Tuesday, August 31, 2010
8 Ways Meditation Can Change Your Life
We can’t imagine what life would be like without meditation. It has seen us through tough times and many life changes, keeping us sane and grounded and real. Life is challenging enough; we can never know what will arise next and only when our minds are clear and focused can we make the best decisions.
How are you able to deal with the madness and chaos that occurs daily? How do you deal with the challenges of life? Meditation is highly misunderstood and often under-rated yet is perhaps what it takes to be a truly sane person. How does meditation affect us? How does it shift our priorities, enable us to make friends with ourselves, to find answers to our questions?
Here are eight ways meditation can make your life more meaningful and enjoyable! (MORE)
How are you able to deal with the madness and chaos that occurs daily? How do you deal with the challenges of life? Meditation is highly misunderstood and often under-rated yet is perhaps what it takes to be a truly sane person. How does meditation affect us? How does it shift our priorities, enable us to make friends with ourselves, to find answers to our questions?
Here are eight ways meditation can make your life more meaningful and enjoyable! (MORE)
Care 2
Monday, August 30, 2010
Breathing And Meditation In Yoga
In the same breath that we speak of Yoga, we speak of meditation. Whether that Yoga meditation school is Buddhist, Hindu, Islam, Taoist, Jain, Vedanta, Tantric, Integral, Transcendental, and the list continues evolving new schools and styles, these are all expressions of Yoga meditation philosophy; a mystic understanding of the infinite, an acceptance of ourselves as finite aspects of light and integral dynamic elements of an infinite light.
Yoga philosophy is a broad, deeply layered subject. In respect to our focus for this article – breathing and meditation – we may only touch lightly on Yoga philosophy and say that the goal of Yoga philosophy, and therefore, the goal of all schools of Yoga meditation is mystic liberation – to die to the human condition of suffering. Just as Yoga meditation has been called by many names, mystic liberation has been called by many names from self-realization and enlightenment in the West to ananda and samadhi in the East. (MORE)
Yoga philosophy is a broad, deeply layered subject. In respect to our focus for this article – breathing and meditation – we may only touch lightly on Yoga philosophy and say that the goal of Yoga philosophy, and therefore, the goal of all schools of Yoga meditation is mystic liberation – to die to the human condition of suffering. Just as Yoga meditation has been called by many names, mystic liberation has been called by many names from self-realization and enlightenment in the West to ananda and samadhi in the East. (MORE)
Source: Helium
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Study Finds Correlation Between Positive Mood and Yoga
Many forms of exercise have been linked to an inherent ability to decrease stress and improve overall mood and outlook. Now, findings from a recent study suggest that yoga may be a superior form of exercise when weighed against certain others for its positive effects on overall outlook and anxiety.
Conducted by researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), the focal point of the study centered on brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels, a regulator of neuron excitability in the central nervous system. Specifically, findings from other recent industry studies have revealed that low levels of GABA are associated with depression and other common anxiety disorders.
The BUSM study compared the fluctuation in GABA levels of participants who participated in yoga to that of participants who exercised by walking. Findings concluded that yoga participants had increased levels of GABA.
Participants were also asked to describe their mental state several times throughout the study, and those practicing yoga regularly noted greater improvement with mood and anxiety compared to those who walked. (MORE)
Conducted by researchers at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM), the focal point of the study centered on brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels, a regulator of neuron excitability in the central nervous system. Specifically, findings from other recent industry studies have revealed that low levels of GABA are associated with depression and other common anxiety disorders.
The BUSM study compared the fluctuation in GABA levels of participants who participated in yoga to that of participants who exercised by walking. Findings concluded that yoga participants had increased levels of GABA.
Participants were also asked to describe their mental state several times throughout the study, and those practicing yoga regularly noted greater improvement with mood and anxiety compared to those who walked. (MORE)
Source: Psych Central
Saturday, August 28, 2010
3 Meditation Exercises for Maximum Wellness
The benefits of meditation are many and varied from reducing stress to increasing one's cognition and creativity. Additionally, meditation heightens our concentration, allowing us to be more productive.
Many people think that they have to flee to a monastery or spend hours a day sitting in a lotus position to receive these benefits. Wrong! If you feel overwhelmed with work, family and personal responsibilities here are three quick and easy meditations to help you release unwholesome emotions, shift your mood and improve your relationships adapted from my book, Wise Mind, Open Mind. (MORE)
Many people think that they have to flee to a monastery or spend hours a day sitting in a lotus position to receive these benefits. Wrong! If you feel overwhelmed with work, family and personal responsibilities here are three quick and easy meditations to help you release unwholesome emotions, shift your mood and improve your relationships adapted from my book, Wise Mind, Open Mind. (MORE)
Source: Huffington Post
Friday, August 27, 2010
Body-Mind Meditation Leads to Rapid, Positive Brain Changes
The importance of meditation has long been known to mankind, but scientists have now discovered the positive brain changes that occur after a session of meditation even if it is a brief one.
Chinese and US researchers at the University of Oregon studied the effects of a meditation technique known as Integrated Body Mind Training (IBMT) on 45 students who were randomly selected. One group of students practiced IBMT for half an hour every weekday for a month and the other group did a relaxation technique.
The scientists found that even a brief session of meditation strengthened the connections of the brain that regulate our emotional response. They also found that the group of students who were practicing IBMT had brain connections that started to strengthen in only 6 hours, which was not visible in the other group. In 11 hours the differences were all the more apparent. (MORE)
Chinese and US researchers at the University of Oregon studied the effects of a meditation technique known as Integrated Body Mind Training (IBMT) on 45 students who were randomly selected. One group of students practiced IBMT for half an hour every weekday for a month and the other group did a relaxation technique.
