CREATE DESTINY

2006-11-18T04:04:00.000-08:00

DIABETES CONTROL FOR
HEALTHY LIFE

There are effective ways to control Diabetes and lead a very healthy life- Only that it requires consistent discipline in weight management, dietary control,providing nutrition and supplements, regular exercise schedules. We shall now see the options/tips for controlling this disease.
Minerals and Vitamins:

MAGNESIUM:

It has been demonstrated that diabetics with the lowest magnesium levels had the most severe retinopathy, and that low magnesium levels were linked significantly to retinopathy more than any other factor. Elevating the magnesium concentration with supplements would protect the eyes.

POTASSIUM:
High potassium intake is associated with a lower risk of developing type II diabetes.Besides, Potassium is a great help in controlling other complications due Diabetes.

VITAMIN - 'D'
vitamin D is essential for the islet cells in the pancreas to be able to secrete insulin properly. studies have shown that individuals with the low vitamin D levels experienced the worst blood sugar-handling problems and had a greater risk of developing diabetes.

Vitamin- 'A', E and 'C'
Research Studies reveal that the diabetic is unable to convert carotene into vitamin A. It is advised for the diabetic to consume the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin A from a non-carotene source such as fish-liver oil. Diabetics and others on low-fat diets often need supplemental amounts of this fat-soluble nutrient.
Also recommended is a vitamin E supplement, ranging from 400-1200 IU per day and a vitamin C supplement ranging from 1000-4000 mg per day to help prevent small vessel disease of the extremities.

Some tips to control diabetes / high blood sugar:

1. Change the dietary habits to reduce intake of sugar and increase the intake of fibre and vitamins.
2. Enough physical exercise which must include fast walking, at-least for 45 minutes.
3. Keep emotions under check and avoid mental tension and worries to the maximum extent possible.
4. Divide the intake of food into smaller portions at regular intervals.
5. Avoid intake of excess salt, which increases blood pressure and aggravates the problems of diabetes.
6. Consumption of food containing magnesium help in production of natural insulin.
7. Other nutrients: Vitamin B complex and Vitamin C are good in controlling blood sugar.
8. Consumption of fenugreek with milk reduces blood sugar and controls diabetes.
9. Consumption of Jamun fruit,(containing gallic acid ) and powdered jamun seeds, reduces blood sugar levels and help in controlling diabetes.
10.Include Garlic in your daily food.
Visit http://www.expel-obesity.com for content and guidance to a slim and strong body. Use tips on weight management , health and wellness promotion

2006-10-28T04:07:00.000-07:00

REMOVE LOW BACK PAIN
FROM YOUR DICTIONARY

Obesity is a pain down your spine
All you read now shall go in vain;
Low back pain is all that you gain,
If you do not heed to words of mine.

Obesity is the virtual mother of all diseases. Once it enters the system, all other diseases with related health complications join the band-wagon of bad health. It cripples all physical activities, including exercise, which is essential for good health. One of those health hazards is low-back pain, which gets aggravated by being over weight/obese.
Low back pain frequently occurs as a result of excess weight pulling the pelvis forward, which strains the lower back. American Obesity Association reports indicate that women who are obese, or who have a large waist size are especially at risk for low back pain.The spine is designed to carry the body weight and distribute the loads encountered during rest and activity. When excess weight is carried, the spine is forced to assimilate the burden, which may lead to structural compromise and damage (e.g. injury, sciatica ). One region of the spine that is most vulnerable to the effects of obesity is the low back; the lumbar spine. Lack of exercise and obesity lead to poor flexibility and weak muscles in the back, pelvis, and thighs. This can increase the curve of the lower back causing the pelvis to tilt too far forward. Further, this is detrimental to proper posture and as posture weakens, other regions of the spine (neck) may become painful.
One of the research studies indicates that heavy smoking and obese condition predicted hospitalization for intervertebral disc disorders. Another research study from the Department of hygiene , Kanazawa Medical University, Japan, reports that obesity impairs physical well being through musculoskeletal pain and difficulty of daily normal physical movements in middle aged women of Japan.
Obesity and overweight conditions are results of nutritional disorders. If you have been overweight or obese for a long time, your body may actually be starving for necessary nutrients! The best way for a weight loss program will require caloric reduction. However, for many overweight or obese people, a weight loss program means making lifestyle changes, which may include relearning how to eat, manage stress, and exercise.
It is vitally important to feed your body the nutrients it needs to be healthy and survive. No one food contains all the essential nutrients - it takes combining a wide variety of foods to help meet your body's needs. The best combination of nutrient-rich food and following a health life style shall certainly put you back on the right track to a healthy life!

visit http://www.expel-obesity.com for health tips for a slim and strong body.

2006-10-26T06:44:00.000-07:00

ANGINA- Warning for a heart attack!

Angina is a heavy, tight squeezing pain in the chest due to insufficient oxygen supply to heart . It generally occurs when the heart works hard and requires more oxygen: This could be during exercise, at times of stress, in extremes of temperature, or soon after a meal. The pain develops at the same point in daily activity: viz. on climbing stairs or at a certain point in the daily walk, etc.,
The pain often radiates through the left shoulder, arm, or jaw and sustains for up to 15 minutes. This pain could be intense for some, while others may feel only a mild discomfort- Some individuals have no symptoms at all-"A Silent Heart Attack." Other symptoms include sweating, nausea, vomiting, anxiety, shortness of breath, ringing in the ears, loss of speech, dizziness, fainting. Regardless of the level of discomfort, angina is a gravely dangerous situation because it is often the warning bell of a full heart attack , when blood supply to heart is fully stopped.
Not all chest pain or discomfort is angina. Chest pain or discomfort can be caused by a heart attack, lung problems (such as an infection or a blood clot), heartburn, or a panic attack. However, all chest pain should be checked by a doctor.
Types of Angina There are three types of angina. 1) stable, 2) unstable, and 3)variant It is essential to know the differences among these types.
Stable angina.
Stable angina is the most common type. It occurs when the heart works harder than usual. ( Exercise, climbing stairs, etc)
There is a regular pattern to stable angina. After several episodes, you learn to recognize the pattern and can predict when it will occur.
The pain usually reduces in a few minutes after you rest or take your angina medicine.
Stable angina is not a heart attack ,but it is quite likely that you will have a heart attack in the future.
Unstable angina.
Unstable angina is a very dangerous condition that demands emergency treatment. It is a sign that a heart attack could occur very soon. Unlike stable angina, it does not follow a pattern. It can occur without physical exertion and is not relieved by rest or medicine.
Variant angina.
Variant angina is rare. It usually occurs at rest. The pain can be severe and usually occurs between midnight and early morning. It is relieved by medicine.
Major risk factors for angina include family history of premature heart disease, cigarette smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.
Prevention Care:
1. Make Lifestyle changes- (aimed towards better health)
2. Reduce Obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure
3. Quit Smoking
4. Reduce Blood Sugar (If you have high blood sugar)
5. Avoid larger Meals
6. Reduce Stress (Try Meditation- It really helps!)
Visit http://www.expel-obesity.com for content and guidance to a slim and strong body.
visit http://www.healthy-business.blogspot.com

2006-10-25T22:41:00.000-07:00

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

Cardiovascular diseases are major life threats caused by Obesity.In USA, one person dies every 30 seconds due cardiovascular diseases. This accounts for more than 42% of deaths!
Several epidemiological, pathophysiological and clinical studies reveal that obesity and overweight conditions are the two major factors contributing to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Obesity is now a world-wide epidemic, more pronounced in USA, Europe and all other developing nations. Obesity/ overweight is due to the imbalance between physical activity and dietary energy intake. Sedentary life style, unhealthy diet and consequent overweight and obesity markedly increase/worsen the risk of this dreadful disease.
By now, it is an admitted fact that obesity causes insulin resistance and diabetes. The evidence linking early stages of Glucose dysregulation with cardiovascular diseases, needs a serious consideration. Overweight / obesity raise the heart rate and reduce the body's ability to transport blood through vessels.
Following are major cardiovascular diseases:( click on links for details)

arteriosclerosis

Angina

High-cholesterol

High Blood Pressure Heart Attack

Aggressive treatment of subjects with impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance have the potential to reduce both the incidence of diabetes and its related cardiovascular disease. Another research study ( Ref: Health ramification of the obesity epidemic- Li. z.Bowerman S and Heber D. ) indicates that obesity and overweight related to health problems including prediabetes and diabetes and the metabolic syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disorders and certain forms of cancers. Obesity and overweight conditions account for a significant percentage of overall health care costs and significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in USA and all around the globe.
Another research study states that about 17 million persons die in cardiovascular disease yearly in the world. Most part of this disease can be prevented by the elimination of primary risk factors, thus by the abolishment of unhealthy nutrition, physical inactivity and by the absence of smoking. The cost-effective national program, as well as the lifemode with decreasing individual risk factors can give a trend to decrease the mortality rate. Individually the usual blood pressure and cholesterol control, the inhibition of obesity and the lifemode without smoking are able to decrease the organic changes, which produce the lethal consequencies of this disease. The different kinds of diets can significantly influence the development of human diseases. The Western diet has atherogenic effect, increases the risk of myocardial infarction.
It is, therefore, a health hazard to be obese/ overweight which lead to serious health complications. Proper food habits, intake of proper and sufficient nutrition through food and food supplements, coupled with regular exercise shall lead to a healthier life. Weight loss and prevention of weight gain have to be considered as the most two important strategies to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease

Visit http://www.expel-obesity.com

2006-10-09T07:34:00.000-07:00

Obesity and cardiovascular disease

Several epidemiological, pathophysiological and clinical studies reveal that obesity and overweight conditions are the two major factors contributing to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Obesity is now a world-wide epidemic, more pronounced in USA, Europe and all other developing nations. Obesity/ overweight is due to the imbalance between physical activity and dietary energy intake. Sedentary life style, unhealthy diet and consequent overweight and obesity markedly increase/worsen the risk of cardiovascular disease.
By now, it is an admitted fact that obesity causes insulin resistance and diabetes. The evidence linking early stages of Glucose dysregulation with cardiovascular diseases, needs a serious consideration. Overweight / obesity raise the heart rate and reduce the body's ability to transport blood through vessels.
Aggressive treatment of subjects with impaired fasting glucose or impaired glucose tolerance have the potential to reduce both the incidence of diabetes and its related cardiovascular disease. Another research study ( Ref: Health ramification of the obesity epidemic- Li. z.Bowerman S and Heber D. ) indicates that obesity and overweight related to health problems including prediabetes and diabetes and the metabolic syndrome, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disorders and certain forms of cancers. Obesity and overweight conditions account for a significant percentage of overall health care costs and significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in USA and all around the globe.
Another research study on Nutrition and cardiovascular mortality states that about 17 million persons die in cardiovascular disease yearly in the world. Most part of this disease can be prevented by the elimination of primary risk factors, thus by the abolishment of unhealthy nutrition, physical inactivity and by the absence of smoking. The cost-effective national program, as well as the lifemode with decreasing individual risk factors can give a trend to decrease the cardiovascular mortality. Individually the usual blood pressure and cholesterol control, the inhibition of obesity and the lifemode without smoking are able to decrease the organic changes, which produce the lethal consequencies of this disease. The different kinds of diets can significantly influence the development of human diseases. The Western diet has atherogenic effect, increases the risk of myocardial infarction.
It is, therefore, a health hazard to be obese/ overweight which lead to serious health complications. Proper food habits, intake of proper and sufficient nutrition through food and food supplements, coupled with regular exercise shall lead to a healthier life. Weight loss and prevention of weight gain have to be considered as the most two important strategies to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease.
Author is an independent distributor for Herbalife products which ensures good health and takes care of weight management requirements. Here is a splendid work at home opportunity with excellent remuneration and a pride of restoring good health to customers.

2006-10-02T05:25:00.000-07:00

OBESITY AND DIABETES

Unless I have compelling reasons, there are two places where I would not like to visit; 1. Police Station 2. Hospital. If you need renouncement in life, one visit to the hospital is good enough. The frustrating aspect is that we have to spend for this experience! Even that, has now reached a stage that unless you are insured medically, the expenses for the treatment is unimaginably high. The only possible way is to prevent diseases with a disciplined dietary habits and physical exercises. Diabetes is one of the killer diseases, that once it creeps into the system, the other ailments are free to follow. With the sedentary life style, food habits and work stress, the percentage of patients suffering from diabetes has reached an alarming stage. What are the possibilities to prevent/control this epidemic disease? Before that, let us know what is Type-2 diabetes.
Type-2 diabetes happens when enough insulin is not produced by our pancreas or it is not used effectively by the system. The food we eat produce sugar, which is absorbed into the cells, with the help of insulin to give us energy. When the sugar does not get absorbed into the cells, it remains in the blood and causes blood sugar.
Generally, the following aspects lead to type-2 diabetes and its inherent complications.
1. Age above 40 years
2. Obesity and overweight
3. Any one of the parents,(or both)suffering from diabetes.
Following are the complications arising out of diabetes.
1. Blood vessels: Higher levels of glucose damage the blood vessels.
2. Heart: Diabetes affects by increasing the amount of fat and homocystenine in blood.
3. Kidney: Due to increased glucose levels, kidneys are stressed to perform extra work and this affects small blood vessels and their capacity to filter. Over a period time, this leads to kidney failure.
4. Eyes: Diabetes affects blood vessels of eyes, damage the blood vessels and causes eye problems like damage to retina, cause cataract or total blindness.
5. Foot: Damage to blood vessels reduce blood flow to the feet and increases risk of developing foot ulcers and infection. Sometimes, amputation of the affected limb becomes inevitable.
6. Nerves: High level of glucose for a long time damages nerves. reduces sensation, causes numbness and a tingling sensation. Causes dizziness. Diabetes is a lifelong problem. It is, therefore, better to control the disease and avoid the above said complications.
Following are the general methods to keep diabetes under check.
1. Change the dietary habits to reduce intake of sugar and increase the intake of fibre and vitamins.
2. Enough physical exercise which must include fast walking, at-least for 45 minutes.
3. Keep emotions under check and avoid mental tension and worries to the maximum extent possible.
4. Divide the intake of food into smaller portions at regular intervals.
5. Avoid intake of excess salt, which increases blood pressure and aggravates the problems of diabetes.
6. Intake of food containing magnesium help in production of natural insulin.
7. Juice of bitter melon ( 4 or 5 fruits) taken in empty stomach, helps in reducing blood sugar to a great extent.
Other nutrients are Zinc, B-Complex vitamins. Vitamin C is good in controlling diabetes.
8. Intake of powdered fenugreek along with milk will help.
9. Spinach and cereal fibre also help in fighting this dreadful disease.
Obesity is a major cause for Diabetes. Obesity causes resistance to insulin and complicates the existing problems. It is, therefore, essential to keep the body weight under check by following dietary plans and proper exercise.
Author is an independent distributor for Herbalife products which ensures good health and takes care of weight management requirements. Here is a splendid work at home opportunity with excellent remuneration and a pride of restoring good health to customers. Visit http://www.healthy-business.blogspot.com and also http://www.herbalife.com for details and for further guidance to become an independent global distributor, contact author on his e-mail vemburamani@gmail.com

2006-10-02T05:21:00.000-07:00

GARLICK - GOD'S GIFT

Amongst all vegetables, garlic enjoys the top position for its amazing medicinal effects against various diseases and ailments. Garlic lowers cholesterol, brings down the risk of various heart diseases, and provides immunity against various ailments. It also helps in fighting against cancers in the digestive systems and rectum. It prevents stomach cancer, colon, by its ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds.
Following benefits are derived in consumption of garlic, included in our food.1. High blood pressure2. High cholesterol and triglycerides3. supports cardiovascular system4. Garlic has antibiotic properties which provide for the treatment of infection of the skin.
Garlic reduces the risk of heart disease. Following benefits are indicated:1. Lowering total cholesterol2. lowering LDL cholesterol3. Lowering blood pressure4. Acts as an antioxidant5. reduces the risk of blood clots and stroke.
Garlic and pregnancy:Regular intake of garlic, during pregnancy, reduces high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Adding extracts of garlic to cells from placenta of pregnant women stimulates the growth of babies. The activity of enzymes which get reduced in abnormal pregnancies are increased with garlic consumption.
Garlic against tuberculosis
Studies have proved that extracts of garlic inhibits the growth of bacteria, responsible for tuberculosis.
Besides, garlic has antiparasitic properties, against round worms which are the most common type of intestinal parasite.
Garlic has the ability to reduce blood sugar level also, according to studies carried out.
Visit http://www.healthy-business.blogspot.com for tips on weight management, diabetes control. Author is an independent distributor for Herbalife products which ensures good health and takes care of weight management requirements. Here is a splendid work at home opportunity with excellent remuneration and a pride of restoring good health to customers. Contact author on his e-mail vemburamani@gmail.com for guidance.

