12 Step Yoga Therapy, As Easy As Breathing

By Carmel Baird

Yoga therapy for better health. This article briefly takes a look at how yoga can be used a a form of therapy. One example of this is the yoga breathing techniques. With regular forms of exercise, breathing does play a part, but not as much as with yoga. You learn to breath the correct way with your yoga practice and this makes all the difference to helping you stay in better health.

Yoga breathing exercises are invaluable and to get the benefits need not take hours of practice a day. You only need a few minutes and this will keep your mind and body healthy. The following is a series of yoga breathing exercises that will only take you about six minutes to complete and yet you will feel an improvement in your energy level. A word of warning, this exercise should not be performed by anyone suffering from cervical problems.

To start your yoga therapy breathing exercises.

1. Start by resting your arms on the sides.
2. Rotate your shoulders, first clockwise and then counterclockwise, five times each.
3. Bend your head as if trying to touch the shoulders.
4. Repeat it five times on each side.
5. Keep the neck erect and, while bending forward, press the chin against the neck.
6. Now close your eyes and let your mind relax.
7. Breathe normally, while remaining conscious to the inhalation and exhalation.
8. Feel the movements of your breathing.
9. Closing your eyes, take deep gentle breaths.
10.Feel the incoming air from the bottom i.e. stomach upwards to the top of the lungs.
11.Now exhale the air, letting it out first from the top and then downward from the stomach.
12.Repeat this ten times, using 'imagination of breathing in fresh oxygen'.
Remember, that a standing position is best for this exercise. This technique is wonderfully de-stressing.

These breathing exercises are so easy to do, take so little time and the benefits to you can be felt for such a long time.

©2007 CTBaird. Carmel Baird invites you to read more of her articles about Yoga at YogaInfo-Online. You will find new articles posted every week at her website, each one dealing with some facet of Yoga. If you want information on locating yoga retreats for your yoga vacation, , Yoga Resources and More could have just what you want.

Tags: yoga, health, therapy, breathing

Read More

Yoga Postures For Kids

By Sharon Mirin

Kids get stressed just like adults do because they are placed in demanding situations where they feel they must excel. School, athletic programs, and daily tasks will tend to stress many kids to the breaking point. All of these expectations that are placed on them afford them little opportunity to relax. Yoga Postures For Kids helps children in many areas of their life, and sometimes transports them into a whole other self.

When kids begin taking yoga classes, they are guided by instructors who want them to become in tune with their mind, body and spirit. Yoga can be likened to the phrase, “thinking outside of the box.” Through the different yoga postures for kids, children can change their behavior by going to another place, and becoming a animal, bird, or mental time traveler, if only for a short time.

Many yoga postures for kids are taught in postures, vinyasas, or yoga flows. The postures have clever names such as bridge, cobra, mountain, and cat and dog. A vinyasas is a sequence of postures, and yoga flows are vinoyasas that continuously flow form one to another. Yoga postures for kids are not speed events and are not meant to be done to the point where any type of pain is caused.

All of the yoga postures for kids serves a direct purpose and will benefit one or more body areas. One of the yoga postures for kids is the Sukhasana, which is a starting position that helps children focus on the breathing techniques, and it will help kids strengthen their lower back and loosen up the groin and hip areas of the body.

Two yoga postures for kids are done together, because one flows into the other. The Dog and Cat yoga postures for kids will help to increase the flexibility of the spine. The basic movement of the Dog places the child in a knee and hand crawling position, and the Cat movement is the reversal of the Dog movement. These postures require tiling of the pelvis and bending the spinal column.

One of the exciting yoga postures for kids is the Mountain, which is a three phase movement that improves posture, self-awareness and balance. This yoga postures for kids is deceptive, and kids think it will be so easy. The Mountain is done in a seemingly simple standing movement that requires a lot of movement and breathing exercises to be performed at one time.

The Uttanasana II is a forward bend or extension movement of yoga postures for kids that stretches the legs and spine, and provides rest to the heart and neck. The Uttanasana II also relaxes the mind of the child, as well as the body. Sports enthusiasts might refer to this movement as the standard, touch your toes routine.

The Trikonasana, or Triangle is one of the yoga postures for kids that will have kids moving in constant motion. The Triangle stretches the spine, opens the child’s torso, and help them improve their balance and concentration. Sports enthusiasts might refer to this yoga posture as the typical and laborious, windmill exercise.

The Warrior Ii, or Virabhadrasana II, is one of the yogo postures for kids that will strengthen a child’s arm and legs, and improve balance too. This posture helps to build confidence and improve a child’s concentration. Sports enthusiasts might refer to this yoga posture as the lunge exercise.

Read more tips about Yoga at the online guide at http://www.yoga.zupatips.com

Tags: yoga, kids, health

Read More

Yoga Options for Managing Anxiety

By Paul Jerard

Yoga has many options for ridding your body of toxins, negative energy, stress, and daily anxiety. Yoga postures (Asanas) are most commonly known, but Yoga breathing techniques (Pranayama) are very beneficial; most can be practiced any time of the day.

The worst action you can take is to ignore anxiety. Anxiety requires a plan of action to instill positive energy within your being. If your plan of action is to take a Yoga lesson, you are “on the right path” to eliminating negative feelings.

Anxiety can lead to a multitude of health problems. Therefore, you should take action to rid your body, mind, and spirit of negative feelings, which build up from within or are a result of your environment. Within a typical Hatha Yoga class, you will learn Asana, Pranayama, and some form of meditation.

The combination of these three methods, within the span of 45 to 90 minutes, occurs in one Yoga lesson. Yoga students often practice at home, but the “home Yoga sessions” are usually much shorter.

This is fine because a little Yoga is better than no Yoga at all; especially, in the case of a person who experiences anxiety. One short Yoga session can help the mind and body lose feelings of negativity. Yet, it may require a longer session to give you relief, if negative energy is “getting out of hand.”

The study of Yoga requires your commitment to make a personal appointment with yourself. Do you have the time to take care of your health? This requires pro-active thinking on your part, because most of the world reacts to health problems.

Setting a time of the day for a Yoga lesson, at a studio, or a Yoga home practice session, is not difficult. Yet, there are other ways to practice Yoga off your mat and say “goodbye” to anxiety at the same time.

Here’s another option: Go for a 20 to 40 minute walk. You can practice the natural breath technique (belly breath), Dhirga Pranayama (Three part breath), or a walking meditation.

If the weather is rough, you can always go to an indoor facility, or a shopping mall. It does wonders for your body, and mind, to get out and stop thinking about regrets. We must all learn to put the past behind, do our best now, and plan for the future.

Yoga has a number of options for a public, which seeks relief from daily anxiety and stress. Yoga can be considered part of a coping strategy, but in the case of severe anxiety and depression, professional medical or psychological help should be sought.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, e-RYT 500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Read More

Yoga and Your Body - Health Benefits of Yoga Practice

By Jon Edings

Yoga aims to bring together the mind, the body and the spirits. People that practice yoga view that the mind and body are one and that if given the right tools, it can find harmony and find a way to heal. Practicing yoga is then considered to be a form of therapy. Awareness of posture and patterns of movement, flexibility and relaxation are only a few of the things that can be achieved with the practice. To feel fit, be more energetic, be happier and more at peace are only some of the reasons why people choose to practice yoga.

