Here's an interesting article from Lynn VanDyke, a prolific and passionate writer on women's health and fitness:
Designing a Strength Training Routine for Fat Loss
by Lynn VanDyke
Your goal is to lose fat and tone up. You’ve read plenty of my other articles and know that I recommend a mix of 5 tools to create and sculpt the body of your dreams. Those 5 tools are nutrition, hydration, cardio, rest and strength training. Today’s article is all about creating a killer routine that delivers amazing results.
In my many years of experience in the fitness industry I have come across a few timeless myths. One of those myths really gets me piping mad. Have you ever heard, “Lift lighter weights for more repetitions if you want to tone up”? You probably have if you are a woman. I can already feel my blood beginning to boil!
The truth about strength training routines is that they can only be effective if they are created for you and your goals. Lifting light weights for 15 or more repetitions is not going to reduce body fat or help you tone. It will help you work on endurance. If endurance is your goal, then by all means lift lighter for a longer rep time.
On the flip side, and the most popular side, is lifting to lose fat. Your fat loss strength training routine should include heavier weights for low-to-medium repetition ranges. Below is a check list of items that your strength training routine should include:
- An exercise for each major muscle
- Between 3-4 sets for each exercise
- 8-10 reps per set
- A correct weight for each exercise
- 1-2 minute rest periods between sets
Here are all the major muscle groups in suggested order: back, chest, quads, shoulders, hamstrings and glutes, biceps, triceps, abs and calves. You can select from a full body routine done 2-3 times per week or split your lower body and abs from your upper body. An example would be: lower body and abs on Monday and Friday and upper body on Tuesday and Saturday.
Regardless of doing a full body routine or a split routine you will choose an exercise for each of these muscles and do it 3-4 times per workout. Each set will include 8-10 repetitions. You should rest for at least a minute between each set.
The way for you to determine what weight you should lift is to choose a weight that you can safely lift 8 times with perfect form. By the last repetition in each set, you should feel tired. If you feel as though you could do a few more reps with perfect form than move to a higher weight on the next set. You have selected the correct weight so long as you can get within 2-3 reps of the called for rep range with perfect form and your muscles feel tired.
Grouping together the correct weight, rep range, amount of sets, and exercises will result in a fabulous strength training routine that blasts away unwanted pounds. There are more than enough Internet sites providing free routines and information. I recommend using a routine that is developed specifically for you and your goals. You can have a master trainer (me!) create a routine for you for $25 these days. You simply fill out a few forms and I send you an email with your custom build a routine attached. Easy, simple and designed for results!
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Lynn VanDyke is the head trainer at http://strength-training-woman.com/online-personal-training.html . She will create a custom fitness and nutrition program for you. Get dramatic results with a professionally designed workout routine and menu. Work with a master trainer and fitness nutritionist 1-on-1 and finally achieve your weight loss goals! Simple and extremely effective.
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
Monday, October 08, 2007
Vegetarian Shoes
I'm a vegetarian and finding nice stylish shoes can be difficult, so I wa spleased to discover Bourgeoise Boheme a while back.
I've recently bought two new pairs of shoes from them and they are so comfortable and stylish.
It's great to know that no animal has suffered in the production of the shoes. Sometimes people say that the leather is just a by-product of the meat industry and the animals aren't killed for the leather. But, by wearing leather, you make the sale of meat more economic and cheaper.
If you think veggie shoes are dull and sweaty to wear check out this site and see what you can find.
Nice to see that the site is also doing fairly traded trainers:
Ethletic Trainer White: Fair trade trainers witha cotton upper and rubber sole. The rubber forthe sole is certified Forest Stewardship Council- sourced from sustainable forests in Sri Lanka and the accredited FSC mark is engraved onthe soles of each pair. A fair trade premium is paid for the rubber and manufacture of the shoes. Available in black too and a high top too. £35
I've recently bought two new pairs of shoes from them and they are so comfortable and stylish.
It's great to know that no animal has suffered in the production of the shoes. Sometimes people say that the leather is just a by-product of the meat industry and the animals aren't killed for the leather. But, by wearing leather, you make the sale of meat more economic and cheaper.
If you think veggie shoes are dull and sweaty to wear check out this site and see what you can find.
Nice to see that the site is also doing fairly traded trainers:
Ethletic Trainer White: Fair trade trainers witha cotton upper and rubber sole. The rubber forthe sole is certified Forest Stewardship Council- sourced from sustainable forests in Sri Lanka and the accredited FSC mark is engraved onthe soles of each pair. A fair trade premium is paid for the rubber and manufacture of the shoes. Available in black too and a high top too. £35
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Coaching Toward Happiness
As you know, I really think being happy doesn't have to be difficult or involve a lot of money!
The new field of "positive psychology"--the scientific study of optimal behavior, of people at their best -- is leading the way in our understanding of this.
Two days ago, I reprinted an article ("Relationships--Getting It Right") from the email newsletter "Coaching Toward Happiness". It's the premier newsletter in positive psychology and coaching with 131,000 readers around the world, and one I'd strongly recommend you check out at www.coachingtowardhappiness.com.
The new field of "positive psychology"--the scientific study of optimal behavior, of people at their best -- is leading the way in our understanding of this.
Two days ago, I reprinted an article ("Relationships--Getting It Right") from the email newsletter "Coaching Toward Happiness". It's the premier newsletter in positive psychology and coaching with 131,000 readers around the world, and one I'd strongly recommend you check out at www.coachingtowardhappiness.com.
Donate bears, buttons and educational toys
Phoenix Aid is a small UK based charity, who currently provides therapeutic support and fully certificated complementary therapy training to people in Bosnia; they have already initiated a Riding for the Disabled scheme and provide training in horse based therapy, Equine Facilitated Learning; they establish projects that will generate employment opportunities, also community development in rural areas.
Phoenix Aid volunteers are looking for unwanted teddy bears and buttons of all shapes, sizes and colours to create therapeutic bears (‘Berty Button Bears’) for children. They are planning to take them to Bosnia on their next trip in November.
They are also looking for donations of educational toys, art and craft materials, and a variety of other items. Learn more about the work of this charity: http://www.phoenix-aid.org/
Phoenix Aid volunteers are looking for unwanted teddy bears and buttons of all shapes, sizes and colours to create therapeutic bears (‘Berty Button Bears’) for children. They are planning to take them to Bosnia on their next trip in November.
They are also looking for donations of educational toys, art and craft materials, and a variety of other items. Learn more about the work of this charity: http://www.phoenix-aid.org/
School Problems
With children going back to school or starting school for the first time the Indigo essences come into their own.
These are essences made specifically with children in mind, and have been well received by both children and adults.
We stock some of the range in our online shop.
How about:
Champion – for when you feel bothered by bullies
Shine – for when you feel afraid to be the star you really are
Confidence – for when you feel nervy and panicky
We also have an Indigo Essence gift – a fairly-traded drawstring bag with 3 Indigo essences.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Relationships - Getting it right
I like this info that came in from Ben Dean at www.coachingtowardshappiness.com:
Perhaps you’ve heard the now-famous quote, “Will you be there for me when things go right?”
This powerful question stems from Dr. Gable’s research into the positive psychology of love and marriage. She does not focus on troubled marriages. She studies how to make good marriages great. She been interested in how one partner responds to the other’s good news.
It sounds absurdly simple but it’s not: your response to good news affects your relationships. More specifically, the way you respond when someone in your life (loved one, acquaintance, friend, even a colleague) shares a positive event shapes the quality of your relationship with that person.
According to Shelly, how you respond to another person’s good fortune can be divided into these four categories:
Active/Constructive: enthusiastically, showing genuine concern about the good event
Passive/Constructive: silently supportive, displaying subdued happiness
Active/Destructive: critically, pointing out negative aspects and possibilities
Passive/Destructive: indifferently, failing to show any interest
For example, a close friend calls to tell you she’s been asked to teach a course at the University of Chicago. You can respond:
“Wow, congratulations!! You’ve so earned this! You’ll be great!” (Active/Constructive)
“That’s nice.” (Passive/Constructive)
“But that’s in a really bad neighborhood?” Or much worse, “Honey, I’m sorry, but you’re not going to be able to handle it.” (Active/Destructive)
“Did you hear who got voted off American Idol last night?” (Passive/Destructive)
To read Marty (Seligman’s) discussion of this construct, click here.
As he writes in the article, Shelly calls the first category "Capitalizing," amplifying the pleasure of the good situation and contributing to an upward spiral of positive emotion.
Capitalizing turns out to be a key to strong relationships.
Even though we understand its importance, many of us find it’s very easy not to remember to capitalize with our children or spouses when we’re distracted. And it is particularly likely to happen with colleagues.
Since I learned about her work, I’ve realized that I often unknowingly fail to respond in an active constructive manner.
