Keep Your PC Running Fast

There are a number of things you need to do to keep your computer running fast and secure.

You need to run maintenance utilities to keep it internally running smooth and security programs to protect it from the outside invasion.

Some of the maintenance programs can be found with these paths: Start>Programs>Accessories>System Tools: (1)Disk Cleanup, (2)ScanDisk, (3)Disk Defragmenter, and >System Information: (4)Internet Explorer Repair.

The Security Programs you should be running are:
ones to (5)Block Hackers and Viruses, a (6)Firewall to prevent invasion, and a (7) Spyware stopper to keep your PC free from monitoring programs.

You need to (8)Keep your operating system updated with the latest patches to help it run better and to protect it from outside attacks.

You also need to run a good (9)Windows Washer, System File Checker and Registry Cleaner.

Finally, you also need to (10)Keep yourself informed of all the latest information to make it all work well.

Use Google.com to find the latest Freeware versions for these utilities and remember to completely remove those products that do not work any more.

Here are some examples of programs that work well: Spybot - Search & Destroy can detect and remove a multitude of adware files and modules from your computer.

Spybot also can clean program and Web-usage tracks from your system, which is especially useful if you share your computer with other users.

Modules chosen for removal can be sent directly to the included file shredder, ensuring complete elimination from your system.

For advanced users, it allows you to fix registry inconsistencies related to adware and to malicious program installations.

The handy online-update feature ensures that Spybot always has the most current and complete listings of adware, dialers, and other uninvited system residents.

Here are some examples of Shareware that I have tried: Registry Mechanic 2.1 - Registry Cleaner

Keep your Windows Registry clean and free of errors. Download Registry Mechanic to fix your registry and make your system faster and more stable.

In addition to Spybot - Search & Destroy, a few other free applications will keep your PC clean, mean, and ultra-sheen. The popular Ad-aware works well as a complement to Spybot, and these three additional fantastic, free tools offer invaluable detection and protection.

Hijack This
This simple detection software runs a fast scan of your system and lists all potential danger areas. To determine actual risk, you'll need to be a veteran PC user or post your scan results to one of the many help forums on the Web to determine if there could be trouble.

WinPatrol
Scotty the Watch Dog can be your PC's best friend, with a host of customizable controls for detecting malware on your system. WinPatrol's most valuable feature is its ability to alert you when a program tries to install itself--and to let you prevent it. It also lets you decide which programs automatically start up when you turn on your computer.

SpywareBlaster
The best medicine is prevention. For inoculating your computer against spyware infections, SpywareBlaster is a simple tool that's hard to beat. Start up the software, select the spyware and adware you want to block, and hit the Protect button. SpywareBlaster automatically updates its database to keep up with changing adware components.

Dreams - Do they have Meaning?

Every person on earth dreams every night - every mammal in fact. It follows then that something extremely important must be going on while we sleep and dream, yet in the industrialized world, the majority of people pay little attention to dreams, and sometimes shortchange themselves on sleep because it is perceived as lost time, or at best unproductive.

How astonishing that we generally ignore this third (and possibly far more) of ourselves. An appropriate analogy to the grandeur of this mass misunderstanding is the incredible inertia in the middle ages against the idea of earth being other than flat until repeated point-blank evidence like Galileo's observation of other planets and their moons and the journeys of Columbus' and other explorers across the ocean proved conclusively otherwise.

The challenge was that people's everyday experience contradicted the idea of a spherical earth because nobody had yet gained perspective from outside of the system. Airplanes and especially photographs from space were not yet available, so there was little first hand evidence of a new paradigm that was quite a great leap beyond the old. Fortunately, people eventually began to come around and the shift triggered an ensuing surge of exploration as the realization and acceptance finally dawned that our world really isn't flat after all.

Dreams, in the same way, encompass yet another entire dimension of experience, a world as yet unexplored by most, where a fascinating sphere of activity awaits investigation and possible harvest for greater fulfillment in waking life. The challenge is again the same -- common daily experience for the average person offers little proof of this other reality, let alone the possible value of this other dimension of experience, unless one can gain perspective from outside the 9 to 5 work day framework and scientific purely objective system.

Dream related mental skills such as dream recall or dream interpretation and information on subjects such as the meaning of nightmares or precognitive dreams isn't taught in our schools, and the majority of our parents knew or passed on little about the value of dreams as we grew up. So it's no big surprise that many adults remember few or no dreams, and even more rarely contemplate or set out to interpret the guidance and mine the jewels of creative inspiration hidden just below the surface of consciousness in dreams. Basically, nobody told us or showed us how dreams can be extremely practical.

The result of where this long-time trend of disregarding dreams has brought society is that the current misguided concepts about the value of dreams are not only crucial misunderstandings, but also represent and even bring about a lack of connection with the subconscious and our own deeper nature. This artificial rift may indirectly, or even rather directly be the source for many of our current personal, cultural and planetary social, political, and environmental challenges.

One solution towards rebalancing and integration on a personal and eventually a planetary level, is for each of us to realize and begin to investigate how our personal dreams, at very least, each night offer a direct means to explore inner reality and gain unique, undeniable experiences of deep personal value. Further, there is overwhelming evidence that they can be harvested to improve waking life, supporting Shakespeare's age-old claim by MacBeth that sleep and dreams are the "chief nourishers in life's feast". Dreams do indeed offer opportunities for fun, adventure, wish fulfillment, creativity, deep personal insight and healing -- and all this at no cost and with no line-ups!

see these links: http://www.dreams.ca
http://www.greatdreams.com

The Nervous System of the Mind
The Nervous System is linked to all the twelve systems of the body and is the closest system we have to the idea of the mind. The brain is the key organ of the mind; yet it works in close cooperation with the sensory and immune systems, for without sensory input and chemical translation the mind would be dumb.

The mind remembers everything the brain ever experienced. Every sight, sound, touch, smell and taste is remembered by the body.

There are over 100 billion brain cells and over 100 trillion cells in the body. Each brain cell is connected to 25 to 100 other brain cells, so it would not take too many to make up a brain word. There could be from 25^25^8 to 100^100^8 connections with just an eight cell layer. If we take the possible intelligence of all the neurons in any person, it would surpass all the intelligence in the universe. The connections of the brain would surpass the number of stars in the cosmos of over 200 billion galaxies each with over 200 billion stars +/- 50% (200^9*200^9)=~7*10^22 or about 7 sextrillion stars.