Yoga dates back to thousands of years of practice, consisting of ancient theories, observations and principles about the connection between mind and body that are now proven by modern day medicine. Research has proven that there are a lot of health benefits, whether physiological, psychological or biochemical, that can be obtained through the practice of yoga.

Some of the physiological benefits include a decrease in pulse rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure which in other words would mean that the cardiovascular and respiratory efficiencies increase which can help in the increase of immunity. Bodily functions like gastrointestinal, endocrine and excretory either normalizes or improves which can help in the normalization of weight. Musculoskeletal flexibility and joint range of motion increase which can help in the improvement of posture, dexterity, balance and the integrated functioning of body parts. In essence, gaining all of that can help decrease any pains in the joints or muscles. With the practice of yoga, endurance, energy level and even eye-hand coordination improves. Weight can also normalize.

The psychological benefits of yoga include the increased awareness of somatic and kinesthetic waves, improvement of mood and subjective well-being which subsequently increases social adjustment. With a calmer mind, concentration, memory, attention and learning efficiency can also improve.

The biochemical benefits of yoga are effects of some of the physiological benefits. Levels of glucose, sodium, bad cholesterol and triglycerides decrease while levels of good cholesterol, cholinesterase, ATP, hemoglobin, vitamin C and serum protein increase. These changes are all beneficial for a healthier body.

Apart from all of this, the benefits of yoga have been compared versus that of the benefits of regular exercise. With the slow dynamic and static movements of yoga, there is a lower risk of injury to muscles and ligaments as opposed to regular exercise routines due to the lesser effort and relaxed way of movement which subsequently makes for better energizing since breathing is not taxed. There is also a more balanced activity of opposing muscle groups, thus being able to gain a normalized muscle tone instead of getting bulky.

Yoga does not need to be for people that are extremely flexible. It can be for people that are looking to improve on their flexibility or other areas of their physical or mental health. With these many benefits, it’s no wonder why yoga has been a successful practice for thousands of years.

The author is a health advocate and believes there are many ways you can increase your health and fitness levels go here to get more on yoga and equipment used Mat Yoga Reviews.

Read More

Office Yoga - Corporate Yoga for the Office

By Paul Jerard

Could Yoga increase office productivity? Can Yoga teachers help the corporate sector? What can Office Yoga programs do for large and small businesses? Let’s look at solutions that Yoga can offer to the business world.

The number of office workers has increased, with the invention of the personal computer. Working excessive hours in front of a personal computer can create a multitude of back, neck, shoulder, spine, hip, and wrist problems. Muscle groups, in all of these areas, respond with tension and a variety of long-term problems - if they are ignored by office workers and management.

Forty years ago, secretaries would have been patronized for their migraines, cluster headaches, back pain, hip problems, and sore necks. Now, times are changing, and there has been much progress with ergonomics and studies which reveal new insights about the relationship of prolonged sitting to specific health problems.

A recent study, by The Medical Research Institute, in New Zealand, has revealed that office workers may be at a higher risk of developing blood clots. As most of us know, these studies are worded very tactfully, and do not jump to conclusions; however, anyone who understands body mechanics would realize that this makes perfect sense.

With that said, let’s remember that blood clots can be potentially fatal as they travel to the heart and vital organs. Blood clots can, and do, cause stroke, chest pain, and heart attack.

With larger numbers of office workers putting in extra hours of work, some “forward thinking” companies have begun to respond with office Yoga programs for their employees. Even short Office Yoga sessions can release muscle tension and alleviate the routine pains and aches, which result from prolonged sitting.

Therefore, companies, which take pro-active measures, by installing Office Yoga programs, are taking positive action toward health solutions for employees – thus, increasing productivity, while decreasing sick time, tardiness, and medical leave.

Office Yoga creates an atmosphere of decreased anxiety, less stress, positive thinking, and raises morale. Nothing is more rewarding than feeling worthy and being treated with respect. Any small company can take such action by installing an Office Yoga program.

Some companies pay a percentage for a Yoga teacher to operate an Office Yoga class, while employees pay the balance. Other companies see this as a “win-win” situation and pay for the Yoga classes in full. Regardless of how an Office Yoga program is paid for, the benefits for the corporate sector are just starting to be realized.

© Copyright 2007 – Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT-500, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. To receive a Free e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Read More

Aromatherapy Diffusers - Top Tips

By Toby Russell

In learning to use an aromatherapy diffuser it is important to first understand the theory behind diffusion. This is the process of dispersing essential oils so that the aroma will fill an area with fragrance. There are many different techniques that can be utilized for this purpose. While simple methods do exist for diffusing essential oils in a room without using a special tool, there are also many different aromatherapy diffuser devices that can be used for more elaborate diffusion.

One of the easiest aromatherapy diffusers to utilize is simple facial tissue. By placing a few drops of essential oil of your choice on a tissue and then placing it in the room, you can quickly and easily create a wonderful fragrance in your environment. It should be noted that while this method is very easy to use and be used practically anywhere, this method will only emit a slight amount of fragrance. If you want something more noticeable, it will be necessary to utilize a more elaborate aromatherapy diffuser.

A steam aromatherapy diffuser can also be utilized place a couple of cups of boiled water and adding several drops of the essential oil of your choice into the water. This method can be used for a variety of purposes, such as freshening a room or treating a cold. There are some disadvantages to this method; however. For example, while the aroma is diffused quickly, it does not last particularly long.

Candles also prove to be wonderful aromatherapy diffusers. For this technique any candle will work. Simply light it and allow it to burn for a few minutes and then extinguish it. Place a single drop of essential oil on the melted wax and light the candle once again. The only problem with this method is that you must be extremely careful because essential oils are flammable. You must make sure the oil is placed on the wax and not the wick of the candle.

There are also numerous aromatherapy diffuser products currently on the market that are quite safe and provide long lasting fragrance. One of the best aromatherapy diffuser products currently on the market are lamp rings. These rings can be placed directly on a light bulb to hold essential oil. The heat from the light bulb will heat the oil and diffuse the scent into the room.

Candle aromatherapy diffusers are another inexpensive diffusion option that can offer a nice scent in practically any location. Due to the fact that they do utilize candles; however, caution should be exercised.

A nebulizer is also a good choice if you are looking for an aromatherapy diffuser that will provide a lot of therapeutic benefit in a small space.

Toby Russell brings through his site http://www.benefitwitharomatherapy.com useful, relevant help & advice for those seeking a better understanding of the health benefits of the use of essential oils and aromatherapy.

Read More

Hot Tub Therapy - Can Water Therapy Help You Lower Blood Pressure?

By Joann Grant

Of all the natural therapies, the one that has caught the attention of the many is the hot tub therapy. It is popularly known as the hydrotherapy and is believed to be one of the most impeccable ways to improve general health of people.

