Love is like Butterfly

I was told today that LOVE is like Butterfly.
You can chase a butterfly all over the field and never catch it.
But if you sit quietly in the grass it will come and sit on your shoulder. 

Author unknown

The Mozart Effect

A recent report now says that the Mozart effect is yet another charming urban legend. The bad news for hip urban professionals: playing Mozart for your designer baby will not improve his IQ or help him get into that exclusive pre-school. He will just have to get admitted to Harvard some other way. Of course, we're all better off listening to Mozart purely for the pleasure of it. However, one must wonder whether, if playing Mozart sonatas for little Tiffany or Jason really could boost his or her intelligence, what would happen if other composers were played during the kiddies' developmental time

LISZT EFFECT: Child speaks rapidly and extravagantly, but never really says anything important.

BRUCKNER EFFECT: Child speaks v-e-r-y slowly and repeats himself frequently and at length. Gains reputation for profundity.

WAGNER EFFECT: Child becomes an egocentric megalomaniac. May eventually marry his sister.

PUCCINI EFFECT: Child is prone to murderous fits of jealousy if another child plays with his/her toys. Child also suffers never-ending bout of croup and insists it's nothing.

VERDI EFFECT: Child marches around his room repeatedly, lines up all of his stuffed animals in a parade, pays particular homage to his stuffed elephants.

MAHLER EFFECT: Child continually screams (at great length and volume) that he's dying.

SCHOENBERG EFFECT: Child never repeats a word until he's used all the other words in his vocabulary. Sometimes talks backwards. Eventually, people stop listening to him. Child blames them for their inability to understand him.

IVES EFFECT: The child develops a remarkable ability to carry on several separate conversations at once, in various dialects.

GLASS EFFECT: The child tends to repeat himself over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over again.

STRAVINSKY EFFECT: The child is prone to savage, guttural and profane outbursts that often lead to fighting and pandemonium in the preschool.

BRAHMS EFFECT: The child is able to speak beautifully as long as his sentences contain a multiple of three words (3, 6, 9, 12, etc). However, his sentences containing 4 or 8 words are strangely uninspired.

CAGE EFFECT: Child says nothing for 4 minutes, 33 seconds--exactly. A recent study has determined that this is preferred by 10 out of 10 classroom teachers.

(Submitted by Doctor Joan)

The Lost Art of Sleep

Don't sleep 'till you read  The Lost Art of Sleep by Michael McGirr. 
Published by Picador Australia, $32.99


A former priest, discovered the beauty of sleep with the arrival of his baby twins, when he and his wife seemed to experience little of it. Inspired by his sleeplessness, McGirr travelled through history, science and the mythical to discover the benefits and dangers of sleep. Expect to come across some of the most famous figures of history - such as Aristotle, Thomas Edison and Florence Nightingale - and discover their connection to the art of slumber. You will also find out the medical theories for sleeping and dreaming, and why we need it so dearly. A fantastic read. 


Find a copy on http://www.fishpond.com.au

How to get what you REALLY want?

What do you really want? Those who have purpose, who are clearly pursuing a goal, are much better off. Their energy flows better and they radiate intentionality. They don't need others to make them happy. They ARE happy. 

It is my belief the true self within each of us always knows what we want. The 'inner knower' knows what is our highest good and our true direction. The problem is that our surface personality can be out of touch with it. We can be easily influenced by others, and if they are getting something, we automatically want it. Our minds can latch on to superficial desires that really don't come from OUR essence. 
How can we know when we are out of touch with what our TRUE self wants? There is a foolproof litmus test. When our Ego self wants something that our TRUE self does not, it will make us feel terrible. We will feel stress, frustration and anxiety. These are signs we are not in touch with what we really want. We have to go deeper. 
Spiritually considered, an idea cannot be fully grasped unless you take it into your meditation. You need to go inside the idea and explore the feelings that it arouses, as well as the thoughts. 
So, our first task is to contemplate: "What do I really want?" Sit down, close your eyes, focus on an area of your life: career, relationship, body, health. Think about each area one by one and ask yourself, "what do I really want in...." Spend 5-7 minutes doing so, then go on with your normal meditation practice. Search for an answer that gives you an energized and harmonious feeling. 
I have mastered 'going deep' through music at an early stage. I can make hard decisions very quickly and without regret because I have developed an understanding of my body and feeling responses that are perfectly reliable in every situation. It becomes an instinct. 
Like in everything, practice makes the master. Start with simple things like: What should I have for dinner? Which street is there going to be a parking spot? Shall I get the red or green apples? How do I feel about this person? Listen to your body. Listen to it carefully because your body always has an answer  and you better start listening to it and follow what it says. It sounds silly but it gives us a chance to slowly allow our inner voice to come through. If you keep practicing soon your whole life will be guided by the most reliable and most positive forces of life, the Universe. Call it whatever you like! The consequence is that you will never make a wrong decision that would regret. It leads to a happier life. You will have the guidance of your TRUE  inner self that is connected to the Universe and to all Humanity. Remember, we are all connected. We are all ONE. 

