Smart Cardio That Works

Even if you've got the greatest abdominal workout in the world, it?s not going to slim your waist unless you also burn off the fat. Trust me...there are many of people out there who have great muscular tone and balance in the mid-section, but don't even know it because those nice abs are covered in a layer of fat. Remember, a combination of three factors is necessary for a slim waistline: a good abdominal workout, smart cardiovascualr exercise, and proper nutrition. In this article, I?m going to explain how to choose the proper cardio workout structure for burning the most amount of calories and burning the proper ratio of carbohydrates and fat.

When it comes to cardio, the question I probably receive most is: long and slow or short and fast? This question actually reflects the most important concept behind a good cardio routine. The truth is, it depends. Let?s begin by looking at total amount of calories burnt.

Say I ask you to travel a mile on foot. I don?t care how you do it ? walk, jog, or run. Many exercise professionals will tell you that you?ll burn the same number of calories any way you do it, as long as you?re covering the same distance. This is simply not true. Studies have shown that the faster you cover that distance, the more calories you burn, period. There is a higher metabolic cost to moving quickly than to moving slowly. So you?re going to burn the most calories by pedaling, running, rowing, swimming, or doing any other cardio you do as fast as possible. The added bonus is that the faster you move, the higher your post-exercise metabolism becomes, meaning that you burn more calories throughout the day after your workout than if you had moved at a slower pace.

Here?s the catch ? the faster you ?move? across that mile, the more you rely on carbohydrates for energy, and the less you rely on fat. Although burning carbohydrates is beneficial, your body should also be learning how to efficiently use fat as an energy source. The ?fat-burning? zone varies from person to person, but a good rule is that when breathing becomes labored or the muscles begin to burn, you?ve crossed the threshold to utilizing carbohydrate as a primary energy source. The basic science behind this is that it takes more oxygen to burn 1 calorie from fat than it takes to burn 1 calorie from carbohydrate, so as your body begins to work harder and get lower on oxygen, it turns more to carbohydrate as an energy source.

So here?s the application part. If you are pressed for time in your workout, go short and fast (i.e. 10-20 minutes, at an intensity level of 8-10). You will burn more calories, both in your workout and throughout the rest of the day. Ideally, however, if you have the time, you should also be incorporating long and slow cardio workouts into your routine (i.e. 20-60 minutes, at an intensity level of 6-8), essentially ?training? your body to burn fat as a fuel. Often, I have my clients work in both zones by performing their short and hard cardio efforts prior to weight training on their ?difficult? days, then performing their slow and long cardio efforts on their ?easy? days. The added bonus is that the slow and long cardio efforts allow the body to recover more quickly from the previous day's difficult efforts, which means better results.

Let?s finish with a sample workout that will keep you in both zones during the same workout. This is an ?interval? routine. Here?s how it works:

5 minute graded warm-up, gradually working up to a hard intensity by minute 5

1 minute hard-fast effort (labored breathing)

2 minutes easy-medium effort (conversation possible)

2 minutes hard-fast effort

1 minute easy-medium effort

repeat 1x

3 minutes hard-fast effort

3 minutes easy-medium effort

4 minutes hard-fast effort

4 minutes easy-medium effort

repeat 1x

5 minute cool-down, gradually working down to a very easy effort by minute 5.

If you sign-up to work more extensively with an online trainer at www.pacificfit.net, you can receive a series of workouts that include pre-written cardio intervals similar to the one above, along with a comprehensive resistance training routine and nutritional plan, complete with exercise photos and videos. Congratulations, you?re yet another step closer to slimming the waist.

Head trainer Ben Greenfield runs the online training website Pacific Elite Fitness, and holds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Sport Science and Exercise Physiology, as well as certifications from the National Strength and Conditioning Association as a Personal Trainer and Strength and Conditioning Coach (NSCA-CPT & CSCS). For over 6 years, Ben has coached and trained professional, collegiate, and recreational athletes, and helped hundreds of individuals achieve their personal fitness goals. For more information on online personal training and fitness, contact Ben at elite@pacificfit.net.
www.pacificfit.net

Acne Care for Adults

Roughly 20% of acne cases being treated in the United States belong to adults. For many adults, what was thought of as a teenage affliction has continued well into their twenties and thirties. For other adults suffering from acne, the outbreaks did not start until they reached their twenties.

The causes of adult acne vary and can be any one or a combination of the following conditions.

Stress

Until recently, stress related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the correlation between stress and acne. For adult acne sufferers, stress is considered to be the leading cause to post-pubescent breakouts.

When we are exposed to stressful situations, the brain triggers the central nervous system, which in turn sends signals to the rest of the body as part of a primitive fight or flight response. Part of this response is hormonal release from our adrenal glands and fatty secretions from the sebaceous glands, which lay beneath the skin.

Both hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions, which can clog pores, are known contributors to acne outbreaks.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances as a cause of adult acne primarily affect women. Imbalances that occur during a woman?s menstrual cycle or as a result of pregnancy can lead to acne outbreaks.

There are adult males who report that they have monthly acne episodes. While men obviously do not menstruate, it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to women.

Coffee Consumption Adults tend to ingest more coffee than do teens. The caffeine in coffee and tea promotes the production of cortisol, which is also known as the stress hormone. As noted, hormone imbalances are known contributors to adult acne.

Smoking

The chemicals introduced into the body by cigarette smoking limit blood circulation to skin cells, inhibiting the skin?s ability to heal and regenerate. The toxins released in cigarette smoke can clog pores and promote bacterial growth in pores, all of which contributes to adult acne.

Heredity

Recent research has shown that people are more likely to suffer from adult acne if they have a family history of adult acne sufferers.

Environmental Job conditions that expose the skin to high levels of pollutants, irritants, or humidity can lead to an increase in adult acne.

Cosmetics

?Poorly formulated cosmetics that are heavy or greasy can clog skin pores, trapping bacteria, dirt, and oils resulting in adult acne breakouts. Covering acne with makeup can make the condition worse.

BIO:

Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and currently provides information on treating acne, pimples, and zits, via an objective informational skincare website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com

Hypnosis Meditation and Imagery

In the western world people are comparatively comfortable with ?hypnosis?. In the east the word ?meditation? does not raise any eyebrows. Hypnosis has been used mainly for ?directed healing?. Meditation has been used mainly for ?general? well-being.

In the West, visualisation and imagery have developed from hypnosis. This is a commonly known fact among practitioners of hypnosis. But visualization is also integral parts of meditation- is not commonly known.

Hypnosis and meditation have both been described as ?altered states?. They are considered to be ?altered? because they transcend the conscious, reasoning mind. The conscious mind is mainly dependent on reason and logic for its activities. Unlike the ?Unconscious?, it has to make effort to think. On the other hand the ?unconscious? is the ?feeling? part of the nervous system, is spontaneous and regulates all the internal organs of the body. This is the ?effortless? part of the mind.

In order to change our internal body physiology, we have to have access to the ?unconscious? that controls our heart rate, blood pressure and the secretion of various hormones and juices in the body. Hypnosis is a method by which access to the ?unconscious? is made by letting a person go into a relaxed state. Usually hypnosis is done by a hypnotherapist, though self-hypnosis can also be done by an individual in certain conditions.

Meditation is usually done by oneself without any instructions from another person. So once you have learnt self-hypnosis, you can go into a meditative state spontaneously. In deeper meditative states, visualization is an active process. It is theorized by the practitioners, that the human spirit then has access to dimensions that are beyond the reach of human senses in wakeful state.

Hypnosis is usually goal-orientated. People practice hypnosis to achieve something ?the least is a relaxed state. The commonly known goal of meditation is relaxation only. Whatever follows from relaxation is spontaneous and not necessarily with a goal. Visualisation and imagery though spontaneous, are also integral parts of meditation.

Imagery is now considered a different state than hypnosis or meditation, though it is common to both. The reason for this is that one can experience the benefits of healing with imagery without going into a trance state. One has simply to close one?s eyes and start having images. Imagery is the language of the ?unconscious?. All of our memories are stored in the form of images. If you remember the images of an event from the past, the body goes through the same physiological responses as it underwent when the event was actually happening. Using imagery, one can change the perception and thinking about various issues in life by changing the images one has.

In my own experience, changing the emotions associated with the events changes the images that the ?unconscious? carries. This reduces the stress experienced by the nervous system and the body in general. This enables the body to rid itself of various habits, behaviours, thinking and perception that are detrimental to the person. If someone is on psychiatric drugs, this reduction in stress helps the person reduce medication on a regular basis.

More details of this work can be obtained from my website.

Copyright Pradeep K Chadha 2006

Pradeep K Chadha is a psychiatrist who specialises in helping patients with meditation and imagery using little or no medication. He is the author of The Stress Barrier-Nature's Way To Overcoming Stress published by Blackhall Publishing, Dublin. He is based in Dublin, Ireland.His website address is http://www.drpkchadha.com

Speech Therapy For Children Who Stutter

Do you have a stutter? Does one of your children have a stutter? Do you know somebody who has a stutter? This article is all about the speech impediment known as stuttering or stammering. It includes information about stuttering and also treatments which are available to help people who stutter to achieve fluency.

Stuttering is a much larger problem than many people think. Latest research suggests that as many as one percent of the population of the UK has a stuttering problem and that around eighty percent of these people are male.

I had a stutter for eighteen years. I have been informed that I started stuttering when I was only four years of age. I regularly attended speech therapy over the next fourteen years before deciding that it was unlikely to ever help me to achieve fluency.

The stutter was one huge frustration for me as at times I could talk very well. Certain situations such as when I felt under pressure or when I was very tired, was when speaking fluently became very hard for me. I had a number of words which I believed that I was unable to say and would often fear these type of sounds. I would go to great lengths to avoid having to say them, which was not that easy at times.

Some people I have met have become extremely good at hiding their own stutter. They have stated that most of the people that they know are not even aware that they have a speech impediment.

