I am a Wellness Coach, artist, Sender of Cards, and webmaster. I love to travel, play T'ai Chi and drink Tea...and so much more! I like to create lenses about Health, the Arts and Entertainment. Grab your cup and join me! http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/TeaLady Mon, 08 Sep 2008 12:10:45 -0600 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.squidoo.com/olympicnews The Games have always brought people together in peace to respect universal moral principles. The Games feature athletes from all over the world and help promote the Olympic spirit. This lens includes Olympics information from blogs, news, photos and more. sports Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:43:22 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/olympicmedals In the ancient Olympics, no medals were awarded. The first-place winner was given an olive wreath to wear on his head; second- and third-place winners received nothing. * When the Modern Olympics were revived in 1896, first-place winners received silver medals. Strangely, gold was considered inferior to silver. Eight years later, at the 1904 Games in St. Louis, gold replaced silver for first place. * Today's "gold" medals are actually sterling silver covered with a thin coat (6 grams or .21 ounces) of pure gold. * Olympic medals are 7 centimeters (approximately 2 inches) in diameter. Source: Atlanta Journal-Constitution, July 13, 1996 sports Fri, 05 Sep 2008 04:02:35 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/watermelon   "Whenever I want to feel really beautiful, I help myself to a glass of Daddy's watermelon wine." One lady to another in Destrehan, Louisiana   My childhood memories of summer days are filled with thoughts of watermelons. Whether we sat down right in the garden to eat our fill or served it up cold, nothing better than a slice of watermelon with a tall glass of iced sweetea to cool you on a hot day. Maybe you'll find a new way to beat the heat with watermelon from the info here.  food Sun, 31 Aug 2008 01:44:05 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/oliveoilscam Is it true that most of the olive oil sold in the United States isn't really olive oil but something else passed off as "extra-virgin?" According to Dr. Andrew Weil, it is!  Here's what he says in his Q&A (Published 04/18/2006) Unfortunately, it appears to be true. I've been doing some research lately on the untold olive oil story, which is a scandal in need of widespread exposure and corrective measures. I'll be reporting on what I've learned this week in response to questions that I've been asked on the subject. As you know, I recommend olive oil as the best all-purpose oil, not only for salads but for most cooking needs as well. The monounsaturated fat in olive oil appears to be protective against heart disease, some cancers, and other chronic diseases while saturated fats such as butter and other animal fats and polyunsaturated vegetable oils are associated with increased health risks. (Omega-3 fatty acids from wild salmon and other types of cold water fish also are beneficial to health.) The highest quality olive oil (the extra-virgin form extracted from fresh olives with gentle pressing) also has a high fraction of antioxidant polyphenols that are very good for you. To qualify as extra-virgin, olive oil must have an acidity of less than one percent. (A few good brands state their acidity on the labels.) In Europe, olive oil must pass rigid taste and chemical tests to be ranked as extra-virgin and must be less than two years old. The age of extra-virgin olive oil is rarely stated on the labels of olive oil sold in the United States. Most of the olive oil sold in the United States is imported from Italy or Spain. While some Italian and Spanish olive oils are of very high quality, many products sold in the United States as "extra-virgin" may be a lesser grade of olive oil and some may be primarily canola or hazelnut oil to which a small amount of olive oil has been added for color and taste. Some olive oil we get here may come from pomace, the olive pulp left after pressing out the oil. Additional oil can be extracted from pomace by treating it with hexane, a chemical solvent - not a good practice. Even when the bottle contains genuine olive oil, it may not be from Italy or Spain as the labels suggest - both countries import huge quantities of cheaper olive oils from Tunisia, Turkey, Morocco or Libya, bottle them and label them "imported from" Italy or Spain. This is deceptive marketing. food Sun, 31 Aug 2008 03:02:05 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/teahouse In many countries around the world, tea drinking is an important social occasion. It's a time to relax and enjoy the loveliness of the simple things around you. "Tea," they say, "is a healthy, enjoyable and stimulating drink, full of good qualities. It reduces loneliness and calms your heart; it is a comfort in everyday life." I love to visit Tea Houses. I'll write about the Tea Houses I have visited, the ones I want to visit and share my photos. I hope you'll tell me about your experiences. travel Sun, 31 Aug 2008 04:32:00 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/pu-erhtea This unique tea is only just starting to become known in the Western world (pronounced "POO-air") Other names for Pu-erh tea: Puerh, Puer, Pu er, Pu'er. Pu-erh teas are known in China as "medicinal teas" and have long been considered a special delicacy and an indispensable part of daily health care.   