Mani Celesti Newsletter

Moving Through our Lives

2009-09-27T16:06:00.000-07:00

As the statistic above states, we are more stressed than ever these days with busier work days, less leisure time and more demands made upon us. You may even be in an unfulfilling job, yet we spend most of our time there and can't afford to make a move. How do we find a healthy balance? Plenty has been written about the benefits of exercise. We need to reexamine our ideas of what exercise and movement are and consider what we're moving toward or away from. Then we can begin to ask ourselves other questions: Not just are we fit, but are we physically, emotionally, and spiritually healthy?

Cardiologists advocate movement as preventive medicine, saying it's an ideal way to combat the increasing number of inactivity-related health conditions such as heart disease and obesity. This could actually be expanded to include stress-related conditions. Every system in our body, in fact, responds to stress and inactivity. But, if this is true, then the inverse is also true: every system in our bodies will also respond to movement and pleasure. To make movement pleasurable and to use it as a way to reconnect with our bodies is, in many ways, the perfect antidote to the cycle of inactivity/hyperactivity and stress. As we move more in this way, we gain energy and health, we feel rejuvenated and relaxed, and we become more physically and emotionally aware.

Our health and well-being are not about being hyper-active or inactive; it's about finding a balance, making our actions conscious, and learning to move in ways that are both healthy and appropriate in our own lives, then moving this healing energy out toward others. So, rather than exhausting or limiting our energy, we learn to expand it. Then we can begin exercising in a whole new way--exercising our right to choose and to better understand our body, our life, and what we want to be doing with it.

May has arrived!

2009-05-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

What a spring we are having this year. Snow then 77 degrees two days later. It is definitely keeping us on our toes. Trent and I are very excited to be landscaping our front and backyard. We have a plan and are hopefully gonna get it going soon. We look forward to enjoying our yard so much more this year. I also plan in mid to late May to try to grow some veggies in containers on our patio. I might even try to grow some green beans and hang the pot from the house so the vines can grow down. I look forward to some fresh produce right in our backyard. Fun stuff going on here... what is going on with you? Keep me posted. I hope you all are doing well!

Don't forget Mother's Day is almost here. Thank her for all she does with a massage therapy gift certificate. It is more than just a massage, it is time for her to rest, relax and forget all her worries. It is a special retreat just for her. Check out the gift certificate specials on my website. https://www.spa-booker.com/Customer/manicelesti/InstantGiftCertificate.aspx

I would like to introduce to you Liz Green. Liz is a Certified Massage Therapist, specializing in prenatal, deep tissue and integrative massage. Some of you may have already met her. She is currently in the process of gaining her advanced certification in Prenatal, Postpartum and Labor Massage through the Boulder College of Massage Therapy. Liz would like to continue her education with Doula (labor support) training and also someday becoming a midwife. Liz loves helping women have happy and healthy pregnancies and is so excited to be working at Mani Celesti! Liz is in the office on Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons.

Baby sign language:
Have you heard of Baby sign language? Does it sound crazy to you? It actually can reduce temper tantrums, build confidence and increase your child's vocabulary. Additional baby signing benefits:

* Promotes the development of language skills
* Reduces frustration at not being able to express needs
* Increase speed of spatial reasoning development
* Creates feelings of satisfaction and accomplishment
* May increase IQ
* Increases creative thinking
* Reduces unexplainable emotional outbursts
* Increases early literacy skills
* Teaches baby how to start (and participate in) a conversation

I have seen first hand how much it helps to decrease the frustration between a parent and a child who can't express what they're trying to say.

If you are interested in learning more see this baby zone article with a lot of information about how to get started.
www.babyzone.com/baby/nurturing/article/sign-language-made-simple

Or you can check out this Momslikeme.com link. Jenny offers classes here in Denver.
http://denver.momslikeme.com/members/groupabout.aspx?g=438745

Enjoy your spring!

Mani Celesti Therapeutic Massage
303.320.0770

April Massage Newsletter

2009-04-07T07:04:00.001-07:00

Hello All. Its April already. Can you believe it. I hope you have enjoyed these last snow storms. Isn't the snow beautiful? When you don't see it all winter it is pretty nice to see so much of it this spring. Our lawns and gardens will be so happy. I was able to get out and enjoy the snow over the weekend. I went snowshoeing with a few friends. It was so much fun. Lots of snow to hike in and the sun was shining and the sky was so blue. I hope you all are taking advantage of this amazing state we live in. It doesn't cost anything to go for a walk or a hike. When the news is so negative and fear is all around. Take a good look at what you have in your backyard and enjoy it. Take a break from the news and breath in mother nature. It helps to nurture your soul.

