Thursday, February 25, 2010

Autumn Soy Chai Tea

Serves: 3
1 cup soy milk (fat-free milk can be substituted)
2 cups water
2 black tea teabags
1 tbsp honey
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
½ tbsp cardamom
½ tbsp cinnamon
1/8 tbsp ginger
2 whole cloves

Directions:
Place all ingredients except milk in a small saucepan over medium high heat.
Simmer for 3 minutes and remove from heat.
Next add soy milk.
Let Chai stand for 2 minutes to allow the spices to season the tea.
Strain tea to remove any large particle and serve hot/warm.
Nutrition: calories 70, calories from fat 15, 1.5g fat, cholesterol 0mg, sodium 45mg, carbohydrate 10g, dietary fiber 1g, sugars 6g, protein 4mg.

Breakfast- Pear and Apple Couscous

Serves: 8
2 cups fat free milk
2 cups dry couscous
¼ cup almonds, slivered
1/3 cup fresh pears, peeled and chopped
1/3 cup fresh apples, peeled and chopped
2 Tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Directions:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the milk, honey and cinnamon.
As soon as it comes to a boil, stir in the couscous.
Turn off the heat, cover and let stand for 5 minutes.
Stir in the pears, apples, and almonds.
Serve warm.
Nutrition: calories 230, calories from fat 20, 2g fat, cholesterol 0mg, sodium 35mg, carbohydrate 43g, dietary fiber 3g, sugars 8g, protein 8g.

Poblano Mexi Chicken Stew

Serves: 10
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
2 teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup celery, chopped
½ cup carrots, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
1 poblano pepper, chopped fine
3 cloves garlic, chopped fine
2 tablespoon flour
5 tomatoes, cut in half and seeds removed and chopped
1 cup frozen corn
1 can low sodium black beans, drained
1 pound boneless skinless chicken, cut into ¼ inch cubes
½ gallon low sodium chicken stock
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:
In a large stock pot over medium high heat add oil.
Once oil is heated add celery, carrots, onions, poblano pepper, and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes.
Next add the chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and flour and sauté an additional 3 minutes.
Add tomatoes, corn, black beans, chicken, and chicken stock and bring to a simmer.
Turn heat to medium low and simmer for an additional 45 minutes remembering to stir occasionally to keep the food from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Remove from heat and add fresh cilantro and serve.
Serve.
Note: This freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition: calories 170, calories from fat 30, 3.5g fat, cholesterol 25mg, sodium 610mg, carbohydrate 21g, dietary fiber 4g, protein 18g.

Monday, February 22, 2010

HCG Drops - Good Or Bad? By Marcus G McReynolds

There is a huge interest in the weight loss industry about the HCG Diet, as you read about this surprisingly easy way to lose weight, you will find both positive and negative reports about the HCG Diet.

There are many publications on this subject, one of the best is Kevin Trudeau's book "The Weight loss Cure"... he explains it very well but fails to mention where you can purchase the HCG Drops or even find HCG (Human chorionic gonadotrophin).

Although HCG treatments are not fully accepted by the conventional medical industry, there is however a wide acceptance throughout the alternative and complementary health industries, especially in using the natural homeopathic HCG drops helping dieters to learn portion control as they navigate the 500 calorie diet, which is proving to be very successful without any side effects.

The homeopathic HCG drops are ideal to give the dieter a 'kick start' into the weight loss arena, you should always remember that any drastic weight loss program does not end when the diet ends; maintenance of a healthy weight is vital in order to keep and enjoy the long term benefits of weight loss. In order to maintain your new body and enjoy real quality of life and increased general health, you must create and retain new lifestyle habits that will help you succeed.

Multiple thousands of dieters around the world are finding that the homeopathic HCG drops are easy to use and enables one to get a good start on losing unwanted weight, the various programs available allow you to see fast results that help encourage you to change to a healthy lifestyle of fitness and health.

Marcus McReynolds - Expert in alternative health medicine

Buy HCG Drops

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marcus_G_McReynolds">

*I am noting here that I am NOT a supporter of The HCG drops and or injections. From what I have seen from the people around me that are using the drops, that the diet is not very healthy. They don't eat much AT ALL and from all the dieting that I have done over the years, the one thing that I have learned is that you need to eat a good well balanced diet of at least 1200 calories a day. Watch your Carbohydrate intake, cut back on sugar, bread, pasta, rice, potatoes and Carbonation. Add a good work out too that and you are guaranteed to loose weight.*

Diet Information & High Protien Low Carb Diet By William Walters

Today we are going to talk about the importance of to a healthy High Protein Low Carb Diet and how it will help you to lose weight.

