Chinese Medicine has many recommendations for staying healthy and well for all seasons. In the fall, when the weather is beginning to get chilly and the days get shorter, our lungs and our respiratory system become more vulnerable to illness. People with asthma may begin to have more frequent attacks. One is more likely to catch a cold or come down with the flu.

In Chinese Medicine, the lungs are ruled by the element of metal. The element of metal is related to the fall. In the fall, the metal element and therefore the lungs are compromised, particularly in people who are susceptible to respiratory conditions anyhow.

The Chinese believe that the Lungs (which in Chinese medicine include the entire respiratory and immune system, not just the anatomical organ of the lungs) control the opening and closing of pores on the skin. When the Lungs are weak, the pores on the skin remain open, making the body more vulnerable to external pathogens. These external pathogens are related to Wind, probably because the Chinese noticed a correlation between windy days and cold drafts with people's tendency to come down with colds, flus, allergies, and asthma. They also noticed that people begin to shiver more before they come down with certain conditions, and correlated this with Wind also.

They also believed that the neck and back were most vulnerable to attacks from Wind, probably because people often get stiff and achy in that area of the body before they come down with a cold or the flu. I have personally noticed that when I first start feeling as if I am coming down with a cold or the flu, I notice that I get sensitized to any slight breeze or draft in my environment. If at this point I start keeping my neck thoroughly covered with a scarf and keep the back of my body protected, I can usually avoid coming down with a cold or the flu. Even if you are skeptical about this theory, it would certainly do no harm to try this out for yourself.

Astragalus is often used to boost immunity and increase resistance to illness in order to prepare for fall. The Chinese believe that astragalus aids the Lungs by closing the pores of the body, preventing pathogens from gaining a foothold in the body. Modern research has also verified the immune enhancing effects of astragalus. Research has shown that it increases phagocytosis and increases white blood cell count. Chinese research has shown it to have a protective effect against the common cold when taken consistently for two to eight weeks. Astragalus is an herb that works best as a long-term preventive measure. It is best to take it as a tea through the cold and flu season to enhance immunity and prevent illness. There is an excellent formula called Jade Windscreen Formula, or Yu Ping Feng San, which includes astragalus, that can often be found in health food stores and Asian markets. It is useful to take throughout the season to boost the body's resistance to colds, the flu, allergies, and asthma.

When you already have a full blown early case of the cold or flu, the Chinese believe that since the pathogen is already within the confines of the body, the best thing to do is to open the pores and promote sweating in order to expel the pathogen out of the body. As a result, it is not good to take astragalus or Jade Windscreen Formula while you actually have a cold or the flu. The Chinese believe that an herb such as astragalus, which has a function of closing the pores and reducing sweating, could prolong a cold or flu if you take it while you are sick. In order to open the pores and promote sweating, it is best to take ginger or cinnamon tea, or the Chinese patent formula, Gan Mao Ling. Have hot soups, and take warm baths with three drops of eucalyptus, lemon, or tea tree essential oil. All of these things can help you to sweat your cold out. These remedies are useful when you are feeling stiff and achy, and have a stuffy or runny nose and watery eyes with clear phlegm.

Hopefully, by taking the preceding advice you will be able to prevent your cold from progressing or from occurring at all. If your cold does progress to the point of having headache, fever, sore throat, and cough with sticky yellow or green phlegm, a different strategy is necessary. All of these symptoms indicate an infection or an inflammatory response from the body. Mint tea with lemon and honey can be soothing for the cough and the sore throat. The patent formula, Yin Qiao San, which has Forsythia and Honeysuckle in it, can help with these symptoms. Yin Qiao San is also useful for allergy and hayfever symptoms with red itchy eyes and a scratchy throat. The patent formula, Gan Mao Ling, is still useful because it is thought to be anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Gargling with warm, salt water can help with a sore throat. Warm baths with 3 drops of eucalyptus, lemon, or tea tree oil are also still useful because these essential oils are also considered to be anti-viral and anti-bacterial. Of course, if symptoms get severe, it is important to see your doctor.

As you can see, the progression to a case of the common cold or the flu is a multi-stage process. The sooner you work on preventing the problem and strengthening your body's resistance the better. In the fall, when the days are getting shorter and chillier, it is important to boost the strength of your body and increase your resistance to illness throughout the season. Of course, if you do get a full blown case of cold or flu, there are still many gentle and safe traditional chinese remedies that can address your condition.

Dr. Farah Khan, DOM is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine practicing in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She offers information and products related to different health conditions at her web site at http://www.yinessence.com. Her e-mail address is farah@yinessence.com.

Here is a list I think may contain the name of the one you describe . I believe it's one of these but you can be the judge . Check the link for the photo's

1) CATHEDRAL,STALACTITE,BULLSEYE, FINGER TUBE AGATES

2)KILLER AGATES W/ BOUQUET INCLUSION AGATE

3) SAN CARLOS MEXICO BULLS EYE TUBE AGATE

what should I get my 17 year old girlfriend for our first valentines day together?

My girlfriend and I have been dating since the start of December. I am a high school sophomore (15 years old) and she is a high school senior (17 years old). I want to get her a necklace for valentines day. my budget is up to $40. she likes heart jewelry, and something with a gemstone in it usually. she is approximately 110 lbs. she is a 5'2'' Asian girl. anyone have links to jewelry websites?

There's this website, but it can be a little pricey:

http://www.jewelry.com/

You could also try this one for some better deals:

http://www.overstock.com/Jewelry-Watches/4/store.html

But you might be better off trying a department store at a mall somewhere near where you live. I'm sure you'd be able to find something.

I don't like the second.
I love the first.
So the first.

AS long as you aren't violating local pornography or copyright issues, go for it.

Happiness is not guaranteed. Jesus himself said we'll have "many trials".

There's an old saying, "what doesn't destroy you makes you stronger".

Healing meditation technique is medically proven and can improve your overall health, increase energy levels and transform your entire life. More and more people would really benefit from it if they take time to do a simple method to calm their mind, reduce stress, increase energy level, clear up physical and mental blocks. Here are 5 simple steps to help you choose which technique would suit you best:

1. Chose a technique that you really enjoy

There are lots of different healing meditation technique to choose from, from a very highly secretive and spiritual technique to a very popular urban style. What ever technique you choose, make sure that you really enjoy that technique. The fact of the matter is not everybody can and enjoy sitting in a lotus or half lotus position. Once you find a technique that suits you, stick with it. You will get the maximum result if you meditate routinely.