I also wanted to remind you that I offer Hot Stone massage. It is such a great way to really pamper yourself. It makes you feel so warm and cozy while melting away your aches and pains. Since we are still getting these colds spring days a Hot Stone Massage would be a great way to treat yourself. This massage is great for postpartum moms who need some extra pampering and a time out, it is also great for the athlete who needs to soothe your sore muscles. Or someone who works in an office and just needs to get the kinks out. Try one this month before it gets to hot out side!

Calling all Postpartum Moms! (Did you know that you are considered postpartum until your baby is 2years old)

It is wonderful how so many pregnant women are making a point to nurture themselves and the baby they are carrying with prenatal massage. The time out is great to help them relax and the baby gets the benefit of the feel good hormones too. Then many postpartum women disappear. I am sure they want to spend every moment possible with the cutest baby in the world.

Postpartum massage is just as important as prenatal. I know your life has changed in a big way since the birth of your child and time just seems to go so quickly. Remembering yourself and stopping and checking in with yourself to see how you feel is very important to maintain balance in your life. Do you feel like you need a time out? Do you need a little energy boost? Why not take that needed break and recharge. Do a babysitting trade with a friend. You both can use the time to nurture yourself with a postpartum massage.

It does seems like a common statement after I massage a postpartum women that she says "Oh I didn't realize I was sore all over" Call today at 303.320.0770 to make an appointment to take care of yourself. Or if you know a Mom who could use a break buy her a gift certificate at https://www.spa-booker.com/Customer/manicelesti/InstantGiftCertificate.aspx

Remember the support system you used during your pregnancy, like your acupuncturist, chiropractor, psychologist, personal trainer or yoga teacher. They are still there wanting to support you through this time. If you are looking for a new support person, let me know, I may know just the person.

Check out the links on my website. I have some great support people listed. www.manicelesti.links.html

April specials.

During these stressful times it is very important to continue to receive regular massage. The massage can help uplift your mood and make you more productive at work. Keeping you healthy and at your best. The first 10 people to book a 90 minute massage in April will receive a free foot scrub add on and an essential oil to take home. The oil will help keep you feeling relaxed and refreshed all month long (until your next massage). Call now at 303.320.0770 to make an appointment the 10 spots will fill up fast.

Mani Celesti Therapeutic Massage Services
1662 A Lafayette St
Denver, CO 80218
Call 303.320.0770

Prenatal Massage-decreases pain, which makes it easier and more comfortable for her to sleep, and make her feel better overall. If she feels great, the baby knows and feels it too.
Postpartum massage- accelerates the healing process, relieves fatigue from sleep deprivation and gives Mom the much needed time out.
Infant Massage instruction- Parents will be taught in a 3 classes series how to massage their infant to increase bonding and help both parent and child feel better.

If you are not pre or postnatal, we have other massages at Mani Celesti that will be prefect for you.

Therapeutic Massage- massage that will target your pain spots and help you relax at the same time.
Hot Stone Massage- the application of heated basalt rocks allows the body and mind to enter into deep relaxation
Maya Abdominal Massage- help move congestion from your abdomen and will help relieve stress, digestive problems, and many other issues.

March Newsletter

2009-03-03T12:00:00.000-08:00

Happy March!! Spring is on it's way. Can you see it? Can you feel it? Have you noticed the mornings being brighter and lighter? Little bits of green sprouting. What a great time to add more light into your own life.

I recently watched a movie by Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore suggesting that we make a pledge to help those around us including ourselves through actions big or small. Check it out: www.youtube.com/watch?v=51kAw4OTlA0

Even just a small shift in your attitude can make a difference. We all have the power to make America strong again. Pitch in your part. It doesn't have to be money or even time. You can pledge to smile more or be more positive. We all have the ability to create a wonderful future. Do what makes you feel good.

Another announcement. We are now selling a wonderful new product line in the office. MotherLove a line of certified organic products for pregnancy, birth, babies and breastfeeding. MotherLove is also a locally owned company. Some of the products that we are currently carrying are: pregnant belly oil and salve, nipple cream, and diaper rash cream. Also the #1 product recommended by lactation consultants More Milk Plus. This is a wonderful herbal product that will help increase breastfeeding Mom's milk supply.

