Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: What Is Pilates Chapter 2: How Can Pilates Help an Injured Athlete Chapter 3: How Does Pilates Help Back Pain Chapter 4: Osteoarthritis Help From Pilates Chapter 5: How Pilates Is Connected To The Mind Chapter 6: How Pilates Helps Breast Cancer Survivors Chapter 7: How Are You Evaluated After Breast Cancer For Pilates Chapter 8: Doing Pilates Correctly Chapter 9: How To Find Pilates Classes Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: How Can Pilates Help An Injured Athlete Synopsis Pilates uses many of the same principles used to help injured athletes recuperate. Pilates focuses on control of movement, so as to prevent further injury to the body. Pilates is low-impact and does not induce inflammation and overuse syndromes. Increases in strength and improvements in flexibility are additional benefits of Pilates. Individuals of all ages and levels of physical fitness may benefit from Pilates. Professional dancers, gymnasts, football players, basketball players and simply about anybody who wishes to better their fitness may benefit from Pilates exercises. While the exercises themselves may step-up endurance, strength, flexibility and total physical fitness, it's crucial to remember the roots of this sort of exercise are in rehabilitation. The Pilates precepts mirror the same precepts utilized in orthopedic rehabilitation. For Injuries Physical therapists routinely utilize Pilates exercises to assist patients with the following injuries or diseases: • Ankle traumas • Hip and knee traumas or replacements • Neck and back pain • Sciatica • Parkinson’s Disease • Scoliosis • Fibromyalgia As a lot of the exercises were developed for individuals who could not hold up to high impact exercise, Pilates may benefit wounded athletes and active grownups who are recovering from a trauma. Designed to be low impact, Pilates exercises when done right won't aggravate traumas yet will let the patient see expanded strength and flexibility. Today, a lot of individuals are getting into exercise and sports like running, badminton, golf, and triathlon. Several are experiencing assorted types of traumas, hence the increasing need for some exercises like Pilates, a good tool in rehabilitating one’s existing musculo-skeletal issues. Pilates utilizes a holistic approach in formulating one’s strength, mobility and command to prevent or get over an existing trauma. Motion, like Pilates exercises, may help people re-align their body, decently recruit their muscles at the correct time and educate them to carry out and integrate motion in the most effective way, utilizing different planes of motion. The basic injuries frequently encountered in a rehab Pilates practice include disc herniation, shoulder impingement, cervical spine issues. Targeted muscle activation. There are a few misconceptions about Pilates like utilizing a Pilates reformer to be able to perform a Pilates move, and that one ought to be able to do all the advanced Pilates moves on Pilates machines for the exercises to be considered effective. Actually, the less Pilates equipment, the harder the exercise is, as you'll be needing less assistance to execute an exercise. In rehab Pilates, a client may utilize different Pilates equipment in assorted positions with exercise modifications based on the existing circumstance and goals of the plan. For instance, a client may utilize a strap to hold a neutral position. This effectively fires the deeper muscles of her backbone, which is needed in rehabilitating her back trouble. Breathing and command. We were taught to breathe in through the nose and exhale through the mouth while holding the shoulders and additional parts of the body in a stable position. One ought to be able to master suitable breathing to have more effective command over the desired motion pattern necessary for rehabilitating the condition. For instance, learning suitable breathing, centering on lateral expansion of the ribcage and contracting the deep breathing muscles of the torso may be utilized to decrease muscle tightness and to beef up muscles in and around the torso. Postural discipline and re-education. Awareness and automatic correction of one’s posture are crucial in injury prevention and rehab. If you've a forward head posture or a lordotic (arched/hyper-extended) or kyphotic (rounded) backbone, tight and feeble muscles ought to be worked on with a few exercises to be able to employ automatic correction as a result of uniform practice of prescribed Pilates exercises leastwise 1 to 3 times a week. Performance of activity-specific training. A few important Pilates exercises that ought to be done 2 to 3 times a week to better sports performance and forestall injuries in some common sports like running and triathlon: the shoulder bridge for inner thighs and back muscle of the thigh, swimming for the back and bettering reciprocal motion and single leg stretch to beef up the obliques more. Chapter 3: How Does Pilates Help Back Pain Synopsis Pilates is a system that combines stretching, strengthening and core abdominal muscle work into a few really challenging exercises. It's one form of core strengthening work. Pilates is fantabulous for the prevention of back pain and injury. For The Back Pre-Pilates is prep work that teaches the basics of the Pilates method. It's generally a safe and effective way to utilize Pilates for chronic back pain. Pilates is likewise effective after the initial stages of a trauma have passed, to help heal, stretch and fortify. When Pilates is instructed by a qualified professional, it's effective in posture training, which will help to forestall re-injury. The operative phrase here is "qualified professional". You need to be sure your Pilates teacher is skilled, or better yet, seasoned, in topics of back and neck pain. True core support can't occur in the body if the neck and shoulder muscles are bearing tension. When there's upper body tension, the whole body is off-center, however slimly. From an off-center positioning, the deep abdominal muscles can't be accessed. This easy session utilizes particular breathing formulas and your imagination to bring about changes in posture. These methods release unneeded muscle tension and trigger the deep muscles of core support. Lay down on your back on the floor. Bend your knees; put your feet flat on the floor. Your heels ought to be directly in line with your sitting bones, situated at the base of your pelvis. Tie a scarf or belt round your thighs just higher up than your knees. Put your hands between the sides and rear of your ribcage for feedback. Envisage that your ribcage is a balloon. As you breathe in, blow up the balloon. Utilize your mental intent to inflate right where your hands are placed. Attempt to make this picture come alive for you. Attempt also to blow up the balloon in the rear of your ribs. On the breath out, make a long, slow hiss sound, as if you were releasing air from a tire. During each breath out, envisage that your neck and shoulders are made of melted down candle material. Your neck and shoulders are lax, yet malleable. Let your mental imagery start at your neck. As the wax flows downward, in your mind's eye, see your neck gently lengthening towards your feet. Remember, you're still breathing out. Still breathing out, as your liquefied candle drip arrives at your shoulders, it's as though a pair of hands smoothes the wax out wide (the same way your shoulders go), really softly. Work from the center outwards. Let yourself relax. Following, the liquefied candle material flows down the middle of your chest, from the sternum to the pelvis, always lengthening towards your feet. Let the liquefied candle soften your chest and ribs as it proceeds. During the breath out, feel front of your body naturally flowing against the back. After you've melted your upper body, however before all of your air has been released, pull in somewhat at the front of your pelvis. The place to draw in is just beneath your belly button. Attempt to utilize more intent than force, but do exercise a muscular effort. In Pilates, this will be the "scooping", or "navel to spine". Replace force with muscular intent whilst scooping. • For level best relaxation and centering, read the instructions into a tape, and play the tape back when you experience the session. • Don't pressure anything. It's all in the breathing and imagination. • Tie a scarf around your ribs. This will supply resistance to your taking a breath, which will form posture muscles in the upper body. • If you can't keep your breath out going long enough to finish all the instructions in one cycle, that's all right. Simply inhale and carry on from where you were. With practice, your breathing capability will develop. • You are able to likewise utilize these techniques to free stress and upper body tension.