Formerly known as Stalingrad or Tsaritsyn, Volgograd is an industrial town situated on the west bank of the Volga River in the administrative centre of Volgograd Oblast, Russia. It is one of the largest cities in Russia known to serve as a fortress safeguarding the trade route along the Volga River.
Most visited in Volgograd are the historical monuments dedicated to those who gave their lives during the World War II. The city became famous for its heroic confrontation in the Battle of Stalingrad during the World War II. Volgograd boasts of a huge statue of Mother Russia standing on the hill of Mamayev Kurgan. The Pantheon in Volgograd has 7200 names inscribed of lives that perished during the war. The centre of the city is home to the Fallen Heroes' Square where the Eternal Flame honours those who gave their lives for Volgograd. Visit the Volgograd state panoramic museum, Pavlov’s House and the new experimental theatre. The best time to visit Volgograd is during March, August and December.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Van, Turkey
Often called the ‘The Pearl of the East’, Van, the seat of Van province is a city in the Eastern Anatolian region of Turkey. Owing to the natural beauty of its landscape, and a city with a short name but long history, Van has often been characterized as "Van for this world, faith for the next.”
Van is located on the eastern shore of ‘Lake Van’ which is home to mountain silhouettes, coves, beaches, islands, waterfalls and centres belonging to diverse historical ages. The Akdamar island is the most beautiful island among others of Lake Van. Expeditions such as trekking and hunting are available for tourists. Other major attractions include a region known as Old Van, which is home to historical structures from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. Urartian artefacts are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum. A citadel around the ‘rock of Van’ bears cuneiform inscriptions dating from the Kingdom of Urartu. Visit the ancient Kurdish fortress, Church of the Holy Cross on Akdamar Island and the Urartian ruins at Çavustepe. The best time to visit Van is during the months of February, August and September.
Van is located on the eastern shore of ‘Lake Van’ which is home to mountain silhouettes, coves, beaches, islands, waterfalls and centres belonging to diverse historical ages. The Akdamar island is the most beautiful island among others of Lake Van. Expeditions such as trekking and hunting are available for tourists. Other major attractions include a region known as Old Van, which is home to historical structures from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. Urartian artefacts are exhibited in the Archaeological Museum. A citadel around the ‘rock of Van’ bears cuneiform inscriptions dating from the Kingdom of Urartu. Visit the ancient Kurdish fortress, Church of the Holy Cross on Akdamar Island and the Urartian ruins at Çavustepe. The best time to visit Van is during the months of February, August and September.
Valencia, Venezuela
Valencia, the capital city of Carabobo State, is the third largest city of Venezuela. A major industrial centre for chemicals and textiles, it lies 150km west of Caracas in Northern Venezuela.
Home to some very beautiful old buildings, museums, parks and art centers, Valencia also boasts of Plaza Monumental de Valencia, the second largest bullring in the world. Páez House, Celis House and Museum of History and Anthropology showcase many fine objects and Venezuela’s colonial heritage. "Valencianos" go to Cerro Casupo Municipal Park, Negra Hipólita Park or Fernando Peñalver Park for their daily workouts. The Acuario de Valencia is the largest aquarium in Latin America, where trained "toninas" (small dolphins) charm everyone. The water slides at "Las Dunas" amusement park are very appealing for children.
Home to some very beautiful old buildings, museums, parks and art centers, Valencia also boasts of Plaza Monumental de Valencia, the second largest bullring in the world. Páez House, Celis House and Museum of History and Anthropology showcase many fine objects and Venezuela’s colonial heritage. "Valencianos" go to Cerro Casupo Municipal Park, Negra Hipólita Park or Fernando Peñalver Park for their daily workouts. The Acuario de Valencia is the largest aquarium in Latin America, where trained "toninas" (small dolphins) charm everyone. The water slides at "Las Dunas" amusement park are very appealing for children.
Şanlıurfa, Turkey
Şanlıurfa is a city in the south-eastern Anatolian region of Turkey; also known as ‘Urfa’ or ‘the city of Prophets’. It is the capital of Şanlıurfa province and situated on the east of the Euphrates River.
With a history dating back to 9000 years, Şanlıurfa is a museum city known for the birth of Prophet Abraham, the genetic father of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. A major attraction of Şanlıurfa is the nomadic tribes who inhabit this place. Bazaars such as Kazzaz Bazaar, Sipahi Bazaar and Huseyniye Bazaar are famous for handicrafts such as weaving, copper and stone works, fur making and jewellery. Visit the Ottoman period’s 8 Turkish baths, Birket Ibrahim (the Abraham's Pool or Halil Rahman Gölü), Şanlıurfa museum which is known for its rich archeological artifacts, and the Kapali Carsi bazaar which was a historic trade route. A wide fortress or the citadel is known by the locals as Nimrud Kürsesi (Nimrud's Pulpit) is worth a visit. The Dergah Camii (or Dersa Cami) with its large inner is known for its Hermitage of the Prophet Abraham (Makram Ibrahim) and the remedial powers of its spring water. The best time to visit Şanlıurfa is from mid-June to September.
With a history dating back to 9000 years, Şanlıurfa is a museum city known for the birth of Prophet Abraham, the genetic father of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. A major attraction of Şanlıurfa is the nomadic tribes who inhabit this place. Bazaars such as Kazzaz Bazaar, Sipahi Bazaar and Huseyniye Bazaar are famous for handicrafts such as weaving, copper and stone works, fur making and jewellery. Visit the Ottoman period’s 8 Turkish baths, Birket Ibrahim (the Abraham's Pool or Halil Rahman Gölü), Şanlıurfa museum which is known for its rich archeological artifacts, and the Kapali Carsi bazaar which was a historic trade route. A wide fortress or the citadel is known by the locals as Nimrud Kürsesi (Nimrud's Pulpit) is worth a visit. The Dergah Camii (or Dersa Cami) with its large inner is known for its Hermitage of the Prophet Abraham (Makram Ibrahim) and the remedial powers of its spring water. The best time to visit Şanlıurfa is from mid-June to September.
Friday, June 11, 2010
A short trip to Netherlands
Undoubtedly the jewel of Europe, Netherlands is a country in north-western Europe. It borders the North Sea to the north and west, and its neighbouring countries are Belgium and Germany.
Be it the capital Amsterdam with its famous Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, Rembrandt House, its Heineken experience for beer lovers and stunning 17th century canals, the Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse, West Frisian islands, the seaside resorts in Scheveningen, Noordwijk and Bergen, islands of Zeelands, Haarlem with its excellent museums, Maastricht’s vibrant nightlife, Delft- home to Vermeer and blue and white pottery, the Hoge Veluwe National Park near Arnhem or for the open-air museums at Arnhem, Enkhuizen and Zaandam; Netherlands has been able to attract a large number of tourists. Its other main cities are Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague. The best time to visit Netherlands is from June to August. Visit the Keukenhof gardens with its flower shows, gardens of daffodils, and fields of tulips which are a feast for the eyes from mid-March to mid-May.
A country of windmills, cafes, cheese, bridges and canals, coffee shops, stunning countryside with its triangular rooftop shaped cubic houses, dikes, national parks, museums and sheep patrolled polders; Netherlands’ mesmerizing beauty is hard to miss.
Be it the capital Amsterdam with its famous Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, Rembrandt House, its Heineken experience for beer lovers and stunning 17th century canals, the Keukenhof Gardens at Lisse, West Frisian islands, the seaside resorts in Scheveningen, Noordwijk and Bergen, islands of Zeelands, Haarlem with its excellent museums, Maastricht’s vibrant nightlife, Delft- home to Vermeer and blue and white pottery, the Hoge Veluwe National Park near Arnhem or for the open-air museums at Arnhem, Enkhuizen and Zaandam; Netherlands has been able to attract a large number of tourists. Its other main cities are Rotterdam, Utrecht and The Hague. The best time to visit Netherlands is from June to August. Visit the Keukenhof gardens with its flower shows, gardens of daffodils, and fields of tulips which are a feast for the eyes from mid-March to mid-May.
A country of windmills, cafes, cheese, bridges and canals, coffee shops, stunning countryside with its triangular rooftop shaped cubic houses, dikes, national parks, museums and sheep patrolled polders; Netherlands’ mesmerizing beauty is hard to miss.
Manitoba
A world class fishing destination for anglers, and the opportunity to snorkel with or kayak alongside the thousands of beluga whales; Manitoba is a simple but powerful strip of Canada. Its bordering regions are Ontario, Saskatchewan, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and the U.S. states of North Dakota and Minnesota. Home to saltwater coastline on the Hudson Bay and to one of the world’s largest lakes - the Lake Winnipeg, Manitoba is a truly Canadian prairie province.
Be it Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, famous for Fort Gibraltar, churches, numerous parks, casinos and museums, the Beluga whales and Polar Bear capital of the world - Churchill, the Canadian Fossil Discovery Center at Morden, the Pisew Falls which are Manitoba’s highest accessible natural falls, the lakes and Riding Mountain National Park in Wasagaming famous for wildlife viewing, horseback riding, trail hiking and cycling, the Wapusk National Park along the Hudson Bay’s shores near Churchill known for waterfowl and shorebirds, or the mountainous and wooded village of Flin Flon which is home to a standalone statue called Flonatin; Manitoba boasts of some fascinating places. The best time to visit Manitoba is during the fall months of September and October, and also during autumn and summer.
With maple tree woodlands, spurting rivers, graveled landscapes, magnificent creatures such as polar bears and wild moose, and a rugged coastline, a trip to Manitoba should not be missed!
Be it Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, famous for Fort Gibraltar, churches, numerous parks, casinos and museums, the Beluga whales and Polar Bear capital of the world - Churchill, the Canadian Fossil Discovery Center at Morden, the Pisew Falls which are Manitoba’s highest accessible natural falls, the lakes and Riding Mountain National Park in Wasagaming famous for wildlife viewing, horseback riding, trail hiking and cycling, the Wapusk National Park along the Hudson Bay’s shores near Churchill known for waterfowl and shorebirds, or the mountainous and wooded village of Flin Flon which is home to a standalone statue called Flonatin; Manitoba boasts of some fascinating places. The best time to visit Manitoba is during the fall months of September and October, and also during autumn and summer.
With maple tree woodlands, spurting rivers, graveled landscapes, magnificent creatures such as polar bears and wild moose, and a rugged coastline, a trip to Manitoba should not be missed!
A small slice of Italy
A beautiful country with an enduring appeal, Italy is located on the Italian peninsula in Southern Europe. Italy’s northern edge of the Alpine mountains is surrounded by France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia.
Be it Rome boasting of its grand monument- the colosseum, renaissance palaces and medieval churches, the romantic city of Venice with its canals, gondola rides, museums and churches, Florence boasting of its museums and Renaissance architectural and art centres, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Milan’s famous Duomo and fashion hub, Naples historic treasures, Sicily’s home of art and architecture, Turin for its museums and historic café, Genoa- the principal seaport or the Vatican city with its St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Italy is home to many sites which are worth a visit. The best time to visit Italy is from April to September.
A place of olive oil, pastas, pizzas, wine, beautiful landscapes, roman ruins and renaissance palaces, Italy offers a plethora of enchanting and captivating surprises to its tourists.
Be it Rome boasting of its grand monument- the colosseum, renaissance palaces and medieval churches, the romantic city of Venice with its canals, gondola rides, museums and churches, Florence boasting of its museums and Renaissance architectural and art centres, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, Milan’s famous Duomo and fashion hub, Naples historic treasures, Sicily’s home of art and architecture, Turin for its museums and historic café, Genoa- the principal seaport or the Vatican city with its St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, Italy is home to many sites which are worth a visit. The best time to visit Italy is from April to September.
