You’ll Never Look at a Banana the Same Again

After reading this, you’ll never look at a banana in the same way again.

Bananas contain three natural sugars – sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber. Thus, bananas give an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy.

For example, research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world’s leading athletes.

In addition to it’s energetic benefits, bananas can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions as illustrated below.

Depression

According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND among people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS

Forget the pills – eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood beneficially.

Anemia

High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood, helping relieve the symptoms of anemia.

Blood Pressure

This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat high blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power

200 students at a Twickenham school ( England ) were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation

High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers

One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn

Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness

Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito Bites

Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Nerves

Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system..

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers

The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature Control

Many other cultures see bananas as a ‘cooling’ fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

> Never Look at it the Same Way Again | Karen Stan

Dec 19, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Top 5 Regrets People Have on Their Death Beds

For many years I worked in palliative care. My patients were those who had gone home to die. Some incredibly special times were shared. I was with them for the last three to twelve weeks of their lives.

People grow a lot when they are faced with their own mortality. I learnt never to underestimate someone’s capacity for growth. Some changes were phenomenal. Each experienced a variety of emotions, as expected, denial, fear, anger, remorse, more denial and eventually acceptance. Every single patient found their peace before they departed though, every one of them.

When questioned about any regrets they had or anything they would do differently, common themes surfaced again and again.

Here are the most common five:

I Wish I’d Had the Courage to Live a Life True to Myself, Not the Life Others Expected of Me

This was the most common regret of all. When people realize that their life is almost over and look back clearly on it, it is easy to see how many dreams have gone unfulfilled. Most people had not honored even a half of their dreams and had to die knowing that it was due to choices they had made, or not made.

It is very important to try and honour at least some of your dreams along the way. From the moment that you lose your health, it is too late. Health brings a freedom very few realise, until they no longer have it.

I Wish I Hadn’t Worked So Hard

This came from every male patient that I nursed. They missed their children’s youth and their partner’s companionship. Women also spoke of this regret, but as most were from an older generation, many of the female patients had not been breadwinners. All of the men I nursed deeply regretted spending so much of their lives on the treadmill of a work existence.

I Wish I’d Had the Courage to Express My Feelings

Many people suppressed their feelings to keep the peace with others. As a result, they settled for a mediocre existence and never became who they were truly capable of becoming. Many developed illnesses relating to the bitterness and resentment they carried as a result.

We cannot control the reactions of others. However, although people may initially react when you change the way you are by speaking honestly, in the end it raises the relationship to a whole new and healthier level. Either that or it releases the unhealthy relationship from your life. Either way, you win.

I Wish I Had Stayed In Touch With My Friends

Often they would not truly realize the full benefits of old friends until their dying weeks and it was not always possible to track them down. Many had become so caught up in their own lives that they had let golden friendships slip by over the years. There were many deep regrets about not giving friendships the time and effort that they deserved. Everyone misses their friends when they are dying.

It is common for anyone in a busy lifestyle to let friendships slip. But when you are faced with your approaching death, it is all comes down to love and relationships in the end.

I Wish That I Had Let Myself Be Happier

This is a surprisingly common one. Many did not realize until the end that happiness is a choice. They had stayed stuck in old patterns and habits. The so-called ‘comfort’ of familiarity overflowed into their emotions, as well as their physical lives. Fear of change had them pretending to others, and to their selves, that they were content, when deep within, they longed to laugh properly and have silliness in their life again.

When you are on your deathbed, what others think of you is a long way from your mind. How wonderful to be able to let go and smile again, long before you are dying.

Life is a choice. It is YOUR life. Choose consciously, choose wisely, choose honestly. Choose happiness.

> Dying Regret | Inspiration and Chai

Dec 19, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Running Correctly: All You Need To Know Through Infographics

Running is a high intensity exercise that has lots of mental and physical benefits.

Many injuries can be avoided by warming up, running correctly with proper form, choosing the right running shoes and stretching before and after running.

All You Need to Know About Running Correctly

10 Benefits of Running

Common Running Injuries

Stretching

Running Shoes

Running Form

Dec 12, 2013Jun 17, 2016

The Healing Power of Cuddling (Study)

Is there anyone who doesn’t like cuddling? On the physical affection spectrum, it may not be an all-star, but it’s definitely a winner in terms of improving our health and well-being.

Besides the obvious physical pleasure of cuddling, there is a brain chemistry reaction that has far reaching effects. All those warm fuzzy feelings are nothing compared to the benefits we get from the release of the hormone Oxytocin.