The scientists found that even a brief session of meditation strengthened the connections of the brain that regulate our emotional response. They also found that the group of students who were practicing IBMT had brain connections that started to strengthen in only 6 hours, which was not visible in the other group. In 11 hours the differences were all the more apparent. (MORE)
Source: Natural News
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Trading The Gym Bag For The Yoga Mat
THERE are only two public Yoga studios in Phnom Penh: NataRaj Yoga founded in 2004 by Isabelle Skaburskis, and Kundalini House founded by Tony and Hannika in 2007. But the number of yogis has increased.
Van Vannac, an instructor at NataRaj Yoga, said he felt yoga was new for Cambodia and could also be a little expensive for some people to take up, but there were many benefits.
“The breathing exercises and meditation will improve concentration, remove stress and help to improve general well-being,” said Alison Hawkins, the principle teacher from NataRaj Yoga, with yoga qualifications from the United Kingdom and India.
She said yoga was suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners of all ages. It was recommended to start with the introduction to yoga classes, which would help improve posture, flexibility and strength while also helping to calm the mind.
According to Hawkins, those with limited exercise experience can attend classes but are advised to practice slowly and rest during and in between exercises if necessary. The teachers would also encourage and help students to develop their own yoga practices to suit their own bodies and personality. (MORE)
Van Vannac, an instructor at NataRaj Yoga, said he felt yoga was new for Cambodia and could also be a little expensive for some people to take up, but there were many benefits.
“The breathing exercises and meditation will improve concentration, remove stress and help to improve general well-being,” said Alison Hawkins, the principle teacher from NataRaj Yoga, with yoga qualifications from the United Kingdom and India.
She said yoga was suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners of all ages. It was recommended to start with the introduction to yoga classes, which would help improve posture, flexibility and strength while also helping to calm the mind.
According to Hawkins, those with limited exercise experience can attend classes but are advised to practice slowly and rest during and in between exercises if necessary. The teachers would also encourage and help students to develop their own yoga practices to suit their own bodies and personality. (MORE)
Source: Phnom Pehn Post
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Yoga May Improve Mood
Individuals who feel anxious or depressed may want to consider doing some yoga, according to the findings of a new study.
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine followed two randomized groups of healthy individuals over a 12-week period. One group practiced yoga three times a week for one hour, while the remaining subjects walked for the same period of time.
Using magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) imaging, the participants’ brains were scanned before the study began. At week 12, the researchers compared the brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels of both groups before and after their final 60-minute session. Low GABA levels are associated with depression and other widespread anxiety disorders. (MORE)
Researchers from Boston University School of Medicine followed two randomized groups of healthy individuals over a 12-week period. One group practiced yoga three times a week for one hour, while the remaining subjects walked for the same period of time.
Using magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) imaging, the participants’ brains were scanned before the study began. At week 12, the researchers compared the brain gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) levels of both groups before and after their final 60-minute session. Low GABA levels are associated with depression and other widespread anxiety disorders. (MORE)
Source: Dr Cutler
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
The Benefits Of Yoga
Ask any participant and they will claim it is their all-in-one medicine. They will claim it is their chiropractor, their therapist, their Advil and even their fat-blaster. They will claim it is free and will tell you they don’t have to leave home for the cure-all treatment that is yoga.
Content found on the site CBC.com said in recent years yoga has overtaken the exercise realm and become a world phenomenon. Its potential for sculpting a toned physique attracts many, but its beneficial reputation is in need of a reintroduction.
Yoga is a spiritual practice that originated in India and involves meditation and controlled breathing to purify and unite the mind and body as one.
There are many variations of yoga, and each type possesses the ability to restore multiple afflictions of the body. The Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine said the most popular type of yoga among Americans is Hatha yoga, which is a system of physical exercise and breathing control. Through the practice of Hatha yoga, one can anticipate more benefits than a simple flab-fixer or positive mental attitude. (MORE)
Content found on the site CBC.com said in recent years yoga has overtaken the exercise realm and become a world phenomenon. Its potential for sculpting a toned physique attracts many, but its beneficial reputation is in need of a reintroduction.
Yoga is a spiritual practice that originated in India and involves meditation and controlled breathing to purify and unite the mind and body as one.
There are many variations of yoga, and each type possesses the ability to restore multiple afflictions of the body. The Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine said the most popular type of yoga among Americans is Hatha yoga, which is a system of physical exercise and breathing control. Through the practice of Hatha yoga, one can anticipate more benefits than a simple flab-fixer or positive mental attitude. (MORE)
Source: The U of Idaho Argonaut
Monday, August 23, 2010
'Mindfulness' For His Own Life And His Patients'
Tom Casey's family tree casts a dark shadow. Heart disease infected virtually every branch. Heart attacks and strokes claimed the lives of both his father and mother before they were 60. They died within a year of each other, when Casey was only 24.
It was, he says, "a wake-up call."
Casey, who grew up in Ardmore and went to Monsignor Bonner, St. Joe's, and Temple University School of Medicine, stopped smoking. He began exercising - biking, running, swimming. He reformed his diet and monitored his blood pressure and cholesterol.
Healing and the Mind, Bill Moyers' 1993 PBS special, fascinated him. He was receptive to the gospel of cardiologist Dean Ornish, who recommends yoga and meditation for reducing stress and managing hypertension. He was impressed by the research of Jon Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, whose studies showed that Buddhist-based "mindfulness" not only lowers stress but also improves the quality of life of people with cancer, severe pain, and chronic heart and lung disease. (MORE)
It was, he says, "a wake-up call."
Casey, who grew up in Ardmore and went to Monsignor Bonner, St. Joe's, and Temple University School of Medicine, stopped smoking. He began exercising - biking, running, swimming. He reformed his diet and monitored his blood pressure and cholesterol.
Healing and the Mind, Bill Moyers' 1993 PBS special, fascinated him. He was receptive to the gospel of cardiologist Dean Ornish, who recommends yoga and meditation for reducing stress and managing hypertension. He was impressed by the research of Jon Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School, whose studies showed that Buddhist-based "mindfulness" not only lowers stress but also improves the quality of life of people with cancer, severe pain, and chronic heart and lung disease. (MORE)
Source: Philadelphia Enquirer
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Meditation to Go!