A place of olive oil, pastas, pizzas, wine, beautiful landscapes, roman ruins and renaissance palaces, Italy offers a plethora of enchanting and captivating surprises to its tourists.
Marseille
A vibrant world! Combining tradition and modernity, Marseille is the oldest city and the 2nd most populous in France. Home to France’s largest commercial port, it forms the third largest metropolitan area.
Discover Marseille through its parks and museums, monuments such as Palais Du Pharo and Palais Longchamp, Saint-Lauren Church, Saint-Jean and Saint Nicholas fortress, and the If-Castle and Frioul Islands. With sea, hills and calanques, adventure sports such as diving and sea-canoeing, beach rugby and golf are available. The best time to visit Marseille is May and June. July and August being hot and humid, is only for the beach lovers. April is ideal for those who wish to see the carnival.
Discover Marseille through its parks and museums, monuments such as Palais Du Pharo and Palais Longchamp, Saint-Lauren Church, Saint-Jean and Saint Nicholas fortress, and the If-Castle and Frioul Islands. With sea, hills and calanques, adventure sports such as diving and sea-canoeing, beach rugby and golf are available. The best time to visit Marseille is May and June. July and August being hot and humid, is only for the beach lovers. April is ideal for those who wish to see the carnival.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Iceland
A small note on Iceland
One of the most beautiful countries on earth, Iceland, officially known as the Republic of Iceland, is a European island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Iceland is home to the marvels of Mother Nature with icecaps and grinding glaciers, gushing geysers such as Geyser in The Golden Circle, steaming solfataras, volcanic eruptions carved by glaciers, hot springs, infectious landscapes, towering sea-cliffs, raging rivers and glorious waterfalls, a throng of birds and cavorting whales.
The capital of Iceland, Reykjavík, is famous for museums and galleries, cafes and world class restaurants, backed by snow-topped mountains and a wild night life! Be it the spouting whales at Húsavík, white water rafting on Jökulsá-Austari glacial rivers, the town of Ísafjörður in rugged Westfjords, awesome sights of Snæfellsjökull peaks and glaciers, kayaking in the bohemian Eastfjords village of Seyðisfjörður, lake Mývatn teeming with bird life, hot springs, lava flows and volcanoes, hiking in the canyon at the national park of Jökulsárgljúfur which also comprises of Europe’s most powerful waterfall, the fishing village of Siglufjörður, a fine fjord setting in the capital of the North- Akureyri or hot spring filled ice caves at Kverkfjöll, Iceland’s nature is astounding. The best time to visit Iceland is from mid-June to August.
Travellers can go river rafting, hiking, take glacier and boat tours, do fishing, horseback riding, whale watching and swimming in the world’s hottest cool place, Iceland.
One of the most beautiful countries on earth, Iceland, officially known as the Republic of Iceland, is a European island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Iceland is home to the marvels of Mother Nature with icecaps and grinding glaciers, gushing geysers such as Geyser in The Golden Circle, steaming solfataras, volcanic eruptions carved by glaciers, hot springs, infectious landscapes, towering sea-cliffs, raging rivers and glorious waterfalls, a throng of birds and cavorting whales.
The capital of Iceland, Reykjavík, is famous for museums and galleries, cafes and world class restaurants, backed by snow-topped mountains and a wild night life! Be it the spouting whales at Húsavík, white water rafting on Jökulsá-Austari glacial rivers, the town of Ísafjörður in rugged Westfjords, awesome sights of Snæfellsjökull peaks and glaciers, kayaking in the bohemian Eastfjords village of Seyðisfjörður, lake Mývatn teeming with bird life, hot springs, lava flows and volcanoes, hiking in the canyon at the national park of Jökulsárgljúfur which also comprises of Europe’s most powerful waterfall, the fishing village of Siglufjörður, a fine fjord setting in the capital of the North- Akureyri or hot spring filled ice caves at Kverkfjöll, Iceland’s nature is astounding. The best time to visit Iceland is from mid-June to August.
Travellers can go river rafting, hiking, take glacier and boat tours, do fishing, horseback riding, whale watching and swimming in the world’s hottest cool place, Iceland.
Costa Rica
A small note on Costa Rica
An ideal tropical paradise for tourists, Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica is a country in Central America between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It’s one of the 20 most biologically diverse countries in the world. Costa Rica boasts of 0.03% of the earth's total land mass and is home to an incredible 4% of the world's total animal species. Its neighbouring countries are Panama and Nicaragua.
Costa Rica or ‘Rich Coast’ is for active travellers who have the opportunity to surf, hike, go horseback riding, rafting, kayaking, canopying, do deepwater fishing and snorkelling through tropical reefs, and spot wildlife. The country is abounding with forests, beaches, volcanoes, exotic wildlife and tropical plants. The capital of Costa Rica is San José, famous for museums. Liberia is famous for volcanoes, beaches and is closest to Leatherback Turtles Marine National park. Some of the big cities are Limón, Cartago, Alajuela and Puntarenas. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April. With numerous national parks and botanical gardens, wildlife refuge, caverns and tropical rainforests, beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coast, Costa Rica is undoubtedly a natural wonderland.
An ideal tropical paradise for tourists, Costa Rica, officially the Republic of Costa Rica is a country in Central America between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It’s one of the 20 most biologically diverse countries in the world. Costa Rica boasts of 0.03% of the earth's total land mass and is home to an incredible 4% of the world's total animal species. Its neighbouring countries are Panama and Nicaragua.
Costa Rica or ‘Rich Coast’ is for active travellers who have the opportunity to surf, hike, go horseback riding, rafting, kayaking, canopying, do deepwater fishing and snorkelling through tropical reefs, and spot wildlife. The country is abounding with forests, beaches, volcanoes, exotic wildlife and tropical plants. The capital of Costa Rica is San José, famous for museums. Liberia is famous for volcanoes, beaches and is closest to Leatherback Turtles Marine National park. Some of the big cities are Limón, Cartago, Alajuela and Puntarenas. The best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April. With numerous national parks and botanical gardens, wildlife refuge, caverns and tropical rainforests, beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coast, Costa Rica is undoubtedly a natural wonderland.
A Panoramic Landscape
Philips Koninck-A Panoramic Landscape
Philips (de) Koninck was a Dutch painter of the Baroque era. Apart from producing portraits, history and genre scenes, he is best known for his panoramic (powerful and majestic) landscapes.
As H.S. Francis writes,
Koninck was born in Amsterdam in I6I9 and studied painting with his brother Jacob at Rotterdam. From I64I he lived in Amsterdam and came under the influence of Rembrandt, whose figure style is suggested in this drawing. Primarily known as one of the great masters of landscape, through his contact with Rembrandt he inherited an affinity ...Seghers. From the art of Seghers he acquired a deep under standing of the special quality of the Dutch lowland, and its panoramic sweep.
The style of painting in “A Panoramic Landscape” is a vast area of land/space (imaginary) under a colossal sky populated with cattle, elegant folk, huts, winding road, trees and waterways. It is a flat and sunlit landscape with repeated nuances of colour, patterns of light and dark through the roads and contrasting cloud shadows. The foreground is painted as broad and rough, the middle displays significant particulars, and the background shows bold colour strokes thereby imparting soul in simple masterpieces. Koninck’s landscapes (8 survive today) are permeated with unparalleled harmony and grandeur.
Philips (de) Koninck was a Dutch painter of the Baroque era. Apart from producing portraits, history and genre scenes, he is best known for his panoramic (powerful and majestic) landscapes.
As H.S. Francis writes,
Koninck was born in Amsterdam in I6I9 and studied painting with his brother Jacob at Rotterdam. From I64I he lived in Amsterdam and came under the influence of Rembrandt, whose figure style is suggested in this drawing. Primarily known as one of the great masters of landscape, through his contact with Rembrandt he inherited an affinity ...Seghers. From the art of Seghers he acquired a deep under standing of the special quality of the Dutch lowland, and its panoramic sweep.
The style of painting in “A Panoramic Landscape” is a vast area of land/space (imaginary) under a colossal sky populated with cattle, elegant folk, huts, winding road, trees and waterways. It is a flat and sunlit landscape with repeated nuances of colour, patterns of light and dark through the roads and contrasting cloud shadows. The foreground is painted as broad and rough, the middle displays significant particulars, and the background shows bold colour strokes thereby imparting soul in simple masterpieces. Koninck’s landscapes (8 survive today) are permeated with unparalleled harmony and grandeur.
Winterize your Yacht
10 economical tips to winterize your yacht
It’s winter time once again and the boating season is over. You have to put your yacht away but it needs some care before its set to rest. Instead of visiting a boatyard, save costs by winterizing the hull and interiors of the yacht yourself, and keep it ready for spring.
Some practical tips to winterization:
1) Engine oil, drive train oil and oil filters: To prevent acids from building up, engine oil and oil filters must be changed. Engine air intakes and exhaust pipes must be closed with a duct tape. Clean the engine off all oil and refill with new oil, and run the engine for a while.
2) Fogging: Immediately after haul out, flush the engine with fresh water to remove all salt residues. Run the engine at an inoperative speed for 5 minutes. Fog the engine by spraying it into the carburettor while the engine is running or through spark plugs after stopping the engine.
3) Fuel Tank: Drain the yacht’s fuel tank completely and subsequently fill it again. Tend to the fuel with a biocide (for diesel)) or a stabilizing agent (for all engines). Next, run the engine for 10 minutes to allow circulation. Note: For gas and diesel boats, it is best to empty the fuel tank as much as possible.
4) Antifreeze: First warm up the engines and clean them off all water. Then add antifreeze without diluting it to the engine’s cooling system.
5) Batteries: Add distilled water to batteries, charge them completely, and disconnect. To prevent the batteries from getting frozen, store them in a heated room and charge them occasionally.
6) Bilges: Dry the bilges completely, disable bilge pumps, and the bilge area around the drain plug. The drain plugs and bilges should be devoid of any debris to prevent the drain from choking.
7) Bedding and Seat Cushions: Keep the bedding and seat cushions in a vertical position to prevent them from damage in water or other fuel leaks.
8) Water Tanks: Completely drain the water tanks by removing the pipe fitting at the bottom. To prevent dampness and corrosion, clear all drawers, foodstuff, paper, utensils and cleaning supplies. Clean all water from mufflers. Wipe surfaces and teak with a wet rag or sponge.
9) Hardware: Highly prone to corrosion, hardware needs to be cleaned thoroughly with a wet cloth and left to dry. Clean sinks and cockpit. Apply petroleum jelly to fixtures, clocks, barometers and lamps. Ventilate the cabins, check cabinets and prevent carpets from getting spoilt by placing them among carpet squares.
10) Accessories: Clean and wax the boat and motor. Cover your yacht. Remove prop, fittings, electronic equipments, life-rafts, furled headsails, mainsails and lube points. Check all exit blocks and lubricate all points up to the mast.
Leave your yacht in a vertical or downward position to prevent water from clogging and freezing. Check on it periodically.
Keep a winterization checklist, follow the directions well, thereby keeping your yacht’s propulsion system devoid of any snags and facilitate an enjoyable spring. Happy sailing!
It’s winter time once again and the boating season is over. You have to put your yacht away but it needs some care before its set to rest. Instead of visiting a boatyard, save costs by winterizing the hull and interiors of the yacht yourself, and keep it ready for spring.
Some practical tips to winterization:
1) Engine oil, drive train oil and oil filters: To prevent acids from building up, engine oil and oil filters must be changed. Engine air intakes and exhaust pipes must be closed with a duct tape. Clean the engine off all oil and refill with new oil, and run the engine for a while.
2) Fogging: Immediately after haul out, flush the engine with fresh water to remove all salt residues. Run the engine at an inoperative speed for 5 minutes. Fog the engine by spraying it into the carburettor while the engine is running or through spark plugs after stopping the engine.