How Does Cuddling Heal Us?

Lowers Our Blood Pressure

The next time you hold someone close, take a deep breath and let it go. Unless it’s someone you’d rather not be hugging, chances are you’ll notice your heart rate and your breathing slow down a bit. As the oxytocin levels rise, they affect the hormones that keep us at the ready for action and allow our blood pressure to drop.

Relieves Pain and Raises Our Pain Threshold

Ever have that feeling that nothing can hurt you because you’re so in love? Well, it was probably the oxytocin. This effect of oxytocin is particularly helpful for women in labor, but has implications for the rest of us too. What’s the first thing we do after jamming a finger? We rub it with our other hand. Even this self-stimulation triggers a release of oxytocin and helps us deal with the pain.

Reduces Social Anxiety

When our brains release oxytocin, we are more likely to have an optimistic outlook about connecting with others, better self-esteem and an easier time trusting those around us. Newer studies are exploring the usefulness of oxytocin (and even supplemental oxytocin) for both post-traumatic stress disorder and autism.

Lowers Levels of Cortisol

Too much cortisol is bad news—for our moods, our weight and our hearts. While stress hormones like cortisol are a good thing when we need to react in a hurry, poor stress management can keep cortisol levels high even when we don’t need it.

Protects Against Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

We hear all the time that inflammation is unhealthy and increases the aging process. Instead of reaching for another bowl of ice cream, consider a little extra cuddle time before falling asleep.

What About Single People?

Hug Your Friends

We associate cuddling and physical affection with romantic relationships, but something as simple as a hug will also increase oxytocin levels.

Play with Your Pet

Studies show that snuggling doesn’t have to be with our fellow humans to increase oxytocin. Any positive touch will elicit a release of oxytocin.

Take a Warm Bath

The physical sensations of warmth can help increase oxytocin flow.

Get a Massage

Massages don’t just help stretch out sore muscles; they’re also a great way to boost oxytocin levels and overall health.

5 Ways Cuddles Make Us Healthier by Kate Bartolotta was originally published on The Good Men Project.

Nov 10, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Exports of Poison, U.S. Foods Banned in Other Countries

U.S. Foods banned in other countries are a result of the FDA’s corrupt actions. Profit and bottom lines are the focus and it is costing us all in the long run. Other countries around the world are correct in banning many American products or forcing them into natural alternatives in order to sell them in their stores. No population anywhere in the world should have to sift through poisonous products in search of safe and natural sustenance.

U.S. Foods Banned in Other Countries

Arsenic-Laced Chicken

The European Union has never approved using arsenic in animal feed; US environmental groups have sued the FDA to remove them.

Banned by The European Union

Dairy Products Containing rBGH

In 1999, the United Nations Safety Agency ruled unanimously not to endorse rBGH milk, resulting in an international ban on US milk.

Banned by Australia, New Zealand, Israel, The European Union and Canada

Preservatives BHA and BHT

The National Toxicology Program’s 2011 Report on Carcinogens says BHA may trigger allergic reactions and hyperactivity and is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.

Banned by Japan and in parts of The European Union

Flame Retardant Drinks

BVO bio-accumulates in human tissue and breast milk; animal studies report reproductive and behavioral problems. Bromine alters the central nervous and endocrine systems and promotes iodine deficiency, causing skin rashes, acne, loss of appetite, fatigue and cardiac arrhythmia.

Banned by Europe and Japan

Ractopoamine-Tainted Meat

About 45 percent of US pigs, 30 percent of cattle and an unknown percentage of turkeys are plumped with the asthma drug ractopamine before slaughter. Up to 20 percent of ractopamine is still there when you buy it.

Banned by Mainland China, Republic of China (Taiwan), Russia and 160 countries across Europe

Genetically Engineered Papaya

Most Hawaiian papaya is genetically engineered to be ringspot virus-resistant.

Banned by The European Union

Olestra/Olean

Olestra, or Olean, created by Procter & Gamble, is a calorie- and cholesterol-free fat substitute in fat-free snacks like chips and french fries. Three years ago, Time Magazine named it one of the worst 50 inventions ever.

Banned by The UK and Canada

Bread Containing Potassium Bromate

Bread, hamburger and hotdog buns are “enriched” with potassium bromate, or bromide, linked to kidney and nervous system damage, thyroid problems, gastrointestinal discomfort and cancer.

Banned by Canada, China and The European Union

Processed Foods and Artificial Food Dyes

In countries where these food dyes are banned, companies like Kraft employ natural colorants like paprika extract and beetroot.

