Strokes can affect anyone at anytime.  There are risk factors for a stroke that can be tracked to see how much at risk you really are.  To put to rest any fears you have that you could be the next stroke victim, keep reading to learn about what happens when you have a stroke and also why they occur.

A stroke occurs when an area of the brain is deprived of oxygen.  The brain actually requires 20 percent more oxygen than other tissues in the body.  Without oxygen, the brain tissue begins to die.  Depending on the area of the brain that is affected by the stroke, a stroke victim may lose their sight, control of their voluntary muscles, hearing, sense of taste, language skills and memory.  This covers a lot of ground but the brain controls various functions throughout your entire body.

What causes a stroke to occur in the first place?  Strokes have two main causes:  ischemia and hemorrhage.  Ischemia refers to a lack of blood flow to an area.  Hemorrhage is when there is an abundance of blood in one location.

Ischemic strokes occur when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain totally or partially.  The blood flow is reduced and the brain doesnít get the oxygen it needs.  That part of the brain dies and youíll see notable changes in behavior.  This is the most common cause of a stroke.

Hemorrhagic strokes are caused by pressure on the brain tissue due to bleeding on the brain.  This can happen when someone sustains a blow to the head in an accident.  Subdural hematomas can lead to a hemorrhagic stroke.  The blood will flow through the path of least resistance.  It will fill the spaces between the skull and the brain, compressing the tissue and causing injury to the brain.

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Ingredients:
1 lb dried black beans (or other beans your choice)
8 cups water
1 tsp salt
1/2 cup dry red wine
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried marjoram
1 tsp pepper
2 cups onions, chopped
2 cups red potatoes, chopped
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup carrot, sliced
6 garlic cloves, minced
1.12oz can stewed tomatoes

Method:

Place black beans into a bowl, cover completely with water to about 2 inches above the beans and leave overnight. Then drain.

Add beans to large crock pot, add 8 cups of water and remaining ingredients. Cover with lid and simmer for about 2 1/2 hours on very low temperature or until vegetables are tender.

Serve hot with a crusty French bread.

What is Reiki?

Reiki is a healing therapy that works with modern medical techniques, hence the name “complementary”. Reiki uses hands-on techniques to channel energy from the Reiki master to the client and thus heal them.  With this form of healing, it is not only the energy of the receiver but also the energy and balance of the Reiki healer.

Reiki healing works to restore the energy flow or ki (pronounced chee) within the body.  Stress can obstruct the flow of energy throughout the body.  If there is disease going on in the body, energy flow or ki can be low and the body can still be out of balance.  The Reiki healer introduces energy from a limitless divine source into the body of the client to aid in healing the body.

This form of healing was originally started in Tibet.  A renewed form of the healing technique was developed by a Japanese Buddhist and named Reiki which means universal life force energy.

A Reiki master is familiar with the energy flow of the body and how they can tap into and change that energy with their own energy through the laying on of hands.  Through Reiki training, practitioners learn about how to channel that energy through intention. When this intention is strong, a Reiki healer can affect changes in the body of an individual even from far away without physical contact taking place.

Reiki masters use their training to benefit the body in many ways:

* Better sleep patterns
* Lower blood pressure
* Pain relief
* Boosting immune system function
* Emotional and spiritual growth
* Detoxification
* Unblocking ki energy

(Serves 4)

Ingredients

2 onions, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 tbsp oil
2 tbsp walnuts
1 cup of vegetable broth
1 cup mushrooms, such as fresh shitake, sliced
1 head of broccoli, coarsely chopped
1 tbsp cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water
3 tbsp soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Seeds to garnish

Method:

Heat oil in a wok and sautÈ carrots and onions until almost tender. Add broccoli and walnuts and stir. Add 1 cup of broth and cook until veggies are tender. To thicken the sauce, add the dissolved cornstarch. Stir briefly, then add soy sauce, salt and pepper to your taste.

Sprinkle with seeds of your choice and serve with whole-grain noodles.

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There are two other elements which are considered essential while training for the correct execution of techniques in Aikido: The Ki or flow of energy and the Budo or martial way of practicing each technique with dedication and absolute commitment.

Once the participants or aikidokas have made the commitment to their training, their first lesson involves learning how to fall appropriately. They need to know how to absorb the effects of the various techniques which will be experienced. This is followed by different exercises which are done in a free-standing method of solo body movements. With these the aikidokas learn how to appropriately shift their weight and balance, as well as fundamental disciplines behind each individual technique.

Although many people think of Aikido as one of the ultimate martial arts, it is an art more thoroughly based on religion and harmony. Aikido uses joint locks, manipulation of weight, and various throws in order to achieve its purpose.It’s a very effective martial art, which were the intentions of Ueshiba from the start.

