Abundance is for Everyone

Abundance is for everyone, not just the limited few that life appears to have smiled on. We are surrounded by abundance. Nature is lavish, even wasteful in its abundance. Anyone caring to look will find an abundance of love, joy, money, and health is readily available to everyone willing to accept them. If there is any lack in our lives it's not because there is not enough, but rather, because we are limiting our intake. What we receive in life is controlled by the limits we place on our emotions, behaviors, thoughts and actions. There are many factors involved in why it is so hard for us to open the valve controlling the flow of abundance in our lives. By the time we become aware of the fact that we create our own limits, the beliefs and habits we've developed that produce these limits are so ingrained they are very difficult to change. Society also has its role to play. Since most of the world's governments have become capitalistic societies, it's in their best interest to promote conditions and belief systems that produce large numbers of have-nots. Simple economics tells us that in order for capitalism to thrive, there must be a large supply meeting a large demand and you must have people who are in debt to create a large enough demand to consume that large supply. The simple reality is that the governments of the world make their money from our poor health, debt, and our struggle to "just get by." Their abundance is dependant on our lack. But this does not mean we have to accept these limits. While it's true that most people will never take advantage of it, information about attracting wealth and prosperity is freely available to anyone caring to look. And the law of attraction says that the more you look, the more information you will attract. What fills your life is what you focus on. Learning to create abundance in your life is about much more than simply creating material wealth, it is about enriching your Self as a whole. When you begin to understand the principles and laws that govern Abundance, you begin to understand that you are not constrained by the conditions of the economy or the amount of your present income. Your ability to increase your wealth, live in abundance, and have financial freedom is all based on your understanding of the universal laws that govern the flow of energy controlling your ability to turn potential into reality. Yet there is more to creating abundance than simply placing an order and then sitting back to wait for its delivery. You have to be giving something of value, adding to the flow, in order to make this work. When this is the case people are more than willing to pay for your contribution. Wealth, money, success, love, and health are all forms of energy. Being part of the flow means that you are a participating member. Once you understand how to operate in the flow of that energy, you learn to work with the Source of energy and actively create your reality instead of simply letting random thoughts create a chaotic existence for you. Abundance is about living a healthy, vibrant life with a purpose and experiencing the joy that comes from possessing a strong sense of Self.

I whole-heartedly recommend Carol Look's Attracting Abundance with EFT package to clear all the blocks you have that keep you from attracting whatever you want. Read about it here:
Attracting Abundance

Another great place to learn all you can about using and teaching the Law of Attraction here:
Law of Attraction Training Center

Migraine Headache Relief: No Meds Therapy Reports 80% Effectiveness--Often Works in Minutes

San Francisco, CA (PRWEB) -- Stanford Engineer Gary Craig introduces a new approach for migraine headache sufferers. This non-drug treatment is called EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) and, through clinical applications, has provided an effectiveness rate of over 80%.

In essence, EFT is an emotional version of acupuncture except needles are not necessary. Instead, gentle fingertip tapping on precise meridian energy points allow the body's subtle energies (or Qi, as it is called in Chinese medicine) to flow unimpeded. This has proven repeatedly to provide relief from a wide variety of pains, including migraine headaches.

An estimated 303 million worldwide experience recurring migraine headaches. At any one time migraines are incapacitating 20 million people, interfering with their productivity and disrupting their personal as well as professional lives. "EFT can nearly eliminate this problem," says Craig. "While qualified physicians should always be consulted, the rapidity and ease with which this process often works is astonishing."

EFT Practitioner Lindsay Kenny reports on one of her early migraine headache cases as follows: "Sherry was out of medication and out of her mind in pain, so she tried lying on the floor and tapping for relief, not knowing whether or not EFT would help. She said that relief came within minutes of tapping and that the migraine was completely gone in less than 10 minutes. She was delighted and astounded. And so was I. That was the first time I knew EFT could work on such serious ailments."

Although EFT is a new process, it has been discovered by innovative members of the medical community. They have found that it effectively addresses the emotional causes to disease and thus provides relief where other methods fail. As Los Angeles Urologist Eric Robins says, "Some day the medical profession will wake up and realize that unresolved emotional issues are the main cause of 85% of all illnesses. When they do, EFT will be one of their primary healing tools .... as it is for me."

Over 225,000 people have downloaded Craig's free training manual and another 5,000 to 10,000 download it each month. Known as The EFT Manual, it has been translated by volunteer practitioners into nine languages. The EFT website is the sixth most actively visited natural health site in the world.

The EFT Manual gives anyone all the basics so they can apply it right away. It can be freely downloaded at...

Download the Free EFT Manual

Growing Organic Vegetables

Many people know about the benefits of eating organic fruit and vegetables. However, not many people regularly eat organic food. The biggest disincentive is usually the price. Organic veggies are invariably a lot more expensive at the local supermarket. The good news is that anybody with even a modest vegetable garden can grow healthy organic vegetables for a much lower cost than they would buy off the shelf.

Nevertheless, some people avoid growing their own vegetables because they are running short on space, time and the know-how to tend a successful veggie patch. However, organic gardening isn’t as difficult as many people think.

Mulching is one of the main secrets. The regular incorporation of old organic matter helps keep the soil functioning well. Mulching helps the soil retain moisture, suppresses weeds, reduces temperature fluctuations, and can prevent soil crusting. Many organic gardeners find that plant disease problems decline as the health of the soil improves.

Of course, the main reason for growing organically is to avoid the use of chemicals and commercially produced fertilizers and pesticides. Again, this helps to maintain a healthy soil across numerous growing seasons. More importantly, you can be sure that the food your family is eating is free of pesticides and herbicides. While avoiding synthetic chemicals, many organic gardeners approve of and use sprays and other preparations containing naturally occurring materials. Other pest control methods include the use of mechanical devices such as traps. Another favorite is to encourage other animals, which like to eat the pests, to the garden.

For city dwellers who have more enthusiasm than space, container gardening may be the answer. Many herbs and vegetables can be grown quite successfully in containers. These include carrots, radishes and lettuce, as well as crops that bear fruit over a long period of time, such as tomatoes and peppers. No matter what you grow it is important to remember that drainage is extremely important. Another possibility if space is at a premium is to grow herbs and vegetables amongst your flower garden.

You never know, if the prices of organic produce remains high and concerns about food safety grow you might be able to convert that backyard vegetable patch into an income earner as well. For those less entrepreneurial, there is the opportunity to work on projects, such as neighborhood food growing, in order to benefit the whole community. At the very least, home grown vegetables definitely taste better.

