One of the tips discussed involves how choosing a higher deductible can lower your premiums without sacrificing coverage. If you know that you can afford a $2,000 deductible instead of a $500, choosing the $2,000 deductible will lower your health insurance rate dramatically. You see with smaller deductible plans, you may have a $500 deductible but it may apply to all your covered family members. So if you have 4 covered family members you could still pay up to $2000 out of pocket each calender year.

Now, if you were to choose a plan with a single $2000 annual deductible and a capped $2000 out of pocket annual expense and then open an HSA (Health Savings Account) you could lower your monthly rates by up to 60% and the savings would more than cover the $2000 HSA. And as a bonus, what you don’t spend in the HSA rolls over into an interest bearing savings much like an IRA with the same tax credits.

As you can see, you can lower your health insurance costs. Head over to the Health Insurance Center at FinanceNewsToday.com and learn more about how to cut your costs today.

Hubert Miles is the owner of FinanceNewsToday.com
Finance News Today is an informational website with articles
and the latest news concerning Personal Finance.

Fatal pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage in the lung artery caused by a blood clot travelling from the leg to the lung artery.

There is again no sure-fire way to prevent all hair loss; however, there are some methods that have been used that work on some people.

In addition to the dietary improvements and suggestions already offered, there are some naturopathic remedy suggestions.

Massage and aromatherapy have been used with some success. In minor cases of temporary hair loss, hair growth can be stimulated by massage, since blood and oxygen flow to the scalp must be healthy in order for hair to grow.

A blend of six drops each of lavender and bay essential oils in a base of four ounces of either almond, soybean or sesame oil massaged into the scalp and allowed to sit for 20 minutes has been used by aroma therapists to stimulate the scalp.

Once the mixture is in the scalp for 20 minutes, wash your hair and scalp with your normal shampoo mixed with three drops of bay essential oil.

Massaging the scalp in general for a couple of minutes a day can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles and in mild cases stimulate some hair growth.

Of course, one must be careful to be gentle when massaging and not tug at the hair or use the fingernails when massaging the scalp. If one is concerned about fingernails getting in the way due to extra long fingernails, there are several options.

One is a flat-handed massage, which while not as effective as the finger massage can provide some circulatory benefits and results. There are several electric massagers on the market that have an attachment for scalp massaging as well.

An oriental method called Qi Gong (pronounced Chi Kung) has been used to increase circulation to the scalp and face also. The fingers should be placed at the center of the skull base and then begin to tap approximately 30 times.

Work your way outward toward the ears continuing to tap gently. After reaching the ears go back to the center of the skull a little higher up and work your way around to the ear region.

Keep going up about eight levels, each time repeating the process…

Discover how to have healthy hair - at any age!
http://www.healthy-hair-tips.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Are you among the millions of people worldwide who are otherwise healthy but who’ve lost interest in sex? Do you find it boring and routine? Are you so tired that you’d rather nap than make love? Do you think TV is more stimulating than your partner? Do you have physical symptoms, like vaginal dryness or difficulty with erection, that make sex unpleasant?

As a relationship matures it is common, but definitely not necessary, for sex to become predictable and unexciting. One of the first places to start improving your sex life is to elevate your general mood and increase your energy level. This is good advice not only for improving sex but also for most other things in your life.

According to a survey of 153 doctors conducted by Pharmatron Health Products during July and August of 1998: “ Herbal supplements are now entering mainstream medical practice, with one in three primary care doctors recommending them to patients at least weekly, most frequently for people with mood and emotional complaints… About as many doctors recommend herbal supplements for fatigue and lack of energy…Doctors also practice what they preach, with one in four doctors personally consuming herbal supplements.”

So, let’s assume you have covered the basics. You pay attention to what you eat and take some nutritional supplements. You follow a regular routine for physical fitness. You are reasonably healthy. There are no organic health problems interfering with your sexual performance, or you have consulted a physician and they are being treated allopathically with drugs. (Note that many prescription drugs are known to interfere with sexual desire and performance. If you are taking any prescription medication, ask your doctor about such side effects. It may be possible to prescribe a different medication that won’t interfere with your sex life. )

If you are not doing these things, you may consider changing your habits before you experiment with aphrodisiacs. Regular exercise, good diet and basic nutritional supplements may be all you need to revitalize you sex life.

Ideally we could also assume that you have set aside old beliefs and conditioning about your sexuality. You have moved beyond shame and guilt. You have had help in dealing with any sexual abuse or trauma. You understand and believe that sex is natural, good and wondrous. If you lack sexual skill and technique, and your imagination fails to motivate you to experiment by trying new things, perhaps a workshop or some private coaching is in order.

Even if you have done all of these things, perhaps you are still looking for more and wonder if aphrodisiacs might be it. They are definitely worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of them may have side effects for some people. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. If you do decide to use them, start out slowly and experiment carefully to see how each of them works for you. Try them one at a time to see what each one does on its own and how your body responds to its use before you consume several at the same time.

