Genital Herpes

 

 Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to rise across the UK, with a particularly "worrying" picture among young people, health experts said today.

There was a two per cent rise in the number of new cases of all STIs diagnosed at clinics between 2005 and 2006, figures showed.

Genital herpes was a cause for concern, with a nine per cent increase between 2005 and 2006, according to the Health Protection Agency.

Among teenage girls aged between 16 and 19, the rise was 16 per cent for genital herpes, which cannot be cured but is treatable.

Genital warts in this female age group increased five per cent, but gonorrhoea fell three per cent and chlamydia fell one per cent.

Between 1997 and 2006, STIs showed a huge rise, with syphilis rising by 1,607 per cent, gonorrhoea by 46 per cent, chlamydia by 166 per cent and herpes by 36 per cent.

Between 2005 and 2006, the total number of new cases of STIs diagnosed at UK GUM clinics went up from 368,341 to 376,508.

Chlamydia increased by four per cent and genital warts by three per cent.

Lisa Power, head of policy at the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: "We have to reverse this trend. Quality sex and relationships education - not just biology lessons - has been shown to decrease risky behaviour in teens.

"We also need to stop the decline in health promotion work for gay men at a local level. "There are also startling rises in the levels of genital herpes, particularly amongst young women.

"We need to get the message across that this is a lifelong and unpleasant condition which will require ongoing treatment, and not something to be taken lightly."

Dr Gwenda Hughes, head of the STI section at the HPA, said higher STI rates were found in young people because they were more sexually active.

Multiple partners, changing partners and failing to wear condoms all contributed to higher rates in this group, she said.

The HPA said it was particularly concerned about young people and gay men.

Figure showed increasing levels of unsafe sexual behaviour among gay men, putting them at a heightened risk of contracting HIV among other diseases.

Professor Pat Troop, chief executive of the HPA, said long-term trends for some diseases showed that some rates of infection were slowing down.

"There are some encouraging trends but they are very early," she said. "There's absolutely no room for complacency."

Source: Metro UK

Genital Herpes Relief

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simplex viruses type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). Most genital herpes is caused by HSV-2. Most individuals have no or only minimal signs or symptoms from HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection. When signs do occur, they typically appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender ulcers (sores) that may take two to four weeks to heal the first time they occur. Typically, another outbreak can appear weeks or months after the first, but it almost always is less severe and shorter than the first outbreak. Although the infection can stay in the body indefinitely, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease over a period of years.

How common is genital herpes?

Results of a nationally representative study show that genital herpes infection is common in the United States. Nationwide, at least 45 million people ages 12 and older, or one out of five adolescents and adults, have had genital HSV infection. Over the past decade, the percent of Americans with genital herpes infection in the U.S. has decreased.

Genital HSV-2 infection is more common in women (approximately one out of four women) than in men (almost one out of eight). This may be due to male-to-female transmission being more likely than female-to-male transmission.

How do people get genital herpes?

HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be found in and released from the sores that the viruses cause, but they also are released between outbreaks from skin that does not appear to have a sore. Generally, a person can only get HSV-2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. Transmission can occur from an infected partner who does not have a visible sore and may not know that he or she is infected.

HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but it more commonly causes infections of the mouth and lips, so-called “fever blisters.” HSV-1 infection of the genitals can be caused by oral-genital or genital-genital contact with a person who has HSV-1 infection. Genital HSV-1 outbreaks recur less regularly than genital HSV-2 outbreaks.

What are the signs and symptoms of genital herpes?

Most people infected with HSV-2 are not aware of their infection. However, if signs and symptoms occur during the first outbreak, they can be quite pronounced. The first outbreak usually occurs within two weeks after the virus is transmitted, and the sores typically heal within two to four weeks. Other signs and symptoms during the primary episode may include a second crop of sores, and flu-like symptoms, including fever and swollen glands. However, most individuals with HSV-2 infection never have sores, or they have very mild signs that they do not even notice or that they mistake for insect bites or another skin condition.

People diagnosed with a first episode of genital herpes can expect to have several (typically four or five) outbreaks (symptomatic recurrences) within a year. Over time these recurrences usually decrease in frequency. It is possible that a person becomes aware of the “first episode” years after the infection is acquired.

What are the complications of genital herpes?

Genital herpes can cause recurrent painful genital sores in many adults, and herpes infection can be severe in people with suppressed immune systems. Regardless of severity of symptoms, genital herpes frequently causes psychological distress in people who know they are infected. To soothe those symptoms Herpeset has been very helpful

In addition, genital HSV can lead to potentially fatal infections in babies. It is important that women avoid contracting herpes during pregnancy because a newly acquired infection during late pregnancy poses a greater risk of transmission to the baby. If a woman has active genital herpes at delivery, a cesarean delivery is usually performed. Fortunately, infection of a baby from a woman with herpes infection is rare.

Herpes may play a role in the spread of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Herpes can make people more susceptible to HIV infection, and it can make HIV-infected individuals more infectious.

How is genital herpes diagnosed?

The signs and symptoms associated with HSV-2 can vary greatly. Health care providers can diagnose genital herpes by visual inspection if the outbreak is typical, and by taking a sample from the sore(s) and testing it in a laboratory. HSV infections can be diagnosed between outbreaks by the use of a blood test. Blood tests, which detect antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2 infection, can be helpful, although the results are not always clear-cut.

Is there a treatment for herpes?

There is no treatment that can cure herpes, but antiviral medications can shorten and prevent outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy for symptomatic herpes can reduce transmission to partners.

How can herpes be prevented?

The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, including genital herpes, is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected.

Genital ulcer diseases can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genital herpes.

Persons with herpes should abstain from sexual activity with uninfected partners when lesions or other symptoms of herpes are present. It is important to know that even if a person does not have any symptoms he or she can still infect sex partners. Sex partners of infected persons should be advised that they may become infected and they should use condoms to reduce the risk. Sex partners can seek testing to determine if they are infected with HSV. A positive HSV-2 blood test most likely indicates a genital herpes infection.

 

Banana Boats

What Are They?

A banana boat is a small banana shaped boat that is pulled by a much larger boat. It is considered to be much safer than water skiing or many other recreational boats, because the bottom of the boat is supported by two air filled tubes that provide balance.  Most banana boats seat approximately two to four people, they are fast moving and sit close to the water, making for a safe boat ride for people of all ages. 

 

Banana boat is a favorite kids’ boat, and can be bought in boat stores and online. But, the banana boat is not just simply a boat, it has been mentioned in movies like “jaws,” and many other things such as a sunscreen lotion, a tasty campfire snack and it is even the name of a popular Polish quintet founded in 1994.

 

Safety on the Water

Banana boats are considered to be safe, but you should always practice proper safety when on any kind of boat, expectably when involving children. Life jackets should always be worn. The banana boat (sometimes called a water sled) is only a inflatable boat, and should not be used recklessly. While it is low to the water, it is sometimes prone to flipping over. In fact, most boaters enjoy getting a little wet. But because of its light weight, banana boat is easy to get back on, and enjoy!

 

Buying a Banana Boat?

 

A banana boat can be bought anywhere! It can be as simple as typing in a search engine online to find the right boat for you, or even browsing your local boat store for that perfect water sled. Banana boats come in all shapes and sizes - from the traditional banana shape to sharks, whales, hot dogs, and even rocket ships! They make for a fun ride for adults and children alike.

 

Buying online is a good choice when considering a banana boat for you and your family. Many websites even give you the option of buying online right from your home computer! The possibilities are endless and the fun never ends when you own your very own banana boat.  Most boats range from two hundred dollars to fifteen hundred dollars depending on the size and brand. Typically, the more seats the boat has the higher the price range. And some banana boats come with double inflated tubes to fit two rows of people on each side of the boat. Some of the larger boats can hold up to 14 people at one time.

 

On Vacation With a Banana Boat

 

Many vacation spots provide banana boat rides for kids and adults for a reasonable price. But in some cases, it is just as easy to bring your own boat along with you on vacation. These boats are inflatable and easy to transport usually coming with a foot pump, for easy inflation. They are easy to attach to the back of a speed boat, yacht, or any other type of motorized boat. You should always watch the speed when children are involved, because the boat is so light weight and easy to flip over. As long as you keep the speed low and avoid sharp rocks that could damage the boat, and keep boating safety in mind, you are on your way to a fun-filled vacation.