2006-10-02T05:17:00.000-07:00

DIABETES AND KIDNEY DAMAGE

Research results indicate that Diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease. Final stage of kidney disease is kidney failure and is known as nephropathy. According to the Centers for disease Control, over 17 million Americans have diabetes. Unfortunately, one third of them do not even realise that they have the disease. Approximately 45% of patients suffering from chronic kidney disease had diabetes as the major reason for this dreadful disease, where once the kidneys are damaged and unable to perform their filtration of impurities from blood, there is no recourse to medicinal cure, and the available options are dialysis (Filtering functions of kidney being substituted by a machine) or kidney transplant, where the donor and recipient have to undergo major surgery.
The only heartening factor is that kidney failure does not happen quickly after onset of the diabetes, but will take at-least 5 to 7 years or longer. There are early and later indications to suggest that kidney is getting progressively deteriorated in functions. There are effective remedial actions to slow down the pace of deterioration and maintain the kidney functions.
Both type 1 and type 2 diabetics are likely to suffer from kidney disease/ failure, but it is more in the case of type 1. The symptoms of type 1 diabetes is diagnosed early and treatment plans could be taken early. Unfortunately, type 2 diabetes goes often undiagnosed for years, because the early symptoms are not pronounced. By the time it is diagnosed, there are irrevocable damages done and the chances for kidney damages increase.
Obesity and overweight conditions are linked to insulin resistance and help in onset of type 2 diabetes. When someone is insulin resistant, he will have high blood sugar persistently which manifest into diabetes.
Link between diabetes and kidney disease: Diabetes damages small blood vessels in the body. When the blood vessels in kidney are injured, kidneys lose their capacity to filter the impurities from blood properly. Body retains more water, salt and this results in increase in weight and swelling in the ankles. Urine contains protein. Waste materials start building up in the blood. Besides, diabetes damage nerves in the body. This causes difficulty in emptying bladder. There is a back-up pressure from the stored urine in the bladder, damaging the kidneys. Moreover, the stored urine in bladder causes infection.
The course of kidney disease: The kidney disease takes a longer time leading to kidney failure. Initially, small amounts of protein / albumin leaks into the urine. The filtration function of kidney remains normal during this period. As time passes, more albumin leaks into urine. This stage is known as 'overt diabetic nephropathy or macroalbuminuria. After this stage, filtration begins to drop. Body retains various wastes as filtration drops. Creatinine is one such waste and blood test for creatinine is used to estimate decline in kidney function. As the damage develops, blood pressure also rises.
There are early and later symptoms of kidney damage which are enumerated below:
Early symptoms:
1. Presence of albumine in urine. ( test on this is recommended each year by diabetics)
2. Weight gain and swelling in the ankles, cramps.
3. Frequent urination, especially during night.
4. Rise in blood pressure
Later symptoms:
1. High level of BUN and creatinine in blood
2. Less need for insulin or anti-diabetic medications due to slow down of kidney in breaking down insulin.
3. Morning sickness, nausea and vomiting.
4. Weakness, paleness and anemia
5. Lower blood count (anemia)
6. Loss of appetite, increasing tiredness, itching, muscle cramps.
What are the possibilities to prevent kidney damage?
1. Good control of diabetes lowers risk of having severe kidney disease.
2. Blood pressure and urine albumin excretion to be checked every year.
3. Ensure enough sleep (at-least 8 hours a day)
4. Regular exercise, followed up with 45 minutes of brisk walk.
5. Avoiding alcohol, smoking.
6. Ensure treatment for urinary tract infections, without delay.
7. Avoid medicines which might damage kidneys (Medicines for anti-inflammation/pain killers)
8. Reduce intake of protein more than the daily recommended allowance.
9. Reduce intake of sodium (Salt and vegetables which are rich in sodium)
10. Use of high blood pressure medicines called angio-tension converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors is proved to slow down the deterioration of kidney function.
The final stage of renal failure, occurs when kidneys are no longer able to support healthy functions, unable to filter the impurities from blood. Onset of kidney failure is normally about 7 years or longer.
SUGGESTIONS:
1. The best course, therefore, is to check overweight and obesity in the first place to prevent insulin resistance and diabetes type-2.
2. Avoid salt and sugar.
3. Stay off from alcohol and smoking.
4. Eat a healthy diet with good nutrition.
5. Keep the mind peaceful, to the extent possible.
6. Avoid taking fast-food, and food/drink rich in carbohydrate.
7. Regular exercise, with brisk walking ( at-least 45 minutes)
8. If you are a diabetic, then the following might help in reducing blood sugar
a. Change the dietary habits to reduce intake of sugar and carbohydrates and increase intake of fiber and vitamins.
b. Enough physical exercise, which should include fast walking
c. Divide intake of food into smaller portions at regular intervals.
d. Avoid salt which increases blood pressure and aggravates problems of diabetes.
e. Intake of magnesium helping in production of insulin.
f. Juice of bitter melon, taken in empty stomach, helps in a great way to control diabetes and reduces blood sugar.
g. Other nutrients: Zinc, Vitamin B complex and Vitamin C which are good in controlling blood sugar
h. Intake of fenugreek with milk which reduces blood sugar and controls diabetes.
i. Consumption of Jamun fruit and powdered jamun seeds.
j. Consumption of garlick will reduce diabetes.
k. Soak tender neem leaves and tulsi leaves in water for 10 minutes and drink. It controls blood sugar.
l. Spinach and cereal fiber help in controlling diabetes.
Visit http://www.healthy-business.blogspot.com for tips on weight management, diabetes control.
Author is an independent distributor for Herbalife products which ensures good health and takes care of weight management requirements. Here is a splendid work at home opportunity with excellent remuneration and a pride of restoring good health to customers. Contact author on his e-mail vemburamani@gmail.com for guidance

2006-10-01T04:51:00.000-07:00

WANT GOOD HEALTH ? INCREASE INTAKE OF POTASSIUM AND REDUCE SODIUM

One of my doctor friends used to advise his patients, who were 40years plus, to label their containers of Salt (Sodium Chloride) and Sugar as ' POISON'. This is more pronounced in the cases of patients suffering from Diabetes and high blood pressure. On the other hand, increasing the itake of potassium does a lot of benefits to the human body system in all major functions. It is a mineral that is involved in both electrical and cellular functions in the body. It is essential to the smooth running of human body systems, just about all functions depending on Potassium to some extent.
Regulating the body's fluid levels is one of the mineral potassium's greatest functions. Not only that but it also has a great part in regulating the blood pressure. It also helps to keep the heart thumping steadily and regularly and is also essential to the nervous system. Potassium works to promote the proper functioning of the tissue that makes up the nervous system. It also serves to enhance muscle control plus the growth and health of cells particularly through its importance in waste product removal. This mineral is also vital to the kidneys in their waste removal tasks. Potassium also plays an important role to mental function as well as to physical processes. It helps to promote efficient cognitive functioning by playing a significant role in getting oxygen to the brain. Following are some salient points to note :
1. Increased intake of potassium lowers blood pressure in both hypertensive and normotensive people. 2. Increased Potassium and reducing Sodium help in lowering blood pressure. 3. High Potassium intake reduces the risk of strokes and prevents renal vascular, glomerular and tubular damages. 4. Potassium reduces urinary calcium excretion, creating poritive calcum balance, which in turn reduces risk of formation of kidney stones and helps prevent bone demineralization. This helps in higher bone mass and stops Osteoporosis, especially women. 5. It is important to note that Calcium excretion in the urine, causing complications of Osteoporosis and formation of kidney stones is directly linked with higher intake of Sodium. 6. Entry of Potassium in cells is impeded by insulin deficiency. High potassium intake is associated with a lower risk of developing type II diabetes. This inverse association is attenuated among obese people, especially in women. 7. Processed food loses Potassium completely., It is therefore advised to avoid processed food.
Potassium if rich in fresh fruit / fresh vegetables. A few of the fruit/ vegetables rich in Potassium are listed below.
Medium Potato -1 720 mg Broccoli- 1 Stalk 540 mg Banana 1 Medium 400 mg Tomato 1 medium 368 mg
Besides, Watermelon, raisins, dates, spinach, yam, ham, beef and milk are rich in Potassium.
One of the Herbalife Nutritional Products, Shapeworks- Formula-1 comes with high protein and high Potassium contents, which goes well with anyone needing a wellness product.

2006-07-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

GOD ON INTERNET !

What are the possibilities of a personal website of God appearing on the internet ? And more than that , what are the chances that you could have a video clipping from Him for our benefit ? The chances are bright, the way things develop.

I have been wondering about the striking similarities between God and the computer ! Take an example to compare, the case of a software game. The software of a game in a computer is already programmed with its limitations, yet offer the independence to the individual player to give him the happiness of his performance. He is expected to take responsibility for his good or bad performance and based on that , he would either go to next higher stage or play the stage again. But then, there is no retardation!
In the real life, our life seems to be pre programmed, as we can obviously see the lopsided variations in all aspects among living beings. Yet, the independence to lead the life is very much in the hands of invidiuals. We take responsibilities for our good or bad performance which sets the next stage of our life ! The only difference is that we can restart the game whereas we can not in our real lives.

We have various religions to conduct our lives - and we have different operating windows for our computers to operate. The power of connecting our computer to the internet is through the network and broad band or similar connections, while the power to connect God with us is through various religions of worshipping methods. The speed of connections may be different but the result is positive. Those computers who never want to come on line, remain isolated and do not get benefitted by the internet or its advantages. Those people who do not believe in God remain cut off from the advantages of knowledge and maturity. There are viruses which are generated in the computer and there are anti-God activities in real life. We find anti-virus for the computer to come over the problems and in real life , we have the power of God ,in various forms, helping out of such devilish activities. We have the options in the computer to select our choice of sites in interest, good or bad ; in the real life, we can also choose anything ! Good or bad. Virus enter the computer through bad selection of websites and devils enter our life through our wrong paths of life activities. If the virus is controllable, we can overcome the problem in the computer. Sometimes, the virus leads to the crash of computer ! We have to re-format and install the operating windows again ! In the real life, the salvation is through God.

There are countless similarities between the God and the computer, where the host server empowers our home computer and on the other hand, God empowers the souls who seek his help!

Considering all these, I have a distant dream where God would one day appear on the internet, when we connect and may talk to us also on the video ! who knows ?
Nothing is ruled out. Nothing is impossible which can be imagined.

NB: When I read my article, after typing , I felt that my presentation required refinement. But I could not wait. Take it or leave it, reading pleasure comes with novel themes and ideas and I feel the basic theme of this article makes sense !

2006-05-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

WHAT DO THE STARS FORETELL ?