What are Aphrodisiacs?
An aphrodisiac is something that increases your libido. It turns you on and increases your desire to have sex, or it may reduce your usual inhibitions about sex. Aphrodisiacs may also improve your ability to have sex. This means that under the right circumstances, almost anything could have aphrodisiac qualities, but most people think of something to eat or drink when they think of aphrodisiacs.

Aphrodisiacs are never an alternative to healthy sexual attitude, doing your inner work to remove psychological barriers to sexual intimacy, or sexual skill mastery, but they can be lots of fun.

Aphrodisiacs may also be exactly what is needed when sexual dysfunction is caused by physiological/organic causes, e.g., peripheral vascular disease, hardening of the penile arteries, diabetes mellitus, prostate enlargement, high levels of pituitary gland hormone prolactin, low testosterone, menopause and andropause (the male’s version of menopause).

What do you already know about aphrodisiac herbs? Here is a short aphrodisiac quiz. The answers to the questions are at the end of the article.

Aphrodisiac Quiz

1. Which aphrodisiac could you say this about? “Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation.” And, “has a reputation for producing electrifying sexual encounters…”

2. What amino acid will help relax the smooth muscles in your genitals and enable a man to maintain an erection?

3. Which hormone precursor did homerun hitting Mark McGwire help make famous?

4. Which Greek Goddess does the name aphrodisiacs come from?

5. What berry provides protection for the prostate gland?

6. Which natural adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, helps balance all the other hormones in the body, for both men and women, and has dramatic effects on improving memory?

7. What topical cream can be used by menopausal women as part of a natural approach to hormone replacement, to help balance an estrogen dominance, assist in reducing bone loss and to build new bones?

8. Which nutritional supplement can help you to stop worrying and be happy now? Hint: It is commonly misspelled as Wart.

9. Which natural sedative available as a nutritional supplement can help you get a really good night’s sleep with no morning after effects so you’ve got the energy for lovemaking?

10. Which Mexican herb is “reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime?”

11. Which adrenal hormone, available as a nutritional supplement, can increase your energy level, enhance your sex drive, decrease body fat, reduce stress and reduce ill effects of stress, enhance memory function, extend lifespan, and improve your immune function all at the same time?

12. There is an antioxidant that improves circulation and “can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection.” It is also well known for enhancing short-term memory. What is it?

13. Which South American aphrodisiac used in the Amazon and Orinoco basins for centuries, can increase libido, stimulate sensuality, increase sexual pleasure, and is used as a treatment for impotence and frigidity?

Selected Aphrodisiacs

Here is a brief summary of several aphrodisiacs that can enhance your sexual desire, help you experience more pleasure and perform better as a lover. We explain their general properties, how to use them, and where to get them. They may be worth experimenting with, but be warned, many of the substances mentioned may have side effects for some people. Nothing we say here is intended as medical advice. If you want to consume any item mentioned consult your physician first. Where possible use a product with standardized extract. This means that the product is guaranteed to contain a certain percentage of the active ingredient(s). Consult labels carefully to determine quantities of all ingredients. Follow dosage recommendations on the product label.

Don’t let the strange sounding names and exotic places they come from throw you off from considering the use of aphrodisiacs. These items are not any more unusual than many things now part of our regular vocabulary and consumption, for instance, aspirin.

Androstenedione

Available in capsules and spray Androstenedione is naturally occurring in all meat as well as in the Scotch Pine tree. It is a metabolite of the hormones DHEA and progesterone, and is a direct hormonal precursor to testosterone. Androstenedione is short-acting, elevating blood testosterone levels without inhibiting the body’s natural testosterone production.

Sexually, Androstenedione will be most helpful for men over 50 and for women in the menopausal cycle, because this is when testosterone levels begin to drop. ”Testosterone is… ‘the hormone of desire,’ the substance that acts on the brain to stimulate sexual interest, sensitivity to sexual stimulation and orgasmic ability in both sexes….The most common complaint associated with declining [testosterone] levels is an otherwise unexplainable loss of sexual enjoyment….” [Source: Testosterone: Not Just For Men, Jane Brody, Pro Health, May/June 1998]

The hard-hitting bat of Mark McGwire with 70 home runs in a single season has put the spotlight on Androstenedione. In an August 1998 interview with Sports Illustrated, McGwire said “the company that supplies me says most of its repeat business is coming from wives and girlfriends who are very satisfied.”

Androstenedione is available in spray or capsules. Recommended dosage: For men, one to four sprays (25 mg per spray) per day. For women, up to one spray per day. Capsules typically come in 50mg dosages, which may be too high for women. Women may wish to take only one or two capsules a month. Men who find adrostenedione works for them may take it daily, on an empty stomach at bedtime and/or in the morning or 30 minutes prior to sexual activity.

Long term studies of the effects of this substance have not been done. It is not available in Canada, but is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders.

Yohimbe

This powerful aphrodisiac is extracted from West Africa’s Corynanthe Yohimbe tree. For centuries, tribes in this region have used a tea made from the inner bark in their fertility rituals. It may help to stimulate erection and enhance libido and increase physical energy in men and women.

