We all fail. That's a fact of life. Even in the face of our best laid plans, the notion that there is still a possibility that things will go wrong looms over us. Life may still want to throw us a curve ball on some idle Tuesday and we are left groping for answers. Answers and options. You ever wonder what the most successful individuals have in common in their respective fields of discipline? They have failed more times than they care to remember. Do you find it hard to believe that failing is sometimes a necessary learning curve in order to succeed? It's true. Some of life's lessons we can only learn if and when we fall. They wouldn't have as much value or impact to you if they weren't presented this way. The question then isn't so much about our failures but how we take those failures and apply what we have learned in order to succeed.
If there is one thing we have to remember it is this; we will always experience one failure or another in our lives. We aren't made to be perfect and that statement in and of itself basically means we are flawed. But I want you to see the word failure in a different light. I don't want you to adhere to the negativity associated with it. Rather, try to remember that it simply is the way of life; we fail, we get up, we dust ourselves off, then we take that first step and go on, ahead always ahead. I know this sounds like an overwhelming crusade towards positivity but the truth is successful individuals don't stay down for very long. They don't even think about how and why they failed. Practice has instilled upon them almost a second nature desire to just get up, try something new, and keep going. As I have said before, attitude, it's all attitude.
But let's take real world applications here. Let's talk of a scenario whereby, for instance, you failed miserably in something and it is this ONE THING that will really make it or break it for you. How would you deal with it? Do you:
1. Hide from the world in general, feeling remorseful and shameful?
2. Harbor feelings of regret and blame other people for their lack of support or inattentiveness to your cause?
3. Feel depressed?
4. Fell anger, frustration, and be closed minded?
Let's face it, folks. We all felt like that. I fact we probably felt like ALL of that. Notice that the list above all harbor negativity and doesn't really do much to our outlook. I need you to focus on this next statement; SEE FAILURE AS A WINDOW TOWARDS NEW CHOICES, NEW DECISIONS. Gauge the effort needed to make that one final step in order to succeed. LEARN from your experience and APPLY what you have learned. That is being productive AND effective. Remember that no one will do it for you, you must do it alone and there is no sweeter victory. Let me repeat that; There is no sweeter victory. Overcoming your weaknesses and changing your weaknesses to strengths is what winning is about in life. If and when you fail, deal with it and leave it behind you. Focus your energies on what needs to be done still or if a different approach is necessary then by all means take it. Don't let the pain of failure consume you. You are better than that so there really is nothing much to prove. Just forge ahead and do what you do best.
Dealing with failure is never easy. When we commit ourselves, our resources, our time, and our energies to a cause for a long time, it WILL HURT when things go wrong. Learn to pick up the pieces and move on. Give yourself time to heal and find areas of positive diversion. Gather your marbles and plan again. Recovery takes 2 phases; First is Realization and Acceptance, Second is Consolidation and Convergence. Dissect where you had gone wrong and accept. Gather or consolidate your resources and formulate your new strategy and converge on it, use every arsenal at your disposal. Remember to focus and not to lose determination. I know we all know what the 3 D's are when we strive towards a goal ( my junior high softball coach in PE back in the day used to yell "3D,3D,3D!!", in our ears till we got sick of Desire, Determination, and Discipline, but hey, it worked!).
Lastly, don't be afraid. You are never alone. A lot of people out there had it worse than you and they are still up and about trying to make it work, striving still to succeed. So my question to you now is,"why can't you?". Until our next post...do take care and keep on striving. No effort goes unwasted, only results, and even then we can still learn. Think positive, be positive, and do positive. Thanks again for your time.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
The Top 10 Herbals You Can't Do Without
There are a handful of herbs you can buy commercially out there which are what I call "essential herbs". These little organic wonders are worth their weight in gold in terms of their medicinal as well as therapeutic values. Medicine has advanced to the point that key enzymes as well as other key proteins from these herbs has been isolated and verified for their healing attributes on certain diseases and conditions. No longer do we have to take the words of "herbalogists" as I'd like to call them, when we can prove the merit of these herbs in a scientific manner. So, here they are:
1. Garlic. garlic is one of those herbs that should be the first in line when we talk of PREVENTION. Many cultures around the world have made it the staple herb for cure and preventive purposes. It contains a compound called ALLICIN which, it turns out, has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Garlic is good for your heart, boosts your immune system, helps cleanse your liver, and has anti-inflammatory as well as anti-cancer properties too.
2. Aloe Vera. This plant has become a staple in households all over America and with good reason for doing so. Aloe vera soothes sunburnt skin as well as sores. It contains an anti-itch compound called MAGNESIUM LACTATE making it extremely useful for itches, rashes, insect bites, and other skin conditions. It has been shown to be a potent cellular regenerator if eaten. So, your common household aloe vera plant isn't just for moisturizing your skin anymore.
