Archive for April 2011


Unemployment down in many metropolitan areas

April 29th, 2011 — 9:38am

By virtually every indicator the economy, or hiring at least, is trending upward in America.

According to a recent release from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a large majority of the major metropolitan areas in the U.S. have experienced job growth over the past year.

Specifically, 317 of the 372 metropolitan areas in the country had a lower unemployment rate in March of this year than during the same month in 2010. Only 44 such regions saw their unemployment situation worsen, and 11 areas saw it stay the same.

The BLS reports that nation-wide the non-seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in the country was 9.2 percent this past March compared to 10.2 percent in March 2010.

In addition, only 112 metropolitan areas reported a jobless rate of over 10 percent this March. At first glance this may seem like a high number but that figure during the same period last year was 166, according to data from the federal agency.

Being unemployed can be taxing on even the most calm person so that is why it is important to set some time aside each day for one's self to get his or her mind-body-spirit properly aligned.

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Dominica’s natural beauty inspires spiritual connectivity

April 29th, 2011 — 8:20am

The island of Dominica is a wonderful place to enjoy pristine nature and find a strong connection between the mind, body and spirit.

Listed as one of the 10 most "stunning ecotourism destinations" by Sherman's Travel, Dominica is located in the eastern Caribbean between Martinique and Guadeloupe.

According to the travel experts, the island was named the "Whale-Watching Capital of the Caribbean" because of the behemoths who often come to its waters to mate and frolic. In fact, it's become so popular that travelers have a 90 percent chance of seeing the majestic creatures.

"Major draws such as this, combined with some of the Caribbean's best diving, and most pristine rain forests – where superb hiking trails lead to an eerie boiling lake, gorgeous waterfalls, and more – are what make the island such an ecotourist haven," states Sherman's.

Frommer's travel guides also believe this island is a great place to feel connected with the earth. Since it is sparsely populated, there is plenty of room for travelers to explore independently and enjoy quiet solitude.

The island is a natural World Heritage Site, as designated by UNESCO.

Comment » | Peaceful Places

Tai Chi and green tea combination shown to improve bone health

April 29th, 2011 — 4:38am

Dozens of studies have indicated that green tea may have many health benefits. However, a new investigation has shown that when the beverage is paired with a tai chi routine, it may help postmenopausal women improve their bone health.

After a six-month trial in which researchers from Texas Tech University compared individuals who practiced tai chi and drank green tea to those who did not, the results showed that those in the exercise group had significantly lower levels of oxidative stress – an important marker of inflammation and a risk factor for chronic disease – and stronger bones.

Additionally, the findings showed that those who drank green tea without participating in tai chi still showed signs of improved bone health, though to a lesser degree.

The researchers said that their findings show a clear benefit to postmenopausal women, a group that is generally at risk for bone health issues.

Ilchi Lee has said that health is about more than taking medications to control symptoms of diseases. The new findings indicate that his advice about alternative ways to preserve health may have many benefits.
 

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Mount Fuji: Japan’s sacred place

April 28th, 2011 — 8:23am

Standing at the foot of Mount Fuji, Japan, is sure to inspire travelers to follow Ilchi Lee's path to personal growth.

With a snow-capped peak, soaring 12,388 feet above sea level, Mt. Fuji is genuinely considered one of the most beautiful mountains in the world.

Technically, however, Mt. Fuji is a dormant volcano, which adds a magnetic energy and aura to the region.

"Fuji-san has been regarded as sacred mountain for virtually as long as humans have lived nearby," states Sacred-Destinations.com. "It was originally a sacred mountain of the Ainu, the aboriginal inhabitants of Japan."

Some believe the mountain is "a gateway to another world," thanks to its sacred history and incredible presence in Japan.

According to the news source the volcano's nickname means "causing the blossom to bloom brightly." This is evidenced especially in springtime when beautiful wildflowers and pink cherry blossoms surrounding the mountain come to life.

Travelers who want to ascend the mountain can expect the trip to take a full day, up to 8-hours. It is considered a strenuous climb and is only allowed during the months of July and August.

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Exercising supports physical and mental health, study finds

April 14th, 2011 — 4:26am

There are many ways that Ilchi Lee says a person can improve their health. While meditation and other types of mental exercises are important, taking care of the physical body is equally important. However, sometimes, things that are good for the body are also good for the mind.

For example, a recent study from researchers at Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital found that regular physical activity, such as walking, can increase blood flow to the brain. This has been shown to play an important role in helping older individuals ward off the effects of cognitive decline as they age.

The researchers said that cranial blood flow is important for two reasons. First, it brings vital nutrients to the brain that help it function at its peak. Second, proper circulation has been shown to sweep the brain of toxic buildups, which are known to contribute to age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

The findings confirm Ilchi Lee's beliefs that a more holistic approach to health can yield positive results. Simple exercises may be the key to both mental and physical fitness.
 

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Holistic healing practice may be key to helping dementia patients

April 7th, 2011 — 8:17am

Ilchi Lee believes that health concerns can often be greatly helped through the use of holistic medicine, because the practices can work wonders for a patient's spirit. 

The New York Times reports that more healthcare professionals and hospitals are using reiki, an ancient Japanese art of healing. This involves the use of hands or reiki stones, which are applied to a patient's body to inspire a sense of relaxation.

Dementia patients appear to benefit from the technique. One reader, Sue Higgins, wrote to The New York Times detailing her own experience with reiki. She generally uses it on her mother, who is 81 and has Lewy Bodies dementia. Reiki appears to help keep her mom calmer, and aid her sleeping problems.

Additionally, Higgins' mother regularly undergoes acupuncture. "She wasn't able to speak coherent sentences before she began Acupuncture," Higgins writes. So, in this case, it seems that holistic healing practices had a very real effect on patients.

The Alzheimer's Association estimates that there are 5.4 million Americans who suffer from the condition and almost 15 million caregivers spend billions of hours each year attending to the needs of these patients.  

Comment » | Inspirational Stories

Eating fish may help reduce risk of diabetes

April 1st, 2011 — 8:24am

When it comes to healthy and active living, a balanced and nutritious diet is key. Ilchi Lee believes that health is as much a physical state as it is a spiritual one – taking personal responsibility for food choices can lead to a better life.

A new study has found that those who choose to eat fish that contain high levels of omega-3 may actually be less prone to developing type 2 diabetes, despite other conditions, such as being overweight

Researchers found that the tribe of Yup'ik Eskimos in Alaska have a much higher concentration of fish in their diet, but the fatty content of this dish also leads to a prevalent obesity rate. However, while being overweight has been linked to type 2 diabetes, this was a rare condition among the Eskimos.

"It appeared that high intakes of omega-3-rich seafood protected Yup'ik Eskimos from some of the harmful effects of obesity," said researcher Zeina Makhoul.

The findings indicate that making a conscious effort to include more fish and omega-3 fatty acids in one's diet can help improve health and may curb diabetes. 

Comment » | Healing Articles

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