Life's hard, so meditate! It's fun. It's easy! It helps!
Many of us consider ourselves spiritual seekers. We wish we meditated more. We wish we were better people. We wish we had an inner calm. We wish and often we try. Sometimes we try very, very hard. And sometimes we make some progress. In fact, among us there are many dedicated meditators, of all types and persuasions. And along side those folks are the many who work equally hard on their spiritual path, whatever it may be.
But most of us, even those on a disciplined path, find ourselves often caught in our 24/7 world and that twenty-minute meditation time we promised ourselves has disappeared. The summer, in which we committed ourselves to long walks in nature and quiet time for self-reflection, ran away from us in the blink of an eye. The calm inner sense of peace is nowhere to be found, as we answer yet another phone call, fix another dinner, go to one more meeting, soothe one more crying child. What shall we do, we mere mortals struggling to make it work? (MORE)
Many of us consider ourselves spiritual seekers. We wish we meditated more. We wish we were better people. We wish we had an inner calm. We wish and often we try. Sometimes we try very, very hard. And sometimes we make some progress. In fact, among us there are many dedicated meditators, of all types and persuasions. And along side those folks are the many who work equally hard on their spiritual path, whatever it may be.
But most of us, even those on a disciplined path, find ourselves often caught in our 24/7 world and that twenty-minute meditation time we promised ourselves has disappeared. The summer, in which we committed ourselves to long walks in nature and quiet time for self-reflection, ran away from us in the blink of an eye. The calm inner sense of peace is nowhere to be found, as we answer yet another phone call, fix another dinner, go to one more meeting, soothe one more crying child. What shall we do, we mere mortals struggling to make it work? (MORE)
Source: Psychology Today
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Meditation Boosts Part of Brain Where ADD, Addictions Reside
Spending some time meditating may improve the integrity and efficiency of certain connections in the brain, according to a new study. When a group of participants meditated regularly over the course of a month, brain scans showed increased nerve connections in the areas that govern reward processing and decision making. The authors of the study hope this particular kind of meditation can be adapted to help those conditions with manifestations in the same area of the brain, such as ADD, addiction, and dementia.
In the experiment, a small group of college students were instructed to do integrative body-mind training, or IBMT, in half-hour chunks for a total of 11 hours during one month. The IBMT involved a combination of activities, including body relaxation, mental imagery, and mindfulness training accompanied by specific kinds of music. (MORE)
In the experiment, a small group of college students were instructed to do integrative body-mind training, or IBMT, in half-hour chunks for a total of 11 hours during one month. The IBMT involved a combination of activities, including body relaxation, mental imagery, and mindfulness training accompanied by specific kinds of music. (MORE)
Source: Ars Technia
Friday, August 20, 2010
Chair Yoga For Seniors: Back Vinyasa
A 'vinyasa' flow or sequence is a series of movements timed to the rhythmic flow of your breathing. In Yoga, the connection between the mind and the body has always been found through following ones breath – this is basic Hatha Yoga, nothing new. However, the term 'vinyasa' has, in the last ten years, made its way West, and the word is new in our culture.
A Back Vinyasa can be practiced in the static Yoga pose fashion, or it may be practiced in the dynamic repetitive movement fashion – timed to ones breathing – as a therapeutic movement for long-term clinical depression.
The connection between a dynamic Back Vinyasa and long-term clinical depression lies in the 'vinyasa' movement which uses and exercises the Cerebellar and Limbic systems. The Cerebellar is the seat of your motor nerve activity, and the Limbic is the seat of your emotions. Often, those who suffer from long-term clinical depression lose their motor nerve activity, especially the ability to walk. In this way, a dynamic Yoga movement, rather than a static pose, can be an effective element in ones treatment of depression. (MORE)
A Back Vinyasa can be practiced in the static Yoga pose fashion, or it may be practiced in the dynamic repetitive movement fashion – timed to ones breathing – as a therapeutic movement for long-term clinical depression.
The connection between a dynamic Back Vinyasa and long-term clinical depression lies in the 'vinyasa' movement which uses and exercises the Cerebellar and Limbic systems. The Cerebellar is the seat of your motor nerve activity, and the Limbic is the seat of your emotions. Often, those who suffer from long-term clinical depression lose their motor nerve activity, especially the ability to walk. In this way, a dynamic Yoga movement, rather than a static pose, can be an effective element in ones treatment of depression. (MORE)
Source: Helium
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Meditation 'Rewires The Brain'
Meditation can help a person find peace by rewiring the brain, research has shown.
Just 11 hours learning a meditation technique called integrative body-mind training (IBMT) produced dramatic changes in the brains of volunteers.
Scans revealed that neuron connectivity was boosted in a part of the brain important for regulating emotions and behaviour.
"The pathway that has the largest change due to IBMT is one that previously was shown to relate to individual differences in the person's ability to regulate conflict," said US psychologist Professor Michael Posner, who co-led the research.
Previous work by the same team has shown that meditation reduces levels of anxiety, depression, anger and fatigue. (MORE)
Source: Behavioral Health Central
Just 11 hours learning a meditation technique called integrative body-mind training (IBMT) produced dramatic changes in the brains of volunteers.
Scans revealed that neuron connectivity was boosted in a part of the brain important for regulating emotions and behaviour.
"The pathway that has the largest change due to IBMT is one that previously was shown to relate to individual differences in the person's ability to regulate conflict," said US psychologist Professor Michael Posner, who co-led the research.
