Meditation the antidote of stress
Stress is the
response of our body to the pressure from the outside world. You and your
spouse are both working full time, raising young children, while your
retirement parents are completely dependent on your help with shopping and
running errands. Or maybe you are a single person, living alone and your salary
doesn’t increase accordingly to the inflation rate, you are facing financial
problems. Problems like the previously mentioned can have an immense effect to
our health causing us tension, irritability, inability to concentrate and
staying focus and many more physical symptoms. The question which automatically
arises is “how can I manage stress?”
Say no to
medication, what you need is meditation!
If you go to
your doctor for stress related problems he or she will likely tell you that
perhaps the best way to treat yourself from stress is meditation! Meditation is
being more and more recognized by western doctors and researchers for its
useful effects to our psychology. Unlike medication, meditation is highly
recommended as it can only offer peace and bliss to people who practice it.
What is
medication exactly?
Meditation is
sometimes quite misunderstood from people due to lack of information and knowledge.
People wonder whether meditation can benefit them. Other people have wrongly
perceived meditation as something which is practiced by monks in far off lands
sitting all together in silent. But meditation is getting more and more popular
in Western countries among different groups of people. If you are not familiar
with the idea of meditation you may be wondering “what is meditation?”
The answer to this question is simple! Meditation is a practice that
anyone can use to help them cope with medical issues like stress and anxiety
through thought, contemplation and reflection. As Vethathiri Maharishi a spiritual teacher says:” Meditation is a scientific method of
enhancing the capacity of the mind. It fixes the mind on one’s magnetic force,
enhancing the ability to focus. This is the key to self realization. “As Osho says:” The whole purpose of meditation is to
make you aware of your kingdom, to make you aware of your highest potential.Dr.
Adam Burke (a research
psychologist & an assistant professor at San Francisco State University)
has been studying brain wave patterns and states of mind during meditation
states. He says:” Meditation is the study of attention.
Attention is cognitive phenomenon. Meditation is the capacity of the brain to
attend to something over a period of time. “
There is not only one single type of
meditation but you can come across a variety of them. Various types of
meditation are recognized including transcendental meditation, Zen meditation,
Taoist Meditation, prayer, mindfulness meditation and Buddhist Meditation.
Meditation encompasses a wide range of spiritual and body practices which
emphasize in different goal such as the achievement of a higher level of
consciousness, greater focus, creativity, self-awareness or simply a more
relaxed peaceful state of mind.
What benefits
can be experienced by meditation?
Now that you
learned something about meditation another question come into your mind. What
are the benefits of meditation? It may surprise you but apart from an anti-stress
practice meditation is linked with a long list of benefits. First of all, due to its nature it affects
both the mind and the body. When for example focus and concentrate in a
particular part of your body, the blood flow increases and cells get more
oxygen. The yoga meditating techniques are being implemented in management of
life threatening diseases; in reversal of mental illnesses, in accelerated
learning programs, in management of lifestyle and future problems. Meditation
techniques have also been used by Western theories of counseling and
phychotherapy. Some benefits of meditation in the general body health are:
·
It lowers
oxygen consumption
·
It decreases
respiratory rate
·
It increases
blood flow and decreases heart rate
·
Increases
exercise tolerance in heart patients
·
Leads to a
deeper level of relaxation
·
Good for
people with high-blood pressure as it brings the B.P. to normal
·
Reduces
anxieties attacks by reducing the levels of blood lactate
·
Decreases
muscle tension and any muscle pain due to tension and headaches
·
Builds self-
confidence
·
It increases
serotonin production which influences mood and behavior. Low levels of
serotonin are associated with depression, obesity, insomnia and headaches
·
Helps in
chronic diseases like allergies, arthritis etc
·
Reduces
pre-menstrual syndrome
·
Helps in post
–operative healing
·
Enhances the
immune system
·
Also reduces
activity of viruses and emotional distress
Reading and
reviewing all the previously mentioned benefits for somebody’s health you are
almost sure you want to start meditation immediately, but you don’t know how to
start and what practices to adopt. The type of meditation that you decide to
take up it depends solely on your personal preferences and health needs. It is
possible to meditate individually but some techniques are more perplex and the
guidance of a guru is needed. Below there is a presentation of the most popular
techniques:
·
Mantra
Meditation: mantra is the easiest and safest form of meditation and it can be
performed by everyone, even without a guru. Mantra is a vibration sound. The
practitioner of mantra meditation repeats his or her mantra. When you don’t
have the guidance of a guru you can choose your mantra, it doesn’t matter what
your mantra means. The power of the mantra is the vibration that creates when
it is repeated. To choose if the mantra is right for you, you should meditate
and repeat your mantra everyday for about 10 minutes. That would be a good
start.
