Addressing the Canny Investor

What is Brainstorming?

Brainstorming has in the past been viewed negatively. All that paper stuck over walls, PC’s Fridges and any where else we can think of to “jog our memories” or when plan those simple or complex tasks from grocery shopping to increasing sales by 10% all with illegible notes with no structure or direction to them.

You spend many hours of planning something individually or in those dreaded business meeting of which most never gets achieved no matter how good the suggestions or ideas they get lost in translation with no real document process in place.

To some degree we all know brainstorming and what it is but nearly 95% of people or businesses do not know how to document it or the best way to use and place those ideas into there plans or business.

However effective brainstorming can increase productivity by making valuable breakthroughs from all involved.

When you have people bouncing ideas around that can be captured and filtered in an easy visual format you will guarantee higher productivity and ultimately profits with simple techniques that will create a feeling the whole team is involved and see in plain visual format exactly what needs doing to achieve those results.

The Usual approach to Brainstorming:

We have all used them! those darn post it notes, flip charts and huge white boards that look like road kill once we have poured our ideas out all over them. Very cumbersome that requires hours afterward to be properly understood and concluded thats why many brainstorming sessions fail!!. Despite all those “power ideas” being discussed there is rarely the follow up done and the key actions never jumped on resulting with ideas forgotten.

With MindMapper Brainstorming has been completely resolved and you will never lose another idea or thought that could be the next breakthrough to leapfrogging your competitors.

Using MindMapper to Brainstorm:

You have a simple yet powerful software in place like MindMapper you have a process that captures those ideas and information. MindMapper does so in a simple visual format that ensures you will succeed in your objectives

Any one who can turn on a PC can use MindMapper!

MindMapper is the ultimate Brainstorming tool, it allows you to progress your Brainstorming into crystal clear information that is easy to see and read making it child proof to understand.

Your ideas and information is gathered and structured automatically in a visual map. This visual map is easy to collect and collate information.

Try this! In your next Brainstorming session (business meeting, project planning session or even your shopping list) use MindMapper. Encourage all involved to contribute ideas no matter how small, irrelevant or grand. Encourage feedback applaud ideas from all involved and place into your map.

When you have MindMapper open create the objective of your Brainstorming session in the centre heading. Then bounce ideas and add new branches with each aspect needed to achieve this (Tip- use Keywords for your main headings in branches). Then create sub branches to break down each idea further. Creating branches and sub branches is a snitch just click on a branch type and hit enter and so on with each sub branch.

Add notes to each idea! Click on the branch or Sub Branch and add your not in the text box at the bottom of your map. (TIP- only use bullet points of the idea in your notes to keep the flow of the idea and information coming)

You will notice before long that there are many branches and sections with sub sections making your map look larger than needed.

Break these down, collapse branches of the map so only the “key objectives” are showing. You can always go back to each individual section to “storm” more. The key factor is that you will have all your ideas and information within a couple of clicks.

This makes it simple for you to go back to an idea with no more scrolling through notes and interrupting the brainstorming process.

During your “Brainstorming” if you decide a certain idea would be better in another section or you want to use that idea in all areas simply “drag and drop” your idea into that branch.

Enhancing your Brainstorming session:

Typically this is where other Brainstorming methods and software begins to fall short of MindMapper.

Information overload with traditional MindMapping methods your map gets messy the information is all over the place and cannot be accessed easily creating a bottle neck in the brainstorming process.

Not with MindMapper. With MindMapper you analyse break down ideas and information into branches and click on the branch (objectives) to decide which are critical or most significant and which is the background information required. By doing this you already have saved hours in time and probably money (staff time, resources). Without hardly any effort on your part to gain there input.

The Nearly finished Map!

When you have completed your brainstorming session your map can be broken down to a crystal clear set of blue prints, you then begin to allocate tasks and information to people who will be working to achieve the main objective.

All the ideas and information discussed can be sent to those involved allowing them to remember each specific task or piece of the map they need to complete. Each person can then access the map with MindMapper on workstations and begin the process of achieving the main objective. (here is where sub maps are encouraged to them to keep the brainstorming process going)

Wow! you have just saved countless hours and increased your productivity! can you remember doing all this without MindMapper! Gathering all information and allocating the “branches” to be completed for your success in the key objective. None of this is possible with out MindMapper. Well it is but why waste a few weeks and half a rain forest in printing.

Once the map is complete comes the action and communication planning:
To ensure Maximum results from MindMapper and ensure those ideas and information gathered in the brainstorming session are not just shop talk, you need to decide on a plan of action.

