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Are Stress Vitamins Reliable?

Stress vitamins are safe and reliable if taken within the recommended doses. Ideally, you want to have medical supervision if you have any health problems or have limited knowledge on supplements.

Supplements are just one small part of the puzzle. Visit my stress tips page to get other ideas and suggestions.

Nutritionists and alternative health care practitioners are great resources for any clarification on what your body needs right now.

Vitamins are nutrients found in our food. Our body produces vitamin K and vitamin D in small quantities.

All other vitamins come from the outside through food and necessary supplements.

I don’t want to bore you giving you a nutrition class. I do believe it is important to give you a general idea of how the supplements work regarding stress.

I am a believer in taking whole food supplements and attribute my good health and wellness to keeping my immune system strong. I also believe that stress relief vitamins are effective if taken within reason.

Supplements in general are another health related fitness piece of the wellness puzzle.

You know by now that stress is the body and the mind's response to any pressure that disrupts its normal balance. Anxiety, depression and stress are our society’s most common ailments.

I work in an office with a Naturopathic doctor. She treats her patients stress related problems, very successfully with different whole food supplements and herbs.

Are you aware of the side effects of stress relief drugs?

It makes sense to me that my body is unique with its strengths and weaknesses. Having a holistic doctor supervise any type of program to my uniqueness is the safest and most proper way to fight anything.

Vitamins A, B Complex, C and E are called the stress vitamins. Read on to find out their role in fighting stress.

I think it is worth it to try supplements if you have a lot of stress in your life.

Can a Vitamin B Stress Program Work?

Heck yeah! I find vitamin B stress nutrients indispensable for my overall health and wellness.

Have you ever taken any type of supplements in your life? Do you believe the misconception that they leave your body in your urine?

It is sure confusing for most people to know if stress relief vitamins work. Remember, it takes more than vitamins to help you with stress.

Visit my stress relief tips page to learn how to control stress. You may also visit my stress management information page to find other ways to reduce stress.

Taking supplements is like second nature to me. They make a huge difference in my health and I don't have to worry about side effects.

Is your doctor eager to prescribe drugs to alleviate stress? Please note that most drugs have strong side effects. I work with different holistic health care practitioners and there are many natural solutions to alleviate stress.

Make my day and contact me directly if you need help. The law of return is powerful and I enjoy helping you if I can.

Below is a list of several supplements and vitamins that can help you alleviate stress, including the vitamin b stress complex family.

Vitamin A

It is one of the four fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E and K). It is an anti-oxidant essential for human health. Its anti-oxidant function is what helps in stress relief.

Anti-oxidants work by limiting oxidative chain reactions that damage our cells. Energy needed to produce stress hormones may be impaired if it wasn’t for anti-oxidants.

Be aware that vitamin A has a high potential for toxicity when taken in high doses. There is no permanent damage when lowered or stopped.

Food sources rich in Vitamin A: Cod liver oil, beef liver, oysters, orange and green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin B Stress

I personally take a B complex capsule on top of my multivitamin. Because the B vitamins are water soluble, they are unlikely to build up to unhealthy levels like fat-soluble vitamins (A). They are a great remedy for stress!

The B vitamins are essential for human health and are a powerhouse as stress vitamins. They are B1 or Thiamine, B2 or Riboflavin, Niacin, B6, B12 or Cobalamin, folic acid, B5 or Pantothenic Acid and Biotin.

Pantothenic Acid (B5) - It is called “the anti-stress vitamin” because it is involved in maintaining the health of the adrenal glands.

The adrenal glands, located just above each of our kidneys, produce the stress hormones adrenalin and cortisol. Vitamin B5 helps balance the production of these hormones.

You may find numerous products on the market already that provide nutritional support for proper adrenal functioning. They usually combine nutrients that are involved in hormone regulation. B5 is a powerful vitamin b stress nutrient.

Food sources rich in Vitamin B5: Breyer’s yeast, liver, eggs, wheat germ and bran, peanuts and peas.

Niacin - It is necessary for metabolizing Tryptophan, a precursor of Serotonim. Serotonim is a neurotransmitter that gives you emotional calmness, maintenance and deep sleep.

According to Wikipedia, low levels of serotonin may increase aggressive and angry behaviors, clinical depression and obsessive-compulsive disorders. Raising serotonim levels may then be a good idea for some people.

Food sources rich in Niacin: Breyer’s yeast, wheat bran and peanuts.

Vitamin B12 - Some people associate Vitamin B12 and stress because its deficiency is linked to a deterioration in mental functioning which may lead to stress.

Most people get enough B12 through their food. Only strict vegetarians may not get enough through their diets.

Vitamin C and Stress

Vitamin C is an anti-oxidant (See Vitamin A). Together with B5 and folic acid, it is necessary to balance the production of the stress hormones. Its anti oxidant property is used for relieving stress.

Food sources rich in Vitamin C: Red bell peppers, guava, citrus fruits, strawberries, brussels sprouts.

Vitamin E and ...

Vitamin E, like Vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin. Apparently, its only role is to act as an anti-oxidant. It is the strongest of all the anti-oxidants.

Its anti oxidant property is used for relieving stress. It plays a crucial role in normal nerve functioning and its deficiency can contribute to nerve damage and some neurological disorders.

Food sources rich in Vitamin E: Oils such as hazelnut, sunflower, almond and wheat germ, whole grain cereals.

Calcium and Stress

Most people think of the mineral calcium for bone building and teeth. However, calcium is also essential for nerve conduction, production of energy and general immune function maintenance.

Calcium deficiency may cause dementia (as well as osteoporosis of course).

Food sources rich in Calcium: Milk and dairy, sardines, tofu, kelp.

Magnesium and Stress

Like calcium, magnesium is also a mineral. It is necessary for every major biological process.

Magnesium and stress are associated because magnesium has a calming effect on the mind.

Magnesium’s soothing properties induce restful sleep and it assists in the functions of the adrenal glands and the nervous system.

Food sources rich in Magnesium: Whole grains, nuts, avocados, beans and dark green leafy vegetables.

I think it is worth it to start a vitamin b stress program if you have a lot of stress in your life. Get the assistance of a nutritionist or holistic health care practitioner if you are new to supplements or vitamin information.

How Helpful are Stress Relief Tips?

Stress relief tips are helpful and can actually work if you put them into practice. If you want to reduce stress levels, incorporate at least one of the seven tips for stress on this page into your life.

HeartMath.org is a world wide organization recognized as a leader in helping people find balance in their minds and heart.

They have created many great tools and techniques as a result of numerous heart-brain clinical studies. I encourage you to visit their web site and purchase any of their products or use some of their free services.

Sign up for my monthly wellness tip if you like what you read. You will get effective, practical wellness or stress relief tips every month.

7 Useful Stress Relief Tips to Reduce Stress Levels:

1. How To Control Stress

The Institute of HeartMath’s web site beautifully guides you in the following quick coherence technique. You will find this technique in full in their free services page.

Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Shift your attention to the area of the heart, or the center of your chest. Place a hand on your chest to feel your heart’s beat.

Breathe slow and deeply. Imagine the air entering and leaving through your heart.

Remember a time when you felt good inside. Try to re-experience that feeling. Focus on this good feeling as you continue to breathe through the area of your heart.

2. Stress Relief Meditation

Meditation is truly a great way to reduce stress levels when done regularly. How do I meditate? To be honest, I keep editing my techniques.

To be even more honest, I have not made it a daily routine yet. (Did I say I’m perfect?)

This is what I found to be helpful so far:

Meditate in the same spot, preferably at the same time. Keep this spot clear of electronic equipment. Or to counteract electronics, use lots of plants or a small waterfall.

10 minutes a day is really OK.

Use a technique for mind control and focus that works for you. You can use a mantra, a tone, rosary beads, an affirmation or concentrate on your breathing.

Focus on what you are doing. Avoid thinking about what happened or what will happen. If your mind wonders, return to your technique as you continue to breath.

3. Diet and Stress

If you thought stress was just about the mind, guess again. A lot of the food we eat can actually be a catalyst to stress (junk food anyone?) Read on good stress relief tips for your body.

Good nutrition makes a big difference in how you feel. You may want to incorporate the following anti-stress food (as long as your are not allergic to them of course).

Drink Tea. Tea contains flavonoids, amino acids and other good things that positively affect your brain's neurotransmitters.

Eat nuts. High in nutrients that support serotonin production. Almonds are high in stress-busting B vitamins, zinc, vitamin E and antioxidants.

Eat berries. Berries contain some of nature's most powerful antioxidants making them powerful stress-fighters.

Eat turkey, pumpkins seeds, spinach, black beans, papaya and bananas. These foods have been shown to produce noticeable calming effects according to Dr. Susan Lark's Hormone Revolution.

Exercise, dancing, yoga, deep breathing and laughing are without a doubt other stress tips worth implementing. Engaging in any of these activities on a regular basis helps to reduce stress.

4. Stress Relief Vitamins and Supplements

Vitamins A, B Complex, C and E are called the stress vitamins They play a big role in fighting stress. Please consult your doctor when taking any type of supplements. I am not a doctor.