Health, Well-Being and Massage

Anyone who has enjoyed a good massage can remember the peaceful, euphoric, even sensual feelings it aroused. Your body felt relaxed and refreshed. A sense of well-being and energy had been restored.
However, the benefits of massage may last beyond the afterglow with a continuing positive effect on your health. For instance, with tight muscles that are a result of disease, injury, stress, and the like.
There are massage techniques that are very effective in releasing knotted muscles, lowering toxins in the system and improving circulation. When the tightness has been caused by stress, a good massage can be especially beneficial in restoring feelings of well-being and health. There are many factors - physical and emotional; internal and external - that cause stress. How you perceive and react to these factors can affect the impact they have on your body. Massage helps you to deal with the effects of these different factors and helps to prepare you and, in particular, your body, to cope with the stressors which you experience as stress and tension.
When preparing for massage, mood is important. Create a soft, ambient mood with dimmed lighting and maybe soothing music and perhaps some pleasing scents. These help to deal with the external stressors that impinge on you by creating a comfortable relaxation zone. The therapist will then work on your body, paying special attention to relieving tension in the back and neck muscles, which are often tightened when you are under stress.
The improved physical feelings naturally lead to an elevated mood and a chance to unwind and forget about stressful events. This helps to deal with the emotional elements that contribute to stress. Circulation is improved when the therapist attends to those areas that trap fluids. Increasing the flow leads to better fluid distribution and aids the elimination of toxins that can build up, as well as encouraging the inflow of fresh nutrients. This also assists in the repair of muscle and other tissue damage and enhances the overall feeling of well being. Additionally, digestion can also be improved. As both stress and poor circulation inhibit good digestion, massage relief facilitates a much better response in stomach and intestinal areas.
One of the more obvious benefits is improved athletic ability and motion. Those who participate in sports massage will often see this but it can also be found with other techniques. The tightening of muscles can interfere with free movement and the action of limbs. Once the tight muscles have been relaxed and the joints become more limber, the stiffness will dissolve. The result is greater freedom of movement. Proper massage techniques may also be used as part of an overall treatment plan to deal with particular diseases and injuries. For instance, those with arthritis; patients who've recently had surgery, and many others, will frequently find that their condition improves more rapidly if their physical treatment includes massage therapy. However, when used as an aid in medical treatment, massage needs to be used with care, as there are some conditions, such as an undiscovered broken bone, which may be aggravated by the massage therapy. Also there are some external conditions, including lesions and inflammation, which need to be dealt with before massage methods can be used. However, it is not difficult to find wide-ranging benefits of massage. Those professionals who work on bodies have long known of the healing power of touch and many manipulative techniques have been developed that lead toward optimum health. Though miracle cures are often exaggerated, there is ample evidence to justify claims that massage can be of real benefit.

Diabetes and Exercise - An Important Combination!

When anyone learns they have diabetes one of the first things the doctor will tell you is the need for lifestyle changes. Lack of exercise and obesity are some of the reasons for the disease. The symptoms of adult diabetes, also known as Type 2 Diabetes, is becoming more common with the increasing number of elderly Americans, along with the lack of exercise and increasing obesity rates.

It is well known that Type 2 Diabetics have had complete symptom remission after achieving a significant reduction in weight typically due to exercise and diet improvement. After living the life of a couch potato it is hard to get up and exercise, as we should. But you must understand that it is a must that you get up and start. Remember this is your life we are talking about, so this should be the biggest motivation you need to get up and move.

Unlike type 1, Type 2 Diabetes can usually be controlled with diet, and exercise. We don't exercise as we should. Most health care providers recommend good nutrition and exercise as treatment for those in early stages of Type 2 Diabetes. When exercising, the body needs extra energy or fuel in the form of glucose for the exercising muscles. Research shows that with continued moderate exercising, however, you muscles take up glucose. This lowers blood glucose levels. This is because exercise helps to get glucose into muscle tissue, because contracting muscle does not need insulin to absorb glucose. With moderate exercising, your muscles take up glucose at almost 20 times the normal rate compared to short burst of exercise, such as a quick sprint. You may also consider Chromium supplements, which can improve insulin resistance in muscle cells.

When the blood glucose levels begin to rise, it is the insulin's job to push muscle and fat cells to absorb whatever glucose they need for future activities whereas any surplus will be stored by the liver. Insulin stimulates muscle cells and other body cells to remove glucose from the blood and convert the glucose to glycogen, a kind of starch, and then store the glycogen.

As always you should check with your physician before beginning any exercise program. Start your exercise program slowly with a low-impact exercise such as walking, swimming or biking. You should exercise at least three to four times per week for 20 to 40 minutes each session. It would be best for you to exercise every day. A good exercise program should include 5 to 10 minutes warm-up and at least 15 to 30 minutes of continuous aerobic exercise, followed by 5-minutes cool down. One of the side effects you'll have is you'll sleep better and feel more rested than before you started exercising. So come on get up and move!

Lifestyle Change Will Lower High Blood Pressure

One out of three American adults has high blood pressure or hypertension. High blood pressure is known as the "silent killer" because people with this condition can go years without realizing they have it. The only way to tell is to have it checked by a doctor. Taking the necessary steps to control high blood pressure includes a healthy diet, increased physical activity and lifestyle changes.

HEALTHY DIET T
he key to preventing high blood pressure is moderation and a healthy lifestyle. More adults are overweight now than when their grandparents were young. Modern conveniences seem to add to the problem rather than to prevent it. Sixty-five percent of American adults are overweight or obese. If you are 30 percent above your normal weight, you are a high risk. Take the necessary steps to lower your blood pressure. First, make changes to your diet. Cut salt back to 1.5 grams a day. Add potassium to your diet by eating 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Eat whole grains, poultry, fish, and nuts. Avoid canned foods, cold cuts, sugary beverages, and sweets. If you can't leave out dairy from your diet, at least choose lowfat products.

INCREASE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Second, lose the weight. Light aerobic exercise 20 to 45 minutes 4-5 times a week will reduce your body fat. Commit to walking after dinner or first thing in the morning. If it is hot outside, walk inside the mall or go swimming. If you do not have time to commit to a regular schedule, increase your physical activity by parking your car a good distance away and walk to your destination. Take a flight of stairs instead of the elevator, weed your garden, or cut the grass instead of having it done for you.

