It could significantly complement widely-used and rather indirect psychological treatment strategies 
Dr Christo Pantev
Westphalian Wilhelms University
Westphalian Wilhelms University
Posted using ShareThis
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
BBC News - Music therapy may help cut tinnitus noise levels
BBC News - Music therapy 'may help cut tinnitus noise levels'
It could significantly complement widely-used and rather indirect psychological treatment strategies
Posted using ShareThis
It could significantly complement widely-used and rather indirect psychological treatment strategies Posted using ShareThis
Thursday, December 24, 2009
The Prince of Wales speaks at the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference
The Prince of Wales speaks at the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference
The eyes of the world are upon us..........
The eyes of the world are upon us..........
Monday, December 21, 2009
Music therapy: Teachers strike an emotional chord with disabled students -- chicagotribune.com
Music therapy: Teachers strike an emotional chord with disabled students -- chicagotribune.com
"music teachers understood long before being validated by research that playing an instrument offers much more than simple pleasures and emotional release. For children and adults with disabilities, music can unleash especially powerful gifts, helping them communicate or process information in new ways"
From the Portal:
At this time of celebration for many around the world, let us remind ourselves that there are people who are struggling in life especially those with special needs. Having worked with and derived great joy from these people, I am reminded by the article above of how music can help them cope in life and how it can help us all.
I can only encourage you all, over the holiday season, to go out and see some music being performed especially in your local area. It does not have to be anything grandiose like a symphony concert although that would be nice but even just a simple local get together of people singing carols or folk songs or whatever they fancy.
Singing especially in groups is a powerful and positive experience for all people and has been for thousands of years. Don't be put off by saying "I can't sing" or "I am tone deaf", just the taking part and listening will have an effect on you and others and I am sure you will come away feeling better and more positive than before.
I aim to practice what I preach, I have been practising my violin, I have put some new strings on and intend to go out and make music this week. Enjoy music, that is why people make music, to be enjoyed, to move and to inspire.
The Portal of Healing.
Posted using ShareThis
"music teachers understood long before being validated by research that playing an instrument offers much more than simple pleasures and emotional release. For children and adults with disabilities, music can unleash especially powerful gifts, helping them communicate or process information in new ways"
From the Portal:
At this time of celebration for many around the world, let us remind ourselves that there are people who are struggling in life especially those with special needs. Having worked with and derived great joy from these people, I am reminded by the article above of how music can help them cope in life and how it can help us all.
I can only encourage you all, over the holiday season, to go out and see some music being performed especially in your local area. It does not have to be anything grandiose like a symphony concert although that would be nice but even just a simple local get together of people singing carols or folk songs or whatever they fancy.
Singing especially in groups is a powerful and positive experience for all people and has been for thousands of years. Don't be put off by saying "I can't sing" or "I am tone deaf", just the taking part and listening will have an effect on you and others and I am sure you will come away feeling better and more positive than before.
I aim to practice what I preach, I have been practising my violin, I have put some new strings on and intend to go out and make music this week. Enjoy music, that is why people make music, to be enjoyed, to move and to inspire.
The Portal of Healing.
Posted using ShareThis
Monday, December 14, 2009
YouTube - The X Factor 2009 - Joe sings his winning single! - Live Final (itv.com/xfactor)
YouTube - The X Factor 2009 - Joe sings his winning single! - Live Final (itv.com/xfactor)
I take no credit but I did say some weeks ago to my friends and family that Joe McElderry would win the XFactor 2009 and it is truly well deserved. Joe has had a fantastic series of songs, week after week he has delivered high quality performances and his debut single performance of climb was by far his best.
Congratulations Joe and good luck for the future.
The Portal of Healing.
I take no credit but I did say some weeks ago to my friends and family that Joe McElderry would win the XFactor 2009 and it is truly well deserved. Joe has had a fantastic series of songs, week after week he has delivered high quality performances and his debut single performance of climb was by far his best.
Congratulations Joe and good luck for the future.
The Portal of Healing.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
BBC News - Music can do 'incredible things' for people with dementia
BBC News - Music can do 'incredible things' for people with dementia
New research shows that singing may slow the progress of dementia.
Singing For The Brain is a group of singers in Bristol made up of people with Alzheimer's and their spouses. Most of the patients have lost their memory for names, events and people, but many respond to music long after other memories have disappeared.
From the Portal:
It's been said many times but this is a fine example of how music can help us all in our lives to heal, to deal with diffcult times and to reach out to those people who need it most. This video from the BBC and program is a must see, it reminds me of the time I did music therapy as a young person in my early twenties working with older people.
It was at first a daunting experience but ulitmately one of the most rewarding I have ever had as a muscian. To see the joy and happiness and to experience the connection with people who were in their 80's and 90's is something I will never forget.
I encourage you all to get involved in music in anyway you can through playing, singing in the local choir, helping other people to achieve their musical aspirations or just by going along to the local concerts many of which are put on free of charge.