Previous work by the same team has shown that meditation reduces levels of anxiety, depression, anger and fatigue. (MORE)
Source: Behavioral Health Central
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
8 Tips for Mindfully Processing Grief
Grief happens to all of us at some time in our lives. You may think that grief happens only after the death of a loved one, but you also grieve after any major change in your identity such as losing a job, divorce, kids going off to college, or moving. No matter the cause, grief can be one of the hardest experiences of your life. Not only can grief feel emotionally unpredictable, but it is often physically and mentally stressful and exhausting. The following tips can help you mindfully navigate the path of grief:
Practice Mindfulness Meditation. Grief can often feel like chronic stress, and research shows that 20-30 minutes of twice daily mindfulness practice can alter how your brain processes stress after about eight weeks. Mindfulness practice during grief can help your mind and body find precious moments of peace during this difficult time. Regular mindfulness practice can also help you sleep better and is a crucial foundation for developing healthier habits during your grief journey. (MORE)
Practice Mindfulness Meditation. Grief can often feel like chronic stress, and research shows that 20-30 minutes of twice daily mindfulness practice can alter how your brain processes stress after about eight weeks. Mindfulness practice during grief can help your mind and body find precious moments of peace during this difficult time. Regular mindfulness practice can also help you sleep better and is a crucial foundation for developing healthier habits during your grief journey. (MORE)
Source: Huffington Post
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
11 Hrs Of Meditation Boosts Brain
Just 11 hours of learning a meditation technique provokes positive structural changes in brain connectivity by boosting efficiency in a part that helps a person regulate behaviour in accordance with their goals, according to a study.
The technique, called integrative body-mind training (IBMT), has been the focus of intense scrutiny by a team of Chinese researchers led by Yi-Yuan Tang of Dalian University of Technology in collaboration with University of Oregon psychologist Michael I. Posner.
IBMT was adapted from traditional Chinese medicine in the 1990s in China, where it is practiced by thousands of people.
It is now being taught to undergraduates involved in research on the method at the University of Oregon.
The new research involved 45 UO students (28 males and 17 females); 22 subjects received IBMT while 23 participants were in a control group that received the same amount of relaxation training.
The experiments involved the use of brain-imaging equipment in the UO’s Robert and Beverly Lewis Center for Neuroimaging.
A type of magnetic resonance called diffusion tensor imaging allowed researchers to examine fibers connecting brain regions before and after training. The changes were strongest in connections involving the anterior cingulate, a brain area related to the ability to regulate emotions and behaviour. (MORE)
The technique, called integrative body-mind training (IBMT), has been the focus of intense scrutiny by a team of Chinese researchers led by Yi-Yuan Tang of Dalian University of Technology in collaboration with University of Oregon psychologist Michael I. Posner.
IBMT was adapted from traditional Chinese medicine in the 1990s in China, where it is practiced by thousands of people.
It is now being taught to undergraduates involved in research on the method at the University of Oregon.
The new research involved 45 UO students (28 males and 17 females); 22 subjects received IBMT while 23 participants were in a control group that received the same amount of relaxation training.
The experiments involved the use of brain-imaging equipment in the UO’s Robert and Beverly Lewis Center for Neuroimaging.
A type of magnetic resonance called diffusion tensor imaging allowed researchers to examine fibers connecting brain regions before and after training. The changes were strongest in connections involving the anterior cingulate, a brain area related to the ability to regulate emotions and behaviour. (MORE)
Source: Times of India
Monday, August 16, 2010
Zen And The Art Of Meditation
Learn how to open up your mind and come alive by simple breathing techniques used by Zen masters...
All that we are arises with our thoughts... with our thoughts we make the world — Buddha
“There are no limits for the person who refuses to accept them,” says Chuck Norris. At 70, the former American karate superstar and Hollywood action man is still busy and active in promoting the fighting arts and sports. And in the business of movie making. But what few people outside of his vast league of fans around the world know is that Norris has long since gone beyond developing his body — he is now a strong believer and advocate of Zen, the core philosophy of martial arts, which he says can help every person achieve spiritual tranquility and self-confidence.
Zen, of course, means different things to different people; but to Norris, it is simply another way of seeing — with both eyes shut! Zen is sudden enlightenment, waking up from a deep sleep or from a deep distraction, meaning waking up from the superficial confusions of the world. This enlightenment is real and within our grasp all the time. It is the goal, the future; just deciding to take the right steps, face the right direction, can have a powerful and positive impact on today, on how you live your every moment from now on. Zen begins and ends at the most human level — with how people think of themselves and others. All you’ve got to do is open your mind. (MORE)
All that we are arises with our thoughts... with our thoughts we make the world — Buddha
“There are no limits for the person who refuses to accept them,” says Chuck Norris. At 70, the former American karate superstar and Hollywood action man is still busy and active in promoting the fighting arts and sports. And in the business of movie making. But what few people outside of his vast league of fans around the world know is that Norris has long since gone beyond developing his body — he is now a strong believer and advocate of Zen, the core philosophy of martial arts, which he says can help every person achieve spiritual tranquility and self-confidence.
Zen, of course, means different things to different people; but to Norris, it is simply another way of seeing — with both eyes shut! Zen is sudden enlightenment, waking up from a deep sleep or from a deep distraction, meaning waking up from the superficial confusions of the world. This enlightenment is real and within our grasp all the time. It is the goal, the future; just deciding to take the right steps, face the right direction, can have a powerful and positive impact on today, on how you live your every moment from now on. Zen begins and ends at the most human level — with how people think of themselves and others. All you’ve got to do is open your mind. (MORE)
Source: Times of India
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Understanding Meditation
A simplified understanding of meditation is - it is basically the process of consciously transcending the "apparent self' to reach the "inner self', which is blissful.
I have explained the concept of "self' or the "perceived reality' of an individual, which is the state of his consciousness at the time of awakening from sleep, in my previous article. This "self' persists and influences the quality of that particular day through "our built-in biofeedback'. I emphasized on the presence or absence of the quality of bliss.
Blissfulness is the core quality that would determine the expression of other faculties of the mind. When a person is blissful, his mind is calm and his intellect and judgment is optimal. Blissfulness is the natural quality of the "self' as is evident in children. Being blissful allows all other human faculties to blossom.