You can achieve this using the legend in MindMapper. On the right hand side of MindMapper there are symbols (legends) and color codes that can be used to break the map down to Action each part of the brainstorming session.

You can allocate people to each objective (or task) by color or priority. (1-10) Add resources that may be needed to achieve this. Add documents for reference or hyperlinks to information sources.

Acting on the brainstorming session

MindMapper allows you to act on your brainstorming session in a number of ways. You can export or save your map on the network so it can be accessed and action taken and update the map after each component has been completed.

You can ensure that each specific task is sent to the owner by MS outlook simply export part of the map that they will be working on to MS Outlook and they will soon see there Task list in MS outlook flashing.

The key point is that everyone know’s exactly what they need to do and is expected of them to achieve the main objective.

Other bonuses you can do from your brainstorming session:

Once you have completed your Brainstorming session you can create this in a presentation or report. With MindMapper you have a variety of options including exporting to MS word (report writing) MS PowerPoint (full project process presentation) or MS Project and go further implementing the brainstorming session into a full fledged project.

With just a couple of click’s on the mouse you have a completed format ready for reporting, presenting or project initiatives.

So MindMapper can not only take your brainstorming sessions to real life goals it can make those things happen today!

So why waste more time and money on planning non starting ideas use MindMapper today and get ahead and Explode your productivity and ultimately your profits!

Visit our website to learn more: www.EssentialMindMapping.com

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Let’s face it, the web is made up of millions and millions of web sites all trying to get your attention - or better yet, to get you to remember them and revisit their site. So with the crowded nature of the web, how can you make your visitors remember your site after they leave?

According to traditional research, we know that people tend to remember the first and last things that they see in a sequence, and don’t remember much about what was in the middle. Translate that into building your web site, and it means that your home page should be fun, interesting, attractive, or in some way memorable. (Visitors can jump off your site at any point, so there’s no way to tell what the “last” impression will be.)

People also tend to process information in small “segments,” typically three or four segments at a time. For example, a catchy slogan or a great web address will be memorable long after the visitor has left your site. The web address www.ford.com or www.makeup.com kind of sums it all up, right?

Slogans and jingles are also good ways to include memorable segments on your web site. How many of you know what product is “good to the last drop”? Do you know which company encourages us to “just do it”?
Information seems to stay with us when the items are repeated, using clever ways to say the same thing by using your logo, graphics, headlines, etc. Information re-circulates through our short-term memory when we see it over and over. The more your web visitors see the information, the more they will remember it. Just be sure to vary how you present the information so the message is consistent but not annoying.

So when thinking about what type of an impression your web site makes on your visitors, be sure to make it memorable in some way. Do the thinking ahead of time for your visitors, so all they notice is a great, memorable web site.

Lauren Hobson is the Editor of Biz Talk Newsletter, a free monthly publication designed to provide small businesses and non-profits with tips and techniques to help them make the most of their web sites and marketing efforts without spending a lot of money. Biz Talk is published by Five Sparrows, LLC.

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Article directories are popping up all over the internet. You may wonder if this is a good thing or a bad thing. Allow me to ensure you this is a great thing for internet marketers. Below is just a few of the many benefits of submitting articles.

1. The ability to brand your web site business and yourself by submitting articles to article directories. You could include a link back to your web site in your resource box Along with your name and credentials.

2. You will get your article published all over the web when you submit it to a article directory. They’ll allow their visitors to republish your article on their websites and e-zines. Imagine if you submit your article to multiple article directories. Remember all your articles have a back link to your website.

3. You will be considered an expert on the subject matter of your articles. This will give you and your business added credibility which will help you take on your competitors.

4. Your article may also be placed on the article directory’s home page. Some article directories post new articles on their home page. This will give you some extra exposure.

5. You may get extra publicity if the article directory publisher archives articles on their site. People may want to read older articles in their search for information or content.

6. You will get free advertising. This will allow you to spend your profits on other forms of advertising. You could purchase google advertisements or other pay per click ads. You could buy ads in e-zines.

7. You’ll gain trust. If prospects read your article and like it, they will be far more likely to buy your product or service. Thereby increasing your earning potential.

8. You could allow website marketers to publish your articles in their free e-books. Since people give them away, your articles could multiply all over the internet.

9. You may get additional income from people wanting to hire you to write their articles, books, or even ask you to speak at seminars. This is a great way to grow your income exponentially.

By now you are no doubt convinced of the power of submitting articles to the countless article directories out there. So what are you waiting for get started now.

D Howard is the owner operator of article directory and forex article sites.

