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Discover the Amazing Health Benefits of Neem and Turmeric

 

King Herb Combination: Neem and Turmeric

In conventional herbalism, there exist unique pairs of herbs that operate synergistically to amplify their efficacy when combined. Turmeric and Neem represent one such combination.

Neem, or “arista” in Sanskrit, signifies ‘medicinal plant of prosperity’. With over 130 biologically active ingredients, neem is indeed a versatile and potent botanical ally. Its medicinal attributes encompass anti-bacterial (anti-viral, anti-fungal) and anti-inflammatory properties, in addition to functioning as a blood purifier and being advantageous for skin disorders. Neem also contributes to the eradication of cancerous cells (Isha.org). From an energetic herbal viewpoint (Traditional Chinese Medicine), neem mitigates Liver Heat and purifies Liver Blood. Recent scientific investigations have revealed that neem possesses analgesic properties and appears to aid in stabilizing glucose metabolism (see An Overview of Neem and its Potential Impact on Health in Journal of Functional Foods, Vol. 74, 2020).

Turmeric, a perennial tropical plant belonging to the ginger family, is also an extraordinarily varied medicinal herb. One of the most scientifically examined herbs (rhizomes) globally, it is recognized for its ability to: enhance immunity, detoxify the liver, nurture the heart, strengthen the nervous system, soothe the mind, purify the skin, and improve the elasticity and robustness of joints and ligaments. Additionally, as a free radical scavenger, it effectively enhances immunity (Frawley, David, and Vasant Lad. The Yoga of Herbs. Lotus Press, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin; 2001. 149-150.).

Turmeric has an extensive history of application in Ayurvedic and Yogic medicine and is believed to purify the nadis, chakras, and subtle channels (Ibid.).

What Can Neem and Turmeric Achieve Together?

In addition to possessing the diverse therapeutic properties outlined above, neem and turmeric collectively hold a significant role in Ayurvedic and Siddha medicine. As a pair, they augment a crucial component of the body referred to as “Ojas.” Ojas in Sanskrit signifies vitality, energy, and brilliance. This is a unique internal energy enhancement that enriches physical health, meditation and spiritual development. Neem and Turmeric are believed to expand the cellular structure, making cells more amenable to energy absorption (Isha.org).

How to Consume Them?

Combine a marble-sized quantity of equal parts neem and turmeric powder with a small amount of water or honey. Keep in mind most people will  likely find mixing with honey makes the mixture more palatable. Consume this mixture first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, followed by a few sips of warm water.

Note: Do NOT take if pregnant or tying to conceive a child.

Author: Peter Farquharson, D.TCM, R. Ac., C.C.H.

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Meditación Kritan Kriya

Durante más de una década, la neurociencia ha estado investigando los efectos que la meditación Kirtan Kriya tiene en el sistema nervioso. Esta práctica fue tomada por Yogi Bhajan del yoga Kundalini y transmitida al Dr. Dharma Singh, director médico-científico de la Fundación para la Investigación y la Prevención del Alzheimer en Tucson, Estados Unidos. De estos estudios se han extraído conclusiones relevantes.
 
En los diagnósticos por imagen se ha observado cómo esta meditación aumenta el flujo sanguíneo cerebral en áreas específicas, y cómo el hipotálamo-hipófisis, responsable de la regulación hormonal, se encuentra más irrigado, lo cual es muy beneficioso para la mejora cognitiva y la reducción del estrés. Mejora el deterioro cognitivo y la memoria.
 
La meditación Kirtan Kriya ha demostrado ser efectiva para mejorar la memoria verbal y la memoria a largo plazo, así como para reducir el riesgo de desarrollar pérdida de memoria o demencia, lo que puede llevar al desarrollo de Alzheimer. Estos hallazgos son importantes como medida preventiva en el camino hacia una mayor longevidad.
 