The rise in the number of fast foods joints that have a lot of saturated fat in the meals, the use of a lot of refined sugar in sodas and other processed foods and eating food with less fiber have all contributed to the high protein low carb diet in working to get those pounds off, and keep them off. Fact that there are more people than before who are classified as either overweight, or are obese, or a little chunkier than they would like to be.

A lot of other factors cause this to happen such as genetics, overeating, saying no! to that second plate of food, and as people age; the metabolism slows down making it harder than before to burn the food that was just consumed and very harder to lose the weight they just put on.

The rate that a person loses weight is commensurate to how it is gained. Rapid weight is not any good advisable since it leaves the person with lose skin and the only way to get rid of that would require surgery which is very expensive to say the least.

Weight loss depends on the condition of a person which includes the following; weight, health, calorie-intake, age, gender, lifestyle, stress level and fitness routines.

Being overweight does not necessarily make a person unhealthy though. It just makes the person a bit unfashionable, and feeling sluggish, and non-motivated sometimes. Medical Studies have shown that people who are a bit overweight live longer than those who have normal weight don't ask me why? but,its been proven already.

There is no quick or overnight solution for quick weight loss. You will have to stay on a high protein low carb diet something as zone diets, and gather some diet information then start your diet and stick with it and you'll eventually lose the weight you want to lose.

Nutritionists and other Medical experts will say that a person's weight with proper exercise can actually help lose a certain number of pounds per week The best way to do this is with a low calorie diet and a great daily or weekly exercise plan.

The first thing a person needs to do is to choose a diet program designed by a dietitian or another health or medical professional. The patient has to be evaluated before any program can be started. The program usually consists of an daily eating plan, and an exercise program that does not require the use of supplements or one to purchase any expensive fitness equipment what I mean by this is a good frisk walk around the park daily would be proper for an elderly person. Whereas a mile or two run would be great for a younger person. Always ask your doctor's advice before starting a rigorous exercise program.

The best exercise plan should have cardiovascular and weight training exercises also. This helps burn calories and increases the muscle to fat ratio that will increase ones metabolism and lose weight quicker.

A good healthy diet should have food from all the food groups.

This is made up by two things. The first is carbohydrates. The food that a person consumes should have vitamins, minerals and fiber. A lot of this can come from oats, rice, potatoes and cereals. The best still come from vegetables and fruits since these have phytochemicals, enzymes remember the old saying! an apple a day keeps the doctor away, also micronutrients that are essential for a healthy diet.

The second is fat which can come from mono and poly-saturated food sources rather than animal fats. Since fat contains more than double the number of calories in food, this should be taken in small quantities to lose weight. "Stay away from any kind of animal fats" if you want to lose weight.

All diet plans are designed to make the person reduce the amount of calories taken into the body. This does not mean that the person has to eat less, just eat healthier portions. Means that one has to eat smart by choosing the foods that have less calories. This makes it possible for someone to lose weight without the need to eat less.

During the course of the program, the person should still consult with his or her doctor and other health experts to monitor ones progress. There will be times that it is essential to modify the diet plan, and maybe even the exercise plan to further lose weight.

It is up to the person individually to stick to the program to see that it works for them.

William Walters, the owner of OurDiet.info is interested in writing articles relating to health issues. Visit the site - http://www.OurDiet.info – for more information on everything you should know about Ediets, Zone Diet, Acid Reflux Diets, Zone Diets, South Beach Diet Information, High Protien Low Carb Diet and while you're there pickup some FREE reports " On Dieting and Losing Weight" Learn How To Fight Back” from the site.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Walters

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Yoga For Beginners - Five Useful Things You Need to Know About the History of Yoga By Ntathu Allen

"What is Yoga? What style of yoga do you teach? What do I need to practice yoga?"

As a Yoga Teacher, I am often asked these questions by potential yoga students.

Given the vast array of yoga classes available it can be quite overwhelming to choose a programme most suited to your individual health and well-being needs and lifestyle.

You may have heard that yoga helps you to relax, calms your mind and releases tension from sore muscles, but how can you be sure if the yoga class advertised at your local Leisure Centre is the right form of exercise for you?