My uncle was known for his famous short temper. He was owning a farm land in his village, and in those days, during the British rule in India, in 1930s or so, he was a young man,and was just then married. As per the customs and culture in those days, he was married when he was young; he was hardly 20 years old and his wife was only 16 years ! The farming work was done by workers and the only work left to my uncle was to inspect the field in the early morning, during his walk, come back home along with his elder brother and after an early lunch, settle down for a game of playing cards in the shaded portico of the house, where all other friends would join the play. It will continue for hours together, where betting used to pep up the interest in the game. Any external interference, other than regular refreshments supplied from inside the house, would be frowned upon.
There was a middle aged man in the village, who was declared to be affected mentally and who used to roam the streets, without any work,used to come to see my uncle also. There used to be a high level of sympathy and tolerance for these kind of people in those days and he would be given free food, sometime money also- though he would not know what to do with that ! On this fateful day, this guy visited the house when the play was in full swing and where my uncle was steadily losing ! He was watching this for some time and abruptly asked my uncle, " What is your birth star "? My uncle was visibly annoyed over this uncalled for intrusion. He glared at him and asked sarcastically, " Why ? are you going to predict my future "? The man replied in the affirmative. My uncle was really angry with him. he said " If you can predict my future with my star, you can predict my star also ". The man was unruffled and calmly told him that it was not a problem at all ! He went out to the street, looked up in the sky, in the broad-day light for a few minutes, and came back. He asked my uncle whether he was born under a particular star ! My uncle was taken aback! In fact, that was his birth star. He looked at him, unable to speak a word. Thereupon, the man informed my uncle that his wife would die after giving birth to a male child, and the child would also die within a month. My uncle would marry for the second time but he would not be blessed with a child. His second wife also would die and he would marry for the third time; all this would be within a span of 7 years. After the third marriage, he would lead a comfortable life but would not be blessed with a child. At the fag end of his life, during his old age, his third wife would also die due to an accident ! Hearing this, my uncle became very agitated. Before he could get physical and beat him up, his friends stopped him. The game ended abruptly and my uncle was very depressed over this issue.
After an year, his wife delivered a male child. Within fifteen days, the child developed jaundice and died within a few days. Medical treatment was very primitive in those days and in a village, one can not expect a learned doctor. Very sadly, his wife also died within a month.
Within one year, he was married again and his second wife, true to the prediction, died within 6 months ! My uncle was really alarmed over these happenings ! All his relatives and friends consoled him and after a lapse of one year, he was married , the third time ! At this point of time, he was only 30 years old. Remarriage was a common feature those days, especially due to the culture of child marriage. While the men could marry second time, the same was not extended to the women ! They were to spend the rest of their lives, once their husbands died !
My uncle lived a comfortable life and I used to visit his house frequently, since he was lonely and had no one else to spend time with.
At the age of 78, when his wife was 68 years old, they went to a temple one day for worshipping. As they were walking, one of the trucks which was coming from the opposite direction, lost its control and came rushing towards them. My uncle jumped into a small pit nearby, by a reflex action. My aunt was stunned and stood there only ! The truck hit her directly and she collapsed in front of him and died ! We went for the funeral and tried to console my uncle. My uncle stayed with my elder brother till his end came, after 5 years. But then, the prediction had come true ! He used to feel sad most of the times in the memories of his younger days and we used to comfort him.
I recall this incident of prediction, by a mentally deranged person who had no back up information,though the prediction was totally true ! We have no scientific explanations for many things in our lives !

2006-05-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

ESCAPE BY THE SKIN OF TEETH !!

My brother-in-law was a disciplined Air-Force officer, serving the Zambian Air-Force, based in Lusaka. He had a perennial problem of knee joint pain in both legs and it aggravated during winter seasons. Unable to endure it any longer, he consulted a doctor in Lusaka. After series of medical examinations and x-rays, the doctor finally concluded that the pain in the knee joints was connected to his teeth, and once he removed all his teeth, his knee pain would be cured ! However much my brother-in-law respected the noble medical profession, he could not appreciate this noble advice, and he came back, totally disappointed. He informed his wife that he was ordained to suffer the knee joint pain in addition to other pains, which his wife interpreted as a symbolic reference to her continued tantrums. My brother-in-law continued to serve Zambian Air-Force for another two years, before he returned back to our country.

Even after retirement, his pain in the knee joint continued to torment him and he finally decided to remove all his teeth to put an end to his knee pain, as advised by his doctor in Zambia.

He was not familiar with the locality where we lived and I volunteered to take him to the nearby dentist, who was famous, as per his teethless clients.

We were given appointment to meet the doctor on a particular day, and I took him there, as per schedule. There were other clients, waiting there, and the attendant gave us a card with our number in sequence, in the queue.

The doctor came after 1/2 hr or so, and disappeared inside. After a brief interval, there was a calling bell sound and the attendant called out the number 325 ! One of the clients got up and went inside. After a few minutes, I heard a scream from inside his consulting room. Me and my brother-in-law looked at each other in trepidation ! What is happening ? After a few seconds, the patient came out , supporting his jaw with one hand and slowly went out. Number 326! with a calling bell sound, and an old lady went inside. After a few seconds, a scream from inside and the lady came out, holding her jaw, (With cotton wool stuffed inside her mouth). Without even a minor change, this ritual went on for another few clients.

My brother-in-law looked at me. ' Do you have cutting pliers in the house ?"was what he asked me. I understood. Both of us quietly stood up and went out, as we heard the calling bell and our number being called !

2006-04-13T19:43:00.000-07:00

EARTH'S ROTATION !!

When I was in school, I was taught that earth rotates on an axis of 23.5 deg. I imagined that there has to be a rod through the earth and earth is rotating on that axis. Later on, I learnt that the axis is imaginary and is with reference to another heavenly body. Later, I got a doubt that when earth rotates, how we land up in the same place when we jumped. I got an answer that atmosphere, to a considerable height, also rotates along with the earth.

My latest doubt now, is that we all know that earth rotates itself in 24 hours, and orbits around the sun which takes 365 days. What force makes earth rotate itself ? and also in a synchronised speed ? Where does it get the energy required . My friends say that it could be due to sun's gravitational pull. If it is so, then how earth goes on an eliptical orbit ? Even then, what force makes earth rotate?

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-29T22:06:00.000-08:00

Excuse me ! Meteorologists

Being a nature lover, I am very interested in the knowledge of Meteorology. But, when I went for my ab-initio course in Aviation subjects, Meteorology was the least liked by all students. Our instructor, Mr.Bains, was a bore ! Once before he came into the class, I wrote on the board:
Mr. Bains is a pain down your spine
All he teaches go in vain
Like a cloud and passing rain.
But to my surprise, Mr.Bains did not take offence to this writing. Instead, he smiled at us and said, ' this is a good one'
Ramani

2006-03-29T21:49:00.000-08:00

Procrastination !!

There is a saying that 'pleasure deferred is pleasure doubled'. Not on all occasions and definitely not for all other requirements. But, it is true in the cases of Medical treatment, insurance coverage.

What is postponed at an early detection of medical treatment, aggravates to such an extent that it may not even double ! It may end up in irrevocable situations where you will have to accept the choice offered. However, in the case of insurance coverage, it is not that bad. However, insurance coverage at the appropriate time, will cost a minimal amount of premium. When it is deferred to a later stage, the premium doubles ! At one point of time, it may not be possible to opt for the coverage at all !

It is wise and prudent to plan for future; The returns are worth taking the decision at the righ time.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-26T17:39:00.000-08:00

What is better than Money?

It is endless debate as to what we want in this life ? The priorities are endless like the number of stars in the sky. But then, there has to be a strong foundation on which we set out and seek priorities. The basic requirement, in our earthly life, like it or not, is MONEY. Even our love, compassion for others and an attitude to help them, become meaningless if we end up as paupers. It may not provide the support and succour which the needy one requires. I agree that money alone will not be enough; But, it is the best basic tool to help yourself and others.

Acquiring wealth is only 50% of your success story. The remaining 50% depends on managing the finance and make it grow ! Imprudent investments and wasteful expenditures will quickly bring down your position to Square Zero. ( If thee is one ).

There are various options for wise investments, which make your money grow, and available to you in all times of need ! There are insurance policies, mutual funds, Stock investment options, Fixed deposits, investment in Gold, combination of all these options, where companies and corporates vie with each other to help you, and in the process help themselves as well. These financial wizards are experts in their fields of expertise and the tools in your hands to use them ! You may not be able to manage everthing by yourself. The only question will be to select the best ones to manage our funds and make them grow !

It is not an impossible task either. You have to carefully go through their track record of growth , which itself is an indication of the financial health of their companies ! There are mutual funds, which publish the NAV value, every week or month, where you can see for yourself to finalise the best fund to invest your hard earned money !

Besides, there are insurance companies, banks, and other outfits which offer insurance facilities for your and your family's health in situations where you have to spend a huge amount of money on your health recovery and hospital expenditure ! All that you have saved over the years, will be spent in a couple of months for a major hospital treatment. And it is an indisputable fact that, one day or other , we all end up there for medical treatment and health recovery. What is better than an insurance cover,under these trying situations, to overcome the financial problems which we may encounter, if we have to spend for ourselves ?

Ramani

2006-03-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

Health and Life Insurance !

Somewhere I read that for a salaried employee, the rating is 40/40/40; that is, after performing 40hours a week , for 40 years, the balance in the bank account is 40$ !

No doubt, with this kind of financial weakness, most of the people find it difficult to fund for their hospital treatment and to support themselves .