This beautiful porcelain cup is the time-honored way of serving tea in Chinese culture. All teas have a wide spectrum of health benefits, but Pu-erh has extra ones. Drinking Pu-erh tea can help reduce cholesterol and  improve fat metabolism. , according to scientific studies. By helping digestion (particularly of fatty foods), Pu-erh is the perfect tea after a heavy meal. health Thu, 04 Sep 2008 16:39:56 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/non-toxic_lawn_care Something big has happened in Canada, and I'd love it if we would all celebrate by urging our state governments to follow the Canadians' lead. The provinces of Ontario and Quebec have both banned the use of cosmetic pesticides! These are the type you put on your lawn and spray on your rose bushes. Astonishingly, Home Depot is listening and voluntarily stopping the sale of traditional pesticides in Canada and replacing them with eco-friendly versions. This is big news because the reason for this is to protect the health of pregnant women and children. Research shows that children who are exposed to pesticides and herbicides have a higher risk of leukemia, among other things. ~~Fitness, Health & Safety, Lawns & Gardens posted by Annie B. Bond care2.com Please consider rating this lens by clicking on the stars at the top. education Sun, 31 Aug 2008 03:19:00 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Qigongforhealth Qigong is a powerful and enjoyable way to enhance health, vitality, awareness, and athletic performance.   The word Qigong (pronounced chi kung) is a combination of two ideas: “Qi” means air, breath of life, or vital energy of the body, and “gong” means the skill of working with, or cultivating, self-discipline and achievement. The art of Qigong consists primarily of meditation, relaxation, physical movement, mind-body integration, and breathing exercises. Practitioners of Qigong develop an awareness of qi sensations (energy) in their body and use their mind to guide the Qi. When the practitioners achieve a sufficient skill level (master), they can direct or emit external Qi for the purpose of healing others. For thousands of years, millions of people have benefited from Qigong practices and believed that improving the function of Qi maintains health and heals disease. In traditional Chinese medicine, good health is a result of a free flowing, well-balanced energy system. It is believed that regular practice of Qigong helps to cleanse the body of toxins, restore energy, reduce stress and anxiety, and help individuals maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Although there is not yet an instrument that can measure the strength of Qi and that we may not fully know what Qi is physically, research has shown that external Qi of a Qigong master could produce significant structural changes in water and aqueous solutions, alter the phase behavior of dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl choline (DPPC) liposomes, and enable the growth of Fab protein crystals (Yan et al. 1999). It has been said that Qigong is one of the most powerful healing traditions ever developed in human history. It is literally a health wonder of the world. health Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:55:51 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/lovethatchocolat "Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body....but rather to skid in sideways...Chocolate in one hand.....martini in the other....body thoroughly used up....totally worn out and screaming....WOO HOO - What a Ride!"  (unknown) food Sat, 16 Aug 2008 21:38:06 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/greenteaforhealth Green tea has been used in China  for thousands of years for its health-preserving and revitalizing power.   For years doctors have suspected that green tea possesses remarkable healing properties. The Japanese and Chinese have been drinking it for centuries and their cancer rate is among the lowest in the world. Decades of study have shown that even moderate amounts of the "wonder substance" can prevent disease  and actually lengthen life. Go For the Green Next time you're opting for that morning cup of whatever, go for the green. Green tea (the kind you're usually served in Chinese restaurants) has been shown to have terrific healing properties. Studies show that drinking 4 to 6 cups a day can dramatically reduce the risk of many types of cancer including liver, breast, lung, pancreatic and skin cancers.  Researchers think the tea works as a sort of super anti-oxidant, able to block the interaction of tumor promoters. Green tea also lowers the risk of heart disease and stroke, by preventing the development of blockages in the arteries.   It also keeps blood sugars at a healthfully low level, and helps combat viruses. Who knew all that good stuff could be found in one little tea bag? The info on this page is for information only and should not be taken as medical advice. Please consult your physcian for medical advice.  health Fri, 22 Aug 2008 18:07:44 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/icedtea I've been drinking Iced Tea since I was a small child and, yes, like all southerners, I drink it year round, not just when summer is searing, but when the snow flies, too. In the summertime, I keep a pitcher of sweetea in the fridge all the time. In the South we call it  Sweetea (Sweet Tea). Nothing beats a frosty glass of home-brewed iced tea.   food Sun, 31 Aug 2008 00:57:40 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/haiku This lens is about Haiku. A Japanese lyric verse form having three unrhymed lines of five, seven, and five syllables, traditionally invoking an aspect of nature or the seasons. A poem written in this form. American Heritage® Dictionary: Description of haiku NOUN: pl. haiku , also hai·kus arts Sun, 31 Aug 2008 01:56:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/reversingdiabetes Modern diabetic treatment programs drastically reduce meats, highfat dairy products, and oils. At the same time, they increase unrefined, highfiber foods, such as grains, legumes, and vegetables. One study found that 21 of 23 patients on oral medications and 13 of 17 patients on insulin were able to get off of their medications after 26 days on a near-vegetarian diet and exercise program.  