There are many styles and ways of teaching yoga. "Yoga" means different things to different people. I have three teenage daughters, each have their own understanding and definition of yoga ranging from:

- "Yoga is a peaceful way to exercise and, a good way to let your feelings out"
- "Yoga is mum's job!"
- "Yoga is gentle stretching and balancing exercises"

The following top five tips give you a clear introduction about the practice and teachings of yoga.

Top Five Useful Things You Need to Know About Yoga

One: Yoga is a form of exercise which consists of a programme of stretching exercises,(known as asanas) which gently open and stretch the body, increasing flexibility, suppleness and strength; breathing practices (known as pranayama) designed to cleanse the body and calm the nervous system and emotions; and guided relaxation to release body tension and promote a sense of well-being. Some yoga classes also include meditation and chanting. Meditation helps you to calm and focus your mind and have a sense of inner peace.

Two: The traditional meaning of the word 'yoga' originates from Sanskrit yuj meaning to yoke, unite, union, join together. Traditionally speaking, the goal of yoga is to achieve union, connection with the Divine. In more general terms, yoga is seen as a practical way to help you achieve a state of balance, sense of harmony and union into your life

Three: There are four main paths of Yoga practice, which all traditionally serves as a means to help you achieve your potential and unite with your divine nature: Karma Yoga (the path of selfless service and action), Jnana Yoga (the path of intellect, knowledge and wisdom), Bhakti Yoga (the path of devotion and love), Raja Yoga (the physical practice of yoga - asanas, breathing, plus spiritual, ethical guidelines, known as the Yoga Sutras or Patanjali's Eight Limbs of Yoga.)

Each path of yoga will appeal to different people depending on your personal temperament and personality.

Four: There are various styles and different approaches to yoga. In essence, asanas, breathing exercises, relaxation and in some cases meditation and chanting form the basis of all yoga styles. All yoga is known as "Hatha Yoga." However, different schools of yoga place difference emphasis on these aspects. Some yoga teachers, may focus more on breathing techniques (known as pranayama ), whilst another may pay more attention on the alignment of the body in the poses. The most common styles of yoga taught are Iyengar Yoga, Sivananada Yoga, Viniyoga Yoga, Astanga Yoga and Bikram Yoga

Five: The practice of yoga exercises (asanas) is one aspect of yoga. As a way of balanced holistic living, the other elements of yoga consists of paying attention to eating a wholesome, preferably vegetarian diet, proper breathing; proper relaxation; positive thinking and meditation.

The practice of yoga is a personal journey. The holistic nature of the practice and range of tools equips you with a range of useful tools to help you find inner peace, calm and balance within your life.

Ntathu Allen, Yoga Teacher, teaches professionals simple yga stretches and meditation to manage stress at work , improve creativity and strengthen relationships at work and at home. Contact Ntathu for your free monthly Yoga and Polarity Enewsletter - Healing for the Soul. Email :ntathu@yogainspires.co.uk ; http://www.yogainspires.co.uk phone: 07973 777 882

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ntathu_Allen

Which Type of Yoga is Right For Me? By Sarah Freeland

With the popularity of yoga rising throughout the western world, you have probably heard about it's healing powers by now. However, you still aren't sure exactly what kind of yoga may be right for your lifestyle. Chances are, you have probably asked everyone you know who practices yoga. While they may have a few suggestions, they may be bias in their decision making when it comes to which type of yoga you should choose.

Iit is fairly simple to find the right kind of yoga for you. Especially if you have all of the information there is to know about yoga. First and foremost you should try to consider why you are planning on entering the yoga lifestyle. Whether it was suggested to you from your doctor for medical treatment, or if it is a means for you to reconnect with a healthy lifestyle.

Just remember that you aren't alone. Many people struggle with trying to find the right yoga class for them. Some can spent years jumping from class to class, type to type, or different yoga teachers before finding the right match. You may find yourself drawn to the names of each yoga class, often times witty and inspiring. However, I would suggest making your decision on more than just the location or name of your yoga class. Instead taking the time to sit down with each of the teachers, and getting a feel for their technique of teaching.

It may be helpful if you can find a teacher that will allow you to sit in on each type of class. This will give you a first-hand view of what would be expected of you during your yoga class. While some may promote the use of props, and focus on slow and controlled movements. Others may focus on spirituality, or exercise. All of which are beneficial to many different people in their walks of life. However, power-yoga may not be the best choice if you suffer from chronic back pain. For this reason, you should take care in choosing the right type of yoga.