Here’s what I do to get back on track when I realize I’ve gotten derailed.
Notice the Cues
When you’re interacting with someone, pay attention to the energy in their voice, the speed and richness of their speech, the way their eyes look: all signals for whether or not you’re responding in an active/constructive manner. A rise in energy almost inevitably follows when I respond actively and constructively. When I respond with a passive constructive or a negative, the other person’s voice loses energy.
Create Opportunities to Practice
Practice active/constructive responding by starting conversations with invitations like, “What’s new & exciting?” This invites them to tell you their good news. And it then gives you practice in responding.
Balance Safety vs. Savoring
When you want to support someone, but you’re legitimately concerned there may be a dangerous side to their good news, show your support first: let them savor the good for a while --- and tell them your concerns later. For example, Susan tells me about a wonderful opportunity she’s just received but I know that she may be missing a dangerous possibility. My first response is still, “What great news! You deserve this. Tell me about it.”
Avoid The Hero Trap
I notice that sometimes I find myself offering unsolicited advice or trying to come up with things they haven’t thought about before. This is a particular trap I can fall into. When I ask myself why, I discover it is almost always for my benefit more than theirs.
There is one friend whom I’ve supported for 20 years. When she tells me great news, I sometimes start to throw in my advice, and her voice’s loss in energy alerts me. I think I do it because I do not want to lose my privileged place as a key supporter. My advice says, “I’m still here. I can still help you.” In other words, it’s become about me, not her. And I quickly try to fix the situation.
Put Them First
If their triumph involves a conflict with an opposing person, don’t show empathy for the other person. (Possibly save it for later.) By definition, this is not affirming for them and will kill their energy every time.
Avoid Subtle Put Downs
Notice the difference between “I can see how this could be exciting for you,” and legitimately being excited about it. Not participating in the excitement is a subtle way of sabotage when you’re feeling threatened. I once had a friend who would respond to my good news with an “I can see this matters a lot to you.” Arrgh.
In general, by paying attention to cues, you can tell when you’re being a deflator (me first) instead of a supporter (relationship first).
Active/constructive responding seems obvious, yet it is so worth paying attention to: I promise you, this is a simple change that will pay big dividends.
Want to hear a perfect example?
In the movie Yours, Mine, and Ours Helen North (Rene Russo) and Frank Beardsley (Dennis Quaid) fall in love (many complications with kids and differing outlooks shortly follow). Then they have a huge fight. While on the outs and unbeknownst to Frank, Helen wins a huge contract with Saks Fifth Avenue, something she'd been pursuing for months.
Later that evening, Frank asks how her day has been. In a monotone, she lists four or five things, ending in the same dull voice with, "and I got the deal with Saks.”
"You did not!” Frank yells. He hugs her, asks her all about it. Then he asks: “And how can I help?”
You cannot have a better example of an active-constructive response than Frank’s. We don’t need to know about Hollywood endings to guess how their relationship turns out.
Perhaps you’ve heard the now-famous quote, “Will you be there for me when things go right?”
This powerful question stems from Dr. Gable’s research into the positive psychology of love and marriage. She does not focus on troubled marriages. She studies how to make good marriages great. She been interested in how one partner responds to the other’s good news.
It sounds absurdly simple but it’s not: your response to good news affects your relationships. More specifically, the way you respond when someone in your life (loved one, acquaintance, friend, even a colleague) shares a positive event shapes the quality of your relationship with that person.
According to Shelly, how you respond to another person’s good fortune can be divided into these four categories:
Active/Constructive: enthusiastically, showing genuine concern about the good event
Passive/Constructive: silently supportive, displaying subdued happiness
Active/Destructive: critically, pointing out negative aspects and possibilities
Passive/Destructive: indifferently, failing to show any interest
For example, a close friend calls to tell you she’s been asked to teach a course at the University of Chicago. You can respond:
“Wow, congratulations!! You’ve so earned this! You’ll be great!” (Active/Constructive)
“That’s nice.” (Passive/Constructive)
“But that’s in a really bad neighborhood?” Or much worse, “Honey, I’m sorry, but you’re not going to be able to handle it.” (Active/Destructive)
“Did you hear who got voted off American Idol last night?” (Passive/Destructive)
To read Marty (Seligman’s) discussion of this construct, click here.
As he writes in the article, Shelly calls the first category "Capitalizing," amplifying the pleasure of the good situation and contributing to an upward spiral of positive emotion.
Capitalizing turns out to be a key to strong relationships.
Even though we understand its importance, many of us find it’s very easy not to remember to capitalize with our children or spouses when we’re distracted. And it is particularly likely to happen with colleagues.
Since I learned about her work, I’ve realized that I often unknowingly fail to respond in an active constructive manner.
Here’s what I do to get back on track when I realize I’ve gotten derailed.
Notice the Cues
When you’re interacting with someone, pay attention to the energy in their voice, the speed and richness of their speech, the way their eyes look: all signals for whether or not you’re responding in an active/constructive manner. A rise in energy almost inevitably follows when I respond actively and constructively. When I respond with a passive constructive or a negative, the other person’s voice loses energy.
Create Opportunities to Practice
Practice active/constructive responding by starting conversations with invitations like, “What’s new & exciting?” This invites them to tell you their good news. And it then gives you practice in responding.
Balance Safety vs. Savoring
When you want to support someone, but you’re legitimately concerned there may be a dangerous side to their good news, show your support first: let them savor the good for a while --- and tell them your concerns later. For example, Susan tells me about a wonderful opportunity she’s just received but I know that she may be missing a dangerous possibility. My first response is still, “What great news! You deserve this. Tell me about it.”
Avoid The Hero Trap
I notice that sometimes I find myself offering unsolicited advice or trying to come up with things they haven’t thought about before. This is a particular trap I can fall into. When I ask myself why, I discover it is almost always for my benefit more than theirs.
There is one friend whom I’ve supported for 20 years. When she tells me great news, I sometimes start to throw in my advice, and her voice’s loss in energy alerts me. I think I do it because I do not want to lose my privileged place as a key supporter. My advice says, “I’m still here. I can still help you.” In other words, it’s become about me, not her. And I quickly try to fix the situation.
Put Them First
If their triumph involves a conflict with an opposing person, don’t show empathy for the other person. (Possibly save it for later.) By definition, this is not affirming for them and will kill their energy every time.
Avoid Subtle Put Downs
Notice the difference between “I can see how this could be exciting for you,” and legitimately being excited about it. Not participating in the excitement is a subtle way of sabotage when you’re feeling threatened. I once had a friend who would respond to my good news with an “I can see this matters a lot to you.” Arrgh.
In general, by paying attention to cues, you can tell when you’re being a deflator (me first) instead of a supporter (relationship first).
Active/constructive responding seems obvious, yet it is so worth paying attention to: I promise you, this is a simple change that will pay big dividends.
Want to hear a perfect example?
In the movie Yours, Mine, and Ours Helen North (Rene Russo) and Frank Beardsley (Dennis Quaid) fall in love (many complications with kids and differing outlooks shortly follow). Then they have a huge fight. While on the outs and unbeknownst to Frank, Helen wins a huge contract with Saks Fifth Avenue, something she'd been pursuing for months.
Later that evening, Frank asks how her day has been. In a monotone, she lists four or five things, ending in the same dull voice with, "and I got the deal with Saks.”
"You did not!” Frank yells. He hugs her, asks her all about it. Then he asks: “And how can I help?”
You cannot have a better example of an active-constructive response than Frank’s. We don’t need to know about Hollywood endings to guess how their relationship turns out.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Water Charities
Last weekend I spoke at the British Dowsers annual congress. It was a really well organised conference with over 140 delegates. I had lots of interesting informal discussions with people and also many good questions in response to my presentation.
There was an interesting presentation by Village Water, a charity set up by dowsers to help provide water and sanitation to some villages in Zambia. The charity has very low overheads as the work in this country (UK) is done by volunteers. I gave them a donation and hope to be able to help them more in the future too.
Water is such an imporant thing - if people don't have access to clean water and good sanitation, the death rate amoung children is high and women spend a lot of their day collecting water. Water charites aren't glamorous - they don't have pictures of starving children or poor injured animals, but it is a fundamental human right and vital to everyone's health and well being.
Earlier this year I did a bike ride in Africa raising money for WaterAid. Tom, my son, and I set ourselves the task of raising GB Pounds 5000 and we've now done it - thank you to everyone who contributed.
There was an interesting presentation by Village Water, a charity set up by dowsers to help provide water and sanitation to some villages in Zambia. The charity has very low overheads as the work in this country (UK) is done by volunteers. I gave them a donation and hope to be able to help them more in the future too.
Water is such an imporant thing - if people don't have access to clean water and good sanitation, the death rate amoung children is high and women spend a lot of their day collecting water. Water charites aren't glamorous - they don't have pictures of starving children or poor injured animals, but it is a fundamental human right and vital to everyone's health and well being.