It is no coincidence that it is Bristol where the BBC video is based. Bristol is a place I am very fond of, a major centre for the arts and creative people. If you are looking for some ideas of where to go over the holiday season, you will probably find something to your liking.
A good example of this is The Southbank Club, a place I recently visited and saw a most enjoyable and eagerly anticapted performance by none other than Rory McLeod. A former working mens club, The Southbank Club is a busy venue comprising meeting rooms, gallery space, music club and dance studio. An Arts & Social Club, meeting place and melting pot for creatives, dancers, poets and their friends and just about anyone else who enjoys good music, dance, good beer in a friendly smoke-free atmosphere.
Lastly, this is a post about the power of music and the good it can bring so please click on the charity link at the bottom of the page called Music for Relief, which is a charity I strongly support. Also, for those of you that are concerned about health, don't forget to check out the health tips on this page as well.
The Portal of Healing
New research shows that singing may slow the progress of dementia.
Singing For The Brain is a group of singers in Bristol made up of people with Alzheimer's and their spouses. Most of the patients have lost their memory for names, events and people, but many respond to music long after other memories have disappeared.
From the Portal:
It's been said many times but this is a fine example of how music can help us all in our lives to heal, to deal with diffcult times and to reach out to those people who need it most. This video from the BBC and program is a must see, it reminds me of the time I did music therapy as a young person in my early twenties working with older people.
It was at first a daunting experience but ulitmately one of the most rewarding I have ever had as a muscian. To see the joy and happiness and to experience the connection with people who were in their 80's and 90's is something I will never forget.
I encourage you all to get involved in music in anyway you can through playing, singing in the local choir, helping other people to achieve their musical aspirations or just by going along to the local concerts many of which are put on free of charge.
It is no coincidence that it is Bristol where the BBC video is based. Bristol is a place I am very fond of, a major centre for the arts and creative people. If you are looking for some ideas of where to go over the holiday season, you will probably find something to your liking.
A good example of this is The Southbank Club, a place I recently visited and saw a most enjoyable and eagerly anticapted performance by none other than Rory McLeod. A former working mens club, The Southbank Club is a busy venue comprising meeting rooms, gallery space, music club and dance studio. An Arts & Social Club, meeting place and melting pot for creatives, dancers, poets and their friends and just about anyone else who enjoys good music, dance, good beer in a friendly smoke-free atmosphere.
Lastly, this is a post about the power of music and the good it can bring so please click on the charity link at the bottom of the page called Music for Relief, which is a charity I strongly support. Also, for those of you that are concerned about health, don't forget to check out the health tips on this page as well.
The Portal of Healing
Thursday, November 26, 2009
The X Factor 2009 Joe McElderry
Perhaps one of the better performances of this great song by Elton John, this fine young singer definitely stole the show and could be on his way to a significant career.
Every performance he has given has been good and consistent but this performance I think was a big step forward. Whatever happens, it was a pleasure to watch.
The Portal of Healing.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Can playing active video games equal moderate intensity exercise?
It most certainly can. I have had a Wii since January and have not only felt better but have had a lot of fun playing with freinds and family so it really helps to bring people together which can only be a good thing.
Not only are you standing to play (you can also sit to play as well so anyone can join in), which will cause your body to use lipase, a substance that helps to keep the muscles in good condition, you will be using your muscles actviely to play tennis or baseball which are the most effective at buring calories.
I tend to use the Wii as a warm up for other activity and it has really helped me to get in shape, lose some weight and basically get out of that comfy armchair that some of us like to stay in!
The Portal of Healing.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Symphony of Science - 'We Are All Connected' (ft. Sagan, Feynman, deGrasse Tyson & Bill Nye)
Another nice remix video from the Symphony of Science. What I like about these videos is that they introduce to new generations information and education that can be lost to many people.
The Portal of Healing.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Baby Turns Up The Music
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Pouring on the Pounds
BBC NEWS | Americas | Anti-obesity ad shocks New Yorkers
"Sugar-sweetened drinks can contain up to 17 teaspoons of sugar per 550ml bottle. Obesity can lead to early heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, cancers, stroke and arthritis."
From the Portal:
Just two quotes from an article highlighting the damage the convenience, fast food life style is doing to many people. New York state is leading the way with this campaign and encouraging local business to sell fresh fruit and veg. The problem is, if you cannot afford the good food, what do you do?
Education is important, people need to know what harm some food is doing to them. They need to know that obesity is not an option, it is a death sentence.
But people need to be able to access real food, without colouring and preservatives, free from genetically modified ingredients AND at a price they can afford.
When or if the government of any country makes that happen, then there will be hope for people with obesity. Instead of letting the food companies and the pharmaceutical companies acquire gross profits through the fact that they provide medicine for people with obesity, tax those companies more heavily and invest in local people by encouraging them to grow their own vegetables and fresh produce, as they do in places like Havana Cuba see here: http://theportalofhealing.blogspot.com/2009/08/urban-vegetable-garden-in-havana-cuba.html.
