Welcome to the ezine produced by SGI Buddhists that prompts the positive, kindles the constructive, highlights the hopeful and leaves you feeling - well, up!
Published on Thursday, 05 March 2009 06:04 | | 
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In many hospitals, animals have become an important part of the healthcare service, helping patients to experience dramatic improvements in their symptoms.
Experts have found that the comfort and friendship provided by animals helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels, and is particularly effective in stroke rehabilitation. There have been cases where the first words spoken by a patient on a stroke ward was during a visit by a pet dog, taken into the hospital by the charity, Pets As Therapy.
Published on Wednesday, 18 February 2009 19:00 | | |
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We spend millions of pounds each year on vitamin supplements. Yet mounting scientific research has found that they offer few benefits – while some are actually bad for us.
Experts say that the best
way to consume vitamins is through a balanced diet, avoiding processed
foods. Fruit and vegetables,
especially the so-called superfoods such as wheatgrass,
are a potent source of naturally occurring vitamins and minerals. However,
taking certain combinations of vitamin pills have been found to lead to
premature death.
Published on Wednesday, 04 February 2009 19:00 | | |
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Once again it appears that
a possible cure for an illness affecting thousands of people
is to be found in our own backyards
– or rather – on the hillsides of Wales, writes Louise Ellis
The devastating illness of dementia which afflicts 700,000 people in the UK alone has been in the news this week, as government ministers admit that sufferers are not getting the treatment and care that they deserve.
Published on Thursday, 22 January 2009 10:05 | | |
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In these times of uncertainty, it is very easy to feel anxious and depressed about the threats to our economy, our livelihoods and to the environment, writes Louise Ellis.
However, a research study by scientists at
But how can we maintain happiness and hope in troubled times?
Published on Thursday, 08 January 2009 07:46 | | |
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Short daylight hours, long dark cold nights, rain and snow storms and icy roads, can all add up to making us feel abit down.
However, for many people, lack of sunlight can actually trigger more serious symptoms of depression. Researchers have documented higher than average suicide rates in places with increased light deprivation, such as
Published on Tuesday, 30 December 2008 08:38 | | |
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It's that time of year when, along with all the sentiments of goodwill, we all seem to invariably want to overindulge.
However, new research now shows that many cures for that morning after feeling are in reality no more than a placebo.
So why do we get hangovers? Is there a remedy for that dry mouth and thumping head?
Published on Wednesday, 10 December 2008 08:06 | | |
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A medical trial of the Alexander Technique, published in the British Medical Journal, has concluded that the exercise method is highly effective in reducing back pain.
For years, F Matthias
Alexander struggled to get his technique recognised by the medical
establishment, despite remarkable results with his own patients. Yet
this year, a study established the effectiveness of the individualised
lessons, designed to develop lifelong skills for self care, and release
muscle tension and spinal decompression. The trial found the Alexander
Technique to be more powerful in treating long term back pain, than
massage or GP prescribed exercise.