“Most of the current medical literature on yohimbe discusses the treatment of male impotence but an impressive body of anecdotal evidence surrounds the use of yohimbe for making good sex even better.” [Source: Better Sex Through Chemistry, John Morgenthaler, Pro Health, May/June 1998]

“Occasionally, it causes erections even in the absence of any sexual stimulation.” [Source: Viagra: Is The Stampede Misdirected?, Will Block, Life Enhancement, June 1998]

The tincture form is recommended rather than capsules. Take one-half dropper under the tongue and hold for sixty seconds immediately before sexual activity. This is a powerful substance. We do not recommend daily or prolonged use because of possible side effects. Stay clear if you suffer from high blood pressure, heart, kidney or liver disease.

Yohimbe is available over the counter at health food stores in the US. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail orders.

Arginine

The amino acid arginine is an immune system enhancer and powerful growth hormone stimulant. It plays a role in many body tasks: wound healing, circulation and sexual function.

In response to sexual stimulation, your body releases nitric oxide (NO) in your genitals. This causes the smooth muscles to relax and blood flows into the penis resulting in erection. Both arginine and ginkgo biloba have both been shown to enhance NO levels in your body. “If sufficient NO is not produced, erection or sexual stimulation does not occur. Arginine is absolutely necessary for the production of NO….Some scientists studying these phenomena have concluded that up to 90% of all impotency can be reversed by NO (and by implication, the use of arginine).” [Source: Dr. Whitaker Wellness Institute Guide To Nutrients, Julian Whitaker M.D., Summer 1998] The new drug Viagra from Pfizer increases blood flow into the penis, or into the vaginal area for women, but this drug has many known side effects and there were 69 confirmed deaths attributed to Viagra use by the fall of 1998!

Arginine should be taken on an empty stomach. You may use it daily and/or 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. Not for use by diabetics, borderline diabetics, pregnant or lactating women, cancer patients or persons who have had ocular or brain herpes. Available in health food stores.

Ginkgo Biloba

The Ginkgo tree is one of the oldest living species on the planet. It has flourished unchanged for over 150 million years has been used in Chinese medicine for over 5,000 years. The leaves and fruit of the Ginkgo tree contain a variety of phytochemicals that have a wide range of clinically proven benefits. Ginkgo significantly increases blood flow to the brain thereby improving cognitive function, memory, alertness and concentration. It also improves peripheral arterial insufficiency (restriction of blood flow to the legs and other extremities, including the genitals).

“Because it improves circulation, it can help in cases where a man has circulation-related difficulties in getting an erection.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

There are no serious side effects with Ginkgo Biloba. It is available at most health food stores. Large doses over a long period of time can result in irritability and headaches, so take no more than 3 grams daily in capsule or tincture form

Saw Palmetto

For years, berries of the saw palmetto plant have been used to treat bladder and prostate conditions. It helps regulate testosterone levels in both women and men, supports healthy prostate function and is a good source of fatty acids. ”Many herbalists regard saw palmetto berries as safe, mild aphrodisiacs; ten to twelve can be eaten daily for a cumulative effect. Their potency is increased when they are combined with damiana.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

Recommended dosage is 160-320 mg per day of Saw Palmetto. Avoid if pregnant, planning pregnancy or suffering from a disease of the gastrointestinal tract. Available at health food stores.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that may improve sensory and sexual functions as well as boost the immune system, quicken wound healing, and promote skin health. Virtually every man who lives long enough will have a problem with prostate enlargement. A man with prostate irritation will lose most interest in sexual intercourse. Several years ago I began to have prostate discomfort but have completely corrected the problem with a combination of pycnogenol, zinc, and saw palmetto.

Recommended dosage: 50 mg. Daily. High doses may lower HDL cholesterol, cause anemia and weaken immune function. Available at health food stores.

Damiana

This herb from Mexico has been used by both men and women to enhance and regulate the production of sex hormones. It is considered a potent aphrodisiac. “Chemically this plant has been found to contain several alkaloids that directly stimulate the sex organs… Native Mexican women have long drunk an infusion of the herb a couple of hours before retiring to prime themselves for their men. It is reputed to induce erotic dreams when drunk at bedtime.” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993]

Damiana leaves for tea or making tincture, or tincture already prepared, is available at most health food stores.

Muira Puama

Found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America, Muira Puama has long been used “to stimulate sensuality, as a sexual enhancer, and as a treatment for impotence and frigidity…[it] appears to be milder and without the side effects of [yohimbe].” [Source: Love Potions, Cynthia Mervis Watson, M.D., Jeremy P. Tarcher/Perigee, 1993] It is considered effective in restoring libido and treating erectile dysfunction.

For an aphrodisiac drink, mix 2 ounces each of damiana and muira puama tinctures in your favorite adult punch (20 serving size). Muira puama may or may not be available at your local health food store. In the U.S. it is available in tincture and capsule form. Check with the suppliers listed at the end of this article for mail order.