Although we learn less as we get older, our capacity for knowledge always increases. Our imaginations have dreamed of worlds that we have not yet experienced in physical reality, yet there are some that profess they have visited outer worlds and experienced what it would be like to live there. Many great leaders attempted to make the world into a utopia, yet all of them have failed. What can we learn form their mistakes?

It all starts with the individual and yet it is not solely the individuals' responsibility to make any relationship work. It takes two to have a friendship and many friendships to make a loving family. Without the knowledge of true love, everyone is lost. This is why theology is the mother of wisdom and a personal relationship with God is necessary.

Every religion leads us to God, yet every soul must seek God to get to know him better. We can seek him in school, on the job, in the world or in another's eyes; yet if we do not first go to the source of all knowledge, most of our life might be wasted.

Every person feels they know how successful they have been in life. Deep down inside, they know the truth. It is part of our divine design. Yet how can we learn from this wisdom, if we do not know how to use it?

There are many ways we can develop our mind. You are lucky if you have a computer to help you in this vital task. One way to begin is by using multiple search engines that rate, and summarizes its findings.

I remember finding a whole science of knowledge with very specific words for its courses. Yet becoming too academic would make us all philosophers who are very precise with their words.

Popular courses on self improvement have much to offer the student of life; yet all our knowledge has to be experienced for it to be affective. In other words, success makes success and only your unconscious mind knows if you are really truly great.

UTOPIA & UTOPIAN PHILOSOPHY

Summary of "The Ultimate Philosophy"

Every person has thought, at least once in their life, that it would be nice if there were no disease, no crime, no poverty, and/or for some other improvement in the Human condition. Since everyone has dreamed of a better world, it is fair to say that Humanity has a common dream. While no two humans are exactly the same, we are all of one race, the human race, and we all share the experience of life in an essentially identical carbon-based life-form structure. We all work for continuing survival while in this structure, and hope for a happy, safe, and good life for ourselves and for our loved ones. Therefore, everyone has a common desire for the best life attainable. "Utopia" is the word used to denote the best life attainable. Since each person has their own unique vision of Utopia, the only universally agreeable description of Utopia is, "the ability for each person to live in their own vision of paradise." Humanity should strive to obtain that ability.

Since humans consist of both a tangible physical state (body) and an intangible mental state (mind), the way to achieve Utopia is to find technologies and methods that fully satisfy both states of human existence. With the right new knowledge Humanity can solve any problem and achieve any desired result. History has shown that anytime humanity wants to learn how to do something, such as land a man on the moon, the answers can be found if money and resources are devoted to the cause. Therefore, we should be devoting more resources toward finding the knowledge that will allow each person to live as they desire.

Human DNA has been fully mapped and now it is just a matter of determining what each gene does so that we can manipulate the same to stop illness, increase intelligence, etc. Princeton University scientists have already genetically enhanced the intelligence of mice. Aged brains have been restored to youthful vigor in a gene therapy experiment with monkeys. Scientists have recently created a new life form in the laboratory by creating a new genetic pattern of a simple organism. Cloning capabilities are increasing. Computing capabilities are going ballistic, and artificial intelligence seems to be on the horizon. With robots, machines, computers, and other technologies beyond our current knowledge such as nanotechnology, we can have unlimited production capabilities. With genetic engineering, chemical manipulation, and future technologies we can enhance the mental state of existence. In sum, with the right new knowledge, humanity can have infinite provision for all tangible and intangible needs and wants for existence, and thereby have Utopia. If humanity recognized this reality, and devoted more resources toward knowledge, we could accelerate the pace at which we reach a better world.

The three basic ways of interacting with knowledge, are: 1) dissemination from accessing stored information, through teaching, or from other methods of communication; 2) use through actions based on awareness of knowledge; and 3) acquisition of new knowledge from research, through experience, or from other avenues of discovery. Humanity has achieved proficient methods for dissemination of knowledge, and simply needs to better utilize the same in order to facilitate the use of knowledge. The primary method for finding new knowledge is through research and development. Less than 2% of current global productivity is being devoted to research and development. Clearly Humanity could and should be investing more in its future.

Everyone makes a vote as to the type of world we have with their lifetime efforts, and the total of all human actions determines whether the world is like a heaven on earth or a living hell. Therefore, the pursuit of Utopia can be implemented through the consensus method. The consensus method simply involves putting a dream into words and spreading those words until a large enough consensus is created to cause positive action by society. Individually and collectively we must shine the light of knowledge on the darkness of ignorance, until we find our best. If we take such a path, at some point in the future, Humanity will have a heaven on earth, where everyone lives as they desire.

In sum, since everyone desires a good life, we should make the same a common goal, and devote some more resources toward finding the knowledge to make it a reality for all.

A simple plan to make a dream come true:
who = humans
what = best life
where = globally
why = self destiny
when = future
how = knowledge

http://users.erols.com/jonwill/

Chinese Multi Herb Formula
Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju Hua) - This flower of a special variety of Chrysanthemum is used in China to improve the circulation in the head and face and is thus traditionally used for headaches and sinus conditions. Since it has a cooling action, it is used to relieve red, swollen eyes such as that caused by smog and summer heat.

Mulberry Herb - It's availability of GABA lowers blood pressure, the phytosterol reduces cholesterol and deoxy-nojirimycin helps reducing blood sugar levels. Prevents you from a constipation without a laxative effect.

Dandelion Leaf - The root especially effects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. By acting to remove poisons from the body, it acts as a tonic and stimulant as well.

Hawthorne Berry - European physicians often prescribe hawthorn as a substitute for digitalis, likely the most popular medicine for enhancing the contractility of a weakened heart.

Cocklebur Fruit - Opens the nasal passages, assists in dispersing breath, expels dampness, and relieves throat and nose itching.

Licorice Root - Helpful for gastric bleeding, prevention and for long term treatment of ulcers, and tissue rebuilding.