1 During two- and three-year follow-ups, most diabetics treated with this regimen have retained their improvements. 2 The dietary changes are simple, but profound and they work. Very low-fat, vegetarian diets are ideal for diabetics.   health Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:14:11 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/vitamin_d Vitamin D is known as the "sunshine vitamin" because the body manufactures the vitamin after being exposed to sunshine. It is both a vitamin and a hormone, Vitamin D, sometimes called Cholecalciferol, is the only vitamin that the body is capable of producing on its own. The only catch is that the body must be exposed to sunlight before it can produce this vitamin. It's not necessary to worship the sun to reap the vitamin-making benefits. An hour a week (Ten to 15 minutes of sunshine 3 times weekly) is generally adequate to produce the body's requirement of vitamin D.  All of the body's other daily requirement of vitamins must come from the diet and/or via supplementation.   health Sat, 16 Aug 2008 21:40:06 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/taichiforhealth T'ai Chi Chuan has been compared to a string of pearls. A pearl is formed by an oyster out of a need to deal with an irritating object. For humans, this irritation can have a physical, mental or spiritual basis, maybe all three. T'ai Chi evolved, like a pearl, to deal with these irritations. A grain of sand is surrounded in defense by the oyster to form a smooth pearl. A threat or need to our individual self is made into a movement of such beauty by the T'ai Chi principles that almost everybody feels a deep sense of awe. These separate moments are strung together to make T'ai Chi Chuan, as practiced by most people today." From 108 Insights into T'ai Chi Chuan: A String of Pearls, a motivational Pocket Guide for T'ai Chi Chuan. "In traditional Yang Style T'ai Chi, according to customary counting, there are 108 movements. So," says author and teacher Michael Gilman, "I have decided to use 108 as my String of Pearls." health Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:55:47 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/wintersolstice Saturday December 22, 2007 at 1:08 am. EST (06:08 UT), marks the solstice—the beginning of winter in the Northern Hemisphere and summer in the Southern Hemisphere. The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year, respectively, in the sense that the length of time elapsed between sunrise and sunset on this day is a minimum for the year. A solstice calendar of surprising accuracy, Stonehenge dates back almost 5,000 years. education Mon, 16 Jun 2008 22:27:59 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/yangtaichi108 is an integration of self-defence, self knowledge and self well-being. T'ai Chi is a way of life that has been practiced by the Chinese for thousands of years. T'ai Chi means "the ultimate." T'ai Chi encourages the fulfillment of the individual person, yet also emphasizes that this goal should be achieved through moderate, natural ways of living. Followers of T'ai Chi believed that people should discipline themselves to be spiritual, healthy, kind, and intelligent; to be responsible for assisting others to reach the same levels of achievement; to enjoy the truth; to fight fearlessly against immorality and injustice; and to protect the needy and the weak. It was with these goals in mind that the martial art aspect of T'ai Chi came to be developed and emphasized. T'ai Chi theories were easily applied to the martial arts. Mind and body harmony, in tune with the natural order of things, was at the core of T'ai Chi. This offered a direction of development completely different from that of other forms of fighting techniques. It also yielded awesome results in terms of human abilities coming from the power of the mind. Thus T'ai Chi Ch'uan became the most powerful martial art ever known. Family surnames came to be associated with the different styles of T'ai Chi that were being passed on, mouth to ear, from generation to generation -- for example, the Ch'en style, the Yang style, and the Wu style. Many of these are still known today. Each style was distinctive, but all followed the classic T'ai Chi principles. Adopted from T'ai Chi Classics (Shambala) written by Way Sun Liao health Sat, 16 Aug 2008 21:08:24 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/groups..tea TakingTea Celebrate Tea--the nectar of the gods Welcome to the Tea Group! We're looking for THE BEST lenses to add to our group. Don't have a lens yet? You can get started in just minutes by clicking on "Make a New Lens". I check each lens and accept the ones that I think are quality lenses. When you join this group I'll visit your lens to rate it and leave a guestbook entry. Please include a link back to us on your lens and websites. All lenses must be Family-Friendly/ Office Safe Sometimes a lens simply doesn't fit what I want to represent with this lens. Want to see something different?- Click the "Refresh" button on your browser and that will reveal different lenses in some of the modules. For the sake of space conservation, many modules contain more than what they show in a single viewing. I will also rearrange, add, subtract or consolidate modules from time to time as needed. Don't worry, all the lenses will still be here-just Refresh your browser and get a surprising new view! Lensmasters: If you receive a Squidoo Award for your lens(es)let me know so I can feature your lens. **Please no commercial lenses (ie Product, Real Estate, Vacation discounts, Hotels etc.) Just lenses about Tea. Non or poor content lenses created simply to point to a commercial site fall into this category. ***I REPORT SPAM LENSES!!!