Natural Progesterone Cream (For Women)

Progesterone plays many roles in the body, one of them is maintaining sex drive. It is particularly important for women in the menopausal cycle. Natural progesterone is identical to what your body produces. It is derived from diosgenin in the wild Mexican yam. Natural progesterones are more biologically active and safer than their unnatural counterparts.

Progesterone is a small fat-soluble molecule, which can be easily absorbed through the skin. It is initially absorbed into the fat layers under the skin, then is diffused into the capillaries where it enters the blood stream as needed. This makes transdermal progesterone 100% bioavailable to the body. In contrast, oral supplementation of progesterone has to be taken in very high dosages to compensate for the almost 90% which will be excreted by the liver.

Use 1/4 to 3/4 teaspoon in the morning, applied to the softer parts of the body (for better absorption). Rotate the application spot on a daily basis. Because natural progesterone is identical to the body’s own progesterone there are no known side effects at 20-40 mg/day. Very large dosages can result in feelings of sleepiness. Available by mail order from suppliers listed.

Pregnenolone

A supplement derived from diosgenin, the Mexican yam extract, pregnenolone is the building block for all other hormones. Produced by the body’s adrenal glands, Pregnenolone may be one of our most important hormones because it seems to have a balancing effect in bringing the levels of other hormones up or down as needed. Pregnenolone is a direct precursor of both DHEA and progesterone. Pregnenolone levels dramatically drop after age 30. Research indicates that restoration of Pregnenolone to levels of healthy young adults may have dramatic positive effects on memory, mood and energy, and sexual function. Pregnenolone can be taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach to mimic the body’s normal rhythm. Recommended dosage: 10-100 mg per day. Adjust the dosage to your needs. Safety has been long established—it was used for arthritis treatment back in the 40s at very high doses with no apparent side effects.

It is available at most health food stores and can be ordered via mail.

DHEA

DHEA (de-hydro-epi-andro-sterone) is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands. It is usually the most abundant adrenal hormone in the body, but with age (or certain disease conditions) the levels drop. Lower levels of DHEA are associated with many of the diseases associated with aging and people with naturally higher levels are found to have lower incidence of some of these diseases (cancer, for example).

In his Wellness Institute Guide to Nutrients Dr. Julian Whitaker notes “I give DHEA to about 80% of my patients over 40 because of its health-enhancing and anti-aging benefits.”

Dosage: most people over 25 can take 25 - 50 mg per day in the morning with food. This amount will bring your DHEA levels back up to the normal range for the average 25-year-old. Check with mail order suppliers.

St. John’s Wort

This popular supplement has been shown to have antidepressive and antiviral properties. New research shows that St. John’s Wort may actually increase serotonin production. I have a tendency to be a little hyperactive. I have never been diagnosed with adult ADD, but I find that taking St. John’s Wort 3-4 times per week takes the edge off my being speedy very nicely.

Look for St. John’s Wort containing 0.3% standardized hypericin extract. Avoid if pregnant or planning pregnancy. May cause photo-sensitivity so avoid strong sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light (like “tanning booths”) when taking St. John’s Wort. Available in most health food stores.

Valerian

Getting a good nights sleep does wonders for your sex life! Valeriana officinalis, a natural sedative that may be helpful for insomnia, leaves no morning after effects. Take just before going to bed.

Available in tablets or loose tea form at health food stores. High doses may cause paralysis and a weakening of the heartbeat. Like any sedative, may become habit-forming if used for an extended period of time. Avoid if pregnant. Available in most health food stores.

INTERNET and MAIL ORDER SOURCES of Products

Life Extension Foundation:
http://www.lef.org/cgi-local/welcome.cgi/id=151061148

Vitamin Research Products (VRP): http://www.vrp.com/default.asp?vMBR=467976

Quiz Answers
1. Yohimbe
2. Arginine
3. Androstenedione
4. Aphrodite (Venus in the Roman pantheon)
5. Saw Palmetto
6. Pregnenolone
7. Natural Progesterone Cream
8. St. John’s Wort
9. Valerian
10. Damiana
11. DHEA
12. Ginkgo Biloba
13. Muira Puama

Al Link and Pala Copeland own and operate 4 Freedoms Relationship Tantra. They regularly host Tantra Sacred Loving weekends near Ottawa Canada, and weeklong retreats in exotic locations around the planet. For more information call toll free from Canada or USA: 1-800-684-5308 International long distance: 1-819-689-5308. Visit their website http://www.tantra-sex.com/ or send email: 4freedoms@tantraloving.com Their book, Soul Sex: Tantra for Two, is published by New Page Books, 2003. http://www.tantra-sex.com/soulsex.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

In 1965, a chemist working to develop an ulcer drug accidentally discovered a substance 200 times sweeter than sugar. The FDA initially shunned this substance because it caused seizures and brain tumors in lab animals. (Obviously not good for health and fitness)

In 1981, the FDA allowed this brain tumor and seizure-causing substance to begin both sweetening and poisoning our food supply, pharmaceuticals, and children’s’ vitamins. Banned in children’s products in Europe, the chemical, aspartame, is now a big part of America’s diet craze. This is despite the fact that it accounts for more than 75% of the complaints reported in the FDA’s Adverse Reaction Monitoring system. (http://www.aspartame.ca/page_a3.html and http://www.dorway.com/jwnoasp.html)

