40 fantastic uses for baking soda
By Melissa Breyer
Most of us know that baking soda can be used for more than just making homemade cookies and other dough rise. It's not uncommon to see an open box of this leavening agent deodorizing refrigerators, for example. But did you know that there are at least 40 different ways to use baking soda?
Baking soda makes a perfect stand-in for many personal care, cleaning, and deodorizing products. The list of benefits is long: It is inexpensive, free of toxic chemicals, versatile, and effective.
Wondering how baking soda, aka sodium bicarbonate, works its magic? It helps regulate pH — keeping a substance neither too acidic nor too alkaline. When baking soda comes in contact with either an acidic or an alkaline substance, its natural effect is to neutralize that pH. Beyond that, baking soda has the ability to retard further changes in the pH balance, known as buffering.
This dual capability of neutralizing and buffering allows baking soda to do things such as neutralize acidic odors (like in the refrigerator) as well as maintain neutral pH (like in your laundry water, which helps boost your detergent's power). It's a simple reaction, but one that has far-reaching effects for a number of cleaning and deodorizing tasks.
And so without further ado, here are some of the many creative ways you can use baking soda.
Personal Care
1. Make toothpaste
A paste made from baking soda and a 3 percent hydrogen peroxide solution can be used as an alternative to commercial non-fluoride toothpastes. (Or here’s a formula for a minty version.) You can also just dip your toothbrush with toothpaste into baking soda for an extra boost.
2. Freshen your mouth: Put one teaspoon in half a glass of water, swish, spit, and rinse. Odors are neutralized, not just covered up.
3. Soak oral appliance: Soak oral appliances (like retainers, mouthpieces, and dentures) in a solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in a glass or small bowl of warm water. The baking soda loosens food particles and neutralizes odors to keep appliances fresh. You can also brush appliances clean using baking soda.
4. Use as a facial scrub and body exfoliant: Give yourself an invigorating facial and body scrub. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub in a gentle circular motion to exfoliate the skin. Rinse clean. This is gentle enough for daily use.
5. Skip harsh deodorant: Pat baking soda onto your underarms to neutralize body odor.
6. Use as an antacid: Baking soda is a safe and effective antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, and/or acid indigestion. Refer to baking soda package for instructions.
7. Treat insect bites and itchy skin: For insect bites, make a paste out of baking soda and water, and apply as a salve onto affected skin. To ease the itch, shake some baking soda into your hand and rub it into damp skin after bath or shower.
8. Make a hand cleanser and softener: Skip harsh soaps and gently scrub away ground-in dirt and neutralize odors on hands with a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water or 3 parts baking soda with gentle liquid hand soap. Then rinse clean.
9. Help your hair: Vinegar is amazing for your hair, but baking soda has its place in the shower too. Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda into your palm along with your favorite shampoo. Shampoo as usual and rinse thoroughly — baking soda helps remove the residue that styling products leave behind so your hair is cleaner and more manageable.
10. Clean brushes and combs: For lustrous hair with more shine, keep brushes and combs clean. Remove natural oil build-up and hair product residue by soaking combs and brushes in a solution of 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small basin of warm water. Rinse and allow to dry.
11. Make a bath soak: Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your bath to neutralize acids on the skin and help wash away oil and perspiration. It also makes your skin feel very soft. Or just focus on soothing your feet. Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda in a tub of warm water and soak feet. Gently scrub.
Cleaning
12. Make a surface soft scrub: For safe, effective cleaning of bathroom tubs, tile, and sinks — even fiberglass and glossy tiles — sprinkle baking soda lightly on a clean damp sponge and scrub as usual. Rinse thoroughly and wipe dry. For extra cleaning power, make a paste with baking soda, coarse salt, and liquid dish soap — let it sit then scour off.
13. Hand-wash dishes and pots and pans: Add 2 heaping tablespoons baking soda (along with your regular dish detergent) to the dish water to help cut grease and foods left on dishes, pots, and pans. For cooked-on foods, let them soak in the baking soda and detergent with water first, then use dry baking soda on a clean damp sponge or cloth as a scratch-less scouring powder.
14. Freshen sponges: Soak stale-smelling sponges in a strong baking soda solution to get rid of the mess (4 tablespoons of baking soda dissolved in 1 quart of warm water). For more thorough disinfecting, use the microwave.
15. Clean the microwave: Baking soda on a clean damp sponge cleans gently inside and outside the microwave and never leaves a harsh chemical smell. Rinse well with water.
16. Polish silver flatware: Use a baking soda paste made with 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water. Rub onto the silver with a clean cloth or sponge. Rinse thoroughly and dry for shining sterling and silver-plate serving pieces.
17. Clean coffee and tea pots: Remove coffee and tea stains and eliminate bitter off-tastes by washing mugs and coffee makers in a solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. For stubborn stains, try soaking overnight in the baking soda solution and detergent or scrubbing with baking soda on a clean damp sponge.
18. Clean the oven: Sprinkle baking soda onto the bottom of the oven. Spray with water to dampen the baking soda. Let sit overnight. In the morning, scrub, scoop the baking soda and grime out with a sponge, or vacuum, and rinse.
19. Clean floors: Remove dirt and grime (without unwanted scratch marks) from no-wax and tile floors using 1/2 cup baking soda in a bucket of warm water — mop and rinse clean for a sparkling floor. For scuff marks, use baking soda on a clean damp sponge, then rinse.
20. Clean furniture: Clean and remove marks (even crayon) from walls and painted furniture by applying baking soda to a damp sponge and rubbing lightly. Wipe off with a clean, dry cloth.
21. Clean shower curtains: Clean and deodorize your vinyl shower curtain by sprinkling baking soda directly on a clean damp sponge or brush. Scrub the shower curtain and rinse clean. Hang it up to dry.
22. Boost your liquid laundry detergent: Give your laundry a boost by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry to make liquid detergent work harder. A better balance of pH in the wash gets clothes cleaner, fresher, and brighter. Or you can add 1/2 cup of baking soda to the rinse cycle for fresher sheets and towels or to neutralize gym clothes and odoriferous clothing.
23. Clean and freshen sports gear: Use a baking soda solution (4 tablespoons baking soda in 1 quart warm water) to clean and deodorize smelly sports equipment. Sprinkle baking soda into golf bags and gym bags to deodorize and clean golf irons (without scratching them!) with a baking soda paste (3 parts baking soda to 1 part water) and a brush. Rinse thoroughly.
24. Remove oil and grease stains: Use baking soda to clean up light-duty oil and grease spills on your garage floor or in your driveway. Sprinkle baking soda on the spot and scrub with a wet brush.
25. Clean batteries: Baking soda can be used to neutralize battery acid corrosion on cars, mowers, etc., because its a mild alkali. Be sure to disconnect the battery terminals before cleaning. Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water and apply with a damp cloth to scrub corrosion from the battery terminal. After cleaning and reconnecting the terminals, wipe them with petroleum jelly to prevent future corrosion. Please be careful when working around a battery — they contain a strong acid.
26. Clean cars: Use baking soda to clean your car lights, chrome, windows, tires, vinyl seats, and floor mats without worrying about unwanted scratch marks. Use a baking soda solution of 1/4 cup baking soda in 1 quart of warm water. Apply with a sponge or soft cloth to remove road grime, tree sap, bugs, and tar. For stubborn stains use baking soda sprinkled on a damp sponge or soft brush. Eliminate odors by sprinkling baking soda directly on fabric car seats and carpets. Wait 15 minutes (or longer for strong odors) and vacuum up the baking soda.
Deodorizing
27. Deodorize your refrigerator: Place an open box in the back of the fridge to neutralize odors.
28. Deodorize trashcans and recyclables: Sprinkle baking soda on the bottom of your trashcan to keep stinky trash smells at bay. Clean your recyclables container periodically by sprinkling baking soda on a damp sponge. Wipe clean and rinse. Also, sprinkle baking soda on top as you add recyclables to the bin.
29. Deodorize drains and garbage disposals: To deodorize your sink and tub drains and garbage disposal and keep lingering odors from resurfacing, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain while running warm tap water — it will neutralize both acid and basic odors for a fresh drain. (This a good way to dispose of baking soda that is being retired from your refrigerator.)
30. Deodorize and clean dishwashers: Use baking soda to deodorize before you run the dishwasher and then as a gentle cleanser in the wash cycle.
31. Deodorize lunch boxes: Between uses, place a spill-proof box of baking soda in everyone’s lunch box to absorb lingering odors.
32. Remove odor from carpets: Liberally sprinkle baking soda on the carpet. Let set overnight or as long as possible (the longer it sets the better it works). Sweep up the larger amounts of baking soda, and vacuum up the rest. (Note that your vacuum cleaner bag will get full and heavy.) An added bonus: You'll also deodorize your vacuum cleaner.
33. Freshen closets: Place a box on the shelf to keep the closet smelling fresh.
34. Deodorize pet items: Cover the bottom of your cat box with baking soda, then fill as usual with litter. To freshen between changes, sprinkle baking soda on top of the litter after a thorough cleaning. Eliminate odors from your pet's bedding by sprinkling liberally with baking soda, wait 15 minutes (or longer for stronger odors), then vacuum up.
35. Deodorize sneakers: Keep odors from spreading in smelly sneakers by shaking baking soda into them when not in use. Shake out before wearing.
36. Freshen stuffed animals: Keep favorite cuddly toys fresh with a dry shower of baking soda. Sprinkle baking soda on and let it sit for 15 minutes before brushing off.
Miscellaneous
37. Cure all camping needs: Baking soda is a must-have for your next camping trip. It's a dish-washer, pot-scrubber, hand-cleanser, deodorant, toothpaste, and fire extinguisher, and has many other uses.
38. Extinguish fires: Baking soda can help in the initial handling of minor grease or electrical kitchen fires, because when baking soda is heated, it gives off carbon dioxide, which helps to smother the flames. For small cooking fires (frying pans, broilers, ovens, grills), turn off the gas or electricity if you can safely do so. Stand back and throw handfuls of baking soda at the base of the flame to help put out the fire — and call the fire department just to be safe.
39. Care for the septic system: Regular use of baking soda in your drains can help keep your septic system flowing freely. One cup of baking soda per week will help maintain a favorable pH in your septic tank.
40. Scrub fruits and vegetables: Baking soda is the food safe way to clean dirt and residue off fresh fruit and vegetables. Just sprinkle a little on a clean damp sponge, scrub and rinse. Here’s another way to clean your vegetables as well.
