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Archive for the 'Alternative Medicine' Category

Swedish And Ayurvedic Massage-Which One Will You Choose?

Thursday, November 13th, 2008

Because of the various influences in massage therapy, there are many variations in techniques, but all these various techniques, still provide the same health benefits. The Swedish and Ayurvedic massage both have really different origins and styles, but they still contribute a lot to accomplish a healthy and relaxed body.

With all the different varieties of massage therapy programs available today, it has become really difficult for individuals to select which one of them.

The Swedish Massage, which is often called the classic or traditional massage. This is the most common massage therapy method and it is what most individuals ordinarily prefer. The long and flowing strokes characterise this method, and it is ideal for loosening muscles, improving joint flexibility and assisting in better circulation.

The first stroke is known as effleurage, this involves a long gliding stroke from the neck down to the base of the spine or from the shoulder down to the fingertips. It is likewise done on the limbs with all strokes directed toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. A therapist would ordinarily use there whole hand or a thumb pad to do this.

Next is petrissage that consists of the gentle lifting of muscles up and away from the bones, then rolling and squeezing them, with a gentle pressure. It generally involves rolling, squeezing, or pressing the muscles to enhance deeper circulation. It increases circulation through eliminating toxins from muscle and nerve tissue.

The third technique friction, is the most forceful one and uses deep circular movements using fingertips. it is applied near bony areas and joints, it relaxes the muscle fiber which in turn enhances flexibility in muscles and joints.

After friction, another technique called tapotement is done. Tapotement is a series of quick forceful movements made by striking or tapping the muscles with the hand. It can be applied with a closed fist, fingertips and the edge of the hand. It releases tension and relieves muscle cramps.

Lastly, the therapist uses vibration or shaking that entails the pressing of hands on the back or limbs and shaking in a rapid motion for a few moments. It improves circulation and muscle contraction and is advantageous to individuals with low-back pain.

On the other hand, Ayurvedic massage originated from India and its aim is to produce harmony and balance within the person and it helps in the removal of toxins and rejuvenation of the body. It was not practiced publicly until Indian practitioners decided to roam around and give muscle, joint and back massages

Ayurvedic massage is based on a specific system that includes the knowledge of Ayurvedic and Greek systems of medicine which is focused on Ayurvedic doshas and marmas or pressure points. Muslim massage techniques were also adapted in this system.

Ayurvedic massage techniques applies specific oils that suit your dosha and depends on your being. Another one is the Abhyanga-Garshana which comprises of skin brushing followed by an oil massage, Udwarthanam which is a slimming massage that uses herbal powders and the Ayurvedic foot massage which is a deep massage where the therapist uses his feet.

Now with sufficient knowledge on both Swedish and Ayurvedic massage, a person has of course the privilege to choose among the two which best suits his/her style of relaxation. But with both massages having specific techniques, the selecting part can be a little tricky though.

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Natural Remedy is Buddhist answer to Digestive Help

Monday, November 10th, 2008

Do you ever wonder if what you know about Natural Digestive Help is accurate? Digest the following paragraphs and compare what you know to the latest info on Natural Digestive Help.

It seems like evey day new information is discovered about something natural - but is it REALLY new? And the topic of Natural Digestive Help is no exception. Keep reading to get more fresh news about Natural Digestive Help.

Digestive complaints are ever increasing, and the need to find simple and effective, natural health products has never been in such demand.

One product I have discovered is CARICOL, a natural and nutrient rich exotic fruit puree designed for digestive support made from whole tree-ripened, organic papaya.

The benefits of CARICOL have already been shown through successful studies carried out over the years - producing impressive results on improved digestive health in all areas. It is suitable for those whose digestive process is irritated or disturbed and just a great way of maintaining a healthy digestive system. Providing a regulatory effect within the gut, induces peristalsis, and facilitates regular bowel movements.