3) Fuel Tank: Drain the yacht’s fuel tank completely and subsequently fill it again. Tend to the fuel with a biocide (for diesel)) or a stabilizing agent (for all engines). Next, run the engine for 10 minutes to allow circulation. Note: For gas and diesel boats, it is best to empty the fuel tank as much as possible.
4) Antifreeze: First warm up the engines and clean them off all water. Then add antifreeze without diluting it to the engine’s cooling system.
5) Batteries: Add distilled water to batteries, charge them completely, and disconnect. To prevent the batteries from getting frozen, store them in a heated room and charge them occasionally.
6) Bilges: Dry the bilges completely, disable bilge pumps, and the bilge area around the drain plug. The drain plugs and bilges should be devoid of any debris to prevent the drain from choking.
7) Bedding and Seat Cushions: Keep the bedding and seat cushions in a vertical position to prevent them from damage in water or other fuel leaks.
8) Water Tanks: Completely drain the water tanks by removing the pipe fitting at the bottom. To prevent dampness and corrosion, clear all drawers, foodstuff, paper, utensils and cleaning supplies. Clean all water from mufflers. Wipe surfaces and teak with a wet rag or sponge.
9) Hardware: Highly prone to corrosion, hardware needs to be cleaned thoroughly with a wet cloth and left to dry. Clean sinks and cockpit. Apply petroleum jelly to fixtures, clocks, barometers and lamps. Ventilate the cabins, check cabinets and prevent carpets from getting spoilt by placing them among carpet squares.
10) Accessories: Clean and wax the boat and motor. Cover your yacht. Remove prop, fittings, electronic equipments, life-rafts, furled headsails, mainsails and lube points. Check all exit blocks and lubricate all points up to the mast.
Leave your yacht in a vertical or downward position to prevent water from clogging and freezing. Check on it periodically.
Keep a winterization checklist, follow the directions well, thereby keeping your yacht’s propulsion system devoid of any snags and facilitate an enjoyable spring. Happy sailing!
Monday, May 3, 2010
Massage Therapy for Lou Gehrig's disease
Massage can help Lou Gehrig’s disease
Lou Gehrig’s Disease (also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurological disorder which attacks the nerves cells (motor neurons) of the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons connect the brain with the skeletal muscles. As the motor neurons degenerate (shrink and disappear), the muscles under their control become smaller, weaken (they no longer receive signals to move) and waste away. Lou Gehrig’s Disease victims become disabled, have difficulty in communicating, swallowing and are prone to infections (pneumonia). This disease paralyses only the voluntary muscles hence people suffering from this disease can often take control of their five senses, bowel and bladder movement. It also does not impair a person's mind, personality, intelligence, or memory.
Lou Gehrig’s Disease is rarely found amongst kids. It affects people between the ages of 40 to 70, and is more common in men than women. It is not contagious and can affect people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. Patients usually require ventilation and surgery to make a new opening in the stomach (gastrostomy). The cause of death is due to loss of respiratory function. The most common form of Lou Gehrig’s Disease is known as "sporadic" as it can affect anyone at anytime; though in some cases, this disease can be hereditary.
The exact cause of Lou Gehrig’s Disease is unknown. Symptoms are tripping, dropping things, slurred and nasal speech, muscle cramps, muscle stiffness and twitches, unintentional periods of laughing or crying, weakness of muscles affecting arms and legs, difficulty in chewing, swallowing, dressing, washing and buttoning clothes.
There is no way to completely cure or prevent Lou Gehrig’s Disease. However medicines, rehabilitation techniques and physical therapy can control symptoms and special equipments like wheelchair, braces, walker and ventilator can be used for relieving the discomforts.
Non-drug therapies or supportive therapies such as ‘massage’ can be used for the sore or cramping muscles thereby providing relief from muscle pain and cramps. Chinese acupuncture formulas such as partial massage is recommended for muscle stiffness.
Researches and clinical studies have shown that therapeutic massage is done after wet cell appliance. It concentrates on the spinal areas starting at the toes and proceeds upwards, comprising all extremities. The sciatic centre, the lumbar axis, and the brachial centre should be especially concentrated on, using a mixture of olive oil, peanut oil, and lanolin. Moderate passive ranges of motion can keep muscles and joints from getting stiff. Massage strokes can also enhance the blood supply into to muscle and decelerate muscle atrophy to a certain extent. However, if muscles are too atrophied, a hand, foot and scalp massage can also make the patient comfortable.
Any disease can cause stress and a massage therapy can be used to reduce stress as it decreases the quantity of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body. Other researches have shown that Swedish massage or Esalen massage also works well on people suffering from with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
If the physician approves, a good massage therapist can improve the quality of the patient‘s life and provide assistance for caregivers too.
Lou Gehrig’s Disease (also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or ALS) is a progressive and fatal neurological disorder which attacks the nerves cells (motor neurons) of the brain and spinal cord. Motor neurons connect the brain with the skeletal muscles. As the motor neurons degenerate (shrink and disappear), the muscles under their control become smaller, weaken (they no longer receive signals to move) and waste away. Lou Gehrig’s Disease victims become disabled, have difficulty in communicating, swallowing and are prone to infections (pneumonia). This disease paralyses only the voluntary muscles hence people suffering from this disease can often take control of their five senses, bowel and bladder movement. It also does not impair a person's mind, personality, intelligence, or memory.
Lou Gehrig’s Disease is rarely found amongst kids. It affects people between the ages of 40 to 70, and is more common in men than women. It is not contagious and can affect people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. Patients usually require ventilation and surgery to make a new opening in the stomach (gastrostomy). The cause of death is due to loss of respiratory function. The most common form of Lou Gehrig’s Disease is known as "sporadic" as it can affect anyone at anytime; though in some cases, this disease can be hereditary.
The exact cause of Lou Gehrig’s Disease is unknown. Symptoms are tripping, dropping things, slurred and nasal speech, muscle cramps, muscle stiffness and twitches, unintentional periods of laughing or crying, weakness of muscles affecting arms and legs, difficulty in chewing, swallowing, dressing, washing and buttoning clothes.
There is no way to completely cure or prevent Lou Gehrig’s Disease. However medicines, rehabilitation techniques and physical therapy can control symptoms and special equipments like wheelchair, braces, walker and ventilator can be used for relieving the discomforts.
Non-drug therapies or supportive therapies such as ‘massage’ can be used for the sore or cramping muscles thereby providing relief from muscle pain and cramps. Chinese acupuncture formulas such as partial massage is recommended for muscle stiffness.
Researches and clinical studies have shown that therapeutic massage is done after wet cell appliance. It concentrates on the spinal areas starting at the toes and proceeds upwards, comprising all extremities. The sciatic centre, the lumbar axis, and the brachial centre should be especially concentrated on, using a mixture of olive oil, peanut oil, and lanolin. Moderate passive ranges of motion can keep muscles and joints from getting stiff. Massage strokes can also enhance the blood supply into to muscle and decelerate muscle atrophy to a certain extent. However, if muscles are too atrophied, a hand, foot and scalp massage can also make the patient comfortable.
Any disease can cause stress and a massage therapy can be used to reduce stress as it decreases the quantity of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body. Other researches have shown that Swedish massage or Esalen massage also works well on people suffering from with Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
If the physician approves, a good massage therapist can improve the quality of the patient‘s life and provide assistance for caregivers too.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Anti-semitism
Adolf Hitler and the Jews
Reasons for hatred leading to mass extinction
Why did Adolf Hitler hate the Jews? It's a question that has confounded historians for a long time. Did he hate only the Jews? Or was it others too such as gypsies, the handicapped, homosexuals, Russians (communists) and Poles?
The beginnings
Hitler’s hatred for the Jews seems to have been sparked by a number of causes. Some historians believe that during the early years of his struggle, Hitler lived in a state of poverty in Austria. He wished to become an art student, but the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts rejected his application. They did not want a landscape artist. He was further rejected by the Vienna School of Architecture because as he did not have a school leaving certificate. Hitler believed that 4 out of the 7 members of the board who rejected his application were Jewish and were responsible for his failure.
Historians also suggest that his mother’s death fueled the hatred, as she was not treated well by a Jewish doctor. Her death left an ineffaceable mark on the then 18-year-old Adolf. Although she died from breast cancer, Hitler could never forgive the Jewish doctor as he held the doctor responsible for his mother’s death.
The years from 1907 to 1913 were the most difficult for Hitler. As the eldest child of the family, he inherited some money from his father’s will and his father’s civil service pension to live on. He stayed in Vienna making postcards and clearing snow from the pathways of the beautiful town houses. He believed that rich Jews lived comfortably in these homes while he was on the streets. And by 1910, his mind was full of hatred.
Strengthening of views
Another theory is that Hitler’s hatred was a result of his experiences after World War I. At this time, Jews not only dominated but held high-ranking positions in the textile industry, commerce, crafts, medicine and legal practice; they owned almost half of the newspapers, banks and stores. With such governance, they nearly ran the markets. In Europe, many believed that Jews were communists and gave rise to the Judeo-Bolshevist conspiracy (anti-Semitic conspiracy which states that communism is a Jewish conspiracy). Hitler at this time was living in Munich when Jews played an important role in the revolution against the German monarchy in 1918. He blamed the Jews for the revolution in Russia, for the collapse of the German economy, and for its poverty and suffering. He also apparently believed that the Jews had deceived Germans (stab-in-the-back theory) in World War I. As Germany lost World War I and its economy was in ruins, Jews were held responsible for capitalism and the rise of Bolshevism. Amid the rumors and the middle class sentiment regarding Germany’s defeat in World War I, Hitler felt that it was normal to blame Jews, and he believed that they needed to be trodden upon.
After the Great Depression, Germany was in ruins. Anti-Semitism was deeply rooted in the European and American culture as Christianity initially blamed Jews for the death of Christ (In 1960, the Catholic Church stated that Jews were not to be blamed for the death of Jesus).
Anti-Semitism had set in Hitler’s mind.
Final Solution by the ‘prime mover’ of the holocaust
Hitler had been devastated by Germany’s loss and his already-poisoned mind led to further conflicts and frustrations. As Hitler wrote in Mein Kampf, “My views with regard to anti-Semitism succumbed to the passage of time, and this was my greatest transformation of all. Gradually, I began to hate them (the Jews)....For me this was the time of the greatest spiritual upheaval I have ever had to go through.. I had ceased to be a weak-kneed cosmopolitan and become an anti-Semite. As I recognized the Jew as the cold-hearted, shameless and calculating director of this revolting vice traffic in the scum of the big city, a cold shudder ran down my back...”
Jews had become the scapegoats.
Hitler and many Nazis were also influenced by the notorious anti-Semitic book called "Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion." In a speech on anti-Semitic racism on July 1922 in Munich, Hitler said, "His is no master people; he is an exploiter: the Jews are a people of robbers. He has never founded any civilization, though he has destroyed civilizations by the hundred...everything he has is stolen. Foreign people, foreign workmen build him his temples, it is foreigners who create and work for him, it is foreigners who shed their blood for him." Hitler declared, "The war is to be a war of annihilation". His henchman Heinrich Himmler declared: "All Poles will disappear from the world. . . . It is essential that the great German people should consider it as a major task to destroy all Poles." Majority of Poles were Jews during Hitler’s supremacy and had become the mere victims of mass annihilation.