*** health Sat, 16 Aug 2008 23:35:44 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/barleytea The Roast Barley Tea has been a popular refreshing tea drink in Japan for hundred of years. This barley tea is gently roasted to perfection in small batches and has unparallel taste and flavor. The nourishing tea is caffeine free. It also has a nutty fragrance and a pleasing mellow taste. Mugi-cha is a nutritious drink containing an abundance of amino acids, sugars and carmel-like flavours. It is a refreshing non-caffeine drink that can be drunk in quantity by those sensitive to ordinary tea. Mugi-cha can be made as richly flavoured hot drinks as well as excellent iced drinks too.  food Thu, 20 Sep 2007 23:54:57 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/taichitshirts If you are looking for T'ai Chi or Taiji Chuan T-Shirts, here's the place to find them. Enjoy! Pat  arts Sat, 02 Feb 2008 02:14:16 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Naster NOBODY DOES WHAT DAVID NASTER DOES. Nobody! David is the only comedian with high quality content that truly makes a difference in people's lives. David Naster is a national authority on the enormous benefits of laughter. He is a proven expert at using humor to produce a positive perspective.  entertainment Mon, 28 Apr 2008 17:53:10 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/almond Did you know that almonds are a healthy snack and that they have been proven beneficial for weight loss, and can help to combat a number of health problems? Almonds posses a very high nutritional profile and are revered for their ability to strengthen the body and soothe mucus membranes. In the Indian tradition, they are called the "King of Fruits." Being that almonds are composed primarily of protein (16.5 percent) and oil (41 percent) and do not contain any starch, powdered almonds have historically been made into bread, cakes and pudding for people suffering from diabetes. Almond oil is similar to olive oil, but is sweeter tasting and more nutritious. food Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:07:59 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/mongol_movie Ruler of the Largest Empire the World Has Ever Known When he was a boy, everything he loved was taken from him. When he became a man, he would fulfill his destiny. He would raise an army and he would take it all back. One day, he would become the ruler of the largest empire the world has ever known. entertainment Sat, 16 Aug 2008 21:43:06 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/herbalpillows Herbal Pillows are growing in popularity and Lavender is often used in Herbal Pillows. Lavender has been extensively used in herbalism. An infusion of lavender is claimed to soothe and heal insect bites. Bunches of lavender are also said to ward off insects. If applied to the temples, lavender oil is said to soothe headaches. Lavender is frequently used as an aid to sleep: Seeds and flowers of the plant are added to pillows, and an infusion of three flowerheads added to a cup of boiling water are recommended as a soothing and relaxing bedtime drink. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia health Tue, 06 May 2008 14:49:48 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/mr_bojangles Is it possible that anybody hasn't heard the lyric: I knew a man Bojangles/And he danced for you/In worn out shoes... Born Luther "Bill" Robinson, also known as Mr. Bojangles was a real-life folk character who entertained informally across the south of the US and California, and some say he might have been one of the most gifted natural dancers ever. music Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:54:48 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Sweetpotato I love sweet potatoes! My favorite snack is Sweet Potato Pie! This lens is to share with you some recipes, stories and facts about sweet potatoes. food Fri, 14 Dec 2007 13:58:29 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/yangtaichi My goal is to educate people to the practice of Tai Chi and its many benefits.  More accurately known as tai chi chuan, the practice is a martial art system that includes both meditation and movement to enhance total health. Its movements are practiced in a slow, flowing sequence seeking connection between mind, body and spirit. While there are five major Tai Chi Styles, the basis of all types of tai chi practice is "the form." There are short forms and long forms that vary from style to style, but traditionally a long form involves 108 movements and can take up to an hour to perform, while a short form can involve from 24 to 48 movements and takes 10 minutes of less to perform. All Tai Chi styles follow similar essential principles and all styles have their unique characteristics. Certain styles are more appropriate for certain people. It is a good idea to choose what is the most suitable style for you.   This  lens is about the Yang Style. health Wed, 20 Aug 2008 05:07:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/cancersurvivor This lens is about National Cancer Survivors Day®, an annual, worldwide Celebration of Life that is held in hundreds of communities throughout the United States, Canada, and other participating countries. Participants unite in a symbolic event to show the world that life after a cancer diagnosis can be a reality. In most areas, National Cancer Survivors Day is traditionally observed on the first Sunday in June, although this is not always possible due to scheduling conflicts and time differences. Celebrating its 19th year in 2006, NCSD is the world’s largest and fastest-growing annual cancer survivor event. health Sun, 01 Jun 2008 02:34:00 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/beingreiki According to Diane Stien's book, Essential Reiki, Reiki is not something you "do". It is something you are. Reiki is a Japanese technique for stress reduction and relaxation that also promotes healing. It is administered by "laying on hands" and is based on the idea that an unseen "life force energy" flows through us and is what causes us to be alive. If one's "life force energy" is low, then we are more likely to get sick or feel stress, and if it is high, we are more capable of being happy and healthy. The word Reiki is made of two Japanese words - Rei which means "God's Wisdom or the Higher Power" and Ki which is "life force energy". So Reiki is actually "spiritually guided life force energy."   health Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:02:02 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/FENGSHUI_101 Feng shui (fengshui), pronounced in English as "fung shway" or "feng shoo-ee", is the ancient Chinese practice of placement and arrangement of space to achieve harmony with the environment. Feng shui literally translates as "wind-water."     The qi that rides the wind stops at the boundary of water. In its traditional form, Feng shui is a discipline with guidelines that are compatible with many techniques of architectural planning. Space, weather, astronomy, and geomagnetism are basic components of feng shui. Proponents claim that feng shui has an effect on health, wealth, and personal relationships. ~Wikipedia  education Sun, 15 Jul 2007 15:45:39 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/the_eggplant Eggplant is a key ingredient in Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian dishes. Eggplant is popular in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian, Creole, Greek and French recipes. Eggplant is a vegetarian's delight, as its meaty firm texture is an excellent substitute for meat in many dishes. Photo by rdesai (Flickr) food Sat, 10 May 2008 23:22:41 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Jasminetea Jasmine is a delicate, floral Chinese tea, traditionally served with meals. Jasmine tea is the oldest known scented tea; it had its origins in the Hunnan province of China during the Sung Dynasty, more than 700 years ago. Nowadays jasmine tea is produced in Taiwan and Viet Nam, as well as China. Jasmine Tea is usually made from Green or Pouchong (Chinese Green) tea leaves that are scented with jasmine flowers. The jasmine flowers are harvested during the day and stored in a cool place until night. During the night, the flowers bloom with full fragrance. The flowers are layered over the tea leaves during the scenting process. The quality of Jasmine tea is determined by the quality of green tea used as its base and the effectiveness of the scenting. image by Ann Warmbir watercolor-onloine.com  food Fri, 01 Aug 2008 04:23:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/taijiChuan24 In 1956, the National Physical Culture and Sports Commission of the People's Republic of China, developed a simplified and shortened version of the Tai Chi Chuan form.  It was based on the Yang family style of Tai Chi Chuan.  The new short form consisted of 24 movements, and could be performed in 4 to 8 minutes.   The Beijing short form eliminated some of the movements that are found in the Yang family long form such as sweeping Lotus kicks, Toe Kicks, Snake Darts out its Tongue, or Carry Tiger to the Mountain.  The short form also greatly reduced the number of times that some movements are repeated in the long form (e.g., Ward-Off, Grasping the Sparrow's Tail, Waving Hands Like Clouds, or Single Whip).  The traditional Yang style long form of Tai Chi Chuan has 108 movements (postures or parts). Michael P. Garofalo  health Mon, 11 Aug 2008 04:46:31 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/whatsinyourfridge If you're confused about when to go local, when you should go organic, and when it's all just baloney, you're not alone. I hope this lens will help you figure out the best ways to add organic and bring farm-fresh food closer to your home. food Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:10:58 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Okinawan_Longevity Okinawan Longevity Japanese people have what is probably the world's longest natural life span. On average, someone born and raised in Japan will live to 82. This compares to the US average longevity of 77. The people in Japan with the greatest probability for long and healthy lives live in Okinawa. According to the Ministry of Health, Okinawan rates of coronary heart disease, cancer and stroke are the lowest in the world. Okinawans live into their 90's and 100's. This is attributed to a diet which includes fresh fish, fresh vegetables, seaweed, tofu, green tea and plenty of exercise. They walk and do their errands on foot. They raise their own vegetables and work in their gardens. The mainstay of Okinawa's world-beating longevity is clearly a lifetime of healthy habits health Fri, 25 Jul 2008 01:02:01 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/reversingheartdisease Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American women. Heart Disease can be reversed. Here are some resources to help you discover how. health Mon, 28 Apr 2008 01:44:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/womenheartdisease Every woman needs to know about heart disease. The Heart Truth is that heart disease is the #1 killer of American women.  In fact, one in three women dies of heart disease.  But heart disease can also lead to disability and a significantly decreased quality of life. Unfortunately, most women don't know The Heart Truth.  Only 20 percent of women identify heart disease as the greatest health problem facing women today. The Heart Truth is that women don't take their risk of heart disease seriously-or personally.  Women often fail to make the connection between risk factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and their own chance of developing heart disease. health Tue, 17 Apr 2007 03:02:10 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/lovetea I have always loved my tea--hot or iced, morning, afternoon and evening, summer or winter. For many people tea is a popular drink to have with friends. In many countries around the world, tea drinking is an important social occasion. It is a time to relax and enjoy the loveliness of the simple things around you. "Tea," they say, "is a healthy, enjoyable and stimulating drink, full of good qualities. It reduces loneliness and calms your heart; it is a comfort in everyday life."  