When I asked a Nutritionist about how a natural digestive aid like Caricol would work, I received this reply:

“Patients that would normally have some difficulty following a digestive programme have been happy to use Caricol due to the pleasant taste and long lasting effects of the product. I’ve seen in particular children and elderly patients enjoy taking it. Unlike pills or capsules they can just put Caricol into their yogurt, with breakfast, or juice and have noticed improved digestion from all of Caricol’s natural healing benefits” N.Beinart Nutritionist London

Finally this gentle and effective treatment can be used by everyone, including during pregnancy, for babies, children and the elderly and does not interact with any prescription medication.

Based on a traditional recipe developed by Dae Poep Sa Nim, the founder of the Lotus Buddhist Monastery located on the Big Island of Hawaii. The proprietary methods developed by the Monastery have succeeded in concentrating and enhancing the fruit’s natural digestive properties resulting in the unique papaya puree that is CARICOL.

Distributed in convenient individual small sachets that can be taken and enjoyed after meals to help promote digestive wellness. They can also be added to juice, water or yogurt for a different experience.

Sometimes it is better to get word-of-mouth as to how it works: “At last I have found something natural and delicious that has improved my digestive complaints. I use it daily with my breakfast, or just drink a tube when I feel uncomfortable. It is convenient to take it when I travel without any worries or side effects. Caricol is a great product that has helped me with immediate effect” Amy Dawson 29 Social Worker - London

Healthy, nutritious foods and the maintenance of a well functioning digestive system play an important role. In Buddhism, the health of the body is considered to be intimately tied to the well-being of the soul, so establishing healthy digestion is a very important part of a balanced and spiritual life.

“There are many traditional recipes that have been used through the ages for good health, but Caricol is a unique and remarkable product that fits in with Solgar’s philosophy of promoting health through the use of natural and sustainable resources” Technical Director Paul Chamberlain comments on Caricol’s new arrival!

How much benefit do I get in One stickpack? Well it provides 20g of organic papaya fruit, organic lemon juice, natural papaya flavours.

Don’t limit yourself by refusing to learn the details about Natural Digestive Help. The more you know, the easier it will be to focus on what’s important.

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Constipation Remedies And The Cleansing Of The Colon

Monday, November 10th, 2008

Colon cleansing has become very popular, especially for those that lean toward alternative medicine. Colon Cleansing is extremely beneficial for numerous ailments; ailments such as ance, digistive tract problems etc.

Constipation can be caused because of irritable bowel movements, excessive and chronic use of laxatives, worry, anxiety, fear, lack of physical activity and problems with intestinal function (chronic idiopathic constipation) etc. However, the most common reasons for constipation are a diet low in fiber or a diet that is high in fats, such as cheese, eggs, and meat.

Bowel Friendly Foods

Grapes have proved highly beneficial in overcoming the occurrence of constipation. The combination of the properties of the cellulose sugar and organic acid in grapes make them a laxative food. Fennel has properties in curing digestive problems. The regular use of fennel will normalize the working of the digestive system and heal the constipation problems. Fennel has exceptional properties in curing digestive problems. It is traditionally provided in Indian cuisine after each meal. It is also found in some commercial colon cleanses.

Fruit salads with fruit such as guava and papaya can be very helpful in cases of constipation. Such fruit salad provides good roughage that helps clear your bowel system and thus prevent constipation. In fact the regular consumption of papaya in the morning on an empty stomach helps prevent constipation. Fruits naturally contain the right balance of distilled water and nutrients to act as natural constipation remedies.

Exercise

The lack of exercise is a main cause of constipation. Exercise tends to excite the digistive system to regularity, as well as improving the overall circulation. Some theorize that lack of consistent exercise our metabolic rate slows, which means a longer digestive cycle and thus less regular bowel movement.

Colon Cleanse

There are many good commercial colon cleanses on the market. A good commercial colon cleanse will normally be plant based, and will encourage, by its action intestinal detoxification. It is not uncommon for these colon cleansers to contain substances such as psyllium husk herbs like Slippery Elm bark, Cascara Sagrada, and Marshmallow.

Finally, bad eating habits , lack of sufficient water intake etc., eventually lead to the constipation of the bowels, and essentially the entire system. Therefore by instituting lifestyle changes, and maybe even including some of the constipation remedies discussed here, you can see relief from constipation.

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