Before we look into the different types of classes and what you can expect you should first remember that as with any exercise program; you should first consult with your doctor. This is especially true if you have any diagnosed health problems that reduce your range of motion.

Once you have begun to visit the many different yoga classes available in your area, you will find that there is a common denominator among them all. That of which is that they are focused on bringing oneness to one's life. A unity between body, mind, and soul. Regardless of the fact that this oneness is all something we hold inside of ourselves on a daily basis. However, most people will find that it can be difficult to reach this place in our own selves without a little help.

Unfortunately there is no real way to answer the question of "what type of yoga is right for me?". It is more or less an moment of inspiration that you will find enter your mind once you have found the right class. As with so many things in life, yoga is specialized. However there are many different options to choose from. No one yoga class is going to be right for everyone who practices yoga. Just like no one yoga prop or work out wear will be right for one person. Think of it as a "fitting" for your lifestyle. Try your yoga class on for size, if it doesn't fit your lifestyle, your schedule, or your medical needs; then you should probably try to find something different.

While it is a common misconception among newcomers to yoga. You don't need to have a particular religion or belief to practice yoga. Just as you don't need to be of any one shape, or size to practice yoga. Everyone can and will benefit from the healing nature of yoga. It is even common for families to practice yoga together. If this is your plan, then finding a low-impact yoga will be imperative for younger children. Which will allow all of you to relax while getting healthy together. This of course is one of the many reasons that yoga has become so popular in the western world. As we all fight to keep our lifestyles healthy in a stressful and fast-pace lifestyle. We find that there just isn't enough time to run from one yoga class to another. Instead finding one class that will fit as a whole with your group of yoga friends, or family will help to keep your schedule relatively un-scathed.

The different types of yoga can be fairly difficult to differentiate. However, there are a few key differences that can help you choose which yoga is right for you. Whether you are looking for a high-impact yoga to help you drop pounds quickly; or simply trying to find relief from arthritis, or other chronic pain. There is a yoga that will be the perfect fit for you!

Hatha yoga (of which means union) is a term for yoga that employs both physical, and breathing exercise to calm the mind. This is only one of eight branches of traditional yoga, which has been passed down for generations in ancient Indian philosophy. It is thought that this style of yoga can help to attain enlightenment. Among these types of yoga that have stemmed from Hatha, you will find Raga, Mantra, and Tantra. All of which are considered to be philosophical styles of yoga, which are focused on elevating a person's mental state. It is common for Hatha yoga classes to ask their practitioners to follow a certain dietary conservation as well as ethical codes of living.

There are several different disciplines that you will find practiced in Hatha yoga. However due to it's popularity, some classes may even teach a fusion of several different styles of yoga. Including Hatha yoga. Most of these hybrid yoga classes (especially those that include Hatha yoga) are often times the best for beginner yoga practitioners. Simply because they will offer a wider range of poses, breathing, and physical elements. All of which are needed to practice yoga safely and get the most out of your workout.

While Hatha yoga has increased in popularity within the western world. There are many other kinds that can be found here in the United states alone. Ashtanga Viniyasa is one of the most increasingly popular forms of yoga in the last few years. It is a physical and mentally challenging form of yoga. Of which focuses on the unity between movement and breathing. However, this form of yoga can be fairly taxing and shouldn't be utilized for anyone with severe medical conditions. If you are a beginner, it is imperative to join a beginners Ashtanga class, so that you are able to learn at your own speed without posing an injury risk to yourself.

Along with Hatha and Ashtanga Viniyasa yoga's you will find a few other choices to choose from. One of which being Sivananda yoga. Which is based around as little as twelve postures. One such posture sequence includes the sun salutation. Of which focuses on breathing and meditation. This is one of the most well-rounded yoga classes that can be found today. It is especially suitable for all levels of expertise, ages, and physical abilities. Making it one of the most family friendly forms of yoga available.

Another popular form of yoga is Viniyoga. Of which is known for it's personalized touch. Each session of Viniyoga is tailored specially for the individual practitioner and their needs. These classes can vary from as short as fifteen minutes to two to three hours. However it is one of the best one-on-one yoga training that you can find. This is especially wonderful for anyone who might find it difficult to follow an instructor within a large class. This class is particularly well suited for children and those with medical conditions. Simply because it is so personal, and allows the trainer to keep your body, health, and physical limitations in mind when creating your routine.

