Top 5 Regrets People Have on Their Death Beds

Top 5 Regrets People Have on Their Death Beds | Third Monk image 1

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.

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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.

Regrets

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.

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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.

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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.

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> Dying Regret | Inspiration and Chai

The Healing Power of Cuddling (Study)

The Healing Power of Cuddling (Study) | Third Monk image 4

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?

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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.

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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.

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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?

Free Shrugs

Hug Your Friends

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

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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.

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Take a Warm Bath

The physical sensations of warmth can help increase oxytocin flow.

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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.

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

Cannabis Can Help Cigarette Smokers By Reducing Their Addiction to Poison (Study) | Third Monk image 1

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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

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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.

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

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

Change Your Life in 2 Minutes a Day - Power Pose (Guide) | Third Monk image 5

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

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High Power Poses

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and-so-do-people

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Low Power Poses

and-the-researchers-also-asked-the-subjects-to-assume-low-power-poses-for-2-minutes

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 Power Pose Effect on Hormones

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testosterone-is-one-key-chemical-for-power-the-other-is-cortisol-when-cortisol-levels-drop-people-are-better-able-to-handle-stressful-situations-a-good-thing-in-a-leader-after-the-2-minute-poses-the-cortisol-levels-of-

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> Posing with Power | Business Insider

The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea

The Health Benefits of Drinking Tea | Third Monk image 9

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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

Benefits of Drinking Tea - green-tea-benefits

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

Benefits of Drinking Tea - white tea benefits

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

Benefits of Drinking Tea - black tea benefits

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

Benefits of Drinking Tea - Rooibus Benefits

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

Herbal Tea Benefits

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?”.

4 Scientific Principles of Posture and Functional Movement (Guide)

4 Scientific Principles of Posture and Functional Movement (Guide) | Third Monk image 4

Modern work life does a great job at creating bad posture. So what can we do to keep our bodies from falling apart while we work… and in general? Renown physical therapist and mobility guru Kelly Starrett breaks down good posture into what he calls “functional movement” to help you become a “supple leopard.”

1. Spine First

The spine is the chassis for your body’s other two primary engines, the hips and shoulders. Each functional movement begins and ends at the spine, so your spine has to be properly aligned. When it isn’t, it will weaken your body’s force production. Simply looking up – and thus breaking the spine alignment with a bent neck – can reduce strength in your arm.

Kelly-Starrett-mobilitywod-principles-braced-neutralBraced Neutral Tip: You’re not limited to just sitting perfectly upright: You can still lean forward, or lean back, while maintaining a braced-neutral spine.

 

Kelly-Starrett-mobilitywod-principles-pelvic-gimblePelvic Gimble Tip: If you find that you round forward and try to correct that by straightening your back, you’ll probably just end up in an overextended position. Instead, stand up, run through the bracing sequence, and then sit back down, keeping your back flat and belly tight.

2. The One Joint Rule

Kelly’s one joint rule is a simple way to organize functional movement and guard against injury. You should look at your spine as a single column, with no local flexion or extension within it. You should only see flexion or extension at the hip or shoulders. Unfortunately, too many of us do things like slump forward in our chair, meaning we have to tilt our head upwards to look at our computer screen, creating an improper flexion point in our neck.

We can certainly flex our spine globally, for example if we are bending back to serve a volleyball – but not locally. We all know that when we pick a box up from the floor we should keep our back straight and flex only at the hips. That not only protects our back; it helps us lift more effectively.
Kelly-Starrett-mobilitywod-principles-belly-whackThe belly-whack test is another way to help bring consciousness to a braced-neutral position and the 20 percent constant-tension concept. It’s simple: You should always have enough abdominal tone to take a whack to the belly. We do this at our gym and around the house. If you have a spongy middle, you get caught right away.

3. The Laws of Torque

Kelly-Starrett-mobilitywod-principles-torque-machida-kickIn all motions of flexion and extension, there’s a corresponding rotational force, says Kelly:

Whenever we flex our arm or leg forward, our shoulder or hip should rotate outwards.

When we move our arm or shoulder behind us, the rotation is internal.

Understanding the laws of torque, and thus the basics of external and internal rotation, are key to proper movement. The reason yogis prefer the lotus position is the external rotation in the hips and shoulders maintains the spine strong and organized. 

Unfortunately, sitting at a chair with our feet on the floor keeps our hips neutral, not externally rotated, and doesn’t give our spine proper support.

4. The Movement Tunnel

Kelly-Starrett-mobilitywod-principles-movement-tunnelEvery movement has a start and end position. Kelly calls what happens in between those positions “the tunnel.” The tunnel is a crucial concept that says once you are underway in a movement, it’s too late to correct your stance. If you’re standing with your feet sticking out like a duck and you start running, it’s hard to correct your stance mid-stride.

