WHAT ARE VEDAS?

The Vedas are the recordings of sages to whom the mantras were revealed. They proclaim the transcendental Truth, which is not changed by time or place. They indicate the means to prosperity and security for the denizens of the three worlds. Veda is derived from the root "Vid", which means, "to know". The Veda teaches how to achieve purity of heart, getting rid of impurities.

The Vedas have been declared to be infinite and hence beyond the comprehension of common people. In the beginning there was only one Veda. To study it considerable time and effort were needed. Vyasa divided it into different parts to enable people to study as well as practice the teachings of the Veda. Out of the countless number of hymns, Vyasa gathered some Rks and compiled them in the Rg Veda, collected some yajus to form the Yajur Veda and some Samans to make up the Sama Veda.

The Rg Veda is mainly devoted to hymns in praise of various deities. The Yajur Veda consists of mantras for worshipping the deities. The mantras of the Yajur Veda are used in the performance of yagas and yajnas and in doing acts of charity. Each Veda has three sections: Brahmanas, Aranyakas and Upanishads.

The Vedic mantras were utilized in yagas and yajnas (ritual sacrifices) for promoting the well being of society and the world. They were intended to secure timely rains so that the crops may be good and there may be prosperity all round. The mantras, which form part of the Karma Kanda (the path of rituals), were regarded as conducive to the promotion of general well being and happiness.

The great sages who listened to these mantras as revelations from the Divine found the key to them in eight basic letters. All the Vedic mantras with their musical rendering were remembered by reflecting on the eight letters: " A, Ka, Cha, Ta, Tha, Pa, Ya, Sa." The great seers fostered the Vedas by the use of these letters.

Each of the Vedas had several saakhas (branches) and upasaakhas (sub-branches). Out of the 20 branches and 21 sub-branches of the Rg Veda, only three have survived today. Likewise out of 96 branches of Yajur Veda only two have survived the ravages of time. Sama Veda, which had 1000 branches, retains today only three branches.

What is meant by Veda? One meaning is eruka (awareness). Another is thelivi (intelligence). A third meaning is viveka (discrimination). All those who wish to develop discrimination should be deeply interested in the Vedas.

The Vedas have emphasized that man will be truly human only when he lives up to human values and practices the good life. The Vedas have a universal outlook, embracing all that is noble and sacred. They have taught the principle of samatwa (equality) in respect of everything. They have proclaimed the concept of oneness. They taught men to face joy and sorrow with equal serenity.

The Vedas have been mainly concerned with the Pravritti Marga (the Path of Action). All the different branches of knowledge--physics, chemistry, botany, economics, music, etc.--are covered by the Vedas. These are concerned with the external world. Hence the Vedas have been considered dualistic. Only the Upanishads have taught the Nirvritti Marga (the Path of Knowledge) by going within oneself. This means that, of the four Purusharthas, the four main goals of man- Dharma , Artha, Kama and Moksha--the Vedas have been concerned with only the first three.

The Upanishads declared that the nature of the Supreme can be grasped only by the Path of Knowledge. That knowledge is found in Vedanta. The Upanishads come at the end of the Vedas. The essence of all the Vedas is to be found in them. While Veda is dualistic, Vedanta is Advaita (nondualistic). It is only when you understand the essence of the Vedas as expounded in the Upanishads and put into practice the message of the Vedanta, you will realize the true meaning of Advaita (Non-dualism).

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Ayurveda Healing

There was once a celebrated doctor, associated with Vedic, post-Vedic and even pre-Vedic sages, called Caraka who believed that human body is composed of innumerable cells. He lived in the second century of our era and was one of the greatest physicians that has ever lived. Caraka recorded the fact that the gods themselves were perplexed by the continued existence of disease, which was a hindrance to humanity's progress to enlightenment.

These same gods, he says, therefore prepared the way for Ayurveda, which literally means the “ The Science of Longevity” to be taught to the human race. Caraka (stands for an intelligent person) revised the Carakasamhita in the light of the new knowledge. The Carakasamhita today is held in high esteem as the most authentic of all the extant works on the Ayurevedic system of medicine. Carakasamhita was translated from Sanskrit into Persian and from Persian into Arabic. Al-Beruni's chief source of medicine was the Arabic edition of Caraka. Ayurveda tradition requires at least seven years of intensive training.

Ayurveda "Mother of All Healing" “ Knowledge of Life” “The Science of Life”
“The Science of Longevity” ” World Medicine”

Ayurveda, the most holistic and comprehensive medical system available,
teaches you how to live in a true and natural balance.

Not being able to answer the question, the rishis approached Sage Bhrigu. To reach a solution after a direct ascertainment of reality, Sage Bhrigu first went to Satyaloka, the abode of Lord Brahma.

Vedic Rishis “Seers of Mantras” taught Ayurveda in an oral tradition.

Rishis also became Vaidyas (physicians of Ayurveda). The sage ~ physician ~ surgeons were deeply devoted holy people, who saw health as an integral part of spiritual life. The Rishis acknowledged that everything that existed in nature had a common source. If they found the ultimate source of their "Self" they would find the origin of all things in nature.

