It’s easy to breathe when standing on the yoga mat, but there are so many other times in our lives when a few deep breaths can make all the difference. Here are seven:
If you feel stressed out and overwhelmed, breathe. It will calm you and release the tensions.
If you are worried about something coming up, or caught up in something that already happened, breathe. It will bring you back to the present.

If you are discouraged and have forgotten your purpose in life, breathe. It will remind you about how precious life is, and that each breath in this life is a gift you need to appreciate. Make the most of this gift.
If you have too many tasks to do, or are scattered during your workday, breathe. It will help bring you into focus, to concentrate on the most important task you need to be focusing on right now.
If you are spending time with someone you love, breathe. It will allow you to be present with that person, rather than thinking about work or other things you need to do.

If you are exercising, breathe. It will help you enjoy the exercise, and therefore stick with it for longer.
If you are moving too fast, breathe. It will remind you to slow down, and enjoy life more.
So breathe. DO IT NOW! And enjoy each moment of this life. They’re too fleeting and few to waste.

They have also become popular because they may reduce the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish (particularly fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna, and salmon) at least 2 times a week.

Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and may help lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain and appear to be important for cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function. In fact, infants who do not get enough omega-3 fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy are at risk for developing vision and nerve problems. Symptoms of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency include fatigue, poor memory, dry skin, heart problems, mood swings or depression, and poor circulation.

It is important to have a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 (another essential fatty acid) in the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, and most omega-6 fatty acids tend to promote inflammation. The typical American diet tends to contain 14 – 25 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids.

The Mediterranean diet, on the other hand, has a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Many studies have shown that people who follow this diet are less likely to develop heart disease. The Mediterranean diet does not include much meat (which is high in omega-6 fatty acids) and emphasizes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, including whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, olive oil, garlic, as well as moderate wine consumption.
Uses:

Clinical evidence is strongest for heart disease and problems that contribute to heart disease, but omega-3 fatty acids may also be used for:

High cholesterol

People who follow a Mediterranean-style diet tend to have higher HDL or “good” cholesterol levels, which help promote heart health. Inuit Eskimos, who get high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from eating fatty fish, also tend to have increased HDL cholesterol and decreased triglycerides (fats in the blood). Several studies have shown that fish oil supplements reduce triglyceride levels. Finally, walnuts (which are rich in alpha linolenic acid or LNA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid) have been reported to lower total cholesterol and triglycerides in people with high cholesterol levels.

High blood pressure

Several clinical studies suggest that diets or fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure in people with hypertension. An analysis of 17 clinical studies using fish oil supplements found that taking 3 or more grams of fish oil daily may reduce blood pressure in people with untreated hypertension.

Heart disease

One of the best ways to help prevent heart disease is to eat a diet low in saturated fat and to eat foods that are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (including omega-3 fatty acids). Clinical evidence suggests that EPA and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, the two omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil) help reduce risk factors for heart disease, including high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Fish oil has been shown to lower levels of triglycerides (fats in the blood), and to lower risk of death, heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heart rhythms in people who have already had a heart attack. Fish oil also appears to help prevent and treat atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) by slowing the development of plaque and blood clots, which can clog arteries.

Large population studies suggest that getting omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, primarily from fish, helps protect against stroke caused by plaque buildup and blood clots in the arteries that lead to the brain. Eating at least 2 servings of fish per week can reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 50%. However, high doses of fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. People who eat more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day (equivalent to 3 servings of fish per day) may have higher risk for hemorrhagic stroke, a potentially fatal type of stroke in which an artery in the brain leaks or ruptures.

Diabetes

People with diabetes often have high triglyceride and low HDL levels. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can help lower triglycerides and apoproteins (markers of diabetes), and raise HDL, so eating foods or taking fish oil supplements may help people with diabetes. Another type of omega-3 fatty acid, ALA (from flaxseed, for example) may not have the same benefit as fish oil. Some people with diabetes can’ t efficiently convert LNA to a form of omega-3 fatty acids that the body can use. Also, some people with type 2 diabetes may have slight increases in fasting blood sugar when taking fish oil, so talk to your doctor to see if fish oil is right for you.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Most clinical studies examining omega-3 fatty acid supplements for arthritis have focused on rheumatoid arthritis (RA), an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. A number of small studies have found that fish oil helps reduce symptoms of RA, including joint pain and morning stiffness. One study suggests that people with RA who take fish oil may be able to lower their dose of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, unlike prescription medications, fish oil does not appear to slow progression of RA, only to treat the symptoms. Joint damage still occurs.

Laboratory studies suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (and low in the inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids) may help people with osteoarthritis, although more study is needed. New Zealand green lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus), another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been reported to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and improve walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis. For some people, symptoms got worse before they improved.

An analysis of 17 randomized, controlled clinical trials looked at the pain relieving effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplements in people with RA or joint pain caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBS) and painful menstruation (dysmenorrhea). The results suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, along with conventional therapies such as NSAIDs, may help relieve joint pain associated with these conditions.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)

Several small studies suggest that EPA and fish oil may help reduce symptoms of lupus, an autoimmune condition characterized by fatigue and joint pain. However, two small studies found fish oil had no effect on lupus nephritis (kidney disease caused by lupus, a frequent complication of the disease).

Osteoporosis

Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help increase levels of calcium in the body and improve bone strength, although not all results were positive. Some studies also suggest that people who don’ t get enough of some essential fatty acids (particularly EPA and gamma-linolenic acid [GLA], an omega-6 fatty acid) are more likely to have bone loss than those with normal levels of these fatty acids. In a study of women over 65 with osteoporosis, those who took EPA and GLA supplements had less bone loss over 3 years than those who took placebo. Many of these women also experienced an increase in bone density.