Earlier this year I did a bike ride in Africa raising money for WaterAid. Tom, my son, and I set ourselves the task of raising GB Pounds 5000 and we've now done it - thank you to everyone who contributed.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Cancer and Complementary Therapies
One of the therapists on our international therapist listing has written a new book on complementary therapies and cancer care. It's so good to see work like this coming out:
Enhancing Cancer CareComplementary therapy and support
Edited by Jennifer Barraclough
Price: £24.95 (Paperback)ISBN-13: 978-0-19-929755-
Provides detailed descriptions of 16 different therapeutic modalities
Includes case histories which illustrate how therapies have been used in practice
Written in an accessible non-technical writing style
Provides sound evidence-based material from an international group of experts
Assists healthcare professionals and managers with planning the integration of complementary therapies with orthodox treatments
Around one in three people in the western world will develop cancer at some stage in life and complementary therapies are increasingly being used alongside orthodox treatments as part of the 'integrative' approach to cancer care.
Enhancing Cancer Care is a practical, evidence-based guide to complementary cancer therapies, also described as natural or holistic therapies.
More and more patients are turning to these therapies as there is now considerable evidence that they can help with symptom-control and quality-of-life, and that some may also extend survival.
Complementary therapies can also provide the patient with a greater sense of control regarding the management of their illness.
From the editor of Integrated Cancer Care , this new title provides detailed commentary on a broad range of complementary therapies and features practical advice on how to implement therapies to enhance current practice.
The first part of the book deals with the general principles behind complementary therapies and the factors driving their growing popularity, the challenges of evaluating their benefits and unwanted effects, and experience of using them in oncology units, hospices, the private sector and primary care.
The second part includes chapters on specific interventions, including complementary therapies such as acupuncture and aromatherapy massage; lifestyle modifications through diet and exercise; creative therapies using art and music; and psychological and spiritual support for individuals and groups. These chapters provide descriptions of the therapies, a summary of the evidence for their benefits in cancer care, and illustrative case histories.
The emphasis throughout this book is on enhancing practice; that is, using the therapies alongside conventional medicine, rather than as alternatives to it.
Contents
1 Principles and settings 1. Introducing the holistic approach to cancer care , Jennifer Barraclough
2. Evaluating complementary therapies , Janet Richardson and Karen Pilkington
3. The oncology setting , Teresa E Young
4. The hospice setting , Nigel A Hartley
5. The work of an independent cancer help centre , Sara R Miller and Ruth Sewell
6. Childhood cancer , Elena J Ladas and Kara M Kelly
7. Choice and co-ordination of therapies: the family doctor as guide , Catherine Zollman 2 ABC of therapies
8. Acupuncture , Beverley de Valois 9. Aromatherapy , Jacqui Stringer
10. Art therapy , Paola Luzzatto and Bonnie Gabriel
11. Bach Flower Remedies , Jennifer Barraclough
12. Counselling: distress, transitions and relationships , James Brennan
13. Exercise , Margaret L McNeely and Kerry S Courneya
14. Group support , Barbara Lubrano di Ciccone, Tiffany D Floyd and David W Kissane
15. Healing , Diane O'Connell
16. Herbal medicine , Doreen Oneschuk, Jawaid Younus and Heather Boon 17. Homeopathy , Elizabeth A Thompson
18. Massage , Jacqui Stringer and Peter A Mackereth
19. Music therapy , Joanne V Loewy
20. Nutrition , Elizabeth Butler
21. Reflexology , Peter A Mackereth and Clive S O'Hara
22. Relaxation, visualisation and hypnotherapy , Leslie G Walker, Donald M Sharp, Andrew A Walker and Mary B Walker
23. The spiritual dimension , Alastair J Cunningham and Claire VI Edmonds
Edited by Jennifer Barraclough, Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner, Auckland, New Zealand; former Consultant in Psychological Medicine, Oxford Radcliffe Hospital NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Enhancing Cancer CareComplementary therapy and support
Edited by Jennifer Barraclough
Price: £24.95 (Paperback)ISBN-13: 978-0-19-929755-
Provides detailed descriptions of 16 different therapeutic modalities
Includes case histories which illustrate how therapies have been used in practice
Written in an accessible non-technical writing style
Provides sound evidence-based material from an international group of experts
Assists healthcare professionals and managers with planning the integration of complementary therapies with orthodox treatments
Around one in three people in the western world will develop cancer at some stage in life and complementary therapies are increasingly being used alongside orthodox treatments as part of the 'integrative' approach to cancer care.
Enhancing Cancer Care is a practical, evidence-based guide to complementary cancer therapies, also described as natural or holistic therapies.
More and more patients are turning to these therapies as there is now considerable evidence that they can help with symptom-control and quality-of-life, and that some may also extend survival.
Complementary therapies can also provide the patient with a greater sense of control regarding the management of their illness.
From the editor of Integrated Cancer Care , this new title provides detailed commentary on a broad range of complementary therapies and features practical advice on how to implement therapies to enhance current practice.
The first part of the book deals with the general principles behind complementary therapies and the factors driving their growing popularity, the challenges of evaluating their benefits and unwanted effects, and experience of using them in oncology units, hospices, the private sector and primary care.
The second part includes chapters on specific interventions, including complementary therapies such as acupuncture and aromatherapy massage; lifestyle modifications through diet and exercise; creative therapies using art and music; and psychological and spiritual support for individuals and groups. These chapters provide descriptions of the therapies, a summary of the evidence for their benefits in cancer care, and illustrative case histories.
The emphasis throughout this book is on enhancing practice; that is, using the therapies alongside conventional medicine, rather than as alternatives to it.
Contents
1 Principles and settings 1. Introducing the holistic approach to cancer care , Jennifer Barraclough
2. Evaluating complementary therapies , Janet Richardson and Karen Pilkington
3. The oncology setting , Teresa E Young
4. The hospice setting , Nigel A Hartley
5. The work of an independent cancer help centre , Sara R Miller and Ruth Sewell
6. Childhood cancer , Elena J Ladas and Kara M Kelly
7. Choice and co-ordination of therapies: the family doctor as guide , Catherine Zollman 2 ABC of therapies
8. Acupuncture , Beverley de Valois 9. Aromatherapy , Jacqui Stringer
10. Art therapy , Paola Luzzatto and Bonnie Gabriel
11. Bach Flower Remedies , Jennifer Barraclough
12. Counselling: distress, transitions and relationships , James Brennan
13. Exercise , Margaret L McNeely and Kerry S Courneya
14. Group support , Barbara Lubrano di Ciccone, Tiffany D Floyd and David W Kissane
15. Healing , Diane O'Connell
16. Herbal medicine , Doreen Oneschuk, Jawaid Younus and Heather Boon 17. Homeopathy , Elizabeth A Thompson
18. Massage , Jacqui Stringer and Peter A Mackereth
19. Music therapy , Joanne V Loewy
20. Nutrition , Elizabeth Butler
21. Reflexology , Peter A Mackereth and Clive S O'Hara
22. Relaxation, visualisation and hypnotherapy , Leslie G Walker, Donald M Sharp, Andrew A Walker and Mary B Walker
23. The spiritual dimension , Alastair J Cunningham and Claire VI Edmonds
Edited by Jennifer Barraclough, Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner, Auckland, New Zealand; former Consultant in Psychological Medicine, Oxford Radcliffe Hospital NHS Trust, United Kingdom
Friday, August 31, 2007
Dowsers Conference
The British Society of Dowsers will be holding their annual conference shortly and I will be speaking at it.
My talk/lecture is entitled "Geopathic Stress And Individual Susceptibility" and is on the first day (14 September 2007). I'm also giving a workshop on saturday afternoon (repeated on Sunday afternoon) on verbal questioning skills for dowsers.
I'm looking forward to meeting lots of dowsers and listening to other speakers. You can ge more information on the conference at the Dowsers web site.
My talk/lecture is entitled "Geopathic Stress And Individual Susceptibility" and is on the first day (14 September 2007). I'm also giving a workshop on saturday afternoon (repeated on Sunday afternoon) on verbal questioning skills for dowsers.
I'm looking forward to meeting lots of dowsers and listening to other speakers. You can ge more information on the conference at the Dowsers web site.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Lentil And Brown Rice Soup
The Cancer Project do some great recipes, not only for those with cancer but for everyone who wants some new nutritious recipes. Check out their site for some great resources. You can sign up for their weekly emailed recipe. here's an example of one from a recent mailing:
Serve this hearty soup with whole-grain bread and a cucumber salad.