Apart from treating some common ailments like back pains and joint pains, hypertension or high blood pressure is also known to get cured with the use of hot tubs. Generally, the therapy involving hot tub is used as an assistant treatment to the regular medications that a person suffering from high blood pressure is indulging in.

But the patient is always advised to consult their doctor before trying this therapy to lower their blood pressure. This is because, the therapy initially increases the body’ blood pressure due to increased temperature of the body. Therefore people with high blood pressure should first consult their doctors before using this kind of water therapy.

However, hot water has a very positive effect on your body as it dilates the blood vessels. As the blood vessels dilate, the heart does not have to work hard in pumping blood in the vessels. The lowered activity in the heart provides an over-all relief to the high blood pressure patient. But for some patients such kind of relaxation is not optimal.

The reason because of which the blood vessels dilate when brought in contact with hot water is very simple. When your body comes in touch with hot water, there is reflex that goes to your brain with information that your body temperature has risen from the normal levels. Thus the vessels near the skin, which are in direct touch with the water relaxes and dissipates all heat outside the body. Thus all these developments in the body dilate the vessels. This process in medical terms is known as Vasodilation. In vasodilation more oxygen is transported to all body parts. Oxygen is a very important element for your body as it hastens the process of healing.

Apart from this, the process of vasodilation has another important advantage for the body. It helps the blood in clearing itself from all the waste accumulated in it. With the day in progress, the food you eat and the physical activities that you perform, a lot of waste and harmful chemical substances get deposited in the body. With hot tub treatment and the process of vasodilation, the blood reaches fast to the body parts and thus removes the waste products. This could again help lower your blood pressure.

So talk to your doctor now and find out if hot tubs can help you decrease your blood pressure.

To know more about natural cure for blood pressure and blood pressure and food visit http://www.blood-pressure-updates.com/bp/magazine/edition/High-Blood-Pressure.htm

Tags: tub therapy, water therapy, therapy, health, blood pressure

Read More

Physical Exercise Home Therapy Program

By Milos Pesic

Physical therapy may involve walk training, range of motion, restorative therapy, therapeutic exercises, and home programs to improve strength and independence. Consider a boy named Marc. He injured his knee on a soccer game. He placed a cold icy compress to his injury immediately afterwards but the pain persisted. He visited his doctor and found out that he had torn his Anterior Cruciate Ligament, the tissue that connects the two major bones of the knees. He underwent surgery to treat his injury, yet after which Marc would still need a physical exercise home therapy program for full recovery. This shall help him rebuild his muscle strength and recover the range of motion in his injured knee, and so Marc could heal properly, and completely. Yet how does or should a physical exercise home therapy program work?

First is to look for the right physical therapist. The PT must have a master’s or doctoral degree in physical therapy and must be licensed by your state to practice. You should also know that physical therapists have specializations in different areas. A particular therapist may work mostly with sports injuries, for example, while others may be experts in head injuries, or in children, babies, the elderly, or those with particular illnesses. So you should find one who suits your case. The recommendation of a doctor may not be enough to earn your confidence so you should ask questions to your prospective PT. You should ask about his expertise in such conditions like yours, his therapy plan for you as well as needed physical therapy equipments, also ask how relevant are those in your case or are the equipments necessary to assist implementation of the program; finally ask the exact length of each therapy session and the frequency of the therapy exercises. You can also your school coach for physical therapist recommendations or contact your state’s physical therapy association for names of licensed PT’s in your area.

Now you’re ready for your physical exercise home therapy program, but not so easy. You should remember to stick to the plans of your physical exercise home therapy program. Follow your PT’s directions sternly. Listen to your PT to know your body so you’ll realize how an affected area functions so you can spot problems or avoid further injury in the future. And also talk to your PT; he’s always there to help, and to join you in celebrating your success.

Though recovery can feel frustrating and slow, take a moment to appreciate the difference that a physical exercise home therapy program can make. In time you’ll have increased strength, endurance, flexibility, better postural alignment, pain relief – and confidence.

Milos Pesic is a successful webmaster and owner of popular and comprehensive Physical Therapy information site. For more articles and resources on Physical Therapy related topics, Physical Therapy exercises and much more visit his site at:

=>http://physical-therapy.need-to-know.net/

Read More

Physical Therapy And Arthritis: Getting Back What's Been Taken

By Greg Marsh

Physical therapy can do what nothing else can do for your arthritis. Medications can lessen the pain and help to slow the progression of your condition. Surgery can help to fix the severely damaged joint. But, physical therapy can help you to get back what arthritis has taken from you. Most doctors will provide you with a treatment plan that will include some forms of arthritic physical therapy unless your body is beyond that point. While it will not be the only thing that your doctor has you do, it will be a key component to helping to get yourself back on track.

What’s The Goal?

Physical therapy has one goal when it comes to arthritis. That goal is to help you to improve the use of your joint so that you can get back into doing the things that you like and need to do without pain. Since your joints are at a point that they are being attacked, it is important to give your joint the help it needs to strengthen your muscles and to help increase the range of motion you have. The process can include a number of different things, but usually involves working with a practitioner who is skilled in improving those aspects of your joint health. With time and persistence, much of what you’ve lost can come back to you. For most, the need to get this back is well worth the work that it takes to get to that point.

You can benefit from many aspects of physical therapy. For example, if you are overweight, even slightly, with the right physical therapy you can shed the pounds and take stress off your joints by doing so. You’ll increase your body’s chances of dealing with the pain and inflammation better, too, if you are at a healthier weight. In addition to that, you also learn a lot about your arthritis. You get the benefit of being informed so you can make decisions daily that will encourage a healthy lifestyle with arthritis.

You also learn a wide range of techniques that will help you to monitor and improve your pain levels. By doing simple things, such as using your muscles correctly to minimize pain, you can actually lessen the severity of the pain you feel. You also learn how to modify your activities to increase function of your joint or not to hurt it further.

Probably the most important aspect of physical therapy and arthritis is working on your muscles. By increasing the strength of your muscles in the area, you decrease the activity and workload of the joint. Muscles that are stronger can help to compensate for a weaker joint. You also get to improve the amount of movement you have with that joint. By increasing the range of motion you have, you lessen the impact that arthritis has had on your daily life.

Don’t skip the physical therapy. Don’t assume it’s a waste of your time. What it is happens to be one of the most effective ways of treating the arthritis pain and movement loss that’s happened to you.

For important information from Greg about rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, click the link.

Read More

The Benefit of Music Therapy

By David Z

Music therapy has become immensely popular in modern treatment processes. Music therapy has been implemented on many critically ailing people and it has worked like wonder. It is extensively used as a healing solution to the patients suffering from various diseases.

Music therapy is not only limited to increase personal development, behaviour development, self consciousness of an ailing person, it is even helpful to the intensive care patients. Music therapy can also develop the motor skill, communication skill of a person too.

Music therapy is considered to be a rhythmic entertainment to elderly patients suffering from severe diseases. The use of music as a medication was found in the history Greece in the 16th century. Music and dance was used in treatment of mental diseases at the time. In present days, music therapy is used to reduce the anxiety and stress level. It plays a pivotal role in modern stress management.