The Mysterious Pineal Gland

The size of a pea, the pineal gland lies immediately beneath the hypothalamus in a tiny cave at the centre of the brain. It holds the key to sustained health, mood, energy and self-esteem.
The ancient Greeks believed it connected us to the Realms of Thought, while the French philosopher Descartes referred to it as "the seat of the human soul".

On a physiological level, the pineal gland is activated by light and works in harmony with the hypothalamus, directing the body's thirst, hunger, sexual desire and biological clock, which determines how we age. As a famous psychic Edgar Cayce (1877-1945) once said : "Keep the pineal gland operating and you won't grow old - you will always be young".
Producing the hormone melatonin, a brain chemical that regulates sleep and wake rhythms, the pineal gland controls sleep-wake rhythms, signals the reproductive system to set a child's birth in motion and moderates the states of euphoria and depression. When the pineal is stimulated and functioning optimally, it helps us to sleep and relax. It also improves the immune system, evokes a natural state of euphoria and higher states of intellect (possibly even psychic visions), and helps alleviate depression and the aging process.

GAZING AWAY - Tratak meditation also known as candle gazing can stimulate the pineal gland and help produce  higher levels of melatonin. As a daily practice, light a candle and use the candle flame to focus the eyes.

Along with the hypothalamus, the pineal gland forms part of the brain's communication centre, which includes visual, auditory, speech and learning functions. Imbalanced function can lead to dyslexia, stuttering, forgetfulness and inability to think clearly.

HOW TO IMPROVE THE FUNCTIONING OF YOUR PINEAL GLAND?
* Stress management techniques such as meditation and relaxation
* Daily doses of natural light
* Massaging pressure point in feet - pad area of the big toes
* Massaging the pressure point in hands - pad area of thumbs
* Sleeping in complete darkness so your body produces more melatonin
* Avoiding melatonin reducing substances such as caffeine, tobacco and alcohol
* Take regular breaks from computer, television and artificial lighting
* Eat foods high in potassium such as brown rice, avocado, broccoli and banana
* Consuming foods high in melatonin or the melatonin precursor trytophan, such as oats, sweet corn, rice, ginger, tomatoes, barley, japanese radish, spirulina, soy, cottage cheese, pepitas, almonds almonds and peanuts.

PRACTICE ALTERNATE NOSTRIL YOGA BREATHING
Alternate nostril breathing is a simple technique for balancing the pineal. Use the thumb on your right hand to close your right nostril as you breathe in through your left nostril. Then, use your ring finger  on your right hand to close your left nostril as you breathe out through the open right nostril. Breathe in through the right nostril and out through the left. Breathe in through the left and through the right.
Left nostril for calming, right nostril for energy!
Benefits: revitalises you, improves brain function, cleanses your lungs, calms an agitated mind, encourages a calmer emotional state, improves sleep, great preparation for meditation, soothes your nervous system, regulates the cooling and warming cycles of your body, clears and boosts energy channels, enhances rest and relaxation.
Keep breathing for good health!

ACTIVATE THE PINEAL GLAND WITH ESSENTIAL OILS
Another, simple way to activate the pineal gland is by inhaling essential oils. Pineal gland is one of the stops that essential oils pass trough and influence when we inhale essential oils. Each oil has lots of components. The more components an oils has, the more work it can do in many areas of your body. Alternating what oils you use, will have tremendous benefits for your body. Using blends in your diffuser or inhaling a blend straight from the bottle or your hands will stimulate many organs of your body. There are certain oils that specifically very beneficial for the endocrine system of which the pineal gland is part of.

The pineal gland is a tiny gland located close to the centre of the brain. It is responsible for the hormone melatonin that regulates the sleep/wake cycle. The pineal gland also serves to regulate blood pressure, sexual development, growth, body temperature and motor function.
Frankincense, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ginger and Cedarwood essential oils are extremely beneficial for the pineal gland and our endocrine system. 

Quinoa - The Inca Gold

I LOVE QUINOA.

Instead of going on about the nutritional benefits of quinoa (which you will read later) I'll throw out a few words/phrases that come to mind: Seed not grain. Cute curlicue. Grain-like. Ancient. Pretty colors. Underutilized. Superfood. Quick cooking. Incan gold. Complete protein. Whole. Rinse and cook. Tiny. Fluffy, yet crunchy. Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. Are you curious yet?