Banned by Norway and Austria.

Britain advised companies against using food dyes by the end of 2009. The European Union requires a warning notice on most foods containing dyes.

Farm-Raised Salmon

Wild Salmon (Left) Farm-Raised Salmon (Right)

Avoid “Atlantic Salmon.” Look for “Alaskan” or “sockeye,” which is illegal to farm and has very high astaxanthin concentrations.

Banned by Australia and New Zealand

There are various health risks, observed in labs, that may come about from ingesting the above products. People are aware and make better choices everyday. Stake your claim by choosing the products you prefer.

How and where do you get your fresh and natural products? Share in the comments below and help out fellow humans that are looking to make a change in their own lives.

> 10 Foods Sold in the U.S. That Are Banned Elsewhere | Oracle Talk

Nov 7, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Cannabis Can Help Cigarette Smokers By Reducing Their Addiction to Poison (Study)

Researchers at the University College London found that the cannabidiols (CBDs) in cannabis, given via inhaler could significantly reduce the number of cigarettes consumed by smokers that wanted to quit.

Celia Morgan, Ph.D, who co-authored the first study to investigate the effect of CBD on cigarette addiction in humans, explained that CBD affects memories, or cues, that underlie the desire to smoke.

We found that CBD seems to reduce the salience of cues. It also can reduce anxiety and may affect a memory process called ‘reconsolidation,’ which is where when a memory of the reward of smoking is re-activated by seeing someone smoking, it is rendered vulnerable to destruction.

CBD might mean these positive smoking memories are gradually erased. – Addictive Behaviors Science Journal

Cannabis and Cigarette Addiction Methodology

24 smokers were recruited and split into two groups, receiving inhalers containing CBD or placebo. Both groups were told to use the inhalers whenever they felt the urge to smoke during a one week period.

The researchers found that while the placebo group showed no difference in their smoking habits, the group that received CBD reduced the number of cigarettes they smoked by 40% on average.

Although treatments for cigarette addiction are available today, researchers are still searching for more effective alternatives. CBD in cannabis seems to be a promising natural and healthy candidate.

> Can Marijuana Help You Quit Cigarettes? Study Says Yes | Leaf Science

Oct 22, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Useful Yoga Poses for Athletic Recovery and Injury Prevention (Guide)

Yoga leads to increased flexibility and body awareness which is great for recovering from old injuries and preventing new ones. Yoga also relieves stress from your mind and body allowing for increased focus.

Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)

In Uttanasana, your head is below your heart. This allows the unusual occasion for blood to rush to your head (rather than your feet), giving your cells a rejuvenating boost of oxygen.

Begin in Tadasana (Mountain Pose):

Tadasana (Mountain Pose)

Rest your hands on your hips, exhale, and bend forward from the hip joints rather than the waist. Draw your belly slightly in and focus on lengthening your front torso as you go deeper in Uttanasana. Keeping your knees straight, place your fingertips or palms on the floor beside your feet, or touch the back of your ankles with your palms. To modify this movement, cross your forearms and hold your elbows. To help tone your thighs, press your heels into the floor, lift your sit bones toward the sky, and turn the tops of your thighs slightly inward. Let your head hang loose, releasing all tension in your back and shoulder blades. Lengthen the front torso a little bit more on each inhale. On each exhale, release fully into the bend. Stay in this posture for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

To come out of Uttanasana, bring your hands back to your hips and rotate at the hip joints until you stand strong and tall. Do not simply roll your spine up.

Benefits of Uttanasana

Stretches the hips, hamstrings, and calves
Strengthens the thighs and knees
Keeps your spine strong and flexible
Reduces stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue
Calms the mind and soothes the nerves
Relieves tension in the spine, neck, and back
Activates the abdominal muscles
Eases symptoms of menopause, asthma, headaches, and insomnia
Stimulates the kidneys, liver, spleen
Improves digestion
May lower high blood pressure
Therapeutic for infertility, osteoporosis, and sinusitis

Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog Pose)

Start on all fours with your knees directly underneath your hip and your hands directly underneath your shoulders. The palms are firmly grounded onto the mat and your fingers are spread. Pull your stomach in and melt your chest towards the floor. Tuck your toes underneath you. Lift your knees away from the floor, lengthen your spine backwards and shoot your tailbone up towards the sky as you straighten out your legs. Push the top of your thighs back and stretch your heels towards the floor. Form the shoulder blades onto the back, release the neck and extend your heart towards your thighs. Hold the pose for three minutes, rest, and repeat one more time.