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More healthy foods are appearing on store shelves. When I saw a carton of egg whites at my grocery store I immediately thought of cheese souffle. Cheese souffle is one of my favorite foods, but it’s high in fat, and I hadn’t made one in years. If I could come up with a healthy recipe I could eat cheese souffle again.

I bought two cartons of egg whites, fat-free cheddar cheese, and fat-free milk. “This should do it,” I thought to myself. On Monday morning I wrestled the souffle dish from the back of the cupboard, assembled my ingredients, and began what turned out to be “The Great Cheese Souffle Experiment.”

My first souffle was made with one tablespoon of butter, instead of three, and a teaspoon of margarine. Butter is a thickener and, to compensate for less butter, I added extra flour to the sauce. I added a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to bring out the flavor of the cheese. The classic recipe calls for six eggs, but I used one whole egg, and egg whites for the rest. To stabalize the egg whites I added a teaspoon of cream of tartar.

When I put the souffle in the oven it looked perfect.

The souffle started to rise and the aroma of melting cheese wafted through the kitchen. “This is going to work,” I said to myself. But it didn’t work. Fifteen minutes before the souffle was due to come out of the oven it fell. My classic cheese souffle had turned into a cheese tortilla. I don’t like to waste food, so I ate part of the souffle top for lunch.

“Oh well,” I thought. “Tomorrow is another day.” On Tuesday morning I got out the souffle dish, assembled my ingredients, and made souffle number two. This time I used two tablespoons of butter. I was careful to beat the egg whites until they were stiff, not dry, and folded them ever-so-gently into the cheese sauce.

When I put the souffle in the oven it looked perfect.

But the same thing happened. Fifteen minutes before the souffle was due to come out of the oven it fell. Again, I ate part of the brown, cheesy top for lunch. Cooking is chemistry and, since I’m not a chemist, the only thing I could do was make souffle number three. Then four. Then five. I experimented with more butter, more flour, two whole eggs, low-fat cheese, and one percent milk.

Every souffle fell. Much as I love cheese souffle, I was getting tired of the same whacky lunch. Despite a reputation as a gourmet cook I felt like a failure. By the end of the week I had consumed so many egg whites I felt like a giant parade balloon - a thin person filled with air. Maybe I’d float around the kitchen. Heck, I could float around the neighborhood.

On Saturday morning I announced to my husband, “I’m going to make one last souffle.” (It was a dramatic announcement.) Years ago, when we weren’t as health conscious, I used to make souffle for dinner. My husband would come home hungry and smell the baking souffle when he got out of the car. The oven was next to the door I would stick a “Don’t slam, souffle in oven” sign on it.

The note always made my husband smile and he always raved about my cheese souffle. And so, with great care and determiniation, I prepared souffle number six. When I put the souffle in the oven it looked perfect. I kept peeking in the window to see if the souffle was rising. It rose steadily and looked like a cook book photo. Had I invented a healthy cheese souffle?

Five minutes - just five minutes - before the souffle was due to come out of the oven it fell. We ate the brown, crusty, delicious top for lunch, along with a green salad. Though it wasn’t the best lunch I’ve ever served, my husband appreciated my efforts. I’ve given up on inventing a new cheese souffle. Sometimes you shouldn’t mess with a good thing!

Copyright 2006 by Harriet Hodgson

http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been a nonfiction writer for 27 years and is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists. Before she became a health and wellness writer she was a food writer for the former “Rochester Magazine” in her hometown of Rochester, MN. Her 24th book, “Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief,” written with Lois Krahn, MD, is available from http://www.amazon.com A five-star review of the book is also posted on Amazon.

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There have been numerous comments made about “aligning” corporate departments, sales and marketing strategies, and ‘le sujet du jour’. It seems everyone wants to compartmentalize the alignment process thereby making it easier and faster to accomplish. Translated, do it the quick and easy way! The result, there is little success or just plain failure.

Alignment should be viewed as a long term process, which when done correctly, can yield incredible results. But first things first, you need a reason to consider taking on the task of aligning your company. The two reasons all owners and managers understand: growth and profit!

You must have certain building blocks in place to align your organization. Start by ensuring you have a mission statement. It must be concise and describe your overall mission. This means a one-sentence only description. Your mission statement is not a marketing plan, business plan, or statement of values.

The first alignment that must occur is ensuring the mission statement and any corporate positioning statements make sense together. That is, the corporate statement should not conflict in any way with the mission statement; it should expound on it. Secondly, your marketing position should also grow out of the mission statement and corporate position and not conflict with them.

