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Archive for March, 2011

Burning incense and aromatic resins for their pleasant aromatic properties is very familiar to most everyone. However were you aware that there are many benefits associated with it as well? This ancient and wonderful ritual that dates back millenia and it has been practiced by most cultures around the world at one time or another. It’s use and popularity has been consistent due to its many and remarkable properties, which are believed to include but by no means limited, to improving your concentration, deepening levels of spirituality and helping with meditation and relaxation. The following will help lead you to understanding what burning incense can offer you, and we’ll peruse this topic in more detail.

Many people in this stressful world suffer at times from an occasional headache sometimes even chronically. Most people are unaware that burning incense may alleviate your pain and could help bring you relief. By simply relaxing while the incense involves you in its enchanting aroma, the chances are that your headache may disappear within a few minutes. Certain areas of the brain can be positively affected by certain fragrances more efficiently than some other methods. One example of this is how a familiar aroma may trigger memory from your childhood. It is able to do this because the olfactory sense is closely connected to our neural pathways! Certain aromas may stimulate a response in your limbic system to induce your brain to release certain beneficial compounds. These may include compounds such as dopamine and even serotonin, and some incense can help dilate your constricted nasal passages as well. All of this adds up to helpful relief by just lighting a stick of incense.

Life is unpredictable. The Five Elements of Chinese Metaphysics define a physical, mental/emotional and spiritual cycle of dynamic interaction. We can use the cycle to stay healthy and balanced throughout our lives.

We do not experience the five elements in isolation but in interaction with all the others. Some Chinese element manifestations contain flavours of others, as in the idea of the “earthly branches” (meldings of up to three elements in balance) in all forms of Chinese Metaphysics.

In everyday life, the elements are so organized that when one is out of harmony all are influenced. Each one of them changes a small amount to offset any disharmony and consequently we can live happily for years without feeling any effects until, seemingly by surprise, we can find ourselves with a problem.

The roots of unbalanced Elements are not necessarily what they first appear. Unbalanced Water Element (kidneys, teeth, bones, spine etc), by way of example, may well have contributing factors from one or more of the following:

· Metal (parent)
· Wood (child)
· Fire (wife)
· Earth (husband)

You will note from the above list that the five elements are sometimes given family relationships. Like all families, they can get along better at some times than at others.

Acupuncture is the insertion of very fine (not much thicker than a hair) needles into specific acupuncture points that are located along meridians or channels that connect to the various organs in Chinese medicine. The thinking is that by needling these specific points you can influence the flow of qi (pronounced chee) or energy that flows to the organs and improve organ function. Western medicine research has discovered that acupuncture can alter production of various brain chemicals including neurotransmitters, endorphins, encephalins, pain killers, mood enhancers, natural anti-inflammatories etc. The meridians and points are also often in close proximity to blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic channels or specific organs.

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Absolutely if it is practiced by a qualified, competent practitioner. Having practiced acupuncture for 12 years, I have found that the worst that happens is mild to moderate bruising in some patients and sometimes a lasting sensation where the needle had been for up to a day afterward. The acupuncture needles we use are sterile and disposable so there is no risk of infection.

Does Acupuncture Hurt?

Let’s face it; it can be overwhelming out there with all of the information about health. As a society we are constantly worried about the latest health crazes and we trust our doctors to give us the correct information. After all, they went to school, not us. This thought can be a little misleading though. Research any medical condition and you will find professionals divided about practically all issues. So who is right? The truth is, we may never know. It is important to live your live to its fullest and protect yourself. This article will look at some topics that are important to talk to your doctor about. Along with staying healthy and living a long life, make sure you protect yourself and your family. Life insurance is in place to make sure that you are protected.

One health topic to discuss with your doctor is your diet. I am not talking about a fad crash diet that you may do every few months. You need to discuss your eating habits and make sure that you are getting proper nutrients. It is possible that you could be missing key nutrients in your body or you can be overdosing on others. Discuss your diet and your doctor will be able to help guide you in the right direction.