exercise
Aligning With Your Circadian Rhythm
The circadian rhythm is 24-hour ‘internal clock’ that governs physical, mental, and behavioral changes in humans, animals, plants and even micro-organisms. I have known for many years that the circadian rhythm was an important aspect of our well-being and that it had to do with our mood and sleep cycles, but recently I discovered some new information that caused me to sit up and take notice.
A renewed interest in the biological process of circadian rhythms appears to to be trending these days, and reportedly it has a much more profound impact on our bodies and our health than merely affecting our sleep patterns. Much of this may be due to the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine being awarded jointly to Jeffrey C. Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael W. Young for their work on the molecular mechanisms controlling the circadian rhythm. Their research into what controls circadian rhythms is enlightening.
Their research discovered a gene that controls the normal daily biological rhythms. This gene encodes a protein that accumulates in the cells at night and then degrades during the day. The cells inside our bodies therefore contain a self-sustaining clock that regulates functions such as behavior, hormone levels, sleep body temperature and metabolism. Thanks in part to their discoveries, scientists and doctors now know these day-and-night cycles keep creatures alive by regulating our alertness, sleep patterns, blood pressure, hormones, body temperature, and when we eat.
Sagittarius Shakes Things Up
A few days ago, on December 7th, we had a New Moon in Sagittarius, which has been both invigorating and challenging. It has brought forth a collective desire to break free from the past, which is now stirring up some conflicts or controversies with people, politics and business relationships.
Sagittarius can shake things up to open our eyes and put us on the right track. It’s never pleasant, but the intention is actually to purify and transform our lives.
Emotions have been running high this entire year, so anything that has been suppressed may now rise to the surface and force us to face some harsh truths personally, and with others. Mercury was also retrograde until a few days ago, which offer a perfect opportunity revisiting any problem and carefully finding the best solution.
Energy levels are also low, so take your time and try not to get stuck inside the storm. Avoid being impulsive at this time, because you might regret it later. Also, think about what isn’t contributing to your growth and how you can eliminate anything or anyone who doesn’t make you feel loved or valued. Continue reading
A Life-Changing Ripple Effect
After a visit to the doctor a friend of mine was told she needed to be more active. Her job requires her to travel, so not a lot time to work out. Her office job also doesn’t offer a lot of opportunity for her to move around and get that much needed muscle activity going in her body.
After a reading with me she said she was motivated to change her lifestyle and do something she hadn’t even thought of before, but loved the idea of it so much she decided to “take action.” Pun intended.
Her plan was to start a group exercise class that incorporated Yoga and some light callisthenic exercises using a chair, for those who couldn’t stand long. Her aim was to make it appropriate for all age brackets and all levels of fitness, so that anyone could participate. The key was to move!
Never Judge A Book By Its Cover
Many people like the idea of being psychic, but sadly do not have the gift. I know this because I have a friend who is a great astrologer, but she herself is not psychic. I know this because she has confided in me. She does not have any psychic ability; she does readings by looking up people’s birthday information in astrology books. She doesn’t pick up on other people’s emotions when around them. This was confirmed when she was invited to join me and a friend, who had just recently lost her mother and was deeply saddened, she couldn’t feel what this women was going through and didn’t pick up on her feelings.
But my astrologer friend does look like someone who could be psychic. Is there a psychic look? Do psychics look differently than people who don’t have the psychic gift? I don’t think so. I have learned over the years that you can never tell who is psychic, or who is not. I think we tend to judge people based on their appearances way to much.
The Power Of Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini is known as the Energy Yoga which empowers us to release any stagnant energy sitting at the base of our spine, which is connected to the chakra system. When we are feeling anger or fear, Kundalini Yoga can release this tension with quick movements. The intention is to let go.
Typically, more sedate forms of the Yoga discipline is promoted in modern day practice, which tend to focus on deep breathing, flexibility and stretching of the muscles and joints. Kundalini is the polar opposite of this approach. It combines meditation with cardiovascular and muscle strength building exercises.
There is a major caution with this kind of Yoga, since it is best to avoid it if you have any serious back, brain, neck or shoulder conditions. Also, do not do Kundalini if your pregnant, unless the session is specifically geared towards this under the guidance of a reputable teacher. Always consult with a doctor if your unsure and be aware of what your body can do and can’t do in the present moment.
Traits Of Your Leo Child
A child born between July 23rd and August 22nd is a Leo. Leos are the sign of the actor. Yes, they are very dramatic! They can make you laugh with their animated expressions and dramatic response to your every word.
But Leo children also have tempers. They can be very explosive, crying, even screaming, when they don’t get what they want. Fortunately, they can then turn around in a second and begin laughing and playing again. They tend to get over things quickly. Leo children are generally happy. They smile all of the time, except for when they are having those explosive tantrums.
Leo kids are very physical and athletic. They are often found outside climbing trees, playing ball, or running around. Leos are also one of the hardest signs to get to sleep. They are fire balls of energy and they are so excited about life, they don’t want to sleep and miss out on any fun. Keeping them in sports and performing arts will help them burn off their tremendous amount of excess energy and stay focused in school.