Only 20% of college graduates know their 3-pound coconut is fueled by blood sugar (glucose) and oxygen. How many know about 25% of all the oxygen we inhale is required by our brain?
And when we study, learn and remember, our left-and right hemispheres must have an additional 10% fuel. Not eating breakfast causes early fatigue and a lowering of our cognitive skills; lousy grades on exams too.
What Helps
A glass of orange juice produces the glucose, and a quickie breathing exercise provides the extra oxygen. Research using fMRIs offers proof of an excitement (electrical activity) of our prefrontal lobes, (Broca and Wernicke areas) for learning, analysis and information processing by these supplemental doses of oxygen.
Alternate Nostril Breathing
Review: your left hemisphere controls the right-half of your body, and righty runs the left half of your corpus. It is reversed because of chiasma (crossing over), also known as decussation.
You got two-nostrils and breathing exclusively through your left-nostril accesses your right-hemisphere (brain), and exclusively breathing through your right-nostril awakens your left-hemisphere (brain).
Finally, your left-brain (right-half of body) specializes in verbal skills including language, speech, logic (math) and reason. Your right-brain (left-half of your body) runs your instincts and emotions, pattern-recognition and spatial skills.
Profound statement: electrical activity of the brain is greater on the side opposite the inhaling nostril.
Two-Minute Exercise
a) Please sit with your feet flat on the floor and relax.
b) Close your eyes and close off your right nostril using the side of your right thumb and inhale through your left nostril only.
c) Inhale slowly to a count of four and hold your breath until you switch hands and close off your left nostril (with your left thumb) and exhale (slowly) to a count of eight through your right nostril.
d) Now use your left thumb to close off your left nostril and inhale to a count of four through your right nostril. Hold your breath and switch hands to close your right nostril and exhale to a count of eight through your left nostril.
e) Open your eyes, stand up and repeat this exercise four more times for each nostril.
Repeat this exercise (left and right nostrils) a total of eight times for each nostril in order to oxygenate both hemispheres for synchronization (in sync). Balancing your two hemispheres produces deep relaxation and elimination of stress, and an alignment between cognitive functioning and optimal motivation (emotion).
When should you do the Alternate Nostril exercise?
Answer: before studying, prior to an exam, and ten-minutes before sitting for an interview or making a verbal presentation.
Does it work?
Feedback from thousands of graduates recommend the alternate nostril breathing exercise to their children, associates and Speedlearners. To install it as a habit spend two-minutes daily for 21 consecutive days; it is well-worth the effort.
Dopamine
In the brain is a neurotransmitter called dopamine; it is a chemical messenger similar to adrenaline exciting the Sympathetic Nervous System. So what?
It causes emotional responses, controls movement and the ability to experience pleasure. Dopamine is directly involved in our ability to become motivated and seek rewards. Want better learning and long term memory? Activate dopamine.
Humans have two core principles – seek pleasure and avoid pain; it is how we are hardwired. Studying, learning and memory occur because we are seeking a reward following our interests or curiosity, or to avoid punishment (failure).
Speedlearning students are interested in dopamine because we know that effort actually creates ability. We are not hardwired with an IQ at birth, it expands with experience.
It is our will power (effort) exhibited in determination and persistence toward a goal that decides our abilities. If you excite your brain to seek a learning goal, it must be motivated with a purpose (reward, pay-off) or it slacks off. Your abilities expand through effort and contracts with inactivity.
Expectation
In school your personal expectations control up to 34% of the final result. If you think you cannot, you will be proven right; those who come to learn with a powerful expectation will often experience it beyond the explainable.
Fifty years of research indicates the expectation of your instructor with regard to your learning success is emotionally transferred to your mind. Your own beliefs about your capabilities and the amount of your effort to succeed propel your grades and exam results.
Personal beliefs and expectations about your ability to excel, help produce up to 49% of your final result. It is not our opinion, but based on neuro-scientific studies beginning in the 1980s to date.
If you believe you supposed to offer your opinion and judgment, ask questions of the instructor, and be critical of generalizations, you will engage your brain in learning and not daydream.
Social proof is following the example of folks around you. We are more comfortable with conformity than being unique when in learning situations. Believing in the ability of your intelligence to expand (develop) based on the experience is not only a fact, but the prerequisite for personal IQ growth.
Endwords
Calvin Coolidge, 30th U.S. President said, We all require pig-headed persistence and determination in the face of stubborn resistance and adversity. We believe it is the power of your mental force (will power and effort) that permits you to triumph or fall under the ax.
Your innate intelligence may not kick in until you push hard and smash it in the slats a few times. Often we must fear the consequences to activate our Effort (volition). A business truism is the fear of loss is greater than the desire for profit.
Everyone needs his or her own toolkit of how to learn plus the ability and effort to succeed. Your ability is a brain filled with skills constantly expanding through use (use it or lose it). No effort, no improved abilities. Effort and ability are twins that must be equally nourished.
If you believe in UFOs it is not a sign of instability, but non-conformity. If you think UFOs are a parody from Saturday Night Live, based on your critical thinking (no evidence after sixty years), you are exercising your brain.
Both results indicate conscious analysis based on your abilities and effort. It is not what you think; it is that you expect answers you can produce. Remember the team of effort, ability and positive expectation. They form your beliefs and produce the results.
See ya,
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
copyright © 2007
H. Bernard Wechsler
http://www.speedlearning.org
hbw@speedlearning.org
Author of Speed Reading For Professionals, published by Barron's; partner of Evelyn Wood, creator of speed reading, graduating 2 million, including the White House staffs of four U.S. Presidents.
Interviewed by Wall Street Journal and Fortune Magazine
http://www.speedlearning.org
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=H._Bernard_Wechsler
Thursday, February 8, 2007
The Pursuit of Happyness
By Rick Cockrum
As many of you know, Lady Glynis and I own and operate a neighborhoodmovie theatre. This past weekend we showed The Pursuit of Happyness, starring Will Smith and his son, Jaden Christopher. This isn’t meant as a review of the movie. That isn’t what I do here. It is meant to encourage you to see the film as an illustration of beliefs in action.
The Pursuit of Happyness is based on the true life story of Chris Gardner and takes place in the early 1980s. Chris is selling bone density scanners, and not doing very well. His wife is working double shifts as a waitress. They have a five year old son. At the beginning of the movie Chris tells us he didn’t meet his father until he was 28 years old. He is determined that his son will have a father. Money problems are causing tensions between he and his wife.
One day Chris is watching people walk in and out of a stock agency. He is amazed that almost everyone he sees look happy. He decides selling stock is what he wants to do. He finds out that Dean Witter has a competitive internship program to train, and hire, new brokers. Only one person out of each class is hired. He applies for, and gets, a spot in the program.
As he goes through the program his finances steadily deteriorate. His wife leaves him. He loses his car. He loses his apartment. He loses the motel room to which he and his son move. They end up sleeping in a shelter. Some nights the shelter is full. They sleep on the subway. They sleep in bathrooms. He’s jailed for parking tickets he didn’t pay. TheIRS garnishes the money he owes for back taxes from his bank account. During the day he continues to learn life as a stock broker. On the weekends he tries to sell the scanners. He sells his blood. He makes just enough to keep food in their mouths, and his son in day care while he’s working.
Finally, at the end of the movie, Chris is chosen to become a broker at Dean Ritter. In an epilogue we learn he started his own firm, which he sold part of for several million dollars.
There are a lot of important things in this movie, none of which include Chris becoming rich. That isn’t his goal. Chris has two main goals - to be a father to his son, and to be happy. Everything he does is driven by these two goals.
In one scene that especially stands out Chris and his son are playing basketball. The little boy talks about becoming a professional ball player. Chris tells him he wasn’t very good playing basketball, so the boy shouldn’t count on being very good, since kids usually have similar talents to their parents. The boy is instantly deflated. Chris thinks about what he’s just done to his son and tells him
Don’t ever let somebody tell you you can’t do something… If you got a dream, you gotta protect it…People can’t do something themselves, they tell you you can’t do it. If you want something, go get it.
There aren’t any villains in this movie. It doesn’t tell a story of good guys and bad guys. Chris’ wife isn’t a villain for leaving. She wants security, and does what she thinks she has to do to get it. Her actions are as much a result of her beliefs as Chris’ are of his. What it tells is the story of how a man created his world.
The important point isn’t that Chris became rich. The point is that he held onto his dream and he pursued it. He didn’t just fantasize about it. When opportunities came to take him closer to his goal, he seized them. He realized that life speaks to us in nuances, and was aware enough of the nuances to act on them. At one point Chris’ son tells the old story about a man being stuck during a flood. He prays to god for help. A boat comes and the man refuses it, saying god will save him. Another boat comes. Again, the man refuses it. He dies in the flood. Angry, he berates god, asking why he didn’t save him. God says he tried to, sending boats to take him to safety. Chris pays attention to the boats.
A lot of bad things happen to Chris and his son. He deals with it and goes on. Life isn’t about everything you create being all hunky-dory (Does anyone know where that phrase came from?). Life is about owning yourself, owning your circumstances, and paying attention.
Do you own your life? Do you know what you want? Are you paying attention to the boats that come your way?
Update: Originally I had named the brokerage as Dean Ritter. It should actually by Dean Witter.
Source: http://www.shardsofconsciousness.com/2007/01/the-pursuit-of-happyiness/
As many of you know, Lady Glynis and I own and operate a neighborhoodmovie theatre. This past weekend we showed The Pursuit of Happyness, starring Will Smith and his son, Jaden Christopher. This isn’t meant as a review of the movie. That isn’t what I do here. It is meant to encourage you to see the film as an illustration of beliefs in action.
The Pursuit of Happyness is based on the true life story of Chris Gardner and takes place in the early 1980s. Chris is selling bone density scanners, and not doing very well. His wife is working double shifts as a waitress. They have a five year old son. At the beginning of the movie Chris tells us he didn’t meet his father until he was 28 years old. He is determined that his son will have a father. Money problems are causing tensions between he and his wife.
One day Chris is watching people walk in and out of a stock agency. He is amazed that almost everyone he sees look happy. He decides selling stock is what he wants to do. He finds out that Dean Witter has a competitive internship program to train, and hire, new brokers. Only one person out of each class is hired. He applies for, and gets, a spot in the program.
As he goes through the program his finances steadily deteriorate. His wife leaves him. He loses his car. He loses his apartment. He loses the motel room to which he and his son move. They end up sleeping in a shelter. Some nights the shelter is full. They sleep on the subway. They sleep in bathrooms. He’s jailed for parking tickets he didn’t pay. TheIRS garnishes the money he owes for back taxes from his bank account. During the day he continues to learn life as a stock broker. On the weekends he tries to sell the scanners. He sells his blood. He makes just enough to keep food in their mouths, and his son in day care while he’s working.
Finally, at the end of the movie, Chris is chosen to become a broker at Dean Ritter. In an epilogue we learn he started his own firm, which he sold part of for several million dollars.
There are a lot of important things in this movie, none of which include Chris becoming rich. That isn’t his goal. Chris has two main goals - to be a father to his son, and to be happy. Everything he does is driven by these two goals.
In one scene that especially stands out Chris and his son are playing basketball. The little boy talks about becoming a professional ball player. Chris tells him he wasn’t very good playing basketball, so the boy shouldn’t count on being very good, since kids usually have similar talents to their parents. The boy is instantly deflated. Chris thinks about what he’s just done to his son and tells him
Don’t ever let somebody tell you you can’t do something… If you got a dream, you gotta protect it…People can’t do something themselves, they tell you you can’t do it. If you want something, go get it.
