This beats Top Ramen any day!
Quick Homemade Ramen
4 c water
1/2 package pre-cooked ramen noodles
1/2 c mixed frozen organic mushrooms
1/2 c mixed frozen organic bell peppers
1 tablespoon white mis0
chopped basil
tamari
cracked pepper
One slice of gluten free Barvarian sourdough
You can also add: scallions, seaweed, Karams Garlic Sauce, daikon, shrimp, coconut milk,
Photo: jslander
Quick Homemade Ramen w/toast
Rice for Breakfast?
This particular recipe I use peaches. It's September here in Seattle but still very sunny so I thought the peaches and hearty grain mix would go together well. Use whatever seasonal fruit that you like if your not into peaches. Peaches work very well for this recipe.
Rice For Breakfast
1/2 c brown rice
1/2 peach, diced
1/2 c raisins
dash of cinnamon
dollop of honey (unless your vegan you can use your preferred sweetener)
Your choice of rice, almond, hemp or regular milk
Place rice, raisins, cinnamon and milk into a pot on low heat. Dice up your peach mix it it and add honey.
It is said through out the centuries in eastern countries that the combination of honey and cinnamon are a miracle cure for many ailments and are believed to be a big cancer fighter.
It's advised that you eat cinnamon and honey on toast every day to stay healthy!
A word on honey: most vegans do not eat honey because they feel that 'bee farming' is unethical. If you can't stay away from honey at least stay away from commercial honey and buy locally at your weekly market or health food store. Or become a bee keeper!
Here is an article about cinnamon and honey.
Photo: Vibrant Spirit
Health Benefits of Wu Long Tea
Research studies on the health benefits of wu long tea (also referred to as oolong tea) reveal the brew's potential to reverse signs of aging, facilitate weight loss, and promote overall wellness.
While all teas possess similar properties including caffeine, catechin, polyphenals, and teaflavin tearubigin that provide benefits to the human body, the quantities and percentages differ depending on the extent of oxidation during production.
Therefore the health benefits of wu long tea, which is semi-fermented, vary from those offered by green tea with its limited processing and black tea with its extensive oxidation process.Following are some research studies that point to the health benefits of wu long tea consumption.
WEIGHT LOSS:
Scientists from Japan's University of Tokushima School of Medicine found that people who regularly consumed oolong tea experienced more than twice the calorie-burning results compared to those who drank green tea.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Investigation found that women who consumed wu-long tea directly after a meal increased energy expenditure by 10%. This compared to an energy expenditure of 4% for green tea drinkers and 0 for water drinkers.
Researchers at the Suntory Research Center in Osaka, Japan found that drinking wu long tea 15 minutes before eating foods high in carbohydrates curbed rises in insulin, thus reducing some of the fattening effects of carbohydrate intake.
ENHANCED SKIN CONDITION:
Researchers from Japan's Shiga University of Medical Science found that drinking wu long each day helps to clear up skin problems within one month.
Dr. Kenichi Yanagimoto and colleagues from the University of California found that people who drank wu long tea on a daily basis experienced a fifty-percent reduction in free radicals within 15 days.
Free radicals are damaging substances in the body that contribute to signs of aging, including wrinkles and dark spots that are caused by ultra-violet rays, chemical food additives, pollution and stress.
HEALTHY TEETH:
A study by the Department of Dentistry at Japan's Osaka University showed that regular consumption of oolong tea strengthens teeth and helps prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the build-up of plaque.
STRONGER IMMUNE SYSTEM:
According to a study published in Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, test subjects who consumed wu long were found to have stronger immune systems and a reduced risk for infections.
While the results of these and other studies are promising, you should always talk with your doctor about the health benefits of wu long tea before adding the brew or other varieties to your daily diet for therapeutic purposes.
This article was written by Jules Sowder. Visit Learn-About-Tea.com for more information on tea, including varieties, health benefits, selection, accessories, gift-giving and entertaining.
Animal Shelter Support
Please help animals in your area and others get the help they need. Help support an animal shelter in your area:
Search: Animal Shelter Support
Great resources to the Humane Society and other links at 100hot.com
Animal Shelter Donate Page
Donate at animalshelter.org
USA Animal Shelters
Find shelters across the US
The Animal Rescue Site
Provides food to shelters across the US
Anti-Aging Foods
By Peter Emerson
Anti-aging is the process of delaying the effects of aging by applying preventive methods, exercise, and avoidance of health hazards. Anti-aging foods promote endurance, longevity, restful sleep, vitality, and energy while offering a general sense of calm and well being. They help the whole body function by boosting blood formation, tissue re-building, blood purification, reducing chronic health deceases, and preventing anemia, arthritis, fevers, liver spots, and muscular dysfunctions.
Anti-aging is not a sickness; however, it retards the normal growth of the body. Proper nutrition regenerates new cells and slows down the aging process. Anti-aging foods reduce excess free-radical contents in the body and improve immune resistance. They promote life extension by lowering cholesterol and triglycerides considerably and speed up the body metabolism and fat-burning capabilities. The anti-aging foods help you improve skin tone and prevent sagging skin. Consumption of vitamin enriched foods, such as fruits, oily fish, and grains helps fight lifetime deceases such as high blood pressure, cancer, cataracts, macular degeneration, and blindness. In addition to regular diets, specialty diets are also prescribed by specialists in anti-aging therapy. Wrinkle-free skin in aged people is proof of the good effects of anti-aging foods.
Naturally available foods with anti-aging factors include avocado, berries, cruciferous garlic, ginger, nuts, soy, whole meal pasta and rice, watermelon, and fresh water. Foods rich in antioxidants such as citrus, carrots, spinach, tomatoes, almonds, berries, and bell peppers, as well as the nutrients calcium, zinc, beta-carotene, and vitamin-B are popular anti-aging foods.
Himalayan goji juice, a powerful anti-aging nutrition health food, is ideal for promoting health. Today, anti-aging foods are exclusively available in markets and online.
Anti Aging provides detailed information on Anti Aging, Anti Aging Eye Cream, Anti Aging Treatment, Anti Aging Natural Supplements and more. Anti Aging is affiliated with Anti Aging Skin Care Treatment.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Emerson
Anti Aging Foods
7 Super Anti Aging Foods
By Tanya Turner
Anti aging food has been a hot topic recently. Everybody knows that you are supposed to eat more fruit and vegetables to protect yourself from aging. But are all fruits and veggies equally good? Find what specific foods are considered best when it comes to anti-aging diet.
1. Avocado for younger looking skin
People who keep low fat diet usually avoid avocado because it contains a lot of fat. But actually it is high in monounsaturated fat which reduces cholesterol level in the body. Avocado is a very good source of Vitamin E, which is essential for keeping your skin smooth and young. Also avocado contains potassium which prevents high blood pressure. Avocado is great to use in sandwiches instead of butter spread.