Angelica Root - Used to treat colds, indigestion, and rheumatism. The roots are liver and uterine stimulants.

Lycium Berry - A powerful antioxidant that contains 18 kinds of amino acids (six times higher than bee pollen), more beta carotene than carrots, and 500 times the amount of vitamin C by weight than oranges. It is loaded with vitamin B1, B2, B6 and Vitamin E. It has been found effective in increasing white blood cells, protecting liver function, lowering cholesterol, relieving hyper-tension, helping strengthen the immune system while building muscle tissue and burning body fat.

Suan Zao Seed - Nourishes and calms the heart and is a major traditional herb for insomnia.

Ginseng Root - Increases resistance to the effects of stress and improves circulation and mental functioning. Health conditions contributed to be stress include increased acidity of the body chemistry, back pain, cancer, Crohn's disease (inflammation of the intestinal tract), depression, chronic diarrhea, digestive disorders, hair loss, headaches, hypertension or high blood pressure, impotence, insomnia, TMJ syndromes (jaw pain and clicking), nervous and anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive behaviors, various skin conditions, and finally, ulcers. Ginseng, whether it comes from Korea or Minnesota, is for people who have chronic fever, thirst, hot flashes, people who crave excess sweets and have excess hunger.

Chinese Asparagus Root - Chosen to strengthen the kidney and liver functions, improve vision and calm the nerves.

Walnut Fruit - Supports the digestive and glandular systems. Traditionally, black walnut hulls have been taken to enhance intestinal functioning, including soothing the lower intestinal tract and supporting the body's parasite-fighting efforts. Black Walnut is also high in iodine, and may help encourage glandular and thyroid health.

Longan Fruit - Used for the treatment of digestive problems, while Longan roots are known to promote the healing of bruises as well as breaking down phlegm for easier expulsion.

Codonopsis Root (Tang Shen) - Benefits the lungs and is helpful in treating chronic cough and shortness of breath.

Solomon's Seal Rhizome (Polyggonatum Multiflorum) - Rehydrates cells and prevents dehydration.

Dodder Seed - Dodder seed is considered to be a superior anti-aging herb and is used in vitality tonics to support the reproductive system.

Tangerine Peel - Regulates the digestion. Used for bloating, nausea and vomiting. Clears Phlegm.

Fo Ti Root - Can lower blood cholesterol levels, help prevent arteriosclerosis, reduce hypertension and lower incidence of coronary heart disease. Chinese medicine also indicates Fo-Ti as having anti-toxic, anti-swelling and tranquilizing properties as well as being useful for liver and spleen weakness, vertigo, scrofula, cancer, constipation and as a sedative for insomnia. Also recognized for having beneficial effects on fertility and other female functions involving ovulation.

Sesame Seed - Sesame seed benefits the body as a whole, especially the liver, kidney, spleen and stomach. Its high oil content lubricates the intestines and nourishes all the internal viscera. It also blackens one's hair, especially the black sesame. Hence, it is applied to white hair, habitual constipation, and insufficient lactation. Sesame oil is also helpful in treating intestinal worms like ascaris, tapeworm, etc.

Ligustrum Fruit - Boosts immunity and relieves stress.

Eclipta Herb - Used as a rejuvenative herb which supports the mind, nerves, eyes and hair. It is also traditionally used for liver disorders in both systems of medicine. Modern research has shown that in some ways certain constituents of Eclipta are superior to those of Milk Thistle in the protection of liver cells.

Cherokee Rose Fruit - A sour, cherry-like fruit that binds and contains the body's energies thus preserving resistant function.

Siegesbeckia Herb - In China it is used as a remedy for ague, rheumatism, and renal colic, used in Britain chiefly as a cure for ringworm in conjunction with glycerine and used in Mauritius Islands for syphilis, leprosy, and various skin diseases.

Eucommia Bark - A superb Yang Jing herb, used to strengthen the back (especially the lower back), skeleton, and joints (especially the knees and ankles). Eucommia is believed to confer strength and flexibility to the ligaments and tendons.

Ox Knee Root - Promotes blood circulation to regulate menstruation, nourishes the liver and kidneys, strengthens bones and muscles, induces diuresis to cure strangury (a painful discharge of urine, drop by drop) and conducts fire (blood) downward.

Honeysuckle Vine - Anti-inflammatory herb.

Sheng Di Root - Nourishes joints, tendons, ligaments and muscle.

Schisandra Fruit - Traditionally used for exhaustion, low libido, insomnia, and liver problems. In Chinese medicine they are also used to strengthen the kidneys and restore the fluid balance in the body.

Cistanche Root - To moisten the intestines and warm the womb.

China Root - Benefits spleen and for bloody dysentery.

Sweetflag Rhizome - It is widely employed in modern herbal medicine as an aromatic stimulant and mild tonic. In Ayurveda it is highly valued as a rejuvenator for the brain and nervous system and as a remedy for digestive disorders.

Anise Seed (Pimpinnella Anisum) - Used for flatulence, indigestion, infant colic, hiccup, coughs and bronchial catarrh.

Dipsacus Root - Strengthens the spleen and dries excessive internal dampness.

Chinese Senega Root - Support for relief of stress and nervous irritability.

Chinese Yam Root - Wild yam root has been used for hundreds of years to treat rheumatism and arthritis-like ailments. The discovery of steroidal glycosides (diosgenin) in the root validated this ancient practice.

Gui Yuan (Longan) - Regulates appetite, stimulates gastric juices and improves bowel function.

Lotus Seed (Sm Nelumbinis) - A mild sedative useful for alleviating nervousness and irritability.

Qian Shi Fruit (Sm Euryales) - Strengthens the spleen and kidneys respectively and relieves chronic loose stool that is a result of weakness in these organs.

Coicis Seed (Pearl Barley - Job's Tears) - It enters the spleen, stomach, lungs and large intestine to tonify these organs.

Echinacea Angustifolia (Angustifolia Root Extract) - First used by Native Americans as a remedy for skin wounds and snakebites. Today, the herb is highly regarded for its benefits in strengthening the immune system. Studies show echinacea to even help treat conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

Iris Versicolor Extract (Blue Flag Root Extract) - The protector of the thymus gland, controller of immunity.