Depression

Studies have found mixed results as to whether taking omega-3 fatty acids can help depression symptoms. Several studies have found that people who took omega-3 fatty acids in addition to prescription antidepressants had a greater improvement in symptoms than those who took antidepressants alone. However, other studies have found no benefit.

Studies are also mixed on whether omega-3 fatty acids alone have any effect on depression. Depression is a serious illness and you should not try to treat it on your own. See a doctor for help.

Bipolar disorder

In a clinical study of 30 people with bipolar disorder, those who took fish oil in addition to standard prescription treatments for bipolar disorder for 4 months experienced fewer mood swings and relapse than those who received placebo. But another 4-month long clinical study treating people with bipolar depression and rapid cycling bipolar disorder did not find that EPA helped reduce symptoms.

Schizophrenia

Preliminary clinical evidence suggests that people with schizophrenia may have an improvement in symptoms when given omega-3 fatty acids. However, a recent well-designed study concluded that EPA supplements are no better than placebo in improving symptoms of this condition.

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may have low levels of certain essential fatty acids (including EPA and DHA). In a clinical study of nearly 100 boys, those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids had more learning and behavioral problems (such as temper tantrums and sleep disturbances) than boys with normal omega-3 fatty acid levels.

However, studies examining whether omega-3 fatty acids help improve symptoms of ADHD have found mixed results. A few studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids helped improve behavioral symptoms, but most were not well designed. One study that looked at DHA in addition to stimulant therapy (standard therapy for ADHD) found no effect. More research is needed, but eating foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids is a reasonable approach for someone with ADHD.

Skin disorders

In one clinical study, 13 people with sun sensitivity known as photo dermatitis showed less sensitivity to UV rays after taking fish oil supplements. However, topical sunscreens are much better at protecting the skin from damaging effects of the sun than omega-3 fatty acids. In another study of 40 people with psoriasis, those who took EPA with their prescription medications did better than those treated with the medications alone. However, a larger study of people with psoriasis found no benefit from fish oil.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Results are mixed as to whether omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce symptoms of Crohn’ s disease and ulcerative colitis, the two types of IBD. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help when added to medication, such as sulfasalazine (a standard medication for IBD). Others find no effect. More studies are needed. Fish oil supplements can cause side effects that are similar to symptoms of IBD (such as flatulence, belching, bloating, and diarrhea).

Asthma

Studies examining omega-3 fatty acids for asthma are mixed. In one small, well-designed clinical study of 29 children with asthma, those who took fish oil supplements rich in EPA and DHA for 10 months reduced their symptoms compared to children who took placebo. However, most studies have shown no effect.

Macular Degeneration

A questionnaire given to more than 3,000 people over the age of 49 found that those who ate more fish were less likely to have macular degeneration (a serious age-related eye condition that can progress to blindness) than those who ate less fish. Similarly, a clinical study comparing 350 people with macular degeneration to 500 without the eye disease found that those with a healthy dietary balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and more fish in their diets were less likely to have macular degeneration.

Menstrual pain

In one study of 42 women, they had less menstrual pain when they took fish oil supplements than when they took placebo.

Coloncancer

Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids seems to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. For example, Eskimos, who tend to have a high-fat diet but eat significant amounts of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have a low rate of colorectal cancer. Animal studies and laboratory studies have found that omega-3 fatty acids prevent worsening of colon cancer. Preliminary studies suggest that taking fish oil daily may help slow the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease. If you have colorectal cancer, ask your doctor before taking any supplements.

Breast cancer

Although not all experts agree, women who eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids over many years may be less likely to develop breast cancer. More research is needed to understand the effect that omega-3 fatty acids may have on the prevention of breast cancer.

Prostate cancer

Population based studies of groups of men suggest that a low-fat diet including omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil help prevent the development of prostate cancer.
Dietary Sources:

Fish, plant, and nut oils are the primary dietary source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, sardines, tuna, and herring. ALA is found in flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, canola (rapeseed) oil, soybeans, soybean oil, pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seed oil, purslane, perilla seed oil, walnuts, and walnut oil. Other sources of omega-3 fatty acids include sea life such as krill and algae.
Available Forms:

Both EPA and DHA can be taken in the form of fish oil capsules. Flaxseed, flaxseed oil, fish and krill oils should be kept refrigerated. Whole flaxseeds must be ground within 24 hours of use, so the ingredients stay active. Flaxseeds are also available in ground form in a special mylar package so that the components in the flaxseeds stay active.

Be sure to buy omega-3 fatty acid supplements made by established companies who certify that their products are free of heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium.
How to Take It:

Dosing for fish oil supplements should be based on the amount of EPA and DHA, not on the total amount of fish oil. Supplements vary in the amounts and ratios of EPA and DHA. A common amount of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil capsules is 0.18 grams (180 mg) of EPA and 0.12 grams (120 mg) of DHA. Five grams of fish oil contains approximately 0.17 – 0.56 grams (170 -560 mg) of EPA and 0.072 – 0.31 grams (72 – 310 mg) of DHA. Different types of fish contain variable amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, and different types of nuts or oil contain variable amounts of LNA. Fish oils contain approximately 9 calories per gram of oil.