Hitler had begun to believe that only through bloodshed and brutality could the societal problems be solved. He was obsessed with hatred towards the Jews and he had utmost faith in his beliefs. He believed that if Jews were eradicated, there would be a new and united Germany. All these beliefs led to the horrible brutality of the holocaust during World War II (when the real Holocaust started in 1941). He built extermination camps and killed thousands of people at one time. He considered Jews, Poles, gays, gypsies, Russians and mentally challenged people as lower class and made them work as slave laborers. He considered them sub humans and gassed them. Hitler believed only he knew what was good for his country and everyone had to follow his orders.
Historians give a number of reasons for this hatred which led to genocide. But his irrational and fanatical behavior against the Jews and others still leaves people disturbed and wondering.
Reasons for hatred leading to mass extinction
Why did Adolf Hitler hate the Jews? It's a question that has confounded historians for a long time. Did he hate only the Jews? Or was it others too such as gypsies, the handicapped, homosexuals, Russians (communists) and Poles?
The beginnings
Hitler’s hatred for the Jews seems to have been sparked by a number of causes. Some historians believe that during the early years of his struggle, Hitler lived in a state of poverty in Austria. He wished to become an art student, but the Vienna Academy of Fine Arts rejected his application. They did not want a landscape artist. He was further rejected by the Vienna School of Architecture because as he did not have a school leaving certificate. Hitler believed that 4 out of the 7 members of the board who rejected his application were Jewish and were responsible for his failure.
Historians also suggest that his mother’s death fueled the hatred, as she was not treated well by a Jewish doctor. Her death left an ineffaceable mark on the then 18-year-old Adolf. Although she died from breast cancer, Hitler could never forgive the Jewish doctor as he held the doctor responsible for his mother’s death.
The years from 1907 to 1913 were the most difficult for Hitler. As the eldest child of the family, he inherited some money from his father’s will and his father’s civil service pension to live on. He stayed in Vienna making postcards and clearing snow from the pathways of the beautiful town houses. He believed that rich Jews lived comfortably in these homes while he was on the streets. And by 1910, his mind was full of hatred.
Strengthening of views
Another theory is that Hitler’s hatred was a result of his experiences after World War I. At this time, Jews not only dominated but held high-ranking positions in the textile industry, commerce, crafts, medicine and legal practice; they owned almost half of the newspapers, banks and stores. With such governance, they nearly ran the markets. In Europe, many believed that Jews were communists and gave rise to the Judeo-Bolshevist conspiracy (anti-Semitic conspiracy which states that communism is a Jewish conspiracy). Hitler at this time was living in Munich when Jews played an important role in the revolution against the German monarchy in 1918. He blamed the Jews for the revolution in Russia, for the collapse of the German economy, and for its poverty and suffering. He also apparently believed that the Jews had deceived Germans (stab-in-the-back theory) in World War I. As Germany lost World War I and its economy was in ruins, Jews were held responsible for capitalism and the rise of Bolshevism. Amid the rumors and the middle class sentiment regarding Germany’s defeat in World War I, Hitler felt that it was normal to blame Jews, and he believed that they needed to be trodden upon.
After the Great Depression, Germany was in ruins. Anti-Semitism was deeply rooted in the European and American culture as Christianity initially blamed Jews for the death of Christ (In 1960, the Catholic Church stated that Jews were not to be blamed for the death of Jesus).
Anti-Semitism had set in Hitler’s mind.
Final Solution by the ‘prime mover’ of the holocaust
Hitler had been devastated by Germany’s loss and his already-poisoned mind led to further conflicts and frustrations. As Hitler wrote in Mein Kampf, “My views with regard to anti-Semitism succumbed to the passage of time, and this was my greatest transformation of all. Gradually, I began to hate them (the Jews)....For me this was the time of the greatest spiritual upheaval I have ever had to go through.. I had ceased to be a weak-kneed cosmopolitan and become an anti-Semite. As I recognized the Jew as the cold-hearted, shameless and calculating director of this revolting vice traffic in the scum of the big city, a cold shudder ran down my back...”
Jews had become the scapegoats.
Hitler and many Nazis were also influenced by the notorious anti-Semitic book called "Protocols of the Learned Elders of Zion." In a speech on anti-Semitic racism on July 1922 in Munich, Hitler said, "His is no master people; he is an exploiter: the Jews are a people of robbers. He has never founded any civilization, though he has destroyed civilizations by the hundred...everything he has is stolen. Foreign people, foreign workmen build him his temples, it is foreigners who create and work for him, it is foreigners who shed their blood for him." Hitler declared, "The war is to be a war of annihilation". His henchman Heinrich Himmler declared: "All Poles will disappear from the world. . . . It is essential that the great German people should consider it as a major task to destroy all Poles." Majority of Poles were Jews during Hitler’s supremacy and had become the mere victims of mass annihilation.
Hitler had begun to believe that only through bloodshed and brutality could the societal problems be solved. He was obsessed with hatred towards the Jews and he had utmost faith in his beliefs. He believed that if Jews were eradicated, there would be a new and united Germany. All these beliefs led to the horrible brutality of the holocaust during World War II (when the real Holocaust started in 1941). He built extermination camps and killed thousands of people at one time. He considered Jews, Poles, gays, gypsies, Russians and mentally challenged people as lower class and made them work as slave laborers. He considered them sub humans and gassed them. Hitler believed only he knew what was good for his country and everyone had to follow his orders.
Historians give a number of reasons for this hatred which led to genocide. But his irrational and fanatical behavior against the Jews and others still leaves people disturbed and wondering.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Holidays and Domestic Violence
Holiday financial stress sparks domestic violence
Idealistic pressures lead to abuse
Holidays are a time for merriment, parties and family get-togethers. People exchange gifts and enjoy Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and News Year’s. But for many women and children, it is a time of fear, abuse, depression and increased domestic violence.
David Schneider, M.D., chair of family and community medicine at Saint Louis University, states that, “There’s a lot of stress associated with the holidays, from pressure to provide for the family and money issues to spending more time with distant family. Domestic violence often revolves around high stress times. Additionally, people tend to drink more alcohol around the holidays, and about half of all domestic violence occurs when either the perpetrator or victim is under the influence of alcohol.”
Statistics on domestic violence
Domestic violence increases around Christmas and New Year's all over the world. The US, UK and Australia report a rise of about 20% during this festive season. Overall, one in every four women experiences domestic violence in her lifetime. Most of it comes in the form of physical assault by the intimate partner. 85% of domestic violence victims are women. They are victims of stalking, torture, and physical or sexual assault. And the nasty truth is that most of the cases are never reported to the police.
Expectations and Reality
The economic downturn can lead to overall stress among all members of a family. But for many people, seasonal expectations lead to unrealistic demands, exacerbating the problem. Spending time and money on vacations and gifts leaves people at an edge for money. Some families just want to feel good among their peers, friends and families, spending until their budgets are in tatters. Stress is usually high which sometimes leads the family breadwinner to excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs, hence domestic violence.
Avoiding domestic violence
Too often, women do not complain or do not wish to see the seriousness of the issue until it becomes dangerous or fatal. Schneider warns that when a partner is threatening suicide or there are guns in house, these are very dangerous situations. If you find yourself in one of these situations, you need to find a way out.
- Communicate and let things cool down before starting a conversation.
- Plan according to your budget, stick to it and avoid being a spendthrift.
- Stand up for yourself, and go to a relative's or a friend’s house. Get away from a situation which is beginning to get downright nasty.
- Accept help from churches, shelters, or your local police department.
- Get a restraining order.
- If this is happening to a friend or a relative, offer support and encouragement, and arrange for transportation to either your own home or to a local woman’s shelter.
It’s important to not let the situation go out of hand. Manage financial pressures by taking a look at your budget. Don’t go overboard. And be realistic.
Idealistic pressures lead to abuse
Holidays are a time for merriment, parties and family get-togethers. People exchange gifts and enjoy Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah and News Year’s. But for many women and children, it is a time of fear, abuse, depression and increased domestic violence.
David Schneider, M.D., chair of family and community medicine at Saint Louis University, states that, “There’s a lot of stress associated with the holidays, from pressure to provide for the family and money issues to spending more time with distant family. Domestic violence often revolves around high stress times. Additionally, people tend to drink more alcohol around the holidays, and about half of all domestic violence occurs when either the perpetrator or victim is under the influence of alcohol.”
Statistics on domestic violence
Domestic violence increases around Christmas and New Year's all over the world. The US, UK and Australia report a rise of about 20% during this festive season. Overall, one in every four women experiences domestic violence in her lifetime. Most of it comes in the form of physical assault by the intimate partner. 85% of domestic violence victims are women. They are victims of stalking, torture, and physical or sexual assault. And the nasty truth is that most of the cases are never reported to the police.
Expectations and Reality
The economic downturn can lead to overall stress among all members of a family. But for many people, seasonal expectations lead to unrealistic demands, exacerbating the problem. Spending time and money on vacations and gifts leaves people at an edge for money. Some families just want to feel good among their peers, friends and families, spending until their budgets are in tatters. Stress is usually high which sometimes leads the family breadwinner to excessive consumption of alcohol and drugs, hence domestic violence.
Avoiding domestic violence
Too often, women do not complain or do not wish to see the seriousness of the issue until it becomes dangerous or fatal. Schneider warns that when a partner is threatening suicide or there are guns in house, these are very dangerous situations. If you find yourself in one of these situations, you need to find a way out.
- Communicate and let things cool down before starting a conversation.
- Plan according to your budget, stick to it and avoid being a spendthrift.
- Stand up for yourself, and go to a relative's or a friend’s house. Get away from a situation which is beginning to get downright nasty.
- Accept help from churches, shelters, or your local police department.
- Get a restraining order.
- If this is happening to a friend or a relative, offer support and encouragement, and arrange for transportation to either your own home or to a local woman’s shelter.
It’s important to not let the situation go out of hand. Manage financial pressures by taking a look at your budget. Don’t go overboard. And be realistic.
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Tui Na for Respiratory and Digestive Disorders
Tui Na for Respiratory and Digestive Disorders
Tui Na (literally means ‘push and grasp’) is an oriental massage (bodywork) therapy. Founded on the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, Tui Na’s principles are based on the effective flow of chi energy (ch’i, qi, or ki), blood, and yin/yang through the energy meridians of the body. Tui Na is accompanied with manipulation techniques of acupressure points, energy trigger points, and muscles and joints around the affected area to treat diseases. This relieves pain and allows the body to naturally heal itself. Tui-Na also heals the muscular tension around bony structures thereby reducing the outcome that follows treatments.
TCM theory states that pain and disease occurs when disharmony (yin and yang, and Qi energy stagnates) arises in the body. Tui Na focuses on correcting these imbalances by balancing the flow of Qi (life force) throughout the body. The advantages of Tui Na are lack of side effects or complications, low cost and effectiveness. Tui Na helps the body restore its balance (corrects physiological imbalance), reduces hyper function of internal organs, improves immunity, increases resistance against external pathogens, and promotes blood circulation.
Tui Na focuses on a specific problem rather than a wide spectrum thereby making it an excellent alternative medicine. Qi Gong Tui Na massage uses the internal energy of the practitioner by emitting Qi into specific energy centres in the patient’s body. Nei Gong uses internal Qi development to trigger the patient’s Qi for healing. These tried and tested body therapies in the world are the most effective western-style massage therapies.
Tui Na uses the technique of massaging soft tissues (muscles and tendons) with hands by applying pressure on the pressure points. It is extremely effective in the treatment of chronic stress related disorders of the respiratory (acute rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, common cold, hay fever, bronchial asthma) and digestive (IBS, bloating, hyperacidity, abdominal, epigastria and flank pain, nausea, gastrointestinal reflux disease, ulcers, constipation, gall bladder inflammation, diarrhoea, colitis) system.