Directions
Makes about 8 1-cup servings
12 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup dry brown lentils
1 cup dry short-grain brown rice
1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
1 cup finely chopped parsley, loosely packed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
salt, to taste
Bring water or broth to a boil in a large pot. Add lentils, rice, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, black pepper, celery seeds, and cinnamon. Reduce heat, bring to a simmer, then cover loosely and cook, stirring occasionally, until lentils and rice are tender, about 45 minutes. Add salt to taste.
Nutrition Information
Per 1-cup serving:
173 calories
1.1 g fat0.
2 g saturated fat
5.6% calories from fat
0 mg cholesterol
8.5 g protein
33.4 g carbohydrate
1 g sugar
7 g fiber
158 mg sodium
43 mg calcium
3.3 mg iron
12.2 mg vitamin C
390 mcg beta-carotene
0.2 mg vitamin E
Serve this hearty soup with whole-grain bread and a cucumber salad.
Directions
Makes about 8 1-cup servings
12 cups water or vegetable broth
1 cup dry brown lentils
1 cup dry short-grain brown rice
1 small onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)
1 cup finely chopped parsley, loosely packed
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon celery seeds
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
salt, to taste
Bring water or broth to a boil in a large pot. Add lentils, rice, onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, black pepper, celery seeds, and cinnamon. Reduce heat, bring to a simmer, then cover loosely and cook, stirring occasionally, until lentils and rice are tender, about 45 minutes. Add salt to taste.
Nutrition Information
Per 1-cup serving:
173 calories
1.1 g fat0.
2 g saturated fat
5.6% calories from fat
0 mg cholesterol
8.5 g protein
33.4 g carbohydrate
1 g sugar
7 g fiber
158 mg sodium
43 mg calcium
3.3 mg iron
12.2 mg vitamin C
390 mcg beta-carotene
0.2 mg vitamin E
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Why Is Change So Difficult?
David Krueger, a respected personal coach, sent me this:
Why Is Change So Difficult?
In studies of coronary bypass patients, when their lives are at risk unless they adopt healthier lifestyles, how many do you think change their habits? Only one in nine.
Changing behavior is difficult. What keeps people from doing what they need to do for themselves? What makes it difficult to change, even when someone's life depends on it?
· 70% of health-care costs stem from preventable diseases. (NY Times: The Company Doctor, 6/14/07).
· 70-80% of physician visits are stress related. (US Public Health Survey).
· Stress is the number one reason behind sickness from work (Gee Publishing Survey).
· Stress undermines work productivity in 9 of 10 companies (Industrial Society survey).
· Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease have reached epidemic proportions—and almost all are preventable (American Medical Association).
One answer is to have a clear, specific, step-wise program for change. Every dollar invested in worksite health promotion yields $3.50- 6.00 in return through reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and decreased health-related costs. (Partnership for Prevention National Coalition)
A Strategic Plan for Wellness
Wellness is an informed choice, a lifestyle that integrates mind, body, and spirit. The process of change itself must be addressed in an informed and systematic way.
Your intentions need a strategy and plan: a ROAD MAP™
I am offering a five part Teleseminar series: 7 STEPS TO LIVE A NEW LIFE STORY™A ROAD MAP™ for WELLNESS presenting proven strategies for a life design and crucial transitions. Includes New Life Story Workbook™and ROAD MAP™ Program
Please go to http://www.newlifestorycoaching.com/for details and registration.
Why Is Change So Difficult?
In studies of coronary bypass patients, when their lives are at risk unless they adopt healthier lifestyles, how many do you think change their habits? Only one in nine.
Changing behavior is difficult. What keeps people from doing what they need to do for themselves? What makes it difficult to change, even when someone's life depends on it?
· 70% of health-care costs stem from preventable diseases. (NY Times: The Company Doctor, 6/14/07).
· 70-80% of physician visits are stress related. (US Public Health Survey).
· Stress is the number one reason behind sickness from work (Gee Publishing Survey).
· Stress undermines work productivity in 9 of 10 companies (Industrial Society survey).
· Obesity, diabetes, and heart disease have reached epidemic proportions—and almost all are preventable (American Medical Association).
One answer is to have a clear, specific, step-wise program for change. Every dollar invested in worksite health promotion yields $3.50- 6.00 in return through reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, and decreased health-related costs. (Partnership for Prevention National Coalition)
A Strategic Plan for Wellness
Wellness is an informed choice, a lifestyle that integrates mind, body, and spirit. The process of change itself must be addressed in an informed and systematic way.
Your intentions need a strategy and plan: a ROAD MAP™
I am offering a five part Teleseminar series: 7 STEPS TO LIVE A NEW LIFE STORY™A ROAD MAP™ for WELLNESS presenting proven strategies for a life design and crucial transitions. Includes New Life Story Workbook™and ROAD MAP™ Program
Please go to http://www.newlifestorycoaching.com/for details and registration.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
We're back
Well, Tom and I are back from our cycle ride in Africa. We had a great time and there’s lots of memorable highlights:
- The exhaustion and triumph after achieving a difficult day’s riding
- Tom dancing with the Masai warriors – jumping up and down while holding a lethally sharp spear
- The dust that got everywhere
- The strange and wonderful bathroom and toilet arrangements
- Seeing the blue Indian Ocean at the end of the trip and diving into it in our cycling clothes
- The friendship within our group aged from 24 to 73 and from England, New Zealand, USA, Finland and South Africa.
- Being warned when we camped in Ambeseli national park that we might find a pile of elephant dung by the side of the tent in the morning, as a local elephant had taken to walking over/through the electric fence
- The look on the face of one of the Masai men when I explained that I was a vegetarian
- Having to get off the bike because a giraffe was crossing the road ahead
- Seeing a cheetah cub with a face covered in blood from the kill it was eating – this from the safety of a vehicle
- Eating a chocolate cake made in a camp fire
- Experiencing earthquake tremors while lying in a tent
Unfortunately I had a spectacular fall of my bike on the third day of the ride and badly injured my right hand, so it meant I was unable to ride for three days. Even when I got back on my bike it was very painful. Tom completed some very difficult off-road riding, even though he’d never done anything like that before. So, we both in different ways had a very challenging but satisfying time.
We have now raised over 4500 GB Pounds towards our total of GB Pounds 5000 and we have more promised, so we are in sight of achieving our goal. Thanks to all of you for the part you have played in helping us achieve this.
You can have a look at how our sponsorship is going at our fund raising page.
If you’d like to try an adventure like this, I highly recommend the company we went with – Escape Adventures based in New Zealand. They offer trips in Africa, South America, New Zealand, China and Tibet. You can view all these rides on their web site.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Here comes Africa!
well, it's now the day before my African trip - I'm raising money for WaterAid on a cycle ride from Nairobi to Dar es Salaam. I'm really excited and flying round trying to get everything ready and leave the business in the best possible shape for while I'm away.
There's been a flurry of last minute sponsors which is just so heartening, so that we're now over £4300 - less than £700 to go.
Got my homeopathic travel kit ready and now just the last few things to do before I set out tomorrow.
No blog till I return ....
There's been a flurry of last minute sponsors which is just so heartening, so that we're now over £4300 - less than £700 to go.
Got my homeopathic travel kit ready and now just the last few things to do before I set out tomorrow.
No blog till I return ....
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
In this impatient, impetuous age it can be difficult to believe that there can be joy in waiting.
Today I received one of those emails with 10 witty comments. Here was one of them:
The things that come to those who wait will be the scraggly junk left by those who got there first.
OK, so it makes you laugh, but isn't there a grain of truth in this in terms of how people feel and act? We have so much, but we're terrified with not having more. We act as though getting there first and having more will bring us happiness, but all the research in positive psychology and anthropology suggests that beyond a very basic level (and if you're reading this blog you are almost certainly above that level) more doesn't make you any happier.
Let other people get there first. Ok you may get left with the 'scraggly junk' or may be you'll decide not to go there at all..
Today I received one of those emails with 10 witty comments. Here was one of them:
The things that come to those who wait will be the scraggly junk left by those who got there first.
OK, so it makes you laugh, but isn't there a grain of truth in this in terms of how people feel and act? We have so much, but we're terrified with not having more. We act as though getting there first and having more will bring us happiness, but all the research in positive psychology and anthropology suggests that beyond a very basic level (and if you're reading this blog you are almost certainly above that level) more doesn't make you any happier.
Let other people get there first. Ok you may get left with the 'scraggly junk' or may be you'll decide not to go there at all..
Tuesday, July 03, 2007
Food Phobias and TV
I got an email from a television researcher looking for someone to be featured on a BBC 3 TV program. Here's what she had to say:
BBC 3 is making a series about people dealing with food phobia’s and food addictions and we would like to hear from people about their experiences.
· Do you have an unusual problem with eating which controls your life?
· Has a dedication to healthy eating gone too far?
· Do you obsessively examine the ingredients and fat content of your food?