Paintball News - Staying At The Forefront Of The Game

If you are an active participant in the world of paintball, then keeping up with the latest paintball news is very important. Knowing all of the latest rules, the best paintball equipment and an understanding of what is going on in the world of paintball can keep you at the top of your game. The internet is a great way to keep abreast of all of the comings and goings involved. If you are looking for the newest safety equipment or the latest development in paintball strategies, keeping up with what is happening in the paintball world can help.

The internet is one great place to learn the latest news about sports paintball. Online paintball forums, chat rooms and articles can give you the heads up on the latest information. Forums are becoming a more and more popular way to stay active online in the world of paintball. You can find the latest news not only in your area, but around the world in most of the 40 countries where paintball is now being played. Keeping up with all of the information can provide you with useful tips about the game, including changes in rules and regulations, and hot new paintball equipment.

While a lot of valuable information can come directly from the internet, it isn't the only place to gather paintball news. You can subscribe to various paintball magazines and league newsletters. Magazines about paintball can offer information from North America and around the world. They can also let you in on the newest paintball gear that will be available next season, as well as various safety rules and regulations.

Paintball info in magazines and online can give you data and reviews about items that are just now coming out on the market. You can find out first hand if a product will do exactly what the paintball companies say it will do. As a paintball enthusiast, information like this can keep you from purchasing equipment just on the say-so of a store clerk or an advertisement. Keeping up on the latest news will provide you with relevant information that can actually help you and your game.

While your paintball teammates may keep you posted on all the paintball news, having references to go to check out paintball information can be helpful. The internet, along with magazines and publications can be a great way to find out about the latest gear, advancing rules and regulations and all things paintball. Whether just a fan or an experienced player, keep in the game by simply keeping up with all of the current events about action paintball.

If you are looking for something to do now that the weather is getting warmer and you are tired of being cooped up inside the house then we have the sport for you. Why not give paintball a try? This sport of sneaky combat is a game that tests all your senses. Imagine creeping through the brush to ambush your opponent. Squeezing the trigger and hearing the satisfaction of a splat against his or her game suit that signals your aim was right on target. You will need some supplies and knowledge though and you can find that information by clicking here: Paintball Dye and at Paintball Bunkers also Paintball Sale

Looking At The Different Kinds of Paintball Guns

Paintball guns differ in styles and sizes. Their speed is calculated by how many paintballs they can shoot per second. Some guns need to be reloaded very often, while others will shoot a large quantity of balls before you ever need to reload. Your choice of gun may depend on different factors, so it is important to understand the similarities and differences in each one.

One type of gun that you may see on the paintball field is the stock gun. These are mostly used during stock only games, but can be used in other games as well. The reason why these guns are mostly used in stock only games is because of their inability to shoot the number of rounds that other guns can. The tube that feeds the gun can only hold 10 balls at a time and it must stay parallel to the chamber, requiring you to tilt it to load your paintballs. If you do use a stock gun in other games, then you must realize that you are most likely going to be out-gunned. Pistols are another type of paintball gun that will need to be reloaded often, also offering about 10 shots before you need to reload. While you can use them in most paintball games, they are mostly used as a back-up weapon.

The semi-automatic paintball gun is one of the most popular paintball guns on the market today. The prices range anywhere between $100 and $1000 and is mainly based on the speed at which it shoots paintballs. These guns offer sensitive triggers and are known to shoot balls much faster than a gun with a heavy trigger.

The electronic paintball gun or electronic marker has been dubbed the king of paintball guns. These have different fire modes controlled by computer chips. The different fire modes allow you to choose how many balls will be shot with one pull of the trigger. A few varieties of electronic guns are fully automatic. This means that if you continue to hold down the trigger the gun will not stop firing until it is released. It will depend on the game and the paintball team, as to whether you are allowed to use an electronic paintball gun on their paintball field. Depending on the other types of guns being used in play, these types of guns can give you an unfair advantage.

As with the electronic paintball gun, the game that you are participating in will be the deciding factor, with regard to what paintball guns you can use. If you compete in different types of games and go paintballing quite frequently, then you may choose to own different types of guns for different types of games. Different types of guns offer different types of play and a variety of speeds at which the paintballs can be dispensed. If you are new at paintball and you aren't sure what gun you need to purchase first, then try contacting your team members and find out what types of guns are allowed on the field.

If you are looking for something to do now that the weather is getting warmer and you are tired of being cooped up inside the house then we have the sport for you. Why not give paintball a try? This sport of sneaky combat is a game that tests all your senses. Imagine creeping through the brush to ambush your opponent. Squeezing the trigger and hearing the satisfaction of a splat against his or her game suit that signals your aim was right on target. You will need some supplies and knowledge though and you can find that information by clicking here: Paintball Scenario and at Dye Paintball also Paintball Tactics

Bird Watching: Eyes That Catch The Wings

Flight has always captured people's attention.  Whether it is a propelled machine of human technology, or the soaring of feathered creatures, people, with feet planted firmly on the ground, will crane their heads upward, as they are in awe of the marvelous power of flight.  However, it is the beauty and majesty of the birds that display the greatest shows to those in admiration, as it is these species of nature, which are the truest of aviators.

 

The truest admirers of birds take delight in their natural abilities and marvels of flight, with absolutely not a single desire to cage, confine, coop, or hunt them.  These connoisseurs of such natural splendors of these fascinating and inspiring originators of winged flight are drawn to what is referred to as bird watching.

 

Men and Women of all ages, as well as children, can easily and accessibly become involved in the activity of bird watching.  Birds can be observed from any outside

environment and in all locations and settings.  All that one needs to become avidly involved are the accouterments of binoculars and a hat. And, for serious bird watchers, the supplemental enhancements of a map, a guidebook to reference the different species of birds, and a notebook to jot down the different birds viewed, along with possibly a digital camera.

 

A recent survey conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revealed that bird watching is the most rapid growing activity among Americans seeking an outdoor activity.  Therefore, the fledgling bird watcher is in good company.  For camaraderie, interested individuals can enjoy the social aspects of a bird watchers or birding club, with locating such a group being as simplistic as getting online or through the local chamber of commerce.

 

The rewards and benefits of bird watching are considerable.  In today's society, it is definitely a Green Activity.  For the budget minded, it's an interest or hobby of minimal cost.  From the aspects of health, it provides plenty of fresh air, along with a degree of exercise at a relaxing, varying and modest pace.  Observation of these incredible winged gifts of nature constantly increases one's knowledge of the habits of birds amid various habitats, as well as the considerable variety of species, which amounts to eight hundred in North America alone.  As a natural antidote to the hectic and stressful pace that presently confronts so many individuals, the watching of birds can offer immense solitude.  Families can also foster and derive shared interest, along with spending valued quality time together.  Forget the instrumental tunes of the I Pods, portable DVD players and the like, and take pleasurable contentment in the natural songs of the feathered musicians.  Watching birds can be a sport enjoyed by one's self, with a family, or in a group.

 

In ancient times, birds were regarded as omens by various civilizations, as it was once believed that these winged creatures could forecast future events, on the observations of their directions of flight and variations of sound.  Presently, the health of a particular environment can be partially determined by the significance of scientific study.  Hence, the study of birds can provide us with a prospective view of nature in comparison to ecological effects, as a conduit between society and nature. 

 

 

Searching for Running Shoes is Not Hard When You Know What to Look for

No brand of running shoes are alike. Shoes help to determine how you run, the speed in which you run and can have a great impact on your knees and joints.  That is why it is so important to select the right type of running shoe. Here are a few tips on selecting the right kind of running shoe for your needs.

Select a specialized store for your needs. In this case we are searching for running shoes. While the prices are higher you have a much higher chance of getting a well trained person to help you in your selection. Be sure to check out magazines and place like this shoe buy coupons site for coupons on shoes.


Take look at your old shoes. See if your shoes are woren in any places more then others. See if you can't spot any were marks in the soles. This tells you were you need more support.


Place your shoes side-by-side on a flat surface. If the shoes tilt in toward the middle, your new shoe probably needs more stability than your old shoe. If they tilt to the outside, you may have a high arch and your new shoes should have good shock absorption.

Pay close attention to the top of the shoe. If you see an out dent were your big toe is then most likely that size was a bit too small. Remember that every shoe brand is a little different.

Once you spend the time selecting the perfect shoe for your needs you can then type that brand into Google or whatever you favorite search engine is and see what online companies are selling it for. Purchasing the shoe online often times saves you at least 30%. Don’t forget to check out this shoe buy coupon site for the latest shoe coupons. I check out this site every time before I make a shoe purchase just to see what this shoe fanatic has to say about it.