Clinical studies have shown that Tui Na Chinese medical massage or the ‘hands-on therapy’ has been extremely effective in treating chronic and critical medical problems. This massage therapy uses finger pressures to stimulate the various points thereby relieving pain and stress. It also invigorates/balances organs systems for healing. This therapy is usually coupled with acupressure, moxibustion, cupping therapy, and traditional herbs.
Manipulation techniques are used to realign the musculoskeletal and ligamentous system. Palms and fingertips are used to press, tap, and knead the affected area’s surrounding. Tui Na is not a general body massage and should not be used for relaxation, fractures, phlebitis, infections, open wounds, lesions, pregnancy and menstruation.
Scientifically, the gate control theory in neurophysiology was used to describe the analgesic principle of Tui Na. It was found that changes of circulating speed of blood and lymph-vascular fluid before and after Tui Na treatment were helpful in reducing swelling and blood stasis. Tui Na lowered blood pressure and the contents of 5-HT in the blood increased after the therapy. Another therapy of squeezing the spine encouraged the incorporation of the small intestine.
Choose a licensed practitioner for Tui Na massage after consulting a primary health care provider.
Tui Na (literally means ‘push and grasp’) is an oriental massage (bodywork) therapy. Founded on the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, Tui Na’s principles are based on the effective flow of chi energy (ch’i, qi, or ki), blood, and yin/yang through the energy meridians of the body. Tui Na is accompanied with manipulation techniques of acupressure points, energy trigger points, and muscles and joints around the affected area to treat diseases. This relieves pain and allows the body to naturally heal itself. Tui-Na also heals the muscular tension around bony structures thereby reducing the outcome that follows treatments.
TCM theory states that pain and disease occurs when disharmony (yin and yang, and Qi energy stagnates) arises in the body. Tui Na focuses on correcting these imbalances by balancing the flow of Qi (life force) throughout the body. The advantages of Tui Na are lack of side effects or complications, low cost and effectiveness. Tui Na helps the body restore its balance (corrects physiological imbalance), reduces hyper function of internal organs, improves immunity, increases resistance against external pathogens, and promotes blood circulation.
Tui Na focuses on a specific problem rather than a wide spectrum thereby making it an excellent alternative medicine. Qi Gong Tui Na massage uses the internal energy of the practitioner by emitting Qi into specific energy centres in the patient’s body. Nei Gong uses internal Qi development to trigger the patient’s Qi for healing. These tried and tested body therapies in the world are the most effective western-style massage therapies.
Tui Na uses the technique of massaging soft tissues (muscles and tendons) with hands by applying pressure on the pressure points. It is extremely effective in the treatment of chronic stress related disorders of the respiratory (acute rhinitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, cough, common cold, hay fever, bronchial asthma) and digestive (IBS, bloating, hyperacidity, abdominal, epigastria and flank pain, nausea, gastrointestinal reflux disease, ulcers, constipation, gall bladder inflammation, diarrhoea, colitis) system.
Clinical studies have shown that Tui Na Chinese medical massage or the ‘hands-on therapy’ has been extremely effective in treating chronic and critical medical problems. This massage therapy uses finger pressures to stimulate the various points thereby relieving pain and stress. It also invigorates/balances organs systems for healing. This therapy is usually coupled with acupressure, moxibustion, cupping therapy, and traditional herbs.
Manipulation techniques are used to realign the musculoskeletal and ligamentous system. Palms and fingertips are used to press, tap, and knead the affected area’s surrounding. Tui Na is not a general body massage and should not be used for relaxation, fractures, phlebitis, infections, open wounds, lesions, pregnancy and menstruation.
Scientifically, the gate control theory in neurophysiology was used to describe the analgesic principle of Tui Na. It was found that changes of circulating speed of blood and lymph-vascular fluid before and after Tui Na treatment were helpful in reducing swelling and blood stasis. Tui Na lowered blood pressure and the contents of 5-HT in the blood increased after the therapy. Another therapy of squeezing the spine encouraged the incorporation of the small intestine.
Choose a licensed practitioner for Tui Na massage after consulting a primary health care provider.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Massage Therapy and Scoliosis
Massage Therapy and Scoliosis
Scoliosis (literally means crooked) is a disorder which causes a lateral curvature of the spine. It begins in the cranium causing a twist in the spine due to distortion of cranial bones followed by asymmetrical hips and ribs. Scoliosis is usually combined with a rotation of the vertebrae.
The cause of scoliosis is idiopathic (unknown). Names given to idiopathic scoliosis are infantile (children less than 3 years), juvenile (between 3-10years), and adolescent (over 10 years). There are two forms of scoliosis (structural and functional scoliosis); and it occurs more in women than men. The various causes are due to congenital, neuromuscular or degenerative problems and spine tumours.
Symptoms are noticeable if a child bends to a side, shoulder height is unequal, imbalanced hip, imbalanced rib cage, head is not exactly above the pelvis, lopsided waist, or skin on the spine has dimples, hairy patches, and changes colour.
If scoliosis goes untreated, it can cause overload on the spine. The worsening curve of the spine can affect pregnant ladies. Severe scoliosis alters the quality and life expectancy of the individual, leading to lower self-esteem and unemployment. It leads to respiratory and cardiac problems causing other types of further severe disabilities.
Treatments for scoliosis are surgery, observation, orthopaedic bracing, electrical stimulation, rolfing, chiropractor manipulation, aquatic exercise, acupuncture, acupressure, yoga, physiotherapy, and massage therapy.
According to the ‘American Massage Therapy Association’ massage is being recognized as a factor of health and wellness. It has been used for respite from pain, injury rehabilitation, migraine control, stress management or overall wellness. 22% of Americans have received massage between July 2008 and July 2009, and 34% have received it in the last 5 years; wherein 86% agree that massage helps in reducing pain.
As per ‘Institute of Integrative Healthcare Studies, ‘Cranial-sacral therapy’ (addresses restricted tissue thereby balancing the spine), ‘Deep tissue massage therapy’ (uses stretch techniques on hypertonic muscles, balancing circulations and relieving pain), and ‘Neuromuscular therapy’ (focuses on stretching muscle fibres and alleviating pain) are being considered as alternatives medicines for relief from scoliosis.
‘Press stretch massage therapy’ deals with pressing and stretching small areas or the whole back. ‘Balanced massage therapy’ deals with pushing out pressure away from the tense sides of the spine. ‘Neck and shoulder massage therapy’ focuses on the ‘S’ curve of the back, pushing the knots and shoulder blades out. ‘Seated massage therapy’ works on the inside of the curvature thereby applying pressure.
‘Bowen technique’ focuses on cycles of placid movements such as cross-fibre manoeuvring of muscles, tendons and ligaments causing deep relaxation and helps in balancing the nervous system. In ‘Muscle Energy technique’ indirect pressure is applied by asking the patient to contract a muscle of one side thereby relaxing the muscles on the other side.
‘Sports massage therapies’ are used for curing scoliosis by freeing the tension in the muscle and accelerating blood flow. Some are effleurage, petrissage, stripping the muscles technique, frictions to the muscle attachments, circular and transverse friction to the muscle, and finishing off.
Massage therapy helps in the healing and prevention of scar tissues, furthermore aligns and relaxes the very tense muscles. It is recommended to take professional advice in the treatment of scoliosis.
Scoliosis (literally means crooked) is a disorder which causes a lateral curvature of the spine. It begins in the cranium causing a twist in the spine due to distortion of cranial bones followed by asymmetrical hips and ribs. Scoliosis is usually combined with a rotation of the vertebrae.
The cause of scoliosis is idiopathic (unknown). Names given to idiopathic scoliosis are infantile (children less than 3 years), juvenile (between 3-10years), and adolescent (over 10 years). There are two forms of scoliosis (structural and functional scoliosis); and it occurs more in women than men. The various causes are due to congenital, neuromuscular or degenerative problems and spine tumours.
Symptoms are noticeable if a child bends to a side, shoulder height is unequal, imbalanced hip, imbalanced rib cage, head is not exactly above the pelvis, lopsided waist, or skin on the spine has dimples, hairy patches, and changes colour.
If scoliosis goes untreated, it can cause overload on the spine. The worsening curve of the spine can affect pregnant ladies. Severe scoliosis alters the quality and life expectancy of the individual, leading to lower self-esteem and unemployment. It leads to respiratory and cardiac problems causing other types of further severe disabilities.
Treatments for scoliosis are surgery, observation, orthopaedic bracing, electrical stimulation, rolfing, chiropractor manipulation, aquatic exercise, acupuncture, acupressure, yoga, physiotherapy, and massage therapy.
According to the ‘American Massage Therapy Association’ massage is being recognized as a factor of health and wellness. It has been used for respite from pain, injury rehabilitation, migraine control, stress management or overall wellness. 22% of Americans have received massage between July 2008 and July 2009, and 34% have received it in the last 5 years; wherein 86% agree that massage helps in reducing pain.
As per ‘Institute of Integrative Healthcare Studies, ‘Cranial-sacral therapy’ (addresses restricted tissue thereby balancing the spine), ‘Deep tissue massage therapy’ (uses stretch techniques on hypertonic muscles, balancing circulations and relieving pain), and ‘Neuromuscular therapy’ (focuses on stretching muscle fibres and alleviating pain) are being considered as alternatives medicines for relief from scoliosis.
‘Press stretch massage therapy’ deals with pressing and stretching small areas or the whole back. ‘Balanced massage therapy’ deals with pushing out pressure away from the tense sides of the spine. ‘Neck and shoulder massage therapy’ focuses on the ‘S’ curve of the back, pushing the knots and shoulder blades out. ‘Seated massage therapy’ works on the inside of the curvature thereby applying pressure.
‘Bowen technique’ focuses on cycles of placid movements such as cross-fibre manoeuvring of muscles, tendons and ligaments causing deep relaxation and helps in balancing the nervous system. In ‘Muscle Energy technique’ indirect pressure is applied by asking the patient to contract a muscle of one side thereby relaxing the muscles on the other side.
‘Sports massage therapies’ are used for curing scoliosis by freeing the tension in the muscle and accelerating blood flow. Some are effleurage, petrissage, stripping the muscles technique, frictions to the muscle attachments, circular and transverse friction to the muscle, and finishing off.
Massage therapy helps in the healing and prevention of scar tissues, furthermore aligns and relaxes the very tense muscles. It is recommended to take professional advice in the treatment of scoliosis.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
College Admission Essay
How to write a College Admission Essay
With each passing year, competition in colleges gets tougher with the number of students increasing while the seats remain limited. The GPA scores, class ranks and SAT scores are already in place by the time you apply.
So how can you strengthen the chances of gaining acceptance in your dream college? By creating an impact par excellence on your application through an exceptional college admission essay. A good essay also signifies you as a scholar, distinct from rest of the applicants and as someone a college would look for as part of their commune.
Writing an outstanding personal essay:
Preferences: Choosing a topic requires a ‘thought process.’ The colleges evaluate your choice of topic as a reflection of creativity, values, opinions, inclinations and depth of knowledge which you possess. Topics can deal from your extra-curricular activities, any characteristic or skill that distinguishes you from others, contributions to society, favourite books, movies, role models, failures and accomplishments to your future dreams and goals. Also read other sample essays to understand the ones which have succeeded. Categorize your essay selection by ‘general’ or ‘specific’ topics. General essays contain information about you or your reasons for applying to a particular college. Specific topic essays deal with your views on a significant event or issue.
Topic Selection: Select the topic that best describes your personality and experience while simultaneously matching the institution’s strengths and needs. The topic should also demonstrate diversity in your interests and illustrate your prospects of probable contribution to the institution’s scholastic environment.
