The miracle of
THOUGHTS, BELIEF & INTENTION .
Read the story of MORRIS GOODMAN who is dubbed "THE MIRACLE MAN" and MICHAEL
Morris Goodman, at age 35 was Mr. Success.
One of the leading life insurance salesmen in the world, a member of The Million Dollar Round Table and Top Of The Table, Morris had success, fame, fortune, and a brand new airplane.And then things turned upside down. While attempting to land his airplane one afternoon Morris crashed. With his neck broken at C1 and C2, his spinal cord crushed, and every major muscle in his body destroyed Morris was no longer able to perform any bodily function except to blink his eyes. His injuries were too severe for him to survive.
But the man the doctors dubbed "The Miracle Man" did survive and with a strong faith in God, courage and determination, Morris not only rebuilt his body but also his mind and outlook on life.
Morris feels you too can learn to be happy, have peace of mind, and accomplish all your goals and dreams no matter what hand life deals you.Today Morris is a highly sought after speaker who travels the world sharing his story with millions of people and teaching his philosophy on goal setting and personal growth and development.
Story of Michael narrated by Dr.John F.Demartini
"A few years ago I was gifted with the opportunity to help a man named Michael, a dancer who had been paralyzed from his neck down as the result of an injury. Before he suffered the injury, I had treated him a few times for minor sprains and strains. His dream was to dance in Broadway productions and he was devastated by his paralysis. Michael could still move his head and arms, but he believed it when he was told that he would never walk again. He lost interest in trying to improve and was beginning to lose his ability to speak clearly. He truly had a broken body and broken heart.
When he arrived at my office in his wheelchair, his head hung down so far we couldn't make eye contact. I could see that he had nearly given up, so I got down in front of him, took his hands in mine, looked into his eyes, and said:
Michael, if you lose your vision and your dream, you'll lose your will to live and you may never get out of this wheelchair.
You have to see light at the end of the tunnel. You must be able to comprehend that you'll walk again. You have to see yourself dancing. You have to see yourself on stage, Michael. You must see yourself healed. You have to picture it... If you can't picture it, your physiology can't create it. Even if it seems impossible right now, you have to see the impossible becoming possible.
I gave Michael a special videotape and told him to watch it as many times as it took for him to see light at the end of the tunnel; to see himself walking and dancing. I said, "You have to hold in your mind's eye a virtual reality that is greater than your physical reality." And he cried and put his arm on my shoulder; he pulled me toward him and we held each other. At that moment he saw light at the end of the tunnel. With tears in his eyes, he said, "I'm gonna walk again."
The videotape I gave Michael was about Morris Goodman, who is called the "Miracle Man." After surviving a plane crash that broke almost every bone in his body— including his skull—and resulted in his becoming paralyzed, he eventually learned to walk again. His story is one of the most inspirational stories of healing I know.
When Morris was first taken to the hospital, no one believed he would live. But he did. Though in a coma, he kept hanging on. His family knew that he enjoyed Zig Zigler and his philosophy of life so they brought in a tape recorder and played Zigler s tapes and inspirational messages over and over again for Morris. When I met him, Morris told me that while he was in the coma he was aware and could hear the tapes. He decided to focus on willing himself to move his eye and one of his fingers. He said he spent three weeks visualizing himself moving his finger and winking his eye. Then, one day, when the nurse was in the room, he was able to wink his eye and she saw it. The following day he moved his finger, which the nurse also saw. He told me he was trying to communicate so the doctors and his family wouldn't give up on him. Over the next few months his body started to function again and eventually he walked out of the hospital.
I told Michael to watch this documentary about the Miracle Man over and over between adjustments. He did this for about three months, but still no significant changes were occurring. It was becoming difficult, even for me, to maintain my vision of hope and my certainty that he would heal because I wasn't seeing any progress. Then one day, when I walked in to adjust Michael, I had a yearning to adjust his neck. He had wires and bolts in his neck, but my voice of intuition and inspiration said that adjusting his neck would help. I realized that I had been letting my own fear hold me back. So I listened to my inner voice of inspiration and adjusted his neck. That night he moved his toes.
I made a commitment to myself that from then on, when the inner voice of my heart and soul inspired and guided me, I would listen and obey.
I continued to adjust Michael and day by day, little by little, he improved. In less than a year he was able to stand up and balance himself. He held on to his dream and kept his focus on the light at the end of the tunnel until one Monday, when I saw Michael in the reception room, he stood up, took two steps toward me and fell into my arms. Over the next few years Michael became able to retire his wheelchair and to dance at his own party."
Saturday, September 29, 2007
A PUSH!
All of us need a push some time or other. Pl read this...
A man and his wife are awakened at 3 o'clock in the morning by a loud pounding on the door. The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push.
"Not a chance," says the husband, "it is three o'clock in the morning!" He slams the door and returns to bed.
"Who was that?" asked his wife. "Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.
"Did you help him?" she asks. "No, I did not, it is three in the morning and it is pouring outside!"
"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself!"
The man does as he's told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pouring rain.
He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?"
"Yes," comes back the answer.
"Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband.
"Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark.
"Where are you?" asks the husband.
"Over here on the swing!" replies the drunk.
A man and his wife are awakened at 3 o'clock in the morning by a loud pounding on the door. The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push.
"Not a chance," says the husband, "it is three o'clock in the morning!" He slams the door and returns to bed.
"Who was that?" asked his wife. "Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers.
"Did you help him?" she asks. "No, I did not, it is three in the morning and it is pouring outside!"
"Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself!"
The man does as he's told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pouring rain.
He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?"
"Yes," comes back the answer.
"Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband.
"Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark.
"Where are you?" asks the husband.
"Over here on the swing!" replies the drunk.
Spice Up Your Boring Life! HOW?
1. Be spontaneous.
Seize opportunities to do something interesting. For example; when a friend invites you for a lunch or dinner or to the movies—don’t make excuses. Simply, say yes and go. Don’t turn down invitations to socialize when you know you have nothing better to do.
2. Visit a new place.
It’s a shame to not have gone anywhere else besides your little hometown; or seen anything else outside of your community. C’mon, there is so much to see. Drive, get on a bus or train and go see the world!
3. Do the unusual.
Do something you have always wanted to do but never made time for. Go hiking, cycling, jogging, run the marathon, go to the museum, attend a concert, visit an old friend or do some volunteer work.
4. Plan a “spice up my life day” and commit to it.
Mark the date on your calendar for a special vacation, trip or activity. Submit your official vacation day leave request and invite your friends along. Plan for your special day and get ready to have fun. The more the merrier!
5. “Tune up” your attitude.