Music therapy not only helps stress busted people, but also helps people suffering from chronic illnesses. In this case, patients are allowed to listen to their favourite music for a specific time period. It has been proved that, these music therapy sessions rejuvenate the patients and bring back the lost confidence in their life. Growing positive mindedness is indeed a very good sign for a patient suffering from chronic diseases over a long period of time.

Since music therapy has a tremendous healing and soothing effect on several critical diseases, it is considered to be a secondary treating element for different diseases along with regular treatment process. It can reduce stress, anxiety, pain and controls blood pressure, respiratory rate, hear rate. Apart from that, patients suffering from post surgical problems, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease get positive result using music therapy.

You may have heard about the negative feedback about music therapy. It is often noticed that, excessive sessions of music therapy can cause harm to intensive care patients. But, music therapy is not at all responsible for that. An intensive care patient suffering over a long period of time often weakens the nervous breakdown system. Usage of music therapy leads a sudden change to the surrounding condition of a patient and may result a worse condition of health.

In a session of music therapy, compact disc players, speakers, or headphones, and a wide selection of compact discs are used. A huge diversified collection of crystal players representing cultural and ethnic community is very effective to use for all the intensive care unit patients.

Music therapy should always be conducted by an expert registered therapist to get maximum benefit out of it. It is of no doubt that music therapy is the most expressive amongst all therapies.

Comprehensive Guide to Music Therapy: Theory, Clinical Practice, Research and Training

Read More

Shiatsu Massage Techniques

By Crystal Chan

Shiatsu is a healing art, originating in Japan, which uses the power of touch and pressure to enable each of us to contact our own self-healing abilities. In a Shiatsu session the practitioner uses pressure with thumbs, fingers, palms, and sometimes elbows, knees and feet, to induce deep relaxation and a feeling of well-being. It is sometimes a dynamic, sometimes a seemingly static form, involving pressure and stretching on the limbs and torso, kneading and releasing tight muscles, and supporting areas of weakness. To receive, Shiatsu is deeply relaxing and yet invigorating, leaving a feeling of tranquility and a sense of being in touch with every part of one’s body. Giving Shiatsu is like performing a moving mediation and leaves the giver feeling as balanced and energized as the receiver.

Shiatsu was developed from traditional oriental massage and, in common with acupuncture and other oriental therapies, it works upon the body’s energetic system, using the network of meridians or energy pathways which relates to the functioning of the internal organs as well as our emotional, psychological and spiritual harmony. The concept of the body as an ‘energetic’ organism comes from ancient Chinese thought, and through centuries of experience and study has evolved into a system of medical theory which is both rich and poetic.

Shiatsu uses physical pressure and meridian stretches to unblock the dams - which show up as tight muscles and areas of stiffness - and revitalize the empty areas - which may feel cold, weak or just needing to be held. Oriental medical theory provides a framework by which the practitioner can asses the body’s energetic state and needs, and can explain why the body holds tension in certain areas or points and feels weak in others.

The techniques used in Shiatsu are both simple and profound. We are all familiar with ‘the healing power of touch’.

All forms of bodywork and massage can fulfill the need for touch, but Shiatsu is particularly applicable and practical in an everyday setting for a variety of reasons. One important aspect is that the receiver remains clothed during the treatment. In removing clothes is a further challenge that can leave the receiver feeling uncomfortably vulnerable. Another aspect is the slow and sustained holding pressure which characterizes Shiatsu actively encourages conscious relaxation. This allows the psychological mechanisms governing muscle tension to release more efficiently than with some other forms of bodywork. Shiatsu is very practical as it does not need any equipment.

More massage techniques and tips can be found on http://massage.warmbaby.com/sitemap.html

Read More

Massage Therapy and a Healthy Heart

By LoriAnn Toplak

An effective way to keep your heart healthy is to reduce your stress level by relaxing. I know what you’re saying, ‘How can I relax when I have to deal with traffic, deadlines, work 12 hours a day, and live in -20 degree weather?’ My stress level just rose when I wrote that sentence!! Take a deep breath and read on. You’re about to become…..RELAXED.

One of the best methods to help you become relaxed is to receive regular massage therapy sessions. Anyone who has had a massage will tell you that it feels great. After a treatment, the stress, tension, aches and pains (sometimes unknown before the massage) melt away leaving a more relaxed and healthy individual. There are, however, many more reasons to receive a massage treatment.

Benefits of Massage Therapy include but are not limited to the following:

•Helps to prevent injuries, and the build-up of stress and tension

•Helps to improve and maintain your posture

•Strengthens your immune system

•Relieves tension, stress and clears your mind

•Relieves stiff joints, and tired, aching feet

•Relieves sore and stiff muscles and speeds up recovery from injuries

•Strengthens muscles and connective tissue

•Helps to keep muscles flexible and pliable

•Relieves restlessness and insomnia

•Promotes a sense of well-being

•Relieves pain

•Helps with digestion and relaxes abdominal muscles

Keys to making sure you are completely relaxed before, during and after your massage:

1. Leave for your appointment with plenty of time to spare. This means take into account traffic, transit delays, and other last minute details that need to be finished before you head out the door. There is a huge difference in how our body responds when we rush to an appointment, compared to when we take our time and arrive relaxed.

2. Arrive early. When you arrive a few minutes early, you have time to sit down, fill out any necessary forms and breathe before the massage. It makes the session much more enjoyable when you are calm from the start.

3. If there is any area of the body you wish to not have treated, notify your therapist right from the start. This way you won’t have to worry about it and you can just enjoy your massage.

4. Inform your therapist if you are too cool or too warm. Your therapist can adjust the temperature to meet your needs by either removing a blanket, or applying a heating pad or table warmer. It is your session and to make the most of it, you should be comfortable.

5. Inform your therapist if the pressure is too hard, or not deep enough. Don’t be shy. Your therapist will appreciate your request and can easily modify the pressure.

6. Drink plenty of water after the session. Massage therapy increases circulation and flushes out lactic acid and toxins. Water aids in the removal of these toxins from the body.

7. Try to schedule enough time after your appointment to leisurely make your way to your next activity. It is not very relaxing if you have to get dressed and run out the door.

8. Take an Epsom salts bath. Adding 1-2 cups to warm bath water helps you to de-stress and sleep soundly!!

Ahhhhhh. Just thinking about it has allowed you to relax. Your heart thanks you.

Since 1997, LoriAnn Toplak has worked as a registered massage therapist, certified acupuncturist, certified infant massage therapist and Indian head massage therapist. LoriAnn and her husband Alex, a certified reflexologist and hot stone massage practitioner, own 'The Grove Health Clinic in Toronto, ON. For more information, please visit: http://www.thegrovehealthclinic.com In addition to reducing physical and mental stress, they help others decrease financial strain by promoting financial freedom events. For more information, visit http://www.money4you.com

Read More

Benefits of Receiving Massages during Pregnancy

By Andrew Exon

Is it alright to receive a massage while being pregnant? What about the baby? What about laying on my stomach, is this ok? Are there any risks involved in being pregnant and receiving a massage? Can any pregnant woman receive a full body massage? Theses questions are important when a woman is pregnant desiring some form of relief from: headaches, lower back pain, irritation in the joints, and the swelling of hands and feet.