2. Choose an easy to understand and simple technique

I'm a true believer that the simpler one technique, the better it is. In the past, healing meditation technique was taught secretively and passed from generation to generation with no written instruction manuals. Since late 1990s, through numerous channeling from Light Masters, few techniques have been introduced to those who are ready. The common characteristic of these techniques are: simple, non ritual and non controlling.

3. Choose to learn meditation from a fellow traveler - not from a Guru

A true Guru will always be humble and does not have ego as big as Mount Everest. He or she will tell you that the true Guru is The Source. He or she is only your fellow traveler. We have seen lots of "big name" Gurus found themselves in big troubles with the law. After all, they're only human, once his surrounding is corrupted, it would be difficult for him to serve others in Love and Lights.

4. Make sure the teaching is based on Pure Unconditional Love

No matter what they name the method is, make sure it's based on Pure Unconditional Love - which comes directly from The Source. Follow your instinct, and trust your intuition. If you pray to The Source and affirm that you would like to always be in Pure Unconditional Love, you would know if the teaching is not accordance to Divine's Will.

5. Put your ego aside, be one with The Source

Now that you've found a healing meditation technique that you really feel comfortable with, don't waste your time, do exercise regularly. Affirm that you always be in Pure Unconditional Love. Make yourself a pure conduit of Divine Love and Lights. Let yourself be one with Creator, feel and enjoy the energy of Creation flows through you as it heals and brightens you. At the end of each meditation, ground the excess Divine Energy to Mother Earth and all existence. Bless them with Pure Unconditional Love.

Alex Lee is the founder of Divine Love & Light Meditation Technique, a very simple meditation technique, making it easy for Everybody to experience deepest state of meditation in just a matter of seconds.

For more information on Divine Love&Lights Meditation go to:
Healing Meditation Techniques

Buddhist symbols have become increasingly popular in the last ten years. Many decorators now incorporate some of the Buddhist materials when they are decorating. It is not meant as a sign of disrespect. Rather, they are used to bring others in touch with Buddhist art and the teachings that Buddhists practice.

One of the most prevalent Buddhist symbols is the Buddha statue. Most followers of the Buddhist practice possess one of these statues as a reminder of the Buddha. The statues may be made of stone, bronze or made of metal, and usually depict the Buddha in one of his meditation poses. You can always find the big Buddha bellied statues at many consignment stores and shops. It seems as if the "laughing" Buddha is a novelty that many Western collectors love to have in their collections.

One symbol that has made its way into the jewelry industry is the chant "Om Mani Padme Hum." You can now find necklaces and rings with this chant inscribed in Sanskrit. So what does this chant mean? It is said to be the sound of the universe. Buddhists use this chant to reach a higher state of meditation. They chant this saying as a way to begin concentrating on clearing the mind and spirit.

Another symbol that many Buddhists and non-Buddhists use is prayer beads. These beads are very similar to rosary beads used in the Catholic faith. Buddhists chant and pray by counting each bead and saying a prayer.

It is said to calm the nerves and reduce anxiety. These beads can be found made of bone, marble, wood or even polished stones. The number of traditional beads used by a Tibetan Buddhist is 108 and this equals the number of mantras said by the user.

If you are looking for Buddhist symbols and wish to add them to your collection, then there are a number of places to shop. One website you may want to visit is "eBay". eBay has many stores that sell traditional artifacts. You can buy the traditional Buddha statue, rings that bear the chant "Om Mani Padme Hum" or even find prayer beads carved from fragrant woods and bones. You can use them daily in your quest for peace and enlightenment.

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YOGA

It is generally believed that yoga originated in India over five thousand years ago. Derived from a Sanskrit word that means to yoke, or join together, "yoga" signifies meditation and other practices that help you to experience your soul, or Self, as one with the Infinite Spirit, or God. The postures of hatha yoga, the path of physical discipline, are only a part of the complete science, which explains how to calm the mind and attain blissful states of consciousness. Yoga may be considered a science because, for thousands of years, its meditation techniques have been demonstrated to bring about certain bodily, mental, and spiritual states.

According to the teachings of ancient India, yoga consists of living a virtuous, disciplined, God-centered life and meditating deeply to know God. In order to relax and go deep in meditation, many yogis practice the postures and special breathing techniques, which open energy channels and centers of awareness (chakras), activating them to higher levels of functioning. Also part of the science of yoga is the repetition of mantras: sacred syllables and prayers (usually in Sanskrit) that are chanted mentally or verbally to attract certain blessings. The sage Patanjali, in the Yoga Sutras, a profound treatise on yoga, identified sixteen elements of yoga, organizing them into eight "limbs".

The first two limbs of yoga include principles of thought and action embraced by most religions. However, the goal of yoga is ecstatic communion and oneness with God, mystical aspects of religion experienced by saints and sages but generally overlooked by mainstream religion. Most denominations emphasize moral behavior, love, and belief as ways to please God and earn a place in heaven in the afterlife, but say little about the exalted states of consciousness that can be reached through love and meditation while here on earth.

As one goes deep into meditation, breathing and thinking slow down and may even cease. An inner world of beauty, ineffable peace, and holy, unifying light is revealed to the yogi. By regular practice of devotional meditation, physical and mental problems are often overcome or alleviated by the healing power of Spirit. One becomes more content, loving, and joyful.

If you wish to practice meditation, books and teachers can help. But, if you long to know God--the blissful, all-knowing, loving, infinite, creative power and intelligence that is the essence of everything--God may lead you to a Self-realized guru. Such a guru is able to enter the breathless state and experience the glory of the soul in union with God. Whether in a physical body or as divine, omnipresent consciousness after passing on, he or she can help a disciple to also experience (realize) the Self as one with God, although the disciple may need additional lifetimes to accomplish this. Keep in mind that some "gurus" haven't yet perfected themselves and still have human weaknesses to overcome, but a Self-realized guru is holy, loving and pure.