Being A Part Of Paintball Sports

Paintball sports go back to roughly 28 years ago and a rapidly becoming one of the more popular group type of sports that are around today. Paintball encourages both teamwork as well as competition and provides the players of paintball an opportunity to act out scenarios of survival. Players are divided into two teams, sometimes more depending on the number that are playing. Even thought the game rules may vary which is dependent on who is playing the game, the primary goal of the game is to defeat the other team. While playing, teams work together to complete tasks such as capturing their opponent's flag or simply taking the other team out of the game by shooting them with their paintball gun.

Paintball sports can be a great recreational experience, as well as providing lots of exercise. It is also important to note that paintball is not just a sport for young people. People of all ages are enjoying taking to the paintball field and the number of those participating are growing every year. Paintball is not only a sport set aside for men, due to the fact that additional women are also getting involved on the paintball field and creating their presence known in the world of action paintball. It is a sport of strategy, one capable of building both strength and character.

In recent years, the sport of paintball has emerged from a game that is setup just by those people who have a love for the game, to a sport that has caught the attention of both commuity groups as well as employers. Paintball games are now being organized by groups that want to promote team spirit and teamwork amongst their members. Because of the strong use of strategy and quick thinking, it is being seen as a great way to pull people together, while also having a great time. Paintball is constantly growing by leaps and bounds and is pulling in additional attention on a national level. If you are trying to find a sport that will challenge the mind and the body, then take a chance and go paintballing, you might be pleasantly surprised!

It is that time of year when spring is right around the corner. Winter has had us trapped inside putting on those holiday pounds and everyone is looking to get fit again and ready for swimsuit season. There is a way to have fun and get active. Paintball is a great activity for coworkers, family and friends to gather together for some fun times and a great workout. Imagine sneaking through the forest just to take a shot at your buddy. Everyone will be laughing and competing with each other. You will need some gear and some help though if you want to win. Click here for more information: Paintball Tanks and at Paintball Accessories also Paintball Masks

Paintball Products To Improve Your Game

The arena of paintball has steadily grown exponentially from its beginning in the 1980s, as well as the quantity of paintball products. The paintball world has created a vast array of items from markers for paintballs to tee shirts. While you won't need every piece of equipment out there to be an avid paintball player, there are certain items that you won't be able to play without. Pin-pointing the necessary items will not be difficult once you know exactly what you need.

One of the most significant pieces of paintball equipment is the paintball gun. While you must have a paintball gun or marker in order to participate, it isn't always necessary to purchase the gun yourself. There are some paintball fields that actually have gun packages already setup that you can rent when you are participating on the paintball field of battle. If you are thinking of playing the game of paintball frequently, then this might not be the best economical conclusion. If you think you will be playing paintball frequently, then it is likely you will decide to buy your own paintball gun for yourself. The type of gun that you will need will depend on the type of play in which you will be involved. Check with the paintball team or league that you have joined to see what the restrictions are.

Another one of the paintball items that you will definitely need are the paintballs themselves. These are pretty basic, but nevertheless a huge part of the whole "paintball" sport. They are simply little round containers of paint that load into the marker via a hopper and are shot out by compressed gas. This takes up to our next necessary item for paintball, and that is the mask. It is imperative that you always wear the mask at all times unless you are in the no firing range and the barrel plugs are on the guns. The end effect of this is to precent an accident in the event that a gun should discharge. Yet another piece of equipment you will have to take into account when buying paintball equipment is the kind of air tank you want to propel your paintballs. You can choose between a carbon dioxide tank (CO2) or an air compressed tank.

If you are new to paintball, then it is important to not let the variety of paintball products out there overwhelm you. Doing some active research you can learn what you really need for equipment. The best advice is to simply look at what is available and find what works best for you. Remember safety comes first, so perhaps start with the equipment made for safety reasons and then move forward. The end goal with paintbal is to have fun with the sport, also be safe, select your painball equipment smartly as well as having fun in the paintball arena!

Paintball is a very physical activity and may be just the thing you need if you are tired of sitting in the house after a long winter of being inactive. After all, not everyone gets the opportunity to snow ski and those holiday pounds can keep piling up until you feel too lethargic to move. Get off your butt and get outside. You can gather friends and coworkers together for thrilling game and have a blast while working those excess pounds off. Click here to get the information you need to play: Paintball History and at Paintball Gun Parts also Sniper Paintball Guns

Learn The Basics As Well As Advanced Techniques Through Video Paintball Training

Are you new to the world of paintball? One great way to learn strategic maneuvers is to watch videos paintball participants use to train, as they can be informative, with regard to seeing the tactics employed by others. You might think that no training is needed for the game but you would be mistaken. Paintball is a fast paced, high action sport and much can be learned from viewing paintball videos before hitting the paintball field. Even those who are very well trained paintball players can pick up something new and interesting from watching these videos.

Different teams and players offer different types of advice that can be seen on these paintball videos. Training videos can show different techniques to load and care for your paintball guns. Different types of paintball guns or markers will use different paintballs and require different methods of loading the balls into the gun or the hopper. These types of videos can give you information on the proper way to load the guns and hoppers, as well as the proper care of your paintball gun. A paintball gun requires special care and maintenance in order to make sure that it remains in good working order. While these are things that you can also learn from reading manuals or by working with other paintball players, paintball videos are great for visual learners, as they walk you through the processes step by step.

Whether you are a new paintball player or have been playing for years, you can learn new techniques from watching the videos paintball teams use. Just like in other sports, changes occur and those involved need to know about these changes. Videos can offer not only paintball training but a look into the games and techniques that are used around the world. Paintball is now being played by over 10 million people in 40 different countries world wide. What better way to see how other people enjoy the game than by watching the action on video.

Advertisers also use paintball videos to show off different gear in action, such as guns and face masks. Even different types of hoppers can be seen worn and used. This may be the first time that some paintball players get to see the equipment in action and it is also a way for advertisers to get the word out there about the products that the have to offer. Millions of dollars worth of paintball gear is developed and sold every year and paintball videos are a great way to show what is on the market.

No matter what you are looking to learn about the game, it can be found on the videos paintball teams create. Strategies, equipment and training tips are all available on video. You can sit back and watch how other paintball players enjoy the game and even see how their methods of play differ. Whether you are looking for pure entertainment or to check out the latest in paintball gear, there is a lot that can be learned from watching these videos.

If you are looking for something to do now that the weather is getting warmer and you are tired of being cooped up inside the house then we have the sport for you. Why not give paintball a try? This sport of sneaky combat is a game that tests all your senses. Imagine creeping through the brush to ambush your opponent. Squeezing the trigger and hearing the satisfaction of a splat against his or her game suit that signals your aim was right on target. You will need some supplies and knowledge though and you can find that information by clicking here: Paintball and at Ion Paintball Guns also Paintball Logos

Bird Watching

Bird watching is the observation of birds.  It may also be known as birding.  A favorite pastime or hobby for many people, according to US Fish and Wildlife Service there are currently 51.3 million birders in the United States alone and this number continues to grow.  Bird watching is a great way to spend time outside and enjoy the natural habitats in which different birds live.  Bird watching entails both your visual and auditory senses.  At times you may hear the bird before you see it.  Bird watching is a great for anyone that loves variety and a challenge while pursuing their hobby.

 

Tools for the Beginning Bird Watcher

 

There are definite tools that you will need to get started with your new hobby.  First on your list should be a good reference book or two.  The book should be one in which can easily find the bird that you may be specifically looking for or one that helps you to identify the type of bird that you have seen.  There are many great field guides to choose from to get the perfect book for you.  Check with your local bookstore. The next items on your list are pencils and a pad or journal.  A journal is a wonderful way to record where you have spotted a specific bird as well as keeping notes about the bird’s habitat and activities.   The next essential tool that the beginning bird watcher will need is a pair of binoculars.  The old adage “you get what you pay for” is true with binoculars.  It is important that you choose binoculars that will allow you to clearly see the subtle features of the birds you are looking for.  Most bird watchers choose a 7 or 8 power magnification and a 32 to 42 objective lens.  These numbers will read 8 x 32 and is usually recommended for the beginning birder.  Birders that wear glasses should look for binoculars that have a long eye relief. A long eye relief will provide an unrestricted view.  An 8 x 32 binocular will give a wider view and are easier to hold steady.  There are a number of other pieces of equipment that you can buy, but with these listed here you can easily get started with your new hobby.

 

Where, oh where are all of the birds?