As grownups many of us would feel far removed from bliss. This is because we allow the mind and its senses to dwell upon so many things in our day-to-day lives. Thus the "self' or the "perceived reality', even if it is blissful soon after a good night's sleep, soon forgets this core reality of bliss. (MORE)
I have explained the concept of "self' or the "perceived reality' of an individual, which is the state of his consciousness at the time of awakening from sleep, in my previous article. This "self' persists and influences the quality of that particular day through "our built-in biofeedback'. I emphasized on the presence or absence of the quality of bliss.
Blissfulness is the core quality that would determine the expression of other faculties of the mind. When a person is blissful, his mind is calm and his intellect and judgment is optimal. Blissfulness is the natural quality of the "self' as is evident in children. Being blissful allows all other human faculties to blossom.
As grownups many of us would feel far removed from bliss. This is because we allow the mind and its senses to dwell upon so many things in our day-to-day lives. Thus the "self' or the "perceived reality', even if it is blissful soon after a good night's sleep, soon forgets this core reality of bliss. (MORE)
Source: Future Health
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Breathe, Meditate, Be Happy
Boost your mood and overall health with this beginner’s guide to meditation.
Good news: Fitness doesn’t always have to correlate with daily gym dates and lots of sweat. Simply sitting in meditation can boost your overall health, too.
In Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert (played by Julia Roberts) learns to meditate and in turn, turns her life around. Quieting her mind helps her overcome depression, define her priorities and make a commitment to herself. Pretty heady stuff, but according to Mallika Chopra, daughter of Deepak Chopra and the creator of intent.com and a new series of meditation videos for ExerciseTV, meditating is something anyone can do. “Even five minutes of focusing on your breath (one form of meditation) can help you feel more balanced,” Chopra says.
The benefits of meditation are numerous. “Studies have shown that consistent meditation produces real physiological affects,” Chopra says. “During meditation, your heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases, blood flow to the brain increases, your immune system gets stimulated, and there are changes in hormone levels. Those same hormones can act as ‘antidepressants’ to help quiet your mind, reduce anxiety and generally make you feel happier.”
Are you sold, yet? Here’s a simple, five-step meditation exercise from Chopra, to help start you on your way to perfect and perfectly balanced health. (MORE)
Good news: Fitness doesn’t always have to correlate with daily gym dates and lots of sweat. Simply sitting in meditation can boost your overall health, too.
In Eat, Pray, Love, Elizabeth Gilbert (played by Julia Roberts) learns to meditate and in turn, turns her life around. Quieting her mind helps her overcome depression, define her priorities and make a commitment to herself. Pretty heady stuff, but according to Mallika Chopra, daughter of Deepak Chopra and the creator of intent.com and a new series of meditation videos for ExerciseTV, meditating is something anyone can do. “Even five minutes of focusing on your breath (one form of meditation) can help you feel more balanced,” Chopra says.
The benefits of meditation are numerous. “Studies have shown that consistent meditation produces real physiological affects,” Chopra says. “During meditation, your heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases, blood flow to the brain increases, your immune system gets stimulated, and there are changes in hormone levels. Those same hormones can act as ‘antidepressants’ to help quiet your mind, reduce anxiety and generally make you feel happier.”
Are you sold, yet? Here’s a simple, five-step meditation exercise from Chopra, to help start you on your way to perfect and perfectly balanced health. (MORE)
Source: MSN Health and Fitness
Friday, August 13, 2010
Better Sleep Through Meditation: 4 Techniques To Try Tonight
Anyone who's ever experienced a fitful night of sleep knows that "just relax" is easier said than done. But do-it-yourself meditation practices may help you prepare for rest, and put worries or discomfort behind you.
These techniques work best when done right before bed, in a quiet, calming environment. But you can also practice them several times a day, recommends Joyce Walsleben, PhD, associate professor at New York University School of Medicine.
"If you can keep your stress levels under control during the day, you'll sleep better at night," Walsleben says. "You can even do them at your desk or on the train." (MORE)
These techniques work best when done right before bed, in a quiet, calming environment. But you can also practice them several times a day, recommends Joyce Walsleben, PhD, associate professor at New York University School of Medicine.
"If you can keep your stress levels under control during the day, you'll sleep better at night," Walsleben says. "You can even do them at your desk or on the train." (MORE)
Source: Huffington Post
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Keeping Your Prefrontal Cortex Online: Neuroplasticity, Stress and Meditation
As we go through life, our brain is always changing and adapting, say neuroscientists. During the first 18-20 years of life the brain is developing circuits that will form the basis of decision-making for a lifetime. Brain researchers have found that unhealthy lifestyles can inhibit normal brain development in adolescents and lead to impaired judgment and destructive behavior that carries over into adulthood. Traumatic experiences, alcohol and drug abuse, growing up neglected in a broken home, living in fear of violence and crime, or even a bad diet can interfere with development of the frontal lobes, the brain's executive system. This can cause behavioral problems. Brain researcher Dr. Fred Travis explains: "When a person's frontal lobes don't develop properly, he lives a primitive life. He doesn't -- and can't -- plan ahead. His world is simplistic, and he can only deal with what's happening to him right now. Thinking becomes rigid: 'You're either with me or against me,' or 'Me and my gang are good, and everyone else is bad.'"
The good news: meditation improves brain function (MORE)
The good news: meditation improves brain function (MORE)
Source: Huffington Post
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Chair Yoga For Seniors: Seated Twist
Yoga 'asanas', poses, are a physical expression of our mental and emotional energy state. In Yoga physiology, breathing is critical because mind follows breath and energy follows mind. We want to learn to manipulate our energy and create a relaxed body and calm mind – we do this by focusing on our breathing as the connection between mind and body. Today, we will be practicing Yoga twists, and we'll want to establish a constant, deep, natural breathing pattern. Not holding the breath at any time is important in practicing our Yoga twists.