THE EIGHT LIMBS OF YOGA

1. MORAL CONDUCT

- Non-violence in thought, word, and deed

- Truthfulness

- Not stealing what is rightfully another's

- Sexual restraint

- Giving up greed

2. OBSERVANCES

- Purity of mind and body

- Contentment

- Self-discipline

- Study of Truth

- Devotion to God

3. POSTURE (FOR MEDITATION)

4. CONTROL OF BREATH AND LIFE FORCE (PRANAYAMA)

5. WITHDRAWAL (INTERIORIZATION) OF AWARENESS

6. CONCENTRATION ON ONE THING (SUCH AS AUM)

7. MEDITATION (UNWAVERING CONCENTRATION)

8. SAMADHI (ONENESS WITH THE OBJECT OF MEDITATION)

The first four limbs discipline, strengthen, and purify the mind and body.

The last four work primarily with one's spiritual being.

When each of the sixteen individual elements is perfected, one attains certain physical, mental and spiritual benefits, described by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras.

It is important to note that the last four limbs would today be regarded by most people as stages of meditation, and what is called meditation would be considered very deep meditation, a state of unwavering concentration. As one progresses in yoga, the body and mind become calm, and one is able to enter the silence of the soul. The chakras awaken in a profound way, and one experiences divine beauty, love, and light.

Sitting still in a comfortable posture helps in calming the mind, and the breathing techniques (pranayama) harmonize and regulate the flow of life force in one's physical and spiritual being. They greatly facilitate interiorization of awareness and one-pointed concentration. By regular practice of concentration, meditation, and samadhi, a yogi's consciousness is transformed. Eventually, the yogi experiences all things--the Self, all beings, all creation--as one, in the eternal, unifying light and love of God.

THE YOGI

The yogi learns to tame the wayward mind,

Which closes up the portals of the soul

And blindly clings to matter with attachment,

Forsaking diamonds for a lump of coal.

Through disciplines that free the soul from darkness,

And truth, which leads the mind away from sin,

The yogi opens inner doors to heaven

And lets the light of love and goodness in.

In silent meditation, seeking God within,

In loving service, doing what is right,

In time - like Buddha, Christ, or Babaji -

The yogi merges in God's light.

(C) George Johnston, 2009

George Johnston lives in the Clear Light Community at Song of the Morning Retreat with his wife, Mary Ann, who authored Sustained by Faith & Messages from Jesus. As a team they work to spread the messages of Jesus, Paramahansa Yogananda, and other great beings. George graduated in 1956 from Yale University, with an honors major in philosophy, and has taught the spiritual principles of yoga and led meditations since 1962.
In the 1980's, while living in Grand Rapids and running Johnston Optical Co., George created a comprehensive course of instruction in the teachings of yoga for students at Muskegon Community College. His illustrated manual, A Course in Yoga, includes hatha yoga postures, holistic nutrition, spiritual teachings, meditation, and the philosophical and psychological aspects of yoga. This course was taught by him until he retired. It is still being taught at the college with the same course material.
The Course in Yoga teaching materials for high school and college students (illustrated text, 8 1/2" X 11", suitable for photocopying) may be purchased at minimal cost from the author. See website for further details and find out more about George & Mary Ann's spiritual writings:
http://www.maryann-george.com

What is wrong with me?

Today I went to my yoga class. The teacher, a very kind man, at the end of the lesson said that AUM is the sound of the Universe. As soon as he said it a thought came to my mind, quick as lighting, "do you have proof of that? Empirical data, please?".
Fortunately, this question never reached my lips.
Do you think I spend too much time on R&S?
Lol Leviathan, that is a good idea, I could get my 1 hour of hatha yoga for free!
Epaphras-faith: my avatar keeps changing by itself, coming and going, but it should be shoes now

No, you don't spend enough.

You should have made the man look like a total idiot in front of his whole class. Next time he'll give you a discount on your tuition if you promise to keep your mouth shut.

On the first date I won't ask because its a little creepy, but after getting to know someone I will. I've only been with one guy since the age of 14 so I can't say that I've dated every sign out there.
Gemini-->2-faced, Spontanious, Adventurous
Aqua-->Dreamer, Socialist, Artist

Double Dragon

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106761/

In our every day lives we are being affected by forces that we cannot see and these forces are wearing down our health, both mental and physical, on a daily basis. These forces originate from EMFs, Electromagnetic Fields, which are present everywhere, but is concentrated in certain areas, like near power lines. In the home the EMFs are concentrated around power outlets.

The Q-link was created by group of professionals who combined their research to produce a device that would help people to resist the effects of the EMFs. The Qlink is intended to help to build up your bio-field, the field that permeates and extends out of our bodies, and help you to combat the effects of radiation on your health. The Q-link is also intended to help those that live or work within a highly irradiated environment to continue to function at a peak levels.

The Qlink is an attractive, stylish pendant that can be worn any time and should be worn as often as possible to ensure that you receive the greatest benefits from it. This pendant will look good while providing you with a multitude of benefits. That something that looks so good can help you so much seems almost too much to believe, but the Q-link does just that. It is worn by many celebrities and many top performing athletes.

The athletes attest to the fact that the Qlink helps them to perform better than when they are not wearing it and even if you are not a top level athlete this pendant can help you in many ways. The Q-link has 3 chief functions and through the performing of these functions you will be the recipient of many health benefits, both mental and physical.

The chief functions are strengthening you capacity to function within an EMF inundated atmosphere, the bolstering of your resistance and resilience to the effects of stress encountered in the course of daily life and the third function is the increasing of your energy and the enhancing of your mental performance especially in times where you are submitted to large amounts of stress and tension to help you cope with the addition pressure.

The Qlink provides you with a myriad of benefits, including protection from the EMF radiation that is so prevalent these days, the enhancement of mental alertness and lucidity, the aid in balancing your emotion to help achieve the mental alertness and lucidity, helping you to achieve deep and refreshing sleep on a regular basis, as well as an improvement in athletic performance.

The more you wear your Q-link, the more emphatic the benefits will be that you receive. Your Qlink should be worn as often as possible, including while you sleep at night. If you wear it at all time then you will be helping to enforce your bio-field in a major and this will help to combat the lethargy, ailments and weariness that you feel when your bio-field has deteriorated.