To make room for these products all Terax haircare products are on sale for 30% off

Conditioner
Original Crema: 2 oz now only $6
6.7 oz now only $15.50

Shampoo 12 oz All now only $14
Latte - Clarifying Shampoo
Delicato - Classic Shampoo rosemary and Green tea
Miele - Hydrating Shampoo with Honey and Elder Flower

Gloss- Finishing serum with vit E
1 oz Now only $11

Complete Shave - Moisturing shaving cream
5oz Now only $8.50

March Massage Special

For the month of March when you book an appointment that begins before 1pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays you will receive $15 off.

That is a 60 min massage for $50 and a 90 min massage for $80. If you can get away early in the day, why not book a massage and save money.

Do you want to know how to get your massages always at a discount? Send in your friends and family. Don't forget about our great referral policy. When someone who have referred in has an appointment at Mani Celesti you will get 30% off your next massage. Tell your friends and family about the services you have received at Mani Celesti.

Also Heather Vicari is officially Heather Josten. The name change has been surprising many people. It is still me.

February Newsletter

2009-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

I apologize that it has been awhile since my last newsletter. I hope this new year has given you a fresh look on your life.

There is a lot of bad news going on about the economy. Stress about the future and fear of what is coming next. We all have the ability to create our own future. Create a beautiful plentiful magnificent future with joy and peace and happiness. Using affirmations on a daily basis can help you to be positive and get exactly what you desire from this life. Two of my favorite authors; Wayne Dyer and Louise Hay, post daily affirmations and words of inspiration at their websites:

http://www.drwaynedyer.com/inspiration/
http://www.louisehay.com/affirmations/index.php

Spending a few moments with these words each morning can start your day off on a more positive note.

Its also that time of year when Cupid is in the air and I have Valentine's Day specials available to help him out:

Massage and Foot Treatment: 90 minutes Massage and Foot Scrub - $100.00 value for only $85.00!

Hot Stone Therapy: 90 minutes - $110.00 value for only $95.00!

Mommy to be Package: Two prenatal massages, two postpartum massages and Infant massage instructions and a Free Motherlove "Mamacare" pack for $275.00!

Prevent the Afternoon Slump
Some Tips for P.M. Energy
Jerry V. Teplitz

If you're like most people, you've experienced the afternoon slump. You know the feeling -- it's only 2 p.m., yet you feel drained. Fortunately, you can employ methods to reduce the slump's frequency and shorten its duration.

Drink water. Your body uses water even if you're not exercising. If you wait until you feel thirsty, you're already dehydrated. Keep a water bottle handy all day.

Avoid sugar and simple carbohydrates. While a mid-afternoon candy bar may give you a quick rush, it actually worsens the slump. Instead, choose protein-rich foods and complex carbs.

Eat small meals. Have six small meals over the course of the day instead of three large ones. Big meals cause the digestive process to divert blood from your brain to use in the digestive track.

Evaluate your lighting. Most offices are lit with cool, white fluorescent tubes, which have a terrible effect on how people feel and function at work. A better option is full-spectrum, fluorescent tubes.

Take time for walks. Walking gets your blood circulating, helps you breathe better, and stimulates your brain due to the increased blood flow. Take a 5- or 10-minute walk during the day.

Meditate. Meditation is great for rejuvenating your body. By meditating for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day, you're keeping your body continually energized and rested.

Take time to breathe and stretch. Deep breathing exercises give you an energy boost. Also, stand up and stretch to increase blood flow and stimulate the lymphatic system.

Handle negativity. Negative people and images can have a draining effect on your energy. Make a conscious effort to stay positive.

December Newsletter

2008-11-21T11:12:00.000-08:00

When you receive a massage in December you will get a relaxing bath salt gift!

Why Now, More Than Ever, You Need a Massage
While you may be tempted to trim your wellness budget when economic times are tough, now more than ever, massage should play a role in reducing stress and strengthening the health of Americans.

When you feel your best, you are more likely to be able to face the challenges difficult times present. With greater health and peace of mind, you can face difficulties with poise, clarity of purpose, and strengthened emotional reserves.

Invest In Yourself, Invest in Those You Love. In economically challenging times, it is vital to invest in preventative health care. Staying healthy means maintaining your ability to take whatever life has to throw at you. Besides lowering stress levels and, in turn, reducing the risk of stress-related illnesses, massage also boosts immunity, helping you fight colds, flu, and other viral infections.