There aren’t any villains in this movie. It doesn’t tell a story of good guys and bad guys. Chris’ wife isn’t a villain for leaving. She wants security, and does what she thinks she has to do to get it. Her actions are as much a result of her beliefs as Chris’ are of his. What it tells is the story of how a man created his world.
The important point isn’t that Chris became rich. The point is that he held onto his dream and he pursued it. He didn’t just fantasize about it. When opportunities came to take him closer to his goal, he seized them. He realized that life speaks to us in nuances, and was aware enough of the nuances to act on them. At one point Chris’ son tells the old story about a man being stuck during a flood. He prays to god for help. A boat comes and the man refuses it, saying god will save him. Another boat comes. Again, the man refuses it. He dies in the flood. Angry, he berates god, asking why he didn’t save him. God says he tried to, sending boats to take him to safety. Chris pays attention to the boats.
A lot of bad things happen to Chris and his son. He deals with it and goes on. Life isn’t about everything you create being all hunky-dory (Does anyone know where that phrase came from?). Life is about owning yourself, owning your circumstances, and paying attention.
Do you own your life? Do you know what you want? Are you paying attention to the boats that come your way?
Update: Originally I had named the brokerage as Dean Ritter. It should actually by Dean Witter.
Source: http://www.shardsofconsciousness.com/2007/01/the-pursuit-of-happyiness/
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
This is "conscious living"
Most people go through life accepting what comes their way. They believe that life just happens. John Lennon spoke for many people with his lyric, "Life is what happens while you're busy making other plans." Mighty disempowering thought. The thing is life is what you create it to be. Your belief system can be changed if you want to change it. The way to change your beliefs is to change your daily living patterns, i.e., your life style. One way to powerfully uncover your hidden beliefs about yourself and see your view of the world that keeps you stuck in monotony is to ask yourself questions. Health and happiness natually follow once you become the master asker in your life
Creating happiness does not involve a "how-to" system as much as it involves a "wake up and live" a conscious life style. Everything that exists in the world starts as thought. Every invention was first an idea in someone's imagination. Every action you take or fail to take was first something you thought about. Thought creates the world. Thought creates each person's individual world. What you think about events determines how you respond to events.
Imagine how differently you would experience each day with the knowledge you have control over how you respond to life events. What happens happens. Interestingly, in Japan there is one word that means both crisis and opportunity. The same event is a disaster to one person and an opportunity to another. How you choose to act or not act is up to you. Period. Life was never meant to be difficult. People, with their thoughts, make it hard or easy. How do you see life? Do you know that struggle is optional?
Ask yourself why you stay stuck in mediocrity or even worse?
Pay attention to your thoughts.. Stop and ask yourself what you were thinking when you experienced a certain emotion or reacted a certain way. You will uncover your unconscious way of life. When you experience the same events make a conscious choice to act differently. Ah! That is how simple it is to be in control and live on purpose. Life does not simply happen to us. Life happens to us exactly as we choose to experience it.
Source: http://greatselfesteem.blogspot.com/
Creating happiness does not involve a "how-to" system as much as it involves a "wake up and live" a conscious life style. Everything that exists in the world starts as thought. Every invention was first an idea in someone's imagination. Every action you take or fail to take was first something you thought about. Thought creates the world. Thought creates each person's individual world. What you think about events determines how you respond to events.
Imagine how differently you would experience each day with the knowledge you have control over how you respond to life events. What happens happens. Interestingly, in Japan there is one word that means both crisis and opportunity. The same event is a disaster to one person and an opportunity to another. How you choose to act or not act is up to you. Period. Life was never meant to be difficult. People, with their thoughts, make it hard or easy. How do you see life? Do you know that struggle is optional?
Ask yourself why you stay stuck in mediocrity or even worse?
Pay attention to your thoughts.. Stop and ask yourself what you were thinking when you experienced a certain emotion or reacted a certain way. You will uncover your unconscious way of life. When you experience the same events make a conscious choice to act differently. Ah! That is how simple it is to be in control and live on purpose. Life does not simply happen to us. Life happens to us exactly as we choose to experience it.
Source: http://greatselfesteem.blogspot.com/
Monday, February 5, 2007
How do you calm yourself?
Yesterday, I was Angry at something. And stressed.
I took some deep breaths and tried to calm myself. Let the anger flow away.
After some time, it just became a mild irritation but an irritation nonetheless.
So this got me thinking. I want me to be happy. Not only do I want to be happy but I want to be conscious of my thoughts and every action I take.
There are many times when I feel gloomy which I don't want. It is easy to think negative thoughts and as a result to be negative.
I need to consciously act on positive thoughts.
I took some deep breaths and tried to calm myself. Let the anger flow away.
After some time, it just became a mild irritation but an irritation nonetheless.
So this got me thinking. I want me to be happy. Not only do I want to be happy but I want to be conscious of my thoughts and every action I take.
There are many times when I feel gloomy which I don't want. It is easy to think negative thoughts and as a result to be negative.
I need to consciously act on positive thoughts.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Lucid Dreaming as an Extension of Waking Consciousness
This one is an interesting piece..
Have you ever had a lucid dream? That is, have you ever become aware of the fact that you were dreaming while still in the midst of the dream and then taken control of the dream and done what you wished with it?
I’ve had lucid dreams periodically for years, but recently they’ve taken a marked turn in terms of my awareness of them. Rather than being occasional events, lucid dreams are becoming the norm for me. Actually, that’s not quite accurate. It is more accurate to say that my awareness during the sleep state has been changing.
In the past my experience of sleep was one of slipping into unconsciousness and awakening hours later. Upon awakening I may have retained memories of the occasional dream but I was largely oblivious to what had occurred during the time I was asleep. Lately I’ve grown increasingly aware of what I am doing during the time my eyes are closed and my head is resting on the pillow.
Increasingly during that time, I’m lucid dreaming or am otherwise aware of my dreams while I’m dreaming. I’m also aware of the thoughts going through my mind when I’m not dreaming. I’m aware of my mind reviewing yesterday’s events, planning for the future, wrestling with particular issues in my life, and exploring different possibilities. In other words, my awareness during sleep is becoming an extension of my waking consciousness.
My experiences last night provide a good example. Let me explain. Yesterday my family hosted some friends for an evening get together. Over coffee and dessert our two families decided to plan a joint trip to some hot springs in Wyoming that my family has never been to.
Then during the night I decided to visit the hot springs in my sleep. I flew off to Wyoming, checked out multiple hot pools, and eased myself into the steaming waters to sample the various temperatures. Then I inspected the cabins where we’ll be staying. I visited several of them, looking at the kitchen facilities and beds before choosing the one that I want to reserve. Finally, I flew over the town to get a sense of the lay of the land. All without ever seeing a brochure or website on the Internet.
Throughout the entire process I knew I was dreaming. I felt as aware and as in control as am in waking life, except that knowing I was in a dream state I operated as if the rules of dream-reality applied. That meant I could fly, walk through walls, change locations at will, etc.
But that was only the first event of the night. I also spent a good portion of the night leading a workshop on accessing spiritual states during everyday situations, which is something I’ve considered gearing up to do but have not yet started doing in my waking life.
For more than an hour I sat in a stiff-backed chair facing a circle of 16 people who’d joined me for a workshop on accessing altered states and using them in daily life. Unlike in my waking professional life, I had no podium, no PowerPoint slides, no prepared notes, or even a lesson plan. Yet I spoke comfortably and naturally on how we set our intentions, shift our awareness, and manifest our experiences on a continual basis.
I spoke for more than 10 minutes, setting the stage for the workshop. Then I began a group discussion during which the participants shared their own experiences and asked questions. I followed the conversation as clearly as I do in waking consciousness, paying attention to key points, drawing connections, and crafting examples and explanations on the fly. The entire engagement ran like a workshop I might currently teach on marketing strategy, but the subject matter involved spirituality and the participants had obviously come prepared for the workshop.
Throughout the workshop I watched as people shifted in their chairs, responded to each other, and even made occasional notes. When it was over I participated in several minutes of small talk, in which one woman told me that she really wanted her son to join our next discussion.
Then people began to leave. We said goodbye and I woke up. Except when I “woke up” I merely opened my eyes without any noticeable shift in awareness just as I do at the end of my meditation. All of my thoughts and adventures since falling asleep were as fresh in my consciousness, just as were the waking activities of the day before.
Here’s what I think may be going on. As I’ve begun exploring consciousness I’ve repeatedly sent my waking awareness (which tends to range from 14 to 27 Hertz) to brainwave frequencies normally associated with sleep (which range from approximately 0.5 to 8 Hertz). I think this has been the metaphorical equivalent to lowering the water level on an iceberg, exposing more of it to view. With sufficient practice I can now retain waking awareness at lower brainwave frequencies, which makes it possible to observe more of my thoughts, dreams and experiences during sleep.
For instance, when I travel to other realms I first shift into what I call Focus 10, a Monroe Institute term for the state of awareness in which your body is asleep but your mind is awake. From this state, your fully awake mind can literally listen to your own body snoring. When in this state some people say they feel paralyzed and unable to move. For me the experience feels more like being submerged in a deep mud bath. I can still move my body but it takes great effort to do so. Presumably the purpose of sleep paralysis is to prevent us from physically acting out our dreams. In any event, Focus 10 serves as an excellent spring board for progressing on to deeper meditative states or for journeying out of body.
After spending countless hours in Focus 10 and beyond I’ve grown quite accustomed to remaining awake while my body sleeps. I think this is freeing me up to use my sleep for other activities. Such as lucid dreaming, problem solving, visiting with my spirit guides, attending lectures, and now apparently leading workshops.
With all that running around it’s a good thing I still wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go in the morning.
I got this from http://higherselfguides.typepad.com/blog/2006/01/lucid_dreaming_.html#comment-28689893
Have you ever had a lucid dream? That is, have you ever become aware of the fact that you were dreaming while still in the midst of the dream and then taken control of the dream and done what you wished with it?
I’ve had lucid dreams periodically for years, but recently they’ve taken a marked turn in terms of my awareness of them. Rather than being occasional events, lucid dreams are becoming the norm for me. Actually, that’s not quite accurate. It is more accurate to say that my awareness during the sleep state has been changing.
In the past my experience of sleep was one of slipping into unconsciousness and awakening hours later. Upon awakening I may have retained memories of the occasional dream but I was largely oblivious to what had occurred during the time I was asleep. Lately I’ve grown increasingly aware of what I am doing during the time my eyes are closed and my head is resting on the pillow.
Increasingly during that time, I’m lucid dreaming or am otherwise aware of my dreams while I’m dreaming. I’m also aware of the thoughts going through my mind when I’m not dreaming. I’m aware of my mind reviewing yesterday’s events, planning for the future, wrestling with particular issues in my life, and exploring different possibilities. In other words, my awareness during sleep is becoming an extension of my waking consciousness.
My experiences last night provide a good example. Let me explain. Yesterday my family hosted some friends for an evening get together. Over coffee and dessert our two families decided to plan a joint trip to some hot springs in Wyoming that my family has never been to.