All Qlink information has been researched and written by Juliette Pickup
Qlink

In feng shui, there are many feng shui tips to help you activate your career corner of your bedroom to bring in career opportunities and great income luck. There are numerous feng shui cures and feng shui remedies to enhance your career luck to generate good fortune for your career opportunities. However, I am going to touch on the top 10 most potent feng shui tips to activate your career luck. Below are 10 amazing feng shui tips on how to activate career corner of bedroom to generate never-ending good luck for your career life.

1. Sleep With Your Head Pointed To The Northwest

In general, the Northwest is your success and personal development corner. If you want to activate your career corner and enhance your career opportunities, you should sleep with your head pointed to the direction of the Northwest.

2. Suppress The 5 Yellows Which Causes Obstacles

The 5 Yellows is the most dangerous star which will cause misfortunes and obstacles to your life. If you want to enjoy good career opportunities and career luck, you should suppress the 5 Yellow in your bedroom. This year, the 5 Yellows is in the North corner and you should hang a 5 Element Pagoda at the North of your bedroom to suppress the 5 Yellow.

3. Make Sure That There Is No Toilet Above Or Next To Your Bedroom

Be sure to check if your bedroom is directly below a toilet on the floor above you. This is an especially harmful situation in the bedroom which will cause great obstacles to your career life. You should move your bed away from under the toilet immediately. Even sharing a common wall of your bedroom with a toilet is extremely inauspicious.

4. Place Feng Shui Coins On Your Bedroom Side Table

Tie three coins with red thread and place them on your bedroom side table. This symbolizes a never ending source of income for your career life.

5. Sit Facing Your Sheng Chi Direction

The most potent method of enhancing your career luck is to sit facing your sheng chi (success) direction. In your bedroom, if you are reading a book, try to sit facing your personal sheng chi direction to generate good career luck. You can find out your personal sheng chi direction by calculating your personal KUA number.

6. Create A Personal Wealth Vase In Your Bedroom's Cupboard

This is a very personalized tip passed to me by a practicing feng shui master from Macau. He advises me to place a personal wealth vase in my bedroom's cupboard to preserve my wealth and enhance my career opportunities. Get a beautiful vase and fill your wealth vase with precious gems and diamonds and even crystals and so forth. You can also put your jewelry inside your wealth vase. Please take note that your wealth vase must be kept hidden away, inside a cupboard in your bedroom. The wealth vase must never face the front door as this means your wealth and career luck is flowing away from you. And never show anyone your wealth vase.

7. Keep A Three Legged Frog In Your Bedroom For Luck

Frogs are regarded as auspicious creatures to have in your house. It is the three legged frog that is extremely auspicious. Place the three legged frog symbol near the vicinity of your bedroom door but facing inwards, as if it has just come into the room. This symbolizes never ending wealth luck and career opportunities going into your room.

8. Lighting Your Dressing Table

The best feng shui feature at a dressing table is to have the presence of bright light at the dressing table. This brings in good yang energy which leads to great auspicious energy to your bedroom. If your dressing table is located in the South, Southwest or Northeast of your bedroom, this lighting feature will bring in even more auspicious career luck into your life.

9. A Quartz Crystal On Your Table

All through your working life, you should place a large rectangular cut crystal on your desk top if your workspace is in your bedroom. You can use the crystal as your paperweight. The combined energies created by the intrinsic earth essence of the crystal and by the wood element that represented growth will benefit your career life tremendously.

10. A Solid And Firm Bedroom Door

The door of your bedroom should be solid and firm to be auspicious. Doors should also be large enough to comfortably accommodate the occupant of the room. By placing a solid and firm bedroom door, you will activate your career luck and bring in abundant opportunities for your career life.

Conclusion

The truth you need to understand is that very few bedrooms have perfect feng shui. There is no such thing as the perfect bedroom for activating career luck. You only need to learn some of the feng shui tips and apply them flexibly in your room. You do not need to implement all the tips as your bedroom may not suit all the feng shui cures and remedies. Simply apply the tips as you deem fit.

Swanton Mah is a freelance writer and an avid enthusiast on Feng Shui who uses the wisdom of Feng Shui to bring great health, wealth and love to anyone who wants to improve their lives. By tapping on the wisdom of Feng Shui cures and remedies, we hope that you can have the unlimited power to receive and give love and create the happiness and joy that most of us wish to pursue. For more information on Feng Shui tips and guide on home living and arrangements and how to learn and apply Feng Shui yourself, go to => http://www.101fengshuitips.com

The bible gets quoted all the time on here, I thought I'd quote too. What are your thoughts on these verses?

1 E'EN from above the sky's bright realm come, Uṣas, by auspicious ways:
Let red steeds bear thee to the house of him who pours the Soma, juice.
2 The chariot which thou mountest, fair of shape, O Uṣas light to move,—
Therewith, O Daughter of the Sky, aid men of noble fame today.
3 Bright Uṣas, when thy times return, all quadrupeds and bipeds stir,
And round about flock winged birds from all the boundaries of heaven.
4 Thou dawning with thy beams of light illumest all the radiant realm.
Thee, as thou art, the Kaṇvas, fain for wealth, have called with sacred songs.

Never seen these verses before...
They don't seem to be from any Bible I've ever read.
Is this an excerpt from the Qu'ran?

Diamond jewelry has been valued and worn throughout most of recorded history, although the art and science of cutting loose diamonds is relatively new - and diamond jewelry has only been available to the general public for the last 150 years or so.

Prior to that, diamond jewelry was worn almost exclusively by royalty. The earliest example of diamonds being placed in a setting dates from the time of the Norman Invasion of England; at that time, one of the Arpad kings of Hungary, possibly Andrew I, had rough-cut diamonds set into a crown for his queen. However, cut diamonds would not be available for another half-millennium.

The mid-1500's were an energetic time; Martin Luther of Germany and Henry VIII of England had broken with the Church of Rome; Ivan IV (the Terrible) expanded Russia to its present-day borders, and Ottoman sultan Suleiman extended the Turkish empire as far west as Vienna. It was during this time of ferment that the first diamond-cutters' guild was formed in Antwerp, located in present-day Belgium. An industry soon developed for the purpose of appraising loose diamonds, giving birth to the modern diamond jewelry market. Antwerp continues to be the center of the international diamond jewelry trade.