Following is a sampling of a long list of bodywork benefits:
- Ease anxiety - Improve sleep - Build energy levels - Foster concentration - Increase circulation - Develop self-esteem - Reduce frequency of headaches - Release endorphins.

The positive effects of regular massage can have far-reaching effects in many areas of your life.

At Home - Massage therapy will also help families under stress create healthier households with clear-thinking and more relaxed moms and dads. Children are very sensitive and often pick up on tension in a household, parents who are taking care of themselves are more likely to be better caregivers and provide a sense of security to their kids.

For the boss - Research shows employees exhibit less stress and improved performance when given twice-weekly, 15-minute massages in the office!

For Health Conditions - Proactively caring for health through massage may help reduce costly doctor visits and use of prescription and over-the-counter medications.

Research shows:
- Massage can reduce sports-related soreness and improve circulation--good to know when you may be exercising more to reduce stress.

- Deep-tissue massage is effective in treating back pain, arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia patients receiving massage also have less pain, depression, anxiety, stiffness, fatigue, and sleep problems.

- Massage reduces symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

- Pregnancy. Studies have shown that women who received massage during pregnancy reported longer nights of sleep, less back pain, and decreased production of the stress-related hormone, cortisol. It suggests massage could help lower cortisol levels in pregnant women and thereby reduce the likelihood of a premature delivery.

- Labor pain. Massage during labor appears to reduce stress and anxiety, relax muscles and help block pain. Some medical professionals believe massage also reduces tearing, shortens labor, reduces the need for medication and shortens hospital stays.

- Preterm babies receiving massage therapy gain more weight and have shorter hospital stays than infants not receiving massage.

There is now a body of research to support the benefits listed above. But there's no greater testimonial than the person who is a regular receiver of massage. The first-hand experience of bodywork clients largely echo the same sentiment: bodywork enhances quality of life, and the return on your investment is great.

While bodywork feels like a luxurious mini-vacation, and you should by all means enjoy it, there is an actual physical need for massage. Maintaining a regular massage schedule will help you operate at your peak level--whether it be at work, at home, or at play. Invest in yourself, and book a massage today.

Rainforest Remedies

Don't forget about the wonderful natural remedies available at Mani Celesti. Rainforest remedies have been formulated by my teacher in Belize. They are herbal tinctures to support your natural healing process.

Many of them are very helpful this time of year. A 1 ounce bottle is only $10 and the 2 ounce bottle is $20.

The following tinctures and more are available:

Flu Away- At the first sign of getting sick you can take this and it will keep the flu way. Or if you are already sick you can take it to help you get better faster.

Immune Boost- Is great to take on a regular basis to keep healthy.

Nerve tonic- Very helpful in the holiday season and during other stressful times in your life. It is so very calming.

Belly Be Good- It is very helpful for calming many stomach issues.

Other news

Emily Althaus is working with groups of soon to be parents in January at the Mountain Midwifery Center www.mountainmidwifery.com. She will be running two different groups--one for moms-to-be (second, third-time, etc. moms are also welcome) and one for couples. The groups will help people process the emotional aspects of transitioning to parenthood, the transformation of their identity and ways to keep their relationships healthy and growing. They are both four session groups and cost $240 per mom (for four sessions) and $300 per couple (for four sessions). The groups are open to anyone interested, but space is limited so please encourage people to sign up early...to sign up people can call Mountain Midwifery at 303.788.0600. Also, please feel free to forward this to anyone who might be interested.

Transition to Motherhood
Saturdays 10:30-12
January 10, 17, 24, 31

Becoming Parents
Saturdays 12:30-2
January 10, 17, 24, 31

Feel free to call or email if you have any questions.

Emily Althaus, PsyD
2781 West 38th Avenue
Denver, CO 80211

When you receive a massage in the month of December you will get a relaxing bath salt gift.

Call today to make an appointment.
303-320-0770

Happy Holidays!
-Heather

November Newsletter

2008-11-04T09:04:00.001-08:00

Happy November!! Fall is in the air and you can feel it in your body. With cooler nights comes more aches and pains in your body. Keep your body, mind and spirit feeling refreshed and revitalized by getting a regular massage and keeping active. Make sure after your daily dose of exercise to stretch and take time to cool down.

I read an interesting article recently in the September issue of Yoga Journal magazine about the benefits of probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria that live in your digestive tract. The article explains how the digestive tract is the base of your immune system. When you have invading bacteria the body detects the invader by making you sick and kills the invader. The opposite is also true. Good bacteria will calm the immune response in your whole body, increasing your well-being and protecting you from future invaders.