Vedic Rishis did not venture out and collect herbs and experiment with their effects to discover Ayurveda, but rather went into deep internal meditation. Their knowledge of the use of various methods of healing, prevention, longevity and surgery came through “Divine Revelation” (they heard the hymns of the Gods). There was no guessing or testing and harming animals.

These revelations were transcribed from the oral tradition into book form, in elaborately detailed texts written in Sanskrit ~ the ancient language of India. As a result Ayurveda developed into a respected and widely used system of healing in India. What is fascinating is Ayurveda's application of herbs, foods, aromas, gems, colours, yoga and mantras in daily living.

The healing art of Ayurveda had spread outside of the strictly Hindu community around the 6th century BC. Wise men from China, Tibet, the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Persians and many more came to learn about this world medicine and its religious scriptures it sprang from.

Ayurveda established Islamic medicine and assisted to form the foundation of the European tradition in medicine. In 15th Century Europe “Paracelsus” celebrated physician and reformer of therapeutics is a phenomenon in the history of medicine, a genius tardily recognized, who impetuously sought to overturn the old order of medical thinking.

He worked with brutal determination to substitute more comprehensive healing system for what seemed to him was archaic and flawed in therapeutics. Paracelsus, who is also known as the Father of Modern Western Medicine, stressed the healing power of nature and attacked venomously many other medical malpractices of his time and hissed mercilessly at worthless pills, salves, infusions, balsams, electuaries, fumigants, and drenches, much to the delight of his student-disciples.

He was the first to declare that, if given in small doses, "What makes a man ill also cures him," an anticipation of the modern practice of Homeopathy. Paracelsus, in fact, contributed substantially to the rise of modern medicine, including psychiatric treatment. He journeyed to Egypt, Arabia, the Holy Land, and Constantinople seeking out the best practitioners of alchemy from whom he could learn their most effective medical treatments. His employment of such knowledge soon won him widespread acclaim for his treatments.

It is not surprising that Paracelsus was called a magician because at the time science and magic were still entwined; the study of one meant the study of the other. However, he was sceptical of the magic performed in rituals by magicians and sorcerers.

He believed in natural magic (power) and that it existed in all things. Such natural magic, he claimed, was a "Power that comes direct from God." When directed toward a doctor it manifested itself in the ability to heal. Included in Paracelsus' belief in natural power was astrology. He held that the stars and planets influenced life and matter.

Paracelsus believed in self-discovery. He thought it could be achieved through the power of imagination. One of his most significant beliefs was that man's soul and body were inseparable as he claimed in the following:

Man is not body. The heart, the spirit, is man.
And this spirit is an entire star, out of which,
he is built. If therefore a man is perfect in his
heart, nothing in the whole light of Nature is
hidden from him.

Paracelsus contributed significantly to modern medicine particularly in the areas of diagnosis and chemical treatment. His studies and work laid the foundation for modern chemical physiology. He publicized and practiced a system of medicine which borrowed heavily from Ayurveda, which emphasizes prevention of disease, rejuvenation of our body systems, extension of life span and offers a unique blend of science and philosophy that balances the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual components necessary for holistic health.

Ayurveda, is not simply only a health care system but a form of lifestyle adopted to maintain perfect balance and harmony within the human existence, from the most abstract transcendental values to the most tangible physiological expressions, it is the art of healthy living that enables you to create harmony in daily life by applying self- knowledge and self-care.

The Ayurvedic approach to life requires listening to and addressing the unique needs of your body, recognizing and balancing your mental and emotional states and deepening your connection with your spirituality. You are the only one who can do this, because you are the only one who will truly benefit from your actions or suffer from your abuses. Your whole life and lifestyle ought to be in harmony before you can enjoy true wellbeing.

You can bring balance to your body through daily practices including yogic exercise, rest, massage and the foods you eat and how you eat them.

One can learn to heal themselves or remain healthy by staying in equilibrium. It is not limited only to the proper functioning of our mind, body and soul, but extends further in establishing a natural and balanced relationship with the nature as a whole. There can be no mental health without physical health, and vice versa. In Ayurveda, the mind (or consciousness) and the body (or physical mass) not only influence each other ~ they are each other, together they form the mind ~ body. Ayurvedic philosophy and practices link us to every aspect of ourselves and remind us that we are in union with every aspect of nature, each other, and the entire universe.

This includes a balanced relationship between us and all the creatures, our family members, our friends, our colleagues, the climate and the society we live in, our ideas, customs and much more. When we maintain this balance we stay healthy, the moment we are out of “sync” imbalance comes, joined by unhappiness, misery and shortly after that disease follows.

Many aspects, both internal and external, act upon us to disturb our balance. Examples of some of these emotional and physical stresses are: one's emotional state, diet and food choices, seasons and weather, physical trauma, work and personal relationships.

Balance is the natural order, imbalance is disorder. Health is Order ~ Disease is Disorder. Within the body there is a constant interaction between order and disorder. Once one understands the nature and structure of disorder, one can re-establish order.