Give up the “I don’t do this and I don’t do that” attitude. Be willing to participate in new activities and embrace new things. Be open-minded, and have fun. You will be pleasantly surprised at what the right attitude can do for you!
6. Be fully present and in the moment, in the "NOW".
What’s the point of going on vacation and then spending your vacation time thinking about work, bills and other stressful issues? You can’t really spice up your life if you are physically present and mentally absent. To enjoy yourself, be fully engaged in the moment— body, soul and spirit.
7. Leave your hang-ups at home.
When spending time with your friends…don’t let your pessimist outlook on life ruin the day. Remember that your friends are there to enrich your life and not to baby sit you. So, leave you high maintenance behavior at home, be a joy to others and have fun!
8. Change your environment.
Introduce inspiring elements into your surroundings. Change your furniture, paint your walls a different color, get some potted house plants, a fish tank or even a pet.
9. Make new friends or foster existing relationships.
Technology has made it possible to connect with people faster and easily. Make friends with people from different cultures and learn something new. Contact a long lost friend and make plans to meet and catch up. Better yet, pay a surprise visit to a relative you haven’t seen in a while.
10. Be creative.
Opportunities present themselves in the most unlikely ways. Ask yourself, “What can I do right now, this week, this weekend…to spice up my life?” Think outside the box.
Seize opportunities to do something interesting. For example; when a friend invites you for a lunch or dinner or to the movies—don’t make excuses. Simply, say yes and go. Don’t turn down invitations to socialize when you know you have nothing better to do.
2. Visit a new place.
It’s a shame to not have gone anywhere else besides your little hometown; or seen anything else outside of your community. C’mon, there is so much to see. Drive, get on a bus or train and go see the world!
3. Do the unusual.
Do something you have always wanted to do but never made time for. Go hiking, cycling, jogging, run the marathon, go to the museum, attend a concert, visit an old friend or do some volunteer work.
4. Plan a “spice up my life day” and commit to it.
Mark the date on your calendar for a special vacation, trip or activity. Submit your official vacation day leave request and invite your friends along. Plan for your special day and get ready to have fun. The more the merrier!
5. “Tune up” your attitude.
Give up the “I don’t do this and I don’t do that” attitude. Be willing to participate in new activities and embrace new things. Be open-minded, and have fun. You will be pleasantly surprised at what the right attitude can do for you!
6. Be fully present and in the moment, in the "NOW".
What’s the point of going on vacation and then spending your vacation time thinking about work, bills and other stressful issues? You can’t really spice up your life if you are physically present and mentally absent. To enjoy yourself, be fully engaged in the moment— body, soul and spirit.
7. Leave your hang-ups at home.
When spending time with your friends…don’t let your pessimist outlook on life ruin the day. Remember that your friends are there to enrich your life and not to baby sit you. So, leave you high maintenance behavior at home, be a joy to others and have fun!
8. Change your environment.
Introduce inspiring elements into your surroundings. Change your furniture, paint your walls a different color, get some potted house plants, a fish tank or even a pet.
9. Make new friends or foster existing relationships.
Technology has made it possible to connect with people faster and easily. Make friends with people from different cultures and learn something new. Contact a long lost friend and make plans to meet and catch up. Better yet, pay a surprise visit to a relative you haven’t seen in a while.
10. Be creative.
Opportunities present themselves in the most unlikely ways. Ask yourself, “What can I do right now, this week, this weekend…to spice up my life?” Think outside the box.
Life Is A Game That Can't Be Won, Only Played.
We are all caught up in this game called life. There is no reset button. No way to shut it off and start over. There are no save points in this game. There are rules however, and understanding these rules and the point of the game helps in the entire game of life. The rules are simple, enjoy the journey, and let go of trying to win.
There are no winners, only players; some people play the game simply for the joy of the game. Others give up and wait for their turn to lay down forever. Others are lost in the middle.
Learn to love the game, and play it with all your heart.Life is a very serious game, and like all games there is an end. So many people are trying to win at the game of life, but what does winning mean?
When does one know they have won at the game of life? The only victory that matters is the victory you choose for yourself. The only purpose of the game is the purpose you give yourself. There is no rule book out there telling us what the game is all about. There is nothing telling us what the game is all about.
So the best we can do is play the game of life with all that we are, do as much as we can to find peace and happiness, and enjoy the game as we play it.Take the time to find someone who does something they truly love. Maybe they make a handsome living at it, maybe not. The point isn't how much they make or what they do. The point is the incredible joy they get out of just doing what they do.
I had a guide of mine who gave me an amazing insight to things once.
When asked why he did what he did his response was simple: "I don't do it because I want to help people live happier lives, because that is their responsibility and I don't care what they do with it. I don't do it because I want to be rich. I am, and my wealth will continue to grow as I help more people, but it's not about the money. I simply get rewarded for doing the right things and helping people. I don't do it ro make people successful or not, that's not it at all. I don't write because I want to entertain people, I don't even like to type. I write because I love to create. If people get joy out of it then great. If they are able to live better lives because of it that is great also, but I do it just for me. I do it because it allows me to experience a place of joy. A peaceful place of creativity that allows me to connect with everything around me."
That opened my eyes to a whole new way of seeing the world and the things I do in it.So many people do things because they feel they have to for whatever reason. So many times people make decisions out of a fear of not having something or losing something else. Very rarely do people make a decision simply because they would enjoy the journey of the path they choose.
We all know people who are miserable at their job. They are miserable when they get home. They hate the people they work with and their spouse. They are never happy and haven't smiled in years. We wonder if they even have the ability to laugh. Rarely though do we find people who truly enjoy the journey of life they are on. Far and few are the people who are playing the game of life with all they have.
Taking risk to create something they feel is worthy and noble. Few are the people who give what they do everything they have, and find joy and pleasure out of it.
Imagine laying your head down at night knowing that you just lived one more day full of fulfillment. Remember to give life everything you are, and everything you have.
Enjoy the game as you play it. Play it because you get joy out of the game. Try not to focus so hard on trying to win. If at the end of the day you are proud of the person you are becoming, joyful of the decisions you make, and happy about the steps you have taken.
If you can say that is true, and you make decisions that make it so, then you are truly playing the game of life for the joy of the game.
Remember not to take life to seriously; after all,
Thursday, September 20, 2007
The One and Only You
Every single blade of grass,
And every flake of snow—
Is just a wee bit different ...
There’s no two alike, you know.
From something small, like grains of sand,
To each gigantic star
All were made with THIS in mind:
To be just what they are!
How foolish then, to imitate—
How useless to pretend!