Research has shown that increasing probiotic rich food (Kimchi,miso,and yogurt) and reducing the food that bad bacteria feed off of (sugars and carbohydrates) will reduce symptoms of asthma, depression, migraines, insomnia, and many different gastrointestinal problems, like constipation, and even Crohn’s disease.

Gary Huffnagel, professor at the University of Michigan medical school believes we all could benefit from a daily does of probiotic.

Please read the article and see if adding probiotics to your life can help you.

To read the article visit: www.yogajournal.com/health/2572

November special

When you purchase a gift certificate during the month of November you will receive a free foot scrub added on to the Gift.

Therapeutic massage is a special gift for everyone. Are you going to any baby showers this month? Any new moms would love a postpartum massage gift certificate. Do you know anyone who has a birthday coming up or an anniversary. What a great way to show them you care about their well being.

And to make it even easier for you, purchase the gift instantly on my website!!

Mani Celesti Therapeutic Massage offers:
Therapeutic Massage
Prenatal Massage
Postpartum Massage
Maya Abdominal Massage
Infant Massage Instruction

September/October Newsletter

2008-09-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

Holding Headaches at Bay

Bodywork Eases Migraines and Tension Headaches

by Cathy Ulrich

"Do you get headaches?" I asked Cindy. She had come to see me for massage to address her neck and shoulder pain but hadn't mentioned headaches.

"Well, yes," she said. "I've always had headaches and, now that you mention it, they seem to be worse when my neck hurts." Cindy went on to say she suffered from them as often as 2-3 times a week and typically treated them with ibuprofen.

Like many Americans, Cindy suffers from chronic, frequent headaches. Her neck pain finally prompted her to seek help, but she was so used to the headaches, she thought they were something she simply had to live with.

What Cindy didn't understand was that frequent headaches are not normal and, with a little proactive planning, there is something that can be done to manage and even prevent them.

Types of Headaches

Headaches come in many varieties. Following is a short list of the most common types.

Migraines.

Migraine headaches occur when the blood vessels in the brain become dilated, usually due to a chemical reaction, such as food allergies or a stress response. They often start with visual disturbances and quickly develop into severe head pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sensitivity to light. They're usually felt on one side of the head, but can be on both sides. Migraines are often managed with medications and avoidance of foods known to trigger them, such as red wine, chocolate, aged cheese, and nuts. However, some bodywork techniques can also be effective in easing migraines or decreasing the frequency of these painful headaches.

Tension Headaches.

Exaggerated by stress, tension headaches are related to poor posture, jaw problems (such as temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMJ), and neck pain. Many people describe a headache that starts at the base of the skull and then moves in an arc over the ears and behind the eyes. Tension headaches are most often caused or exacerbated by poor posture, work station positions, and body mechanics, creating undue stress on the upper neck muscles.

Mixed Headaches.

The term mixed headache is used to describe a tension headache that leads to a migraine. Typically, the tension headache starts first and the chemicals produced from the pain of it create conditions for a migraine to develop. In people with patterns of mixed headaches, the best way to avoid the onset of a migraine is to treat the tension headache.

Bodywork Options

A treatment regimen that includes bodywork, attention to body position, and stress management can help prevent or greatly reduce the frequency of headaches, in turn reducing your reliance on medication and the need to avoid food triggers. There are many different bodywork techniques, each with specific approaches for treating headaches. Following is a short list of techniques often effective in treating recurring headaches.

Swedish Massage.

A tension headache, by its very name, implies the presence of stress and tension. Swedish massage, on the other hand, promotes relaxation and relieves muscle tension. When muscles become tight due to stress or poor posture, they eventually adapt a chronically shortened state. Swedish massage teaches the body how to let go of muscle tension and resets muscle tone.

Integrative Bodywork.

Rolfing, Hellerwork, Structural Integration, and CORE are examples of the types of bodywork designed to improve posture and structural alignment. A primary cause of chronic headaches is poor posture, which produces tension in the neck and shoulders because the weight of the head is not properly balanced on top of the spine. Integrative bodywork can produce lasting postural change for greater ease of movement. By selectively freeing the soft tissues, integrative bodywork literally can change postural alignment and remove the stresses and strains on the muscles that cause headaches.

Deep Tissue Therapies.

The integrative therapies mentioned above, as well as neuromuscular therapy and myofascial release, use similar techniques to free connective tissue. A chronically tensed muscle tends to maintain that tension, even after the stressful event has passed. Deep tissue techniques free the connective tissue glue, creating a new way for the muscle to function.

