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What is Vegan?

''A philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude — as far as is possible and practical — all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of humans, animals and the environment. [In dietary terms the society defines Veganism as] The practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals.''
British Vegan Society

''Vegans exclude flesh, fish, fowl, dairy products (animal milk, butter, cheese, yogurt, etc.), eggs, honey, animal gelatin, and all other foods of animal origin. Veganism also excludes animal products such as leather, wool, fur, and silk in clothing, upholstery, etc. Vegans usually make efforts to avoid the less-than-obvious animal oils, secretions, etc., in many products such as soaps, cosmetics, toiletries, household goods and other common commodities'
American Vegan Society

Origin Of The Name: The word vegan, usually pronounced /ˈviːgən/, was originally derived from "vegetarian" in 1944 when Elsie Shrigley and Donald Watson, frustrated that the term "vegetarianism" had come to include the eating of dairy products, founded the UK Vegan Society. They combined the first three and last two letters of vegetarian to form "vegan", which they saw as "the beginning and end of vegetarian". Since the founding of the UK Vegan Society, the term vegan has come to encompass people who seek to eliminate animal products in all areas of their lives, as opposed to those who simply avoid eating animal products. Although veganism as a secular movement is a 20th-century idea, abstaining from all animal products can be traced back to various religious aestethics.

The term "animal product" in a vegan context refers to material derived from non-human animals for human use or consumption. Human breast milk, for example, is acceptable when voluntarily used for human babies, but, by comparison, when a human being drinks a cow's milk, it is regarded as the consumption of an "animal product". Products of human origin that are obtained involuntarily are not considered acceptable.

Animal products include meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy products, fur, leather, wool, pearls, and nacre (mother of pearl). By-products include gelatin, lanolin, rennet, and whey. Items derived from insects include items such as silk, honey, beeswax, shellac and cochinea.

Some vegans avoid cane sugar that has been filtered with bone char and will not drink beer or wine clarified with albumen, animal blood, or isinglass, even though these are not present in the final product. Some also avoid food cooked in utensils that have been used to cook non-vegan foods. Vegans also avoid toothpaste with calcium extracted from animal bones if they are aware of it. Similarly for soap with ingredients which may have been extracted from animal fat (e.g. stearic acid).

Most vegans refrain from supporting industries that use animals directly or indirectly, such as circuses and zoos, and will not use products that are tested on animals.

Motivation:


Vegans generally oppose the violence and cruelty involved in the meat, dairy, non-vegan cosmetics, clothing, and other industries. A common argument is that animals have the ability to feel pleasure so killing them is wrong, because it destroys any hope of future pleasure.

Health:

Vegans suggest that their diet is healthier than an omnivorous diet.They also argue that additional health benefits are gained by not consuming artificial substances such as growth hormones and antibiotics, which are often given to farmed animals.

The American Dietetic Association and Dietitians of Canada state that "well-planned vegan and other types of vegetarian diets are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including during pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, and adolescence

Vegan diets tend toward several nutritional benefits, including lower levels of saturated fat, no cholesterol, and higher levels of carbohydrates, fiber, magnesium, potassium, folate, antioxidant vitamins C and E and phytochemicals.

Vegetarians have been reported to have lower body mass indices than nonvegetarians, although there was no significant difference in blood pressure rates.There is some evidence that vegetarians have lower rates of death from ischemic heart disease and that non-meat eating reduces all-cause mortality by 50% Research suggests that the vegan diet can reduce blood cholestorol in people with, and significantly reduce the complications of non-insulin dependent diabetes (NIDDM)

There are a growing number of vegan athletes. Vegan athletes compete in a variety of sports, such as powerlifting, bodybuilding, martial arts, long distance running, and many others [. Multiple Olympic gold medallist Carl Lewis has stated that he was vegan at the peak of his career when he became the first man to officially break 9.90 seconds in the 100 Metre sprint. (Ben Johnson broke 9.90 seconds in the 1988 Olympics but was disqualified for the use of performance enhancing drugs.)

Some studies have found benefits associated with diets rich in whole plant foods, and risks associated with diets rich in animal-based foods. One of the researchers from the 1990 epidemiological study, "The China Study", said "Even small increases in the consumption of animal-based foods was associated with increased disease risk,Studies in Japan found that increased consumption of some animal products coincided with a decrease in risk for some forms of cerebrovascular disease and stroke mortality^,

There are also claims that industry livestock feeding practices pose health threats to human consumers. According to Dr. Michael Greger in a January 2004 lecture at MIT (which was the basis for Whistleblower, a 2006 documentary film by Jeff Bellamar) each year more than one million tons of animal excrement are fed back to farm animals raised for human consumption to lower the feed costs. He also says that up to 10% of blood from killed animals is mixed into some cattle feed, and up to 30% of some poultry feed is made up of the blood. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), commonly known as mad cow disease, is believed to be caused by cows being fed with contaminated meat and bone meal, a high-protein substance obtained from the remnants of butchered animals, including cows and sheep. In most parts of the world, such remnants are no longer allowed in feed for ruminant animals, but the practice persists in a few countries.

Resources and the environment

People who adopt a vegan diet to reduce resource consumption or ecological footprint extend the idea of environmental vegetarianism to all animal products. The fundamental rationale is that each additional trophic level in a food chain passes on only a fraction of the energy it consumes, so a diet that consists of plant products rather than animal products will generally use significantly less of all resources, and indirectly cause less environmental damage.

A study by Gidon Eshel and Pamela Martin, assistant professors of geophysics at the University of Chicago, compares the CO2 production resulting from various human diets. They find that a person switching from the typical American diet to a vegan diet would, on average, reduce CO2 production significantly more than switching to a hybrid vehicle. They go on to recommend a vegan diet for this reason, as well as the potentially adverse health effects of dietary animal fats and proteins.They go on to support their claims by referencing various studies linking animal fats to cardiovascular diseases and animal proteins to cancer.

Vegan cuisine

The cuisines of most nations contain some dishes that are plant-based (and therefore suitable for a vegan diet) as are specific traditional ingredients, e.g. tofu, tempeh and the wheat product seitan in Asian diets. Also, according to Sturtivants Edible Plants of the World there are 2,897 plants that may be used for food. Therefore, the variety of vegan food available is quite diverse.

Many vegans prefer to cook without reference to meat, instead preparing meals from largely unprocessed ingredients such as pulses, grains, vegetables, nuts and fruit. However, artificial "meat" products (often called "analogs" or "mock meats") made from non-animal derived ingredients such as soya or gluten, including imitation sausages, ground beef, burgers, and chicken nuggets are widely available. Many recipes that traditionally contain animal products can be adapted by substituting vegan ingredients, e.g. nut, grain or soy milk used to replace cow's milk; eggs replaced by substitutes such as products made from potato starch.

