Wednesday, 3 February 2016
Tuesday, 10 February 2015
Monday, 9 December 2013
Eliminate Your Stress With Meditation
Meditation refers to a state where your body and mind are consciously relaxed and focused. Practitioners of this art report increased awareness, focus, and concentration, as well as a more positive outlook in life.
Meditation is most commonly associated with monks, mystics and other spiritual disciplines. However, you don’t have to be a monk or mystic to enjoy its benefits. And you don’t even have to be in a special place to practice it. You could even try it in your own living room!
Although there are many different approaches to meditation, the fundamental principles remain the same. The most important among these principles is that of removing obstructive, negative, and wandering thoughts and fantasies, and calming the mind with a deep sense of focus. This clears the mind of debris and prepares it for a higher quality of activity.
The negative thoughts you have – those of noisy neighbors, bossy officemates, that parking ticket you got, and unwanted spam– are said to contribute to the ‘polluting’ of the mind, and shutting them out is allows for the 'cleansing' of the mind so that it may focus on deeper, more meaningful thoughts.
Some practitioners even shut out all sensory input – no sights, no sounds, and nothing to touch – and try to detach themselves from the commotion around them. You may now focus on a deep, profound thought if this is your goal. It may seem deafening at first, since we are all too accustomed to constantly hearing and seeing things, but as you continue this exercise you will find yourself becoming more aware of everything around you.
If you find the meditating positions you see on television threatening – those with impossibly arched backs, and painful-looking contortions – you need not worry. The principle here is to be in a comfortable position conducive to concentration. This may be while sitting cross-legged, standing, lying down, and even walking.
If the position allows you to relax and focus, then that would be a good starting point. While sitting or standing, the back should be straight, but not tense or tight. In other positions, the only no-no is slouching and falling asleep.
Loose, comfortable clothes help a lot in the process since tight fitting clothes have a tendency to choke you up and make you feel tense.
The place you perform meditation should have a soothing atmosphere. It may be in your living room, or bedroom, or any place that you feel comfortable in. You might want an exercise mat if you plan to take on the more challenging positions (if you feel more focused doing so, and if the contortionist in you is screaming for release). You may want to have the place arranged so that it is soothing to your senses.
Silence helps most people relax and meditate, so you may want a quiet, isolated area far from the ringing of the phone or the humming of the washing machine. Pleasing scents also help in that regard, so stocking up on aromatic candles isn’t such a bad idea either.
The monks you see on television making those monotonous sounds are actually performing their mantra. This, in simple terms, is a short creed, a simple sound which, for these practitioners, holds a mystic value.
You do not need to perform such; however, it would pay to note that focusing on repeated actions such as breathing, and humming help the practitioner enter a higher state of consciousness.
The principle here is focus. You could also try focusing on a certain object or thought, or even, while keeping your eyes open, focus on a single sight.
One sample routine would be to – while in a meditative state – silently name every part of you body and focusing your consciousness on that part. While doing this you should be aware of any tension on any part of your body. Mentally visualize releasing this tension. It works wonders.
In all, meditation is a relatively risk-free practice and its benefits are well worth the effort (or non-effort – remember we’re relaxing).
Studies have shown that meditation does bring about beneficial physiologic effects to the body. And there has been a growing consensus in the medical community to further study the effects of such. So in the near future, who knows, that mystical, esoteric thing we call meditation might become a science itself!
Raymond Chua is an expert in natural healing for stress and what you have just read is just the scratch of the surface. To learn more natural stress healing technique, go to http://tangier.curestress.hop.clickbank.net/
Meditation is most commonly associated with monks, mystics and other spiritual disciplines. However, you don’t have to be a monk or mystic to enjoy its benefits. And you don’t even have to be in a special place to practice it. You could even try it in your own living room!
Although there are many different approaches to meditation, the fundamental principles remain the same. The most important among these principles is that of removing obstructive, negative, and wandering thoughts and fantasies, and calming the mind with a deep sense of focus. This clears the mind of debris and prepares it for a higher quality of activity.
The negative thoughts you have – those of noisy neighbors, bossy officemates, that parking ticket you got, and unwanted spam– are said to contribute to the ‘polluting’ of the mind, and shutting them out is allows for the 'cleansing' of the mind so that it may focus on deeper, more meaningful thoughts.