Aspartame, once in the body, breaks down into various chemicals. One is the same toxin you get from a fire ant bite. Another is the smelly formaldehyde in which your science teacher stored animals to dissect. Yet another is methanol, the same main ingredient as in Prohibition Era moonshine - the same moonshine that was notorious for causing blindness. How many mothers, who would never think of giving their children moonshine, have stocked their cabinets with any of the now 5,000 products that contain aspartame? (http://www.dorway.com/betty/environ.txt)

For those of us who struggle with anxiety or depression because of low serotonin levels, aspartame is especially bad news. This chemical additive wreaks further havoc by depleting tryptophan levels. Tryptophan is necessary in the production of serotonin. Without it, you will suffer more frequent attacks and more severe depression! (http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/articles/aspartame.htm)

For more information on aspartame and depression and anxiety, visit http://www.alternativementalhealth.com/articles/aspartame.htm.

Heidi Whitaker is an author and speaker on the subject of nutritional support of autoimmune disease. To read more articles by Heidi, vistit: http://autoimmune.myblogsite.com/blog. For information on how you can join one of Heidi’s teleseminars, visit http://www.20again.com/teleseminar2.htm.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Keep yourself abreast of facts about lung cancer, as the statistics of affliction are staggering and in most cases, lung cancer can even be prevented. Cancer, the dreaded disease, is a malady marked by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, which rapidly destroy healthy tissue. Although changes in the lung begin almost immediately upon exposure to carcinogens, lung cancer takes years to develop.

In fact, Mesothelioma research news states that the period of the onset of Mesothelioma cancer could be from 10 to 60 years from the time of exposure to asbestos.

What Do We Know About Lung Cancer So Far?

Lung cancer facts indicate that most people afflicted with the disease are those over fifty who have been smoking for a long period. Research news points out that the symptoms of lung cancer are dependant on several factors, including the location of the tumor in the lung. A chronic cough, repeated lung infections, wheezing, chest pain - any or all of these may be indicative of lung cancer.

Cigarette smoke, with its high concentration of carcinogens, inhaled by both smokers and nonsmokers is the leading cause of lung cancer. Facts about environmental exposure to Radon compounded with smoking increases the risk of lung cancer. Another principal cause of lung cancer is occupational exposure to carcinogens like asbestos, which has been documented in many Mesothelioma lung cancer cases.

Treatment of lung cancer is currently limited in its efficacy. Different types of carcinomas involve different regions of the lung, giving rise to different symptoms, and requiring different lines of treatment.

Lung cancer treatment is also different in cases where cancer cells spread from other organs to the lungs. Apart from surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy in cancer treatment, oncogene research results are positive in their efforts to find drugs that “turn off” the abnormal genes, ending cancer growth.

Lung cancer statistics are in your hands - Do something about it.

Holding your hand in your hour of need, Jon Butt is the publisher of The Mesothelioma Guide, a free resource of Mesothelioma support, advice and legal help along with alternative remedies, natural supplements and more. From mesothelioma treatments to clinics, specialist doctors to hospitals, we help you and your family cope with life by supplying the facts that you need.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

Agoraphobia: fear of the market place.

…not, as many people imagine, a fear of open spaces.

There are no phobias that are fun to have, but agoraphobia is one of the worst, simply because it’s almost impossible to avoid the object of fear on a day to day basis. This is because the object of fear is Life itself. Fear of Life manifested as a fear of social encounters; a fear of being trapped; a fear of feeling foolish; a fear of looking foolish; fear of humiliation…

Another deadly aspect of agoraphobia is the speed with which it develops to the point of the sufferer being afraid to leave the house alone. Often its onset is started by a panic attack – in itself frightening enough, without this possible consequence. The closing in of a personal world within a matter of weeks is a terrifying experience, and one that friends and relatives find almost impossible to understand and to cope with.

I have observed eleven factors that are frequently present with agoraphobia:

1. Low self-esteem
2. Lack of interest in job
3. Lack of a creative outlet
4. Insecurity
5. Lack of individuation
6. Insecurity in Relationship
7. Strong dependence
8. Fear of the cure
9. Nothing to live for
10. Lack of play/fun
11. Lack of regular exercise

Addressing these items under hypnosis and working towards bringing about change in The Eleven is the key to releasing the imprisoning fear.

Low Self-Esteem.
Self-esteem has turned into a bit of a buzzword these days. However, from an agoraphobic’s perspective it is something that needs to be discussed. And for the purposes of this discussion it’s going to mean: how important you think you are in relation to others.

Now, if you think you are about as important as a worm (I’m a gardener so I, along with Charles Darwin, happen to think that worms are hugely important), you’re not going to want to mix with anyone else, because they’ll be able to see how unimportant you are. You can see it, so it’s got to be clear to everyone else. This alone is a good reason to avoid others. But I’d like to point out that just because you can see it doesn’t mean everyone else can. You can see your dreams - but no one else can!