 

You have your tools and are ready to get started bird watching.  Where do you start first?  There are a number of great ways to find the right spot to start bird watching the first of which being your backyard.  This helps you to learn to use your references, what you want to document, and getting the feel for using your binoculars.  Besides, the backyard can provide a wide range of birds that are fascinating to watch and identify. Some of the factors that you should consider are the time of year, time of day, and the habitat in which you live.  This helps you to learn what birds live in your area and gives you a starting point. 

 

Exploring the Bird Watchers World

 

Once you feel comfortable with the basic tools and observe a few birds you will want to spread your wings.  There is a whole world to explore and groups to join if you so choose.  Resources for groups, trips, vacations and specific species of birds can easily be found by doing a little research.  The Audubon Society is a great place to start.  Visit your local library for current birding magazines. Searching the Internet can also help you to find what you are looking for. 

 

Bird watching, or birding, is a wonderful hobby for anyone that loves our fine-feathered friends.  By yourself in the backyard or on an exotic vacation, you will always have a wonderful time with this hobby.  The main thing to remember is to have fun!

 

Considering An Overseas Backpacking Adventure

Oversseas Backpacking Trip

Are you planning a trip overseas and are considering backpacking?  Backpacking is a great way to see the world.  This would truly be a backpacking adventure.

We have prepared a concise list of the most important points to consider when traveling in a foreign country.  These are important to any type of travel but especially for the overseas backpacking adventure since you will more than likely be traveling off the beaten path.

To avoid a run in with the local authorities try to familiarize yourself with the customs and laws for each country.  Even if you think you may not enter a particular area read up on it anyway.

Is your passport current?  Make a couple of copies of it and stash them in different parts of your backpack or on you somewhere.  It would be a good idea to leave one with a family member at home, in case yours is lost or stolen. A copy could be faxed to the local authorities or American embassy.  Check online to see if any of the locations require a special visa or other paperwork besides your passport to enter.

Make sure your map is up to date.  You should check to make sure the map you are taking is current.  You do not want to plan a backpacking trip in an area that has recently been changed from wilderness to a shopping center.

Keep your family in the loop.  Just as you would when backpacking at home, you need to fill your family in on all your plans.  This is even more important when traveling out of the country.  You never know what can happen and nobody there is going to realize you may be in trouble.

Make an alternate itinerary as your travel may change due to weather or other emergency.  You may decide or need to stay in one place longer or not go to another place at all.

Do not take expensive items with you.  Leave your nice watch and take the $20 one instead.  Take a travel companion or several.  It is always safer to travel with two or more.

Stay on public roadways and do not wander into locations that may be restricted.  The locals may be allowed to shoot first and ask questions later.

Travel smart and your backpacking trip will most likely be one of the most amazing experiences you will ever have.

Learning About How Paintball Forums Help The Players

If you love paintball and love to surf the internet, then a paintball forum just may be the perfect place for you to visit. Forums about paintball can give you a world of information about everything paintball. Whether you are looking to communicate with fellow paintball players, read about new strategies or just start a good old fashioned debate, forums are the perfect place. Forums are a good way to bring paintball enthusiasts together to share opinions, advice and goals about a common interest.

A paintball forum can provide a means of communication between paintball players who may typically never get to converse with one another. While the concept of paintball may stay the same no matter who is playing, paintball players are a diverse group that can offer a unique voice and opinion about the world of paintball. Paintball teams frequently post information on forums about games and tournaments that they may be having, to give other players a chance to join. If you can't find information on a forum about a team in your area, then you might be able to find someone on a forum who can help you get in touch with someone who can help you. You also may find other team-less individuals in your area and form your own.

A forum can also be used as a way to express your inner most thoughts and rants about the game of paintball. While you may not always agree with all the information that you come across online, you are sure to find some interesting conversations. These types of forums provide a great way of letting out some of your frustrations and to share in the love of the game. Forums also offer links to paintball articles and can give you information on training and other items that can help improve your game.

Whether you are looking for different perspectives on the sport, or you simply want to share your opinions, a paintball forum can give you the ability to do so. The internet can give you the chance to understand how other cultures enjoy the game. No matter if you are simply a paintball fan or an experienced player, you can share your ideas and learn from others about this sport. A forum is a great place to communicate, devise new strategies from other players around the world or simply read a paintball review.

The cold weather can make us all a bit stir crazy. Those long winter months trapped in the house with little physical activity can bring about the doldrums in a very depressing way. But warm weather is around the corner and with it a chance to get outside and do something. It is time to get off your rear and get active. Playing paintball is a great way to get family and friends outside and enjoying the warm weather. It is fun and is a great exercise as well. You can find all your gear and knowledge by clicking here: Paintball For Girls and at Paintball Barrel also Paintball Stores

The Varieties With Backpackers Travel Insurance

cheap hotels

A common problem with backpackers travel insurance is the limits placed on the types of activities that are covered. In fact, many policies exclude backpacking, and also exclude some of the most popular backpacking destinations. Because of this, backpackers can be limited in where they can go and what they can do, with regard to medical coverage and the replacement of belongings. Before you venture out into the great unknown, make sure you know what insurance coverage is available to you.

Standard insurance policies exclude anything that has the potential to cause a claim. Backpacking, as well as certain other sports and activities, automatically places people at risk of illness and injury because it involves leaving the paved roads and vacation resorts. Backpacking in wilderness areas and mountain trails, as well as overnight accommodations in cheap hotels and backpackers hostels raises a lot of safety issues. Insurers also consider people who participate in those activities more likely to be assaulted or robbed. A backpacker's travel insurance policy is issued with an understanding of the risks involved, and offers more coverage than a standard travel policy.

The travels of a backpacker are not like those of others on vacation, and a backpacker's insurance must meet their individual needs. Backpackers travel insurance must cover a diverse range of countries, as well as the remote areas that standard policies usually fail to cover. Natural disasters can have a seriously negative impact on backpacking vacations, as well as the health and belongings of backpackers, so policies must cover those events, even if it is with certain restrictions. In addition to all of these, backpacker policies also often offer the option of extending the policy, or changing the area covered by the policy, while traveling.

A common rite of passage for students leaving college is embarking on a multinational backpacking tour. It is a cheap way to see other countries, interact with the people and learn about the culture. It also offers the opportunity to find yourself, figuring out who you are and what you want to do with your life. However, for many, backpackers travel insurance does not provide coverage for destinations and vacations that the backpacker wants to experience. This can leave you stranded, without assistance or replacement of goods in the event of an emergency. Taking the time to explore your options before you leave, however, will help ensure that your policy covers what you need, wherever you go and no matter what happens along the way.

Fly Fishing For Bass

Largemouth bass

Anyone who really enjoys getting out in the fresh air to do a little bit of fishing may end up developing a taste for fly fishing. This type is quite a popular, and can involve fishing for trout or even bass. It basically depends on what type of fish you wish to catch! The great news for anyone looking to getting into fishing with a fly rod for bass is that there are several places throughout the United States that are known as hot spots. With a little bit of research, you could even find a couple of wonderful fishing areas within a decent driving distance from your home.

Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and striped bass can be caught with a fly fishing rod. Some of them can be challenging, especially because they are a fairly aggressive fish that are large in size. As a matter of fact, many fishermen will tell you that their feisty nature is one of the main reasons why they like bass fishing in the first place. The thrill of the challenge and the reward that comes with the catch can make all of your preparations very worthwhile.


Fly fishing for bass will require a rod that is able to stand up to the entire process. The rod will generally end up going through a tremendous amount of pressure once a bass is hooked on the line. Not being able to hold the weight will result in breakage of your rod or even the loss of the entire rod altogether into the water. Additionally, it is also important that you do a little bit of research on rods before you actually buy one. You can always go to your local tackle store and get a feel for your fly rod before buying it. This will ensure that you will have a fly rod that is comfortable for you and easy to grasp. These considerations will be important once the bass is caught up on the hook.

The experts at your local fishing tackle shop can help you to find not only a fly fishing rod, but also flies that are appropriate for the type of fish you will be fishing for. There are flies designed for trout and bass. Your local shop is a great place to gather both information and equipment for bass and trout fishing.

Redefining The Elements of Paintball Airsoft

Games of strategy and role playing are on the rise. Paintball airsoft is gaining more and more popularity both as a survival game and sometimes as survival training. This modernized combat sport was actually conceived in Japan in the 1970s and was used as a way for gun enthusiast to "play" with their toys. The guns used for this sport have been made to a surprising degree of authenticity. Players of airsoft, as well as paintball team players, are broken into teams which compete against each other in an attempt to take out all of the opposing team's players. Players of both games take the play very seriously.