·
Steady gaze-
trataka: trakata literally means steady gaze. In this type of medication the
practitioner focus on an object, usually a candle. If you want to try trakata
you should put the candle in a distance of an arm away at the height of your
eyes, and focus on the flame. Relax your breath and let it lengthen and deepen.
In your first times, you focus on the flame with your eyes open. After several
times of practicing you should close your eyes and keep the image of the flame
in your mind. Try not to move throughout the practice. If you practicing trakana on a candle flame
you should not continue the practice more than two months, as it may cause
damage to your eye retina. The benefits of this technique aresthat it improver
the optic function, both internal and external. That means it can improve both
poor eyesight and visualization abilities. It also helps you to increase your
concentration and the power of intuition.
·
Chakras
Meditation: chakras means wheel and represent the major nerve plexus which
branch off the spinal cord to serve the main organs of the body. It is
recommended to ask the guidance of a guru while practicing chakras meditation,
as the awaking of chakras can have side effects. During this specific technique
brain energy is required but the excessive amount of brain energy can be a
problem for those who have not abundant physical activity. Moreover, it can
leads to imbalance and creates personality problems. Besides these side
effects, there is a simple technique you can practice if you want to awake your
chakras but you should be careful and awake them gently. To perform this
technique you should either sit or lay down. Close your eyes and adjust your
body. Let your breathe relax slowly, but do not control it. After a few minutes
of setting in, commence Ujjayi pranayam, and carry on for some time. Now bring
awareness to the spinal passage, such that awareness of breath is from bottom
to top. Spend a few minutes establishing this inner breath pattern up and down.
Ascending with inhalation, descending with exhalation. Begin to locate chakras
within that channel. Need not pin point the exact location, just focus on
general areas. Try to feel the location of each station and mentally repeat
from Mooldhara to Ajna, and way down reverse the order. Just before finishing
let go of breathe sound, then names and chant mantra “om” three times.
As it is
mentioned above the list of the techniques are long and some of the need
caution, as they can cause damages and side-effects. If you want to achieve a
higher consciousness level it is better to contact with a meditation spiritual
guide. The techniques review in this article can be performed by practitioners
without the guidance of a guru.
Information
about meditation can be found in the links below:
http://www.healthandyoga.com/HTML/meditation.html
http://www.meditationsociety.com/what.html
www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meditation
for guided
meditation watch the following videos:
www.youtube.com/watch?v-Tu-qZugHXfc
www.youtube.com/watch?v=IHwsb2dK7eM
www.video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-8845129782533857583
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=2926262977429154544
http://www.metacafe.com/watch/877872/guided_meditation_music_mind_massage_lucky_castle_adventure/
http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-do-Guided-Meditation-in-Tai-Chi-32266008
The best Greek Islands
IT FEELS LIKE SUMMER
Greece undoubtedly is one of the best summer holidays destination. Apart from its uniqueness and beauties Greece has much more to offer. Combinations of different aspects of holiday activities are offered. You can have a memorable time whether you want to party all the time or you want just to relax, whether you are a lover of archeological monument sight-seeing or you are attractive to alternative tourism. Each and every one island can offer you a variety of activities. It is true, that Greek islands in summer are overcrowded, but even in the very same island there are places you can visit far away from the mass. The following list reviews the best Greek island destinations, in random order. If you are not sure which place to choose, simply read the following list and find out which one is the best for you!