It is amazing how few companies can even get to this point. Countless companies, large and small, do not even understand their product/service position in the marketplace. As a result, employees, suppliers, and customers are frustrated with the ‘mixed’ messages they receive daily. How can a company try to position itself as a provider of premium products/services when they are known as a low-price company or vice-versa? I see it every day even with Fortune 500 companies.

But let’s say you are one of the 10% of companies who have achieved aligning their mission statement, marketing plan, product position, etc. You should be happy, right? Wrong! You have only done the easiest parts of alignment. What is the one thing that defeats all attempts to align an organization: corporate culture!! This is true even in small organizations but it is easier to change when there are fewer people involved. There is nothing tougher to do than change an old, large organization with its bureaucracy, fiefdoms, and entrenched beliefs. Some would say it is impossible.

I am not sure it is impossible but it does require tremendous effort and usually some changes in the people. Some of them will not let go of their fiefdom, some will not let go of “the way we have always done it”, some will not let go of their beliefs and so on. If you want to truly align your organization then the company leadership must make the tough decisions even if it means replacing people.

What are the benefits of a ‘Total Alignment’? Organizations which have aligned their processes, mission statement, marketing, sales, corporate culture, etc. have outperformed their competitors and grown at phenomenal rates. Think this is smoke and mirrors? I lead 4 consecutive organizations in 4 separate industries to a minimum 300% and as much as 3,000%+ revenue and profit growth in the first 3 years I was with the organizations. Believe me, it works!

Remember, start with the mission statement and build from there. Make sure you know how your products/services are positioned in the marketplace. And, most importantly, ensure that you align your corporate culture to fit all the other aligned functions. You too can grow at 300% or more!

Stephen A. Burgess is founder and CEO of Corporate Toolbelt, a premier business strategy, business planning, leadership and advisory firm. He has served as a ‘C’ level executive, is a noted speaker, and has his MBA. He currently serves on several Boards of Directors. Steve is also a partner in the Power of 8 and the co-founder and Managing Partner of Speakers Alive!, a southern California speaker’s bureau.

He is the Co-Author of the #1 Best Selling book, Purpose, Passion, Abundance, On an Enlightened Path and Business Successes. He is also author of the forthcoming book, Legacies of Leadership, as well as numerous published articles. Steve’s advice is highly sought after by entrepreneurs, business owners and companies of all sizes. He works together with clients to uncover the power to maximize their growth and profits!

Discover more at http://www.thebusinessprophet.com.

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Recent Trends

Four out of ten Americans were using alternative-medicine and not telling their doctors(1). Chinese herbal medicine helped people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome(2). A ketogenic diet decreased intractable seizures in children(3) But according to other researches, Echinacea extracts did not prevent upper respiratory infections(4) and chiropractic manipulations did not improve episodic-tension-type headaches.(5)

These researches may have had their own flaws. But according to another article published in British Journal of Medicine, double standards exist in judging traditional and alternative medicine.6 In a conference in integrated medicine in London, Dr. Iain Chalmers said, “critics of complementary medicine seemed to operate a double standard”. It is thought that 60% of orthodox treatments have not been scientifically proved.(6)

In 1999, a series of articles was published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) under the title-ABC of Complementary Medicine. Catherine Zollman and Andrew Vickers authored these articles. In an article in this series published in BMJ of 11 September 1999, the authors defined Complementary Medicine as ” …a group of therapeutic diagnostic disciplines that exist largely outside the institutions where conventional health care is taught and provided. Complementary medicine is an increasing feature of healthcare practice, but considerable confusion remains about what exactly it is and what position the disciplines included under this term should hold in relation to conventional medicine”.(7)

According to another article published in BMJ of 25 September 1999, an UK survey of use of Complementary medicine estimated that in1993, 33% of the population had used some form of Complementary medicine. 55-65% of those who consulted complementary practitioners were female, a similar proportion to users of conventional healthcare. The other highlights of this survey were:

The highest users were those aged 35-60 years.

Children made up a relatively small proportion of users of complementary medicine.

Users of complementary medicine tended to be in higher socio-economic groups and had higher levels of education than users of conventional care.