The gems that are used in diamond jewelry is 75% science and 25% art. Together, these make up the "4 Cs" that are used to evaluate loose diamonds:

* carat

* color

* clarity

* cut

"Carat" of course refers to the weight of the gem; a carat is equivalent to about 2 decigrams, or a mere 1/150th of an ounce. That means the largest cut, polished diamond in existence - the famed Star of Africa - weighs just a little over 2-1/4 pounds.

Although we generally think of clear or white diamonds, they come in a wide range of colors ranging from crystal-clear white to dark amber. Pink, green, blue and even purple diamonds are not unusual, and some are far more valuable than their white counterparts.

Clarity refers to just that - how clear the stone appears. All natural and artificial diamonds have internal flaws; the fewer or the less apparent these flaws are, the higher the appraisal is likely to be.

These three qualities are objective, and easily measured and quantified. Cut is a more subjective quality; selecting gems that are appropriate for use in diamond jewelry requires a good eye and aesthetic sense.

Of course, loose diamonds are not really jewelry until they are placed in a setting, such as a ring or necklace. Even the finest diamonds' value can be affected by the setting; it is a value-added aspect of diamond jewelry.

Jonathon Blocker specializes in diamond jewelry, colored diamonds, and loose diamonds. He is a consultant for GemFind.com, a trusted name in the jewelry industry since 1999.

I want to get my wife a gift thats unique and fun?

I usually get her flowers or jewelry, but thats bland and expensive. So - where can i go for ideas or something unique things that still let her know shes my number one girl.

http://www.celtic-rings.biz/claddagh-rings-page1.html
I know you said you didn't want jewelery, but this is one of my FAV sites. Had to share.

http://www.pictureevolution.com/PhotoCollageServices.html

A very cute and sweet idea to show that you really care!

http://bottlemeamessage.com/comesailawaytropicalislandmessageinabottle.htm

Another sweet and cute idea.....

http://www.findgift.com/

A great website for interesting ideas.

World Outside- Devlins
I'm a Wicked Child- Radiohead
The Embryo- Pink Floyd
Blind as a Bat- Meatloaf
Fly By Night - Rush

none of them are really sexy to anyone but me....

I checked online everywhere and could not find anywhere that sells the painting you are talking about. I did, however, find which painting you were talking about, I think. It sounds like it was a painting made for a specific purpose and they didn't make duplications to sell to just anyone.

A lot of the Chinese art shops sell this statue of him though that I found. The web address is in the Source section. It's a pretty cool statue if you are looking to collect Kuan Kung items.

The two most common martial arts practiced in North America are karate and tae kwon do. Many wonder what the difference between these two styles is. This is especially the case for those who are just starting to look around for a studio. After all, most practitioners in both disciplines seem to wear the same type of white gi uniforms with various colored belts.

Modern traditional karate was developed in the islands of Okinawa in Japan after some influences from Chinese martial arts. There are actually different styles of karate but they are all commonly considered as Japanese styles today. The colored belt system was developed to show the various ranks of karate practitioners with white depicting novices and black belts (with various degrees) representing instructor levels and higher. There is a whole range of other different colors in between. Modern tae kwon do was developed in Korea after much influence from Japanese karate during the occupation by Japan. Indeed, tae kwon do is sometimes referred to as Korean karate. The Koreans adopted similar white uniforms along with a colored belt ranking system for tae kwon do. Today, there are two main styles of tae kwon do, one under the International Federation and the other under the World Federation. Many schools have added a black lining to their white uniforms for black belt levels. A V-neck top is often seen in schools affiliated with the World Federation. There are also older Korean styles including tang soo do and moo duk kwan. Some of the more Americanized schools also use uniforms with other colors such as red, black and blue in addition to the traditional white.

It can be generalized that in karate, one would use their arms or hands for 60% of the time for strikes or blocks while the use of legs for kicking will be about 40%. This breakdown is seen in the many forms or katas of karate which are set routines which simulate fighting against imaginary opponents using martial arts techniques. The forms from tae kwon do would have the opposite percentage breakdown with 40% hands and 60% legs. There is also more emphasis on higher kicks to the head level than in karate. Practitioners also utilize more jumping or flying kicks where one is airborne while executing kicking techniques. The Korean forms or patterns are generally a bit shorter and less complex than the karate forms. Some tae kwon do schools have been known to use the odd karate form in its curriculum as well.

In North America as well as other parts of the world, there are separate traditional competitions for karate and tae kwon do. However, the open martial arts tournaments in North America often have competitors from both disciplines competing together. Some of the larger open martial arts competition events will have separate forms divisions for Japanese and Korean style competitors but the fighting or sparring divisions will usually be combined. Many black belts end up studying both styles. Tae kwon do has received more publicity in recent years since its introduction as an Olympic sport. The style and rules used for the Olympic version fighting comes from the World Federation (WTF). Both karate and tae kwon do are considered as hard style martial arts in North America today (as opposed to soft styles such as the many versions of Chinese kung fu).

Clint is a lifelong martial artist with over 36 years of training experience in kung fu, tae kwon do, karate, kickboxing and martial arts weaponry. He has won Canadian and world championship titles (NASKA, NBL and WSKF). He is also owner of Martial Arts Articles Online (http://www.martialartsarticlesonline.com), an online martial arts information resource.

Turn your pop-up blocker on...:)
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A most recognizable Celtic design is the Knot. It can be seen carved in stones, artifacts and jewelry. The popularity of Celtic knots began during the Christian era. This type of knot is incorporated in Christian architecture as seen in its religious structures and in Christian writings and texts. This ornamental interwoven design holds different meanings. For the Celts, these knots with no apparent beginning and end, symbolized the concept of eternity, the spiritual quest for rebirth, or a person's attempt at making sense of the maze that he is traversing in life.

This distinctive piece of artwork is translated into different geometric forms - circle, triangle, square, and rectangle. From the simple single knot patterns to complex grids and mazes, the Celtic Knot has many variations.

The Trinity Knot or Triquetra is the most recognizable variant of the knot. Triquetra is Latin for three-cornered. This pattern is often linked to the concept of interconnectedness of three elements. Early Christians saw it as a symbol for the Holy Trinity. For pagans, it symbolized Mother, Crone and Maiden. The more metaphysical representation is the concept of mind, body and spirit. Other styles of Celtic knots are the Quaternary knot and Dara knot.