Probably what will happen is those same companies will use all their power and wealth to block any such schemes. People have to be responsible for what they eat but as I said, if you can only get rubbish food what can you do?
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"Sugar-sweetened drinks can contain up to 17 teaspoons of sugar per 550ml bottle. Obesity can lead to early heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, cancers, stroke and arthritis."
From the Portal:
Just two quotes from an article highlighting the damage the convenience, fast food life style is doing to many people. New York state is leading the way with this campaign and encouraging local business to sell fresh fruit and veg. The problem is, if you cannot afford the good food, what do you do?
Education is important, people need to know what harm some food is doing to them. They need to know that obesity is not an option, it is a death sentence.
But people need to be able to access real food, without colouring and preservatives, free from genetically modified ingredients AND at a price they can afford.
When or if the government of any country makes that happen, then there will be hope for people with obesity. Instead of letting the food companies and the pharmaceutical companies acquire gross profits through the fact that they provide medicine for people with obesity, tax those companies more heavily and invest in local people by encouraging them to grow their own vegetables and fresh produce, as they do in places like Havana Cuba see here: http://theportalofhealing.blogspot.com/2009/08/urban-vegetable-garden-in-havana-cuba.html.
Probably what will happen is those same companies will use all their power and wealth to block any such schemes. People have to be responsible for what they eat but as I said, if you can only get rubbish food what can you do?
Shared via AddThis
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Carl Sagan - A Glorious Dawn ft Stephen Hawking (Cosmos Remixed)
Now for something completely different! Have you ever wondered where we all came from? How we got to be here?
Lyrics:
[Sagan]
If you wish to make an apple pie from scratch
You must first invent the universe
Space is filled with a network of wormholes
You might emerge somewhere else in space
Some where else in time
The sky calls to us
If we do not destroy ourselves
We will one day venture to the stars
A still more glorious dawn awaits
Not a sunrise, but a galaxy rise
A morning filled with 400 billion suns
The rising of the milky way
The Cosmos is full beyond measure of elegant truths
Of exquisite inter relationships
Of the awesome machinery of nature
I believe our future depends powerfully
On how well we understand this cosmos
In which we float like a mote of dust
In the morning sky
But the brain does much more than just recollect
It inter-compares, it synthesizes, it analyzes
it generates abstractions
The simplest thought like the concept of the number one
Has an elaborate logical underpinning
The brain has it's own language
For testing the structure and consistency of the world
[Hawking]
For thousands of years
People have wondered about the universe
Did it stretch out forever
Or was there a limit
From the big bang to black holes
From dark matter to a possible big crunch
Our image of the universe today
Is full of strange sounding ideas
[Sagan}
How lucky we are to live in this time
The first moment in human history
When we are in fact visiting other worlds
The surface of the earth is the shore of the cosmic ocean
Recently we've waded a little way out
And the water seems inviting
Monday, October 5, 2009
Who - Won't get fooled again 1971
We'll be fighting in the streets
With our children at our feet
And the morals that they worship will be gone
And the men who spurred us on
Sit in judgement of all wrong
They decide and the shotgun sings the song
I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around me
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I'll get on my knees and pray
We don't get fooled again,
No, no!
I'll move myself and my family aside
If we happen to be left half alive
I'll get all my papers and smile at the sky
For I know that the hypnotized never lie
There's nothing in the street
Looks any different to me
And the slogans are replaced, by-the-bye
And the parting on the left
Is now the parting on the right
And the beards have all grown longer overnight
I'll tip my hat to the new constitution
Take a bow for the new revolution
Smile and grin at the change all around me
Pick up my guitar and play
Just like yesterday
Then I'll get on my knees and pray
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!
Meet the new boss
Same as the old boss
A classic song, a fantastic lyric which is still relevant and a brillaint arrangement especially that electronic sound!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Sting sends his Rainforests SOS for The Prince's Rainforests Project
I have previously blogged about this massively important issue for us all. Everyone must keep applying pressure on all the politicians to change what is happening with the rain forests.
We must stop deforestation as it is and will continue to effect climate change for the worse. Please go to the Prince's Rainforest Project website which can be found here http://www.rainforestsos.org/ and sign up, send a message of support and do whatever you can to stop the deforestation.
The Portal of Healing
Kodō japanese drums
Kodō is an elite taiko drumming troupe. Based on Sado Island, Japan, they have been a major force in the post-World War II revitalization of taiko drumming, both in Japan and abroad. They regularly tour Japan, Europe, and the United States.
In Japanese the word "Kodo" conveys two meanings: "heartbeat" the primal source of all rhythm and, read in a different way, the word can mean "children of the drum," a reflection of Kodo's desire to play their drums simply, with the heart of a child.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Lose weight, sleep better
Lose weight, sleep better - USATODAY.com
Sleep apnea is a life-threatening disorder in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep.
It can cause low blood oxygen levels that can lead to hypertension, heart disease and mood and memory problems. It also increases the risk of automobile crashes.
More than 18 million adults in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea.