Children (18 years and younger)

There is no established dose for children. Omega-3 fatty acids are used in some infant formulas. Fish oil capsules should not be used in children except under the direction of a health care provider. Children should avoid eating fish that may be high in mercury, such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish. (See Precautions section.)

Adults

Do not take more than 3 grams daily of omega-3 fatty acids from capsules without the supervision of a health care provider, due to an increased risk of bleeding.

For healthy adults with no history of heart disease: The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least 2 times per week.
For adults with coronary heart disease: The American Heart Association recommends an omega-3 fatty acid supplement (as fish oils), 1 gram daily of EPA and DHA. It may take 2 – 3 weeks for benefits of fish oil supplements to be seen.
For adults with high cholesterol levels: The American Heart Association recommends an omega-3 fatty acid supplement (as fish oils), 2 – 4 grams daily of EPA and DHA. It may take 2 – 3 weeks for benefits of fish oil supplements to be seen.

Precautions:

Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, dietary supplements should be taken only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider.

Omega-3 fatty acids should be used cautiously by people who bruise easily, have a bleeding disorder, or take blood-thinning medications including warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix). High doses of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding.

Fish oil can cause gas, bloating, belching, and diarrhea. Time-release preparations may reduce these side effects, however.

People with either diabetes or schizophrenia may lack the ability to convert alpha-linolenic acid (LNA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the forms more readily used in the body. People with these conditions should be sure to get enough EPA and DHA from their diets. Also, people with type 2 diabetes may experience increases in fasting blood sugar levels while taking fish oil supplements. If you have type 2 diabetes, use fish oil supplements only under the supervision of a health care provider.

Although studies suggest that eating fish (which includes the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA) may reduce the risk of macular degeneration, a recent study including 2 large groups of men and women found that diets rich in LNA may increase the risk of this disease. Until more information becomes available, people with macular degeneration should get omega-3 fatty acids from sources of EPA and DHA, rather than LNA.

Fish and fish oil may protect against prostate cancer, but LNA may be associated with increased risk of prostate cancer in men. More research in this area is needed.

Some fish may contain potentially harmful contaminants, such as heavy metals (including mercury), dioxins, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). For sport-caught fish, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that pregnant or nursing women eat no more than a single 6-ounce meal per week, and young children less than 2 ounces per week. For farm-raised, imported, or marine fish, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends that pregnant or nursing women and young children avoid eating types with higher levels of mercury (such as mackerel, shark, swordfish, or tilefish), and eat up to 12 ounces per week of other fish types.

Buy fish oil from a reputable source that tests to make sure there is no mercury or pesticide residues in its products.
Possible Interactions:

If you are currently being treated with any of the following medications, you should not use omega-3 fatty acid supplements, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and alpha-linolenic acid (LNA), without first talking to your health care provider.

Blood-thinning medications — Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the effects of blood thinning medications, including aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and clopedigrel (Plavix). Taking aspirin and omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful in some circumstances (such as in heart disease), but they should only be taken together under the supervision of a health care provider.

Diabetes medications — Taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements may increase fasting blood sugar levels. Use with caution if taking medications to lower blood sugar, such as glipizide (Glucotrol and Glucotrol XL), glyburide (Micronase or Diabeta), glucophage (Metformin), or insulin. Your doctor may need to increase your medication dose. These drugs include:

Glipizide (Glucotrol and Glucotrol XL)
Glyburide (Micronase or Diabeta)
Metformin (Glucophage)
Insulin

Cyclosporine — Cyclosporine is a medication given to people with organ transplants. Taking omega-3 fatty acids during cyclosporine (Sandimmune) therapy may reduce toxic side effects, such as high blood pressure and kidney damage, associated with this medication.

Etretinate and topical steroids — Adding omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA) to the drug therapy etretinate (Tegison) and topical corticosteroids may improve symptoms of psoriasis.

Cholesterol-lowering medications — Following dietary guidelines, including increasing the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and reducing the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, may help a group of cholesterol lowering medications known as statins to work more effectively. These medications include:

Atorvastatin (Liptor)
Lovastatin (Mevacor)
Simvastatin (Zocor)

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — In an animal study, treatment with omega-3 fatty acids reduced the risk of ulcers from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) and naproxen (Aleve or Naprosyn). More research is needed to see whether omega-3 fatty acids would have the same effects in people.

Reviewed last on: 6/25/2009
Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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Terry P, Lichtenstein P, Feychting M, Ahlbom A, Wolk A. Fatty fish consumption and risk of prostate cancer. Lancet. 2001;357(9270):1764-1766.

Weinstock-Guttman B, Baier M, Park Y et al. Low fat dietary intervention with omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in multiple sclerosis patients. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2005;73:397-404.

Yuen AW, Sander JW, Fluegel D et al. Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with chronic epilepsy: A randomized trial. Epilepsy Behav. 2005;7(2):253-8.

The statements below are to help you in your own self-analysis. These questions are for you to reflect on and if you feel that you may be having problems in certain areas then try bringing in color through different methods (See Chakra Energy: Ways to Energize Your Chakras).

For more information or further advice read books on the chakra system (see below for some books that I recommend) or visit a professional aura and chakra counsellor (qualified aura/chakra therapists are trained counsellors such as Aurastar 2000 practitioners or a medical intuitives). Also chakra tools can be found on many sites that sell metaphysical products. One of my favorites is www.chakracompany.com

Part One

These questions are connected to your Red Root chakra power.
The Root chakra is your main power station and it is connected to your physical vitality and endurance, mental perseverance and it is the center that gives you your life’s passion. The root center is also your connection to your existence.