OK, so there are my 40 suggestions (with a little help from the Arm & Hammond baking soda site, thank you). Do you have any tips or tricks that I missed? Please share in the comments.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Surprising Healing Benefits of Spices
By Brynn Mannino, Woman’s Day
Tue, Jun 01, 2010
Explore and compare medications Chances are you sprinkle cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or add a dash of oregano to pizza without giving the spices much thought. But did you know your favorite flavors can actually do your body good? According to Christina Suarez, master herbalist and owner of TheGoodHerbCo.com, while spices are only effective when eaten at least daily, each has its own specific health benefits. Read on to find out which additives can burn fat, ease a sore throat or help you get to sleep, and how you can incorporate them into your daily diet.
Cardamom
Fruit of the Elettaria cardamomum plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Eases belching, flatulence and indigestion; treats respiratory conditions like coughing, asthma and loss of voice; aids in the elimination of toxins through your skin.
Daily Dose: Stir a few freshly ground pinches of cardamom pods into a shot of OJ or your morning fruit salad, or mix it with white or brown rice before you boil it.
More from Women's Day
• 10 Healing Herbs Used in Teas
• 11 Medicinal Uses for Food
Cayenne
Fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant in the Solanaceae family, along with chile pepper.
Health Powers: Eliminates gas from the stomach and intestines; soothes sore throat, cold and flu symptoms; increases metabolism for weight control.
Daily Dose: Stir into a cup of hot chocolate or any sweet juice drink for a contrasting flavor kick.
Cinnamon
Bark of a small evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Tames nausea and stomach ulcers; functions as a mild anti-inflammatory; increases insulin sensitivity to help focus fat burn.
Daily Dose: Stir into coffee/tea, yogurt, oatmeal or any boxed cereal.
Cloves
Flower bud found at the base of an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Soothes digestive tract muscles and is a potent antihistamine.
Daily Dose: Mix into your nightly ice cream treat or sneak into mustard spread.
Nutmeg
Fruit of Myristica fragrans,an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Improves digestion; eases the symptoms of menstruation; induces calm and sleep.
Daily Dose: Grate a small amount into applesauce or plain yogurt. (Note: It’s safe to grate the entire nut, which you can usually buy whole at the supermarket, but you never want to consume more than one nutmeg per day because too much of this potent spice can cause stomach pain, double vision and other uncomfortable reactions.)
Celery Seed
Seed of the Apium graveolens plant in the parsley family.
Health Powers: Flushes the liver of toxins; lowers blood pressure; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Think salads—tuna, potato and egg all work—which can be tossed onto a bed of lettuce, eaten alone or spread onto bread.
Coriander
Also known as cilantro; the leaves and seeds of the Coriandrum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Acts as a diuretic; eases seasonal allergies.
Daily Dose: Cook into couscous and quinoa, which you can store and eat with leftovers.
Fennel
Seed of the Foeniculum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Calms bowel distress; supports milk production in nursing mothers; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Add to canned minestrones and vegetable soups.
Oregano
Leaf of the Origanum plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Loosens mucus; helps treat respiratory illnesses; and calms indigestion.
Daily Dose: Use in any tomato-based foods, like marinara sauces, pizza and soups.
Thyme
Leaf of the Thymus plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Relaxes the muscle tissue of the gastrointestinal tract; stimulates immune system.
Daily Dose: Toss into any meat-based dishes.
Turmeric
Root of the Circuma plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Reduces inflammation (joints, airways); detoxifies the liver.
Daily Dose: Mix in with oil-and-vinegar-based salad dressings.
Play VideoPregnancy Nutrition Part 1
By HealthiNation
Play VideoPreventing High Cholesterol
By HealthiNation
More Videos »Related Health NewsSome Spices Cut Cancer Risk That Comes With Grilled Burgers
May 20, 2010 - HealthDay Sponsored Links
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Tue, Jun 01, 2010
Explore and compare medications Chances are you sprinkle cinnamon into your morning oatmeal or add a dash of oregano to pizza without giving the spices much thought. But did you know your favorite flavors can actually do your body good? According to Christina Suarez, master herbalist and owner of TheGoodHerbCo.com, while spices are only effective when eaten at least daily, each has its own specific health benefits. Read on to find out which additives can burn fat, ease a sore throat or help you get to sleep, and how you can incorporate them into your daily diet.
Cardamom
Fruit of the Elettaria cardamomum plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Eases belching, flatulence and indigestion; treats respiratory conditions like coughing, asthma and loss of voice; aids in the elimination of toxins through your skin.
Daily Dose: Stir a few freshly ground pinches of cardamom pods into a shot of OJ or your morning fruit salad, or mix it with white or brown rice before you boil it.
More from Women's Day
• 10 Healing Herbs Used in Teas
• 11 Medicinal Uses for Food
Cayenne
Fruit of the Capsicum annuum plant in the Solanaceae family, along with chile pepper.
Health Powers: Eliminates gas from the stomach and intestines; soothes sore throat, cold and flu symptoms; increases metabolism for weight control.
Daily Dose: Stir into a cup of hot chocolate or any sweet juice drink for a contrasting flavor kick.
Cinnamon
Bark of a small evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Tames nausea and stomach ulcers; functions as a mild anti-inflammatory; increases insulin sensitivity to help focus fat burn.
Daily Dose: Stir into coffee/tea, yogurt, oatmeal or any boxed cereal.
Cloves
Flower bud found at the base of an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Soothes digestive tract muscles and is a potent antihistamine.
Daily Dose: Mix into your nightly ice cream treat or sneak into mustard spread.
Nutmeg
Fruit of Myristica fragrans,an evergreen tree.
Health Powers: Improves digestion; eases the symptoms of menstruation; induces calm and sleep.
Daily Dose: Grate a small amount into applesauce or plain yogurt. (Note: It’s safe to grate the entire nut, which you can usually buy whole at the supermarket, but you never want to consume more than one nutmeg per day because too much of this potent spice can cause stomach pain, double vision and other uncomfortable reactions.)
Celery Seed
Seed of the Apium graveolens plant in the parsley family.
Health Powers: Flushes the liver of toxins; lowers blood pressure; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Think salads—tuna, potato and egg all work—which can be tossed onto a bed of lettuce, eaten alone or spread onto bread.
Coriander
Also known as cilantro; the leaves and seeds of the Coriandrum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Acts as a diuretic; eases seasonal allergies.
Daily Dose: Cook into couscous and quinoa, which you can store and eat with leftovers.
Fennel
Seed of the Foeniculum plant in the aromatic Apiaceae family.
Health Powers: Calms bowel distress; supports milk production in nursing mothers; combats water retention.
Daily Dose: Add to canned minestrones and vegetable soups.
Oregano
Leaf of the Origanum plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Loosens mucus; helps treat respiratory illnesses; and calms indigestion.
Daily Dose: Use in any tomato-based foods, like marinara sauces, pizza and soups.
Thyme
Leaf of the Thymus plant in the mint family.
Health Powers: Relaxes the muscle tissue of the gastrointestinal tract; stimulates immune system.
Daily Dose: Toss into any meat-based dishes.
Turmeric
Root of the Circuma plant in the ginger family.
Health Powers: Reduces inflammation (joints, airways); detoxifies the liver.
Daily Dose: Mix in with oil-and-vinegar-based salad dressings.
Play VideoPregnancy Nutrition Part 1
By HealthiNation
Play VideoPreventing High Cholesterol
By HealthiNation
More Videos »Related Health NewsSome Spices Cut Cancer Risk That Comes With Grilled Burgers
May 20, 2010 - HealthDay Sponsored Links
5 "Best" Ways To Lose Weight
2010's Top 5 Ways To Lose Weight. Guaranteed To Lose 12 lbs In 7 Days.
www.WeightLossResearch.net/Lose-lbs
5 Top Rated Weight Loss
2010's Best Weight Loss Exposed! Find Weight Loss That Work
ConsumerDietReport.net/Weight-Loss
Grab Free Basic Health Insurance Coupons
Grab Free Basic Health Insurance Coupons from Coupons2Grab.com and Save.
Coupons2Grab.com
Monday, May 31, 2010
MOVING TO MEXICO
Dear President Obama:
I'm planning to move my family and extended family to Mexico for my health, and want your assistance.
We're planning to simply walk across the border from the U.S. Into Mexico, and we'll need your help to make arrangements.
We plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas, passports, immigration quotas and laws.
I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Calderon, I'm coming?
Please let him know I'll expect the following:
1. Free medical care for my entire family.
2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need,
whether I use them or not.
3. Please print all Mexican government forms in English.
4. I want my grandkids taught Spanish by English-speaking (bi-lingual)
teachers.
5. Tell their schools to include classes on American culture and history.
6. I want my grandkids to see the American flag on one of the flag poles
at their school.
7. Please plan to feed my grand kids at school breakfast and lunch.
8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access
to government services.
9. I plan to get a car and drive in Mexico, but, I don't plan to buy car insurance, and I probably won't make any special effort to learn local traffic laws.
10. In case a Mexican police officer does not get the memo from their president to leave me alone, please be sure every patrol car has at least one English-speaking officer.
11. I plan to fly the U.S. Flag from my house top, put U S. Flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.
12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying any taxes, or have any labor or tax laws enforced on any business I may start.
13. Please have the president tell Mexicans to be extremely nice and never say critical things about me or my family, or the strain we might place on their economy.
14. I want free food stamps.
15. Naturally, I'll expect free rent subsidies.
16. I'll need Income tax credits although I don't pay Mexican Taxes,
I'll receive money from the government.
17. Please arrange it so the Mexican Gov't pays $4,500 to help me buy a new car.
18. Oh yes, I almost forgot, please enroll me free into the Mexican Social Security program so that I'll get a monthly income in retirement.
I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all his people who walk over to the U.S. From Mexico. I'm sure President Calderon won't mind returning the favor if you ask nicely.
Thank you so much for your kind help. You're the man!!!
I'm planning to move my family and extended family to Mexico for my health, and want your assistance.
We're planning to simply walk across the border from the U.S. Into Mexico, and we'll need your help to make arrangements.
We plan to skip all the legal stuff like visas, passports, immigration quotas and laws.
I'm sure they handle those things the same way you do here. So, would you mind telling your buddy, President Calderon, I'm coming?
Please let him know I'll expect the following:
1. Free medical care for my entire family.
2. English-speaking government bureaucrats for all services I might need,
whether I use them or not.
