How to Lose Weight Naturally Applying Ayurvedic Principles

How to Lose Weight Naturally Applying Ayurvedic Principles



Many people who are overweight continually try new programs, diets, drugs or fads that promise results but may cost a lot of money and produce minimal or only temporary results. Others attempt to change their habits and living patterns to consume less food and exercise more. But almost everyone overlooks the most basic and natural steps to gradually reduce weight and improve overall health.









1


Restrict the amount of food you consume. There is a natural measurement of what is acceptable for a person to eat at one time. Hold both hands together to form a cup. What will fit comfortably inside the volume is the maximum amount of food to eat in one meal. This amount of food is approximately half of the stomach's capacity.





2


Drink only enough liquid during a meal to fill a fourth of the stomach's capacity.





3


Wait 4 hours before eating again. Do not put anything in your mouth during the 4-hour period except perhaps a glass of water or cup of tea.





4


Stimulate each kind of taste bud in your mouth everyday. Most Americans focus on sweet and salt, but there are 4 other taste categories that are important to satisfy in order to be successful in this weight loss strategy. They are as follows: astringent, sour, pungent and bitter. Astringent refers to beans and similar vegetable proteins. Pungent refers to spicy foods, generally created by adding spices. Pungent tastes are especially important because the herbs and spices that create this taste stimulate the body's metabolism by as much as 25 percent.








Tips & Warnings










If the stomach is full, then proper digestion cannot occur, so the stomach will stretch in order to size itself to accommodate the load.








Don't beat yourself up every time you deviate from this process. If you can do it most of the time, you will improve rapidly.








If you regress, avoid binging. Too much food is one thing. Completely forgetting yourself is another.








Learn all you can about food combining. Proper combining will maximize the results from following these steps.



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How to Determine the Effectiveness of Neuro Linguistic Programming

How to Determine the Effectiveness of Neuro Linguistic Programming



The ideas behind Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) were first put forward in the 1960s by Richard Bandler and John Grinder. Since then, their methods have been revised and adapted by others. NLP is a self-help technique that involves the reprogramming of sensory perception and language in a way that eliminates old and ineffective habits (from addiction to phobias) in favor of new, more successful ones. Most of the evidence for NLP is anecdotal, concerning clients' stories of how their experiences with NLP favorably affected their lives.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Find Stories and Articles on the Effectiveness of Neuro Linguistic Programming




1


Use the Internet to look up information on the effectiveness of NLP. Start your search by reading the "Well Formed Outcomes" article at The NLP Center of New York Web site (see Resources below).





2


Learn more about the effectiveness of this technique by reading the "NLP and Professional Success Stories" article online (see Resources below). Be inspired by actual case studies by reading Natalie Dee's "Success Stories" (see Resources below).





3


Consider your own reasons for wanting to determine the effectiveness of neuro linguistic programming. If what you have read touches on your personal experiences or problems, consider finding a practitioner.



Make a Practical Test




1


Experiment with some of the practices of NLP. Check out "The NLP Exercise of the Month" at the Northern School of NLP Web site (see Resources below). Try the suggested exercises. Most can be done in the privacy of your home with no special knowledge.





2


Improve your public speaking with NLP by visiting the "Speak Like a Pro" Web site (see Resources below). Try a few of the tasks. You might start with the "swish," a common NLP technique.





3


Ask yourself questions about the experience. Did the methods and activities make sense to you? Did you find it easy to conjure up mental pictures (a big part of NLP training)? Did your outlook or feelings change in any way for the better?





4


Use the research that you have done to determine whether or not the effectiveness of NLP training would make it an advisable step for you.





5


Find an NLP practitioner or coach if you're interested in working with a professional. Determine how much you can afford to spend on NLP, since private coaching sessions can be expensive.








Tips & Warnings










Avoid extremists and cranks by sticking to the more logically written, professional Web sites.








Visit a doctor or an emergency room if you are experiencing suicidal thoughts.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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How to Choose a Breathwork Practitioner

How to Choose a Breathwork Practitioner



Breathwork, the most common form of which involves changing your normal breathing pattern, is still an esoteric subject in the world of health care. As such, it can be difficult to find a practitioner in your area. Fortunately, there are ways to find one if you know where to look and what to look for. Follow these steps to help you find one. It's worth taking the time. Breathwork practitioners believe it can help control stress and panic attacks.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Telephone







Learn About Breathwork




1


Know that group breathwork sessions typically consist of a group of people looking for a cathartic experience, led by a facilitator. The group is broken down into pairs with one "breather" and one "sitter." The breather experiences the catharsis while the sitter assists with blankets, pillows and tissues.





2


Keep in mind that the breather will have to follow the facilitator's instructions regarding the breathing pattern. The breather will want to achieve a "circular breath" with no breaks between inhaling and exhaling.





