For many of us, the amulets carried or worn by different people – such as, the Catholic cross, rosary beads, pearl necklaces, unique healing jewelry, and many other ways to make vital use of these tiny specks of heavenly creation – have been familiar daily sightings in the streets, ultimately, causing more of us to take them for granted. This, in turn, has neutralized or lessened their respect and perceived value. However, what we actually are witness to in the presence of these energetically invaluable stones is beyond our meager imaginations. They are items that have been charmed, carried, worn, and passed down since time immemorial. De facto, both civilized and primitive individuals, cultures, and unique societies wear them for many occult reasons, including to drive away evil, heal, protect, to enhance spirituality, and, yes, to attract love.

The word amulet has the Latin origination of amoletum which means a defense medium or to avert evil. People use it because of the belief that it holds special powers to be used for protection against evil acts or entities like dark witches/witchcraft, ghosts, evil spirits, calamities, misfortune, illness, and other disasters/traumas. Also, amulets are believed to carry good fortune and luck that many people refer to them as talismans.

It is amazing to see that all the way from a primitive era in the distant past to the modern era with the varying cultures and sets of societies comprising it, humans still believe in the powers of amulets that specifically and supposedly derive their powers from connections made with religious associations including the occult, from rituals, and with more powerful natural forces. In those ancient days, you would find these amulets or talismans worn or carried, locked in an area desired to be endowed with the influence of their powers, and in religious ceremonies when the high priest wore a Choshen or breastplate, for example.

As mentioned, amulets come in various types and uses. But in the modern world, crystals and gemstones seem to have become more popular seeing the many collections and varieties of them in different sizes, shapes, types, colors, and variations. These crystals and gemstones have also gone into the hands of fashionable designers so they’ve been integrated into jewelry pieces like necklaces, pendants, bracelets, wands, and rings. Crystals and gemstones are also now found in zipper pulls, key chains, bag charms, key fobs, luxury cell phone cases, and in a lot of other gorgeously presented designs that have become not only a form of useful amulets, but fashionable representations as well. But a fact not to ignore, the magic of their healing properties still remains, giving many people this primary reason to wear them despite the nonbelievers in these beautiful, natural items’ efficacy. Remember, everything from Gaia is inherently pure and perfect in its own way.

Some of the most popular crystals and gemstones include amethyst, quartz of various colors, ruby, emerald, agate, tourmaline, opal, rose quartz, sodalite, goldstone, peridot jade, malachite, and, the most popular and commercially sought after of them all – the diamond. Each of these is an embodiment of protective, unique, and spiritual healing properties. There are many resources in the ethos that can provide details of each. With the characteristics that they possess, it is no wonder that the traditional penchant for people to wear these gorgeous and symbolic pieces will continue through to the next generations and further generations to come.

I know I rarely ever take off my amethyst, ruby (my birthstone), tiger’s eye, quartz, aventurine, selenite, and tourmaline. They come in different jewelry pieces (necklaces and bracelets) and pure uncut stones I carry in my pocket. Now, please know that some stones can amplify others like quartz does while some may counteract another, so it is important to know what properties the stones have so you know how to wear them, place them in your feng shui rituals, in your sacred spaces, or just in general. If stones are of interest to you, it is best to find a book or advisor to help you select the best stones for your activities and needs, and how to properly use and maiintenance them. Also, please keep in mind that crystals and stones are living things. They all hold natural power imbued by Mother Nature. Respect the stones and Gaia, above all! Do this and they will serve you powerfully and eternally as any living thing will do.

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Being overweight and obese has been an ongoing concern for a lot of reasons – particularly, here in the US.  Surveys say that the population of obese people has increased drastically in the United States alone, and that cases of obesity-related health risks have grown at an alarming rate.  There are many factors behind it. Some of them are physical, some are psychological. 

Contributing Factors

A variety of factors play a contributory role in obesity. Some are:

1. Energy imbalance:  This occurs when the amount of calories consumed does not amount to the amount of calories used or burned.  

2. Caloric Consumption:  The overwhelmingly available pre-packaged foods, fast food restaurants, and soft drinks which are generally high in fat, sugars (real and substitute), and calories contributes to an excessive caloric intake.

3. Calorie Usage: People are becoming more and more sedentary, and the lack of physical activity is causing the excess calories to become stored fat.

4. Environment:  People eating terrible or excessive “comfort” foods while spending too much time inside in front of the television may find it less enticing to go out for a walk or engage in any athletic activities.

5. Genetics:  Genes play a huge part in passing on disorders that may cause obesity.

6. Diseases:  Illnesses like Cushing syndrome, Bardet-Biedl syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome and many others may cause or contribute to obesity.