Benefits of Adho Mukha Svanasana

Inverted poses are extremely important because they reverse the action of gravity on the body and get the blood and lymph flowing in opposite directions.
On an emotional level downward facing dog helps turn everything on its head and helps us see things from a different angle.
It helps boost self-confidence.
Because of the increased blood flow to the top of the body, shoulder stand can help improve brain function and cognition and reduce anxiety and depression.
Takes pressure off the heart, which has to work less to get blood flowing to the brain.
Strengthens and tones the arms and legs
Because of the weight bearing nature of the posture on the arms and legs it helps strengthen the bones and prevent osteoporosis.
Lengthens and straightens the spine, helping to relieve pain in the upper, middle and lower back.
The body gets a 360-degree stretch in just one pose.

Utkatasana (Chair Pose)

Begin in Tadasana (Mountain Pose). Stand with your big toes touching, heels slightly apart. Lift and spread your toes. Feel yourself rooted to the ground. Now, raise your arms above your head, perpendicular to the floor. Either keep your arms parallel, palms facing inward, or touch your palms together. Bend your knees and bring your thighs as parallel to the floor as possible. Your knees should come out over your feet and your torso should lean forward over the thighs, more or less forming a right angle with them. Keep your back long, with a slight curve in it, and keep the inner thighs parallel to each other. To intensify your thigh work-out, try squeezing a yoga block or holding a thick book between them. Let your shoulder blades relax down your back. Stay in this posture for 5 to 10 long, deep breaths.

To come out of Utkatasana inhale, straighten your knees, exhale and release your arms to your sides. You are now back in Tadasana.

Benefits of Utkatasana

Tones the leg muscles excellently
Strengthens hip flexors, ankles, calves, and back
Stretches chest and shoulders
Reduces symptoms of flat feet
Stimulates the heart, diaphragm, and abdominal organs

Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana (High Lunge)

Start in Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog). Exhale and step your right foot forward between your hands, aligning your knee over the heel. Keep your left leg strong and firm. Inhale and raise your torso to upright. At the same time, sweep your arms wide to the sides and raise them overhead, palms facing. Do not over-arch the lower back. Lengthen your tailbone toward the floor and reach back through your left heel. This will bring the shoulder blades deeper into the back and help support your chest. Look up toward your thumbs. Be sure not to press the front ribs forward. Draw them down and into the torso. Lift the arms from the lower back ribs, reaching through your little fingers. Hold for 30 seconds to a minute. Then exhale, release the torso to the right thigh, sweep your hands back onto the floor, and, with another exhale, step your right foot back and return to Down Dog. Hold for a few breaths and repeat with the left foot forward for the same length of time.

Benefits of High Lunge

Opens your groins and hips
Stretches and tones your legs, especially thighs
Strengthens your knees, ankles and waist
Stimulates abdominals’ organs
Increases stamina and lung capacity
Lengthens the spine, thereby stretching the chest
Therapeutic for indigestion, constipation, sciatica

Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I Pose)

Begin in Utthita Ashwa Sanchalanasana (High Lunge) with your right leg forward. If you are in correct stance, your right knee should be directly over your right ankle. Your right toes should point straight ahead and your left toes should be pointed 45-60 degrees away from your body. Make sure your right heel is in line with your left heel, then engage your legs by pressing through your feet. Bring your hands to your hips, squaring your hips and shoulders straight ahead. Then, relax your shoulders down your back and gently draw them together. Inhale and lift your arms straight up over your head, palms facing each other. If possible, bring your palms together. Now, reach up strongly through your arms. Avoid puffing out your sides; rather lift through your sternum so you can feel a nice stretch in your entire torso and spine. Keep your shoulders relaxed and chest lifted. To deepen the stretch, keep your palms together and gently arch your back, gazing up towards the ceiling. Feel strength and stability in your stance. Breathe deep and steady while you hold the pose for one minute.

To release, come back into high lunge, straighten the right leg, pivot your body 90 degress to the left, and point your toes in the same direction. Extend your arms out to your sides and you will be in Utthita Hasta Padasana (Extended Hands and Feet Pose). Take a few breaths of relaxation and repeat the exercise with your left foot forward.