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Introduction To Tai Chi Chapter 2: About Healing With Tai Chi Chapter 3: What To Think About When Considering Tai Chi Chapter 4: What To Think About When Considering Tai Chi For Health Chapter 5: Basic Tai Chi Benefits Chapter 6: More Advantages Of Tai Chi Chapter 7: The Correct Practice Of Tai Chi Chapter 8: Effective Use Chapter 9: Researching Tai Chi Chapter 10: The Things You’ll Miss Out On By Not Using Tai Chi Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: About Healing With Tai Chi Synopsis Tai chi is an ancient art form of defense using the oneness of body and mind through fluid movements that seem almost non aggressive in style. However looks can be deceiving because although the movements are slow and fluid, they are no less precise and can produce the desired results effectively. A Healing Experience Tai chi has no real age limitations. Predominantly practiced by the aged percentage of society, in more recent times the younger set has taken a keen interest in the art form. Hence the age range from 8 to 88 is not surprising. Once one is fairly familiar with the art form of tai chi and its various movements, the results of energy being quickly and amazingly delivered throughout the body is indeed incredible. This energy transcends all possible oppositions the body may have acquired. Practicing tai chi allows the individual to awaken the deep inner peace from within. This is made possible because of the slow and almost gentle movements that Tai chi adopts when compared to other martial art forms which seem to take on more aggressive movement patterns. Many tai chi practitioners also lay claim to the fact that this art form helps to promote greater health benefits for some medical conditions like heart diseases, high blood pressure, arthritis, migraine and other stress related medical problems. This is mainly because the core idea behind tai chi is to harness the yin and yang properties for the betterment of health through slow and delicate movements which are very precise indeed. These precise movements help to push energy forces throughout body and bring the body to an optimum health condition. Tai chi with its calming effects also helps to bring about the resolve of any emotional or spiritual crisis. As the focus is on the precise body movement and breathing, the thought process is distracted from its original crisis state. Chapter 3: What To Think About When Considering Tai Chi Synopsis In this fast pace world of today, engaging in something that requires patience and time is somewhat of an out of norm thinking. Most people are looking for quick fixes and don’t really want to take the time and effort to explore other avenues that don’t follow this pattern. What Has To Happen Before embarking on any new adventure or idea, ideally one should take the trouble to learn as much as possible on the subject matter. Some people simply jumped into taking up tai chi without really understanding its tenants. Tai chi is basically a slow and gentle movement martial art form which can be also used as an exercise regimen. In the Asian culture most practitioner are from the older generation, simply because of its gentle basic features. If a younger person takes up tai chi without understanding this basic concept, chances are impatience will set in and that is the direct opposite results from what tai chi is meant to achieve. Again because tai chi is predominantly a gentler option to choose when embarking on an exercise regiment or martial arts training, it is really quite hard to break out into profuse sweating bouts. As these tai chi exercises uniformly last for only about an hour – when done as a leisure exercise, breaking into a sweaty mess is unlikely. Only serious tai chi participants who work out for longer periods of time can expect some form of perspiration. Tai chi sessions should ideally be carried out in quiet, serene surroundings. As a higher level of concentration is required to perform all the various precise movements, someone who is easily distracted would find it difficult to concentrate and thus not get the optimum results tai chi purportedly promises. Learning the various movements that contribute to the success of practicing tai chi can also prove to be quite a challenge. All the movements are expected to be memorized well. As tai chi is normally done as a group activity, not knowing the respective movements can be distracting. Chapter 4: What To Think About When Considering Tai Chi For Health Synopsis The practice of various forms of martial arts has been around for ages and there are many varieties and variants to choose from. Taking the time to do a little research before making that choice is very important, as this will eventually dictate the success level garnered from the choice made. Some Things To Consider There are many aspects to consider when deciding to choose tai chi for either exercise or martial arts training. If an individual already has a preexisting medical condition which limits the time and type of activity followed, then tai chi is a good option to choose. Being a predominantly gentle and slow moving art form, the level of stress on the body, while practicing tai chi, is quite mild when compared to other forms available. Opting to choose tai chi as a martial art training regiment or as an exercise is also suitable as it does not require any medications or other supplementary additions. Those already on medications that don’t cause an immobile state of body can embark on some tai chi sessions. Tai chi is also a good choice to make when recovering from bone related injuries. An individual with an osteoporosis condition can greatly benefit from taking up tai chi. Because of its low impact style movements, people with weak or fractured bone conditions are able to strengthen their bones after practicing tai chi for a period of time. Tai chi also helps to develop muscle strength and balance in the health of an older age group. As most elderly people increasingly lose their ability to maintain good balance, using tai chi can help to correct this problem. The social aspect of taking up tai chi is another advantage to consider. Tai chi is commonly practiced as a group exercise. This allows the participants to interact with each other before and after the sessions, thus providing the much needed and important platform for socializing.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Introduction To Reiki Chapter 2: Learning About Reiki Chapter 3: Reiki's Negative Side Chapter 4: Considering Reiki For Health Chapter 5: Solving Problems The Reiki Way Chapter 6: More Advantages Of Reiki Chapter 7: Using Reiki Effectively Chapter 8: Other Treatment Benefits Of Reiki Chapter 9: What To Look For When Choosing Reiki Chapter 10: The Pitfalls Of Not Using Reiki Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 3: Reiki's Negative Side Synopsis As with anything in life, there are always good and bad sides. Reiki proves to be no different. Making the decision to embark on the process of acquiring reiki skills takes time and effort. A certain amount of commitment and perseverance is expected which is sometimes difficult to muster in this “instant gratification” expectations of today’s society. What To Watch For To ensure the potential reiki practitioner is able to garner positive energy, certain sacrifices needs to be made. Refraining from consuming meat, fowl or fish a few days before attempting a reiki session is a prerequisite. As purity is the ultimate goal when practicing reiki, consuming food and drink items that contain drug, pesticides, toxins and other negative ingredients are strongly forbidden. These negative elements cause the body system to be thrown off balance and so disrupting the smooth flow of positive energy. Going on a water of just juice fast is encouraged. Minimizing caffeine