Then during the night I decided to visit the hot springs in my sleep. I flew off to Wyoming, checked out multiple hot pools, and eased myself into the steaming waters to sample the various temperatures. Then I inspected the cabins where we’ll be staying. I visited several of them, looking at the kitchen facilities and beds before choosing the one that I want to reserve. Finally, I flew over the town to get a sense of the lay of the land. All without ever seeing a brochure or website on the Internet.
Throughout the entire process I knew I was dreaming. I felt as aware and as in control as am in waking life, except that knowing I was in a dream state I operated as if the rules of dream-reality applied. That meant I could fly, walk through walls, change locations at will, etc.
But that was only the first event of the night. I also spent a good portion of the night leading a workshop on accessing spiritual states during everyday situations, which is something I’ve considered gearing up to do but have not yet started doing in my waking life.
For more than an hour I sat in a stiff-backed chair facing a circle of 16 people who’d joined me for a workshop on accessing altered states and using them in daily life. Unlike in my waking professional life, I had no podium, no PowerPoint slides, no prepared notes, or even a lesson plan. Yet I spoke comfortably and naturally on how we set our intentions, shift our awareness, and manifest our experiences on a continual basis.
I spoke for more than 10 minutes, setting the stage for the workshop. Then I began a group discussion during which the participants shared their own experiences and asked questions. I followed the conversation as clearly as I do in waking consciousness, paying attention to key points, drawing connections, and crafting examples and explanations on the fly. The entire engagement ran like a workshop I might currently teach on marketing strategy, but the subject matter involved spirituality and the participants had obviously come prepared for the workshop.
Throughout the workshop I watched as people shifted in their chairs, responded to each other, and even made occasional notes. When it was over I participated in several minutes of small talk, in which one woman told me that she really wanted her son to join our next discussion.
Then people began to leave. We said goodbye and I woke up. Except when I “woke up” I merely opened my eyes without any noticeable shift in awareness just as I do at the end of my meditation. All of my thoughts and adventures since falling asleep were as fresh in my consciousness, just as were the waking activities of the day before.
Here’s what I think may be going on. As I’ve begun exploring consciousness I’ve repeatedly sent my waking awareness (which tends to range from 14 to 27 Hertz) to brainwave frequencies normally associated with sleep (which range from approximately 0.5 to 8 Hertz). I think this has been the metaphorical equivalent to lowering the water level on an iceberg, exposing more of it to view. With sufficient practice I can now retain waking awareness at lower brainwave frequencies, which makes it possible to observe more of my thoughts, dreams and experiences during sleep.
For instance, when I travel to other realms I first shift into what I call Focus 10, a Monroe Institute term for the state of awareness in which your body is asleep but your mind is awake. From this state, your fully awake mind can literally listen to your own body snoring. When in this state some people say they feel paralyzed and unable to move. For me the experience feels more like being submerged in a deep mud bath. I can still move my body but it takes great effort to do so. Presumably the purpose of sleep paralysis is to prevent us from physically acting out our dreams. In any event, Focus 10 serves as an excellent spring board for progressing on to deeper meditative states or for journeying out of body.
After spending countless hours in Focus 10 and beyond I’ve grown quite accustomed to remaining awake while my body sleeps. I think this is freeing me up to use my sleep for other activities. Such as lucid dreaming, problem solving, visiting with my spirit guides, attending lectures, and now apparently leading workshops.
With all that running around it’s a good thing I still wake up feeling refreshed and ready to go in the morning.
I got this from http://higherselfguides.typepad.com/blog/2006/01/lucid_dreaming_.html#comment-28689893
Dealing with Anger
Anger is a tool. Anger is an emotional response to signal when things go against our ideals of how people could be and how the world functions. You can't see appalling things happen and be immune to the feelings of anger that will emerge - it's a useful emotion.
It's how you react to those situations that mark you out as someone who understands anger and knows the consequences of letting it get out of control. After all, allowing your response to become physical, so that you damage someone in the process of expressing your anger, shows no respect either for your own ability to live from your heart, or for the wellbeing of the person who is on the receiving end of it.
Violence and anger is not the same thing and they do not go hand in hand.
Remember the last time you had a blazing row with someone? Remember how you didn't hear what the other person was saying - you didn't want to hear and you sure as heck didn't think they might be right. You wanted to punish them. You wanted to put up barriers and withhold friendship and block out what they were saying.
Remember that we all have is the right to say how we feel. We all need to be heard, our feelings acknowledged, and to be understood. If you shout and yell, what chance is there to resolve anything?
Remind yourself - anger is an emotion like any other. Like fear, love, delight, grief. But you can learn how to express your anger in a constructive way. By learning how to channel your anger, you not only stay open hearted and loving, you also teach others how to manage their own anger.
Try something right now. Think back to the last person you felt really angry with. Take a moment to remember what made you so mad.
Now imagine yourself in their shoes. Try to put in words what you remember them saying and why they said the things they did, or did the things that you believed started off the row. And now imagine yourself back in that situation, but this time saying that because of what has been said or done, you feel angry. Own the anger. No blame, no judgments. No-one can make you angry - it's your emotional response and you can learn to choose how to respond in the future.
Isn't it easier to say that you're angry in a calm and loving way? Isn't it more likely that, had you used love to deal with the situation, you might have connected and found a healthy, loving way to resolve the problem?
Yes it's a challenge. But you have such power and inner strength in you that the further you go along that journey, you will eventually meet it. Believe that you will.
Neel Raman, is an author, keynote speaker and coach to many. He has written ‘Hoops and Freedom’, an informative and powerful self-improvement book, in the form of an entertaining fiction story, targeted at those who want and demand more from life. To find out more about this book and his FREE offers, visit: http://www.HoopsAndFreedom.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neel_Raman
It's how you react to those situations that mark you out as someone who understands anger and knows the consequences of letting it get out of control. After all, allowing your response to become physical, so that you damage someone in the process of expressing your anger, shows no respect either for your own ability to live from your heart, or for the wellbeing of the person who is on the receiving end of it.
Violence and anger is not the same thing and they do not go hand in hand.
Remember the last time you had a blazing row with someone? Remember how you didn't hear what the other person was saying - you didn't want to hear and you sure as heck didn't think they might be right. You wanted to punish them. You wanted to put up barriers and withhold friendship and block out what they were saying.
Remember that we all have is the right to say how we feel. We all need to be heard, our feelings acknowledged, and to be understood. If you shout and yell, what chance is there to resolve anything?
Remind yourself - anger is an emotion like any other. Like fear, love, delight, grief. But you can learn how to express your anger in a constructive way. By learning how to channel your anger, you not only stay open hearted and loving, you also teach others how to manage their own anger.
Try something right now. Think back to the last person you felt really angry with. Take a moment to remember what made you so mad.
Now imagine yourself in their shoes. Try to put in words what you remember them saying and why they said the things they did, or did the things that you believed started off the row. And now imagine yourself back in that situation, but this time saying that because of what has been said or done, you feel angry. Own the anger. No blame, no judgments. No-one can make you angry - it's your emotional response and you can learn to choose how to respond in the future.
Isn't it easier to say that you're angry in a calm and loving way? Isn't it more likely that, had you used love to deal with the situation, you might have connected and found a healthy, loving way to resolve the problem?
Yes it's a challenge. But you have such power and inner strength in you that the further you go along that journey, you will eventually meet it. Believe that you will.
Neel Raman, is an author, keynote speaker and coach to many. He has written ‘Hoops and Freedom’, an informative and powerful self-improvement book, in the form of an entertaining fiction story, targeted at those who want and demand more from life. To find out more about this book and his FREE offers, visit: http://www.HoopsAndFreedom.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Neel_Raman
Thursday, February 1, 2007
DNA and a possible Solution
I borrowed this article from http://vivenzia.blogspot.com/.
It makes interesting reading...
One of the most unforgettable books I've ever read has been Michael Harner's new-age classic, The Way of the Shaman. Published originally in 1968, a history professor introduced me to the book in a class called "The History of Ideas: 1500-present." The professor wove an awfully engaging narrative throughout the semester, bounding back and forth between Descartes and Russian mystics, between Einstein and Native American shamanism, etc. Back then, I was laced-up in atheistic skepticism. Now I'm... something else.
But unlike most of my other assigned reading (mostly academic "theory"), what I read in Harner's book didn't seep out of my consciousness almost-immediately. The major elements of Harner's book are 1) a trip to South America as an anthropologist, 2) a hallucination-session with a Shaman who told Harner, "if you want to understand us, you must drink this ayahuasca," and 3) some serious reflection about what it all meant.
Harner's book begins with a 10-page account of the visions he saw in the hallucinogenic state, including the clear picture of a giant crocodile-like reptile with water gushing out of his mouth. Incidentally, after reporting this part of the vision to some missionaries in a nearby village, he discovered that he had effectively hallucinated a significant portion of the book of Revelation which(!) he had never read (he had been raised without religion). You want to read a good excerpt? Good, here's some:
Now I was virtually certain I was about to die. As I tried to accept my fate, an even lower portion of my brain began to transmit more visions and information. I was "told" that this new material was being presented to me because I was dying and therefore "safe" to receive these revelations. These were secrets reserved for the dying and the dead, I was informed. I could only very dimly perceive the givers of these thoughts: giant reptilian creatures reposing sluggishly at the depths of the back of my brain, where it met the top of the spinal column. I could only vaguely see them in what seemed to be gloomy, dark depths.
Then they projected a visual scene in front of me. First they showed me the planet Earth as it was eons ago, before there was any life on it. I saw an ocean, barren land, and a bright blue sky. Then black specks dropped from the sky by the hundreds and landed in front of me on the barren landscape. I could see that the "specks" were actually large, shiny, black creatures with stubby pterodactyl-like wings and huge whale-like bodies. Their heads were not visible to me. They flopped down, utterly exhausted from their trip, resting for eons. They explained to me in a kind of thought language that they were fleeing from something out in space. They had come to the planet Earth to escape their enemy.
But that's not all; Harner goes on to describe how it was revealed to him that the dragon-like creatures were thus inside of all forms of life, including man. THEN Harner puts in a footnote: "In retrospect one could say that they were almost like DNA, although at that time, 1961, I knew nothing of DNA." I know, I know: Riiiiiiight.
But the story doesn't stop there. In 1998 Jeremy Narby published a book called The Cosmic Serpent, which tells of his own stories living with natives living in the Amazon rain forest. Narby picks up where Harner's suggestive footnote left off--his argument is that those black specks that looked something like reptiles created life as we know it to hide from their space-enemy. Again: DNA is hiding in "life" to escape some alien enemy. And, Narby argues, this is how we explain the knowledge of the village Shamans which is otherwise inexplicable. For example, scientists are at a loss to account for the Indian knowledge of a certain kind of anaesthetic called "curare." To make curare, "it is necessary to combine several plants and boil them for seventy-two hours, while avoiding the fragrant but mortal vapors emitted by the broth. The final product is a paste that is inactive unless injected under the skin. If swallowed, it has no effect." So if you're skeptical, try to account for that kind of knowledge; "the scientists" are at a loss--
For the record, Harner was basically ostracized because the academy didn't like his research into the irrational. Narby's argument, that plants can literally communicate with us through these visionary experiences--well, we'll see how his career goes. Ayahuasca has been illegal as a Schedule 1 drug under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances, so you can't try any of this in America.
It makes interesting reading...