Yes, it is alright for a woman who is pregnant to receive a massage, though she should seek professional guidance before she receives a full body massage. There are reasons, which will be discussed later in the article, for a woman who is pregnant not to engage in massage therapy; however the benefits of receiving massages are:

1. Reduced depression
2. Decreases swelling of hands and feet
3. Sounder sleep because you feel more relaxed as muscles have been gently rubbed removing knots and soothing cramping
4. Reduction in cramping because the muscles are brought back into balance
5. Depending on who is providing the service: an increase in love and union between couples, which Kelly Lott a Certified Pregnancy Massage Therapist said, “Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image.”
6. Muscles related to childbirth are relaxed and prepared more, thus increasing the likelihood of an easier delivery
7. Time, a good massage can be given in 10 minutes once or twice a week. It is a fallacy to think a good massage takes 30 minutes to an hour

A Pillow termed “Prego Pillows” have been introduced and developed for women who are pregnant. These pillows allow women to lay flat on their bellies without harming themselves or the baby, which keeps the mother’s back and body in perfect alignment enabling her to relax while she receives gentle touch. The word gentle is used purposely because it is suggested that if the muscles are rubbed to hard, than the massage will actually have an opposite affect annulling the reasons for receiving a massage in the first place.

Though any woman who is pregnant can receive a massage there are times when a massage therapist would recommend you receive a note from your doctor before receiving a massage: morning sickness, vomiting, contagious illness, heavy discharge (either water or blood), abdominal pain, high blood pressure, and diarrhea. Also should you have any skin rashes, open sores, bruises, inflammation, varicose veins, or any infections avoid massaging on or around these areas of your body. An article I read recently also suggested women who are in their first trimester should not seek a massage, because this is the time for her to be in harmony with the physical and emotional (hormonal) changes a woman goes through during this period of three months, or so.

Massage Therapy has its routes around 3000 B.C., however prenatal massages is just recently being discovered and researched. The University of Miami, School of Medicine is continuing to discover new benefits for prenatal massages. Women of all types are able to receive this comforting and relaxing method of therapeutic health. With new pillows “Prego Pillow” a woman is able to lye flat on her belly without disrupting the alignment of her back and injuring her baby. If you should have any symptoms mentioned above consult your doctor before engaging in a full body massage.

How Anyone Can Benefit from Massage Therapy.

Andrew is a Marriage, Family, and Human Development graduate who enjoys swing dancing, camping, fly-fishing, and other recreational sports which provide physical excercise and relaxation.

Read More

Enrich Your Life by Different Massage Styles

By Andrew Exon

Touch is an important aspect in every human beings life: the touch of a mother, the touch of your spouse, and the touch of your partner. Since the increase in our understanding of the human body and it muscular structure, specialists have come forth and introduced different styles of massages that stimulate the body such as: foot, chair, hot stone, and spa massages.

A foot massage is correctly performed by first soaking the feet in Epsom salt, and than after the foot is dried (preferably with a soft terry cloth towel, however any towel will work) begin with a gentle rubbing of the whole foot. The next step commences with the by rubbing the top of the feet. The third step moves to the sole of the foot and depending on the needs of the individual receiving the massage continue rubbing gently or firmly. The final step in perfecting the foot massage is massaging the toes.

Traditionally, we think of a massage with someone who is lying face down being rubbed from head to toe, typically naked with only a towel for apparel. However, over the past twenty years David Palmer introduced the benefits in receiving a chair massage. This style is less expensive and can be received anywhere there is a comfortable chair to sit in with the same benefits of reducing tension and stress, however specially designed chairs have been developed to increase comfort and relaxation.

Another emerging style is a hot stone massage, developed in Sweden. This method is perfect for individuals who find the traditional full body massage more rigorous than comforting. Basalt stones which retain heat through out the session are used in this style of massage. These stones weigh anywhere from one pound to five pounds. The masseuse rubs the body with a smoothed stone pressing more firmly in areas where the muscles are tight and tense.

A spa massage differs from your traditional full body massage because it adds sweet smelling aromas, oils (lavender is preferred), gentle music, and creams to create a more relaxing atmosphere. With a spa massage you will hear more about presentation and atmosphere than about the massage itself.

For more information about Massage Therapy go to http://www.free-body-massage.info.

By A. Exon

http://www.free-body-massage.info.

Andrew is a Marriage, Family, and Human Development graduate who enjoys swing dancing, camping, fly-fishing, and other recreational sports which provide physical excercise and relaxation.

Read More

Health by Massage Therapy - Benefits of Human Touch

By Andrew Exon

In recent years because patients have been dissatisfied with current conventional methods of medical treatments, they have turned to contemporary forms of treatment to relieve back pain. One such form of contemporary treatment being used is Massage Therapy.

Massage Therapy, the art of human touch, has been around since the beginning of humankind. Couples, friends, and parents have always used human touch to console and ease the anxieties, or pain of loved ones. However, this art has become noticed by the medical world, and some doctors are recommending their patients to seek this alternative form of treatment when conventional methods are no longer aiding their patient’s recovery.

A question a Professional would propose to any person seeking this contemporary form of medical treatment, “Does Massage Therapy have any statistical significance in aiding back pain relief?” Case studies have been performed, and though they have not found any statistical significance relating to Massage Therapy and its affect on back pain, they have recognized that to some degree Massage Therapy has improved the physical symptoms of patients, and the quality of life they experience. In one case study, massage therapy was effective in relieving subacute and chronic back pain.

How many treatments does it take for a person to feel the benefits of Massage Therapy, you might ask? This depends strictly upon the individual requesting the service, their description of symptoms, and their massage professional. Some massage therapists will begin with an interview asking their client to describe their current physical symptoms, and organize a four week plan, with a visit a week, touching each area of tension. Other therapists may ask where it hurts, recognize which muscle is causing the discomfort, and proceed with the treatment and he/she is out in thirty minutes.

In conclusion, Massage Therapy, though not statistically significant, has been shown to reduce the level of pain in a person’s back, and when traditional medical treatments are no longer relieving the symptoms. Some medical professionals are advising their patients to seek avenues of alternative contemporary styles in reducing back pain. Massage Therapy is one treatment they are recommending.

For more information about Massage Therapy go to http://www.free-body-massage.info By Andrew Exon

http://www.free-body-massage.info.

Andrew is a Marriage, Family, and Human Development graduate who enjoys swing dancing, camping, fly-fishing, and other recreational sports which provide physical excercise and relaxation.

Read More

Using Fatty Tissue for Breast Augmentation

Using fatty tissue for breast augmentation is a technique that has not received much attention recently, but it is definitely an approach you should know about.