More people used complementary medicine in the south of England than in Wales, Scotland and the north of England.But evidence suggested that this reflected access to availability of complementary practitioners rather than any fundamental regional differences in public attitude or interest.(8)
On acupuncture, the authors wrote: - “There is good research evidence that acupuncture has effects greater than placebo. Randomised trials have found that true acupuncture is more effective in relieving pain than ’sham’ technique such as inserting needles away from true points.” “Studies showing that acupuncture can affect anaesthetised animals provides further evidence that its effects probably cannot be explained purely in psychological terms.”(9)

“The best known evidence about a herbal product concerns St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) for treating mild to moderate depression. A systematic review of 23 randomised controlled trials found the herb to be significantly superior to placebo and therapeutically equivalent to, but with fewer side-effects than antidepressants such as amitryptyline.” “Eighty seven adults and children refractory to conventional first and second line treatment were randomised to a crossover study that compared a preparation of about 10 Chinese herbs with a placebo consisting of herbs thought to be ineffective for eczema. Highly significant reductions in eczema scores were associated with active treatment but not with placebo. At long term follow-up, over half of the adults (12/21) and over 75% of children (18/23) who continued had a greater than 90% reduction in eczema scores”.(10)

Studies on Homeopathy

An evidence of the efficacy of homeopathic medications was published in BMJ.

The paper was authored by Morag A Taylor and associates. It concluded that homeopathic dilutions differ from placebo. This study was done on fifty patients suffering with perennial allergic rhinitis. The results showed significant nasal airflow improvement compared with the placebo group(11). An earlier paper authored by Andrew Vickers and Catherine Zollman in BMJ quoted an article in Lancet in favour of homoeopathy. The authors of this article in Lancet were quoted as: - ” the results of our meta-analysis are not compatible with the hypothesis that the clinical effects of homoeopathy are due to placebo.” “Laboratory studies have reported biological effects of homeopathy medicines on animals, plants and cells, some at ultramolecular dilutions.”(12)

Mind-Body Connection in Modern Medicine

On another note, there are many researches published in journals of modern medicine that corroborate mind-body connection. Role of emotional distress and the origin of cardiac illnesses are an accepted fact in modern medicine. In a recent research conducted by Dr. Ketterer and colleagues from Henry Ford Health Sciences Center in Detroit, it was recommended that “chest pain should be considered a marker of emotional distress.” “Reducing emotional distress may benefit the (healthcare) system as well as the patient by spontaneously decreasing emergency room visits, diagnostic tests and hospital admissions.”(13)

A study done in the Cancer Institute of New Jersey by Dr. Pandya and associates concluded that conventional mind-body therapy has been poorer with valuable non-invasive way to manage coronary disease. Yoga practice is valuable in coronary disease by improving resistance to stress.(14)

People with diabetes are twice as likely as non-diabetics to suffer from depression, according to an analysis of 25 years of data authored by Dr. Patrick J. Lustman of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. “Two of every three cases of depression in diabetes go untreated by primary care physicians”.(15) He recommends that both conditions need to be treated together.

In a study published in Digestive Diseases and Science authored by Dr. Svein Blomhoff of National Hospital, Oslo, it was demonstrated that there is a clear connection between mind and body. Emotional responses have an impact on intestinal reactivity in-patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and in normal controls.

“The close interaction among mind, brain and gut” indicates that “gut motility may be a dynamic indication of level of stress or emotional state.”(16)

Non-Physical Treatments

Psychotherapy is helpful for patients with intractable dyspepsia. One study was done by Dr. Elspeth Gutherei of the Manchester Royal Infirmary and was published in Gastroenterology in the year 2000.(17) In the same issue, Dr. David H. Alpers of Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, advised gastroenterologists to pay attention to psychological diagnostic and therapeutic tools and to learn to apply them to patients in functional bowel disorders.

Results from some controlled trials of “distant healing” show that such forms are positively effective. A study by Dr. John A Astin and associates at Kernon Hospital Mansion, in Baltimore Maryland, concluded this finding. 23 trials including five trials of prayer, 11 studies of non-contact therapeutic touch and seven trials of mental healing and spiritual healing were studied.(18)

Conclusion

There is ample evidence in modern medical literature that suggests that there are links between physical illnesses and emotional and mental distress. Research evidence shows that there is learning involved in “observation.” Every “scientific” discovery starts with “observation.” The observation is then followed by “scientific research.”

Complementary therapies are following the same pattern of knowledge as modern medicine has followed. Practitioners can make themselves more aware of the scientific basis of medicine by reading and researching on modern medicine. Complementary medicine will need to become more scientific sooner rather than later.