Ayurveda places great emphasis on prevention and encourages maintaining health by paying close attention to balance in one's life through appropriate thinking, diet, lifestyle and herbs. Knowledge of Ayurveda enables one to understand how to establish balance of body, mind and consciousness according to one's own individual constitution and how to make lifestyle changes to bring about and maintain this balance.

Just as everyone has an individual face or thumb print, according to Ayurveda, each person has a particular pattern of energy ~ an individual combination of physical, mental and emotional characteristics, which is his or her constitution.

Ayurveda identifies three basic types of energy ~ Doshas (in original Sanskrit words Vata, Pitta and Kapha) that are present in everybody and everything. Energy is required to create movement so that fluids and nutrients get to the cells, enabling the body flawless function.
Vata is dosha of movement, Pitta of digestion or metabolism and Kapha of lubrication and structure.

All people have Vata, Pitta and Kapha, but one is usually primary, one secondary and the third least prominent. With Ayurveda, we acknowledge that beneficial daily habits are different for each person, given that each person is a unique combination of these three energies. Everybody has all three energies- although people experience each of them to a greater or lesser degree.

The cause of disease in Ayurveda is seeing as the lack of proper cellular function due to an excess or deficiency of Vata, Pitta or Kapha and/or the presence of toxins. In Ayurveda, body, mind and consciousness work together in maintaining balance. They are simply viewed as different facets of one's being.

To gain knowledge of how to balance the body, mind and consciousness one requires an understanding how Vata, Pitta and Kapha work together.
The key method for returning and maintaining the balance of body and mind is through our diet. There are general recommendations of diet, however, a qualified Ayurvedic physicians, who has undergone at least seven years of training, must treat more serious illness. He or she will recommend a more finely tuned diet as well as special therapeutic techniques to attempt to readdress serious imbalances.
There are three main Ayurvedic texts still used today. The Charak Samhita (collection of the oldest book Atreya Samhita), Sushrut Samhita and Ashtangha Hridaya Samhita.

These books are believed to be over 1,200 years old. It is because these texts still contain the original and complete knowledge of Ayurvedic world medicine, that Ayurveda is known today as the only complete medical system still in existence. Other forms of medicine from various cultures, although parallel are missing parts of the original information.

Ayurveda is an affordable, accessible daily practice for creating health and harmony in your body and in your environment. Once you begin to incorporate Ayurveda principles in your daily activities, you will see positive benefits in every aspect of your life.

Recycled Information provided by-http://yoga.org.nz/Ayurveda-Healing.htm
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Colour Therapy

In colour there is life. To understand this power, is living.
Colour could very well be the most magnificent experience we take for granted. Look around; it's everywhere, surrounding and embracing us. We interpret life as much through colour as we do shape, texture and sound.
The truth is, the power of colour is the very essence of life.


Our most important energy source is light, and the entire spectrum of colours is derived from light. Sunlight, which contains all the wavelengths, consists of the entire electromagnetic spectrum that we depend on to exist on this planet.
Light flows through our eyes and triggers hormone production, which influences our entire complex biochemical system. This biochemical system then affects our being. And light does not travel alone. Light travels with other energies as shown below.

We know that each colour found in the visible light spectrum has its own wavelength and its own frequency, which produces a specific energy and has a nutritive effect. We know some rays can be dangerous if we are exposed to them. But the visible light, the rainbow, has a soothing effect on us.
Light is the only energy we can see, and we see it in the form of colour.

Our body absorbs colour energy through the vibration colour gives off. All organs, body systems, and functions are connected to main energy centres.
Through colour we receive all the energies we need to maintain a health body, mind, and soul. The National Institute of Mental Health has done studies showing that our mental health, behaviour, and general efficiency in life depends to a great extent on normal colour balance. When something goes wrong, or is out of balance, we can strengthen our energy centres through the conscious use of colour.

Light consists of the seven colour energies: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet. Each colour is connected to various areas of our body and will affect us differently emotionally, physically, and mentally. By learning how each colour influences us, we can effectively use colour to give us an extra boost of energy when we need it.
If you wake up in the morning with little energy, or you need to prepare for a business meeting, this is where the power of colours can help. All you have to do is reflect on the type of day you have planned; choose the colour that will help you meet the demands of the day; and then absorb that particular colour. It's like fuelling your system with the right kind of gas!

BRIEF HISTORY OF COLOR AND LIGHT THERAPY

Healing by means of color and light was the first type of therapy used by man. The sun's rays kept him warm, the colors of the flora fed him and accounted for his mood. The Egyptian Pharaohs and the Inca Indians worshipped the Sun as God and used plants as medicinal herbs.

In 6th century BC, Orpheus, the founder of the first metaphysical mystery school in Greece utilized vibrational medicine of color and light as a means of healing and spiritual awareness. Both Pythagorus and Plato were strongly influenced by his teachings.

In 125 AD - the ancient scientist, Apuleius experimented with a flickering light stimulus used to reveal epilepsy.

In 200 AD - Ptolemy observed patterns of color rays coming from the sun into the eyes produced a feeling of euphoria.