Writing the college admission essay: The colleges scrutinize your essay for good English, style, power of conviction and organizational capabilities. Choose a format from ‘standard’, ‘less-is-more’ or ‘narrative’ essay. Standard essay is written by expanding on one’s experiences and activities. Less-is-more essays deal with a single motivating and appealing point. Narrative essays tell a story/tale thereby revealing more information about you or your learning from it. Try to avoid mentioning weaknesses or any negative aspects about you. Do not repeat any feature which has already been mentioned elsewhere in the application such as exam scores.
Draft: Give an idea of your content in the introduction section. It has to grab the interest of the reader. Build the reasoning in the body of the essay with apposite transitions. Narrate the main idea while showing the story, don’t tell. Do not summarize in the conclusion. Organize the main points, redefine a term, broaden the discussion pointers or show that your topic has a broad appeal.
Revise and edit: Check for grammatical errors or unclear logic. Keep the language simple and unambiguous. Ask an editor to assess the essay for: clarity and active voice, detect clichés and generic words, restructuring required for sentences or words which do not support the main idea of the essay.
Proofread your college admission essay two to three more times. Keep the focus on the main idea by proving it with facts and examples.
Wishing you the best of luck in all your endeavours!
With each passing year, competition in colleges gets tougher with the number of students increasing while the seats remain limited. The GPA scores, class ranks and SAT scores are already in place by the time you apply.
So how can you strengthen the chances of gaining acceptance in your dream college? By creating an impact par excellence on your application through an exceptional college admission essay. A good essay also signifies you as a scholar, distinct from rest of the applicants and as someone a college would look for as part of their commune.
Writing an outstanding personal essay:
Preferences: Choosing a topic requires a ‘thought process.’ The colleges evaluate your choice of topic as a reflection of creativity, values, opinions, inclinations and depth of knowledge which you possess. Topics can deal from your extra-curricular activities, any characteristic or skill that distinguishes you from others, contributions to society, favourite books, movies, role models, failures and accomplishments to your future dreams and goals. Also read other sample essays to understand the ones which have succeeded. Categorize your essay selection by ‘general’ or ‘specific’ topics. General essays contain information about you or your reasons for applying to a particular college. Specific topic essays deal with your views on a significant event or issue.
Topic Selection: Select the topic that best describes your personality and experience while simultaneously matching the institution’s strengths and needs. The topic should also demonstrate diversity in your interests and illustrate your prospects of probable contribution to the institution’s scholastic environment.
Writing the college admission essay: The colleges scrutinize your essay for good English, style, power of conviction and organizational capabilities. Choose a format from ‘standard’, ‘less-is-more’ or ‘narrative’ essay. Standard essay is written by expanding on one’s experiences and activities. Less-is-more essays deal with a single motivating and appealing point. Narrative essays tell a story/tale thereby revealing more information about you or your learning from it. Try to avoid mentioning weaknesses or any negative aspects about you. Do not repeat any feature which has already been mentioned elsewhere in the application such as exam scores.
Draft: Give an idea of your content in the introduction section. It has to grab the interest of the reader. Build the reasoning in the body of the essay with apposite transitions. Narrate the main idea while showing the story, don’t tell. Do not summarize in the conclusion. Organize the main points, redefine a term, broaden the discussion pointers or show that your topic has a broad appeal.
Revise and edit: Check for grammatical errors or unclear logic. Keep the language simple and unambiguous. Ask an editor to assess the essay for: clarity and active voice, detect clichés and generic words, restructuring required for sentences or words which do not support the main idea of the essay.
Proofread your college admission essay two to three more times. Keep the focus on the main idea by proving it with facts and examples.
Wishing you the best of luck in all your endeavours!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
5 senses
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "Why do you shop there? Think of a store where you occasionally shop. Can you write a piece that uses all five senses to describe the essence of this store?"
A store where I occasionally shop is ‘Kiddy Palace.” I go there mainly for my daughter’s toys and educational material and for birthday gifts. When I walk into the store, the five senses which bring along some pleasant feelings are:
Sight – When I see the store, I feel like buying everything possible. Its looks to me as if a lot of toys and clothes are added every time, a bigger and better variety.
Hearing – I tend to hear kids playing with toys or crying for them to their parents. It’s delightful to watch the excited face of kids when they have been brought a new toy by their parents.
Touch – When I touch the clothes and toys, I feel that everything is catered to all ages of children. Probably that is why all kids tend to love this store.
Smell – The smell is usually fine. No perfume smell or anything, but a normal one.
Taste – This is not an eatery, so I really can’t go about tasting anything inside it. But my daughter does jump on candies provided with a toy fan.
All in all, it is a good window shopping experience even if I don’t intend to buy anything.
A store where I occasionally shop is ‘Kiddy Palace.” I go there mainly for my daughter’s toys and educational material and for birthday gifts. When I walk into the store, the five senses which bring along some pleasant feelings are:
Sight – When I see the store, I feel like buying everything possible. Its looks to me as if a lot of toys and clothes are added every time, a bigger and better variety.
Hearing – I tend to hear kids playing with toys or crying for them to their parents. It’s delightful to watch the excited face of kids when they have been brought a new toy by their parents.
Touch – When I touch the clothes and toys, I feel that everything is catered to all ages of children. Probably that is why all kids tend to love this store.
Smell – The smell is usually fine. No perfume smell or anything, but a normal one.
Taste – This is not an eatery, so I really can’t go about tasting anything inside it. But my daughter does jump on candies provided with a toy fan.
All in all, it is a good window shopping experience even if I don’t intend to buy anything.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
March 22
World Water Day
In 1993, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22 as “World Day for Water”. The UN had responded to a proposal made in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). It is a means of focusing attention on water as a resource and advocating for its continued management. A campaign is held every year and people are made to understand the importance of quality and quantity of water. Each year one of the UN agencies promotes activities related to water issues.
The theme for the year 2010 is “Clean water for a healthy world.” The previous themes have been on trans boundary waters, sanitation, coping with water scarcity, water and culture, water for life, water and disasters, water for the future, water for development, water and health, water for the 21st century, everyone lives downstream, groundwater-the invisible resource, the world water, is there enough?, water for thirsty cities, women and water and caring for our water resources is everyone’s business.
In 1993, the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22 as “World Day for Water”. The UN had responded to a proposal made in 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). It is a means of focusing attention on water as a resource and advocating for its continued management. A campaign is held every year and people are made to understand the importance of quality and quantity of water. Each year one of the UN agencies promotes activities related to water issues.
The theme for the year 2010 is “Clean water for a healthy world.” The previous themes have been on trans boundary waters, sanitation, coping with water scarcity, water and culture, water for life, water and disasters, water for the future, water for development, water and health, water for the 21st century, everyone lives downstream, groundwater-the invisible resource, the world water, is there enough?, water for thirsty cities, women and water and caring for our water resources is everyone’s business.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Kids and Cellphones
Kids and Cellphones: At what age should you give a child a cell phone?
Is your child ready for a cell phone?
Often parents buy cell phones for their children and then wonder if they have made a mistake. Is it actually instilling wrong values? After all, kids can live without cell phones. There is a definite debate on the age of the child when a cell phone should be provided. With many cell phones offering text messaging, MMS, photos and Internet services, the child may be exposed to more than he needs at a young age.
Statistics on cell phone usage
According to a 2008 PEW study on U.S. teen cell phone use, the number of teens owning cell phones had increased to 71 percent, compared to 77 percent of adults. According to the New York Times, 17.5 million young people between the ages of 13 and 17 own cell phones. A higher percentage of users in the 13-24 year-old group use their phones for services like messaging. An International Telecommunication Union report states that six in ten people around the world have cell phone subscriptions; developing countries account for about two-thirds of cell phones in use.
The unsupported reasoning of kids wanting a cell phone
Most of us lived without cell phones throughout our school years. So why is it that all of a sudden, youths must have cell phones? Do some parents just wish to shirk the responsibility or wish themselves and their kids to look cool, or it is just peer pressure where "my friend" or "all the children in my class" have cell phones? If a child has a disability and needs to be tracked 24/7, a cell phone may be necessary. Kids also reason that in case of an emergency, they can use the phone to contact their parents. Usually this logic is bought by many parents.
Dangers of cell phones
According to a study of Japanese teenagers, 37% of males and 30% of females had used their cell phones to access dating sites, leading to them having sexual relations and receiving unwanted cell phone messages from other children. In a British study, 16% of youngsters had received threatening text messages from their peers, and another 7% had been stalked in chat rooms. Four percent of these youngsters had been tormented via their cell phone. Seven percent of the British students also stated that they had lost jobs or relationships due to the usage of their cell phone. All these studies point to the problems that can evolve from children having cell phones.
So, are cell phones really required? When is your child ready for a cell phone?
Most youths are ready by their teens, but before you buy your child a cell phone, consider these points:
• Your child should know how to use a cell phone. He should understand that it is not a toy, and that useless calls and wasting money will not be allowed.
• Children should understand that in case of emergency they should be accessible by the parents; they cannot spend all of their time talking to friends.
• Your child should be mature enough to not make crank calls or send inappropriate text messages and should follow the rules made by the parents on the usage of cell phones.
• Children who often lose things should not be given a cell phone.
• If your child is heavily into extra-curricular activities and comes home late after school, then you might want to give him a cell phone for convenience and security, and to be able to keep in touch on a regular basis.
Weigh the pros and cons before giving your child a cell phone. When choosing a cell phone, consider whether you can afford the cell phone bill and look for a plan that limits the minutes your child can use on the cell phone. Get a cell phone with a GPS system so that you can track your child regularly.
Remember that a cell phone is only a form of communication, not a requirement.
Is your child ready for a cell phone?
Often parents buy cell phones for their children and then wonder if they have made a mistake. Is it actually instilling wrong values? After all, kids can live without cell phones. There is a definite debate on the age of the child when a cell phone should be provided. With many cell phones offering text messaging, MMS, photos and Internet services, the child may be exposed to more than he needs at a young age.
Statistics on cell phone usage
According to a 2008 PEW study on U.S. teen cell phone use, the number of teens owning cell phones had increased to 71 percent, compared to 77 percent of adults. According to the New York Times, 17.5 million young people between the ages of 13 and 17 own cell phones. A higher percentage of users in the 13-24 year-old group use their phones for services like messaging. An International Telecommunication Union report states that six in ten people around the world have cell phone subscriptions; developing countries account for about two-thirds of cell phones in use.
The unsupported reasoning of kids wanting a cell phone
Most of us lived without cell phones throughout our school years. So why is it that all of a sudden, youths must have cell phones? Do some parents just wish to shirk the responsibility or wish themselves and their kids to look cool, or it is just peer pressure where "my friend" or "all the children in my class" have cell phones? If a child has a disability and needs to be tracked 24/7, a cell phone may be necessary. Kids also reason that in case of an emergency, they can use the phone to contact their parents. Usually this logic is bought by many parents.
Dangers of cell phones
According to a study of Japanese teenagers, 37% of males and 30% of females had used their cell phones to access dating sites, leading to them having sexual relations and receiving unwanted cell phone messages from other children. In a British study, 16% of youngsters had received threatening text messages from their peers, and another 7% had been stalked in chat rooms. Four percent of these youngsters had been tormented via their cell phone. Seven percent of the British students also stated that they had lost jobs or relationships due to the usage of their cell phone. All these studies point to the problems that can evolve from children having cell phones.
So, are cell phones really required? When is your child ready for a cell phone?
Most youths are ready by their teens, but before you buy your child a cell phone, consider these points:
• Your child should know how to use a cell phone. He should understand that it is not a toy, and that useless calls and wasting money will not be allowed.
• Children should understand that in case of emergency they should be accessible by the parents; they cannot spend all of their time talking to friends.
• Your child should be mature enough to not make crank calls or send inappropriate text messages and should follow the rules made by the parents on the usage of cell phones.
• Children who often lose things should not be given a cell phone.