References:

1. Journal of the American Medical Association (1998) 280:1549-640
2. Journal of the American Medical Association (1998) 280:1585-90
3. Archives of Neurology (1998)55: 1433-8
4. Archives of Family Medicine (1998) 7: 541-5
5. Journal of the American Medical Association (1998) 280:1576-9
6. British Medical Journal (1998) 316:1694
7. British Medical Journal (1999) 319:693-696
8. British Medical Journal (1999) 319: 836-838
9. British Medical Journal (1999) 319:973-976
10 British Medical Journal (1999) 319: 1050-1053
11. British Medical Journal (2000) 321: 471-476
12. British Medical Journal (1999) 319: 1115-1118
13. Journal of Behavioural Medicine (2000) 23:437-44
14. Comparative Therapy (1999) 25(5): 283-93
15. Diabetes Care (2001) 24: 1069-1078
16. Digestive Diseases and Sciences (2000) 45: 1153-1165
17. Gastroenterology (2000) 119: 661-669, 869-871
18. Annals of Internal Medicine (2000) 132: 903-910

Pradeep K Chadha is a psychiatrist who specialises in helping patients with meditation and imagery using little or no medication. He is the author of The Stress Barrier-Nature’s Way To Overcoming Stress published by Blackhall Publishing, Dublin. He is based in Dublin, Ireland.His website address is http://www.drpkchadha.com

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Faced with a potential worldwide Avian flu pandemic, I surveyed
many health promoting aids available from which I could
effectively achieve a state of basic readiness, and in so doing,
pulled from obvious “traditional” approaches and looked towards
some of the most innovative products in supplement form for
popular distribution. By revealing the following diet related
options, I will show how even the so called “poor” can ready
themselves and their loved ones by practicing simple but
exceptional immune system care. Fresh, natural spring water (the
veritable source of life)

During my summer visits to the Appalachian region, I always
drank and bathed with fresh spring water. On occasion, I would
collect water from a free flowing source which originated from
deep within the earth. It was through these experiences that I
came to know the meaning behind the quote mentioned above.

In North America, it’s become rare for even rural populations to
have access to unpolluted ground water for domestic use which
would account for the almost total absence of knowledge of the
health benefits associated to the most fundamental dietary
component. By bathing in and drinking unprocessed freshly pumped
spring water, one absorbs minerals from the earth as well as
beneficial health promoting bacteria and it’s for this reason
that “spas” continue to enjoy popularity.

“In addition to bathing, guests at these spas also consumed
glasses of the spring water. It was believed that the water had
medicinal value and could cure many illnesses. Spas attracted
those afflicted with cholera, yellow fever, tuberculosis,
pneumonia, dysentery, gout, rheumatism, and other diseases…” -
2. A homeowner’s guide to the development, maintenance and
protection of springs as a drinking water source. Virginia
Water Resources Center, Blacksburg, Virginia link: “The waters
flow at a constant 74F from the base of Warm Springs Ridge. You
may still drink freely and fill your jugs at Lord Fairfax’s
public tap, and wade in the ancient stone pools in the Nation’s
smallest state park…” - 3. link *It is important to note that
uncompromised standards should be used in determining whether a
spring’s water is adequate for human consumption. If the
practice of bottling is used, the filled bottles must be
refrigerated and consumed within a maximum period of four days
or first frozen, then refrigerated etc. Bacteria which are
health threatening will eventually gain the upper hand in
unrefrigerated, fresh spring water. Serious attentiveness is
called for in this situation.

Through our minds and our personalities, we experience ourselves
as masters over the environment in which we live; we make
decisions over the fate of the earth’s environment, vegetation,
animal and our own communal life. But the reality is that our
very own bodies are made up of the substances which belong to
the earth and its atmosphere and because of this, we are
interconnected in most infinite ways with its ecosystem. In
order to restore and maintain health, our bodies require life
sustaining nutrients from within this very ecosystem, namely
vitamins, minerals and a strong presence of beneficial bacteria.
These substances are taken up readily by our bodies in their
most natural states as in the example of fresh spring water
because there exists an extremely complex affinity between our
natural environment and our bodies.

Obtaining beneficial bacteria through fermented foods

A secondary way of obtaining health promoting bacteria is
through eating traditional fermented foods found throughout the
world. By consuming these types of foods (basic yogurt, kefir,
sauerkraut, miso, etc.) on a daily basis, an individual not only
furnishes his/her body with important nutrients and specific
health promoting properties characteristic of these foods,
he/she takes an active therapeutic step towards good health.

“First, fermentation neutralizes unhealthy chemicals found in
grains and beans. Second, it adds a host of beneficial
micro-organisms to food, making them more digestible and
increasing the healthy flora in our intestinal tracts. link

These foods are generally inexpensive (go to a deli for cheap,
imported sauerkraut),can be easily created in the home and are
considered accessible to all.

Even today, we still detect feelings of reverence which various
cultures from around the world hold towards their traditional
recipes, preparations which were developed through and have
withstood the test of time. Who could possibly think of
discrediting the respect held towards these foods including
those fermented? Good health has evidently inspired humanity in
the past and today, those containing health promoting bacteria
are under the microscope.