Hydrastis Canadensis (Golden Seal Root Extract) - This herb contains berberine and other natural compounds having numerous health benefits. Taken at the first signs of respiratory problems, colds or flu, Goldenseal can help prevent further symptoms from developing.

Alfalfa - It is often used to aid digestion, help heal bone disorders and is often recommended as an anti-inflammatory.

Bee Pollen - Hailed as a cure all but one interesting point is that of the 28 minerals in the human body, most are considered essential. Bee pollen contains all 28 minerals...

Black Radish Root (Raphanus Sativus) - Black Radish is rich in vitamin C, which helps us fight infections and free radicals. Black radish also contains a variety of chemicals that increase the flow of bile which play an important role in the digestion process. Radish help maintain a healthy gallbladder. It also has an antibacterial effect on our digestive flora.

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum Officinale) - For centuries, dandelion root has been regarded as an effective, gentle laxative. The roots and leaves are used to treat liver conditions and to encourage normal digestion. All parts of the plant have high concentrations of vitamin A, and choline, a B vitamin that stimulates the liver.

Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero Root) - Siberian Ginseng Strengthens the adrenal and reproductive glands. Enhances immune function, promotes lung functioning and stimulates the appetite. Useful for bronchitis, circulatory problems, diabetes, infertility, lack of energy, and stress. Said to help ease withdrawl from cocaine, and to protect against the effects of radiation exposure. Used by athletes for overall body strengthening. May help improve drug or alcohol induced liver dysfunction in older adults.

Fringe Tree Root (Chionanthus Virginicus) - It is renown for their tonic effect on the liver and digestive system.

Garlic - Garlic helps to prevent cancer. It prevents the further growth of certain tumors while reducing the size of others.

Gentian Root (Gentiana Lutea) - For the pancreas, digestive organs, kidney, spleen, glands, jaundice and liver disorders.

Gota Kola - Brain food, memory, depression, vitality, senility.

Greater Celandine Herb (Chelidonium Majus) - Used to treat conditions of the liver and other conditions.

Green Beet Leaf (Beta Vulgaris) - Provide liver support for normal fat metabolism.

Green Pea Concentrate - Provides support for cardiovascular health.

Hawthorn Berry (Crataegus Oxyacantha) - It helps to increase the utilization of oxygen in the heart while increasing enzyme metabolism in the heart muscle.

Kola Nut - Good for sinus, phlegm, arthritis and strengthens the immune system. Helps the nervous system and increases brain power.

Korean Ginseng - This famously energizing herb has been found to improve abstract thinking, speed up reaction time, and boost resistance to viral infections.

Milk Thistle (Seed) - Milk thistle is a potent anti-oxidant, more potent than Vitamins C and E. This means it can counteract free radical damage that can cause degenerative diseases including cancer.

Muira Puama - Used for sex, menstrual cramps and PMS, and central nervous system disorders.

Nettles Leaf (Urtica Dioica) - In addition to its ability to have antihistamine-like effect, nettles tonify and firm inflamed tissues.

Parsley Leaf (Petroselinum Crispun) - Effective diuretic, also aids menstruation and eases colic pains.

Saw Palmetto Berries - Saw Palmetto is often mislabeled as a man's herb. While it certainly has many benefits on the prostate for men, it holds an important place in this formula for women. Traditionally considered a uterine tonic, long been used for painful menstruation, and ovarian pain and inflammation.

Yellow Dock - Stimulates liver bile, clear toxins, and are used for chronic skin disorders. They treat psoriasis and constipation.

Water Plantain Root - It supplements the spleen, benefits energy, converts excessive moisture, and promotes diuresis.

Shou Di Root (Rhemenia Root) - Helps in promoting blood circulation and improvement in vital energy.

Mint Leaf - An antioxidant that cleans the skin.

Cassia Tora Seed - Known for helping to lower blood cholesterol, uric acids and sugar levels, reduce kidney and gall stones, improve digestion, normalize blood pressure and dissolve blood clots.

http://www.donlemmon.com/img/herbs-ultimateherbal.JPG

Arthritis Recovery
http://www.macrobiotics.org/duvall.html

By Charles Duvall

In October 1994, when I awoke in the morning my right hand was "asleep", and I could not "wake" it up. This was the beginning of a very painful year. Within one week, both hands were numb, and becoming increasingly painful. By Christmas, the pain was so bad at night that I had to get up every hour and soak my hands in ice water to stop the pain. By then, both hands were stiff, and I could no longer make a grip with my fists.

In March 1995, my ankles began to stiffen, and I began to experience pain when walking. This stiffness quickly progressed to my feet, knees, hips, elbows, and shoulders and by summer, I could not get out of bed without help. My knees would not straighten. I relied on hot showers to "wake-up" my body, but I became very weak, and unable to work more than several hours in the morning.

In early July, I met with a client from London, and went to dinner at a fancy local seaside restaurant to discuss a project in Mexico City. I ordered stuffed eggplant with ricotta and mozzarella, with a cream sauce, new potatoes, and a glass of red wine. I followed this with a flaming dessert of caramelized bananas with chocolate sauce.

We talked for several hours at our table. After the bill was paid, I pushed my chair back and quickly realized that my legs would not support my weight. I told everyone that my legs had "fallen asleep", and to walk on ahead of me. It took ten minutes before I could stand and walk slowly to the parking lot. I attributed my problem to sitting for such a long period.

Two weeks later, again I went out to dinner. This time I ordered a pizza with onions, eggplant, and garlic with double cheese, a bottle of beer, followed by a large slice of chocolate cake. After dinner, again my legs would not support me. This second experience was enough for me to finally make the connection between the food and my condition.

On August 1, I decided to eliminate sugar, dairy, and nightshade vegetables from my diet. I had been a vegetarian for five years, and frequently ate nightshades two or three times a day. Immediately, I began to lose weight, and did not have any more shocking after dinner experiences, although I continued to lose flexibility.

Finally, in September 1995, I gave in to taking the recommended drugs, as I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis by a rheumatologist. I was prescribed one of about two hundred possible types of NSAIDS. If these were not strong enough, there were various stronger levels of drugs ranging form sulfa sulfates to cortisone, and even radiation therapy which could eventually be available to me should I need more relief in the future. My control over my condition was to become my choice of how many pills I required to relieve my condition.