• If your child is heavily into extra-curricular activities and comes home late after school, then you might want to give him a cell phone for convenience and security, and to be able to keep in touch on a regular basis.
Weigh the pros and cons before giving your child a cell phone. When choosing a cell phone, consider whether you can afford the cell phone bill and look for a plan that limits the minutes your child can use on the cell phone. Get a cell phone with a GPS system so that you can track your child regularly.
Remember that a cell phone is only a form of communication, not a requirement.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Arturo (Arthur) Alfonso Schomburg
Arturo (Arthur) Alfonso Schomburg
A black Puerto Rican scholar and an intellectual figure in the Harlem Renaissance
"America must face its past in order to see its future" – Arturo Alfonso Schomburg
Who was Arturo Alfonso Schomburg?
Known as the Father of Black History, Arturo Alfonso Schomburg was a curator, writer, historian, Pan-Africanist and activist in the U.S. civil rights movement.
Life of Schomburg:
Arturo Alfonso Schomburg was born on January 24, 1874 in Puerto Rico. His primary education was in San Juan where he studied penmanship, church history, arithmetic, Spanish grammar, agriculture and commerce. He later studied Negro literature in the Danish-ruled Virgin Islands.
During grade school, one of his teachers stated that "Black people have no history, no heroes, no great moments." This false claim led to Schomburg's thirst for knowledge and his life-long quest to record the achievements of African Latinos. "I depart now on a mission of love to recapture my lost heritage," he wrote. Schomburg participated in the school history club. By age 23, he had collected letters, prints, playbills, paintings, literature, art, manuscripts, etchings, memorabilia and slave narratives of the people of African descent.
Subsequent to his 1891 immigration to New York, where he encountered racial discrimination, he became a self-described "Afroborinqueño" (Afro-Puerto Rican). He soon become a member of the "Revolutionary Committee of Puerto Rico" and actively participated in the fight for the independence of Cuba and Puerto Rica.
Works of Schomburg:
In 1896, he began teaching Spanish. After working as a messenger, clerk and supervisor, he wrote his first known article, "Is Hayti Decadent?", which was published in 1904 in The Unique Advertiser. He next wrote "Placido, a Cuban Martyr," a short pamphlet about the poet and freedom fighter Gabriel de la Concepción Valdéz in 1909.
In 1911, Schomburg and John Edward Bruce co-founded the Negro Society for Historical Research to create a foundation of intellectual efforts. He later became the President of the American Negro Academy, which advocated black history and literature. He also became involved in the Harlem Renaissance to combat racial prejudice by providing proof of the extraordinary contributions of the people of African descent. This renaissance spread to other African-American communities throughout the country.
Schomburg co-edited the 1912 edition of Daniel Alexander Payne Murray's Encyclopedia of the Colored Race. He wrote the essay "The Negro Digs Up His Past," which was published in the Survey Graphic of Harlem in March, 1925.
In 1926, the New York library published Schomburg’s extensive collection of rare books, artifacts and historical data. This library was later renamed the Arthur Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. In 1931, he served as a curator of the Negro Collection at the library of Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee.
Schomburg married twice and had five sons. He fell ill and died following dental surgery in New York on June 8, 1938.
In Schomburg’s own words:
"The American Negro must rebuild his past in order to make his future. Though it is orthodox to think of America as the one country where it is unnecessary to have a past, what is a luxury for the nation as a whole becomes a prime social necessity for the Negro. For him, a group tradition must supply compensation for persecution, and pride of race the antidote for prejudice. History must restore what slavery took away, for it is the social damage of slavery that the present generation must repair and offset.”
A black Puerto Rican scholar and an intellectual figure in the Harlem Renaissance
"America must face its past in order to see its future" – Arturo Alfonso Schomburg
Who was Arturo Alfonso Schomburg?
Known as the Father of Black History, Arturo Alfonso Schomburg was a curator, writer, historian, Pan-Africanist and activist in the U.S. civil rights movement.
Life of Schomburg:
Arturo Alfonso Schomburg was born on January 24, 1874 in Puerto Rico. His primary education was in San Juan where he studied penmanship, church history, arithmetic, Spanish grammar, agriculture and commerce. He later studied Negro literature in the Danish-ruled Virgin Islands.
During grade school, one of his teachers stated that "Black people have no history, no heroes, no great moments." This false claim led to Schomburg's thirst for knowledge and his life-long quest to record the achievements of African Latinos. "I depart now on a mission of love to recapture my lost heritage," he wrote. Schomburg participated in the school history club. By age 23, he had collected letters, prints, playbills, paintings, literature, art, manuscripts, etchings, memorabilia and slave narratives of the people of African descent.
Subsequent to his 1891 immigration to New York, where he encountered racial discrimination, he became a self-described "Afroborinqueño" (Afro-Puerto Rican). He soon become a member of the "Revolutionary Committee of Puerto Rico" and actively participated in the fight for the independence of Cuba and Puerto Rica.
Works of Schomburg:
In 1896, he began teaching Spanish. After working as a messenger, clerk and supervisor, he wrote his first known article, "Is Hayti Decadent?", which was published in 1904 in The Unique Advertiser. He next wrote "Placido, a Cuban Martyr," a short pamphlet about the poet and freedom fighter Gabriel de la Concepción Valdéz in 1909.
In 1911, Schomburg and John Edward Bruce co-founded the Negro Society for Historical Research to create a foundation of intellectual efforts. He later became the President of the American Negro Academy, which advocated black history and literature. He also became involved in the Harlem Renaissance to combat racial prejudice by providing proof of the extraordinary contributions of the people of African descent. This renaissance spread to other African-American communities throughout the country.
Schomburg co-edited the 1912 edition of Daniel Alexander Payne Murray's Encyclopedia of the Colored Race. He wrote the essay "The Negro Digs Up His Past," which was published in the Survey Graphic of Harlem in March, 1925.
In 1926, the New York library published Schomburg’s extensive collection of rare books, artifacts and historical data. This library was later renamed the Arthur Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. In 1931, he served as a curator of the Negro Collection at the library of Fisk University, Nashville, Tennessee.
Schomburg married twice and had five sons. He fell ill and died following dental surgery in New York on June 8, 1938.
In Schomburg’s own words:
"The American Negro must rebuild his past in order to make his future. Though it is orthodox to think of America as the one country where it is unnecessary to have a past, what is a luxury for the nation as a whole becomes a prime social necessity for the Negro. For him, a group tradition must supply compensation for persecution, and pride of race the antidote for prejudice. History must restore what slavery took away, for it is the social damage of slavery that the present generation must repair and offset.”
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Eulogy
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "What should they eulogize? Write the perfect funeral speech for your own funeral."
Excerpt from Turn Again To Life
By Mary Lee Hall
If I should die and leave you here awhile,
Be not like others, sore undone, who keep
Long vigils by the silent dust, and weep.
For my sake—turn again to life and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
Something to comfort other hearts than thine.
Complete those dear unfinished tasks of mine
And I, perchance, may therein comfort you.
It is extremely difficult to pen down one’s own eulogy. Filled with grief, heartfelt to the core, eulogies though can be beautifully crafted. When I die, I wish that people remember me as a good human being. For now, I want to contribute my services to the well being of the society and help uplift the lives of many who need help, courage and support.
My eulogy must contain the above mentioned poem. And –
We are all here to say a final goodbye. She was a loving daughter, wife and a mother. She imparted love and happiness to all in her own small ways. She not only took care of her children but also of some others who had been left stranded on the roads of nowhere. Her presence made a smile appear on everyone’s face whom she met. A strong support in tough times and worry, she always showed the path and strengthened the trust in God, and believed that everything will be alright. Things may take time to work, but eventually they will and whatever happens, happens for the best was always her mantra. A kind, loving and trustworthy soul, her absence will be felt and she will be always missed.
We will remember you always…
Excerpt from Turn Again To Life
By Mary Lee Hall
If I should die and leave you here awhile,
Be not like others, sore undone, who keep
Long vigils by the silent dust, and weep.
For my sake—turn again to life and smile,
Nerving thy heart and trembling hand to do
Something to comfort other hearts than thine.
Complete those dear unfinished tasks of mine
And I, perchance, may therein comfort you.
It is extremely difficult to pen down one’s own eulogy. Filled with grief, heartfelt to the core, eulogies though can be beautifully crafted. When I die, I wish that people remember me as a good human being. For now, I want to contribute my services to the well being of the society and help uplift the lives of many who need help, courage and support.
My eulogy must contain the above mentioned poem. And –
We are all here to say a final goodbye. She was a loving daughter, wife and a mother. She imparted love and happiness to all in her own small ways. She not only took care of her children but also of some others who had been left stranded on the roads of nowhere. Her presence made a smile appear on everyone’s face whom she met. A strong support in tough times and worry, she always showed the path and strengthened the trust in God, and believed that everything will be alright. Things may take time to work, but eventually they will and whatever happens, happens for the best was always her mantra. A kind, loving and trustworthy soul, her absence will be felt and she will be always missed.
We will remember you always…
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Ghrelin & Parkinson's disease
Stomach hormone related to Parkinson’s disease
A new found way to slow the advancement of Parkinson disease
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals that ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, may be used to slow the onset of Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system leading to the degeneration and impairment of sufferers' motor skills, speech, and physical movements. It occurs due to the loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain known as the substantia nigra.
Neurons in the midbrain produce a chemical known as dopamine, which allows messages to be sent to parts of the brain that synchronize movement in the body. When the dopamine-producing cells fail, leading to a typical loss of about 80% of the dopamine, the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear. Parts of the brain are unable to function normally, thus gradually leading to deterioration in the function of the body.
The first symptoms include tremor in one hand, followed by slowness of movement (bradykinesia), difficulty in initiating movements, and muscle stiffness. Further symptoms include stress, decreased arm swing, impaired balance, gait freezing, sleep disturbances, urinary problems, constipation and depression.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, has been associated with growth hormones, learning and memory, and is known to stimulate the appetite centers in the brain. Its function is to tell the brain that the body needs food, and its secretion regulates food intake. Ghrelin also activates the concentration of dopamine in the substantia nigra. Hence, ghrelin has may prove useful in slowing the onset of Parkinson's disease.
Ghrelin's influence was shown in a study conducted by Yale School of Medicine (YSM) researcher Tamas Horvath and colleagues. Ghrelin supplements were given to healthy mice and mice that were deficient in ghrelin hormone and in the ghrelin receptor. When compared to controls, mice with impaired ghrelin action in the brain had a higher loss of dopamine. Horvath, professor of comparative medicine, neurobiology and obstetrics & gynaecology, says the results could be easily translated to human use because the ghrelin system is replicated in the human body.
Conclusion of the study
Although it is unknown why and how the dopamine cells begin to decrease, researchers claim ghrelin supplements may offer a way to slow the advancement of the disease, if not eradicate it completely.
"Because this hormone originates from the stomach, it is circulating normally in the body, so it could easily be used to boost resistance to Parkinson's or it could be used to slow the development of the disease,” Horvath says.
A new found way to slow the advancement of Parkinson disease
A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience reveals that ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, may be used to slow the onset of Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a disorder of the central nervous system leading to the degeneration and impairment of sufferers' motor skills, speech, and physical movements. It occurs due to the loss of nerve cells in a part of the brain known as the substantia nigra.
Neurons in the midbrain produce a chemical known as dopamine, which allows messages to be sent to parts of the brain that synchronize movement in the body. When the dopamine-producing cells fail, leading to a typical loss of about 80% of the dopamine, the symptoms of Parkinson’s appear. Parts of the brain are unable to function normally, thus gradually leading to deterioration in the function of the body.