Benefits of Virabhadrasana I

Strengthens your shoulders, arms, legs, ankles and back
Opens yours hips, chest and lungs
Improves focus, balance and stability
Encourages good circulation and respiration
Stretches your arms, legs, shoulders, neck, belly, groins and ankles
Energizes the entire body

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

Lie flat on your back with arms at your sides, palms down. Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor. Keep your feet hip width apart, parallel to each other, and as close to the buttocks as possible. Simultaneously, press your upper arms and feet into the floor and begin lifting your hips towards the ceiling. Distribute your weight equally on the inside and outside of your feet. Now, move your breastbone towards your chin, keeping your chin lifted only slightly as not to flatten the back of the neck. Firm your tailbone in towards the pubis and move your pubis slightly towards the belly. In order to keep the lower back extended, keep the knees over the ankles, perpendicular to the floor. Your buttocks should be firm, but not clasped. Lift your hips as high as you are able without breaking position. If you are having trouble holding posture, you can clasp your hands behind your back and firm you arms into the floor, shoulder blades shifted down along the spine. Hold this pose for 5 to 15 breaths.

To come out of Bridge Pose, release on an exhalation, rolling your spine slowly down onto the floor.

Benefits of Setu Bandhasana

Stretches the chest, neck, spine, and hips
Strengthens the back, buttocks, and hamstrings
Improves circulation of blood
Helps alleviate stress and mild depression
Calms the brain and central nervous system
Stimulates the lungs, thyroid glands, and abdominal organs
Improves digestion
Helps relieve symptoms of menopause
Reduces backache and headache
Reduces fatigue, anxiety, and insomnia
Rejuvenates tired legs
Relieves symptoms of asthma and high blood pressure
Therapeutic for hypertension, osteoporosis, and sinusitis

Ardha Dhanurasana

Lie on your belly, with the legs together or a few inches apart. Bring the chin to the floor. Bend the left knee and reach the left hand back to hold onto the left heel or ankle. Inhale and kick the left foot into the arm to lift the left leg, head and chest off of the floor. Keep the neck in line with the spine, looking down at the floor. Lift the right arm off of the floor, keeping it parallel to the floor. Breathe and hold for 2-6 breaths.

To release slowly exhale and lower the leg, arm, head and chest down to the floor. Repeat on the other side.

Benefits of Ardha Dhanurasana

Energizes and strengthens the entire body
Builds core body strength.
Stimulates the kidneys, adrenals and reproductive system.

Paripurna Navasana (Full Boat Pose)

Sit on the floor with knees bent, feet flat, and legs together. Slide your hands a little behind your hips, fingers pointing toward your feet and elbows bent away from you. Lean back slightly and lift your heels an inch or two off the floor. Make sure your back does not round, keep your back straight throughout this pose. Draw your shoulder blades together momentarily to lift and open your chest. Slowly begin to straighten your legs through the heels. When your legs are fully straightened, your thighs should be angled about 45 degrees to the floor and the tips of your toes should be slightly above the level of your eyes. If you are unable to straighten your legs while raising them, keep your knees bent (shins parallel to the floor). Now, stretch your arms forward alongside your legs, palms facing down. Spread your shoulder blades across your back and reach strongly out through your fingers (while maintaining a straight back and long torso). Your arms should be parallel to each other as well as to the floor. If you are unable to raise your arms while in Paripurna Navasana, either grip the back of your thighs or keep your hands behind your hips where they were. Open your chest and relax your shoulders down your back. Put as much effort into lifting your chest as you are in lifting your legs. Breathe steadily and hold for 2-6 breaths. Gradually increase your endurance until you can hold the posture for a full minute.

To release bring the legs in as you exhale and sit upright as you inhale.

Benefits of Paripurna Navasana

Tones and strengthens your abdominal muscles
Improves balance and digestion
Stretches your hamstrings
Strengthens your spine and hip flexors
Stimulates the kidneys, thyroid and prostate glands, and intestines
Aids in stress relief
Improves confidence

Virasana (Hero Pose)

Start by kneeling on your yoga mat or the floor with your thighs perpendicular to the floor. Pad your knees, shins, and/or feet with a folded blanket or towel if necessary. If you experience any strain in your knees at any time while in Virasana, come out and prop yourself up further before attempting it again. Make sure the tops of your feet stay flat and even on the floor. Bring your inner knees together, then slide your feet apart (a little wider than your hips). Point the feet in line with the shins. Gently pull back the flesh of your calf muscles, exhale, and sit down between your feet. Evenly support your sitting bones by adjustment, allowing a thumb’s width space between your heels and hips. If your buttocks don’t rest comfortably on the floor, raise them by placing a yoga block or thick book between your feet before you sit down. Counteract the tendency to slump by adjusting the muscles of your buttocks sideways and back with your hands. Your pelvis should be at a ninety-degree angle with your thighs. Rest your hands in your lap, on your thighs, or on your ankles. Firm your shoulder blades against the back ribs and lift the top of your sternum. Widen the collarbones and release your shoulder blades away from your ears. Lengthen the tailbone toward the floor. Sit in silence for at least 1 minute.