My intention is to have tea with friends around the world. food Sat, 17 May 2008 16:44:51 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/expectantmomsyoga Please consult your physician before beginning any new form of exercise, especially when pregnant. Most people know that practicing yoga offers a variety of benefits – improved body flexibility and performance, stress reduction and a sense of inner calm. Yoga also provides numerous benefits for expectant mothers and mothers of newborn infants. “Prenatal yoga alleviates some of the common discomforts of pregnancy, such as back and hip pain, sciatica, headaches, varicose veins and swelling of the hands, feet and legs,” says Susan Arthur, a certified yoga instructor who teaches free prenatal and postnatal classes at St. Luke’s Hospital.  “Practicing yoga after the birth of a child can help new mothers to stretch, realign, strengthen and rejuvenate their bodies – and their minds.” health Thu, 06 Sep 2007 02:52:50 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/TaiChi-Diabetes What has Tai Chi got to do with diabetes? Studies have shown Tai Chi to have beneficial effects on cardio-respiratory fitness; muscular strength, balance, peripheral circulation, while reducing tension and anxiety. All these factors help minimize the complications of diabetes. Tai Chi is not the only form of exercise for people with diabetes, nor is it a treatment by itself. A healthy eating plan, adhering to medication, stress control, as well as a safe exercise routine recommended by qualified health professionals are the cornerstones of diabetes self management.    ~~Etta J. Vinik, MA{Ed) health Mon, 14 Apr 2008 06:30:15 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/kingtut Golden Age of the Pharaohs has returned to London and will be there until August 31, 2008 On November 26, 1922, the tomb of King Tutankhamun was discovered, unlocking the most precious treasures the world had ever known. Throughout the 1970s, millions of Americans marveled at the treasures of King Tut in an unprecedented museum exhibition. After 27 years, the treasures of King Tut returned to America one final time in King Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs, the greatest blockbuster exhibition of all time.   The extensive exhibition includes more than 130 treasures beyond the imagination, from the tomb of Tutankhamun, other Valley of the Kings tombs, and additional ancient sites--giving us a glittering glimpse into the past.. Chicago was the third United States venue for this 27-month national tour which was presented at The Field Museum from May 26, 2006 to January 1, 2007. The exhibit was in Philadelphia from February 3rd to September 30th, 2007 and then traveled to London where it will be open until August 31, 2008 before returning to Egypt. travel Wed, 07 May 2008 16:15:04 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/TheFeminineMystique The Feminine Mystique: Portraits of and by WomenThe Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art Kansas City  April 1, 2006—October 1, 2006 On view in Gallery P27, this installation features the faces of 16 engaging subjects. The installation includes works from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period that revolutionized the place of women in society.   arts Thu, 20 Dec 2007 03:28:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/williamkatt Who wouldn't LOVE the Greatest American Hero? This is for the fans of Bill Katt. people Tue, 20 May 2008 02:03:55 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/drinkingwater As a cancer survivor, I want to take an active role in protecting my health. One thing that I know is very important is drinking lots of "good" water. health Sat, 05 Jul 2008 16:32:11 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/mywish I hope the days come easy and the moments pass slow, and each road leads you where you wanna go, and if you're faced with a choice, and you have to choose, I hope you choose the one that means the most to you. And if one door opens to another door closed, I hope you keep on walkin' till you find the window, if it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile. But more than anything, more than anything... My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to, your dreams stay big, your worries stay small, You never need to carry more than you can hold, and while you're out there getting where you're getting to, I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too, Yeah, this, is my wish. I hope you never look back, but you never forget, all the ones who love you, in the place you left, I hope you always forgive, and you never regret,and you help somebody every chance you get, Oh, you find God's grace, in every mistake, and always give more than you take. But More than anything, yeah, more than anything... My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to, your dreams stay big, your worries stay small, You never need to carry more than you can hold, and while you're out there getting where you're getting to, I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too, Yeah, this, is my wish. Yeah. My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to, your dreams stay big, your worries stay small, You never need to carry more than you can hold, and while you're out there getting where you're getting to, I hope you know somebody loves you, and wants the same things too, Yeah, this, is my wish. music Sun, 30 Mar 2008 14:36:36 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/KOYAANISQATSI Koyaanisqatsi is a film that cannot be described or explained, it must be experienced. It is a remarkable