Issues to review are:

Are you physically fit?
Was there or is there currently any abuse (physical or verbal) in your life?
Are you able to put your thoughts into action?
Do you accomplish most of your goals?
Are money and a home very important to you?
Have you had any recent thoughts of self-destruction?

Ways to bring in the RED energy and boost your Root chakra power are:

Incorporate physical activities such as an exercise program or yoga.
Eat red foods and consume red drinks.
Use aromatherapy oils such as sandalwood, ylang ylang or juniper (consult a specially trained aromatherapist or aura counselor to find the right oils for your specific chakra needs). Note: Every therapeutic oil or essence has its own healing power that can help with specific issues relating to each chakra.
Stimulating music with deep beats such as drums or music that makes your body move like Latin American music. (Many metaphysical outlets have diversified selections of chakra music.)
Wear or carry a red gemstones. Red stones would be Red Tiger’s Eye, Garnet, Red Jasper or Ruby.
Bathe in the red color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Two

These questions are connected to your Orange Spleen chakra power.
The Spleen chakra is your sensing power station, connecting you to your feeling sensitivities. It is the center that allows you to live consciously, in the “now.” The spleen center is also the link to your enthusiasm, happiness and joy—your inner-child.

Issues to review are:

Are you emotionally stable or do your emotions go from one extreme to another?
Do you try to hide or control your feelings?
Is your inner child still alive, enthusiastic and uninhibited?
Can you think outside of the box or is your creative perception restricted?
Are your sexual relationships mutual and respectful, and can you be totally comfortable with your partner with no limitations such as frigidity or impotence?
Do you feel disconnected from reality and do you have a difficult living in the present moment?

Ways to bring in the ORANGE energy and boost your Spleen chakra power are:

Hot aromatic baths. Water aerobics. Deep tissue massage. Emotional movies. Cooking classes. Embracing sensation (such as different food tastes).
Eat orange foods and consume orange drinks.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Melissa, Orange, Mandarin, Neroli, Tangerine.
Music with a bounce or that flows (running water, thunderstorms, etc.). Harp.
Wear or carry an orange gemstone or copper piece. Orange stones would be Coral or Carnelian.
Bathe in the orange color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Three

These questions are connected to your Yellow Solar Plexus chakra power.
The Yellow chakra is your mental awareness, which connects you to your mind power. It is the center that governs your ability to learn and comprehend. The solar plexus center is known to govern your ego and your will power. It is the sun center that emits optimism and confidence.

Issues to review are:

Are you too flexible and are your focus and concentration abilities poor?
Do you lack confidence that you are overly concerned with what other people think?
Are your thoughts clouded so that you have a difficult time making decisions?
Do you take on too much responsibility because you think you know best?
Are you a perfectionist and prefer to do things yourself?
Are you afraid to be alone?

Ways to bring in the YELLOW energy and boost your Solar Plexus chakra power are:

Taking classes, reading informative books, doing mind puzzles. Developing one’s photographic memory. Sunshine. Detoxification programs.
Eat yellow foods and consume yellow beverages.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Rosemary, Lemon, Grapefruit, Bergamot.
Music that is mentally stimulating such as chimes. Reed and Horn Instruments.
Wear or carry a yellow gemstone or something gold. Yellow stones would be Citrine, Amber, Topaz.
Bathe in the yellow color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Four

These questions are connected to your Green Heart chakra power.
The Green chakra is your heart power station, connecting you to your emotions. It is the center that allows you to love and give unconditionally. The heart center governs your relationships. It is the energy center that integrates one’s physical reality to one’s spiritual connection.

Issues to review are:

Do you accept yourself for who you are or do you lack self-love?
Do you feel that you are not worthy of living life fully or do you feel stifled (feel a lack of freedom in your life)?
Are you indecisive because you can’t make up your mind?
Do you have a hard time saying “no” to people?
Do you have a fear of being rejected or abandoned?
Are you envious and jealous of what other people have?

Ways to bring in the GREEN energy and boost your Heart chakra power are:

Nature hikes. Spending time with family or friends. Surrounding yourself with plants. Gardening. Taking self-love courses. Reading romantic novels or watching romantic movies. Candlelight dinners.
Eat green foods and consume green drinks.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Eucalyptus, Pine, Tea Tree, Spearmint, Cedarwood.
Music that has the sounds of nature.
Wear or carry a green gemstone. Green stones would be Aventurine, Emerald, Jade, Malachite, Peridot.
Bathe in the green color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Five

These questions are connected to your Blue Throat chakra power.
The Blue chakra is your communication power station. It is the center that handles incoming and outgoing messages. It is through this center that we voice our opinions and our truths.

Issues to review are:

Are you able to express yourself and your beliefs (voice your inner truth)?
Do you have the ability to trust others without doubt?
Do you have good organization and planning skills?
Are you able to free yourself of old family values, beliefs and commitments especially regarding their relationship to responsibility?
Are you concerned with financial security and having nice possessions?
Are you shy and have difficulty communicating yourself or are you too talkative?

Ways to bring in the BLUE energy and boost your throat chakra power are:

Singing (in the shower) and toning. Poetry, stamp or art collecting. Meaningful conversations. Taking self-development courses. Attending church or spiritual functions. Journaling. Neck and shoulder rolls.
Eat blue foods and consume blue beverages.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Geranium, Chamomile, Peppermint, Mint, Cypress.
Music that is repetitive, such as echoes or sounds of ocean waves.
Wear or carry a blue gemstone. Blue stones would be Sodalite, Lapis Lazuli, Sapphire, Blue Agate.
Bathe in the blue color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Six

These questions are connected to your Indigo Brow chakra power.
The Indigo chakra is your intuitive intelligence. It is the center that taps into the universal consciousness. Through the third-eye you can see things from a psychic potential.