5. Stress Relief Herbs

Besides stress vitamins and minerals, there are other supplements such as stress relief herbs. Ashwagandha or winter cherry is used in Ayurvedic medicine. It may help increase resistance to fatigue, stress and tension, while helping to promote emotional well being.

6. Rescue Remedy Natural Stress Relief

Rescue remedy is a wonderful homeopathic product that I keep at home. It works well to calm your anxious nerves in times of stress, anxiety or depression.

The original Bach Flower essence is a dilution of flower material developed by an Englishman, Edward Bach, in the 1930s. You can find it at your local health food store.

7. L-Theanine

L-Theanine is a special amino acid, the same found in green tea. It helps promote a restful, relaxed state while maintaining daytime alertness. Find it in your health food store. This is another supplement I use.

L-theanine scientifically has shown to support healthy blood pressure levels that are already within normal range. High blood pressure has many times been associated with high stress.

I hope the stress relief tips on this page have been helpful. Visit my stress management information page to find more stress relief tips to implement in your life.

Are Stress and Infertility Connected?

Stress and infertility are linked in more ways than one.

Infertility is defined as a couple’s inability to become pregnant after one year of unprotected regular sexual activity.

Did you know that infertility affects one in six couples? On average, a little more than seven million couples in the US or about 10 percent of all couples of childbearing age are unable to conceive.

No, you are not alone, it just seems like you are.

I am coming from the perspective of total health and wellness, the integration of body, mind and spirit, when discussing stress and infertility.

Stress is not the main reason for not conceiving. Physical issues with the man or the woman are the main causes of infertility.

Ovulation abnormalities and sperm deficiencies are responsible for two-thirds of infertility problems.

A woman may suffer from any of the following:

Polycystic Ovarian Disease

Age and infertility…waiting too long

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Ovulatory Dysfunction

Uterine Fibroids

Endometriosis

Prenatal Exposure to DES, a synthetic estrogen

Pelvic Adhesions

Immunological Infertility

Blocked FallopianTubes

It is wise to seek the advice of a qualified physician or supporter when dealing with physical issues, age and infertility or stress and getting pregnant. Reach out and find the right type of support for you.

Check out the 7 stress relief tips that you can incorporate right now.

Does stress cause infertility? There is no doubt that difficulty trying to conceive causes stress. But how are they related?

John W. Travis, MD, agrees that the mind definitely can affect the body chemistry. “Even cancer can be brought on by excessive stress that weakens the immune system. Being bored, depressed, anxious or simply unhappy can set the stage for physical and mental disease.”

Stress affects hormones. It can prevent women from ovulating and can affect the man’s sperm count.

Nutrients deficiency can also contribute to stress. Discover how stress vitamins may provide some relief.

The National Institutes of Health has funded research into the relationship between stress and infertility. Researchers at Harvard and Stanford universities are also studying the issue.

The thing you should remember is that every infertility case is as personal as you are. I encourage you to do some research and find what works best for you

Many “physically healthy” couples conceive after using relaxation techniques. Check out the following supporters of stress and infertility:

Mind/Body Institute, Harvard Medical School

Books by Alice Domar, PhD, The Mind Body Centre for Women's Health at Boston IVF

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Research by Dr. Sarah L. Berga, the chairman of the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Emory University School of Medicine

Resolve.org is one of many organizations providing information and support to families dealing with infertility.

No man is less masculine and no woman is less feminine because of infertility. Your body is not defective.

Sometimes it is best not to share your trials with loved ones. They may say things unknowingly that may create more anxiety and affect your self-love. You are very vulnerable right now.

It is important to find body-mind-spirit balance and learn to reduce stress. A wellness coach is a great partner that can support you in finding balance in all dimensions of wellness.

So... How Does Stress Affect Health?

We were created to be happy and to have joyous experiences on earth. It is natural to have feelings of wellbeing, peace and joy.

Unfortunately, the stress in life can change our natural state of happiness.

So... How Does Stress Affect Health? You are probably thinking how it is affecting your own health.

The longer your mind feels stressed, however, the longer your physical reaction systems remain activated. This can lead to more serious health issues.

I have personally experienced stress pressure and I firmly believe that it is the root of many health problems.

Excessive stress levels can worsen existing risk factors such as hypertension and high cholesterol levels.

Stress management is particularly valuable if you or a loved one has a history of hypertension and other forms of heart disease.

Below you can find some effects of stress on the body as well as stress on the mind. The list can be longer (I just don't wanna scare you!):

Shortness of breath

Tightness in the chest

High blood pressure

Fatigue

Increased sugar level in diabetics

Jaw clinching, teeth grinding

Confusion, depression

Dizziness spells

Changes in sleep patterns

Lack of concentration

Infertility

Richard Brown, MD, associate professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University recently stated that researchers now believe that 80 percent of illness is stress related.

He states that stress will actually trigger our genetic weak link. Ouch! That got me thinking about what is my genetic weak link…Hummm!

I hope I have not scared the living lights out of you. That's not my intention. There are numerous ways to reduce stress levels to name just a few:

Stress relief meditation

Stress relief herbs

Stress relief vitamins

Stress breathing techniques

How Does Stress Affects Health is not as important as How You Can Create a Stress Free and Tranquil life.

We need to learn ways to achieve peace of mind from the inside or we will continue being vulnerable to stress.

Going to a spa, getting a massage, etc. are wonderful stress relievers but we need to implement good habits that nourish our roots, our sense of self.

Reducing vulnerability to stress is essentially a matter of nourishing our deepest self. Believe it or not...You have the power to create the naturally stress-free and peaceful life you desire.

Making small changes to your daily routine can help you reap big benefits in controlling stress.

You will learn how exercise, serenity, meditation, nourishing food, connecting with your breathing, nurturing friendships and more, are all key elements to control stress.

I hope you got some answers to the question: How Does Stress Affect Health? Learn what grounds you and make it the cornerstone of your daily life.

Do I have your attention?

Please stay in touch, and subscribe to my monthly wellness tip where you will find tips to control stress.

Are employee health and wellness programs a hype?

Are you participating in the employee health and wellness programs in your company?

Employees wellness is a hot topic these days. Health insurance rates keep going up.

You probably want to blame the insurance companies for continuing raising our rates. Unfortunately, the blame lies more on the individual, for not taking care of their health and wellness.

The majority of us spend most of our days at work. We sit around a lot, eat unhealthy snacks, go out to lunch with co-workers, the list goes on.

It is easy to get unhealthy because we work. Just don’t go out and quit now and blame it all on me!

Being an active participant in employee health and wellness programs is good for everyone. Especially you.

Do you have co-workers who regularly bring in doughnuts? How many people keep candy or chocolate on their desk? What about those soda and vending machines with fatty or salty snacks?

If poor eating and sedentary behavior are the norm, obesity will follow. The problems arising from obesity are numerous.

Stress is another factor easy to overlook. If you are overworked or regularly under a lot of pressure, food may temporarily fill that emotional need.

Let’s face it. Working can be hazardous to your health and wellness! Work and wellness can be on opposite sides.

Prevention is good. I see the benefits of taking care of my health. I also see the results in my clients who take responsibility for their wellness.

I suggest using the Wellness Inventory program in a corporate environment to support the employees wellness. This 12 dimensions of wellness plan focuses on the whole person, not on people as statistics.

A six or 12 month employees wellness program may look like this:

Online health and wellness assessment

Assessment feedback. Find the areas you are most motivated to change

Personal Wellness Planner

Online resources: My Wellness Journal, Self-Study, Resource Centers, Email Reminders

Telephone Wellness Coaching with your Personal Wellness Consultant

Interactive Workshops

Reassessment & Test Comparison

Is there a company wellness program in place where you work? If there isn’t, request they get one. Have them contact me for more information or visit my corporate wellness solutions page to learn more about it.

Employee health and wellness programs are easy to start. They can be a life-saver and save thousands or millions of dollars to a corporation.

Choose more healthy habits to live well and be happy. Below are some things you can do right now. Can you choose one to start?

Pack your own lunch. It is good for the wallet and for the waist line.

Keep your desk stocked with healthy snacks. I usually keep raw cashew nuts, rice crackers, nuts and dry cranberries mix.

Take a 10 minutes break once a day and go for a walk. It is good for the body and the mind. Trust me.

Business lunches can be tricky. Choose the healthy dishes from the menu or ask that one be served.

You may request that your company have vending machines with healthier snacks. Granola, baked chips, trail mix are healthy snacks.

Ask your cafeteria to offer salad, fruit, soups and deli sandwiches, if they are not already doing so.

Share with me your experience participating in employee health and wellness programs. I want to hear from you.

Stress Management Information to the Rescue

The Stress Management information in this web site is a result of personal experience and consequential research on the subject.

A simple definition of stress is anything that causes strain.

Stress is the body and the mind's response to any pressure that disrupts its normal balance. Not all stress is bad.

Did you know that the two small triangular adrenal glands, located on top of your kidneys, play a large role in your body’s response to stress?