One of the most unforgettable books I've ever read has been Michael Harner's new-age classic, The Way of the Shaman. Published originally in 1968, a history professor introduced me to the book in a class called "The History of Ideas: 1500-present." The professor wove an awfully engaging narrative throughout the semester, bounding back and forth between Descartes and Russian mystics, between Einstein and Native American shamanism, etc. Back then, I was laced-up in atheistic skepticism. Now I'm... something else.
But unlike most of my other assigned reading (mostly academic "theory"), what I read in Harner's book didn't seep out of my consciousness almost-immediately. The major elements of Harner's book are 1) a trip to South America as an anthropologist, 2) a hallucination-session with a Shaman who told Harner, "if you want to understand us, you must drink this ayahuasca," and 3) some serious reflection about what it all meant.
Harner's book begins with a 10-page account of the visions he saw in the hallucinogenic state, including the clear picture of a giant crocodile-like reptile with water gushing out of his mouth. Incidentally, after reporting this part of the vision to some missionaries in a nearby village, he discovered that he had effectively hallucinated a significant portion of the book of Revelation which(!) he had never read (he had been raised without religion). You want to read a good excerpt? Good, here's some:
Now I was virtually certain I was about to die. As I tried to accept my fate, an even lower portion of my brain began to transmit more visions and information. I was "told" that this new material was being presented to me because I was dying and therefore "safe" to receive these revelations. These were secrets reserved for the dying and the dead, I was informed. I could only very dimly perceive the givers of these thoughts: giant reptilian creatures reposing sluggishly at the depths of the back of my brain, where it met the top of the spinal column. I could only vaguely see them in what seemed to be gloomy, dark depths.
Then they projected a visual scene in front of me. First they showed me the planet Earth as it was eons ago, before there was any life on it. I saw an ocean, barren land, and a bright blue sky. Then black specks dropped from the sky by the hundreds and landed in front of me on the barren landscape. I could see that the "specks" were actually large, shiny, black creatures with stubby pterodactyl-like wings and huge whale-like bodies. Their heads were not visible to me. They flopped down, utterly exhausted from their trip, resting for eons. They explained to me in a kind of thought language that they were fleeing from something out in space. They had come to the planet Earth to escape their enemy.
But that's not all; Harner goes on to describe how it was revealed to him that the dragon-like creatures were thus inside of all forms of life, including man. THEN Harner puts in a footnote: "In retrospect one could say that they were almost like DNA, although at that time, 1961, I knew nothing of DNA." I know, I know: Riiiiiiight.
But the story doesn't stop there. In 1998 Jeremy Narby published a book called The Cosmic Serpent, which tells of his own stories living with natives living in the Amazon rain forest. Narby picks up where Harner's suggestive footnote left off--his argument is that those black specks that looked something like reptiles created life as we know it to hide from their space-enemy. Again: DNA is hiding in "life" to escape some alien enemy. And, Narby argues, this is how we explain the knowledge of the village Shamans which is otherwise inexplicable. For example, scientists are at a loss to account for the Indian knowledge of a certain kind of anaesthetic called "curare." To make curare, "it is necessary to combine several plants and boil them for seventy-two hours, while avoiding the fragrant but mortal vapors emitted by the broth. The final product is a paste that is inactive unless injected under the skin. If swallowed, it has no effect." So if you're skeptical, try to account for that kind of knowledge; "the scientists" are at a loss--
For the record, Harner was basically ostracized because the academy didn't like his research into the irrational. Narby's argument, that plants can literally communicate with us through these visionary experiences--well, we'll see how his career goes. Ayahuasca has been illegal as a Schedule 1 drug under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances, so you can't try any of this in America.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
12 Tips for overcoming Anger and Gaining Peace
Anger appears when one is confronted with frustration, unhappiness or hurt feelings, or when plans don't turn out as desired. It also shows up when coming against opposition or criticism.
Anger never helps anyone. It wastes your energy, and can hurt your health, spoil your relationships, and cause you to miss opportunities. Getting angry is acting against your best interests.
Things don't always proceed according to plans and expectations. People not always act the way you wish them to act. You may not be always able to be in control of external influences and conditions, but you can certainly learn to control your attitude and reactions. There is no sense of allowing circumstances and people to pull your strings and affect your mind and feelings. You can choose not to let what people say and do affect your moods. You can maintain an inner attitude of emotional and mental detachment, and refuse to allow every minor event play with your feelings and evoke anger.
I often see people getting angry over unimportant and insignificant matters. Some insignificant remark or action, not getting a satisfactory reply to a question or just moodiness are enough to set fire and cause anger, snappy remarks, arguments and even physical fights. This is absolutely unnecessary. Life can be happier without this behavior.
Anger is a negative reaction, and if you wish to progress on the path of self-improvement or spiritual growth you should avoid it as much as possible.
Learning to calm down the restlessness of the mind and gaining peace of mind, is one of the best and most effective methods to overcome anger, and in fact, all negative emotions.
If you are willing to invest the time and energy, you will reap great rewards. Peace of mind will not only help you overcome anger, but also help you overcome anxiety and negative thinking, and enable you to stay calm, tranquil and self possessed in difficult and trying situations.
Peace of mind requires the development of an attitude of emotional and mental detachment, which is of vital importance for overcoming and avoiding anger. It protects you against being too affected by what people think, say or do, and is therefore highly recommended. Detachment is not an attitude of indifference and lack of sensitivity. It is an attitude of common sense and inner strength and leads to peace of mind.
I would like now to suggest a few simple tips to help you manifest some inner detachment and peace of mind, so as to be in a better position to overcome anger.
1. At least once a day, devote several minutes to thinking on how much your life would be better without anger.
2. When you feel anger arising in you, start breathing deeply and slowly several times.
3. You may, instead of breathing deeply, or better still, in addition to it, count slowly from one to ten. This will delay your angry reaction and weaken it.
4. Drinking some water has a calming effect on the body.
5. Try to be more patient, no matter how difficult it might be.
6. Be more tolerant toward people, even toward people you don't like.
7. Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. You can disagree with people, but still maintain tact and diplomacy.
8. Choose to react calmly and peacefully in every situation. Try again and again, regardless of how many times you lose control and get angry.
9. Positive thinking makes it easier to disregard remarks and behavior that otherwise could cause anger.
10. Try to manifest at least some self-control, self-discipline and more common sense.
11. Don't take everything too seriously. It is not worth it.
12. Find reasons to laugh more often.
Remez Sasson writes and teaches about positive thinking, creative visualization, success, mind power, self-improvement, spiritual growth and meditation.
He has been studying the above subjects for many years, and now he is sharing them through his books, articles and website. His website, which is constantly attracting an increasing number of visitors from all around the world, features many of his articles.
Remez Sasson is the author of the books "Peace of Mind in Daily Life", "Visualize and Achieve", "Will Power and Self Discipline" and "Affirmations - Words of Power".
Website: Success Consciousness
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Remez_Sasson
Anger never helps anyone. It wastes your energy, and can hurt your health, spoil your relationships, and cause you to miss opportunities. Getting angry is acting against your best interests.
Things don't always proceed according to plans and expectations. People not always act the way you wish them to act. You may not be always able to be in control of external influences and conditions, but you can certainly learn to control your attitude and reactions. There is no sense of allowing circumstances and people to pull your strings and affect your mind and feelings. You can choose not to let what people say and do affect your moods. You can maintain an inner attitude of emotional and mental detachment, and refuse to allow every minor event play with your feelings and evoke anger.
I often see people getting angry over unimportant and insignificant matters. Some insignificant remark or action, not getting a satisfactory reply to a question or just moodiness are enough to set fire and cause anger, snappy remarks, arguments and even physical fights. This is absolutely unnecessary. Life can be happier without this behavior.
Anger is a negative reaction, and if you wish to progress on the path of self-improvement or spiritual growth you should avoid it as much as possible.
Learning to calm down the restlessness of the mind and gaining peace of mind, is one of the best and most effective methods to overcome anger, and in fact, all negative emotions.
If you are willing to invest the time and energy, you will reap great rewards. Peace of mind will not only help you overcome anger, but also help you overcome anxiety and negative thinking, and enable you to stay calm, tranquil and self possessed in difficult and trying situations.
Peace of mind requires the development of an attitude of emotional and mental detachment, which is of vital importance for overcoming and avoiding anger. It protects you against being too affected by what people think, say or do, and is therefore highly recommended. Detachment is not an attitude of indifference and lack of sensitivity. It is an attitude of common sense and inner strength and leads to peace of mind.
I would like now to suggest a few simple tips to help you manifest some inner detachment and peace of mind, so as to be in a better position to overcome anger.
1. At least once a day, devote several minutes to thinking on how much your life would be better without anger.
2. When you feel anger arising in you, start breathing deeply and slowly several times.
3. You may, instead of breathing deeply, or better still, in addition to it, count slowly from one to ten. This will delay your angry reaction and weaken it.
4. Drinking some water has a calming effect on the body.
5. Try to be more patient, no matter how difficult it might be.
6. Be more tolerant toward people, even toward people you don't like.
7. Everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. You can disagree with people, but still maintain tact and diplomacy.
8. Choose to react calmly and peacefully in every situation. Try again and again, regardless of how many times you lose control and get angry.
9. Positive thinking makes it easier to disregard remarks and behavior that otherwise could cause anger.
10. Try to manifest at least some self-control, self-discipline and more common sense.
11. Don't take everything too seriously. It is not worth it.
12. Find reasons to laugh more often.
Remez Sasson writes and teaches about positive thinking, creative visualization, success, mind power, self-improvement, spiritual growth and meditation.
He has been studying the above subjects for many years, and now he is sharing them through his books, articles and website. His website, which is constantly attracting an increasing number of visitors from all around the world, features many of his articles.
Remez Sasson is the author of the books "Peace of Mind in Daily Life", "Visualize and Achieve", "Will Power and Self Discipline" and "Affirmations - Words of Power".
Website: Success Consciousness
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Remez_Sasson
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
The Purpose of Yoga
I thought you guys might like this...
The Purpose Of Yoga
By Donovan Baldwin
Yoga, or its ancestor, first appeared somewhere around 5,000 years ago. Since then, it has gradually evolved into the modern form. However, its "modern form" is neither completely modern, nor is it the only form of yoga. In the western world, when we speak of "yoga" we are commonly referring to Hatha Yoga, a branch of yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama in the 15th century. To keep it simple, Yogi Swatmarama saw Hatha Yoga, not as an end in itself, but as part of a pathway to a higher state on the yoga journey. Hatha Yoga concentrates more on the physical training, conditioning, and "preparation" aspects of yoga. So, as we talk about the purposes of "yoga", please keep in mind that we are talking only about one portion of the entire range of disciplines encompassed by the word.
We sometimes hear of someone who learned to become more relaxed by the practice of yoga. Or, maybe we have heard of someone who became more invigorated and energetic as a result of their practice. Perhaps someone else was able to play a competitive sport better than before they began practicing yoga, or perhaps they were able to lay aside the competitive aspect of their nature that had been driving them into bad health and broken relationships. We may have even heard all of these types of stories. I have! This, and all the claims made about the practice of yoga, creates a very confusing picture even in the minds of those willing to believe what they hear. For those who have doubts already, the multitude of claims can sound like those of an old-timey snake oil salesman.
Actually, research conducted by many prestigious organizations and institutions has confirmed that a regular practice of yoga can actually produce all of these effects and more. While some uncertainty exists in some areas as to exactly WHY yoga is so effective in relation to a given situation, condition, or result, the common ground seems to be that it works.