Issues to review are:

Do you trust your intuition and insights?
Are you able to develop your psychic and intuitive abilities?
Can you release your fears and anxieties or do you hang on to negative thoughts?
Are you able to balance your imagination and fantasy realm with reality?
Do you tend to feel lonely or are you often depressed?
Are you unable to give yourself credit because you lack self-pride?

Ways to bring in the INDIGO energy and boost your Brow chakra power are:

Star gazing. Eye rolls. Meditation Developing one’s intuition and psychic abilities.
Eat indigo foods and consume indigo drinks.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Patchouli, Frankincense, Myrrh.
Music such as Mozart or Bach. Chanting (OM).
Wear or carry an indigo gemstone or silver jewelry. Indigo stones are Amethyst, Tourmaline, Tanzanite.
Bathe in the indigo color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Part Seven

These questions are connected to your Violet Crown chakra power.
The Violet chakra is your spiritual connection. This chakra links you to the cosmos so you can reach your higher potential. It is the energy of knowingness and enlightenment.

Issues to review are:

Are you dedicated to the Divine consciousness?
Do you trust the universe and your spiritual reality?
Are you able to equally balance your spirituality with your ability to stay grounded?
Do you allow the universal energy to flow through you so that you have an unlimited creative energy source?
Are you able to integrate you intuitive energy with your intellect—your feminine energy with your masculine energy?
Do you lack faith because you prefer to believe in your own abilities?

Ways to bring in the VIOLET energy and boost your Crown chakra power are:

Focusing on dreams and writing down one’s visions and inventions. Quiet contemplation, meditation and yoga. Listening to guided meditation tapes. Taking spiritual courses.
Eat violet foods and consume violet beverages.
Use aromatherapy oils such as Lavender, Jasmine, Magnolia.
Silence is the violet inspiration’s music. Crystal Bowls.
Wear or carry a violet gemstone. Violet stones would be Quartz Crystal, Diamond.
Bathe in the violet color in your clothing, Color Bath™, decor, art, etc.

Glossary
Anja Knowledge. Belongs to the sixth chakra which is located between the eyebrows. Referred to as the third eye or brow chakra.
Anahata Untouched. The fourth chakra localized in the heart. Known as the heart chakra.
Aura A distinctive atmosphere surrounding a person or thing. A luminous radiation which emanates from all living matters. An energy field that interpenetrates with and radiates out beyond the physical and which is made up of different vibrations or frequencies. Also referred to as our subtle energy field or our electromagnetic energy field.

Chakra A Sanskrit word meaning “wheel.” One of the energy centers within the body. The main function of a chakra is to act as a transformer for the higher frequency subtle energies of the aura.
Chi The nutritive subtle energy taken in during breathing. Also referred to as prana or ki.

Clairvoyance The ability to see the aura with its colours, thought forms, shapes, etc. Clairvoyant abilities are mediated through the use of the brow chakra.

Holistic A synergistic approach that deals with the whole of a human (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects) to maintain optimum health.
Karma Chosen learning process, effect.
Kundalini The awakening or sleeping “serpent power.” Located in the root chakra. Energy for spiritual growth. The flowering of all seven chakras awakens the Kundalini, bringing cosmic consciousness. The power that rises from the base chakra to the crown.
Mantra Words of Power. A sounded meditation used for manifestation.
Meridian The highest point or stage of development. Body energy flows in specific pathways, which is referred to as meridians.
Manipura City of Jewels or Lustrous Gem. The third chakra located over the navel under the chest. Also known as the solar plexus chakra.
Mudladhara Root or Support. The first chakra located at the end of the spine referred to as the root or base chakra.
Sanskrit An ancient Indic language that is the language of Hinduism and the Vedas and the classical literary language of India.
Sahasrara Thousandfold. The seventh chakra localized on the top of your head also referred to as the crown chakra.
Svadhisthana Sweetness or One’s Own Abode. The second chakra-hara chakra. Also referred to as the spleen or navel chakra.
Vishuddha Purity. The fifth chakra located in the throat and referred to as the throat chakra.
Subtle Energy A general term that denotes energy that exists outside our physical reality.
Superconsciousness One’s higher consciousness.
Vibration Refers to subtle or electromagnetic energy in varying frequencies and amplitudes.

Recommended Reading:

ABC’s of Chakra Therapy by Deedre Diemer
Chakra for Beginners by David Pond
Healing with Energy of the Chakras by Ambika Wauters
Pocket Guide to Chakras by Joy Gardner Gordon
The Truth About Chakras by Anodea Judith
Using Your Chakras: A New Approach to Healing Your Life by Ruth White
Wheels of Life: A User’s Guide to the Chakra System by Anodea Judith

This system teaches maintenance and protection of the whole person (mind, body and soul). Ayurvedic medicine is based on an individual’s characteristics and body frame rather than oriented toward treating disease or sickness.

Each of us are made up of a combination of the three types of doshas. The three doshas are comprised of these five universal elements:

space
air
earth
fire
water

Vatha is a combination of air and space.

Pitta is mostly fire with some water.

Kapha is mostly water with some earth.