The adrenals glands secrete the “stress hormone” cortisol into the bloodstream, during times of elevated stress.

These glands were not designed to be used as often as they are in our modern world.

People are now suffering from adrenal burnout. Don’t worry though!

A saliva test can check your cortisol level and you can find stress relief from natural alternatives by visiting any natural alternative practitioner - I am about prevention and prevention is always naturally non-invasive and with no side effects.

Staying up to date on stress management information can save your life.

According to the American Institute of Stress, up to 95% of all health problems are related to stress. The effects of stress in people are seen physically, mentally and emotionally.

Most researches now believe that it is the effects of stress, like pressure and tension, from everyday hassles that do the most damage.

Mayo Clinic confirms that some people may be more vulnerable to stress because of their personality characteristics or temperament.

Each of us responds to stress in an entirely different way. What is stressful for you may not be stressful for me.

Minor symptoms of stress are the early warnings that your life is getting out of hand and that you need to do a better job of managing the pressures in life.

Please check out the American Institute of Stress and Mayo Clinic web sites for more stress management information.

Stress can kill you or spice your life. The issue is how to manage stress. Managed stress makes us happy and productive; mismanaged stress hurts and even kills us.

So what simple things can you do to reduce stress?

Practice positive thinking and positive self talk. They help with stress management and can even improve your health.

Pursue some form of stress relief meditation. Neurobiologist Sara Lazar, Ph.D., recommends setting aside 10 to 15 minutes a day to retreat to a quiet space and practice basic meditation by concentrating on your breathing.

Do gentle Yoga. A 2004 Harvard Medical School study found that gentle yoga helped insomniacs increase their sleep time by an average of 12 percent.

Reduce or dial down the amount of information you consume primarily from the news and negative people around you. The world is not as scary as it appears to be.

Take stress relief herbs or stress relief vitamins and avoid medications.

Practice stress activities reducers such as: napping, giving and getting hugs to/from loved ones, writing personal notes to friends and family (makes you happy, make them happy), having a pet, knitting or any other hobby.

Keep beautiful things in sight and pause to enjoy them. "Things that are beautiful to the senses capture our attention and quiet the mind in an effortless way," says Nancy Etcoff, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at Harvard Medical School.”

David Simon, M.D., medical director of the Chopra Center in San Diego states: "Whether we're conscious of it or not, we're constantly perceiving the world as a scary place." Click on stress relief tips to get more tips on stress relief.

The world is full of small signs of joy and harmony--you just need to seek them out and incorporate them into your daily routine.

We are all different, our lives are different, our situations are different, and our reactions are different.

The most effective stress reduction technique is the one you incorporate in your life.

"Peace is present right here and now, in ourselves and in everything we do and see. The question is whether or not we are in touch with it," writes Thich Nhat Hanh, a Buddhist monk and author.

It is about what you consciously “choose” to use and practice.

I hope the stress management information found in this web page was helpful. Make sure to stay in touch with me if you have a question or want to share any tips for stress.

Is Health Related Fitness a Choice? Is it a Process?

Health related fitness starts with one single step. It is called choice. Your choice to be in charge of your health.

Are you someone who trusts your doctor and other experts blindly and gives them total control of your aches and pains?

Experts and guides are valuable in all aspects of life, the trouble occurs when your own intuition and self-understanding of your welfare is lost.

Do you have a hard time getting up in the morning? Do you need to lose some extra pounds? Do you dread exercise?

Most of us, including myself, long to be different-to live healthier, more disciplined lives. Yet our most determined efforts to change very often come to nothing. Why haven't we made health related fitness our top priority?

Ellen DeGeneres couldn't have said it better herself: "I gotta work out. I keep saying it all the time. I keep saying I gotta start working out. It's been about two months since I've worked out. And I just don't have the time. Which uh..is odd. Because I have the time to go out to dinner. And uh..and watch tv. And get a bone density test. And uh.. try to figure out what my phone number spells in words."

I have a passion for living well and I am the happiest when helping others. That's how I came to reinvent myself and decided to put both areas together.

You will learn about health related fitness on this web site and about the work of John W. Travis, MD, MPH, one of the founders of the modern wellness movement in the United States.

He created an interactive 12 dimensions of wellness program that revolves around the whole person.

I like his program because it focuses on the areas of your life you are most motivated to change. It offers guidance, tools and resources to transform this new awareness into lasting changes in one’s life.

Dr. Travis firmly believes that we are the agents of change in our own environments, and in our emotional and spiritual lives. He also believes that we are responsible for our own health and that of the planet.

When you become aware of healthy choices that work for you, you start living your life on purpose and you impact your wellness.

This impact on yourself will result in positive effects for your family, in your relationships, in the community and eventually on our planet.

It all starts with the recognition that your body is wise, your mind is wise, and your soul is wise. It's time to discover that.

I hope to encourage you to find opportunities to have greater control and greater responsibility for your health.

Be inspired. Take action. Be in control of your health!

Remember, any positive impact on your life will impact your family, your relationships, the community and eventually our planet.

You will find information on nutrition and overall health on this web site.

You will learn health related fitness coaching tips on how to integrate good habits into your life. No, not all at once...little at a time. I hope to make your life better, not worse!

Are you ready to make some minor adjustments?

Can a Healthy Habit be a Key to Happiness?

You bet. Incorporating a healthy habit in any area of our lives is definitely key to our overall wellness and the future of our planet.

I have spent a lot of time reading, researching and have gained eye-opening insights through my own personal experiences.

I have learned that it is up to the parents to teach kids healthy habits. This is a sure way to develop healthy teens that will become great adults.

To be honest, I struggle at times incorporating good habits, even though I think it is good for me or the planet. Developing healthy habits can be difficult.

My take is to start with small changes and you will immediately feel more powerful in body, mind, heart (emotions) and spirit. There are numerous influences on your wellness, start with the easiest for you to implement.

Do you feel embarrassed or ashamed when your own experience making changes is not as impressive or as simple as others make you believe?

Do you think that change is hard? Or do you think that change is as easy as flipping a switch? (dramatic, fast, and painless).

Regardless of how you feel, I hope that you find at least a healthy habit in the list below worthy of giving it a try. Who knows, you may catch the bug…the wellness bug.

Change takes a lot of patience and perseverance. Small steps toward change are really the way you want to go for lasting lifestyle changes.

Start today a new healthy habit that you can easily implement and immediately feel great about yourself. Below are some of my own. Always consult your doctor or appropriate professional if appropriate.

Take high quality whole food supplements – I have been doing it for the last 20 years and can't say enough about them. This a no-brainer to get healthy nutrients in your body and keep your immune system strong and healthy.

My primary care doctor is a licensed naturopath doctor. They can save your life and take the guesswork out of your overall health.

Be the closest to natural in what you put in your mouth, on your body and at home.

The “E” word… Exercise. Jack LaLanne says you get old from inactivity, not from the passage of time. Develop an exercise habit that works for you. I vary my exercise routine throughout the year incorporating new and fun staff.

Eat small meals. I have a habit of eating four to five times a day, three small meals and two healthy snacks. This is a great healthy eating habit.

Carry healthy snacks with you all the time. My latest is "Simply cashews, almonds and cranberries" from Trader Joes (organic or not). I eat a handful (I have small hands) and enjoy every bite.

Drink water, up to half your body weight in ounces. If you weigh 120 lbs, you would drink 60 oz of water. Too much of a good thing, is not good either.

Drink water before or after a meal but never with it. It slows down your metabolism.

Chew your food. Can you count to five or ten for each bite? This is a tough one. I am getting better at it, I'm like 20% there (yes, you heard right) and I feel the difference in other areas of my life.

Trust health information from reputable natural health care advocates. Health information from newspapers and mainstream magazines can be deceiving at times. There's a lot of advertising dollars from pharmaceutical and medical companies newspapers can't turn away.

Have a home water system. Mine is from Life Source. No need for water bottles (waste), no inhaling and absorbing chloroform (from chlorine in hot showers).

Buy environmentally friendly cleaning products for your home. Lots of research shows their role in depleting your immune system and creating cancer among many other things.

I am grateful and nurture all my loving relationships with family and friends. Never take them for granted.

Shop at Trader Joe's (if you have one in the area). It is inexpensive and I feel safe eating and using anything sold there. I also shop at local health food stores.

Buy local (produce, artisans, restaurants, etc.) and organic whenever possible. You don't have to be 100%. What percentage can you be?

Focus on what you want. I work on my "inner communication" and “stop” myself when my mind wanders and goes to places that don't make me feel good...Do you know what I mean? I remind myself to focus on what I want. It is a great stress reliever and a great habit to have.

Practice giving. We can start with a smile. Once daily make someone happy. This is a great healthy habit for a happy life.

Drink daily a 16 oz glass “long life cocktail” as seen in the Fat Flush Plan by Ann Louise Gittleman. It is a cleansing "tonic" of unsweetened cranberry juice, water and flaxseeds grounds (I prefer them over psyllium husks).

Connect with my spirit throughout the day. It is a habit I am working on right now to become part of my life. It flows into other areas beautifully.