While the guns shoot small gel-like paint filled capsules in regular paintball play, in airsoft, the guns shoot small plastic BB like pellets that will harmlessly bounce off the individual. As in paintball team play, protective gear is required, especially for the eyes. While the airsoft pellets may be harmless to the body, a direct hit to the eye by any flying object can be very dangerous and should be taken seriously. Eye protection worn when playing airsoft games or when you go paintballing should completely protect the eyes. The best protection while playing either sport would be to wear a full paintball mask, as it will protect the entire head as well as the area around the eyes.

There are other similar practices between the two sports. Just like the natural surroundings that are used in most sports paintball games, paintball airsoft also uses the cover of the woods to mimic the surroundings one might find if fighting in the jungle. This cover also adds to the adventure of the game, allowing airsoft and paintball players to hide behind trees and in bushes in order to strategically attack their opponents.

Just as more and more organizations are associating teamwork and camaraderie with paintball games, airsoft is being used by law enforcement agencies and military units to train new recruits. The use of airsoft in training provides a cost effective way to teach combat situations. The low impact of the airsoft pellets makes it easy for training to be done in areas that would not be possible with live ammo rounds or even blanks. When airsoft is used in this situation, participants train in real-life conditions and environments, allowing them to improve their combat skills and to understand what combat is really like.

If this sounds like a sport that you would enjoy, then you should really look into it further. Maybe you are already one of the many avid paintball players or paintball fans and are looking to learn more about airsoft. Paintball airsoft is a great way to compete in an outdoor competitive sport. Both sports are gaining more and more popularity, with paintballing actually being the most popular. No matter which sport is for you, whether it is airsoft or paint ball, each sport is sure to give you a feeling of team spirit.

If you are looking for something to do now that the weather is getting warmer and you are tired of being cooped up inside the house then we have the sport for you. Why not give paintball a try? This sport of sneaky combat is a game that tests all your senses. Imagine creeping through the brush to ambush your opponent. Squeezing the trigger and hearing the satisfaction of a splat against his or her game suit that signals your aim was right on target. You will need some supplies and knowledge though and you can find that information by clicking here: Paintball People and at Ion Paintball Guns also Paintball Team Sport

Extreme Paintball - A Detailed Account Of One Of The Hottest Sports Today

One of the fastest growing sports today is extreme paintball. Paintball is actually played by more people overall than the sport of baseball and it provides team competition, strategy building techniques and overall team work techniques. Paintball is now a popular sport in over 40 countries and has only actually been around since the 1980s. Paintballing brings together the spirit of teamwork, combat situations and exercise, and good old fashioned competition.

While extreme paintball is a fast paced sport offering very competitive play, it is also one of the safest sports in existence today. Paintball has a surprisingly low amount of injuries and will continue on this path as long as the rules of paintball safety are followed. It is always important to wear suitable safety gear, such as paintball goggles or a paintball face mask when you are playing or are near the field of play. Following paintball tournament rules such as never freezing your paintballs and never ramping your gun also helps to keep the participants safe. Following safety rules such as these can keep injuries down to a minimum and offer more fun and playing time for all involved.

Extreme paintball is a fast paced, energy driven, deeply competitive sport. It provides a way for paintball players to live out their fantasies of combat scenarios without the actual fear of being severely hurt. Paintball puts you into strategic situations that you will have to survive without being marked by an opponent's paintball, while you're trying to eliminate your opponent. It is a sport that requires both teamwork and a competitive nature. However, when playing, it is very important to follow all of the rules of safety in order to both keep the game going and to make sure that all involved are kept out of harms way.

Paintball is a very physical activity and may be just the thing you need if you are tired of sitting in the house after a long winter of being inactive. After all, not everyone gets the opportunity to snow ski and those holiday pounds can keep piling up until you feel too lethargic to move. Get off your butt and get outside. You can gather friends and coworkers together for thrilling game and have a blast while working those excess pounds off. Click here to get the information you need to play: Paintball Dye and at Paintball History also Paintball Logos

Useful Tips When Looking For Backpacking Gear

backpacking gear

When you get stuck in a bad situation, whether during a backpacking hiking trip or a simple day hike, it is important to have the right backpacking gear. When shopping around for equipment, make sure you bring your trip plans with you so the store clerks can assist you better in finding quality gear for your expedition. It may mean spending more money than you had planned, but in the end that expensive gear could be your saving grace when you find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere.

For short hikes you don't need as much equipment as you would for a long hiking trip, such as traveling to and backpacking across Europe. The chance of getting lost during any hike anywhere does exist though, so you should go out prepared no matter what. Of course, you will want a sturdy backpack to carry all the other backpacking equipment in. Gear that is a must includes a compass, extra clothing and food, matches, a water bottle, sunscreen, first-aid supplies, a flashlight and a knife. These are the essentials for any short hike.

When taking a trip that requires more than a days traveling time, it is important not only to bring the essential backpacking gear, but to add some other essential items to the list. You have to eat and therefore you have to bring fire starter material and items to help you prepare meals. Be sure you have a tent and sleeping bag suitable for the nighttime climate. A map and a GPS (Global Positioning System) device are things you shouldn't leave home without.

One last backpacking gear item that may come in useful is a survival guide. It doesn't need to be a huge book, but even a pocket guide to help you when you're in a sticky situation. If you have a cell phone, then it's always a good idea to bring it with you even if you aren't sure they'll be adequate service available in the area you plan on hiking through. Many people have been rescued due to the signal given off by their cell phone. Before you head out make sure you head into an outdoors supply store and get good quality essentials for your trip. Remember to always bring good quality backpacking equipment whenever you head out for the great unknown.

Camping – Bond with Nature

Camping can be a fun filled pursuit. Enjoyable camping trips undertaken at a young age remain etched in the memory for a long, long time. There is no age for undertaking camping trips though. Such trips can be planned at any time as per convenience. Such trips may also be arranged in small or large groups as desired. Arranged outdoors and far away from modern habitations, such trips help create a special bond with the wilderness and with Mother Nature.

 

Preparation for developing the special bond with nature

 

In order to organize or enjoy camping trips certain basic requirements are called for. The tent is the first thing that is needed. This is important to provide housing for the campers in the tent as it is certainly not advisable to sleep in the open with wild animals being possibly around.

 

Sleeping bags are also important things that are to be included in the camping baggage. A thorough checking up of the sleeping bag is important prior to sleeping in it. Otherwise, there might be encountered snakes, scorpions and such other dangerous animals that may have been taking shelter in the comfortable sleeping bags.

 

Sufficient supplies of food and other important things ought to be kept at hand for otherwise if supplies are run out then one might need to starve. After all, we the modern-day humans are not accustomed to deriving our food directly from nature.

 

While camping, it is also important to make arrangements for plentiful supply of clean, potable water. Alternatively, there needs to be made arrangements for means to purify water. This is of utmost importance.

 

Setting up of a checklist proves to be very helpful. This can be a convenient way of making sure that no important thing is missed out. So, you are finally geared up for venturing into the wild and setting up camp there.  

 

Developing the special bond with nature via camping among wilderness

 

Camping in the midst of nature can significantly bring down stress levels. All the worries, complications and hassles of the day to day life is gone. Your mind gets cleared up and you are enabled to perceive things from a different perspective altogether. You start getting associated with your real self- the one that can be unified with nature. Of course, modern day resources and amenities need to be by your side to help you out at every step lest you meet with any difficulty.

 

Alongside camping, activities such as hiking and fishing can be enjoyed too. These will further help in strengthening the bond with the rugged mountains around, the swift flowing rivers and the shoals of fishes swimming in it and the various other facets of nature.

In the busy world of today it is indeed very difficult to communicate with nature and discover its various treasures. Camping can be a wonderful way to foster such communication. It helps bring about a union of the micro self with the macro self as discovered amidst nature- in the wilds.

Mountain Biking Skills For Beginners

cycling bikes

Mountain biking is an exciting sport that can be enjoyed by anyone who knows how to ride a bike. Compared to the average bike ride, it does present some danger. Therefore, you should master these basic skills before you hit the trails or the dirt. You can practice these beginning skills at a local park, school, bike path, or simply around your house. If you can, try to find a location with a steep hill.

Get a feel for your pedals

Practice moving your foot away from the pedal, first while sitting on your bike with one foot on the ground. Next, move on to releasing and replacing your foot while pedaling around for a bit. Those with toe clip and clipless type foot pedals will want to spend a bit more time practicing. Just remember that this is not a bicycle riding competition.