Since each of us comes from a MIND
Whose ideas never end.
There’ll only be just ONE of ME
To show what I can do—
And you should likewise feel very proud,
There’s only ONE of YOU.
That is where it all starts
With you, a wonderful
unlimited human being.
James T. Moore
And every flake of snow—
Is just a wee bit different ...
There’s no two alike, you know.
From something small, like grains of sand,
To each gigantic star
All were made with THIS in mind:
To be just what they are!
How foolish then, to imitate—
How useless to pretend!
Since each of us comes from a MIND
Whose ideas never end.
There’ll only be just ONE of ME
To show what I can do—
And you should likewise feel very proud,
There’s only ONE of YOU.
That is where it all starts
With you, a wonderful
unlimited human being.
James T. Moore
With every breath I take...
With every breath I take today,
I vow to be awake;
And every step I take,
I vow to take with a grateful heart--
So I may see with eyes of love
into the hearts of all I meet,
To ease their burden when I can
And touch them with a smile of peace.
I vow to be awake;
And every step I take,
I vow to take with a grateful heart--
So I may see with eyes of love
into the hearts of all I meet,
To ease their burden when I can
And touch them with a smile of peace.
"Live in Style" - Manage your Lifestyle
Recover from your Depression. A new Lifestyle.
Depression can make you feel powerless. But there are many things you can do for yourself to improve your mood, help your recovery, and stay healthy.
Don't be a passive patient.
You don't have to leave your treatment entirely in the hands of your health care providers. Depression robs you of a feeling of control. Taking responsibility for your own health can give that feeling back.
Here are some things you can do.
Exercise.
Many studies have established that regular physical activitycan help you feel better when you are recovering from depression. The type of physical activity really doesn't matter. Just choose something that you enjoy. Start slowly, perhaps with walks around the neighborhood. Try exercising with a friend or relative, or sign up for a class. Sharing the activity with someone may help you stick to a new exercise regimen.
Get some sunlight.
You might find that getting some sun can put you in a better mood. Some people have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression that typically recurs during the fall and winter, when sunlight is scarce. If you have SAD, ask your doctor if light therapy -- exposure to artificial sunlight with a special lamp -- might help.
Get enough sleep -- but not too much.
Depression, and sometimes the treatment for it, can interfere with your sleep. Some people with depression sleep too much. Others have insomnia -- they can't fall asleep at night or they wake up too early in the morning.Not getting enough sleep can have a huge impact on your mood. So you need to get into some good sleep habits. Stay on a regular schedule: go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Don't nap. Physical activity during the day may help you sleep, but don't exercise too close to bedtime. That is stimulating. Before getting into bed, unwind with a good book or soothing music. However, avoid reading or watching TV in bed. That will help you maintain good sleep habits.
Eat a healthy diet.
Despite what you might read, there is no diet that will cure or prevent depression. But a common sense eating plan will provide the nutrients you need and keep you feelinghealthy and energetic. Don't buy into fad diets that sharply restrict what you can eat. Instead, focus on the basics. Watch your calories, eat lots of vegetables, grains, and fruits, and limit fat and sugar.
Do things you enjoy. When you're recovering from depression, you may not feel like getting out and having a good time. But you should push yourself a little. Set aside time to do things that you used to enjoy doing. Make a plan to go out to dinner or a movie with friends. Or return to a hobby that you used to pursue. Try expressing yourself creatively.
Avoid alcohol and drugs.
Alcohol and many illicit drugs can contribute to depression and make it worse. In fact, substance abuse often goes hand in hand with depression. Alcohol and drugs may also affect how well antidepressants work. If you think you have a substance abuse problem, you need to get help now. Addiction or abuse can prevent you from fully recovering from your depression.
Depression can make you feel powerless. But there are many things you can do for yourself to improve your mood, help your recovery, and stay healthy.
Don't be a passive patient.
You don't have to leave your treatment entirely in the hands of your health care providers. Depression robs you of a feeling of control. Taking responsibility for your own health can give that feeling back.
Here are some things you can do.
Exercise.
Many studies have established that regular physical activitycan help you feel better when you are recovering from depression. The type of physical activity really doesn't matter. Just choose something that you enjoy. Start slowly, perhaps with walks around the neighborhood. Try exercising with a friend or relative, or sign up for a class. Sharing the activity with someone may help you stick to a new exercise regimen.
Get some sunlight.
You might find that getting some sun can put you in a better mood. Some people have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression that typically recurs during the fall and winter, when sunlight is scarce. If you have SAD, ask your doctor if light therapy -- exposure to artificial sunlight with a special lamp -- might help.
Get enough sleep -- but not too much.
Depression, and sometimes the treatment for it, can interfere with your sleep. Some people with depression sleep too much. Others have insomnia -- they can't fall asleep at night or they wake up too early in the morning.Not getting enough sleep can have a huge impact on your mood. So you need to get into some good sleep habits. Stay on a regular schedule: go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Don't nap. Physical activity during the day may help you sleep, but don't exercise too close to bedtime. That is stimulating. Before getting into bed, unwind with a good book or soothing music. However, avoid reading or watching TV in bed. That will help you maintain good sleep habits.
Eat a healthy diet.
Despite what you might read, there is no diet that will cure or prevent depression. But a common sense eating plan will provide the nutrients you need and keep you feelinghealthy and energetic. Don't buy into fad diets that sharply restrict what you can eat. Instead, focus on the basics. Watch your calories, eat lots of vegetables, grains, and fruits, and limit fat and sugar.
Do things you enjoy. When you're recovering from depression, you may not feel like getting out and having a good time. But you should push yourself a little. Set aside time to do things that you used to enjoy doing. Make a plan to go out to dinner or a movie with friends. Or return to a hobby that you used to pursue. Try expressing yourself creatively.
Avoid alcohol and drugs.
Alcohol and many illicit drugs can contribute to depression and make it worse. In fact, substance abuse often goes hand in hand with depression. Alcohol and drugs may also affect how well antidepressants work. If you think you have a substance abuse problem, you need to get help now. Addiction or abuse can prevent you from fully recovering from your depression.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Ten Tips for Better Sleep
1. Keep regular hours. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning, even on weekends.
2. Develop a sleep ritual. Whether it is to take a hot bath, have a cup of herbal tea, or read a book, doing the same things each night just before bed cues your body to settle down for the night.
3. Exercise regularly. This can help to relieve tension. But be careful not to exercise too close to bedtime or you may have a hard time falling asleep.
4. Cut down on stimulants. Consuming stimulants, such as caffeine, in the evening interferes with falling asleep and prevents deep sleep. Instead, have a cup of herbal tea, which is noncaffeinated, before bed.
