winning or losing?
If you are too attached to your possessions,
they will bring you misery.
If you hang on to your riches,
you will suffer substantial loss.
If you know when you have enough,
you will never be disgraced.
If you practice moderation,
you can stay out of trouble.
Truth and Desire
The gift of Truth overcomes all gifts.
The joy of Truth overcomes all pleasures.
The taste of Truth overcomes all sweetness.
The loss of desire overcomes all sorrows.
Buddha
The joy of Truth overcomes all pleasures.
The taste of Truth overcomes all sweetness.
The loss of desire overcomes all sorrows.
Buddha
Facing Fear
"A hero is no braver than an ordinary man, but he is brave five minutes longer."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
"If we take the generally accepted definition of bravery as a quality which knows no fear, I have never seen a brave man.
All men are frightened.
The more intelligent they are, the more they are frightened."
General George S.Patton
Ralph Waldo Emerson
"If we take the generally accepted definition of bravery as a quality which knows no fear, I have never seen a brave man.
All men are frightened.
The more intelligent they are, the more they are frightened."
General George S.Patton
30 Tactics To Outsmart Food Temptations--#4
Stick to the
perimeter of the grocery store.
The closer to the center of
the supermarket you
venture, the more
processed and
unhealthful foods you'll
find.
Whole, healthful
foods are usually along
the outside edges of the store.
perimeter of the grocery store.
The closer to the center of
the supermarket you
venture, the more
processed and
unhealthful foods you'll
find.
Whole, healthful
foods are usually along
the outside edges of the store.
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#21
Authentic LOVE is accepting other people the way they are;
without trying to change them.
If we try to change them, it means we really don't like them.
As difficult as it seems, it is easier to find someone who possesses the traits we seek
instead of trying to change them.
without trying to change them.
If we try to change them, it means we really don't like them.
As difficult as it seems, it is easier to find someone who possesses the traits we seek
instead of trying to change them.
The Right Time
If you want to do something you have never done before,
you have to do something you have never done before.
If you want to go somewhere you have never gone before,
you have to go somewhere you have never gone before.
You cannot do something new by doing old things.
If you want your life to change, you have to change your
life.
So go ahead.
It's safe.
And it's also the right time.
you have to do something you have never done before.
If you want to go somewhere you have never gone before,
you have to go somewhere you have never gone before.
You cannot do something new by doing old things.
If you want your life to change, you have to change your
life.
So go ahead.
It's safe.
And it's also the right time.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#20
Find the courage to ask for what you want.
Others have the right to tell you yes or no.
But, you always have the right to ask.
Likewise, everyone has the right to ask you for what they want.
You always have the right to also say yes or no.
Others have the right to tell you yes or no.
But, you always have the right to ask.
Likewise, everyone has the right to ask you for what they want.
You always have the right to also say yes or no.
Preventing Cognitive Decline
Keep your mind sharp into your golden years by adopting healthier habits now.
A heart-healthy lifestyle can prevent dementia later.
Believe it or not, dementia does not have to be an inevitable part of aging.
Research shows that people who choose heart-healthy habits by age 35 can reduce their risk for age-related cognitive decline when they’re older.
Those habits include exercising regularly, not smoking, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and maintaining a healthy weight.
A heart-healthy lifestyle can prevent dementia later.
Believe it or not, dementia does not have to be an inevitable part of aging.
Research shows that people who choose heart-healthy habits by age 35 can reduce their risk for age-related cognitive decline when they’re older.
Those habits include exercising regularly, not smoking, lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Same Message, Different Result
Love is saying
"I feel differently,"
instead of "You're wrong."
Anonymous
"I feel differently,"
instead of "You're wrong."
Anonymous
Self Meditation 105
Try to begin and end each day with a moment of stillness.
Sitting in meditation is nourishment for your spirit and nourishment for your body.
Sitting in meditation is nourishment for your spirit and nourishment for your body.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Sacred
"I wish that life should not be cheap, but sacred.
I wish the days to be as centuries, loaded, fragrant."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
I wish the days to be as centuries, loaded, fragrant."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#19
When you speak openly and honestly, you won't have to make assumptions.
The day you stop making assumptions, you will communicate clearly and cleanly.
You will achieve impeccability with your WORD.
The day you stop making assumptions, you will communicate clearly and cleanly.
You will achieve impeccability with your WORD.
Our "Story"
Most of us have a story about how we got to be the way
we are, about what it's like to be 'us,' and about why it
is so difficult sometimes to get through life.
All of this
is stuff that has nothing to do with who we are now.
