• Simple, effortless technique : TM is a simple mental technique that can be learned easily without much effort. You don’t need any special ability to concentrate or control your mind, as in other meditation methods. In fact, it. s so simple that even a 10-year-old child can learn it easily.
• Absolutely natural: The best thing about it is, it. s absolutely natural, which means you don. t have to suffer any mental manipulation or suggestion, as in hypnosis.
• No physical postures : TM is not a physical exercise session either. There are no special postures or techniques.
• Not time-consuming: To practice TM all you need is 15-20 minutes, twice a day. You have to sit comfortably with your eyes closed and follow the technique. As simple as that.
• Works for everybody: TM works for everybody. No matter how busy or stressed you are. Extremely busy executives and businessmen may think, “Oh God, I can never sit still for 20 minutes.” But they need not worry; even they can learn to meditate the TM way. And it will work for them.

 TM, then, is a simple and natural technique that you can learn without spending much time or doing any physical or mental manipulation. Anyone of any age, profession, education, religion, or culture can learn TM. It is as natural and automatic as atmospheric air.

How does TM help in relaxing?

• TM will make you relaxed by removing the stress and tension inside you. And this will in turn increase your energy and intelligence levels. TM returns the mind to its own original state of calm, which is a reservoir of energy, creativity and intelligence. After 20 minutes of practicing the technique, you can plunge into any activity with more creativity, zeal and intelligence.
• The natural way to remove stress is by taking deep rest, and the deeper the rest the better it is. This is the principle that TM uses in a unique manner. The deep rest that TM provides releases accumulated stress and tension, which does not happen even if you take a good night’s sleep, a restful vacation, do relaxation exercises, do jogging, or play golf or cricket. It is not just another form of activity or recreation.

All other forms of meditation or self-development exercises, like yoga and simple meditation, involve either concentration or contemplation. But there is no need to concentrate or contemplate on anything in TM. You can learn it easily and practice it without any effort. Research comparing TM with other meditation and relaxation techniques has found this technique to be far more effective for reducing anxiety, increasing self-actualization, improving psychological health and reducing the use of cigarettes, alcohol and drugs.

What meditation is not:
Meditation is not religion. Nor is it concentration or hypnosis. Meditation does not become better by taking drugs. You do not have to be a particular age to be able to meditate. Everyone can do it and you can get better at it with a little bit of practice.

What is meditation?
It is a process that leads one to inner peace and tranquility. It allows you to be in touch with yourself, completely relaxing you by taking you away from the humdrum of daily activity. It allows you to put things in perspective and makes you stress free.

Reiki has a number of exercises that can help you regain your energies and of course the lost sleep too. If you are doing or have done the First degree in Reiki then you will be familiar with this exercise. However, even if you are a newcomer to Reiki you can go ahead and do it yourself!

TO REPLENISH YOUR ENERGY

All that you need is a few minutes at any time of the day. Any place will do, so charge your energy with this new refreshment.

STEP 1

You can do this sitting or lying down. Just find a comfortable place. Now close your eyes and relax.

STEP 2

Now feel the tension in you ‘solar plexus chakra’ or the ‘third chakra’ or in simple terms the ‘stomach’. Place your one hand just above the stomach or over the chakra.

STEP 3

Now place your other hand just below the first one. Thus it should fall on the stomach and just below the solar plexus chakra.

STEP 4

Now all you need to do is relax your hands and fingers. Let your mind rest or drift, as it wants to.

STEP 5

Stay in this position for 10 – 15 minutes.
You might even drift into a semi sleep state.
Open your eyes slowly and stretch yourself.

When you get up you will feel full of energy and revitalized. You can now go ahead with your work with new found zeal and energy.

FOR BETTER SLEEP

If you have problems sleeping, then this is an ideal self-help exercise for you.

STEP 1

Whether it is your afternoon siesta or night sleep lie down on your back or on your side whichever is comfortable.