intake or cutting it out altogether is also required. These elements also create imbalance in the nervous and endocrine system. Other things to avoid at least three days before practicing a reiki session are alcohol, sweets, and smoking. Keeping a quiet and peaceful lifestyle is also encouraged, however this may prove to be difficult in the fast pace surroundings of everyday life. Reducing exposure to outside negative elements is also necessary, thus watching TV, listening to unsettling music and reading distressing news are all discouraged. Keeping away from all other negative mental states, like, anger, fear, jealousy, hate, worry are important, as these emotions can block a person from achieving a successful reiki session. In some extreme cases, reiki practitioners tend to ostracize themselves from others, simply because they consider those around them “contaminated” and full of negative energy, which they don’t want to be connected to. Chapter 4: Considering Reiki For Health Synopsis Finding out one is suffering from a certain disease can be frightening. Then to be bombarded with a lot of procedures and processors add to the already stressful state. Besides all this, having to choose from the various options available for the treatment of the said health problems can be quite confusing to say the least. A Mind Opener When an easy and non invasive option is available, coupled with the possible health recovery tag, most people are keen to explore these avenues of healing. However embarking on the reiki style of treatment, should never be at the expense of discontinuing all other current medications, or other ongoing medical procedures. Reiki is a holistic style of treatment which is meant at its early stage to compliment any preexisting treatment the patient may be undergoing. The reiki element is meant to work with the positive energy derived to combat any preexisting negatives in the body system. As reiki energy is meant to be dispersed according to the particular area needing the positive energy, prior diagnoses or prescriptions are unnecessary. Besides being unnecessary it is also unethical to make any such recommendations. People is severe medical conditions have made claims of a certain percentage of success after using reiki as an added and complimenting healing feature. The positive energy emitted from the reiki practitioner unto the recipient is often noted as very calming and helpful. With this positive energy flowing through the recipient’s body some of the medically impaired elements can be eradicated to a certain extent. If continued for a longer period of time, if is even possible to eradicate the ailment altogether. For an individual that takes his or her health for granted and does not really take precautions to keep a healthy diet and lifestyle, taking up reiki can be the turning point to a better understanding of the importance of good health and mind conditions. Chapter 5: Solving Problems The Reiki Synopsis Almost everyone who has had some encounters with the reiki world of positive energy practices sings its praises. Touted to be a beautiful and calming practice, many believe it is one art form the world at large can benefit from being exposed to it. The Benefits Most diseases, mind conditions and even the abuse of the environment has been linked to the negative elements at one time or another. The practice of reiki, can to some extent eliminate this negative aspect or energy, and replace it with positive energy. Reiki’s positive energy addresses the mind, body, and surroundings that connect it altogether one way or another. When reiki is used to address the mind, elements like the thought process, can be tuned to only consist of positive thoughts. When the state of mind is trained to always be positive, a lot of good can be achieved and even transcend into the surroundings. Besides the thought process, the reiki style of transferring positive energy unto another can help create a better state of actual mental health. Headaches, migraines, stress, and other brain related problems can be successfully addressed with the positive energy of reiki. Considered to be relatively “free”, reiki art of transferring positive energy also works when applied to address ailments in the body. This positive reiki energy is used to flush out any negative energy which may be contributing to the ill health of the individual. Reiki’s positive energy transfer does not involve any amount of pain or discomfort. In fact most people have attested to experiencing a comforting warm feeling which in some cases causes such relaxation that dozing off during a session is not unusual. Reiki has also been known for its distance healing abilities. This unusual feature is another advantage to those seeking this type of healing to compliment an ongoing medicinal regiment. An experienced reiki practitioner can transfer positive energy through quiet meditation quite successfully.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Mantras-The Basics Chapter 2: The Belief About And Power Of Mantras Chapter 3: What Problems Can Be Related To Mantras Chapter 4: Producing Positive Mindset Chapter 5: Mantras And Illness Chapter 6: Managing Pain With Mantra Chapter 7: Practicing Mantra Effectively Chapter 8: Effective Use For Healing Chapter 9: Investigating Mantras Further Chapter 10: The Things You’ll Miss Out On By Not Using Mantras Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: The Belief About And Power Of Mantras Synopsis Basically when the reference to mantra is made it is in connection to the power of the spoken word or sound. Many words are spoken that have little or no connection to the actual experience or implied consequences. Looking A Little Deeper If a person in warned about something verbally and the consequences are also explained the actual physical feeling of the consequences if not present and only implied. Similarly there are few words that can actually convey the exact equivalent of the experience but the power that the word carries is enough to imply the results. It is a popular belief and accepted truth that repeating a mantra expounds tremendous power. Those who are very knowledgeable in the mantra field attest to this unexplained but ever present power. Abundance can take many forms, such as health, wealth, friends to name a few, all of which can be successfully attained with the influence of mantra as a result of repetitive chants. This then releases the unseen power in vibrations that work cosmically to the desired results. Each mantra is said to be liked to its original source of an actual sage or historical person. Most of these tradition practices predates the written speech and as such further emphasizes the power of the spoken word. Also accepted as a fact, is the form of mediation and intuition that is required, in order to participate with a degree of success. There is a direct link between the mantra sound and the chakras located thorough out human body. The power of the mantra is explained as that of fire. Fire known for its destructive and also helpful qualities is the same as mantra is many ways. The power derived from mantra can be very destructive and energy sapping if not practiced under strict supervision by an experienced person. However as most practitioners have yet to reach the level of total enlightenment the danger is not really present. Chapter 3: What Problems Can Be Related To Mantras Synopsis When you hear something consistently enough, there is a very real possibility that it eventually becomes a reality in one’s own mind. Repeat a rumor enough times and it will eventually become a wrongly accepted truth. That is the power of the spoken word, whether cosmically of not. What To Be Aware Of Conduct a simple experiment in the confines of a quite room. Upon repeating a certain phrase long and loud enough, a certain different level of consciousness is developed that can manifest itself as very real in the mind’s eye. Also the tone and emotion involved in the repetitive sound will vary in intensity. Somewhat unnerving, but very likely and true. Thus a lot of “gurus” today advocate speaking out repetitively a desire with the intention of seeing it successfully manifesting into reality. The only problem with this is that some people take this to be literal and therefore do not put in any physical effort to reach the desired