The best way to obviate this hazzle, in the light of mounting medical charges and medicines, is to opt for a medical insurance and to take life insurance policies for the kids, even when they are young. The premium amounts payable in both cases, are minimal when they are done from their early age !

There are competing companies which offer attractive terms for insurance coverage and if only we could spend time in scrutinising the offers, we may possibly select the best one to take for use.

Ramani

2006-03-26T05:54:00.000-08:00

Obesity !

Obesity, especially in the midriff, is the sluice gate for all health problems and difficult to reduce. I am overweight, by that standard, and am heavy by 10 kgs. Aggravating this problem, I met with an accident which had resulted in a fracture in my backbone near L-5 which pinched the nerves controlling the lower limbs. By sheer luck, I escaped and even after surgery, I continue to have sciatic pain on both limbs and am unable to bend and lift even small weight. I can not exercise and very soon, my stamina had reduced and I used to get tired very soon. Joining this bandwagon of problems, I contracted diabetics also which made things worse. My normal day to day functions were also affected, till...

One of my friends, who is a local distributor for Herbal Life products

( herbalife ) recommended the healh products to me, with the guarantee that the excess weight would come down and the energy level would be increased due to the nutrition required by the body is available in the product.

You may find it difficult to believe, but he was true ! Within one week of continued usage, my energy level has gone up, the sciatic pain has vanished, and the weight has reduced by 2.5 Kgs ! Even the pain in my vericose veins had considerably reduced. I am thoroughly impressed with this product. All those who suffer from overweight can use this product for positive results.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-25T03:02:00.000-08:00

Detective Story !!

My children are passionate about cricket. If they cannot play outside, they will play inside the house, in the car porch! My pet dog, Pinky is another great enthusiast in the game.
My wife was terribly annoyed over the noise and nuisance they create and decided to hide the tennis ball. My children were begging her to give the ball, but she would not relent. My youngest son had an idea. He brought the cricket bat and rubbed it on Pinky's nose. 'Go get the ball' he said. Pinky seemed to understand. It ran inside and fetched the ball in no time. Now, a new game of 'hide and seek' started. The ball was hidden inside the drain pipe and Pinky picked it up. They covered the ball with a cloth, sprayed it with Body spray and hid it under the pillow. Pinky managed to get it out. It was Pinky's field day instead of fielding day.

Ramani

2006-03-22T17:42:00.000-08:00

WRONG APPROACH !!

Capt Neil Roberts ambled slowly towards his aircraft 4R-AJL, a turboprop aircraft, sitting on Bay-5 in the Katunayake International Airport, Srilanka, waiting for departure on its scheduled flight UL-207. First Officer William had already gone to the aircraft and the aircraft was now boarding.
The weather was clear with blue sky and there was no forecast for any adverse weather conditions enroute.
Capt Neil, boarded the aircraft, said hello to the chief cabin executive and entered the cockpit and positioned himself. First officer williams had already prepared the cockpit for departure.
With formal exchange of greetings, Capt.Neil called up ATC for Start up and taxi clearance.
ATC Colombo cleared UL207 to start up and cleared the aircraft to taxi out to the active runway 04, enter the runway and line up.
Capt UL207 taxiied to runway. Called up ATC
Tower UL207 Request ATC departure instructions
UL207 copy ATC – Colombo clears UL207- Colombo to Trichy- Via Flight Plan Route- To cruise and maintain FL 160 – Departure after take off Runway 04- Turn left, intercept radial 345 and climb to cruising level unrestricted.
Roger-Copied –Request Take off
UL207 Cleared for Take off- surface wind 050 degrees 06 Knots
Roger – Rolling
UL207 made a smooth take off, slowly turned left while climbing and set course., towards its destination.
Mr.Kenneth George was on morning duty in ATC control- Trichy. With two departures already gone, the only arrival was UL207 from Colombo, expected at 1030hrs.
Capt Neil was 60 miles out of Trichy and called up. Mr.George heard his call and responded to the aircraft and passed local weather to pilot.
AT 1020hrs Capt Neil called up ATC Trichy:
Trichy Tower- UL 207- I have your field in sight- Request permission for a straight in approach for Runway 27.
George cleared the aircraft for straight in approach and advised the aircraft to report finals
UL207 agreed
At 1023, UL207 reported finals for Runway 27. Mr.George, who was looking somewhere else through his binoculars, cleared the aircraft to land.
UL207 you are cleared to land- Surface wind 290 deg 04knts.
Capt.Neil Roberts, was in fact, was on finals to a disused second world war aerodrome, near Tanjore, 15 miles East of Trichy, Not knowing the wrong approach, he made a smooth landing on the disused runway. And cut his speed.
‘There was something seriously wrong’ he thought. There were no Crash Fire Tenders and no ATC building at all !
He realised now that he had landed at the wrong airport !
Mr.George called up UL207 for taxi clearance, but to his horror found that there was no aircraft ! What happened ? Has he crashed ? He gave numerous calls- No answer !
Meantime, Neil quietly backtracked on the runway to the beginning and took off again- As the aircraft was speeding down the runway on take off roll, he saw a man standing near the building and watching the aircraft !
As he climbed, he gave a call to ATC Trichy. George felt greatly relieved. The airacraft reported for finals again within 5 minutes and landed at Trichy.
After blaming each other for lapses, both the controller and the pilot decided to push the case under the carpet.
Exactly, after one month, Mr.George got a letter from his headaquarters- to explain the reasons for not submitting an incident report into the case of wrong approach and landing and the reasons ! The man in the disused airport, who was the care taker, made a complaint to Headquarters that an aircraft with registration 4R AGL, made a landing but took off without paying landing charges. The time and date along with the registration let the cat out of the bag !

2006-03-19T05:32:00.000-08:00

ELLIOTS BEACH !!

I was studying in Chennai,(India) ( known as Madras , those days) in IXth standard, and even in those days, my appreciation for nature was in full bloom. I used to climb on the small hill near my house, which is the famous hillock ' St.Thomas Mount', where there is a church in the name of the apostle. There, I used to sit on a rock and face eastwards and strain my eyes to find whether the sea shore ( which was hardly 15kms away) was visible. I used to imagine that I could not only see the Bay of Bengal, but could even hear the sound of crashing waves. My school friends agreed to my 'findings' and went ahead to confirm that the sound of waves could be clearly audible, on Full Moon nights, when they slept on the terrace !!Such was the fascination for the sea, I decided to cover the distance by cycle from my house to the beach and enjoy time sitting there !

I set out on a Sunday morning , from my residence , and as usual, nobody knew my programme. By road, to reach the nearest beach, in Adyar was a cycling distance of 15 to 20 Km and it took almost 3 hours for me to reach the place. After the landmark, Theosophical Society, there were only Casuarina Tree plantation and the swishing sounds through the trees from the strong winds, where the road to the beach was deserted, was an out of world experience for me, and I was slightly frightened since no one was there . The famous beach of Marina was, in fact, close by, with the city buzzing nearby and Santhome Church , standing as its landmark. But, the Adyar beach, which was famously known as the 'Elliots Beach', was less inhabited and no one used to go there , save for some fishermen hamlets.

But my natural attraction for dangers was predominant in my spot selection. I reached the Elliots Beach, somewhere around 11 in the morning. What a beautiful sight ! The roaring waves as they crashed on to the shore was a mind-filling sight ! I quietly went near a small building and sat down there and watched. Since I did not know swimming, I was very afraid to go near the sea. I enjoyed its beauty from a safe distance. After , may be an hour, when I looked around, I observed that the small building was , in fact, a stone memorial . in memory of

a Dutch Sailor ' Karl Schmidt' who lost his life, rescuing a drowning swimmer. The name of the sailor is not recorded here from my memory, ( I must mention here that I have found out his name from the

free encyclopedia- WIKIPEDIA- today , to write this article ) though , I remember vividly that the building was a memorial for someone, who died in the sea, trying to rescue some one. There was also a warning note , nearby, cautioning all those who visited the beach, not to go for swimming inside the sea, due strong water currents. I returned back to my house, in the afternoon. Now the beach is overcrowded. It is known as Besant Nagar, with a cluster of colonies and crowded houses and maddening traffic. No Casuarina trees and no eerie sounds !!

Today, I just remembered my trip to this beach and knowing the details of memorial, I thought that the gentleman who died in the sea must have been Mr.Elliot and the beach was named after him. I tried to gather the details, through Google, from the WIKIPADIA , free encyclobedia. I typed out the name Edward Elliot . ( where did Edward come from , in all this,is something which I cannot say. ) There were a few pages on this name, and I selected one.

It read:

SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF EVERETT EDWARD ELLIOT

OF THE HEROIC CREW S.S. TITANIC, DIED ON DUTY, APRIL-15, 1912, AGE: 24 YEARS.

'EACH MAN STOOD AT HIS POST

WHILE ALL THE WEAKER ONES WENT BY

AND SHOWED ONCE MORE

TO ALL THE WORLD, HOW ENGLISHMEN SHOULD DIE '

There was nothing else ! I had a premonition that this same Elliot should have been re-born ( I have a strong faith in re-birth) and came to India during British Rule and the name Elliots Beach should have some mysterious connection with this again !

But, when I searched, the name of Mr. Karl Schmidt appeared, but strangely, the memorial is for the same reason ! I do not read between lines. It is your job.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

MY ESTATE !!