On the one hand, vegan cuisine is not new. In nations that culturally do not use a large proportion of dairy products such as China, Japan and Thailand it has a well developed tradition that is centuries old due mainly to the influence of Buddhism. Furthermore, in many South Asian countries (India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan) Hinduism, Jainism, and non-religious cultural traditions have kept the consumption of meat considerably lower than in many Western countries. These religions and traditions, in concert with economic barriers that make eggs, milk, and dairy products luxury items, have produced many de facto vegans over the centuries. On the other hand, many vegans have adapted their diets to fit in with modern eating patterns.

Similar diets and lifestyles

There are several diets similar to veganism, though there are significant differences, including fruitarianism, the raw food diet, the macrobiotic diet and Natural Hygiene. There are also numerous religious groups that regularly or occasionally practice a similar diet, including Jainism, some sects of Buddhism, Hinduism, and some Christian churches, particularly the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Fasts in the Eastern Orthodox Church resemble a vegan diet, however believers are not expected to be vegan throughout the whole year.

More recently, many young people who are a part of the anarcho-punk or hardcore punk/straight edge movements have embraced veganism (notable bands being Earth Crisis and Path Of Resistance), and the corresponding beliefs of the animal rights movement. Straight edge is a philosophy that rejects the use of alcohol, unsafe sex, recreational drugs and in some individual cases, unsafe sex, originating as a reaction to what some perceived as the cultural excesses of the 1980s both within the mainsteam and the punk subculture.

A subset of veganism, raw veganism, advocates the consumption only of raw foods and the elimination of processed foods from the diet. A study of raw vegans found them to be slender and healthy, but noted that they had reduced essential bone mass and lower bone mineral density. The researchers said these results are "strongly associated with increased fracture risk" but noted that the raw vegans they studied had no other biological markers to indicate higher levels of osteoporosis, and that their bone turnover rates were normal.

Vegan nutrition encompasses the nutrients vegans require for a balanced diet. It is an important part of a vegan's life, as it is the foundation for determining which foods should be consumed based on their lifestyle choices. Vegan nutrition usually refers to the intake and balance of nutrients throughout a day, and therefore is dually classified under dietary regimes and practices.

Vegan nutrition:

Nutrition authorities say that a properly planned vegan diet presents no significant nutritional problems. Supplementation is highly recommended, although this applies to non-vegans, too — Drs. Fletcher and Fairfield concluded, in JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) in June 2002, that "[i]t appears prudent for all adults to take vitamin supplements." Vegans are potentially at risk for being deficient in several nutrients, such as vitamin B12, iron and iodine. These deficiencies can have potentially serious consequences, including anemia, pernicious anemia, cretinism and hyperthyroidism.

Balance and regulation

Healthy vegan nutrition, like any healthy diet, relates closely to the practices of limiting the intake of fats, salts, and sugar, as well as avoiding foods which contain high quantities of such substances in order to avoid heightened cholesterol.All food chains starts with the plant. Thus, all nutrients in the food chain can be traced back to plants. It is widely believed that plants alone cannot provide all required nutrients. However, this myth has been provened otherwise in many food and nutrition studies.It is important to note that like with any diet, over and under consumption can lead to malnourishment or heightened cholesterol. Although, realistically, it is difficult to "megadose", or "over-consume" nutrients through normal foods, such as vegetables, because amounts within such vegetables do not constitute the majority nutrient of the food. Nevertheless, over-eating or over-consuming, as with any food, would lead to problems such as obesity. Since too much or too little of one nutrient can lead to malnutrition, dietary supplementation may be problematic. Though there is no real consensus on the dangers of "megadosing", most countries have recommended daily allowances for all vitamins and minerals, and these RDAs may vary from country to country. Some of these may be out of date with regard to current research (as in B12, where the UK RDA is 1µg but this is generally not regarded as adequate to maintain safe homocysteine levels).

Vegans also benefit from having good levels of vitamin K and bone-building minerals found in a balanced plant-based diet. There has been no difference found in the bone fracture rates, often regarded as the gold standard for bone health, between vegans and non-vegans. Furthermore, the US Dept of Agriculture (USDA), which exists to regulate America's food producers, has conducted research that shows that vegan women form bone density at a significantly higher rate than omnivorous women.

Fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids can be obtained from vegan sources such as hempseed or canola (rapeseed) oils, as well as in walnuts and dark green leafy vegetables .However, flaxseed is the preferred method for omega-3, as it is easily incorporated into cooking. Flaxseed should be ground, as when in seed form it is not broken down in the intestines. Flaxseed oil, although it has omega-3, is unstable and temperature sensitive.There are several vital omega-3 fatty acids. Most vegetable sources contain only alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). But the human body also requires eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The human body can convert ALA to EPA, and EPA to DHA, but the efficiency, and sufficiency for optimal health, of this conversion is controversial. Studies have found EPA and DHA levels in vegans to be about two thirds lower than in omnivorous people. In how far this may pose a health risk is not known, but vegans have been advised to increase their intake of alpha-linolenic acid, and reduce their intake of omega-6 fatty acids and saturated fatty acids, which can limit the rate of conversion. Recently, some companies have begun to market vegan DHA supplements containing seaweed extracts. Whole seaweeds are not suitable for supplementation because their high iodine content limits the amount that may be safely consume.The importance of Omega-3 was highlighted in the "Lyon Diet Heart Study",^[1] which found deaths due to heart disease were much lower in a group which followed a Mediterranean diet in comparison to a group following the American Heart Association Diet. The difference between the groups was so large that the study was stopped early by an ethics committee, who found it unethical to continue with so fewer deaths in the Mediterranean group after just one year. The largest difference between the two groups was the Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio.

Iron and iodine

Vegans in countries where the soil is low in iodine should ensure they get adequate amounts of this halogen, since dairy products and fish are the most important sources of iodine in these countries. When supplementing the diet with iodine-rich seaweeds such as nori and kelp, moderation is advised, though, because there is a danger of overdosing.