There are differences in what many think, and there is no real unified belief or philosophy in the martial art of Aikido.†While it is indeed rich in heritage and religion, its belief system revolves around harmony and peace of the spirit. With the achievement of a higher spiritual power, Ueshiba always believed the human body was capable of anything. Although he wanted revenge, he still took a stand by stating Aikido wasn’t about fighting. It was a way to reconcile with the world, making every human being one giant family.

One popular form of exercise being practiced these days is known as aerobic or cardio kickboxing. This method combines elements of boxing, martial arts and aerobics in order to provide an overall physical toning and workout. Unlike other variations of kickboxing, cardio kickboxing has no physical contact between participants. It’s simply a cardiovascular workout done for the many benefits it provides.

Cardio kickboxing classes normally begin with a period of 10-15 minutes of warm-up exercises. These may include stretching and traditional exercises such as push-ups or jumping jacks, followed by a 30-minute kickboxing session including such movements as kicks, knee strikes and punches. There are some instructors who may use various pieces of equipment such as punching bags or jump ropes to change things up.

After this intense period of the workout, a period lasting at least 5 minutes should be devoted to cooling down, and then followed by at least 10 minutes of stretching and muscle conditioning. Stretching is a very important step, especially for beginners. The chances of straining or pulling muscles with this type of workout are high. Proper stretching helps relax muscles and prevent potentially serious injuries.

For people who prefer to work out at home, there are ample DVDs and videos available for in-home instruction. Here are a few moves that you can try at home:

* Roundhouse kick: Stand with the right side of your body facing an imaginary target. With knees bent and feet shoulder width apart, lift your right knee, pointing it just slightly to the right of the target. Pivot your body toward the same direction. Kick with your right leg as if you were aiming at the target. Repeat with your other leg.

* Front kick: Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Bend your knees slightly, pulling your right knee up toward your chest. Point your knee in the direction of the imaginary target. Kick out with the ball of your foot. Repeat with your other leg.

* Side kick: Start with the right side of your body facing the target. Pull your right knee up toward your left shoulder, bending your knees slightly as you kick in the direction of the target. The outside of your foot or heel should be the part that would hit the target. Repeat with your other leg.

Besides keeping your body fit, kickboxing has many other benefits. According to a study by the ACE, itís possible for you to burn anywhere from 300 to 450 calories an hour with kickboxing!

Kickboxing is also a fantastic method for reducing and relieving stress. Its rigorous workout of controlled punching and kicking movements, carried out with the amount of discipline and skill demanded for any martial arts training, can do wonders for alleviating feelings of frustration and anger. Practicing kickboxing moves may also provide assistance in the improvement of  balance, flexibility, co-ordination, and endurance.

With the added benefit of learning self-defense moves, kickboxing is an all-inclusive routine all in one package. Many kickboxing fans are known to have said the sport not only makes them feel healthier, but more empowered and confident as well.

So get out there and jab, punch, and kick your way to safety and physical fitness. As always, never begin a new exercise regimen without first obtaining the approval of your family physician.

Modern judo originated from the Japanese fighting art of jujitsu. While jujitsu’s history can be traced as far back into the history as late 17th century Japan,  judo itself is relatively new in comparison.  Judo in its known form today owes its current existence to a man by the name of Dr. Jigoro Kano. Many people consider Jigoro Kano to have been a genius in his development of judo techniques and methods.

Although quite different from other styles of martial arts, judo still has rules which ensure the safety of those participating. Judo students willing to test their skills may find great enjoyment from the various levels of competition available to them. These can go from individual club meets to possibly even the Olympic Games.

Self-confidence, flexibility, and leadership skills are just a few of the other skills which are emphasized during the study of judo. There have been a great many changes to judo over the years, making it more a sport of competitiveness than a fight. The ranks have now been separated for children, women and men as well as classes for those who wish to compete in the sport or simply practice it for fitness.

The equipment required to practice judo is appropriate clothing. The pants of the Judogi are the zuboní while the jacket is a ëuwagií. The belt worn by each participant indicates the skill level of the competitor. The black belt is indicative of the highest level of skill.

Judo, which means “gentle way”, can teach you the various applications needed not only for self-defense but for competition as well.Judo is quite unlike other martial arts, in the sense of it combining the best of grappling with throw techniques which require little to no strength. They do require the correct positioning of your body, however. This is an excellent martial art which can be enjoyed by anyone.

Miscarriage occurs when an unborn fetus aborts itself.  Any woman can experience a miscarriage.  If you suspect that a miscarriage has happened to you, see your obstetrician immediately.