Sit and spin for position

Simply sit on your bike and pedal around. You should keep your arms slightly bent. You should also adjust your seat height so your leg is 70 to 90 percent extended at the bottom of every stroke on the pedal. Keep your body relaxed, as there will never be a position where you should have either your knees or your elbows locked.

Shifting gears

Get a feel for shifting gears with your cycling bikes. The higher gears are harder to pedal and will go faster while the lower gears are easier to pedal and will help you ascend hills. When approaching a more steeper hill, it is best to shift gears before reaching the hill rather than while you are on it.

Coasting

You should spend a bit of time coasting while standing on your pedals, without actually sitting on the seat. Keep your arms bent but don't lock your knees. Now attempt to shift your body towards the rear of the bike.

Pedal while standing

You should get as comfortable as you can with pedaling while standing on your bike. Try lifting yourself off the seat while standing on the pedals, then crank them around. Try this on lower gears while on a hill, and higher gears on flat ground.

Dropping down a curb

Try finding a curb where you can easily get to the upper portion of it. Practice at a moderate speed, standing and coasting right off the curb from the upper level to the lower level. Try this at different speeds until it becomes second nature.

Once you practice these techniques and get the hang of them, you'll be able to hit the trails feeling comfortable on your mountain bike. Even though it may take some getting used to, it'll become second nature before you know it.

Basic Tips for Backyard Bird Watching and Bird Stalking

For those of us who like to spend as much time as we can quietly stalking and watching other creatures, we may find that it’s impossible to do so with your fellow human beings. Birds however, being infinitely smaller and unaware of the forces that follow and watch them are perfect for backyard viewing.

There are some basic rules and procedures to make your back yard bird watching sessions as enjoyable as possible. Birds are surprisingly predictable creatures, not unlike you or me. You find a place where there’s ample food, water, and sunlight and one will surely find its way there eventually. Finding a nearby spot to stake out the eventual arrival of your fine feathered friend is as easy as a hollow beside a tree or a well groomed pad behind an untrimmed hedge.

Once you’ve found your quiet, empty place to hide, in which you’re sitting quietly, not making any loud sounds, and most assuredly wearing something not too bright, you’re ready to stalk some birds. One tip that’s been offered a few times is the old switcheroo routine. Birds aren’t quite able of adding past one or so. If you set up a nice alcove or box within which you can hide and watch your birds feeding you can trick them into thinking you’re not really there.

Simply supply food in a bird feeder every day. As soon as you walk away, your subject will fly in and take the offered food. Now, take a friend with you and quickly hide inside your box, or alcove, or whatever enclosed area you choose, and have that friend walk away. The bird should be sufficiently fooled by your trick and fly in for the food, leaving you within prime viewing distance to watch him feed.

Another common stalking trick is to make bird-like noises, a kind of squeak or hiss. Known as splishing, the sound will occasionally draw a bird near, intrigued by your attempt at its language. While this doesn’t always work, it’s very successful when it does.

The art of bird watching (and stalking) starts on a very simple level with the wits and know how to outthink a bird and make them think they’re safe in your presence long enough for you to watch them. Once you get started you find there are hundreds of little aspects of how birds think and act that you can learn from and eventually exploit to get a better view.

Using youtube acoustic guitar videos to learn to play guitar

youtube acoustic guitar

The videos give you a great feel for guitar playing and whether you think you would like to learn to play the guitar. By typing youtube acoustic guitar into a search engine you will find thousands of videos about acoustic guitar playing. Now I must add that some of them are pretty useless as learning tools but I have put one on this page that is not too bad. You can find out if playing the guitar is for you before you spend any money

The benefit of watching these videos for beginner guitar is that they show what playing is really like when you are starting out. They are not glossy or polished and will give you realistic expectations of what you can achieve.

One thing you know about video is the immediacy of it and the fact that you learn much faster. You can model your playing on what is shown on the screen. You also have the audio feedback to check that the sound of your guitar is correct.

Once you have watched this video and maybe some of the others that have good ratings then you will know if learning the guitar is for you. Once you know you want t obe more serious about learning the guitar you will move onto a proper course of guitar lessons. Looking through the demonstration videos of acoustic guitar playing on youtube will provide you with a basic intro to playing.

There are free online guitar lessons that you can try out. These are very well produced and organised. The video content relates well to the rest of the course materials. One particular free course has 7 free online guitar lessons that really get you on your way. You can then progress to the main course. The lessons cover acoustic guitar lessons and electric guitar lessons.

Backyard Bird Watching: Attracting Birds with Food and Water

For the avid backyard birding enthusiast, there are a few things that must be remembered at all times; don’t wear bright colors, don’t make any noise, and birds, like any creature, like food. If you feed them they will likely come closer to you than if you just sit in a bush quietly waiting for one to appear. As an added perk, the placement of a birdfeeder in your backyard might keep your neighbor’s from asking you why you’re sitting in a bush peering into the sky for hours at a time.

Having that bird feeder is a great addition to any backyard but it also makes it that much easier to get a peek at your quarry. What will you feed them though to keep different species flying through all times of the year? There are many options, but the most important thing to remember is to keep it varied. If you feed the same thing every day, all year, you’ll only attract a few birds at certain times of the year. A little variation will allow you to discover and watch a few different species.

Head to your local nursery, gardening center, or bird-feeding specialty shop for as many options as possible for feeding birds. Clerks there should be able to help you find exactly what you’re looking for to attract a specific species. Keep in mind though that no matter what kind of food you put out and how time sensitive its presence is, it does you no good if your food goes to other creatures, or worse yet can’t be found.

Place a few different feeders throughout your backyard, making the food as accessible as possible without attracting an entire flock of the hungry little guys. You’ll want to try and make the feeders as squirrel proof as possible Other small woodland creatures will sniff out and find your feeders a perfect source for their own daily nutrition if you don’t curb it right away. You can buy a specifically squirrel-proof feeder at most bird-feeding stores.

And last but not least, don’t forget the importance of water. Like any animal, the bird will be thirsty and while the summer time offers plenty of options in hoses and sprinkler systems, the fall through the early spring are dry months for a traveling bird. If you offer a bird bath or two and a renewable source of water alongside your food, you’ll have more birds than you’ll know what to do with, and that snoopy neighbor won’t be forced to come over and berate you out of the bushes.

Introduction to Reiki

Reiki energy works in concert with all other forms of therapy. It is a wonderful complement to other treatments. Reiki has become very popular and is now practiced around the world, although not usually in the traditional form Takata taught. Reiki practitioners usually seek this level of training when they are interested in increasing the power and scope of their Reiki practice. They have been attuned to Reiki Levels I and II, they have used Reiki extensively, and they wish to attain true mastery of the uses of Reiki energy, usually they learn also reading many Reiki Books and have an extense use of Reiki Stones.

Reiki distance treatments are learned advanced techniques for transferring Reiki energy to a distant time or location. Although we do not understand either the energy or how it works, there is considerable evidence that Reiki is able to travel independent of time or distance to deliver healing. Reiki is an amazingly simple technique to learn. It does not take years of practice, it is simply passed on through a series of attunements from a qualified Reiki Master/Teacher to the student. Reiki is a system for channeling that energy to someone for the purpose of healing. Usui in the late 1800's.

Reiki accomplishes this by providing the recipient enough energy to step above (metaphorically) to see all that and have the courage to let go. This usually does not happen consciously as a result of Reiki, but sometimes it does happen that Reiki gives the recipient the conscious awareness of the pattern and recognizing where it came from. Reiki Mastership programs are conducted only upon request by Reiki Practitioner who feels that they are ready for more responsibility and growth. And to be a master of their own destiny. Reiki directs healing to the areas of the person that will most benefit from it. It has been known to alleviate symptoms to such an extent that it initiates and helps to sustain periods of complete symptom remission.

Reiki helps to reinstate and balance out the flow of the life energy at all levels. When the life energy flows correctly, it is much easier to take up the task of living life as we would desire to. Reiki heals on all levels-Spiritual, mental, physical and emotional (as well as other levels of which we are unaware consciously). Utilizing this unique system, the practitioner and recipient are healed simultaneously. Reiki Level III will teach you to heal on the spiritual level, and I will use another attunement to confer the Reiki energy, and complete a detoxification process.If you achieve this level, you will be taught how to initiate others into Reiki using the attunement process.