Other people are not able to hide their stutter in this way and will have what is perceived to be a much more severe stutter.

There are a number of treatments for stuttering including the normal route of speech therapy via the local doctor or hospital. Many people who stutter find this form of therapy very frustrating as there are often long waiting lists, and the sessions are normally quite short and irregular.

There is also private therapy in the form of people who have managed to overcome their own stutter. This can be on a one-to-one basis or in a group situation.

Other people attempt to seek help via hypnotherapy or confidence based courses.

I managed to overcome my own stutter after a lot of hard work and practice. It was not easy by any stretch of the imagination, however the results have totally transformed my life. I have now enjoyed speaking fluently for the last ten years.

I have met many people who stutter in that time and have been amazed to hear some of the stories of how they started to stutter. Contrary to popular belief it does not just originate in childhood but can start at any age. A traumatic event can at times trigger the start of a stutter problem in people as can certain forms of abuse.

If you have a stutter do not despair, help is available and fluency can be achieved if you have the right attitude and are willing to work hard to kill off your stuttering demons.

Stephen Hill helps to promote a number of websites including:

stuttering information

cheap ringtones

quality aviation cleaning products

Cosmetic Acne Skin Care

Cosmetics, though by no stretch of imagination a valid line of defense, are widely used to camouflage acne. Though this is reasonable and makes sense, any kind of topically applied oil-based compound will aggravate acne. This especially applies to foundation creams, the longest-lasting of which are generally oil-based (or oleaginous).

Specifically, the ingredients to avoid include isopropyl myristate, isopropyl esters, oleic acid, stearic acid, petrolatum and lanolin. Cosmetic brands of lower quality will not mention the presence or absence of such compounds on the label and must be avoided. Though alcohol-based cosmetics are not the best choice for acne-prone skin, they are certainly preferable to oil-based ones. The best bets are water-based cosmetics which, though not as long-lasting as oleaginous ones, are far more suitable and less detrimental to acne.

There are a number of cosmetics available for camouflaging unsightly acne. They usually come in the form of a regimen that includes a concealing cream, a sheer or opaque foundation and a dusting powder. Prior to using these products, the skin must be gently but thoroughly cleansed and a certain amount of individual inventiveness may be called for to match camouflaged acne with unaffected skin areas.

A lot of research has been conducted to isolate the ideal shades of foundation creams for hiding acne, and you can now choose the shade that best suits the degree of acne you suffer from. For instance, green creams have been found most suitable for camouflaging redness resulting from rosacea. Yellow cream is best suited for purplish bruising and excessively pigmented skin (which can be caused by severe acne), and so on.

It is best to consult a knowledgeable salesperson attached to a reputed cosmetics outlet rather than pick up such ?designer? products off the shelf at the local supermarket.

Acne Care provides detailed information about acne care, acne care skin tips, acne skin care centers, and more. Acne Care is affiliated with Acne Skin Care.

Traditional Mesothelioma Treatments

Treatment for malignant mesothelioma varies due to a number of factors: the location of the cancer, the stage or severity of the cancer , and a patient?s personal preference. Naturally, mesothelioma sufferers whose cancer is caught and treated earlier have a greater chance of prolonging their life. Traditional mesothelioma treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, or a combination of the three which are outlined below.

Surgery

Surgical treatment for mesothelioma is employed to either remove the cancer from the affected area of the body (i.e., the lung or abdominal cavity) or to alleviate pain. If the mesothelioma has spread, it may be impossible to remove all of the cancer with surgery; however surgical intervention may help lessen pain.

Types of Surgery

Pneumonectomy

Pneumonectomy refers to the surgical removal of a lung. There are two types of pneumonectomies:

Traditional Pneumonectomy ? In which the diseased lung is removed.

Extrapleural Pneumonectomy ? In which the diseased lung, as well as part of the pericardium, diaphragm or parietal pleura on the same side of the chest, are removed.

Palliative Procedures

These procedures do not cure mesothelioma, but rather function to alleviate or control symptoms:

Thoracentisis ? In this procedure, a needle is inserted into the chest cavity, either to drain fluid for diagnosis, or to drain fluid to relieve pain.

Pleurectomy/Decortication ? This surgery removes the pleura in order to reduce pain or prevent the recurrence of pleural effusion.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells and/or to keep cancer cells from multiplying. The drugs may be administered intravenously or taken in pill form, and are often used in combination with surgery. Chemotherapy may also kill healthy cell in addition to the cancer cells, so side effects can be quite severe, including: nausea, vomiting, fatigue, hair loss, constipation, decreased appetite and mouth sores.

Radiation

Radiation treatment involves the use of high level radiation to target and kill cancer cells in a localized area. The therapy is delivered in several courses, each one breaking down the cancer cells so they may be excreted by the body. Like chemotherapy, radiation may kill or injure healthy cells and thereby cause unpleasant side effects such as: fatigue, hair loss, skin irritation, nausea and difficulty breathing.

Neal Parmar CEO of NPP Entrepreneur and the webmaster at http://www.lawyermesothelioma.net Lawyer Mesothelioma - Offering Expert Information, Malignant Mesothelioma, Mesothelioma Cancer Research, Mesothelioma Lawyer, Mesothelioma Attorney, Mesothelioma Asbestos Diseases.

Is Colonic Hydrotherapy Safe? Are Colonics Even Natural?

Colonics, colonic hydrotherapy and colonic irrigation all refer to one of the fastest growing practices in natural medicine--irrigation of the bowel. During a colonics cleanse a flexible hose is inserted into the rectum and warm liquid is forced, under gentle pressure, into the large intestine. After a period of several minutes the bowel is allowed to evacuate.

The idea behind colonics goes back millennia. The ancient Egyptians wrote extensively of their belief that the colon was the key to all diseases and this theme has been repeated throughout history. Modern-day chiropractors, naturopaths and other natural practitioners all believe (albeit to varying degrees) in the link between colon health and overall vitality.

What It's Supposed to Do For You

Practitioners of this therapy believe that the health of the colon is directly related to the health of the entire body. Proponents of colonic irrigation claim that the procedure will rid the body of excess fecal matter and remove toxins, resulting in an overall healthier system. Many practitioners stop short of making further health claims but some have gone so far as to suggest the therapy for everything from the common cold to mental illness. Colonic hydrotherapy is often recommended for:

• Various gastrointestinal disorders
• Migraine
• Auto-immune disorders including arthritis, allergy and asthma
• Chronic Fatigue
• Parasites

But Is It Safe?

Though there's no way to know for sure how many colonic procedures are performed in the US, injuries are apparently rare. Potential side effects include:

• Infection from contaminated equipment
• Disturbance of the electrolyte balance
• Perforation of the bowel
• Heart failure (caused by excessive fluid absorption)

What The Critics Say

One of the most common criticisms of colonic hydrotherapy is its use by unqualified practitioners. A 2004 study in the UK found that only one third of the registered practitioners interviewed had any previous clinical background and over 80% worked completely alone with no trained medical assistant present during the procedure. And things aren't any better here in the US. In 2003 the Texas Attorney General sued 6 practitioners (none of whom were medically trained or working with a physician) after 1 death and several serious injuries resulted from perforated colons.

Is Colonic Hydrotherapy Natural?

In my opinion, there's nothing natural about filling your colon with liquid and I can't imagine a situation in which I'd recommend it. Your body is simply not designed to work that way and the idea that we're all walking around with pounds of putrefied fecal matter in our colons is ludicrous. At best colonic hydrotherapy is a highly invasive therapy; in the hands of someone who doesn't know what he's doing, it's potentially deadly.

Lisa Barger is a traditional naturopath specializing in natural health education. To learn more about Ms. Barger's belief in Empowerment through Education or to take a free online natural health class see her website, http://www.LisaBarger.com

The Healing Arts: Exploring HeartConsciousness Part 5 It's a Muscle You Can Strengthen

In this moment, every cell of your body is receiving information. Each takes in sensations from its immediate external environment and also from its internal environment. Each cell sends that data to your brain, whose job it is to assimilate the information it receives and then direct the rest of the organism that is you to, both locally and systemically, respond.

Of the billions of sensations that are being processed in your body at any one time, you are consciously aware of about 20. The brain?s duty of assimilation is no less important than its role as a filter to make sure that you don?t experience everything at once.

Strychnine?s (rat poison) mechanism of action is that it strips away the ability of the brain to filter out information. The affected being, experiencing every miniscule sensation in its body, becomes overloaded and dies by seizure. LSD, oddly enough, works on the same principle ? it temporarily dissolves filters -- though on a much more limited basis. We cannot function without these filters.

Right now, each cell of your skin, for example, is registering the pressure that its surroundings exert on it. For some it is air, for others, clothing and still others register the pressures exerted by every nearby hair follicle. Each of these cells, individually, go unnoticed until enough of them experience enough pressure that you, the being who is composed of these cells, suddenly becomes aware of it. The sensation essentially bursts through your other filters.

Do this now. Close your eyes and pick an area on your arm to focus on. Now, allow your awareness to take in every sensation that is there. You may feel movement of arm hairs, the gentle touch of a breeze, or even a ?curiosity? about, ?Is that an itch I feel?? as you zero in on a particular area. This point is you can make a choice to have that area of your experience be the localization (focal point) of your consciousness. What you are doing is filtering out most of the other sensations you may be experiencing in favor of that experienced by one area of your body.

There are filters of sensation and filters of perception as well. Have you ever spent time with someone and had a hard time being with them because they reminded you so much of, for example, an abusive other? Perhaps you had trouble ?seeing? that person for who they were. You were actually experiencing that person through the filter of your past experience.

Once you recognize that your interpretation is based on something that was, rather than something that is, you are able to remove those filters and concentrate on the moment in front of you, without the distortion of past associations.

At any one time, we do have a significant amount of choice in where we localize our consciousness through the filters we use or remove. Of course, ?where our consciousness is located? is a metaphor. But still, it rings true that, in the instance of a bee for example, when that bugger sticks that stinger into your skin, for all you know your consciousness IS right in that patch of skin. Every bit of it! And until you realize that the person in front of you is not that abusive other, you will tend to react protectively.