Many Celtic pendants are made of intricate knot patterns. A pendant is a hanging piece of jewelry that slides or hangs on a chain. A locket is a type of pendant that opens. You can insert a picture or a very small object in the locket. One of the earliest types of jewelry was the pendant. Men wore objects around their necks in the ancient times in order to make statements about themselves. Nowadays, men still enjoy wearing pendants as much as women do.

Knot pendants incorporate other Celtic elements or designs. For instance, the cross is usually infused with knot work. The Celtic cross is a type of vertical cross with a ring around the junction of the cross. You can sometimes see knots embossed on the cross itself.

The Claddagh design made up of two hands holding a heart with a crown above it is also seen in pendants with knot work mixed in.

Many Irish jewelers incorporate knots with hearts. The knots are inlayed into the heart making an ornately designed pendant. Celtic animal or plant pendants are also popular designs. The shamrock or four-leaf clover, the Irish symbol for Luck, features prominently in jewelry, especially pendants and are often mixed with knot patterns. Other objects used in pendants are the moon and the sun. Jewelers have made pendants with detailed designs mixing together knots and these two astronomical symbols. Celtic arrows with knot designs are also seen on pendants. This is a popular pendant for men.

Depending on the design elements, the shape of Celtic knot pendants can be geometric - triangles, squares, circles, rectangles, etc. There are also teardrop shaped knot pendants.

For the base of the pendant the different precious metals used by jewelers are Sterling silver, platinum, titanium, pewter and gold in different carats (starting from 9cts. upwards) and colors (yellow, white, rose, black and others). Some pendants are two-tone, a combination of the different metals or two different colors of gold.

There are pendants that make use of crystals, glass, precious and semiprecious gemstones like diamond, ruby, sapphire, emerald, amethyst, jade, opal, turquoise and many more, pearls and other materials. The personal choice of adornments may be influenced by the wearer's birth month or the perceived metaphysical qualities that it may bring.

The chain holding the pendant can use the same material. Chains can be simple or ornate precious metals or strings of gemstones, pearls, beads and others. Leather, cord or rope, and ribbons are sometimes used to hang the pendant around the neck. The length of the chain also varies.

Celtic knot pendants are a wonderful addition to anyone's jewelry collection; women, men and children. Whether you buy it as a gift for yourself or someone else, this intricately designed piece of jewelry will most definitely be a keeper.

About the Author:
Tim Lazaro is a Celtic Symbols enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on the
Celtic knot pendant visit http://www.allaboutcelticsymbols.com.

This site had a chanel sunglasses brand, And I think they sell it in low price. you can look around on this site. maybe you find out.

The material that the handles of a straight razor are made from can greatly affect its value - but how do you tell what it is? The following article gives some hints and tips.

Straight razor collecting is a branch of knife collecting and is popular amongst collectors due to its relatively low outlay. Still, there are some straight razors whose value is increased greatly simply due to the material the handles (called scales) are made from. Learning to identify these materials is not easy and even seasoned collectors are sometimes hard-put to define the material exactly. The following is a basic primer in identifying common scale materials.

Ivory. The single most prized scale material, although some would argue for Mother-of-Pearl. Ivory is commonly thought to come from the tusks of elephants. Whilst this is true, there are other sources of ivory, including walruses, whales, hippopotamus and wild boar.

All ivory is suitable for inlay and, to a less degree, carving. All ivory is a very dense material that displays a glowing finish when polished. It has often been imitated (due to its cost) and can be difficult to identify. Some points to look out for in the identification of ivory razor scales include: Thinness of the scale - ivory scales are normally about half the thickness of imitation ivory. Look on the inner side of the scale - ivory was sawn to shape and very often the saw marks were left intact - not the case with an imitation.

Elephant ivory has a very fine 'grain' that runs the length of the handle - any cracks (usually at the fixing pins) will always run with the grain. Ivory will scrape when tested wih a sharp knife - not curl. The ultimate ivory test is the 'hot pin' test. Hold the point of a hot pin to some inconspicuous area - imitation ivory will melt instantly, ivory will not.

Buffalo Horn. Most horn scales are made from the horns of the Asian Water Buffalo and can easily be confused with high-grade plastic. Colours vary from shiny black to yellow and even a greenish shade. Some are translucent, allowing light to pass through. If the material shows white streaks then it may well be cow horn. Horn may have designs impressed into it, or may be carved, both of which add to its artistic value and the overall value of the razor. Horn will react in the same way as ivory to the hot pin test; that is, it will not melt.

Mother-of-Pearl. Sometimes called just 'Pearl', this substance derives from the interior of a shellfish. For a complete scale, a very large shell is required. This means that usually the scales were made of pieces - this is no detriment to their worth but a single-piece scale is highly prized. Mother-of-Pearl has an iridescent sheen to it when held to the light that no imitation has ever equalled and for this reason it is quite easy to identify. This material is also fragile - don't drop it!

Abalone. This comes from the same source as Mother-of-Pearl, but the species of shellfish is different, giving a deeper colour to the finished scale. Abalone is very rarely seen as a full scale - more often it is used as an inlay for decorative purposes. It, too, has never been successfully imitated and, once seen, is unmistakeable. As brittle as Mother-of-Pearl, it should be handled carefully.

Bone. This material is probably the most versatile natural material for making razor scales. Tough and durable, it can be carved or just polished to a satin sheen. When aged, the pores are often apparent, helping to distinguish it from ivory. Any cracks in a bone scale generally do not run with the grain, again helping to tell it apart from ivory. Bone mellows nicely with age but does not have the creamy, milky appearance of ivory. It too will stand the hot pin test.

Tortoise Shell. This product is mis-named, as almost all this material come from the shell of the hawksbill turtle. It is polished to semitransparency, when its mottling becomes evident. With age it may well change to a dark red-brown colour. This has always been a rare scale material, and even before turtles became protected it was imitated with cow horn, then later still with celluloid. Again, the hot pin test will reveal the celluloid imitation, but cow horn can be almost impossible to distinguish without extensive testing.