5. Don't smoke. Smokers tend to take longer to fall asleep, awaken more often, and experience disrupted, fragmented sleep.
6. Drink alcohol in moderation. You may fall asleep faster, but drinking alcohol shortly before bedtime interrupts and fragments sleep, leading to poor quality sleep.
7. Unwind early in the evening. Deal with worries and distractions several hours before going to bed. Make a list of things you need to do tomorrow, so you won't think about them all night. Try relaxation exercises, like slow rhythmic breathing, once in bed.
8. Sleep on a comfortable, supportive mattress and foundation. It's difficult to get deep, restful sleep on a bed that's too small, too soft, or too hard.
9. Create a restful sleep environment.A dark, quiet room is more conducive to sleep. Sudden, loud noises or bright lights can disrupt sleep. A room that is too hot or too cold can disturb sleep as well. The ideal bedroom temperature is between 60 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
10. Make sleep a priority. Say "yes" to sleep even when you're tempted to stay up late. You'll feel healthier, refreshed, and ready to take on the day.
In addition, restrict the number of activities you do in bed. Your bed should not become a place for watching TV, eating food, or doing work. It should be a place to sleep.
The Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
(Max Ehrmann)
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and the ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.
(Max Ehrmann)
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
FIND THE SILVER LINING
"When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us."
Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922)Inventor
"Circumstances break men's bones; it has never been shown that they break men's optimism".
G. K. Chesterton (1874-1936) Writer
Alexander Graham Bell (1847-1922)Inventor
"Circumstances break men's bones; it has never been shown that they break men's optimism".
G. K. Chesterton (1874-1936) Writer
GIVING/ABUNDANCE
"That which you create in beauty and goodness and truth lives on for all time to come. Don't spend your life accumulating material objects that will only turn to dust and ashes." -- Denis Waitley
"Realize that true happiness lies within you. Waste no time and effort searching for peace and contentment and joy in the world outside. Remember that there is no happiness in having or in getting, but only in giving. Reach out. Share. Smile. Hug. Happiness is a perfume you cannot pour on others without getting a few drops on yourself." -- Og Mandino
"You can't be too kind or too generous." -- Patricia Fripp"One of the greatest gifts you can give to anyone is the gift of attention." -- Jim Rohn
25 Top Heart-Healthy Foods
The foods listed here are all top-performers in protecting your heart and blood vessels. We've also got menu ideas -- so you can easily bring heart-healthy foods into your daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Salmon Omega-3 fatty acids. Grill salmon with a yummy rub or marinade. Save a chunk to chop for a pasta or salad later on.
Flaxseed (ground) Omega-3 fatty acids; fiber, phytoestrogens. Ground flaxseed hides easily in all sorts of foods -- yogurt parfaits, morning cereal, homemade muffins, or cookies.
Oatmeal Omega-3 fatty acids; magnesium; potassium; folate; niacin; calcium; soluble fiber. Top hot oatmeal with fresh berries. Oatmeal-and-raisin cookies are a hearty treat.
Black or Kidney Beans B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate; magnesium; omega-3 fatty acids; calcium; soluble fiber. Give soup or salad a nutrient boost -- stir in some beans.
Almonds Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols. Mix a few almonds (and berries) into low-fat yogurt, trail mix, or fruit salads.
Walnuts Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; folate; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols. Walnuts add flavorful crunch to salads, pastas, cookies, muffins, even pancakes.
Red wine Catechins and reservatrol (flavonoids). Toast your good health! A glass of red wine could improve "good" HDL cholesterol.
Tuna Omega-3 fatty acids; folate; niacin. Here's lunch: Salad greens, fresh fruit, canned tuna. Keep "Salad Spritzer" a light dressing -- in your office fridge.
Tofu Niacin; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium. Tasty tofu is easy: Thinly slice "firm" tofu, marinate several hours, grill or stir-fry.
Brown rice B-complex vitamins; fiber; niacin; magnesium, fiber. Microwavable brown rice makes a quick lunch. Stir in a few chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, spinach).
Soy milk Isoflavones (a flavonoid); B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate, calcium; magnesium; potassium; phytoestrogens. Soy milk is great over oatmeal or whole-grain cereal. Or, make a smoothie with soy milk.
Blueberries Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); anthocyanin (a flavonoid); ellagic acid (a polyphenol); vitamin C; folate; calcium, magnesium; potassium; fiber. Cranberries, strawberries, raspberries are potent, too -- for trail mixes, muffins, salads!
Carrots Alpha-carotene (a carotenoid); fiber. Baby carrots are sweet for lunch. Sneak shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce or muffin batter.
Spinach Lutein (a carotenoid); B-complex vitamins; folate; magnesium; potassium; calcium; fiber. Pick spinach (not lettuce) for nutrient-packed salads and sandwiches.
Broccoli Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); Vitamins C and E; potassium; folate; calcium; fiber. Chop fresh broccoli into store-bought soup. For a veggie dip, try hummus (chickpeas).
Sweet potato Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); vitamins A, C, E; fiber. Microwave in a zip-lock baggie for lunch. Eat au naturale, or with pineapple bits.
Red bell peppers Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids);
B-complex vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber. Rub with olive oil, and grill or oven-roast until tender. Delicious in wraps, salads, sandwiches.
Asparagus Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; fiber. Grill or steam slightly, then dress with olive oil and lemon. It's a pretty side dish.
Oranges Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta- and alpha-carotene, lutein (carotenoids) and flavones (flavonoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber. Got orange juice? Check out the new nutrient-packed blends.
Tomatoes Beta- and alpha-carotene, lycopene, lutein (carotenoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber. For a flavor twist, try oil-packed tomatoes in sandwiches, salads, pastas, pizzas.
Acorn squash Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids);
B-complex and C vitamins; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium; fiber. Baked squash is comfort food on a chilly day. Serve with sauted spinach, pine nuts, raisins.
Cantaloupe Alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber. A fragrant ripe cantaloupe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, potluck dinners. Simply cut and enjoy!
Papaya Beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein (carotenoids); Vitamins C and E; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium. Serve papaya salsa with salmon: Mix papaya, pineapple, scallions, garlic, fresh lime juice, salt and black pepper.
Dark chocolate Reservatrol and cocoa phenols (flavonoids). A truffle a day lowers blood pressure, but choose 70% or higher cocoa content.
Tea Catechins and flavonols (flavonoids). Make sun tea: Combine a clear glass jar, several tea bags, and hours of sunshine.