The point I wish to make is that consciousness, and how you apply it, is a muscle that you can strengthen and train with practice.

In the case of working with heart-consciousness, it?s a matter of choosing to filter your experience through the awareness of your heart. When you place your consciousness on a patch of skin, you are able to receive whatever information those accumulated cells are available to relay to you. When you filter your consciousness through your heart, you are able to receive whatever information is available through it.

Although not proven empirically, researchers are working with the theory that the brain deals more with matter (particles) while the heart deals more with energy (waves). The brain takes in data through the passage of information (chemicals) across the synapses while the heart absorbs and assimilates vibration or frequency.

Working with brainpower most often involves ?working through? a sequence of events to come to an end point. Let's take a problem like What does three times three plus two equal? In calculating the answer, if you mess up any of the parts, like multiplying 3 by 2 and adding 3 instead, your answer is wrong. With the heart, it appears vibrations recognize vibrations, and immediately ? without any form of sequential analysis that we can identify, recognizes 3X3+2is11.

Shifting your consciousness to move through the filter of your heart ? which is a simple act of will once you get enough practice -- (perhaps literally) ?tunes you in? to what the heart understands.

Our hearts are assimilating and interpreting vibration and frequency this very moment. What we've forgotten is how to respond to and act on that information. In essence, we over-exercised our brains and now they are the dominant muscles of our perception. We can strengthen our ability to use the consciousness of our hearts as well.

Next installment will have some exercises for you to try out.

Russ Reina shares over 35 years of experience in the healing arts through his web site http://mauihealingartist.com. It is a potent resource for those wishing to deepen their abilities in connection and develop their powers as healers. For a powerful free tool to explore your inner world, please check out his adjunct site http://thestoryofthis.net

(Permission is granted to reprint this article, unedited, provided proper attribution is made and the signature line -- the above resource paragraph -- is kept intact)

Healing Gadgets

These six devices were selected by Gary Ames for their research support and professional regard. All are available to consumers and can be a great bargain for quality of life. These gadgets usually produce significant improvements in nervous system functioning which are sustained in the long term after the benefit is obtained.

Temperature biofeedback training with a thermometer. Learn to relax by increasing the blood perfusion to your fingers or toes. Trial and error learning guides you toward relaxation. http://www.cliving.org/stressthermometer.htm $19.95

Galvanic Skin Response (GSR). Skin Conductance. Every time your autonomic nervous system changes the level of arousal or relaxation, the moisture of your skin changes, and this affects the electrical conductivity of your fingers. GSR 2 - with or without accessories. ~$50 or $150.
http://www.mindgrowth.com/
http://www.toolsforwellness.com/bg101.html

Heart Rate Variability, HRV. When you inhale, heart rate increases. When you exhale, heart rate decreases. Learning to have smooth and strong heart rhythms in sync with breathing is good for mind and body. www.HeartMath.com $295
www.StressEraser.com/ Hand Held, $395
http://www.biocomtech.com/bht.htm. $395
www.cardiologix.com

GSR & HRV combined
www.WildDivine.com. Lush computer game with 40 biofeedback challenges. Sedate. $159.95.

EEG Biofeedback or Neurofeedback. Brain Wave Training. Monitoring and interacting with your own brain waves is a powerful method. There is broad applicability to enhance sanity, health, competence, and wisdom. This device will probably improve your life in multiple ways.

The BrainMaster is a good device for consumers, but you may need professional support. Play Attention is a weaker technology but has good remote support. Pocket Neurobics is a bargain with the weakest support. Yahoo has good newsgroup support forums.

Anyone can buy EEG biofeedback units on these sites.
www.pocket-neurobics.com - stand alone, PC or wireless
www.PlayAttention.com single channel, helmet
www.Brainquiry.com - wireless
http://www.futurehealth.org/nfcntral.htm
http://www.toolsforwellness.com/mind-machines-biofeedback.html
www.bio-medical.com
http://www.dynamind.com/eeg.htm

You may need a license or prescription to buy other more expensive equipment from a manufacturer or dealer.

HemoEncephaloGraphy, HEG (blood brain image with infrared sensors). These biofeedback devices monitor blood perfusion or blood oxygenation inside the brain with an infrared sensor on a headband. When you practice at activating certain sites on the head enhance a corresponding function in the brain. HEG devices can be both hand held and computer-based.

There are two kinds of HEG: nir HEG and pIR HEG. pIR HEG uses a box shaped sensor that is worn on the forehead. It is used only for the frontal cortex, the most human part of the brain. nir HEG is a headband with flat sensors that can be positioned at different sites on the head to exercise particular brain functions. See http://www.biocompresearch.org/questionaire1.htm
www.pocket-neurobics.com HEG and/or EEG

Cranial Electrical Stimulation, CES
This device is not biofeedback. CES sends a very mild current through the brain. Strong research support, FDA approved for anxiety, depression and insomnia. Simply turn it on so you can?t feel it and get a better brain. Generally used for 20-60 minutes per day for a month or two.
www.Alpha-Stim.com
www.Healthpax.org
http://www.dynamind.com/ces.htm

Some Caution
Biofeedback is generally safe and fun for the whole family. I am all for healing yourself with self-training based on information from your own body. But it is possible to do biofeedback badly. Usually this happens when doing too much too soon and pushing the mind-body to hard. This is especially true when there is greater dysfunction or instability. My caution is like the common sense advice you would get about weight training. The difference is that too much mind-body training can be less obvious.

When there are medical or psychiatric issues it is prudent to work with a licensed biofeedback trainer or therapist near you. Discuss a home training unit and program to get the full benefit from devices. There is no comprehensive directory of biofeedback providers. Try finding one at:
http://www.isnr.org/isnrlist.htm
www.EEGinfo.com
www.bcia.org
www.aapb.org (coming soon).

You might also try the web sites of particular software vendors such as http://www.adnf.org/neurofeedbackdirectory.htm

Gary Ames is a psychologist in private practice near Philadelphia, PA. He specializes in brain biofeedback. Optimal health clients include salespeople and executives. He also enjoys high success rates for those with ADHD, anxiety, depression, eating disorders and migraine.

Adult Acne Causes

What are the causes of adult acne? What is the best treatment for acne late in life? Is there a natural treatment for acne instead of using medicines? What about saving the embarrassment and expense of showing your face in public and trying out one of those home acne remedies? Do any of them work?

The onset of adult acne causes make many of us to become embarrassed to the point of trying anything we can think of to first hide, then treat it. All we know is that we want to get rid of the acne as quickly as possible. So we start asking ourselves questions like How do I get rid of acne?, or Which medication for acne should I use?, or Should I invest in one of those laser acne treatments?...

Well... don't panic, adult acne is not the end of the world, although it can be embarrassing. How to clear acne, especially adult acne, once and for all isn't a mystery, although sometimes it may seem hidden from view. The reason it isn't so obvious to most is that so much of the media attention for acne is targeted towards prepubescents and teenagers.

The best treatment for acne, especially what afflicts us in adulthood is different than how teenagers treat acne. Acne medicines are different for adults, and the best acne products for teenagers just may not work for adults at all. Trying such things as taking vitamins and acne natural treatments may not be very effective for treating the causes of adult acne. Many adults make the mistake of going to their pharmacist for acne medicines only to find that they get little or no effective treatment. There is a better way.

Today, there is now scientific studies on the subject of adult acne. In fact, just some of the statistics of these studies can surprise you. Scientific information on how to clear acne forever in adulthood is now available. You can now get the best treatment for acne without becoming an acne zeno who won't leave their house for fear of what others may say.

How do I get rid of acne? you ask... it's easy. Find out in the second part of this article.

Read the second part of this article Curing Adult Acne by Tom Straub.

Massage Therapy ? Reap the Benefits

Captain Hook is sitting in front of a job counselor?s desk and she's saying, Hmmm...your top choices are piracy or massage therapy. Let's see if we can narrow this down a bit?. We had our fun at the expense of massage therapy, now let us find what is massage therapy and its best features.

Massage therapy is applied to manipulate joints and the soft tissue of the body. Soft tissues include tendons and associated fascia, skin, ligaments and muscles.

Massage is one of the oldest forms of therapy practiced by the celebrated Greek, Roman, Chinese and Indian civilizations.

4700 years ago, ancient eastern Chinese practiced massage to heal a variety of ailments from paralysis to labour pains. Ayurvedha, a traditional form of Indian medicine uses a variety of aromatherapy oils and spices to give massage therapy.

Introduced in 19th century, the Swedish massage is the most practiced form in western culture. The Swedish therapy is said to have borrowed many of the techniques from Rome, Greece, Egypt and China.

In western hospitals, soldiers who fought in World War I were administered massage for nerve damage and to soothe shell shock. Many of our now popular modern massage techniques were created in order to heal specific health conditions.

When massage therapy is given to a person, many different physiological effects are achieved while the therapist?s hands move over the body. The different movements can physically stretch tendons and fascia, ligaments and muscles. Massage therapy also encourages the circulation through the tissue, inhibits muscular spasms and can be either stimulating or sedating to the nervous system.

Health problems can benefit from massage therapy since the manipulation of soft tissues affects many of our bodily systems.

Benefits from massage therapy are extensive. Massage therapy treatment can develop, rehabilitate or augment physical function. Relief from physical dysfunction and pain can also be achieved. Tightened and tense muscles can be relaxed. Massage therapy also improves the recovery time, circulation and immune system function. It creates a sense of relaxation and well being, reduces stress and controls acute or chronic pain by massage therapy.

Today, massage therapy is used for treating a wide range of ages ? from senior to babies in a variety of intensive care, health club, and health clinic and hospital settings.

To get even glide and a smooth workability, oils are applied in massage therapy. Some popular oils used are Almond oil, Grapeseed oil, Apricot oil, Avocado oil, Jojoba oil, Wheat germ oil and Hazelnut oil.