Quinoa has been cultivated in South American Andes since at least 3,000 B.C. and has been a staple food of millions of native inhabitants. The ancient Incas called quinoa the "mother grain" and revered it as sacred.

The quinoa seed is high in protein, calcium and iron, a relatively good source of vitamin E and several of the B vitamins. It contains an almost perfect balance of all eight essential amino acids needed for tissue development in humans. It is exceptionally high in lysine, cystine and methionine-amino acids typically low in other grains. It is a good complement for legumes, which are often low in methionine and cystine. The protein in quinoa is considered to be a complete protein due to the presence of all 8 essential amino acids. Some types of wheat come close to matching quinoa's protein content, but grains such as barley, corn, and rice generally have less than half the protein of quinoa. Quinoa is 12% to 18% protein and four ounces a day, about 1/2-cup, will provide a childs protein needs for one day. The 6-7% fat of quinoa is relatively high when compared to other grains, but it boasts a low sodium content and also provides valuable starch and fiber. Quinoa also contains albumen, a protein that is found in egg whites, blood serum, and many plant and animal tissues. The seeds are gluten-free which makes this a nutritious and flavorful alternative grain for those with gluten sensitivity. Quinoa would be a worthy addition to anyone's diet, supplying variety as well as good nutrition.

Eating a serving of whole grains, such as Quinoa, at least 6 times each week is an especially good idea for postmenopausal women with high cholesterol, high blood pressure or other signs of cardiovascular disease. A 3-year prospective study of 229 postmenopausal women with cardiovascular disease, published in the July 2005 issue of the American Heart Journal, shows that those eating at least 6 servings of whole grains each week experienced: Slowed progression of atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque that narrows the vessels through which blood flows. Less progression in stenosis, the narrowing of the diameter of arterial passageways.

Cooked quinoa is excellent in hot casseroles and soups, stews, in stir-fries, or cold in salads. The seeds cook very quickly, in only 15 minutes. Uncooked seeds may be added to soups and stews as you would barley or rice and quinoa is often substituted for rice in rice dishes. Dry roasting quinoa in a pan or in the oven, before cooking will give a toasted flavor, and it can be cooked in fruit juice to add character to the flavor for use as a breakfast cereal or in desserts. Cold salads consisting of quinoa and chopped vegetables or cooked beans make a quick, easy, and nutritious dish. Quinoa flour is used in making pasta and a variety of baked goods such as pancakes, bread, muffins, and crackers. Quinoa seeds can be sprouted and eaten as raw, live food for snacks or in salads and sandwiches. To sprout the seeds, soak about 1/3 cup seeds in a jar for 2 to 4 hours, then drain and rinse the seeds twice a day for 2 to 4 days. When the sprouts are about 1 inch long, place them near a window for chlorophyll to develop, which will give them a vibrant green color. Another fascinating way of using quinoa is to "pop" the seeds in a dry skillet and eat them as a dry cereal.

Due to the relatively high oil and fat content of quinoa, the grains and flour should be stored in glass jars in the refrigerator. Use the grains within a year and flour within 3 months.

Quinoa is an Alkaline food and not acidic. Most people eat too many acid foods, which lead to health problems, it is important to eat Alkalizing foods to have a proper balance. Submitted by Marcel Ikelaar of the Netherlands

4 more reasons to enjoy the benefits of quinoa:

1. It’s a VEGETARIAN solution, a balanced-amino-acid source of high quality protein.

2. It’s a SENIOR solution, a high-iron food that raises the hematocrit, delivers more oxygen to the brain, fights senility.

3. It’s a DIABETIC solution, a very low-glycemic-index cereal type food.

4. It’s a TASTE SOLUTION, quite delicious. I used it in a purple cabbage & romaine & onion salad, with a stalk of chopped celery & celery leaves, salt & pepper and a pinch of cumin, with ranch dressing. By the way, it MUST be purple cabbage rather than green.

Before cooking, the seeds must be rinsed to remove their bitter resin-like coating, which is called saponin. Quinoa is rinsed before it is packaged and sold, but it is best to rinse again at home before use to remove any of the powdery residue that may remain on the seeds. The presence of saponin is obvious by the production of a soapy looking "suds" when the seeds are swished in water. Placing quinoa in a strainer and rinsing thoroughly with water easily washes the saponin from the seeds. In South America the saponin which is removed from the quinoa is used as detergent for washing clothes and as an antiseptic to promote healing of skin injuries.

Quinoa Salad Recipe with Lime + Fresh Mint *****

This cool summer salad (which just so happens to be vegan and naturally gluten-free) reminds me of tabbouleh- a Middle Eastern style pasta dish I used to love. What makes a quinoa salad taste so fabulous? Fresh mint, lime juice and good tasting extra virgin olive oil.