2. Berries as antiaging antioxidants
Most berries especially blackberries, blueberries, blackcurrants contain phytochemicals which are powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants help to protect your body against damage caused by free radicals so they are very important for antiaging nutrition. Red grape is technically not a berry, but it has similar properties.
3. Fish for protein and Omega 3 fats
Your body needs quality proteins and some fat, and it is much better to take fish as a source of these and not red meat. Fish supplies us with Omega 3 fatty acids which stimulate the immune system and lowers risk of heart disease. Some studies have shown that people who eat a lot of fish have lower risk of colorectal, esophageal and stomach cancers.
4. Carrots for cancer protection
Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene which is a powerful antioxidant that fights aging and many diseases. Studies have shown that people who eat one medium carrot a day significantly reduced risk of lung cancer. Beta carotene also keeps your vision sharp protecting your eyes from age related diseases. It is also important for keeping your immune system strong.
Carrots give you most benefits if eaten uncooked. If you don't feel like eating a row carrot, try adding it to your salads, it gives slightly sweet taste to a salad. Alternatively drink carrot juice once in a while - the juice is a concentrated source of beta carotene.
5. Nuts to bust your immune system
Raw nuts are very high in fiber; they are also a good source of vitamins and potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium, copper and selenium. They control cholesterol level and strengthen your immune system. The only draw back of nuts is that they are high in fat, so a couple table spoons a day is good but not more.
Only row nuts are good anti-aging food. Avoid salted and roasted nuts, they do more damage to your health than bring benefits. A good way to add nuts to your everyday diet is to sprinkle them over a salad or to add them to cereals.
6. Whole meal pasta and brown rice for energy
These contain complex carbohydrates, to insure that you feel full of energy all day. Brown rice is high in fiber and B group vitamins. Only don't make fried rice out of it - steamed brown rice is the best choice. Whole meal pasta is high in fiber and iron.
7. Water to detoxify and keep smooth skin
Water is absolutely essential for our health. You probably have heard that you should drink 8 glasses of water every day, but do you follow the advice? Water helps to get rid of toxins. Also adequate intake of water insures that your skin looks young and healthy. Moisturizing anti-aging creams and lotions are good, but if you drink enough water your skin will be less dry without creams.
Pure bottled water is very good for you, but not exciting. So you can replace it with other nutritious liquids - juices with no added sugar, herbal teas or mineral water. Fresh fruits also are good source of water, for example watermelon is basically 90% water. 8 glasses a day is a rule of thumb, but in hot or windy weather you might need more.
Include these products in your diet on a regular basis and you will see that soon you will feel and look younger than your physical age.
Tanya Turner is an anti-aging researcher and a publisher of Anti-Aging Skincare Guide which provides you with information about anti-aging food, anti-aging supplements, anti-aging treatments and skin care.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tanya_Turner
What Everybody Should Know About Oolong Tea
By Lee Dobbins
Extensive research showed how oolong tea had magnificently made a difference on diverting the market into consuming a new breed of tea from the traditional green and black teas.
The benefits of oolong tea are diverse. From its unique flavor and aroma to its endless list of healthful benefits, oolong tea is definitely a must-add element in your everyday health regimen.
To know more about oolong tea, here is a list of its proven health advantages.
1. It contains higher amount of polyphenols
The oolong tea is considered more powerful weapon in the fight against stomach cancer. A study in Shanghai, China, where oolong is consumed by more than 80% of tea drinkers, showed that oolong tea drinkers had a lower risk of stomach cancer than those who did not drink oolong tea. Oolong tea contains higher concentrations of polyphenols, anti-oxidative substances that can inhibit the formation and growth of a variety of tumors, including stomach cancer.
Best of all, polyphenols are known substances that remove free radicals from the body, thereby, enabling the body to fight against cancer.
2. Foils skin damage
Sometimes the best way to fend off skin damage is to get back to the basics. So toss your high-tech skin treatments aside and indulge in great-smelling, mouth-watering oolong tea. According to the experts, oolong tea can significantly protect your skin from excessive appearance of dark pigments brought about by free radicals.
Moreover, these free radicals are known culprits for facilitating skin ageing. With oolong tea, you can definitely stop the ageing process by instilling polyphenols in the body, which in turn, delay the ageing process.
3. Cut down triglyceride level
Too-high triglyceride levels are another factor associated with a greater risk of heart disease especially when the count reaches 150 or above. This is even true in some people with total cholesterol levels of 150 or below. If you have already had a heart attack, you need to take an especially aggressive stand against these troublemakers by aiming for a target of 100 or below.
If your triglyceride score is too high, restrict saturated fat. Weight loss is particularly important in normalizing triglycerides. With the help of oolong tea, you can easily gain control in losing triglyceride because of its polyphenol content. This substance activates the enzyme that is in charge of melting fatty deposits known as triglycerides. Plus, oolong tea can facilitate fat metabolism within the body.
4. Lesser caffeine content
For those who want to enjoy an afternoon cup of hot drink, instead of coffee or any other type of tea, it is best that they drink oolong tea instead. Experts say that the caffeine content in oolong tea is half as much as that of the black tea and green tea.
Higher dosage of caffeine in the body tends to stimulate the sympathetic nervous system that manages the heart rate. This will, in turn, trigger heart palpitations.
So for healthy reasons, it is best to drink oolong tea. You may never know its health benefits unless you try.
Lee Dobbins writes for tea.topicgiant.com where you can learn more about different kinds of tea including Oolong tea.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lee_Dobbins
Benefits of Green Tea
By Seth Miller
Through the course of time, the benefits of green tea are not only solely confined to the improvement of health. The benefits of green tea extend as well into the field of beauty.
Beauty Benefits
Green tea extract can be applied to the skin as one would do with lotion or makeup. It is naturally rich in antioxidants, which provide gentle exfoliation, thus giving the skin a healthy natural glow.
Health Benefits
The fountain of youth; that is green tea. Green tea is recognized to provide a larger quantity of polyphenols and theanine, which provide a much greater amount of antioxidant activity compared to the servings of broccoli, carrots, strawberries, or spinach. Undoubtedly, green tea is good for the body in a number of ways. Its profound power in the prevention of diseases and other health complications covers a wide arena.
1. Green tea enhances health. It has the ability to lengthen one's life and prevent the onset of varied diseases.
2. Green tea prevents cancer. Cancer comes in all sorts of forms. Tannin and catechin are two of the main ingredients present in green tea that both actively combat against this dreaded disease.
3. Green tea regulates blood cholesterol. The catechin found in green tea can restrict excessive accumulation of cholesterol that may vigorously lead to heart problems.
4. Green tea lowers the risk of high blood pressure, which is the main culprit of serious cardiovascular troubles.
5. Green tea lowers the blood sugar.
6. Green tea suppresses fast aging. A buildup of lipid peroxide mixed up with oxygen increases aging in a fast pace; this is, in turn, combated by the green tea.
7. Green tea refreshes the body as the muscles are soothed and the blood is properly circulated.
8. Green tea fights off food poisoning. This kind of tea is known to sterilize every food intake, thus possessing the knack to destroy bacteria which may be the main cause of food poisoning.