From the Portal:
This is vitally important, if you or anyone you know has this condition, then you must consult your doctor. Losing some weight will help significantly and sleep apnea is one of those conditions that greatly contributes to diabetes.
The Portal of Healing.
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Sleep apnea is a life-threatening disorder in which breathing is briefly and repeatedly interrupted during sleep.
It can cause low blood oxygen levels that can lead to hypertension, heart disease and mood and memory problems. It also increases the risk of automobile crashes.
More than 18 million adults in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea.
From the Portal:
This is vitally important, if you or anyone you know has this condition, then you must consult your doctor. Losing some weight will help significantly and sleep apnea is one of those conditions that greatly contributes to diabetes.
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
Friday, September 25, 2009
The Red Violin
Point Pleasant WV Register - Red violin comes to Wedge Auditorium stage Saturday
I was going to blog about the red violin I have just acquired and will do that next time. The Red Violin, starring Samuel L. Jackson is one of my favourite movies and not just because I am biased but because it is a compelling story. Beautifully filmed on several locations around the world, stretching over a period of some 300 years, the movie tells the story of the red violin which was made out of a tragedy. I won't spoil the movie for you but it is a haunting sound and story.
Joshua Bell, who has been featured previously on this blog, played the soundtrack and although the movie might be a little on the long side, it is never boring. I hope some of you can get along to the concert featuring Violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn, who owns the legendary 1720 Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius this weekend or to any concert sometime, for the power of music is a healing one and something which we should all try to enjoy.
The Portal of Healing.
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Joshua Bell, who has been featured previously on this blog, played the soundtrack and although the movie might be a little on the long side, it is never boring. I hope some of you can get along to the concert featuring Violinist Elizabeth Pitcairn, who owns the legendary 1720 Red Mendelssohn Stradivarius this weekend or to any concert sometime, for the power of music is a healing one and something which we should all try to enjoy.
The Portal of Healing.
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Thursday, September 24, 2009
Salty Free From foods exposed
BBC NEWS | Health | Salty 'Free From' foods exposed
In my opinion, one should try to avoid as much processed food as possible regardless of the salt level. Some salt in the diet is necessary but processed foods with high levels of salt are really bad and not necessary.
Salt and the amount of artificial sugar and sweeteners they put in processed foods are some of the factors contributing to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes and other related conditions.
Read those labels carefully!
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
In my opinion, one should try to avoid as much processed food as possible regardless of the salt level. Some salt in the diet is necessary but processed foods with high levels of salt are really bad and not necessary.
Salt and the amount of artificial sugar and sweeteners they put in processed foods are some of the factors contributing to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes and other related conditions.
Read those labels carefully!
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Smoking ban leads to massive heart gains
BBC NEWS | Health | Smoking ban heart gains 'massive'
Ok, it's official, smoking is bad and second hand smoke is just as bad. Please, if you smoke, quit and if you can't then do it at home.
The Portal of Healing.
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Ok, it's official, smoking is bad and second hand smoke is just as bad. Please, if you smoke, quit and if you can't then do it at home.
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Stand By Me The Choir
It's nice to see people coming together in music, having a shared experience and they are smiling and happy!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Caruso by Lara Fabian
Quite simply, this singer and the way she sings this song, always gives me a chill down my spine! I was completely amazed when I heard this the first time and I still am.
The Portal of Healing
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Stomp- Stomp Out Loud
For those of you who like drums and rhythm, this video is for you. It is also very good therapy for anyone else that might be feeling a little down. This drumming is infectious, it makes me want to get up and dance.
I love the drumming, the choreography and the sounds they make. Drumming is very good for the spirit and a very good workout too! These guys are having fun and it shows.
The Portal of Healing.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Dogs' Intelligence On Par With Two-year-old Human
Dogs' Intelligence On Par With Two-year-old Human
I have to agree, my dog is pretty smart and she knows how to get what she wants. She is very loyal and always look out for me and defends me at every turn.
The Portal of Healing
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Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Kseniya Simonova - Sand Animation Ukraine's Got Talent
You will not believe this video when you see it and please do click on the video and watch, it will be the best 8 minutes you will spend that day.
I am not sure quite what to say other than this person has talent beyond most people I know - what she did in 8 minutes was special, it was moving, absorbing and perhaps unique. I feel quite ordinary when I see this but at the same time I feel joy at seeing this video.
The Portal of Healing
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Stop and Hear the Music - Pearls before Breakfast
From the article 'Pearls before Breakfast' by Gene Weingarten of the Washington Post, this remarkable video is in a way sad and a reminder that more needs to be done to help music especially classical music become more accessible and less elitist.
If I have any criticism of this event, stunt call it what you will it is that it tells me nothing I did knot know already i.e. most people don't care if you are playing some of the best music ever written, played by one of the best violinists out there on a instrument worth $3.5 million dollars.
Most people do not know and have never known who J.S. Bach was that's because they are never shown and will most likely not be shown either. I was lucky when I was a child to be given lessons in the violin when 8 years old, This I did until I was about 30 when I sadly had to give up. Most people will never get that chance to do something so wonderful as play a musical instrument.