The process of this particular breast augmentation procedure requires that fatty tissue be removed from various parts of the body and injected into the breast. In the same way that saline and silicone implants are used to enlarge the breast, the patients own fat tissue is utilised to perform this procedure. The reasons for following this route are varied, but no less complicated than using traditional methods of breast enlargement.

Safety is the overriding issue when contemplating any form of cosmetic surgery. The national society of plastic surgeons should be consulted when deciding on a suitable doctor for performing your procedure. It is always wise to consult a number of surgeons before making a final choice. The risks should be discussed fully with your chosen doctor, who must answer your questions fully and explain the process to your satisfaction. As you have your own reasons for embarking on the surgery, you should discuss these with your doctor to ensure that your expectations will be met. Some of the reasons why women decide to have surgery are to be more proportional, to reshape or enlarge breasts that have lost shape or to balance breasts that are asymmetrical.

The use of fatty tissue for augmentation is not widespread as the number of surgeons who offer this method are limited. The risks associated with the use of your own fat include infection, bleeding as well as irregular shape and size. The success of this method relies on the quality of the fat tissue removed, as well as the cannula used to remove fat, the processing of the removed fat, the method of technique used to ingest the fat, as well as the post-operative treatment. It is important that follow up visits to X-ray the breasts as well as to take biopsy of the transplanted tissue occur for at least a year.

Due to the various problems experienced by utilising fat transplant in enlargement procedures, it is not a recommended procedure. It is more commonly used in the rejuvenation and enhancement of the facial areas. It is less commonly used in the buttocks and lower body. Despite the fact that the results are far from satisfactory, a number of patients undergo the procedure each year. The survival of fat tissue transplanted from one area to another is considered to be a chance not worth taking by a growing number of surgeons.

Unless you are dead set on utilising fatty tissue augmentation and have found a reliable board certified surgeon to perform the procedure, I suggest you consider the safer alternatives available to you.
Learn more about breast surgery at http://www.plasticsurgeonpractices.com

Read More

How To Apply Eye Makeup

The same basic steps are used when you apply eye makeup, whether you go for nude makeup or the seductive, smoky eye look. You change your look by your choice of colors. Go for natural colors, close your your skin tones for that nude makeup look, something rosier if you want to look radiant, something more golden, or with metallics if you want glamour, or darker, smoky colors for the smoky eye look.

Decide on your look. Pick three colors for your eyeshadow.

1. A light shade for the highlights. This could be a pearl-like shimmer, a very light metallic, or simply a very pale color.
2. A medium shade which would be the main color you would use.
3. A dark shade for the shadows.

Applying the eye makeup

• Apply your foundation first over your entire face before you start on your eye makeup. You need a good canvas to work with.
• Apply an eyeshadow primer from lash to brow to make your eye makeup last. You can skip this step if you prefer.
• Using a makeup brush or eyeshadow sponge, apply the medium shade from lashes to the crease of your eyelid.
• Draw a line as close to your upper lashes as possible with your eyeliner, from inner corner, to the outer corner of your eye. For smoky eyes, draw a thick line. Use an eye pencil to darken your lower lash line as well.
• Using the edge for your eyeshadow brush, or with an eyeliner brush, go over this lash line with the dark eyeshadow.
• Apply the dark eyeshadow into the crease of your eyelid to deepen your eyes.
• Use the light color on the brow bone to highlight your eyes.
• Apply the light shadow from lash to crease at the center of your eyelid.
• Go over the entire eyelid lightly with a large brush to blend the colors.
• Apply mascara on your upper and lower lashes

Here are more guides on how to apply makeup. The writer is the webmaster of http://www.cosmeticsonline.info

Read More

Look Sexy In A Flash - Five Fabulous Ways

Between kids, school, and work, it’s easy for a frazzled female to let her beauty routine slip, but no matter how ragged your obligations make you feel, sacrificing your sexy to the demands of modern living can be the exception instead of the rule. Here are five tips that prove you can achieve glam on the go, and without spending a whole paycheck.

• Flawless skin in a hurry – get it with a tinted moisturizer. Tinted moisturizers are light, easy to apply and quick. Look for one with SPF of 15 or higher that’s non-comedogenic like Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer Tinted Moisturizer.

• Lovely lips lickity split – for sheer drama and sex appeal nothing beats red lipstick. This year red lips are back in a big way and this new generation of pucker paints goes on smoothly and swiftly with a glossy shine. For maximum impact try Rimmel Vinyl lip gloss.

• Bee-line to glamour – what’s more compelling than a gorgeous set of peepers? Make yours pop with eyeliner. Not only is it quicker than mascara, but it’s twice as sexy. You can avoid the inevitable smudges and problems with precision by choosing a semi soft stick. A good one is Maybelline’s Expert Soft Pencil.

• Head rush –generally reserved for the occasional bad hair day, the pony tail is a fast and versatile do that rarely gets the respect it deserves. A classic in the truest sense, the youthful and sophisticated pony tail is suitable for women of all ages. Sex it up by wearing it to one side or if you have them, with wispy bangs.

• Dressed in a dash – as you know, the right outfit can make or break your hottie factor. But what if you only have time to throw on some jeans and a tee? No worries! Nothing’s hotter than a well-fitting pair of jeans, fitted T-shirt, and sexy shoes. And by sexy we don’t necessarily mean a pair of towering heels. Try a cute ballet slipper, a pair of riding boots (tuck your jeans in them), or a chunky heeled motorcycle boot.

So there you are five simple steps to fabulousness! Mojo restored. Now go get ‘em tigress!
Lynnel A. Hampton is a native of Seattle, Washington, and a graduate of the University of Washington. She holds a BA in English with creative writing emphasis and is currently pursuing an MBA in Marketing. She is a past winner of The University of Washington's Annual Black History Month Essay Contest and currently works as a Marketing Communications Specialist in Kent, WA.

Read More

The Best Anti-Aging Treatments

Queen’s famous song, “Who Wants To Live Forever”, is certainly appropriate in today’s youth-obsessed age. Billboards, magazines, television commercials and radio ads are constantly bombarding us with new ways to look and feel younger. Although we may not want to actually live forever, most of us would certainly like to look a little younger throughout life’s journey. Fortunately, anti-aging treatments are more widely available now than ever before.

Traditional methods such as exercising regularly and eating healthy foods are still very beneficial to slowing the aging process. These should form a part of everyone’s weekly routine as healthy outward appearances begin within. Weight training helps to restore muscle tone and strengthen the bones. This may prevent osteoporosis and the chance of bone fractures later in life. Healthy food choices ensure our body receives all the necessary vitamins and minerals that are essential to our well being.

However, with today’s increase in sun exposure, chemical pollution and food additives, we need all the help we can get to fight the signs of aging. Therefore, you may want to consider one of the vast array of anti-aging creams, lotions, pills or drops available. Most large cosmetics companies now offer a line of products specifically targeted to reduce the visible signs of aging. For example, Hydroderm has created a product for reducing wrinkles, another for combating cellulite, and one for restoring the body’s moisture levels. All of these are meant to slow down the inevitable aging process.