Lucy Bartlett is a proud contributing author. Find more articles here. For more info visit Therapy Resource or Massage Therapy

Best Over the Counter Acne Treatment

Acne is at best a very unpleasant condition to live with, but there are steps you can take to try to improve it. The traditional route is to contact your doctor to see what they would recommend. But theses days many are bypassing the doctor and going straight to the drugstore.

But how do you decide what is the best over the counter acne treatment for you and what advice do you take? There is so much advertising for different products that it is hard to know which is the best for you. Probably the first step to take in deciding, is whether you want to use a traditional medical treatment, or a one of the growing number of natural health products and remedies.

There are a growing number of natural products, as the trend towards a more holistic type of lifestyle becomes more popular. These products can be very good, but it is probably worth doing a little research so that you are quite clear about what you are buying and what it is supposed to do for your skin.

Traditional medical treatments are much more straightforward and many of the most popular contain salycic acid or benzoyl peroxide. If you prefer to go for the natural products, there are many to choose from, such as tea tree oil, aloe vera and Vitamin E. It is difficult to say which is the best over the counter acne treatment, as different products will suit different people. Most products whether natural or traditional, work by drying the skin to prevent excess oil building up and leading to acne.

Rather than buying the product that looks the best in the shop, it is usually best to ask the pharmacist for advice on which is the best over the counter acne treatment. They usually have extensive experience in dealing with this and are likely to know the products that work. There is a wide range to choose from and getting advice, is probably a good idea.

Even though you may have been very careful to buy the best over the counter acne treatment, it is possible that it is not suitable for your skin. If after trying a new treatment you experience any pain or discomfort it is best to check with your doctor. There are many treatments available and it is a good idea to get some good advice as to which is the best for your skin type, before you buy.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com. He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and information on the best over the counter acne treatment that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Natural Breast Augmentation

There are other ways to achieve a breast augmentation other than actually having surgery. There are ways of changing the appearance of your breasts and not having to go under the knife. You can do a few simple things on your own and it will look like you have natural and beautiful breasts.

Anyone can make their breasts look bigger themselves by doing a few things. If you have thought about having plastic surgery, done in order to make you feel sexier and to make your clothes fit you better, then you should hear about a few things first. A few natural products that you can do will make your breasts appear bigger and fuller.

One step for natural breast augmentation is creams. Many manufacturers have come up with productive creams that will enhance the appearance of breasts over a certain amount of time. These creams will stimulate the breasts so that they will actually grow in size. Obviously, you will not have dramatic results right away. However, you will see a change in your breast appearance and it is one that you will like. Most of these creams can be bough over the counter and need to be applied on a regular basis.

Another good idea for natural breast augmentation is to take vitamins. Some pills will actually enhance your breasts over an extended period of time when you use the pills on a regular basis. These pills can be bought online or at some drug stores. The breast enlargement pills and vitamins will help to make your cup size bigger and make your breasts feel fuller and firm. You will find that these pills will help to completely transform your body into the one that you have always wanted with out the painful surgery.

If you are not sure about using the pills and the vitamins in order to make your breasts larger and look more full, you can always use the padding and padded bras. When you opt to use padding in your bras, it does not mean stuff it with tissue. Instead, there are cups that you can place inside your bra that will make your breasts look natural and beautiful. You will not have to under go any kind of breast augmentation in order to get this desired look and feel.

You can also buy a padded or push up bra to help give your breasts a lift. These bras will give the illusion of larger and fuller breasts with out having to have any kind of breast augmentation done. This is something that you can choose to do on certain occasions or you can wear the added padding all the time. Either way, this will give you the freedom to do look the way that you want in order to feel good about your body.

Copyright 2006 - Ivar Rudi. For more information and resources about this subject check out: http://www.breast-augmentation-guide.org and also http://www.breast-implants-guide.com

A Holistic Approach to TMJ

Understand that TMJ (temporo-mandibular joint) pain and associated problems make it difficult if not impossible to identify the exact nature of the cause of the problem. Holistic Specifics has approached TMJ with the attitude that we cannot fix everyone, but we can contribute greatly in the wellbeing and recovery of the many who are now suffering.

As has been known for over 3000 years, tight, spasmed muscles have pain associated with TMJ. Tight muscles hurt. Through the use of Therapeutic Massage, we can address this tension and many times relieve it entirely. This soreness, or pain in many cases, is not readily acknowledged by the conscious mind, but is registered and controlled by the sub-conscious mind. In other words, we have developed habits (both good and bad) to deal with the discomfort.

The muscle tightness we are talking about would be in, or associated with, those muscles that control chewing, speech, facial expression and swallowing. These muscles are affected by being over-used when grinding the teeth at night. They may be affected by your bite being mis-aligned. The muscles may have been traumatized during an accident, or when being slapped or struck on the side of the head. A disease such as arthritis may have set in, which complicates the issue. Some clinicians believe strongly that oral habits such as tongue thrusting, wide yawning, and nail, lip, or cheek biting, can precipitate a situation that puts the jaw in an abnormal position and may weaken or overstress the muscles. This continuous stress can result in tight and spasmed muscles.

More females are prone to TMJ than are men, and a greater prevalence of women in their childbearing years suffer from TMJ. This may indicate a serious possibility of a need for better nutrition during those times when a woman is eating for two.

Studies suggest that women on hormone replacement therapy were 77% more likely to seek help for TMJ as are women who are using oral contraceptives (19%). The downsides of the hormone estrogen is becoming more clear as more studies are being done.

Work habits and posture, things that we do every day, are done without thinking. Those habits that affect the muscles of the jaw or those of the neck, head or even shoulders, may reflect into the jaw muscles. Habits such as cradling a telephone between your ear and shoulder, carrying a heavy shoulder bag, singing, anything that promotes a forward head position, or hunching forward can contribute to tension throughout the body, as well as spasmed muscles.

Stress can manifest itself in so many different ways. Serious illnesses and disease are a result of the stress we allow ourselves to experience. Not knowing how to deal with stress is not an excuse and does nothing to reduce the effects of stress. Stress management can be learned and easily implemented into anyone's life. Simple techniques such as breathing effectively and efficiently can have a profound effect in reducing stress. For more serious conditions, Thought Field Therapy or Emotional Field Therapy can be utilized.

With respect to both of the conditions previously mentioned (spasmed muscles and Stress), a healthy lifestyle which utilizes both exercise and nutritional supplementation (with essential nutrients) will make a tremendous difference. Human beings require a full complement of minerals (macro & micro) in order to utilize vitamins properly. We also need Anti-Oxidants to fight off the free radicals created by the toxins in our environment, and a healthy circulatory system to deliver it to all of the cells. Exercise is an easy method of enhancing the circulatory system in the body.

Sounds simple doesn't it? In actuality, it is! The first thing you must do is make a decision. Ask yourself: Do I want to continue to get what I've always got, by continuing to do what I've always done, or is it time to CHANGE? If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then it really is time for that change. Start by taking very small incremental positive steps. Don't try to do it all at once. Remember, you have the rest of your life ahead of you to make the improvements in your life. Just start by doing the obvious. Look in the mirror and be honest with yourself. Let that person in the mirror tell you where you need to start, and then take action. The hardest part of training for running a marathon is putting on those running shoes. Once the shoes are on and you take that first step. it gets easier and easier to take the next.

May you have much success on your journey to health!

Michael McCright is a Holistic Health Practitioner, educator, coach, and motivational speaker. His website: http://www.bodymindconnection.com covers a variety of health concerns. Michael is co-producer of an informative and educational DVD: ?TMJ Relief?. For information and holistic solutions regarding TMJ disorder, go to: http://www.holisticspecifics.com

? 2005 Michael McCright ? Reprints allowed as long as copy is complete with last paragraph and copyright information.

Plastic Surgery Procedures

There are many different plastic surgery procedures available to those who would like to alter certain aspects of their bodies. Plastic surgery has been around in some form or another for many years, but has only been in extensive use in the 20th and 21st century. The top three cosmetic surgical procedures in 2004 Liposuction (325,000); nose reshaping (305,000); and breast augmentation (264,000. In addition to these procedures there are many other options for other areas of the body. In this article I plan to explore some of those cosmetic surgery options and give background information on those procedures as well. These numbers clearly show an increasing trend to have cosmetic surgery procedures performed for aesthetic, as well as reconstructive reasons.

We?ll start by exploring the number one plastic surgery procedure, Liposuction. In the last year alone, 325,000 Liposuction procedures were performed on both men and women of all ages and race. Liposuction is a procedure that can help to sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, cheeks, neck, chin and upper arms. Liposuction is not a substitute for regular good diet practices or exercise but rather a further refinement in addition to diet and exercise. Recently a number of new techniques in liposuction have been developed, including the ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL), the tumescent technique, and the super-wet technique. These new procedures are helping many plastic surgeons to provide their patients with more precise results and quicker recovery times. Not all patients will be able to use the newest techniques but your doctor can discuss which techniques are the best for you based upon your medical history and various other factors.

Liposuction is best performed on Normal weight individuals with firm, elastic skin who have excess fat in certain areas of their body. Liposuction carries a greater risk for people with medical problems such as poor circulation, severe lung or heart disease, diabetes, as well as some other conditions not listed. It is always best to let your doctor know your full medical history so that he can accurately assess the correct procedures for your body as well as safely and effectively treat you. In your first consultation, your plastic surgeon will most likely evaluate your health, determine where your fat deposits lie and the elasticity of your skin, and develop a plan that is right for you and your body.

Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping, is another commonly performed technique in which the nose is reshaped, altered, or straightened for both reconstructive and aesthetic reasons. This procedure is often used to correct breathing problems in the nasal region as well. There are two options for the incision in this type of plastic surgery, There is open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty is performed by making a small incision across the columella, between the nostrils, in addition to incisions on the inside of your nose.