The NSAIDS relieved the pain in my ankles, and I could walk more easily, but I still continued to loose my overall flexibility, and strength. I could work about four hours before collapsing on the sofa for the rest of the day and evening. I got a boost at 6pm when I popped the second pill. The rheumatologist had explained that the drugs would relieve the pain, but not prevent my condition from deteriorating further.

I was skeptical about taking drugs in the first place and suspicious about the connection of food because of my direct experiences. The literature of the Arthritis Foundation states that there is no scientific evidence of a connection between diet and arthritis, although some people have noticed effects from eating certain foods.

I decided to take a short vacation at Nags Head before leaving for a two week project in Mexico City in the end of September. I made a business phone call to Maine, and an old friend picked up the phone. She mentioned the Kushi Institute after hearing that I was experimenting with my diet. I immediately called and signed up for the Way to Health program on October 15, even though I was basically unfamiliar with macrobiotics. I had to explore a food related solution out of intuition and desperation.

On October 11, I had an appointment with my rheumatologist. She prescribed the next level of drugs, sulfa sulfates. I should take seven pills every day. I could eventually experiment with the dosage based on my needs. I somehow knew I would never fill the subscription.

One week later, at the Kushi Institute, I quickly realized that I was in the right healing place. The teachers immediately confirmed my suspicion that my condition was related to my diet. The teachers emphasized the relationship of lifestyle as a big factor as well.

After several days, I already felt the energy of the delicious balanced macrobiotic meals. I stopped taking the NSAIDS. I tried to absorb as much knowledge as possible in this concentrated week of study, cooking, exercise, and healing. Sharing experiences with other students and faculty was also a vital part of the week.

I realized that I was beginning a new way of thinking and living, but I never grasped how powerful and uplifting the process would become, and how it would begin to transform my daily life.

Slowly, my arthritis began to change. My joints started making cracking sounds, and become gradually more flexible. I utilized frequent ginger compresses on my ankles and knees. The swelling eventually subsided almost completely.

Initially, doing hot towel rubs in the morning and evening was physically difficult, but after three months became easier to perform, and has been very effective in increasing my vitality and circulation, and well as increasing flexibility and eliminating pain and stiffness in my shoulders and knees.

Daily Do-In exercises have also added strength and flexibility, as well as weekly Tai-chi classes. After three months of a macrobiotic diet, the exercises became more effective than in the beginning.

Recently, I discovered that chewing the food has a direct relationship to the stiffness in my joints, so I am now more focused on chewing every mouthful. Learning itself is a process, and takes patience. It was not possible to prepare every meal perfectly in the beginning, but gradually I overcame obstacles.

Now I am pretty proficient at getting breakfast prepared well, with rice, greens, and miso. It took effort and time to establish a consistent yet flexible process for preparing breakfast. Now, I am trying to improve my preparation of dinner.

In February, I turned forty years old. I have been practicing macrobiotics for four months. I still have good and bad days, but I am moving rapidly towards healing and balance.

Once the arthritis is behind me, I can move on to a continuous and on-going process of healing, transformation, and changes in my diet and lifestyle, and in my relationship to other people and the world, and with myself.

I look forward to returning to the Kushi Institute in Becket to continue to educate myself about macrobiotics and receive the support of others committed to health and healing.

Shortcut URL to this page: http://curezone.com/diseases/arthritis/testimonials/Arthritis_recovery_Charles_Duvall.htm

Qi Gong (External Qi Healing, Wai Qi Zhi Liao)
Background: Where does this technique come from?

Definition: Ancient healing technique. "Projecting qi outside of [the healer's] body and into a patient... In China, External Qi Healing usually refers to noncontact therapeutic touch, the hand or hands held approximately six inches above the area of treatment." (Cohen, 243)

Source: The Way of Qi Gong: The art and science of Chinese Energy Healing by Kenneth S. Cohen. New York: Ballantine Books, 1997. Workshop on External Qi Healing by Ken Cohen, Seattle, July 2001. Manual.
Finding Out More: Best website I found is:

http://www.acupuncture.com/QiKung/QiKunInd-all.htm

Origin of Method / History: There is a long history in China of exercise / dance postures based on animals' movements and other elements of nature. This form of exercise continues to be practiced today as qi gong. The first reference to using energy exercise (aka dao yin, qi gong, etc.) for healing is from the 6th century BC.

Theory: What is energy? What is energy healing?

What energy is being worked with? Qi. Life energy.
The ideogram for Qi could be interpreted as "the energy produced when complementary, polar opposites are harmonized." (Cohen, 31)

Sources of Energy: Air or breath; food; inherited / genetic qi.

Energy centers/pathways: Qi reservoirs: Lower dan tien is associated with sexuality and physical energy. Middle dan tien is related to respiration and health of internal organs. Upper dan tien holds shen (energy of consciousness), related to the brain. Pathways are the meridians.

What is illness / health? "Health is more than an abundance of qi. Health implies that the qi in our bodies is clear; rather than polluted and turbid, and flowing smoothly like a stream, not blocked and stagnant." (Cohen, 3)

What is the mechanism? Practitioner does qi gong and client's field matches energy. "Your qi field, interacting with that of the patient, communicates a healing message." (Cohen, 259)

Role of practitioner: To seek a "state of harmony with nature... simply maintaining connectedness allows qi to flow through rather than from the body. The healer funnels qi from a Source, sometimes identified as Nature, Dao, Great Spirit, or God." (Cohen, 248)

Role of heal-ee: To be relaxed and free of worries. Patient must ask for healing.

Who can heal? Training? Some instructors say you need to train in internal qi gong exercise for ten years before healing with external qi gong. Cohen argues that "we are all emitting qi all the time, with or against our will. We need to learn how to use this innate capacity effectively and wisely." (Cohen, 243) He does say that the more regular your qi gong practice, the stronger your field and the more precise your sensitivity to qi imbalances. (Cohen, 246)

Where does the healing energy come from? Cohen says that some practitioners think it comes from the healer's own supply that can be depleted, then needs to be rebuilt. But most believe that they are tapping into a universal well of healing energy. (Cohen, 248)

Practice: How does a healing session work for this technique?

