5 Minute After Shower Body Massage

Abhyanga (massage) has been a part of the Ayurvedic tradition for centuries. Abhyanga is not just seen as a treatment for relaxation, but as an integral part of healing therapies. It can heal and stimulate the skin, muscles, circulatory and nervous systems. Practicing abhyanga is a natural way to relieve pain and inflammation. It can also regulate the digestive system, help remove toxins from the body, increase vitality and concentration- and this is just the short list! With all of these incredible mind and body benefits, we can all use more massage in our lives. The best part is that you do not have to wait for your next spa appointment to get started. An after shower body massage is an easy way to incorporate this healing tradition into your daily routine. 

Directions:

 
Pat dry to leave skin still partially damp and sit comfortably on your towel. Taking a small amounts of oil into your palm, slowly massage your feet working your way up your legs towards the center of your body. Once you get to your abdomen, make clockwise circles around your belly-button with light pressure. Then start with your hands and move towards your shoulders. All strokes should be towards the center of your body. If you have coarse or dry hair, you can finish by using what oil is left on your hands and rubbing it into the ends of your hair.

5 Caffeine-free Ways to Fight Fatigue

With hectic schedules that leave us in a constant balancing act of work, family and other daily responsibilities, it is no wonder that we often feel tired! While it is a good thing that we are able to be and do more than ever, our health should not suffer the consequences. Coffee has become the symbolic nectar of achievement. Over worked and exhausted? Let's go grab a latte, double shot please. However, the problem with this is that is gives you a false sense of energy and can exaggerate feelings of anxiety, nervousness and depression. Drinking coffee on a regular basis can also severely damage your digestive system and create conditions for ulcers, IBS and Crohn's Disease to name a few. Want to try something different? Here is a list of easy ways to boost your energy in minutes:

Take a walk
Skip that second cup of caffeine and take a walk. A recent study has shown that exercising rather than drinking coffee or black tea is better at making us feel more alert and replenishing our energy.

Go upside down
Spend some time upside down. Doing a shoulder stand for 15 minutes is equal to 2 hours of sleep. I learned about this in Gabrielle Bernstein's book, Miracles Now, and it works! Don't worry if you cannot do the full 15 minutes, you will feel refreshed even after five.

Water therapy
Spray a fine mist of floral water on your face or wash your eyes with cold water. If you are at the office a pure floral mist is the way to go. This is one of the many reasons why I love our Rose Revival and Neroli Nirmana Facial Mists! I always have one in my bag.

Yogic Breath
Practice the Kundalini Breath of Fire, alternate nostril breathing or simply take a few deep breaths. Each of these exercises have their own unique benefits, but all will increase oxygen to the brain and increase your energy in minutes.

Green Juice
Grab a green juice or green smoothie. Chlorophyll, the pigment in plants that makes them green, helps oxygenate the blood which increases brain function and physical activity. One of my favorite smoothie recipes is blending a handful of spinach, one peeled apple, one small peeled cucumber and a half inch of fresh ginger with a half a cup of water and a few cubes of ice. Takes minutes to make and it instantly boosts your energy and mood.

These are my go-to remedies for times of exhaustion or when I need a boost of energy, but I would love to hear yours. Send a tweet over to @NobleTherapies.

Transition into Fall with Extra Self-Care

Summer is at its hottest just before it begins to transition into fall. As we begin to wind down the season, it is important to take time to recharge and refocus. Ayurveda teaches that our systems are more vulnerable during the change of seasons. Our Noble advice: soak in the last moments of the summer sun, eat a little healthier, get more rest, meditate more and take care of you!

Join Us for a Noble Fast! Tomorrow August 13th

This time of year women in Northern India and Nepal celebrate a festival called Teej. On this day, a fast (go without food) is observed from the beginning of the day until the moon comes out at night. Once the moon appears women rush outside to look at it through a sieve. While the festival is rooted in traditional Hindu lore and for the coming rainy season, this is a joyous time when women dress up in their best clothes, apply Mendhi (seen above), go see a movie together and take care of themselves. The fast is done for vitality and for the health of the family, specifically for marital bliss. Sacrificing superficial pleasures for greater purposes is viewed as way to increase ones positive karma.

My Mother-in-Law celebrates this holiday every year and two years ago, I joined her. This was the first time I fasted. It was a very difficult day! I was already eating pretty healthy and was of average weight. However, I became aware that while I did not fit the morbidly obese, televised version of a food addict, I in fact was. This single experience forever changed my relationship to food. Since that day, I have:

1) Decreased my portion sizes significantly after learning that I do not need that much food to feel full and energized.

2) Increased the value of the food I eat. Most of us already know that not all food is created equal. However, I started to become more conscious of how what I eat makes me feel. For example, eating a handful of chips made me feel hungrier (and thirsty because of all that salt), while eating an apple made me feel good and full enough to last me until the next meal. When you realize that certain foods are making you feel bad it is easier to not eat them. This is contrast to the pressure of not doing something because someone says its bad for you.

3) Been able to go longer periods without eating because I am okay with being a little hungry sometimes. I also can tell the difference between whether or not I feel hungry because I am bored, sad, etc.