Everyone wants to feel important. From a Mum getting a spontaneous hug from her child, or a thank you for a well-cooked meal, to a degree ceremony with a huge audience – we all like to have at least someone recognise and honour our worth. Consequently we will avoid circumstances that make us feel unimportant. If we feel less important than everyone, then we will avoid everyone. If we need an excuse, because our avoidance behaviour itself is socially unacceptable, then our wonderful, self-protective subconscious mind will come up with a solution – it might even create a socially acceptable (i.e. medically identifiable) health problem.

Lack of Job Interest.
In my experience most people don’t enjoy their livelihoods. To the majority what they do is ok, but not what they would do if they had a free choice. And at the lower wage end of the employment world, work is seen largely as drudgery – something necessary in order to pay the bills and just survive until it’s time to draw a pittance of a pension, or until life is over.

Work is often a trap. An individual somehow ending up doing what they do without knowing quite how it happened,, it pays well, they used to like it, now they don’t, but as the salary increased the lifestyle improved with it and the financial outgoings increased to keep pace until life is lived in a certain amount of luxury. So the job is tolerated, but the pressure and stress increase because the financial pressure is too strong to give it up and do something fun for a lower salary. Again you are trapped trying to survive; probably at this point with a spouse and children who would not be pleased were you to substantially reduce their affluent life-style.

Lack of Creative Outlet.
This I have identified as a key element in psychological problems. Changing just this one aspect of life brings about profound changes in all the other aspects without doing anything else. We are, each of us wonderful creative beings. Each one of us has a mind that is beautifully and wonderfully imaginative. But what happens is that we are frequently taught that our creations are not good enough. I see this reflected in the eyes of so many who come to see me for help. Let me give you an example from my own childhood - Art. My drawing skills are still around the level of a five year old, they never developed beyond that. I remember many hours, right up until age 15, in art classes. But I was rubbish. I have identified two problems. Lack of encouragement and lack of teaching. I never once in all those years of art classes saw a teacher demonstrate a technique, show anyone how they could improve their work, or give a word of praise to anyone whose work wasn’t already high quality. All art teachers did was to state what was to be drawn/painted, and then select the most ‘life-like’ to go on the wall.

This lack of encouragement for demonstrating our unique view of the world; the lack of praise for an effort that is the very best we could produce given our personal skills abilities, and eyesight; the lack of being lovingly shown, without criticism for what we’ve already achieved, a better way to achieve what WE want to achieve, rather than what someone else wants us to achieve; is the source of much pain and failure in later life.

I’ve since discovered that with the right teacher anyone who wants to enough can be an artist at an acceptable level. And the right teacher is one who demolishes the barriers to success that we carry within. The right teacher is one who knows that we can do what we want to do, but we are afraid to do it. The right teacher allows, praises, and encourages pure expression of self.

Creativity isn’t just about art. Art is just an example. Cooking a meal with love and arranging it beautifully on the plate is a work of creativity. Planning or planting a garden or a window box is a creative act. Walking down the road and daydreaming is a creative act. Starting a business is a creative act. Putting together a jigsaw, or solving a crossword puzzle are creative acts. Writing an article for an ezine, or designing a web page, are creative activities. Creativity is putting you out into the world and changing that world, making that world different, either in your dreams or for real. Your creativity doesn’t have to be better than anyone else’s. It just needs to express YOU.

If you do nothing else after reading this, add a few moments of creativity to your world every day.

Insecurity.
This shows up as a lack of feeling safe in your world. It can manifest as an unhealthy obedience to, and fear of, authority figures – like parents, teachers, employers, and supervisors. It can show itself as an inability to say ‘no’ when you really want to say ‘no’ but you feel guilty about letting someone down, or think that because someone asks you have to say ‘yes’, because they will think badly of you or stop liking you if you say ‘no’. In truth if you start to say ‘no’ when you want to, you will find that people like you more because they value your honesty, and they know that when you say yes you really mean it and are a genuinely willing participant.

Lack of Individuation.
This is a nice way of saying you never really grew up. But telling someone they haven’t grown up can be perceived as an insult. What this means is that you may well have had over-protective parents who were fearful of your safety, and in your best interests they prevented you from taking those risks – like getting lost, falling out of a tree, exploring a graveyard at night, staying out a little later than was safe – that children actually need to take in order to discover that although their world can be a frightening place at times, they need to experience those fears AND discover that they can survive them and be whole and alive and ok. You even need to fail publicly as a child and feel embarrassed and learn that this too is a survivable event. This is what I mean by ‘growing up’. I have to admit that falling out of a tree, as an adult, is a lot more physically risky than doing it as a child. And if you’ve already arrived at severe agoraphobia then the graveyard at night time is probably a no-no. So go back to creativity and just imagine yourself doing those things that were forbidden as too risky, even though all your friends were doing them and you just ended up feeling isolated and alone. Imagine how your world might be different now, if you’d done those things then.