I watch almost no TV news and don't listen to them on the radio either. It started with a one week trial and the results were amazing in how I felt. It takes unnecessary worry away.

Do you enjoy particular health activities you wish to share with us? Do you want to share how you incorporate healthy habits for life? Make sure to let me know!

Can you start a new healthy habit today?

Can You to Stop a Bad Eating Habit?

A bad eating habit can get in the way of your health and good looks. It can actually create diseases and make you look older and tired.

What bad foods do you eat right now? Think about it. Some will take no brains to figure out but others can be disguised as healthy food.

Be honest! You probably know eating a balance diet is what you need. Besides, poor nutrition can also increase your stress levels.

Let's start with the most common bad eating habits:

Eating too fast. This was one of my worst. People didn't call me speedy Cramer for nothing. When we eat fast we tend to overeat.
Overeating and having oversized portions. To stay healthy a typical woman needs 1600 calories and the man needs 2000 calories daily. The average American is now consuming 3900 calories daily, mostly eating out.
Unhealthy snacking between meals. Daily consumption of chips, candy bars, ice cream to name a few. I know how hard it is to have a few potato chips.
Too many refined carbs and sugars. Most excess calories are here. These are easily digested and you get hungry again sooner.
Too many unhealthful oils. Transfats, found particularly in hydrogenated vegetable oils. Avoid corn and soy oils.
Fast food eating and Microwave or other convenience foods. Most include unhealthful oils, sugars and carbs
Drinking too much soda or sugary juices. Being overweight goes hand in hand with having blood sugar problems.

Do you have children? If you are a parent, you are responsible for helping your children develop good nutrition habits. Our likes and dislikes often develop when we are children and are usually difficult to change.

It is important that parents set the examples for the children to follow.

Bad Foods

Keep yourself and your family healthy and happy by avoiding or at least limiting the following bad foods:

Sodas (diet or regular)

Unhealthy oils, corn and soy oils

Baked goods such as breads, muffins and cookies

Microwave foods

Unhealthy eating habits weaken our digestive functions and make it much easier to gain weight, develop diabetes, experience depression, and are the creator of most diseases.

Breaking a Bad Habit

Dr. Robert Maurer, Ph.D., author of The Kaizen Way, suggests how to start breaking a bad habit. Let's apply it to a bad eating habit.

Identify what it is you need or choose to change. Example: Overeating

Conciously become aware of your food at dinner time and eat it slowly. Taste every bite. Catch yourself eating slow. Do it for a week.

Eat a handful of nuts, a boiled egg or a low cal protein bar an hour before your dinner. Do it for another week.

Order a petite size meal at a restaurant or place half of your food in a to go container before you start eating. Do it for a month.

What small step can you take right now to remove a bad eating habit?

Change is not instantaneous. Building new habits require trust and patience and new neuropaths in your brain.

Have a friend, someone you trust or a wellness coach help you stay accountable to eliminate unhealthy habits.

What is a Healthy Eating Habit?

You may have a healthy eating habit already and don't even know it. What is your healthy eating habit? Think about it.

You probably know a bad eating habit you can give up too. Let's think for a moment. What would it be?

I believe that you know what’s good and bad for your health. You probably know the facts on nutrition: eat five servings of fruits and vegetables, drink your water, reduce your intake of transfats, etc

You can probably recite them in your sleep!

Somehow, you seem to have more bad eating habits that good ones. What's going on?

I believe that your brain is this little tape recorder that you may need to reprogram again. Reprogramming your brain takes time, as new mental pathways need to be created.

Keep reading, I will show you how you can create healthy and good habits one-step at a time.

Parents are responsible to help develop healthy eating habits in their children. Our likes and dislikes often develop when we are children and are usually difficult to change.

I was fairly lucky growing up. My mom is a diabetic and she cooked very healthy meals. In my mind, healthy eating and diabetes go hand in hand.

We ate what mom cooked: vegetables soups, blended fresh fruit juices, legumes, starchy food, etc. There was no sugar in the house.

When we got sick, we did not get a cookie but freshly made egg drop soup. We eat what she cooked...Do you get my drift?

Help your child develop healthy eating habits. I understand it is easier to give in at times, but the long-term consequences can be devastating.

It may be easier for me to stick to a healthy eating habit that it may be for you. But guess what? I also need to reprogram my brain in many areas and have a hard time too.

If health is a priority to you, become a student of your own body. You are responsible for your health and wellness, not your parents, your doctor, your spouse or partner.

The body is a machine, just like your car. You can abuse it in the beginning and it will still run. Then, a time comes when it starts giving you trouble.

You start spending money on it. It works sometimes, and then it doesn't. You continue spending money.

Then, it no longer works. No matter what is done to it, it doesn't work. You then go ahead and buy a new car. Unfortunately, it doesn't work like that with people.

Hey! We are getting too serious here. Someone stop me!

Unhealthy eating habits weaken our digestive functions and make it much easier to gain weight, develop diabetes, experience depression, and are the creator of most diseases.

If health is a priority, what do you want to start doing differently today? Ask yourself this question as often as possible. Listen for the answer.

So, how can you create healthy and good habits?

Dr. Robert Maurer, Ph.D., in his book, The Kaizen Way, suggests how you can work on creating healthy habits by using small steps. You can apply his method to anything.

Identify what it is you need or choose to change. Example: Eat more healthfully

Toss out the first bite of your favorite fattening snack. Do it for a month.

Toss out the first and the second bite. Do it for another month.

Toss out the first, second and third bite the following month. Continue doing this until you no longer want this food or there are no bites left.

Can you think of a very small step you can take now to remove a bad eating habit or create any healthy good habits?

Change is not instantaneous. Building new habits require trust and patience and new neuropaths in your brain.

Have a friend, someone you trust or a wellness coach help you stay accountable to your new goal.

Health Nutrition Wellness Tidbits

Health nutrition wellness should be at the forefront of our lives. To prevent and cure diseases without pharmaceutical drugs, you need to take personal responsibility for your life.

Your diet is the best medicine against stress and illness. The benefits of nutrition are immense. According to Howard B. Schiffer, President of Vitamin Angels, 30,000 children die daily from preventive causes such as malnutrition.

The first dimension in my 12 Wellness Dimension program is self-responsibility and love. This is the foundation of our lives.

My goal is to empower you to have tools for your health nutrition wellness.

Where can you start? There is a lot of information and it can get confusing for most of us.

I believe that the most important information is that which you actually implement.

Do you frequent a health food store? Let me suggest you start there. Make your health food store your natural health resource center.

FindaHealthStore.com focuses on bringing the latest health research studies and has the most accurate databases of health stores in North America.

MyPyramid.gov was established to improve the nutrition and well being of Americans. It is an organization of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. You may want to see where your diet stands.

Let’s get back to implementation. Do you have any bad eating habits? … Raise a hand who doesn’t! Bad eating habits can get in the way of your good health nutrition wellness. Do you see one of yours in the list below?

Eating too fast

Overeating

Fast food eating

Eating too many different foods at a meal

Eating late at night and going to sleep soon after

Unhealthy snacking between meals

Drinking too much soda or sugary juices.

An ancient Chinese wisdom tells us that “A journey of a thousand miles must begin with the first step.”

What first step do you want to take towards your health and wellness? What about giving up, little by little, your worst eating habit?

You may also want to start a healthy good habit. Always consult your doctor or appropriate professional if appropriate.

Understand and read food labeling: Visit Cfsan.fda.gov. Avoid with a vengeance products with a long list of ingredients.

Avoid or limit ingredients such as corn syrup, hydrogenated anything, wheat or gluten.

Limit eating fast food. It may be cheap on the wallet but expensive on the body.

Lower about 90% of your pesticide exposure by replacing what you eat the most with organic: Strawberries, apples, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, lettuce, potatoes, celery, sweet bell peppers.

Eat when you are hungry. Overeating is one of the most common and dangerous dietary habits.

Chew each bite of food five, 10 or 15 times. It will make you conscious of what you are eating.

Take a post meal walk or march in place for a minute or more.

Learn about food combining for best digestion.

Eat breakfast. Start with just one bite.

Can you think of a very small step you can take now to remove a bad eating habit and replace it with a healthy eating habit?

Change is not instantaneous. Building new habits require trust and patience and new neuropaths in your brain.

If you like what you read, please subscribe to my Monthly Wellness Tip ezine, a "single" tip a month to help you with your health and wellness.

Health nutrition wellness is about variety, balance and moderation in your food.

My wish for you is that you choose to take personal responsibility for your health and nutrition wellness.

Implementation is what is really hard. Finding an accountability partner such as a wellness coach can truly help you in your journey towards health nutrition wellness.

Self-Change with Self-Hypnosis

It Is Possible

Self-change is possible even if you are stuck in a situation that you think is hopeless. Read on to find out that old belief systems can be changed, attitudes can be changed and behavior will then be altered. You can become the person that you wish to be.

Who Are You?