1. Mykonos
Mykonos is the synonymous of entertainment. This island has rightly wins the title of the most cosmopolitan destination in Greece. It is considered to be one of the most hot spots in Europe. People from all around the world, with different cultures and lifestyles come together to join in the fun and party atmosphere. Through years, Mykonos managed to attract more and more people. It is also attracts famous DJ’s, who perform in the local clubs and bars. Clubs like Super Paradise and Paradise beach are worldwide popular, because you can start clubbing from early morning hours till the next morning. The dress code is not strictly, and you are going to end up dancing with your swimming custom and your sunglasses. This is the natural flows of things. Another characteristic that makes this island unique is the gay friendly attitude of both the locals and the visitors. Many gay bars and clubs can been found all around the island. The beaches of Mykonos are clean, beautiful and picturesque due to the rocky natural scene. Small coves are spread all over. The beaches are accessible by car or motorbike, but if you want to have a better view of them you should choose to tour them with a boat.
This island is the best destination for you because: you are a party animal, you love vivid nightlife, you like to feel as a celebrity, you are a trend setter, and you want to merge with a multinational and multicultural crowd.
You better avoid it: if you want to have some relax, if you travel with your family, if you are a sight-seer type of tourist
For more information: www.mykonos.gr
It is the website of the municipality of Mykonos, where you can find useful information on where to stay and how you can get there. Moreover, a photo gallery of the island is available
2. Santorini
It is said that the sunset view from Santorini is the best worldwide, and it is so true. The unique scenery creates a great atmosphere and the air over there feels different too. The now-extinct volcano of Thira had blown up in 1,500 BC and formed the exceptional magnificence of Caldera. Santorini is also known as the diamond island with the white building villages sited on the volcanic reddish cliffs overseeing the Aegean Pelages. A mixture of golden beaches, astonishing architecture, and breathtaking sunset view makes this Island the perfect destination. After a long day of sunbathing and swimming in the awesome beaches, it is the time to explore the magnificent nighttime. If you are fond of dancing and loud music, you should stay in Fira or Kamari where the main concentration of the nightlife venue is located. There is a selection among clubs which plays the latest hits and mainstream music where many guest famous DJ’s perform, to the relaxing jazz and classical music bars. Another archeological site that you must not miss is Ancient Thira, which is used as an observation post of the island, the visitors can see the remains of the Temples of Artemidos and Dionysus, the Agora, Sanctuaries, the Graveyard and the Stoa. While in Fira it is highly recommended to visit the two Cathedrals and the Archeological and Prehistoric Museum and the Fira Folklore Museum.
Why to choose Santorini: because you can have a great time whatever you are fond of. You can party or relax, whether you are with your friends, your family or with your significant other you will not get bored. Top feature: you can take the best photographs ever.
Why not to go there: only because all the accommodations are full.
3. Paros
Paros is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, the long, sandy beaches with the crystal clear waters, the impressive landscapes, the archeological sites and the nightlife. All these features make Paros one of the highly growing destinations in Greece. The island of Paros can offer the visitor the accommodation of their choice including luxury hotels, discount hotels, suites, studios, and apartments, rooms to rent or even camping. Many beaches of Paros are perfect for sunbathers and sea sports aficionados. There are beaches where you can lay down the warm sun and get the golden exotic tan you have always wanted. Other beaches have the perfect weather conditions for windsurfing, water skiing and other water sports. Most beaches are organized and you can find there snack bars, a good selection of beach facilities and water sports instructors. The beaches you should not miss if you travel in Paros are Punta, Santa Maria, Nea Chryssi Akti, Marcello, Monastiri and LIvadia, if you want to join the crowd. However if you are not keen on that type of vacations you can always relax and stay away from the maddening crowd you have a variety of choices like Faragga, Glyfa, Krios, Lageri and Molos. Lageri attracts mainly nudist. As in every Greek island one of the features of Paros is the nightlife. There is a plentitude of clubs, bars, cafes and restaurants. Where to go depends solely on your expectations. For vivid nightlife, choose Parikiia or Naoussa where the most nightlife venues is located. However, Parikia is more relaxing than other parts of the islands. For archeology lovers, there are some sites you should visit. The church of Our Lady of the hundred doors is located near the main port in Parikia. The beautiful butterfly of Psycopiana is located near to Parikia. Also visit the Venetian Castle and the Agios Nikolaos Church, the Ancient Marble Quarry in Marathi and the Mycenaean Acropolis of Kolympithres.