3. Basil. Basil is another herb whose medicinal and therapeutic value far outweighs its culinary charm. Basil essential oil is used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress. Its other uses, however, are the following; used in cough, colds, and asthma to provide relief. Used to treat skin problems like acne and helps moisturize skin and hair. The oil has anti-oxidant properties which can help delay aging and is beneficial in preventing diseases like cancer. The oil is also strongly anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory as well.
4. Lemon. And you thought all that zest was only for taste. Lemon juice when mixed with water, as in lemonade, isn't just a summer refreshment anymore. Who would have thought that during the time you were selling lemonade down the street for a quarter a glass when you were a kid you were actually helping some old folk with his or her rheumatism. Well, rheumatism isn't the only condition lemon is good for, mind you. It's also good for it's blood purifying properties; it can cure heartburn; it has anti-aging properties when applied to the skin; it helps cure respiratory conditions such as asthma, it can help control high blood pressure; and it can help you lose weight too. Lemon also helps in cleansing the liver as well as flushing the body of wastes and unwanted toxins.
5. Coffee. Surprised? When I was still in college I used to drink gallons of coffee before my exam to help me stay alert at least long enough to finish a chapter of anything, let alone try to memorize the thing. Mom used to always tell me that I drink too much coffee and I'd end up a nervous wreck and so anxiety-ridden. Well, as it turns out, folks, coffee is indeed good for you. I mean it's the only herb you can drink and not even see it as one. It prevents Strokes, Diabetes, Arrhythmias, Asthma, Liver Cirrhosis, Dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Need we list more? So, pour me another cup will you...
6. Oregano. Oregano is one of those herbs I have a warm spot for in my heart. Not only is it a delight to use around my kitchen when I cook, but it's minty smell is refreshing. A member of the mint family, its medicinal uses comes from the oil extract made from this herb. It is strongly anti-bacterial; has been shown to aid in the recovery from respiratory ailments; has anti-oxidant properties; aids in digestion; is anti-spasmodic; and can help clear out blocked sinuses.
7. Camomile. This herb comes in two flavors, as an oil and as tea. The herb is an effective anti-bacterial; it helps children fall asleep; it is perfect ( in tea form) for ulcers induced by stress and anxiety; an effective natural relaxing herb without side effects; it's helpful in stomach aches, cramps, and diarrhea; is also anti-inflammatory.
8. Ginger. This Herb is my next favorite second only to garlic. Zingiber oficionale, as ginger is scientifically called has been used for centuries as an herb to aid digestion. Ginger root is boiled and drank for these ailments. It's use, however, far surpasses that. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes as well as helps in maintaining a stable lipid profile by controlling the amount of absorbed cholesterol.Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and so is helpful for patients suffering from arthritic pain. Ginger also promotes better circulation in our bodies. It has been shown to be effective for nausea and vomiting and other related symptoms experienced by post-operative patients. It also helps alleviate abdominal pain and menstrual abdominal cramps. Ginger is also effective as a decongestant because it relaxes the muscles around blood vessels hence is very effective for flu-like symptoms and colds.
9. Ginseng. Ginseng is probably the most famous herb today, due to it's historical track record and its properties. The herb has been used in many places of the world for centuries because of it's healing properties and immune boosting effects. It is rich in the mineral Zinc, which is needed by thymic hormones for proper functioning of the immune system. It has also been shown to increase stamina, improve memory, aids the body in coping with stress, and is also a diet supplement for its appetite curbing effects.
10. Ginkgo Biloba. Often called the "wonder herb" or "power herb" for its many, and I mean MANY, uses. From the Ginkgo tree, this herb is a potent circulation enhancer making its effectiveness in disease where poor circulation is an issue evident. Patients suffering from stroke, erectile dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, and even diseases where cerebral insufficiency is a problem. It has been shown to prevent depression, asthma, vertigo, allergy, dementia, headaches, and helps relieve stress, anxiety, and tension. It's most famous use, however, is in college students who take them while studying for exams. The increased cerebral circulation aids in retention.
So there is our list of the Top 10 Herbs we couldn't do without. even if you don't have all that in your household try to keep at least a few. The power of these herbs in helping prevent diseases, extending your life, and improving the quality of life shouldn't be neglected. Once again, until our next post. Be good to yourselves...and to one another. And be good to your herbs too...oh man, I think it's time for that 3rd cup of coffee..Thanks for your time.
1. Garlic. garlic is one of those herbs that should be the first in line when we talk of PREVENTION. Many cultures around the world have made it the staple herb for cure and preventive purposes. It contains a compound called ALLICIN which, it turns out, has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Garlic is good for your heart, boosts your immune system, helps cleanse your liver, and has anti-inflammatory as well as anti-cancer properties too.