3


Realize that breathwork is often accompanied with re-birthing, a process that simulates the sensation of being born. Typically, this will at some point involve disrobing and floating in water.





4


Get more information about breathwork on the Internet through Web sites like the Breathwork Alliance (see Resources below).



Find a Breathwork Practitioner




1


Choose a practitioner through an online directory like the Transformational Breathing Directory (see Resources below). Directories like this will often list Web sites as well as contact information so that you can browse the practitioners' products, packages and rates.





2


Make sure that your practitioner has been certified to facilitate breathwork. There are different academies that can certify a practitioner, including the International Breathwork Training Alliance.





3


Contact the practitioner of your choice and enroll in the package that suits your needs.








Tips & Warnings










Costs for breathwork break down into different categories, depending on what you choose. Practitioners typically offer private and group sessions. Some offer weekend retreats. Therefore, prices can range from affordable to expensive. Ask for current rates when you find your practitioner.








Due to the extreme fluctuations in breathing during many forms of breathwork, there's the constant danger of hypoxia, or the lack of oxygen. Additionally, there have been reported cases of insanity, brought about by the cathartic nature of breathwork. Make sure you're mentally stable enough to partake in this treatment. If you experience dizziness or have trouble breathing, see your physician as soon as possible.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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How to Breathe Properly During Meditation

How to Breathe Properly During Meditation



Meditation, the technique of focusing the mind while deepening the breath, is a popular practice for people who suffer from stress or anxiety. Successful meditation depends entirely upon concentration and the elimination of external distractions. Learning to breathe properly during meditation is an essential step in attaining the beneficial effects of meditation, which include tranquility, peace, restfulness and reduction of stress.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




An isolated, quiet place to meditate




Candles and/or incense (optional)







Prepare Yourself to Meditate




1


Change into comfortable clothing that does not restrict your movement or your ability to breathe.





2


Light your candles or burn your incense (or both). Many adherents of meditation hold that the presence of elemental fire heightens the efficacy of your meditation session.





3


Seat yourself on the floor, or sit upright in a straight-backed chair that promotes proper posture. Sitting on the floor is recommended by most meditation experts, but the most important thing is to keep your back straight. Feel free to use a small pillow to aid your comfort.





4


Close your eyes. Let any stray thoughts in your mind trickle to their natural end. Then, concentrate on nothingness.



Practice Proper Breathing During Meditation




1


Standardize your breathing technique. During meditation, some people inhale and exhale through their nose, some inhale through their nose and use their mouth to exhale and some both inhale and exhale through the mouth. Choose whichever you prefer, but stick to it with every breath you take.





2


Regulate your breathing. Breathe at consistent intervals, establishing a rhythm. With practice, this rhythm should become second nature to you.





3


Visualize if you're having trouble. BellaOnline's Buddhist meditation pages can suggest some helpful techniques, should you need help learning to breathe properly during meditation (see Resources below).





4


Use a mantra or a personalized word or phrase that you chant during your meditation sessions to help you focus properly.





5


Practice daily. As with most anything, meditation gets easier the more you do it. Also, its psychological and health benefits are only attained through regular usage.








Tips & Warnings










Sign up for professional instruction in meditation if you've identified a particular style you're interested in. Depending on the style, courses or retreats range from free of charge to very expensive.








Meditation is best used as a relaxation tool, not as primary treatment of a stress-related medical condition like high blood pressure or ulcers. Consult a doctor if you have or suspect you have a condition of that nature.



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How to Breathe During Qigong Exercises

How to Breathe During Qigong Exercises



Created and refined in China centuries ago, Qigong (pronounced "chee-gong") is a holistic practice intended to better the health and extend the longevity of its practitioner. Qigong focuses and directs the body's natural energy flow, called Qi, to heal injury, fight common ailments, prevent disease and increase vitality. It's often used to treat poor circulation, arthritis and stress. The materials needed to start practicing Qigong, like instructional books, are relatively inexpensive. Follow these steps to understand how important it is to breathe during Qigong exercises.







Things You'll Need:





Comfortable, loose clothing




Regular time and place where you can remove yourself from all outside distractions




Instructional books, videos or classes









1


Don't underestimate the importance of breathing during Qigong exercises. Proper breath techniques are the core of Qigong.





2


Practice abdominal breathing. This concept has been in use for centuries in Qigong. It's now seen in modern exercise practices from Pilates to spinning to yoga.





3


Breathe in through your nose. Your breath should be long, slow and deep.





4


Sit or stand up straight and relaxed so you can expand your chest.





5


Use your abdominal muscles to pull in more air. Feel the abs pull at the bottom of your lungs to fill in the lower lungs with air. This is what personal trainers call "filling your belly with air."