9. Green tea is a good remedy for skin diseases. The application of green tea extract proves to be a good cure for athlete's foot, bedsore, and all sorts of skin diseases.
10. Green tea hinders the formation of cavities.
11. Green tea scraps the presence of all types of viruses that aim to harm the human body.
It is noted that green tea drinkers and users enjoy numerous benefits derived from it. Hence, they are able to live life with less complications and health problems.
Green Tea provides detailed information on Green Tea, Green Tea Extract, Benefits of Green Tea, Green Tea and Weight Loss and more. Green Tea is affiliated with Herbal Tea.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Seth_Miller
Macrobiotic Diets and Ki Energy
By Roberto Bonami
MACROBIOTIC DIET'S HISTORY
A Macrobiotic Diet is a natural approach to health and healing. Although it is manily known as a balanced diet, it is actually a way of life that involves every area of human activity in the search of personal growth, and body, mind and spirit transformation, because the food we eat not only sustains life, but also underlies our health and happiness.
Sagen Ishizuka, a japanese army doctor that lived around the end of the last century was who first establiched a theory of nutrition and medicine based on the traditional oriental diet.
He was a sick man that suffered from kidney and skin desease, so in order to restore his health he sudied extensively both western and eastern medicine, and compiled his lifelong study conclutions in two books: "Chemical Theory of Longevity" (published in 1896) and "Diet for Health" (published in 1898)
He cured thousands of patiens by having them eat a traditional diet based on brown rice, and a variety of land and sea vegetables, and his healing technique was based on the recognition of the following five principles:
Foods are the foundation of health and happines
Sodium and potassium are the primary antagonistic and complementary elements in food, and they most strongly determine ist character or "ying yang" quality
Grain is the staple food of man
Food should be unrefined, whole and natural
Food should be grown locally and eaten in season
Macrobiotic diets in its modern form was first spread through the world by Mr. George Ohwasa (1897 - 1966), that after becoming acquainted with this way of thinking (he learned it from two of Mr Ishizuka's disciples: Manabu Nishibata and Shojiro Goto) at the age of eighteen in several months cured himself of a number "incurable" sickness, including a terminal tuberculosis.
When Mr Ohwasa established his own organization, he devoted himself more to the teaching of the yina and yang philosophy rather than the direct treatment of the sick.
MACROBIOTIC DIETS AND HEALTH
In Greek, macro means: "big or great" and biotic means: "concerning life" so the word refers to the big view of life, and it invites us to learn the underlying unity of nature.
The macrobiotic diet approach to healing simply involves providing the proper material and allowing the body to heal itself, though it is not parimarily a diet for curing sichnes or a new fad, it is a way of life based on the understanding of the rhythm, the ebb and flow of nature, it is a way of living towards happiness.
A macrobiotic diet can be used as a method of dealing with symptomatic health problems, or it can become your way of eating. As a matter of fact many of the macrobiotic diet healing methods are only effective if you change your way of eating to a macrobiotic diet.
However, some of the macrobiotic diet's healing methods are so poweful that anyone can be helped with them (although only temporarily). But if you start eating macrobiotically you will stop needing the symptomatic treatements, because your daily way of eating will gradually eliminate the toxins and excesses from your body (although you can use the symptomatic treatements to speed up the healing process).
Oriental doctors have used herbs, acupuncture, homeopatic preparations and related techniques for thousands of years to deal with symptoms and sickness, and they always considered the daily diet as the basic tool to approach health problems.
The modern medicine and dieatary principles is changing every year. New techniques and new medications are introduced every year while others are abandoned in an endless dance where many of those medicaments have found to have side effects (or even produce new sickness) and year after year they become more and more expensive.
But the main difference between traditional and modern medicine, is that modern medicine looks for the active chemical ingredients that might be used to produce tablets, but do not consider the nutritional ingredients (such as vitamins or protein contents) or the acids and enzymes, as part of the healing properties of natural products.
MACROBIOTIC DIETS AND KI
When a food item is considered as a possible medication, an oriental doctor will always consider the energy of that food (also called KI), and this energy can be different in two foods that are chemically identical and for example they have a different shape.
KI in Japan, CHI in China or GEE in Korea, could be translated as "electromagnetic charge" or "vibration" and oriental doctors have studied for centuries what kind of ki each food item is made of, and what kind of ki-energy produce in our body when we consume them.
Following the same line of thought, they tried to understand symptoms and sickness as ki patterns, and developed ways to influence it through the use of shiatsu, moxibustion, energy healing, acupuncture, herbal medicine and so on. Oriental cultures, sciences, medicines, philosophies and religions, know since thousands of years ago that everything that exists is ki. Everything is energy, waves, vibration. And the difference between the material world and the spiritual world is only a difference in the ki density.
Written by Dr. Roberto A. Bonomi
You will find all that you need to know about, self help, stress control, weight control, stop smoking, mind control, relax, motivation and meditation with subliminal messages at Dr. Bonomi's web site: http://www.drbonomi.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roberto_Bonomi
More Green Tea Benefits and Uses
In Asian countries like China, Japan and India, green tea is held in high esteem. It is a brew thought to purify the body, delight the senses and lift the spirits.
For at least fifteen years, medical researchers around the world have been looking at green tea. Studies in Japan have showed lowered rates of lung cancer, stomach cancer and skin tumors, and lowered blood cholesterol among people who drink green tea every day. Although black and oolong tea also contain some of the same preventive compounds, green tea is thought to contain the highest and most effective levels.
Men who drink at least 10 cups of green tea a day have lower cholesterol and may be less likely to suffer from heart disease, according to a Japanese study. The findings lend support to previous test tube and animal studies that suggest chemicals in green tea may ward off heart disease. The association between green tea and serum total cholesterol implies that green tea may act preventively against cardiovascular disease.
Researchers interviewed 1,371 men over the age of 40, and took their blood samples. Average cholesterol levels were about 183 among those who drank at least 10 cups of green tea a day compared to 194 among those who drank less than four cups a day. Researchers said the difference was big enough to suggest a health benefit from green tea.
Green tea also contains vitamin C; the amount varies depending on the type of leaf, but the average in two small cups of brewed tea is nearly equal to that in a cup of orange juice. In Asia, green tea was originally used by Zen monks to keep awake during long periods of meditation. A mild stimulant, it contains less caffeine than black tea and half the caffeine of coffee.
Green tea also apparently has antibacterial qualities, which were discovered 5,000 years ago by the Chinese, who used it to purify drinking water. The tea, which contains substantial amounts of fluoride, is also being studied in both US and Asia as a preventative for dental plaque.
"Green tea has no known toxicity, so it's certainly not going to hurt you and it may very well help you," said Dr. Hasan Muzaffar of Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland. In laboratory tests on animals, Dr. Muzaffar, a specialist in skin cancer, has found that green tea might help prevent or cure skin cancer.