Reiki has a somewhat unique history. The many books on Reiki give similar histories of Reiki, and these are summarized below. Reiki also works on plants, animals, and even some machines. Over time it can enhance intuition, meditation and personal spiritual evolution. Reiki has gone on from strength to strength now being practiced worldwide.

Top Yoga Retreat Destinations

Amid the clamor of obligations, rush hour traffic, nagging bosses and the chaos of daily life, the last thing most Americans want is a high-volume vacation that requires a lot of running around and planning. Why not try a week at a relaxing yoga retreat, where you will leave with a deep-seated serenity and awareness? You can go anywhere from India to Mexico in search of rejuvenation and spiritual connectedness. With a combination of yoga, massages, jacuzzi tubs and healthy eating, a yoga retreat is more than just a vacation -- it's a whole new way of life and in some ways, a rebirth.

Yoga retreat vacations are great for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. A Yoga instructor since 1997, Jillian Pransky says, "Many of my students are city dwellers. Their yoga is fit in between running in and out of busy streets and wedged into their busy workloads. They get little respite and often don't get the dramatic effect they experience on retreat. Your body has more time to open, change, purify and cleanse in a retreat environment than in a daily practice."

For young, budget-conscious couples, the ten-day Inspya Yoga Retreat in Bali starts at $1009. Stay at the Greenfield Bungalows amid rice fields, tropical gardens and monkey forests. Visit temples, Mount Agung volcano and coral reefs in your free time. Paint a mural, participate in Balinese dance, meditate, learn to cook, make an offering or a wood carving, get a massage, swim in a spring water swimming pool, eat in an open-air restaurant, learn Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga and breathing techniques, or meet a traditional Balian healer. Loads of Aussies, Europeans and Americans flock here to find respite from daily stress.

All too often we leave our vacation feeling like we need another vacation from the grueling tourist's pace we kept the entire time. Why not choose a relaxing, rejuvenating yoga retreat that will leave you feeling healthier, more well-rested and spiritually cleansed than ever before?

There are many different forms of Yoga that people around the world practice. Some use it primarily for its low-impact workout whereas others love the feel of meditation and concentration required in some of the many poses. Yoga is a great way for those suffering from injury or unused to a cardiovascular workout to begin their path to becoming physically and mentally fit. Exercise is an important part of our daily lives and the added benefit of learning relaxation techniques is enough to entice anyone onto a mat. Find your relaxation and work out by clicking here for more information: Kriya Yoga and at Yoga Clothing also at Yoga Teacher Training Courses

Yoga For Pregnant Women - What Are The Benefits?

Fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, tenderness, swelling, cravings, constipation, cramps, headaches. Pregnancy can really get you down. However, many women are turning to yoga for the duration of their pregnancies to alleviate many of the unfortunate symptoms, for keeping excess weight off during those trying months and to provide their babies with the healthiest possible start.

Pregnant women practice yoga for physical benefits. For instance, yoga practice can teach techniques that will be helpful during labor, such as breathing and relieving tension around the cervix and birth canal. Additionally, prenatal physicians recommend combining a light cardiovascular exercise (like walking) with a relaxing, muscle-toning exercise (like yoga) to maintain your physique, in spite of the intense cravings and normal weight gain associated with pregnancy.

Other pregnant women practice yoga for mental benefits. For one, it can be a great support to meet other women going through the same thing you are. Also, there is much emphasis on focusing on the moment and deriving happiness from each and every day, which can be vital when your hormones are out of whack. Yoga has been known to stimulate beta-endorphins, which also brings comfort and a sense of relief.

During the first trimester, standing poses help circulation, strengthen legs and increase energy. Avoid bikram yoga classes that heat up the room or any kind of back/belly/inverted positions. In the second and third trimesters, yoga for your pregnancy will include more sitting positions and breathing techniques.

Yoga videos can be previewed at YouTube.com -- or you can read user reviews on Amazon.com as well. There are many options featuring yoga for pregnant women, so it's all a matter of your personal preference regarding setting, instructor, technique and comfort. Some focus more on emotional benefits, whereas others are designed to help strengthen muscles. You may also want to look into communal yoga classes at Yoga.com. Either way, this is a special time to bond with your baby -- don't pass this up!

The world is a fantastic place filled with diversity and new discoveries at every turn. One of these discoveries for the Western world came in the form of Yoga. This ancient practice was known primarily in Eastern religions such as Buddhism or Hinduism but has since become a very popular form of exercise. It is more than that though. It is a process of centering the mind and body into one fluid machine that is highly aware of itself and surroundings. Yoga can be performed by anyone of any age and is great for those beginning their trek into a healthier lifestyle. If you are ready to begin your trek, click here for more information: Yoga Classes and at Kriya Yoga also at Yoga Meditation

Use the internet to find free guitar lessons for beginners

Free guitar lessons are really a bit of a misnomer. You will always put money into anything you are really interested in and learning the guitar is no exception. If you are looking for free guitar lessons for beginners then read on.

The only place I would look for free guitar lessons is the internet. It helps if you have friends who also play as you can bounce ideas of each other. You will still need to work on your technique to become the next Dave Gilmour. There are great places to look online for this free stuff.

The first place is myspace. Most musicians these days post their music and ideas on myspace and there are lessons there as well. They also know where all the free online music lessons are. I recommend you join up and start socialising with some of these musicians and they will point you in the right direction.

The myspace interface is not for everyone but the youtube website also has many guitar lesson videos. Type play guitar into the search box and you will find some great guitar teachers showing you how to play the guitar. There are so many that it will take you hours to work through them all. One problem with the youtube videos is that the clarity is poor and you cannot always see the detail you need.

The final place to go is a site called jamorama. I have spent quite a bit of time researching this website and I cannot find anything to fault them on. They use video and audio in an innovative way that has you playing from day one.

They offer completely free guitar lessons for beginners and the whole thing is done online. The screen resolution is superior to the youtube videos and of course they are professionally produced and well organised. The website and lessons cover both acoustic and electric guitar. It is very comprehensive

How to Find the Best Ladies Golf Clubs

Why Are Ladies Golf Clubs So Hard To Find?

If you are a female golfer looking for ladies golf clubs that actually fit you will know that this is not an easy task even though many more women now play golf.

Just like all situations where you need to find equipment for use by a human, whether male or female, there is always going to be a level of compromise in how suitable the equipment will be when you start to use it.

There is More Demand for Mens Golf Clubs than Womens

Unfortunately golf clubs are not an exception and the problem becomes even more acute when trying to find suitable clubs for a lady golfer. Mainly this is due to a much smaller market for good good ladies golf clubs and the fact that development and manufacturing costs of any high specification item continue to be high.

In some cases a woman golfer may be lucky and find that a normal golf club will fit and work perfectly well, but this will be an exception rather than the rule. Usually it is extremely difficult for a women golfer to find suitable clubs, especially when they are trying to put a whole golf set together.

Women Are Physically Different Than Men

Many different factors come in to play least of all the fact that women are physically different than men and because of this they often have specific needs from a golf clubs that are also different. Lady golfers may find that most clubs are too stiff or in more extreme cases maybe too flexible and often women golfers will find a golf club designed for men will not be right for their swing action.

Lighter weight clubs may help to increase swing speed for longer shots but then there is a possibility of loosing the control that would be provided by a heavier club. Club length is also very important as women tend to be shorter than men and the clubs they need will have to be shorter to give a more comfortable fit in the hands of the lady golfer.

It always pats to test the exact fit and comfort factor of potential golf clubs before making a final choice. For ladies this may mean a lot of research and testing before they get the clubs that they want. With ladies golf clubs you must prepare yourself for a lot of research before you reach this point.

Try Custom Build or Specialist Female Clubs

Many golf equipment companies now make golf clubs just for women, including wedges, woods and irons, that are design with meeting the criteria that lady golfers need. In general these do tend to be lighter clubs so ladies can more easily improve their golf game and make quicker progress.

As female golfers improve and progress then the demand for that perfect set of ladies golf clubs will become greater and greater. This requirement may mean that the only solution to getting the perfect clubs is to seek out custom ladies golf clubs to ensure the best fit.

Of course these will not be cheap and you will have to be prepared to pay the cost of perfection. The upside of this though is that the golf game of anyone that makes this bigger investment is likely to improve quicker and to a higher level and that will make it worthwhile.

Currently it is actually becoming easier to find golf clubs that are designed just for the women golfers, but to be honest it should be even easier than it is for any female golf player to find the clubs that will help her improve and that match her individual style.

Always Keep Looking!