Además, esta práctica ayuda a reducir la depresión, la ansiedad y el estrés, mejorando el estado de ánimo y la capacidad de recuperación de los pacientes que enfrentan deterioro cognitivo.
Creditos: CuerpoMente, LotusRosa
 
#meditation #wellness #yoga #AbundanceFlow #kundaliniyoga #mindfulness
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10 Effective Ways to Beat the Blues and Boost Your Mood

Here are some practical steps to implementing these strategies into your daily life:

1. Get Moving: The Power of Yoga to Boost Your Mood
Engaging in routine physical activity like kundalini yoga can drastically elevate your mood and overall mental health. Even brief, regular exercises promote the release of neurotransmitters that make you feel happier and more relaxed.

– Start with small, manageable goals, such as a 10-minute walk daily.
– Gradually increase the duration and intensity as you become more comfortable.
– Try a variety of exercises to keep it interesting – biking, yoga, dancing, or swimming.

2. The Importance of Quality Sleep for Mental Health
A consistent sleep schedule and a soothing nighttime routine can significantly enhance your mental health. Quality sleep helps regulate mood, improve brain function, and increase emotional resilience.

– Establish a calming bedtime routine and try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
– Limit exposure to screens for at least an hour before bed.
– Create a soothing environment in your bedroom, focusing on comfort and minimal light and noise.

3. The Role of a Healthy Diet in Beating the Blues
Incorporating a well-balanced diet rich in vital nutrients can help improve mood. Foods such as Omega-3 fatty acids, whole grains, and fresh produce are known to combat stress and boost well-being.

– Incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your meals.
– Reduce intake of caffeine and sugar, which can exacerbate anxiety and fluctuations in mood.
– Ensure each meal includes protein to help maintain stable energy levels.

4. The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for Emotional Well-Being
Mindfulness meditation can be a powerful tool for improving mental and emotional health. It’s shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression while fostering a greater sense of calm and clarity.

– Start with short, guided meditations, perhaps using an app or online videos.
– Practice regular mindfulness exercises, like paying full attention to everyday activities such as eating.
– Try to meditate at the same time daily, creating a routine that reinforces the habit.

5. The Impact of Social Support on Your Mood
Connecting with others provides emotional support, decreases feelings of loneliness, and increases feelings of belonging and purpose. Regular social interactions, whether in person or virtually, can have a profound positive impact on your mood.

– Reach out to friends and family regularly, even if just for a quick chat.
– Join clubs or groups that align with your interests to meet new people with similar interests.
– Consider professional support, such as therapy, if your mood impacts your daily life significantly.

6. How to Incorporate Positive Affirmations into Your Daily Routine

– Write down a few affirmations that resonate deeply with you and place them where you’ll see them daily, like on your bathroom mirror.
– Repeat your affirmations during meditation or while practicing deep breathing.
– Share your practice with friends or family so they can offer reinforcement and accountability.

7. The Science of Aromatherapy: Using Scents to Boost Your Mood

– Experiment with essential oils known for mood-enhancing properties, such as lavender for relaxation and peppermint for energy.
– Use a diffuser to disperse the scent in your living space, or apply diluted oils to pulse points.
– Be aware of the impact and ensure you are not allergic or sensitive to specific scents.

8. The Role of Creativity in Promoting Happiness and Reducing Stress

– Engage in creative activities that appeal to you, like painting, writing, or DIY crafts.
– Set aside time each week to focus on these activities without distractions.
– Share your creations with others to boost your sense of accomplishment and connection.

9. The Benefits of Spending Time Outdoors for Mental Down

– Make it a point to spend time in natural settings, which can lower stress and enhance mood.
– Combine this with exercise, like hiking or biking.
– Try to be mindful of the surroundings, observing everything from the landscape to the sounds and smells.

10. How to Cultivate Gratitude to Improve Your Mood and Overall Well-Being

– Keep a gratitude journal and write down things you are thankful for daily.
– Share your gratitude with others, which can build relationships and further enhance your mood.
– Reflect on your day in the evening, focusing on positive experiences and lessons learned.

Implementing these strategies can help manage and boost your mood significantly. Each step aids in establishing healthier habits and a more balanced lifestyle.

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Free Your Future from Your Past

Kundalini Yoga offers the opportunity to help us recognize our needs and express our creativity. Through constant practice, one can feel how the connection body-mind-spirit starts regaining a place in your consciousness. Your awareness clicks with it and doesn’t stop (unless you stop practicing regularly).