STEP 2

Now place one hand on your forehead and one on your stomach.
Feel yourself breathing in and out.
Notice your stomach rise up and go down, swelling up with your breath and then emptying.

STEP 3

Stay in this position for at least 10 minutes and more if you wish to.
You will soon find yourself drifting off to a deep sleep with a relaxed feeling.

If you do this exercise regularly, you will find that it is very effective in helping you get a good night’s sleep. So take some time out and make these exercises a part of your daily routine.

The head has 5 positions that can treat various problems.

POSITION 1

Place your hands over your eyes.
Now rest your palms over on the cheekbones.

Benefit: The main thing that you can treat with this position is stress and fatigue. It also helps build concentration and fight cold. You can even treat a few eye diseases with it.

POSITION 2

Place your hands over both sides of your head, over your ears and touching your temples.

Benefit: This position will help you in improving your memory, getting over depression and can cure colds and headaches.

POSITION 3

Place your hand over both sides of the head, with your ears covered

. Benefit: This position can affect the whole body because our sense of balance is controlled here. You can treat earaches, nasal and throat problems, ear fluid misbalance, hearing problems and reduce confusion.

POSITION 4

Place your hands over the back of your head like you are holding a ball.

Benefit: This position is very effective in treating headaches, eye diseases, colds, asthma, sneezing, nausea, abdominal problems, circulatory troubles and even anxiety.

POSITION 5

Place your hands around your throat with your wrists touching in the center.

Benefit: This position can treat various kinds of problems ranging from metabolic diseases and weight problems to stuttering and anxiety, palpitation and blood pressure to poor posture, leg aches, shoulder pains and throat problems. It can even treat various forms of aggression and behavioral problems.

Do these exercises regularly and keep all ailments at bay.

Reiki does not only help in claming the mind and reducing stress levels but also helps to cure back problems. Try these easy-to-do exercises and find out for yourself.

POSITION 1

Place both your hands on either side of the neck, on the upper shoulders. They should not touch each other and should be positioned on either side of the spine.

Benefit: This position is great in treating back and neck problems, helps relieve shoulder tension and headaches that occur because of back pain. On the other hand, it helps relax and release all the blocked tensions and emotions. It also gives a boost to your spirit of responsibility.

POSITION 2

Place one hand in the middle of your chest and the other on your back but at the same height. The hand on your back should be comfortably placed palm facing outward.

Benefit: This position is extremely helpful in reducing worries and depression, and also increases confidence. It also stimulates the immune system and balances the thymus gland and the heart.

POSITION 3

In this position you place your hands around your waist at the height of your kidney, which is just below your rib cage. Your fingers should point towards your spine, with just the tip of your fingers touching each other.

Benefit: This is a very effective stress relieving position that reinforces self-esteem and confidence. On the other hand it strengths the kidneys, the adrenal glands and different nerves.

POSITION 4

This position is just the same as the front position 4. You are to place your hands in the shape of a “V” touching your coccyx.(the bone at the base of the spinal column).

Benefit: This positions helps treat the digestive problems and those related to the sexual organs. It also helps in the correction of your sciatic nerve and improves confidence.

Try these four exercises and you will be amazed at the difference.

What is a Swedish Massage?

A Swedish massage is a form of bodywork that makes use of specific movements and strokes on the body tissues and muscles in order to loosen the muscles. Here the rubbing is in the same direction as the flow of blood returning to the heart. Thus the primary aim of it is to soothe the tensed muscles and increase the flow of blood.

The Origin

This technique emerged in the late 18th century by Per Heinrik Link. He suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and travelled all over Europe seeking a cure. Ultimately he landed up in China where he learned the eastern techniques. He thus merged and combined the eastern practices with the western thoughts, specifically the gymnastic rehabilitative exercises to form this extraordinary massage.