6


Contract your abs to completely deflate the lungs, pushing out all the air. Pull up and in with the abs to accomplish this.





7


Try reinforcing your breaths. Take a deep breath and hold it for a second. Breathe in again to fill the lower lungs; then exhale completely. Remember to contract the abdominal muscles.





8


Focus on your breathing. Don't carry any tension in your jaw. Your jaw should be relaxed--always. The most common mistake people make during most Qigong exercises is not breathing consistently and fully.





9


Get started learning Qigong from the pros by reading "Eight Simple Qigong Exercises: The Eight Pieces of the Brocade" by renowned expert Yang Jwing-Ming (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










If you experience any shortness of breath or pain during Qigong exercises, stop immediately. Seek professional medical attention.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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How to Become Trained in Oriental Bodyworks

How to Become Trained in Oriental Bodyworks



Practitioners of the ancient medicine known as Oriental bodyworks believe the biggest cause of common ailments like physical pain and mental distress are caused by an imbalance in the body's energy. Through specific massage techniques, such as shiatsu and tui na, these practitioners believe the body's energy force can be restored, thereby eliminating illnesses. Oriental bodyworks encompass a wide variety of techniques, borrowed from several Asian countries like Japan, China and Korea, to combat fatigue, headaches, back pain and more. Although there is no regulated, formal procedure for becoming trained in Oriental bodyworks, it's helpful to take educational courses and become certified in order to attract a larger client base and to conduct your practice safely.







Things You'll Need:





Start up funds for educational and business expenses




Computer with Internet access







Become an Oriental Bodyworks Practitioner




1


Find out whether a career in Oriental bodyworks is right for you. This can be achieved by consulting with bodyworks practitioners in your area and sitting in on sessions to see if you're interesting in this type of work.





2


Become familiar with the history and techniques of Oriental bodyworks through books like "Structural Bodywork: An Introduction for Students and Practitioners," and "The History of Massage: An Illustrated Survey from around the World," both of which can be purchased online (see Resources below).





3


Look for suitable bodyworks programs in your area in order to become trained. One place to begin your search is at the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia(В®) Web site (see Resources below).





4


Decide whether you want to offer a full-service bodyworks practice, or whether you want to specialize in one or two distinct areas.





5


Drop off business cards at health food stores, alternative medicine retailers and holistic health centers. You'll attract the right clientГЁle by advertising in these types of businesses.





6


Become certified so you can register with organizations like the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia(В®). This will attract more business for you as potential clients search for nearby practitioners.








Tips & Warnings










To become properly trained in Oriental bodyworks, you'll need money to pay for your classes. Tuition at reputable schools is moderate, but inexpensive when compared to other vocational training programs.








Do not attempt to use Oriental bodyworks to treat a patient who is suffering from severe or potentially life-threatening symptoms, such as shortness of breath, bleeding, sharp pain, dizziness and vision loss.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031492_become-trained-oriental.html

How to Draw Emo

How to Draw Emo



While there doesn't seem to be a specific way to draw emo, you can be sure the same emotion that drives the scene also drives the art. Whether you want to express your inner emo creatively or just draw up emo icons and graphics for your website, you can easily achieve an emo look in your art.







Create Emo Style Art




Step
1



Make your characters look sad. This staple crosses all genre lines, from anime to pop art. Sometimes this can be done by simply focusing on gloomy or wistful eyes.




Step
2



Put your characters in desolate situations. Nothing conveys emo like someone sitting alone with his head down. Throw in some rain, fallen buildings or schoolbooks, and you've drawn an entire emo scene.




Step
3



Draw silhouettes instead of completely sketched-out features. This style is not only popular on emo shirts, but it can also be used as website graphics and on album covers.




Step
4



Use muted colors in your drawings. This style, reminiscent of hardcore albums of the late 1990s, creates an emo feeling through the many shades of grey. Yellow, greens and blues do sneak in, but they all portray a feeling of despair or sadness.




Step
5



Take a look at "Pon and Zi," by Jeff Taylor, which epitomizes much of what's going on in the emo art scene (see Resources below). Simplicity, angst and a touch of tenderness create an emotional story in single frames.




Step
6



Try to make anything you draw convey emotion. While portraits of your favorite emo band may look cool, you can take your art to another level by trying to say something with it. This creative outlet also helps you get through tough times as you pour all your excess emotion into drawing.




Step
7



Create collages of iconic images, mixed with text, ink splatters or design elements. This style of art can not only create an emo feeling, but it also lends itself to those who don't draw well.







Tips & Warnings









Since emo does not reflect a specific genre of art, but more of a style, you can do anything from simple sketches to complex pen-and-ink drawings. Use this freedom to let your imagination soar.








Keep practicing. The more work you put into learning how to draw, the more emotion your end product will convey.



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