Today, millions of people are looking for unique and alternative ways not only to relax, but also to improve their health and well being. Two such alternative ways of getting fit and healthy is to use a Sauna or Steam Bath. Both saunas and steambaths are popular ways to alleviate stress and tension and benefit from other health promoting effects. When deciding whether to have a sauna or a steam bath, it is important to know the differences between each one and how they work.
The main difference between a sauna and a steam bath is that a sauna makes use of dry heat and a steam bath utilizes moist heat. Conventional saunas can use either wood, electric, or gas-fired heaters. Generally, saunas are rooms that are wood paneled.
The heat generated is provided by heated rocks. One will heat the room by putting a bit of water over the rocks to produce steam which will heat up the room. The temperature of a sauna can range from 140 to 200 F. Saunas are effective at promoting weight loss as they cause one to lose water through perspiration. One can burn up to 600 calories per session.
The sauna itself can be at risk of getting mold so it is necessary to clean the wood panels and benches with water and mild soap to prevent mold growth. The more modern saunas are known as infrared saunas. The infrared sauna uses infrared heaters that dispense radiant heat which heats the body instead of the air.
Steam rooms are rooms that are sporadically heated using a steam generator. Steam is sent into a nearly airtight room where it accumulates and creates a high humidity level.
Because the steam rooms are nearly airtight, they will hold the moisture that is created by the steam. In most instances, steam rooms are constructed with a ceiling that is slanted so moisture does not drip all over the people sitting in the room having a steam.
As well, the material used is similar to tile which makes it easy to clean. This humid vapor heat has a temperature that can from 110 to 120 F. Steam baths are effective at alleviating sore throats and breaking up congestion in the lungs and sinuses.
They also help alleviate respiratory conditions causing breathing difficulties. One disadvantage of a steam room is that they are more prone to mold and bacteria growth because of the high humidity. One who has a steam bath will have to regularly clean and disinfect it to prevent the growth of microorganisms.
Sauna and steam baths both have therapeutic benefits that include: alleviating muscle tension, improving blood circulation, detoxifying the body, allowing one to relax and reduce stress, restoring and rejuvenating damaged skin, fighting off colds and the flu, relieving allergies and bronchitis.
The one you choose is a matter of personal choice. Usually one can sit longer in a sauna as it is not as steamy. Whether you choose a sauna or steam bath, you will definitely love the experience and benefit from an improvement in your health and well being.
Gain health benefits and improve your home with a sauna. Professionally-built infrared saunas make a great addition to your home and add convenience to your life.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Aromatherapy Diffuser
How to pick the right one
The aromatherapy uses essential oils for enhancing your mental and physical health and well being. These essential oils can be brought into use by inhalation, topical or taking orally.
The most rapidly effecting method is inhalation. For this purpose, a number of aromatherapy diffusers are now available in the market. They differ in shapes and sizes and methods of functioning.
Each one of them has some advantages over the others. When you have to choose from this vast range of diffusers, the most appropriate and suitable diffuser for yourself, the question arises ?How to pick the right one?.
The aromatherapy diffusers help in diffusion of molecules of essential oils into the air allowing you to get their therapeutic benefits simply while breathing in the vicinity. The range of diffusers includes aromatherapy nebulizer, electric oil diffuser, aromatherapy oil diffuser, aromatherapy night lamp, aromatherapy jewelry etc.
Picking up the right one from these becomes really difficult. However, if you look at certain aspects while choosing, you can easily make the right choice.
An important thing to consider before buying a diffuser is the area in which you plan to use it. Some diffusers like aromatherapy nebulizer cover an area of 500 to 1000 square meters while aroma stone essential oil diffuser is best suited for small areas.
The other thing you need to consider is the cost effectiveness, easy usage and maintenance of diffusers, like aromatherapy oil burners are very economical. Reed diffuser bottle collar and scentball diffusers are easy to use and maintain. Electric oil diffusers and reed diffuser bottle collar use very small amount of essential oils and last for longer time.
For an area where there are children, elderly, ailing people or pets, you should also consider the safety, cleanliness and quietness involved in the usage of diffuser.