CHANGE LIFESTYLE
Did you know that your lifestyle could be killing you? We get so used to living a certain way that change can be difficult. However, your lifestyle can dramatically increase your chance of having high blood pressure so take the time to change your bad habits one by one.
- Drink alcoholic beverages in moderation. A moderate amount is one to two glasses of red wine, something even proven good for your health.
- Avoid Tobacco. Smoking, even second-hand smoke, is not good for anyone but especially those with high blood pressure. Ask your doctor for help. Inquire about nicotine gum or patches. If you smoke, your chance of suffering a heart attack is 2-6 times more likely.
- Avoid Coffee. There is a new report that indicates that some unknown ingredient or ingredients in coffee is what is responsible for high blood pressure and not caffeine. Research shows that even people who drink decaffeinated coffee display these effects. While this might seem like good news, it is best to avoid it if at all possible.
Make the necessary changes in your lifestyle, including a healthy and positive attitude to life, and live a long healthy life!

How to Survive Hospitalization

From Dr. Kildare and Marcus Welby to ER and even House, we have been indoctrinated to believe being admitted to a hospital is the equivalent of a spa vacation. It is a place of miracles and the unwavering attention of an unending staff of doctors, nurses and orderlies who eagerly put their own lives on hold to cater to our every need, medical and personal.

In TV hospitals, every room is a bright, airy private suite. Nurses' stations, hallways, elevators and labs are clean and perfect. The staff never yells in the halls (especially at night) or bang carts or gurneys into walls, beds or doors. And, of course, every nurse and doctor has memorized every patient chart and never make mistakes.

TV patients smile bravely or complain incessantly, treat the staff with friendly respect or rude dismissiveness – it doesn't matter, they have no active role in their own care. Instead, everything is in the hands of a perfect staff, each of whom speaks the native language perfectly.

In the real world, anyone believing this TV fantasy is reality is in for a rude shock; which is not to say there are not excellent hospitals and dedicated, skilled medical professionals working in them, but neither can come close to the Hollywood image. It is the responsibility of every patient to take common sense steps to assist those caregivers, ensure a personal understanding of what is happening and deal with certain situations – at least initially – on their own.

The first step is to create a journal, entering the date, time, individuals involved and details of everything that happens during your stay, from trips to X-ray to the nurse bringing you a pill. Before going to the hospital, if possible, pack a "Sanity Survival Kit":
* A good sleep mask (the lights never really go out)
* A good set of ear plugs (the old days of quiet hospitals are long gone)
* Two sets of pajamas (light robe optional)
* One pair of slippers
* A notebook computer, with DVD drive, loaded with your favorite games, work you will obsess about if it's not done, projects you've been putting off, even some movies you've been planning to watch * A DVD player (if you don't have a computer)
* An MP3 player loaded with your favorite songs (one that doubles as a radio is even better)
* A comfortable headset that will plug into everything, including the hospital TV or bedside controller
* A cell phone with headset
* An ink pen and notebook
* Magazines and paperbacks
* Packets of instant tea or coffee
* A spice bag (salt or salt-free substitute, pepper, sugar or substitute, packets of ketchup/mustard/mayo, Tabasco/soy/pepper sauce)
* Plastic toothpicks, the kind with built-in floss.
The above can, of course, be provided or replenished as needed if you have someone who can bring things to you. If not, take enough to last a full week. Entering a hospital room as a patient is not unlike climbing into an unfamiliar rental car.

Just as the wise driver checks and adjusts the mirrors and locates light switches, the incoming patient should run through a hospital room checklist:
* Find the nurse call button, make certain it works and secure it (most have clips) where you can quickly find and use it in the dark
* Do the same with the bed controller
* Locate all electrical outlets and ask a nurse which you can use and for what
* Make sure your room phone is easy to reach – sitting or reclining – give a friend or relative the hospital phone number and your room number, find out if you have a private line or share it, what you will be charged for calls and how to dial out
* Check TV/radio controls and whether you have a private set or share it; if the latter, come to an agreement first thing on how you are going to share control – and deal with volume issues, whether you share a TV or each have your own
* Check out the bathroom, make sure you can get in and out (especially if you are dragging around an IV pole), locate the light switch, door lock and emergency call chain and check for a second door – in some facilities, two rooms share a single toilet; if there is no shower, have someone show you where to find one
* If your room opens onto a balcony or patio, ask a nurse about access, how to lock it for security, how to open and close any drapes or blinds and what the use regulations are (especially for smokers)
* If you are using any medical equipment (IV, oxygen, etc.), find out if and how you can disconnect or turn them on and off when walking to the restroom
* The hospital should take an inventory of your belongings and offer to lock up valuables; if they do not, ask about it and provide your own list
* Never leave anything of value in plain site (especially computers, cameras, watches, etc.) – neither you nor the staff has any control over other patients or visitors
* Make sure you have a box of tissues close by
* Request fresh water at least twice a day
* Ask to have your tray table disinfected and cleaned in your presence; if you leave your room, have this procedure repeated – you have no way of knowing what, if anything, may have happened to that table while you were gone (visitors and even orderlies have been known to place soiled bed sheets on a tray table, then forget to clean it afterwards)
* Always use the paper toilet seat cover and always wash your hands afterward with sanitizing soap; remember, it isn't just you, but every other patient and visitor
* Check that all tables, drawers, chairs, etc., are in good shape and ask for replacements if not; some hospitals allow furniture that has fallen apart to remain in "service"
* Always check everything you want on your future meals menu, even if it says you will receive some items automatically; also check your selections against you actually get, especially if you have informed the dietary rep (who should have interviewed you on admission) of what you cannot eat or drink; it is not uncommon for foods clearly marked as forbidden due to allergies or medical restrictions to nonetheless be placed on your tray
* Write down the names and shifts of every nurse, orderly and other staff with whom you have contact
* Get the business card of any new doctor you see, then note what he or she said or did and the date and time of the encounter
* If not offered, insist your bedding be changed at least every two days and that you be allowed to take a shower or sponge bath every day (it is not unheard of for patients to spend up to a week in a hospital and never be offered an opportunity to bathe)
* Always tell a nurse or doctor about any unusual bleeding, bruising, itches or pains, both at the time you are admitted as well as any that develop while you are hospitalized
* If a doctor recommends or orders any invasive procedure, ask for a full explanation of why it is needed, what is involved, how long it will take to recover, what restrictions will be imposed during recuperation, what the risks are, if it is fully covered by your insurance – and then request a second opinion from a doctor of your choosing. Your insurance company should both insist on and support you in this (if not, find a new insurer). If a doctor balks or implies you should rely entirely on him or her, you definitely need a second opinion
* Before being released, pack or oversee the packing of your belongings, check everything against the list you made when admitted and immediately report any discrepancies
* Make certain your regular doctors get a full copy of your hospital record
* When the bills come – probably separately from the hospital, each doctor and every lab involved in your care – check them carefully against your journal and the cards you collected; billing errors are common (most of them honest mistakes) and should be reported immediately to your insurance carrier.