You may be wondering why I would ask who you are. You've known who you are for years, right? Well let's consider for a moment that who you think you are, is really only who you have been told you are. And if you were told you were someone else, you would be. Do I have you confused yet?

Back to Basics

To understand how you have gained the beliefs about yourself, let's go back to when you were a tiny little baby. You were soooo cute and free. You had many talents and abilities just waiting to be developed and explored.
But what happens if you were born into a family that didn't encourage you in those in-born talents? This can happen for any number of reasons:

not enough money,
not enough opportunities,
not enough interest,
not enough understanding
too many other children, on and on

For example, you were told that you had no talent. Your efforts to pursue your interests were met with laughter and jeering and maybe a cuff on the head. You were told to forget about it.
The statements that children hear are accepted as fact, because they don't have the experience or the information to dispute them. So it becomes your belief that you have no talent.

Beliefs

But... if you were born into a family that encouraged your interest, you would be given the opportunity to pursue the field of your interest. And because you are told that you have talent, and because you are encouraged in something that you enjoy, you would then be successful.
The same person can feel like a failure, or like a success depending on what he or she believes.
So, what are you believing?

The Next Step

What happens when someone believes that they have no talent? They lose confidence in themselves. They lack the confidence to pursue worthwhile goals such as:

choosing educational courses with a future
attaining habits that lead to a positive future (no drugs or criminal behavior)
selecting a partner based on mutual love and respect (as opposed to mere physical attractiveness)

So, this person will end up in a dead-end job, maybe hooked on alcohol or drugs and coming home to a troubled relationship and probably wondering why the situation is so hopeless.
But remember, this same person could be successful if he or she believes that it is possible. And the belief comes from the statements that were given in the early years.

Self-Change

Self-change with self-hypnosis is going back and altering the beliefs to allow for success. Once the new suggestions are given to the sub-conscious mind, the beliefs are changed. Now you can get on with your life without the negative thoughts and feelings that have been limiting you.
Self-change happens when you over-ride the old belief system by giving yourself positive suggestions. Commit yourself to three weeks of self-hypnosis. It only takes two to three minutes, twice a day to achieve the results that you desire.

Boost Self-Confidence with Self-Hypnosis

Talents and Abilities

You can boost self-confidence and the way you think of yourself using the easy but effective methods of self-hypnosis. Simply by changing the suggestions you give yourself, your confidence will grow.

There are people who go through life believing that they have no talents. Maybe you are one of them.

If you were raised in an atmosphere that was not encouraging and maybe downright discouraging, then you have believed the suggestion that was given to you through your environment. But you must now consider that it was a lie. Every person has abilities. Everybody has talents.

You're Already Doing It.

Just take a moment to think about what you do during the day. You may begin to understand that you are actually good at LOTS of things. Your mistake has been focusing on your failures (we all have them) and not focusing on your successes (we all have them, too!).

Perhaps you've developed an excellent technique for brushing your teeth. Congratulations! Does the door stay shut after you closed it? Then you did a great job! As you walk away from the door tell yourself that you got 100% in door closing. That's A . A perfect score!

Begin NOW to notice those things that you do well. And as you notice them, let a good feeling come over you, a feeling of satisfaction. You did it (no matter how small the task) and you deserve to feel good about it.

You will soon become aware of hundreds of things that you do every day with total success.

Every small success becomes a seed for larger successes.

Even if nobody else notices, you know within yourself that you are talented in many ways. You can boost your self-confidence and grow stronger every day.

Feel It Grow

You can also begin to use self-hypnosis to boost self-confidence. Give yourself suggestions of feeling stronger and more confident. Here are a few that you can use as a guide and please alter them to suit yourself and your life.

"I notice all the things that I do well."

"I am able to do many things well."

"I excel in many areas of life."

"I am worthy of success."

Remember, suggestions become beliefs, and beliefs become feelings. Begin by changing the suggestions you give yourself (especially in self-hypnosis) and your feelings will change. You will find yourself facing new situations with quiet assurance and everyday activities with confidence.

Repeat your favourite suggestion just before you fall asleep (a time of natural hypnosis). Say it ten times and keep track by counting on your fingers. That way you will know that you have done it ten times and you will know that you didn't fall asleep.

Repeat the same suggestion or a different one while doing self-hypnosis. Follow the guidelines at specific techniques to allow the suggestion to work in your sub-conscious mind all day.

Remember that you were born a wonderful, unique individual with many talents and abilities. By using self-hypnosis to boost self-confidence, you are merely claiming the gifts that you have had all along.

You are letting go of the lies and the limiting thoughts that have been holding you back and beginning to believe the truth: You can do it.

True Story

A few years ago a report was released that showed that actors and actresses who received an award (Oscar, Emmy, etc.) lived longer. And if you think about it, you can probably name quite a few actors who have lived long and active lives--Bob Hope, George Burns, Jane Wyman, Phillis Diller... all of them well into their 90's (or into the 100's) and some still acting.

Why does an award make a difference? It is a symbol of acceptance, a means of communicating to the person that they are highly regarded and what a suggestion that is!!

How can we use this information to our advantage? After all, we all can't receive awards... or can we? How about giving yourself an award every day in the form of positive suggestions.

"I am great."
"I am successful."
"I am a winner."

These are just a few examples of some of the "awards" you can give yourself to boost self-confidence.

And don't forget to give awards to those around you also. It's good for their health.

Self-Confidence with Self-Hypnosis

Gaining Confidence with Self-Hypnosis

You can gain self-confidence with self-hypnosis. You can become more assured in the work place, in sports, in the community and at home, even at the wedding

Why is it that some people just seem so darned confident? They go through life with an unrestrained knowledge that they can accomplish any task and are able to reach their goals with ease.

Yet, we all know people who seem to have many abilities and lots going for them who fail to put forth the effort to be successful.

They lack the self-confidence to even try.

Learned or Inborn?

Self-confidence is a learned attribute. It goes all the way back to when you were a baby. A baby, although born with aptitudes and talents, relies on the outside world to tell her who she is. Since she has no preconceived ideas about herself, she takes her cues from those around her.
Besides learning about the world and how it works, she is very busy learning about herself based on other's opinions. And everything that she sees, hears, and feels is taken as a clue to the type of person she is.
To put it simply, if she is encouraged in her innate aptitudes and skills, she becomes confident. The opposite is also true. If the child is ignored or treated harshly, she understands that she is not worth the time or effort.
Everyone has some self-confidence.

Nobody is totally confident.

Can it be Reversed?

It is always possible to boost your self-confidence. That's right, always. Begin with the understanding that it was something lacking in your education (formal or other). If no one around you is encouraging, then you can change your belief and gain self-confidence by giving yourself positive suggestions.
Self-hypnosis is a wonderful method of doing it.

Beliefs

Children automatically believe what they are told. Since they don't have enough information or experience to filter the input, they accept everything as truth. So, suggestions become beliefs. Can you think of something that you were told as a child that became your belief? Most people can remember being told they were shy, or clumsy and remain that way as adults.

If you have children, be very careful what suggestions you are giving them. A child that is shy in certain situations, can be totally courageous at other times. Focus on the positive, always.

Adults have filtering tools and are able to reject (at least to some extent) what they are told. However, to make changes to old belief patterns, the patterns that were put in place when you were a child, the sub-conscious is where you need to work.

Here's a great affirmation:

"Every day in every respect, I get better and better."

You can say it when you are doing your self-hypnosis throughout the day (twice, every day I hope!) or just before you fall asleep. Repeat it to yourself or out loud. While you are saying it, think of yourself actually doing it: getting better in whatever way you need. (Emile Coue, known as the father of autosuggestion, first used this phrase in the early twentieth century and there has been a devoted following ever since.)

A Little Story

Allow me to tell you a little story about a farmer who purchased a batch of chicks to raise. It was quite a bunch of fluffy, yellow chicks, but among the group there was one that was different. The farmer knew that this one was not like the other chicks and thought that nature would take care of the unusual little creature. Yet every day when the farmer went to the barn for chores he was still alive.

He tried to do the things that the other chicks were doing: eating corn, pecking at the ground, doing the best he could, but he was obviously different. The other chicks made fun of him. He felt that he did not fit in, no matter how hard he tried. And he longed to fly. He would look up and see others up there in the sky and then he would look at the chicks and he knew he didn't feel like one of them.

One day the farmer grabbed him and set him high up on a ledge hoping he would go away. He was scared looking down over the edge. He kept saying to himself, "Chickens don't fly." But suddenly he was not afraid any more. He sat up and started to lean over. He didn't fall because the talons that didn't work on the ground, were now exactly what he needed. All day he just sat there. He could see a rabbit 1/2 a mile away and he was getting hungry. So finally he made a decision. He jumped off and started to fall, but immediately his wings shot out and caught a draft and suddenly he was 100 feet in the air. It was who had been from the beginning--an eagle.

All the time the chicks kept saying, "Chickens don't fly." "Chickens don't eat meat." "Chickens stay in the barnyard." And if he has listened to those voices, he never would have known that he could soar, that he could see the world from a different viewpoint, that he could be who he was meant to be.