3. Please print all Mexican government forms in English.
4. I want my grandkids taught Spanish by English-speaking (bi-lingual)
teachers.
5. Tell their schools to include classes on American culture and history.
6. I want my grandkids to see the American flag on one of the flag poles
at their school.
7. Please plan to feed my grand kids at school breakfast and lunch.
8. I will need a local Mexican driver's license so I can get easy access
to government services.
9. I plan to get a car and drive in Mexico, but, I don't plan to buy car insurance, and I probably won't make any special effort to learn local traffic laws.
10. In case a Mexican police officer does not get the memo from their president to leave me alone, please be sure every patrol car has at least one English-speaking officer.
11. I plan to fly the U.S. Flag from my house top, put U S. Flag decals on my car, and have a gigantic celebration on July 4th. I do not want any complaints or negative comments from the locals.
12. I would also like to have a nice job without paying any taxes, or have any labor or tax laws enforced on any business I may start.
13. Please have the president tell Mexicans to be extremely nice and never say critical things about me or my family, or the strain we might place on their economy.
14. I want free food stamps.
15. Naturally, I'll expect free rent subsidies.
16. I'll need Income tax credits although I don't pay Mexican Taxes,
I'll receive money from the government.
17. Please arrange it so the Mexican Gov't pays $4,500 to help me buy a new car.
18. Oh yes, I almost forgot, please enroll me free into the Mexican Social Security program so that I'll get a monthly income in retirement.
I know this is an easy request because you already do all these things for all his people who walk over to the U.S. From Mexico. I'm sure President Calderon won't mind returning the favor if you ask nicely.
Thank you so much for your kind help. You're the man!!!
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Veterans
It is the VETERAN, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion.
It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the VETERAN, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.
It is the VETERAN who salutes the Flag,
It is the VETERAN who serves under the Flag,
ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM.
I'd be EXTREMELY proud if this email reached as many as possible. We can be very
proud of our young men and women in the service no matter where they serve.
God Bless them all!!!
It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.
It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech.
It is the VETERAN, not the campus organizer, who has given us freedom to assemble.
It is the VETERAN, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial.
It is the VETERAN, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote.
It is the VETERAN who salutes the Flag,
It is the VETERAN who serves under the Flag,
ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM.
I'd be EXTREMELY proud if this email reached as many as possible. We can be very
proud of our young men and women in the service no matter where they serve.
God Bless them all!!!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Abbott and Costello: updated for new Millennium
Abbott & Costello: updated for new Millennium
A: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
C: Thanks. I'm setting up an office in my den, & thinking about buying a computer.
A: Mac?
C: No, the name's Lou.
A: Your computer?
C: I don't own a computer. I want to buy one.
A: Mac?
C: I told you, my name's Lou.
A: What about Windows?
C: Why? Will it get stuffy in here?
A: Do you want a computer with windows?
C: I don't know. What will I see when I look in the windows?
A: Wallpaper.
C: Never mind the windows. I need a computer and software.
A: Software for windows?
C: No. On the computer! I write proposals, track expenses & run my business.
What do u got?
A: Office.
C: Yeah, for my office. Can you recommend anything?
A: I just did.
C: You just did what?
A: Recommend something.
C: You recommended something?
A: Yes.
C: For my office?
A: Yes.
C: OK, what did you recommend for my office?
A: Office.
C: Yes, for my office!
A: I recommend office with windows.
C: I already have an office with windows! OK, lets say, I'm sitting at my computer & wanna type
a proposal. What do I need?
A: Word.
C: What word?
A: Word in Office.
C: The only word in office is office.
A: The Word in Office for Windows.
C: Which word in office for windows?
A: The Word you get when you click the blue "W."
C: I'm gonna click your blue "w" if you don't start with some straight answers.
OK, forget that. Can I watch movies on the Internet?
A: Yes, you want Real One.
C: Maybe a real one, maybe a cartoon. What I watch is none of your business. Just tell me what I need!
A: Real One.
C: If it’s a long movie I also want to see reel 2, 3 & 4. Can I watch them?
A: Of course.
C: Great, with what?
A: Real One.
C: OK, I'm at my computer and I want to watch a movie. What do I do?
A: You click the blue "1."
C: I click the blue one what?
A: The blue "1."
C: Is that different from the blue w?
A: The blue 1 is Real One and the blue W is Word.
C: What word?
A: The Word in Office for Windows.
C: But there's three words in "office for windows"!
A: No, just one. But, it’s the most popular Word in the world.
C: It is?
A: Yes, but to be fair, there aren't many other Words left. It pretty much wiped out the others.
C: And that word is real one?
A: Real One has nothing to do with Word. Real One isn't even Part of Office.
C: Stop! Don't start that again. What about financial bookkeeping? Have anything to track $?
A: Money.
C: That's right. What do you have?
A: Money.
C: I need money to track my money?
A: It comes bundled with your computer.
C: What's bundled to my computer?
A: Money.
C: Money comes with my computer?
A: Yes. No extra charge.
C: I get a bundle of money with my computer? How much?
A: One copy.
C: Isn't it illegal to copy money?
A: Microsoft gave us a license to copy money.
C: They can give you a license to copy money?
A: Why not? THEY OWN IT!
(LATER)
C: How do I turn my computer off?
A: Click on "START"..........
A: Super Duper computer store. Can I help you?
C: Thanks. I'm setting up an office in my den, & thinking about buying a computer.
A: Mac?
C: No, the name's Lou.
A: Your computer?
C: I don't own a computer. I want to buy one.
A: Mac?
C: I told you, my name's Lou.
A: What about Windows?
C: Why? Will it get stuffy in here?
A: Do you want a computer with windows?
C: I don't know. What will I see when I look in the windows?
A: Wallpaper.
C: Never mind the windows. I need a computer and software.
A: Software for windows?
C: No. On the computer! I write proposals, track expenses & run my business.
What do u got?
A: Office.
C: Yeah, for my office. Can you recommend anything?
A: I just did.
C: You just did what?
A: Recommend something.
C: You recommended something?
A: Yes.
C: For my office?
A: Yes.
C: OK, what did you recommend for my office?
A: Office.
C: Yes, for my office!
A: I recommend office with windows.
C: I already have an office with windows! OK, lets say, I'm sitting at my computer & wanna type
a proposal. What do I need?
A: Word.
C: What word?
A: Word in Office.
C: The only word in office is office.
A: The Word in Office for Windows.
C: Which word in office for windows?
A: The Word you get when you click the blue "W."
C: I'm gonna click your blue "w" if you don't start with some straight answers.
OK, forget that. Can I watch movies on the Internet?
A: Yes, you want Real One.
C: Maybe a real one, maybe a cartoon. What I watch is none of your business. Just tell me what I need!
A: Real One.
C: If it’s a long movie I also want to see reel 2, 3 & 4. Can I watch them?
A: Of course.
C: Great, with what?
A: Real One.
C: OK, I'm at my computer and I want to watch a movie. What do I do?
A: You click the blue "1."
C: I click the blue one what?
A: The blue "1."
C: Is that different from the blue w?
A: The blue 1 is Real One and the blue W is Word.
C: What word?
A: The Word in Office for Windows.
C: But there's three words in "office for windows"!
A: No, just one. But, it’s the most popular Word in the world.
C: It is?
A: Yes, but to be fair, there aren't many other Words left. It pretty much wiped out the others.
C: And that word is real one?
A: Real One has nothing to do with Word. Real One isn't even Part of Office.
C: Stop! Don't start that again. What about financial bookkeeping? Have anything to track $?
A: Money.
C: That's right. What do you have?
A: Money.
C: I need money to track my money?
A: It comes bundled with your computer.
C: What's bundled to my computer?
A: Money.
C: Money comes with my computer?
A: Yes. No extra charge.
C: I get a bundle of money with my computer? How much?
A: One copy.
C: Isn't it illegal to copy money?
A: Microsoft gave us a license to copy money.
C: They can give you a license to copy money?
A: Why not? THEY OWN IT!
(LATER)
C: How do I turn my computer off?
A: Click on "START"..........
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
"Ground Zero and the Mosques"
Most of us have already learned that Moslems intend to build a huge mosque / community center in lower Manhattan, just steps away from the former site of the Twin Towers (“Ground Zero”). This, where Islamic terrorists murdered 2,751 innocent civilians on September 11, 2001 in the name of Allah; and just steps away from the Museum of Jewish Heritage, which honors the victims of the Holocaust.
According to the news reports: the “grand opening” of the above $150 million mosque is slated to take place on September 11, 2011 – ten (10) years to the day after the above murders were committed by Islamic Jihadists. If so, this speaks for itself.
To make this above insult and degradation more palatable to/for the American people to swallow – while furthering and advancing the Muslim/Islamic agenda of expansion and conquest - we are being told among other things: that the mosque/community center will be like a “Jewish Community Center”; that the project is intended to “foster better relations between the West and Moslems.”
Off the top of my head, I can think of many less insulting ways for Moslems to
“foster better relations” with the West. For starters: 1) STOP killing and/or trying to kill Americans; 2) STOP trying to rally the Moslem world behind the elimination of Israel and the U.S.; and 3) loudly CONDEMN Jihad, as well as each and every act of terrorism, but the silence is deafening, isn’t it?
It is worth noting, that this above Islamic project was unanimously approved and WELCOMED by the local 12-member Community Board of Manhattan – who deserve a special place in America’s “Hall of Shame” for insensitivity, if for nothing else!
From what I understand at this time, the above Islamic project will be 13-14 stories high. However, no one has informed us how many minarets will be erected at this site??
Briefly, a minaret is taller than the actual mosque. The minimum is one – and there are Islamic sites which have as many as six (6).
In short, a minaret is generally a tall spire(s)/tower-like structure(s) which can be seen from a great distance – a symbolic marker of the Islamic faith. It may be attached to the mosque or be free-standing, and is also used to call the Muslims to prayer five times (5) a day.
From what I understand: the call to prayer in modern mosques is transmitted from a microphone located in the prayer hall to a speaker system in the minaret. Thus, the minaret(s) will not only been seen from far away but will be heard by all in the area, five (5) times a day!
I wonder if the insensitive Community Board of Manhattan took the minaret(s) into account??? Perhaps the 12 Board members can tell us how many minarets will be visible against the New York skyline, and how tall they will be, particularly since this structure will be 13-14 stories high?? Also: are they O.K. with the call to prayer which will emanate there from and be heard five (5) times a day – especially in an environment where even Church bells are being silenced because some find them “annoying”??