Some practitioners even shut out all sensory input – no sights, no sounds, and nothing to touch – and try to detach themselves from the commotion around them. You may now focus on a deep, profound thought if this is your goal. It may seem deafening at first, since we are all too accustomed to constantly hearing and seeing things, but as you continue this exercise you will find yourself becoming more aware of everything around you.
If you find the meditating positions you see on television threatening – those with impossibly arched backs, and painful-looking contortions – you need not worry. The principle here is to be in a comfortable position conducive to concentration. This may be while sitting cross-legged, standing, lying down, and even walking.
If the position allows you to relax and focus, then that would be a good starting point. While sitting or standing, the back should be straight, but not tense or tight. In other positions, the only no-no is slouching and falling asleep.
Loose, comfortable clothes help a lot in the process since tight fitting clothes have a tendency to choke you up and make you feel tense.
The place you perform meditation should have a soothing atmosphere. It may be in your living room, or bedroom, or any place that you feel comfortable in. You might want an exercise mat if you plan to take on the more challenging positions (if you feel more focused doing so, and if the contortionist in you is screaming for release). You may want to have the place arranged so that it is soothing to your senses.
Silence helps most people relax and meditate, so you may want a quiet, isolated area far from the ringing of the phone or the humming of the washing machine. Pleasing scents also help in that regard, so stocking up on aromatic candles isn’t such a bad idea either.
The monks you see on television making those monotonous sounds are actually performing their mantra. This, in simple terms, is a short creed, a simple sound which, for these practitioners, holds a mystic value.
You do not need to perform such; however, it would pay to note that focusing on repeated actions such as breathing, and humming help the practitioner enter a higher state of consciousness.
The principle here is focus. You could also try focusing on a certain object or thought, or even, while keeping your eyes open, focus on a single sight.
One sample routine would be to – while in a meditative state – silently name every part of you body and focusing your consciousness on that part. While doing this you should be aware of any tension on any part of your body. Mentally visualize releasing this tension. It works wonders.
In all, meditation is a relatively risk-free practice and its benefits are well worth the effort (or non-effort – remember we’re relaxing).
Studies have shown that meditation does bring about beneficial physiologic effects to the body. And there has been a growing consensus in the medical community to further study the effects of such. So in the near future, who knows, that mystical, esoteric thing we call meditation might become a science itself!
Raymond Chua is an expert in natural healing for stress and what you have just read is just the scratch of the surface. To learn more natural stress healing technique, go to http://tangier.curestress.hop.clickbank.net/
Sunday, 17 January 2010
What Stresses You Out? Make a List and Change Your Life
Stress is overwhelming, all absorbing. Part of its terrible power is the feeling you get of losing control, of life washing over you without your input. Before you can address the things that are bothering you, you need to get a handle on them. The most effective tools you have are not drugs, or a therapist, or a padded room in a fancy treatment center -- the most effective tools are a pencil and paper.
Clear your schedule, find a quiet space with minimal distractions, and write down everything that's bothering you. Everything. From global warming to the bathroom sink that needs cleaning. Yes, everything. You're going to need several sheets of paper, trust me. When you have finished, take a break; you'll need one.
Read through what you have written. You're likely to see some patterns emerging, types of problems that stem from similar sources or that involve similar situations. Now you are going to start making lists that will help you identify and control the sources of stress in your life.
List all the people who make you anxious -- include friends, colleagues, family members, and anyone else who makes your life frustrating. In each case, think how you can either improve that relationship or, if necessary, bring it to an end. Obviously, there is a huge difference between switching coffee shops to avoid the snotty barista, and withdrawing from a relationship with a loved one. This is not a time to make hasty and consequential decisions, particularly while stress is making you feel emotionally vulnerable. But a list of this sort may help you identify relationships that would be better abandoned in the long term if your health is suffering.
Make another list of sources of stress that don't involve other people, but are instead things in your life you can change on your own. Are you keeping yourself healthy? Perhaps you want to begin exercising regularly, or would like to improve your diet? Is it time to look for a new job, either in your field or perhaps in a different area entirely? Some stress relief may come from simply taking actions that you have been considering for a long time.