This may seem like a lot of work, especially when all you want is to forget everything and have someone take care of you. Unfortunately, the best protection may be what you provide for yourself. But even if the actual need is rare, one or more of these steps may be the difference between a safe and secure hospitalization/recovery and something less. But in all cases, common sense actions, such as locating your call button, are vital to making the best of an otherwise bad situation.

Control Your Type 1 Diabetes

Diabetes is a killer disease. It can lead to kidney failure, heart disease, neuropathy, blindness, and much more. If you have diabetes, you must take control of it immediately. Type 1 diabetes is the hardest type to control. It is also called juvenile diabetes, as it is common to get type 1 diabetes when you are a child. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, which is needed to take sugar (glucose) from the blood to the cells. This results in very high blood sugar counts and this is the major cause of many of the serious complications that may develop.

A person with Type 1 diabetes needs to take insulin shots to lower the blood sugar. Diabetics need to have an insulin called a background insulin, which works throughout the day. Then they need to take extra insulin after eating a meal. An insulin pump gives the constant background insulin. It also allows the diabetic to easily give themselves extra insulin when they eat and cuts down on the need for insulin shots from a needle. However, diabetics must test their blood sugar levels four or five times a day and make whatever adjustments need to be made. The normal testing times are before breakfast, lunch, dinner and bed. The amount of insulin to take with each meal will be determined by a combination of these readings plus the food eaten. Sugar highs and lows wear down the body. The key is to try to control these up and down readings the best you can. The insulin pump helps tremendously but diet is very important.

Follow the glycemic index when eating. This index rates foods according to the way these foods react to your blood sugar. If the carbohydrates the food contains break down quickly, they tend to make your blood sugar levels jump quickly. These foods have a high GI (glycemic index) ranking. For example, a potato has a high GI ranking. The carbohydrates break down very quickly and cause your blood sugar to rise quickly. Beans have a low GI index, so the blood sugar effects are spread out over a longer period of time. You do not get the rapid sugar rise.

Diabetics, in particular, need to learn to balance these foods to avoid those highs and lows. If you are having potatoes, for example, try eating a sweet potato instead or combine some low GI ranked foods with the potatoes to balance this sugar rise. It's well worth it for diabetics to learn as much as they can about this glycemic index. The best diet for a diabetic to follow will be eating more of the foods with a low to medium glycemic index. Other things the diabetic can do is snack on air popped popcorn rather than pretzels. Salt should be limited in the diet as the diabetic is at a greater risk for high blood pressure. Eat broiled or grilled chicken rather than fried chicken. This also helps control blood pressure and cholesterol. If you want to drink wine, drink it with a meal. There is less of an impact on blood sugar. However, do not over indulge. It can and will interfere with your medications.

Diabetes is a very dangerous disease and any diabetic definitely should be visiting a doctor on a regular basis. He or she will help manage your diabetes and will most likely advise a visit with a nutritionist. Diabetes cannot be completely controlled but, with a change in diet and lifestyle, diabetics can help manage it and live a long life.

Five Fat Burning Foods

Each one of the following foods or spices has been clinically proven to promote weight loss. These foods go a step beyond simply adding no fat to your system. They possess special properties that add zip to your system and help your body melt away unhealthy pounds. These wonderful foods can curb your appetite for junk food and keep your body running smoothly with clean fuel and efficient energy.

You should include these foods in any sensible weight-loss plan. They give your body the extra metabolic kick that it needs to shed pounds quickly.

Mustard

Try the hot, spicy kind you find in Asian import stores, specialty shops and exotic groceries. Dr. Jaya Henry of Oxford Polytechnic Institute in England, found that the amount of hot mustard normally called for in Mexican, Indian and Asian recipes, about one teaspoon, temporarily speeds up the metabolism, just as caffeine and the drug ephedrine do.

"But mustard is natural and totally safe", Henry says. "It can be used every day, and it really works. I was shocked to discover it can speed up the metabolism by as much as 20 to 25 percent for several hours" This can result in the body burning an extra 45 calories for every 700 consumed, Dr. Henry says.

Peppers

Hot, spicy chili peppers fall into the same category as hot mustard, Henry says. He studied them under the same circumstances as the mustard and they worked just as well. A mere three grams of chili peppers were added to a meal consisting of 766 total calories. The peppers' metabolism-raising property worked like a charm, leading to what Henry calls a diet-induced thermic effect. It doesn't take much to create the condition. Most salsa recipes call for four to eight chilies - that is not a lot.

Peppers are astonishingly rich in vitamins A and C, abundant in calcium, phosphorus, iron and magnesium, high in fiber, free of fat, low in sodium and have just two calories per cup.

Salsa

The hot peppers in salsa increase metabolism. This means you burn more fat. It also means you have more energy and vitality for your body. If you can stand it, take your salsa very hot and spicy. The reason, the heat from the hot spices increases the fire in your body thus increasing your metabolism and the ability to burn massive amounts of calories and fat.

Ginger

Ginger is very similar to salsa. If you grate ginger and sprinkle it on food, you will gain the benefits of this hot spice. Your job will be to find the foods that work with sprinkled ginger. My favorite is freshly squeezed orange juice with grated fresh ginger - it also helps when you have a flu.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Look for organic apple cider vinegar. Take a tablespoon before each meal. Some people have no problem taking a full tablespoon right out of the bottle. If you cannot manage that, put the vinegar in a glass of water and drink it with your meal. This will increase the fat burning furnace in your body and allow you to start burning stored fat.

There you have it. Five foods, easily found and inexpensive, that will help you shed those pounds.

Ban Plastic from the Kitchen

The modern kitchen is full of plastic. What would we do without plastic containers, plastic cling wrap, plastic utensils for our parties, plastic dishes, plastic cups, plastic spatulas, and more?

The problem with all this plastic is that it is made with chemicals. Chemicals that can leach into our beverages and our food. Chemicals that end up in our bodies, where it accumulates and causes health problems. Chemicals that end up in our unborn children.

Some of the reported health hazards include reproductive defects, premature delivery (up 23% since 1980), lowered sperm counts (down 40% since 1945), and early onset puberty.

Two of the most common "bad boys" of the plastic industry are PVC (polyvinyl chloride - a hard plastic) and phthalates, a group of substances added to PVC to make it softer and more pliable. In fact, phthalates are among the most common contaminants found in the human body. Another common chemical found in the kitchen is bisphenol-A, which is the main ingredient in hard plastic used in baby bottles, drinking water bottles, and plastic storage containers. Bisphenol-A is in the list of the top 50 chemicals, measured by production volume.