goal in the first place. While there are yet others who take the mantra practice to the extreme, which eventually can lead to occult practices. Rituals and other negative elements are added on to create the environment needed to cause intimidation and control. This of course is not meant to be but not uncommon. As the mantra incantations are said to create powerful vibes that are meant to “attract” cosmic forces, this power should never be under estimated or taken for granted. Just as these “outside” powers can be used to achieve good, it can just as easily be used to the opposite results. The process of mysterious healing of the spiritual, physical and psychological should not be considered over and above actual medical help when addressing an ailment or illness. It should be used as a complimenting feature with positive influence. Chapter 4: Producing Positive Mindset Synopsis In seeking alternatives to mainstream lifestyle practices, mantra comes up as a possible choice. Understanding the basic principles of mantra will assist in its actual successful practice. Good Things Can Happen Mantra is basically the avocation to the belief that there is tremendous power linked to the spoken word. What the tongue speaks the mind believes, thus by following the chanting of mantras it is possible to invoke this positive energy for various reasons. In some cultures today the practice of repeating mantras is a daily ritual. This ritual if followed diligently to create a positive mindset to face the turmoil and troubles that may occur during the course of a day. This mindset brought on by the practice of regular daily mantra sessions have proven to be very advantages to those individuals practicing this in keeping their stress levels under control or to a minimal. There are many specific mantras that can be chanted to harness the positive energy for various purposes. These mantras when said repeatedly speak positive vibes into the situation or predicament. By practicing these mantras regularly, the positive words spoken and continually heard aloud, can also “feed” the mind to change a bad thought or scenario into a good one. For those who battle low self esteem issues, self sabotage thoughts, and general lack of determination, mantra is a worthwhile exercise to pursue. These conditions are all directly related to the mindset of an individual, thus by reciting positive mantras regularly, the mind can be “fooled” into believing in a more positive and edifying outlook of things and circumstances. If done consistently enough, this can then create a confident reality in the mind which will then transcend into the actions and demeanor of the individual. With so much negative elements and energy in the world today, discovering elements or practices that promise good things can never be useless.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Animal Medicine And Totems Chapter 2: Sweat Lodge Chapter 3: Dreamcatchers Chapter 4: Feathers in Healing Chapter 5: Prayer Ties Chapter 6: Smudging Chapter 7: Peace Pipes Chapter 8: Healing Herbs Chapter 9: Medicine Wheel Chapter 10: Medicine Man Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: Sweat Lodge Synopsis The sweat lodge is a Native American custom where people get into a dome-shaped dwelling to go through a sauna-like environment. The lodge itself is commonly a wooden-framed structure made from tree limbs. Hot rocks are laid inside an earthen-dug pit set in the center of this man-made enclosure. Water is sporadically poured over the heated rocks to produce a hot and steamy room. The sweat ceremonial is meant as a spiritual reunion with the creator and a venerating connection to the earth itself as much as it's meant for purging toxins from the physical body. Purging Things From The Body Mental mending - The sweat lodge ceremonial presents its participants the chance to free their minds of distractions, offering lucidity. Spiritual mending - The sweat lodge ceremonial provides a place for introspection and connection to the planet and the spirit domain. Physical Healing – The sweat lodge ceremonial presents anti-bacterial and wound-healing advantages. An entire Medical Review of the health advantages and risks of Native American sweat lodges were published by the Indian Health Service in 1998. The heat of a sweat lodge is able to raise core body temperature, producing what may be called a “temporary fever.” In a sauna at 80 degrees Centigrade (C), grownups raise their rectal temperature about 1 degree C after a half-hour. There's increasing evidence that mild to moderate pinnacles of temperature may heighten particular and nonspecific immunity. Febrile temperatures have been demonstrated to advance the migration of neutrophiles, the production of antibacterial matters by leukocytes, and the antiviral action of interferon. An experiment with mice contaminated with herpes supplies a dramatic illustration of bettered host defenses: increasing their core temperature by 2 degrees Centigrade bettered their survival rate from 0% to 100%. Anti-cancer. Hyperthermia seems to be a promising modality for cancer handling when blended with radiotherapy or chemotherapy, though the experimental body temperatures (41-45 degrees C) are well above those received in a sweat lodge. Yet there might likewise be anti-cancer benefits to elevating body temperature to the febrile range. Elevated temperatures have been evidenced to retard the proliferation of particular tumor cells, increase the antitumor action of interferon and interleukins, and heighten the killing efficiency of particular cytotoxic t-lymphocytes Detoxification. The idea that injurious “toxins” may be eliminated from the body by sweating is a popular one, as demonstrated by these quotes from publications designated for the general public: “Sweating is among our most crucial mechanisms of natural healing, as it allows the body to free itself of unwanted materials, “Impurities in a lot of body organs are purged out as the capillaries dilate and the heart step-ups its pace, “‘Heat stress’...is really effective in freeing fat-stored toxins from the cells. While there's no doubt that sweat glands are excretory organs, the clinical implication of human sweat as an excretory pathway for particular substances has got little scientific scrutiny. However there may be dangers to this type of treatment. Make sure that you check with a doctor first and pay attention to the cues your body is giving you. Chapter 3: Dreamcatchers Synopsis The earliest dreamcatchers (sacred hoops) were crafted for youngsters to protect them from nightmares. Dreamcatchers were originally made by the youngsters of the American native Kiowa and Cherokee tribes. Dreamcatchers constitute a spider's web with a hole in the centre. The web catches the foul dreams which melt in the sunshine, and the beneficial dreams pass through the center hole and travel down the feather suspended from the center. Sleep Healing The legend of the Native American dreamcatcher deviates somewhat from tribe to tribe, however the basic theme or aim was to let good dreams slip through the web and into the sleeper during the nighttime while the foul dreams were caught up in the web and would be perished at break of day light. The Lakota Legend has the opposing notion that the web will catch your great ideas and the bad ones will pass through the hole. Sacred Hoops The earliest dreamcatchers, normally called Sacred Hoops, were crafted by parents to protect their youngsters from nightmares. Newborns were presented charms that were wound in the form of spider webs to protect their dreams so their innocence wouldn't be harmed by the pranksters of the night. The dream catcher charm is hung from the hoop on the cradle. How They Were Made Dreamcatcher hoops were in the beginning made out of willow and covered up with sage, the web was made from deer tendon. Modern dreamcatchers are constructed with wood or metal wound in leather strips, artificial tendon replace the now forbidden utilization of deer tendon. The decoration of the web along with the form, size and colors utilized is left to the artisan's imagination. Feathers bound to the dreamcatcher are meant to assist the flight of great dreams. The Story of the Dreamcatcher From The Chippewa A spider was softly spinning his web in his own place. It was alongside the sleeping space of Nokomis, the grandma. Every day, Nokomis watched the spider at work, softly spinning away. One day as she was looking at him, her grandson entered. "Nokomis-iya!" he cried, peeking at the spider. He stamped over to the spider, gathered up a shoe and went to hit it. "No-keegwa," the old lady whispered, "don't harm him." "Nokomis, why do you protect the spider?" Enquired the little boy. The old lady smiled, but didn't answer. Once the boy left, the spider went to the old lady and thanked her for sparing his life. He stated to her, "For numerous days you've watched me spin and weave my web. You've admired my work. In return for sparing my life, I'll give you a gift." He smiled his particular spider smile and moved away, spinning as he exited. Before long the moon glistened on a magical silverish web moving softly in the window. "See how I spin?" he stated. "See and learn, for every web will snare foul dreams. Only great dreams will run through the little hole. This is my present to you. Use it so that only great dreams will be recalled. The foul dreams will get hopelessly entangled in the web." This is an ancient legend, as dreams will never cease, hang this dream net above your bed, dream on, and be at peace.