I cannot help but bristle at these events – which exhibit a lack of understanding, perhaps under the guise of “religious tolerance.” However, not all Americans are naïve and/or hiding behind “political correctness” in order to live in some kind of “Never Never Land.”
I am also not ignorant of history – the greatest teacher of all!
LET US BRIEFLY SEE WHAT HISTORY TELLS US:
1) Briefly: the Muslims conquered Jerusalem in 638 A.D.
Thus, approximately six years after the death of Mohammed (who established the Islamic religion), the conquering Muslims immediately decided to build the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the site known as the Temple Mount – the holiest site of Judaism (where the first and Second Temples had stood).
From what I understand, the above Al-Aqsa Mosque has four (4) minarets – which symbolized the power of Islam as a religion as well as that of the expanding Arab empire.
As if the above were not enough to show their dominance over Judaism, the Moslems then also constructed the Dome of the Rock nearby – encompassing and taking as their own, the very rock which the Jewish people believed to be holy, part of the altar built by Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac.
Since the construction of the Dome of the Rock after the above conquest of Jerusalem: we have been told that it is the third holy site for the Muslims (after Mecca & Medina) because Mohammed either prayed from this rock or ascended into heaven there from. In this way, Mohammed clearly gained supremacy over Abraham through occupation – and due to the newly founded religion of Islam!
Interestingly enough, and at that time, the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher (which commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ), was the most imposing structure in Jerusalem – and so, the Dome of the Rock was made taller and a more imposing copy of the Church.
The Dome of the Rock now dominates the skyline of Jerusalem - as the Moslems intended it to do, and can be seen from a great distance.
In passing: it is said that the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher (called “wondrous” by some historians), housed the True Cross and was built over the tomb of Christ – one of Christianity’s holy sites, if not its holiest. It is where pilgrims flocked in droves every year to celebrate Easter.
The above Church was destroyed completely (even its foundation was taken apart) on October 18, 1009 - on the orders of the ruling Muslim caliph. It is said the he gave the order of complete and total destruction because he was extremely upset by the large scale of the pilgrimage to the Church by Christians each year!
So much for Islam’s “religious tolerance”! The Church was not rebuilt until 1048 – and only after “a deal” had been worked out with the Moslems.
These above are some of the symbols of historic and intentional show of triumph/dominance over Judaism and Christianity by the Moslems in conquered Jerusalem.
2) Byzantium – in short:
While the western Roman Empire succumbed to the various Germanic invaders, the Emperor Constantine the Great established the Greek speaking Eastern Roman Empire in approx. 310 A.D – namely the Byzantine Empire - which stood for 1,000 years as a citadel against the threat of expansion by the Muslims.
To make a long story short: the Emperor Constantine stopped the persecution of Christians. His mother, St Helen made pilgrimages throughout the Holy Land to gather relics and preserve/mark the history of Christianity, while building churches to commemorate the life of Jesus.
Thus, many beautiful domed Churches were built throughout the Byzantine Empire - among them, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem which was to be later destroyed by the caliph because he was unhappy with the annual yearly pilgrimage as briefly explained above.
The city of Constantinople (named after the Emperor Constantine), with its many Churches, was known as the “City of God.”
The city is now known as Istanbul, Turkey.
In relevant part, the magnificent Church of Hagia Sophia (“Holy Wisdom”) was first dedicated in Constantinople in 360 A.D. – and was finally rebuilt by the Emperor Justinian in 527-565 A.D. – changing the history of architecture forever. It was the focal point of the Eastern Orthodox Church and the largest Cathedral in the world for 1,000 years.
In 1453 A.D. – while the world stood by – Constantinople was conquered by the Ottoman Turks (Moslems). For three days thereafter, the Sultan Mehmet permitted his soldiers to kill, mutilate, rape, pillage, and burn as their “reward” for the long siege. He then ordered that the Church of Hagia Sophia (“the Jewel of Christianity”) be converted into a mosque – which mosque would later serve as a model for many other Ottoman mosques. He also converted the other Byzantine Churches into mosques as well – those which were not destroyed/desecrated.
According to history – and after conquering Constantinople in 1453, the Ottomans immediately erected a minaret at one of the corners of the Church of Hagia Sophia – taller than the Church itself. This was another visual reminder that the Byzantine Church had been conquered and converted into a mosque, while calling Moslems to prayer – Islam’s triumph and dominance over Christianity!
The former Byzantine Church now has six such tall and slender minarets surrounding it – visible from far away and dominating the Istanbul skyline.
History repeatedly shows us: this is what Muslims “do” in the name of Allah – to show their dominance and superiority over other religions.
3) Cyprus, 1974 – in short:
In 1974, the beautiful and fruitful island nation of Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea (near Turkey) was composed of 80% Greeks and 20% Turks. Long story short: it was suddenly invaded by the Turks (Moslems) under the pretext that they were seeking to protect the Turkish minority.
During the unjustified Turkish invasion: the Turks not only killed civilians, nuns and monks in the most horrific ways, but according to the reports of the time, many Turkish soldiers sent the ears of their Greek victims back home to Turkey as trophies! The world closed their eyes to the Turkish atrocities as well as the horrific videos which clearly showed the savagery!
This above occurred in 1974, not so long ago – and plainly shows that nothing has changed in the Moslem world.
In any event, and as the world watched in 1974: the Turks occupied the northern half of the island and expelled the Greek Cypriots from their homes – the ones who were lucky enough to survive the carnage. The Turks then imported more Turks into Cyprus – to repopulate the island in their image.
The first thing the invading Turks did? They gleefully desecrated many of the Greek Orthodox Churches while converting others into mosques.
This is what the Moslems DO to show the dominance of Islam – get it???
Don’t worry though; the Turkish invasion was and has been condemned by ineffectual UN Security Council Resolutions! The Turks are still there though – occupying the northern half of the island! In fact, talks are once again under way, thanks now to President Obama, to divide the island of Cyprus.
This comes as no surprise to Turkey – which had long ago unilaterally declared the independence of the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus!!!
Today, the Cypriot Greek Orthodox Churches which were not converted into mosques on the occupied part of the island are in ruins (with the Turks even scraping off the mosaics when they could, in order to sell them as “antiquities”) – another symbol of Moslem dominance over Christianity as seen from the story below:
The “Lost Heritage” of Cyprus – 35 years of desecration
• Author: Toby
• Filed under: Europe, World politics
Wednesday - Nov 18, 2009
I spent some time tonight at the Cyprus High Commission viewing a very powerful exhibition of photographs showing how a huge number of churches and places of worship have been desecrated in those parts of Cyprus that were invaded and occupied by Turkish forces in 1974.
The photographs were taken by Doros Partasides who settled in London with his family after the 1974 invasion (he also photographed the invasion itself and its aftermath). In the last few years, it has been possible for him to return and, as he puts it, that it was “with great trepidation” he finally visited his father’s village in the occupied area for the first time in over thirty years.
He writes: “It was if time had stopped there in 1974. It was immeasurably moving for me. I decided then to record these tragic images and so this long photographic journey began.
The first church I photographed was in the village of Gerolakos. … The doors were shut. Inside, a hut had been erected next to the altar labeled ‘KEBAB’.
From then on, wherever I went, the message of devastation was the same. I encountered abandoned churches to the point of collapse, interiors desecrated with animal and human waste, precious frescoes defaced, altars and icon stands damaged beyond recognition; churches transformed into mosques, places of entertainment, military headquarters and watchtowers; cemeteries strewn with broken headstones, the graves themselves dug up.
My camera became my weapon. The anger and horror I experienced served only to give me the strength to continue recording this terrible destruction of my religious heritage.”
3) More recently – and another example of Islam’s purported “religious tolerance”: Afghanistan, March 2001:
In March of 2001, the Taliban (Moslems) in Afghanistan painstakingly blew up the world’s 2 largest standing Buddhas with dynamite in the name of Allah – which statues of Buddha had been standing for 1,700 years.
The above occurred after an edict by the Taliban leader in February which called for the destruction of all non-Islamic statues! They also destroyed more than a dozen smaller Buddhist statues exhibited in the KABUL MUSEUM!!!
At a meeting subsequently held between the then U.N. leader and the Afghani Foreign Minister – emphasis mine:
“...Mullah Wakil insisted that the edict was an internal matter for Afghanistan and had been "excessively exagerrated in the outside world and the media". He said the Taliban had no intention to disrespect any other religion. "We do admit the relics were the cultural heritage of Afghanistan, but the part that contradicts our Islamic beliefs we would not like to have them any more."
Mullah Wakil said the edict had been under discussion by the Taliban authorities for more than a year and did not permit the removal of the statues to other countries - which Japan, India and New York's Metropolitan Museum had offered to do. He said the Taliban would rebuild the Kabul Museum to show off the remaining historical objects, which do not represent living things, which are forbidden according to the Taliban's harsh interpretation of Islam.
Consequently, and since the Taliban (who are followers of Islam) couldn’t convert the Buddha statues into mosques or build minarets around them, they simply blew them up!!
Sounds familiar??
4) Iraq - even more recently and briefly (2006 and on):
As many of us know from the news reports over recent years: there are different religious factions within the Islamic religion. They appear to be “at war” with one another for supremacy.
Consequently – and among the atrocities recently committed by Moslems toward one another in the name of Allah: one Islamic faction thinks nothing of maiming and slaughtering the members of another Islamic faction (even while on pilgrimage) - while blowing up each other’s mosques!
So much for the “religion of peace” that Islam touts itself to be! Americans were already “blown up” on 9/11 – and the attempts continue.
5) New York, 2010:
Now – and near Ground Zero – permission has been given to Moslems to build a mosque/community center!!! The mosque and its taller minaret(s) will be built before the first brick has been laid at “Ground Zero” – which mosque will clearly & triumphantly dominate the New York skyline for a LONG LONG time!!!
Part of an article relating to the mosque:
“...The Imam of the Ground Zero Insult, Faisal Abdul Rauf, is not the nice guy he likes to hold himself out to be. At his Friday afternoon khutbah services and in his book What's Right With Islam Rauf states that he wants the mosque to be a place where inter-faith understanding is fostered. His sonorous voice is smooth and almost hypnotic. His writing style appears to be rational and unthreatening.
However, this does not jibe with the aspects of him that are downright hostile and frightening.