“Some research also suggests that probiotics have a beneficial
effect on the intestinal micro flora, improving the functioning
of the intestinal lining while helping to regulate critical
components of the immune system such as lymphocytes, antibodies
and natural killer cells following probiotic-mediated signaling
in the gut…” - WOODCOCK et al., 2003; PARRA et al., 2004;
MARCOS et al., 2004; YASUI et al., 2003; CROSS, 2004.

“Researchers have launched the first scientific society and
established the first institute in North America dedicated to
studying probiotics–live microorganisms consumed or applied to
specific anatomic sites for their purported health benefits. The
International Scientific Association for Probiotics and
Prebiotics (ISAPP) held its inaugural conference 3-5 May in
London, Ontario, Canada, attended by 70 researchers from five
continents…”link

*It’s possible to obtain additional healthy bacteria through
dietary supplements and in this way, one can ensure that his/her
body contains a strong omnipresence of these beneficial types
exactly as they exist naturally within the earth’s soil and its
unpolluted, underground water systems. It’s in this manner that
those who don’t have access to fresh, vibrant spring water can
employ an old method for maintaining and restoring health while
using a new approach. In this way, we attune our bodies to the
wise design of an ecosystem in which we incidentally belong.

*There exists effective probiotics in supplement form, such as:
*Bio-K plus *CustomProbiotics *Complete Probiotic Blend with
soil based organisms

Antioxidants etc.

The following excerpts, written by Dr. Fuhrman, M.D. shed light
on some interesting facts:

“…Clearly, the concept that powerful and competent host
defenses are enabled by nutritional excellence is not merely my
opinion; rather it is the reality of human physiology supported
by hundreds of scientific studies…”

“…The most effective artillery we have to protect ourselves
against the potential damaging effects of influenza and other
infectious diseases is nutritional excellence.
Micronutrients–meaning vitamins, minerals, and
phytochemicals…”

“…The flu is a simple viral illness which a healthy body has
scores of adequate defenses against. No flu, including the bird
flu, is any match for a well-nourished immune system. A healthy
diet should include: At least four fresh fruits a day; four
servings of vegetables a day, of which at least two are green
vegetables; some raw nuts and seeds…”

“…In spite of the fear that the Avian Flu is an exceptionally
virulent strain, with about half of those humans infected having
died, it still stands little chance against a truly healthy
immune system…”

Read more from Dr. Fuhrman’s six steps to help protect your
family from Avian flu.

Dr Fuhrman may or may not be rightly estimating the Avian Flu’s
influence on truly healthy individuals but he undoubtedly
supplies excellent immune system care information. Check out
some of the research work he based his opinions on, and judge
for yourself.

An easy and excellent way to receive the health benefits of
fresh fruit, vegetables, greens and herbs is through drinking
their freshly made juice. I’ve found an inexpensive manual model
sold in the US, made in China, that costs approx. $20 and which
is also ideal for passing greens and herbs; the most robust
machines are not. This model is very good because it doesn’t
heat the juice and extracts most of the liquid. It takes more
time to make less but it’s accessible to many. (Use a large
carrot as a feeder and as with all juicers, include some lemon
to recipes to avoid rapid oxidization).

Among some of the most innovative nutritional supplement
products to appear in the last decade are the ‘natural whole
food concentrates’. Though not cheap, they are the answer to a
demand for ‘nutrient excellence’ and convenience. A wide variety
of quality foods are gathered together and maintained in food
form which allows their nutrients to be easily assimilated by
our bodies. These products can be used for daily health upkeep,
to boost immunity, to restore strength following illness or to
revitalize after a workout. If the threat of a pandemic
intensifies considerably, they could also be included on a list
of ‘items to stockpile’ since such a scenario could involve the
implementation of restrictions on the movement of peoples/goods
across borders, etc. *Sound digestion is considered fundamental
to a healthy body and the tips I’ve given, contribute directly
towards this function; probiotics restore health to the gut,
fresh fruits and vegetables contain fiber which assist
elimination and while some fresh juices have the property of
being diuretic, others assist in elimination. I feel compelled
to include that drinking clean water daily is a must and some
interest should be directed towards supporting the liver and the
lungs.

This article is inspired by knowledge gathered through
experience. It shows a laypersons first steps towards a state of
readiness in the event of a pandemic but they inevitably apply
to everyday living. Should the Avian flu manifest itself in my
vicinity, it’s my intention to increase intake of this basic
prescription and perhaps incorporate other products and
practices. I encourage you to investigate further and don’t
hesitate to consult a naturopath or medical doctor with your
health related questions.