For delicious green tea extracts, see: Green Tea Extracts
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rita_Lambros-Segur
Stress Free Holidays
This year I'm torn on what to do for Thanksgiving and Christmas. On the one hand I'm obligated to spend with my family, but would also like to entertain my friends who have no family in the area.
I've always tried to be a good guest when visiting friends and family and here are a few other ways on How to Be a Heavenly Houseguest over the holidays.
After all the holidays are about spending time with family and friends and hopefully about letting things go from past family rifts and looking forward to the year ahead.
Here is what I try to do to de-stress if I am a guest or entertaining:
- Plan ahead - This seems so obvious and is rarely implemented. Start months in advanced if you can. Who will be attending or where will you be headed? What is on the menu and what are you expected to bring? Will there be activites or just a lot of visiting and preparing food?
Make lists and prioritorize. Arrange appropriately: Thinks that must be done, things that can be put off, items that can be delegated or even omitted.
Don't make more work for yourself than you have to. Plan your work and work your plan! - Schedule down time - Bring or offer something to read. If you are a crafter bring your knitting, crochet or needlework. Use early morning or going to bed for time to journal about things you are thankful for.
Research and have a traditional tea time and offer snacks. Plan out a night cap. It's perfectly acceptable to bring a bottle of wine, port, gourmet coffee or tea and even treats like cookies or a cake. In advanced ask your host if it will be appropriate and maybe plan out an hour which everyone can have a sit down and unwind. - Go for a walk together or alone - Exercise is one of the best ways to destress!
Get out of the house for awhile and escape the family rukus or connect with a family member or friend on a liesurely stroll.
Make the holidays pleasant for everyone and make it a Thanksgiving or Christmas for everyone to remember.
Japanese Tea Ceremony - Still an Important Part of Japanese Culture
The Japanese tea ceremony is a unique Japanese cultural tradition, which began in the 15th century. It has evolved and changed over the centuries, and today there are many different styles and schools of tea in Japan. Despite the various styles and schools of tea, they all share the same overall philosophy, which has been shaped by its origins in Zen Buddhism.
The guiding philosophy of the Japanese tea ceremony rests on the principles:
'Wa'- Harmony
'Kei'- Respect
'Sei'- Purity
'Jaku'- Serenity
One of the key historical figures in the Japanese tea ceremony - Sen no Rikyu, is believed to have emphasized these principles in the development of the tea ceremony. Sen no Rikyu is credited with having developed all the steps in the tea ceremony and with turning it into a ritual which he passed down onto his students.
Sen no Rikyu emphasized the spirituality and the simplicity in the art of drinking green tea.
Japanese Tea Ceremony Today
Today the Japanese tea ceremony is still actively studied by students of all ages. There are tea ceremony clubs in high schools, cities and the countryside. Although the Japanese tea ceremony was restricted to only the wealthy in the past, today it is something everyone can take part in.
Apart from people studying the tea ceremony as an interest, they are also held to mark a special event (wedding) or time of the year (New Year). That is why, most Japanese people have experienced the tea ceremony, most likely by being a guest at one.
The Setting
The Japanese Tea Ceremony usually takes place in a traditional Japanese tatami room. A traditional tea room has a raised alcove at the front of the room, which is simply and elegantly decorated with a hanging scroll and a flower arrangement.
The hanging scroll usually has a simple poem written in Japanese calligraphy, which has been carefully chosen by the host to set the mood and atmosphere of the tea ceremony.
The Tea Ceremony Itself
There are many steps which the host will carry out during the tea ceremony. The most important thing for the host to do for the guests, is to create an atmosphere of tranquility and calm.
Initially the host will greet the waiting guests, by serving them some traditional Japanese sweets.
The host will then bring in the tea and tea utensils to be used in preparing the tea (There are many unique utensils used only in performing the Japanese tea ceremony).
The host will then tell the guests to relax, and enjoy their sweets while the tea is prepared.
During this time there are usually no words spoken, and the guest can observe the host preparing the tea.
Once the matcha green tea has been prepared, it is served to the guest.
The host will ask the guest 'How do you like the tea?', to which the guest replies saying 'It is very delcious'.
After all the guests have enjoyed and finished drinking the tea, the host cleans all the utensils and then invites the guests to hold and look at them. Each utensil including the tea container, the tea scoop and bowl are handmade by skilled craftsmen. At this time, the guest can ask the host questions about each utensil (artist, style etc.).
Finally, the host will take all the utensils and tea out of the tea room and thank the guests for coming, marking the end of the tea ceremony.
Brigita Feltham is the creator and owner of Infusious Tea. After spending over 3 years in Japan, green tea became a part of Brigita's daily lifestyle as it is for most Japanese people.
Brigita began to study tea ceremony and found out that not only does green tea have wonderful health benefits, but it also has a rich cultural tradition in Japan. Brigita would now like to share her knowledge and love of Japanese green tea.
If you would like more information on Japanese green tea visit:
Japan Green Tea
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brigita_Feltham
Orange Miso Ginger Tofu
You'll need:
- 1 package of extra-firm tofu
- 1/2 cup Miso salad dressing
- 1 teaspoon red miso paste
- 1/4 cup organic orange juice
- grated ginger
- Cut the tofu in either squares or triangles and dry cook the miso toasting on all sides. Set aside and let cool.
- Mix the remaining ingredients in a bowl and adjust to taste. Add the tofu.
- Let marinade in the fridge for 4 hours. Serve hot or cold!
Serves 4
Emotional Eating
Are you an emotional eater? Why some of us eat the way we do and what can be done about it?
Emotional Eating
AOL Body
Overeaters Anonymous
Official homepage
Are You Eating Your Emotions?
By Barry Lovelace
Let’s face it, when it comes to being overweight, there are some people who are perfectly happy that way. There are many people who like to eat whatever they want and frankly like to be sedentary. I’m not going to use the word ‘lazy’ here because, hey, it’s their prerogative and they are making a choice. These people are often the ones that no one talks about, they are the people who really could care less about the extra weight they carry and the ones who give no attention to the thought of losing weight and to the pleas for fitness from people like me.
However, the majority of overweight people will tell you that they want to lose it. So that brings us to the big question; Why don’t they? We are living in a time where there is a wealth of health information that tells us constantly how unhealthy it is to carry extra weight. We know about the stress this puts on our heart and internal organs, we know that our risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and even certain cancers is increased. From a psychological standpoint, we know that being overweight makes us feel bad, it makes us self-conscience and uncomfortable and yet still people struggle, sometimes for their entire lives, and don’t get the weight off.
I believe that for many of these people the problem is emotional eating. When it comes to ‘coping’ with life’s ups and downs, some people drink alcohol, some people workout, some people meditate and lots of people eat.
If this is not you, you may have a hard time understanding this concept. But for those of you who struggle with emotional eating, you know what I’m talking about. Food comforts you, helps you to not feel the feelings you are trying to avoid.