The first symptoms include tremor in one hand, followed by slowness of movement (bradykinesia), difficulty in initiating movements, and muscle stiffness. Further symptoms include stress, decreased arm swing, impaired balance, gait freezing, sleep disturbances, urinary problems, constipation and depression.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, has been associated with growth hormones, learning and memory, and is known to stimulate the appetite centers in the brain. Its function is to tell the brain that the body needs food, and its secretion regulates food intake. Ghrelin also activates the concentration of dopamine in the substantia nigra. Hence, ghrelin has may prove useful in slowing the onset of Parkinson's disease.
Ghrelin's influence was shown in a study conducted by Yale School of Medicine (YSM) researcher Tamas Horvath and colleagues. Ghrelin supplements were given to healthy mice and mice that were deficient in ghrelin hormone and in the ghrelin receptor. When compared to controls, mice with impaired ghrelin action in the brain had a higher loss of dopamine. Horvath, professor of comparative medicine, neurobiology and obstetrics & gynaecology, says the results could be easily translated to human use because the ghrelin system is replicated in the human body.
Conclusion of the study
Although it is unknown why and how the dopamine cells begin to decrease, researchers claim ghrelin supplements may offer a way to slow the advancement of the disease, if not eradicate it completely.
"Because this hormone originates from the stomach, it is circulating normally in the body, so it could easily be used to boost resistance to Parkinson's or it could be used to slow the development of the disease,” Horvath says.
Monday, February 8, 2010
The color of Poverty
Prompt: The Daily Topic: What color will you use? Practice written synethsesia today by giving something colorless (hunger, panic, laughter, etc.) color, and describing it.
Poverty – color – Brown
Though the color brown denotes encouragement, hope and faith, the origin is from a dark and dusky shade. Poverty, too, implies darkness. Poverty stems from a condition of obscurity – for humans in poverty have no access to water, food, clothing and shelter. Hence, poverty is being given the colour brown – that someday things will change, and people in poverty will have access to the basic needs. With the support and collaboration of numerous organizations helping and reaching the poor in the form of providing funds and basic needs, education and employment, many will move above the poverty line. The spiral of lack of money, therefore no means to buy food to feed the stomach, many children go hungry. But the food and education programs led by the UN for children and adults, will lead to an escape from hunger and poverty.
Poverty – color – Brown
Though the color brown denotes encouragement, hope and faith, the origin is from a dark and dusky shade. Poverty, too, implies darkness. Poverty stems from a condition of obscurity – for humans in poverty have no access to water, food, clothing and shelter. Hence, poverty is being given the colour brown – that someday things will change, and people in poverty will have access to the basic needs. With the support and collaboration of numerous organizations helping and reaching the poor in the form of providing funds and basic needs, education and employment, many will move above the poverty line. The spiral of lack of money, therefore no means to buy food to feed the stomach, many children go hungry. But the food and education programs led by the UN for children and adults, will lead to an escape from hunger and poverty.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Fond memories
Prompt: The Daily Topic: Who taught you the best? Write a memory involving your favorite teacher.
I have never had any favourite teacher but I do remember two teachers from childhood who have been especially nice to me in those growing years.
One was Mrs. N. Sen and the other was Mrs. L. Chandra. I remember Mrs Sen because she gave me a big zero in one of my class tests. When my parents went to find out the reason, she simply said, Payal helped someone else copy from her. She completed her test and then helped another student which was wrong. Though I was innocent, she wanted me to understand that copying and helping someone else copy is wrong. To this day, I remember this incident. I still help friends but yes, not for tests anymore…
Mrs. L. Chandra was a very sweet person. She helped me when I did not understand anything. Once when I was ill, she was more worried than anyone else. She helped me get home and asked about me from my parents for a very long time till I completely recuperated. She had a heart of gold and was always in reach whenever I needed anyone in school for help.
Though I don’t know where my teachers are now, I do remember them with immense fondness, love and respect.
I have never had any favourite teacher but I do remember two teachers from childhood who have been especially nice to me in those growing years.
One was Mrs. N. Sen and the other was Mrs. L. Chandra. I remember Mrs Sen because she gave me a big zero in one of my class tests. When my parents went to find out the reason, she simply said, Payal helped someone else copy from her. She completed her test and then helped another student which was wrong. Though I was innocent, she wanted me to understand that copying and helping someone else copy is wrong. To this day, I remember this incident. I still help friends but yes, not for tests anymore…
Mrs. L. Chandra was a very sweet person. She helped me when I did not understand anything. Once when I was ill, she was more worried than anyone else. She helped me get home and asked about me from my parents for a very long time till I completely recuperated. She had a heart of gold and was always in reach whenever I needed anyone in school for help.
Though I don’t know where my teachers are now, I do remember them with immense fondness, love and respect.
Monday, January 25, 2010
January 26
Republic Day of India
Falling on January 26 of every year, the Republic Day of India marks the implementation of the Indian constitution, and the shift from the British Dominion to a Republic.
Midnight of December 31, 1929 to January 1, 1930, at the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress, the Tri-Colour Flag was unfurled by the nationalists. The constitution stated that the people would incessantly work towards the establishment of a Sovereign Democratic Republic of India. On January 26, 1950, the pledge was amended and the Constitution of India created by the Constituent Assembly of India came into power. This constitution abides for the desires and objectives which ‘the common man of India’ treasures.
A national holiday, it begins with a Presidential address to the nation and homage is paid to all those freedom fighters who gave their life for the country. It is celebrated with great patriotic fervour with a parade by the Army, Navy and Air Force in the capital of India - Delhi. Many school children take part in drills and spectacular displays by people showcasing their state’s traditions in the form of dance and music is exhibited.
This day brings together the people of the whole country and hence, is one of the most celebrated festivals of India.
Falling on January 26 of every year, the Republic Day of India marks the implementation of the Indian constitution, and the shift from the British Dominion to a Republic.
Midnight of December 31, 1929 to January 1, 1930, at the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress, the Tri-Colour Flag was unfurled by the nationalists. The constitution stated that the people would incessantly work towards the establishment of a Sovereign Democratic Republic of India. On January 26, 1950, the pledge was amended and the Constitution of India created by the Constituent Assembly of India came into power. This constitution abides for the desires and objectives which ‘the common man of India’ treasures.
A national holiday, it begins with a Presidential address to the nation and homage is paid to all those freedom fighters who gave their life for the country. It is celebrated with great patriotic fervour with a parade by the Army, Navy and Air Force in the capital of India - Delhi. Many school children take part in drills and spectacular displays by people showcasing their state’s traditions in the form of dance and music is exhibited.
This day brings together the people of the whole country and hence, is one of the most celebrated festivals of India.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Cooking
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "What is the most boring or tedious thing you do on a daily basis? Using great verbs, write about this activity so that it seems incredibly INTERESTING."
Cooking has always been a tedious task for me. I generally don’t enjoy cooking, as I would enjoy reading a book which can be so mentally refreshing. But the fact is that I simply have to cook on a daily basis. At our home, we eat home-cooked food - eating out everyday can not only be expensive, it can create a problem for the stomach as well. Hence, I find myself in the kitchen everyday trying to cook something or the other for my daughter or us. Though I must state here that over the 8 yrs of marriage, my culinary skills have improved a whole lot and I have become a decent cook, but that hasn’t turned my dislike of cooking towards love. Ok, it maybe a slight liking but certainly not enjoyment. Anyhow, over the years I have started cooking a variety of dishes from starters to the main course and finally dessert. Infact, its ironical but I have even taught some of my friends some dessert or a main dish which has actually turned out pretty well especially at a get-together. So I guess I can advice all the people who hate cooking, that’s its actually not so bad. Just that when you get down to cooking, put your heart and soul into it for that short period of time. Believe me, your recipe will certainly turn out very well. Also, when you end up cooking for the ones you love and the dish has turns out well, you get immense satisfaction in watching them eat heartily.
Cooking has always been a tedious task for me. I generally don’t enjoy cooking, as I would enjoy reading a book which can be so mentally refreshing. But the fact is that I simply have to cook on a daily basis. At our home, we eat home-cooked food - eating out everyday can not only be expensive, it can create a problem for the stomach as well. Hence, I find myself in the kitchen everyday trying to cook something or the other for my daughter or us. Though I must state here that over the 8 yrs of marriage, my culinary skills have improved a whole lot and I have become a decent cook, but that hasn’t turned my dislike of cooking towards love. Ok, it maybe a slight liking but certainly not enjoyment. Anyhow, over the years I have started cooking a variety of dishes from starters to the main course and finally dessert. Infact, its ironical but I have even taught some of my friends some dessert or a main dish which has actually turned out pretty well especially at a get-together. So I guess I can advice all the people who hate cooking, that’s its actually not so bad. Just that when you get down to cooking, put your heart and soul into it for that short period of time. Believe me, your recipe will certainly turn out very well. Also, when you end up cooking for the ones you love and the dish has turns out well, you get immense satisfaction in watching them eat heartily.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Minutiae on Skin care
Cold and Dry: Skin in winters
During winters, dry skin is the most common amongst people. The cold makes the skin dry which is a result of low moisture. It is important to take care of the skin so that it does not get chapped or cracked. A good moisturizer applied regularly, everyday in the morning and night prevents the skin from getting dull and itchy. The skin can be kept healthy by drinking of lots and lots of water. Use a scrub or pumice stones at least once a week to remove the dead cells off your skin. Set up humidifiers around the house to ensure a stable humidity. Coat, hat and gloves should be used while going outdoors and wear socks instead of going barefoot at home.
During winters, dry skin is the most common amongst people. The cold makes the skin dry which is a result of low moisture. It is important to take care of the skin so that it does not get chapped or cracked. A good moisturizer applied regularly, everyday in the morning and night prevents the skin from getting dull and itchy. The skin can be kept healthy by drinking of lots and lots of water. Use a scrub or pumice stones at least once a week to remove the dead cells off your skin. Set up humidifiers around the house to ensure a stable humidity. Coat, hat and gloves should be used while going outdoors and wear socks instead of going barefoot at home.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
It's Pet Time
Prompt: The Daily Topic: "What might pets really do when left alone for the day? Write a story about the mischievous or incredible activities your pets might engage in when they have the house to themselves."
In a few words, the whole house will surely be upside down.
The food on the dining table and from the refrigerator will be all over the floor, half eaten, half beaten (with legs ofcourse)…
The sheets, pillows and cushions would be again all over the house.
Any paper found would have faced teeth as a shredder.
The show pieces would not be standing smart and neat at their place. They might have found a new place - dustbin.
Utensils would have banged against each other well.
The food in the kitchen cabinets might have found their place apart from the kitchen - in the bedrooms or drawing room.
I can’t even explain what would happen in case the pet feels the need to visit the loo.
Finally, when the pet is exhausted from the household chores, the TV might be on, with the pet sprawled on the sofa…………….and once you return, you would certainly want to scream and throw your pet right out of the house!
Nothing too serious in case the pet is found outside. In anger, it would only be destroying the garden completely!!!
In a few words, the whole house will surely be upside down.
The food on the dining table and from the refrigerator will be all over the floor, half eaten, half beaten (with legs ofcourse)…
The sheets, pillows and cushions would be again all over the house.
Any paper found would have faced teeth as a shredder.
The show pieces would not be standing smart and neat at their place. They might have found a new place - dustbin.
Utensils would have banged against each other well.
The food in the kitchen cabinets might have found their place apart from the kitchen - in the bedrooms or drawing room.
I can’t even explain what would happen in case the pet feels the need to visit the loo.
Finally, when the pet is exhausted from the household chores, the TV might be on, with the pet sprawled on the sofa…………….and once you return, you would certainly want to scream and throw your pet right out of the house!
Nothing too serious in case the pet is found outside. In anger, it would only be destroying the garden completely!!!
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