What is carrot to a donkey is what owning a house to a guy like me ! When I could afford X amount for purchase of a property, the price was 2x. When I reach 2x stage, it sells at 4X. But I have innovative ways to overcome this frustration !

When I came to this city on my official transfer, I set out to find a house on rent. I could find one independent house, at last, for a reasonable rent, Overlooking my house was a big lake ! There were not many houses in the vicinity and proper roads were yet to be formed. But I settled for this house, since I loved to be away from the noise and congestion and what better place I could get , when there was a lake near my house ? There was a muddy track from my house to the main road, which was 1 furlong away. The surrounding area near my house was open area and my children were happy with the prospect of playing cricket there. I had a pet dog with me , a German Sheperd, and we called her Pinky. She was enjoying her new found freedom like nobody's business !

I occupied the house, in the end of May, just before the onset of monsoon. The lake was half full and we used to have a morning and evening walk on the lake bund, sit on a culvert there and enjoy nature,

while Pinky would try to catch and eat anything from a fish to frogs ! All this was good till........

I woke up in the middle of night and found that there was a power cut and it was total darkness outside. Monsoon rains had started and it was a torrential rain on that night. In fact, it had been raining since three days and we could not have our morning/ evening walk schedules. Never mind, I came out of the house and stood near the portico.

What is this strange sound, besides the sound of rain , lightining and thunder ? I could not make it out. It was unmistakable , a continuous sound and I could not pinpoint either the source or the reason. After standing there for several minutes, I got back inside and went to sleep.

Next day morning, when I woke up and came out, I was shocked to see the scene ! The lake was full and the overflowing waters, through a storm water drain was full with gushing waters, and overflowing all around ! Now, I cannot cross this overflowing stream to the other side to go anywhere ! Nevertheless, the scene was good enough to enjoy. We go on excursions, spend money on hotels and enjoy nature in some hill resort or in a forest. This did not make any great difference. All the ingredients of an excursion tour, free , was there for us to enjoy, without a dime to spend. I got inside the house and the first thing was to phone up to my office and apply for 4 days leave, suffixing a Sunday ! Hell with this office, I thought. Of course, for my children, it was still vacation time and they were equally happy.

Pinky was looking at all of us with expectation and enthusiasm and was ready for an outing !

First thing first. We set out to see the 'river' in front of my house. My eldest son suggested that we could give a 'bath' to Pinky. Of course, Pinky did not know these diabolic plans. It ran happily, in the front, swishing its bushy tail. We went there, sat on the culvert connecting our track- road to the other side. Water was overflwing the stone by one foot, but still, we were able to sit on that, with our legs inside water completely and water flowing up to our hips. Pinky was pushed into the water and she swam and came near us. Giving her a scrub with the soap, she was again pushed into the water. After 15 minutes of this exercise, we decided to come back, have breakfast and go there again.

It was very enjoyable, for the next two days, till such time the overflow receded to a normal flow of water, under the stone.

The rain had stopped and we played 'cricket' with a tennis ball. Pinky was the permanent fielder and she did the job quite well. Only hazzle was after picking the ball, she would not come to us, but would run on the opposite direction. But, all this was sheer enjoyment and we liked it very much.

There is something still to write on this topic , but I will give you a small respite. Meantime please have a cup of blended Darjeeling tea with a biscuit; come within 15 minutes and continue reading. Alright ?

I have come back, as I have promised, to continue on my little story.

I stayed in that house for two years and thereafter changed my residence. This one is also an independent house, but not as big as the earlier one; besides there is no lake. But, that was not a problem. Instead of a lake, there is a big pond , where a water plant , covers up the water surface almost fully, and there are some small trees of thorny bushes also, which have grown inside the pool. I can see a lot of birds of different species , with sparkling colours inhabit this water source. If they do not differentiate and are happy to come here, why should I have a complaint ? Every morning, I come up to the terrace and watch them. They are in groups and they seem to care for each other. There is no quarrel amongst them ! How nice it could be, if I can fly ? But in my dreams, I have had this experience of flying ! even while descending the stairs, I would fly down instead of walking down the steps. These little birds have no requirements in life other than their biological needs. That is the reason why they are happy. I used to feel that contentment /happiness versus goals/achievements in life are inversely proportional ! We do not know our life priorities and chase mirages, which also extend beyond our reach !

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-17T19:47:00.000-08:00

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES !!

My earliest memory of my childhood is that I am sitting on an elephant, while my elder brother was standing near the elephant and crying. I checked this out with my mother, when I was 30 years old and she replied that me and my brother were taken to our native place, to offer worship in our village temple. After the rituals, me and my brother were given an 'elephant ride' ! The next one was when I was admitted in the school, in the first standard, when I was hardly 4 years old. There were no kinder-garten and nursery classes those days. The reason for my admission was nothing connected to schooling and knowledge ! My mischief in the house was unbearable ! I was the youngest in the house , with three elder brothers and two elder sisters. Moreover, it was a joint family and the house was full ! They had no time for me and I did not bother a bit about that. I was making myself merry with all kinds of mischief. Right from my young days, I was a loner and found happiness and pleasure on my own and to be in my own dream world !

I finished my first two years in the elementary school and thereafter
we shifted to a city which was 40 kM away from Chennai. While my elder brothers were admitted to the Boys High school, ( Ramakrishna Mission ) I could not get admission in the third standard since the elementary school upto 5th standard was 3 KM away from the house. But the headmaster agreed to admit me in the girls High school where the admission and study was possible for boys , upto only 5th standard. There was no co-education system, though both the schools were in the same campus , opposite to each other.

If there was one thing I disliked, as a boy, was to be in the company of girls ! Especially lady teachers ! But, I had no alternative. After a few days, the inevitable happened. The lady teacher pinched my ears , in front of all the girls giggling, for my mischief. I came back to my house and announced that I will not go to this school at any cost and would prefer to go the boys elementary school ( branch school of the same management), which was three km away. I was lucky to get the admission immediately. I liked the school very much ! Nowadays,while I forget the names of anyone introduced to me, within minutes, ( Age !) I still remember most the names of my friends at school who studied with me in third standard !

One day I went late to school, by 30minutes. My teacher was upset on my late attendance and asked me to go the headmaster." Go to him and say that I have come late " was what he instructed me. I went to the headmaster. Looking at me standing near the doorstep, he asked, 'what do you want ?" I said, " the teacher asked me to tell you that he came late to school." The headmaster was very angry. What an insubordination! After coming late, one should send this message through a student ! After the class was over, he asked him about this late attendance. Teacher was very confused. He said that it was the student who had come late and not the teacher. Miscommunication ! Resulting in double punishment.

We used to have one class of Moral Education, every day. In the afteronoon session, the last period would be for Physical training on daily basis. Every alternate day, in addition to the PT class, we used to have one class for 'gardening', where all students will cultivate the small land area inside the school and grow plants! I liked all this very much.
There are no moral classes these days and no room for any appreciation for nature ! Our children sadly lose all the essential ingredients of happiness !

Once, when I was travelling in a train, I shared this feelings with one of the co- passengers, who was happy to talk with me. After a patient listening, he said. " Why should you think that the children do not get happiness because they do not go through the same kind of education or experiences ? Perhaps your way of appreciation may be even boring to them. It is , afterall , an individual taste." I felt what he said was true. There could be possibly a cultural change due to changes in needs. But, I still feel my view point is also correct. What is the purpose of life, if you turn out to be a 24x7 man ? You lose your quality time in life , only to regret when there could be no recourse. I am happy that I am not like that. I have been enjoying every second of my life; not that I do not get upset, worried and angry on so many occasions. But they only add to my contentment and happiness whenever I think of my happy moments and memories ! I have plenty of them in my memory bank . I would not really know whether the reader, other than myself, would be interested in them. Perhaps, I shall come to know of that later.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-16T18:21:00.000-08:00

Trip to Maldives !!

It was in the year 1977, I got my first passport after an NOC (No objection certificate) issued by the Government of India for issuing me a passport, since I was a Government employee . I was very enthusiastic about my possible 'overseas travel' and started to make plans for a trip to Maldives. I had another friend of mine, who also got his first passport , and was desperately banking upon me to make the tour plan to accommodate him as well.

Both of us bought airline ticket froms Trivandrum to Maldives,(A group of islands in the Indian ocean, southwest of India, approximately 45minutes of flying time by a Boeing aircraft from Trivandrum.). Having successfully arranged that, we collected the information from one of my friends, who had been there to Maldives on several occasions on business trips. He informed me that Maldives Government has approved the residents of the country to entertain tourists in their houses, and could collect rent for their stay and pay a small portion as tax to the Government. My friend had also recommended me to one of his friends in Maldives, who could be my host.

Having arranged that, we planned for the travel and set out by train to reach Trivandrum from where we would catch a flight to Maldives. Everything went off very smoothly, and on the scheduled day of departure, we went through the formalities of immigration and customs and boarded our flight.