Your Guide to Nutrients in Heart-Healthy Foods
Phytoestrogens are substances in plants (like flaxseed) that have a weak estrogen-like action in the body. Studies suggest that flaxseed lowers the risk of blood clots, stroke, and cardiac arrhythmias. It may also help lower total and LDL "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides, and even blood pressure.
Phytosterols are plant sterols that chemically resemble cholesterol -- and seem to reduce blood cholesterol. All nuts and seeds, including wheat germ, have phytosterols.
Carotenoids are heart-protective antioxidants in many colorful fruits and veggies. Alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene are carotenoids.
Polyphenols are another set of antioxidants that protect blood vessels, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL "bad" cholesterol. Flavonoid polyphenols include catechins, flavonones, flavonols, isoflavones, reservatrol, and anthocyanins. Non-flavonoid polyphenols include ellagic acid (found in all types of berries).
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish like salmon) and alpha-linolenic fatty acids (found in plant foods like walnuts) help boost the immune system, reduce blood clots, and protect against heart attacks. They also increase good HDL levels, lower triglyceride levels, protect arteries from plaque buildup, are anti-inflammatories, and lower blood pressure.
B-complex vitamins -- like Vitamin B-12 (folate) and vitamin B-6 -- protect against blood clots and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Niacin (vitamin B-3) helps increase HDL "good" cholesterol.
Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. Magnesium, potassium, and calcium help lower blood pressure. Fiber-rich foods help lower cholesterol levels.
(Compiled)
Salmon Omega-3 fatty acids. Grill salmon with a yummy rub or marinade. Save a chunk to chop for a pasta or salad later on.
Flaxseed (ground) Omega-3 fatty acids; fiber, phytoestrogens. Ground flaxseed hides easily in all sorts of foods -- yogurt parfaits, morning cereal, homemade muffins, or cookies.
Oatmeal Omega-3 fatty acids; magnesium; potassium; folate; niacin; calcium; soluble fiber. Top hot oatmeal with fresh berries. Oatmeal-and-raisin cookies are a hearty treat.
Black or Kidney Beans B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate; magnesium; omega-3 fatty acids; calcium; soluble fiber. Give soup or salad a nutrient boost -- stir in some beans.
Almonds Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols. Mix a few almonds (and berries) into low-fat yogurt, trail mix, or fruit salads.
Walnuts Plant omega-3 fatty acids; vitamin E; magnesium; folate; fiber; heart-favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats; phytosterols. Walnuts add flavorful crunch to salads, pastas, cookies, muffins, even pancakes.
Red wine Catechins and reservatrol (flavonoids). Toast your good health! A glass of red wine could improve "good" HDL cholesterol.
Tuna Omega-3 fatty acids; folate; niacin. Here's lunch: Salad greens, fresh fruit, canned tuna. Keep "Salad Spritzer" a light dressing -- in your office fridge.
Tofu Niacin; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium. Tasty tofu is easy: Thinly slice "firm" tofu, marinate several hours, grill or stir-fry.
Brown rice B-complex vitamins; fiber; niacin; magnesium, fiber. Microwavable brown rice makes a quick lunch. Stir in a few chopped veggies (broccoli, carrots, spinach).
Soy milk Isoflavones (a flavonoid); B-complex vitamins; niacin; folate, calcium; magnesium; potassium; phytoestrogens. Soy milk is great over oatmeal or whole-grain cereal. Or, make a smoothie with soy milk.
Blueberries Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); anthocyanin (a flavonoid); ellagic acid (a polyphenol); vitamin C; folate; calcium, magnesium; potassium; fiber. Cranberries, strawberries, raspberries are potent, too -- for trail mixes, muffins, salads!
Carrots Alpha-carotene (a carotenoid); fiber. Baby carrots are sweet for lunch. Sneak shredded carrots into spaghetti sauce or muffin batter.
Spinach Lutein (a carotenoid); B-complex vitamins; folate; magnesium; potassium; calcium; fiber. Pick spinach (not lettuce) for nutrient-packed salads and sandwiches.
Broccoli Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); Vitamins C and E; potassium; folate; calcium; fiber. Chop fresh broccoli into store-bought soup. For a veggie dip, try hummus (chickpeas).
Sweet potato Beta-carotene (a carotenoid); vitamins A, C, E; fiber. Microwave in a zip-lock baggie for lunch. Eat au naturale, or with pineapple bits.
Red bell peppers Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids);
B-complex vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber. Rub with olive oil, and grill or oven-roast until tender. Delicious in wraps, salads, sandwiches.
Asparagus Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex vitamins; folate; fiber. Grill or steam slightly, then dress with olive oil and lemon. It's a pretty side dish.
Oranges Beta-cryptoxanthin, beta- and alpha-carotene, lutein (carotenoids) and flavones (flavonoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber. Got orange juice? Check out the new nutrient-packed blends.
Tomatoes Beta- and alpha-carotene, lycopene, lutein (carotenoids); vitamin C; potassium; folate; fiber. For a flavor twist, try oil-packed tomatoes in sandwiches, salads, pastas, pizzas.
Acorn squash Beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids);
B-complex and C vitamins; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium; fiber. Baked squash is comfort food on a chilly day. Serve with sauted spinach, pine nuts, raisins.
Cantaloupe Alpha- and beta-carotene and lutein (carotenoids); B-complex and C vitamins; folate; potassium; fiber. A fragrant ripe cantaloupe is perfect for breakfast, lunch, potluck dinners. Simply cut and enjoy!
Papaya Beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein (carotenoids); Vitamins C and E; folate; calcium; magnesium; potassium. Serve papaya salsa with salmon: Mix papaya, pineapple, scallions, garlic, fresh lime juice, salt and black pepper.
Dark chocolate Reservatrol and cocoa phenols (flavonoids). A truffle a day lowers blood pressure, but choose 70% or higher cocoa content.
Tea Catechins and flavonols (flavonoids). Make sun tea: Combine a clear glass jar, several tea bags, and hours of sunshine.
Your Guide to Nutrients in Heart-Healthy Foods
Phytoestrogens are substances in plants (like flaxseed) that have a weak estrogen-like action in the body. Studies suggest that flaxseed lowers the risk of blood clots, stroke, and cardiac arrhythmias. It may also help lower total and LDL "bad" cholesterol and triglycerides, and even blood pressure.
Phytosterols are plant sterols that chemically resemble cholesterol -- and seem to reduce blood cholesterol. All nuts and seeds, including wheat germ, have phytosterols.
Carotenoids are heart-protective antioxidants in many colorful fruits and veggies. Alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene are carotenoids.