7. Medications:  Drugs such as steroids and some antidepressants may cause significant weight gain.

Complications/Risk Factors

Obesity isn’t just a simple concern for one’s appearance. It causes a multitude of health dilemmas that can be harmful and fatal in some cases.  Among these complications are insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart attack, congestive heart failure, cancer, gallstones, gouty arthritis, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, and even pickwickian syndrome.

Weight Loss

Now that you’ve learned of the repercussions of being overweight and obese, it’s time to consider shedding some pounds.  Here are some ways to lose weight:

Diet:  Watch what you eat.  This doesn’t mean you have to starve yourself or count how much you eat.  A balanced diet makes sure that your body is nourished with the necessary nutrients needed for the day.

Exercise: Integrating a simple exercise routine for an hour or so everyday may prove helpful to burn off the calories you eat per day.  This may be as simple as walking a block or two, doing a set or two of sit-ups, or performing basic stretching exercises. Please keep in mind there are exercises that can be counterproductive to your weight loss. Yes, that’s hella possible! I’ve witnessed people stay overwieght or even gain more weight because they wrongfully assume cardio alone or at the wrong time is all they need. I tried to told them. I don’t stay effortlessly toned by doing/eating the wrong things. People, please seek a trainer or healthcare professional for advice before undertaking your own regimen. Once you are down to your safe weight and all else is in order, you can modify your exercise regimen as needed.

Surgery: Weight loss surgery is performed only for severe obesity cases where diet and exercise has very little effect.  This is advised for people suffering from serious obesity-related health concerns.  The operation aides in weight loss by restricting food intake and, in other operations, interrupt the digestive process. Please research this option for yourself because not everyone will qualify. Which will, ultimately, mean you gotta get yo fat ass off the couch and eat right. You have to start somewhere.

Living with obesity is difficult.  Much more if you’re living with its complications.  Keep in mind that you don’t have to stay obese.  Stand up and take action.  Rid yourself of this heavy burden and work your way out to a slimmer, healthier, happier you.  Take comfort in knowing that you have the power to save yourself from the trap of obesity and its long-term consequences. So put the cakes and pies down and treat yourself better by valuing yourself higher. I promise you those cakes don’t care one iota about you and, in reality, can provide no substantial, long-term ‘comfort’. Your inner peace and strength is all you need. And, make sure your kids are outside being active and don’t use food as an award for doing good or way to show your love. Juvenile diabetes is real and very harmful. Don’t set your kids up for this detrimental way of life.

I promise you’ll make it through, and so will your kids.

Soure: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics/overweight-obesity

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The Beginning…

In the 1960’s, changes in sexual attitude clamored for equality of the sexes. It may not be a complete separation from the western sexual morality but was considered to be a liberalization from the conservative outlook of the previous decades caused by the Cold War. Such conservative outlook bred puritanical culture which eventually sparked the so-called sexual revolution. 

Many historians observed that changes may not be seen in actual sexual activities, such as those exhibited by people having more sex or engaging in different types of sex, but rather, more of a “coming out” period. Unlike the previous generations, people have become more open about discussing sexual health issues such as masturbation, premarital sex, erotic fantasies, pornography, and even homosexuality.

The introduction of the “Pill” is another reason for this breakaway mindset, allowing women easy access to reliable contraception. The flames of this new-found freedom were fanned by the increasing popularity of television with its ability to influence millions of viewers while spreading new ideas in such a short span of time.  

The significant changes in sexual behavior was observed among women who, upon reaching the age of maturity, had exhibited sexual behaviors common to men – promiscuity, in some descriptions. In the 1980’s, women would have more partners as compared to the women of the previous generations.  

The Consequence…

Sexual liberation has appealed to most women because it gave them empowerment and equality with the opposite sex. It liberated them from the ultimate dependence on men. The contraceptive pill had given them a sort of upper hand against sexual prejudices and biases from the male department who allegedly impregnate women only to be tied to a life-long oppression, which we call marriage.

This kind of reaction was brought upon by too much puritanism during those times where women were expected to be subservient to men’s whims and caprices. Indeed, the sexual revolution had liberated women not only in sexual behavior but in all aspects of social life. However, the continued rise in sexual assaults and battery of women afforded some believers that the sexual liberation has only placed women in more danger of being abused, exploited, and mistreated.  The pill that women consider as “liberating” had been used by men in their favor to further their own sexual activities. It would mean a lesser chance of getting his girl pregnant; thus, less responsibility on him.

Sexual liberation also espouses acceptance of homosexuality. It has encouraged the new generation to bravely come out of their closets and demand equality and fair treatment. Some quarters view sexual liberation as the cause of breakdown in morality. Modesty has become synonymous with immaturity. Pornography becomes art. Still, everything depends on how a person would take liberalism and to what extent. It can either boost a woman’s self-esteem or it can strip her of her own protection. Sexual maturity plays a very important role in understanding sexual liberation.