Overall well-being and striving for longevity depends on keeping your doshas balanced. Any imbalance among the tridoshas causes a state of unhealthiness or disease. Factors that can bring about balance of the tridoshas are diet, exercise, good digestion, and elimination of toxins. You can follow the three links below to evaluate the characteristics of each dosha to consider if you are predominately one dosha or would be classified as a combo-energy such as vatha-pitta or vatha-kapha, or pitta-kapha, and so on.

Dosha Body Types

Dosha Body Types

The three doshas are called Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Although they regulate thousands of separate functions in the mind/body system, they have three basic functions:

The Vata dosha controls movement.

The Pitta dosha controls metabolism.

The Kapha dosha controls structure.

Every cell in your body has to contain all three of these principles. To remain alive, your body has to have Vata, or motion, which allows it to breathe, circulate blood, pass food through the digestive tract, and send nerve impulses to and from the brain.

It has to have Pitta, or metabolism, which processes food, air and water throughout the entire system.

It has to have Kapha, or structure, to hold the cells together and form muscle, fat, bone and sinew. Nature needs all three to build a human body.

Although there are only three doshas, they can be combined in ten possible ways to arrive at ten different body and behavioral types:

3 single – Dosha types
6 two – Dosha types
1 three – Dosha type

To find out what your body type is why not try the Dosha Test

The single Dosha type
Vata
Pitta
Kapha

If one dosha is much higher than the others, you are a single-dosha type. A true single – dosha type displays the traits of Vata, Pitta or Kapha very prominently.
Your next highest dosha will still show some influence in your natural tendencies but to a much lesser degree.

The two Dosha type
Vata – Pitta or Pitta – Vata
Pitta – Kapha or Kapha – Pitta
Kapha – Vata or Vata – Kapha

If no dosha is extremely dominate, you are a two-dosha type. This means that you display qualities of your two leading doshas, either side by side or in alternation. The higher one comes first in your body type, but both count.

Most people are two – dosha types. In some, the first dosha is very strong which would qualify them as a single-dosha type except for the prominence of another dosha. In other cases, the difference is smaller, the first dosha still predominates, but the second will be almost equal. And in still others, one dosha will stand out but the other two are exactly tied. They are probably still a two-dosha type, but the written test did not pick up the second dosha. If your score is like this, pay attention to the first dosha as your dominant one, and with time the second will become more clear.

The three Dosha type
Vata – Pitta – Kapha

If your three scores are nearly equal, you are a three-dosha type. This type is considered rare, however.

Interpreting body types

Your body type is the mold you were cast in and is genetic, it is inherited at birth. Knowledge of your body type enables you to evolve to a more ideal state of health. Understanding it’s corresponding behavioral characteristics gives you a better appreciation for the inherent behavioral traits and instincts that you display so easily, without thinking. To grasp hold of yourself and attempt to develop a life of balance, the way you approach the world through your thoughts may be more important than even your body type. Everything you create in your life first starts out as a thought and even your body follows the directions of these same thoughts.

The pure Vata type
Light, thin build
Quick to grasp new information, also quick to forget
Performs activity quickly
Tendency to worry
Irregular hunger and digestion
Tendency toward constipation
Enthusiasm, vivaciousness, imagination
Tires easily, tendency to over exert
Excitability, changing moods
Mental and physical energy comes in bursts

The pure Pitta type
Medium build
Enterprising character, likes challenges
Medium strength and endurance
Sharp intellect
Sharp hunger and thirst, strong digestion
Precise, articulate speech
Tendency toward anger
Cannot skip meals
Irritability under stress
Blond, light brown or red hair
Fair or ruddy skin, often freckled (or reddish undertones)

The pure Kapha type
Solid, powerful build; great
Slow to grasp new information, physical strength and endurance but good retentive memory
Steady energy; slow and graceful
Tendency to obesity in action
Slow digestion, mild hunger
Tranquil, relaxed personality; slow to anger
Affectionate, tolerant, forgiving
Cool, smooth, thick, pale often
Tendency to be possessive
Oily skin
Complacent

Understanding the single Dosha type

If you are a single dosha type, one dosha will be much higher than the other and may be as much as twice as high as the second highest score. A single dosha type displays traits of the pure Vatta, Pitta or Kapha characteristics listed above. Your next highest dosha will still show some influence in your natural tendencies but to a much lesser degree.

Understanding the two Dosha type

If you are a two dosha type, no dosha is extremely dominant. This means that you display qualities of your two leading doshas, either side by side or in alternation. The higher one comes first in your body type, but both count. Most people are two-dosha types.

Understanding the three Dosha type

If you are a three dosha type you start off with the best chance for remaining in balance, because your ratio of Vata, Pitta and Kapha is nearly even. This balanced dosha body type will tend to provide you with lifelong good health, ideal immunity and longevity, but is difficult to correct if out of balance.

This alternative approach has been dubbed “mindful eating.” It’s based on the Buddhist concept of mindfulness, which involves being fully aware of what is happening within and around you at the moment. Mindfulness techniques have also been offered as a way to relieve stress and alleviate problems like high blood pressure and chronic gastrointestinal difficulties.

Applied to eating, mindfulness includes noticing the colors, smells, flavors, and textures of your food; chewing slowly; getting rid of distractions like TV or reading; and learning to cope with guilt and anxiety about food. Some elements of mindful eating hark back to Horace Fletcher, an early 20th century food faddist who believed chewing food thoroughly would solve many different kinds of health problems.