Iron is said by the Vegan Society to be present in many typically vegan foodstuffs, including grains, nuts and green leaves. However, the iron in these sources is in a less easily absorbed form (non-heme as opposed to heme iron). Nevertheless, the Society quotes research to show that iron deficiency is no more prevalent in vegans than in the general population (possibly as a result of the higher vitamin C intake of most vegans; vitamin C has been linked to increased iron absorption when taken in conjunction with the source of iron). Vitamin C is the most potent of a list of several known iron enhancers that also includes other organic acids found in fruit and vegetables, as well as sugars. In a 1985 Indian study, iron-deficiency anemia in vegetarian children was successfully treated by adding vitamin C to meals. Some consider vegans to be at lower risk of iron deficiency anemia than ovo-lacto-vegetarians because, while eggs are listed as a "fair source" of iron, dairy products contain little and poorly absorbed iron, and both have been found to reduce iron absorption from other food sources consumed at the same time. Other (vegan) foods that may reduce iron absorption are spinach and other high-oxalic acid foods, high-phytic acid foods such as soybeans and unfermented, unsprouted whole-grain cereals, and tannin-rich beverages such as coffee and tea. On the other hand, spinach, soybeans and whole-grain cereals are rich in iron and, when combined with iron enhancers, may constitute good sources of iron. The interaction between iron enhancers and inhibitors in whole foods has not been extensively studied, though.

Vegetarians have been found to have, on the average, normal hemoglobin levels, but lower ferritin levels. On the one hand, this means that vegetarians need a more steady supply of dietary iron, on the other, high ferritin levels have been implied as a risk factor for colorectal cancer and bacterial infections.

Protein and amino acids

The American Dietetic Association states that "plant sources of protein alone can provide adequate amounts of essential amino acids if a variety of plant foods are consumed and energy needs are met."^[2] Vegans and non-vegans alike should stay conscious of their protein and calcium intake.

Trans-fats

It is wise for vegans and non-vegans alike to avoid trans fats (found in hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils), in order to have good nutrition. These transfats are most commonly found in snack food, fried food, and other highly-processed foods. Most fast-food restaurants use hydrogenated oil when cooking their French fries. Partially hydrogenated oils contain the highest proportion of trans-fatty acids. Consumer awareness has recently led to an increased supply of foods such as margarine that do not contain hydrogenated oils.

Vitamins and minerals

Most vitamins and minerals can be easily gotten through unprocessed foods. The exception to this is Vitamin B12. There has been no significant difference found in the rates of degenerative brain disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, between vegans and non-vegans. It is believed that vegans will be far less susceptible to these disorders if they have adequate levels of B12. Vitamin B12 destroys homocysteine, a neurotoxin the body naturally produces.

1. Vitamin B12 can be obtained in some yeast extracts (check labels) and other fortified products such as soy milks. No scientific test has yet found a reliable vegetable source (ie. one that works consistently for all testees) of B12, and the UK Vegan Society recommends the use of supplements derived from bacteria, and that a minimum of 3μg (micrograms) of B12 be consumed daily.

Wikipedia,

References:

Fevayid-i Giyahhari/ Sadık Hidayet

Diet for a Small Planet/ F. Moore Lappe,

What is Vegan?/American Vegan Society,

Factory Farms/Why Vegan. Vegan Outreach,

Cruelty to Animals: Mechanized Madness/ Peta . People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals,
Vegetarian Starter Kit/ PETA India,

Milk: Is it Really Our Best Source for Calcium?/ Americal Fitness Professionals & Associates,
Bovine Growth Hormone/ EJnet.org,

52 good reasons to abandon milk and dairy! Robert Cohen,

How To Win An Argument With a Meat-Eater VegSource Interactive,

Lİnks:
http://www.chooseveg.com/

http://www.GoVeg.com

http://naturesfirstlaw.com

http://www.vegansociety.com/html/
http://www.veganoutreach.org/
http://www.vegetarian.org.uk/
http://www.peta.org/

Dangereous Beauty Products !!

COSMETİC COMPANİES AND BREAST CANCER

It sounds noble: a cosmetics company promises that if you buy one of its products, a portion of the sale will go toward “the fight against breast cancer.”

But what if that cosmetic contains chemicals that might actually increase your risk of developing the disease? :)

Many cosmetics contain chemicals known as parabens and phthalates, which recent studies indicate may be linked to cancer development

Parabens are chemical preservatives that have been identified as estrogenic and disruptive of normal hormone function. (Estrogenic chemicals mimic the function of the naturally occurring hormone estrogen, and exposure to external estrogens has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer.)

Phthalates are known to cause a broad range of birth defects and lifelong reproductive impairments in laboratory animals that are exposed to these chemicals during pregnancy and after birth. Phthalates are also known to be hormone-mimicking chemicals, many of which disrupt normal hormonal processes, raising concern about their implications for increased breast cancer risk.

There are numerous other chemicals of concern in personal care products. BCA is particularly concerned about lutein (progesterone), formaldehyde and coal tar due to their links to cancer. The Environmental Working Group recently released Skin Deep, a report on the safety of cosmetics and personal care products. Astonishingly, 1/3 of products tested contain on or more ingredients that are known, probable or possible human carcinogens.

Cosmetic companies will argue that we don't need to worry about harmful chemicals in their products because they are only used on our skin and hair. For example, the cosmetics industry has long stated that their widespread use of parabens and phthalates is not harmful because they remain on our skin and are not absorbed into our body. However, a recent study found parabens in human breast cancer tissue, raising obvious questions about the ability of parabens to accumulate in our bodies (Darbre et al. 2004). In September 2000 scientists from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found phthalates at surprisingly high levels in every one of 289 people tested, especially in women of reproductive age. The authors concluded that "from a public health perspective, these data provide evidence that phthalate exposure is both higher and more common than previously suspected" (Blount et al. 2000).

Many cosmetic companies will also argue that the level of a harmful chemical in any one product is not enough to harm you, based on studies of chemical exposure in adults. However, science is finding the timing of exposure is crucial, and that even a very small dose of some chemicals can have serious consequences in children and young women who are still developing. Also, we are rarely exposed to a chemical just one time. We may use the same product every day, several days a week, for months or years. In addition, we use dozens of personal care products daily, not just one. So while exposure from one product on one day may be small, the fact is we use numerous products a day for extended periods of time. As a result, scientists are finding chemicals such as parabens and phthalates accumulating in our bodies.

Many diseases like cancer, asthma, birth defects and learning disabilities are on the rise, and there is growing evidence that these health problems are linked to the chemicals we are exposed to in our air, water, food, and everyday products. It's time we start acting to protect human health. The Precautionary Principle, a common sense approach to chemical use, says "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure". It guides us to take action to prevent exposure to chemicals we know or suspect are harmful to our health. In the case of cosmetics, when a product ingredient is known or strongly suspected of being harmful to our healthy, our top priority should be eliminating the use of this chemical and finding a safe substitute to replace it. In many cases, we know safe alternatives do exist and are already being used by some cosmetic companies. The notion of "safe" or "acceptable" levels of hazardous chemicals in our products should only be introduced when we cannot find alternatives. We are entitled to products that won't hurt us.