Polyphenols are another set of antioxidants that protect blood vessels, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL "bad" cholesterol. Flavonoid polyphenols include catechins, flavonones, flavonols, isoflavones, reservatrol, and anthocyanins. Non-flavonoid polyphenols include ellagic acid (found in all types of berries).
Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fish like salmon) and alpha-linolenic fatty acids (found in plant foods like walnuts) help boost the immune system, reduce blood clots, and protect against heart attacks. They also increase good HDL levels, lower triglyceride levels, protect arteries from plaque buildup, are anti-inflammatories, and lower blood pressure.
B-complex vitamins -- like Vitamin B-12 (folate) and vitamin B-6 -- protect against blood clots and atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. Niacin (vitamin B-3) helps increase HDL "good" cholesterol.
Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that protect cells from free radical damage. Magnesium, potassium, and calcium help lower blood pressure. Fiber-rich foods help lower cholesterol levels.
(Compiled)
Monday, September 17, 2007
'Blue-collar workers more prone to AIDS, TB'
NEW DELHI: Indian Council For Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) in its study based on a survey of disparate companies across 15 states of India, showed 12% of blue-collar workers were at a high risk of getting a debilitating disease compared to 4% of the medium and senior-level employees.
While blue-collar workers are generally afflicted with acute as well as chronic infectious diseases like tuberculosis and AIDS, senior executives are more prone to lifestyle diseases, owing to lack of exercise and dietary control.
ICRIER's survey corroborates what Apollo Hospitals found in its study 'Health and Wellness Survey (2003)'. The study said more than half of the executives were prone to lifestyle diseases. And nearly 71% of the employees and 82% of CEOs were overweight. It had also found nearly 48% of the employees and 69% of CEOs were physically unfit.
The direct impact of employee sickness is reflected in mandays lost. ICRIER's survey shows almost a quarter of the companies lose approximately 50 mandays in a year due to sickness. Another 34% companies lose between 10 to 50 mandays. This translates into an equal percentage of loss in their productivity and bottomlines. The survey notes that companies are aware of how employee sickness affects their bottomlines.
To mitigate some of the cost, two-thirds of respondent firms have introduced preventive healthcare as part of their corporate governance strategy.
However, less than one-third make provision for the whole range of preventive healthcare measures for their staff. Many of them feel providing health insurance is good enough.
The report also suggests a well-designed employee wellness programme by companies could lead to 25% reduction in their health-plan costs, sick leave, disability pay and workers compensation. Reducing just one health risk increases an employee's on-the-job productivity by 9% and cuts absenteeism by 2%.
The report sums up with some suggestions both for the government and India Inc. These include conducting a health audit of all employees at regular intervals, introduction of preventive healthcare benefits and vouchers
13 Sep 2007 TNN
Saturday, September 15, 2007
'Lifestyle' diseases hit India's IT workers
India's rapid economic growth could be slowed by a sharp rise in the prevalence of heart disease, stroke and diabetes, and the successful information technology industry is likely to be the hardest hit, a study has found.
So-called lifestyle diseases are estimated to have wiped $9bn (£4.4bn) off the country's national income in 2005, but the cost could reach more than £100bn over the next 10 years if corrective action is not taken soon, the report claims.
The study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations says that although India's boom has brought spiralling corporate profits and higher incomes for employees, it has also led to a surge in workplace stress and lifestyle diseases. The health minister, Anbumani Ramadoss, said his biggest concern was the IT industry, which has grown rapidly on the boom in international outsourcing in recent years.
"It's the fastest-growing industry in our country, but it is most vulnerable to lifestyle diseases," Mr Ramadoss said. "Its future growth could be stunted if we don't address the problem now."
Long working hours, night shifts and a sedentary lifestyle make people employed at such companies prone to heart disease and diabetes, the report said. There have also been growing reports of depression and family breakdown in the industry.
"In Bangalore the psychiatrists say their Saturdays are reserved for marriage counselling for the IT sector," he added.
Ravi Kasliwal, a cardiologist at New Delhi's Indraprastha hospital, said heart disease was projected to account for 35% of deaths among India's working-age population between 2000 and 2030, citing data from the World Health Organisation. India's per capita health spending of £3.40 is one of the lowest in the world.
(Associated Press)
So-called lifestyle diseases are estimated to have wiped $9bn (£4.4bn) off the country's national income in 2005, but the cost could reach more than £100bn over the next 10 years if corrective action is not taken soon, the report claims.
The study by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations says that although India's boom has brought spiralling corporate profits and higher incomes for employees, it has also led to a surge in workplace stress and lifestyle diseases. The health minister, Anbumani Ramadoss, said his biggest concern was the IT industry, which has grown rapidly on the boom in international outsourcing in recent years.
"It's the fastest-growing industry in our country, but it is most vulnerable to lifestyle diseases," Mr Ramadoss said. "Its future growth could be stunted if we don't address the problem now."
Long working hours, night shifts and a sedentary lifestyle make people employed at such companies prone to heart disease and diabetes, the report said. There have also been growing reports of depression and family breakdown in the industry.
"In Bangalore the psychiatrists say their Saturdays are reserved for marriage counselling for the IT sector," he added.
Ravi Kasliwal, a cardiologist at New Delhi's Indraprastha hospital, said heart disease was projected to account for 35% of deaths among India's working-age population between 2000 and 2030, citing data from the World Health Organisation. India's per capita health spending of £3.40 is one of the lowest in the world.
(Associated Press)
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
The Role of the Mind in Healing
1) Every change of state of mind (every new thought) causes a physical reaction however small.
2) Whatever the mind expects tends to be realised.
3) Imagination (visualisation) is more powerful than reason.
4) When imagination and reason are in equal conflict then imagination will always prevail.
5) Opposing ideas cannot exist in the mind at the same time.
6) The longer an idea remains in the subconscious mind, the more difficult it becomes to replace it with another idea.
7) (a) Long held ideas which condition lifestyle, in a manner not wholly suited to the person in their environment, eventually bring about organic changes - some of which are adaptive, but some may be alien to the organism.
(b) An emotionally induced symptom tends to cause organic change if persisted in long enough.
8) Each suggestion to the subconscious mind - if acted upon, creates less opposition to successive suggestion.
9) When dealing with the subconscious mind, the greater the conscious effort - the less the subconscious response.
10) (a) The subconscious mind is childlike. It accepts readily simple, direct, repetitive instructions without question.
(b) It prefers symbolic, dynamic and colourful imagery as a language instead of factual description, since this appeals greatly to the mind's ability to fantasize.
(c) It attaches much emotional significance to such properties as colour, size, shape, power, rhythm and primitive fear.