From the time we are children, food is used to comfort us. Whether it be warm Sunday dinners with the family, a cookie to make you feel better if you were sad, etc. For so many people this is an almost automatic reaction. They will turn to food without even realizing that this is what they are doing until it is too late, it can be mindless.
Unfortunately, there are no easy answers in conquering this problem but it can be done. It takes work and it takes you being honest with yourself and admitting that this is what you are doing. Too often people lie to themselves and that will get you nowhere. Once you admit it, I think it’s a good idea to get support by talking about it to someone you trust, a friend or relative. Chances are you know people who struggle with emotional eating and don’t even know it because it is rarely discussed.
Once you have a confidante in place you will have someone you can call when the going gets tough. Also, it is important to come up with a new coping mechanism, it is not enough to just remove the old one, and you need a new one for lasting success. One good idea is going out for a walk or doing some other form of exercise. Another is setting a timer and promising yourself that you will not eat until it goes off, this will give you time to think through things and hopefully you will not eat when it goes off. I know many people who have success writing down what they are feeling when the emotional eating urge hits. You have to explore and find what is right for you.
I hope you will think about this, take action and start living.
Barry Lovelace is creator of Exercise4 Every Body circuit training DVD's. co-owner of FitQuest Fitness in Allentown, Pa.. a personal trainer, speaker and all around fitness enthusiast. Visit Barry's website: http://www.fitquestlv.com/ Email Barry at: barry@barrylovelace.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Barry_Lovelace
Law of Success Part lll
By Sharif Kahn
Welcome to the conclusion of this special three part series
commemorating the 21st Century Edition of Napoleon Hill's
landmark work, "Law of Success," which reveals 17 Principles of
Success that can help take your career and life to the next
level. These are proven principles based on Hill's 25 years of
research personally studying the lives of over 500 of the
world's greatest achievers.
Law of Success Part I and Part II covered the first 11 of these
principles. (To read Part I and Part II, visit:
http://tinyurl.com/3d3loq). Law of Success Part III will now
conclude with the remaining 6 of these valuable, time-tested
principles which can help you succeed in all areas of your life.
Enjoy:
Principle # 12: Concentration
"Concentration is the act of focusing the mind on a given desire
until ways and means for its realization have been worked out and
successfully put into operation." - Napoleon Hill
In this age of mass communications, we are beginning to face a
global epidemic of mass distraction that is becoming dangerous -
and in some cases lethal. (The rising pedestrian and motor
vehicle driver deaths due to the host of electronic distractions
is just one sad example).
The Weapons of Mass Distraction available to us are just
overwhelming: email, cell phones, pagers, text messaging, video
games, GPS navigational systems, video games, DVD players, TV,
web cams, blackberries, faxes, ipods, and the explosion of social
networking sites, just to name a few. (When used intelligently
these tools can be powerful, but when used ineffectively, they
become what I call, "Weapons of Mass Distraction!"
For concentration to be effective, Hill maintains that it is
vitally important to keep your mind focused on ONE subject until
you've mastered it; to focus on ONE given problem until you've
solved that problem.
What I find helps is starting a task with a burst of energy and
enthusiasm which will provide the momentum to complete the task
successfully. Just watch Olympic sprinters at the start of a race
and you'll know what I mean.
Finally, in this age of sensory overload, some sensory
deprivation might be in order. Hill recommends that you set some
time everyday where you can enter a quiet place, close your eyes,
and put your fingers in your ears, blocking all light and sound,
and just repeat your chief aim and see yourself in full
possession of the object of your aim.
Just practicing this simple technique everyday will help you
concentrate on doing the important tasks that will eventually
lead to a quantum breakthrough in your life.
Principle # 13: Cooperation
"Cooperation is the foundation of all successful leadership." -
Napoleon Hill
According to Hill, there are two forms of cooperation: 1). The
cooperation between a group alliance Master Mind (which was
covered in my Law of Success Part I overview) to achieve a
desired end, and 2). The cooperation between the conscious and
subconscious minds to draw upon creative intelligence (a theme
that continues throughout this overview).
Power is developed through organized effort. And for any
organized effort to be successful, the harmonious cooperation of
people focused on a singular purpose is required.
Harmony is the key. And it would serve you well to study the main
personality types of people before forming a team so you can
bring together people who compliment each other rather than
compete with each other. ("What Type Am I" by Renee Baron is a
good first book to understanding personality types).
One thing in the "Law of Success" that really struck me as very
powerful was an important observation that Napoleon Hill made:
"A great leader is one who understands how to create a
"motivating objective" that will be accepted with enthusiasm by
every member of [the] group...Most people will work harder for
the attainment of an ideal than they will for money."
What is your company's or team's "motivating objective" or
ideal? Figure that one out and the wings of cooperation will
carry you and your team members to new heights!
Principle # 14: Profiting by Failure
"If you want to increase your success rate, double your failure
rate." -Thomas Watson, Sr. Founder of IBM
Profiting from failure is an overdone topic in the field of
personal development so I won't spend too much time on this
principle. It's overdone for the very reason that there's much
truth in the idea of people reaching higher levels of success by
persevering and learning from failure instead of quitting. It's
no accident that John D. Rockefeller felt that perseverance is
the single most important quality to achieving success.
I've observed over the years that success comes to leaders in
almost direct proportion to the amount of adversity and failures
they've overcome and learned from in life.
That old cliché, 'if at first you don't succeed, try, try
again' applies here. Of course, I'm not saying you necessarily
keep on doing the same thing expecting the same results (another
definition for insanity).
Seek counselors and mentors that you can trust to help evaluate
the effectiveness of your plans. Explore the reasons that are
limiting your success by asking them how they see you limiting
yourself.
If your first plan to achieving your chief aim in life does not
succeed, than change it! And keep on changing it until you've
reached your target, just as an airplane makes thousands of
adjustments and flight corrections before reaching its
destination.
Principle # 15: Tolerance
"Minds are like parachutes; they work best when open."
- Lord Thomas Dewar
If we adopt a closed mind we stop acquiring knowledge. And
natural law states that we are either growing or dying.
I don't like the word 'tolerance.' I much rather prefer
embracing new ideas and having an insatiable curiosity for
learning other people's customs, belief systems, and unique
perspectives. I look at it as an adventure!
Finding ways to harness cultural differences within teams and
organizations will be the new currency in an increasingly
globalized economy.
Principle # 16: The Golden Rule
Napoleon Hill recognized that the frivolous use of power from the
knowledge that is being shared with you will only backfire and be
destructive to self and others. Selfish pursuit of your chief aim
without regard for others will eventually come back to haunt
you.
We reap what we sow. What goes around comes around. Therefore,
the Golden Rule is: do unto others as you'd have done unto you.
Before doing anything, ask yourself if it will benefit or hurt
the person involved.
It's easy to be self-centered. To transcend self, think more of
what the other person wants and feels before acting.