While yoga can return the same physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits as any other physical training or exercise program, it also produces a blend of positive results that allow the individual organism to integrate the effects and actions of several different systems to produce a whole overall outcome which seems to be greater than the sum of its parts. For example, the increased ability to relax may help the ability to perform, the strengthening of the physical body helps the emotional output to be brought under control. All specific benefits of yoga, when practiced regularly, work together for the overall benefit of the person.
It appears that this synergistic outcome combines the more specific benefits associated with any regular exercise program, with meditation, with deep breathing, with the "exercise" or "massage" of internal organs normally ignored by standard physical activities to produce the confusing array of "positive" outcomes mentioned at the beginning of this article.
Whatever the other positive outcomes of a regular yoga practice may be, its effect on physical and mental health in general should not be ignored. Yoga has been found to have a positive effect on such conditions as asthma, respiratory difficulties, high blood pressure, pain management, back pain, arthritis, and weight loss. Psychologically, it tends to increase self awareness, create a positive self-image, and uplift the spirits of the participant. Many who come to yoga for the first time find themselves with a "new lease on life" as one practitioner put it to me and find themselves trying new experiences, finding new friends, and taking control of a life which had, up until then, been in control of them.
Apparently, yoga has the potential of being effective in many aspects of life and health, and can, in most cases at least, mold itself to your needs. It might be said that the purpose of yoga is to serve in whatever capacity it is needed.
Donovan Baldwin is a Texas writer and a University of West Florida alumnus. He is a member of Mensa and is retired from the U. S. Army after 21 years of service. In his career, he has held many managerial and supervisory positions. However, his main pleasures have long been writing, nature, and fitness. In the last few years, he has been able to combine these pleasures by writing poetry and articles on subjects such as health, fitness, yoga, writing, the environment, happiness, self improvement, and weight loss. Learn more about yoga at http://yoga-4-the-health-of-it.com/ You can also find articles on yoga and other health related subjects at http://nodiet4me.blogspot.com/ .
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donovan_Baldwin
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Purpose-Of-Yoga&id=435403
I got this article from allwellbeing.blogspot.com
The Purpose Of Yoga
By Donovan Baldwin
Yoga, or its ancestor, first appeared somewhere around 5,000 years ago. Since then, it has gradually evolved into the modern form. However, its "modern form" is neither completely modern, nor is it the only form of yoga. In the western world, when we speak of "yoga" we are commonly referring to Hatha Yoga, a branch of yoga introduced by Yogi Swatmarama in the 15th century. To keep it simple, Yogi Swatmarama saw Hatha Yoga, not as an end in itself, but as part of a pathway to a higher state on the yoga journey. Hatha Yoga concentrates more on the physical training, conditioning, and "preparation" aspects of yoga. So, as we talk about the purposes of "yoga", please keep in mind that we are talking only about one portion of the entire range of disciplines encompassed by the word.
We sometimes hear of someone who learned to become more relaxed by the practice of yoga. Or, maybe we have heard of someone who became more invigorated and energetic as a result of their practice. Perhaps someone else was able to play a competitive sport better than before they began practicing yoga, or perhaps they were able to lay aside the competitive aspect of their nature that had been driving them into bad health and broken relationships. We may have even heard all of these types of stories. I have! This, and all the claims made about the practice of yoga, creates a very confusing picture even in the minds of those willing to believe what they hear. For those who have doubts already, the multitude of claims can sound like those of an old-timey snake oil salesman.
Actually, research conducted by many prestigious organizations and institutions has confirmed that a regular practice of yoga can actually produce all of these effects and more. While some uncertainty exists in some areas as to exactly WHY yoga is so effective in relation to a given situation, condition, or result, the common ground seems to be that it works.
While yoga can return the same physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits as any other physical training or exercise program, it also produces a blend of positive results that allow the individual organism to integrate the effects and actions of several different systems to produce a whole overall outcome which seems to be greater than the sum of its parts. For example, the increased ability to relax may help the ability to perform, the strengthening of the physical body helps the emotional output to be brought under control. All specific benefits of yoga, when practiced regularly, work together for the overall benefit of the person.
It appears that this synergistic outcome combines the more specific benefits associated with any regular exercise program, with meditation, with deep breathing, with the "exercise" or "massage" of internal organs normally ignored by standard physical activities to produce the confusing array of "positive" outcomes mentioned at the beginning of this article.
Whatever the other positive outcomes of a regular yoga practice may be, its effect on physical and mental health in general should not be ignored. Yoga has been found to have a positive effect on such conditions as asthma, respiratory difficulties, high blood pressure, pain management, back pain, arthritis, and weight loss. Psychologically, it tends to increase self awareness, create a positive self-image, and uplift the spirits of the participant. Many who come to yoga for the first time find themselves with a "new lease on life" as one practitioner put it to me and find themselves trying new experiences, finding new friends, and taking control of a life which had, up until then, been in control of them.
Apparently, yoga has the potential of being effective in many aspects of life and health, and can, in most cases at least, mold itself to your needs. It might be said that the purpose of yoga is to serve in whatever capacity it is needed.
Donovan Baldwin is a Texas writer and a University of West Florida alumnus. He is a member of Mensa and is retired from the U. S. Army after 21 years of service. In his career, he has held many managerial and supervisory positions. However, his main pleasures have long been writing, nature, and fitness. In the last few years, he has been able to combine these pleasures by writing poetry and articles on subjects such as health, fitness, yoga, writing, the environment, happiness, self improvement, and weight loss. Learn more about yoga at http://yoga-4-the-health-of-it.com/ You can also find articles on yoga and other health related subjects at http://nodiet4me.blogspot.com/ .
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donovan_Baldwin
http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Purpose-Of-Yoga&id=435403
I got this article from allwellbeing.blogspot.com
What a day!
Today is a tiring day!
I went to work even though my daughter is ill and I was just trying to send something but it took long with dial up so I just gave up!
I went to work even though my daughter is ill and I was just trying to send something but it took long with dial up so I just gave up!
Monday, January 29, 2007
The Science Behind Consciousness
The Science Behind Consciousness
By Justin Kander
Some people talk about being lucky, getting lucky, having something lucky. But it's very possible that all of us, everyone in the world, are born being very, very lucky.
What follows is just a theory, but quite possible. Every man's body on the planet contains billions of sperm cells, and is constantly creating them. Each cell contains an individual that would be developed once the sperm united with the egg. That individual body would hold a consciousness. Therefore, each sperm cell holds one individual that holds one consciousness. If that sperm never unites with an egg, that individual consciousness never develops.
What does this mean? The chance by which you came about was 1 / trillions. That's slimmer than winning one hundred state lotteries (no statistical research backs that up, but it sounds true). So, theoretically, anyone can say that they are lucky to be alive.
Of course, this is not the only theory. Another is that if a consciousness that would be in one sperm dies, then that same consciousness could come out in another person. A problem with this theory is that it would kick out an existing consciousness, but it's still possible. Another theory is that one consciousness is in all sperm until that consciousness is developed. Once it is, a new consciousness would take over.
There is another subject dealing with consciousness, although very unrelated to this one, and the question is: What is conscious? Humans, obviously, but that is the only thing we are 100% sure about. Monkeys, dogs, cats, tigers, wildebeests, and other large animals seem to be conscious, but they could just be acting like bacteria, and doing whatever is necessary to survive. However, animals like dogs go beyond that, as they are able to be trained and exhibit things behind fear of death. But on a lower level, like ants, beetles, and other bugs, the chances of them having any consciousness is low. They are most likely just automatically moving and doing things simply so they will survive. Some might say that bugs do amazing things; spiders, for example, make webs, and that appears to take intelligence. Think of a virus, which is definitely not conscious (and is still being argued to if it is even alive). They do amazing things; attach to a cell, inject DNA/RNA, and multiply through that process. They're not conscious and they can do that, and it is most likely the same thing with bugs. So if you've ever felt bad about stomping on an anthill or killing a spider, just remember that they didn't even know what was going on.
About the Author
The author's cool website, www.w4t3r.com, has a load of Funny Stories. It's promised that you will laugh at those funny stories!
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/46343.html
By Justin Kander
Some people talk about being lucky, getting lucky, having something lucky. But it's very possible that all of us, everyone in the world, are born being very, very lucky.
What follows is just a theory, but quite possible. Every man's body on the planet contains billions of sperm cells, and is constantly creating them. Each cell contains an individual that would be developed once the sperm united with the egg. That individual body would hold a consciousness. Therefore, each sperm cell holds one individual that holds one consciousness. If that sperm never unites with an egg, that individual consciousness never develops.
What does this mean? The chance by which you came about was 1 / trillions. That's slimmer than winning one hundred state lotteries (no statistical research backs that up, but it sounds true). So, theoretically, anyone can say that they are lucky to be alive.
Of course, this is not the only theory. Another is that if a consciousness that would be in one sperm dies, then that same consciousness could come out in another person. A problem with this theory is that it would kick out an existing consciousness, but it's still possible. Another theory is that one consciousness is in all sperm until that consciousness is developed. Once it is, a new consciousness would take over.
There is another subject dealing with consciousness, although very unrelated to this one, and the question is: What is conscious? Humans, obviously, but that is the only thing we are 100% sure about. Monkeys, dogs, cats, tigers, wildebeests, and other large animals seem to be conscious, but they could just be acting like bacteria, and doing whatever is necessary to survive. However, animals like dogs go beyond that, as they are able to be trained and exhibit things behind fear of death. But on a lower level, like ants, beetles, and other bugs, the chances of them having any consciousness is low. They are most likely just automatically moving and doing things simply so they will survive. Some might say that bugs do amazing things; spiders, for example, make webs, and that appears to take intelligence. Think of a virus, which is definitely not conscious (and is still being argued to if it is even alive). They do amazing things; attach to a cell, inject DNA/RNA, and multiply through that process. They're not conscious and they can do that, and it is most likely the same thing with bugs. So if you've ever felt bad about stomping on an anthill or killing a spider, just remember that they didn't even know what was going on.
About the Author
The author's cool website, www.w4t3r.com, has a load of Funny Stories. It's promised that you will laugh at those funny stories!
Article Source: http://articles.simplysearch4it.com/article/46343.html
Induce Consciousness by Lucid Dreaming
Lucid dreaming is dreaming while being aware that you are dreaming. The idea is that once you are aware you are dreaming you can alter your dreams and control what happens. Once perfected, it allows you to control the direction of your dreams. This is an enticing prospect for creative problem solving since when dreaming, you are restricted only by your imagination, not by the realities of physical constraints or social customs. Imagine being able to develop new ideas, chat with Einstein, or get golf tips from Tiger Woods.
Can you learn to have lucid dreams
Lucid dreaming is like any other skill - some people are naturally better at it than others but most can learn how to do it. To learn how, it's important to first know a bit about the stages of sleep.
Our sleep patterns follow a repeating cycle that involves different levels of sleep having different brainwave activity. Each cycle lasts about 90 to 100 minutes so a person will typically experience 4 to 5 complete sleep cycles a night. The stages of this cycle involve four levels of Slow-Wave or Non-REM sleep followed by REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.
Although some dreaming occurs during the other stages of sleep, the most vivid dreaming occurs during the REM stage. During this time, the higher frequency beta waves keep the mind active. As its name suggests, REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is characterized by frequent bursts of rapid eye movement, along with occasional muscular twitches. The first REM period occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and lasts about 10 minutes. This REM period increases in subsequent sleep cycles during the night.