We can't let companies have it both ways.

• Avon markets itself as “the company for women,” claiming to be the largest corporate supporter of the breast cancer cause in the U.S. But many Avon products contain parabens, according to its own website (including Soy Milk Hand & Foot Therapy, Asian Pear with Ginseng Body Cream, Skin-So-Soft Moisturizing Hand Cream, and many others). Evidence suggests that young females with developing breast tissue are particularly vulnerable to the increased breast cancer risk associated with exposure to external estrogens. Last year, Avon launched a new cosmetics line called “mark,” aimed at young women ages 16 to 24. The company is recruiting teenagers as sales representatives in this program. For more information on Breast Cancer Action’s campaign, see the Follow the Money campaign.
  
  UPDATE: Avon will be removing dibutyl phthalates from its product lines. This is a small but important step by a corporate giant. It's important for the people Avon markets to, many of who are women of childbearing age, and it's important for future generations. BCA applauds this first step, and will continue to push Avon to remove other harmful ingredients from their products.
  
• Revlon sponsors an annual 5K Run/Walk for Women that in part funds the Revlon/UCLA Women’s Cancer Research Program—which, according to www.revlonrunwalk.com, works toward “the control and consequent elimination of women’s cancers.” Meanwhile, The Safe Shopper’s Bible warns against carcinogenic ingredients in several Revlon products, including Revlon Powder Crème Blush, Revlon Powder Crème Make-Up Pressed Powder Full Matte, and Revlon Colorsilk Salon Formula Ammonia-Free Haircolor.
  
  UPDATE: in EWG's Skin Deep report, products were assigned scores from 0–10 based on the health concerns associated with their ingredients, with 10 being of highest health concern. Over 80% of the Revlon products tested were rated 7.2 or higher. Revlon High Dimension 10 Minute Permanent Haircolor scored 9.6 and contains both known and suspected carcinogens.
  
• Estée Lauder's Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), which states its mission as "prevention and a cure in our lifetime," sponsors breast cancer efforts such as the Global Landmarks Illumination Initiative, in which national landmarks such as the Mall of America are spotlighted in pink lights—an effort that is far more likely to generate positive publicity for Estée Lauder than it is to prevent any woman from developing breast cancer. Their products containing parabens include Polished Performance Liquid Makeup and Precision Lash Mascara, according to The Safe Shopper's Bible.
  
  UPDATE: Estée Lauder has announced it will reformulate its Clinique and MAC nail polishes to remove phthalates. BCA applauds this step, and will continue to push Estée Lauder to remove other harmful ingredients from their products.
  
• Mary Kay, whose web site proclaims that the company’s charitable foundation is ”committed to eliminating cancers affecting women,” does not make it easy for consumers to find out if its products contain potentially harmful ingredients. It’s extremely difficult for a consumer to identify what is in Mary Kay products: the cosmetics are not available in stores, their product descriptions on the web site do not list ingredients, and repeated attempts to get information about product content from a sales representative were unsuccessful.
  
  UPDATE: After BCA began this project, Mary Kay representatives contacted us to let us know about an ingredient guide that is available on request. Call 1-800-MARYKAY for more information. Also, a concerned consumer sent us a web link to their product, which is housed on a part of their web site restricted to Mary Kay sellers only. The web link has since been made inactive, and the public and consumer part of their web site does not list this product guide. Lastly, in 2004, BCA co-sponsored important California legislation (AB 2012) regarding the public's right to know about carcinogenic and reproductive toxins in cosmetics and personal care products. Mary Kay was a vocal opponent of the bill.

Bibliography:

• The Safe Shopper’s Bible: A Consumer’s Guide to Nontoxic Household Products, Cosmetics, and Food, by David Steinman & Samuel S. Epstein, M.D. (Macmillan USA, 1995)
  This convenient reference guide lists thousands of brand name household products, personal care products, foods, and beverages, enabling shoppers to make informed decisions about the products they buy.
  
  
• Drop-Dead Gorgeous: Protecting Yourself from the Hidden Dangers of Cosmetics, by Kim Erickson (Contemporary Books, 2002)
  This book reveals the dangers of common over-the-counter products, and shows readers how to interpret misleading product labels to identify the most hazardous ingredients. It also provides natural alternatives and easy-to-follow recipes for safely creating your own cosmetics at home.
  
  
• Dying to Look Good : The Disturbing Truth About What's Really in Your Cosmetics, Toiletries and Personal Care Products, by Christine H. Farlow (Kiss for Health Publications, 2000)
  This book tells you if the cosmetic and personal care products you're buying contain dangerous ingredients. It reveals what manufacturers don't want you to know about their products and shows you how to find the truth behind deceptive product packaging. You will learn how to confidently read labels so you know how safe your cosmetics are.
  
  
• Home Safe Home: Protecting You and Your Family from Everyday Toxins and Harmful Household Products, by Deborah Dadd (Putnam Publishing, 1997)
  Home Safe Home offers more than 400 tips, including do-it-yourself formulas for inexpensive, safe products to replace harmful substances we are exposed to in our own homes.
  
  
• International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary (Ninth Edition, 2002), published by the Cosmetic, Toiletries and Fragrance Association
  The dictionary provides a complete list of the most widely known cosmetic ingredients and their definitions and trade names. Check the reference section of your local library for this book’s availability.
  
  
• Hormone Deception: How Everyday Foods and Products Are Disrupting Your Hormones—and How to Protect Yourself and Your Family, by D.L. Berkson (Contemporary Books, 2001)
  The first prescriptive book on the subject, Hormone Deception reveals where hormone disruptors come from and how they affect adults, children, and the unborn child. It also gives you easy, practical tips for protecting your home and your family, such as vacuuming frequently and using water filters.
  
  
• Our Stolen Future: Are We Threatening Our Fertility, Intelligence, and Survival?—A Scientific Detective Story, by Theo Colborn, Dianne Dumanoski, John Peterson Myers (Penguin Group, 1997)
  Picking up where Rachel Carson's Silent Spring left off, this book gives an utterly gripping account that traces birth defects, sexual abnormalities, and reproductive failures in wildlife to their sources—synthetic chemicals that mimic natural hormones, upsetting normal reproductive and developmental processes. And humans appear far from immune to the effects of these "hormone imposters."
  