Assessment: 1. General impression. 2. Light contact: Placing palms on three assessment areas. 3. Energy scan: Practitioner holds palms about 6" away from client's body, and scans from head to toe, noting where excesses of yang push hands away, and where excessive yin pulls energy field in closer to body. 4. Differential assessment. Practitioner holds each of the client's fingers and toes while scanning the associated organs for temperature and quality. (e.g. holds the client's thumb in one hand while the other hand rests a few inches from the lungs.)

Then practitioner compares all the information from these assessments with the patient's health history, presenting problem, and diagnostic measures to form an assessment.

During work: De qi: In healing and treatment, the most important thing is to `reach the qi' (de qi) energetically. When you have de qi, you'll sense vibration, warmth, or energy. This is done not by increasing the pressure of the hands but simply by intention to reach deeper. (Cohen, 258)

Treatment techniques: Yin-yang polarity: Practitioner positions his hands (touching or not quite touching) on either side of a diseased area, or any of the places s/he felt excess, deficient, or diseased qi. Then s/he simply does standing meditation; does not need to actively project qi. This technique is useful for most conditions, with almost no chance of doing harm. (Cohen, 260)

Circling Palms: Practitioner places one palm over diseased area (other hand is held down at his side, absorbing qi from the earth and discharging toxic qi.) Imagines the center of the palm is a tiny laser beam emitting healing qi. Circles clockwise to create warmth and add energy by stimulation to weak, depleted areas. Circles counterclockwise if area feels hot or overly full. Circles until area returns to normal temperature and sensation. (Cohen, 260)

Tapping, pulsing, waving. Tapping (with fingers, palm, fist, etc.), pulsing (slightly opening and closing the palm, pulsing the energy coming from the center of the palm), and waving (sweeping patient's energy field with fingertips) moves the qi without adding heat or cold.

Knowing when to stop: Might be 5 minutes, might be 40, depending on what patient is capable of receiving. Practitioner may be able to feel when energy is no longer received. Otherwise, if skin becomes very red or very pale or the breathing rate is consistently quicker, patient is uncomfortable, or if it feels like the same poles of a magnet have been brought together and patient is repelling qi. Best indicator is the patient's verbal feedback. (Cohen, 264)

Uses: When is this Technique useful?
Duration/Frequency: Some acute conditions improve significantly with one treatment. Chronic conditions require more treatments. Most patients notice improvement after session 4 or 5.

What do practitioners say it is useful for: "reducing pain, shrinking infections and swellings, killing cancerous cells, combating arthritis, releasing muscular tension, improving skin tone, stopping bleeding, strengthening the immune system, renewing vitality, etc." (Quote from Wang Yin, cited at Cohen, 243) Also used for anesthesia during surgery.

Contraindications: Cohen does not mention any for External Qi Gong. He does say for internal qi gong practice: "it is one of the safest self-healing systems in the world, but if it is not done correctly, even qi gong can have some unpleasant side effects." (Cohen 273-4) Dizziness, headaches, nausea, and difficult breathing can result from attempting to practice qi gong when there are too many chaotic distractions around you, when you have eaten just before qi gong practice, after practicing outside in a strong wind, or when you use excessive visualization, forcing the mind to hold images or thoughts beyond comfortable limits. (Cohen, 274-5)
Studies done: There have been numerous studies done of Qi Gong, primarily in China. The majority of these focus on the benefits of the patient practicing internal qi gong, rather than on external qi healing; however, they still reveal useful information about the strength of qi gong as a healing modality. See Benor and Cohen for a thorough discussion.

Other uses: "Qi can be projected during any other method of healing body work such as massages... chiropractic, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch, or laying on of hands." (Cohen, 243)

The Theory Of Everything
Imagine a world in which everything is explained, in which human beings would know why they act, how they think, and how they came to be. A complete understanding of the entire universe would flow from one single equation: a grand unified theory. Finding such a theory has been the dream of physicists since the idea was first proposed by Isaac Newton, and lately, with technological advances bearing such names as particle accelerators and supercolliders, science is getting closer and closer to finding this theory. Along with the knowledge, however, comes speculation and debate. Some scientists do not see the need for a grand unified theory, sometimes dubbed a "theory of everything". However, such a theory would offer insight into nature and the forces that shaped our lives. The search for a grand unified theory is an important and potentially valuable step for all humankind.

The Search Begins
The search began with Isaac Newton. He first proposed the idea that one great theory might exist that would link all the other known theories. This theory would provide one blanket statement that would describe everything in the entire universe, known and unknown. Other physicists, starting with Albert Einstein, began searching for this grand unified theory, which, through their love of acronyms, they affectionately called GUT. Some even started calling it a theory of everything, which led to the acronym TOE. They started with four basic forces: the gravitational force, which Newton had earlier found to explain gravity; the electromagnetic force, a linked theory of electricity and magnetism; the strong nuclear force, which holds the nucleus of the atom together; and the weak nuclear force, which is involved in the decay of atoms. In 1979, Sheldon Glashow, Steven Weinberg, and Abdus Salam combined the theories of electromagnetic and weak interactions into the electroweak theory (Elementary Particles). This was a gigantic step toward a GUT because it showed how two of the four main forces could be linked together with theories.

The Standard Model, General Relativity, And Quantum Mechanics
The Standard Model proposes a set of theories that explains the forces and the interactions between particles. These theories are basically accepted by physicists as accurate in describing the known universe. For most, however, even though they accept the Standard Model, they feel there is more to be discovered.

There are two main theories that are used to describe everything; general relativity, proposed by Einstein and describing gravity as a result of curvature of space-time, and quantum mechanics, which describes force in terms of little packages (Bartusiak).

Physicists are searching for a GUT to describe all the known and unknown with one unified equation. Marcia Bartusiak likens making these two theories compatible to "bowling with tiddlywinks" or "jump-starting a car with an eggbeater". To create a bridge between these two theories, some physicists have developed new hypotheses. One such hypothesis is called string theory.