This surgery is often performed in the most complicated cases. In the case of closed rhinoplasty the incision is inside of the nose helping to promote a speedier recovery as well as reducing the amount of swelling. Rhinoplasty can change the shape of your nose by recontouring the underlying cartilage and bone into the desired shape. Plastic surgeons today have the ability to make your nose shorter, longer, thinner, and straighter. Most of the incision in nasal surgery are made internally so there is no visual scarring on the exterior nasal cavity. Healing times vary with the type of incision but healing from nasal plastic surgery generally occurs within a few weeks after surgery.

Breast augmentation cosmetic surgery is another very popular procedure and one that has been widely publicized by women around the world. Breast augmentation is surgery to enhance the size or shape of a woman?s breast for reconstructive or aesthetic reasons. Some of these reasons include, but are not limited to, enhancing the size of the breast for a woman who feels that hers are too small, correcting a difference in breast size, reconstructing the breast after surgery, and a reduced breast volume after pregnancy.

Breast size can be increased during surgery by the insertion of an implant behind each breast and can effectively increase the bustline by a cup size or more. All said the best way to know if plastic surgery is for you is to get as much information on the procedure as possible before you make a decision. After all you can never have too much information when it comes to your body, right?

More information on Cosmetic Surgery Options can be found on http://www.cosmeticsurgeryreview.com.

Natural Allergy Relief

Blue Tansy's high azulene content, which gives it a vivid, deep blue color (it can stain so take care), is the chemical thought responsible for Blue Tansy's strong action to soothe and relax the nervous system, as well as naturally ease the discomfort associated with allergies and pain.

Of the commonly used blue variety of essential oils, which also includes Yarrow and Chamomile, Blue Tansy has by far the most delightful and friendly scent. Its warm herbaceous aroma has a notable complexity with a hint of sweetness that to me is reminiscent of apples and spice. Even first time aroma users invariably love Blue Tansy's warm, inviting scent!

Blue Tansy's natural anti-inflammatory action makes it an exceptionally good relaxant. People often use Blue Tansy for symptomatic relief of muscular aches and pains, sprains and strains, arthritis, rheumatism and sciatica. It can be relied upon to soothe nervous tension and relieve stress.

Due to Blue Tansy's bronchio-dilating effects it is by far the best treatment I have found for long lasting relief for those suffering from allergies. Whether your allergic reactions are triggered by environmental allergens or food intolerances Blue Tansy has great power for producing beneficial results. Additionally Blue Tansy's analgesic properties help to reduce any swelling or itching associated with allergies.

Read what one long time sufferer of allergies has to say about using Blue Tansy: I've suffered from allergies for many years and use to get weekly shots and take daily medication to control my symptoms. Blue Tansy helped relieve my allergic reaction to environmental, as well as food allergens. I've stopped taking my allergy medication and no longer require shots and seldom do I even need to use my Blue Tansy oil at this point! Brenda Devine, Cave Junction, Oregon, USA

Asthma sufferers may also experience beneficial results when using Blue Tansy due to its bronchio-dilating action; try blending it with Lemongrass essential oil to enhance this effect.

Blue Tansy is also known to relieve burns and inflamed or sun damaged skin. My friend Sylla, owner of Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, used Blue Tansy for relieving the radiation burns sustained when under going her treatment for breast cancer.

If you'd like to try a natural, safe and effective treatment for your allergies or for pain relief consider ethically wild crafted Blue Tansy essential oil.

Please note: There are many cheap chemical copies of essential oils available, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results always use ethically wild crafted or pure, organic essential oils that are pesticide free!

KG Stiles is a certified aromatherapist practicing in Ashland, OR USA PurePlant Essentials is her line of pure organic and ethically wild crafted essential oils. KG formulates aromatic oils for: colds and flu, insomnia, stress, anxiety, depression, menopause, anti-aging, skin care and more. KG's DVD & book, Your Aromatic Signature ~ How to Formulate Blends that Heal, are scheduled for release in 2006. To learn more visit: Order Ethically Wild Crafted Blue Tansy Please refer to KG's Essentials Safety Guide before using any aromatic oils! KG invites you to Subscribe to Health Mastery Ezine to WIN FREE Aromatherapy Products. To learn more visit: Subscribe To Win Contact:KG Stiles Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315

The Effectiveness of Spa Treatment

Spa treatment is gaining its importance nowadays. The benefits of spa are not limited to beauty purposes. It employs a magical way of reducing stress, soothes muscles and relaxes mind and body. Spa treatments have been proved effective and beneficial to a lot of people around the world. From the tight schedule of work 24 hours a day, spa provides a way of escapism to a world, calm and quiet.

There are many treatments available under spa. It is only necessary to choose for the best treatment and select for the one you are in need of. The manual treatment of the body?s muscles is known as therapeutic massage. Massage is a very aeffective method of treatment. Massages relieve muscle rigidity, tremors, or cramps and to relieve anxiety and tension.

Types of therapeutic massages

There are various types of massages which perform different functions for the body. They are:

Swedish massage

This involves a variety of techniques for muscle relaxation by applying pressure to them against muscles and bones. The main purpose behind this is increasing the oxygen flow in the blood and releasing pollutants from muscles.

Advantages

• Shortens recovery time from muscular strain
• Increases blood circulation without increasing heart load
• Stretches the ligaments and keep them flexible.
• Reduces both emotional and physical stress
• Stimulates skin and nervous system and soothes nerves

Swedish massage costs around $75-$100 at a spa. The location and place also matters in the cost factor.

Deep tissue massage

This is a massage done on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It releases chronic patterns of tension in the body by applying pressure on the contracted areas. This is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and also by applying friction across the grain of the muscles.

Advantages

• Eliminate scar tissue
• Loosens muscle tissue and releases toxins from muscles
• Proper circulation of blood and oxygen

Sports massage

This type of massage, as the name suggests is used mainly for sports people and done necessarily before, during and after an athletic event. This helps the person to drain away exhaustion, relieve swelling, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injuries.

The main aim behind the therapy is to help reduce stress and tension which builds up in the body?s soft tissues especially during physical strain.

Advantages

• Reduces heart rate and blood pressure
• Increases lymph flow
• Increases blood circulation
• Relieves pain
• Greater athletic endurance

This is a common method of spa treatment which is very effective and inexpensive.

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils. During the massage one would inhale volatile essential oils through the mucosa of the nose and mouth. An electronic massage system is then sent to the limbic system of the rain which causes messages to be sent to other parts of the body. Many mental and emotional benefits can be seen this way.

The method of aromatherapy massage is being used in many spa centers and many found it to be useful and effective.

The other treatment method involve in spa is facial.

Facial

This cleans and cleanses the skin by maintaining it by casting off dead skin cells. Facial smoothens and maintains a well hydrated skin.

Types of facials

• Deep-Cleansing Facial: this type of cleansing targeted to skin type usually uses a gentle botanical peel with essential oils.
• Oxygenating Facial: this type of facial is especially for dull looking skin. This treatment contains a vitamin formula that revives tired skin.
• Sea Beauty Facial: this treatment re-vitalizes the skin.
• D.N.A. Facial: this special treatment for the skin helps restoring collagen as it nourishes tired skin.

Body treatment

Body treatment is essential for your body to nourish, hydrate and eliminate dirt form the pores inside. There are various types of body treatment like body scrub, body mask and body wrap.

Body scrub involves massaging on your skin with a mixture of salt, oil, and aromatics like lemon on your skin. Once the dirt is removed from the uppermost part of the skin, it remains extremely soft and smooth. Body mask is usually done after a body scrub. Body wrap can be herbal or involves moor therapy treatment.

Spa proves to be effective in lot many ways. It is expected to provide more features in the near future as life and life style changes drastically and as people demand a remedy from the stress of the ?digital world?.

Devi sri is a seo copywriter for juvenexspa. She has written various articles for juvenexspa. For more information on spa treatment you could visit the site http://www.juvenexspa.com. You could contact her through mail at devisrri@gmail.com

Scar Prevention and Alligator Embryos

The secret to scar-free healing comes from alligator embryos. It is a protein called transforming growth factor B3 (TGFB3), and a synthetic form of the protein is soon to be available in a product called Juvista.

Mark W. J. Ferguson discovered that TGFB3 helps to reduce scarring while studying cleft palates in alligators. Alligator palates develop in the same way as human palates. When Ferguson tried operating on alligator embryos in the womb, he discovered that the baby alligators were born with no scars. 20 years later he developed a prescription drug that helps to reduce scarring in humans. In 2000 Ferguson and Sharon O'Kane formed Renevo LTD.

Scar prevention and reduction can benefit cosmetic surgery patients in many ways. For years cosmetic surgeons have worked to reduce the effects of scarring, devising methods that allow for a smaller incision and finding ways to place incisions in less visible areas.

Preventing or reducing the development of scar tissue means that doctors and patients will have more freedom to choose how the procedure will be performed. Patients will no longer be forced to weigh the visual benefits of surgery against the appearance of scars.

Existing scars can be significantly reduced without the use of lasers or skin grafts. Juvista can significantly reduce existing scars with only two injections. An exact figure has not yet been announced, but Renevo expects Juvista injections to cost less than BOTOX.

While Juvista can lead to incredible improvements in cosmetic surgery, the benefits go far beyond appearances. For some people, scarring is a serious and debilitating problem, causing pain and loss of motion, and disfigurement. Burn and accident victims, who often have significant scarring over large areas of their bodies, will experience a significantly improved quality of life after scar reduction.

Renevo is currently developing drugs to prevent abdominal adhesions and reduce scarring in blood vessel, eyes and tendons. Juvista is its lead product and is still in clinical trials, but should be available in the U.S. soon.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery, wish to reduce existing scars, talk to your doctor about Juvista today.

The cosmetic surgery directory, the authoritative information resource about cosmetic surgery procedures and skin care, has provided this article.