Diffusers like aromatherapy diffuser fans, spa center and aroma stone essential oil diffusers and reed diffuser bottle collar are safe to use as they are either battery operated or naturally working. They don?t involve burners or candles and are free from risk of fire, burning and smoke. Also, these make very little or no sound.
You can also consider the aesthetic utility of diffusers. Aromatherapy candles add to the romantic ambiance of room. Reed diffuser bottle collar gives a modern, sophisticated look to the room. Such diffusers can be used in living rooms and bedrooms and will enhance the beauty of your room as well as benefit you with the aroma of essential oils.
Scentball diffusers and diffuser fans are so compact and easy to use that they can be taken along on travels. A more interesting group of aromatherapy diffusers is that of aromatherapy jewelries (pendants, lockets, rings, earrings, bracelets etc.).
Apart from personal use, they can also be an apt gift. These can also be useful to someone whose skin is sensitive to perfumes.
Thus, by considering the utility of different diffusers with respect to your needs, you can easily pick the right one for yourself.
View the original article here
The aromatherapy uses essential oils for enhancing your mental and physical health and well being. These essential oils can be brought into use by inhalation, topical or taking orally.
The most rapidly effecting method is inhalation. For this purpose, a number of aromatherapy diffusers are now available in the market. They differ in shapes and sizes and methods of functioning.
Each one of them has some advantages over the others. When you have to choose from this vast range of diffusers, the most appropriate and suitable diffuser for yourself, the question arises ?How to pick the right one?.
The aromatherapy diffusers help in diffusion of molecules of essential oils into the air allowing you to get their therapeutic benefits simply while breathing in the vicinity. The range of diffusers includes aromatherapy nebulizer, electric oil diffuser, aromatherapy oil diffuser, aromatherapy night lamp, aromatherapy jewelry etc.
Picking up the right one from these becomes really difficult. However, if you look at certain aspects while choosing, you can easily make the right choice.
An important thing to consider before buying a diffuser is the area in which you plan to use it. Some diffusers like aromatherapy nebulizer cover an area of 500 to 1000 square meters while aroma stone essential oil diffuser is best suited for small areas.
The other thing you need to consider is the cost effectiveness, easy usage and maintenance of diffusers, like aromatherapy oil burners are very economical. Reed diffuser bottle collar and scentball diffusers are easy to use and maintain. Electric oil diffusers and reed diffuser bottle collar use very small amount of essential oils and last for longer time.
For an area where there are children, elderly, ailing people or pets, you should also consider the safety, cleanliness and quietness involved in the usage of diffuser.
Diffusers like aromatherapy diffuser fans, spa center and aroma stone essential oil diffusers and reed diffuser bottle collar are safe to use as they are either battery operated or naturally working. They don?t involve burners or candles and are free from risk of fire, burning and smoke. Also, these make very little or no sound.
You can also consider the aesthetic utility of diffusers. Aromatherapy candles add to the romantic ambiance of room. Reed diffuser bottle collar gives a modern, sophisticated look to the room. Such diffusers can be used in living rooms and bedrooms and will enhance the beauty of your room as well as benefit you with the aroma of essential oils.
Scentball diffusers and diffuser fans are so compact and easy to use that they can be taken along on travels. A more interesting group of aromatherapy diffusers is that of aromatherapy jewelries (pendants, lockets, rings, earrings, bracelets etc.).
Apart from personal use, they can also be an apt gift. These can also be useful to someone whose skin is sensitive to perfumes.
Thus, by considering the utility of different diffusers with respect to your needs, you can easily pick the right one for yourself.
View the original article here
Essential oils that build immune
What are Essential Oils that Build Immune System?
The body's immune system is what's responsible for fighting disease and infection by the production of white blood cells and antibodies. Immunity is provided for in every cell, bodily fluids and hormonal processes.
It has many aspects, including that of hormones, lymphatic cells, blood transportation system, nerves, organs, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. When the body is congested and is under tremendous stress, the strength and efficiency of the immune system can be compromised. That is why the integrity of the immune system must be supported with positive life habits.
Along with the belief that prevention is better than cure, aromatherapy recognizes the fact that when the body?s vital force is strong, it can overcome disease organisms. The imbalances of immunity can actually be treated with essential oils that build immune system efficiency and integrity.