See the good in others. Catch people doing things right instead
of always looking for the wrong. Kindness and justice toward
others goes a long way in establishing successful business and
personal relationships. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: "Trust
men and they will be true to you; treat them greatly, and they
will show themselves great."
Hill takes us deeper with the Golden Rule philosophy when he
said, "think of others as you'd wish them to think of you."
Live this philosophy and your life will be enriched in many
unforeseen ways.
Principle # 17: The Universal Law of Cosmic Habitforce
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act,
but a habit." - Aristotle
The Universal Law of Cosmic Habitforce is that intangible, unseen
force which is made tangible and visible in nature.
Just observe nature and you will experience Cosmic Habitforce in
action.
When you fix in your mind a purpose consciousness focused on your
chief aim in life through repetition of thoughts and deeds,
Cosmic Habitforce will take over and carry it to its logical
conclusion, just as an acorn seed will always produce an oak tree
through proper care and nurturing.
It takes constant vigilance, determination, and willpower to
maintain that purpose consciousness, but eventually Cosmic
Habitforce will always bear fruit and your life will be richly
rewarded.
In closing, I'd like to point out that at the beginning of every
chapter in Napoleon Hill's "Law of Success" are the words:
"You can do it if you believe you can!"
It's that simple. I'm not saying it's easy, but it really is
that simple. Mahatma Gandhi once said, "If I believe I cannot do
something, it makes me incapable of doing it. But when I believe
I can, then I acquire the ability to do it even if I didn't have
it in the beginning."
Believe in yourself! Believe you can do it and move forward this
day with faith and confidence. Many blessings to you along your
journey.
I hope that you've benefited from reading this series and I'd
like to encourage you to share these important principles with
your friends, family, and associates. I'd also like to highly
recommend getting a copy of Napoleon Hill's "Law of Success:
21st Century Edition" to add to your personal library. It's a
life-changing book, and I mean that as no exaggeration. To get
your copy, visit: http://tinyurl.com/2a2cuk
Sharif Khan ( http://sharifkhan.blogspot.com/) is a
copywriter, inspirational keynote speaker, and author of
the leadership bestseller, "Psychology of the Hero Soul"
(http://herosoul.com/). He also publishes his monthly
HERO SOUL ezine offering valuable tips, lessons, and advice
on success, leadership development, and personal growth. To
contact Sharif Khan about his professional business
writing services, call 416-417-1259.
Law of Success Part ll
By Sharif Khan
Welcome to the second part of this special three part series commemorating the 21st Century Edition of Napoleon Hill's landmark work, “Law of Success,” in which he reveals 17 Principles of Success based on his 25 years of research studying the lives of over 500 of the world’s greatest achievers. (To read the first part, visit: http://tinyurl.com/3d3loq).
In this special three part series, I’m highlighting these 17 Principles of Success both as a refresher for those who are already familiar with Hill’s work, and as an introductory guide to the essential qualities of achievement for those who have not yet had the chance to study this great personage who started the personal development revolution. Enjoy:
Principle # 6: Imagination
“Imagination is the workshop of the human mind and creative power of the soul,” writes Hill. “First comes thought; then organization of that thought into ideas and plans; then transformation of those plans into reality. The beginning, as you will observe, is in your imagination.”
According to Hill, there are two types of imagination: synthetic imagination and creative imagination. Synthetic imagination involves rearranging old ideas into new combinations that produce new solutions. Stimulating creative imagination involves a repetition of highly emotionalized thoughts that can be combined with visualization, meditation, and prayer focused on a chief aim or solving a difficult problem, and then surrendering the thoughts to infinite intelligence to come up with new ideas, combinations, and plans.
Artists, inventors, and entrepreneurs frequently use some combination of both types of imagination. For example, many writers will often intentionally stop writing in the middle of a heated sentence or uncompleted paragraph at a particularly challenging point in the plot and “sleep on it.” During the rest of the night their subconscious mind, through the powers of creative intelligence, will work on the solution, and upon awakening, the writer will write beautifully to complete the idea.
Entrepreneurs will often brainstorm and write down all the ideas, challenges, and available solutions and resources concerning a challenging problem and then “forget about it.” They might go on vacation for an extended period of time. On returning, or even while they’re on vacation, new ideas spring up that help solve the problem.
To further develop your imagination, study yourself; find out the inner motivations that drive you to carry out certain tasks to completion while avoiding other tasks. Study other people and human behavior around you. If you want to know what the other person will do (whether a customer, boss, employee, partner, or competitor), use your imagination to put yourself in their shoes. What would you do if you were that person? By being able to look from another’s perspective, you not only help build your imagination muscles, you also help build bridges.
Principle # 7: Enthusiasm
Enthusiasm comes from the Greek root “entheos” which literally means God within. Enthusiasm is the vital force that impels action. Great leaders inspire others to action from their own enthusiasm which is highly contagious.
“It’s not so much what you say as it is the tone and manner in which you say it that makes a lasting impression,” writes Hill.
I recall a time when a “recruiter” had called and left a message for me requesting an interview. I checked out the company’s website and liked what I had to see. I was ready to come in for an interview, but when I returned the recruiter’s call and spoke to her, the tone of her voice clearly indicated that she wasn’t happy with her job and that I was just a number to make her appointment quota.
While the conversation was polite and professional, her tone and manner of speaking said she didn’t care. Needless to say, I did not come in for an interview, and it wouldn’t be a far stretch to guess that that recruiting company was losing business by the truckload on account of that one person – probably hundreds of thousands of dollars in revenue.
It’s surprising (or maybe not so surprising given the poor customer service survey results across North America) that companies are willing to go on losing millions by treating their frontline workers who have first line of contact with customers as an “expense” instead of as an investment.
The companies that will turn out to be champions in this information economy are the ones that treat their customer service and sales staff as VPs of Customer Relations. These organizations will have a HUGE competitive advantage by investing just a fraction of the money (money that would normally be lost to poor service) towards paying above industry average rates to retain quality customer service professionals, investing in their professional development, teaching basic human relations skills, and helping to create a better work environment.
Principle # 8: Self-Control
Hill keenly points out that self control directs your enthusiasm. A wise business tenet is to keep cool when others are hot. As Hill says, “Those who control themselves usually boss the job.”
I can’t recall how many business deals I’ve lost because I contacted a potential client in a moment of anger or frustration (either due to the business on hand or something entirely different). It’s amazing how much more business one can drum up by simply counting to ten, taking a couple of deep breaths, and thinking of something pleasant for a few seconds before making or taking that important call!
If you’ve tried these types of techniques without much success and are still angry with someone, at least try ‘writing it out of your system’ before approaching this person. Write a steaming hot letter to this person venting about what you feel is inappropriate behavior or some problem or injustice you feel you might have encountered.
After you’ve read the letter to yourself, tear it up and throw it away! Now you can approach this person and make your case with a level head without blaming or getting overly emotional. Maybe it was a simple misunderstanding.