Celluloid. The great scale material since about 1870. Celluloid was the first real 'plastic' and could be easily formed, moulded, coloured and carved. It could be used to closely imitate every natural scale material except Mother-of-Pearl, although the material known as 'cracked ice' came fairly close - until you saw the real thing.

Two things always expose celluloid - the hot pin test, which will melt celluloid at a touch and the 'perfectness' test. This test, although subjective, is a good one. Natural materials, no matter how carefully crafted, contain small flaws and imperfections - celluloid is perfect. So if you see an 'ivory' handle that's perfect - check properly, it's probably celluloid.

This primer does not pretend to be an exhaustive treatise on razor scale materials - somewhere out there will be a solid gold pair, no doubt! Please note, though, that the dealing in certain types of handle material, notably ivory, is now against the law in some areas of the World - it's always best to check local statutes before buying a piece.

Steve Dempster writes fiction, copy and articles when he's not collecting razors. Visit his razor site at a The Invisible Edge

Your answer is correct, year of the Rat.

Rats are intelligent, charming, ambitious – and often successful in business. They are quick to spot potential and put their creative, clever ideas into effect. At times they may appear stubborn, selfish and greedy, as they approach things wholeheartedly.
They are energetic and great organizers, so if you want something done call in a Rat. They are suited to careers in shopkeeping, sales, buying and selling, or accountancy. Rats shine in managerial positions. In partnership, Rats are faithful if their partner provides the security and love they need.

Rats are known to be the youngest of the Zodiac Signs.

All i know, is from 11pm to 1am, You seek food.

Famous persons born :
POPE JOHN PAUL, WILLIAM SHAKESPEARS, KARIM AGA KHAN, YVES ST. LAURENT, PRINCE CHARLES, ATAL BIHARI VAJPAYEE.

You are compatible with Dragons (1952,1964,1976,1988,2000), and monkeys (1944,1956,1968,1980,1992)

Avoid Horses (1942,1954,1966,1978,1990)

Have you considered using exotic Asian rubber stamps? If you're looking to lift your rubber stamping projects out of the ordinary, these stamps are known for their unique designs, colors and figurines, that are not found in other stamping lines. Chinese and Japanese stamps bring the Orient right to your pieces of art!

Asian rubber stamps give you access to a whole new bank of images and ideas. Quaint designs like the Chinese flautist, the Chinese Coin, figurines of lovely Japanese girls, the Maneki Neko of the traditional cat, which is the symbol of luck, and other designs, are unique to Asian culture. If you are looking to communicate a specific idea in your scrapbooking or card-making, these stamps may meet your needs.

Stamps with an Asian theme can bring a bit of glamour and interest to almost any project, whether you are creating a personalized scrapbook page, a bookmark, or anything else you can dream up. Some of the most popular stamps are those depicting Oriental lanterns, bonsai art, Geisha Girls, Sumo wrestlers, the amazing Phoenix and even the most important figure of the Ultimate, the Buddha!

Another popular category are stamps that have words on them in the form of Chinese or Japenese characters, such as "Peace," or "Love." Almost all Asian rubber stamps also come with the translation of the word in English, which gives you a double benefit. How? Well, you can either keep the whole piece as it is, or can trim off the English translation, to make a brand new rubber stamp out of it. So you have an Asian rubber stamp and an English one as well. With these rubber stamps, you end up getting two rubber stamps for the price of one.

Wood-mounted Asian rubber stamps are extremely popular, but so are foam-mounted rubber stamps. There are also many un-mounted Asian rubber stamp designs for those of you who prefer the storage ease of un-mounted stamping. Some of the popular stamp companies that offer a wide Asian rubber stamp line include: StampMagick, Cape Arago, and Bunch of Fun.

If you love rubber stamping, and haven't explored Asian stamps, you owe it to yourself to check out the diversity and creativity on display. Using these stamps in your work allows your projects to stand apart from the crowd and be truly unique. Rubber stamping with Asian themes is a great way to express yourself.

Amy Wells is a big fan of Asian Rubber Stamps. Looking for stamping supplies? Find discounted Asian stamps and other high quality rubber stamps and supplies at: http://www.BuyRubberStamp.com

About BUDDHIST prayer beads.?

What is the difference between Tibetan prayer beads and Mala beads?
Are all buddhist prayer beads mala beads?

I'd like to say, first, that I admire your conscientiousness and desire to treat religious objects with due respect. It shows respect for humanity and their various beliefs, an open-mindedness and a lack of rigidity.

Yes, Buddhists beads are malas and are even called "malas" by the Tibetan monks. Only Westerners who are not Buddhists call them "prayer beads".

The beads are just beads. They have no power or mystical qualities to them, and it does not matter what you do ... or don't do ... with them. Feel free to wear them as ornamentation. But understand that those who see you wearing them, who understand what malas are, will think you are a Buddhist too. It's like wearing a cross ... people will assume you are a Christian (except that the cross is an object of reverence while malas are not).

To a Buddhist, a mala is a tool for the Practice. They wear them to say their mantra. They don't say prayers. They say mantras ... which are concepts (words and accompanying visualizations) that are imprinted into our unconscious mind through repetition. If you change your unconscious, you end up changing yourself. And Buddhism is all about inner change.

Buddhists wear beads, and will often quietly "finger" them (silently saying the mantra) when they are sitting around and waiting for .... the doctor to see them, the flight personnel announcing it is time to board the airplane, while riding the bus, etc. This is the only reason for wearing them. The practice of Buddhism is something that is done 24/7, because that is the only way we can create change inner change. Malas are a portable and relatively inconspicuous "tool" that can be taken with us anywhere and used any time.

Buddhists do not worship Buddha. Buddha was a man who found a way to achieve enlightenment ... he is the teacher and the role model, but not a god. Buddhists do not worship god(s). It is true that Buddhists make offerings to statues of the Buddha ... but these offerings are understood to be an action of setting the imprint of generosity into our hearts and minds ... not an action of appealing to a higher power. Because in the teachings of Buddhism, it is clearly stated that the only way to enlightenment is through our own efforts and nothing outside of us can do it for us, the matter of whether or not there is God or gods is not relevant.

As for the tassel of the beads, what else do you do when you string beads onto a cord? You have to do something with the ends, so they were originally tied off and allowed to unwind over time (into a tassel). Some malas have different beads threaded on the string here and there. These are called "counter beads", as some particular rituals want you to say the mantra a certain number of times before moving on to the next "step" in the ritual.