Imbalances can be treated with circulatory essential oils like diuretics, diaphoretics, circulatory regulators or venous tonics, while disinfecting and blood purifying oils can get rid of toxins and pathogens.
There are several essential oils that build immune system integrity by strengthening, stimulating and acting as antibacterial and antiviral agents.
The essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, pine, thyme, tea tree, peppermint, juniper, bergamot, ginger, lavender, lemongrass and myrrh can help restore and strengthen the immune system.
Essential oils of lavender, basil, marjoram, petitgrain, bergamot, geranium and neroli can help relieve stress and balance psycho-neuro-endocrine function.
Lemon, juniper, rosemary and eucalyptus essential oils can help the efficiency of detoxifying organs. Tea tree, niaouli, rosemary, thyme, sage and cajeput essential oils help stimulate the elimination of excess mucus.
The auto-immune function can be aided by essential oils of chamomile, lavender, clary sage and geranium.
Coriander essential oil is a tonic for the spleen.
Bergamot, cajeput, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon, lemongrass, niaouli, camphor, clove, pine, rosemary, sage, tea tree and pine help support the fight against pathogens.
Chamomile, yarrow, ginger, eucalyptus, lemon, peppermint, lavender and sandalwood can help reduce fever or inflammation.
Building health is the best insurance against several illnesses and that can only be attained with a strong and efficient immune system. Using any of the aforementioned essential oils, whether individually or as part of a blend, can easily help the strengthening and stimulation of the immune system.
One such recipe for a blend of essential oils that build immune system efficiency is as follows:
3 drops lavender3 drops tea tree2 drops bergamot2 drops ravensara2 drops eucalyptus10 drops Calophyllum oil (Caulophyllum inophyllum)1 ounce calendula-infused carrier oil
This basic immune tonic blend can be used daily as a body oil for baths or as part of a health-maintenance program. This blend can also be used to treat colds, coughs and the flu.
A lot of other different blends can be made to an individual?s unique needs and specifications. Each person?s body has different needs and may react differently as well. An aromatherapy blend to help the immune system must be designed to meet these needs.
With the list of essential oils and their respective actions listed above, one can easily make an essential oil blend to help strengthen their immune system and ultimately strengthen their health.
View the original article here
The body's immune system is what's responsible for fighting disease and infection by the production of white blood cells and antibodies. Immunity is provided for in every cell, bodily fluids and hormonal processes.
It has many aspects, including that of hormones, lymphatic cells, blood transportation system, nerves, organs, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides. When the body is congested and is under tremendous stress, the strength and efficiency of the immune system can be compromised. That is why the integrity of the immune system must be supported with positive life habits.
Along with the belief that prevention is better than cure, aromatherapy recognizes the fact that when the body?s vital force is strong, it can overcome disease organisms. The imbalances of immunity can actually be treated with essential oils that build immune system efficiency and integrity.
Imbalances can be treated with circulatory essential oils like diuretics, diaphoretics, circulatory regulators or venous tonics, while disinfecting and blood purifying oils can get rid of toxins and pathogens.
There are several essential oils that build immune system integrity by strengthening, stimulating and acting as antibacterial and antiviral agents.
The essential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, pine, thyme, tea tree, peppermint, juniper, bergamot, ginger, lavender, lemongrass and myrrh can help restore and strengthen the immune system.
Essential oils of lavender, basil, marjoram, petitgrain, bergamot, geranium and neroli can help relieve stress and balance psycho-neuro-endocrine function.
Lemon, juniper, rosemary and eucalyptus essential oils can help the efficiency of detoxifying organs. Tea tree, niaouli, rosemary, thyme, sage and cajeput essential oils help stimulate the elimination of excess mucus.
The auto-immune function can be aided by essential oils of chamomile, lavender, clary sage and geranium.
Coriander essential oil is a tonic for the spleen.
Bergamot, cajeput, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon, lemongrass, niaouli, camphor, clove, pine, rosemary, sage, tea tree and pine help support the fight against pathogens.
Chamomile, yarrow, ginger, eucalyptus, lemon, peppermint, lavender and sandalwood can help reduce fever or inflammation.