Benefits of Virasana

Stretches the hips, thighs, knees, ankles and feet
Improves circulation and relieves tired legs
Strengthens foot arches, relieving flat feet
Improves digestion and relieves gas
Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause
Improves posture
Reduces swelling of the legs during pregnancy (through second trimester)
Therapeutic for asthma and high blood pressure

Supta Padangusthasana

Lie supine on the floor, legs strongly extended. If your head doesn’t rest comfortably on the floor, support it on a folded blanket. Exhale, bend the left knee, and draw the thigh into your torso. Hug the thigh to your belly. Press the front of the right thigh heavily to the floor, and push actively through the right heel. Loop a strap around the arch of the left foot and hold the strap in both hands. Inhale and straighten the knee, pressing the left heel up toward the ceiling. Walk your hands up the strap until the elbows are fully extended. Broaden the shoulder blades across your back. Keeping the hands as high on the strap as possible, press the shoulder blades lightly into the floor. Widen the collarbones away from the sternum. Extend up first through the back of the left heel, and once the back of the leg between the heel and sitting bone is fully lengthened, lift through the ball of the big toe. Begin with the raised leg perpendicular to the floor. Release the head of the thigh bone more deeply into the pelvis and, as you do, draw the foot a little closer to your head, increasing the stretch on the back of the leg. You can stay here in this stretch, or turn the leg outward from the hip joint, so the knee and toes look to the left. Pinning the top of the right thigh to the floor, exhale and swing the left leg out to the left and hold it a few inches off the floor. Continue rotating the leg. As you feel the outer thigh move away from the left side of the torso, try to bring the left foot in line with the left shoulder joint. Inhale to bring the leg back to vertical. Lighten your grip on the strap as you do, so that you challenge the muscles of the inner thigh and hip to do the work. Hold the vertical position of the leg anywhere from 1 to 3 minutes, and the side position for an equal length of time.

Once you have returned to vertical release the strap, hold the leg in place for 30 seconds or so, then slowly release as you exhale. Repeat on the right for the same length of time.

Benefits of Supta Padangusthasana

Stretches hips, thighs, hamstrings, groins, and calves
Strengthens the knees
Stimulates the prostate gland
Improves digestion
Relieves backache, sciatica, and menstrual discomfort
Therapeutic for high blood pressure, flat feet, and infertility

These useful yoga poses can be done in a circuit as their own workout or as a precursor to another athletic activity of your choosing.

Were these yoga poses helpful? What are some of your favorite poses?

Sep 26, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Change Your Life in 2 Minutes a Day – Power Pose (Guide)

Your body language shapes who you are. It shapes how you are viewed by others, and even how you view yourself.

Social Psychologist Amy Cuddy’s scientific work delves into the possibility that choosing to pose your body in different ways actually changes the ratio of the hormones that are produced in your brain.

High Power Poses decrease the amount of Cortisol (known as the stress hormone) while increasing the amount of Testosterone, leading to feelings of empowerment, increased confidence, and affability.

Expectedly, Low Power Poses raise the amount of Cortisol in the brain and decrease Testosterone, leading to feelings of anxiety, low self confidence, and general awkwardness.

Only two minutes a day in High Power poses can change the way you feel and approach life. Try it out for yourself – and remember:

If you feel like you shouldn’t be somewhere: Fake it. Do it until you make it – until you become it! – Amy Cuddy

High Power Poses

Low Power Poses

Power Pose Effect on Hormones

> Posing with Power | Business Insider

Sep 25, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Benefits of Hemp Oil – Nutrition, Disease Prevention, and Skin Care

Research has shown that a diet with a proper balance of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids – such as those found in hemp seed oil – may delay or reduce the neurological effect of some diseases and improve quality of life.

Hemp oil is nature’s most balanced oil for human nutrition (3:1 LA to LNA ratio) and is easily digestible; in fact this oil could provide all of our Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) requirements for life, due to the balanced 80% EFA content of the oil.

Hemp Oil – Nature’s Perfectly Balanced Oil

Hemp seed oil has all the necessary essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals our bodies need for optimum health and restoration. It is an excellent choice for skin and hair care as it protects against free radicals, sun damage and skin conditions.