In the 17th century - French psychologist Pierre Janet used flickering lights to reduce hysteria for hospital patients.

1876 - Augustus Pleasanton used blue light to stimulate the glandular system. In this same year, Seth Pancoast utilized red light to stimulate the nervous system.

1878 - Dr. Edwin Babbitt used variant colors to produce healing of internal organs.

1908 - Aura Soma developed in England used colors to heal physical and emotional symptoms and promote psychological change.

1926 - C.G. Sander specified that application of particular colors was necessary for normal health.

1930 - The Father of Spectro-Chrome Metry, Dinshah P. Ghadiali compiled an encyclopedia of treatment with the use of color and light for over 400 various health related disorders.

1941 - Dr. Harry Riley Spitler formulated "The Syntonic Principle" stating that light by way of the eyes balances the autonomic nervous system.

1943 - Dr. Max Lucher developed psychological color testing to reveal information hidden in the subconscious mind which is still used today.

1980 - Dr. Thomas Budzynski - used phototherapy to accelerate learning.

1991 - Dr. Harrah Conforth applied color and light to facilitate whole brain synchronization and Dr. Robert Cosgrove utilized colored light for sedative properties prior to , during and immediately following surgery.

Color Research
That color affects us all is an undoubted fact. Its significance has been investigated and the results utilized in merchandizing, selling, home decorating, the workplace environment, industry, plant growth, nutrition, physics, physiology, psychology, ecclesiasticism and art. In fact, color is so much a part of our lives that we tend to take it for granted.

Physical healing is encouraged by directing colored light towards diseased areas of the body or to the eyes. In conventional medical treatment, phototherapy and photochemotherapy are used in current dermatological practice e.g. in the treatment of psoriasis, and blue light has been shown to be effective in the treatment of hyperbiliruminemia in the newborn.

There is a wealth of evidence to support the psychological effects of color and Dr Max Luscher's The Luscher Color Test contains ample evidence of this (be advised that many of the references in this book are in German).


In conventional medical practice, the use of blue light in the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia has been proven by many researchers including Vreman et al with their study "Light-emitting diodes: a novel light source for phototherapy". Creamer and McGregor of St John's Institute of Dermatology, London. UK published a paper in January 1998 entitled "Photo (chemo) therapy: advances for systemic or cutaneous disease", exploring the value of light as a treatment. Griffiths of the University of Manchester, UK, in July 1998, published a paper on "Novel therapeutic approaches to psoriasis" and in October 1998, The Archives of General Psychiatry ran four articles on light therapy. Regrettably, where treatment of a broader spectrum of disorders is concerned, the evidence is largely anecdotal.
Research in the agricultural field lends support to the potential for color as a therapy in humans as the following examples show:

1. In 1997 researchers at the School of Agriculture and Forest Science at the University of Wales, UK used red and blue light to establish whether these would increase activity and reduce locomotion disorders in meat chickens. They showed that in 108 chicks walking, standing, aggression and wing stretching all increased in intensity when reared from day 1-35 in red light. Where blue light was used, there was a high incidence of gait abnormalities. Prayitno DS., Phillips CJ and Stokes DK. 1997. The effects of color and intensity of light on behaviour and leg disorders in broiler chickens. Poultry Science 76(12): 1674-81.

2. Michael Kasperbauer, a researcher at the US Agricultural Research Service Center in Florence, South Carolina, showed that using red plastic sheeting under tomato and cotton plants produced a 15-20% higher yield than plants grown over traditional black or clear plastic. Also turnips grown under blue plastic had an improved flavour when compared with those grown under green sheets. Analysis of those grown under the blue plastic revealed that they had higher concentrations of glucocinolates and vitamin C (glucosinolates being the compounds which give turnips and horseradish their traditional "bite"). Kasperbauer and his team have also investigated the link between color and pest control. Michael Orzolek of Pennsylvania State University proved that aphids and the plant viruses they transmit are generally attracted to yellow and repelled by red and blue. This finding echoes the work of Babbitt a century earlier when he wrote "The electrical colors which are transmitted by blue glass often destroy the insects which feed upon plants." Boyce N. Rainbow Growing. New Scientist. 24 October 1998.

Future research could focus on the clinical efficacy of color therapy and, the neurobiological mechanism of action. Extensive anecdotal evidence of the value of color therapy in the treatment of countless physical disorders over many decades deserves to be revisited. However, this evidence needs to be subjected to rigorous scientific research in order to establish (or otherwise) a sound basis for color therapy. Developing instruments for applying color could provide a commercial incentive for clinical trials.
A major resource for researchers is the Faber Birren Collection Of Books on Color which was presented to Yale University in 1971. Faber Birren (1900-1988) was a leading authority on color and the collection's holdings are the most extensive to be found anywhere. A complete online bibliography can be found at the Yale University Library website.
from the chapter on Color Therapy by Therese M Donnelly in the Clinician's Complete Reference to Complementary & Alternative Medicine by Donald W Novey MD, published by Mosby, 2000.