Yoga is noted for being extremely adaptable and deeply thorough. While performing a Yoga twist understand that we not only exercise muscles, connective joint tissue, and skeleton. We also accomplish a massage of the lungs, diaphragm, stomach, intestines, bowel, and the sciatic nerve. (MORE)
Yoga is noted for being extremely adaptable and deeply thorough. While performing a Yoga twist understand that we not only exercise muscles, connective joint tissue, and skeleton. We also accomplish a massage of the lungs, diaphragm, stomach, intestines, bowel, and the sciatic nerve. (MORE)
Source: Helium
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Teaching Your Toddler To Meditate
Toddlers are about as Un-Zen as you can get. They zoom from the moment they wake up until they crash into a wall of sleep at the end of the day, leaving exhausted parents and teachers in their wake. Some day, it can be tiring just to look at a toddler at play.
Can these kids be taught to meditate? Should they be? Some folks think so. There’s a wave of meditation classes for kids sweeping the nation. What parent wouldn’t love their preschooler to pick up a hobby that keeps her sitting still and quiet for long stretches, and leaves her feeling emotionally balanced and refreshed.
Unlike yoga for preschoolers, though, meditation is generally a sitting still activity. One little kids may have a hard time adopting. That doesn’t mean teaching them meditation techniques is a lost cause, though. (MORE)
Can these kids be taught to meditate? Should they be? Some folks think so. There’s a wave of meditation classes for kids sweeping the nation. What parent wouldn’t love their preschooler to pick up a hobby that keeps her sitting still and quiet for long stretches, and leaves her feeling emotionally balanced and refreshed.
Unlike yoga for preschoolers, though, meditation is generally a sitting still activity. One little kids may have a hard time adopting. That doesn’t mean teaching them meditation techniques is a lost cause, though. (MORE)
Source: babble
Monday, August 9, 2010
Zen Meditation Reduces Sensitivity To Pain
Zen meditation can help people reduce their sensitivity to pain by thickening their brain, says a new study.
Montreal University (M-U) researchers made the discovery by comparing the grey matter thickness of Zen meditators and non-meditators.
They found evidence that practicing the centuries-old discipline of Zen can reinforce a central brain region (anterior cingulate) that regulates pain.
"Through training, Zen meditators appear to thicken certain areas of their cortex and this appears to underlie their lower sensitivity to pain," says Joshua A Grant, a doctoral student at M-U in physiology.
"We found a relationship between cortical thickness and pain sensitivity, which supports our previous study on how Zen meditation regulates pain," added Grant.
For the study, scientists recruited meditators and non-meditators, who in addition had never practiced yoga, experienced chronic pain, neurological or psychological illness. (MORE)
Montreal University (M-U) researchers made the discovery by comparing the grey matter thickness of Zen meditators and non-meditators.
They found evidence that practicing the centuries-old discipline of Zen can reinforce a central brain region (anterior cingulate) that regulates pain.
"Through training, Zen meditators appear to thicken certain areas of their cortex and this appears to underlie their lower sensitivity to pain," says Joshua A Grant, a doctoral student at M-U in physiology.
"We found a relationship between cortical thickness and pain sensitivity, which supports our previous study on how Zen meditation regulates pain," added Grant.
For the study, scientists recruited meditators and non-meditators, who in addition had never practiced yoga, experienced chronic pain, neurological or psychological illness. (MORE)
Source: Times of India
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Bend to mend: Yoga Classes Offered To Cancer Patients
The Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare are proud to sponsor YogaTHRIVE! classes. Yoga has helped many people improve their physical and mental health while learning breathing techniques and relaxing positions.
The slow and gentle one-hour sessions begin at 4 p.m. every Tuesday at Harmony Yoga, 611 N. Leroux St., in Flagstaff.
Experienced instructor Jessica Lorey will teach postures and techniques that are suitable for individuals of all abilities, including people currently undergoing cancer treatment. The class is free for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.
Yoga provides an avenue for relaxation by relieving the stress and anxiety often associated with cancer and its treatment. Yoga promotes flexibility, strength, balance and relaxation. Gently stretching the muscles and soft tissues of the body releases the lactic acid buildup that can cause stiffness, tension, pain and fatigue. Increased range of motion and lubrication in the joints are added benefits. Because stress can take a toll on the immune system, practices like yoga can be important in the healing process.
The Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare are located in Flagstaff and Sedona. Each campus offers patients highly experienced multidisciplinary teams providing board-certified radiation and medical oncologists, oncology-certified nurses, patient navigators, social workers and dietitians to provide an overall comprehensive approach to excellent cancer care. (MORE)
The slow and gentle one-hour sessions begin at 4 p.m. every Tuesday at Harmony Yoga, 611 N. Leroux St., in Flagstaff.
Experienced instructor Jessica Lorey will teach postures and techniques that are suitable for individuals of all abilities, including people currently undergoing cancer treatment. The class is free for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers.
Yoga provides an avenue for relaxation by relieving the stress and anxiety often associated with cancer and its treatment. Yoga promotes flexibility, strength, balance and relaxation. Gently stretching the muscles and soft tissues of the body releases the lactic acid buildup that can cause stiffness, tension, pain and fatigue. Increased range of motion and lubrication in the joints are added benefits. Because stress can take a toll on the immune system, practices like yoga can be important in the healing process.
The Cancer Centers of Northern Arizona Healthcare are located in Flagstaff and Sedona. Each campus offers patients highly experienced multidisciplinary teams providing board-certified radiation and medical oncologists, oncology-certified nurses, patient navigators, social workers and dietitians to provide an overall comprehensive approach to excellent cancer care. (MORE)
Source: azdailysun.com
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Can Meditation Bolster Mental Health in Soldiers and Veterans?
A couple of weeks ago, I was in San Antonio to do resilience training with Army hospital professionals. My job was to demonstrate why guided imagery audios were an effective, portable, user-friendly, idiot-proof tool for managing stress and preventing burnout for health providers, wounded warriors and veterans alike.