The mind–gut connection

Digestion involves a complex series of hormonal signals between the gut and the nervous system, and it seems to take about 20 minutes for the brain to register satiety (fullness). If someone eats too quickly, satiety may occur after overeating instead of putting a stop to it. There’s also reason to believe that eating while we’re distracted by activities like driving or typing may slow down or stop digestion similar to how the “fight or flight” response does. And if we’re not digesting well, we may be missing out on the full nutritive value of some of the food we’re consuming.

A treatment for bingers

Several studies have shown mindful eating strategies might help treat eating disorders and possibly help with weight loss. Psychologist Jean Kristeller at Indiana State University and colleagues at Duke University conducted an NIH-funded study of mindful eating techniques for the treatment of binge eating.

The randomized controlled study included 150 binge eaters and compared a mindfulness-based therapy to a standard psychoeducational treatment and a control group. Both active treatments produced declines in binging and depression, but the mindfulness-based therapy seemed to help people enjoy their food more and have less sense of struggle about controlling their eating. Those who meditated more (both at mealtimes and throughout the day) got more out of the program.

The NIH is funding additional research by Kristeller and Ruth Wolever of Duke on the effectiveness of mindfulness-based approaches for weight loss and maintenance. Several other studies on mindful eating are under way around the country.

A starter kit for mindful eating

Experts suggest starting gradually with mindful eating, eating one meal a day or week in a slower, more attentive manner. Here are some tips (and tricks) that may help you get started:

Set your kitchen timer to 20 minutes, and take that time to eat a normal-sized meal.
Try eating with your non-dominant hand; if you’re a righty, hold your fork in your left hand when lifting food to your mouth.
Use chopsticks if you don’t normally use them.
Eat silently for five minutes, thinking about what it took to produce that meal, from the sun’s rays to the farmer to the grocer to the cook.
Take small bites and chew well.
Before opening the fridge or cabinet, take a breath and ask yourself, “Am I really hungry?” Do something else, like reading or going on a short walk.

Harvard Medical School

To get rid of heartburn, first we must identify the causes. It seems useless if we try to get rid of it, whereas we don’t know the leading causes.

heartburnnomore

All citrus fruits are foods that cause heartburn, especially oranges; so are coffee, tea, aerated drinks, alcohol, and excess consumption of deep fried foods, animal fat, spicy pickles and the like. Avoid foods I list above to prevent heartburn attacking you.

Don’t overeating. It is suggested that you have five to six small meals than two or three large ones. If necessary, make a diary about the foods you eat. Thus, you can quickly remember and identify all those foods that you should avoid.

Natural Heartburn Remedies

Although there is natural heartburn relief available, some people still reach out for an antacid for relief because it can quickly ease the pain. However, if you are rather becoming addicted to this remedy, certainly it is not such good thing. As the alternative, you always can try the natural remedies like I list below:

1. Chew on a gum.

It can help to produce additional saliva which needed to lessen the effects of acids in your stomach.

2. Drink a glass of cold milk or water.

It would dilute the acid that has made its way into the food pipe.

3. Eat an apple a day.

Over time, just eat an apple a day can help you to cure heartburn.

4. Try baking soda (one teaspoon to eight ounces of water).

It can quickly neutralize heartburn attacks.

5. Consume herbal medicine like Aloe Vera.

Aloe Vera can help your body to easily digest the foods you eat and improve your stomach. For more information about health benefits of Aloe Vera, you can check it out at: http://HealthBenefitsOfAloeVera.blogspot.com

Now, you have already known how to cure heartburn. Remember to avoid foods that cause it. Also change your lifestyle. Quit smoking and don’t drink alcohol. Reduce stress, too.

Also called dyspepsia, indigestion is a term used to describe a feeling of fullness or discomfort during or after a meal. It can be accompanied by burning or pain in the upper stomach.

What Are the Symptoms of Indigestion?

The symptoms of indigestion include:

Bloating (full feeling)
Belching and gas
Nausea and vomiting
Acidic taste
Growling stomach
Burning in the stomach or upper abdomen
Abdominal pain

These symptoms may increase in times of stress.

People often have heartburn (a burning sensation deep in the chest) along with indigestion. But heartburn is caused by stomach acids rising into the esophagus.
Who Is at Risk for Indigestion?

People of all ages and of both sexes are affected by indigestion. It’s extremely common. An individual’s risk increases with excess alcohol consumption, use of drugs that may irritate the stomach (such as aspirin), other conditions where there is an abnormality in the digestive tract such as an ulcer and emotional problems such as anxiety or depression.
What Causes Indigestion?

Indigestion has many causes, including:

Diseases:

Ulcers
GERD
Stomach cancer (rare)
Gastroparesis (a condition where the stomach doesn’t empty properly; this often occurs in diabetics)
Stomach infections
Irritable bowel syndrome
Chronic pancreatitis
Thyroid disease

Medications:

Aspirin and many other painkillers
Estrogen and oral contraceptives
Steroid medications
Certain antibiotics
Thyroid medicines

Lifestyle:

Eating too much, eating too fast, eating high-fat foods, or eating during stressful situations
Drinking too much alcohol
Cigarette smoking
Stress and fatigue

Swallowing excessive air when eating may increase the symptoms of belching and bloating, which are often associated with indigestion.

Sometimes people have persistent indigestion that is not related to any of these factors. This type of indigestion is called functional, or non-ulcer dyspepsia.

During the middle and later parts of pregnancy, many women have indigestion. This is believed to be caused by a number of pregnancy-related factors including hormones, which relax the muscles of the digestive tract, and the pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach.
How Is Indigestion Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing symptoms of indigestion, make an appointment to see your doctor to rule out a more serious condition. Because indigestion is such a broad term, it is helpful to provide your doctor with a precise description of the discomfort you are experiencing. In describing your indigestion symptoms, try to define where in the abdomen the discomfort usually occurs. Simply reporting pain in the stomach is not detailed enough for your doctor to help identify and treat your problem.