Choose Paros: if you want something between relaxation and entertainment, if you love water sports and if you are 17-23 years old.
Don’t go to Paros: if you are not fond of the crowd of so young people.
4. Crete
Crete is the bigger island in Greece and one of the biggest in Europe. Grete combines history, culture and tradition. Moreover, the nightlife is excellent and there is a plethora of venues to choose. The hospitality of the locals and their cuisine make that island so special. There are four prefectures in Crete: Herakleio, Chania, Rethymnon and Lassithi, that is why there are a big selection of accommodation, a variety of great beaches from sandy beaches to rocky caves, from well-equipped and crowded to quiet and isolated ones. There are also nudist beaches and gay beaches. If you are interested in archeology and history Crete is the ideal island for you. In Crete you will have the chance to discover the grandeur of the ancient Minoan Civilization. The monuments are well reserved but unfortunately, if you want to see them all you will not have time to do anything else. So chose to visit the archeological sites of the prefecture you staying or choose a group tour around the island. One thing you should not miss in anyway is the Palm Tree Forest, which lies next to a sandy beach. The fact that it is the only forest of its kind not only in Greece but also in Europe makes it so worthy visiting. Also, don’t neglect to taste the local cuisine goodies. Crete’s cuisine is the model of the Mediterranean balanced diet.
You should visit Crete: if you are bored of cosmopolitan islands, if you want to discover the tradition and the history of Greece, if you want to have a group travel, if you want to combine entertainment and relaxation.
You should not visit Crete: if you don’t want to rent a car or have a tour.
5. Zakynthos
Zakynthos is also known as the “flower of the East”. It is famous for its diverting characteristics which make it such a unique destination. The lush and flourish hill sides which are full of fragrant wild flowers and plants set this island apart from the others. Some of its sandy beaches consider being as one of the finest in all Greece, such as the famous beach of Navagia (ship-wreck beach).if you are environmentalist or at least you take grant of the environment issues, some of Zakynthos beaches are protected because there the endangered species of the turtle careta-careta lays their eggs in the soft sand. The nightlife in Zakynthos is as rich and various as in all the other islands in Greece. You can choose between crowded clubs and bars to quiet cafes and taverns. In Zakynthos town there is a range of archeological sites and monuments like The Orthodox Church of Agios Dionisios, the patron saint of the island, and the Agios NIkolaos of the Molos, as well as the Catholic church of Saint Mark which is quiet impressive. There are several splendid archaeological sights on Zakynthos Island, Greece the finest of which is the Mycenaean Domed Tomb in Keri and the Mycenaean Graveyard in Kambi. The Stone Bridges in Alykes and Argasi are some of the most photographed sights on the island. In Argasi, we suggest you also make a stop at the Medieval Castle and the Mini Zoo. If you are a museum-goer, you can admire the collections at the Folklore Museums in Katastari and Vasilikos, or the Maritime Museum in Tsilivi.
Zakynthos is perfect for you: if you are environmentalist, if you are interesting in religious sight-seeing, if you want to visit the cleanest beaches, if you are tired of the cosmopolitan atmosphere of other Greek islands
You should not visit Zakynthos: If you are fond of the cosmopolitan character of other Greek Islands.
my tips 