Building health is the best insurance against several illnesses and that can only be attained with a strong and efficient immune system. Using any of the aforementioned essential oils, whether individually or as part of a blend, can easily help the strengthening and stimulation of the immune system.
One such recipe for a blend of essential oils that build immune system efficiency is as follows:
3 drops lavender3 drops tea tree2 drops bergamot2 drops ravensara2 drops eucalyptus10 drops Calophyllum oil (Caulophyllum inophyllum)1 ounce calendula-infused carrier oil
This basic immune tonic blend can be used daily as a body oil for baths or as part of a health-maintenance program. This blend can also be used to treat colds, coughs and the flu.
A lot of other different blends can be made to an individual?s unique needs and specifications. Each person?s body has different needs and may react differently as well. An aromatherapy blend to help the immune system must be designed to meet these needs.
With the list of essential oils and their respective actions listed above, one can easily make an essential oil blend to help strengthen their immune system and ultimately strengthen their health.
View the original article here
Friday, February 4, 2011
Uses of Eucalyptus Oil
There are many uses of eucalyptus oil, but the most part, eucalyptus is widely used to treat congestion and respiratory problems . Eucalyptus essential oil has a clear, thin appearance that provides a fresh, cooling, and soothing application with a soft earthy aroma.
Sinus pressure can be relived naturally by simply massaging a small drop of Eucalyptus oil onto your temples and on your ?third eye? or where your nose meets your forehead, being careful to avoid contact with the eyes. Eucalyptus oil will also provide relief to sore muscles when added to massage oil. Besides, it is also used to treat skin irritations such as insect bites, blisters, irritations and other wounds.
Here are the top ten uses of Eucalyptus oil :
Eucalyptus oil can be used as an antiseptic gargle. Eucalyptus is a powerful antiseptic agent. Its powerful germicidal properties effectively kill staphylococcus bacteria and have been used to treat tuberculosis.As a stimulant, Eucalyptus oil can increase cardiac activity. Eucalyptus oil can be applied externally to relieve fevers that arise from infectious diseases. Useful in cool compresses; applied to the forehead, back of neck, over the kidneys and pelvic region. Only a small amount is needed otherwise may produce a chilling effect.Tick repellent. Preliminary research shows that Citriodiol spray, containing eucalyptus, may reduce the number of tick bites and thereby tick-borne infections, although additional studies are warranted.Several animal studies report that eucalyptus applied to the skin can reduce pain.Veterinarians also find Eucalyptus oil helpful in treating dogs with distemper, along with other animals suffering with septicemia, or blood poisoning. It can also be helpful in aiding with parasite infestations. Eucalyptus oil treats respiratory tract and is useful for sinusitis and head colds.Can ease rheumatism, arthritis and muscular pains and aches.Eucalyptus radiata is an anti-microbial oil and has been studied for its action against viruses. When applied externally, Eucalyptus oil can provide relief in asthma.Even though Eucalyptus oil has many benefits, you should be very careful when using it.
If used internally in large doses, Eucalyptus oil can turn into an irritant to the kidneys and suppress the nervous system by eventually arresting the respiratory system on the medullar center. The symptoms are : drowsiness, convulsions, muscle weakness, shallow or rapid breathing, difficulty in swallowing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and dizziness.
If you meet one of these symptoms after you used the oil then you should immediately seek for medical assistance.
Eucalyptus oil is very stimulating ,so do not use it on anyone who is pregnant or suffers from high blood pressures, heart disease, hypertension and epilepsy.
But if you use this oil wisely, then you can enjoy many benefits of eucalyptus oil. No wonder this oil is recommended as a key ingredient in home first aid kits.
Click here to learn more uses of eucalyptus oil
From Uses of Eucalyptus Oil back to Eucalyptus Essential Oils
Aromatherapy in Your Beauty Routine
~ Use 2-5 drops of essential oils in a mixture of equal parts Epsom or sea salts and vegetable or carrier oil, and massage all over the body before stepping into the shower or tub. The salts will exfoliate and detoxify, while the oils will soften and moisturize the skin.
~ Add 2-5 drops of essential oils to a handful of Epsom or sea salts, and dissolve in the tub. Jars of bath salts with essential oils added can be made and kept for future use or given as gifts.