Here are some steps that you can take to decrease your family's exposure to these chemicals.

- never heat foods or beverages in plastic containers; it is so easy to put a "microwaveable" plastic container into the microwave; don't do it
- avoid plastic cling wrap products; most have phthalates in them
- avoid containers with PVC in them; if there is a "3" in the recycling triangle, get rid of it
- use glass or stainless steel drinking containers
- use ceramic or enamel plates
- use metal feeding utensils and metal kitchen tools
- do not store food or beverages in plastic containers, especially if the food item is acidic
- if you must use plastic, do not wash it in a dishwasher or use harsh detergents on it

It is interesting to note that in 2005 the European Union banned some commonly used chemicals of the phthalate family from use in toys. One commissioner was quoted as saying, "Toxic chemicals have no place in children's toys". Yet we continue to allow them in our food and beverage containers.

In North America, San Francisco instituted a ban in December 2006, although implementation has been delayed by a law suit. The ban covers biphenol-A and certain phthalates. This is commendable, but society needs more than city wide bans.

While we wait for our governments to realize the dangers, consider a personal ban. Can you make your kitchen plastic free?

Are You Risking Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disease that is affecting more and more lives all around the globe. The World Health Organization estimates nearly 200 million people are suffering from it. If you are suffering from diabetes it is important for you to know that. Your general practitioner will be able to help you.

If you are free of diabetes try to stay free by living healthy. Eat healthy food and do not over eat. Try a minimum of half an hour of exercise daily.

Diabetes can be a very disabling disease with a chronic nature. Generally speaking diabetes can be very hard on your body.

Diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar levels either form inadequate secretion of the hormone insulin, an inadequate response from target cells to insulin or a combination of these factors. It's a metabolic disease requiring medical diagnosis, treatment and a life long lifestyle change.

People who have an above average risk of getting diabetes are people over 45 years old. Also people with overweight are having an above average risk at developing diabetes.

Does that basically mean that if you are younger than 45 and have a normal weight you are out of the danger zone? Unfortunately this is not the case. Everybody can develop diabetes.

Some potential risk indicators for developing diabetes are:

1. You are above 45
2. Your belly size is over 102 cm (men) and 88 cm (women)
3. You do not exercise more than half an hour daily (walking, cycling, swimming, gardening.)
4. You are using medicine for high blood pressure
5. In the past you have been diagnosed at least once for a high blood sugar level; for instance during a pregnancy or illness.
6. Diabetes type 1 ("juvenile diabetes") or type 2 ("adult onset diabetes") occurs in your family

If you think you are at risk do not hesitate to consult your doctor.

And surely if you are healthy try to stay that way by doing exercises and keeping your weight at a healthy level by thinking carefully before you eat. Obviously it is not possible to elaborate more about the disease in this short article. However there are many useful sources you can easily find on the Internet or in your local library. But most important if you have any questions or any reasonable doubt about your own health situation or the health of your loved ones please consult a doctor. He or she will be ably informed about the diagnoses and treatment options.

Using Shower Filters

Shower filters are the equipments used to cleanse the water for nice and soaking shower. They endow with enormous safety against the harsh and harmful chemicals along with the rudiments. These harmful chemicals pour in through the plumbing lines in a structure. Taking a shower seems undisruptive in majority cases. You can see just water pouring in from the shower head, but, in fact, that water is contaminated with chlorine that is harmful to skin, lung and hair. Always, keep in mind that all municipal water has been already treated with chlorine and has been subjected to processes that supposedly make it safe.

A1 Shower filters not only eliminate chlorine, but they also remove dirt and bad smell. In various hard water areas, it has been noticed that small pieces of sand, or rock, dissolve in water through the water lines. That’s why anyone who has installed water filter faucets or traps on their faucets are bound to clean out the miniscule particles every once in a week. If not, then this will ultimately lead to clogging of the filters. A1 Shower filter cartridges normally work for 6 to 9 months giving pure bathing water.

Everybody wants pure and clean water to drink nowadays, but they don't give much consideration on the benefits of clean water for their body as well as their shower. Usually, shampoo eliminates oil from your hairs, but when it is mixed with water containing chlorine and dirt, its motive is completely crushed. With changing time majority of the population have become vulnerable to chemicals and various foreign matter on their skin. A1 shower filters always make sure that your installed shower never gets clogged with foreign materials, and also guard your hair, skin and body by cleansing the water through water decontamination filters.

The main aim of A1 shower filter is to reduce the toxic and chlorine content from the water. It's wise if you install A1 shower filter which can reduce the contaminants by 90% making water fit for showering. A1 shower filters are very easy to use, install and maintain. Majority of A1 shower filters are environment friendly and perform well at any water temperature providing positive rewards to skin and hair. So, keeping all the pointed risks in mind it is wise to only A1 shower filter. Instead of spending dollars on expensive cosmetics to hide your skin stains as they are the result of harsh chemicals dissolved in the water, that’s why according to experts A1 shower filters radically reduce the risk of skin stains.

The author of this article is an associate editor to the website http://www.dirtfreewater.com. The website is committed to provide visitors with complete information on aquasana water filters and aquasana shower filters.

Herbal Treatments for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are a very distressing condition that involve the swelling of the veins of the anus and rectum. They are very similar to varicose veins whereby the veins lose their elasticity and swell and this results in the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids that may include itching, burning pain and bleeding.

In many cases hemorrhoids will respond quickly to the use of herbal medicines, both taken internally and applied externally, however it is also necessary to address the cause of the condition. Some common factors that can contribute to hemorrhoids include sitting or standing for long periods, lifting heavy objects, dehydration, obesity and lack of exercise, but without a doubt the largest factor is constipation and straining during defecation. A poor intake of dietary fiber is often a major culprit that increases the risk of development of hemorrhoids.

The fact that no animal other than human beings has ever be known to exhibit hemorrhoids can be seen as a major indication that something is wrong with our diets and improving the diet can help this condition dramatically, however herbal remedies can often provide immediate relief as well as being effective for the long term treatment of this very distressing condition.

Herbs for the treatment of hemorrhoids:

Pilewort - Piles are another name for hemorrhoids and this herb was named for its effectiveness for this condition. It tonifies the blood vessels and stops bleeding. Pilewort may be taken internally as a tea or alcohol-based tincture and it can also be applied externally as an ointment.