  
• Unreasonable Risk. How to Avoid Cancer from Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: The Neways Story, by Samuel S. Epstein, MD. (Environmental Toxicology, 2001)
  This book explains how to recognize carcinogens on product labels, boycott such products, and shop for safe alternatives from non-mainstream industries.

THIS ARTICLE TAKEN FROM:

http://www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org/Pages/CosmeticCompanies.html

Introduction To Aromatherapy II

Here I am continue to introducing you aromatherapy. Before learning all essential oils and their using areas, you must know that, aromatherapy is the ''controlled'' use of essential oils. Let me explain you some of the toxic essential oils. First I am gonna start with the term of the ''toxic''. Which called aldehydes, ketones and phenols. Phenols; are very active and even stronger in their action than alcohols.Essential oils belong to phenol family can be neurotoxic. It can be skin irritants. Such as thyme, oregano. Ketones; monoterpene ketones can cause miscarriage that's why should not use during pregnacy. Such as; sage, thuja, hyssop. Aldehydes; if you smell citrus, you can say it's a aldehyde. Aldehydes can cause very strong photo-sensitizing*( sun light) .Such as bergamot, lemon citrus oils. Do not use under sun and outdoors.

Inhaling or applying several oils at once could overload the system and possibly cause a severe toxic release from the body as well as intense emotional reactions. You can have headaches, high blood pressure or low. That's why I recommend using one or two single oils or blends at first, allowing your system to gradually acclimate to their high frequencies and chemical actions. In the case of therapeutic-grade essential oils, less is better.
Keep all oils away from eyes and other sensitive body parts. For direct application, it is recommended you dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil* (1 drop per tablespoon of carrier oil) and do a patch test on the skin and wait 24 hours. If you experience a slight allergic reaction or rash, do not be alarmed but it’s a good idea to stop using the oil for a few days until the reaction subsides. This is almost always the body’s response as it begins a detoxification process. Wait a few days and try again. If your body is detoxifying, the reaction will become less and less. A reaction is often a good sign, as your body is responding by purifying itself.
A little oil goes a long way, so 1-3 drops are usually all that’s needed. Experience an oil by itself for several days and you will quickly learn what kind of actions the oil produces. Also take a break from the oils every few days. Once again, less is better.
Drink plenty of purifed water whenever using the oils as this will flush the elimination organs such as the liver, colon and kidneys.
For aromatherapy,you must use therapeutic-grade essential oils which are 100% pure and unadulterated. Because they are pure, most may be used “neat” (undilluted) on the skin except:
* with babies and small toddlers
* nutmeg (always dilute and use very little, never directly inhale)
* coriander (causes stupification in high doses)
* oils that irritate skin
* oils to be used with caution during pregnancy
* oils to be used with caution with high blood pressure
* oils to be used with caution with epilepsy
Dilute in a carrier oil. If you feel a burning sensation with any oil, add a few drops of carrier oil. The burning will subside in a few seconds. NEVER use WATER as this pushes the oils deeper into the skin. Follow the following guidelines:

PREGNANCY: Please consult your doctor, before using any aromatherapy products. Use with Caution in small amounts and diluted in carrier oil, AVOID! SINGLE OILS: Angelica, Basil*, Birch*, Black Cumin, Cedarwood, Chamomile (German), Cinnamon Bark*, Cistus, Citronella*, Clary Sage*, Clove, Coriander, Cypress, Davana, Fennel, Hyssop*, Jasmin, Laurel (Laurus nobilis), Lavendin*, Marjoram, Mountain Savory*, Myrrh, Nutmeg*, Peppermint, Rose, Rosemary*, Sage*, Spearmint, Tarragon*, Vetiver, Wild Tansy*, Yarrow.

BABIES:
AVOID Clary Sage, Nutmeg, Spearmint.

ALWAYS dilute essential oils in carrier oil with babies and young toddlers.

DO NOT use oils “neat” (undiluted) directy on baby’s skin or in baby's bath water. Always dilute with mild organic carrier oil. This will ensure that if the baby or toddler puts fingers in their mouths they will not ingest a high concentration of the oil.

HEART:

Use with caution, Nutmeg as it can overstimulate the heart and has been known to cause convulsions.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE*: ( Ketones)

Use with caution in small amounts and diluted in carrier oil and

AVOID SINGLE OILS: Hyssop*, Peppermint, Rosemary*, Sage*, Thuja, Thyme.

DIABETIC:

AVOID Angelica.

EPILEPSY:
Use with Caution in small amounts and diluted in carrier oil and

*AVOID as they can trigger a seizure.

SINGLE OILS: Basil*, Birch*, Dill, Fennel, Hyssop*, Lavendin, Nutmeg*, Rosemary*, Sage*, Tarragon*, Wild Tansy*.

SKIN IRRITATION* (Phenols): The following oils can cause skin irritation. Always dilute those marked as extreme with carrier oil.

SINGLE OILS: Basil*, Cajeput, Chamomile (German & Roman), Cinnamon Bark*, Clove*, Fir, Lemon*, Lemongrass*, Mountary Savory*, Oregano*, Black Pepper*, Pine, Thyme.

AVOID Clary Sage during and after consumption of alcohol.

STUPIFICATION: Use with Caution in small amounts and diluted in carrier oil Coriander.

CONTACT SENSITIZATION (*extreme). Rotate between different oils.

SINGLE OILS: Bergamot*, Red Canadian Cedar, Cinnamon Bark*, Citronella*, Clove*, Eucalyptus citiodora, Fennel, Geranium, Ginger, Laurel (Laurus nobilis), Melaleuca (Tea Tree), Melaleuca quinquenervia, Peppermint,Valerian, Yarrow, Ylang Ylang.

PHOTOSENSITIVITY*(aldehydes):

Changes skin pigmentation.

*DO NOT expose skin to direct sunlight for 12 hours after applying.

SINGLE OILS: Angelica, Bergamot*, Black Cumin*, Ginger, Lemon*, Lime*, Mandarin, Orange*

CARRIER OILS*:
Use mild organic vegetable oil such as sweet almond, grapeseed, jojoba, apricot kernel, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, safflower or sunflower. Olive Oil can also be used, however, it does have its own distinct aroma that will compete with the scent of the essential oils. In general, use the carrier oil in the proportion of one drop essential oil to 1-2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Adding a little wheat germ oil, high in Vitamin E, will act as a preservative.

References;

Medical Aromatherapy by Kurt Schnaubelt,

Aromatherapy Workbook by Shirley Price

Enjoy!

aisha

Introduction To Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy

What Is Aromatherapy?