It’s techniques

Swedish massage strives to relax the tensed muscles by rubbing the deeper muscles and bones. Care has to be taken that rubbing is in the same direction as the return of blood to the heart. There are different kinds of strokes used that include:

1. Effleurage

This is generally given at the start of the session. It means “touching lightly” and the palms of both the hands usually give the strokes. However many a times the thumb, fingers and knuckles too are used. The stroke is given in the same direction as the return of blood to the heart. This stroke aims to relax the soft tissues, muscles, ligaments and tendons. It also helps the therapist know your body better so that he knows how to give the treatment.

2. Petrissage

This means “kneading” and in this stroke the muscles are kneaded, squeezed and rolled with the help of the hands, thumbs and fingers. This stroke aims at the deeper veins in the body and strives to increase the blood circulation in them so that the cells are rejuvenated.

3. Friction

Also called “rubbing”, this is the strongest of all strokes. In it the pads of the thumbs and the fingers are used to stimulate the layers of tissue and rub them against one another. This stroke aims at increasing the blood flow and circulation so that the muscle fibers are realigned and get some nutrition. Thus this stroke breaks down the tissues that are scared and puts life back in the dead ones.

4. Tapotement

Tapotement means “tapping”. The masseur cups his hands, fingers or the edge of the hand and pounds the body. Thus short, gentle but firm blows are given to the body. The main aim of this is to stimulate the circulation but when given for more than 10 seconds they assist in relaxing the body too.

5. Vibration

This involves “shaking” the body. The practitioner puts his hands on the body to shake them vigorously up and down. Vibration aims at stimulating the circulation and if done for a longer period at relaxing the body.

Benefits of a Swedish Massage

Though the primary aim of this massage is to relax the body, there are many other benefits too:

• Improves the blood circulation in the body,
• Helps remove metabolic waste products,
• Helps get over muscle aches and pains,
• Stimulates the skin,
• Helps in getting over stress and fatigue,
• Improves the joint mobility,
• Improves the immune system,
• Helps fight insomnia,
• Leads to a feeling of general wellness

Now that you know the benefits of this massage, just go for it.

There are 6 essential components of a Thai massage

1. Yoga
2. Exercise
3. Meditation
4. Reflexology
5. Acupressure
6. Healing art

How is it done

The normal time for a massage can range anywhere between 1½ – 2 ½ hours, and may even extend for 3 hours. A Thai massage is always given on a mat on the floor, there is no oil used and it is performed fully clothed. Before starting, the master recites a short chant that is said to help him focus his energy and concentration on the individual.

The masseur exerts pressure on the energy lines which are called “sen.” Pressure is exerted by the palms, thumb, fingers and feet. The points worked on are treated on a superficial level and not a specific level as in acupressure. They are used to induce relaxation. The thumb, finger or the palm movement is performed in circular motions. This is followed by some stretching movements, that are based on the yoga principles and increase the body flexibility as well as release body tension.

At the end of the session the master will again repeat the chant as a cool down exercise Always remember that the masseur will never work on any bone specifically, especially the knees as they are considered to be very fragile and delicate.

A Thai is best if your purpose is general relaxation and stress relief as the massage works on the whole body. Also, the pressure and the movements are very gentle and not taxing on the body.

Benefits

The benefits of a Thai massage are immense. It helps you maintain the energy and vitality of your body as well as keeps you stress free.

• Helps energize you on the whole
• Relaxes you
• Improves the blood circulation in the body
• Increases flexibility
• Balances the nervous system
• Gives relief form muscle pains
• Strengthens the body and the mind.

So if you want to beat those blues, then a Thai massage is the best for you.

What is shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a traditional oriental therapy that had its origin in China, traveled to Japan and then finally to the West. The word ‘shiatsu’ is of Japanese origin and is made up of two words “SHI” meaning “FINGER” and “ATSU” which means ” PRESSURE”.