If you are searching for a more permanent solution, you may want to inquire into plastic surgery or medical procedures such as liposuction, face-lifts or tummy tucks. Less invasive procedures include collagen or Botox injections, chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing. More and more clinics are offering these services, but you need to make sure you go to a qualified professional.

We can’t stop the aging process, but we can definitely slow it down. Make sure you continue to exercise regularly, make healthy food choices and find a brand of anti-aging products that works well for you. If the saying “you are only as old as you feel” is true, you just may be able to become 29 again…

For the best anti wrinkle eye cream, try visiting http://www.hydrodermskincare.com a popular website that offers anti aging tips, advice and resources to include information on anti aging skin care and Hydroderm anti wrinkle cream.

Read More

Daily Wear Make-Up and Beauty Tips for You

I don’t know about the rest of you out there, but I HATE wearing make-up every single day. Am I right? I’m not sure which part I hate the most. I hate waking up earlier than normal to put it on and make sure I did it right. I hate the way it feels after wearing it for ten hours. I hate coming home and going through all the trouble of taking it all off, just to reapply it the very next morning. It all gets very monotonous.

It’s not easy being beautiful. It isn’t a simple task having to apply make-up on a daily basis and still maintain that new and fresh look everyone knows you for. Make-up worn everyday isn’t very good for your skin, either. That’s what we’re here for. Here are some tips from the experts at Makeuptip.com to help you with some of the above mentioned problems:

• Always remember that if you use make-up on a daily basis you should use only quality products. Wearing the cheap stuff everyday isn’t very healthy for you. Therefore choosing the right brand is an important step as it is directly related to your skin care and health.

• For daily makeup, powder make-up is preferred because it not only keeps the shine under control but also contains less preservatives and skin irritants as compared to their liquid cousins.

• If you cannot avoid using liquid foundation, then try to pick one with a silicone base. They are less likely to instigate a touch of acne.

• If you apply make-up daily, you also need to remove it daily. You may need to use a make-up remover. Remember that when using remover to clean out waterproof make-up, it also wipes out the protective layer of sebum from the skin; therefore you should use waterproof cosmetics only occasionally.

• You should never use make-up that has crossed its expiry dates because it could be extremely harmful. Normal life span of make-up:

• Mascaras: about three to four months
• Foundations: last for one year
• Lipsticks: last for one year
• Powder: last for about two years
• Eye shadows: last for about two years. You should also clean make-up brushes and sponges regularly.

• Pencil eyeliner and eyebrow pencils that are wax based should be preferred because they can be cleaned off easily by using water only.

• Light earth tones are preferable since they not only give a natural look but are also less likely to cause a skin irritation than some of the darker tones.

• You should stick with a broad-spectrum sunscreen. A sunscreen with an SPF15 or higher and with ingredients such as zinc oxide is very effective in avoiding UVA rays.

• For a quick at-home pedicure, scrape the dead skin off the soles of your feet after a shower using an emery board. Next, rub them with lotion and push back the cuticles of your toenails.

The key thing to remember is to find a look and a routine you are comfortable with and one you like. If you’re not comfortable using a certain type of make-up, then why would you wear it? Daily makeup helps us feel more confident, and nothing is sexier than self-confidence.
For more makeup tips such as this, be sure to visit the experts at MakeUpTip.com at http://www.makeuptip.com. When they’re done, your face will look like you just left an expensive salon. They offer tips for makeup wearers on how to achieve a velvety, natural finish and keep your makeup lasting longer. Visit them and find out how to look like million dollars on a real woman’s budget.

Read More

Five Tips for Easy Weight Loss!

Weight loss is a hot topic among people today, especially considering the fact that more than half of us are overweight. As we get older we often get busier, and before we know it, find ourselves in the prime of our lives and packing a few extra pounds. With so little extra time in our lives it is impractical to join the latest diet fad or commit to sweating in the gym for hours at a time. Are we all destined to grow outward with each passing year, or is there a simple way for us to reclaim our healthy figures? If you struggle with your own battle of the bulge read on for five sure-fire ways to drop a few of those unwanted pounds, and more importantly learn how you can prevent packing them in the first place!

TIP #1: Burn it in the AM.

What is the first thing you do when you wake each morning? Hit the snooze button for an extra ten minutes of sleep? What if I told you that taking those ten minutes to strap on your sneakers and walk briskly around the block would result in weight loss? It has been proven that aerobic activity done on an empty stomach forces your body to recruit energy from storage. This energy is stored in the form of fat on various parts of your body. Starting tomorrow take ten minutes out of your morning to walk briskly around the block before breakfast. Do not sprint or try to walk as quickly as possible, simply walk at a pace that you could comfortably hold a conversation. This seemingly small activity, when done consistently, will produce surprising weight loss results!

TIP #2 Forget Your Late Night Snack.

I know I am not the only one who enjoys eating a snack after dinner! Although comfort food seems to taste better right before bed, it is also more prone to stick with us when eaten late at night. It has been proven that not eating three hours before bed reduces fat storage throughout the night. If you go to bed at 10pm, finish eating for the day no later than 7pm. Once you have made this a habit you will be ecstatic over the long term weight loss!

TIP #3 Kiss that Frappuccino Goodbye.

What tastes better than a frothy, venti frappuccino smothered in whip cream and chocolate syrup? While blended coffee beverages have rapidly gained popularity with the masses, their caloric tallies have been all but ignored. Whether you are an avid Starbucker, or only wander in for an occasional treat, it is important to know the truth about what you are drinking. The average Venti sized frappuccino weighs in at 530 calories. This staggering number equals 2.5 bagels, or one third of the recommended daily calories for an average woman. Not only is this an extreme amount of calories to be consumed in a beverage but the calories come purely from sugar, which is easily stored as fat. Next time you are in line at the coffee shop and find yourself eyeing a sugary beverage, redirect your attention to the tea selection, or stick with an old fashioned cup of coffee.

TIP #4 Fuel Your Fire.

Have you ever tended a campfire? You probably remember continuously adding sticks and branches to keep the fire from running out of fuel. Your body’s metabolism is similar in its need for constant fuel. Eating a small meal every three hours is a great way to keep your metabolism high all day long. When your metabolism is high you burn more calories throughout the day and are less likely to store fat. Rather than eating 2 or 3 large meals a day, and allowing your ‘fire’ to go out, giving way to hunger pains, try eating a small meal every three hours and be amazed at your weight loss results.

TIP #5 Curb Your Carbs

I’m sure sometime in the past year you have found yourself subjected to the testimony of a converted ‘low-carb’ enthusiast. While these people may look great it is definitely not the right diet for everyone. Extreme fatigue, crankiness and downright impracticality are what make this diet a tough cookie to swallow. Cutting one or two carb-filled items out of your daily diet can make a huge difference in meeting weight loss goals. While I wouldn’t recommend throwing out your bread basket entirely, consciously cutting carb-filled items out of your daily food intake is a great idea. If you normally have a sandwich for lunch make it open-faced, thus cutting out half of the bread. If you enjoy eating pasta for dinner reduce your pasta portion and add extra vegetables. These minor changes to your daily diet will prove themselves priceless when you step onto the scale!