· Are your eating habits having an impact on your loved ones?
· Would you like some help?
We'd like to hear from people who want to change their relationship with food – with the help of dedicated eating experts.
Each week, our resident nutritionist and psychologist are on hand to offer advice and support to help the person try and overcome their problem.
If you or someone you know would like to take part, please call us on 020 7907 0898 or email freakyeaters@bettytv.co.uk
BBC 3 is making a series about people dealing with food phobia’s and food addictions and we would like to hear from people about their experiences.
· Do you have an unusual problem with eating which controls your life?
· Has a dedication to healthy eating gone too far?
· Do you obsessively examine the ingredients and fat content of your food?
· Are your eating habits having an impact on your loved ones?
· Would you like some help?
We'd like to hear from people who want to change their relationship with food – with the help of dedicated eating experts.
Each week, our resident nutritionist and psychologist are on hand to offer advice and support to help the person try and overcome their problem.
If you or someone you know would like to take part, please call us on 020 7907 0898 or email freakyeaters@bettytv.co.uk
Stop smoking with Bach Flower remedies
Bach flower remedies are well known as a safe, gentle way to deal with all sorts of emotional problems, but you may not have thought of using them to help you (or your loved ones) give up smoking, so take a look at this article and get an idea which remedies to use.
As it explains in the article, the correct remedy or remedies for each smoker may be different. Here's the full list:
Agrimony
The jovial, cheerful, humorous people who love peace and are distressed by argument or quarrels, to avoid which they will agree to give up much. Though generally they have troubles and are tormented and restless and worried in mind or in body, they hide their cares behind their humour and jesting and are considered very good friends to know. They often take alcohol or drugs in excess, to stimulate themselves and help themselves bear their trials with cheerfulness.
Aspen
Vague unknown fears, for which there can be given no explanation, no reason. Yet the patient may be terrified of something terrible going to happen, he knows not what. These vague unexplainable fears may haunt by night or day. Sufferers are often afraid to tell their trouble to others.
Beech
For those who feel the need to see more good and beauty in all that surrounds them. And, although much appears to be wrong, to have the ability to see the good growing within. So as to be able to be more tolerant, lenient and understanding of the different way each individual and all things are working to their own final perfection.
Centuary
Kind, quiet, gentle people who are over-anxious to serve others. They overtax their strength in their endeavours. Their wish so grows upon them that they become more servants than willing helpers. Their good nature leads them to do more than their own share of work, and in so doing they may neglect their own particular mission in life.
Cerato
Those who have not sufficient confidence in themselves to make their own decisions. They constantly seek advice from others, and are often misguided.
Cherry Plum
Fear of the mind being over-strained, of reason giving way, of doing fearful and dreaded things, not wished and known wrong, yet there comes the thought and impulse to do them.
Chestnut Bud
For those who do not take full advantage of observation and experience, and who take a longer time than others to learn the lessons of daily life. Whereas one experience would be enough for some, such people find it necessary to have more, sometimes several, before the lesson is learnt. Therefore, to their regret, they find themselves having to make the same error on different occasions when once would have been enough, or observation of others could have spared them even that one fault.
Chicory
Those who are very mindful of the needs of others they tend to be over-full of care for children, relatives, and friends, always finding something that should be put right. They are continually correcting what they consider wrong, and enjoy doing so. They desire that those for whom they care should be near them.
Clematis
Those who are dreamy, drowsy, not fully awake, no great interest in life. Quiet people, not really happy in their present circumstances, living more in the future than in the present; living in hopes of happier times, when their ideals may come true. In illness some make little or no effort to get well, and in certain cases may even look forward to death, in the hope of better times; or maybe, meeting again some beloved one whom they have lost.
Crab Apple
This is the remedy of cleansing. For those who feel as if they had something not quite clean about themselves. Often it is something of apparently little importance: in others there may be more serious disease that is almost disregarded compared to the one thing on which they concentrate. In both types they are anxious to be free from the one particular thing which is greatest in their minds and which seems so essential to them that it should be cured. They become despondent if treatment fails. Being a cleanser, this remedy purifies wounds if the patient has reason to believe that some poison has entered which must be drawn out.
Elm
Those who are doing good work, are following the calling of their life and who hope to do something of importance, and this often for the benefit of humanity. At times there may be periods of depression when they feel that the task they have undertaken is too difficult, and not within the power of a human being.
Gentian
Those who are easily discouraged. They may be progressing well in illness or in the affairs of their daily life, but any small delay or hindrance to progress causes doubt and soon disheartens them.
Gorse
Very great hopelessness, they have given up belief that more can be done for them. Under persuasion or to please others they may try different treatments, at the same time assuring those around that there is so little hope of relief.
Heather
Those who are always seeking the companionship of anyone who may be available, as they find it necessary to discuss their own affairs with others, no matter whom it may be. They are very unhappy if they have to be alone for any length of time.
Holly
For those who are sometimes attacked by thoughts of such kind as jealousy, envy revenge, suspicion. For the different forms of vexation. Within themselves they may suffer much, often when there is no real cause for their unhappiness.
Honeysuckle
Those who live much in the past, perhaps a time of great happiness, or memories of a lost friend, or ambitions which have not come true. They do not expect further happiness such as they have had.
Hornbeam
For those who feel that they have not sufficient strength, mentally or physically, to carry the burden of life placed upon them; the affairs of every day seem too much for them, though they generally succeed in fulfilling their task. For those who believe that some part, of mind or body, needs to be strengthened before they can easily fulfil their work.
Impatiens
Those who are quick in thought and action and who wish all things to be done without hesitation or delay. When ill they are anxious for a hasty recovery. They find it very difficult to be patient with people who are slow, as they consider it wrong and a waste of time. And they will endeavour to make such people quicker in all ways. They often prefer to work and think alone, so that they can do everything at their own speed.
Larch
For those who do not consider themselves as good or capable as those around them, who expect failure, who feel that they will never be a success, and so do not venture or make a strong enough attempt to succeed.
Mimulus
Fear of worldly things, illness, pain, accidents, poverty, of dark, of being alone, of misfortune. The fears of everyday life. These people quietly and secretly bear their dread; they do not freely speak of it to others.
Mustard
Those who are liable to times of gloom, or even despair, as though a cold dark cloud overshadowed them and hid the light and the joy of life. It may not be possible to give any reason or explanation for such attacks. Under these conditions it is almost impossible to appear happy or cheerful.
Oak
For those who are struggling and fighting strongly to get well, or in connection with the affairs of their daily life. They will go on trying one thing after another, though their case may seem hopeless.
Olive
Those who have suffered much mentally or physically and so exhausted and weary that they feel they have no more strength to make any effort. Daily life is hard work for them, without pleasure.
Pine
For those who blame themselves. Even when successful they think they could have done better, and are never content with their efforts or the results. They are hard-working and suffer much from the faults they attach to themselves. Sometimes if there is any mistake it is due to another, but they will claim responsibility even for that.
Red Chestnut
For those who find it difficult not to be anxious for other people. Often they have ceased to worry about themselves, but for those of whom they are fond they may suffer much, frequently anticipating that some unfortunate thing may happen to them.
Rock Rose
The Remedy of emergency. For cases where there even appears no hope. In accident or sudden illness, or when the patient is very frightened or terrified. If the patient is not conscious the lips may be moistened with the remedy.
Rock Water
Those who are very strict in their way of living; they deny themselves many of the joys and pleasures of life because they consider it might interfere with their work. They are hard masters to themselves. They wish to be well and strong and active, and will do anything that they believe will keep them so. They hope to be examples that will appeal to others who may then follow their ideas and be better as a result.
Scleranthus
Those who suffer much from being unable to decide between two things, first one seeming right then the other. They are usually quiet people, and bear their difficulty alone, often refusing to discuss it with others.
Star Of Bethlehem
For those in great distress under conditions which for a time produce great unhappiness. The shock of serious news, the loss of someone dear, the fright following an accident, and such like. For those who for a time refuse to be consoled, this remedy brings comfort.
Sweet Chestnut
For those moments which happen to some people when the anguish is so great as to seem to be unbearable. When the mind or body feels as if it had borne to the uttermost limit of its endurance, and that now it must give way. When it seems there is nothing but destruction and annihilation left to face.
Vervain
Those with fixed principles and ideas, which they are confident, are right, and which they very rarely change. They have a great wish to convert all around them to their own views of life. They are strong of will and have much courage when they are convinced of those things that they wish to teach. In illness they struggle on long after many would have given up their duties.
Vine
Very capable people, certain of their own ability, confident of success. Being so assured, they think that it would be for the benefit of others if they could be persuaded to do things as they themselves do, or as they are certain is right. Even in illness they will direct their attendants. They may be of great value in emergency.