The Maturity…

The promise of sexual revolution is maturity, happiness and fulfillment through sexual liberation. Maturity is the ability to respond to circumstances in a rational way. Not being emotional or impulsive, but being appropriate and reasonable. Sexual maturity is a stage when a person’s emotional, physical, and sexual health is ready for reproduction.

Most people nowadays have treated sex without regard to commitment as well as to its consequence. Statistics prove that more than 50% of youth have engaged in premarital sex at least once. Modern lifestyles promote individualism and being unconventional. This is why it is important that one must learn to practice a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships by respecting and protecting the sexual rights of every individual, including those whose proclivities differ from yours. I’m looking at you peanut gallery of political idiots we pay to have playground fights and spend tax money on hookers and booze. Spend it on the constituents for once, and mind your own damn sexual business that your taxpayers are likely paying for.

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The reason why bipolar or manic depression is called such is because a person with this condition has moods that can alternate between the poles of mania (highs) and depression (lows). The length of this change in mood, or sometimes called mood swings, may last for hours, days, weeks, or months, depending on any one person’s individual factors and reactions to depression, and will vary from one sufferer to the next.

Bipolar can cause dramatic changes of mood – from extreme highs and/or irritable to sad and hopeless then back high again, usually with normal/stable moods in between. The periods of highs and lows are called episodes of mania and depression. Here are some of the symptoms of mania or manic episodes:

• Extreme irritability
• Increased or high energy
• Racing thoughts and talking very fast
• Easily distracted
• Sleeps for only a few hours or for hours/whole days
• Decreased sexual drive
• Behave differently from the usual and denies that nothing is wrong
• Aggressive 

A manic event is diagnosed if high mood occurs most of the day, almost everyday, for a week or more with three or more of the other symptoms. If the mood is irritable, four more additional symptoms must be present to be diagnosed.

Here are some of the symptoms of depression:

• Overwhelming and lasting feeling of unhappiness, anxiety, or empty mood
• Feeling of hopelessness or deep pessimism
• Difficulty remembering or making decisions 
• Too much, too little, or broken sleep
• Significant change in appetite resulting in weight loss or gain
• Thoughts of suicide or death
• Feeling of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Chronic fatigue
• Restlessness or irritability

A depressive episode or manner can be diagnosed if five or more of the above symptoms last most of the day, almost everyday, for a period of two weeks or longer.

Moderate to mild levels of mania is called hypomania, which may feel good to the person who is experiencing it and may also be associated with good functioning and enhanced productivity. If not treated immediately, hypomania may become severe mania and can switch to depression. One of only a couple events in life where too much happiness can be a detrimental thing.

Some episodes of mania or depression include psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions. The psychotic symptoms in bipolar disorder have the tendency to reflect this extreme mood state. For example, delusions of richness, like believing that they’re wealthy, may occur during mania; or delusion of guilt or hopelessness, like believing that they are completely desolate – ruined and broke, may appear during depression. People who are suffering from bipolar who happen to have psychotic symptoms are occasionally and incorrectly diagnosed as having schizophrenia. As I continually say, this chaos in the mind is a direct correlation to the chaos in the soul. That cannot be diagnosed or treated by anyone or anything, except the sufferer and their mental willingness to heal and their spiritual wellness to sustain. To put it plainly, those who believe they know everything about the mind is egotistically and unintelligently disservicing those who need real help. Hence, the reason the depression numbers are so ridiculously high in this country, yet ‘everyone’ is in therapy. So please seek the help your soul shows/tells you it needs. It’ll never steer you wrong. It can’t because it is the only untainted thing we have, unless we gave in/sold it to negative forces. The latter is another unforgiving process and subject in itself. 

• As a reminder, please seek immediate help at your local ER or treatment center if you feel you might be a danger to yourself and others. I cannot stress that enough.

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Stress is an everyday problem that can be extremely taxing for most people. Whether it comes as the result of a devastating event or just the constant cycle of things that make life difficult, stress is just as bad as the stress agent itself. Many people just pass stress off as a temporary thing that will go away with time. The problem with that is that they are neglecting the effect that stress can have on the human body when endured over long periods of time. Stress has been linked to a whole host of physical ailments, including many different types of cancer. Contrary to the popular saying, stress won’t just make you lose your hair. It could cause you to lose your life.