During a recent Friday sermon, this writer did due diligence as a mosque monitor and heard Rauf deny that Muslims perpetrated 9/11. In an interview with CNN shortly after 9/11, Rauf said, "U.S. policies were an accessory to the crime that happened. We [the U.S.] have been an accessory to a lot of innocent lives dying in the world. Osama bin Laden was made in the USA." Elsewhere, Rauf has stated that terrorism will end only when the West acknowledges the harm it has done to Muslims. And that it was Christians who started mass attacks on civilians.
Rauf has numerous ties to CAIR, an unindicted co-conspirator in the Department of Justice funding case brought against Hamas, an openly terrorist organization. CAIR is also the initiator of numerous cases designed to intimidate non-Muslims from criticizing aggressive Muslim behavior, and to use our own legal and democratic processes to undermine and dominate America, forcing it to become Islamic.
Rauf calls himself a Sufi, evoking among non-Muslims a "peace and love" image. But that's not the whole picture. Sufism has many sides to it, including the Koranic injunction to spread Islam one way or another, and it has a rich history of waging war, too. Could it be that one of the frequently used tools of war, lying to the enemy, explains the contradiction between Rauf's image as reconciler of religions and his sympathies and associations with terrorists?
A previous Rauf project, Muslim Leaders of Tomorrow, clearly shows on its website that it is headed and funded by individuals from Saudi Arabia, the country that spawned fifteen of the nineteen jihad jockeys who rode the 9/11 planes of destruction. The funding for the mosque at Ground Zero is much murkier so far. All that has been publicly disclosed is that the support comes from unidentified sources in Saudi Arabia and Muslim-ruled Malaysia. Rauf reportedly says he paid $4.85 million for the property -- in cash. Where exactly did this money come from? Was it Wahhabist-supporting Saudi sources, which have already funded many other mosques in New York City?
The mosque is called Cordoba House. Muslims like to refer to Spain and especially the city of Cordoba as a place where their rule reached a glorious peak. Contrary to the myth of a Golden Age of equality during the Muslim occupation of Spain (and in particular in Cordoba), Spain and Cordoba were places where Christians and Jews suffered as social inferiors under Islamic oppression. Equal civil rights never existed for non-Muslims under Sharia, or Islamic law. Rauf even admits as much when he writes, "Jews and Christians living under Muslim rule simply had to pay a tax to finance their protection by their Muslim overlords." This is not equality! Americans do not demand a special tax to protect Muslims from ourselves. That would be extortion, not "protection."
****************************************
As if the above were not bad enough and according to more recent news:
A SECOND mosque is now to be built at some yet undisclosed site in lower Manhattan near “Ground Zero” as well!!
I’m guessing of course, but this above project will have to be approved by the same insensitive 12 member Community Board of Manhattan – if they haven’t already!
According to the news: the SECOND mosque will be smaller, approximately five stories high - not counting the minaret(s), I guess! We are told that the Masjid Mosque has raised $8.5 million and is seeking an additional $2.5 million to begin.
"From what I have read: the above website is seeking donations because it plans
“...to build the “House of Allah” next to the World Trade Center. Help us raise the flag of “LA ILLAH ILLA ALLAH” in downtown Manhattan.”
Does this above have a familiar historic “ring” to it??
Thus – and while Christian Churches, schools and Synagogues are closing throughout the US at an alarming rate as the result of a lack of attendance and money:grandiose mosques are being built throughout the US at an alarming pace-funded in essence and in fact, with OUR money no less!
This above is not to mention (but I will in passing), the concerted and successful leftist agenda of the separation of Church and State – a lie foisted on the American people in the name of “globalism” by those who have carefully and intentionally changed American history!
So, I ask: can we continue to intentionally ignore history – even recent history??? Has “political correctness” and/or the idea of globalism dulled our senses??
As history has also shown us, as can be briefly seen from the occupation of Greece by the Turks (Moslems) for 300 years and the previous Islamic occupation of Byzantium: convert to Islam or die! Many Greeks did so in order to save themselves and their families – at least on the surface!
In fact, and during the 300 year occupation of Greece until the 1850’s and thereafter (not to mention the slaughter, disemboweling, rape and mutilation): the Greek priests kept Christianity alive by teaching religion in caves in fear of their lives and the deadly consequences which would ensue for all, if caught. These schools were aptly named “The Secret Schools.”
For those who are ignorant of history or continue to deny it (both the old and more recent history): the idea behind Islam is to subjugate non-Moslems one way or the other – get it??
Can Americans expect any less – especially now that we are naively permitting those who OPENLY seek to exterminate us and Israel to build TWO mosques near “Ground Zero,” and a few steps from the Jewish Holocaust museum??
This above, BEFORE the first brick will be laid at “Ground Zero”!!
Thus, it would appear that there are now two (2) types of attempted dominance and conquest of non-Muslims by Islam: 1) the “blow-up” kind; and/or 2) the “religious” kind (where “radical” Moslems preach from the mosques being built across our nation and Europe).
It is now also known that there are a number of Americans who have converted to Islam – some of which have thereafter attempted to commit acts of terrorism here in the U.S.A. in the name of Allah. These are called “home-grown” terrorists!
In any event: can you imagine looking at the New York skyline – where the Twin Towers once stood – and seeing not one, but TWO mosques and their taller minarets dominating the skyline, while hearing the Islamic call to prayer five (5) times a day?? What better TRIUMPH for Islam especially after 9/11!!!!
WAKE UP AMERICA: WE ARE AT WAR
According to the news reports: the “grand opening” of the above $150 million mosque is slated to take place on September 11, 2011 – ten (10) years to the day after the above murders were committed by Islamic Jihadists. If so, this speaks for itself.
To make this above insult and degradation more palatable to/for the American people to swallow – while furthering and advancing the Muslim/Islamic agenda of expansion and conquest - we are being told among other things: that the mosque/community center will be like a “Jewish Community Center”; that the project is intended to “foster better relations between the West and Moslems.”
Off the top of my head, I can think of many less insulting ways for Moslems to
“foster better relations” with the West. For starters: 1) STOP killing and/or trying to kill Americans; 2) STOP trying to rally the Moslem world behind the elimination of Israel and the U.S.; and 3) loudly CONDEMN Jihad, as well as each and every act of terrorism, but the silence is deafening, isn’t it?
It is worth noting, that this above Islamic project was unanimously approved and WELCOMED by the local 12-member Community Board of Manhattan – who deserve a special place in America’s “Hall of Shame” for insensitivity, if for nothing else!
From what I understand at this time, the above Islamic project will be 13-14 stories high. However, no one has informed us how many minarets will be erected at this site??
Briefly, a minaret is taller than the actual mosque. The minimum is one – and there are Islamic sites which have as many as six (6).
In short, a minaret is generally a tall spire(s)/tower-like structure(s) which can be seen from a great distance – a symbolic marker of the Islamic faith. It may be attached to the mosque or be free-standing, and is also used to call the Muslims to prayer five times (5) a day.
From what I understand: the call to prayer in modern mosques is transmitted from a microphone located in the prayer hall to a speaker system in the minaret. Thus, the minaret(s) will not only been seen from far away but will be heard by all in the area, five (5) times a day!
I wonder if the insensitive Community Board of Manhattan took the minaret(s) into account??? Perhaps the 12 Board members can tell us how many minarets will be visible against the New York skyline, and how tall they will be, particularly since this structure will be 13-14 stories high?? Also: are they O.K. with the call to prayer which will emanate there from and be heard five (5) times a day – especially in an environment where even Church bells are being silenced because some find them “annoying”??
I cannot help but bristle at these events – which exhibit a lack of understanding, perhaps under the guise of “religious tolerance.” However, not all Americans are naïve and/or hiding behind “political correctness” in order to live in some kind of “Never Never Land.”
I am also not ignorant of history – the greatest teacher of all!
LET US BRIEFLY SEE WHAT HISTORY TELLS US:
1) Briefly: the Muslims conquered Jerusalem in 638 A.D.
Thus, approximately six years after the death of Mohammed (who established the Islamic religion), the conquering Muslims immediately decided to build the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the site known as the Temple Mount – the holiest site of Judaism (where the first and Second Temples had stood).
From what I understand, the above Al-Aqsa Mosque has four (4) minarets – which symbolized the power of Islam as a religion as well as that of the expanding Arab empire.
As if the above were not enough to show their dominance over Judaism, the Moslems then also constructed the Dome of the Rock nearby – encompassing and taking as their own, the very rock which the Jewish people believed to be holy, part of the altar built by Abraham to sacrifice his son, Isaac.
Since the construction of the Dome of the Rock after the above conquest of Jerusalem: we have been told that it is the third holy site for the Muslims (after Mecca & Medina) because Mohammed either prayed from this rock or ascended into heaven there from. In this way, Mohammed clearly gained supremacy over Abraham through occupation – and due to the newly founded religion of Islam!
Interestingly enough, and at that time, the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher (which commemorates the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ), was the most imposing structure in Jerusalem – and so, the Dome of the Rock was made taller and a more imposing copy of the Church.
The Dome of the Rock now dominates the skyline of Jerusalem - as the Moslems intended it to do, and can be seen from a great distance.
In passing: it is said that the Christian Church of the Holy Sepulcher (called “wondrous” by some historians), housed the True Cross and was built over the tomb of Christ – one of Christianity’s holy sites, if not its holiest. It is where pilgrims flocked in droves every year to celebrate Easter.
The above Church was destroyed completely (even its foundation was taken apart) on October 18, 1009 - on the orders of the ruling Muslim caliph. It is said the he gave the order of complete and total destruction because he was extremely upset by the large scale of the pilgrimage to the Church by Christians each year!
So much for Islam’s “religious tolerance”! The Church was not rebuilt until 1048 – and only after “a deal” had been worked out with the Moslems.
These above are some of the symbols of historic and intentional show of triumph/dominance over Judaism and Christianity by the Moslems in conquered Jerusalem.
2) Byzantium – in short:
While the western Roman Empire succumbed to the various Germanic invaders, the Emperor Constantine the Great established the Greek speaking Eastern Roman Empire in approx. 310 A.D – namely the Byzantine Empire - which stood for 1,000 years as a citadel against the threat of expansion by the Muslims.
To make a long story short: the Emperor Constantine stopped the persecution of Christians. His mother, St Helen made pilgrimages throughout the Holy Land to gather relics and preserve/mark the history of Christianity, while building churches to commemorate the life of Jesus.