Table of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Herbal Healing Basics Chapter 2: How To Treat Wounds With Herbs Chapter 3: How To Treat Acne With Herbs Chapter 4: Treating Anxiety And Depression With Herbs Chapter 5: Herbal Assistance For Cancer Treatment Chapter 6: Body Detox With Herbs Chapter 7: Herbs For Headaches And Tension Chapter 8: Herbs For Helping With Lung Conditions Chapter 9: Top 5 Herbs To Keep On Hand Chapter 10: What You Need To Know-The Cautions About Using Herbs Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: How To Treat Wounds With Herbs Synopsis There are lots of different herbs for different uses, made available by nature itself. Treating wounds with simple ingredients found in a household is not uncommon. A person who prefers to treat ailments the natural way should take the time to compile a simple list of some common herbs and keep these herbs at hand to quick and easy use. Wounds It’s very handy to have some knowledge on herbs used for treating wound for children. Almost every day a child will manage to get him or herself hurt while playing, thus having these quick easy remedies available would eliminate the need to run to a medical facility often. The aloe herb contains compounds that can reduce inflammation, swelling, and redness of wounds. This herb should be applied directly to the wound after a simple cleaning exercise is done to rid the wound of any unwanted particles. The naturally secreted gel works wonders for superficial wounds. Calendula officinalis is another herd that can successfully treat wounds. The flavanoids and antioxidants it contain helps to speed up the healing process by increasing the blood flow to the wound. This ingredient can be applied topically and is also a popular ingredient in creams and ointments. Slippery elm, a tree native to North America can also be used to treat wounds. Slippery elm is also found in powder form, but should be applied around the wound and not directly into an open wound. Other more familiar herbs used to treat wounds are lavender which not only helps the healing process but also acts as a germ killing agent. Tea tree oil also disinfects while healing wounds. This particular herb works at quite a fast pace in the healing process. Echinacea, Marigold, and Myrrh are also good healing agents for wounds. All these can be applied to the wounds by simply diluting a little herbal tincture with water. Chapter 3: How To Treat Acne With Herbs Synopsis Acne is a condition that is caused by the over production of sebum. When this happens the pores become blocked and hard plugs are formed. This chocking eventually causes the acne condition. Other causes may include hormonal imbalances, pregnancy, menstrual periods, emotional stress, and others. Skin Issues Treating the acne problem can be quite a challenge because of its reoccurring possibilities. However some advocate the use of certain herbs for better control or eradication of the acne condition. The following are just some common suggestions of herbs used to treat acne in varying degrees. • Tea tree oil – this treatment causes less drying and stinging after effects. Also the redness is at a minimal. • Aloe gel – has antibacterial properties which help to kill of the germs or also stop them from contaminating other parts of the skin • Rose water – is applied to give relief to the itching and pain • Walnut leaf – can be used as an astringent face wash. • Burdock root and dandelion – both these herbs contain insulin which can improve the skin condition and remove the bacteria. • Goldenseal – helps to stop the acne from secreting any puss of other undesirable liquids. • Calendula – promotes the healing of the tissues at a more rapid pace. It also helps to heal the scars left to some level of smoothness. It is highly recommended that the acne condition be treated internally as well as externally. Both these areas are intertwined and treating one without the other may not produce the desired results. When the desired results are forthcoming the conditions may end up becoming worse because now the added factor of depression and stress is added. Acne responds to a combination of herbs used both for internal as well as external use. This combination is important to achieve long lasting results. Ideally the herbs used for topical purposes should include tea tree oil, lavender, and calendula, while those used internally should be milk thistle and dandelion. Chapter 4: Treating Anxiety And Depression With Herbs Synopsis Treating anxiety and depression using herbs is a good alternative to using the conventional method of prescription drugs. This side effects from resorting to using prescription drugs and be long term, harmful and sometimes not adequately addressing the anxiety and depression issues. Calming By using herbal remedies it allows the person in the anxiety and depression condition to be treated through a natural way which deals with the social anxiety disorder and the body’s chemical imbalance which causes the depression in the first place. Of course there are some herbs that are found to be more effective than others when treating these conditions. It should be noted however that in order for these herbs to have the desired success rate or results, the diet of the individual must be well balance and healthy. All these elements combined together will contribute to a better sense of calm and relaxed mental state. • Magnolia bark is a powerful herbs used to treat the insomnia problem which is one of the underlying causes for depression and anxiety. • Phellodendron bark is another fundamental herb used in ancient Chinese medicine to actually arrest the stress build up and also relief the anxiety condition. It works by regulating the cortisol which is effectively the stress hormone. • St John wort is used to treat the depression and anxiety in only small doses. So when using this herb, prudency must be exercised. • Valerian is regarded as the most powerful herb available to address the depression and anxiety issue. It works to positively influence the body’s chemical make up of certain elements. • Lemon balm is also popularly referred to as the calming herb. It is mostly used for its almost sedative like inducing properties. • Hops powder formally used primarily to treat insomnia, is now recommended for its assistance in treating depression. However at this point, it is still not conclusively proven that this herb is the only contributing factor in the success of treating depression.