film that touches profoundly and never lets you go. "...for the many attempts there have been at imitating or emulating this film, there is nothing that comes close to achieving that level of involvement with the viewer." I've been a big fan of Koyaanisqatsi ever since I saw it at The Tivoli Theatre in the mid '80's. I was spellbound by the images and I've never looked at the world the same way since. moviesandtv Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:09:34 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/john_hartford This is one of my lenses dedicated to John! I really really did have a crush on John, and got to tell him so in person once! If you haven't yet discovered John Hartford, I hope you will get to know him through this lens and learn to love his music the way I do. John Hartford won Grammy awards in three different decades, recorded a catalog of more than 30 albums, and wrote one of the most popular songs of all time, Gentle On My Mind. He was a regular guest and contributor on the Glen Campbell Good Time Hour and the Smothers Brothers Show. He added music and narration to Ken Burns' landmark Civil War series, and was an integral part of the hugely popular "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" soundtrack and Down From The Mountain concert tour. But that hardly explains John Hartford. ~~johnhartford.com people Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:57:12 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/poets A Place for Poets and Poetry.     arts Sat, 24 May 2008 18:24:42 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/WorldTaiChi-QigongDay World T'ai Chi & Qigong Day - An unprecedented global health and healing event which will unfold across the planet on Saturday, April 26th, 2008, 10 am worldwide. health Fri, 01 Feb 2008 01:00:30 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/light_energy I'm becoming more and more interested in sustainable living. I include a few ideas on this lens. "Fundamentally, sustainable development is a notion of discipline. It means humanity must ensure that meeting present needs does not compromise the ability of future generations to meet their needs." Gro Harlem Brundtland computers Sun, 31 Aug 2008 02:51:52 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/mineraloil Mineral oil and petroleum jelly are both byproducts of petroleum refinement. Most baby oils on the market consist of 100% mineral oil, yet mineral oil has several dangerous hazards associated with it. Mineral oil clogs the pores and prevents the skin from "breathing." It prevents the natural release of toxins, and it blocks the absorption of any beneficial ingredients (such as essential oils) blended into the mineral oil or contained in other products applied to the skin. health Fri, 09 May 2008 05:46:41 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/future_olympic_cities Find out where the Olympics are going next! entertainment Sat, 09 Aug 2008 19:10:26 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/breathe "When we feel the pace of life is getting too quick, the pace of the breath also becomes too quick. We need to check in and slow the breath down--to remember to stop, look listen and breathe." ~~Ken Cohen Pronunciation: 'brE[th] Function: verb Inflected Form(s): breathed; breath·ing Etymology: Middle English brethen, from breth intransitive senses 1 a : to draw air into and expel it from the lungs : RESPIRE; broadly : to take in oxygen and give out carbon dioxide through natural processes b : to inhale and exhale freely 2 to have life  Merriam-Webster Dnline Dictionary  -------------------------------------------------------------- Use your breath to relax your body "Breath is the link between the inner and outer worlds." -- Alice Christensen health Sat, 08 Mar 2008 12:49:09 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/groups..Taichi T'ai Chi Please visit my Lenses about T'ai Chi. It has been more than 7 years since I first discovered T'ai Chi. I am so grateful for the experience that I have had with it. health Tue, 13 May 2008 17:27:08 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/pierre_bonnard I've always loved this artist's work although I have only seen a couple of his works in a gallery. After viewing this lens, I hope you will learn to appreciate the work as well. arts Wed, 03 Sep 2008 08:16:16 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/teavideoshowcase This Video Showcase is about Tea! Enjoy these videos! 'Tea to the English is really a picnic indoors.' ~~Alice Walker moviesandtv Mon, 18 Aug 2008 23:26:43 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/Beijing_Olympic_2008 One World, One Dream. Beijing welcomed the world with a spectacular opening ceremony! The Games of the XXIX Olympiad were held in Beijing August 8, 2008 with the opening ceremony taking place at 8 p.m. (08-08-08-08 - the number 8 is associated with prosperity in Chinese culture). sports Sun, 31 Aug 2008 02:13:21 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/livingbalance   What's your Balance Type? Contact me! health Sun, 24 Sep 2006 05:06:30 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/tai_chi_Fibromyalgia Fibromyalgia is a modern epidemic, a chronic pain condition affecting 6 to 8 percent of the U.S. population. T'ai Chi has been recommended by some health professionals as a very desirable adjunct therapy for sufferers. Many of those suffering from Fibromyalgia use Tai Chi exercise as a safe, fibromyalgia natural remedy. Tai Chi is one of the most practical exercise systems for the sufferers of fibromyalgia, helping overcome and cope with the symptoms. health Fri, 07 Mar 2008 21:33:42 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/castoroil This lens is for information only. I am in no way recommending Castor Oil for any medicinal use.    