How often do you 'come from' your 'story' when you
experience life.
Are you ready to let go of that now?
What if you could create 'you' the way you want to be,
rather than the way you think you are? Wouldn't that be
great?
Well, you can.
All you have to do is let go of
your story.
we are, about what it's like to be 'us,' and about why it
is so difficult sometimes to get through life.
All of this
is stuff that has nothing to do with who we are now.
How often do you 'come from' your 'story' when you
experience life.
Are you ready to let go of that now?
What if you could create 'you' the way you want to be,
rather than the way you think you are? Wouldn't that be
great?
Well, you can.
All you have to do is let go of
your story.
Self Meditation 104
Remind yourself from time to time that this is it.
This can be applied to anything.
This can be applied to anything.
Peace From Within
"Each one has to find his peace from within.
And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances."
Gandhi
And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances."
Gandhi
30 Tactics To Outsmart Food Temptations--#3
Downsize.
Instead
of buying--and
ultimately eating--an
entire pint of ice cream,
buy a box of low-cal
frozen treats.
They're
instantly portion
controlled, and you'll
feel like you're spoiling
yourself.
Instead
of buying--and
ultimately eating--an
entire pint of ice cream,
buy a box of low-cal
frozen treats.
They're
instantly portion
controlled, and you'll
feel like you're spoiling
yourself.
Undiagnosed Diabetes
Some 5.7 million Americans are living with undiagnosed Diabetes.
If you’re over 45 or at risk for Diabetes, have your blood glucose tested.
Do you know the signs and symptoms of Diabetes? According to the CDC, almost 6 million people in the U.S. have Diabetes and don’t know it. Flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness and loss of appetite, may be a sign that you have Diabetes. Other symptoms can include frequent urination, excessive hunger or thirst, weight gain or weight loss, irritability, blurred vision, frequent infections, slow-healing cuts and bruises, and tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. But remember, people with diabetes don’t always show symptoms.
If you are over 45, make sure you get your blood glucose tested at least every three years. People who are at risk for Diabetes, such as those with excess weight or a family history of the disease, should start testing at a younger age.
If you’re over 45 or at risk for Diabetes, have your blood glucose tested.
Do you know the signs and symptoms of Diabetes? According to the CDC, almost 6 million people in the U.S. have Diabetes and don’t know it. Flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness and loss of appetite, may be a sign that you have Diabetes. Other symptoms can include frequent urination, excessive hunger or thirst, weight gain or weight loss, irritability, blurred vision, frequent infections, slow-healing cuts and bruises, and tingling or numbness in the hands or feet. But remember, people with diabetes don’t always show symptoms.
If you are over 45, make sure you get your blood glucose tested at least every three years. People who are at risk for Diabetes, such as those with excess weight or a family history of the disease, should start testing at a younger age.
Compassion and Morality
"Compassion is the basis of morality."
Arthur Schopenhauer
"I can do no other than be reverent before everything that is called life. I can do no other than to have compassion for all that is called life.
That is the beginning and the foundation of all ethics."
Albert Schweitzer
Arthur Schopenhauer
"I can do no other than be reverent before everything that is called life. I can do no other than to have compassion for all that is called life.
That is the beginning and the foundation of all ethics."
Albert Schweitzer
Monday, June 14, 2010
Perspective 2
"It all depends on how we look at things,
and not how they are in themselves."
Carl Jung
and not how they are in themselves."
Carl Jung
"Green Exercise"
Need a lift? A five-minute jaunt in the great outdoors can help boost mood and self-esteem.
Working out can help beat back a bad mood. Take your sweat session outdoors to a pastoral setting and you may be able to cheer yourself up in as few as five minutes, according to a study in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
According to the multi-study analysis of so-called “green exercise,” gardening, walking and cycling in the woods or even in a public park can boost mood and self-esteem in a matter of minutes. If you don’t have access to a garden or yard, don’t fret; past research has shown that 10 minutes of vigorous exercise anywhere can also elevate the spirits.
Working out can help beat back a bad mood. Take your sweat session outdoors to a pastoral setting and you may be able to cheer yourself up in as few as five minutes, according to a study in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
According to the multi-study analysis of so-called “green exercise,” gardening, walking and cycling in the woods or even in a public park can boost mood and self-esteem in a matter of minutes. If you don’t have access to a garden or yard, don’t fret; past research has shown that 10 minutes of vigorous exercise anywhere can also elevate the spirits.
Levity
Please join me in remembering a great icon of the entertainment community.