How do you start?
One of the first requirements for having lucid dreams is to be able to recall your dreams. This can be done with a little practice. A good method is to focus your intent on remembering your dreams. Before falling asleep, repeat to yourself over and over, "I will awake from my dreams and completely remember them." If your thoughts wander, try to come back to this affirmation so that it is your last thought before drifting off to sleep. Another good technique is to keep a dream journal to record your dreams upon waking. Whenever you awake, immediately attempt to focus on what you had just been dreaming and write it down on a writing pad. Try to capture all the key points, such as what you were doing, where you were, and who was around you. Also, note anything strange such as things that wouldn�t normally happen in the waking world. If you find these strange events recur in your dreams, then they are your personal dream signs which you can use to recognize when you are dreaming.
Inducing lucid dreams
Lucid dreaming is usually induced by some sort of cue,something that indicates to the person that what they are experiencing is a dream, and not reality. These cues are often referred to as dream signs. Dream signs are usually things or events that would be impossible or very unusual in the waking world. Some examples of dream signs are breathing under water, flying, light switches that don�t work, suddenly returning to work at an old job, or being naked. Whenever a dream sign occurs in your dream, stop and ask yourself whether or not it is possible. If the answer is no, you are dreaming! With practice you can learn to recognize when you are dreaming by looking for these cues and doing a 'reality check'.
Once you have caught yourself dreaming, you can start to control your dream. Try changing the scene or situation, or controlling your own actions. In order to be successful at controlling your dreams, you should believe that what you are trying to do is possible. So it's important to remember that you are in control and anything you want is possible. Start with some small things and gradually work up to more challenging activities.
A good resource in this area is Dr. Stephen LaBerge's book Exploring the World of Lucid Dreaming which is based on his extensive laboratory work at Stanford University. However, if you really want to speed up the learning process, there are audio CDs available that enable you to experience lucid dreaming in just days. One program that has had good reviews is Bradley Thompson's The Lucid Dreaming Kit. The kit includes an Audio Stimulation CD that you play as you go to sleep which incorporates special beats and prompts to help you become lucid when dreaming.
Using Lucid Dreaming for Creative Problem Solving
Although lucid dreaming can be used for many applications, one of the most intriguing is to solve problems in your sleep. Lucid dreaming is a powerful tool that taps into your brain�s most creative state without the normal sensory distractions that disturb our focus during waking hours. Lucid dream offers the potential for truly creative thinking.
David Allen is an award-winning inventor with a strong interest in simple and practical methods to enhance creative thinking. Visit http://www.creativityboosters.com for more easy tools and techniques to increase your creativity.
source: http://www.valuablecontent.com
If you want to try the lucid dreaming kit then click on the the lucid dreaming link on the right hand side. Remember there is also a refund if you are not completely satisfied.
Can you learn to have lucid dreams
Lucid dreaming is like any other skill - some people are naturally better at it than others but most can learn how to do it. To learn how, it's important to first know a bit about the stages of sleep.
Our sleep patterns follow a repeating cycle that involves different levels of sleep having different brainwave activity. Each cycle lasts about 90 to 100 minutes so a person will typically experience 4 to 5 complete sleep cycles a night. The stages of this cycle involve four levels of Slow-Wave or Non-REM sleep followed by REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep.
Although some dreaming occurs during the other stages of sleep, the most vivid dreaming occurs during the REM stage. During this time, the higher frequency beta waves keep the mind active. As its name suggests, REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is characterized by frequent bursts of rapid eye movement, along with occasional muscular twitches. The first REM period occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and lasts about 10 minutes. This REM period increases in subsequent sleep cycles during the night.
How do you start?
One of the first requirements for having lucid dreams is to be able to recall your dreams. This can be done with a little practice. A good method is to focus your intent on remembering your dreams. Before falling asleep, repeat to yourself over and over, "I will awake from my dreams and completely remember them." If your thoughts wander, try to come back to this affirmation so that it is your last thought before drifting off to sleep. Another good technique is to keep a dream journal to record your dreams upon waking. Whenever you awake, immediately attempt to focus on what you had just been dreaming and write it down on a writing pad. Try to capture all the key points, such as what you were doing, where you were, and who was around you. Also, note anything strange such as things that wouldn�t normally happen in the waking world. If you find these strange events recur in your dreams, then they are your personal dream signs which you can use to recognize when you are dreaming.
Inducing lucid dreams
Lucid dreaming is usually induced by some sort of cue,something that indicates to the person that what they are experiencing is a dream, and not reality. These cues are often referred to as dream signs. Dream signs are usually things or events that would be impossible or very unusual in the waking world. Some examples of dream signs are breathing under water, flying, light switches that don�t work, suddenly returning to work at an old job, or being naked. Whenever a dream sign occurs in your dream, stop and ask yourself whether or not it is possible. If the answer is no, you are dreaming! With practice you can learn to recognize when you are dreaming by looking for these cues and doing a 'reality check'.
Once you have caught yourself dreaming, you can start to control your dream. Try changing the scene or situation, or controlling your own actions. In order to be successful at controlling your dreams, you should believe that what you are trying to do is possible. So it's important to remember that you are in control and anything you want is possible. Start with some small things and gradually work up to more challenging activities.
A good resource in this area is Dr. Stephen LaBerge's book Exploring the World of Lucid Dreaming which is based on his extensive laboratory work at Stanford University. However, if you really want to speed up the learning process, there are audio CDs available that enable you to experience lucid dreaming in just days. One program that has had good reviews is Bradley Thompson's The Lucid Dreaming Kit. The kit includes an Audio Stimulation CD that you play as you go to sleep which incorporates special beats and prompts to help you become lucid when dreaming.
Using Lucid Dreaming for Creative Problem Solving
Although lucid dreaming can be used for many applications, one of the most intriguing is to solve problems in your sleep. Lucid dreaming is a powerful tool that taps into your brain�s most creative state without the normal sensory distractions that disturb our focus during waking hours. Lucid dream offers the potential for truly creative thinking.
David Allen is an award-winning inventor with a strong interest in simple and practical methods to enhance creative thinking. Visit http://www.creativityboosters.com for more easy tools and techniques to increase your creativity.
source: http://www.valuablecontent.com
If you want to try the lucid dreaming kit then click on the the lucid dreaming link on the right hand side. Remember there is also a refund if you are not completely satisfied.
Inducing Consciousness through mindfullness exercise
Basic mindfulness exercises put you in a state of awareness where distractions are let go, and your mind power is able to function more effectively. They help to induce your consciousness by helping you to think clearly and concentrate better. They're also easy exercises to do.
More Mind Power in Minutes
A basic mindfulness exercise starts with sitting down, relaxing and breathing deeply through your nose. Close your eyes and be aware of your breath going in and out. After a minute, move your attention to your body, one part at a time, noting sensations of cold, hot, tight, sore and anything else you identify. In a few minutes, start listening to sounds in the room, without thinking about them. Just listen.
When it feels right, open your eyes and look around as if you are seeing for the first time. Rest your eyes on an object for half a minute, examining it without talking about it in your mind. Then move to another object, and another, while still maintaining an awareness of your body, your breathing, and any sounds. Stay in this state of mindfulness until you are ready to get up.
Being aware of your body, breath and immediate enviroment, puts you more fully "in the moment." Your mind is in a very receptive state, with fewer mental distractions that prevent clear thinking. Doing a mindfulness exercise before important mental tasks will give you greater mind power, specifically more focus and concentration.
An Even Easier Mindfulness Trick
Try this one today: When you feel stressed, stop, and carefully watch yourself to identify what's bothering you. Maybe you're expecting something bad to happen, or an argument is going on just below the surface of your consciousness, or you're worried about something, or in pain in some way. Make a note of everything you find.
Then deal with these mind-irritants. Make a phone call that's on your mind, take an aspirin, apologise to whomever you were fighting with. Write things on tomorrow's list, to get them off your mind. If there's nothing you can do right now, tell yourself that. Do this exercise, and you'll feel less stressed, and more able to concentrate on the tasks at hand. You'll have more mind power today.
Steve Gillman has been studying brainpower enhancement, creative problem solving, and related topics for years. You can visit his website, and subscribe to his free Mind Power Course, at: http://www.IncreaseBrainPower.com/mind-power.html
source: http://www.valuablecontent.com
More Mind Power in Minutes
A basic mindfulness exercise starts with sitting down, relaxing and breathing deeply through your nose. Close your eyes and be aware of your breath going in and out. After a minute, move your attention to your body, one part at a time, noting sensations of cold, hot, tight, sore and anything else you identify. In a few minutes, start listening to sounds in the room, without thinking about them. Just listen.
When it feels right, open your eyes and look around as if you are seeing for the first time. Rest your eyes on an object for half a minute, examining it without talking about it in your mind. Then move to another object, and another, while still maintaining an awareness of your body, your breathing, and any sounds. Stay in this state of mindfulness until you are ready to get up.
Being aware of your body, breath and immediate enviroment, puts you more fully "in the moment." Your mind is in a very receptive state, with fewer mental distractions that prevent clear thinking. Doing a mindfulness exercise before important mental tasks will give you greater mind power, specifically more focus and concentration.
An Even Easier Mindfulness Trick
Try this one today: When you feel stressed, stop, and carefully watch yourself to identify what's bothering you. Maybe you're expecting something bad to happen, or an argument is going on just below the surface of your consciousness, or you're worried about something, or in pain in some way. Make a note of everything you find.
Then deal with these mind-irritants. Make a phone call that's on your mind, take an aspirin, apologise to whomever you were fighting with. Write things on tomorrow's list, to get them off your mind. If there's nothing you can do right now, tell yourself that. Do this exercise, and you'll feel less stressed, and more able to concentrate on the tasks at hand. You'll have more mind power today.
Steve Gillman has been studying brainpower enhancement, creative problem solving, and related topics for years. You can visit his website, and subscribe to his free Mind Power Course, at: http://www.IncreaseBrainPower.com/mind-power.html
source: http://www.valuablecontent.com
Don't Park in the Comfort Zone!
Most of us have, in our house, a thermostat that regulates the temperature. When it gets a bit too warm, the air conditioning kicks on to bring the temperature down to an acceptable range. When the temperature drops below a comfortable point, the heater comes on to bring the room temperature up to a more comfortable level. The 'comfort zone' is the range of temperature that is not too hot and not too cold; just comfortable.
Our personal 'comfort zone' is where we are comfortable in what we are doing in our jobs, our lives, our experiences. It is when we have no feelings of risk or anxiety. Some call it 'being comfortable'. Some would call it 'a rut'.
Each of us has our own personal comfort zone. We have built-in 'thermostats' that regulate our level of anxiety, fear, discomfort. In the areas of our knowledge, skills, habits and attitude, when we step outside our normal, existing boundaries, we begin to feel a bit anxious. Our natural tendency is to pull back.
Try this: fold your arms. Now, fold them the other way. How did that make you feel? Felt a bit unnatural, didn't it? That's why we usually stay within our comfort zone. When we try something new, we often feel uneasy about it, and frequently pull back. The security feels good.
The downside of all this is that always staying in our comfort zone can be very limiting. The world passes us by as we stagnate. Complacency, in our fast-paced competitive world, can be fatal to business and severely limit personal and professional growth. If we are not learning, trying new things and growing, our jobs and businesses may be deteriorating.