Always try to buy the best ladies golf clubs you can afford and do this as soon as possibe, so that you will be able to progress quicker and improve your game. Always get the best fitting golf clubs so you do not get held back.

Learning About Fisheries

fisheries

Fisheries have two major functions. One is to sell to the consumer and the other is to produce a product. Most require you to purchase in bulk, meaning that you must have the funds to make large purchases. The Government is also known for making large purchases from these fish farms for the purposes of stocking public watering holes. If you would like to start a fish hatchery, then you could raise exotic fishes, which are usually sold for use in home aquariums. The cost of purchasing a large aquarium, along with the necessary accessories is relatively low, compared to the cost of other business startups.

In many instances, the Government offers grants for this type of business. Be sure that you contact the Fish and Wildlife department in your State to find out the details and how to apply for a grant to start a micro-enterprise, if such a grant exists. Ask if you are eligible under the criteria mentioned therein. Obtaining a grant would further encourage you in your business, as these funds need not be repaid, so you would be ahead financially from the start.

The good news is that breeding a fish takes little effort from you; the work is done by a fish. All you have to do is get a few, high priced exotic fishes and breed them according to instructions that are readily available in any number of places. You could always start with a fish that is of a cheaper variety and as you gather confidence about your abilities in taking care of them, you could try some of the more expensive varieties.

Establishing great exotic fisheries is only half of the picture. The other half would consist of how you propose to see that your stock is sold off before your fish die of old age. Should this happen, you would have to purchase more breeding stock or shift to another business. You need to have a very aggressive marketing strategy, such as exhibitions where you have special discounted prices, like "buy 2 get 1 free" type of scheme, organize community shows where you target children by showing them and making them feel the joy of having a fish (or a couple of them) as a pet.

Breeding fish in fisheries is a learning process for the operator. The operator must learn all of the scientific knowledge they can find to ensure that they raise healthy fish that they can sell in good conscience. Selling a fish requires a bit more creativity. A great way to sell a fish is to be able to tell some interesting stories and give a good deal of background info on the particular species that is being sold.

Choosing The Best Fishing Poles

There are fishing poles, and then there are fishing poles. There is a pole for every fishing situation, and knowing the difference will certainly pay off in the long run.

While many may argue that the term "pole" refers to a relic of a tool while a "rod" is a more sophisticated piece of fishing equipment, the fact remains that the two terms are generally interchangeable. Whether called a pole or a rod, the tool has been fashioned in the same manner for many years, with the basic materials of graphite, carbon, fiberglass, bamboo or composites proving to be the main improvements. Another is in design, with different poles being used for different purposes. While there are many, the main types of fishing rods are fly fishing poles , spin casting rods and bait casting rods.

Fly fishing poles or rods need to have a lightweight and flexible feel. Bamboo fly fishing rods offer best quality, but generally are an costly choice . Graphite rods are the most highly sought types on today’s market as they are strong, lightweight and yet flexible. Usually between 7 and 9 feet on length, the size of the stream or lake dictates which pole length should be used. The term “rod weight” actually describes the line size used on the pole, and can range between 1 and 15. This method of fishing is generally for a more experienced level, as it requires a fair deal of effort for the angler. This is because it is the line being cast rather than the lure.

Spin casting is a relatively easy skill to acquire, and is recommended to many beginners primarily for that reason. Shorter than most, the spin cast rod also requires high flexibility. The reel is the tool that needs the most practice, as it is a technique; however, it takes most people just a few minutes to learn. Located on the top of the fishing pole, the spin cast reel is within easy reach and control of the angler. The size of rod and line will vary depending on the type of fish being pursued; bass would need a heavier weight than a panfish would require.

During professional fishing tournaments, bait casting is the common method. Bait casting rods are heavier and longer, and stronger to be able to combat the fighting foe at the end of the line. This type of fishing pole is also very popular with bass fishermen due to the short time it takes to land their bass using the strong and powerful line. The reel also sits on the top of the pole, and is able to handle the heavyweight line needed to bring in “the big one”. Bait casting poles and reels take much more practice to master, and is considered to be more for the experienced angler.

Fishing poles vary widely to meet many needs, as is evident by those on the market today. There is a pole for every situation, and for many fishermen, having several poles means they are prepared for any situation.

The Easy Way To Stop Snoring - Try Some Stop Snoring Exercises

Stop snoring exercises are the easiest way to alter the method you breathe in order to stop snoring. They are the simplest and easiest stop snoring home remedy, you will ever have to do. The key is to reinforce your mouth and tongue and snoring exercises can help you do this. 

 Why Do We Snoring

One of the easiest methods to stop snoring is to find out the reason you are doing it in the first place. Occasionally, it could be the result of taking medication, other physical circumstance or because of the substances that you use, such as alcohol and smoking. Your first step is to try and stop drinking or smoking, if that is the reason for the snoring you would have found your solution immediately. If the snoring continues then some stop snoring exercises will help you

Learn Stop Snoring Exercises

There are two different types of stop snoring exercises. The first is the most general one that people try and that is to include daily exercise into your life and reduce the weight you carry. Being heavy is a big source of snoring, so if you want to stop snoring, exercising is the best method. Exercise everyday and lose some weight. Over a couple of weeks of healthy eating and exercising, you will have noticed a difference in your sleeping behavior. Not only will you be sleeping better, you will be able to observe a difference in your snoring as well.

The second set of stop snoring exercises will give you power in your jaw, tongue and throat that you will require to be able to breathe properly throughout the night. The majority of the time, if your tongue is too loose or your jaw is not in the correct place, you will begin to snore because your airway is being blocked by something. The exercises that you can do for this type of problem are similar to the type of exercises that a singer will use to warm up their voice. The benefits of the stop snoring exercise is that you will have a strong tongue and jaw that will remain in the correct position whilst you are asleep at night  

If you want to stop snoring, exercises are the most effective method to start the process. If they work for you, you will be able to get a better night’s sleep and not have to worry about disturbing anyone else in the household. If you find that the exercises have no effect then it is best to have yourself checked by a doctor and obtain some advice from them.

 

Be Cautious of Teeth Whitening By Beauty Salons

A cosmetic treatment that has become increasingly popular in recent times and with the increase of various celebrities with sparkling perfect smiles most of us feel motivated or even compelled to get a similar sparkling pearly white smile.

With the demand on the increase for teeth whitening procedures there has also been an additional amount of locations that make available these types of services. Teeth whitening by beauty salons has turned highly popular and teeth whitening by beauty salons has become highly sought after and are being highly publicized as a less costly as well as more effective than going to a visit to your local dentist.

Be Cautious of False Advertising

Numerous advertisements of teeth whitening by beauty salons have claimed that the procedure has a more effective result than taking a trip to the dentist and is also less expensive. The latter fact might  be accurate but the former can only be done through increased concentrations of chemicals that bleach, which more often than not can be harmful.

If your local dentist has said that you would not be able to have your teeth whitened to the same degree as your favorite red carpet celebrity then there is likely a good reason for him to tell you that. Excessive chemicals that bleach can be harmful to not only your teeth, mouth, but also for your esophagus and even your stomach.

Teeth whitening procedures by beauty salons frequently utilize an elevated concentration of chemicals compared to what a dentist would use. Even though this might have the effect of making your teeth whiter it might not be safe. Excessive exposure to the chemicals utilized in these types of teeth whitening procedures by beauty salons even when the concentration is at 3% can eventually cause irritation and discomfort to both your mouth as well as gums

Consulting a Professional

The reality of the matter as well as the bottom line is that you are  best off to see a professional dentist in your area. Even though teeth whitening by beauty salons might provide you with the end result that you are hoping for, you also run the potential risk of having your teeth damaged. You might also have even greater problem if you by accident ingest the chemicals used.

The staff of beauty salons typically are not trained similar to dentists and even though they might have has some basic training they mostly will not have the needed experience and extensive training as a dentist would. You will always find it more prudent to pay some added money up front to consult a dentist who is more qualified than to wind up in the office of a doctor with a burn from exposure to chemicals.

Keep in mind that the spectacular smile that you notice in magazines and on your television are normally not one hundred percent real. Many models have the assistance of enhancement through digital means to have their smiles appear brighter while numerous celebrities have veneers made out of porcelain to get those perfect smiles. Regardless of who you are healthy teeth will yellow as they age, sadly it is inevitable, so it is not in your best interest to go all out in your bleaching efforts.

To learn more go to Teeth Whitening In Berkeley and at Teeth Whitening By Beauty Salons