Your final list will take a different approach. Despite your stress, despite your anxiety, despite feeling overwhelmed right now -- what are the things that make you feel good? What do you enjoy doing, what puts a smile on your face? Make a list of activities that you enjoy; perhaps you like to watch old movies, or to cook for friends, or ride a bike. List all these things, and make plans to do at least one of them this week, and every week from now on.
Now that your lists are complete, refer back to them regularly. Every week or so, scan through them and give yourself a check-up -- are you taking action to control the things, situations, and people that stress you out? And are you replacing those negative influences with positive and fun influences instead? You're beginning to change your life for the better, and that's an ongoing process. The lists are your guidebook, but it's up to you to make the journey.
If you would like some help making a list of great stress relief tips, visit Rachel's site - http://www.BeyondStressed.com
Clear your schedule, find a quiet space with minimal distractions, and write down everything that's bothering you. Everything. From global warming to the bathroom sink that needs cleaning. Yes, everything. You're going to need several sheets of paper, trust me. When you have finished, take a break; you'll need one.
Read through what you have written. You're likely to see some patterns emerging, types of problems that stem from similar sources or that involve similar situations. Now you are going to start making lists that will help you identify and control the sources of stress in your life.
List all the people who make you anxious -- include friends, colleagues, family members, and anyone else who makes your life frustrating. In each case, think how you can either improve that relationship or, if necessary, bring it to an end. Obviously, there is a huge difference between switching coffee shops to avoid the snotty barista, and withdrawing from a relationship with a loved one. This is not a time to make hasty and consequential decisions, particularly while stress is making you feel emotionally vulnerable. But a list of this sort may help you identify relationships that would be better abandoned in the long term if your health is suffering.
Make another list of sources of stress that don't involve other people, but are instead things in your life you can change on your own. Are you keeping yourself healthy? Perhaps you want to begin exercising regularly, or would like to improve your diet? Is it time to look for a new job, either in your field or perhaps in a different area entirely? Some stress relief may come from simply taking actions that you have been considering for a long time.
Your final list will take a different approach. Despite your stress, despite your anxiety, despite feeling overwhelmed right now -- what are the things that make you feel good? What do you enjoy doing, what puts a smile on your face? Make a list of activities that you enjoy; perhaps you like to watch old movies, or to cook for friends, or ride a bike. List all these things, and make plans to do at least one of them this week, and every week from now on.
Now that your lists are complete, refer back to them regularly. Every week or so, scan through them and give yourself a check-up -- are you taking action to control the things, situations, and people that stress you out? And are you replacing those negative influences with positive and fun influences instead? You're beginning to change your life for the better, and that's an ongoing process. The lists are your guidebook, but it's up to you to make the journey.
If you would like some help making a list of great stress relief tips, visit Rachel's site - http://www.BeyondStressed.com
Proven Techniques For Conquering Stress
Conquering stress is not as difficult as it seems; most people suffer from stress because they feel the sense of loss of control. There are many successful ways you can practice to seize or take back the control you want. Here are a dozen things you can try to do just that.
Yoga, Tai-Chi and similar disciplines from Asia have been effective for centuries in helping people to relieve stress. Please understand that there is no association between Yoga and a specific religion; you don't need to adopt certain belief in order to practice yoga. Like meditation, yoga upholds peace and harmony; this is its most important principle. The physical techniques in both Yoga and Tai-Chi loosen up the muscles and help focus and relax the mind.
Meditation has also been practiced for centuries. It's easy to learn and has many benefits. The focus is to calm the mind and move it away from the stressors. Perhaps you already know that stress always starts in our minds; it's something that intimidate our mind. So, the key is to train our mind to perceive and interpret something that's going on in the mind in a more positive way so that it can become something that is not so intimidating. If we could learn how to meditate for as little as 20-30 minutes per day, it can go a long way toward conquering the stress symptoms that bug us. There is also evidence that meditation if practiced properly, can have positive benefits on our physical health as well.
Deep breathing exercise is also another effective way to counter stress symptoms. Try this: lie face down on the floor on a large towel, elbows bent with your hands flat on the floor. The backs of your hands should be under your chest. Now inhale and exhale slowly and deeply, repeat the breathing for 15-20 times.