Thus, many beautiful domed Churches were built throughout the Byzantine Empire - among them, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem which was to be later destroyed by the caliph because he was unhappy with the annual yearly pilgrimage as briefly explained above.
The city of Constantinople (named after the Emperor Constantine), with its many Churches, was known as the “City of God.”
The city is now known as Istanbul, Turkey.
In relevant part, the magnificent Church of Hagia Sophia (“Holy Wisdom”) was first dedicated in Constantinople in 360 A.D. – and was finally rebuilt by the Emperor Justinian in 527-565 A.D. – changing the history of architecture forever. It was the focal point of the Eastern Orthodox Church and the largest Cathedral in the world for 1,000 years.
In 1453 A.D. – while the world stood by – Constantinople was conquered by the Ottoman Turks (Moslems). For three days thereafter, the Sultan Mehmet permitted his soldiers to kill, mutilate, rape, pillage, and burn as their “reward” for the long siege. He then ordered that the Church of Hagia Sophia (“the Jewel of Christianity”) be converted into a mosque – which mosque would later serve as a model for many other Ottoman mosques. He also converted the other Byzantine Churches into mosques as well – those which were not destroyed/desecrated.
According to history – and after conquering Constantinople in 1453, the Ottomans immediately erected a minaret at one of the corners of the Church of Hagia Sophia – taller than the Church itself. This was another visual reminder that the Byzantine Church had been conquered and converted into a mosque, while calling Moslems to prayer – Islam’s triumph and dominance over Christianity!
The former Byzantine Church now has six such tall and slender minarets surrounding it – visible from far away and dominating the Istanbul skyline.
History repeatedly shows us: this is what Muslims “do” in the name of Allah – to show their dominance and superiority over other religions.
3) Cyprus, 1974 – in short:
In 1974, the beautiful and fruitful island nation of Cyprus in the Mediterranean Sea (near Turkey) was composed of 80% Greeks and 20% Turks. Long story short: it was suddenly invaded by the Turks (Moslems) under the pretext that they were seeking to protect the Turkish minority.
During the unjustified Turkish invasion: the Turks not only killed civilians, nuns and monks in the most horrific ways, but according to the reports of the time, many Turkish soldiers sent the ears of their Greek victims back home to Turkey as trophies! The world closed their eyes to the Turkish atrocities as well as the horrific videos which clearly showed the savagery!
This above occurred in 1974, not so long ago – and plainly shows that nothing has changed in the Moslem world.
In any event, and as the world watched in 1974: the Turks occupied the northern half of the island and expelled the Greek Cypriots from their homes – the ones who were lucky enough to survive the carnage. The Turks then imported more Turks into Cyprus – to repopulate the island in their image.
The first thing the invading Turks did? They gleefully desecrated many of the Greek Orthodox Churches while converting others into mosques.
This is what the Moslems DO to show the dominance of Islam – get it???
Don’t worry though; the Turkish invasion was and has been condemned by ineffectual UN Security Council Resolutions! The Turks are still there though – occupying the northern half of the island! In fact, talks are once again under way, thanks now to President Obama, to divide the island of Cyprus.
This comes as no surprise to Turkey – which had long ago unilaterally declared the independence of the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus!!!
Today, the Cypriot Greek Orthodox Churches which were not converted into mosques on the occupied part of the island are in ruins (with the Turks even scraping off the mosaics when they could, in order to sell them as “antiquities”) – another symbol of Moslem dominance over Christianity as seen from the story below:
The “Lost Heritage” of Cyprus – 35 years of desecration
• Author: Toby
• Filed under: Europe, World politics
Wednesday - Nov 18, 2009
I spent some time tonight at the Cyprus High Commission viewing a very powerful exhibition of photographs showing how a huge number of churches and places of worship have been desecrated in those parts of Cyprus that were invaded and occupied by Turkish forces in 1974.
The photographs were taken by Doros Partasides who settled in London with his family after the 1974 invasion (he also photographed the invasion itself and its aftermath). In the last few years, it has been possible for him to return and, as he puts it, that it was “with great trepidation” he finally visited his father’s village in the occupied area for the first time in over thirty years.
He writes: “It was if time had stopped there in 1974. It was immeasurably moving for me. I decided then to record these tragic images and so this long photographic journey began.
The first church I photographed was in the village of Gerolakos. … The doors were shut. Inside, a hut had been erected next to the altar labeled ‘KEBAB’.
From then on, wherever I went, the message of devastation was the same. I encountered abandoned churches to the point of collapse, interiors desecrated with animal and human waste, precious frescoes defaced, altars and icon stands damaged beyond recognition; churches transformed into mosques, places of entertainment, military headquarters and watchtowers; cemeteries strewn with broken headstones, the graves themselves dug up.
My camera became my weapon. The anger and horror I experienced served only to give me the strength to continue recording this terrible destruction of my religious heritage.”
3) More recently – and another example of Islam’s purported “religious tolerance”: Afghanistan, March 2001:
In March of 2001, the Taliban (Moslems) in Afghanistan painstakingly blew up the world’s 2 largest standing Buddhas with dynamite in the name of Allah – which statues of Buddha had been standing for 1,700 years.
The above occurred after an edict by the Taliban leader in February which called for the destruction of all non-Islamic statues! They also destroyed more than a dozen smaller Buddhist statues exhibited in the KABUL MUSEUM!!!
At a meeting subsequently held between the then U.N. leader and the Afghani Foreign Minister – emphasis mine:
“...Mullah Wakil insisted that the edict was an internal matter for Afghanistan and had been "excessively exagerrated in the outside world and the media". He said the Taliban had no intention to disrespect any other religion. "We do admit the relics were the cultural heritage of Afghanistan, but the part that contradicts our Islamic beliefs we would not like to have them any more."
Mullah Wakil said the edict had been under discussion by the Taliban authorities for more than a year and did not permit the removal of the statues to other countries - which Japan, India and New York's Metropolitan Museum had offered to do. He said the Taliban would rebuild the Kabul Museum to show off the remaining historical objects, which do not represent living things, which are forbidden according to the Taliban's harsh interpretation of Islam.
Consequently, and since the Taliban (who are followers of Islam) couldn’t convert the Buddha statues into mosques or build minarets around them, they simply blew them up!!
Sounds familiar??
4) Iraq - even more recently and briefly (2006 and on):
As many of us know from the news reports over recent years: there are different religious factions within the Islamic religion. They appear to be “at war” with one another for supremacy.
Consequently – and among the atrocities recently committed by Moslems toward one another in the name of Allah: one Islamic faction thinks nothing of maiming and slaughtering the members of another Islamic faction (even while on pilgrimage) - while blowing up each other’s mosques!
So much for the “religion of peace” that Islam touts itself to be! Americans were already “blown up” on 9/11 – and the attempts continue.
5) New York, 2010:
Now – and near Ground Zero – permission has been given to Moslems to build a mosque/community center!!! The mosque and its taller minaret(s) will be built before the first brick has been laid at “Ground Zero” – which mosque will clearly & triumphantly dominate the New York skyline for a LONG LONG time!!!
Part of an article relating to the mosque:
“...The Imam of the Ground Zero Insult, Faisal Abdul Rauf, is not the nice guy he likes to hold himself out to be. At his Friday afternoon khutbah services and in his book What's Right With Islam Rauf states that he wants the mosque to be a place where inter-faith understanding is fostered. His sonorous voice is smooth and almost hypnotic. His writing style appears to be rational and unthreatening.
However, this does not jibe with the aspects of him that are downright hostile and frightening.
During a recent Friday sermon, this writer did due diligence as a mosque monitor and heard Rauf deny that Muslims perpetrated 9/11. In an interview with CNN shortly after 9/11, Rauf said, "U.S. policies were an accessory to the crime that happened. We [the U.S.] have been an accessory to a lot of innocent lives dying in the world. Osama bin Laden was made in the USA." Elsewhere, Rauf has stated that terrorism will end only when the West acknowledges the harm it has done to Muslims. And that it was Christians who started mass attacks on civilians.
Rauf has numerous ties to CAIR, an unindicted co-conspirator in the Department of Justice funding case brought against Hamas, an openly terrorist organization. CAIR is also the initiator of numerous cases designed to intimidate non-Muslims from criticizing aggressive Muslim behavior, and to use our own legal and democratic processes to undermine and dominate America, forcing it to become Islamic.
Rauf calls himself a Sufi, evoking among non-Muslims a "peace and love" image. But that's not the whole picture. Sufism has many sides to it, including the Koranic injunction to spread Islam one way or another, and it has a rich history of waging war, too. Could it be that one of the frequently used tools of war, lying to the enemy, explains the contradiction between Rauf's image as reconciler of religions and his sympathies and associations with terrorists?
A previous Rauf project, Muslim Leaders of Tomorrow, clearly shows on its website that it is headed and funded by individuals from Saudi Arabia, the country that spawned fifteen of the nineteen jihad jockeys who rode the 9/11 planes of destruction. The funding for the mosque at Ground Zero is much murkier so far. All that has been publicly disclosed is that the support comes from unidentified sources in Saudi Arabia and Muslim-ruled Malaysia. Rauf reportedly says he paid $4.85 million for the property -- in cash. Where exactly did this money come from? Was it Wahhabist-supporting Saudi sources, which have already funded many other mosques in New York City?
The mosque is called Cordoba House. Muslims like to refer to Spain and especially the city of Cordoba as a place where their rule reached a glorious peak. Contrary to the myth of a Golden Age of equality during the Muslim occupation of Spain (and in particular in Cordoba), Spain and Cordoba were places where Christians and Jews suffered as social inferiors under Islamic oppression. Equal civil rights never existed for non-Muslims under Sharia, or Islamic law. Rauf even admits as much when he writes, "Jews and Christians living under Muslim rule simply had to pay a tax to finance their protection by their Muslim overlords." This is not equality! Americans do not demand a special tax to protect Muslims from ourselves. That would be extortion, not "protection."
****************************************
As if the above were not bad enough and according to more recent news:
A SECOND mosque is now to be built at some yet undisclosed site in lower Manhattan near “Ground Zero” as well!!
I’m guessing of course, but this above project will have to be approved by the same insensitive 12 member Community Board of Manhattan – if they haven’t already!
According to the news: the SECOND mosque will be smaller, approximately five stories high - not counting the minaret(s), I guess! We are told that the Masjid Mosque has raised $8.5 million and is seeking an additional $2.5 million to begin.
"From what I have read: the above website is seeking donations because it plans
“...to build the “House of Allah” next to the World Trade Center. Help us raise the flag of “LA ILLAH ILLA ALLAH” in downtown Manhattan.”