The practical application of a specific colour for a bodily condition requires common sense and experimentation. Generally, dis-harmony that produces a cold, wet condition requires red. Conditions of a hot, thermal nature require blue to calm and effect a stabilization of the subtle body in question. Therefore, contra-indicated to any red condition is the use of a red colour application such as with sunstroke. The use of red will aggravate the problem. The same is true of any blue condition; ie, contra-indicated for colds or pneumonia is the use of cold blue.
Some color therapists believe colours contain energy vibrations with healing properties. Exposure to a color and its vibrations can be used to assist the body's natural healing and recuperative powers to achieve and maintain health and well-being.
The are seven natural colours in the visible light spectrum (rainbow): red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Each color vibrates at its own individual frequency. In Color Therapy each color corresponds to one of the seven chakras (energy centres in the body), which in turn can influence a specific gland, organ, or tissue of the body. for example, the color red, which corresponds to the root or base chakra, can be used for problems with the adrenal glands, kidneys, and bladder. The color rays may be in the visible or invisible spectrum and can be administered through colored lights or applied mentally through suggestion.

RED
Red is called "The Great Energizer" and "The Father of Vitality." Red is warm, vital, heating. It loosens, opens up clogs, releases stiffness and constrictions. It is excellent for areas that have become stiffened or constricted.

RED is the first visible colour we see after the infra-red band is passed. Red is thermal, heating, warming, yang and positive. It has many tendencies including the promotion of cellular growth and activity, stimulating the Will aspect, corresponding to our life force, or the circulatory system. It is therefore indicated for all colds, sluggish or dormant conditions, such as pneumonia, bursitis, paralysis, arthritis, anaemia, as a liver stimulant, an energy builder, for raising the blood pressure and increasing circulation
Red is called "The Great Energizer" and "The Father of Vitality." Red is warm, vital, heating. It loosens, opens up clogs, releases stiffness and constrictions. It is excellent for areas that have become stiffened or constricted.

Red links with and stimulates the root chakra, at the base of the spine, causing the adrenal glands to release adrenalin. This results in greater strength. Red causes hemoglobin to multiply, thus increasing energy and raising body temperature. It is excellent for anemia and blood-related conditions.

RED VITALITY, COURAGE, SELF CONFIDENCE
Use when you need to meet a demanding day, or when you feel drained of energy. The colour red provides the power from the earth and gives energy on all levels. It connects us to our physical body. Everything that is to be commenced needs the life vitality of red.

ORANGE
Orange in the true color of the sun. Orange has a freeing action upon the body and mind, relieving repressions.

Because orange is a blend of red and yellow, it combines physical energy with mental wisdom, inducing a transformation between lower physical reaction and higher mental response. Thus, it is often referred to as "The Wisdom Ray."

Orange is warm, cheering, non-constricting. Through orange, we are able to heal the physical body (red) and, at the same time, induce within the mind (yellow) greater understanding on how the body may be kept in good repair. Orange helps assimilate new ideas and stimulate mental enlightenment. It is also helpful in dealing with excess sexual expression.

Orange in the true color of the sun. Orange has a freeing action upon the body and mind, relieving repressions.
Because orange is a blend of red and yellow, it combines physical energy with mental wisdom, inducing a transformation between lower physical reaction and higher mental response. Thus, it is often referred to as "The Wisdom Ray."
ORANGE - joy and constructivity - animates like red, although different cures are effected by this ray. Included are inflammation of the kidneys, gallstones, prolapses, menstrual cramps, epilepsy, wet cough and all sinus conditions.
Orange is warm, cheering, non-constricting. Through orange, we are able to heal the physical body (red) and, at the same time, induce within the mind (yellow) greater understanding on how the body may be kept in good repair. Orange helps assimilate new ideas and stimulate mental enlightenment. It is also helpful in dealing with excess sexual expression.
ORANGE HAPPINESS, CONFIDENCE, RESOURCEFULNESS
Brings joy to our workday and strengthens our appetite for life! Orange is the best emotional stimulant. It connects us to our senses and helps to remove inhibitions and makes us independent and social.

YELLOW
Yellow helps strengthen the nerves and the mind. It helps awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality. Thus, it is an excellent color for nervous or nerve-related conditions or ailments.

Yellow links with and stimulates the solar plexus, or psychic center. It can be used for psychic burnout or other psychic-related conditions or ailments.

Yellow can be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines. It helps the pores of the skin and aids scarred tissue in healing itself. It also has a very enriching effect upon the intellect and the brain.