Understanding how to enter the tunnel and organize your body correctly at the outset is the only way to guard against injury. You have to enter the tunnel organized and exit the tunnel organized.

These 4 Principles make even more sense once you see them in action.

Kelly Starrett: MobilityWod Principles

If 60 minutes isn’t enough and you want more, visit Kelly’s full workshop on creativeLIVE or read his best-selling book Becoming a Supple Leopard.

8 Home Remedies You Can Use in a Pinch

8 Home Remedies You Can Use in a Pinch | Third Monk image 10

Not everyone is sold on home remedies, but through a combination of science and testimonials, here are 8 home remedies you can use.

Duct Tape to Remove Warts

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In 2002, a group of doctors compared duct tape’s effectiveness with liquid nitrogen in removing warts. After two months of wearing duct tape on a daily basis and using a pumice stone about once a week to exfoliate the dead skin, 85 percent of patients’ warts were gone, whereas freezing only removed 60 percent. “The question is whether there is something in the chemical adhesive itself, or if the occlusion (suffocation) causes the destruction of the wart,” says New York City–based dermatologist, Robin Blum, MD. “The other thinking is that the duct tape causes irritation, which stimulates our body’s immune cells to attack the wart.”

Vapor Rub to Cure Nail Fungus

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While there are no studies to prove coating infected toenails with vapor rub once or twice a day is an effective treatment for nail fungus, a basic Internet search results in a number of personal testaments to the medicinal ointment’s fungus-killing powers. “I’ve heard many patients say that vapor rub does help, but I’m not exactly sure why,” Dr. Blum admits. While some argue it’s the menthol in the balm that kills the fungus and others say it’s the smothering effect of the thick gel, if used consistently, vapor rub has been shown to get rid of not just the fungus, but the infected toenail, too, which will turn black and eventually fall off. When the new nail grows in, it should be fungus-free.

Oatmeal to Soothe Eczema

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“This is absolutely true, as oats have anti-inflammatory properties,” Dr. Blum says. Whether it’s used as a paste or poured into a bath, most experts recommend choosing colloidal (finely ground) oatmeal and soaking the affected area for at least 15 minutes. In addition to reducing inflammation, oats are thought to have an antihistamine effect, Dr. Blum says. By lowering levels of histamine, which triggers inflammation as part of the immune system’s recovery response, she explains, oats prevent or reduce the redness.

Yogurt to Cure Bad Breath

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Bad breath comes from a number of places, the two most common being the mouth and the stomach. The neutralizing powers of yogurt and other probiotics treat the latter cause. “Yogurt shouldn’t have any effect at all on the bacteria that live on the tongue because it’s not there long enough,” says Robert Meltzer, MD, a New York City–based gastroenterologist and attending physician at Lenox Hill Hospital. However, it likely has a neutralizing effect on the acid that resides anywhere between the mouth and the stomach, including the back of the throat and the esophagus, he explains. “I think almost any milk product or food that contains live cultures would have the same effect.” While yogurt can get rid of bad breath that results from gastrological conditions, like acid reflux, it won’t have any real effect on bad breath that is the product of gum, liver or lung disease, says Ohio-based dentist Matthew Messina, DDS.

A Spoonful of Sugar to Cure Hiccups

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In 1971, Edgar Engelman, MD, conducted a study to find out if a spoonful of sugar really is an effective cure for hiccups. He assembled a group of 20 patients who had been experiencing intractable hiccups for more than six hours, eight of whom had had them anywhere from a full day to six weeks. Each of the test subjects was given one teaspoon of white granulated sugar to swallow dry, and for 19 of the 20 hiccup patients, the cure was immediate. André Dubois, MD, a gastroenterologist in Bethesda, Maryland, noted in The Doctors Book of Home Remedies that “the sugar is probably acting in the mouth to modify the nervous impulses that would otherwise tell the muscles in the diaphragm to contract spasmodically.”

Bite A Pencil to Cure Tension Headaches

Woman Biting Pencil --- Image by © Tom Grill/Corbis

While doctors aren’t sure why we do it, clenching our teeth is a common side effect of stress. According to Fred Sheftell, MD, director of the New England Center for Headache in Stamford, Connecticut, when we clench up, we strain the muscle that connects the jaw to the temples, which can trigger a tension headache. By placing a pencil between our teeth—but not biting down—we relax our jaw muscles, which eradicates tension and reduces pain. Just remember, the remedy really only applies to tension headaches—not migraines or headaches caused by sinus pressure, etc.