String Theory
String theory proposes that at the "Planck length," ten to the power of -33 centimeters, smooth space-time dissolves into tiny vibrating loops called strings (Odenwald). These strings comprise the entire universe and everything in it, including space-time itself. The strings are identical, but depending on how they vibrate, they form everything in the universe: quarks, electrons, neutrinos, and all other particles (Taubes, A Theory of Everything).

The only catch to this theory is that it requires the strings to vibrate in ten dimensions (Kaku). In our known world, there are four dimensions: three of space and one of time. Physicists are just beginning to learn how to work in the extra six dimensions essential to string theory. They call this six-dimensional space "phase space", and roll the dimensions up into tiny objects called "Calabi-Yau compactifications" (Cole). With these six-dimensional compactifications, though, comes a multitude of four-dimensional solutions to the theory. The main goal of physicists now is to choose the correct one that corresponds to our universe.

String theory holds much potential for physicists, but it is complicated and confusing, and thus has driven many scientists out of the field. In a new variant on string theory, black holes and strings are shown to be fundamentally alike, evolving into one another during a crucial point in the theorems called a "phase change" (Taubes, How Black Holes). These phase changes also link the Calabi-Yau compactifications, previously thought to be distinct entities. So-called dark matter, or "sparticles" (short for super particles) also helps string theory (Kaku). Sparticles serve to reduce the number of four-dimensional possibilities to string theory and make it considerably easier for physicists to find the real-world equivalent to the hypothesis (Peterson, Strings and Webs).

Michio Kaku insists that ten dimensions are necessary for string theory, because no fewer than ten dimensions can account for both general relativity and quantum mechanics, but Stan Odenwald maintains that it is possible to build working GUTs within four-dimensional space-time.

See the full article and additional references at:
http://www.galactic-guide.com/articles/6R102.html

Medical Applications of Qigong
An original paper by Kenneth M. Sancier, Ph.D, "Medical Applications of Qigong," was published by "Alternative Therapies" in January 1996.

"This article focuses on internal Qi, because almost everyone can learn Qigong exercises for maintaining health and self-healing," writes Dr. Sancier. ("Internal" Qi involves self-practice, whereas "external" Qi involves, for example, a Qigong Master emitting Qi to someone.)

Dr. Sancier writes, in the practice of Chinese therapies such as Qigong, "the flow of Qi is regulated, and blockage of the flow of Qi is removed. Energy blocks or excess or deficient Qi may result from disease, injury, or stress."

Stroke and Mortality Rates decreased with Qigong practice

Dr. Sancier reviewed a 30-year follow-up study on hypertensive patients who were divided into a Qigong group and a control group. All patients had been given drug therapy to control blood pressure. The experimental group also practiced Qigong. The mortality rate in the Qigong group was nearly half of the group who did not practice Qigong. The incidence of stroke as well as death due to stroke was half for those who practiced Qigong. In other words, people who did not practice Qigong suffered a stroke or died from stroke at a rate twice that of those who practiced Qigong.

"Researchers also reported that over the 20-year period, blood pressure of the Qigong group stabilized, whereas that of the control group increased. Remarkably, during this period the drug dosage for the Qigong group could be decreased and for 30% of the patients, could be eliminated. However, the drug dosage for the control group had to be increased."

Because of the depth of our experience, we know that Tai Chi and Qigong offer great mind/body benefits, many of which have been verified by doctors, hospitals, research studies, and participants in China as well as the U.S. and around the world:

* increases flexibility and mobility
* improves strength and stamina
* lowers blood pressure
* greater aerobic capacity
* relieves stress and improves nervous system function
* promotes deeper relaxation and better sleep
* drops stress hormone (salivary cortisol) levels
* marked increase of immune response (blood t-cell)
* improves posture and back/spine structural problems
* clears negative emotions and reduces anxiety
* increased respiratory capacity
* most recommended aerobic exercise for coronary artery disease
* better sense of connection between inner self and the outer world
* combines the powers of meditation and movement in one practice
* ... and much more!

Do you suffer from...

General pain: neck, shoulder, knee, postoperative pains, arthritis, joint pain
Migraine headaches, sinus problems, allergies
Spinal problems
Weight Control
Hearing or sight problems
Female or male organ problems
Kidney or liver dysfunction
Strokes
Glandular dysfunction such as thyroid problems
Anxiety
Diabetes problems
Gall or kidney stones
Heart disease: heart attacks, congestive heart failure, recovery from heart surgery, and general heart dysfunction
Circulation problems
Depression
Cancers
Lung problems
Digestion problems
Autoimmune dysfunction such as AIDS and lupus
Bone marrow problems
Mental disorders: post traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, addictions, obsessive/compulsive disorder, hyperactivity, dyslexia
Comas
Stress

...then Qigong maybe for you!

Qigong was born in China

For thousands of years Qigong had been a guarded secret of the Chinese elite. Only in the recent half century has it become known to the Chinese people and the rest of the world. Today over one hundred million people practice Qigong.

Qigong is the grandfather of Chinese medicine, Tai-chi, acupuncture, Shiatsu, and Reiki. The Qigong exercises look similar to the meditative movements of Tai-chi. Many try to cloak Qigong in mystery. A Master often teaches just a little at a time giving the student only what the Master feels he should learn.

In a 1999 television documentary, "Qigong: Ancient Chinese Healing for the 21st Century", that aired on PBS, Dr. Wang Chong Xing from the Shanghai Institute of Hypertension said that after thirty years of study, "we think Qigong can cure every kind of disease, some responding better than others."

The same documentary showed an interview with Dr. Wu Jin Xi from Yuan Hospital in Bejing. He said, and I quote, "We have conclusive evidence that Qigong can assist in the treatment and recovery of most every disease. Post operative recovery time was shortened dramatically in patients using Qigong over people that recovered from standard western techniques."

"I would place Qigong equal in importance to our incredible simple discoveries in the forties called antibiotics and in the fifties called immunizations. The two healing modalities revolutionized medical care in the world, and, I believe, energy healing such as Qigong will also revolutionize medical care in the next thirty years. Chunyi Lin is one of the few Masters in the United States who can help make this form of healing available to the people."