The basic concept of this massage is to encourage a positive outlook to life. According to Shaistu, the working of our body is guided by a ‘vital force’ which is energy or ‘Qi’. Thus in this massage, the fingers are used to apply pressure on various parts of the body to cure many diseases and ailments. Sometimes even the thumb, palm, elbow, knees and feet are used. Walking barefoot on the patient’s body too is not an unknown thing!

This technique is very similar to acupuncture however in acupuncture needles are used but in shiatsu it is the parts of the body that are used to apply pressure. Pressure is applied on the acupuncture points link to 915 as well as on general areas. Shiastu is a much wider concept that includes stretching, joint rotation and manipulation and also very light holding techniques for spiritual healing. It thus helps create flexibility and restores balance in the body.

It can help

Shiatsu not only helps us get over specific ailments but also maintains overall health. It is known to be very effective in rectifying problems such as:

• Insomnia
• Back pain
• Headache
• Constipation
• Skin irritation
• Circulatory problems
• Multiple sclerosis
• Arthritis
• Menstrual problems
• Respiratory problems
• Reproductive problems
• Emotional problems
• Nervous system ailments
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Posture problems
• Behavior imbalances

The treatment

‘Touch’ is an integral part of shiatsu. It is the way in which the practitioner can communicate his love and compassion, in other words positive energy, to the patient so that the body balance can be restored.

The treatment takes nearly an hour or more each time and 3 or 4 sessions are spaced out in a time period of 4 to 6 weeks. However it is also guided by the nature of the problem.

The two basic techniques are:

• Stimulating, and
• Sedating

Pressure is applied for may be 2-3 minutes to a particular area. Sometimes the practitioner will apply pressure in different forms like rotating some part of the body, stretching some limb or simply holding. The end of the session will result in a relaxed and at times a sleepy person. So go ahead and take some rest.

After effects and cautions

Shiatsu is generally a very safe treatment that can even be practiced on children, pregnant women and the elderly. However, sometimes you may experience some after-effects like:

• Cough and cold
• Tiredness
• Emotional ups and downs
• Headache or some aches and pains

This is a sign that the treatment has had an effect. In fact, what it means is that the body is getting rid of unwanted foods, stress and tensions.

Keep these cautions in mind:.

• It should not be practiced or taken if there is high fever
• It should not be practiced or taken if there is some infection
• It should not be practiced or taken if there is a cut, bruise or inflammation of any sort.
• Never take or give shiatsu after a large meal.
• Always wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes.
• No pressure at any time should be applied to the varicose veins.
• The room in which it is practiced should always be quiet, warm and clean.

Try this oriental therapy and stay relaxed and stress free.

Popping a painkiller is often the easiest thing to do to cure that nagging headache but do you know that these could endanger your health in the long term? Painkillers are composed of salts that can harm different parts of your body such as the liver, kidneys and the digestive system. Try a massage instead and feel the difference.

How does a Massage Help You…..

• Your skin A facial today is recommended for everyone over the age of 30 as it rejuvenates the skin. Your face is the first to show signs of ageing, pollution and unhealthy eating habits. A massage increases the blood circulation that helps to tone up the skin and gives it its elasticity and strength. It thus keeps wrinkles away. Many a degenerative problems too have been fought away with massages.
• Your nervous system One out of every five persons are said to suffer from back problems and spondylysis. A massage is the best way to soothe those tense back muscles. The spinal chord is home to thousands of nerves traveling from one part of the body to the brain carrying messages to and fro and any stress or discomfort affects it immediately. A regular massage session combined with proper exercise can help you get over that!
• Your muscles Growing pains, strains and sprains, muscle pulls in sportspersons, stiffness, calf cramps, menstrual cramps, arthritis pain etc all these can be effectively cured by a massage. A massage increases the blood flow in the body and helps eliminate the waste products. Thus mobility is improved and the muscles are toned up.
• Your blood circulationA massage session helps in improving the flow of blood. It thus can cure many a circulatory problems that have no cure in mainstream medicine.
• Beat the stress and tiredness Stress, tiredness and lethargy are issues that all of us live with because of the kind of life we lead. A massage helps you to relax and get your energy levels back up.