YELLOW is stimulating to the nervous system and the intellect. These rays have an alkalizing effect which strengthens the nerves, and are awakening, inspiring and vitally stimulating to the higher mind or manas, aiding self-control. Typical diseases treated by yellow are constipation, gas, liver troubles, diabetes, eczema and skin troubles, leprosy and nervous exhaustion.
YELLOW helps strengthen the nerves and the mind. It helps awaken mental inspiration and stimulates higher mentality. Thus, it is an excellent color for nervous or nerve-related conditions or ailments.
Yellow links with and stimulates the solar plexus, or psychic center. It can be used for psychic burnout or other psychic-related conditions or ailments.
Yellow can be used for conditions of the stomach, liver, and intestines. It helps the pores of the skin and aids scarred tissue in healing itself. It also has a very enriching effect upon the intellect and the brain.
Like the color of gold, yellow represents the highest of the physical colors. "Worth its weight in gold" applies to yellow.
YELLOW WISDOM, CLARITY, SELF-ESTEEM
Gives us clarity of thought, increases awareness, and stimulates interest and curiosity. Yellow energy is related to the ability to perceive and understand. The yellow energy connects us to our mental self.

GREEN
Most people associate blue with healing. However, green is the universal healing color. The ancient Egyptians and Chinese used green as the primary color of healing. Why is that? Because green is midway in the color spectrum; therefore, it contains both a physical nature and a spiritual nature, in equal balance and in equal harmony. Thus, green can be used for just about any condition in need of healing. When in doubt, green will always work.

Green is the color of Nature and the earth. It is balance and harmony in essence and possesses a soothing influence upon both mind and body. It is neither relaxing nor astringent in its impact.
In a more practical sense, green affects blood pressure and all conditions of the heart. It has both an energizing effect and a moderating or soothing effect.
GREEN BALANCE, LOVE, SELF CONTROL
GREEN is the colour of balance, harmony, nature, neutrality and of non-resistance. It was the colour of the first system from which we evolved and remains with us to this day as the calming, peaceful green of spring and nature. Green corresponds to the heart center on the physical plane and heals many illnesses of this nature, specifically including heart troubles, decreasing and stabilizing blood-pressure, ulcers, cancer, headaches, nervous disorders and influenza, and acts as a general tonic.

Helps relax muscles, nerves, and thoughts. Cleanses and balances our energy, to give a feeling of renewal, peace and harmony. Green connects us to unconditional love and is used for balancing our whole being.

Green is the color of Nature and the earth. It is balance and harmony in essence and possesses a soothing influence upon both mind and body. It is neither relaxing nor astringent in its impact.



In a more practical sense, green affects blood pressure and all conditions of the heart. It has both an energizing effect and a moderating or soothing effect.

BLUE
Dr. Edwin Babbitt, in his classic, "The Principles of Light and Color," states that "The Blue Ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world."

Blue is cooling, electric, astringent. It helps bleeding, decreases fevers, and cures soar throats. Blue can have a sedative effect, as expressed in the remark of "feeling blue." It is a very positive color, indicating loyalty and reliability, as expressed in the sentiment of being "true blue."

BLUE, on the other hand, is at the opposite end of the visible spectrum and is electric, cooling, yin and negative. Dr Babbitt has called blue one of the greatest antiseptics in the world. Blue light will stop bleeding of the lungs, decrease fevers, cure sore throats, give relief to most inflammations of the skin and gums, and can be used with infants for pain while teething. Blue is also used for goitre, measles, chickenpox, cuts, bruises and burns. Relaxing, soothing blue rays will also bring great calm and peace to the mind that is worried, excited, or in a constant nervous state. More diseases are treated by blue light than by any other colour, which is not surprising considering that cosmic fire in our system is clear cold blue.
Dr. Edwin Babbitt, in his classic, "The Principles of Light and Color," states that "The Blue Ray is one of the greatest antiseptics in the world."

Blue is cooling, electric, astringent. It helps bleeding, decreases fevers, and cures soar throats. Blue can have a sedative effect, as expressed in the remark of "feeling blue." It is a very positive color, indicating loyalty and reliability, as expressed in the sentiment of being "true blue."

Blue links with and stimulates the throat chakra. The throat chakra is often referenced as the "power center" and "the greatest center in the body" because it is the primary center of expression and communication, through speech. Thus, the effect of blue upon this center and the aura, in general, is quite profound.

Blue can be used for any type of ailments associated with speech, communication, or the throat. Solarized blue water is an excellent tonic for laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx.

BLUE KNOWLEDGE, HEALTH, DECISIVENESS
This is a mentally-relaxing colour. Blue has a pacifying effect on the nervous system and brings great relaxation. Ideal for sleep problems, and hyper-active children. Connects us to holistic thought, and gives us wisdom and clarity enhancing communication and speech.

Blue can be used for any type of ailments associated with speech, communication, or the throat. Solarized blue water is an excellent tonic for laryngitis or inflammation of the larynx.

INDIGO
Indigo is a great purifier of the bloodstream and also benefits mental problems. It is a freeing and purifying agent.

Indigo combines the deep blue of devotion with a trace of stabilizing and objective red. Indigo is cool, electric, and astringent. It is, also, the color ray used by Spirit to help entrance a medium.


INDIGO
Indigo is a great purifier of the bloodstream and also benefits mental problems. It is a freeing and purifying agent.
INDIGO, as previously stated, is the colour of our solar system. It has been particularly beneficial in treating cataracts, glaucoma and various eye problems. Other uses of indigo include purification of the blood and of the mind. Ear and nose complaints, diseases of the lungs, asthma, infantile convulsions and mental complaints may be remedied through the use of indigo.