So, it is not surprising that most people who are ignorant of what it is and who it is will continue to walk by in their humdrum, busy lives completely oblivious to what they are hearing - they are just not educated and caring enough to stop and listen much less care enough to part with some loose change.
If it had been Britney Spears and with all due respect to Joshua Bell, most people know who she is, there would have been a riot at the station and that says it all. We must get music back into our schools and have it on the main agenda for teaching, not an option but something that all students are exposed to from an early age.
It is no surprise that the children all wanted to stop and listen and were hurried along by their busy and embarrassed parents. The US, along with other countries needs to follow he example of El Sistema in Venezuela and start to educate young people in the beauty and discipline that music offers.
If Joshua Bell had played at a station in Venezuela, I suspect that there would have been a crowd quite quickly and although they may not have given as much money, what they would have given would have been their love, respect and admiration.
Here is a link to the complete performance Joshua Bell gave at the DC Metro Station: Joshua Bell at DC Metro Station
The Portal of Healing.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Urban Vegetable Garden in Havana, Cuba
This is a must see video for all of those concerned about what they are eating and where it comes from. These wonderful gardens in Cuba are exactly the sort of initiative that is needed in the UK and other countries, small self contained organic gardens producing cheap, healthy food that uses no nasty chemicals. I hope this video encourages some people to go out and plant a few veggies in their backyard!
News: Tornadoes Across Southern Ontario - The Weather Network
News: Tornadoes Across Southern Ontario - The Weather Network
I still can't get my head around what happened that day but all I know is that we were lucky. The damage from about seven tornadoes was intense. i really do believe that our weather patterns are changing and for the worst.
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I still can't get my head around what happened that day but all I know is that we were lucky. The damage from about seven tornadoes was intense. i really do believe that our weather patterns are changing and for the worst.
Shared via AddThis
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Princes Rainforests Project Awareness Campaign Video
Of all the issues that we face now climate change and deforestation is one that we cannot ignore. To keep cutting down the trees is total madness and has already done damage to our planet and must be stopped. All those people that have gardens plant a tree. All those that can't get a friend to plant a tree.
The Portal of Healing
Friday, August 21, 2009
Major Emergency Tornado in Ontario Town, Durham
We were driving down the highway when the tornado hit - what we saw as we drove through the sister town of Markdale was crazy, trees, big old trees just cut down like they were a matchstick! Further into our journey, we were caught in the other tornado that hit Vaughan - the roads were almost completely flooded and it was a major relief when we finally reached our destination. Coming back, it was like nothing had happened, everything was calm and sunny - amazing stuff!
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Justin Timberlake - Cry Me a River
There have been many versions of this old blues classic, most recently made famous again by Britain's Got Talent and Susan Boyle. This version by Justin Timberlake is different and it is inspired by the Queen of Pop Britney Spears.
The Portal of Healing.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Sedentary Lives Can Be Deadly: Physical Inactivity Poses Greatest Health Risk To Americans, Expert Says
Sedentary Lives Can Be Deadly: Physical Inactivity Poses Greatest Health Risk To Americans, Expert Says
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From the Portal:
A quote from the article:
"Doing something is better than doing nothing, and doing more is better than doing less, at least up to a point. "We need numerous changes to promote more physical activity for all, including public policies, changes in the health care system, promoting activity in educational settings and work sites, and social and physical environmental changes. We need more communities where people feel comfortable walking. I believe psychologists can help develop better lifestyle change interventions to help people be more active via the Internet and other technological methods."
That says it all right there, do some activity but doing nothing is not an option. I realise that people will say they do not have the time but one must make some time for walking.
I say if you can walk for at least 15 minutes per day every day then you will be much better and if you can do 30 minutes it will really make a difference.
Of course diet will play a big part in how you feel but physical activity is very important for the body. It keeps things moving and working a bit like a car which is designed to be used and not left in the driveway.
However, try and leave the car in the driveway and do some walking!
The Portal of Healing
Shared via AddThis
From the Portal:
A quote from the article:
"Doing something is better than doing nothing, and doing more is better than doing less, at least up to a point. "We need numerous changes to promote more physical activity for all, including public policies, changes in the health care system, promoting activity in educational settings and work sites, and social and physical environmental changes. We need more communities where people feel comfortable walking. I believe psychologists can help develop better lifestyle change interventions to help people be more active via the Internet and other technological methods."
That says it all right there, do some activity but doing nothing is not an option. I realise that people will say they do not have the time but one must make some time for walking.
I say if you can walk for at least 15 minutes per day every day then you will be much better and if you can do 30 minutes it will really make a difference.
Of course diet will play a big part in how you feel but physical activity is very important for the body. It keeps things moving and working a bit like a car which is designed to be used and not left in the driveway.
However, try and leave the car in the driveway and do some walking!
The Portal of Healing
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
4 healthy choices to change your life - Los Angeles Times
4 healthy choices to change your life - Los Angeles Times
From the Portal:
This is one of a number of studies now saying the same thing - if you live a good healthy life, then your chances of staying healthy are good. If you don't, then there will be consequences later on in life.