Stress is generally built up over time. It doesn’t discriminate. Stress problems can afflict students as they prepare for exams or complete work. Stress can bother people who are having financial or legal problems. Stress can even afflict those who are extremely wealthy. Problems with a business plan or even an issue at home can cause stress in large quantities. Because this type of stress is a mental ailment, the treatments for stress must be mostly mental, as well. You can go into the store and purchase aspirin to help with headaches that are caused by stress, but you can’t grab a quick fix for the problem itself off of any shelves. You must attack the problem at its roots in order to relieve it.

One great way to fight stress is through meditation. As a spiritualist, this is my go-to remedy for every stressor that may come. For this to be effective, it will require some practice as, nowadays, it is so hard to get quiet and be surrounded by pure quiet. Our minds constantly wander to all that is plaguing us and the world, or our environments have too many distractions for us to focus. The best way to conquer this is to practice being able to focus first, even with distractions. This works in many ways and is different for all. However, once you find your methods of focus and rhythm, you’ll be elated by what you discover during your quiet meditative times. Prayer is a form of meditation, so pray away the stress. I have seen many clients and people I know who have had a marked improvement in their overall moods and perspectives after incorporating meditation into their own personal stress management cures. I also recommend meditation to help clients with smoking cessation/issues, gambling issues, and a number of other problems, but it takes time and discipline for all types of personal improvement. Meditation is not just the supernatural stuff you see on television or in movies. It offers a real solution to people who often feel that all hope is lost in their situation because of their debilitating stress, or any other mental health disturbance.

If you are under the constant cloud of stress that won’t allow you to live a fulfilled life, then maybe you may want to consider meditation as a part of your treatment. It will get to the root of the problems that are causing your stress and will change your outlook henceforth. Get as much helpful information on meditation as you possibly can to find your style and make a big change in your life today. You’ll grow from there!

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It is normal for people to experience anxiety in life at some point in time. It helps us cope with very stressful situations. But, when anxiety becomes too much to bear and turns into irrational fears of everyday circumstances, it becomes a debilitating anxiety disorder. Unlike short-lived, mild anxiety caused by a stressful event, anxiety disorders can last for months and may worsen if not immediately and properly treated. 

The best way to cure your anxiety is to understand your anxiety condition. Anxiety is a troubled state of mind. Anxiety results from fearful thinking of future events or situations. It is a condition that is not accidental, unknown, or uncontrollable. Anxiety conditions occur for specific reasons, and its persistence has an underlying foundation. Education is an important way to reach your anxiety cure. Here are some helpful tips to removing anxiety from your life, which will aid in taking control over your own emotions again:

Relaxation techniques– a person feeling anxious most of the time has trouble relaxing. However, learning how to release muscle tension is one important anxiety cure. Relaxation techniques include regular muscle relaxation, meditation, abdominal breathing, massage, and isometric relaxation exercise.

Proper breathing techniques– the physical symptoms of anxiety may be triggered by hyperventilation or rapid breathing, which raises oxygen levels and reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the blood. A person with anxiety should know how to breathe from their diaphragm, and not from their chest to prevent hyperventilation. This technique can help you calm down while feeling anxious. 

Cognitive Therapy– this technique focuses on altering patterns of thinking and beliefs that are associated with and trigger anxiety. The basis of cognitive therapy is that ideas can trigger thoughts, which then trigger feelings, then results manifest through action. Cognitive therapy strategies should include rational self-talk, training on attention, reality testing, cognitive challenging, and cognitive restructuring. This means monitoring your self-talk, challenging fears and beliefs, and checking out the negative thoughts and actions in terms of their reality.

Behavior therapy– the major component of behavior therapy is exposure. Exposure therapy involves deliberately confronting your fears in order to desensitize yourself. Exposure lets you redefine the danger or fear aspect of the situation or trigger. 

Medication- it is important to see medication as a short-term measure, not a solution to anxiety disorder. Studies show that psychological therapies are much more effective than drugs in managing anxiety disorder in the long run. Brief courses of tranquilizers or antidepressants may be prescribed by your doctor to help you deal with the symptoms, but they should not be relied on as the final or lifelong solution.

Dietary adjustments– inadequate intake of vitamin B and calcium can worsen anxiety symptoms. Nicotine, caffeine, and stimulant drugs should be avoided for they trigger your adrenal glands to release adrenaline- one of the main stress chemicals.

Exercise – burns up stress chemicals and promotes relaxation. Plan to do some physical activities at least 3 to 4 times a week and vary your activities to avoid boredom. Sex is definitely the number one recommended stress exercise for me! It triggers your body to release hormones and neurotransmitters such as oxytocin and dopamine. 

There may be no specific anxiety cure for each individual, but the level of recovery depends on the participation and willingness of the person with the anxiety condition. The sooner a person can get treatment, the bigger their chance of getting better and getting back to normal mental health, whatever the hell that is.

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