I’m not saying this method will always work. Sometimes you do have to confront someone and express your anger – but those moments are rare when it’s productive. Using this one technique alone can save you from countless relationship disasters and bad business deals, and might even help get you that promotion over the next person who blows his top!).
Never retaliate against those who offend you. Be a leader by being a person of poise and self-control.
Principle # 9: The Habit of Doing More Than Paid For
“Giving people a little more than what they expect is a good way to get back more than you’d expect” - Robert Half
We get back in life what we give. By getting into the habit of always doing more than you’re paid for, you will meet with opportunities for expansion, advancement, and promotion at every turn of the corner. (You might not get these opportunities immediately with your current employer; but eventually competitors will take notice and will gladly provide you with plenty of opportunity if your employer is not willing to do so).
Napoleon Hill offers countless real-life examples of ordinary people reaching extraordinary heights of achievement and success using this one principle alone in his magnum opus: “Law of Success: The 21st-Century Edition.”
Principle # 10: A Pleasing Personality
Hill states that a pleasing personality is a person that attracts. It’s all about your character and how you carry yourself. Are you dressed for success as it relates to your field? Do you speak with self-confidence?
Do you offer a firm handshake and a warm smile, or a limp, ‘dead fish’ handshake with a rigid, forced smile?
Do you offer an appropriate level of eye-contact given the cultural context or do you have shifty eyes that makes people feel uncomfortable? Are you flexible in mind, body, and spirit? Do you express genuine interest in others?
The best way to develop a pleasing personality is to show a keen interest in other people. If that recruiter had expressed even the slightest interest in what I did as a person, I would have overlooked the initial awkwardness of the call and come in for an interview. Her lack of a pleasing personality cost her and her company a number of lost contracts.
It’s so much more FUN and PROFITABLE to have a pleasing personality!
Principle # 11: Accurate Thinking
“The facts, just the facts, ma’am” – Sgt. Friday in Dragnet
Don’t believe everything you read in the news. Much of it is planted by powerful lobbyists and corporations with hidden agendas. Get into the habit of basing your decisions on factual information and avoiding gossip, rumors, and conjecture.
Even common day practices that are widely accepted can be based on wrong assumptions. In the Middle Ages, bloodletting was a common practice that was believed to help cure a variety of illnesses. It was a common belief among doctors that bad blood caused disease and so they bled patients for every imaginable ailment under the sun. This crude and ineffective medical ritual continued for 2,500 years until it was discovered that germs, not bad blood, were responsible for disease.
Today, we have our own version of bloodletting that is far more devious than in the Middle Ages. Take for example invasive medical practices such as coronary stenting and angioplasty. Freakonomics author, Steven D. Levitt, sites a recent NY Times article which, according to Levitt, “tells of the compelling study which found that coronary stenting is typically no more effective than heart drugs, even though it is far more invasive — and, to be sure, profitable for the medical personnel involved.” (According to the NY Times article, “angioplasty and stenting generally cost between $25,000 and $50,000”).
I think we need a new name for 21st Century bloodletting. If you’ve read this far, perhaps you can convince Mr. Webster to add the term moneyletting to the dictionary.
If someone makes a sweeping statement that raises doubts, you can ask this person the question that Napoleon Hill likes asking: “How do you know?”
We haven’t even begun to scratch the surface of accurate thinking. But to get to the heart of Hill’s main idea, accurate thinking is about separating the important facts from the unimportant ones.
The important facts being any fact you can use in the attainment of your chief aim. I’m not saying that the unimportant facts can’t also help enrich your life. But by focusing most of your time on the important facts as it relates to your chief aim will help get you there further and faster…
I hope you enjoyed Part II of this “Law of Success” series. (You can visit my blog for Law of Success Part III).
In the meantime, share these principles with your peers, forward this newsletter, discuss the concepts and teach other people what you’ve learned. There’s no better way to learn than by teaching others.
If you haven’t already, I’d highly recommend getting a copy of Napoleon Hill’s classic bestseller: “Law of Success: The 21st-Century Edition.” It really is a great read and I rank it in my personal top 10 list.
To get your copy visit: http://tinyurl.com/2a2cuk
About the Author: Sharif Khan (http://www.sharifkhan.blogspot.com) is a freelance writer, inspirational keynote speaker, and author of the leadership bestseller, “Psychology of the Hero Soul.” He also publishes his monthly HERO SOUL ezine on successful living. To contact Sharif, call 416-417-1259.
Source: www.isnare.com
Macrobiotics: Balance
Macrobiotics is not just about food but it is a lifestyle and a way of life.
I wanted to start incorporating some other topics that have to do with balance of the mind as well as balance in the body as in macrobiotics.
A great book called Pshycology of the Hero Soul by Sharif Kahn gave me a new perspective on balance, leadership and personal acheivements.
Sharif has written some articles in which I would say, scream balance, in his explanation of Nepolean Hills: Law of Sucess.
Here is the first article and hopefully you will also check out Psychology of the Hero Soul.
Eat well and stay balanced in life!
Law of Sucess Part l
Law of Success Part ll
Law of Success Part lll
Law of Sucess Part l
I’ve spent the last couple months immersing myself in the teachings of Napoleon Hill and would like to share with you a summary of the main principles learned from his landmark work, “Law of Success: The 21st-Century Edition.”
Most of you know who Napoleon Hill is. But for the benefit of those who don’t, Mr. Hill is quite arguably the author of the world’s first practical philosophy of human achievement. Commissioned back in 1908 by the great steel magnate, Andrew Carnegie, Hill spent over 25 years researching the lives of over 500 of the most successful people on the planet.
The amazing thing is that most of Hill’s work was not from second-hand research but first-hand knowledge from personal contact with some of the greatest powerbrokers of the day including Henry Ford, Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, John D. Rockefeller, Charles M. Schwab, Elbert Hubbard, George Eastman, and US Presidents Woodrow Wilson, William Howard Taft and Theodore Roosevelt.
While “Think and Grow Rich” is certainly Hill’s most popular book based on the results of his exhaustive research, “Law of Success” (which was first published in a set of eight volumes) is Hill’s most comprehensive work of achievement; a veritable tome of success literature, I’d call it the world’s first and foremost “success encyclopedia.”
The only modern day equivalents that readily come to mind is Anthony Robbin’s “Unlimited Power” in the field of applied psychology, Stephen Covey’s “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” on principle-centered leadership, and the success strategies employed in Jack Canfield’s “The Success Principles.”
Nevertheless, I would rank Napoleon Hill’s “Law of Success: The 21st-Century Edition” as the foundational book for developing a practical success philosophy that anyone can readily apply. The fully revised and updated 21st-Century Edition comes in at 1035 pages containing Hill’s deep analysis of the 17 proven principles of success, many personal examples and stories from his own life experiences, and new commentary from the editors providing modern parallels with contemporary events and the latest management theories.
In this special three part series, you’ll be provided with a brief summary of each of Napoleon Hill’s 17 Principles from his classic bestseller, “Law of Success: The 21st-Century Edition.” Master these principles and you will master your destiny!