We also become more able to connect deeper with one another and have more have more mental clarity. The biggest treasure to me is, to be at peace with oneself and the Universe.

Kundalini Yoga is a great gift to have access to. The tools and knowledge are always there for you, ready to be picked up when you sit on the mat determined and dedicated to your practice which gradually can become a daily habit.

In our daily lives we face predictable situations, and unpredictable situations. Some things we have learned to observe from a distance (like separating yourself from a situation) and being able to release it, to let go of the emotion that the situation released in you.

Sometimes it is harder to separate yourself from the situation. Most of the times, what we can become unable to just observe and not identify with are negative emotions.

When you are in the path of yoga and it becomes part of you and you seek to fulfill your practice regularly (at least three times per week), you discover how easy it becomes to handle yourself in different situations, scenarios, places.

It is great to feel how Kundalini Yoga practice eases the way for you!

To know that there is a way -for those looking- to live a life where you are yourself (you are who you are meant to be), you feel fulfilled, loved and you love yourself.

There are some many good things that come with the regular practice of Kundalini Yoga. Your overall health improves, your work/business, your connection to people, your energy levels, your physical body.

And that is how you can begin to build a new path for you, a new future where you free yourself from your past thoughts, actions and reactions to create a more enjoyable future.

Grab your mat and play this video to begin practicing now!

OR

If you are in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico you can check our socials to learn where are we teaching in person today. We offer a variety of opportunities for out-door yoga practice 🙂

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Two methods to manage FEAR and learn from it

This first part of this blogpost, its a story told by Gurbani Guruka Singh. It is an extract from a lecture given sometime in the 80s.

Method I

“Can you talk about fear?” A student asked Gurbani Guruka Singh.

The student said: “I feel like for some reason, I’m afraid sometimes. Afraid of death, losing people, losing my house, my wife, my family. The calamities of this world and all the scary movies out there! And yet, I have read so many times that when you meditate or when you are in a meditative state, all your fear fears are expelled.

But sometimes, I don’t know how to stop being afraid. Is there something I can do to help with this?”

Gurbani Guruka SIngh: “Well, there is something very specific. Have you ever done Japji Sahib? I wonder how many people have practiced Japji Sahib?”

He continued: “Japji Sahib, has the power to help you overcome fear. The beautiful rhythm of Japji Sahib (sometimes written as Llap Sahib), is a wonderful mantra.”

“Whenever you are afraid, just stop and listen to the mantra Japji Sahib while bowing”

“The mantra Japji Sahib has the most beautiful rhythm to soothe you in a practical sense. There are things you can do to overcome fear, but ultimately; fear comes from insecurity, it comes from a lack of trust.”

“When you feel that you are merged into God with each breath you take, and you feel that God lives inside of you. Realize you are part of God, and God is part of you. What is there to be afraid of?” – Gurbani Guruka SIngh said-

“Ask yourself the following questions in every situation where fear is involved:

  • What can I learn from this fear? Is there something for me to learn?
  • What is the worst possible scenario? What could go terrible wrong if I make this decision/take action?
  • Could I possible die? Would dead be a possible consequence of my action/decision?

He continued:

“If so, then, die in every moment, die with each breath, die every night when you go to sleep, be present with death. Love death, embrace death, understand that death and birth are two sides of the same coin.

That’s part of life, you can’t have life without death, if you have a fear, a fundamental fear of something. If you are afraid something is going to hurt you, or something is going to kill you. That fear ultimately comes from a lack of trust and a lack of awareness.

Lack of awareness of what?

Trust in yourself and/or other people

Awareness of who you are”

Student said: Thank you Gurbani Guruka SIngh said-

<< end of the story >>

How to practice signing the mantra Japgji Sahib?

The practice Gurbani Guruka Singh recommends, involves listening to the mantra Japgii Sahib and singing along.

You can follow along with lyrics << https://youtu.be/Juyj3z1_W8Q >>

Sit in rock posture (kneeling with your glutes resting on your ankles. Then bow, bring your torso forward towards your knees, bring your head down until your forehead reaches the ground (if possible, if not use a pillow). When you get into that rhythm for a while, your feel your fear dissolving.