Walnut
For those who have definite ideals and ambitions in life and are fulfilling them, but on rare occasions are tempted to be led away from their own ideas, aims and work by the enthusiasm, convictions or strong opinion of others. The remedy gives constancy and protection from outside influences.
Water Violet
For those who in health or illness like to be alone. Very quiet people, who move about without noise, speak little, and then gently. Very independent, capable and self-reliant. Almost free of the opinions of others. They are aloof, leave people alone and go their own way. Often clever and talented.
White Chestnut
For those who cannot prevent thoughts, ideas, arguments which they do not desire from entering their minds. Usually at such times when the interest of the moment is not strong enough to keep the mind full. Thoughts that worry and will remain, or if for a time thrown out, will return. They seem to circle round and round and cause mental torture. The presence of such unpleasant thoughts drives out peace and interferes with being able to think only of the work or pleasure of the day.
Wild Oat
Those who have ambitions to do something of prominence in life, who wish to have much experience, and to enjoy all that which is possible for them, to take life to the full. Their difficulty is to determine what occupation to follow; as although their ambitions are strong, they have no calling which appeals to them above all others. This may cause delay and dissatisfaction.
Wild Rose
Those who without apparently sufficient reason become resigned to all that happens, and just glide through life, take it as it is, without any effort to improve things and find some joy. They have surrendered to the struggle of life without complaint.
Willow
For those who have suffered misfortune and find these difficult to accept, without complaint or resentment, as they judge life much by the success which it brings. They feel that they have not deserved so great a trial and they become embittered. They often take less interest in those things of life which they had previously enjoyed.
Rescue Remedy
A combination of Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose, Star of Bethlehem. All purpose emergency composite for effects of anguish, examinations, going to the dentist, etc. Comforting, calming and reassuring to those distressed by startling experiences.
As it explains in the article, the correct remedy or remedies for each smoker may be different. Here's the full list:
Agrimony
The jovial, cheerful, humorous people who love peace and are distressed by argument or quarrels, to avoid which they will agree to give up much. Though generally they have troubles and are tormented and restless and worried in mind or in body, they hide their cares behind their humour and jesting and are considered very good friends to know. They often take alcohol or drugs in excess, to stimulate themselves and help themselves bear their trials with cheerfulness.
Aspen
Vague unknown fears, for which there can be given no explanation, no reason. Yet the patient may be terrified of something terrible going to happen, he knows not what. These vague unexplainable fears may haunt by night or day. Sufferers are often afraid to tell their trouble to others.
Beech
For those who feel the need to see more good and beauty in all that surrounds them. And, although much appears to be wrong, to have the ability to see the good growing within. So as to be able to be more tolerant, lenient and understanding of the different way each individual and all things are working to their own final perfection.
Centuary
Kind, quiet, gentle people who are over-anxious to serve others. They overtax their strength in their endeavours. Their wish so grows upon them that they become more servants than willing helpers. Their good nature leads them to do more than their own share of work, and in so doing they may neglect their own particular mission in life.
Cerato
Those who have not sufficient confidence in themselves to make their own decisions. They constantly seek advice from others, and are often misguided.
Cherry Plum
Fear of the mind being over-strained, of reason giving way, of doing fearful and dreaded things, not wished and known wrong, yet there comes the thought and impulse to do them.
Chestnut Bud
For those who do not take full advantage of observation and experience, and who take a longer time than others to learn the lessons of daily life. Whereas one experience would be enough for some, such people find it necessary to have more, sometimes several, before the lesson is learnt. Therefore, to their regret, they find themselves having to make the same error on different occasions when once would have been enough, or observation of others could have spared them even that one fault.
Chicory
Those who are very mindful of the needs of others they tend to be over-full of care for children, relatives, and friends, always finding something that should be put right. They are continually correcting what they consider wrong, and enjoy doing so. They desire that those for whom they care should be near them.
Clematis
Those who are dreamy, drowsy, not fully awake, no great interest in life. Quiet people, not really happy in their present circumstances, living more in the future than in the present; living in hopes of happier times, when their ideals may come true. In illness some make little or no effort to get well, and in certain cases may even look forward to death, in the hope of better times; or maybe, meeting again some beloved one whom they have lost.
Crab Apple
This is the remedy of cleansing. For those who feel as if they had something not quite clean about themselves. Often it is something of apparently little importance: in others there may be more serious disease that is almost disregarded compared to the one thing on which they concentrate. In both types they are anxious to be free from the one particular thing which is greatest in their minds and which seems so essential to them that it should be cured. They become despondent if treatment fails. Being a cleanser, this remedy purifies wounds if the patient has reason to believe that some poison has entered which must be drawn out.
Elm
Those who are doing good work, are following the calling of their life and who hope to do something of importance, and this often for the benefit of humanity. At times there may be periods of depression when they feel that the task they have undertaken is too difficult, and not within the power of a human being.
Gentian
Those who are easily discouraged. They may be progressing well in illness or in the affairs of their daily life, but any small delay or hindrance to progress causes doubt and soon disheartens them.
Gorse
Very great hopelessness, they have given up belief that more can be done for them. Under persuasion or to please others they may try different treatments, at the same time assuring those around that there is so little hope of relief.
Heather
Those who are always seeking the companionship of anyone who may be available, as they find it necessary to discuss their own affairs with others, no matter whom it may be. They are very unhappy if they have to be alone for any length of time.
Holly
For those who are sometimes attacked by thoughts of such kind as jealousy, envy revenge, suspicion. For the different forms of vexation. Within themselves they may suffer much, often when there is no real cause for their unhappiness.
Honeysuckle
Those who live much in the past, perhaps a time of great happiness, or memories of a lost friend, or ambitions which have not come true. They do not expect further happiness such as they have had.
Hornbeam
For those who feel that they have not sufficient strength, mentally or physically, to carry the burden of life placed upon them; the affairs of every day seem too much for them, though they generally succeed in fulfilling their task. For those who believe that some part, of mind or body, needs to be strengthened before they can easily fulfil their work.
Impatiens
Those who are quick in thought and action and who wish all things to be done without hesitation or delay. When ill they are anxious for a hasty recovery. They find it very difficult to be patient with people who are slow, as they consider it wrong and a waste of time. And they will endeavour to make such people quicker in all ways. They often prefer to work and think alone, so that they can do everything at their own speed.
Larch
For those who do not consider themselves as good or capable as those around them, who expect failure, who feel that they will never be a success, and so do not venture or make a strong enough attempt to succeed.
Mimulus
Fear of worldly things, illness, pain, accidents, poverty, of dark, of being alone, of misfortune. The fears of everyday life. These people quietly and secretly bear their dread; they do not freely speak of it to others.
Mustard
Those who are liable to times of gloom, or even despair, as though a cold dark cloud overshadowed them and hid the light and the joy of life. It may not be possible to give any reason or explanation for such attacks. Under these conditions it is almost impossible to appear happy or cheerful.
Oak
For those who are struggling and fighting strongly to get well, or in connection with the affairs of their daily life. They will go on trying one thing after another, though their case may seem hopeless.
Olive
Those who have suffered much mentally or physically and so exhausted and weary that they feel they have no more strength to make any effort. Daily life is hard work for them, without pleasure.
Pine
For those who blame themselves. Even when successful they think they could have done better, and are never content with their efforts or the results. They are hard-working and suffer much from the faults they attach to themselves. Sometimes if there is any mistake it is due to another, but they will claim responsibility even for that.
Red Chestnut
For those who find it difficult not to be anxious for other people. Often they have ceased to worry about themselves, but for those of whom they are fond they may suffer much, frequently anticipating that some unfortunate thing may happen to them.
Rock Rose
The Remedy of emergency. For cases where there even appears no hope. In accident or sudden illness, or when the patient is very frightened or terrified. If the patient is not conscious the lips may be moistened with the remedy.
Rock Water
Those who are very strict in their way of living; they deny themselves many of the joys and pleasures of life because they consider it might interfere with their work. They are hard masters to themselves. They wish to be well and strong and active, and will do anything that they believe will keep them so. They hope to be examples that will appeal to others who may then follow their ideas and be better as a result.
Scleranthus
Those who suffer much from being unable to decide between two things, first one seeming right then the other. They are usually quiet people, and bear their difficulty alone, often refusing to discuss it with others.
Star Of Bethlehem
For those in great distress under conditions which for a time produce great unhappiness. The shock of serious news, the loss of someone dear, the fright following an accident, and such like. For those who for a time refuse to be consoled, this remedy brings comfort.
Sweet Chestnut
For those moments which happen to some people when the anguish is so great as to seem to be unbearable. When the mind or body feels as if it had borne to the uttermost limit of its endurance, and that now it must give way. When it seems there is nothing but destruction and annihilation left to face.