2. Aloe Vera. This plant has become a staple in households all over America and with good reason for doing so. Aloe vera soothes sunburnt skin as well as sores. It contains an anti-itch compound called MAGNESIUM LACTATE making it extremely useful for itches, rashes, insect bites, and other skin conditions. It has been shown to be a potent cellular regenerator if eaten. So, your common household aloe vera plant isn't just for moisturizing your skin anymore.
3. Basil. Basil is another herb whose medicinal and therapeutic value far outweighs its culinary charm. Basil essential oil is used in aromatherapy to help relieve stress. Its other uses, however, are the following; used in cough, colds, and asthma to provide relief. Used to treat skin problems like acne and helps moisturize skin and hair. The oil has anti-oxidant properties which can help delay aging and is beneficial in preventing diseases like cancer. The oil is also strongly anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory as well.
4. Lemon. And you thought all that zest was only for taste. Lemon juice when mixed with water, as in lemonade, isn't just a summer refreshment anymore. Who would have thought that during the time you were selling lemonade down the street for a quarter a glass when you were a kid you were actually helping some old folk with his or her rheumatism. Well, rheumatism isn't the only condition lemon is good for, mind you. It's also good for it's blood purifying properties; it can cure heartburn; it has anti-aging properties when applied to the skin; it helps cure respiratory conditions such as asthma, it can help control high blood pressure; and it can help you lose weight too. Lemon also helps in cleansing the liver as well as flushing the body of wastes and unwanted toxins.
5. Coffee. Surprised? When I was still in college I used to drink gallons of coffee before my exam to help me stay alert at least long enough to finish a chapter of anything, let alone try to memorize the thing. Mom used to always tell me that I drink too much coffee and I'd end up a nervous wreck and so anxiety-ridden. Well, as it turns out, folks, coffee is indeed good for you. I mean it's the only herb you can drink and not even see it as one. It prevents Strokes, Diabetes, Arrhythmias, Asthma, Liver Cirrhosis, Dementia, and Parkinson's disease. Need we list more? So, pour me another cup will you...
6. Oregano. Oregano is one of those herbs I have a warm spot for in my heart. Not only is it a delight to use around my kitchen when I cook, but it's minty smell is refreshing. A member of the mint family, its medicinal uses comes from the oil extract made from this herb. It is strongly anti-bacterial; has been shown to aid in the recovery from respiratory ailments; has anti-oxidant properties; aids in digestion; is anti-spasmodic; and can help clear out blocked sinuses.
7. Camomile. This herb comes in two flavors, as an oil and as tea. The herb is an effective anti-bacterial; it helps children fall asleep; it is perfect ( in tea form) for ulcers induced by stress and anxiety; an effective natural relaxing herb without side effects; it's helpful in stomach aches, cramps, and diarrhea; is also anti-inflammatory.
8. Ginger. This Herb is my next favorite second only to garlic. Zingiber oficionale, as ginger is scientifically called has been used for centuries as an herb to aid digestion. Ginger root is boiled and drank for these ailments. It's use, however, far surpasses that. It has been shown to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes as well as helps in maintaining a stable lipid profile by controlling the amount of absorbed cholesterol.Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and so is helpful for patients suffering from arthritic pain. Ginger also promotes better circulation in our bodies. It has been shown to be effective for nausea and vomiting and other related symptoms experienced by post-operative patients. It also helps alleviate abdominal pain and menstrual abdominal cramps. Ginger is also effective as a decongestant because it relaxes the muscles around blood vessels hence is very effective for flu-like symptoms and colds.
9. Ginseng. Ginseng is probably the most famous herb today, due to it's historical track record and its properties. The herb has been used in many places of the world for centuries because of it's healing properties and immune boosting effects. It is rich in the mineral Zinc, which is needed by thymic hormones for proper functioning of the immune system. It has also been shown to increase stamina, improve memory, aids the body in coping with stress, and is also a diet supplement for its appetite curbing effects.
10. Ginkgo Biloba. Often called the "wonder herb" or "power herb" for its many, and I mean MANY, uses. From the Ginkgo tree, this herb is a potent circulation enhancer making its effectiveness in disease where poor circulation is an issue evident. Patients suffering from stroke, erectile dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, and even diseases where cerebral insufficiency is a problem. It has been shown to prevent depression, asthma, vertigo, allergy, dementia, headaches, and helps relieve stress, anxiety, and tension. It's most famous use, however, is in college students who take them while studying for exams. The increased cerebral circulation aids in retention.
So there is our list of the Top 10 Herbs we couldn't do without. even if you don't have all that in your household try to keep at least a few. The power of these herbs in helping prevent diseases, extending your life, and improving the quality of life shouldn't be neglected. Once again, until our next post. Be good to yourselves...and to one another. And be good to your herbs too...oh man, I think it's time for that 3rd cup of coffee..Thanks for your time.
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