So, recently, I started on a plan of diet and exercise. I do not smoke and my Body Mass Index is way too high. I have now lost about four pounds in weight but more importantly I feel much better. I try to do 10000 steps a day and or engage in some kind of physical activity. I do not eat meat at all and my intake of fruit and vegetables is very good.
Most importantly, I watch my sugar intake closely. It is the sugar in your diet that is the one thing which will put on those extra pounds. So, sweets, cakes and fizzy drinks are out. To be honest, I do not need them and I do not miss them. But there are so many other food products especially processed foods that are loaded with artificial sugar such as Fructose and in particular High Fructose Corn Syrup, which has been added to many food products since the 1960's.
It is this practice alone that has lead to a massive rise in obesity, heart attacks, stroke and most importantly Diabetes, the silent killer.
The silent killer - the reason I call it that is because most people don't even know they have some form of diabetes until it is too late. Diabetes is one of the major factors in all of the major chronic diseases that afflict our society. So, please take some time to think about your lifestyle and see how you can improve it.
The Portal of Healing.
From the Portal:
This is one of a number of studies now saying the same thing - if you live a good healthy life, then your chances of staying healthy are good. If you don't, then there will be consequences later on in life.
So, recently, I started on a plan of diet and exercise. I do not smoke and my Body Mass Index is way too high. I have now lost about four pounds in weight but more importantly I feel much better. I try to do 10000 steps a day and or engage in some kind of physical activity. I do not eat meat at all and my intake of fruit and vegetables is very good.
Most importantly, I watch my sugar intake closely. It is the sugar in your diet that is the one thing which will put on those extra pounds. So, sweets, cakes and fizzy drinks are out. To be honest, I do not need them and I do not miss them. But there are so many other food products especially processed foods that are loaded with artificial sugar such as Fructose and in particular High Fructose Corn Syrup, which has been added to many food products since the 1960's.
It is this practice alone that has lead to a massive rise in obesity, heart attacks, stroke and most importantly Diabetes, the silent killer.
The silent killer - the reason I call it that is because most people don't even know they have some form of diabetes until it is too late. Diabetes is one of the major factors in all of the major chronic diseases that afflict our society. So, please take some time to think about your lifestyle and see how you can improve it.
The Portal of Healing.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Pavarotti E lucevan le stelle
There are many examples of this great singer I could choose but something brings me back to this clip of E Lucevan le stelle and the stars were shining.
The singing is great, the acting great, the lyrics are brilliant and the passion is spine tingling. It does not get better than this.
Translation:
And the stars were shining
and the earth smelled sweet
the orchard gate would creak
a footstep lightly brushed the sand
She came in fragrant as a flower
and she fell into my arms
Ah sweet kisses ah languid caresses!
Trembling, I slowly uncovered her dazzling beauty
Now my dream of love has vanished forever
My last hour has flown and I die hopeless!
I have never loved life so much!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Eating High Levels Of Fructose Impairs Memory In Rats
Eating High Levels Of Fructose Impairs Memory In Rats
"Fructose, unlike another sugar, glucose, is processed almost solely by the liver, and produces an excessive amount of triglycerides — fat which get into the bloodstream. Triglycerides can interfere with insulin signaling in the brain, which plays a major role in brain cell survival and plasticity, or the ability for the brain to change based on new experiences."
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"Fructose, unlike another sugar, glucose, is processed almost solely by the liver, and produces an excessive amount of triglycerides — fat which get into the bloodstream. Triglycerides can interfere with insulin signaling in the brain, which plays a major role in brain cell survival and plasticity, or the ability for the brain to change based on new experiences."
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Friday, July 31, 2009
Venezuela Youth Orchestra - Bernstein - Mambo
A wonderful sight to see so many people having fun all at once - yet again, this is a powerful example of how music and creative activity can bring people together and promote healing, wellness and sheer enjoyment - this mambo will get you dancing!
The Portal of Healing.
Friday, July 24, 2009
El Sistema - How Music Saved Venezuela's Children
The remarkable accomplishment of a great humanist, José Antonio Abreu, who dedicated his life to set up the 'Sistema' in 1975, an extraordinary music and social project, which has been running in Venezuela in an attempt to transform the lives of the nations poorest children.
El Sistema has been using classical music to tackle the social problems of a country where 60% of the population live below the poverty line. By offering free instruments and tuition through a network of after-school centres all over the country, the Sistema has kept thousands of children away from the drugs, alcohol and gang-related violence of the streets and has led to the creation of 30 professional orchestras in a country that had only 2 before it started. Currently, 275,000 children attend the El Sistema schools and many of them play in one of the 125 youth orchestras.
At the pinnacle of the system stands the Simón Bolívar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela under its music director Gustavo Dudamel who is himself a product of the Sistema and is also the musical director for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.