Now is the Time to Change

Perhaps the conditions that you grew up in were discouraging. Perhaps the voices you heard were always telling you what you couldn't do.

Now is the time to start a self-change, to alter what you believe about yourself and to gain self-confidence. Refuse to live your life by other's limitations.

You are a 3-dimensional being.

The person you were,
the person you are and
the person you can become.

Use Self-Hypnosis

Using self-hypnosis is the best thing that you can do for yourself and your level of confidence. There is a lot of information out there about self-confidence, why you should be more confident, what will happen if you are... and if you aren't. But, just having the information does you no good.
You need a way to change. Self-Hypnosis is the key to changing your feelings and your behaviour.
Begin today to learn self-hypnosis and very soon you (and those around you) will begin to notice your confidence level soar (like an eagle!).

It's That Time of Year

Now that you are gaining self-confidence and especially for those who are looking for ways to actually KEEP their New Year Resolutions, check out the tips and suggestions for this particular time of year.

Conceiving With Hypnosis

Natural Method

Conceiving with hypnosis is not the first thing people think of either when they think of hypnosis or conceiving. But it can often help couples when there is no underlying physical reason. It is advisable to have a thorough check-up with your doctor and any specialist that your doctor recommends. Assuming that all of the tests show no physical condition to explain the inability to conceive, then hypnosis is a natural next step.

We've all heard stories of couples that were not able to conceive so they decided to adopt, and within a year of adopting, found out that they were expecting a child of their own.

Our minds are very powerful and our thoughts do affect our bodies. When conceiving with hypnosis, both mind and body are utilized and results are often realized within a few months.

A Little Story

Allow me to tell you about an ancient custom of a particular African tribe. When a woman first gets the idea of having a child, she goes off by herself into secluded place and stays in isolation until she receives the song of the child. That is the moment that is considered the birth of the baby.

She then returns home and teaches her husband the song and they sing the song together while waiting for the baby to be conceived and born.

The woman teaches the song to the mid-wives who will assist with the birth, so that the first thing that the baby hears when it is born is his or her own song.

Every child's song is unique. The song is learned by the rest of the community and sung at all special events in that child's life, which would include coming of age, marriage, any other celebrations and it is sung one final time at the moment of death to take that person into the next world.

Working In A Relaxed Way

Now contrast that with the lives that most of us live today. When do we have a moment to get away? And even when we are able to, when do we stop doing, playing, listening and watching long enough to become aware of something as special and as precious as the song of a child?

Does hypnosis help a woman to hear the song? Well, in a way, that's exactly what happens. A woman can be taught to work with her body, to expect success and even to change the response of the physical body. Specific suggestions are given that describe just the right conditions for the health of baby and mother.

Ironically, that is what the woman in Africa is also doing. She is preparing her mind to accept the fact that a baby will soon come. And "what the mind can conceive, the body will achieve."

You can, too. Use your mind and your body to prepare for conceiving with hypnosis.

Use your mind by imagining or visualizing everything working perfectly. Think of all of your systems being synchronized. Everything is happening exactly as it was intended.

It may help to do a bit of reading and become familiar with how your body works. Imagining it, then, is much easier.

Use your body by learning to relax to a very deep level, where your body systems work best. Meditate, learn deep breathing techniques or (best of all) use hypnosis or self-hypnosis.

There are other ways you can use your body to conceive, but I don't need to explain that!

Possible Interference

It is possible that an imprint is interfering with conception. An imprint is something that is seen, heard or read that changes the way a person responds.

An example of an imprint would be "All women in our family have big hips." Just hearing that statement could make a girl or young woman believe that she will become overweight.

Children often overhear conversations or items on T.V. that they ASSUME will affect them. A conversation about the emotional pain of a miscarriage or the physical pain of childbirth could be interpreted by a child as a good reason not to have children. And even if the woman doesn't remember that conversation, the decision she made can affect her body in ways that can interfere with conception.

In conceiving with hypnosis imprints can be cleared and suggestions given to counter any mis-interpretation.

Overcoming Shyness

Why Am I Shy

Shyness is learned from the behavior of those around us (a suggestion) and from what we are told (also a suggestion) as children.

Toddlers will walk or run into any and every situation, not even looking to see where their feet may land. There is no timidness there at all! That is why parents have to be so watchful with the wee tykes.

When children get a bit bigger and smarter and are then exposed to a new situation, they very naturally will watch from the sidelines trying to figure out what the rules are. Once they see what's happening, they will join in if they want to. It's nature's way and it's safe.

Some kids only take a few seconds to understand the rules while others take a bit more time and still others have no interest in the activity. However, instead of just giving the child the space he needs, some parents will then say, "He's shy." And the die is cast.

He's Brave

Even children who are timid in certain situations, are very brave in other ways. Consider

the child who doesn't like to walk into a room full of adults, but sings loud and clear in the youth choir

the child who doesn't like to be the centre of attention in class, but has no trouble making a break-away and scoring in soccer (amid the cheers of all the onlookers)

the child who has trouble separating from mom and dad, but can hardly wait for the day that he's allowed to bike around the block on his own

We are all more comfortable in certain situations. However, parents forget to mention how brave their child is. The only thing the child hears is "He's shy.".

Begin to Change

If you were told as a child that you were shy, you may be still be under the influence of that belief (suggestions become beliefs in the sub-conscious) and therefore limiting yourself by remaining in that place of "stuckness".

The good news is you don't have to stay there any longer.You can overcome the suggestions that you were given as a child and become the confident, assertive person that you want to be. The cure you have been looking for is within yourself.

How?

Self-hypnosis is getting in touch with your sub-conscious mind which is the non-critical part of your mind. The critical part of the mind (the conscious) is allowed to rest during hypnosis and that is why suggestions given during hypnosis become beliefs.

So by taking yourself into self-hypnosis and giving yourself suggestions for confidence in every situation, this new way of thinking will begin to take over the old thought patterns and the shyness will soon disappear. The result is the ability to reclaim the life that you were meant to live, before the negative suggestions affected you.

Imagine yourself in this new way, speaking to people with confidence, going on a date with confidence, asking for a raise with total assurance.

Suggestions

Here are a few suggestions for you to give yourself in self-hypnosis.

I believe in myself.
I face every situation with calm assurance.
I am brave and courageous in all that I do.
I can handle whatever comes my way.
I am strong and confident.
I am as good as anyone.

Choose one or two that seem to fit your situation, or make up one of your own to repeat while in self-hypnosis. Then two or three minutes, twice a day is all that is required to make the transformation into the wonderful, courageous person that you know you can be.

Your self esteem and self confidence grow and you leave the old fears and doubts in your past.

Parents

If you are a parent, please remember that what you do and what you say are suggestions for your kids. Keep your comments positive. If you must use the word "shy", or if in the past you have used it, then start to point out how at other times that same child is very brave. Allow him to overhear you telling others about his bravery.

And when your child sees you improving your life, what a powerful suggestion that is!

Burnout

How Did I Get Here

Burnout seems to be part of our society now. We all know someone suffering from it or maybe you are going through it yourself.

If you're one of those people who seems to have lost interest in the things you do, things you used to love to do, you may be dealing with a burnout situation.

What Is It?

In layman's terms, it is the result of stress being held in the body over a long time. It is going to have an effect on a person's ability to cope emotionally and physically.

And really it's a wise part of yourself that is telling you, "If you do this any more you're going to blow up! So stop doing it now, while there is time to recoup."

Who is at risk? Those who have high demand jobs are more at risk for burnout, especially if there are time constraints and if the job has a direct effect on people's lives. Stock Brokers, doctors, working moms, police and fire persons, people in the service industry and many others all fall into that category.

Why Not All

A list of jobs and professions that are at risk for burnout is listed above. If it is the job itself or the profession, why do only SOME people in that field get burnout?

Very good question! The answer is...

Some people have learned better coping skills.

Some people were raised in homes that taught balance in life.

Some people have an attitude (keeping things in the proper perspective) that protects them from the effects of stress.

And some people have learned to let go and relax when they have a chance.

Life is stressful. There is no way to live without some stress. The important point is to learn balance. Reduce stress when you can and learn ways to counter the stress that you can't reduce.

Getting Out of the Cycle

If you are suffering from burnout, see your doctor for a thorough check-up. Be sure there is no physical reason for the symptoms you are experiencing. Then with the doctor's approval, begin to learn some techniques of relaxation.

There is no greater way to relax than by practicing self-hypnosis. There are three important ways that self-hypnosis helps.

1. Your body relaxes to a level that you haven't been to in a long, long time. This is just what your body needs in times of stress. And only a few minutes of this type of "letting-go" will influence the rest of your day in a very positive way.

2. While in self-hypnosis, the use of proper suggestions or affirmations also helps to keep things in perspective. You are looking for balance in your life and this is one way to achieve it.

3. In hypnosis, suggestions become belief. Things that you tell yourself, even the suggestion that you are relaxing, become your belief. Your body is affected by your thoughts, so use this method of changing your thoughts and beliefs and your body will respond.