So do you need any more reasons to go in for a massage? All you need to do is make sure you choose the right kind of massage and a good and qualified practitioner.

Why do Headaches Occur?

Before you start any kind of treatment it is important for you to identify what exactly is it that you are suffering from. You need to identify what is causing you the headache. Try to maintain a small diary. Note the time, place and what you were doing when you got a headache. How long did it last? Some of the most common reasons for a headache are lack of sleep, fatigue, bad light and work stress. Certain food items like chocolate and coffee may also trigger a headache. Keeping a headache diary can help you pinpoint the factors causing your specific headache patterns. The diary should provide answers to these 10 questions:

• When did you first develop headaches?
• How often do you have them?
• Do you experience symptoms prior to the headaches?
• Where is the pain exactly?
• How long does it last?
• At what time of day do the headaches occur?
• Does the eating of certain types of food precede your headaches?
• If you’re female, at what time in your monthly cycle do they occur?
• Are the headaches triggered by physical or environmental factors, such as odour, noise or certain kinds of weather?
• What words most accurately describe the pain of your headache: throbbing, stabbing, blinding, piercing?

Curing Headaches

1. Conventional medicine

Aspirin, ibuprofen and disprin are some of the recommended medicines for headaches. But remember not to take an overdose or else it may end up causing more harm than benefit. However, always consult your doctor for the right dose and even the right medicine.

2. Correct muscular tension

If your muscles are tense because of a clenched jaw or aching shoulders due to constantly working on your computer, you will suffer from headaches. All you need to do is make a few changes both at home and at work and see how your headache disappears:

• Arrange your office desk so that you do not have to stretch and strain your muscles every time you need something.
• Sit upright and do not strain your neck too much.
• Don’t sit for more than 30-35 minutes at a stretch. Get up and loosen those tense muscles by talking a walk.
• Try to alternate between tasks.
• Try to stand up while talking on the phone as it is a good opportunity to stretch. Do not hold the phone between your head and shoulder by bending your neck. You can maybe use a speaker phone if available.
• Your computer screen must be at eye level. This helps you not to strain your neck and also avoid your eyes from watering.
• Sit straight. Concentrate on your posture.
• Drink at least eight glasses of water a day. Dehydration can also cause headaches.
• While driving, rest your head back at a red light.
• Invest in a good pillow and get a good night’s sleep.

3. Take a walk

Many people complain that they get headaches due to constantly sitting in one pose or doing the same thing throughout the day. Try going out for a quick walk. This will help stimulate not only your mind and body but will also help you get quick relief from occasional headaches.

4. Do some deep breathing

Correct breathing helps to pump more oxygen to the brain and blood to the muscles. This will help you get rid of headaches.

5. Meditation and Relaxation

An alternative form of therapy is a good way of managing your headaches. Very often headaches are due to the pressures, the stress and strain that we constantly thrive under. Meditation will allow you to get some time for yourself and help you to concentrate on your breathing and relax you tremendously.

6. Visualisation

One of the simplest self-help techniques, all you have to do is try to think of some nice serene place and relax.

7. Pamper yourself with a good massage

A good oil massage can really help to ease away the strained muscles. And what’s more you can do it yourself. Press your thumb against the tense area and rub with a circular motion. Gradually work outward to loosen the areas.

8. Take a nice shower

If you have the luxury of a bathtub, immerse yourself in a nice bath to relax those aching muscles. Alternatively, even a nice shower will help. Some people prefer a hot shower to release tension while others a cold one. There is no hard and fast rule. It depends on what you find most comfortable.

The key here is to do the thing that you find most comfortable and relaxing. While some of us may want to do some vigorous aerobic exercise to relax, others would prefer to lie down on and listen to some soothing music. Do whatever that makes you relax and helps you in easing your headache.