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Introduction To Qi Gong Chapter 2: What Positive Effects Qi Gong Has On The Mind, Body And Spirit Chapter 3: Qi Gong Immediate Energy Techniques Chapter 4: Stress Management With Qi Gong Chapter 5: Restoring Physical Vitality Chapter 6: Balancing And Healing Emotions Chapter 7: Brining Your Spirit To A Calm Place Chapter 8: How To Practice Qi Gong Effectively Chapter 9: The Healing Sounds That Accompany Qi Gong Chapter 10: Possible Side Effects Of Qi Gong Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 3: Qi Gong Immediate Energy Techniques Synopsis Most people who decide to take up qi gong do so with the intention of either restoring their health to its optimum level or to ensure the continuity of good health conditions. Boosting Yourself Most qi gong practitioners attest to the fact that they are able to experience very fast connections with their energy source and draw from it successfully. These movements exercised in qi gong utilize the body, mind, and spirit to develop the vital energy which increases the health and longevity while also raising the consciousness of the spirit. This connection is very important for the energy source to be able envelope the complete being. In order to be able to harness this energy the breathing techniques are used alongside the total concentration while engaging the body in the various set physical movements. This then brings the body’s defense system through this energy to its optimum levels to allow the body to defend itself against the environment. Depending on the energy levels reached, some people attest to the fact that as the physical body becomes stronger so does the mental state of the individual, thus further enabling a higher level of brain power to be used. Technically there are three type of energy that the qi gong practice releases. There is the essence energy which is Jing, then there is the vital energy which is Qi, and lastly there is the spirit energy which is Shen. These energies are harnessed through the use of shapes and postures with the intention of creating an ideal balance between all the energies so that optimum physical and mental health can be achieved. In doing qi gong regularly and under the guidance of an experienced teacher the individual is taught how to connect, build, circulate, and direct the individual energy. The blockages of energy caused by various reasons like physical trauma, mental trauma, spiritual trauma, toxins or stress is where the energy is thought to be trapped. These blockages can then be removed successfully with the qi gong techniques. Chapter 4: Stress Management With Qi Gong Synopsis While most stress management styles call for the quieting of the body and mind by either seeking a quite place and sitting still or by listening to relaxation inducing music to create the ideal environment to encourage meditation, qi gong works in quite different ways. De-Stress The qi gong technique does not require the individual to be in a meditative state rather it requires the individual to perform certain set movement patterns. There are basic meditational effects of breathing that are couple with the different movements which encourages constant inhaling and exhaling. The qi gong techniques of coupling breathing and movements is what gives the individual the necessary mind set and physical calmness to manage stress well. The sessions normally encourage the individual to practice a few basic movements to “prepare” the person. The first few steps include the breathing and meditation exercises to correct the body posture and to relax the muscle tensions. The breathing will then encourage the flow of qi through the body and in doing this the blockages will dissolve. This will then create the circumstances for the body to be able to control and calm the mind, and at the same time reducing the production and flow of thoughts. Practicing this control technique will eventually calm the activity of the mind and thus reduce the stress factor. These movements and breathing exercises also stimulated the respiratory system, revitalizes the metabolic rate, and invigorates the blood flow conditions. All of these contribute one way or another to the body’s well being and when the body is good so will the mind be. The body will not cause the mind to be unduly stressed over its condition which is a bonus when the mind has to already have to deal with extenuating external factors. Chapter 5: Restoring Physical Vitality Synopsis The qi gong art form consists of physical movements, meditation, creative visualization, and breathing exercise which contributes to the cultivation of vital life force energy. This in turn ensures better health conditions, heightened energy levels, and longevity. The Power Within Some studies have shown that even short term practice of qi gong has shown positive results, but of course when embarking on something that is going to bring the body to its best condition should be taken as a long term endeavor. Basically the individual is encouraged to explore the different facets of this art form which include energy boosting, restoring of physical vitality, balancing the emotions, and calming the spirit. Ideally when this level is reached in every session the ultimate goal of physical vitality is also gained. True vitality comes from within the natural workings of a healthy body system. Though resorting to outside supplements is also a possible way to go, if the body condition is not receptive then any attempt to create vitality is wasted. Therefore the addressing of the holistic mind and body and spirit issue is what needs to be understood in qi gong. Qi gong teaches the individual how to work the qi energy through the meridians of the body system to unblock whatever is in the way, so that the positive energy can flow freely and in a balanced fashion. This energy also causes the blood flow to improve and with this all the different connective organs are able to function well. The qi energy derived from qi gong techniques also loosens the joints, tones up the oxygenated muscles and relaxes the nervous system. All of these factors in one way or another increases the physical vitality of an individual progressively and assuredly. An optimum positive health condition leaves the individual with peace of mind to concentrate on enjoying life fully and satisfactorily. This new lease of vitality also enables the individual to look forward to the longevity elements promised in practicing qi gong.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: What Is Polarity Therapy Chapter 2: Polarity In Food For Health Chapter 3: Dealing With Stress Reduction For Healing Chapter 4: Polarity Therapy And Touch Chapter 5: The Contact Point Relationships Chapter 6: Polarity Stretching Exercises Chapter 7: Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: Polarity In Food For Health Synopsis With reference to healing, its prana, or chi, critical energy, which keeps the body and psyche living, flowing, and operating well. There are 2 places we may acquire this vital energy of prana: by breathing, and by food. What You Consume The mastermind of polarity therapy, understood this considerably. When confronted with sickness, toxicity, and pain in his patients, he oftentimes advised a change in diet, as well as energetic motion with active breathing. The types of alterations he advised in food consumption frequently included the accompanying: more fresh foods, less cooked oils, less complicated food combinations, and the willingness to sit, eat, and pay attention to one’s food as one ate. His cleansing and health building diets didn't include a lot of items typical in today’s grocery stores. Frozen, fried, micro-waved, canned, and warmed-over foods weren't on his menu. As he stated: There are over 1500 diseases, and only the transgression of nature is the grounds for most of them. Consequently, by getting rid of the cause, a large number of symptoms will go away. If you consider your own food patterns with love, refraining from the deep-seated inclination to pick on yourself in assorted unhelpful ways, you'll likely observe one or more regular inclinations: the consoling potato chips in front of the television set, the gratifying snack mid-afternoon as your energy is easing off, the additional cup of caffeine when perhaps you merely need to rest instead of press on relentlessly. Treating food in the way of polarity we view these patterns a bit differently than in Western nutrition. If a formula is working for you, and hadn't harmed you in any evident way, even though it's broadly considered an unhealthy process, we'd talk regard it as being an example of okasatmya. Okasatmya is being accustomed to that which will be poisonous to some other. We all may think of illustrations of this: the acquaintance that eats salsa hot enough to bring anybody else to their knees, perfectly happily, or the scrawny guy with modest cholesterol who has 5 eggs nearly every morning for breakfast. We each