How do we step out of the comfort zone? Before you just throw all caution to the wind, try some simple things. Drive home a different route. Shop at a different grocery store. Order something from the menu that you've never tried before. Sleep on the other side of the bed.
Make a conscious effort to experiment. Let yourself feel the adrenaline level rise a bit. Allow your anxiety level to increase. Feel your heart rate and breathing going faster. The adrenaline is your body's natural drug that, in moderation, makes you sharp, creative, and quick. It creates the feeling of excitement and exhilaration that comes from trying something new. Recognize that it also can be scary and stressful. Some stress is useful. Too much can be harmful. Some stress provides energy. Too much stress causes distress and can lead to burnout if done to extreme.
Why would we want to give ourselves the stress of stepping outside the comfort zone? Because that's where growth takes place. Just like a muscle gets stronger when we exercise it outside its normal range of use, we get stronger when we get out of our rut. And just like our muscles, once we stretch beyond our current capabilities, we don't ever go back to our original dimensions.
As we try new things, we gain confidence. Confidence makes us feel powerful and good. And when we are confident that we can survive new ideas, we allow ourselves to try even more new things.
What's the limit? Obviously, we need to be realistic in our risk management. The most successful people think through the possible outcomes of taking a risk. Then they prepare for how they would deal with each. Successful people take risks, but they are not foolhardy or stupid.
What are some higher level activities that could add to your personal and professional growth? Here's my challenge to you. Make a list of 50 things that, if you really were successful in doing them, you would be a better person or a better company. Things like give a speech (oh no!), write and publish an article, start an exercise program, meditate daily, teach a class, feed a homeless person, volunteer, climb a mountain, learn to play a new musical instrument, sign up for a dance class, try for that promotion, and so on.
Then, from your list, choose one or two that you are willing to do within the next 90 days. Schedule those one or two new activities, then go for it. Afterward, choose one or two more and do it again. Make personal and professional growth a lifelong habit.
Don't stay parked in the comfort zone.
By Gary Lockwood
Source: http://www.certificate.net/wwio/,
Take a look at the Midas method (The link is on the right hand side) for powerful goal setting technques
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Making Conscious Choices- Three Keys To Your Success in Life and Relationships
Our life, relationships, and our planet would work so much better if all choices were conscious.
What does it mean to be ‘Conscious?’
To illustrate, consider these three levels of consciousness:
1. Unconscious (awake but unaware)
This is when you forget where you put your keys, leave the headlights on and are surprised by a dead battery, drive past your freeway exit, etc. You’re simply not paying attention.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re unconscious we crash and sink before we see it.
2. Semi-conscious (aware of what’s in front of you)
This is when you’re sure you know what’s what. We believe that our stories (beliefs, interpretations, etc) and sensory perceptions (see, hear, feel, etc) are true and correct.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re semi-conscious we’re aware of the iceberg and truly believe we know how to avoid it, then crash and sink because it’s larger than we thought.
3. Conscious (aware of the big picture)
This is when we humbly understand that ‘you don’t know what you don’t know,’ and realize that there may be more to a situation than we can see or understand at the time. We are aware of our goal and do our best to learn more about the situation and examine our options to make the best possible choice.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re conscious we realize that we need to know more about what’s under the surface before making our choices about how to proceed.
Three Keys to Making Conscious Choices
Key # 1: Be clear about who you are and what you want
What’s the purpose of your life? What is your Vision for your life, work, and relationships? What are your requirements, needs, and wants in any situation?
Strive to lower the waterline on the iceberg that is your Self to achieve the clarity you need to be motivated and empowered.
Key # 2: Stay focused on what’s important to you- don’t settle for less
Most people ‘lead lives of quiet desperation.’ They want to be happy, but don’t know how and don’t think it’s possible. However, the Law of Attraction can work for you or against you, and if you expect less, you’ll get less.
Go after what you really want in your life and assume you can find the choices needed to be successful if you’re looking for them.
Key #3: Be supportable- with enough help you can do anything!
We’re human, and no-one is successful alone. We need to be conscious of our support needs and proactively seek to get them met.
Continually ask yourself what help you need and who can help you.
Wishing you a healthy, happy, conscious life.
bio = David Steele, MA, LMFT is founder of Relationship Coaching Institute and author of the ground-breaking new book for singles Conscious Dating: Finding the Love of Your Life in Today’s World. www.consciousdating.comVisit www.ConsciousRelationshipResources.com for FREE live tele-seminars, recorded audio programs, podcasts, e-programs and newsletters for singles and couples packed with cutting-edge relationship information that will help you have the life and relationships you really want.
Source: http://www.articlefinders.com
What does it mean to be ‘Conscious?’
To illustrate, consider these three levels of consciousness:
1. Unconscious (awake but unaware)
This is when you forget where you put your keys, leave the headlights on and are surprised by a dead battery, drive past your freeway exit, etc. You’re simply not paying attention.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re unconscious we crash and sink before we see it.
2. Semi-conscious (aware of what’s in front of you)
This is when you’re sure you know what’s what. We believe that our stories (beliefs, interpretations, etc) and sensory perceptions (see, hear, feel, etc) are true and correct.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re semi-conscious we’re aware of the iceberg and truly believe we know how to avoid it, then crash and sink because it’s larger than we thought.
3. Conscious (aware of the big picture)
This is when we humbly understand that ‘you don’t know what you don’t know,’ and realize that there may be more to a situation than we can see or understand at the time. We are aware of our goal and do our best to learn more about the situation and examine our options to make the best possible choice.
If life is like an iceberg, when we’re conscious we realize that we need to know more about what’s under the surface before making our choices about how to proceed.
Three Keys to Making Conscious Choices
Key # 1: Be clear about who you are and what you want
What’s the purpose of your life? What is your Vision for your life, work, and relationships? What are your requirements, needs, and wants in any situation?
Strive to lower the waterline on the iceberg that is your Self to achieve the clarity you need to be motivated and empowered.
Key # 2: Stay focused on what’s important to you- don’t settle for less
Most people ‘lead lives of quiet desperation.’ They want to be happy, but don’t know how and don’t think it’s possible. However, the Law of Attraction can work for you or against you, and if you expect less, you’ll get less.
Go after what you really want in your life and assume you can find the choices needed to be successful if you’re looking for them.
Key #3: Be supportable- with enough help you can do anything!
We’re human, and no-one is successful alone. We need to be conscious of our support needs and proactively seek to get them met.
Continually ask yourself what help you need and who can help you.
Wishing you a healthy, happy, conscious life.
bio = David Steele, MA, LMFT is founder of Relationship Coaching Institute and author of the ground-breaking new book for singles Conscious Dating: Finding the Love of Your Life in Today’s World. www.consciousdating.comVisit www.ConsciousRelationshipResources.com for FREE live tele-seminars, recorded audio programs, podcasts, e-programs and newsletters for singles and couples packed with cutting-edge relationship information that will help you have the life and relationships you really want.
Source: http://www.articlefinders.com
12 Steps to Turbo Charge your Visualisation
1. Every night, half an hour before retiring, go to your room, where you can be entirely alone
and as remote as possible from noise and distraction.
2. Seat yourself in a wide and comfortable chair, or, better still, lie down on your back at full length. See that your clothing is loosened, so that you will suffer no distressing annoyance on this account. Compose yourself as if for sleep, assuming a position of restfulness, abandon and utter relaxation. Close your eyes, letting the lids rest lightly on your cheeks.
3. Shut your mind resolutely against every form of bodily sensation. Forget for the time that you are encumbered with a body.
4. Bar out of your consciousness every memory, every thought of the past.
5. Build a mental picture of the thing you want to have, to do or to be - the one thing that you immediately desire first and most of all. By this we mean nothing indefinite. We do not refer to ultimate aims that can come only as the result of long periods of effort. We mean something specific, something that can be yours tomorrow, something that in itself constitutes the next step in your chosen career.
6. See yourself finding the ways and means of realizing your desire, overcoming obstacles one after another, all the obstacles that can possibly arise. See yourself called upon to display, and displaying, alertness, promptness, courage, confidence, resourcefulness, patience, push, enterprise, expert knowledge, insight, shrewdness, tact, self-control, decision. See yourself face to face with the situation that confronts you in real life and manifesting the qualities and doing the things necessary to your purpose. Put yourself body and soul into this picture. Multiply details. Rivet your mind upon it.
7. Advance step by step, logically, wisely, consistently, to the climax of the drama. See yourself winning out. See yourself solving the problem, getting the thing you want, acting the part you desire to play. Detach your spirit from the flesh of this world and incorporate it in the mental image of yourself. Live the victory mentally until a sense of its reality permeates your soul.
8. Make your dream picture as delightful as possible. Dwell upon it with joyful satisfaction. Warm your heart with a feeling of thankfulness that that which you have so long desired is really yours. This feeling of gratitude, this emotional element, will bring forth associations that will give life to the picture and will animate your faith. Keep yourself tight shut in this dream world for at least fifteen minutes.
9. Arise and make your preparations for the night. Then upon retiring once more close your eyes and let your mind dwell upon your vision for five or ten minutes or until you fall asleep. Let it be the last thing in your thoughts as you become unconscious.
10. Every time you are awake during the night call the mental picture before you and keep it in consciousness as long as you remain awake.
11. In the morning, immediately upon awaking, repeat the procedure set out in the third, fourth and fifth instructions.
12. The more of your spare time you spend in this way, the more promptly will you actualize your ideals. By repeated concentration, every detail of the image of your desire will be so deeply engraved upon your mind as to exert an influence throughout the day. It will inhibit wasteful emotions and impulses. It will give you poise and self-possession. It will so inspire you with its promise as to awaken an energizing response in the profoundest depths of your subconsciousness.
By Colin Joss © 2006
Source: http://www.articlecity.com
Don't forget to check out the links on the right hand side to get towards your goal of inducing consciousness.
and as remote as possible from noise and distraction.
2. Seat yourself in a wide and comfortable chair, or, better still, lie down on your back at full length. See that your clothing is loosened, so that you will suffer no distressing annoyance on this account. Compose yourself as if for sleep, assuming a position of restfulness, abandon and utter relaxation. Close your eyes, letting the lids rest lightly on your cheeks.
3. Shut your mind resolutely against every form of bodily sensation. Forget for the time that you are encumbered with a body.
4. Bar out of your consciousness every memory, every thought of the past.
5. Build a mental picture of the thing you want to have, to do or to be - the one thing that you immediately desire first and most of all. By this we mean nothing indefinite. We do not refer to ultimate aims that can come only as the result of long periods of effort. We mean something specific, something that can be yours tomorrow, something that in itself constitutes the next step in your chosen career.
6. See yourself finding the ways and means of realizing your desire, overcoming obstacles one after another, all the obstacles that can possibly arise. See yourself called upon to display, and displaying, alertness, promptness, courage, confidence, resourcefulness, patience, push, enterprise, expert knowledge, insight, shrewdness, tact, self-control, decision. See yourself face to face with the situation that confronts you in real life and manifesting the qualities and doing the things necessary to your purpose. Put yourself body and soul into this picture. Multiply details. Rivet your mind upon it.
7. Advance step by step, logically, wisely, consistently, to the climax of the drama. See yourself winning out. See yourself solving the problem, getting the thing you want, acting the part you desire to play. Detach your spirit from the flesh of this world and incorporate it in the mental image of yourself. Live the victory mentally until a sense of its reality permeates your soul.