Olives for Motion Sickness

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According to the National Library of Medicine, there are a number of symptoms that present themselves as a result of motion sickness, including increased salivation, which is the body’s way of protecting the teeth from the high doses of acid accompanied by vomit. Enter olives, which contain tannins that, when released in the mouth, work to dry saliva—first eliminating the symptom and then the body’s instinct to follow suit. However, the treatment is only effective during the early stages of nausea, when the salivation changes first appear.

Gargle Salt Water for Sore Throat Relief

HR - Salt water

When you were a kid and had a sore throat, your mom likely made you gargle warm water with salt in it…and she was definitely on to something. According to Douglas Hoffman MD, PhD, author of the website The Medical Consumer’s Advocate, a sore throat is an inflammatory response of the infected tissues, and the salt helps draw out the excess fluid to temporarily decrease swelling and the pain it causes. Most remedies call for a ratio of 1 tablespoon salt to 8 ounces of water, but it’s always better to opt for more salt rather than less. Just keep in mind that you are treating the symptoms—not the illness. As Dr. Hoffman notes on his website: “The relief is very real, but also tends to be short-lived, since the gargle has done nothing to remove the cause of the sore throat.”

David Lynch – Consciousness, Creativity and the Brain, Transcendental Meditation (Video)

David Lynch - Consciousness, Creativity and the Brain, Transcendental Meditation (Video) | Third Monk

David Lynch (Mulholland Drive, The Elephant Man) explains his understanding about consciousness, creativity and the brain. Transcendental Meditation played a crucial role in developing his consciousness and boosting his creativity.

One lady in the audience says: I teach film, I make films. I would like to know what does meditation or how does meditation connect to your creative process or to how it might help the creativity of my students.

If you have a golf ball sized consciousness, when you read a book you’ll have a golf ball sized understanding, when you look out a golf ball sized awareness and when you wake up in the morning a golf ball sized wakefulness.

But if you could expand that consciousness then you would read the book with more understanding and when you look out more awareness and when you wake up more wakefulness – it’s consciousness. – David Lynch, Film Director

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David Lynch Foundation for Consciousness Based Education
Introduction to Transcendental Meditation

Inspirational Quotes to Refocus Your Mind

Inspirational Quotes to Refocus Your Mind | Third Monk image 12

Inspirational quotes are perfect for refocusing the mind and reawakening the excitement that fills life with passion.

Happiness is Here. Not There

Inspirational Quotes“The trick is to enjoy life. Don’t wish away your days, waiting for better ones ahead” – Marjorie Pay Hinkley

Do Not Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Inspirational Quotes“You are confined only be the walls you build yourself.”

Life is Not About Winning or Losing

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 2“Take risks: if you win. You will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise” – Author Unkown

Moving Forward is About Moving Now

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 9“Success will never be a big step in the future; success is a small step taken just now.”

Love Yourself, It Will Show

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 11“Love yourself first & everything else falls into line.”  -Lucille Ball

Laugh, Smile and Be Happy; It Does Not Need to Be Complicated

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 6“Always laugh when you can. It is cheap medicine.” -Lord Byron

Do What Drives You and You Will Go Farther Than Your Imagination

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 4“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Focus, Experience and Enjoy. Everything Is Happening Right NOW

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 7“No matter how hard the past.  You can always begin again.” – Buddha

Relax, Be Yourself and Leave Your Mark

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 5“Work for a cause, not for applause. Live to express, not to impress. Don’t strive to make your presence noticed, just make your absence felt.” -Unkown

Let’s Fly Together Now

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 8“Intelligence without ambition is a bird without wings.” – Salvador Dali

Let Go Of Duality and Embrace The Delicate Balance of Life’s Infinite Nature

Insightful and Inspiring Quote 3“Stars can’t shine without darkness.”

How Exercise Helps us Think Better (Infographic)

How Exercise Helps us Think Better (Infographic) | Third Monk image 2

Exercise offers a wide range of benefits for our well-being. They are well-known and heavily supported with studies and scientific data. However, new findings are continually being unearthed that help us better understand what exercise is doing to our bodies and our brains.

After being cooped up inside all day, your afternoon stroll may leave you feeling clearheaded. This sensation is not just in your mind. A growing body of evidence suggests we think and learn better when we walk or do another form of exercise. – Justin Roberts, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Illinois

Blood Flow

Blood Flow

So, exercise boosts your cognitive functioning and improves your memory, but how exactly does it do that? One of the ways is through improved blood flow. Rhodes writes:

Research shows that when we exercise, blood pressure and blood flow increase everywhere in the body, including the brain. More blood means more energy and oxygen, which makes our brain perform better.