Method II

If you feel you need another method to sustain you when you are not in the mat or meditating; here is another way.

This method you practice it when you are out and about your day, living life.

How?

Observing, taking mental notes.

When you go into the identification part of the steps, I recommend you take your time, sit down, prepare your space. Pretty much as when you are about to practice yoga.

6 Ways to overcome fear and learn from it:

  1. Be present

Easier said than done, to be awake or to become awake, you need to be present and observe your thoughts. Observe what kind of thoughts are you having when you are evaluating a decision, options, opportunities.

Maybe your fear comes up when you are considering embarking on a new business, a job opportunity, moving or purchasing a property, new relationship, a trip you are excited and afraid at the same time? Maybe it is some other type of fear that comes before a significant or important purchase? Giving birth? Becoming a mother? New pet?

  1. Identify thoughts

Whatever it is you are feeling afraid of, identify the thoughts that come when you think about it. Make a list of the thoughts that are “delivered” to you, pay attention. Be patient, it takes time and practice.

  1. Narrow it down and be specific

Pick the most important thoughts, be very clear and specific about the thoughts that you are selecting. When you are sure those thoughts you picked are the selected thoughts, go ahead and narrow it down to three thoughts.

Make it specific, not general and be truthful.

Example:

I am always late to my appointments (not specific)

I am late to my appointments 3 times out of 5 (specific)

  1. Find a way to re-write the selected thoughts in a positive manner. Example:

I am working on being early to my appointments. So, far I have managed to be early 2 times out of 5.

  1. Use your new de-bugged thought

Make the thought you just created your safe place to go, use it to replace those negative, worthless thoughts that do nothing but create fear and doubt in you.

  1. Keep being present

Identify when the same negative thoughts come back or similar ones, you are now armed with your new creation. The new creation is your de-bugged thought, use it!

Repeat it over and over for a few times and then let it go. It will be there for you whenever you need it😊

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5 Ways Towards Driving Away Negative Thinking

We all deal with the “problem” of our thoughts, which our mind produces, are mostly negative or belong to the past.

Seldom do we stop to “listen” to the thoughts we are producing. Experts say most of our thought are the equivalent of garbage thoughts.

Why?

Because almost all our thoughts are negative, detrimental, judgmental, condemning to ourselves and to others. If you think I am exaggerating or that it doesn’t happen to you, I kindly invite you to review your thoughts. There are many ways to go around this but we are going to hear, in this post, five easy steps to start incorporating.

Driving away negative thoughts doesn’t require as much effort, but it can be a pretty serious battle. You can’t just tell them to be gone, but instead, need to develop a longstanding strategy for driving them away and keeping them out for good.

1. Admit you have a problem. It can be downright impossible to do self-reflection on this topic, because we often don’t pay attention to our own words or body language. One helpful way to gauge our level of self-defeatist attitude and negativity is to create a chart with two sides. On one side, write down all you positive thoughts that day. On the other, write down all your negative thoughts. You’ll be amazed by how much negativity the average person keeps in their head.

2. Exercise. Getting your body moving is great for changing your mood and your thoughts. You don’t have to run a marathon or swim across Hudson Bay in Canada to make that kind of change… you can just step up, take a walk, do some jumping jacks, or dance. That’s right… dance. Try turning on your favorite music and moving and grooving for a few minutes; see if you’re feeling negative afterward.

3. Practice Gratitude. If making a list of your thoughts was the first step to recognizing your negativity problem, building a positive list could be the first step toward solving it. Make a list of all the things you’re grateful for. Having trouble coming up with a list? How about your breath, your pulse, your sight, and all the other basic amenities we take for granted. Once your start writing your list out, you will find that it snowballs and fills your mind with positivity.

4.  Talk about it. Find a friend, family member, therapist, or helpful ear to listen to your problems without judgement, and without recommendation (unless you want it). One could also pray, journal, or craft an art project around your feelings. Once they’re out there, you’ll find yourself strangely (perhaps magically is a better word) unburdened of negative thinking.