The last form of yoga that is commonly practiced in the western world is Iyengar. Which is a slower and more precise means of practicing yoga. It is by far the most practiced yoga throughout the world (spanning not only in the western world). It plays in important role in one's bodily alignment and posture. This is particularly well suited for those with back-pain or any other severe or chronic pain. This form of yoga is also particularly suitable for seniors, as they practice with many different props to aid in their posture progression.

Remember, as with any new workout regiment that you should always know your own body's limitation. This will help you to choose the right style of yoga class for you. There is no right or wrong answer, simply knowing what you can and cannot handle is key. Regardless of the class, you should become prepared once you have chosen the right type of yoga for you. Your yoga instructor will be able to give you a list of the items you will need, whether it be yoga mats, blocks, blankets, or any other prop. It is best to come prepared!

The three popular types of yoga you may have heard of are hatha yoga, power yoga and bikram yoga. Hatha yoga is the style of yoga most practiced today. It is what you will think of when you think of yoga in general. Power yoga is a more aerobic-style yoga, with an emphasis on cardio. Bikram yoga is a style of yoga performed in a heated room to accelerate detoxification. Universal Yoga sells everything you need to practice these and other forms of yoga, pilates and meditation including cropped yoga pants, yoga mats, workout clothing, meditation cushions, yoga bags, uplifting apparel, spiritual jewelry, and yoga DVDs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Freeland

Saturday, February 20, 2010

The Mortal Instrument Series by Cassandra Clare

For any of you who like to read Teen Lit, you must read the mortal instruments by Cassandra Clare. Every time I would go to a store that sold books, the books all jumped out at me. I had thought about reading them for a while but didn't know if I really wanted to.

I read the Twilight Saga and it was good, good story good characters and I know that this is going to get me into trouble but it was not well written. Stephenie Meyer tells a good story but she is not a brilliant writer. Then I decided to give the Vampire Diaries ago, the books were well written but so terrible slow I had a hard time getting into give and gave up for a while. I will finish the books, I just had no reason to keep going.

I finally decided to give the Mortal Instruments a chance and I have to tell you that I LOVE THEM! They were so good, Cassandra Clare is not only a good writer but she tells an intriguing story as well. These books are kind of like Harry Potter meets Twilight, you have the NEPHILIM, Werewolves, Vampires, Warlocks and Demons of all kinds. The books are exciting and action packed from the first page. You even have your fair share of an incredible romance.



Here is a link to her website and the series, it will give you a lot more on the books, I don't to ruin any thing for any one who wants to read them.

http://www.mortalinstruments.com/mortalseries.html

Friday, February 5, 2010

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens



A Tale of Two Cities (1859) is a novel by Charles Dickens, set in London and Paris before and during the French Revolution. With 200 million copies sold, it is the most printed original English book, and among the most famous works of fiction.[1]

It depicts the plight of the French peasantry under the demoralization of the French aristocracy in the years leading up to the revolution, the corresponding brutality demonstrated by the revolutionaries toward the former aristocrats in the early years of the revolution, and a number of unflattering social parallels with life in London during the same time period. It follows the lives of several protagonists through these events, most notably Charles Darnay, a French once-aristocrat who falls victim to the indiscriminate wrath of the revolution despite his virtuous nature, and Sydney Carton, a dissipated British barrister who endeavours to redeem his ill-spent life out of love for Darnay's wife, Lucie Manette.

The novel was published in weekly installments (not monthly, as with most of his other novels). The first installment ran in the first issue of Dickens' literary periodical All the Year Round appearing on 30 April 1859; the thirty-first and final ran on 25 November of the same year.

I Read this book when I was in the ninth grade, but to be honest with you I don't think that I really enjoyed it all that much. I did not remember anything about this book, unless it was that long enough ago that I forgot.

I think that this is one of the most beautiful and tragic stories of the ultimate love and sacrifice one human being can make for another. When I first started the book it flopped back and for between London and France and some of the different characters so much that I was getting confused and lost. (I was suffering from A.D.D and the time) I listened to the unabridged version on audio book, it was narrated by Frank Muller. He is one of my favorite narrators; he is brilliant. This Book brought out a lot of emotions in me, Anger and revulsion. I thought that the British back in the day were brutal when it came to punishment, but they were nothing compared to the French during the French Revolution. If the citizens didn't like the cravat that you had on they would send you to the Le Guillotine, for the closet shave in France.

I loved this book; The characters the plot everything about this book. If you have never read Charles Dickens "The Tale of Two Cities" Add it too your to read list. It is defiantly worth the read.



Narrator Frank Muller