Hippocampus Stimulation

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The hippocampus is a brain structure that is important for memory function, but what relation does it have to exercise? Rhodes responds:

Another explanation for why working up a sweat enhances our mental capacity is that the hippocampus, a part of the brain critical for learning and memory, is highly active during exercise. When the neurons in this structure rev up, research shows that our cognitive function improves. For instance, studies in mice have revealed that running enhances spatial learning. Other recent work indicates that aerobic exercise can actually reverse hippocampal shrinkage, which occurs naturally with age, and consequently boost memory in older adults. Yet another study found that students who exercise perform better on tests than their less athletic peers.

Exercise Infographic:

Fitter Body, Fitter Brain - Exercise Infographic

Why do you think better after a walk? | Scientific American

Running Enhances Neurogenesis, Learning, and Long-term Potentiation in Mice | Salk Institute for Biological Studies

Does Pressure Point Therapy, Reflexology Really Work? (Guide)

Does Pressure Point Therapy, Reflexology Really Work? (Guide) | Third Monk image 3

Reflexology is an alternate form of therapy that involves the application of pressure to areas of the feet, hands, and ears. Reflexologists believe that these areas correspond to different parts of the body, such as organs.

The body is divided into 10 longitudinal zones—five on each side of the body.

Each organ or part of the body is represented on the hands and feet. The practitioner can diagnose abnormalities by feeling the hands or feet.

Massaging or pressing each area can stimulate the flow of energy, blood, nutrients, and nerve impulses to the corresponding body zone and thereby relieve ailments in that zone. – Reflexology: A Close Look

Although there is no evidence that pressure point therapy actually treats any medical condition, others swear by claims to its efficacy.

“The best evidence available to date does not demonstrate convincingly that reflexology is an effective treatment for any medical condition.” – NCBI

There are some studies from the National Cancer Institute and the National Institutes of Health that found reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, while enhancing relaxation and sleep.

With such a wide range in beliefs about the viability of reflexology, one is left to make up their own mind about it’s benefits. If it works for you, great! If you haven’t tried it yet, consider using these helpful photos to aid your attempts.

Hand Reflexology Chart

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Feet Reflexology Chart

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Ear Reflexology Chart

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Cannabis Prevents Brain Disease By Removing Damaged Cells (Study)

Cannabis Prevents Brain Disease By Removing Damaged Cells (Study) | Third Monk

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A recent cannabis study conducted in Germany is suggesting that marijuana triggers the release of antioxidants, which act as a cleansing mechanism. This process is known to remove damaged cells and improve the efficiency of mitochondria, which is the energy source that powers cells.

These discoveries shed new insight on how natural marijuana cannabinoids hold the capacity to literally kill the brain inflammation responsible for causing cognitive decline, neural failure, and brain degeneration.

By supplying these receptor sites with cannabinoids, patients may be able to overcome brain conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and more, not to mention premature brain aging. The human brain has an extensive network of special receptor sites that modulate nervous system function only when activated by the appropriate cannabinoid compounds, which are found in the marijuana plant.

Cannabis, the Most Efficient Cancer Fighting Substance

Cannabinoid system activity is neuroprotective, and increasing it could be a promising strategy for slowing down the progression of brain aging and for alleviating the systems of neurodegenerative disorders  – Andras Biokei, Institute of Molecular Psychiatry at the University of Bonn in Germany

I’ve been trying to find a drug that will reduce brain inflammation and restore cognitive function in rats for over 25 years; cannabinoids are the first and only class of drugs that have ever been effective. I think that the perception about this drug is changing and in the future people will be less fearful. – Gerry Wenk, Professor of neuroscience at Ohio State University

Biokei and his collegues said that the greatest hurdle for moving forward with their research are the social and political challenges. This isn’t something new, our world seems to be dominated by belief systems instead of obvious fact.

It’s quite clear that the powers that be do not want to legalize marijuana, and we know that they do not have our best interest at hand. 

Cannabis Brain Damage Study Sources:

http://rstb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/367/1607/3326.abstract?sid=20cf2c23-e4fd-49e3-9398-ec8be2e00226

http://healthland.time.com/2012/10/29/how-cannabinoids-may-slow-brain-aging/

http://www.drugscience.org/Petition/C3D.html

http://www.naturalnews.com/040456_marijuana_cannabinoids_dementia.html

http://edrv.endojournals.org/content/27/1/73.fullhttp://cannabisclinicians.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/OS-2011-Terpenes+Minor-CBs.pdf

New Study Shows Cannabinoids Improve Efficiency Of Mitochondria And Remove Damaged Brain Cells | Collective Evolution