This is an initiative we need to get going again in the UK. I was also the beneficiary of a musical education coming as I did from a poor background. I grew up in a bad neighbourhood and we always had problems with violence. My father had the good wisdom and courage to put me into music school at an early age, something for which he sacrificed and I will always be eternally grateful.
The result of that was I was always busy as a young person in a very rich, rewarding and creative environment, mixing with nice, creative people. Had I not been there, I am sure I would have to got into trouble for it was inevitable given the area we lived in.
The result of that early and intense exposure to a musical education was that I did better at school across a range of subjects, I developed social skills early on especially the confidence to communicate, I had a greater awareness of cultures from other countries and history through music and most importantly, at a time in my mid teens when I found it most difficult to cope, music was there as a release and a means of self discipline to act as a guide and a way of investing my energy in rewarding and creative pursuits.
The study of music gave me the chance to travel, something I would never have done being poor and it gave me tools later in life to study further in my adult life and acquire skills and qualifications in other subject areas purely because the discipline of playing an instrument and the mental challenge it creates was a wonderful platform for further study.
The benefits of music for everyone are plain for all to see from the video. More importantly, we must get music back on the core curriculum for everyone, not just classical but all forms of music, playing, study, music appreciation taking students to concerts. gigs and festivals is all part of what I call the rich learning experience I had as a young person.
It is so important to bring people together today and music is one of those simple things that can help to do just that. I know the In Harmony project has started in England and is based on El Sistema but it is only on a small scale. We need desperately to get music available to everyone that wants to do it. The rewards are clear to see and the money invested will reap a rich harvest of talented people.
The Portal of Healing.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Friday, July 17, 2009
Dancing to The Sound of Music at Central Station Antwerp
It is so very nice to see people having fun!
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Lara Fabian - Je suis malade
JE SUIS MALADE - Original by Serge Lama
Je ne rêve plus je ne fume plus
Je n'ai même plus d'histoire
Je suis sale sans toi je suis laid sans toi
Je suis comme un orphelin dans un dortoir
Je n'ai plus envie de vivre ma vie
Ma vie cesse quand tu pars
Je n'ai plus de vie et même mon lit
Se transforme en quai de gare
Quand tu t'en vas
Je suis malade complètement malade
Comme quand ma mère sortait le soir
Et qu'elle me laissait seul avec mon désespoir
Je suis malade parfaitement malade
T'arrives on ne sait jamais quand
Tu repars on ne sait jamais où
Et ça va faire bientôt deux ans
Que tu t'en fous
Comme à un rocher comme à un péché
Je suis accroché à toi
Je suis fatigué je suis épuisé
De faire semblant d'être heureux quand ils sont là
Je bois toutes les nuits mais tous les whiskies
Pour moi ont le même goût
Et tous les bateaux portent ton drapeau
Je ne sais plus où aller tu es partout
Je suis malade complètement malade
Je verse mon sang dans ton corps
Et je suis comme un oiseau mort quand toi tu dors
Je suis malade parfaitement malade
Tu m'as privé de tous mes chants
Tu m'as vidé de tous mes mots
Pourtant moi j'avais du talent avant ta peau
Cet amour me tue et si ça continue
Je crèverai seul avec moi
Près de ma radio comme un gosse idiot
Écoutant ma propre voix qui chantera
Je suis malade complètement malade
Comme quand ma mère sortait le soir
Et qu'elle me laissait seul avec mon désespoir
Je suis malade c'est ça je suis malade
Tu m'as privé de tous mes chants
Tu m'as vidé de tous mes mots
Et j'ai le cour complètement malade
Cerné de barricades t'entends je suis malade
Monday, July 13, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
Reduced Diet Thwarts Aging, Disease In Monkeys
Reduced Diet Thwarts Aging, Disease In Monkeys
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A very important study iin understanding the relationship between diet and health. The study, carried out over twenty years in monkeys, clearly shows that a healthy diet is fundamental to how we age and how we can help to maintain our general health.
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
A very important study iin understanding the relationship between diet and health. The study, carried out over twenty years in monkeys, clearly shows that a healthy diet is fundamental to how we age and how we can help to maintain our general health.
The Portal of Healing.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Mario Lanza sings Una Furtiva Lagrima
A special performance of this aria from a tenor who should not be forgotten - his passion is clear in the way he sings. Had he lived longer and had the chance to do real opera in the opera house, I feel sure his influence would have been greater.
The Portal of Healing.
Composer Reveals Musical Chords' Hidden Geometry
Composer Reveals Musical Chords' Hidden Geometry
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A new way of bringing music to more people which can only be a good thing. Using geometric shapes to represent chords, this research opens up many new possibilities for all kinds of people to compose and really get into music which they might be prevented from doing using traditional methods.
The Portal of Healing.
Shared via AddThis
A new way of bringing music to more people which can only be a good thing. Using geometric shapes to represent chords, this research opens up many new possibilities for all kinds of people to compose and really get into music which they might be prevented from doing using traditional methods.
The Portal of Healing.