5. Change your language. Take stock of the vocabulary and phrases you use regularly, as you did in point number 1. Eliminate negative phrases and words from your lexicon, and watch your thoughts change as well. You should also take note of your body language and posture. Avoid slouching, and above all, smile!

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Tools for Self Healing from Hawaii

Whenever there is something inside that bothers me, I observe it, without judgement, breathing out that bad feeling that has appeared. I thank it for showing up, and then I let it go, for this, I keep breathing and visualizing how it leaves my brain, mind and consciousness. At the same time, I insert a simple yet powerful affirmation. Something like this:

Divine One (God), heal those painful memories and wrong ideas that are promoting this fear, this pain, this bad feeling. 

I am sorry, 

Forgive me, 

Thank you, 

I love you.

The last four phrases belong to a technique called Ho’oponopono. It needs to be understood that you the words are directed to your Subconscious, not to a specific person. Your Subconscious has absorbed thousands of memories from all times. This is what we are cleaning through this work.

There is quite a lot of information online about this Self-Healing Technique, most of it though it´s in Spanish.

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Do you feel you have lost the magic ingredient of life?

Some people might call it  Motto. Basically is something linked with excitement, with motivation, with having goals and dreams.

Many people around the world have lost this magical ingredient. It is something that can happen to anyone and you won’t notice it until you feel depressed.

When you have something to look for, something to look forward to, we feel that we have a sense of purpose. This, together with feeling secure, feeling loved and happy are the basic ingredients for an individual to love life and achieve personal goals.

One of the things that perhaps most of us do, is to be attached to end the result, to the expectation of how something will be. This is something that makes us live in the future, not in the present. We seem incapable to do something and enjoy while we are doing it, we are most of the times just imagining how it will be when it’s finished. Most of the times, what this brings is dissatisfaction and frustration.

One way to balance things out is to be grateful for the things that we have, the things that we do, the little things that make you happy, be thankful for them. Make a list of all the good things that have happened to you, the things that we are grateful for along your life.

A second step into finding your motivation or purpose is to work your body and mind, kundalini yoga is an excellent source to deep dive into your inner self and discover through your new developed intuition and connection to your purpose in life.

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Common Myths about Yoga and the True Facts

There are a lot of myths about yoga that can often discourage people from trying it. In this article, we will separate myth from fact so you can decide whether or not yoga will help you achieve your health and life goals.

Myth 1: Yoga іѕ spiritual, not physical

Fact: While it is true that certain yogas include meditation, that is concentration and focus, yoga is intended to be a union of body, mind and spirit. A healthy body is a healthy mind.

Myth 2: Yoga is for wimps

Fact: Yoga is a whole body workout that incorporates both aerobic activity if you do flow yoga that is, yoga movements in a sequence and strength training, such as you would do with weight lifting or using resistance bands. It is quick and effective and develops long, lean muscles, balance, flexibility and stamina in a way few other workouts can. Both men and women can get a better body in only a few short weeks if they stick to their practice.

Myth 3: Yoga is for old people-it is slow and boring

Fact: While it is true that yoga is a great workout that increases flexibility and range of motion, it can be practiced by anyone at any age level and fitness level. Young and old alike enjoy the variety of the poses. Fast workouts may burn more calories, but they can often cause muscle strain and injury. Think of slow weight lifting and you will get an idea of just how powerful yoga can be in building your best body.

Myth 4 –You will never lose weight doing Kundalini Yoga

Fact: Ever see the people carrying yoga mats? Chances are that most of them are skinny. Yoga develops long, lean muscle, which boosts your metabolism and helps you burn calories more efficiently. You will also look a lot better in your clothes. Think of the difference in volume between 1 pound of cotton balls (out of shape muscles) and 1 pound of brick well-conditioned muscles and you will get an idea of just how slim and trim you can start to look even if you never lose a pound.

But since each yoga session can burn an average of 500 to 1300 calories, a Kundalini yoga session, yoga is the perfect way to get a better body.

Now that you know the facts, do a search online for my yoga videos and courses. Get started with this great exercise that is fun, interesting, and can easily be done every day no matter where you are.