Indigo combines the deep blue of devotion with a trace of stabilizing and objective red. Indigo is cool, electric, and astringent. It is, also, the color ray used by Spirit to help entrance a medium.

Indigo links with and stimulates the brow chakra (third eye) and controls the pineal gland. It governs both physical and spiritual (not psychic) perception; that is, clairvoyance, clairaudience, and clairsentience. Thus, it can be of great assistance in dealing with ailments of the eyes and ears, as well as assisting in problems or conditions related to mediumship.

Finally, indigo is considered the ray of the Holy Spirit.

INDIGO INTUITION, MYSTICISM, UNDERSTANDING
The indigo energy connects us to our unconscious self, and gives us the experience of being part of the whole universe. Strengthens intuition, imagination, psychic powers, and increases dream activity.

VIOLET
Violet is truly the color of the divine Spirit. Violet works only on the levels of the Spirit. It is generally not used for physical conditions; however, some color experts believe that it does provide nourishment to the cells in the upper brain and does have a link with the crown chakra. Furthermore, it helps expand the horizons of our Divine understanding.

Violet should be used only for spiritually-related problems.

Leonardo da Vinci proclaimed that you can increase the power of meditation ten-fold by meditating under the gentle rays of Violet, as found in Church windows.

VIOLET is the last colour we can see before light passes on to ultra-violet. This colour is an excellent remedy for neurosis, diseases of the scalp, sciatica, tumors, rheumatism, cerebro-spinal meningitis, concussion, cramps and epilepsy. Violet animates and cleans the venous blood. Esoterically violet is white and synthesizes all form manifestation.

Violet is truly the color of the divine Spirit. Violet works only on the levels of the Spirit. It is generally not used for physical conditions; however, some color experts believe that it does provide nourishment to the cells in the upper brain and does have a link with the crown chakra. Furthermore, it helps expand the horizons of our Divine understanding.
Violet should be used only for spiritually-related problems.
Leonardo da Vinci proclaimed that you can increase the power of meditation ten-fold by meditating under the gentle rays of Violet, as found in Church windows.

VIOLET BEAUTY, CREATIVITY, INSPIRATION
Purifies our thoughts and feelings giving us inspiration in all undertakings. The violet energy connects us to our spiritual self bringing guidance, wisdom and inner strength. Enhances artistic talent and creativity.


WHITE
White is the perfect color; for it is all color, in perfect balance and harmony. It is the color of the awakened Spirit; the light of perfection; the light of the Christ and Buddhic consciousness. It is also the Divine Light.

Just about everyone has heard of surrounding people with the "White Light of Healing and Protection." Directing white into the aura helps stimulate the person's own divine nature into healing the self.

Recycled information provided by www.alteredstates.net



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Our Organic Garden

Biomass

Biomass refers to living and recently dead biological material which can be used as fuel or for industrial production. Most commonly, biomass refers to plant matter grown for use as biofuel, but it also includes plant or animal matter used for production of fibres, chemicals or heat. Biomass may also include biodegradable wastes that can be burnt as fuel. It excludes organic material which has been transformed by geological processes into substances such as coal or petroleum. It is usually measured by dry weight, and is the total mass of living matter.

The term biomass is useful for plants, where some internal structures may not always be considered living tissue, such as the wood (secondary xylem) of a tree. This biomass became produced from plants that convert sunlight into plant material through photosynthesis.

Sources of biomass energy lead to agricultural crop residues, energy plantations, and municipal and industrial wastes.

Biomass is grown from several plants, including miscanthus, switchgrass, hemp, corn, poplar, willow and sugarcane.[1] The particular plant used is usually not very important to the end products, but it does affect the processing of the raw material. Production of biomass is a growing industry as interest in sustainable fuel sources is growing.[citation needed]

Though biomass is a renewable fuel, and is sometimes called a "carbon neutral" fuel, its use can still contribute to global warming. This happens when the natural carbon equilibrium is disturbed; for example by deforestation or urbanization of green sites. These activities are termed "carbon leakage".

Biomass is part of the carbon cycle. Carbon from the atmosphere is converted into biological matter by photosynthesis. On decay or combustion the carbon goes back into the atmosphere or soil. This happens over a relatively short timescale and plant matter used as a fuel can be constantly replaced by planting for new growth. Therefore a reasonably stable level of atmospheric carbon results from its use as a fuel. It is commonly accepted that the amount of carbon stored in biomass is approximately 50% of the biomass by weight.[2]

Despite harvesting, biomass crops may sequester (trap) carbon. So for example soil organic carbon has been observed to be greater in switchgrass stands than in cultivated cropland soil, especially at depths below 12 inches.[3] The grass sequesters the carbon in its increased root biomass. But the perennial grass may need to be allowed to grow for several years before increases are measurable.[4]

Although fossil fuels have their origin in ancient biomass, they are not considered biomass by the generally accepted definition because they contain carbon that has been "out" of the carbon cycle for a very long time. Their combustion therefore disturbs the carbon dioxide content in the atmosphere.