An Important Breathing Exercise
A video on breathing exercises - we should all take some time to watch this sort video and literally take a deep breath. This is an exercise which I have done many times especially when times have been stressful and it really does work.
I feel a real sense of clam and control doing this breathing exercise and it is such a simple exercise and costs nothing but a few minutes of your time.
The Portal of Healing.
Sing for water
600 people gathered at Bristol's harbour side and sang for water. This event was to benefit WaterAid an international non-profit organisation dedicated to helping people escape the poverty and disease caused by living without safe water and sanitation.
The Portal of Healing.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Rosslyn Chapel
The Rosslyn Chapel
There has been a sharp rise in interest for the The Rosslyn Chapel, located near Edinburgh, Scotland. The chapel has been the subject of a book, The Da Vinci Code, the movie of the same name part of which was actually filmed on location in the chapel and a motet called The Rosslyn Motet composed by Thomas Mitchell and produced/arranged by Stuart Mitchell.
Built in 1446 by Sir Thomas St. Clair, the chapel was never completed so what exists today is the choir section. There are many interesting carvings which have engrossed people over the years which may or may not contain some code, hence the the Da Vinci Code. Legend has it the chapel and it's creator were connected to the Knights Templar.
Techniques in cymatics relating to the Chladni templates were used to create patterns which matched those of the carvings found in the chapel. It is not known how this came to be which explains the mystery and interest in the chapel. The resulting notes derived from the carvings were incorporated into and inspired The Rosslyn Motet.
It is claimed that the carvings were actually music which somehow became 'frozen in time'. Whatever the case is, the motet and the sounds created are haunting and required listening.
Thanks,
The Portal of Healing.
There has been a sharp rise in interest for the The Rosslyn Chapel, located near Edinburgh, Scotland. The chapel has been the subject of a book, The Da Vinci Code, the movie of the same name part of which was actually filmed on location in the chapel and a motet called The Rosslyn Motet composed by Thomas Mitchell and produced/arranged by Stuart Mitchell.
Built in 1446 by Sir Thomas St. Clair, the chapel was never completed so what exists today is the choir section. There are many interesting carvings which have engrossed people over the years which may or may not contain some code, hence the the Da Vinci Code. Legend has it the chapel and it's creator were connected to the Knights Templar.
Techniques in cymatics relating to the Chladni templates were used to create patterns which matched those of the carvings found in the chapel. It is not known how this came to be which explains the mystery and interest in the chapel. The resulting notes derived from the carvings were incorporated into and inspired The Rosslyn Motet.
It is claimed that the carvings were actually music which somehow became 'frozen in time'. Whatever the case is, the motet and the sounds created are haunting and required listening.
Thanks,
The Portal of Healing.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
The Portal of Healing
An Introduction
As with most things in life, chance played a part in the formation of The Portal of Healing. One day, some people met and decided that they wanted to make a difference in the world so The Portal of Healing was created as a gateway to promote healing, interactivity and access to more information about healing the self.
There are already a wide number of websites and companies out there promoting their services and products and this is where we will differ from the rest - you will find information, articles and contacts plus ways to interact with others seeking new and alternative ways to promote self healing.
To begin this journey, I have selected the subject of Cymatics. I am not going to attempt to define it as such but there are many links out there already on the subject. Safe to say that Cymatics is the study of wave phenomena or a study of how and what sound is and does in the real world.
It's creator or author so to speak is Hans Jenny (1904 – 1972) whose images are quite awe inspiring and give rise to many questions. How did sound come to be is one that I think of i.e. where does sound come from and how and why does it affect us in the way that it does? Cymatics will help to understand a little more the world in which we live and hopefully allow people to access a very natural and free form of therapy.
For those of you interested in seeing cymatics in action, what better place to start than that of the original video made by Hans Jenny which can be found here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05Io6lop3mk
Another good source of information can be found here at Cymatics Source
Thanks,
The Portal of Healing.
As with most things in life, chance played a part in the formation of The Portal of Healing. One day, some people met and decided that they wanted to make a difference in the world so The Portal of Healing was created as a gateway to promote healing, interactivity and access to more information about healing the self.
There are already a wide number of websites and companies out there promoting their services and products and this is where we will differ from the rest - you will find information, articles and contacts plus ways to interact with others seeking new and alternative ways to promote self healing.
To begin this journey, I have selected the subject of Cymatics. I am not going to attempt to define it as such but there are many links out there already on the subject. Safe to say that Cymatics is the study of wave phenomena or a study of how and what sound is and does in the real world.
It's creator or author so to speak is Hans Jenny (1904 – 1972) whose images are quite awe inspiring and give rise to many questions. How did sound come to be is one that I think of i.e. where does sound come from and how and why does it affect us in the way that it does? Cymatics will help to understand a little more the world in which we live and hopefully allow people to access a very natural and free form of therapy.
For those of you interested in seeing cymatics in action, what better place to start than that of the original video made by Hans Jenny which can be found here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05Io6lop3mk
Another good source of information can be found here at Cymatics Source
Thanks,
The Portal of Healing.
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