One sign of a miscarriage is bleeding.  It can present as spotting or heavy bleeding.  Spotting doesn’t necessarily mean that you are having a miscarriage but needs to be investigated all the same.

Diagnosis

When you visit your doctor, he or she will ask what types of symptoms you have experienced.  Do your best to remember when the bleeding or cramping started and anything else that happened.  The doctor will likely perform an ultrasound.

It is the same as when you went for your visit and heard the babyís heartbeat.  The absence of a heartbeat is a sign that the pregnancy is no longer viable.  To be sure, your hormone levels (HCG) will be monitored as well as a vaginal exam done to judge what has happened.  This can be devastating for you so bring your spouse, partner or family member with you for support.

During the manual exam, the doctor will also check your uterus.  He is looking to feel that the size of the uterus is equal to the stage of pregnancy.  All of this is done to confirm what is seen is seen and heard on ultrasound or as added measures if the ultrasound is inconclusive.

Until a definitive diagnosis is reached, your doctor may ask that you abstain from sex with your partner.  If the pregnancy is still viable but there is a problem with the placenta, you may be put on bed rest to avoid a miscarriage.

Treatment

If a miscarriage is definite, the doctor will let you know.  From there, he will see how far the miscarriage has progressed.  Early miscarriages may expel the products of conception completely.

Further along in your pregnancy, miscarriages may be termed “incomplete”. This means that all of the tissue has not been naturally removed by your body once the fetus could no longer survive.  Miscarriages can also be missed abortions in that the abortion occurred early on maybe even before you knew you were pregnant but the products of conception were not naturally removed from the body.

In both cases, the doctor will need to perform a surgical procedure called dilation and curettage (D & C) in the operating room.  You are given mild sedation and the doctor will use a machine in combination with surgical instruments called curettes to remove any remaining tissue from your body.  The procedure takes less than fifteen minutes.

When you suspect that something is wrong with your pregnancy, consult your doctor right away.  They will diagnose if you have experienced a miscarriage.  In the event that you have, the doctor will examine you and decide how to further treat the miscarriage.

Exercise is a healthy way to stay fit during pregnancy.  For a healthy woman, exercise strengthens muscles for a shorter labor and easier delivery.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, exercise is safe in moderation.  There are times when certain conditions present themselves during pregnancy.  If you begin to spot or cramp, see your doctor immediately.  It could be nothing but it could also signal problems with the cervix or placenta.  Any exercise will have to be stopped from that point on.

A pregnant woman may develop gestational diabetes.  This occurs when you experience high levels of blood sugar during pregnancy.  The added hormones produced by the placenta during pregnancy can cause insulin resistance.  Insulin is being produced but it is having no effect in the body.  As a result, more and more insulin is produced, increasing the blood sugar.

Previous medical conditions before pregnancy can prohibit exercise during pregnancy.  While you managed your high blood pressure or asthma before pregnancy, it becomes a more critical situation when a baby is present.  Any type of exercise can increase your blood pressure to an unsafe level for your baby.

Asthma makes it hard to breathe under the best of circumstances and your lower level of oxygen affects the baby too.  It is important to keep asthma under control as much as possible.

Heart disease is another medical condition that prohibits exercise.  Depending on your heart condition, bed rest may be advised.  Physical activity could cause further heart problems that would compromise your pregnancy.

When you become pregnant, your doctor will take a detailed history.  If you have had a history of miscarriages, exercise will be taken off the table.  Any increase in physical activity could contribute to another miscarriage.  It is a chance a doctor won’t take with your health and that of your unborn child.

Each month you go in to see your doctor for an exam, inform him of changes to your body.  Any new developments that will threaten you or your baby can keep you from being permitted to exercise.  Listen to your doctor’s advice for your protection.

Certain medical conditions may prohibit exercise during pregnancy.  Even if you exercised before pregnancy, follow the doctor’s orders for a healthy pregnancy.

1/2 cup sesame seeds
16oz bow tie pasta
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/3 cup rice vinegar
1 tsp sesame oil
1/3 cup soy sauce
3 tbsp white sugar
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp black pepper
3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, cut in strips
1 red bell pepper, cut in strips
1/3 cup green onions, chopped

Method:

Heat a little pan over medium heat and add sesame seeds. Stir constantly and cook until toasted. Be careful not to burn them! Set aside.

Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain finished pasta and rinse under cold water. When cool, place into large serving bowl.

Blend vegetable oil, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, sesame seeds, ginger and pepper. Add to pasta and toss gently. Mix in chicken, cilantro, green onions and bell peppers.

This makes a great and wholesome take-away lunch.