Hemp Oil – Benefits for Pets

Hemp protein powder and hemp seed oil are not only super-foods for people, but can also do wonders for your pets. Hemp is filled with important and crucial nutrition, making it an excellent addition to your pet’s meal plan.

The benefits of hemp for your pet’s health include:
– Strengthens the immune system
– Supports a healthy weight
– Increases energy
– Improves condition of skin and fur

The Raw Project has a great recipe for hemp seed dog treats.

Hemp Oil – Nutritional Facts and Uses (Infographic)

Sep 1, 2013Jun 17, 2016

The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea

Tea has the ability to soothe and invigorate. The benefits of drinking tea range from powerful antioxidants to deep relaxation that eases you into a good nights rest.

Whichever tea you choose to brew, there is a benefit for you.

The Benefits of Drinking Tea

The Benefits of Green Tea

Green tea is a “pure” tea, meaning it doesn’t undergo an oxidation process. Most green teas are grown in Japan or China. One mug’s worth of green tea has a quarter of the amount of caffeine a cup of coffee does.

Scientists have shown a correlation between green tea consumption and reduced cancer risk, weight loss, and improved heart health. Green tea also possesses a small amount of natural fluoride, an element which strengthens bones.

The Benefits of White Tea

Studies have shown that white tea has antiviral and antibacterial qualities, which make it helpful in fighting against disease–so if you think you’re coming down with a cold, white tea is a great way to feel better.

People who consume white tea tend to have lower blood pressure, higher amounts of ‘good’ cholesterol, and even better skin (the antioxidants in white tea are able to ‘attack’ free radicals, which harm your skin and cause it to age faster).

The Benefits of Black Tea

Black tea has the highest caffeine content of the major types of tea, though it only has half that of coffee.

Black tea undergoes fermentation, meaning that freshly-picked tea leaves are oxidized, developing deep flavors. This fermentation process alters the flavoniods – the antioxidants that are naturally found in tea leaves. The flavonoids found in black tea are more complex than those found in less processed teas.

Antioxidants have health benefits including cancer prevention, cholesterol reduction, and protection against stroke and heart attack. Black tea is rich in manganese and potassium, and it has some B-vitamins.

The Benefits of Rooibos Tea

Rooibos tea, which is known as “red bush,” is not technically tea, but a herbal brew made from fermented leaves of a native South African plant.

The healing properties of rooibos include high levels of antioxidants, low tannin content, and no caffeine.

Use it as a treatment for skin ailments, as an immune system booster, a way to slow the aging process, and a remedy for insomnia, headaches and anxiety. Rooibos does not contain oxalic acid, the compound found in some other types of tea that can cause kidney stones.

The Benefits of Herbal Tea

Like red tea, herbal tea is not actually tea; it is composed of the dried leaves of a variety of herbs that are prized for their unique flavors and healthful benefits.

The health benefits of herbal tea depend on the herb being steeped.

Chamomile, linden flower, and lavender teas are all highly calming and can help with sleep issues.

Peppermint and ginger teas aid digestion and can stave off nausea.

Lemon balm tea can help soothe a headache.

Raspberry leaf tea is believed to bring on labor in late pregnancy, to offer just a few examples of this versatile and beneficial type of tea.

Slik D – Pass The Tea

This song dedicated to the herb that isn’t used for tea but still has a variety of benefits. The next time you need a warm drink make like Slik D and ask, “Can you pass the tea?”.

Aug 27, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Chakra Healing – Nutritional Food For The Body’s Energy Centers (Guide)

The energy centers in our body, also known as Chakras, require balance and love. Listen to your body and your inner knowing to heal your Chakras when you feel out of balance.

Nutrition is a key source to vitality and you can use the proper foods to realign and cleanse each Chakra.

Signs of a Healthy Chakra and Food for the Soul

A healthy Root Chakra will promote core feelings of being part of a tribe or community, and it anchors the body in feelings of trust, safety, and protection.

Root Chakra Healing Foods: Protein, root vegetables, edible and medicinal mushrooms, red-colored foods (apples, pomegranates, etc)

A healthy Sacral Chakra will assist in wielding and manifesting raw creativity into an external form, including through relationships with another healthy Sacral Chakra allows us to “go with the flow” of life.

Sacral Chakra Healing Foods: Fats and oils, fish (especially wild-caught salmon), tropical fruits, seeds, nuts, orange-colored foods (oranges, tangerines, carrots, etc.)

A healthy Solar Plexus Chakra will manifest as a brilliant expression of personal power accompanied by balanced energy flow and clear perceptions of life situations.