If you're in a car and feel agitated because you got stuck in a traffic jam, just place your left hand on your stomach and breathe slowly. You should feel that your stomach expands as you inhale and contracts as you exhale. This is the right way to breathe. Deep breathing won't take away the stress but it can lessen it quickly. And it's a good first step toward conquering your stress.
Dietary supplements can also help but the problem is that there are so many varieties, and most of them are literally useless. So, to recommend you to use a specific brand is often always prone to error. As a side note, anything which helps elevate serotonin levels is likely to help. However, beware of those that have outrageous claims and promise miracle cures.
Some mild drugs such as a sleeping aid can be useful on occasion. However, the risk is becoming dependent on them not tackling on the root cause. But small doses of it and couple with some other stress buster program, it can prove to be very beneficial as it could help the patient to have a good rest or sleep. A proper rest is essential in conquering stress.
Although there is little scientific evidence, aromatherapy coupled with 'mood music' could serve as a magic pill for some people. Our memories are said to be fond of certain smells and the smells could trigger a happy event in our memory. It's the same with music, many believe that our feelings can be altered by certain kind of music.
A good massage can also be a great way to conquer stress, particularly combined with aromatherapy and relaxing music. One of the most common cause of stress is muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders and calves. Massage can help loosen up muscles in these parts of our body.
These are just few ways you could consider when comes to conquering stress. You can learn more successful techniques on how to conquer stress at our site.
You can also go and download a FREE report on how to Stop Stress and Anxiety at our site. This little report is packed with lots of useful stress management tips. And the best part is that it's 100% FREE!
Yoga, Tai-Chi and similar disciplines from Asia have been effective for centuries in helping people to relieve stress. Please understand that there is no association between Yoga and a specific religion; you don't need to adopt certain belief in order to practice yoga. Like meditation, yoga upholds peace and harmony; this is its most important principle. The physical techniques in both Yoga and Tai-Chi loosen up the muscles and help focus and relax the mind.
Meditation has also been practiced for centuries. It's easy to learn and has many benefits. The focus is to calm the mind and move it away from the stressors. Perhaps you already know that stress always starts in our minds; it's something that intimidate our mind. So, the key is to train our mind to perceive and interpret something that's going on in the mind in a more positive way so that it can become something that is not so intimidating. If we could learn how to meditate for as little as 20-30 minutes per day, it can go a long way toward conquering the stress symptoms that bug us. There is also evidence that meditation if practiced properly, can have positive benefits on our physical health as well.
Deep breathing exercise is also another effective way to counter stress symptoms. Try this: lie face down on the floor on a large towel, elbows bent with your hands flat on the floor. The backs of your hands should be under your chest. Now inhale and exhale slowly and deeply, repeat the breathing for 15-20 times.
If you're in a car and feel agitated because you got stuck in a traffic jam, just place your left hand on your stomach and breathe slowly. You should feel that your stomach expands as you inhale and contracts as you exhale. This is the right way to breathe. Deep breathing won't take away the stress but it can lessen it quickly. And it's a good first step toward conquering your stress.
Dietary supplements can also help but the problem is that there are so many varieties, and most of them are literally useless. So, to recommend you to use a specific brand is often always prone to error. As a side note, anything which helps elevate serotonin levels is likely to help. However, beware of those that have outrageous claims and promise miracle cures.
Some mild drugs such as a sleeping aid can be useful on occasion. However, the risk is becoming dependent on them not tackling on the root cause. But small doses of it and couple with some other stress buster program, it can prove to be very beneficial as it could help the patient to have a good rest or sleep. A proper rest is essential in conquering stress.
Although there is little scientific evidence, aromatherapy coupled with 'mood music' could serve as a magic pill for some people. Our memories are said to be fond of certain smells and the smells could trigger a happy event in our memory. It's the same with music, many believe that our feelings can be altered by certain kind of music.
A good massage can also be a great way to conquer stress, particularly combined with aromatherapy and relaxing music. One of the most common cause of stress is muscle tension, especially in the neck, shoulders and calves. Massage can help loosen up muscles in these parts of our body.
These are just few ways you could consider when comes to conquering stress. You can learn more successful techniques on how to conquer stress at our site.
You can also go and download a FREE report on how to Stop Stress and Anxiety at our site. This little report is packed with lots of useful stress management tips. And the best part is that it's 100% FREE!
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