Does this above have a familiar historic “ring” to it??
Thus – and while Christian Churches, schools and Synagogues are closing throughout the US at an alarming rate as the result of a lack of attendance and money:grandiose mosques are being built throughout the US at an alarming pace-funded in essence and in fact, with OUR money no less!
This above is not to mention (but I will in passing), the concerted and successful leftist agenda of the separation of Church and State – a lie foisted on the American people in the name of “globalism” by those who have carefully and intentionally changed American history!
So, I ask: can we continue to intentionally ignore history – even recent history??? Has “political correctness” and/or the idea of globalism dulled our senses??
As history has also shown us, as can be briefly seen from the occupation of Greece by the Turks (Moslems) for 300 years and the previous Islamic occupation of Byzantium: convert to Islam or die! Many Greeks did so in order to save themselves and their families – at least on the surface!
In fact, and during the 300 year occupation of Greece until the 1850’s and thereafter (not to mention the slaughter, disemboweling, rape and mutilation): the Greek priests kept Christianity alive by teaching religion in caves in fear of their lives and the deadly consequences which would ensue for all, if caught. These schools were aptly named “The Secret Schools.”
For those who are ignorant of history or continue to deny it (both the old and more recent history): the idea behind Islam is to subjugate non-Moslems one way or the other – get it??
Can Americans expect any less – especially now that we are naively permitting those who OPENLY seek to exterminate us and Israel to build TWO mosques near “Ground Zero,” and a few steps from the Jewish Holocaust museum??
This above, BEFORE the first brick will be laid at “Ground Zero”!!
Thus, it would appear that there are now two (2) types of attempted dominance and conquest of non-Muslims by Islam: 1) the “blow-up” kind; and/or 2) the “religious” kind (where “radical” Moslems preach from the mosques being built across our nation and Europe).
It is now also known that there are a number of Americans who have converted to Islam – some of which have thereafter attempted to commit acts of terrorism here in the U.S.A. in the name of Allah. These are called “home-grown” terrorists!
In any event: can you imagine looking at the New York skyline – where the Twin Towers once stood – and seeing not one, but TWO mosques and their taller minarets dominating the skyline, while hearing the Islamic call to prayer five (5) times a day?? What better TRIUMPH for Islam especially after 9/11!!!!
WAKE UP AMERICA: WE ARE AT WAR
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Benifits of Exercise
17 Ways Exercise Sends Health Soaring Besides losing weight, being active makes you healthier, happier, and sharper
..
More from Prevention
6 Workout Mistakes That Slow Down Results
10 Ways to Ignite Calorie Burn
6 Eating Rules for Faster Weight Loss
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Rate this article:
Sign in to rate!Sign in to rate!thumbs up thumbs down 95% of users found this article helpful.
By the Editors of Prevention.com
When most of us launch into a new fitness routine, it is for one common reason: to shed fat. But it turns out focusing on your weight loss goal alone can slash your odds of success by over half, say researchers. A better inspiration: The amazing health rewards you get by being active. Finding the right motivation can make you 70% more likely to keep it up for the long haul, reports the American College of Sports Medicine.
Next time you're too busy, tired, or achy to lace up your sneakers, remember these health-transforming benefits of exercise.
1. Be Happier at Work
Increase productivity...and maybe get a raise
An active lifestyle may help you check off extra items on your to-do list, says a study from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom. On days staffers participated in on-site fitness activities, they reported thinking more clearly, getting more done, and interacting more effectively with colleagues. You'll be less likely to miss work due to illness, too. Research shows that people who participate in vigorous leisure-time physical activity (such as jogging or bicycling) just once or twice a week take about half the sick time of those who are more sedentary.
Do this: Sign up for workplace fitness classes. None on-site? Recruit coworkers to go for a lunch hour power walk. Or ask HR to designate a room for a noontime stretching or workout session, using DVD instruction.
2. Improve Your Vocabulary
Brush up on your Scrabble skills
A single treadmill session can make you brainier. Exercisers who ran just two 3-minute sprints, with a 2-minute break in between, learned new words 20% faster than those who rested, in a University of Muenster in Germany study. Getting your heart pumping increases blood flow, delivering more oxygen to your noggin. It also spurs new growth in the areas of the brain that control multitasking, planning, and memory.
Do this: Add a bout of exercise, like running up and down the stairs, before trying to memorize anything--say, Spanish phrases for your trip to Mexico.
3. Get Natural Pain Relief
Keep moving to ease stiff, achy joints
It may seem counterintuitive, but rest isn't necessarily best for reducing pain and stiffness in the knees, shoulders, back, or neck. Healthy adults who did aerobic activity consistently had 25% less musculoskeletal pain than their couch-bound peers, says Stanford senior research scientist Bonnie Bruce, DrPH, MPH, RD.
Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural pain reliever, and may make you less vulnerable to tiny tears in muscles and tendons. Staying active can also provide relief for chronic conditions such as arthritis: In a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study, arthritis sufferers experienced 25% less pain and 16% less stiffness after 6 months of low-impact exercise like balance and strengthening moves. Most people start to feel improvement within a few weeks, says study author Leigh Callahan, PhD, an associate professor of medicine at UNC.
Do this: Practice yoga or tai chi twice a week; both increase flexibility and range of motion and reduce pain.
4. Feel Sexy at Any Size
Flaunt a figure you can be proud of
A good workout practically ensures a better body image. The simple act of exercising-regardless of your weight or fitness level-can make you feel positive about how you look, possibly due to the release of feel-good hormones, finds a review of 57 studies on exercise and body image.
Working out can also boost your libido by increasing blood flow to the genitals. University of Washington research found that just one 20-minute cycling workout enhanced sexual arousal up to 169% in women. And the benefits stand the test of time: A Harvard study of swimmers found that those over age 60 were as satisfied sexually as those decades younger.
Do this: Try 20 minutes of aerobics before a romantic evening. To feel good naked anytime, walk or do yoga daily.
5. Lower Dental Bills
A health-boost worth smiling about
Flossing and brushing, it turns out, are not the only keys to a healthy smile, says Mohammad Al-Zahrani, DDS, PhD, a former associate professor at Case Western Reserve University. Exercise plays an important role, too. In his recent study, Al-Zahrani discovered that adults who did 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 or more times a week were 42% less likely to suffer from periodontitis, a gum disease that's more common as you get older. Working out may thwart periodontitis the same way it does heart disease--by lowering levels of inflammation-causing C-reactive protein in the blood.
Do this: In addition to staying active, get a twice-yearly dental cleaning (or more often if your dentist says you are at high risk for gum disease).
6. Unlock Hidden Energy
Rouse your body out of a slump
If you're among the 50% of adults who report feeling tired at least 1 day a week, skip the java and go for a walk. University of Georgia researchers who analyzed 70 different studies concluded that moving your body increases energy and reduces fatigue. Regular exercise boosts certain fatigue-fighting brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which pep you up, and serotonin, a mood enhancer.
Do this: Take a 20-minute stroll for a quick pick-me-up, or aim for 40 minutes of activity daily for a sustained lift.
7. Shrink Stress Fat
Combat anxiety-related weight gain
Just two 40-minute workouts a week is enough to stop dangerous belly fat in its tracks, according to University of Alabama at Birmingham research. The waistline of those who worked out less expanded an average of 3 inches. Exercise may lower levels of hormones such as cortisol that promotes belly fat.
8. Slash Cold Risk 33%
Build up your body's defenses
Moderate exercise doesn't just rev your metabolism--it boosts your immune system, too, helping your body fight off cold bugs and other germs. Women ages 50 to 75 who did 45 minutes of cardio, 5 days a week, had a third as many colds as those who did once-weekly stretching sessions, a University of Washington study found.
Do this: Add more cardio to your routine by turning your walk into a run.
9. Improve Vision
Carrots are great, but exercise might be better
What's good for your heart is good for your eyes. An active lifestyle can cut your risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%, according to a British Journal of Ophthalmology study of 4,000 adults. This incurable disease makes reading, driving, and seeing fine details difficult, and it's the most common cause of blindness after age 60.
Do this: Protect your eyes during all outdoor activities (if you're a walker, shoot for a mile a day). Be sure to wear UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses all year long.
10. Reach the Deep-Sleep Zone
Decent shut-eye is not a far off dream
Say good night to poor sleep. Women age 60 and older who walked or danced for at least an hour, four times a week, woke up half as often and slept an average 48 minutes more a night than sedentary women, according to a study in the journal Sleep Medicine. That is good news for the many women who toss and turn more as they get older. As you age, sleep patterns start shifting, so you spend more of the night in lighter sleep phases, says Shawn Youngstedt, PhD, an assistant professor of exercise science at the University of South Carolina.
Do this: Aim to exercise for at least half an hour, even if it's after a long day. Evidence suggests that for most people, light to moderate activity in the evening won't disturb sleep, though trial and error will tell you what works for you.
11. Never Get Diabetes
Walk to keep your blood sugar in check
Walking 2 miles 5 times a week may be more effective at preventing diabetes than running nearly twice as much, report Duke University researchers. Because fat is the primary fuel for moderate exercise, walking may better improve the body's ability to release insulin and control blood sugar.
Do this: Start a walking program
12. Eliminate Belly Bloat
Shrink the muffin top
The next time you feel puffy around the middle, resist the urge to stay put. A study from Spain's Autonomous University of Barcelona suggests that mild physical activity clears gas and alleviates bloating. That's because increasing your heart rate and breathing stimulates the natural contractions of the intestinal muscles, helping to prevent constipation and gas buildup by expediting digestion.
Do this: Walk or pedal lightly on a bike until you feel better.
13. Clear Out Brain Fog
Build your mental muscle
Exercise is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease among older people; now, new research shows it can prevent brain fog at a much younger age too. Japanese researchers assigned sedentary young adults to two groups; one took aerobic exercise classes, and the other did not. After 4 months, MRIs revealed that the nonexercising group experienced shrinkage of gray matter in some areas of the brain, while the active participants had no change.
Do this: Try a new fitness routine, or sign up for a new class at the gym. Besides the obvious benefit of getting a workout, trying something fresh can help stimulate the growth of brain cells.