bear our own little dietary oddities and mannerisms that a different individual, stumbling into our routine inadvertently, would find hard or even injurious to their unique metabolism. If this is working for you, by all means, don't alter it. All the same, if you're working with joint pain, depressive disorder, congestion, weariness, or additional troubles, it might be time to think about what might be called satmya. Satmya is being accustomed to that which is therapeutic for oneself. Whether that's a fresh veggie juice in the morning, trying a combining of herbs to invigorate your metabolism, arranging a “salt glow” first thing in the morning to clear off the junk and debris of the night, or putting in more fruits, veggies, and whole grains to your food selection, and less pre-packed high-salt snacks. Polarity therapy has a good assortment of common, down to earth healing exercises that are simple to do on one’s own. Whether one is acting upon asthma, arthritis, a weak heart, constipation, or the cold, there are remedies for them. One has to be in that place of determining the need for a change, and being prepared to accomplish it, to introduce this into one’s life. To explore polarity therapy, one has to be open to this new position. Our every action is our karma, which determines our life here. We're either a wise custodian or an ineffective manager. Clear thinkers attempt to discover the causes, while the mediocre look for flights from effects. This sets the entire picture into a different light as to causes, which lie in ourselves, instead of in some microbe. Humanity has to grow up sometime and be responsible for its actions. Only if we comprehend ourselves can we get along with ourselves and treasure this treasured gift of life. Chapter 3: Dealing With Stress Reduction For Healing Synopsis May one hour a week of polarity therapy, massage, lower your blood pressure, lessen your risk of cancer, better your cardio-vascular efficiency, diminish depression, expand energy and help you sleep better? The reply is uh-huh to all of the above. Ease The Tension Tension and stress-related diseases have achieved epidemic dimensions in our modern day civilization. The greatest causes of mortality in industrialized lands have switched from the infectious illnesses that were prevailing at the outset of this century to the chronic and lifestyle-related sicknesses now accounting for the bulk of deaths. According to the American Psychological Association, tension solely causes American workers to omit an average of sixteen days on the job every year. Tension affects everybody and stress disorders are founded on a slow and developmental assemblage of psychological and physical stress reactions throughout the life of the person. Stress surely may become the silent killer! Possibly, one of the most damaging results of unreasonable levels of tension is the effect on immune reaction. Stress is now becoming linked to and implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer as well as additional dysfunctions related to autoimmune disorders like chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, asthma, yeast infections, and a lot more. The forces of stress bring on physical problems! The voluntary systema nervosum sends off messages to your muscles to fight or take flight. In reaction to this immediate stress in your body, the autonomic nervous system, which governs involuntary body functions, will ready you by sending off additional blood to your muscles. It will likewise slow up digestion, mental clarity and a few organ functions. There are likewise hormonal reactions that produce a lot of hypersensitive effects on the body. Basically, your body becomes a walking military machine bracing for attack and closing down a lot of vital organ functions you need to sustain health. 75% to 90% of all visits to doctors regard stress-related complaints. Tension is linked to particular illnesses and research has now demonstrated the relationship between our wellness and our emotions. Many people have a hard time recognizing tension in the body till it becomes an obvious issue like: severe backache, chronic indigestion, headaches, ceaseless colds, deficiency of energy and frequently depression. When it achieves the stage of physical and mental imbalances, it's become an issue. Bodywork is a major factor in polarity therapy and helping us to discover where the tension is located in the body. Body work won't only discover the tension holding patterns; it will educate the body in getting back to balance before it becomes a major physical issue. Research has demonstrated that body work: • Aids appropriate movement of fluids through the system including lymph, blood in the arterias and veins, glandular secretions and removal of toxins • Step-ups muscle response like elasticity of connective tissue, lessens muscle fatigue, and step-ups muscle energy • Regenerates vital organ function including breathing and circulation • Step-ups neural activity benefiting both the central and systema nervosum periphericum • Step-ups the balance in reflex patterns • Rejuvenates general balance to stress overload Body work reinstates our coping mechanisms and allows for physical and emotional counterbalance to happen before it becomes a major issue. Every person is a unique and complex interaction of body, mind and spirit. Illness may best be understood as interference within the dynamic balance of these relationships. The state of wellness exists if these elements function in harmony. Bodywork, which boosts this harmony, isn't simply a luxury, but is fast becoming an important part of our integrative approach to wellness and health.

Table Of Contents Foreword Chapter 1: Yoga Basics Chapter 2: What Is Hot Yoga Chapter 3: How Yoga Helps Stress And Hyper Activity Disorders Chapter 4: Helping Arthritis Ailments With Yoga Chapter 5: Yoga Can Help Squash Back Pain Chapter 6: Spiritual Healing With Yoga Chapter 7: Emotional Healing Thru Yoga Chapter 8: How To Practice Yoga Breathing Chapter 9: Yoga Poses And What They Are For Chapter 10: Possible Side Effects Of Yoga Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 4: Helping Arthritis Ailments With Yoga Synopsis Dealing with the arthritis condition can be very stressful and painful. Most arthritis sufferers diligently seek medical healing or alternative healing to help deal with the possibly debilitating disease. Decreasing Pain For most the recommendation given is couple a good exercise regiment with the necessary supplementation of other medical prescriptions. For those who have ventured into taking up yoga, have found that they managed to achieve wonderful percentages of recuperation, from this arthritis disease. Thus yoga has over time become the mainstream methods for dealing with arthritis conditions. Yoga provides the gentle exercise routine for the arthritis patient who already has to endure the perpetual discomfort of pain. Each yoga move has a corresponding counter move and this helps to address the various muscles and joints which are affected by the arthritis condition. Many people who have tried yoga have attested to the almost immediate pain relief they have experienced after only a few supervised sessions. When yoga is used as a form of treatment to address arthritis, the genes in the body which function as protector of pain and discomfort can actually be mare to function more efficiently to create a relaxed effect. This then allows the patient to find some immediate relief from the pain aspect produced from arthritis. Some researchers have linked arthritis to deep seated resentment building up in the individual’s system. Thus with the help of yoga the deep seated resentment can be addressed by focusing on restoring the balance in the chakra system. This chakra system is the primary energy vortex located along the spinal column and is associated with the energy of compassion and love for self and others. Yoga then helps to facilitate the means for the body to be rid of this negative energy pattern that is causing the arthritis disease, starting from the deepest levels. Chapter 5: Yoga Can Help Squash Back Pain Synopsis Oftentimes people resort to pain killers or other medically prescribed items to control or reduce back pains. If the individual decides to try the art form of yoga to address back pain all these foreign substances