It was an impressive group of health care professionals we were training. Some had backgrounds straight out of health and mental health, while others came from the combat side -- former special ops, rangers, snipers, bomb dismantlers and so on. Some straddled both worlds. They came from as far away as Korea and Germany, and as close by as Fort Sam Houston, and every place in between. They'd seen a lot of seriously nasty stuff.
I picked their excellent brains during breaks. I wanted to know what they thought about helping active troops learn self-calming and relaxation skills.
Months ago we'd begun sending thousands of guided imagery audios for stress and insomnia to our service people in Iraq and Afghanistan, pre-loaded onto these durable, portable little MP3 players called Playaways that the soldiers really like. The hope was that by teaching them to self-regulate their mood and biochemistry, they'd be less prone to acquiring posttraumatic stress; as well as gain new skills for dealing with depression, grief, guilt, self-doubt, irritation, boredom, loneliness and all the rest. (MORE)
It was an impressive group of health care professionals we were training. Some had backgrounds straight out of health and mental health, while others came from the combat side -- former special ops, rangers, snipers, bomb dismantlers and so on. Some straddled both worlds. They came from as far away as Korea and Germany, and as close by as Fort Sam Houston, and every place in between. They'd seen a lot of seriously nasty stuff.
I picked their excellent brains during breaks. I wanted to know what they thought about helping active troops learn self-calming and relaxation skills.
Months ago we'd begun sending thousands of guided imagery audios for stress and insomnia to our service people in Iraq and Afghanistan, pre-loaded onto these durable, portable little MP3 players called Playaways that the soldiers really like. The hope was that by teaching them to self-regulate their mood and biochemistry, they'd be less prone to acquiring posttraumatic stress; as well as gain new skills for dealing with depression, grief, guilt, self-doubt, irritation, boredom, loneliness and all the rest. (MORE)
Source Huffington Post
Friday, August 6, 2010
Hamstring Yoga Stretch Exercises For The Office
Hamstrings are graceful muscles. They are as beautiful to gaze upon as they are important, and they can easily be stretched at the office. However, these ballet dancer's and athlete's muscles have their limits; they tear easily and so must be gently coaxed into providing a quality of allowance. Remember, muscles do not function in a vacuum. When Hamstrings are activated they cause other muscles to contract and stretch. If Hamstrings are not stretched properly, surrounding muscles can sustain mini-tears. If a Hamstring directly sustains a mini-tear it is extremely painful. (MORE)
Source: Helium
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Clean Living a Mantra For Beach Boys duo
He meditates every day and keeps trim at age 69 by watching his diet carefully.
But the Beach Boys' Mike Love has one adolescent weakness: milk shakes.
"I will succumb to an ice-cream shake," he said. "A Cold Stone Creamery coffee shake. I have a hard time passing that up."
Love is a founding member of the Beach Boys, and the only original still touring under the band's name.
But he's just as famous for his adherence to Transcendental Meditation, or TM, the late-1960s pop craze that drew fellow musicians the Beatles and many others to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in India in 1967 and 1968.
Unlike many who merely experimented with the technique, then abandoned it, Love kept it up through the years and today spends up to an hour at a time in deep meditation.
"It has many practical uses," he said. "But for me, it helps get rid of stress and I get an even deeper rest than a deep sleep."
Along with his decision to give up smoking and alcohol years ago, Love also cut out most offending foods, such as red meats and poultry.
"I'm 90 per cent vegetarian." (MORE)
But the Beach Boys' Mike Love has one adolescent weakness: milk shakes.
"I will succumb to an ice-cream shake," he said. "A Cold Stone Creamery coffee shake. I have a hard time passing that up."
Love is a founding member of the Beach Boys, and the only original still touring under the band's name.
But he's just as famous for his adherence to Transcendental Meditation, or TM, the late-1960s pop craze that drew fellow musicians the Beatles and many others to the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi in India in 1967 and 1968.
Unlike many who merely experimented with the technique, then abandoned it, Love kept it up through the years and today spends up to an hour at a time in deep meditation.
"It has many practical uses," he said. "But for me, it helps get rid of stress and I get an even deeper rest than a deep sleep."
Along with his decision to give up smoking and alcohol years ago, Love also cut out most offending foods, such as red meats and poultry.
"I'm 90 per cent vegetarian." (MORE)
Soutce: Times Columnist
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
U.S. Army Adopts Mindfulness Meditation
In an unusual departure from traditional prescriptions for coping with high stress the United States army is recommending something more eclectic to its soldiers in Iraq – mindfulness mediation.
According to Army Major Victor Won, Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, mindfulness is a simple but ancient approach to living that Western medicine has begun to recognise as a powerful tool for dealing with stress, illness and other medical or psychological conditions, and it could help soldiers in any circumstance.
Quoting the definition of the term used in the book ‘Wherever You Go, There You Are,’ by popular mediation teacher Jon Kabat-Zinn, he added, “Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way or maintaining the awareness on purpose, in the present moment.”
Major Won said it would be more effective for soldiers to learn and train mindfulness prior to deployment as the practice will offer soldiers a means to cope with their mental stress before getting into a high-stress environment. (MORE)
According to Army Major Victor Won, Deputy Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence, mindfulness is a simple but ancient approach to living that Western medicine has begun to recognise as a powerful tool for dealing with stress, illness and other medical or psychological conditions, and it could help soldiers in any circumstance.
Quoting the definition of the term used in the book ‘Wherever You Go, There You Are,’ by popular mediation teacher Jon Kabat-Zinn, he added, “Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way or maintaining the awareness on purpose, in the present moment.”
Major Won said it would be more effective for soldiers to learn and train mindfulness prior to deployment as the practice will offer soldiers a means to cope with their mental stress before getting into a high-stress environment. (MORE)
Source: The Hindu
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Postpartum Meditation Helping New Mothers
Many new moms suffer from postpartum depression. Now a new imagery program is helping many of them get through it.