This was, incidentally, my first experience in a transport aircraft and I was thrilled ! I was looking out of the window ( I had requested for a window seat) and was waiting impatiently for the aircraft to move ! Now, suddenly , a thought struck my mind. I was an obsessive believer in ' cheiromancy' and was an ardent reader of all related books. I had 'reached a degree of proficiency' in the related subject, in my own opinion. Now, I looked at my hand to verify whether I had the 'travel line' cutting across from the mount of Luna to touch the Line of Life ! It was not there ! In no uncertain terms, it clearly indicated that I had no prospect of 'overseas' travel ! Then, what could happen ? Will I ever land into Maldives or crash into Indian Ocean? While I was considering all these aspects and analysed for a comfortable answer, the aircraft started taxiing out. Within the next 10 minutes, we were airborne, and my thoughts had faded away, as we started cruising. Within 40minutes, I could see the green coral islands, below us, and was thrilled. The aircraft made a smooth landing at the island airport of Maldives, called 'Hulule'. 'Hell with this palmistry', I thought. After quickly going through the formalities of immigration, health ( Pricked my fingers for blood samples !) and customs, we were outside. There were ferry services to the Capital city 'Maldives', which was 10 minutes distance by boat travel. The weather was good and I liked everything I saw. After a brief travel by the boat, we landed up on the shores of the city ' Maldives'. It is a 100% muslim country, has to import everything for its sustenance and most of the male community are employees of some shipping organisation. The only natural resources is the fish from the sea.

The city was very small, ( in fact, from one end of the island to the other end, we could walk within 25 to 30 minutes) and we quickly reached the place where we had made arrangments for our stay. It was something like a group of rooms in a barrack in a Military camp. Each one had one room and an attached toilet. Never mind, we could not afford much and we were happy with what we got. The owner was an elderly lady, who also stayed in one of the rooms, on the opposite side of our barrack, seperated by a paved verandah.

We set out for 'sight-seeing' and shopping. There are no animals and there are no birds in Maldives! Therefore , there was no 'sight seeing'. My friend, who was an orthodox Hindu brahmin, insisted on buying an electric stove to prepare the food for us. I did not care much for all these, but said OK. We returned back. For the dinner, we had a loaf of bread and vegetarian sandwich.

Next day, my friend 'prepared' lunch for both of us. Though it was awful, I did not complain. There was a small plantain tree in the campus and my friend, without any hesitation, cut two leaves to be used as plates. We threw the plantain leaves in the dustbin, which was near the tree itself. We had planned to stay in Maldives for 3 days, and after that to fly out to Sri-lanka.

In the afternoon, my friend suggested that he would prepare

'tea' for us. I tried to stop him. But he would not listen. He went ahead and prepared tea, by using the electric stove in the end of

verandah. As he had finished his concoction, he tripped the kettle and the tea spilled over on the surface ! To add to the mysery, the room on the opposite side opened and the owner lady appeared ! I just pulled myself inside my room and watched the proceedings. The lady was glaring at my friend and my friend was looking at her foolishly. He ,then , gathered courage and asked the lady, ' do you have a cleaning cloth ?'

The lady did not appear to have understood his idea. She might have thought that this arrogant guy was asking her to clean the spill ! She replied back tersely, ' You dirty , you clean'. I could not contain my laughter any more. After my friend cleaned up the area under her supervision, he went to throw the dirty cloth in the dust-bin. The owner lady followed him there also. She looked with disbelief the plantain tree without any leaves and the used up leaves inside the bin ! She questioned him, ' who do this ?' My friend meekly replied ' we used it' and went ahead to comfort her, ' Do you eat plantains ?' . There was no reply. Who knows? For all you know,the lady must have thought that my friend was suggesting to her to eat the plantain leaves from the dust bin !What an arrogance ! She glared at him in anger, did not say a word and walked away. my friend was very angry with me for my 'unfriendly' attitude of not helping him but enjoying the fun ! What could I do ? Every one has a natural character. I could not change mine.

After three days, we again returned back to Hulule Airport and reached Colombo ,in Sri Lanka, across the indian Ocean, with a flying distance of one hour and 15 minutes. I shall share my experiences of Srilanka with you in my next news letter.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

Pleasures of Life !!

What is your routine in the morning when you get up from bed ? you brush your teeth, have a steaming cup of filtered coffee and look sideways whether the news paper has been delivered, and if so, whether it is not ruffled up. Pleasure of reading is lost, if some one else had read the news paper before you, right ?

Read the newspaper according to your taste and attitude in life which set the priorities for reading pleasure. Then what ? You are probably getting late for your 'office'. Take a quick bath, munch a hurried breakfast and rush to your office blending in the mad rush of traffic.

Reached your office right ? ( Identify all those staff who do not greet you and make a mental note of that. ) Get into your cabin and after a mindless prayer to no useful purpose, switch on your computer to check your e-mails !

Expected ! One more day to wage a war on e-mail accusations on your lack of skill in running the office and your hot headed replies to squelch the stupid accusations and end up with a sense of anger and of course, increasing blood pressure. Every one tries to project himself to prominence and what other better way could it be than blaming others for their lapses. Build a pyramid of files on them , brick by brick and bury their growth aspirations ! After all, in the rat race ( No offence to rats ) to reach your status and prominence, you need to do all these !

The remaining day is spent in attending / conducting meetings, where the only purpose is to make others understand your point of view and accept you as the team leader. You look forward to dictating the minutes of meeting with the sole purpose of projecting your visions. Copy them all to top management and rleax ; 80 % of the day's work is now over. Now is the time for small talk, with your 'team' of confiding colleagues to conspire, on possible chances to upgrade your position.

The day in office is over ! It is time to get back home, have a wash, down two pegs of your favourite whiskey, gulp your dinner and dump yourself to your bed !

What an wonderful life ! Can you differentiate one day from the other, while the agenda is the same and the attitude and activities are same ! All you need in life is recognition with the highest possible status and a sound financial back-up. Everything else in life is secondary !

Come on, I shall show you something else in life. Get up and come with me, holding my hand, for a silent morning walk in the glades after a fresh early morning rain. Smell the freshness of green rain forest. Listen to the chirping of small birds perching on the branches of the tall and gigantic trees. Enjoy the rustle of leaves, spray of hanging droplets of rainwater on your face with the breeze welcoming you into this forest, the eerie music from the bamboo trees, the beauty of the silent stream with clear and icy chill water and the early morning breeze. What is this world, here, full of beauty and abundant joy? Sit down with me on the bank of this rivulet and dabble your feet in the clear water! Oh ! what a joy ! Can you feel a group of fishes nibbling at your feet ? What do they want ? Enjoy all this, but there is a condition. Leave your age and status behind. Your placement in the society makes no sense here. You must come as small boy or a girl, not more than 10 years old, without any inhibitions of a scheming mind! Is it possible ? YES, IT IS. ` Denizens of this forest do not understand your status which is not your LIFE. It is your existence. Forget it. Be happy with me in this small tour and while you are at it, forget me as well ,and be to yourself.

But, then, how many times it could be possible to take a tour like that ? It is possible, eternally, with your MIND POWER.

Have you ever slept on the open terrace and watched the shining moon and the glistening stars ? What do they say silently ? Why do the stars appear in the same place and in the same shape every day ? Who ensures this discipline ? What is the size of the milky way in the millions of galaxies in the endless space out there ? What are the possibilities of existence of other planets like earth or anything better than that ? Will they support life system and if so, how they will look like ? Can we reach them, defying the proven speed of travel ? Enjoying all this is possible, with your mind power which is as unlimited and fathomless as the outer space !

I shall leave you to enjoy yourself and come back to you after some time, right ?

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-15T04:43:00.000-08:00

Nadi Astrology !!

Long time back, one of my friends who was a Pilot Instructor of a flying club, requested my help to consult an astrologer, who was proficient in Nadi Astrology.

Nadi astrology, to explain it in a nut shell, is the history/predictions of any individual, written in palm leaves, by a seer, supposed to be many centuries ago. Those days , the records were maintained by writing documents on green palm leaves, cut to equal size, by using a metal pen ( Similar to a stencil pen or a ball pen with a metal tip ). The documents could be preserved for any number of years. Even now, there are palm leaf documents available, which are of archeological interest. The history/predictions are available, for the present birth, previous birth and the next birth also ! There are payment options for the records in which the client is interested. The identity of the individual seeking the records is taken by recording his / her right hand thumb impression, and based upon that, the records were located.

Me and my friend reached the small village, near the city Tiruchirappalli ,in South India, where I lived. I was employed in the Civil Aviation Department as an Air Traffic Controller. There were no advertisements or sign boards to guide us to his house, though we located his house without much difficulty. There was a name board outside his house.

The astrologer was a middle aged gentleman and he guided us to the first floor of his house, where there was a visitors hall. We waited there, may be for two hours, while he was busy with his other clients. He came to us later. He took the thumb impression of my friend. Not to be left behind, I gave my thumb impression also, being very curious about all these unearthly events. The astrologer advised us to come the next day, at an appointed hour, after collecting a small fee as a token payment.

We returned back to our house. I spent a sleepless night; how on earth it could be possible for recording the details of any individual, a thousand years or more earlier, by a seer, expecting my visit to this astrologer ? It should be a fraud only, and I concluded that it will be a disappointment for my friend and myself, awaiting us, the next day.