Witch hazel - this herb can help to ease the bleeding and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. It is applied externally as an ointment, or the liquid can be applied directly to the area with a sterile cotton pad. Use three times daily until relief is obtained.

Aloe Vera gel - the fresh pulp can be applied directly on the anus to provide pain relief and soothe any burning sensations.

Butcher's Broom - this herb has been used throughout history for the treatment of hemorrhoids and varicose veins. When looking for preparations of Butcher's Broom, try to find those that contain a minimum of 9-11% of ruscogenin content, which is the active ingredient. 100 mg should be taken three times daily.

Pine Bark and Grape Seed - these plant extracts contain proanthocyanins and anthocyanins which are substances that improve the structural integrity of the veins and in fact the entire circulatory system. It is also possible to obtain them through increasing consumption of berries such as blueberries, blackberries and strawberries as well as cherries.

Fiber - a low fiber diet increases the risk of straining during bowel movements and increasing fiber intake may actually be a very effective simple measure that can go a long way towards improving hemorrhoids. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake is a must, however there are also a wide variety of fiber supplements available, such as those containing Psyllium husk or Slippery Elm Bark, that can soften the stools and reduce straining.
It is very important to ensure that water intake is increased when taking fiber supplements.

Herbal medicine can greatly assist in reducing the symptoms of hemorrhoids however in very severe cases surgical treatment may be required. In such instances the herbal treatments and dietary changes outlined can be used to prevent the problem from occurring again following surgery.

The Menacing Mathematics of Multiple Meds

By Gary Craig

There's something scary about drugs that concerns a growing number of physicians and should wobble the knees of every patient on the planet. It's obvious to any mathematician but somehow has escaped the general scrutiny of the health industry.

It has to do with combining meds.

Ever since I can remember I have been fed the perception that drugs are governmentally evaluated and thus are safe if taken under the guidance of competent physicians. However, even if we accept the presumed safety for the ingestion of one drug, we must ask ourselves how might that safety change if we take multiple drugs?

For safety assurances, proper testing should be done for every drug combination we are advised to take. If we take Prozac and Tylenol, for example, we should be presented with all the possible benefits and consequences before allowing these two foreign substances to mix with the chemicals our bodies already create. Same thing goes for combining Paxil with Viagra or Interferon with Lipitor.

The list of possible problems here is monstrously long because there are a b'zillion drugs and mega b'zillions of combinations. Nonetheless, I've never seen or heard of any studies that test any of these combinations ... have you?

Thus, if you take two drugs, the odds of their combination having been adequately tested for safety are skimpy at best. But if you take 3 or more drugs the danger possibilities multiply even faster.

Here's how the mathematics work: If you take 3 drugs then adequate safety testing of the various combinations require 7 separate tests. If you take 4 drugs the combinations require 25 separate tests. If you take 5 drugs it amounts to 121 tests. If you take 10 drugs the number of required safety tests total 362,881.

The conclusion here should be obvious. Namely, there is questionable safety testing if you take 2 drugs and nominal, if any, safety testing if you take 3. Beyond that you are clearly into the land of, "I have no idea what these combinations of drugs will do."

To me, this tosses our dedicated docs into a tenuous position. They have patients with problems who aren't willing to exercise, eat right, do EFT for emotional issues or much of anything else to help their own health. Instead, the patients hope the physicians will produce a magic pill (or pills) to make their problems go away.

I have met many patients who are on several drugs and take some drugs to counteract the effects of other drugs. As a non-physician I look at this with a shudder. These folks are being fed chemical cocktails with little or no safety testing behind the combinations. Maybe I need some help with my perceptions here but, to me, they are playing drug roulette.

I don't know if lawyers have picked up on the simple, but compelling, math here. But I do know that I wouldn't want to be a doctor in court facing these clear facts.

In the 15+ years I have been involved in the health field, I have had the good fortune to count many physicians as my personal friends. With few exceptions, they agree that it is our lifestyles, diets and emotional stresses that cause most of our health problems ... and ... the vast majority of these problems would vanish if people would live common sense lives. Yet patients repeatedly abuse their bodies and ask for more and more "miracle drugs" as the convenient solution. I don't envy the docs at all as I often hear them complain that this is a highway to NobodyWinsVille.

Maybe what we really need are good salespeople to persuade folks to take care of themselves. I suspect that, if truly persuasive, they would do more good than the ocean of drugs at our disposal.

Love, Gary

PS: The Free EFT Get Started Package can help any newcomer learn the valuable EFT process. If you want to save time and dive right in, get our low cost DVD Library.

The Basics of Homeopathy

Homeopathy is a system of medicinal treatment founded by Christian Friedrich Samuel Hahnemann, a German physician. He published a paper in 1796 in which he promulgated his principle that "likes are cured by likes". This principle is known as "Law of Similars". Hahnemann claimed that quinine, a medicine widely used for successful treatment of malaria, produced symptoms of malaria in a healthy person. The patients of malaria were treated with a medicine which created the same symptoms as those created by the disease. The observations with quinine and other medicines led Hahnemann to his "Law of Similars".

Four years later Hahnemann advanced his doctrine of "potentization of dynamization" which stated that medicines in small doses effectively exerted their curative power.

The homeopathic system of treatment is based on these two principles - Law of Similars and Potentization.

Potentization is a process by which medicine is diluted in precise steps and subjected to "succussion" (a vigorous shaking action). This process brings about an energetic change that gives medicines a deeper curative effect. Repeated dilution ensures that the medicine has no toxic effect. This allows homeopathic use of many substances which would be unsafe under normal conditions.

Traditionally homeopathic treatment is done to cure the disorders, not just the symptoms. Any physical and emotional disorder produces certain symptoms in the body. In many cases different ailments produce similar symptoms. As a part of the treatment the medicines are prescribed to eliminate the causes of disease or discomfort. If two patients have similar problems, they may still require different medicines depending upon their habits and many other factors. Medicines of higher potency are generally given only after the cause of the disease is established.

Homeopathy is relatively young - just over 200 years old. New medicines and treatments are constantly being evolved and documented. Such research studies are called "provings". As a result of these research studies, Homeopathy is used in a wide variety of health conditions.

Homeopathic medicines do not work strictly by chemical action. At higher potency the medicine is diluted so much that concentration of original medicine reduces to insignificant level. Yet the medicines not only work, they are more effective at higher potency. "Potentization" process brings energetic change in the medicine. In turn the medicine stimulates the body's defense mechanism to fight the cause of disorder. This approach produces more stable cure as compared to treatment with drugs. Direct chemical action of the drugs often produces harmful side effects. Homeopathic medicines on the other hand have no or little side effects. They are safe and non-toxic.