8. Make your dream picture as delightful as possible. Dwell upon it with joyful satisfaction. Warm your heart with a feeling of thankfulness that that which you have so long desired is really yours. This feeling of gratitude, this emotional element, will bring forth associations that will give life to the picture and will animate your faith. Keep yourself tight shut in this dream world for at least fifteen minutes.
9. Arise and make your preparations for the night. Then upon retiring once more close your eyes and let your mind dwell upon your vision for five or ten minutes or until you fall asleep. Let it be the last thing in your thoughts as you become unconscious.
10. Every time you are awake during the night call the mental picture before you and keep it in consciousness as long as you remain awake.
11. In the morning, immediately upon awaking, repeat the procedure set out in the third, fourth and fifth instructions.
12. The more of your spare time you spend in this way, the more promptly will you actualize your ideals. By repeated concentration, every detail of the image of your desire will be so deeply engraved upon your mind as to exert an influence throughout the day. It will inhibit wasteful emotions and impulses. It will give you poise and self-possession. It will so inspire you with its promise as to awaken an energizing response in the profoundest depths of your subconsciousness.
By Colin Joss © 2006
Source: http://www.articlecity.com
Don't forget to check out the links on the right hand side to get towards your goal of inducing consciousness.
Light Shifting: Getting to Our Highest Energy
We spend our entire lives looking for ways to get what we want and to feel good. The fact of the matter is that it’s actually pretty simple. Here we have two choices in life: living a love-based life or living a fear-based life. Many feelings encompass these two areas. The first is anything that brings pleasure: peace, joy, acceptance, and those things that feel good. Then there is anything that brings pain: sadness, disgust, anger and fear. Of course there are many blends within feeling states, but we won’t be looking at blends.
Most of us vacillate between these two complex areas, bouncing back and forth like the proverbial yoyo. In the beginning, feeling good is at the core of all we do, just look at any infant. Infants are easy; they know how to do it without any coaching. They have no problem wanting to feel good: be fed, dry, warm and loved. It is instinctual and they are fully connected to the Source of all things. We know that by watching them because they are full of joy. That is the core of our being. Our natural state is pure joy, pure love and pure peace. You know it's true. Look at anyone who has recently fallen madly in love. We have boundless energy, a bounce in our step and life is wonderful. Then we grow up or fall out of love. Either way we make subtle movements from our center core.
As we age, we begin to make a shift in what we are looking for, and somewhere along the way we get stuck. We start listening to the voices around us from our school, families, society in general, and move away from the joy of living, away from our true purpose in life. During the socialization process we learn how to be in the world, and sometimes lose how to be our best self. We listen to what makes the best sense from a data perspective. We listen to Gallop poles that tell us how to think, who to vote for, when to sell our house, where to send our kids to school and what they should study. Being the best that we can be used to have something to do with values and character. As we reach out for the best that we can be today we find: how to make the most money, be a size 2, get into the best colleges, and everything in between. Not that there is something wrong with living abundantly, but somehow it gets skewed as we forget how to live our life for ourselves. We are wonderful people that no longer know who we are and can’t figure out where we are going.
Social influences through the media push us toward someone else’s idea of being, leading us to hot jobs, fast cars and sleek exteriors. We work in jobs that do not bring us pleasure, nor to our highest sense of self. We never question ourselves to see if we are going down the right path. How do we get back on the road to self? This is the road to loving ourselves, and loving each other. The only way to really know what we need is to look within us. Look inside for your answers. Ask, give some time for energy to move, and then be willing to receive. Receiving is a core issue with a lot of folks. They cancel things out with doubt about their worthiness or about the process. Either way we put our best future on hold.
That said I am not suggesting that we dump the socialization process. It is an important part of our growth cycle to evolve in this way. I am suggesting that we not get stuck on a perpetual treadmill that moves nowhere. We live our lives doing things the same way, and expecting a different outcome. So do something different to get a different response. Make a life shift, a strategic shift that keeps you moving towards goals that fit who you really are and you will find true joy in living.
Make the goal to keep energy lifted to its highest state of consciousness. This keeps the flow of energy in and around us moving. Quantum physics tells us that everything around us is energy: we are energy, our things, plant life, our homes, our work, even money. This is the law of physics. So to keep life full, rich and coming to us, we need to reframe our thinking about what we see. This is not making mindless affirmations. We are reframing our internal dialogue to work for us. We are sending messages to ourselves with a true sense of joy attached somewhat like a mantra. This reframe of our thinking actually works with us to move us in the right direction. As we shift the light and energy within, we also change how we think about things. Light Shifting is a process of moving from a position of fear and control to trusting the intuitive part of the self to return the ego to its highest state of consciousness. We can get there through meditation, reframing our thinking, acts of love, or within the memory of love and music. During these processes we make better decisions, experience greater states of health, are more in touch with synchronistic events, are more focused, and shine from the inside out. Light Shifting increases the frequency of one’s energy, vibrating higher and higher to its purest state of light and love.
The beginning of this shift is to start the process of teasing out what no longer works. This is literally a process of unlearning. Ask some questions of yourself to look at where you have been and how you have evolved. Who are you today? How do you feel when you look in the mirror? The most wonderful people in the world have helped you get to where you are now, and that is a good thing. There are no accidents in life. Where you are today is purposeful. Now it is time to take a look at what you have learned and grow past it. The learning that has helped you to become the special person you are was sound at the time, but is it fitting for who you are today?
The process of Light Shifting is putting oneself into a state mind that is filled with the best that we can offer ourselves and everyone we meet. As we elevate ourselves and the flow around us, we know what to do and where to go. Our lives are filled with everything we want before we ask. We feel good, healthy and energized. When we live at this level, life flows easily and effortlessly and we see things clearly. Meditation can make these occurrences come more naturally and more frequently into our awareness. You have the power to live at this level...take your power! See more of the possibilities in life! Why not you? Why not now? If not now, when?
Shirley Ryan is the author of Searching for the Waters of Antiquity: A Follow-Along Meditation Process (Soul Moments Publishing, $24.95), a meditation tool with a unique integration of symbol and archetypes demonstrated her painting and meditation skills. The founder and president of Working Together (www.aboutworkingtogether.com), a business specializing in helping people manage life’s changes in mind, body, and spirit, Ryan has worked as a professional life coach since 1994. See her work at www.searchingforthewaters.com
Source: http://www.amazines.com
For more information on inducing consciousness click on the link below:
http://sun1lv.aprylian.hop.clickbank.net/
Most of us vacillate between these two complex areas, bouncing back and forth like the proverbial yoyo. In the beginning, feeling good is at the core of all we do, just look at any infant. Infants are easy; they know how to do it without any coaching. They have no problem wanting to feel good: be fed, dry, warm and loved. It is instinctual and they are fully connected to the Source of all things. We know that by watching them because they are full of joy. That is the core of our being. Our natural state is pure joy, pure love and pure peace. You know it's true. Look at anyone who has recently fallen madly in love. We have boundless energy, a bounce in our step and life is wonderful. Then we grow up or fall out of love. Either way we make subtle movements from our center core.
As we age, we begin to make a shift in what we are looking for, and somewhere along the way we get stuck. We start listening to the voices around us from our school, families, society in general, and move away from the joy of living, away from our true purpose in life. During the socialization process we learn how to be in the world, and sometimes lose how to be our best self. We listen to what makes the best sense from a data perspective. We listen to Gallop poles that tell us how to think, who to vote for, when to sell our house, where to send our kids to school and what they should study. Being the best that we can be used to have something to do with values and character. As we reach out for the best that we can be today we find: how to make the most money, be a size 2, get into the best colleges, and everything in between. Not that there is something wrong with living abundantly, but somehow it gets skewed as we forget how to live our life for ourselves. We are wonderful people that no longer know who we are and can’t figure out where we are going.
Social influences through the media push us toward someone else’s idea of being, leading us to hot jobs, fast cars and sleek exteriors. We work in jobs that do not bring us pleasure, nor to our highest sense of self. We never question ourselves to see if we are going down the right path. How do we get back on the road to self? This is the road to loving ourselves, and loving each other. The only way to really know what we need is to look within us. Look inside for your answers. Ask, give some time for energy to move, and then be willing to receive. Receiving is a core issue with a lot of folks. They cancel things out with doubt about their worthiness or about the process. Either way we put our best future on hold.
That said I am not suggesting that we dump the socialization process. It is an important part of our growth cycle to evolve in this way. I am suggesting that we not get stuck on a perpetual treadmill that moves nowhere. We live our lives doing things the same way, and expecting a different outcome. So do something different to get a different response. Make a life shift, a strategic shift that keeps you moving towards goals that fit who you really are and you will find true joy in living.
Make the goal to keep energy lifted to its highest state of consciousness. This keeps the flow of energy in and around us moving. Quantum physics tells us that everything around us is energy: we are energy, our things, plant life, our homes, our work, even money. This is the law of physics. So to keep life full, rich and coming to us, we need to reframe our thinking about what we see. This is not making mindless affirmations. We are reframing our internal dialogue to work for us. We are sending messages to ourselves with a true sense of joy attached somewhat like a mantra. This reframe of our thinking actually works with us to move us in the right direction. As we shift the light and energy within, we also change how we think about things. Light Shifting is a process of moving from a position of fear and control to trusting the intuitive part of the self to return the ego to its highest state of consciousness. We can get there through meditation, reframing our thinking, acts of love, or within the memory of love and music. During these processes we make better decisions, experience greater states of health, are more in touch with synchronistic events, are more focused, and shine from the inside out. Light Shifting increases the frequency of one’s energy, vibrating higher and higher to its purest state of light and love.
The beginning of this shift is to start the process of teasing out what no longer works. This is literally a process of unlearning. Ask some questions of yourself to look at where you have been and how you have evolved. Who are you today? How do you feel when you look in the mirror? The most wonderful people in the world have helped you get to where you are now, and that is a good thing. There are no accidents in life. Where you are today is purposeful. Now it is time to take a look at what you have learned and grow past it. The learning that has helped you to become the special person you are was sound at the time, but is it fitting for who you are today?
The process of Light Shifting is putting oneself into a state mind that is filled with the best that we can offer ourselves and everyone we meet. As we elevate ourselves and the flow around us, we know what to do and where to go. Our lives are filled with everything we want before we ask. We feel good, healthy and energized. When we live at this level, life flows easily and effortlessly and we see things clearly. Meditation can make these occurrences come more naturally and more frequently into our awareness. You have the power to live at this level...take your power! See more of the possibilities in life! Why not you? Why not now? If not now, when?
Shirley Ryan is the author of Searching for the Waters of Antiquity: A Follow-Along Meditation Process (Soul Moments Publishing, $24.95), a meditation tool with a unique integration of symbol and archetypes demonstrated her painting and meditation skills. The founder and president of Working Together (www.aboutworkingtogether.com), a business specializing in helping people manage life’s changes in mind, body, and spirit, Ryan has worked as a professional life coach since 1994. See her work at www.searchingforthewaters.com
Source: http://www.amazines.com
For more information on inducing consciousness click on the link below:
http://sun1lv.aprylian.hop.clickbank.net/
Inducing Consciousness
Welcome to the wierd and wonderful world of inducing consciousness. Here you will find articles, tips, news and much more about how to induce your consciousness. By inducing consciousness we aim to make your life a more happy one.
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