For the full article about Qigong go to this link:
http://www.learningstrategies.com/Qigong/Intro4.html

Qi Gong (Chi Kung) Subject Index
Resources For Patients, Practitioners & Students

Consumer Level Information
A Brief History of Qi Gong
A Qi Gong Primer
A Basic History of the Taiji Ruler System
An Introduction to Qi Gong
Acupuncture and Yoga
The benefits of Qi Gong are limited only to your beliefs. See how high you can fly with The Power of Intention.
Five Dragons Nei Gong, Five Phase Theory, Five minutes is all it takes to rewrite your future...
Yan Xin style Qigong

Student Level Information
The Twenty-Four Rules for Chi Kung (Qi Gong) Practice
The Primary Meridians and the Appropriate Qi Gong Practice for Each
The Eight Extraordinary Meridians and the Appropriate Qi Gong Practice for Each

Practitioner Level Information
Healing others with External Qi Healing or "External Qi Gong"
How To Practice External Qi Healing
The tactile sensations of Qi used in External Qi Gong
Energy Work for Cardiothoracic Surgery Patients

For additional history and references on QiGong see this link:
http://www.acupuncture.com/QiKung/QikunInd.htm

James Duke's Dozen of Herbs
Here is a visit to the six acre farm and home, of James Duke, Ph.D., one of the world's leading authorities on healing herbs, the man who brought us the classic The Green Pharmacy, that is now an indispensable resource for some of the world's foremost herbalists.

Tireless though retired, Duke, at 75, is now actively engaged in what may be his most challenging yet simplest experiment, an ongoing series of trials using only one clinical subject: his own aging body.

Though he'd be the last person to suggest he's got the definitive answer for himself or particularly for others, seeing the choices he's making can teach everyone about which herbs to consider for long-term health.

For most of his career Duke worked for the U.S. Department of Agriculture as chief of its Medicinal Plant Resources Laboratory. He and his team collected plants from around the globe for their potential cancer-fighting compounds, which were analyzed by researchers at the National Cancer Institute. Before the project ended, the NCI had analyzed 10 percent of the plants on earth, most of them collected by Duke and his colleagues.

His interest was broader than cancer, though. From 1965 through 1968 Duke took a leave from the USDA post and packed Mrs. Duke and their children--at the time, an infant and a toddler--off to Panama. "It was there that I got into natural remedies used by Indians," says Duke. "In Panama I became an ethno-botanist." Oddly enough, Duke's sponsor in Panama was the Atomic Energy Commission, which hired him to do a survey of indigenous plants. It may have been a devil's bargain--"Hated my sponsor, loved the job"--but it was a high point in Duke's career. "I collected over 18,000 specimens, 50 of which were undescribed previously."

Bilberry
"A master antioxidant"
Like its close relative, blueberry, bilberry contains potent antioxidants that help prevent many age-related ailments. This herb is particularly good for preserving vision and preventing degenerative eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Celery Seed
"Herbal Celebrex"
Celery seed has helped keep Duke's gout in check and can help ease the pain and inflammation of arthritis. While American research supporting this purpose is limited, studies in India and Australia have been promising. The herb contains more than a dozen anti-inflammatory ingredients, including a COX-2-inhibiting compound that works by a similar mechanism as the drug Celebrex.

Echinacea
"One of the best herbal immune-system enhancers"
Duke swears by the immune-enhancing properties of the popular cone-flowered herb, despite a few recent well-publicized studies that have questioned its benefits. Dozens of chemical studies, and other clinical studies, have shown that echinacea can help boost the immune system as well as reduce the severity and length of symptoms of colds and flus.

Garlic
"Herbal duct tape"
If Duke were stranded on a desert island with a single herb, garlic would be it. Regular use can help prevent heart disease by lowering blood pressure and total cholesterol, raising good (HDL) cholesterol, and inhibiting the formation of blood clots that trigger heart attack. It's also an antimicrobial, meaning that it helps the body fight viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

Ginkgo
"A certifiable fountain of youth"
Ginkgo's many benefits appear to stem from its ability to improve blood flow, particularly in the brain and extremities. Research has pointed to the herb's ability to slow Alzheimer's when taken in the disease's early stages. Gingko also may help prevent heart attack, macular degeneration, tinnitus, and certain types of impotence.

Hawthorn
"The best herbal heart tonic around"
Hawthorn has a long history as a slow-acting but effective tonic that can strengthen the heart and boost the health of the circulatory system. A number of clinical studies have shown it to be effective in gently normalizing heart function in congestive heart failure; it's also used to help treat heart disease. The active compounds are found mainly in hawthorn's berries and flowers.

Milk Thistle
"Long live the liver lover"
Milk thistle is an herbal superstar the world over, with both popular and scientific support for its use as a liver protector. It can safeguard this vital organ against cirrhosis and hepatitis, and recent research suggests that the herb may help prevent cancer, type 2 diabetes, and syndrome X. And to combat lifestyle and environmental "insults"--like alcohol, pollution, and medications--it's "one of the best detoxifiers around," says Duke.

St. John's Wort
"The herb of choice for mild to moderate depression"
Keeping your spirits up is one of the keys to longevity; chronic depression can suppress the immune system, upping the risk for a number of chronic conditions. St. John's wort has been used as a mood booster for centuries, and modern science has shown it to be an effective natural alternative for mild to moderate depression. (Severe depression should be treated medically, with the help of health professionals.)

Saw Palmetto
"I'm betting my prostate gland on it"
Thus far, Duke's bet has paid off. One of the most thoroughly studied herbs, saw palmetto has been proven to
be as effective as a leading prescription medication for
benign enlarged prostate. In Europe, it's been the treatment of choice for years. Duke stresses that it's important to see your doctor for a diagnosis before taking saw palmetto.

Turmeric
"A remarkable anti-inflammatory"
A mainstay in Ayurvedic medicine, turmeric has long been used to ease inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, and tendinitis. Clinical studies have confirmed that it appears to be as effective as NSAIDS, and safer, as well as having cholesterol-lowering, liver-supporting, and anticancer benefits. (For more on its healing potential, see "Turmeric" on page 42.) Duke sprinkles it on chicken and vegetables to make curries, but supplements are also available.

See the full link James Duke of Herbs.