Keeping Away

Before it gets to the point of burnout and begins to effect your whole life, start some new habits to keep the level of stress from reaching a crisis point.

Learn the techniques of self-hypnosis to enable your body and your mind to relax to a very deep level. By using any of these methods of relaxation habitually, you will greatly reduce or rid your body of the effects of stress. Try some instant methods that you can use during any short break at work or at home.

Two or three minutes of this deep relaxation is like a wonderful escape and you will then be able to go back to your duties refreshed.

Use prayer to relieve stress. Connecting with a power higher than yourself will put your life in a more stable perspective. You will be able to return to work with a renewed focus.

Schedule some family time. Include some physical activity with your kids or your spouse for the additional benefit of exercise. Time spent doing things with your family is an investment that cannot be equaled. When you do go back to your commitments, you'll be re-charged.

A Little Story

Allow me to tell you a little story that took place a long time ago during the conflict between two villages. The leader of one village became separated from his troops and was being pursued by the enemy. He finally hid in a stack of straw beside the barn of some peasants. The enemy soldiers searched the farm and came to the straw stack. Using their bayonettes, they pierced the heap of straw, but fortunately did not find him.

His own troops soon caught up with the leader and he told the story of his near capture. One of the soldiers asked him how it felt to be that close to death. Immediately the leader looked at the man and commanded "How dare you speak to me in that manner?" He ordered that the insolent man be put in front of a firing squad.

The soldier was blindfolded and stood in front of a brick wall. He heard the order, "Ready... Aim..." and then the blindfold was removed and the leader leaned in and said, "Now you know."

Don't Wait

It is hoped that you will not wait until you are standing before a firing squad (figuratively speaking, of course!) to begin practicing some steps of stress reduction.

You don't need to experience burnout to gain the knowledge of stress reduction methods. Begin today to use your options and regain your perspective, your health and the proper connection to your work and loved ones.

The History of Hypnotism

The Short Version

In this history of hypnotism I'm just going to give a brief overview of some of the most interesting events and characters (and there were some of those!) that influenced the way we see and practice hypnotism today.

For example, did you know that there was a man called Mesmer? We get our term "mesmerized" from one of the early practitioners. Freud also figures into the history and a few more names that you will recognize.

Distant History

Our knowledge of the history of hypnotism dates back to the time of the ancient Greeks. There is historical evidence of people attending "sleep temples" (hypnosis is the Greek word for sleep) where they would often spend a week being attended by various healers. The treatment was spoken words and according the inscriptions from that time many were cured of wounds, sterility, headaches, gout, dropsy, baldness, blindness, worms, epilepsy and many other afflictions.

According to the evidence, this continued for about 1,000 years. Similar sleep temples have been discovered in Egypt dating from about the same era.

Less Distant History

What we call the scientific study of hypnotism can be traced back to 1776 when an Austrian physician, Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer, began his remarkable practice of what he called "animal magnetisism". Considered to be the initiator of hypnotism, Mesmer's methods were nothing if not unique! He was able to achieve a following and, like the Greeks, many cures were reported.

In his work he believed that the use of magnets aligned an invisible body fluid to produce the positive results.

Evolution of Hypnotism

Mesmer and most of those who followed his teachings, continued to think that they were causing an invisible body fluid to re-align with passes of magnets, or passes of a hand or sometimes a touch.

Since he was forced to move from Vienna to Paris to pursue this interest, there was an influential group of followers in France. The history of hypnotism continued as some of his students wrote books and began giving demonstrations in different parts of the world. As they traveled and as their books became known, they left an impression upon people in England (John Elliotson, James Esdaile, James Braid), North America and Germany. These encounters helped to spread the use, development and understanding of what exactly was happening.

The study is still being carried on today. Scientists are using advanced brain imaging equipment to try to understand why suggestions given under these simple and reproduce able conditions are so successful for change and healing.

Hypnosis for Childbirth

Many Benefits

The main reason that women choose to use hypnosis for childbirth is the promise of reduced pain. Let's face it, nobody likes pain and if there is a safe and reliable way to eliminate it, well, let's go for it.

The next reason that women use hypnosis is because they want a way to eliminate the chemical anesthetics that affect the baby. You have been caring and protecting that little baby for almost nine months and you want to continue to protect him or her during labour.

The methods that are used during childbirth are actually beneficial to the baby. This is proven by the fact that babies score higher on the Apgar scale with the use of hypnosis. The Apgar Score is a five-point assessment that is given to the newborn at 1 minute and again at 5 minutes after birth. The five points are:

colour

respiration

heartbeat,

muscle tone

and reflex irritability (grimace)

Shorter labour time and shorter hospital stay are more benefits that most women enjoy. As a result of the quicker birth, you will not be as fatigued afterward. You will still have energy to care for the baby and will be mentally alert from the absence of anesthetics.

The final benefit is that there is a reduced risk of post-partum depression. This is especially promising for those who have experienced it with other pregnancies and for those who are at risk for depression.

Pain Reduction

Unfortunately, I am not able to teach pain reduction and pain management techniques from a web-site. You do need to contact a hypnotist in your area who is familiar with the methods of hypnosis for childbirth (not all hypnotists are trained in pain reduction and pain management).

However, you will be able to use many of the techniques already covered and explained for the early stages of labour. I will also cover the stages of labour and some of the body mechanics that are very helpful to use as metaphors during labour and delivery. When you understand how the body works, it is much easier to visualize it working quickly and effortlessly.

Other Benefits of Hypnosis

Hypnosis for childbirth is not restricted to the delivery of the baby.

Couples who are taking a long time to conceive can benefit from hypnosis, where no physical reason can account for not conceiving.

The success rate for invitro fertilization techniques is increased with the use of hypnosis, also.

Hypnosis can be used for a late baby. Assuming that your doctor has no objection to the birth beginning, your thoughts have a powerful influence on your body and by using the proper suggestions and visualizations, a long awaited and overdue birth can begin.

Hypnosis is very helpful for those suffering from nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP). As a non-chemical method of receiving relief from this unpleasant condition, hypnosis is wonderful. Many women are very relieved to know that there is a method of overcoming this complaint without using drugs.

One more significant threat to women who dearly want a baby is premature labour or miscarriage. Hypnosis has been shown to be beneficial in calming the storm and allowing things to settle allowing more time for the baby to develop more fully.

Time is precious and every day that you can add to your baby's gestation period is significant. Use every possible technique available to you including, of course, hypnosis for childbirth.

Everyone can benefit from learning the easy methods of self-hypnosis. These techniques will not only get you through your pregnancy and labour in a calm and healthy way, you can then continue to use them to remain at ease and in control. This will be of benefit to yourself and your loved ones. (P.S. Teach them to your partner too!)

Late Baby, Reluctant Baby

Fear is one reason that a late baby could be a little reluctant to come into the world. This fear could be on the mother's part, or it could be fear on the baby's part.

Now, I know what you're thinking. How could the baby possibly be afraid of something that he or she knows nothing about? The truth is, we don't know everything that goes on in this world (at least I don't!). So I cannot say that the baby doesn't have fear about the unknown.

That little baby was known to God from the beginning of creation, before it was formed in the womb. So it may be possible that he or she is coming into this world with some remembering of things from the time before conception. Can I say for sure that it is so? No. But neither can say for sure that it is not so.

Possible Reasons

Therefore, using some possible scenarios for a late baby,

The mother is afraid.
The baby is afraid.
The right chemical and hormonal changes have not yet begun.
The timing is not right.

let's begin to give suggestions for each.
Confidence for the Mother

Give yourself suggestions for confidence during the birth process and confidence in your ability to be a great mom. It's important for you to know that you will have all the energy and stamina required to get through the birth and to take care of the wee bundle with ease.

Women who use hypnosis for childbirth actually suffer less from postpartum depression than the normal population, so just knowing this will help to relieve some apprehension (assuming that you are using hypnosis).

Suggestions can also be given that you will ask for and accept help from family and friends without feeling guilty. The "supermom" syndrome needs to die a timely death!

Confidence for Baby

How to relieve the fears of the late baby (if they exist)? Communicate feelings of love and anticipation to the unborn child.

You may imagine a tube of light is connecting your heart and the baby's heart. You can use this tube to send love and to receive love from the baby. You can tell the child that he or she is wanted, that the whole family is eagerly waiting for the day when you can all be a family.

Feelings of love and contentment actually release beneficial hormones into your system. The baby will receive the benefits of these hormones and perhaps that is the best part of the whole visioning.

Change the Hormones

Give yourself suggestions for changes in hormonal balance to create just the right mix that will signal the start of the labour and birth process.

You can set up a system of dials and switches in your imagination that control the hormone levels. Adjust the dials and levers to increase those hormones that will start the process.

Suggestions can be given that there will be lots of endorphines (the body's natural anesthetic) available to use throughout the labour and birth.
Rest
When all of these suggestions have been given, then it's important to learn to relax and hand the rest of the process over to a power far higher than any human being.

The experience of hypnosis is very relaxing to begin with, but learn to let go of any control and rest in the knowledge that the situation is under the watchful eye of God.