Principle # 1: The Master Mind
The Master Mind is simply a friendly alliance of two or more minds harmoniously working together in full cooperation towards the achievement of a singular purpose. It’s more than just a brain-trust of accumulated knowledge used for creative problem solving; the Master Mind is a field of accumulated energy created from the combined group’s spirit which can accomplish far more than any individual member could possibly hope to achieve independently.
Hill recommends forming a round table of ideally six to twelve like-minded individuals who will support your chief aim, who are in complete harmony with each other, and who are willing to meet with you regularly to help you accomplish that aim. You must offer each group member something in return that will reward their participation in your Master Mind.
Whether you choose to develop a formal alliance or not, the Master Mind principle will still have a powerful influence over your life – for better or worse. It is said you are the average sum total of the people you spend the most time with which will either help or hinder you. Choose your friends and associates carefully.
Principle # 2: A Definite Chief Aim
Without a definite purpose backed by a definite plan one is as lost and hopeless as a rudderless ship in the middle of the Atlantic. Good intentions and hard work are not enough. You need a Purpose, a Plan, and Perseverance backed with a burning desire to achieve your definite chief aim in life.
To realize your Chief Aim, Hill suggests writing out your WWWH and reviewing it daily: “know what you want, when you want it, why you want it, and how you intend to get it.” Also include what you plan to give in return for reaching your dream.
By reviewing your manifesto daily, with intense feeling, you will begin attracting the people and circumstances in your life to make your wildest dreams come true.
Principle # 3: Self-Confidence
To be self-confidant you must know. Know yourself and know your business. Know your strengths and weaknesses, your greatest fears and deepest desires. Those who do not know live in constant fear and anxiety. A leader must know.
Keep a log of all your accomplishments and all the praise you receive and review it frequently. Use autosuggestion or self-talk to tell yourself daily about how you are growing as a leader in your field.
Fill your mind with positive, inspiring thoughts. Surround yourself with people who will empower you. Have faith in others and see the good in people because how you view others is a reflection of yourself.
Principle # 4: The Habit of Saving
Pay yourself first by developing the habit of consistently saving a portion of your income. Hill and many others suggest saving at least 10% of your earnings. (Tip: if you’ve accumulated high-interest debts such as credit card debt, it’s a good policy to allocate 80% of your savings to paying down the debt in order to avoid that debt from growing faster than the rate of return you’re getting on your savings).
Those who have will be given more. Having even a modest savings account will increase your self-confidence and will attract many opportunities that would normally not come your way without that extra cushion.
Successful people will be more willing to back your idea or promote you within their enterprise if they see that you yourself have developed the self-discipline of saving.
Hill recounts several instances in his book where people who had built up a little savings account were able to invest in new business opportunities, attract financing for their ideas, or enter into partnerships that would later result into untold millions.
Principle # 5: Initiative and Leadership
“Do the thing and you shall have the power.” – Emerson
According to Hill, leadership is “doing the right thing without being told.” Leadership is ultimately about taking initiative and getting things done. Bottom line: leaders get paid for results.
By always providing additional service without any expectation for pay, you will build your initiative muscles.
Leadership requires self-sacrifice. Leaders are givers. Inspire and help others and you will be rewarded in direct proportion to your efforts. As American self-help icon, Zig Ziglar, likes to say, “You can have everything in life you want, if you will just help other people get what they want.”
I hope you enjoyed Part I of this “Law of Success” series. For Law of Success Part II, you can visit: http://tinyurl.com/yqxca9
In the meantime, share these principles with your peers, discuss the concepts and teach other people what you’ve learned. There’s no better way to learn than by teaching others.
To get your copy of Napoleon Hill’s “Law of Success: The 21st Century Edition” visit: http://tinyurl.com/2a2cuk
Sharif Khan (http://sharifkhan.blogspot.com) is a freelance writer, inspirational keynote speaker, and author of the leadership bestseller, “Psychology of the Hero Soul.” (http://herosoul.com). He also publishes his monthly HERO SOUL ezine offering valuable tips and advice on success, leadership development, and personal growth. To contact Sharif, call 416-417-1259.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sharif_Khan
What is a Macrobiotic Diet
What is a macrobiotic diet? It is a diet designed with a view to improve our health and well-being because it is believed that what we eat has a great impact on our lives. Following a macrobiotic diet means eating food that is not processed and thus conventional methods of cooking are used. Eating a simple and a well balanced diet is what a macrobiotic diet is all about. In the 1920s, George Ohsawa, the founder of modern day macrobiotics asserted that he was cured of a grave illness by modifying his diet. What macrobiotics means is ‘the great life’ and it means living in harmony with all of nature that surrounds you.
Macrobiotics is very akin to the Yin and Yang theory of the Chinese. Yin and yang work in different directions. A balance between the two is to be maintained for good health and this is the essence of a macrobiotic diet. While yin is passive, sweet and cold, yang is more aggressive, saline and hot. Perfect health means a perfect balance between the two.
Foods vary in their tastes and properties. So grains and vegetables are important in a macrobiotic diet because they are classified as neutral foods, not having very strong yin or yang. Light foods are good for maintaining a balance between yin and yang, foods that are heavy are preferably avoided in a macrobiotic diet. A macrobiotic diet consists of organically grown grains and vegetables. Foods in their natural form are the best. Unpolished rice, oats and other kinds of millets are considered to be the basis of a balanced diet. Though whole grain is the preferred choice, small quantities of products made from refined flour is allowed.
One third of the macrobiotic diet consists of fresh and organically grown vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, collards, onion, pumpkin, kale, etc. Vegetables should not be over cooked as they lose their flavor. They must be parboiled, steamed or fried lightly in unrefined corn or sesame oil. Sea vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals should also comprise a small portion of a macrobiotic diet. Beans like lentils and chickpeas should also be included. Soya in the form of tofu and soya used as a paste in soups and broths with beans and vegetables are good additions.
Seafood, dry fruits and pulses should also form a part of a good macrobiotic diet and should be consumed weekly. Malt extracted from barley and rice syrup are good examples of sweeteners as is plum or brown rice vinegar. Food flavorings used should be pure and natural like sea salt and Tamari soy sauce.
Drinking water or any other beverage in a macrobiotic diet is recommended only when one gets thirsty. Teas that are strong and have caffeine must be avoided whereas teas prepared from roasted grain and green teas are acceptable. Water used for drinking and the preparation of food must be filtered and clean.
Poultry and milk, cheese or clarified buttered must all be avoided as they have very prominent yang properties. On the other hand citrus and other fruit juices, spicy food and caffeine in any form must be avoided as they have very prominent yin properties. Processed foods must not be consumed as they have preservatives and unnatural flavors. You must remember that a macrobiotic diet is not just a diet – it is a way of life.
By: Rachel Gillespe -
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Rachel Gillespe is a staff writer at Diet Gazette and is an occasional contributor to several other websites, including Women's Digest.
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