It is you against the bulge, and now that you are armed with these 5 tips for easy weight loss, I am confident that you are going to win! Keep in mind that consistency is the key. The more effort that you put into implementing these 5 tips into your daily lifestyle, the quicker the unwanted pounds will disappear!

Diana Keuilian, author, ACE certified Personal Trainer, and co-founder of HitechTrainer.com offers online personal training and nutrition programs that fit your budget and schedule. Whether your goal is to lose weight, firm and tone, or to build muscle, HitechTrainer.com will build a custom designed program just for you.
Visit: http://www.hitechtrainer.com and begin meeting your fitness goals today!

Read More

Weight Loss vs. Fat Loss - Yes There is a Difference!

In order to lose weight, your body must burn more calories than it takes in, but keep in mind that your body needs calories for energy and when you exercise; your body needs even more calories. Before I talk about energy, the first thing you must understand is that losing weight and losing fat is not the same thing. Just because you lose weight, does not mean you lose fat, and just because you lose fat, does not mean you lose weight. When people talk about losing weight, what the really want to do is lose the excess fat on their body and obtain an attractive figure.

When you eat, the body uses most of the calories for energy. If you eat more calories than the body uses, it will get stored as fat. If you do not consume enough calories per day you will lose weight, but you will also lose energy. When you do not consume enough energy (calories) for your body, it will start using up your energy stores to make up for the energy deficiency. Unfortunately, the energy stores used is not your stored fat, but instead it’s protein and carbohydrates (carbs) that will supply most of the energy (stored fat makes up a very small percentage).

Your body will take the protein and carbohydrates from your muscle cells; causing your muscle mass to reduce (say goodby to that toned attractive look) which forces your metabolism to decrease (a low metabolism = slow or no fat burning). When this happens your body requires less energy to maintain its new lower body weight (remember the body weight is lower because you loss muscle), which is why your body conserves energy by slowing down the metabolism. In other words, the body has adapted to the new lower energy (calorie) intake which means that you will no longer continue to lose weight.

Keep in mind that the weight you had lost in the first place was mostly water weight and you will eventually gain it back in the form of fat, not muscle (in order to get your muscle mass back to the way it was before, you have to work on rebuilding it). When carbohydrates and protein that are already in your body are used as the energy source, your body will lose water weight because both carbohydrates and protein hold water in the cells. In essence, you are dehydrating yourself to lose weight. So yes the scale will go down, but approximately 75% (if not more) of it is water instead of fat. And just so you know, exercising while consuming a small calorie intake just makes the situation worse.

This is because when you exercise, you start burning off more energy and the more you workout, the more energy your body needs. I already told you above where the energy comes from, and if you do not give your body the energy it needs, it will just feed on your muscles even quicker now that you are exercising. So eat more food! In addition to this, when you cut down too much on your calorie intake, your body will start storing calories because it doesn’t know when you will eat again. The calories that are stored will be stored as fat. So in other words, when your body is storing energy, it’s basically storing more fat.
To summarize my point: Not eating enough calories results in muscle loss, dehydration, slower fat burning, and your body will always adapt to a lower calorie intake.

Bottom Line: if you can’t maintain that lower calorie intake for the rest of your life, you will gain your weight back when you get tired of starving yourself!
To lose weight properly (burning fat) you must increase your metabolism (weight training) and your need for oxygen (aerobics) while eating enough calories each day (nutritious diet) to give you energy and maintain the protein in your muscles because protein helps build muscles, which indirectly burns fat. This brings up another good point: When you build muscle your weight will increase because your muscles are made up of mostly water, but your body fat percentage will decrease because building muscles increase your metabolism (in other words, muscles way more than fat, but take up less space than fat). So keep in mind that losing body fat can’t be measured by a scale; use a measuring tape and also look at yourself in the mirror, and then you will see the true results. One of the best ways to know if you are losing more body fat than water is by using a body fat analyzer.

Make sure that you focus on fat loss not weight loss. Your goal should be to lose weight by burning fat, not losing water from your muscles. Remember this when you choose your weight loss program.

This article was written by Vernita Sherman of Ultimate Fat Burning Secrets. Ultimate Fat Burning Secrets is dedicated to exposing fat burning secrets that weight loss companies are keeping from you. Vernita teaches the truth about how to permanently lose weight the healthy natural way, and she is commited to guiding you to weight loss resources that she has personally tried and know for a fact work. You can learn more about these resources and receive a free fat burning course at http://www.bffm.ultimatefatburningsecrets.com

Read More

Diets Don't Work

Any doctor worth their salt will tell you diets don't work. Plain and simple. Surprised?

Well you might be. You can't get away from all the talk about South Beach, Atkins, Low Carb, Zone ... you name it, they're talking about it. It's on TV, in magazines... everywhere you look.
And of course there are the pills, drugs and other expensive methods to lose weight. While they may be appropriate in certain cases, by and large they aren't necessary. Some can actually be dangerous to your health.

What does work, what's been proven to work time and time again is something very simple... a lifestyle change. You may not want to hear it, but it's true.

You can't eat thousands of calories, rich desserts, sugary snacks, excess fat and tons of carbs, get little or no activity and expect to lose weight with a pill!

You'll be surprised to know that you don't need to stop eating or have to exercise for hours every day to lose weight. Just a few simple lifestyle changes added daily can turn your life around quickly. You will start to lose weight within days and feel better as well.

Here are 4 tips you can use to get started today:

- Drink water.
Drinking lots of water is probably the single most important thing you can do for your health. Water delivers nutrients throughout your body, flushes toxins out of your system and aids in digestion. When you get up in the morning, start with a full glass of water before you start your day (add a little lemon if you like). Then get at least 10-12 additional glasses of water in throughout the day.

- Eat slowly.
Chew your food 10-12 times before swallowing. Your saliva starts the digestion process, and if you don't chew enough, your stomach has to work twice as hard and many times you don't get much out of the foods you eat -- except maybe some indigestion :).

- Split your entree.
When eating out, split your entree with your dining companion. Most restaurants now serve portions that are up to 8 times the recommended serving size. Supplement with a salad, soup or vegetable to complete your meal.

- Avoid sodas.
Did you know that an average soda has 14 teaspoons of sugar? Not only are these empty calories and carbs that take you on a blood sugar roller coaster and adds pounds, the sugar also can also cripple your immune system for up to 5 hours leaving your body working overtime and open to infections, viruses and the effects of stress.

Drinking one soda a day alone can pack on 16 lbs of unwanted weight! Skip that soda and watch the weight go away.

Additionally, recent studies have linked increased soda consumption with certain cancers and a loss of essential minerals from our bodies.

Mark Idzik is a health coach with a national clientele who helps his clients lose weight and make better health choices. His new report, Permanent Weight Loss Now, offers a proven way to lose weight naturally, safely and effectively. You can get more information at: http://www.everyday-weight-loss.com Receive 37 Free Weight Loss Tips by sending email to:
37tips@everyday-weight-loss.com

Read More