Asthma Treatment and You Overcome Your Asthma Naturally

From my very first Asthma attack at the age of seven till my last one about 5 years ago, Asthma (along with acne in my teenage and early adult years) had been a health problem that I had to deal with. Needless to say, those were some depressing years.

Depressing because I had been told my doctors, family and friends that there wasn?t a cure for Asthma, heck my pastor even went as far as to say that along with my acne, ?in every thing give thanks for this is the will of God for you??

Alas, they were all wrong.

Asthma can be cured and naturally at that. My belief is if it worked for me, it can definitely work for anyone plagued by this disease.

I was so vulnerable to this respiratory disorder that even the slightest friendly pat on the back would ignite an asthma attack characterized by wheezes, gasps, and cough spells, that could last as long as a week.

This went on till I stumbled on Drugless Healing and its abilities to alleviate so-called incurable diseases. This method of healing involves the use of Proper Diet, Exercise and mental attunements and can be applied to an Asthma treatment regimen as well for great benefits.

Let me show you how:

First of all, let?s start with its definition.

Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the bronchial tubes (airways) that causes swelling and narrowing (constriction) of the airways. The result is difficulty breathing. The bronchial narrowing is usually either totally or at least partially reversible with treatments.

That?s its definition in the medical fraternity, but based on my experiences, I will simply choose to believe that Asthma, like any other disease known to man, is a result of a clogging of the human bodily tissues which is a 99.99% consequence of eating disease/mucus forming foods, which include (but are not limited to) Animal foods such as meat, milk, cheese and eggs, Grains and their by products, processed and junk foods.

Abstinence from the products above is a must and a fact that has been in effect in several asthma treatment programs aimed at correcting respiratory health such as the Breath Retaining Program For Asthmatics developed by the Russian, Dr. Buteyko. Within weeks of adhering to this advice, many chronic asthmatics have been able to give up the use of ventolin inhalers.

Therefore, the first step in achieving a successful asthma treatment will simply be to make a change in your diet by avoiding mucus forming foods and adhering to consuming their direct opposites, the body healing/alkaline forming foods. These include Seasonal, Organic Fruits, Roots and Leafy Vegetables and very little nuts.

It may sound boring or unrealistic but, if curing your asthma (or any disease or condition you may have as a matter of fact) is your goal, this sacrifice is well worth it. Besides, with so many fruits and vegetables to choose from, abstinence from Acid-forming foods shouldn?t be difficult at all.

In addition to all of the facts mentioned above, based on scientific research, the human body goes through a cleansing process from twelve midnight until twelve noon, and a building program from twelve noon to twelve midnight. Therefore, what is eaten during these respective periods must be harmonious with the natural processes. That said a suggested menu plan will be

1. Fresh squeezed Fruit Juice for breakfast.

2. A mono-meal of a juicy, seasonal fruit for lunch

3. A fresh home-made salad, steamed root and/or leafy vegetables or a wise combination of all three for dinner.

Also, do not consume liquids of any kind with your meals as this practice hinders digestion by diluting the juices in the stomach. This brings about a constriction of the diaphragm, inhibiting its natural motions needed for respiration. If there is a natural thirst (as with an alkaline forming diet, thirst is minimal as an added benefit) drink only enough to quench your desire with pure distilled water at least an hour before or after your meals and certainly 2 hours at least before going to bed.

Strictly avoid the use of Microwaves (you may refer to my personal experience with them in the section of my site concerning Acne)-the source of information on this is issued at the end of Chapter 13 in the downloadable e-book, but for a brief overview of this topic the balancing of specific foods is not the only important aspect of a healthy diet, but as important is the manner in which the foods are cooked.

Other things to avoid are excessively cold drinks, excessive exposure to cold, air-conditioning, heaters (without the use of humidifiers and a cracked window for fresh air during winter times-Hint: sleep closer to the cracked window, while I lived in Minneapolis, MN for two years that was my trick to ensure I was properly ventilated at night), fans etc.

Also, avoid at all costs eating conventional fruits they are loaded with disease forming pesticides and sprays that upon consumption wreak havoc on the respiratory organs, take it from this author, I learned this the hard way!

With proper breathing techniques as offered for free on my site and a suggested adherence to the dietetic principles above, be assured that you are well on your way to curing your asthma naturally and permanently.

Asthma need not be a part of your life anymore, you, like many others can control it and make it a thing of your past.

Foras Aje is an independent health researcher and founder of Bodyhealthsoul.com For more information on Asthma Treatment, feel free to stop by his website today.

How To Get Rid Of Acne: 3 Steps Toward A Fair Complexion

There are many types of acne, but the most common form occurs during the teenage years when young adults experience a dramatic increase in hormone levels. These hormones signal the skin glands to produce more oil. When this oil mixes with dead cells, it can clog pores in the skin and trap bacteria as well. The result is often a raised tissue area characterized by swelling, redness, and pus. These bumps are also known as ?pimples,? the symptom most commonly associated with acne.

Acne can occur anywhere on the face, neck, back, or chest, and severe cases can lead to social alienation, or emotional and physical scars. Although mild acne can not be entirely prevented, you can take three steps to minimize its impact.

Gently Cleanse Your Skin: Each day, gently wash your skin with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing your face too hard or washing it too often. Doing so can make your acne worse. Also avoid using skin and hair care products that contain excess oil. Instead, use water-based skin care soaps that gently cleanse your skin, such as Neutrogena or Dove.

Apply Topical Ointments: At least once daily, but no more than three times a day, apply a nonprescription topical ointment to problematic areas. One of the best products is Clearasil because it contains both benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Benzoyl peroxide works to unplug clogged pores, while salicylic acid helps clear up blemishes by causing the top layer of skin to peel. Products that contain tea tree oil (commonly found in gels, creams, and lotions) or alpha-hydroxy acid are also desirable. However, remember that if you use a product too often, your acne can get worse. So confine your applications to less than three times per day unless otherwise directed by a doctor.

Avoid the Following: Make sure to avoid the following acts which can trigger acne flare-ups: overexposure to the sun, the wearing of tight-fitting items that rub against the skin, excess stress, constant touching of the face, working with oils or harsh chemicals, excessive sweating, hair hanging in your face, or the use of hair care products that contain oils. Also avoid squeezing pimples. Squeezing pimples can result in an infection and/or long-term scaring.

While mild acne is annoying, it will eventually pass. Most people will outgrow acne by their early-twenties, so there is reason to be optimistic. Make each of the above steps part of your daily routine, and you should be able to control your acne. However, those with more severe cases of acne should consult a dermatologist.

About the Author

Britt Gillette educates people on the numerous benefits of Himalayan Goji Juice. You can find more articles like this one at The Goji Juice Resource.

Acne Adult and Its Possible Culprits

Acne Adult Dilemma

You'd think after the adolescent stage of our lives, our skin would know that and respond to hormonal changes in a positive way. Unfortunately our skin (and bodies as a whole) oftentimes are not fed the raw materials necessary to make those adjustments and hence we're left with all sorts of symptoms - including adult acne.

Historically, the master herbalists of old would recommend herbal alteratives which are upwards of 100 specialized plants which clean the blood and eliminative tissues and organs. Dr. Nowell once called these herbs blood purifiers and sweeteners.

How do herbal alteratives affect the blood in that way? Blood impurities occur because of the improper functioning of one or more organs - most frequently the secretory organs - which fail to carry out impurities. Toxicity may also come from improper food or impure air and water.

It's the concensus of mainstream medicine that hormones are the main and only culprit in skin eruptions (commonly known as either adolescent or acne of adults). However, which organs produce hormones? Feed a liver, or any endocrine gland, artificial foods and what quality of hormones, if any, do you think they will produce?

Fact is, the liver, kidneys and skin are the chief organs for carrying off impurities and waste matter. If the liver is torpid and bile retained in the system, we may find in one case the retained bile has affected digestion, and in another case, caused acne adult.

An acne type skin eruption is one of the first signs of failure to maintain an open avenue of elimination through the liver and bowels. If the kidneys fail to secrete as they should or are not furnished with the proper amount of clean water, the blood can remain toxic.

The skin may not be eliminating well, or the lungs may be unable to oxygenize the blood due to impure air being breathed and retained.

So as you can see there are many factors involved with acne of all kinds. Food, air, emotional stress, and other essential factors all play a role and must be improved, in addition to herbal therapy, or the bloodsream may remain toxic.

Article by Rita Lambros-Segur, M.H. of Electrical Body, Inc. Rita has helped thousands of regular folks improve their health with natural strategies. Visit Acne Adult Resources for more information. Also check out Electrical Body Ebook for FREE articles, ezines, catalog, a great e-book offer and more.

The Asbestos Debate

Asbestos. Most often asbestos is equated or associated with dire images. As a society there seems to be an overall distaste for any regard where asbestos is concerned. If you or a loved one has suffered from the cancerous side effects of asbestos and asbestos related materials you know that it is indeed a very horrible experience.

As with anything there are two sides to the total story. If you go back far enough to the time when this unique material first surfaced you would realize the tremendous benefits it offered. These benefits were far reaching. And in this other-sided-view of asbestos perhaps you would have a better appreciation for the sacrifices made and challenges met where asbestos was concerned.

Obviously if you have known an individual stricken with mesothelioma you understand the sacrifices individuals made in the workplace. Inadequate ventilation and mishandling of asbestos is the number one reason lung disease attributed to asbestos is so prominent. Indeed it is the workplace that is as much to blame than the asbestos itself. Stricter codes and safety regulations would have prevented many unnecessary deaths and illness over the course of years.

Assuming responsible interaction with any material used for such purposes as asbestos is used would be a reasonable focal point for manufacturers to begin manufacturing. Education and awareness as well as understanding the use of materials that have a potential public danger should always be priority. Banning such materials in the long run resolves nothing.

Asbestos and similar materials have so many varied and important uses. No one can argue that fireproofing, electrical insulation and brake linings are things we as a society need. Some will argue there are other methods to achieve these amenities.