Imagine, a fragrance washes over you and suddenly you are transported back in time to a treasured moment from long ago.... That is the beauty, the essence, the miracle of subtle aromatherapy.
Organic aromas such as freshly baked bread, a newly mown lawn, the salty sea, or the sweet smell of the earth after a rainfall fill our everyday lives. This is the sensory world of smell, which is one of the ways our being gives and receives information.
Aromas are received through the olfactory system of the nose. The olfactory membranes under the bony covering of the nose contain hundreds of millions of extremely sensitive nerve endings for receiving and processing aromas. Microscopic vaporized oil particles from every organic substance enter the nose and float along specialized cilia which differentiate each chemical and respond in kind by generating a unique code of nervous impulses which are received by the central nervous system. These impulses then begin a long but momentary journey.
First they are carried to the limbic mid-brain (the center of our emotionals and memories), and then to the base of the brain, which is the pathway between the spine and higher brain centers, passing between the pituitary gland (switchboard of the endocrine system and ALL emotions) and the pineal gland (regulates our biological clock and stimulates our inner vision) and then to a little known part of the brain called the amygdala, which stores and releases emotional trauma. Finally the impulses travel to our taste perception, the gustatory center of the brain. It is no wonder odors, smells and aromas create such a biological and emotional response!
The molecular chemistry of the essence of a plant, it’s essential oil, is diverse and complicated. Each chemical constituent creates a singular effect. For example, oils containing sesquiterpenes, such as Frankincense and Sandalwood, are able to pass the blood brain barrier in the brain, allowing oxygenation of the pineal and pituitary glands.

"In studies conducted at Vienna and Berlin Universities, researchers found that sesquiterpenes in the essential oils of sandalwood and frankincense can increase levels of oxygen in the brain by up to 28% (Nasel, 1992). Such an increase in brain oxygen may lead to a heightened level of activity in the hypothalamus and limbic system of the brain, which can have dramatic effects not only on emotions, learning, and attitude, but also on many physical processes of the body, such as immune function, hormone balance, and energy levels. High levels of sesquiterpenes also occur in melissa (lemon balm), myrrh, and clove oil. This synergy from the combination of the many constituents unique to each plant’s essential oil is powerful indeed.

When applied to the skin, the plant’s life-force is absorbed into the body’s fluid systems which eventually circulates through the organ and glandular systems of the body and eventually through all fluids and tissues of the body. The foot is the most porous of all the body's skin. Rub a clove of garlic on the bottom of your foot and in 1-3 minutes you will taste it in your mouth and “feel” the sensation in your nose! Essential oils applied to the feet, the most porous part of the body, travel throughout the body and affect the cells, including the hair, in just 10-20 minutes.
New research suggests that because the olfactory nerves are similar to other nerves in the body, they may have the ability to form and transmit intelligent codes of information to all other parts of the body via neurotransmitter chemicals in the body. Recent research suggests that intelligence occurs not only in the brain but inside neurotransmitters.
There is no doubt that essential oils through inhalation and the direct application to the skin affect not only the physical body, but the mind, emotions and spirit. The potential for healing is enormous with therapeutic-grade essential oils. We are only beginning to understand their power and effectiveness. I invite you to explore and experiment with the oils. Remember, go slow, inhaling or applying only one or two oils at a time. Savor each oil and give each one time for its voice to speak to you. Soon, you will know the oils intimately.

Enjoy!

aisha

Some aromatherapy books you may like:

''Aromatherapy Workbook'' by Shirley Price

''The Fragrant Mind'' by Valerie Ann Worwood,

''The Illustrated Encylopedia Of Essential Oils'' by Julia Lawless

and my favourite ''Aromatherapy For Healing The Spirit'' by Gabriel Mojay,

What Is Yoga?

What is Yoga?

History of Yoga

The science and practice of yoga is over 6,000 years old, but it was only in the last 50 years or so that Yoga found its away across the continents to take root in American culture. The practice of Yoga was first introduced to the United States by several Yogi Masters around the turn of the last century, but Yoga as we know it today has its seeds of origin within the Yoga Sutras written by Patanjali about 800 BC. Though Patanjali identified eight limbs of yoga, most people are initially drawn to the physical aspect of yoga known as Asanas or physical postures. If these postures are practiced with integrity, grace, and balance, the seeds of the remaining seven limbs of yoga will take root and begin to sprout spontaneously in the student's life. Yoga means unity Complete harmony of body mind and soul. It is about “doing” and feeling what you do, concentration and awareness.Practice begins with “sitting” and pranayama (breathing excercises), which is the essential “fuel” for every movement of the human body.Beginners learn the basic postures,like standing poses, twistings, simple backbends, forwardbends, shoulder balance and resting poses.Using the principles of gravity, alignment of bones and muscles and correct posture, combined with the breathing will enable the student to perform the asanas (yoga postures) with ease and beauty.The main accent lies on the development of inner strength, suppleness, balance, intelligence, concentration and attention.This vital concept of Hatha Yoga (Hatha yoga is the physical practice of yoga) combined with the knowledge of human anatomy and physiology will build a strong balanced and healthy body.

Yogi Masters
Early Masters instrumental in introducing Yoga to the United States include Swami Vivekananda, Yogendra Mastramani, Paramahansa Yogananda, Indra Devi, Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, BKS Iyengar and Yogi Bhajan.

The Eight Limbs of Asthanga Yoga also named Kriya Yoga
Yama: Morals or principles of right-living
Niyama: Personal attitudes and practices that purify the mind and body
Asana: Physical posture
Pranayama: Breath consciousness or Breath Control
Pratyahara: Sublimation of senses of perception and organs of action.
Dharana: One-pointed concentration, sublimation of the mind.
Dhyana: Sublimation of consciousness. Meditation
Samadhi: Diffusion of the soul. Absorption


Styles of Yoga
Styles of Hatha Yoga come in many variations with the same basic 'seed-postures' as a common link. Differences arise from variations on breath, sequence, motion, alignment and overall form. At One Yoga classes offer many different types of Hatha Yoga with the overall emphasis of integrating a serene mind, harmonious Spirit and powerfully healthy body.

Popular Styles of Yoga

Anusara
Anusara means "flowing with grace". Started by John Friend, Anusara yoga is a heart-oriented, spiritually inspiring, biomechanically integrated approach to self-discovery.