~ Use up to 5 drops of essential oils in 1 oz. of bath gel. Pour under running water for bubble bath, or use a sponge or cleansing puff in the shower.
~ Essential oils can help with many skin conditions, including dry skin, wrinkles, cellulite, and acne. Use up to 12 drops essential oils per ounce of facial cleansers, cr?mes, and lotions.
~ Purify skin by using essential oils in a facial steam. Boil 2 to 4 quarts of water, pour into a heat safe bowl. Add 2 to 4 drops of essential oils to the steaming water, and position face over the rising steam with a towel tented over the head to hold in the steam. Be sure to keep eyes closed, as essential oil vapors will irritate the eyes.
~ Both men’s and women’s haircare routines can be enhanced with essential oils. Those with dandruff, dry hair, and thinning hair may find relief by incorporating essential oils into shampoos and conditioners, or by massaging the scalp with a diluted essential oil preparation. Adding a drop of essential oil to a dollop of shampoo or conditioner just before application is a quick and simple way to use aromatherapy in hair care.
Home | ArticlesWednesday, February 2, 2011
Affordable Way Of Battling Aging
Many individuals think that putting up an anti aging therapy is pricey and too tough. With these simple drills, starting an anti aging regimen can turn rather an easy conquest – and trouble-free at that.
How? The basics set out with these three things: A good, protein-rich diet, regular exercise, at least eight hours of sleep… and well, relaxation.
Let’s zoom in on relaxation. Reflexology, or the special art of reviving pressure points on your feet, can aid trim down stress. And if you are relaxed and stress-free, you will look much, much younger. Contrary to popular notion, there are actually approach to alleviate stress directly.
One of which is pressing your thumb into the solar plexus point located right below the ball of your foot. Another tip is elevating your head when you sleep. Adding an excess pillow reduces puffiness around your eyes by draining fluids that usually pool around the eyes. To boost your anti aging eye regimen, place a cold tea bag, a refrigerated cucumber or a chilled teaspoon over your eye areas. This will assist eliminate puffiness and thus cause you appear younger and more alert.
Another point to consider is to get perked up. Be enthusiastic and continue being lively. Anti aging has to start from within. Droopy eyelids and yawning barely show marks of youth. To have a smooth steady flow of energy throughout the whole day, try ginseng.
It offers a better wake-me-up than the quick jolt provided by caffeine boosts. Also, as the hand is a dead giveaway of one’s age, it is critical to cure your hands. Anti aging ranges to your hands too! To restore them, put on a good amount of cocoa butter lotion twice a day.
Finally, move with poise, grace and elegance. Right posture is significant. Avoid slouching and limping as these will make you seem worn out and aging.
Guest post by Agatha Harris
How? The basics set out with these three things: A good, protein-rich diet, regular exercise, at least eight hours of sleep… and well, relaxation.
Let’s zoom in on relaxation. Reflexology, or the special art of reviving pressure points on your feet, can aid trim down stress. And if you are relaxed and stress-free, you will look much, much younger. Contrary to popular notion, there are actually approach to alleviate stress directly.
One of which is pressing your thumb into the solar plexus point located right below the ball of your foot. Another tip is elevating your head when you sleep. Adding an excess pillow reduces puffiness around your eyes by draining fluids that usually pool around the eyes. To boost your anti aging eye regimen, place a cold tea bag, a refrigerated cucumber or a chilled teaspoon over your eye areas. This will assist eliminate puffiness and thus cause you appear younger and more alert.
Another point to consider is to get perked up. Be enthusiastic and continue being lively. Anti aging has to start from within. Droopy eyelids and yawning barely show marks of youth. To have a smooth steady flow of energy throughout the whole day, try ginseng.
It offers a better wake-me-up than the quick jolt provided by caffeine boosts. Also, as the hand is a dead giveaway of one’s age, it is critical to cure your hands. Anti aging ranges to your hands too! To restore them, put on a good amount of cocoa butter lotion twice a day.
Finally, move with poise, grace and elegance. Right posture is significant. Avoid slouching and limping as these will make you seem worn out and aging.
Guest post by Agatha Harris
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