can be avoided. Yoga is natural and does not have any of the possible side effects the prescribed medications may have. Relief If done correctly, yoga can heal back pains effectively because of the stretching and exercising of both the muscles and joints. All it takes is a little yoga exercises every day. Once the positions most suited to the individual are narrowed down to address back pains, the movements can be practiced anytime. In order to correct any back problems certain contributing factors need to be looked into. The incorrect posture, improper movements, or bad body mechanics, repetitive strenuous motions on the joints and muscles, disc injuries, damaged or inflamed ligaments are just some of these issues. With the correct supervised combinations of yoga movements all the above can be corrected, some gradually while others more quickly. Through the various yoga poses, specific areas of muscles and joints can be addresses and realigned to restore the centered positions in the body. Some of the common positions that yoga uses to address the back pains are the locust pose, the cobra pose, and a few poses from the tadasasna regiment. Besides doing all the various yoga poses to enhance the back muscles and strengthen the posture, keeping other regular exercises as part of the daily routine is also recommended. Simple exercises like swimming and light weight training are good ways to build and strengthen the back area. With the advancement of age, an individual should also be conscious of the strain on the back when lifting heavy objects or doing physically exerting exercises or work.

Table Of Contents Chapter 1: Aromatherapy- The Basics Chapter 2: Understanding Aromatherapy Chapter 3: Considering Aromatherapy Chapter 4: Using Aromatherapy Effectively Chapter 5: More Ways Of Using Aromatherapy Chapter 6: Cures Using Aromatherapy Chapter 7: Healing Attributes Of Aromatherapy Chapter 8: Aromatherapy And Healing Chapter 9: Misusing Aromatherapy Chapter 10: Acquiring Aromatherapy Products Wrapping Up Sample Content Preview Chapter 2: Understanding Aromatherapy Synopsis The importance of understanding a particular topic, idea, or element is often overlooked in this busy world of today. To make matters worse it is often difficult to find the time to really extensively explore particular topics. However with the use of various modern tools, this task can be not only fun but very informative too. Digging A Little Deeper Most people today understand aromatherapy as just another indulgent exercise the privileged few enjoy. However upon taking the time to delve deeper, one is likely to find a whole new prospect relating to the very diverse uses of aromatherapy. Aromatherapy can be explored as an alternative to more invasive methods of treatments. Originating long before medical science made discoveries and break-throughs; aromatherapy has had many success stories to back its many wondrous attributes. The concept of using aromatherapy to treat wounds and burns first came about when a scientist badly burned his hand while conducting an experiment and later it was used again successfully, as an antiseptic to treat the wounded soldiers during world war two. Being the basis of natural materials, aromatherapy is less dangerous a method to choose from, when deciding on the best suited treatment for various illnesses. In theory aromatherapy is a treatment that may or may not help in the prevention of diseases by the use of essential oils. When coupled with the more conventional methods of treatments it has been found to produce impressive results, mainly contributing as a calming ingredient to the equation. Aromatherapy can have a positive impact on the limbic system through the olfactory system. It has also been known to have direct pharmacologic effects. There have been studies done to prove the connection between the direct impacts of use between aromatherapy coupled with other scientific methods, however to date no conclusive data has been forth coming. Chapter 3: Considering Aromatherapy Synopsis Some consider aromatherapy as a new age alternative style of treatment, while yet others know of its origins that date back a long while. Indulging in aromatherapy is a choice that should only be made after understanding the various aspects of this field. This is most important when choosing aromatherapy as an alternative to medical treatments when trying to arrest, cure or prevent diseases. What To Think About The general perception of aromatherapy is, getting the scent of an essential oil to infuse itself into the atmosphere to create a pleasing and relaxing state of body and mind. To others is may be perceived as a relaxing massage session with the use of beneficial essential oils. Using aromatherapy as a skin care regimen is also very popular. Many of the essential oils used have proven qualities that can contribute to the various needs addressed in skin care lines. These requirements can range from wanting to keep the skin looking young and supple to actually reversing the aging effects on the skin. Some forms of eczema and acne have been successfully arrested with the use of the aromatherapy method. Aromatherapy is also an excellent way recommended to get oneself into a meditative state. These meditative states are usually associated with yoga, tai chi, visualization or self hypnosis. Trying various oils before deciding on the one that best allows you to reach the required level of mediation is sometimes needed. Besides this some research has shown that using aromatherapy can help create the mood for various scenarios with specific results in mind. Though there is lack of conclusive evidence to show aromatherapy can be instrumental in treating certain diseases, the fact remains that many people turn to this alternative based on other success stories. Traditionally linked to the successful treatment of emotional and physical ailments there is proven success because aromatherapy is a natural method that helps the body cope with stress, anxiety and tension which are all contributing factors or causes of other illnesses and diseases. Chapter 4: Using Aromatherapy Effectively Synopsis Aromatherapy has become very popular today. Though it is still mostly linked to idea of a relaxingly therapeutic massage session, newer uses are now being explored. In ancient times aromatherapy was used for almost everything from relaxing to health solutions and even for culinary preparations. A lot needs to be understood before embarking on the journey of aromatherapy. What You Need To Know If one is thinking of setting up an aromatherapy centre or even considering the use of aromatherapy to treat a certain medical condition, the buying of the essential oils is a crucial aspect to consider. Most essential oils today are so commercialized that it may not always be as genuine as stated on the labels. Careful examination of the label contents needs to be checked and rechecked before a purchase is made. Some labels can be quite deceiving in their purported capabilities. The condition and type of packing of the essential oils is also a very important feature that should be considered. Ideally there should not be any cracks or broken seals as this will contribute to the contamination of the purity levels of the oils. Besides all this, the other important fact to consider is getting the best results through the method and choice of essential oils. Meaning some essential oil work better when used the correct way and the best results are assured if the recommended way is not taken for granted but adhered to carefully. The method of inhalation is used to treat certain ailments like sinuses, headaches, colds, chest congestions and other similar conditions. This method is far more effective and quicker than taking oral or direct application on the skin. Spraying a mixture of essential oils and distilled water is another method used to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. This method has proved to be beneficial when treating anxiety, depression, stress and other pressurizing conditions. Some conditions call for direct applications. However as most aromatherapy massage session are performed with direct skin contact, the concentration of the essential oils needs to be considered before commencing. Reason being that these essential oils could cause an allergic reaction to the individual.