My teacher (see below) has never said anything about the beads being a form of protection, or developing a "charge" over time with usage .. and that's in 11 years of weekly classes.

There are many different styles of Buddhist jewelry to choose from. However, what is the right style for you? While most jewelry is a personal preference, Buddhist jewelry isn't just a fashion statement. Instead they should be used to help heal your body and mind. Allowing you to gain either enlightenment or health through wearing Buddhist Jewelry.

One of the most popular are necklaces, charms, earrings, or rings that display the beautiful lotus flower. As a symbol of enlightenment the lotus has become an essential symbol in Buddhist jewelry. Whether it is molded from sterling silver, carved from a beautiful authentic jade stone, or 24K gold; the lotus is one of the most popular pieces of Buddhist inspired jewelry.

You may even find a Stupa interlaced with Buddhist jewelry pieces. Of which is the Buddhist symbol of the elements "Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether. Again like many other pendants or pieces of jewelry they can be found in different materials. However the mot common is sterling silver or a deep bronze. They can often times become fairly difficult to find locally, so you should utilize the internet to save you time in searching.

Another common symbol in Buddhist jewelry is the Prayer wheel. Often times seen as a necklace pendant or earrings; since they can be fairly bulky for rings. The Prayer wheel normally is found carved with auspicious symbols along with the mantra. Some prayer wheel jewelry even contains an authentic paper prayer scroll. Allowing you to keep a prayer in your heart at all times.

The Om Mani Padme Hum isn't just a popular Buddhist symbol. It is a beautiful jewelry piece as well. Of which is extremely popular with the yoga crowd. Whether it is 24k gold or sterling silver it is a beautiful addition to anyone's jewelry collection. Unfortunately, these pieces can be fairly difficult to find. So utilizing the internet to find one is a must to save time.

Astamangala is another popular symbol used in Buddhist jewelry. Offering a beauty that is rivaled by very few. The Astamangala is often times seen with auspicious emblems; of which are believed to represent gifts given by celestial beings. These gifts being to Sakyamuni Buddha on his journey to enlightenment. These beautiful charms can be purchased as a completed jewelry piece, or as individual charms. Whether they are molded from polyresin, sterling silver, 24k gold, or delicately carved out of jade. They make the perfect addition to anyone's jewelry box.

The three popular types of yoga you may have heard of are hatha yoga, power yoga and bikram yoga. Hatha yoga is the style of yoga most practiced today. It is what you will think of when you think of yoga in general. Power yoga is a more aerobic-style yoga, with an emphasis on cardio. Bikram yoga is a style of yoga performed in a heated room to accelerate detoxification. Universal Yoga sells everything you need to practice these and other forms of yoga, pilates and meditation including Om jewelry, yoga mats, workout clothing, meditation cushions, uplifting apparel and yoga DVDs.

Indian Astrologers Help?

DOB: 18th, March 1990
Time: 8:45 AM
Birth Place: New Delhi, India

Trust God. Proverbs 3:5,6
SDA

I do agree with you that you should be able to do whatever you want in your house and in your body, but it is against the law. No matter what we think, it is illegal. You need to obey the law or pay the price. Go to Amsterdam!

My mom will be celebrating her 80th birthday next month. Even though she insists she doesn't want or need anything, I would love to give her a memorable gift for this special occasion. As time goes by, I find it more and more difficult to buy suitable gifts for her. She truly does seem to have everything she wants and needs. After thinking about my options, I have eventually decided to create an Italian charm bracelet for my mother to mark this milestone birthday.

An Italian charm bracelet would be a great gift for my mother. It is a unique piece of jewelry that makes a simple fashion statement when worn with either casual or dressy ensembles. The bracelet, itself, comes in either a matte or polished silver finish, matching her other jewelry choices. It can easily be adjusted to fit my mother's small wrist simply by removing links until the desired size is achieved. My mother's arthritic fingers have a hard time fastening a clasp, but the Italian charm bracelet simply stretches over her hand, eliminating this frustrating task.

Every Italian charm bracelet has a unique style because of the variety of Italian charms available. The huge selection of Italian charms meets all interests. They range from flowers to sports teams; Hello Kitty charms to Garfield; NASCAR to musical instruments; symbols to zodiac and many, many more choices. Italian charms can easily be added to the bracelet at any given time, changing its appearance and making it more individual.

The bracelet, itself, comes in either a polished or matte finish, so it can compliment her other jewelry. Links in the bracelet can be removed to fit her tiny wrist. It goes with all types of clothing...dressy or casual. My mother mostly dresses casually now, but Italian charm bracelets are fancy enough to be worn for those occasions when she chooses to dress up.

The Italian charm bracelet I would like to create for my mother's 80th birthday is dedicated to celebrating different decades in her lifetime. I want it to be ageless and have special meaning specifically for her. I want it to represent her personality, her sense of humor, her independence, and her unconditional love. How wonderful that a single piece of jewelry can accommodate that.

I have decided to start my mother's Italian charm bracelet with a Virgo zodiac sign Italian charm to represent her birth month, of course. Next to this would be a Disney Minnie Mouse charm for her whimsical childhood. Her teenage years would be best represented with a grand piano, because of her love of music.

Marriage and family occupied her next several decades: her twenties, best represented by a bride and groom dancing couple charm; mother and child charm for her thirties; a grandmother charm for her fifties. The beautiful charm of a bright yellow flower (her favorite color) with the vividly colored butterfly to represent her part-time job at the local flower shop in her forties is another good choice.

Her sixties were a fun year for her, as she and Dad traveled to Hawaii in celebration of Dad's retirement. While there, they went on a whale-watching excursion, so the Italian charm of a hale's tail is a perfect reminder of that trip. She moved to a condominium in Florida at age 70, so the palm tree Italian charm would be an appropriate choice for that decade. And for 80: a Maltese dog Italian charm in honor of her constant, yet demanding, companion.

Giving my mother an Italian charm bracelet for her 80th birthday is a special gift she will ppreciate and enjoy. Even though she doesn't actually need it, I know she will want it!

You can design a bracelet of Italian charms to reflect the life of anyone. It is one of the Weaver's favorite, personalized gifts.