First-time mom Ashley Bell thought motherhood would be like a fairy tale. But soon after she gave birth, reality hit.
"I was really sad," said Bell. "I remember just sitting there and crying, just sobbing, because I just couldn't get happy and I wanted so badly to be."
Extreme hormonal changes occur after birth. Experts say four out of five moms experience negative feelings for the first two weeks, known as 'baby blues.' But if these negative feelings persist it could turn into postpartum depression.
"We say that someone has postpartum depression if they have persistent negative feelings for almost all of the day for at least two weeks," said OB-GYN Dr. Kerri Parks.
Dr. Parks had a history of postpartum depression, but after her fourth pregnancy, she went through an especially difficult time when she lost her husband in a fatal car crash. Dr. Parks tried various treatments, but she felt meditation helped her the most.
"There are clinical studies that prove that mediation will help with most mental disorders," said Dr. Parks. (MORE)
First-time mom Ashley Bell thought motherhood would be like a fairy tale. But soon after she gave birth, reality hit.
"I was really sad," said Bell. "I remember just sitting there and crying, just sobbing, because I just couldn't get happy and I wanted so badly to be."
Extreme hormonal changes occur after birth. Experts say four out of five moms experience negative feelings for the first two weeks, known as 'baby blues.' But if these negative feelings persist it could turn into postpartum depression.
"We say that someone has postpartum depression if they have persistent negative feelings for almost all of the day for at least two weeks," said OB-GYN Dr. Kerri Parks.
Dr. Parks had a history of postpartum depression, but after her fourth pregnancy, she went through an especially difficult time when she lost her husband in a fatal car crash. Dr. Parks tried various treatments, but she felt meditation helped her the most.
"There are clinical studies that prove that mediation will help with most mental disorders," said Dr. Parks. (MORE)
Source: ABC 7
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Importance of Spirituality in Healthcare
Healthcare does not just mean taking care of one’s physical or mental health. It goes much beyond that. There is and has to be a spiritual quotient attached to it which takes care of one’s health and sanity.
Healthcare often conjures images of patients, illnesses, medicines, hospitals etc. in our minds. These terms are generally associated with pain and suffering. Dealing with such emotions often demands tremendous energy and strength. Since medicine is a more sensitive field compared to other professions, spirituality plays a very important role here. In fact, the relationship between spirituality and medicine is taken pretty seriously in recent years. For all those associated with healthcare - whether you offer healthcare services (doctors, nurses and paramedical staff) or patients or their families, questions can arise regarding the meaning and purpose of life. Hence, the Chronic and terminal illnesses have been closely associated with spirituality.
Studies suggest that there is a positive correlation between a patient's spirituality and health outcomes, and that they would like physicians to consider these factors in their medical care. Physicians on their part have been attempting to balance their care by exploring medicine's more spiritual roots in recent years. The word “spirituality” flows from the Latin term “spiritus”, which means “breath” – referring to the breath of life. Spiritual care involves serving the whole person i.e. the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. Even the Vedic traditions of India, emphasize equilibrium of body, mind, and spirit. (MORE)
Healthcare often conjures images of patients, illnesses, medicines, hospitals etc. in our minds. These terms are generally associated with pain and suffering. Dealing with such emotions often demands tremendous energy and strength. Since medicine is a more sensitive field compared to other professions, spirituality plays a very important role here. In fact, the relationship between spirituality and medicine is taken pretty seriously in recent years. For all those associated with healthcare - whether you offer healthcare services (doctors, nurses and paramedical staff) or patients or their families, questions can arise regarding the meaning and purpose of life. Hence, the Chronic and terminal illnesses have been closely associated with spirituality.
Studies suggest that there is a positive correlation between a patient's spirituality and health outcomes, and that they would like physicians to consider these factors in their medical care. Physicians on their part have been attempting to balance their care by exploring medicine's more spiritual roots in recent years. The word “spirituality” flows from the Latin term “spiritus”, which means “breath” – referring to the breath of life. Spiritual care involves serving the whole person i.e. the physical, emotional, social, and spiritual. Even the Vedic traditions of India, emphasize equilibrium of body, mind, and spirit. (MORE)
Source: Healthcare Digital
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Stress is Contagious
More than news headlines, what gives me stress is reading about stress. It makes me hostile, sleepless, restless, overeat and break into spots, all worries — except the spots — that add to existing stress and push me closer to disease and death. Stress does not cause any single disease, not even
ulcers, as previously believed. Australian researchers Barry J Marshall and Robin Warren won the 2005 Nobel Prize in medicine for showing that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) caused ulcers, not stress.
Stress makes several diseases much worse, largely because it suppresses the immune system, increasing risk of infections. From headaches and colds to the more debilitating diabetes, heart attacks, depression and impotence, stress has been linked to almost everything that can mess up our lives.
Studies in the west are now showing that as much as genes and smoking, it's stress that determines the quality of your life and how long you live. And more than long working hours, night-shifts or threats of downsizing, it's personal conflicts at the workplace that add to stress.
What's more, stress is contagious and can affect those around you. Parents carry on-job stress home and pass on their worries to their children, causing them to burn out at school. (MORE)
ulcers, as previously believed. Australian researchers Barry J Marshall and Robin Warren won the 2005 Nobel Prize in medicine for showing that the bacterium Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) caused ulcers, not stress.
Stress makes several diseases much worse, largely because it suppresses the immune system, increasing risk of infections. From headaches and colds to the more debilitating diabetes, heart attacks, depression and impotence, stress has been linked to almost everything that can mess up our lives.
Studies in the west are now showing that as much as genes and smoking, it's stress that determines the quality of your life and how long you live. And more than long working hours, night-shifts or threats of downsizing, it's personal conflicts at the workplace that add to stress.
What's more, stress is contagious and can affect those around you. Parents carry on-job stress home and pass on their worries to their children, causing them to burn out at school. (MORE)
Source: Hindustan.com
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