1 cup dry quinoa

2 tablespoons fruity extra virgin olive oil

Juice from 2 limes

2-3 fresh mint sprigs, leaves removed and chopped

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves or parsley

Sea salt and fresh ground pepper, to taste

A handful of sweet and ripe cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered

2 tablespoons diced red onion- or use 2 chopped scallions

1 garlic clove, minced

First, rinse your quinoa in a sieve (it's tiny so the usual colander might not do). Cook the quinoa as you would raw rice: in 2 and 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups fresh salted water, covered, until all of the water is absorbed.

I use my rice cooker to do this. The quinoa turns out fluffy, tender and perfect. Scoop the cooked quinoa into a bowl and add the rest of the ingredients, tossing lightly with a fork until combined.

Taste test and adjust seasonings. Cover and chill- the longer, the better. In fact, I think this salad tastes better the second day- so plan ahead and make it the day before.

Makes 4-6 servings.

http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2008/08/lime-quinoa-salad-with-mint.html#ixzz0fCFZutZ4

Toasted Quinoa Salad

3/4 cup uncooked quinoa

1 cup diced carrots

1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper

1/4 cup minced parsley or cilantro

2 sliced green onions

juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime (or 1 - 2 tablespoons of each)

1-1/2 tablespoons tamari soy sauce

2 cloves minced or pressed garlic 
1 teaspoon chili sauce (tobasco) (or use a pinch of cayenne, a few red pepper flakes, etc.)

Rinse quinoa and drain. Put in a pot and dry toast until a few grains begin to pop. Add 1-1/2 cups of water, bring to a boil, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.

Mix carrot, red pepper, parsley and green onion in large bowl. Add cold quinoa and toss to combine, Whisk together lemon and lime juices, tamari, garlic and chili sauce. Pour over salad and combine well. Chill until serving time.

This recipe can be fun. Try throwing in a few fresh raw peas, some fresh raw corn, fresh sliced raw green beans, etc.

Walnut Rosemary Quinoa

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 small onion

1-1/2 cups quinoa, rinsed in boiling water and drained

1 small red bell pepper, diced

3 cups water

1 tablespoon Tamari soy sauce (or to taste)

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried

1 cup fresh or frozen peas, thawed if frozen

1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Preheat oven to 350. Heat oil in a medium saucepan; add onion and quinoa. Sauté over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes. Add red bell pepper and sauté an additional 2 minutes. Add water, soy sauce, rosemary and peas (if using fresh peas).

Bring to a boil and cover; simmer 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Meanwhile, roast walnuts in 350 oven for 5 to 10 minutes. When quinoa is cooked, turn off heat and mix in walnuts and frozen peas (if using frozen peas). Let sit an additional 10 minutes and serve.

Lemon-scented Quinoa Salad Recipe

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water

1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt

1 can garbanzo beans, or dried equivalent

1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

1/2 red onion, chopped

Tahini Dressing:

1 garlic clove, smashed and chopped

1/4 cup tahini

Zest of one lemon scant

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons hot water scant

1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt

Rinse the quinoa in a fine-meshed strainer. In a medium saucepan heat the quinoa and water until boiling. Reduce heat and simmer until water is absorbed and quinoa fluffs up, about 15 minutes. Quinoa is done when you can see the curlique in each grain, and it is tender with a bit of pop to each bite. Drain any extra water and set aside.

While the quinoa is cooking make the dressing. Whisk together the garlic, tahini, lemon zest and juice, and olive oil. Add the hot water to thin a bit and then the salt.

Toss the cooked quinoa, beans, cilantro, red onion, and half of the dressing. Add more dressing if you like and season with more salt to taste. Serve garnished with a bit of cilantro.

Serves 4.

Aloe Vera Juice

How did a Jamaican man figure out the benefits of Aloe Juice? Seeing him on previous videos - by experience! His body is as lean as one can be and the guy is terribly switched on! He sells Aloe Juice shake in his Jamaican Restaurant. He offers cards to get Aloe Juice shakes at least 3 times a week to enjoy great health benefits. Check out the website of his shop and his menu! http://www.aloeveraforhealth.com/about_us.htm

There is a great video you can watch on Cepha talking to a customer about the benefits of drinking Aloe Juice daily! Check it out! http://www.kiraku.tv/category/6187/movie/1/tQbxsvfT87A

Herbalife has the greatest quality Aloe Concentrate, Aloe Gel and Aloe Vera Body Lotion to enjoy the benefits of good health and glowing skin. You can order online: http://www.herbabodyshop.com/2/index.php