Set apart a few minutes, 4 or 5 times throughout the day, to continue working on these four points: visualizing confidence in yourself, sending love to the baby, adjusting the hormone levels and resting.

One last thing, have your bag packed for the hospital because your mind is very powerful in affecting your body. That late baby could come at any moment!

Stage Fright

Learned Behavior

Most cases of stage fright have been learned in the same way that you learned to speak at a certain tone, hold your head at a certain angle, and utter the amount of words you use when replying to a question. You probably are not aware that you even do those things, but ask friend and they will tell you that your whole family has a similar way of doing "something".

Our habits are learned by watching and then imitating our care-providers.

Think of someone you know who is calm and confident when speaking or taking part in a presentation. If you know or ask about his background, you will probably find out that his parents were teachers or perhaps were just very confident people.

When It's a Fear

Notice that "most" cases of stage fright are learned. Some stage fright is simply a fear that resulted from a single incident, probably mis-interpreted by a child who didn't have all of the information necessary to make a wiser choice.

Children are constantly mis-interpreting words and actions. They make assumptions based on their tiny bank of knowledge.

Recently I told my 2-year-old grandson that his daddy used to be my baby. I thought he would find it funny or interesting, but he burst out crying. Since they were expecting a new baby soon, the parents had been talking to him and trying to prepare him for the new arrival. The tears told me that, in his mind, his daddy was going to be a baby. Quickly I assured him that his daddy would stay his daddy. He could never be a baby again.

That's how easily a child can mis-interpret words.

If stage fright is a result of a fear, it can still be changed, but probably not with self-hypnosis. An appointment with a trained hypnotist will get to the cause of the fear and it can be resolved in that way.

Symptoms

How can you tell when someone has stage fright?

blushing

shaking hands

rapid heart beat

sweating

dry throat

shaky voice

numb or tingling feelings in certain parts of the body

It's not a pleasant experience.

Break the Past

If you have stage fright and suspect or know that you learned it from influences around you, then understand that you can break that habit and begin a new family trait: confidence while speaking in public. What a great treasure to pass on to your children and grandchildren.

How exactly do I break that habit? You might be asking that question because you thought that it was just the way you were and would always be that way. Well, beliefs begin with suggestions. If you gain access to the sub-conscious mind, which is what hypnosis is, and change the suggestion, the belief will also change.

Doubts

You may be doubting the statement that suggestions become beliefs. It sounds much too simple. Well, let me give you some proof.

There have been many studies done with hypnotism to find out how things are working and why suggestions make a difference. Using advanced brain imaging techniques, scientists are able to view the brain and are able to see which areas are being used during certain activities. Each area "lights up" (shows that electrical impulses are activated) when in use.

In one experiment people were hypnotized and then shown a black and white picture, but they were told that it was colour. The part of the brain that registers colour DID light up. Conversely, the same people were given a coloured picture but were told that it was black and white. The part of the brain that registers colour DID NOT light up.

The suggestion became their belief.

Reasons to Change

The reasons to change are as varied as the people who want the change.

You may be in school and want to be able to get better marks by taking a greater part in discussions.

You may be thinking about a career change into an area that requires leadership.

You may be wanting to take a more active role in clubs or religious activities.

You may just be tired of cringing in the corner every time a volunteer is requested.

It doesn't matter how young or old you are, the old beliefs can be changed.

How Do I Change

When you get to the point of wanting to get on with life and leave old habits (like stage fright) behind, then self-hypnosis is the way to make the change. You may want to learn the process of self-hypnosis and then make an affirmation to say while you are in self-hypnosis.

Try the techniques described in this site. Read about the misconceptions if you are not totally sure of the process. Then continue to do the routine twice a day. It only takes 2 - 3 minutes twice a day and you will begin to see a difference in the way you respond to the world around you.

Your belief will be that you are confident when speaking to a group and your whole body will respond to the belief.

Spiritual Visualization

What is it?

Spiritual visualizations are simply little stories that you tell yourself that include images of God, for example "light". They are told in ways that use the senses. This makes it more real. You are actually feeling the things described, hearing and even seeing (if you are visual) all of the details of the scene.

It can be very comforting and even healing to experience this. And healing only comes from one Source.

People preparing for surgery or who are going through difficult times find spiritual visualizations especially helpful, but why not use this technique frequently to get in touch with your spiritual centre.

Samples

Use these as a samples or make up your own with images that are meaningful to you. It's not necessary to be in self-hypnosis for this, but you may get the feelings more profoundly if you are. Using a spiritual visualization can help to deepen self-hypnosis also, so you can use it before saying your affirmations.

I am sitting in a lovely, calm meadow. There are tall green trees all around me and I can smell the woodsy scent of grass, earth and trees. I feel safe in this place. I am becoming aware of a protective shield all around me, in front, behind, to both sides, above and below me. I am totally protected by this shield. And now the shield is filling with pure white light. This pure healing light also infiltrates my physical body, now shining inside my body and outside my body. I feel loved.

I am walking down a path which is leading right into the sun. As I continue on the path a dove flies near and I can hear the flutter of his wings and the gentle "coo" of his soothing song. The path leads to a spring of cool water and I kneel down a bring a handful of the thirst-quenching water to my mouth. I sprinkle a few drops on my face and head to refresh myself. I feel rested and refreshed.

I am walking through the middle of a desert. I feel the hot wind on my face and see sand stretching away from me in all directions. I suddenly notice a rock nearby and water is gushing out making streams within the desert. Green grass and trees spring up around the sides of the streams. I sit in the shade of a young shrub and watch as the wild animals come to quench their thirst. As I listen to the songs of birds singing among the branches, I feel protected and cared for.

I am surrounded by thick, velvety darkness. I hear sounds coming from a distance of fierce animals and begin to fear for my life. Now I notice a light beginning to glow and as it continues to glow and grow, it now drives out every last particle of darkness and fear. I feel only peace and rest.

Images

Use images that are meaningful to you and find a visualization that is unique to you. You are the only one who knows what is meaningful for you. For some, nature is very important. For others, bread and wine or candles could be used. You may imagine climbing to the top of a mountain or resting in the hollow of God's hand.

I hope that you find this technique comforting.

Negative Ionization Benefits

Now you can enjoy the benefits of negative ionization for a fraction of a cost by using Ionic Salt Crystals.

Here are just a few other ways to enjoy them.

Ionic Salt Crystal Bath

Feeling a little under the weather? Get energize in a salt crystal bath. It’s a fabulous way to revitalize you inside and out, soothing, calming while strengthening your immune system and detoxifying your body.

To Prepare: Pour 1-3 cups of salt crystals into bathtub (depending on desired strength).

Add only enough water to cover and dissolve the salt, which takes approximately 10-20 minutes.

Then fill the tub with warm water, jump in and relax!

Please don’t add any synthetic bath products with these natural salts.

For a maximum benefits, indulge in soaking for a minimum of 20 minutes. I suggest not rinsing the salt off after your bath and giving your body some time to rest, as this is no ordinary salt.

Warning : While a salt bath has a positive effect, they can be demanding on your circulatory system. Do not use this product if you suffer from weak or poor heart circulation. Seek the advice of your physician first before using this product.

Ionic Salt Crystal Aromatherapy

Use it to fragrance your home and experience the amazing benefits of negative ionization. As the tart warmer heats the Salt Crystals, they fill the air with pure revitalizing negative ions, while also diffusing a beautiful aroma of your choosing.

Start by adding 2-3 Tablespoon of Salt Crystals to your Fragrance Diffuser or Tart Warmer.

Add 1 Teaspoon of your favorite fragrance or Aromatherapy Fragrances like Lavender or Tranquil are especially relaxing.

Turn on the Tart Warmer or if powered by Tea Light, Light it, put it beneath and enjoy!

For best performance, use Ionic Salt Crystals only once or twice at the most; then wipe it off with a clean damp cloth.

Create an Ionic Salt Crystal and Water Solution

Fill a glass jar with Ionic Salt Crystals and water. Put enough Salt Crystals so that they do not fully dissolve in the water. Use this dynamic solution for all of the following purposes:

As Help for Acne
Dab solution all over the face and specifically on any pimples. Do not rinse off and let it dry naturally.

As a Toner
After cleansing your face Dip a cotton ball in the Salt Crystal solution and apply over face, pat dry, dip cotton ball again and slightly dab again all over your face. Do not rinse off and let it dry naturally. This will keep your skin hydrated.

As Dental Hygiene
After brushing your teeth Dip your tooth brush into the Ionic Salt Crystal and water solution, brush over teeth and even brush your tongue.

Create a Foot Soak
Add a cup of Ionic Salt Crystals into a foot-bath filled with water.

Soak for at least 30 minutes; these acts as a detoxifies as well as softening your feet, making it easy to remove calluses and exfoliate rough skin.

Hectic, busy schedules are now the norm in America. As a result, we are overstressed. The Ionic Salt Crystals is the perfect product to help restore health and balance in our being and anyone we love.

Although negative ionization is known for its benefits, these products are not intended to cure, heal, or prevent diseases.