Ashtanga
Started by Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga Integrates all eight limbs of yoga through the practice of six sequential series. Emphasizes ujjayi breathing and yogic locks or "bandhas" into a flowing vinyasa style to create a purifying internal heat. The first series called Yoga Chikitsa or Yoga Therapy emphasizes forward bends. The second series emphasizes backbends. Both are designed to strengthen and align the gross muscular and skeletal system, heal glands and organs and balance the flow of energy in the body. BKS Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois each had Krishamachacharya as their original yoga teacher.

Bikram
Started by Bikram Choudury, a series of 26 deep asanas chosen to strengthen and heal the entire body. Practiced in a heated room.

Kundalini
Emphasizing breath (Pranayama) and Mantra (sound or chanting), focuses on raising consciousness and energy (Kundalini) up from the base of the spine through Susumna, the central energy channel upon which all seven Chakras are aligned. Often uses Breath of Fire and different Drishtis or gazing points to elevate prana and merge with the infinite creator. Very effective for balancing glands and organs and healing the physical/emotional body.

Iyengar
Started by BKS Iyengar, a form of Hatha yoga emphasizing but not limited to form and alignment. Iyengar Yoga is extremely effective for realignment and healing of the skeletal system and creating clarity of thought and precision of action. BKS Iyengar and Pattabhi Jois each had J. Krishnamurthi as their original yoga teacher.

Power Yoga
Power yoga is an integration of many styles of yoga. Like Ashtanga, it emphasizes breath and a vinyasa flow to build internal heat. Like Iyengar Yoga, it can also emphasize form and alignment. Popularized by Bryan Kest and Beryl Bender Birch and Tom Birch.

Why do Yoga?
Four Reasons to do Yoga
* To heal injury or disease
* To re-shape your body or gain strength, flexibility and balance
* To transform stress into harmony
* To further your Spiritual Journey

Humans are made up of more than just biceps or quads, pectorals or lats. We've got ankles and wrists, discs and toes that need stretching and movement to avoid the arthritis that thrives on atrophied muscles and a spine compressed by years of stress and bad posture.
Most people enter the path of yoga because they have reached a point where they are ready to heal themselves physically and bring more peace into their lives. Since yoga reaches every part of the physical being including the glands, organs, muscles, nervous system and skeletal system, many come to class to heal or literally rebuild themselves and release old physical injuries or ailments.

To re-shape your body or gain strength, flexibility and balance
Others enter a yoga class to become physically stronger, to lose weight or to become a better athlete.
Yoga provides a balanced approach to exercise that often counteracts the repetitive stressful actions of training specific muscle groups over and over for a particular sport. Since a good Yoga class works you out on every level without isolating a certain muscle group, greater balance and flexibility is achieved by strengthening the entire person. Athletes stick with yoga for the mental benefits and centering skills that become available both in and out of competition.

To transform stress into harmony
Hatha yoga retrains the body to transform stress on a cellular level. With patience and compassion, the musculo-skeletal system adjusts and realigns itself by releasing held patterns of tension or stiffness caused by negative thoughts, judgments, criticism, fear and doubt. The practice of asanas allows us to become more aware of our mental, emotional and physical patterns and to release those patterns that do not serve our highest good and greatest joy.

To further your Spiritual Journey
Still others attend class as a part of their spiritual path to cultivate Unity, Enlightenment, Devotion and Love. The physical Asanas provide a unique way to integrate thought into action. Encountering Yoga’s physical challenges with an open heart allows the student to know such Spiritual attributes as Grace, Courage and Compassion on a cellular level.

Example Yoga Postures

The physical postures are just one of the eight limbs that embrace the complete path of Yoga. Feel free to use these postures as a key to freedom. Lets check out some basic yoga postures together, the practice is about to begin

Viparita Karani : Inverted Leg Stretch

"Let go of past and future struggles. Experience your life in the present moment. There's nowhere else to be."

Here is the great mother of all restorative postures. It combines the benefits of corpse pose with the gifts of a gentle inversion. This posture promotes resting in the heart of loving kindness. It gently lengthens the hamstrings. The floor provides a valuable feedback loop allowing the spine to lengthen and stretch with maximum support. The sacrum is flattened to complete a graceful full-spinal extension while the lungs are freed to empty and fill with ease. Specially folded blankets may be used beneath the sacrum or under the length of the spine to enhance a deeper union with the breath.

Posture Points
Hands remain open to remind your heart to be open.
Spine gently "flattens" while preserving natural curves.
Perineum moves towards wall.
Heels gently lengthen to sky; tops of thighs spin gently inward.
Head rests gently on the floor with eyes closed.
Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Viparita Karani: Heels lengthening to sky with legs together.

Did you Know? The gluteus muscles, quadriceps and hamstrings move massive amounts of blood as the largest muscle groups in the body. A restful inversion like Viparita Karani aids venous blood flow, relieves tension and "decompresses" cell membranes, allowing full relaxation of muscle fibers.

* Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Savasana The Corpse Pose

"A corpse has no worries, so let your troubles go."

Thought by many to be the easiest pose, Savasana is actually recognized by advanced practitioners as one of the most challenging asanas in all of yoga. To close the eyes without letting the mind drift into sleep, to let go of the familiar struggles of the mind, to trust enough and allow yourself to totally relax. These are just the beginnings, the first blessings of a deep Savasana.
Posture Points
Shoulder blades relaxed under lungs.
Heels lengthening away from hips.
Legs and feet let go.
Hands and heart open.
Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Corpse Pose: Chest releases, hands open, feet relax out to sides

Did you Know? Corpse pose may have originated thousands of years ago with nomadic tribes in the East. After walking vast distances travelers would go completely limp and fall to the ground in utter stillness, creating the effects of a full night's sleep in less than an hour.

*Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Adho Mukha Svanasana : Downward Facing Dog

"Create space with your breath. Space between your joints, space between your thoughts."

Recognized as one of the oldest known yoga asanas, Downward Facing Dog or Downward Dog is also one of the most beneficial. This asana strengthens and realigns the entire body with emphasis of the spine and torso while resting heart and lungs. Drawing lines of energy upward from hands and feet develops powerful groins and abdominals. The gaze or drishti is rooted into the navel-point and has a calming, restorative effect.

Posture Points
Keep shoulder blades wide on the back, and drawing towards kidneys.
Avoid collapsing in the stomach by drawing the navel-point inward.
Avoid chest collapse by rotating outsides of armpits slightly wider and down towards the floor.
If spine rounds push tops of thighs back and lengthen inside of spine behind stomach.
Draw shoulder blades and knees towards tailbone.
Tops of thighs spin inward; Preserve arches by drawing them up as heels sink low.
Triceps and biceps hug the arm bone. Inner elbows shine towards each other.
Roots of all fingers press into the floor, especially space between thumb and pointer.