Vervain
Those with fixed principles and ideas, which they are confident, are right, and which they very rarely change. They have a great wish to convert all around them to their own views of life. They are strong of will and have much courage when they are convinced of those things that they wish to teach. In illness they struggle on long after many would have given up their duties.
Vine
Very capable people, certain of their own ability, confident of success. Being so assured, they think that it would be for the benefit of others if they could be persuaded to do things as they themselves do, or as they are certain is right. Even in illness they will direct their attendants. They may be of great value in emergency.
Walnut
For those who have definite ideals and ambitions in life and are fulfilling them, but on rare occasions are tempted to be led away from their own ideas, aims and work by the enthusiasm, convictions or strong opinion of others. The remedy gives constancy and protection from outside influences.
Water Violet
For those who in health or illness like to be alone. Very quiet people, who move about without noise, speak little, and then gently. Very independent, capable and self-reliant. Almost free of the opinions of others. They are aloof, leave people alone and go their own way. Often clever and talented.
White Chestnut
For those who cannot prevent thoughts, ideas, arguments which they do not desire from entering their minds. Usually at such times when the interest of the moment is not strong enough to keep the mind full. Thoughts that worry and will remain, or if for a time thrown out, will return. They seem to circle round and round and cause mental torture. The presence of such unpleasant thoughts drives out peace and interferes with being able to think only of the work or pleasure of the day.
Wild Oat
Those who have ambitions to do something of prominence in life, who wish to have much experience, and to enjoy all that which is possible for them, to take life to the full. Their difficulty is to determine what occupation to follow; as although their ambitions are strong, they have no calling which appeals to them above all others. This may cause delay and dissatisfaction.
Wild Rose
Those who without apparently sufficient reason become resigned to all that happens, and just glide through life, take it as it is, without any effort to improve things and find some joy. They have surrendered to the struggle of life without complaint.
Willow
For those who have suffered misfortune and find these difficult to accept, without complaint or resentment, as they judge life much by the success which it brings. They feel that they have not deserved so great a trial and they become embittered. They often take less interest in those things of life which they had previously enjoyed.
Rescue Remedy
A combination of Cherry Plum, Clematis, Impatiens, Rock Rose, Star of Bethlehem. All purpose emergency composite for effects of anguish, examinations, going to the dentist, etc. Comforting, calming and reassuring to those distressed by startling experiences.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Hay Fever Medication
Hay fever medication containing chlorpheniramine has been shown to result in a 40% chance of a drop in grade if taken during exams. The study looked at children sitting GCSE exams in England. Normally most students attain the grade they achieved in their mocks or a better grade in the actual exams. Students taking hay fever medication containing chlorpheniramine had a 40% chance of suffering a lower grade if they were taking the medication during their exams.
Safe, effective homeopathic remedies don’t have the side-effect of drowsiness and following a full homeopathic hay fever programme can make the sniffles, sneezing, etc. a dim and distant ugly memory altogether.
Safe, effective homeopathic remedies don’t have the side-effect of drowsiness and following a full homeopathic hay fever programme can make the sniffles, sneezing, etc. a dim and distant ugly memory altogether.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Is science all it's cracked up to be?
Most of my working life has been spent in the field of complementary therapy/alternative medicine (kinesiology), and I have often found that when I talk to mainstream medical/scientific/academic people they are quite derisory about the status of my knowledge and understanding, but is science really all it's cracked up to be?
Science is seen as being rational, but there's so much evidence that a lot of the time scientists are not.
Take this example from the excellent book "Genome" by Matt Ridley:
When human chromosmes were first observed under the microscope the researcher, Theophilus Painter decided that there were 24 pairs.
"for thirty years, nobody disputed this 'fact'. One group of scientists abandoned their experiements on human liver cells because they could only find twenty-three pairs of chromosomes in each cell. .... In 1955 .... [two researchers], using better techniques, plainly saw twenty-three pairs. They even went back and counted twenty-three pairs in photographs in books where the caption stated that there were twenty-four pairs. There are none so blind as do not wish to see."
Hmmm ... this doesn't sound like rational scientific endeavour to me.
Science is seen as being rational, but there's so much evidence that a lot of the time scientists are not.
Take this example from the excellent book "Genome" by Matt Ridley:
When human chromosmes were first observed under the microscope the researcher, Theophilus Painter decided that there were 24 pairs.
"for thirty years, nobody disputed this 'fact'. One group of scientists abandoned their experiements on human liver cells because they could only find twenty-three pairs of chromosomes in each cell. .... In 1955 .... [two researchers], using better techniques, plainly saw twenty-three pairs. They even went back and counted twenty-three pairs in photographs in books where the caption stated that there were twenty-four pairs. There are none so blind as do not wish to see."
Hmmm ... this doesn't sound like rational scientific endeavour to me.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Fathers Day Gifts
Fathers Day is approaching fast in much of the world. If you're looking for an unusual gift then check out our web site.
We've got gifts for a golfer, a gardener or for a man who likes football. The self-hypnosis CDs would make great gifts too.
While you're there take a look round at our other gifts for women, for babies and children.
We know buying stuff isn't always the answer, so we're careful what we sell.
We've got gifts for a golfer, a gardener or for a man who likes football. The self-hypnosis CDs would make great gifts too.
While you're there take a look round at our other gifts for women, for babies and children.
We know buying stuff isn't always the answer, so we're careful what we sell.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Top Ten Tips For Happy Holidays
The Vale Practice’s Top Ten Tips for Happy Holidays
There’s an art to having a good holiday and The Vale Practice would like to share its insights on staying well before, during and after a trip as well as what to pack in your bath bag so you have your own emergency apothecary with you.
1. Pace yourself in the lead up to your holiday. Cramming as much work as possible in to “clear you desk”, the usual last minute packing frenzy, and the rigours of travelling (early starts, long journeys in polluted planes/trains) causes so much stress and turmoil for your body that this often leads to getting ill when you reach your idyllic destination!
2. Boost your immune system before you go. Herbs and Homeopathic remedies can be very helpful in the run up to your holiday to keep your immune system strong and help protect you against foreign diseases. If you are going to an unusual destination or for a longer trip prepare your body for the changes it will face. Herbs such as Echinacea and Garlic capsules can be taken up to 3 months before your journey to give your immune system a real boost. If you are going to the tropics garlic is essential as it is anti fungal!
3. Research your destination. Check the area you are travelling to for diseases – if there are any vaccinations necessary research these and if you decide to get them support your body with homeopathy for any side effects. The Vale Practice Homeopathic Drop in clinic is open Monday-Saturday 9.30-10.30am and Mon/Tues 5.30-6.30pm. They offer professional travel advice answering all those niggling questions and homeopathic remedies alongside.
4. Avoid Deet. Deet (Diethyl toluamide) is a highly toxic ingredient in Mosquito repellants which, while great at repelling insects, can be very harmful to us humans. If you have to use a Deet-based repellent try to apply it sparingly and to the clothes. There are some great alternatives such as Neem which is completely natural and produced by a tree in South America where they have been using the oil against mosquitos for years. Citronella aromatherapy oil is also good at repelling insects as they hate the smell. Simply get an empty bottle and fill with either oil or purified water, a teaspoon of alcohol and quite a few drops of citronella. You can also use it in candles to repell mosquitoes from your bbqs at night! Both Citronella and Neem are available at www.eco-online.co.uk. If you do get bitten Calendula tincture put directly onto the bite gives great relief as it is an effective skin healer.
5. Use natural and organic suncreams. Your skin absorbs 60% of what you put on it, so while protecting your skin from the sun normal suncreams contain very harsh and dangerous chemicals to do so. There is a range of organic suncreams on the market suitable for even the fairest skins as well as children’s. The Vale Practice recommends the Green People range which we sell online and in reception. These suncreams offer both UVA and UVB protection and natural antioxidants to protect against cell damage. They also offer a water resistant children’s sun cream and an Organic Aftersun Cream which is incredibly soothing, packed full of aloe vera, calendula and mint.
6. No matter how relaxing your holiday, remember that prevention is better than cure. If the water isn’t safe to drink in the region you are staying in be cautious: ask the waiters in bars if the ice is made from tap water and be wary of salad. Use a mosquito net if you are in a heavily mosquito-ridden area - even if the locals don’t. Nux Vomica 30 is great for indigestion; take the night before any overindulgence; also good for any stomach disorder where the nausea is relieved by vomiting.
Pack Arsenicum 30 for food poisoning, travellers diarrhea and vomiting.
7. A travel kit of homeopathic remedies is ideal to help with jet lag, over exposure to sun, insect bites and stings or any other injuries. The kits contain 36 remedies in a small practical plastic case with a booklet packed with all the symptoms you could possibly experience - even missing the Great British reserve! Alternatively, your homeopath can make you an individualised kit to suit you and your family.