Reflexology.

Like acupuncture, reflexology works to move energy blockages in the body. By stimulating points on the feet that correspond to organs in the body, reflexologists can promote relaxation, reduce pain, and restore energy flow. Several scientific studies have shown that reflexology is a viable treatment for migraines, in some cases working as well as, or better than, medication--and without the side effects.

Craniosacral Therapy.

Craniosacral therapy addresses the inherent, gentle, rhythmic movement of the bones in the skull and their effect on the fluid that surrounds, bathes, and cushions the brain and spinal cord and runs throughout the body. Cranial bones move in miniscule amounts as a response to the production and absorption of cranial fluid. With head trauma, whiplash injury, or even severe stress, cranial bone movement can be compromised, resulting in headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears, or vision disturbances. This therapy restores the normal movement of the cranial bones and fluid.

By addressing the root of the problem, regularly scheduled bodywork sessions can greatly reduce headaches as well as your need for medication. Remember,
headaches are not normal, and you don't have to live with them.

Reflexology has proven as, or more, effective than medication--without the many side effects.

Nature's Nutritional Wonder

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are powerful foods that can help prevent many forms of cancer, reduce existing cancer tumors, and aid in the prevention of heart disease. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, arugula, kale, and Brussels sprouts all contain isothiocyanates--a group of chemicals that break down carcinogens in the body, helping to metabolize toxins. Studies show that people who eat two to three servings of cruciferous vegetables each week lower their risk of breast cancer, colon cancer, and lung cancer. A National Cancer Institute study found that eating three helpings of crucifers a week dropped prostate cancer risk by 50 percent. The powerful chemicals in these veggies also reduce homocysteine levels, a known precursor to heart disease.

Cruciferous vegetables are low in calories and high in fiber and the chromium found in these foods helps regulate blood sugar and insulin function, key factors in keeping diabetes at bay. Even with all the benefits that crucifers provide, many people refuse to eat them because of their strong taste. But a little creativity can go a long way in making these wonderful foods palatable: try cream of broccoli soup, cauliflower au gratin, stuffed cabbage, or the recipe below--the possibilities are endless.

Brussels Sprouts For the Meat-and-Potatoes Eater

1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, washed, stems trimmed, and outer leaves removed
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Thinly slice Brussels sprouts, either in a food processor fitted with a slicing blade, or by hand. Heat a heavy, nonstick skillet. Add olive oil and butter, swirling the pan so that the butter melts. Saute sliced Brussels sprouts for 5 minutes. Add cider vinegar and grated Parmesan, stirring briefly to incorporate. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serves four--who will all be healthier for it!

The Scoop on Meditation

A Simple Practice with Profound Benefits

People who meditate regularly appear internally and externally five to 10 years younger than their non-meditating peers, according to author Deepak Chopra. That's good news for the estimated 10 million people who practice meditation on an ongoing basis and experience the resulting calm it cultivates.

The rich benefits come from doing something that looks like nothing: Sitting still, being quiet, and breathing deeply. Meditation works simply but profoundly by defusing the onslaughts of life -- a racing mind, busyness, deadlines, commutes, all of which have physiological effects on well-being. Meditation calms the nervous system, decreases metabolic rate, heart rate, and blood pressure, and lowers levels of cholesterol, stress hormones, and free radicals. It also has a direct effect on breathing, slowing and deepening respiration so more oxygen circulates throughout the body. Not only that, meditation is said to lessen feelings of anxiety and depression and improve memory and concentration. And all of this culminates in slowing the aging process, as Chopra notes.

There are many meditation techniques, including focusing on a mantra, a sacred word or phrase, or your breath. But the basic intent of all meditation is focus and attention. And it doesn't take hours a day in an ashram to meditate effectively. Benefits kick in with even a short period of devoted time.

How to begin? Wear comfortable, unrestrictive clothes, sit on a cushion or chair with your back straight (think once again, comfort), rest your hands on your legs, let your eyes go soft and out of focus or close them, breathe slowly and deeply, and -- the hardest part -attempt to empty your mind of thoughts and quiet the internal dialogue. When thoughts flit through your mind, let them pass without judging them and come back to your focus (your mantra, counting, etc.) and breathing.

Start with this sitting meditation technique for five minutes a day, and add on time as you get more at ease with the process. For more information on techniques and benefits, check out www.abc-of-meditation.com.