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As a parent it is sometimes hard to not be able to always buy
your child the next new thing that usually costs a lot of money.
Sometimes it just isn’t feasible and you also probably can’t
make sense of spending upwards of $50 or more on one video game!
A video game that will become obsolete in just a few months and
your child will forget he even has it in his closet!

We have a solution to help keep your budget inline, your kids
happy and yourself happy as well. Sounds too good to be true I
know, but it is! You can now rent games online and have them
sent to your door. This is a great program for many reasons. One
- you don’t have to remember to return them, or to wait in line
to check them out. Two - there is a flat monthly fee that is two
thirds cheaper than buying a new game in the store. Three -
Undoubtedly your child will get sick of the game but now you can
return it and rent other, no money wasted.

I don’t know about you but when I find a way to keep my budget
intact and my kids happy while also being able to give them some
of the things they really want, it’s a good thing. When I rent
games online it is an all over time saver for me since they are
on the door step when I get home for work. For now, I think I
will keep this service it’s worth every penny and them some.

Did I also mention that my husband and I also enjoy playing
these same games? It makes for spending some time with the
family and kids while not having to spend a small fortune.

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In the past, homebuyers more or less had limited mortgage loan
options. These days, there are more options than you can shake a
stick at, but here’s a primer on the basics.

Mortgage Loans

With the real estate market explosion over the last 10 years, a
call has gone out for unique mortgage loan programs. Bankers
have been more than happy to answer the call. For many
borrowers, traditional mortgage loans still fit the bill. Here’s
an introduction.

1. Conforming Loans - The loans comply with requirements set
down by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, two government sponsored
entities that buy and sell loans from mortgage lenders. These
entities put strict caps on the loans they will buy, with
single-family homes having a mortgage cap in the range of
$360,000. With the booming real estate market, many areas such
as San Diego do not come close to fitting into the conforming
loan market since homes average in the $600,000 range.

2. Non-Conforming Loans - Known as “Jumbo Loans”, these
mortgages are written for loans that exceed the $360,000 cap
mentioned previously. They tend to have slightly higher interest
rates, but are readily available.

3. Bad Credit Loans - In the mortgage industry, mortgage brokers
often refer to a borrower’s “paper.” This paper refers to people
with less than stellar credit. “B” paper refers to relatively
small problems, while “D” paper refers to bigger issues such as
bankruptcy filings. The worse your paper, the more you can
expect to pay in interest, points and down payment amounts. You
need to carefully determine whether paying these extra penalties
makes financial sense.

Interest Rates

With each of the above loans, you’ll have an option of going
with a fixed interest rate or an adjustable rate. Fixed interest
rates simply set a definitive interest rate that will be charged
over the length of the loan. Adjustable rates typically start at
a figure lower than fixed rates, but can be moved up to reflect
changes in the cost of borrowing money. In many ways, you are
betting whether interest rates will increase in the future.

For a great majority of people, basic mortgage loan options
still suffice when it comes to borrowing money. Don’t fret if
you have problems qualifying for these loans. There are many
other options on the market these days.

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Hampton Court Palace is situated to the south-west of London City, on the banks of the River Thames, encircled by forest & wonderful grounds. Hampton Court Palace, King Henry 8’s dazzling water shore palace is located in well over 600 acres of woods and grounds.

Inducing the tone of well over four-hundred & fifty years of tradition, costumed staff can be glimpsed all over Henry 8’s and King William 3rd’s awe-inspiring own apartments. The scenes, sounds & unpleasant smells of the startling Tudor kitchens where banquets were organised for Henry?s court of well over seven hundred folks can also be viewed. Visit Hampton Court Palace today with Enjoy England for a great day out.

Hampton Court Palace has been separated into six individual routes or excursions. The Maze at Hampton Court Palace which is to be found on the River Thames to the west of London City is almost certainly the most well-known hedge maze on this earth.

Hampton Court palace has an appalling legacy and is allegedly owned by quite a lot of spirits, including two of Henry eights departed wives and a nurse to his kids. Hampton Court Palace wardens & personnel will be at the ready to show people to their designated state estate for a cava & canap?s welcome. Fancy dress employees will announce dinner and guests will be encouraged to find their seats for a splendid two course meal with top quality fine red & white wines.

Hampton Court Palace has over 60 acres of ceremonial private gardens on-top-of the six hundred acres of royal plants. The royal private grounds date back to the 16th Century, when the earliest Privy Garden was bedded between 1530 and fifteen thirty-eight for King Henry the eighth.

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