There will always be an argument for either side of asbestos. Those who know the damage it can cause will argue that the benefits aren't worth the risks. Others will argue that the legacy of fear was based on ignorance. And still yet there are some who believe that the current fears and hatred toward asbestos is fueled by marketing opportunities and political issues.

Researching every angle of the asbestos debate will produce questions. Fortunately answers will slowly appear also. Often unanimous negative feelings toward something can be attributed to a ?propaganda-type? approach to advertising and media. Understandably establishing an opinion can be difficult in this type of situation, but not entirely impossible.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of mesothelioma Resources a website providing information on mesothelioma

Causes of Acne

Acne is an inflammatory skin disease that is caused due to certain biological variations in the pilosebaseous units (skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its connecting sebaceous gland) of the skin. The most common form of acne known as acne vulgaris? usually appears during adolescence.

Acne is caused due to excessive oil in human body. The glands in the skin secrete excessive amount of oil that block the hair follicles by combining naturally with the dead skin cells. Generally, people who eat a lot of oily food suffer from this problem.

Due to acne some parts of the human body are affected. Some of them are face, arms etc. The oil secretions behind the blocked pores create a perfect environment for uncontrolled multiplication by the bacteria in the skin. In response, the skin inflames, producing the visible lesion (acne). Rashes are occurred on the body. The face, upper arms, back and chest are especially affected by acne.

The certain lesions of acne are: blackish elevations or pale yellow and/or small whitish bumps. More inflamed rashes take the shape of boil-like tender swellings or reddish bumps. After resolution of the blemishes, prominent unsightly acne scars may remain.

The acne condition is common in puberty as a result of an abnormal response to normal levels of the male hormone testosterone. Acne occurs when the hormones are increased due to excess oil in the body. There is however no way to predict how long acne will take to disappear completely or that it will ever recur again.

Acne affects a large percentage of humans at some stage in life. Apart from leaving behind the marks of scars it has some psychological effects as well causing stress and depression. Therefore acne should not be neglected and should be treated with great care and responsibility to ensure a healthy life.

For more information about acne, click on Acne Treatment

Breast Cancer Young Women

Although many people believe that young women don't get breast cancer, the fact is they can and they do. One in every 229 women between the ages of 30 and 39 will be diagnosed with breast cancer within the next 10 years.

The statistics that surround younger women and breast cancer are frightening. Although only a small percentage of all new breast cancer cases each year involve women aged 40 and younger, breast cancer is still the leading cause of death for women between the ages of 15 and 54. The number of young women diagnosed each year with breast cancer is between 11-12,000. Close to 1400 of those women will die each year. A lot of young women and their doctors do not realize that they too are at risk for this disease.

One of the problems with detection of breast cancer in younger women is that a mammogram is not an effective screening tool for women under 40. Younger women tend to have dense breast tissue and that prevents tumors or areas of calcifications to be seen in the film. Because of the lack of screening tools, younger women are often diagnosed at a later stage in the disease than their older counterparts. In addition, young women's cancers are generally more aggressive and have lower rates of survival. The survival rate for 5 years is 83% for younger women - lower than the survival rate for post-menopausal women.

Another issue that impacts younger women who have breast cancer is that most research is done on breast cancer patients who are over the age of 40 or post-menopausal. Younger women are an underrepresented population in research studies. The drug Tamoxifen is an example of a drug which affects post-menopausal women differently than pre-menopausal women, so younger women who are prescribed this drug as treatment need to do careful research on their own to make sure that the benefits outweigh the risks of the drug.

An additional area of concern for younger women who have breast cancer include issues such as early onset on menopause and fertility issues. Many young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer have not yet begun a family. One of the side effects of chemotherapy and/or hormonal therapies can be irreversible menopause. Tamoxifen is a drug that can affect fertility, so again, younger women will need to research their choices carefully if they plan to have children or start a family in the future. One of the newer treatments for women with hormone receptive breast cancer has only been shown to be effective with post-menopausal women, so a treatment option that younger women will have to make in the future is if they want to take tamoxifen OR shut down or remove their ovaries to bring on early menopause to benefit from a more effective treatment.

The final issue that young women with breast cancer face is the isolation they sometimes feel - brought about by being the youngest in their support group and having to deal with different issues than their older counterparts. One organization which helps provide a network for young breast cancer survivors is the Young Survival Coalition.

Remember - no woman is too young to have Breast Cancer.

Michael Russell

Your Independent guide to Breast Cancer

Energy Balance in the Body is a Key to Better Health

Historical references to a universal energy field date back as far as 5000 B.C. to India where prana was considered to be the basic source of life. In China it was called chi and was believed to be in all matter. Two polar forces were recognized, yin and yang. When these two forces were in balance, one was considered to be healthy. More recently Western medicine has begun to recognize energy within the body with the advent of devices capable of detecting its effects in the body. Energy fields associated with the human body have been detected by electroencephalograms (EEG), electrocardiograms (ECG), and very highly sensitive devices such as superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUID). Even biomagnetism has been recognized, as more sensitive devices have been developed to measure very weak magnetic fields.

Practitioners of alternative forms of health care often believe much of the illness we see in the human body is the result of either a blockage of the flow of energy of the body, or an imbalance in the energy from one side of the body to the other. When the energy balance is restored, the body begins the healing process. Often, symptoms seem to almost miraculously lessen or even disappear. Conditions such as migraine headaches, the cause of which is poorly understood anyway, respond remarkably well to a restoration of the energy in the body.

Energy imbalance is the result of too much nerve energy being sent to a part of the body in response to pain or dysfunction. Nerve energy, as I have called it here, is an electrical signal that is sent along the path of the nerve. All electrical signals also have a magnetic field. The magnetic field is so weak around this nerve impulse that it would seem to be undetectable. When measures are taken to restore proper balance to the energy of the body, a clinical result can be measured. A definite beneficial change takes place. If balance is not restored, the body gets caught in an endless loop of trying to make corrections. The result is an imbalance in which the deficient side develops painful trigger points. These trigger points are formed in the areas where acupuncture meridians are located. Therapies have been developed using these points to release blockages of energy and allow the proper amount of energy to flow. One does not need to use needles. These are the same acupressure points used by massage therapists, and other touch type therapies, to release tension, increase blood flow, and strengthen the body?s natural life force to assist in healing.

When energy is flowing to one side of the body more than to the other, it can be easily felt in the form of muscle tension. Nerve impulses are sent along the nerves to muscles and other locations in the body. In the muscles, this naturally causes them to be more contracted. A muscle that is contracted is shorter than a muscle that is relaxed. Remember as children how we showed off our muscles by forcefully contracting them ourselves? As a result of the increased muscle contraction, one entire side of the body will often feel tighter and tenser than the other. How can we balance this energy and cause both sides of the body to be equally relaxed? The method is simple.

Trigger points are located by their tenderness, and once located, gentle pressure is applied. The initial stimulation of the trigger point sends a signal to the central nervous system to send more energy to the deficient side. It is like saying, ?Hey, look! There is a problem over here too.? The side that was getting the excessive energy suddenly has energy diverted from it, and the deficient side begins to receive an increase in energy. After a short time, a balance is achieved. The body is then able to use its resources for healing instead of continually attempting to bring the flow of its energy back into balance.

Dr. Conny Young has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and a Master of Arts degree in Physiology and Biochemistry. He did postgraduate work in Neurophysiology and Phamacology. He worked as a research scientist for a major pharmaceutical company for 17 years before becoming a chiropractor. He attended seminars on Touch for Health, Logan Basic Technique, Bioenergetic Synchronization Technique, Reiki (Level III master), Network Chiropractic, Brimhall 10 Step Protocol and has studied the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Shiatzu, Kiatzu, and Reflexology. He maintained a private practice for 17 years, and taught Neurophysiology and Toxicology at Palmer College of Chiropractic. He conducted research on the effectiveness of energy balancing for the treatment of migraine headaches. He can be reached through his website at: http://www.healthandwellnesssolutionsonline.com

The Benefits Of Aromatherapy

Unless you?ve been asleep for the past few years, you?ve probably heard something about aromatherapy. In fact, you might even be interested in learning more about aromatherapy, and the benefits it possesses.

Aromatherapy has actually been around for at least six thousand years. It was used in China in the form of incense burned in temples, and in the oils the ancient Egyptians used in embalming and other rituals. In some form or another, aromatherapy has been utilized in human civilization ever since.

However, it?s only in recent years that aromatherapy has really come into its own. In fact, only now is it being seen as a genuine science, as well as an ancient art.

To many people, the idea of aromatherapy is just that: therapy derived from aromas. But in actual fact, it?s much more. Aromatherapy involves the utilization of essential oils, which are oils derived from plant matter (these oils are generally extracted by distillation, although other methods are often employed to do so). The plant parts used include leaves, flowers, stems, bark, roots, even the rinds of fruits. These essential oils don?t actually feel ?oily? as such, but they are miscible in oil, which gives them their oily nature. They?re very volatile, which accounts for their strong aroma, and contain a multitude of chemical compounds.

Aromatherapy has been shown to be beneficial for a number of conditions, ranging from physical to mental ailments. Aromatherapy is particularly beneficial for stress (lavender oil is commonly used as a de-stressor), and many essential oils have an antibacterial or antifungal action, and can be applied directly to the skin (tea tree oil is an excellent example of this). It?s not widely understood why essential oils have the effects on the body they do, but it?s most likely to do with the complex chemical structure of the essential oils, and the fact that the body can absorb these components (whether through inhalation, or through direct application through massage or the like).

There are a number of ways aromatherapy is utilized, including: direct inhalation, steam inhalation (using a vaporizer or similar), in personal care products (added to creams, soaps, lotions etc), in a clay pot diffuser, a lamp ring diffuser or a nebulizing electric diffuser, or through massage with a carrier oil. There are also aromatherapy candles on the market, which when burned release the essential oils into the atmosphere in a similar way to a diffuser. Another common use of essential oils is in bathing, where a few drops of an essential oil are added to bath water, and mixed in vigorously. This is an excellent way for the user to both inhale the aromas, as well as absorb the compounds through the skin.