Other uses of biomass, besides fuel:

Building materials
Biodegradable plastics and paper (using cellulose fibres)
In a few decades the fossil energy sources like oil and coal we use nowadays will be exhausted.
To avoid this we either must change our lifestyle and the habit of wasting energy or we have to find other ways to get energy without exploiting the earth.
One way of doing this is getting energy from biomass with the following advantages.


Biomass is very abundant. It can be found on every square meter of the earth as seaweed, trees or dung.

It is easy to convert to a high energy portable fuel such as alcohol or gas.

It is cheap in contrast to the other energy sources.

Biomass production can often mean the restauration of waste land (e.g. deforested areas).

It may also use areas of unused agricultural land and provide jobs in rural communities.

If it is produced on a renewable basis using biomass energy does not result in a net cabon dioxide increase as plants absorb it when they grow.

It is very low in sulphur reducing the production of acid rain.

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The Religion of Love <3

Namaste Lights of the World!

We hope are all well in Mind, Body and Soul. We are delighted that you have come to share this sacred space with us. It seems October is a rather festive month for all religions of the world. So MOP would like to wish you all joy, positivity, light and love during these auspicious days.

We thought the following quote would be appropriate to share with you all:

There is only one religion
the religion of love
There is only one language
the language of the heart
There is only one caste
the caste of humanity
There is only one God, and
he is omnipresent.

Quote By: Shri Sathya Sai Baba
Image provided Australian EJournal of Theory.

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Global Warming 101

Eco-Friendly Products,

Rumi

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FOOD AND HEALTH

Every activity of man is dependent on the energy he derives from the intake of food. The spiritual sadhanas he ventures upon depends on the quantity and quality of the food taken by the sadhak, even during the preliminary preparations recommended by Patanjali. The most external of the five sheaths that enclose the Atmic core, namely the Annamaya Kosa, has impact on all the remaining four - the Pranamaya, the Manomaya, the Vijnanamaya and the Anandamaya. The Annamaya Kosa is the sheath consisting of the material flesh and bone, built by the food that is consumed by the individual.

Food is generally looked down upon by ascetically minded sadhaks and seekers and treated as some thing which does not deserve attention. But since the body and the mind are mightily interdependent, no one can afford to neglect it. As the food, so the mind; as the mind, so the thought; as the thought, so the act. Food is an important factor which determines the alertness and sloth, the worry and calm, the brightness and dullness. The scriptures classify food as sathwic, rajasic and thamasic and relate these three types to the three mental modes (gunas ) of the same names.

Man is the only living being who dislikes raw food found in the natural state. All other animals eat things as they are - grain, grass, leaves, shoots, fruits. Man boils, fries, melts, mixes and adopts various methods of cooking in order to satisfy the cravings of the tongue, the eye and the nose. As a consequence, the food value of these articles is either reduced or destroyed. When the seeds are fried, they do not sprout; that is clear proof that the 'life force' is eliminated. Therefore, uncooked raw pulse just sprouting, is to be preferred. Also nuts and fruits. The coconut, offered to the gods, is a sathwic food, having a good percentage of protein besides fat, starch and minerals. Food having too much salt or pepper is rajasic and should be avoided; so also too much fat and starch, which are thamasic in their effects on the body.

An intake of too much food is also harmful. Simply because tasty food is available and is being offered, one is tempted to over-eat. We have air all around us but we do not breathe in more than we need. The lake is full but we drink only as much as the thirst craves for. But overeating has become a social evil, a fashionable habit. The stomach cries out, 'Enough', but the tongue insists on more, and man becomes the helpless target to disease. He suffers from corpulence, high blood pressure and diabetes. Moderate food is the best medicine to avoid bodily ills. Do not rush to the hospital for every little upset. Too much drugging is also bad. Allow nature full scope to fight the disease and set you right. Adopt more and more the principles of naturopathy, and give up running around for doctors.

The type of food that you consume decides the degree of concentration you can command; its quality and quantity decide how much your self-control is lessened or heightened. Polluted air and water are full of maleficent viruses and germs and have to be avoided at all costs. There are four pollutions against which man has to be vigilant - of the body (removable by water); of the mind (removable by truthfulness), of reason (removable by correct knowledge) and of the self (removable by yearning for God) . Vaidya Narayano Harih, the Sruthis declare. God is the doctor. Seek Him, rely on Him, you will be free from Dis-ease.

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Where Is the Compassion?

1)Chickens, Brazil, © Martin Usborne / CIWF.
For their short 40-day lives chickens are confined to a crowded shed. Their eyes may sting with ammonia from the faeces they stand in. Growing faster than their young hearts and lungs can cope with, many become lame and shuffle painfully, panting in the heat.

2)Cows at a goshala, India, © Amit Pasricha / CIWF.
Worn out and abandoned cows at a goshala (cow shelter or sanctuary).

Images and related information provided by www.CIWF.CO.UK

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Mahatma Gandhi Talks

Gandhi Jayanti - Oct 2n- Observence of International Day of Non Violence/ Ahimsa