Insecurity In Relationships.
You know you’re with the wrong partner, you know the relationship you’re in isn’t working, yet you are terrified of being alone. You aren’t loveable, so you’d better put up with what you get, because if you give this up, there won’t be anyone else and you’ll spend the rest of your life alone and die all alone.

This is what the fear says. And while you believe what it says it’s perfectly true. You will be alone if you give up what you’ve got. Not because you aren’t loveable, but because you believe it. Beliefs aren’t truths. But if you believe you aren’t loveable that’s what the world will see, someone who doesn’t love themselves. And if you can’t love yourself no one else will. But you might be seen as vulnerable and consequently find yourself being used when you thought you were being loved.

Seems a bit harsh that, but agoraphobia is what you do to yourself when your world becomes so intolerable that you’ll go insane if you don’t find a way to escape from it. And that’s exactly what your subconscious mind does, without your permission; it creates a way for you to escape. What it creates isn’t pleasant, but it means you don’t have to face anyone who might see the truth of you – that you aren’t loveable, or clever, or artistic, or have any value whatsoever.

Dependence.
In a loving relationship with a caring partner, there is often an unhealthy dependence. This is frequently because of the partner’s need to be needed. This is the most difficult aspect I face treating this problem, because the partner’s need to be needed resists, and occasionally even sabotages, the changes that I’m trying to bring about.

This problem is again born from your childhood if you were raised with:

- Parents who, because of their own beliefs about what was in your best interests, failed to ensure that you experienced the world in safe ways – on your own.

- An early life that didn’t provide you with challenges to overcome.

- Parent’s, teachers, significant adults who found it difficult to watch you fail (and learn) and gave constant correction or took over when a task wasn’t being completed fast enough or accurately enough.

- Adults who were over-critical, creating this feeling of inadequacy that leaves you with a sense of ‘I can’t do it on my own’ I need you there ‘just in case…’

Fear of the Cure.
At the end of the day, if you want to be free of this problem, you know that you will be able to go out whenever and wherever you want. You will have to go out alone. You will have to go shopping in supermarkets, go to theatres, travel in trains and planes. You will have to make decisions and choices for yourself. You will have to do things that others may look at and judge unfavourably.

Right now, in the safety of the fear, all of those things seem horrific and just thinking about them will produce an intense anxiety re-action simply because you can’t see how you can get from where you are to where you want to be without lots of pain. So it’s probably safer to stay where you are.

Nothing to Live For.
If there is no interest in life, no fascination for the world, or an aspect of it, no joy, or pleasure; if every morning when you wake, your waking thought is ‘Oh no! How will I get through today.’; if every moment of that day is longing for nighttime and the oblivion of sleep; then you will experience no drive to be well. If you want to change, if you want to be free of this incapacitating fear that is destroying your life, then you have to want freedom. You have to want it more than you want to stay in bed. You have to want it more than you want to sleep.

Lack of Play/Fun.
What do young children do more than anything else – play. They turn everything into a game as long as they are contented. What don’t adults get much of? Play. You need to play. You need to be playful in your approach to life. Life can be serious all on its own. It doesn’t need your help. You can have fun and it won’t mind. When was the last time you had a good laugh? When was the last time you knocked a ball around without trying to win or beat anyone? When was the last time you flew a kite without needing to have a bigger/better/faster/more colourful kite than everyone else? When was the last time you made a mud pie? When was the last time you wore a funny hat?

Lack of Regular Exercise.
Lack of regular exercise – for obvious reasons is also a factor of significance. Exercise releases endorphins, which raise your mood state. It lets your body know you care about it and a sense of routine is always important to the healing of any psychological illness.

Healing with Hypnosis.
Hypnosis is wonderful because it can make the healing process easier. It can make the healing process easier without losing sight of the fact that at the end of the day you are going to be doing what terrifies you right now. Because with hypnosis it’s all in the mind. Your fear is all in your mind. Your fear arises out of your thoughts and your thoughts arise from your beliefs and ideas about you and your world. Your fear comes from your deep subconscious mind and this is the area that hypnosis can impact. You are still going to have to walk out of the door on your own one day, and you may still feel a little anxious, but you’ll do it and feel good about having succeeded and each success will build on the next and the next until you look back on this period of your life as an interesting excursion into the Shadow energies within your mind.

A course of treatment for agoraphobia, with a hypnotherapist, should deal hypnotically with each of the areas that I’ve addressed. Because without bringing about change to the underlying causes, you haven’t affected a cure, you’ve just treated the symptoms – the way many drugs do. And the problem will re-emerge at some point; maybe in a different form such as a physical illness.

None of the problem areas that I’ve highlighted can prevent you from getting better if you really want to get better and are willing to do what is necessary to get better. This might mean taking a risk like going on your own to visit a good hypnotherapist. And even if you can’t do that initially and need to start with home visits, it would be a goal to hold in mind.

Whatever is going on for you is going on because your subconscious mind believes it to be in your best interest. With hypnosis we gain direct access to the subconscious and can suggest that what it is doing is actually not as helpful as it thinks it is and that we wish to enlist its support in bringing about change.