However, before you get stuck straight into the use of aromatherapy, remember that natural does not necessarily equal safe! Essential oils contain powerful ? often toxic ? ingredients, and must be used with care. Many essential oils can not be applied directly to the skin (as they are highly irritating) and the majority should not be ingested on any circumstances. Remember also that when it comes to essential oils, less really is more. A few drops of any essential oil is all you need. Adding more will not increase the power of the essential oil, and may instead produce deleterious effects (not to mention wasting the essential oil, many of which are quite expensive).

Before using essential oils, it?s a good idea to read more about them. You?ll find several great resources both online and offline detailing the effects and uses of the most common essential oils. You?ll also learn more about blending essential oils for maximum effect, and any safety considerations you have to be aware of.

Fiona Shearer-Hann is the webmaster of The Aromatherapy Expert website, and also maintains several other websites including Mega Health Suite.

The Truth About Prostate Cancer Warning Signs

Prostate cancer warning signs...

Every man should be concerned about their prostate's health.

Indeed, for men not paying attention to it, it can be deadly as prostate cancer comes second only to lung cancer with respect to cancer-caused deaths for American men...and is near the top for Canadian men as well.

Prostate cancer is also the most common type of cancer for men in the United States. Tens of thousands of new cases are diagnosed yearly.

Although there is most likely a hereditary component to your chances of getting prostate cancer, like many things in life, a lot of it comes down to choices you make, such as taking quality prostate health promoting supplements and eating food for good prostate health.

Prostate cancer warning signs

Although the aforementioned prostate statistics don't seem to be good, the truth of the matter is that if prostate cancer is detected early, treatments are often very successful and chances of surviving are very high.

Therefore, one of the best things you can do other than take the necessary supplement and dietary steps to promote good prostate health is to have what is called a PSA test (prostate specific antigen tests) done every year. It doesn't take long and it's not painful so don't put it off.

The drawback of the PSA test is that it isn't perfect in what it reveals.

Now, what about prostate cancer warning signs?

Well, unfortunately, prostate cancer does not really give off any warning signs.

In addition, another confusing aspect is that most of the possible warning signs, if they appear, are also the same signs for other prostate health problems that are non-cancerous in nature, such as BPH, which is called an enlarged prostate gland.

However, these signs are still worth mentioning.

The following are some potential prostate cancer warning signs or signs of BPH:

• incomplete emptying of the bladder
• dribbling
• difficulty starting urination
• reduced force of the stream
• frequent urination of small amounts
• pain with urination
• ejaculation pain
• blood in the urine

Dietary and Supplement Protocols

Although saw palmetto is touted as the best herb to take for prostate health, it actually isn't. Something called Beta sitosterol is much better. Here's why:

Even the best Saw Palmetto supplements are comprised of 99% fatty acids and 1% sterols. The sterol component is where the therapeutic benefit lies (hence the name Beta Sitosterol).

In short, by taking Beta Sitosterol, you will be getting only the active component of Saw Palmetto that is responsible for its medicinal properties. Beta sitosterol is literally thousands of times more powerful than saw palmetto.

Other beneficial nutrients and supplements include: lycopene, pygeum, stinging nettle, and cornsilk.

With respect to food for good prostate health, recent research by the authoritative US National Cancer Institute revealed that men who consumed more than 1/3rd of an ounce of onions, scallions, garlic, chives per day were much less likely to have prostate cancer.

In conclusion, don't wait for prostate cancer warning signs or signs of other prostate problems to show up before you do anything about it.

On the other hand, if you are already experiencing possible signs of prostate problems, don't panic.

This is a very treatable condition if caught in its early stages. Just make sure you take appropriate action and talk to your doctor about it right away so you don't become a statistic.

Get more info on prostate cancer warning signs and supplements to consider using to promote prostate health at: http://www.nutritional-supplement-info.com/prostate-herbs.html

Magnetic Therapy for Pain Relief

Historically it is reported that magnets have been around for an extremely long time. Magnets were first documented around 2500-3000 years BC. Their origins are first noted in Asia Minor in a vast land called Magnesia. The earth there was enriched with iron oxide which attracted metals to it. The locals named it Magnetite.

Another story is told of a young boy, who lived 2500 years BC, called Magnes ? a shepherd on Mount Ida. One day he was tending his sheep whilst wearing sandals which contained iron in the sole. He found it hard to walk up the mountain as his feet felt heavy and stuck to the rock face. Mount Ida was found to contain a rock called Lodestone, which is the first known magnetic mineral. It is reported that Lodestone was named Magnes after the boy who discovered it, and it later came to be known as magnet.

Cleopatra was probably the first celebrity to use magnets. It is documented that she slept on a Lodestone to keep her skin youthful. The therapeutic knowledge was passed to the Greeks who have been using magnets for healing since 2500 BC Aristotle and Plato talked of the benefits of Lodestones in their work.

Magnets have been used in Chinese medicine from around 2000 BC in-conjunction with reflexology and acupuncture. It is still used today as a first line treatment for many common complaints.

3,500 years after they were first discovered, magnets have gained popularity in Europe and the USA. In the 15th century a Swiss physician Paracelsus recognised the therapeutic powers of magnets. He wrote medical papers on the influence of magnets on the inflammatory processes within the body.

In the 16th century an English doctor Dr William Gilbert made a scientific study of electricity and magnetism. He published one of the first books about magnetic therapy called ?De Magnet?. Dr Gilbert was also Queens Elizabeth I personal physician and it is said that she used magnets under his direction.

Michael Faraday, also known as the founder of Biomagnetics made extensive discoveries in magnetic healing during the 18th century. His work is still used as a framework for modern day magnetic treatments. Dr Mesmer (the father of hypnotism) and Dr Samuel Hahnemann (the father of homoeopathy) also contributed to his remarkable work.

20th century pioneers include Dr Kreft a German doctor who in 1905 studied the healing effects of magnets on rheumatic disease, sciatica and neuralgia. 1926 revealed Dr Criles work on the impact of magnets on cancer cells and this was followed 10 years later in 1936 with Albert Davis carrying out tests on the effects of the north and south poles of a magnet.

However the last 15 years has shown a prolific increase in medical research into magnetic therapy. There have been over 57 studies in the USA into incurable diseases and magnetics. Some of the most recent are:

1990 ? University if Hawaii tested magnetic fields on patients with osteoarthritis.

1992- Stiller et al a randomised double blind trial of wound healing in venous leg wounds.

1999- New York Medical College tested magnetic insoles on diabetic patients.

2001- University of Virginia tested magnetic mattress covers on patients with Fibromyalgia.

2004- University of Exeter and Plymouth tested magnetic bracelets on patients with osteoarthritis

Magnetic therapy is gaining in popularity worldwide with many celebrity devotees including: Cherie Blair, Bill Clinton, Anthony Hopkins, Prince William, Queen Elizabeth II, Shirley MaClaine, Venus Williams, Michael Jordan, Andre Agassi, Jack Niklaus and many more.

Magnetic devices are now registered as prescribable medical devices in 54 countries worldwide With new research being completed each year and doctors at last acknowledging that it is not ?witch doctory? we shall hopefully see, with in the next few years, magnetic devices being prescribed on the NHS in-conjunction with conventional pain killing drugs.

Debbie Shimadry is qualified magnetic therapist and pain nurse specialist. She appears on several BBC radio stations as an expert guest on magnetic therapy and is also the managing director of World of Magnets ltd. http://www.worldofmagnets.co.uk. For more information visit http://www.magnetictherapyfacts.org/

Finding the Best Acne Treatment for Your Troubled Skin

Acne causes embarrassment and discouragement for millions of people. Most are in their teen years, but adults are affected, too. There are many choices of acne treatment on the market. Some are well formulated, while others are weak and ineffective. Finding the best acne treatment for your skin can improve your outlook, and your looks.

The best products for treating your acne are natural, gentle products. Look for botanical ingredients in the list. Some herbal ingredients that are healing to blemished skin include sage, yarrow, coltsfoot, wild thyme, horsetail, althea (or marshmallow), and balm mint (or melissa). Aloe vera is a well known skin healer, and is often included in good acne products.

Also valuable in a treatment remedy for acne are certain essential oils. Some essential oils are harsh for skin. (None should be used straight, but should always be diluted with a carrier oil!) The best acne treatment products might include oils such as lavender, rose, tangerine, and geranium. These are not only healing to the skin, but will make the product smell great, too.

If the product is made with a transdermal system, any vitamins or herbal ingredients will be able to absorb into the skin and treat the acne where it starts. Some vitamins that might be included in a topical acne treatment include vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin E, and pro vitamin B5.

Just like healthy food for the body, the best acne treatment will provide nourishment and nutrition directly to the skin. The skin tends to reveal the health of a person. What shows up on the outside often indicates a deficiency or need on the inside. Getting a healthy diet can help you overcome your acne, and is a good addition to make to your use of good products.

Even the best products, however, won't clear up that acne if they are used inconsistently. It's a good idea to get into the routine of taking your vitamin supplements and cleansing your face every day. Don't let procrastination or disorganization leave you without time for taking care of yourself. The skin is the largest organ in the body. It is a major agent in removing toxins from the body. It needs to be pampered and cared for.

A moisturizer is also an important part of an acne treatment. Like other components, it needs to be 100% natural, or it can make matters worse by contributing to clogging the pores. Make sure you take the time to read the label to make sure the ingredients are natural botanicals, nutrients, and healthful oils.

Some people say you should try to use only products on your skin that you would be willing to put in your mouth. This might not always be the case, since the skin does act like a filter, while absorbing nutrients and other substances. Still, one should be cautious about using unnatural products.

Written by Jim McDonald, a contributing writer for http://www.natural-acne-treatment.info, an informative website about the Best Acne Treatment and natural skin care.