First, your doctor must rule out any underlying conditions. Your doctor may perform several blood tests and you may have X-rays of the stomach or small intestine. Your doctor may also use an instrument to look closely at the inside of the stomach, a procedure called an upper endoscopy. An endoscope, a flexible tube that contains a light and a camera to produce images from inside the body, is used in this procedure.

The Kapalabhati and Bhastrika Breathing Techniques share the same general principle, namely that we clear the nasal passages with the force of the breath. As mentioned under Bhastrika, we must be very careful with these techniques because there is a danger of creating tension in the breath. We may also become dizzy when we breathe rapidly; for this reason we always conclude the practice of Kapalabhati with some slow breaths. It is important not to breathe rapidly too many times, but after a few rapid breaths take several slow ones in which we emphasize the long Exhalation.

One Round of Kapalabhati (Cleaning Breath)

Take two normal breaths. Inhale. Now exhale, pulling in your abdomen. Repeat twenty times, keeping a steady rhythm and emphasizing the exhalation each time. Then inhale, exhale completely, inhale fully and hold your breath for as long as you comfortably can. Slowly exhale.

The Chakras are the seven main energy centers in the body. They are located along the Spine, starting at the base and running upwards to the crown of the head. The Chakras are described as “whirling disks of light”, and each Chakra radiates a specific color and energy. As each Chakra relates to specific spiritual, emotional, psychological and physical issues, the conscious awareness and the balancing of these energy centers lead to well-being.

The Seven Chakras Chakra 1: Muladhara Chakra
The first Chakra, Muladhara (root), is located at the base of the spine. Its color is red and its issues are survival, stability, and self-sufficiency.

Chakra 2: Svadhisthana Chakra
The second Chakra, Svadhisthana (sweetness), is located at the lower abdomen (between belly button and pelvic bone). Its color is orange and its issues are sexuality, creativity, relationships and emotions.

Chakra 3: Manipura Chakra
The third Chakra, Manipura (lustrous gem), is located at the solar plexus (between belly button and bottom of rib cage). Its color is yellow and its issues are personal power, self esteem, willfulness and energy.

Chakra 4: Anahata Chakra
The fourth Chakra, Anahata (not struck), is located at the heart (center of the chest). Its color is green and its issues are love, compassion, acceptance, and trust.

Chakra 5: Vishuddha Chakra
The fifth Chakra, Vissudha (purification), is located at the throat. Its color is bright blue and its issues are communication, inspiration, expression, and faith.

Chakra 6: Ajna Chakra
The sixth Chakra, Ajna (to perceive), is located between the eyebrows, just above the bridge of the nose. Its color is indigo blue and its issues are psychic, emotional and mental intelligence, and intuition.

Chakra 7: Sahasrara Chakra
The seventh Chakra, Sahasrara (thousand petaled), is located at the crown (top) of the head. Its color is white or violet and its issues are devotion, inspiration, selflessness, and spiritual understanding.

Taking the Kundalini energy up from the Muladhara Chakra to the Sahasrara Chakra is the main goal of Kundalini Yoga. They use different Yoga Techniques in order to awaken the Kundalini (serpent energy) which is resting in the Muladhara Chakra and make it flow from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Once Kundalini reaches its final destination, the Sahasrara Chakra, you will be in the knowledge space or Chidakasa.

Remember that Pranayama should be satisfying and enjoyable. Therefore, it should not be practiced in a way that will push you beyond your limits. Some may think that Pranayama is all about how long you can hold your breath, which is incorrect. It is about controlling one’s breath in a way that it comes out smoother and more relaxed, making exhalation an important part of Pranayama.

Also, you should not practice Pranayama if you are emotionally upset or tired. You must be relaxed before doing it so that you will not immediately get exhausted or run out of breath.

Gunaji, author of “Scientific and Efficient Breathing”, recommends the following General Principles of Pranayama:

Breathing Exercises should never be pushed to the point of weariness or exhaustion.

Exercises should not be repeated too often.

They should not be merely mechanical.

There should be no hurry or haste.

Attention should be concentrated on the exercise while it is being performed.

There should always be variety and change in the exercises.

Exercise should always be gentle and nonviolent.

Breathing should not be jerky or irregular, but smooth, steady, and continuous.

The smoothness of your breath is of paramount importance in practicing Pranayama. If at some point during practice your breath suddenly becomes rough or uneven, stop and relax. Then, slowly allow your breathing to return to its normal pace.

Some breathing techniques may induce dizziness or even make you lose consciousness. If you start to feel dizzy or think you are about to faint, stop immediately. Relax, and next time you do that certain exercise, be extra careful. Try to assume a position that may be more applicable to that particular breathing exercise.

Also, remember to practice Pranayama in a place where there is fresh, clean air and no smoke or other chemicals are present in the atmosphere. This is because in Pranayama, air will be pulled deeper into your lungs, so the air needs to be very clean. Remember also to practice it in an area with room temperature; conditions that are too hot or too cold may affect the regularity of your breathing.

These are just some basic guidelines to keep your practice of breathing exercises safe. However, it is always best to have a Yoga instructor with you every time you practice. Keep in mind not to do Pranayama up to levels that may make you uncomfortable, and to always do things slowly and carefully.

Written by: ljpasion