14. Save Your Heart
Reduce dangerous inflammation
Sedentary, obese women age 50 and older who began exercising lowered their levels of C-reactive protein-an inflammatory blood marker linked to heart disease—by 10% after 1 year, found research recently published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
15. Add Years to Your Life
Stay healthy and active for years to come
Being physically fit can actually change how your body works. Vigorous exercisers have longer telomeres-cellular biomarkers that shorten as we age-compared with healthy adults who rarely work out.
16. Ease Your Ailments
Heal your body with yoga
Yoga has a well-earned reputation as a surefire stress reducer (particularly when combined with meditation), and new studies show the simple stretching regimen can also help treat and prevent a number of other ailments, from back pain to diabetes. Other research reveals regular yoga practice can put an end to mindless eating by creating an outlet for emotions that can lead to binging. Unfortunately, less than 15% of women over age 35 say they do yoga frequently, according to the National Sporting Goods Association.
17. Survive Breast Cancer
Increase your defenses against the disease
Exercise not only reduces breast cancer risk, it can also save your life if you're diagnosed. Overweight women who were exercising more than 3 hours a week before they were diagnosed were 47% less likely to die than those who exercised less than a half hour per week.
Do this: Sneak in mini bouts of exercise. Take a quick walk when you get the morning paper, hit the stairs before lunch, or knock out a few pushups and crunches while watching TV. Just two to three 10-minute workouts a day is enough to fill your quota for the week.
..
More from Prevention
6 Workout Mistakes That Slow Down Results
10 Ways to Ignite Calorie Burn
6 Eating Rules for Faster Weight Loss
Did you find this helpful?
Rate this article:
Sign in to rate!Sign in to rate!thumbs up thumbs down 95% of users found this article helpful.
By the Editors of Prevention.com
When most of us launch into a new fitness routine, it is for one common reason: to shed fat. But it turns out focusing on your weight loss goal alone can slash your odds of success by over half, say researchers. A better inspiration: The amazing health rewards you get by being active. Finding the right motivation can make you 70% more likely to keep it up for the long haul, reports the American College of Sports Medicine.
Next time you're too busy, tired, or achy to lace up your sneakers, remember these health-transforming benefits of exercise.
1. Be Happier at Work
Increase productivity...and maybe get a raise
An active lifestyle may help you check off extra items on your to-do list, says a study from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom. On days staffers participated in on-site fitness activities, they reported thinking more clearly, getting more done, and interacting more effectively with colleagues. You'll be less likely to miss work due to illness, too. Research shows that people who participate in vigorous leisure-time physical activity (such as jogging or bicycling) just once or twice a week take about half the sick time of those who are more sedentary.
Do this: Sign up for workplace fitness classes. None on-site? Recruit coworkers to go for a lunch hour power walk. Or ask HR to designate a room for a noontime stretching or workout session, using DVD instruction.
2. Improve Your Vocabulary
Brush up on your Scrabble skills
A single treadmill session can make you brainier. Exercisers who ran just two 3-minute sprints, with a 2-minute break in between, learned new words 20% faster than those who rested, in a University of Muenster in Germany study. Getting your heart pumping increases blood flow, delivering more oxygen to your noggin. It also spurs new growth in the areas of the brain that control multitasking, planning, and memory.
Do this: Add a bout of exercise, like running up and down the stairs, before trying to memorize anything--say, Spanish phrases for your trip to Mexico.
3. Get Natural Pain Relief
Keep moving to ease stiff, achy joints
It may seem counterintuitive, but rest isn't necessarily best for reducing pain and stiffness in the knees, shoulders, back, or neck. Healthy adults who did aerobic activity consistently had 25% less musculoskeletal pain than their couch-bound peers, says Stanford senior research scientist Bonnie Bruce, DrPH, MPH, RD.
Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural pain reliever, and may make you less vulnerable to tiny tears in muscles and tendons. Staying active can also provide relief for chronic conditions such as arthritis: In a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill study, arthritis sufferers experienced 25% less pain and 16% less stiffness after 6 months of low-impact exercise like balance and strengthening moves. Most people start to feel improvement within a few weeks, says study author Leigh Callahan, PhD, an associate professor of medicine at UNC.
Do this: Practice yoga or tai chi twice a week; both increase flexibility and range of motion and reduce pain.
4. Feel Sexy at Any Size
Flaunt a figure you can be proud of
A good workout practically ensures a better body image. The simple act of exercising-regardless of your weight or fitness level-can make you feel positive about how you look, possibly due to the release of feel-good hormones, finds a review of 57 studies on exercise and body image.
Working out can also boost your libido by increasing blood flow to the genitals. University of Washington research found that just one 20-minute cycling workout enhanced sexual arousal up to 169% in women. And the benefits stand the test of time: A Harvard study of swimmers found that those over age 60 were as satisfied sexually as those decades younger.
Do this: Try 20 minutes of aerobics before a romantic evening. To feel good naked anytime, walk or do yoga daily.
5. Lower Dental Bills
A health-boost worth smiling about
Flossing and brushing, it turns out, are not the only keys to a healthy smile, says Mohammad Al-Zahrani, DDS, PhD, a former associate professor at Case Western Reserve University. Exercise plays an important role, too. In his recent study, Al-Zahrani discovered that adults who did 30 minutes of moderate activity 5 or more times a week were 42% less likely to suffer from periodontitis, a gum disease that's more common as you get older. Working out may thwart periodontitis the same way it does heart disease--by lowering levels of inflammation-causing C-reactive protein in the blood.
Do this: In addition to staying active, get a twice-yearly dental cleaning (or more often if your dentist says you are at high risk for gum disease).
6. Unlock Hidden Energy
Rouse your body out of a slump
If you're among the 50% of adults who report feeling tired at least 1 day a week, skip the java and go for a walk. University of Georgia researchers who analyzed 70 different studies concluded that moving your body increases energy and reduces fatigue. Regular exercise boosts certain fatigue-fighting brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which pep you up, and serotonin, a mood enhancer.
Do this: Take a 20-minute stroll for a quick pick-me-up, or aim for 40 minutes of activity daily for a sustained lift.
7. Shrink Stress Fat
Combat anxiety-related weight gain
Just two 40-minute workouts a week is enough to stop dangerous belly fat in its tracks, according to University of Alabama at Birmingham research. The waistline of those who worked out less expanded an average of 3 inches. Exercise may lower levels of hormones such as cortisol that promotes belly fat.
8. Slash Cold Risk 33%
Build up your body's defenses
Moderate exercise doesn't just rev your metabolism--it boosts your immune system, too, helping your body fight off cold bugs and other germs. Women ages 50 to 75 who did 45 minutes of cardio, 5 days a week, had a third as many colds as those who did once-weekly stretching sessions, a University of Washington study found.
Do this: Add more cardio to your routine by turning your walk into a run.
9. Improve Vision
Carrots are great, but exercise might be better
What's good for your heart is good for your eyes. An active lifestyle can cut your risk of age-related macular degeneration by up to 70%, according to a British Journal of Ophthalmology study of 4,000 adults. This incurable disease makes reading, driving, and seeing fine details difficult, and it's the most common cause of blindness after age 60.
Do this: Protect your eyes during all outdoor activities (if you're a walker, shoot for a mile a day). Be sure to wear UVA/UVB-blocking sunglasses all year long.
10. Reach the Deep-Sleep Zone
Decent shut-eye is not a far off dream
Say good night to poor sleep. Women age 60 and older who walked or danced for at least an hour, four times a week, woke up half as often and slept an average 48 minutes more a night than sedentary women, according to a study in the journal Sleep Medicine. That is good news for the many women who toss and turn more as they get older. As you age, sleep patterns start shifting, so you spend more of the night in lighter sleep phases, says Shawn Youngstedt, PhD, an assistant professor of exercise science at the University of South Carolina.
Do this: Aim to exercise for at least half an hour, even if it's after a long day. Evidence suggests that for most people, light to moderate activity in the evening won't disturb sleep, though trial and error will tell you what works for you.
11. Never Get Diabetes
Walk to keep your blood sugar in check
Walking 2 miles 5 times a week may be more effective at preventing diabetes than running nearly twice as much, report Duke University researchers. Because fat is the primary fuel for moderate exercise, walking may better improve the body's ability to release insulin and control blood sugar.
Do this: Start a walking program
12. Eliminate Belly Bloat
Shrink the muffin top
The next time you feel puffy around the middle, resist the urge to stay put. A study from Spain's Autonomous University of Barcelona suggests that mild physical activity clears gas and alleviates bloating. That's because increasing your heart rate and breathing stimulates the natural contractions of the intestinal muscles, helping to prevent constipation and gas buildup by expediting digestion.
Do this: Walk or pedal lightly on a bike until you feel better.
13. Clear Out Brain Fog
Build your mental muscle
Exercise is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer's disease among older people; now, new research shows it can prevent brain fog at a much younger age too. Japanese researchers assigned sedentary young adults to two groups; one took aerobic exercise classes, and the other did not. After 4 months, MRIs revealed that the nonexercising group experienced shrinkage of gray matter in some areas of the brain, while the active participants had no change.
Do this: Try a new fitness routine, or sign up for a new class at the gym. Besides the obvious benefit of getting a workout, trying something fresh can help stimulate the growth of brain cells.
14. Save Your Heart
Reduce dangerous inflammation
Sedentary, obese women age 50 and older who began exercising lowered their levels of C-reactive protein-an inflammatory blood marker linked to heart disease—by 10% after 1 year, found research recently published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
15. Add Years to Your Life
Stay healthy and active for years to come
Being physically fit can actually change how your body works. Vigorous exercisers have longer telomeres-cellular biomarkers that shorten as we age-compared with healthy adults who rarely work out.
16. Ease Your Ailments
Heal your body with yoga
Yoga has a well-earned reputation as a surefire stress reducer (particularly when combined with meditation), and new studies show the simple stretching regimen can also help treat and prevent a number of other ailments, from back pain to diabetes. Other research reveals regular yoga practice can put an end to mindless eating by creating an outlet for emotions that can lead to binging. Unfortunately, less than 15% of women over age 35 say they do yoga frequently, according to the National Sporting Goods Association.
17. Survive Breast Cancer
Increase your defenses against the disease
Exercise not only reduces breast cancer risk, it can also save your life if you're diagnosed. Overweight women who were exercising more than 3 hours a week before they were diagnosed were 47% less likely to die than those who exercised less than a half hour per week.
Do this: Sneak in mini bouts of exercise. Take a quick walk when you get the morning paper, hit the stairs before lunch, or knock out a few pushups and crunches while watching TV. Just two to three 10-minute workouts a day is enough to fill your quota for the week.
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