4) New appreciation and gratitude for the food I receive. After years of literally shoveling in whatever I felt like eating, superfast so I can move on to my task, this was a profound concept! Sitting down and quietly enjoying what is on my plate is a fulfilling experience. Eating consciously and with all of your senses naturally makes you take your time, which makes you feel more full with less.

5) Able to maintain a healthy weight and a healthy budget. Once you start making these changes things start to happen. They are like little seeds. You start buying less food at the store and spending less money on going out.

It is hard to believe that all of this came from one day of not eating. While some may not buy into the spiritual aspect of things, I believe having a greater purpose looming in the background encouraged my effort. It is easier to by-pass the demands of the ego when you have something greater than yourself to look up to. Not to mention, how having millions of other women joining in and making a celebration out of it helps!

In true American spirit, I have co-opted this holiday as a chance to offer everyone the chance to increase vitality and raise consciousness. Men are welcome too! Are you in? Join me tomorrow (Wednesday August 13th) on Facebook & Twitter, for Noble Therapies' very own Teej-like celebration! #NobleFast

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Cooking with Fenugreek (Methi)

Fenugreek is an annual plant that is also known as methi in many places of the world. It is native to the Middle and Near East, and is widely used on the Indian subcontinent. It has small round leaves that can be dried, as well as seeds. There is even evidence that the ancient Egyptians understood the benefits of fenugreek, since fenugreek seeds have been found in tombs, particularly of Tutankhamen.
This plant is grown in countries across the globe, but the majority is cultivated and consumed in India. Fenugreek is interesting, because it can be used for three distinct purposes. The leaves can be dried and used as herbs, the seeds can be ground into a spice, and the plant matter itself can be used as a vegetable, like sprouts and micro greens. This makes fenugreek so important, because there are healthy attributes in all of those plant parts that can boost your health!

Most of the health benefits of fenugreek are due to the presence of saponins and fiber that it contains. Fenugreek is also used for herbal healing. Its seeds contain a gumming substance called mucilage and when mixed with water, mucilage expands and becomes a gelatinous salve for irritated tissues.
It is a member of the bean family and its scientific family name is Fabaceae. These health benefits are due to the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals found in this powerful plant.

Health Benefits:

• Reduces Cholesterol
• Reduces Cardiovascular Risk
• Controls Diabetes
• Minimizes Symptoms of Menopause
• Anti-Carcinogen (Cancer fighting)
• Appetite Suppressant

Cooking with Fenugreek

Fenugreek is easy to incorporate into your diet. It has a unique sweet and earthy flavor that can be added to any dish. To prepare, simply cut off the roots and pull leaves from stems. Discard stems and thoroughly soak and rinse the leaves to remove any debris. You can chop the leaves and sauté with garlic and spices (i.e. turmeric, pepper), and follow instructions for your favorite rice. You can also add tomatoes and lemon and cook with fish.

Applying Essential Oils and Balms for Meditation & Yoga

Applying essential oils and balms to different parts of the body have specific effects. There are various applications you can use when practicing meditation or yoga. Apply warm oils or balm on the forehead to improve perception, to the top of the head to increase intelligence or to the back of the neck to calm the unconscious. Massaging into the abdomen is also useful for releasing emotions.



Shop Now: https://nobletherapies.com/MeditationBalm.html

The Meaning of Mantra

The word mantra has become trendy and casually used in the modern world. However, its true meaning is rooted deeply in ancient Vedic culture and is very powerful. According to Ayurvedic expert, Pratima Raichur, mantra means:

"...the thought that liberates and protects. It liberates in the sense that the mantra is the thought that takes the attention inward and enables the mind to transcend. By transcending, we go beyond the boundaries of thought, which fracture the wholeness of Being, to experience freedom of our own unbounded nature".

Dr. David Frawley, esteemed author and teacher of Ayurvedic studies, states that "mantra is the means of energizing healing methods on subtle or spiritual level". The sounds or vibrations that take place when a mantra is repeated are healing and connect us with our highest levels of being.

The Bija (seed) mantras are powerful Sanskrit syllables used in meditation. Ayurveda believes that each sound has a unique vibration that has a specific effect in the physical realm. The origin of these syllables is very complex and are believed to be combinations of sounds made in the early stages of life. A list of some of these seed mantras are as follows:

OM- The most important mantra. It empowers and energizes all things and processes. Clears the mind and opens channels.

SHRIM (pronounced shreem)- Promotes general health, beauty, creativity and prosperity. Can strengthen the feminine nature.

LUM (u- sound as in put)- Creates stability, grounding, joy and life. Associated with the reproductive system.

RAM (long "a" sound like, aaah)- Gives strength, calm, rest and peace. Good for high Vata and mental disorders. Willpower, perception and orderliness.

YAM (long "a" sound)- Increases love and compassion.

HAM (long "a" sound)- Improves speech, communication, success.

HUM (u- sound as in put)- Repels negative influences including disease causing pathogens and negative emotions. Promotes digestive fire (or energy).

AIM (aym)- The best mantra for the mind, improving concentration, thinking, rational powers and improving speech. Helps with nervous and mental conditions. Associations with wisdom.