Curing agoraphobia is not a rapid process. It takes many hypnosis sessions and progress is slow - but easy. It is slow because with each change you have to re-adapt and become comfortable with that change in order to be ready for the next. Each step is a small one so there is never any sense of being overwhelmed. This is why we don’t focus on the end result because that’s too frightening. We focus on today and what we can change today in line with experiencing a freedom for the future. During treatment you are in control. One of the problems with agoraphobia is a fear of loss of control. You control the pace of improvement to one that you are comfortable with.

Hypnosis isn’t a magic wand that will make everything go away in a flash. But it is a magic wand that makes the process of healing gentle and caring and never takes away your sense of achievement at having accomplished the shift from hiding away at home to being free and comfortable and confident out in the world.

Michael J. Hadfield MBSCH is a registered clinical hypnotherapist. You can experience his unique style on a popular range of hypnosis CD’s and tapes at http://www.hypnosisiseasy.com. Here you can also obtain treatment for a variety of problems and explore his approach to health, healing, and hypnosis.

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There is a new way to treat lung cancer with four-dimensional protons. Sounds way out and kind of science fiction like, but there is some validity to the theory and on-going research. The 4D Proton treatment is different than that of the x-rays traditionally used in radiation type therapies. Protons can potentially obliterate lung tumors without damaging as much localized healthy tissue. There is currently lots of discussion of putting this new technology to work and it has been brought up at the American Association of Physicists in Medicine meeting in Seattle at a Medical Science Forum

In fact a small study was already done on four patients using protons to treat lung cancer. X-ray cancer therapies use multiple beams, which also go thru non-cancerous tissue harming the lungs and tissue as they exit. The positively charged subatomic protons only move a small distance thru the body. Right now it is a bit hard to control the Protons trajectories, however the science is a viable option in the future with further research. By using a 4D methodology they can deal with the expanding and contracting of the lung during the process similar to the approach used in the X-ray version of the treatment.

This treatment is not yet available but should be within a year or two, with clinical trials moving forward. The four patients who were tested on were at the Massachusetts General Hospital saw significant results in all cases. Now an algorithm needs to be develop which can guestimate the trajectory of the protons to be displayed during the operation so that the treatment is fired accurately. It is assumed that this can be done soon and it will be great to have a better process available to beat lung cancer. We are progressing well medically as a nation. Think on this.

Lance Winslow V

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The muscles of the body actually depend heavily on the vitamins, minerals as well as on the other nutrients that we take in so as to ensure that they’re always well taken care of. Consciously taking care of your body through the proper exercise, a well-balanced diet and a stress-free mind all contribute greatly towards keeping healthy and building a good set of muscles.

Muscles actually serve a far more important physical function apart from making fit people look good as well as the ability to lift heavy objects. Actually unknown to most people, the heart is the most important muscle of the body, as it runs the circulatory system. Our muscles help keep our internal organs in place and gives us the ability to perform each and every movement we make, from chewing and swallowing to controlling our bladder to sitting, standing and walking. Healthy muscles are essential to our day-to-day lives. Several vitamins and minerals actually work well together in keeping us fit and having stronger muscles.

Such vitamins and minerals that contribute to this are potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus which all greatly work together in making sure that our muscles are able to contract smoothly and effectively, as they should. This is, of course, essential to keeping the heart beating in a regular and efficient fashion. It is also important to take note that while the heart is the most important muscle in the body, each and every muscle in a person’s body deserves to be treated with equal importance and care since they work as a group.

Vitamin C is highly essential to the health and performance of muscles because it works alongside potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus in their muscle regulation tasks. Vitamin C is also necessary to the formation of collagen and elastin, which are important connective tissues of the body that helps build muscle structure. Vitamin C is also responsible for the well-being of the blood vessels, which support the muscles need for oxygen and nutrients.

Naturally, as with most of the important processes and systems of the body, the vitamins that make up the powerful and essential Vitamin B complex have a role in the health and function of the muscles. In fact, deficiencies in the B vitamins can even lead to all sorts of muscle problems, including a lack of muscle coordination. The B vitamins are greatly responsible for the creation of the red blood cells that support the entire body.

Proper nutrition is a good way to ensure that one’s muscles have what they need to function efficiently and to be strong. Daily exercise also plays an important role in muscle health and strength and should never be left out of any endurance strengthening health plans. Exercise is what actually helps the body to stay in shape and helping keep the jiggling flabs away. But before you start rushing to the nearest gym and start picking up the various exercise equipments there, it is highly important to note that even though it’s a good thing that you’re actually on your way to improving your health.

One must not be a brash, eager beaver. From zero exercise to lifting 50 pound weights can cause your muscle to tear and ache. You probably won’t even be able to get up from bed the following day. Have patience that even though the road to good health is still a long way to go for a beginner like you, it’s highly commendable that you’ve made the conscious decision to actually get there.

Note: This article may be freely reproduced as long as the AUTHOR’S resource box at the bottom of this article is included and and all links must be Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.

Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links and information about Vitamins, please go to: http://vitamins.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and information on all health related topics, go to: http://www.besthealthlink.net/

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