With mixed feelings of curiosity and disbelief, I went with my friend, to the astrologer's house, the next day. The astrologer welcomed us and asked us to be seated in his consultation room. He then brought a heap of palm leaves for our consultation. He would read each leaf, and the name of the inidividual and the names of his parents and close relatives ( Brothers and sisters) would be recorded in the beginning. If the names were incorrect, he would select another one. He started with me first. Few of the leaves which he read out to me were not correct. At last, behold ! he picked out my record, and I was dumbfounded to hear my name, names of my parents, my brothers and sisters ! All were correct ! I could not believe this. He continued to read, after my confirmation on the correctness of this leaf, about the other events on my previous history, right from my birth, giving the details of the position of stars under which I was born, ( Zodiac details ) and produced my horoscope. All the recordings were in verse form, and he had to explain them to me. The records stated further about the age at which I was supposed to visit this astrologer and about my present details of family, my marital status, and on my profession. I was rather surprised when the records stated that my profession was linked to 'pushpaka vimanas in the air' ! Even in Hindu epics, dating back to few thousand years back , statements about the mode air transportations which were known as ' Pushpaka Vimana' were recorded. I could not believe this at all ! He recorded all the history and future predictions in a note book and gave it to me. After this, he read out the records for my friend also. My friend was totally satisfied, while I was very sceptical about the modus of this strange astrology, written by this seer. What was his purpose of life ? Was it to write records of astrology for scores of individuals, who would visit this astrologer, thousand years later ? Could this be a fraud ? I was not able to find any logical answers. In fact, till date, I do not know. It can not be possible for him to 'mind read' and give these details, since I was unaware about my horoscope details, though there were records available in my house. He could not have engaged any private detective to find the details and it looked very foolish that for the pittance of amount I paid as fees, it was not profitable for him to do that, nor was actually possible within the short span of time. But the truth was that I had to admit that the details given in the palm leaves were 100% accurate ! I had even checked the correctness of the horoscope with me records in the house and they matched perfectly !

Now, after a period of more than 15 years, I recollect all these details and still do not find any answer to this mysterious astrology ! However, I have to admit that the future predictions which were recorded did not match the actuals ! I have to ruefully reconcile that God does not want us to know about our future ,in exact details, which will not be in our interest. But ,how the history on my events, before my visit was perfectly recorded is an unknown mystery. I had similar encounters with these kind of mystic personalities in later times, for different reasons, and I shall share my experiences and findings in my next session, which may even be tomorrow..

Regards
Ramani

2006-03-14T13:40:00.001-08:00

WEIRD !!

He wanders into the forest, enjoying nature. Suddenly, he hears the noise of an approaching train, behind him, with its shrill whistle. He is surprised, since there were no rail tracks inside the forest ! But then, there was indeed a train chugging along , and comes to a halt when it reaches him. He looks in astonishment. Now, the guard of the train jumps out and comes to him.

Sir, would you please take your seat in the train, reserved for your travel ?

Our man is surprised. He questions as to where the train was going. Guard replies that the train was on its way to HELL and it has come to pick up our man, with a seat reserved !

Our man repplies that, considering the destination, he would not like to travel. The guard suggests a bargain. ' Ask anything and it will be given, But do not refuse to travel'. Our man is full of wisdom. He promptly asks the guard to give him a clock, which would be able to stop the time , at any part of his life, where he could continue life with the same pleasures of life reached at that moment, eternally. The guard smiles, and produces a clock from his pocket. ' Be careful with this clock, and when you press the button, it will stop and you will have to continue in the same status in life eternally' was his advice and after this, the train moves on.

Now, our man is very happy and plans for the perfect time in life to stop the time. He is young, educated and married. Still, there is time, he ponders, since he has not attained a wealthy position. A few years later, he becomes a rich man and when the thought of pressing the button in the clock, he could not make up his mind and wants to become richer.

Now, suddenly,one day, he suffers a huge loss in his business and becomes a poor man. "What is the idea to press the button now, when I am poor ", he thinks. " let me get back to the old status , atleast". After some time, he meets with an accident and has fractured his leg and even after treatment, he walks with a limp. The thought of pressing the button never occurs to him now. After a few more years, he suffers from Arthritis and ultimately, gets a heart attack.

Now, he goes inside the forest, as an old man, with no thought of the clock safely in his pocket. He is gasping for breath, since he could not walk a long distance also. Suddenly, he hears an engine noise, behind him, and the train comes and stops on its tracks.

The guard jumps out, comes to our man, and extends his hand, without uttering a word. Our man quietly hands over the clock and boards the train for his ultimate travel.

The story above, is from one of the 'weird stories' written by Mr.Robert Bloch. His story was very descriptive but I am writing this from my memory, in my words, without changing the subject matter.

Life is like that ! At the end of the day, it is happier to leave, than to linger on. Our only company is our good memories. Make the best use of life to acquire good memories by being useful.

Regards

Ramani

2006-03-14T03:03:00.000-08:00

Faith !!

Once there was a sage, who was highly respected by everyone, living by the side of a big river, where he had a small hut. He had a devotee, a lady, who would come everyday , wash his clothes and keep his hut clean.

She was on the other side of the river and had to come by boat everyday.

One day, the lady was late and the sage enquired the reason for the delay. The lady replied that she was waiting for the boat and was delayed. The sage, with a smile, said that there was no need for a boat to cross the river. With total faith in God, chanting his name, one could cross the river walking over the surface. The lady , with all humiliy, accepted his advice and returned to her village.

It was raining heavily, the subsequent night, and the river was in spate with swirling waters ,next day, which was a terrific sight. No one ventured out into the river, even by boat, but the lady arrived at the exact time. The learned sage was really surprised and asked the lady as to how she could come across the river when there was no boat! The lady replied, without any qualms, that she walked over the surface of the water as per his advice. Now, the sage was shocked with surprise. How correct was his advice,that chanting the name of God one could cross the river, walking across ? If the lady could accomplish this feat, why not the sage himself?

He prepared himself for a walk over the rushing flood waters . He ordered one of his desciples to tie a rope around his waist and hold the other end of the rope and advised him to pull the sage out of the water, in case he went under. After all safety arrangements, the sage, chanting the name of God, set his foot on the river, only to go under the water. He was immediately rescued and pulled out of the water. Now , the sage asked the lady to walk over the water, and she readily complied with his orders.

She was able to walk over the water!!

This is a small story from Ramakrishna's fables. Total faith, without logical analysis and doubts, helped the lady in accomplishing the feat, while the sage could not do it himself, despite his preachings.

In my part of the country, in some of the Hindu temples, there is a ritual, where devotees walk across burning fire of coal and wood., with bare feet. I have witnessed this myself, lot of times, and the devotees were some of my friends also. But I could never gather the courage of venturing out to do such things. Ultimately, they have gained nothing and I have also lost nothing by walking over fire. But, I wonder whether the mind is conditioned to believe that this feat is possible ? It must be, otherwise with all my doubts and logical approach, I was not able to do it, while my friends could do it.

We come back to the same topic again ! Mind is powerful to accomplish anything, and we must learn to use it for good purposes. The greatest hurdles, of course, are our doubts , inconsistency , lack of faith and concentration. There are numerous incidents, all over the globe, which defy our scientific analysis !

I am an Aquarian and am naturally interested in knowing ' out of world' activities,which certainly does not include harmful things. I am very afraid of them, though I instinctively know that they exist ! All that I am interested is in sharing my view points with my friends visiting this blog, and invite their opinions over the same. I shall quote all my experiences and incidents and would be happy to know their experiences to strengthen the view point on this topic.

Meet you again,

with warm regards

Ramani

2006-03-12T06:51:00.000-08:00

'AHAM BRAHMASMI' (Sanskrit phrase which means ' I am god myself )

This is the ultimate state of Hindu Philosophy, where self realisation makes everyone of us understand that, in fact, we are the embodiment of God.

Till such time that happens, we can try and use the power of GOD within ourselves, to create our own destiny, for the proseperity of everyone, including ourselves.

When I was very young, my dad used to say that ' A man destined to be hanged cannot be drowned'. Obviously to impress upon the fact that what is fated will happen and we have no choice. I used to wonder that when everything is fated and destined, what is the pleasure in life? And why anyone should take responsibility for good or bad deeds? Why should God select people for differential treatment? There are evidently no answers, unless we accept that we have the choice and power to create our own destiny.

Having concluded that part, I started wondering as to what is the limitations of our independence in decision making and plan our destiny? This is a really difficult question to answer, with our limited knowledge. But I am sure that WE HAVE THE POWER TO CREATE OUR FUTURE AND OUR DESTINY. I have
been wondering as to how we could possibly achieve this !

There are books which deal with the power of MIND and the possibilities of tapping the unlimited potential of our subconscious mind to achieve goals in materialistic and philosophical goals. The methods are not very difficult to follow, if we BELIEVE them. Yes, I am now a strong believer that I can create my destiny for the future. Even Palmistry suggests that our minds and thoughts have strong impact that the lines in our hands can be changed. Anyway, for any logical conclusion, one should have knowledge. But for belief, there is no need for logic or knowledge. It is the simple of way to start.

Perhaps, in a crude way, the computers and God are similar in so many aspects. While God connects to everyone and empowers him, host server connects all computers and empowers them. Life may probably be equated to a software game, where the limitations are set in the software, we have the freedom to play the game to our expertise and
WIN THE GAME OR GET DEFEATED. The software does not interefere with our freedom to play, though the limitations are set. Probably our life is also a software programme, with limitations set and the freedom to play to our choice. Depending upon the result, we move over to the next stage or continue to play the same stage again and again.

Coming back to realities, our present goals are very much into the materialistic world and our aims are to improve them to the extent possible. This, ofcourse, does not spoil our ultimate aim which could come later when we become more matured in life.

With an auspicious start, let us move ahead and create our own destiny.

Warm Regards

Ramani