Adho Mukha Svanasana: Navel-point in with spine long and inner elbows straight.

Did you Know?Downward-facing dog is an ancient posture depicted in Egyptian Art that is thousands of years old. It teaches us on a cellular level how everything is connected; how our heels are linked to our shoulders, how fingers influence heart, how our elbow placement effects the spine.

Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Virabhadrasana II : The Warrior

"A true warrior is fearless! Have the courage to open from your core…"

Warrior 'B' teaches us that we don't have to cut someone else's head off top make ourselves seem taller. It is a fearless asana emphasizing physical openness to create a corresponding Grace on the emotional, mental and spiritual plane. This posture tones legs, heart, hips and spine. Opening the pelvis, heart and shoulders creates healing space to unfold, strengthen, and re-align.

Posture Points
Trailing hip opens towards wall behind back.
Tailbone lengthens and curls slightly in the direction of the heart.
Navel point draws slightly inward to spine.
Leading shin is perpendicular to the floor; knee is directly behind or over foot.
Thigh-tops externally rotate.
Insides of elbows face sky, active palm faces floor without popping stomach forward.
Allow the heart to shine through the sternum and between the scapula.
Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Virabhadrasana II: Hips, shoulders and heart open.

Did you Know? The warrior postures probably emerged as asanas from ancient martial art fighting techniques to create strength and hone co-ordination. As yogis today we use these postures as warriors of light, choosing to act from a place of love rather than fear.DisclaimerHatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Padmasana : Cross Legged Lotus

"Yoga means yolk or union, to unite with your source and destination. Do not forget your intention."

Lotus and its more accessible counterpart, Easy Pose, helps to keep the body alert in meditation. It straightens posture by building the spine upon the solid foundation of the "sitz" bones. The posture lines up all the vertebra and spinal Chakras or energy centers while helping the heart to remain open.

Posture Points
Engage Uddiyana Bandha and Mula Bandha.
Gently lengthen the back of the neck without removing the cervical curve.
Relax ears, jaw and eyes. Let the head float on the stalk of the spine.
Gaze with nearly closed lids towards the heart center, tip of nose or between the brows. Allow the heart to shine through the sternum and between

Padmasana: Lower back extends, spine lengthens.
Did You Know? Originally yogis practiced asana or postures for the sole purpose of being able to sit in lotus in silent meditation for many hours without movement.

* Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Sirsasana : Headstand

''Yoga is not about standing on your head. It is about learning to stand on your own two feet."

Once considered to be the poster-child for all yoga postures, headstand is practiced as an occasional finishing posture to help decompress the spine, improve balance and strengthen a healthy neck.
Known as the King of all Yoga Postures, sirsasana rests the heart and improves mental clarity and circulation. It is a potent inversion that reverses the effects of gravity, improves concentration and promotes mental clarity.
Cautions:The fear factor of falling or disorientation may require the use of a wall or partner. In addition there are many nerve endings in the scalp and without padding (hair or blanket) the scalp will try to "grab" the floor and create more tension. A folded blanket to make the crown of the head more comfortable is often recommended. Avoid during menstruation or bouts of hypertension.

Posture Points
Interlace fingers to form a cup with palms. Place forearms and wrists on a folded blanket.
Place crown of head on floor with slight emphasis of weight towards forehead.
Walk feet towards head and lift knees gently upward.
Straight legs extended.
Lengthen both sides of ribcage.
Navel-point in.
Tailbone extends towards heels.
Shoulder blades wide and floating towards kidneys to decompress neck.
Follow with Shoulderstand or Child's pose.
Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Sirsasana: Tailbone lengthens towards heels.

Did you Know? The Tattva Upanishads state that the regular practice of headstand allows the Yogi to conquer time, perhaps by reversing its flow.

Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Sarvangasana : Shoulder Stand

''Surrender your preconceptions. See the world from a different point of view."

Sarvangasana is best done near the end a full practice. As an inversion it reverses the effects of gravity, decompresses the spine and helps re-align the arms with the shoulders. It also improves energy balance and metabolism by wringing out the thyroid and parathyroid glands in the throat.
A few cautions: Remember that this is a SHOULDER stand and not a neck-stand. Do not turn the head from side to side in the posture. Many teachers highly recommend beginners use folded blankets under the shoulders with the back of the head on the floor to help preserve a curved space beneath the lower neck. Avoid this posture during menstruation or bouts of hypertension.

Posture Points
Elbows shoulder blade-width apart behind back. Use a blanket or maintain a thick pad of muscle and flesh below the shoulders.
Legs together with balls of feet extending straight to ceiling
Spine long and straight.
Triceps and shoulder blades as close together as possible.
Palms flat on kidneys, fingertips towards feet. Work heels of palms towards scapula.
Legs together, draw navel-point in and reach tailbone towards heels.
Always maintain a calm and even breath.

Sarvangasana: Two legs reach up as one, thighs and knees spiraling inward. Reach tailbone to heels.

Did you Know? 20% of the nerves affecting our vision travel through the neck and shoulders. Looking up at the feet in this posture excites the mind and senses and can even strain the neck. The recommnded "drishti" or gaze is down the nose into the chest, promoting a grounded calmness and effortless extension from your core.
DisclaimerHatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Balasana : The Child's Pose

"Create 'Beginner's Mind.' View the world as a child and let yourself be born anew."
Also known as fetus or baby pose, this is the ultimate resting posture. As a forward bend it promotes the idea of letting go and surrender. It reminds us to cultivate our inner innocence so that we in turn may see the world without judgement or criticism. Balasana gently decompresses the spine and soothes the heart. It is a calming, steadying pose, which grounds the practitioner in a place of ease and gratitude. This posture may be practiced anytime it is necessary to regain your center.
Posture Points
Hands remain open to remind your heart to be open.
Spine gently, passively lengthens.
Seat moves to rest on heels.
Forehead rests gently on the floor.
Always maintain a calm and even breath; breathe in and out through the back of the nose.

Balasana: Resting palms open to sky, forehead on floor.
Did you Know?" Baby" pose gently decompresses the spine after deeper backbends like Camel (Ustrasana) and Pigeon (Kapotasana). It allows the internal organs to soften. With the forehead on the ground the senses are less active and the mind quickly becomes calm.
* Disclaimer Hatha Yoga requires your complete attention. You are responsible for your own practice and knowing what is right for you in the present moment. It is a good idea to practice with the guidance of a teacher you trust before trying more challenging postures on your own.

Light on the Yoga Sutras Of Patanjali by BKS Iyengar

Illustrations by www.atoneyoga.com