11) The electromagnetic balance (meridians) of the physical / mental body optimizes the healing response.
2) Whatever the mind expects tends to be realised.
3) Imagination (visualisation) is more powerful than reason.
4) When imagination and reason are in equal conflict then imagination will always prevail.
5) Opposing ideas cannot exist in the mind at the same time.
6) The longer an idea remains in the subconscious mind, the more difficult it becomes to replace it with another idea.
7) (a) Long held ideas which condition lifestyle, in a manner not wholly suited to the person in their environment, eventually bring about organic changes - some of which are adaptive, but some may be alien to the organism.
(b) An emotionally induced symptom tends to cause organic change if persisted in long enough.
8) Each suggestion to the subconscious mind - if acted upon, creates less opposition to successive suggestion.
9) When dealing with the subconscious mind, the greater the conscious effort - the less the subconscious response.
10) (a) The subconscious mind is childlike. It accepts readily simple, direct, repetitive instructions without question.
(b) It prefers symbolic, dynamic and colourful imagery as a language instead of factual description, since this appeals greatly to the mind's ability to fantasize.
(c) It attaches much emotional significance to such properties as colour, size, shape, power, rhythm and primitive fear.
11) The electromagnetic balance (meridians) of the physical / mental body optimizes the healing response.
Job Burnout May Increase Diabetes Risk
Study Shows Burned-Out Staffers More Likely to Get Type 2 Diabetes
A new study shows that workers suffering from job burnout may be more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
The study, published in Psychosomatic Medicine, comes from Israeli researchers who included Samuel Melamed, PhD, of Tel Aviv University's medical school.
The researchers studied 677 employed men and women in Israel for three to five years.
When the study started, participants were about 42 years old, on average. They were "apparently healthy," the researchers note.
The workers, who were employed by several companies, were split into five groups, based on job type:
• Senior management
• Middle management
• Professionals (including engineers, teachers, lab technicians, and computer workers)
• Nonprofessional workers
• Self-employed workers
Participants completed a 14-item survey on job burnout, rating how often they felt emotionally exhausted, physically fatigued, and mentally weary.
Their ratings were based on responses to survey statements including: "I feel like my emotional batteries are dead," "I am physically exhausted," and "My thinking process is slow."
The results showed 348 workers had high levels of burnout; the other 329 tested low for burnout.
The workers also completed surveys about their medical history, smoking, drinking, physical activity, height, and weight. Most also got their blood pressure checked.
Over the next three to five years, 17 workers reported being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes in adults.
The highly burned-out workers were 84% more likely to report being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes than those with low burnout levels.
Still, the vast majority of workers -- burned out or not -- didn't report a diabetes diagnosis. Only 3% of the highly burned-out group reported a diabetes diagnosis, compared to less than 2% of those with low burnout.
It's not clear exactly how job burnout might make type 2 diabetes more likely.
Melamed's team accounted for other diabetes risk factors, including BMI (body mass index, a measure of overweight), age, and sedentary lifestyles. Also, high blood pressure high blood pressure didn't seem to explain the findings, the researchers note.
Follow-up surveys conducted at the end of the study showed little change in burnout levels.
Further studies should be done to check the findings, write Melamed and colleagues.
Meanwhile, experts say you can better handle job stress by assessing your situation, looking for possible solutions (including a new job), and using stress-busters such as exercise and relaxation techniques.
A new study shows that workers suffering from job burnout may be more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
The study, published in Psychosomatic Medicine, comes from Israeli researchers who included Samuel Melamed, PhD, of Tel Aviv University's medical school.
The researchers studied 677 employed men and women in Israel for three to five years.
When the study started, participants were about 42 years old, on average. They were "apparently healthy," the researchers note.
The workers, who were employed by several companies, were split into five groups, based on job type:
• Senior management
• Middle management
• Professionals (including engineers, teachers, lab technicians, and computer workers)
• Nonprofessional workers
• Self-employed workers
Participants completed a 14-item survey on job burnout, rating how often they felt emotionally exhausted, physically fatigued, and mentally weary.
Their ratings were based on responses to survey statements including: "I feel like my emotional batteries are dead," "I am physically exhausted," and "My thinking process is slow."
The results showed 348 workers had high levels of burnout; the other 329 tested low for burnout.
The workers also completed surveys about their medical history, smoking, drinking, physical activity, height, and weight. Most also got their blood pressure checked.
Over the next three to five years, 17 workers reported being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, the most common type of diabetes in adults.
The highly burned-out workers were 84% more likely to report being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes than those with low burnout levels.
Still, the vast majority of workers -- burned out or not -- didn't report a diabetes diagnosis. Only 3% of the highly burned-out group reported a diabetes diagnosis, compared to less than 2% of those with low burnout.
It's not clear exactly how job burnout might make type 2 diabetes more likely.
Melamed's team accounted for other diabetes risk factors, including BMI (body mass index, a measure of overweight), age, and sedentary lifestyles. Also, high blood pressure high blood pressure didn't seem to explain the findings, the researchers note.
Follow-up surveys conducted at the end of the study showed little change in burnout levels.
Further studies should be done to check the findings, write Melamed and colleagues.
Meanwhile, experts say you can better handle job stress by assessing your situation, looking for possible solutions (including a new job), and using stress-busters such as exercise and relaxation techniques.
Brighten Your Life and 'Don't Lose Hope!'
Eight things you and your family can do to increase hope in uncertain times.
"I've been so overwhelmed by what's going on these days," a mother recently said regarding world events. "I feel like there's nothing I can do and the world's spinning out of control." Her words echo the sentiments so many of us feel each time we pick up a paper or turn on the news. War on the horizon, nuclear weapons in North Korea, a family of six killed by a fire bomb in Baltimore, the massacre in Bali -- the list goes on. Right now, it's easy to lose hope. However, loss of hope doesn't have to be the path we walk down.
You see, hope is actually something we create. It's not something that magically appears from an outside source. We each have within us the capacity to generate hope. It's critical that we be absolutely intentional about nurturing hope in our lives and the lives of our children.
Now more than ever, overcoming fear and holding onto hope are essential. The eight steps below will enable you do this. Try these steps yourself and teach them to your kids. Do some of these as a family. Know that it is within your control to become more hopeful. Don't let the news be your undoing. You can take charge. Here's how:
1. Be kind to yourself.
Think about what you need most, and then do it. Is it a cup of tea, a brisk walk, some downtime, quiet music, a little rest, or reading inspirational literature? Whatever it is, grant yourself permission to do it, even for just a few minutes. If you're at work, take a "care-break" where you take care of you for a brief moment. These small moments accumulate and transform the texture of our days.