Two centuries of existence has firmly established homeopathy. It is accepted form of treatment in many parts of the world. However, the theory of homeopathy is inconsistent with known laws of science; therefore the critics often dismiss it as pseudoscience and quackery.

Homeopathy has thrived on the basis of its results. Its medicines have relatively slow but lasting effects. It is not trusted to meet emergency situations, but it is extremely useful in many other situations.

Improve Memory and Prevent Brain Deterioration

Human memory is a truly amazing phenomenon. It is always a source of wonder that seemingly insignificant occurrences may create lasting memories for one person while other people cannot even recall details of major events in their life. There are many factors that influence this apparent disparity.

It is sometimes said that a healthy brain never forgets anything. Unless affected by injury or disease the brain never loses anything. Forgetting something is actually a result of:

1. Not storing the facts properly in the first place.

2. Failure to store the facts in a manner in which they can be recalled.

3. Inability to recall facts at the time although they are still safely recorded in the brain. Who among us has not had the experience of "forgetting" something only to have it pop into consciousness at the most unlikely time?

Problem 1 can be overcome by concentration. If one is distracted and does not store facts to start with then there is very little chance of recalling them later. Memory has two phases - Short Term and Long Term Memory. It is believed that up to 50 percent of information we receive is lost almost immediately and a further 20 percent vanishes within 24 hours. An example would be a telephone number or other ten digit number. Unless a special effort is made its gone almost instantly. Some of these short term memories go on to become long term memories. For instance your best friend's phone number would have started out as a short term memory but has now become part of long term memory and can be readily recalled several years later. Scientists are still uncertain as to the exact reasons why some facts are lost while others go on to create lasting memories. However, it is safe to assume that some special importance is attached to that information for one reason or another. In the world of information overload we live in there are constant distractions and information competing for attention. Chances of recalling facts are significantly improved by paying attention to those that we need to remember later.

There are several techniques that can be used to ensure sufficient attention to important facts. The most common among them would be repetition. Most of us would probably recall having learnt our multiplication tables in this way. Writing notes and personalizing the facts ie. writing ideas in one's own words also helps. However, it is important not to fall into the trap of relying on notes as a substitute for remembering. Notes should be used to reinforce a memory not as an alternative to it. Writing down facts surrounding and supporting an idea as well as the theory and methodology leading up to certain facts also help in recall. Complex mathematical formulae would be an example. Formulae comprised of abstract symbols and numbers can usually be quite hard to recall on their own. However, if one commits to memory the principles from which the formula is derived the symbols often become a lot easier to recall. Understanding the concepts behind the final outcome makes things less fuzzy. The fuzzier things are the harder they are to remember. Breaking down facts into manageable chunks to concentrate on helps immensely as well as there is a limit on how much information can be assimilated at a given time. Avoiding distractions is another important consideration in ensuring that the facts are stored right - it is a lot harder replace incorrect information than it is to store it right in the first place.

Problems 2 and 3 are closely connected to how we recall information. Memories are made by creating connections - connections with experiences through all our senses. Perhaps you have had the experience of a smell or sound triggering a memory of long ago. The more connections we create the better the chances of recall. This is why mnemonics are commonly used as an aid to memory. The more ridiculous or unusual the association the more likely it is to be recalled rather than fade into insignificance among the millions of other connections. Using mental pegs is another technique that works very well. Associate facts with unusual images or rhymes. For instance to remember names and faces one may look at a prominent facial feature, create an exaggerated version of it and connect it with the name. Say Leon with rather long hair may become a mental image of a Lion with a mane. Lion then quickly converts to Leon making it a lot easier than simply trying to recall the name of the guy with long hair!

Unfortunately as we age our brains begin to degenerate and memory deteriorates along with it. There are 4 main reasons for this degeneration.

1. Reduction in Neurotransmitters, especially acetylcholine causes decline in brain function.

2. Reduced blood circulation. The brain uses a significant proportion of all blood. Any impediment to blood flow therefore has a huge impact on brain function.

3. Effects of Cortisol. As a response to stresses cortisol is produced in the brain which damages the cells in the Hippocampus. The Hippocampus is instrumental in converting short term memories to long term ones. The damage in the hippocampus also triggers further production of cortisol setting off a ever increasing cycle of cell damage.

4. Free radical damage. Free radicals are atoms that have an electron imbalance and are constantly seeking to steal an electron to make itself whole. This process of stealing electrons from cells causes cell damage. Brain cells are no exception and brain cell damage also occurs due to free radical activity.

There are many common sense approaches to limiting and preventing brain degeneration:

* Proper diet - limit intake of salt cholesterol and fat while eating plenty of fresh fruits and foods high in antioxidants.
* Regular Exercise - avoid becoming overweight.

* Control Blood pressure

* Control and limit stress

* Limiting alcohol intake and not smoking helps reduce free radical damage.

* Increase intake of Omega 3 fatty acids - found in large quantities in fish -helps combat free radical damage.

* Avoid even minor head trauma - When engaging in activities which could result in jarring of the brain use adequate protection. Regular jarring, even minor levels has been connected with higher incidence of dementia.

There are also several not so obvious strategies that have emerged from recent studies into the brain.

Depression can affect the way the brain processes information and retrieves it. Therefore avoiding or minimizing depression can positively impact on brain function in later years. Socializing and involvement with family and community activities is recommended.

Mental exercise. "Use it or lose it". Stimulating your brain with mental exercises such as crossword puzzles, board games or even taking up a new hobby or learning a musical instrument has been shown to increase the number of brain cells and connections between brain cells. These activities improve what is known as "Brain Plasticity".

Herbal supplements such as Gingko Biloba which is credited with improving blood circulation may help to deter the onset of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.

While aging and its consequences cannot be halted it is clear that there is much that can be done to improve brain health and memory.

The Importance of Phytochemicals

As time goes by the typical western diet seems to increasingly contain more fatty processed foods and less natural plant based foods than ever before. The results of this disturbing trend can be seen in the alarming statistics on cancer, heart disease, stroke and many other degenerative diseases.

Aside from the obvious dietary problems of high fat, protein and simple carbohydrate intake is the considerably inadequate intake of plant based foods and all the health giving benefits they bring with them.

Enter Phytochemicals

Many people are aware that eating plant based foods add much needed fiber, vitamins and minerals to the diet but what is less well known is the many benefits of the phytochemicals that these plants contain.