The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71. Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin.
Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch. The grave site was piled high with flours. Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Doughboy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded.
Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was considered a very smart cookie, but wasted much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times, he still was a crusty old man and was considered a positive roll model for millions.
Doughboy is survived by his wife Play Dough, three children: John Dough, Jane Dough and Dosey Dough, plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart.The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.
If this made you smile for even a brief second, please rise to the occasion and take time to pass it on and share that smile with someone else that may be having a crumby day and kneads a lift.
The Pillsbury Doughboy died yesterday of a yeast infection and trauma complications from repeated pokes in the belly. He was 71. Doughboy was buried in a lightly greased coffin.
Dozens of celebrities turned out to pay their respects, including Mrs. Butterworth, Hungry Jack, the California Raisins, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, and Captain Crunch. The grave site was piled high with flours. Aunt Jemima delivered the eulogy and lovingly described Doughboy as a man who never knew how much he was kneaded.
Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with turnovers. He was considered a very smart cookie, but wasted much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times, he still was a crusty old man and was considered a positive roll model for millions.
Doughboy is survived by his wife Play Dough, three children: John Dough, Jane Dough and Dosey Dough, plus they had one in the oven. He is also survived by his elderly father, Pop Tart.The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.
If this made you smile for even a brief second, please rise to the occasion and take time to pass it on and share that smile with someone else that may be having a crumby day and kneads a lift.
Stray Thoughts
"As the Fletcher whittles and makes straight his arrows,
so the master directs his straying thoughts."
Buddha
so the master directs his straying thoughts."
Buddha
Friday, June 11, 2010
Excerpts from THE FOUR AGREEMENTS-#18
The biggest assumption that humans make is that everyone sees life the way we do.
We assume that others think the way we think, feel the way we feel, judge the way we judge, and abuse the way we abuse.
We are afraid to be ourselves around others because we think others will judge us, victimize us, and blame us as we do ourselves.
We assume that others think the way we think, feel the way we feel, judge the way we judge, and abuse the way we abuse.
We are afraid to be ourselves around others because we think others will judge us, victimize us, and blame us as we do ourselves.
The Power To Create Or To Destroy
"We touch the lives of others in ways we often never know. People sometimes come into our personal world for fleeting moments and can leave us forever changed. We have more power to create or to destroy than we can imagine. We can leave things or individuals better or worse than we found them."
Gail Pursell Elliott
Gail Pursell Elliott
The Process
Your beliefs become your thoughts,
Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your values,
Your values become your destiny.
Gandhi
Your thoughts become your words,
Your words become your actions,
Your actions become your habits,
Your habits become your values,
Your values become your destiny.
Gandhi
Tao Translation In Modern Words--#66
People with integrity don't even think about it.
That's how you can tell they have integrity.
Other people talk about how much integrity they have,
when they really don't have much. If any.
Truly powerful people don't do anything,
but they get the job done.
Other people are always busy doing something,
but nothing ever gets done.
When kind people act,
they do so without thinking about it.
When the just act,
they're always sure they're doing the right thing.
But when the righteous act,
and nobody reacts,
they try to force everyone to do things their way.
If you're not in touch with Tao,
at least you can still have integrity.
If you don't have integrity,
there's always kindness.
If you don't have kindness,
there's always justice.
If you don't have justice,
all you have left is righteousness.
Righteousness is a pale imitation of true faith and loyalty,
and always leads to trouble.
If you've already made up your mind,
you don't know the first thing about Tao,
and you never will.
The Masters pay attention to what's beneath the surface.
They'll look at a tree's leaves, but eat the fruit.
They turn all that down, so they can accept this.
That's how you can tell they have integrity.
Other people talk about how much integrity they have,
when they really don't have much. If any.
Truly powerful people don't do anything,
but they get the job done.
Other people are always busy doing something,
but nothing ever gets done.
When kind people act,
they do so without thinking about it.
When the just act,
they're always sure they're doing the right thing.
But when the righteous act,
and nobody reacts,
they try to force everyone to do things their way.
If you're not in touch with Tao,
at least you can still have integrity.
If you don't have integrity,
there's always kindness.
If you don't have kindness,
there's always justice.
If you don't have justice,
all you have left is righteousness.
Righteousness is a pale imitation of true faith and loyalty,
and always leads to trouble.
If you've already made up your mind,
you don't know the first thing about Tao,
and you never will.
The Masters pay attention to what's beneath the surface.
They'll look at a tree's leaves, but eat the fruit.
They turn all that down, so they can accept this.
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