2. Create a 5-minute silence ritual every day.
Light a lamp or candle and pray, meditate or reflect. You don't have to believe in any particular deity to make this work. Just silently reflecting in front of a lit lamp/candle is extremely nurturing and healing. This may be the one time of day when you feel connected to your own soul, and perhaps even something larger. Don't skip this step -- it's very powerful.
3. Curtail your intake of news.
Oversaturation with news right now is detrimental to emotional health. If you read the newspaper in the morning, let that be enough. You don't need to turn on the TV or radio too, especially before bed. Consider putting a complete moratorium on news at least once a week. Anything you missed will be there tomorrow. Drastically curtail any news you let your children watch.
4. Treat each day like the precious gift it is.
Be vigilant in looking for things and people to appreciate. What if today was the last day of your life? How would you want to live it? Ask yourself this question throughout the day. It will help you let go of the countless petty annoyances that tend to throw most of us off balance.
Shift your gaze to appreciation. Who and what are you grateful for? Make a list each day and add to it.
5. Every morning, afternoon and night, take a 30-second break to look at the sky, breathe deeply and offer thanks.
Even though the world has its problems, the sun still rises in the sky each morning, and we're awake and alive when we get out of bed. Let the sky be a touchstone to hope. Think of other people around the world as you look at the sky, and know that we all share this planet together. Among all of us, we have the ability to create solutions to the problems that now exist.
Trust that this is so.
6. Express love tangibly.
Hugs, words, notes, acts of kindness -- be indiscriminately generous with all of them. Surprise a friend with a hug. Hug and kiss your kids longer and with deeper feeling. If you like how the clerk treated you in the store, thank her. Leave your partner small notes expressing gratitude for kind acts. Doing all of this adds warmth and positive energy to our lives and the lives of people around us. It's also very comforting both to the giver and receiver of each loving act.
7. Say this affirmation everyday and see where it leads you:
"I am the key to peace."Most of us believe, erroneously, that peace will come from people or institutions much larger than we. Just the opposite is true. Peace starts with each individual and it will only come to this world from the people themselves. It is critical that we each create peace in the small and large moments of our lives. We must live it in our words and actions rather than giving in to fear, hatred, or resignation.
8. Make a difference.
Reach out beyond your normal scope. This is your opportunity to live your greatest promise, highest self. Don't wait. Each time we make a difference in the lives of others, we create hope in ourselves. By reaching out to someone in need, be it your neighbor, a orphan, or people in a homeless shelter, we add a little more peace and hope to the world. Our accumulated gestures of care and compassion will ultimately transform our lives and the lives of others. We are each the source of that transformation. Knowing this gives us hope.
"I've been so overwhelmed by what's going on these days," a mother recently said regarding world events. "I feel like there's nothing I can do and the world's spinning out of control." Her words echo the sentiments so many of us feel each time we pick up a paper or turn on the news. War on the horizon, nuclear weapons in North Korea, a family of six killed by a fire bomb in Baltimore, the massacre in Bali -- the list goes on. Right now, it's easy to lose hope. However, loss of hope doesn't have to be the path we walk down.
You see, hope is actually something we create. It's not something that magically appears from an outside source. We each have within us the capacity to generate hope. It's critical that we be absolutely intentional about nurturing hope in our lives and the lives of our children.
Now more than ever, overcoming fear and holding onto hope are essential. The eight steps below will enable you do this. Try these steps yourself and teach them to your kids. Do some of these as a family. Know that it is within your control to become more hopeful. Don't let the news be your undoing. You can take charge. Here's how:
1. Be kind to yourself.
Think about what you need most, and then do it. Is it a cup of tea, a brisk walk, some downtime, quiet music, a little rest, or reading inspirational literature? Whatever it is, grant yourself permission to do it, even for just a few minutes. If you're at work, take a "care-break" where you take care of you for a brief moment. These small moments accumulate and transform the texture of our days.
2. Create a 5-minute silence ritual every day.
Light a lamp or candle and pray, meditate or reflect. You don't have to believe in any particular deity to make this work. Just silently reflecting in front of a lit lamp/candle is extremely nurturing and healing. This may be the one time of day when you feel connected to your own soul, and perhaps even something larger. Don't skip this step -- it's very powerful.
3. Curtail your intake of news.
Oversaturation with news right now is detrimental to emotional health. If you read the newspaper in the morning, let that be enough. You don't need to turn on the TV or radio too, especially before bed. Consider putting a complete moratorium on news at least once a week. Anything you missed will be there tomorrow. Drastically curtail any news you let your children watch.
4. Treat each day like the precious gift it is.
Be vigilant in looking for things and people to appreciate. What if today was the last day of your life? How would you want to live it? Ask yourself this question throughout the day. It will help you let go of the countless petty annoyances that tend to throw most of us off balance.
Shift your gaze to appreciation. Who and what are you grateful for? Make a list each day and add to it.
5. Every morning, afternoon and night, take a 30-second break to look at the sky, breathe deeply and offer thanks.
Even though the world has its problems, the sun still rises in the sky each morning, and we're awake and alive when we get out of bed. Let the sky be a touchstone to hope. Think of other people around the world as you look at the sky, and know that we all share this planet together. Among all of us, we have the ability to create solutions to the problems that now exist.
Trust that this is so.
6. Express love tangibly.
Hugs, words, notes, acts of kindness -- be indiscriminately generous with all of them. Surprise a friend with a hug. Hug and kiss your kids longer and with deeper feeling. If you like how the clerk treated you in the store, thank her. Leave your partner small notes expressing gratitude for kind acts. Doing all of this adds warmth and positive energy to our lives and the lives of people around us. It's also very comforting both to the giver and receiver of each loving act.
7. Say this affirmation everyday and see where it leads you:
"I am the key to peace."Most of us believe, erroneously, that peace will come from people or institutions much larger than we. Just the opposite is true. Peace starts with each individual and it will only come to this world from the people themselves. It is critical that we each create peace in the small and large moments of our lives. We must live it in our words and actions rather than giving in to fear, hatred, or resignation.
8. Make a difference.
Reach out beyond your normal scope. This is your opportunity to live your greatest promise, highest self. Don't wait. Each time we make a difference in the lives of others, we create hope in ourselves. By reaching out to someone in need, be it your neighbor, a orphan, or people in a homeless shelter, we add a little more peace and hope to the world. Our accumulated gestures of care and compassion will ultimately transform our lives and the lives of others. We are each the source of that transformation. Knowing this gives us hope.
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