Castor oil is a vegetable oil obtained from the castor bean (technically castor seed as the castor plant, Ricinus communis, is not a member of the bean family). In many ways, castor oil is a very unique substance. Folk healers in this country and around the world have used castor oil to treat a wide variety of conditions. Castor oil is a triglyceride of fatty acids. Almost 90 percent of its fatty acid content consists of ricinoleic acid. (which is not found in any other substance except castor oil.)  Such a high concentration of this unusual, unsaturated fatty acid is thought to be responsible for castor oil's remarkable healing abilities. health Wed, 06 Feb 2008 22:06:17 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/medicinecards Based on ancient Native American wisdom, the Medicine Cards show the healing power animals bring us through each animal's unique ability.  Once you are familiar with different Medicine Cards, whenever you happen upon an animal in your life, whether it be a photograph, or seeing one, you can be aware of their medicine and see what they are showing you about yourself in that moment. arts Sun, 08 Jul 2007 11:43:03 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/wellnesscoaching I'm not a real doctor, but I play one on the internet! Ok, just kidding. I'm not in the medical field and I don't think of my self as a writer. What I am good at is research and reporting what I discover. I AM a cancer survivor and I have learned a lot in the last few years about being pro-active with my health and staying well. Being well includes living in Balance: Spiritually, physically, emotionally and financially ******* The greatest Wealth is Health. Don't believe it? Lose it and then see! Staying well is as important as anything else you do. I hope this lens will help you find the information you need to achieve and maintain health and wellness. I would like to be your personal Wellness Coach. Contact me by clicking on the link under the Tea Lady photo. health Sun, 18 May 2008 04:10:53 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/8treasuretea Babaocha - Eight Treasures Tea  - is a special blend of eight of the following dry ingredients: Chrysanthemums, Green Tea, Jujube, Chinese Wolfberries, Dragoneye fruit, Rock Sugar, Raisin, and Tremella, which results in a mildly sweet and visually colorful beverage. This combination of ingredients produces a mildly sweet tea liquor with a cooling and refreshing taste, believed in China to reduce cholesterol, aid blood circulation and strengthen the body's immune system. health Sat, 15 Dec 2007 02:44:15 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/beautifulskin Today we know that great skin requires more that just great skin care. It requires the right lifestyle and nutritional choices as well. We also know that great skin care can lead to more than just great skin. Health is more the skin deep. The skin is the largest organ in the body and is of primary importance to our survival. It reflacts to the outside the state of health on the inside. In fact, your skin is an outward reflection of your inward commitment to health. health Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:38:53 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/repulsethemonkey In the context of Tai Chi the term 'monkey mind' is used to represent or suggest the 'mind' or the type of character that will not settle or stay still. One of the objectives (so as to achieve another objective) is to settle or still the mind; therefore monkey mind is 'repulsed'. Please note that it is not 'warded off', it is repulsed. Furthermore it is never so repulsed just once but a minimum of three times; hence 'Repulse Monkey (at least!) Three Times'. education Sun, 10 Feb 2008 01:24:37 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/greendiet Recipes, advice and ideas for a healthy eating plan that's earth-friendly from www.thedailygreen.com. Whether you eat meat or are strictly vegetarian or vegan, organic foods are good for you and good for the planet. According to thedailygreen, in 4 weeks you can make the switch to a diet of delicious, whole, organic foods, local foods, artisan foods with fgewer pesticides, hormones, antibiotics, genetically modified ingredients or chemical additives. photo by Scoobymoo food Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:42:43 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/declan_galbraith_video_showcase Like me, Declan John Galbraith is part Irish and part Scott. Born December 19, 1991, in Hoo St Werburgh, Kent. He and his family live in Hoo, a village near Rochester, Kent. His grandfather, was in a band, played several instruments, took Declan to 'Fleadhs' (concerts) he was participating in and the explosive mix of Scottish and Irish musical traditions inspired Declan and became his early musical influence.[1] Declan is known for the control and range of his voice, as well as his ability to interpret and adapt material of differing genres. moviesandtv Fri, 04 Jul 2008 15:28:07 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/AmericanUnchained An Independent Business Alliance is a coalition of locally-owned independent businesses, citizens and community organizations united to support home town businesses in a community or geographic region.    An IBA is a proven tool for helping maintain unique community character, ensuring continued opportunities for entrepreneurs, building local economic strength, and preventing the displacement of locally-owned businesses by chains.  An IBA helps return decision-making ability over a community's future to the people who call it "home." business Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:58:46 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/myfavoritetravel I love to travel. This lens is a collection of travel resources, stories and destinations. travel Fri, 19 Oct 2007 16:56:04 -0600 http://www.squidoo.com/big_wednesday_best_surfing_film moviesandtv Tue, 20 May 2008 02:22:24 -0600