8. If you suffer from a bad back or stiff neck it is a good idea to see your Osteopath or Massage therapist before any long haul flight. They can give you some great tips for exercises you can do on the plane so when you arrive at your destination your body will be in a fit state with fewer aches and pains from sitting on a plane. While travelling, try to keep moving around regularly: it is bad for your body to be sitting in one position for a long period of time.
9. While sunburn is extremely painful to the skin it also has a damaging effect on our bodies as a whole as they become seriously dehydrated and have to work harder to heal the tissue damage. A herbal bath can help reduce stinging and pain cooling the body down. Add 6 cups of chamomile tea to a lukewarm bath. Soak in the bath for 30 minutes. Lavender oil is also good and can be applied neat to the burnt area. Rehydrate the body by drinking lots of water. For more serious sunburn it is recommended that you ease the stress on the body by supplementing your diet with Vitamin C and essential fatty acids which are essential for tissue repair and also help reduce scarring. Try to eat a high protein diet which also aids in tissue repair with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to make up for the vitamins and minerals lost.
10. Sometimes the getting there is the worst part. Australian Bush Flower Travel Essence is designed especially for air travel: for jet lag, dehydration, disorientation, atmospheric radiation and anything associated with travel. It’s made from a combination of Bush Flower essences and aims to enable you to arrive at your destination feeling balanced and ready for your holiday! For fear of flying there are some excellent homeopathic remedies which relate to your individual fears or issues. Hypnotherapy has been proven to help people with flying phobias. Jane Crowe, The Vale Practice hypnotherapist says: ‘Hypnotherapy can deal with the root cause of that fear and therefore neutralise it. Often two sessions are all that’s required.’ Jane also recommends, for those who’d love a really fabulous tropical beach trip but can’t afford it, ‘taking a holiday in your head’. Like a guided meditation, this hypnotherapy treatment can be so powerful, your body and mind feel almost as rested as they would if you’d been on an actual holiday! Says Jane: ‘The brain doesn’t differentiate between real and imagined experience, it still triggers the hormones and relaxation responses that a real holiday would.’
The Vale Practice has over 27 therapists to call on. Therapies include: Osteopathy, Remedial and Deep Tissue Massage, Reflexology, Reiki, Swedish Massage, Eco Beauty, Chinese Herbal medicine, Nutrition, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Tui Na Massage, Shiatsu, Allergy Testing, Aromatherapy, Sports Injury Massage, Indian Head Massage, Counseling, Cranial Osteopathy, Group Therapy, Life and Work coaching, Chiropody, Medicinal Herbalism, Bio Energiser and Child Art and Psychotherapy.
For further information contact:
Practice manager: Kate 020 8299 9798/020 8299 9942
Or go to: www.thevalepractice.co.uk
There’s an art to having a good holiday and The Vale Practice would like to share its insights on staying well before, during and after a trip as well as what to pack in your bath bag so you have your own emergency apothecary with you.
1. Pace yourself in the lead up to your holiday. Cramming as much work as possible in to “clear you desk”, the usual last minute packing frenzy, and the rigours of travelling (early starts, long journeys in polluted planes/trains) causes so much stress and turmoil for your body that this often leads to getting ill when you reach your idyllic destination!
2. Boost your immune system before you go. Herbs and Homeopathic remedies can be very helpful in the run up to your holiday to keep your immune system strong and help protect you against foreign diseases. If you are going to an unusual destination or for a longer trip prepare your body for the changes it will face. Herbs such as Echinacea and Garlic capsules can be taken up to 3 months before your journey to give your immune system a real boost. If you are going to the tropics garlic is essential as it is anti fungal!
3. Research your destination. Check the area you are travelling to for diseases – if there are any vaccinations necessary research these and if you decide to get them support your body with homeopathy for any side effects. The Vale Practice Homeopathic Drop in clinic is open Monday-Saturday 9.30-10.30am and Mon/Tues 5.30-6.30pm. They offer professional travel advice answering all those niggling questions and homeopathic remedies alongside.
4. Avoid Deet. Deet (Diethyl toluamide) is a highly toxic ingredient in Mosquito repellants which, while great at repelling insects, can be very harmful to us humans. If you have to use a Deet-based repellent try to apply it sparingly and to the clothes. There are some great alternatives such as Neem which is completely natural and produced by a tree in South America where they have been using the oil against mosquitos for years. Citronella aromatherapy oil is also good at repelling insects as they hate the smell. Simply get an empty bottle and fill with either oil or purified water, a teaspoon of alcohol and quite a few drops of citronella. You can also use it in candles to repell mosquitoes from your bbqs at night! Both Citronella and Neem are available at www.eco-online.co.uk. If you do get bitten Calendula tincture put directly onto the bite gives great relief as it is an effective skin healer.
5. Use natural and organic suncreams. Your skin absorbs 60% of what you put on it, so while protecting your skin from the sun normal suncreams contain very harsh and dangerous chemicals to do so. There is a range of organic suncreams on the market suitable for even the fairest skins as well as children’s. The Vale Practice recommends the Green People range which we sell online and in reception. These suncreams offer both UVA and UVB protection and natural antioxidants to protect against cell damage. They also offer a water resistant children’s sun cream and an Organic Aftersun Cream which is incredibly soothing, packed full of aloe vera, calendula and mint.
6. No matter how relaxing your holiday, remember that prevention is better than cure. If the water isn’t safe to drink in the region you are staying in be cautious: ask the waiters in bars if the ice is made from tap water and be wary of salad. Use a mosquito net if you are in a heavily mosquito-ridden area - even if the locals don’t. Nux Vomica 30 is great for indigestion; take the night before any overindulgence; also good for any stomach disorder where the nausea is relieved by vomiting.
Pack Arsenicum 30 for food poisoning, travellers diarrhea and vomiting.
7. A travel kit of homeopathic remedies is ideal to help with jet lag, over exposure to sun, insect bites and stings or any other injuries. The kits contain 36 remedies in a small practical plastic case with a booklet packed with all the symptoms you could possibly experience - even missing the Great British reserve! Alternatively, your homeopath can make you an individualised kit to suit you and your family.
8. If you suffer from a bad back or stiff neck it is a good idea to see your Osteopath or Massage therapist before any long haul flight. They can give you some great tips for exercises you can do on the plane so when you arrive at your destination your body will be in a fit state with fewer aches and pains from sitting on a plane. While travelling, try to keep moving around regularly: it is bad for your body to be sitting in one position for a long period of time.
9. While sunburn is extremely painful to the skin it also has a damaging effect on our bodies as a whole as they become seriously dehydrated and have to work harder to heal the tissue damage. A herbal bath can help reduce stinging and pain cooling the body down. Add 6 cups of chamomile tea to a lukewarm bath. Soak in the bath for 30 minutes. Lavender oil is also good and can be applied neat to the burnt area. Rehydrate the body by drinking lots of water. For more serious sunburn it is recommended that you ease the stress on the body by supplementing your diet with Vitamin C and essential fatty acids which are essential for tissue repair and also help reduce scarring. Try to eat a high protein diet which also aids in tissue repair with lots of fresh fruit and vegetables to make up for the vitamins and minerals lost.
10. Sometimes the getting there is the worst part. Australian Bush Flower Travel Essence is designed especially for air travel: for jet lag, dehydration, disorientation, atmospheric radiation and anything associated with travel. It’s made from a combination of Bush Flower essences and aims to enable you to arrive at your destination feeling balanced and ready for your holiday! For fear of flying there are some excellent homeopathic remedies which relate to your individual fears or issues. Hypnotherapy has been proven to help people with flying phobias. Jane Crowe, The Vale Practice hypnotherapist says: ‘Hypnotherapy can deal with the root cause of that fear and therefore neutralise it. Often two sessions are all that’s required.’ Jane also recommends, for those who’d love a really fabulous tropical beach trip but can’t afford it, ‘taking a holiday in your head’. Like a guided meditation, this hypnotherapy treatment can be so powerful, your body and mind feel almost as rested as they would if you’d been on an actual holiday! Says Jane: ‘The brain doesn’t differentiate between real and imagined experience, it still triggers the hormones and relaxation responses that a real holiday would.’
The Vale Practice has over 27 therapists to call on. Therapies include: Osteopathy, Remedial and Deep Tissue Massage, Reflexology, Reiki, Swedish Massage, Eco Beauty, Chinese Herbal medicine, Nutrition, Naturopathy, Acupuncture, Homeopathy, Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Tui Na Massage, Shiatsu, Allergy Testing, Aromatherapy, Sports Injury Massage, Indian Head Massage, Counseling, Cranial Osteopathy, Group Therapy, Life and Work coaching, Chiropody, Medicinal Herbalism, Bio Energiser and Child Art and Psychotherapy.
For further information contact:
Practice manager: Kate 020 8299 9798/020 8299 9942
Or go to: www.thevalepractice.co.uk
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