Solar Plexus Chakra Healing Foods: Carbohydrates (complex), fiber, whole grains, legumes, yellow-colored foods (yellow sweet peppers, yellow lentils, corn, etc.)

A healthy Heart Chakra will funnel love into a healing salve for all, including self, others, and the planet.

Heart Chakra Healing Foods: Vegetables (especially cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale, cabbage, and leafy greens), sprouts, raw foods, foods rich in chlorophyll, plant compounds like phytoestrogens and phytosterols, any green-colored foods.

A healthy Throat Chakra will serve as the portal to communicate and express the emotions, thoughts, and feelings of the other Chakras through sound in a way that is authentic and true.

Throat Chakra Healing Foods: Sea plants, fruits, juices, soups, sauces, (which bring together different elements like water and earth), and foods from different ethnic groups (The throat Chakra encourages a variety of foods.)

A healthy Third Eye Chakra will encourage the path of internal visions and dreams, with the realization that they are Divinely guided and inspired.

Third Eye Chakra Healing Foods: Caffeine, tea, chocolate, spices, wine, purple-red foods (purple potatoes, red onions, blackberries, blueberries, purple grapes, etc.)

A healthy Crown Chakra will manifest as the ability for individuals to be confident in their faith in a Higher Power, higher self, or in a force that is highly intelligent and creative.

Crown Chakra Healing Foods: Since the Crown Chakra is more “spirit” than “matter,” it is not nourished with physical foods in the same way that they feed other Chakras, but the Crown Chakra thrives on the sustenance that comes from sunlight, air, and love.

Maintain each open Chakra with a colorfully balanced diet. All the best to the KJ readers, we appreciate every set of eyes. Namaste.

Aug 14, 2013Jun 17, 2016

Medical Marijuana Edible Recipes for Food, Drink, and Medicine (Guide)

Medical Marijuana has been helping people for thousands of years and it may be able to help you too! Mona Lisa is a licensed medical marijuana patient who has been providing excellent tutorials on how to cook with cannabis.

Introduction to Marijuana Edibles

The Edible Elements of Cannabis Extraction

If you want to learn how to make the very best medicinal edibles, you ought to know about the basic properties of the cannabis plant. Each element contains something unique which allows you to easily customize your (edible) marijuana extractions to suit your specific medical requirements.

What is Sweet Leaf?

Harvesting medical marijuana is about more than just buds. Everyone always asks me: What should I use to make the very best medicinal extractions? Well, the answer is simple, friends… Use your sweet leaf!

Prepping Marijuana Edibles with Butter and Oil

How to Make Cannabutter, Medical Marijuana Recipe Part 1

If you (or someone you know) live in a constant state of pain due to serious illness or injury, then ingesting marijuana in the form of “cannabutter” may very well be the ONLY ticket to a better quality of life! Not only is marijuana completely non-toxic and non-lethal, it’s also an extremely effective pain reliever when used in the right dosage and manner.

How to Make Cannabutter, Medical Marijuana Recipe Part 2

Now that you know all about making the finest cannabutter (marijuana infused butter), I also wanted to make sure and show everyone how to properly harvest their finished product. If you (or someone you know) is seriously ill or severely injured and currently taking prescription pain medication to ease their suffering…consider that there is a much healthier alternative available.

How to Make Canna Oil, Medical Marijuana Infused Cooking Oil

This healthful recipe for cannabis cooking oil has been around for ages, and I’d like to make sure good information isn’t forgotten.

Marijuana Edible Food, Drink, and Medicine Recipes

Cooking with Marijuana using Cannabutter and Canna oil

Let me show you the basics of cooking with cannabis because marijuana infused foods make perfect medicine for those suffering from chronic pain and anxiety! You only need to know a few simple basics, and soon you’ll be feeling your absolute best!

Basics of Making Marijuana Edible Desserts

Making potent and delicious medical marijuana edibles is surprisingly easy (and fun) to do! Let me show you a few basics so you can convert all your favorite dessert recipes into powerfully effective medicine which become an absolute delight to administer when needed.

How to Make Medical Marijuana Margaritas

If you’re feeling the need for a drink, try this easy medical cannabis drink recipe.

How to Make Marijuana Medicine, Tonic & Tincture

This Green Monster recipe shows you how to make the old-fashioned” “Healthful Tonic and Tincture” medical marijuana that was originally sold before prohibition. It’s ability to provide relief from deep muscular pain and uncontrollable spasms makes it an amazing medicinal application.

Start cookin’ and let us know in the comments how these recipes have helped you improve your life. If you’re already a stoner chef, please share your recipes!