Phytochemicals come in a variety of forms and different vegetables have higher concentrations of a particular phytochemical than others. Some of the main phytochemicals include:

Carotenoids - Found in broccoli, carrots, pumpkin, spinach, squash, sweet potato and yams.

Flavonoids - Found in cabbage, cucumber, parsley, tomatoes, broccoli, carrots, soybeans and berries.

Isoflavones - Found in peas, beans and legumes.

Indioles - Found in brussels sprouts, cauliflower, turnips, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage and kale.

Lignans - Found in walnuts, flaxseeds and many other nuts and seeds.

Omega 3, Omega 6 Fatty Acids - Found in walnuts and flaxseeds.

Plant Sterols - Found in eggplant, soybeans, peppers, tomatoes, squash, cucumber, cabbage and broccoli.

The list above is only a small segment of the entire phytochemical family which encompasses a very large and extensive range of nutrients.

Benefits of Phytochemicals

Phytochemicals act in numerous ways to assist your body in combating disease and health problems such as:

1) Help to protect the cells by blocking carcinogens that try to enter the cell walls.

2) Helps to fight the malignant changes within cells that have already been penetrated by carcinogens.

3) Appear to boost enzyme activity to increase the benefits of the various protective enzymes consumed within the diet.

4) Combines with numerous vitamins to boost antioxidants activity to scavenge free radicals before they can cause damage within the body.

Although it is not important to know the names and benefits of the large range of phytochemicals that exist, what is important is to understand that maintaining a diet that contains a variety of fruits and vegetables will combine the benefits of the phytochemicals and vitamins to help you achieve optimal health.

By reducing your high fat/processed food intake and increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables you will greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to the ever-growing list of degenerative diseases which plague the general population today as a result of following a typical western diet.

It is not only the damaging effects of high fat, high sugar foods in the western diet that allow cancer, heart disease etc. to develop, but the absence of the protective phytochemicals that are only found in plant foods as well.

By adding plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet you will bring a host of phytochemicals to fight the damaging effects of free radicals and carcinogens and give you a level of health that most people will envy.

Dumped on Saturday Night...

Just a couple of days ago I came across a site named BlogDumps. Although virtually anyone can submit their blog there, it seems to me kind of a blog community. Today I received an email from them asking me to participate in the Saturday Night Blog Dumping. It wasn't easy to decide whose blog to dump today, but I had to quickly chose or else I would be reading blogs until Monday morning, lol.
So I chose to dump Nafcom. I found great info about Skype on his blog, and as I'm an avid Skype user it was like finding treasure. I'm off to download the RSS feed reader to Skype!

Get the Code and Get Listed!

Tips for Gym Newbies

Beginning a workout regime at the gym can be overwhelming in many different ways. If you haven't been before (or haven't been for a long time) it can seem as though everyone knows what they're doing but you. You worry about looking stupid, or about what people will think about your body, or about whether you'll remember everything you've been told.

The first day is usually okay (because most gyms provide an introductory session on how to operate the machines) - but the second day can be confusing and even embarrassing, unless you've signed up with a personal trainer. You're quite likely to find that you can't remember which machines you're supposed to use, or even how they work.

Relax. Everyone goes through it. You'll find it easier on the third day, and by the fourth you'll be feeling quite confident. Within weeks you'll be powering through your exercises as though you were born in the gym!

Here are a few tips that might ease the way in the first few weeks:

1. If you're a complete beginner, it might be worth your while to sign up with a personal trainer for at least a couple of sessions, until you're feeling more confident. Otherwise, go with a friend. If you're both new, you can muddle through together. If your friend is experienced, he/she will help you out.

2. Take a notepad and pen with you for your introductory session. Write down the name of the machine and its position in the gym as well as a few words that will remind you what you're supposed to do on it. (Some machines can be used in several different ways.)

3. Don't hesitate to ask a staff member for help if you can't adjust the machine for your weight and height, or if you can't remember exactly how it works. They won't mind showing you again. They want their customers to keep coming back!

4. Don't push yourself too hard to begin with. If you work out so hard that you can barely walk, you'll be tempted to miss a day while you recover. One day doesn't matter much, but if you continually skip days because you're too sore, you're likely to drop out altogether. What's the hurry? After a few weeks, when your body is getting used to the extra exercise, you can increase the intensity.

5. If your knees and ankles react badly to increasing the speed on the treadmill, try increasing the grade instead. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that a slower speed, with the treadmill on an incline, burns more calories than jogging.

6. Smile and nod to the other gym users, but don't hold up their workout programs by chatting. As you become recognized as a regular, you will find that you gravitate to your own little group - probably people who have the same goals and needs as you do.

7. Wear comfortable clothing - either loose or with plenty of stretch. Avoid the temptation to buy workout gear that's two sizes too small in the hope that you'll lose weight quickly. (You might well shed those pounds fast - but if it takes longer that you'd anticipated, you'll always be conscious of those too-tight clothes.)

8. Don't worry about being overweight. In a way, it's good to start off with quite a few excess pounds to lose - your success is much more noticeable than it is on slimmer gym users, and you'll find the positive comments really motivating. Make sure you get a 'before' photo of yourself at the gym when you start out. After a few months, you'll be amazed at the difference.

9. If you're considerably overweight, you are likely to find that your stomach gets in the way on some machines. Just do what you can. You might feel better just increasing your fitness and losing some weight on the treadmill for the first month or so, then moving on to the machines when moving and stretching is more comfortable. Consider doing a few laps in the pool (either walking or swimming) as well as your other gym work. The water will help to support your weight and provide variety.

10. Try to find a happy medium between challenging yourself and resting on your laurels. If you can easily manage three sets at the current weight, try increasing it for the first set. If you can do twenty minutes on the treadmill without sweating, then increase either the speed or the grade (or both!) Remember... "if nothing changes, then nothing changes!"

One final tip: once you have decided on your regular gym days, resolve that nothing but an emergency will stop you going. Make your gym attendance a habit - and before too long, the exciting results will have you trying to convert all your friends to becoming exercise lovers too!

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is truly one of nature's gifts - widely used as a food product and skin moisturizer. Cocopura� Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is unique as it contains antiviral, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. Health-conscious chefs prize coconut oil for its extremely high flash point, zero trans-fatty acids, and extremely rich source of Medium-Chain Fatty Acids (MCT's) - which are broken down efficiently by the body, providing an immediate source of energy.

Cocopura's oil is hand-pressed by local coconut farmers in the South Pacific, producing a truly raw cold-pressed coconut oil with full flavor and heavenly aromas. Cocopura is certified organic and Rawfood.com are proud supporters of fair trade and sustainable living practices.