KRIM (cream)- Gives capacity for work and action. It gives power and efficiency to what we do.

HRIM (hreem)- Good for cleansing and purification. Aids detoxification process.

There are many different approaches to the use of these mantras. One is to find one that suits you or that is healing for an imbalance you may have at the time and repeat it often (some say up to 100,000 times!). You can also focus on the chakras and repeat LUM, VAM, RAM, YAM and HAM for about 15 minutes while meditating. It is recommended to spend 2-3 minutes on each mantra.


References:

Dr. David Frawley. "Ayurvedic Healing" (2000).
Pratima Raichur. "Absolute Beauty" (1997).

The Healing Power of Bitter Orange Extracts (Neroli)

Neroli can be made from the flowers of the bitter orange or sweet orange tree. Our hydrosols are made from the bitter orange tree which is supposed to have more therapeutic benefits. Its aromatherapeutic properties help one connect to the God-self within and gives confidence and strength to the mind. Neroli hydrosols are also great for the relief of depression, exhaustion and sleeplessness and can be an ally in times of stress.

Neroli extracts, in both essential oil and hydrosol forms, increase circulation and stimulates new cell growth. They can prevent scarring and stretch marks, and have been found useful in treating skin conditions linked to emotional stress. Any type of skin can benefit from Neroli, although it is particularly good for dry, irritated or sensitive skin. It regulates oiliness and minimizes enlarged pores. Neroli helps to clear acne and blemished skin, especially if the skin lacks moisture. With regular treatment, it can reduce the appearance of fragile or broken capillaries and varicose veins. Other properties include being antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, carminative, cordial, deodorant, digestive, stimulant (nervous) and tonic (cardiac, circulatory).

 

 

The Science Behind Namaste

The Hindu greeting of putting both hands together in Namaste/Namaskar is commonly used as a way to show respect. According to an article published today, there is a scientific meaning behind this gesture as well. Pressure points for our eyes, ears and mind are in the fingers. Pressing them together activates these pressure points, which helps us remember the person we are greeting for a long time.

The Healing Benefits of Floral Hydrosols

The Healing Benefits of Floral Hydrosols

Floral hydrosols have been sought after for their exquisite aromas and medicinal properties throughout history. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans were known to have made great use of floral hydrosols for their healing and aesthetic properties in the form of infusions and ointments. Floral hydrosols are also used in many alternative and Ayurvedic medicinal therapies.


Floral hydrosols are the plant- or flower-water by-product that remains from the production of an essential oil during the steam distillation process. During the cooling process, the oil-soluble component is separated out from the floral water. Since the aromatic molecules of flowers have already passed through the water, the floral hydrosol is now enriched with a mixture of beneficial aromatic properties and therapeutic benefits. 

Supercharged with deeply active elements from the essence of the plant or flower, floral hydrosols offer a misty and therapeutic way to deliver a wide range of soothing skin benefits. Floral hydrosols contain all of the essence of the plant or flower, just like essential oils. However, they are milder and ideal for applications where essential oils might be too strong. These properties make them perfect for use on face, particular over cosmetic or make-up applications. 

Water blended with essential oils or synthetic fragrance oils is often sold as floral water or floral hydrosols. These are not real floral hydrosols. True steam-distilled hydrosols contain all the nutritional components that whole plant materials have to offer. Noble Therapies uses only 100% pure floral hydrosols. This makes them gentle and safe enough to use for any skin type and constitution, including sensitive skin.

Noble Therapies pure hydrosol mists are a natural way to stay refreshed and hydrated throughout the day. They also provide relief for those suffering from hot flashes and are safe to use during pregnancy. Use them at the office to help relieve stress, exhaustion and eye fatigue.  Try spraying a fine floral hydrosol mist after a yoga session or any time you need to take a moment to revive your senses. 

Here are some of our favorite hydrosols and their benefits:

Neroli Flower Hydrosols (Orange Blossom/Citrus aurantium)

Neroli is made from the flowers of the orange tree. Neroli hydrosols are good for people who have mature or oily skin due to their various relaxing properties. Their aromatherapeutic properties help one connect to the God-self within and gives confidence and strength to the mind. Neroli hydrosols are also great for the relief of depression, exhaustion and sleeplessness and can be an ally in times of stress. 

Shop Noble Therapies Neroli Nirmana FacialMist

Rose Flower Hydrosols (Rosa spp.)

The most powerful of all hydrosols is rose, and is used in many alternative and Ayurvedic medicine therapies. It is balancing for the skin and hormonal system and has natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Its aromatherapeutic properties give a sense of security and spiritual attunement, and are calming, cooling and fortifying. Rose hydrosol is also known to promote openness in the heart, reduce anger and strengthens liver function. 

Shop Noble Therapies Rose Revival Facial Mist

Sandalwood Hydrosol

Sandalwood is one of the strongest smelling plants in the world. Its aromatherapeutic qualities keep you grounded and close to your divine essence. It is antibacterial, moisturizing, and promotes tissue regeneration.  It can also provide relief from depression, insomnia and anxiety.  Sandalwood hydrosol is used in both Noble Therapies’ Rose Revival and Neroli Nirmana blends.