November - December 2008
The Opposite of Fear
A friend recently wrote in an email: "the opposite of fear is not hope, but trust and expectation." Then he went on to write about a way to practice visualizing an outcome we wish to bring about.
I appreciated this perspective, as it is all too easy to be drawn into an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. Not that we don't have things to be concerned about, but our attitude has so much to do with our quality of life, and, according to some philosophies, how we manifest our destiny. Perhaps we may consider choosing an idea, a picture, or a phrase that comforts us, that we hope to bring into being. Maybe it's health, peace, prosperity. Whatever it is, practice focusing on this idea rather than anxious thoughts and feelings. Maybe we can shift our attitude and even the world around us. If we can open ourselves to positive possibilities, we can improve our experience and our reality.
Namaste,
Sue Redding
Simple Stress Relief
Take 3 slow, deep breaths if you're feeling anxious. This slows your heart rate, lowers your blood pressure, and oxygenates your blood. All these alleviate anxiety and help you feel better.
Quotations
"You know you're getting older when your back goes out more than you do."
- Phyllis Diller
"A man is not old until his regrets take the place of his dreams."
- John Barrymore
"We have art so that we shall not be destroyed by the truth."
- Nietzasche
Doorknobs Cause Colds
Cold and flu germs can live outside the body for 2 days or more! Wash your hands frequently if you're sick or around someone else who is. Remember to disinfect surfaces such as doorknobs, phones, remote controls, keyboards. Take care in public places using such things as the keypad at the checkout counter, a public pen, and the outside handle of the restroom.
Wet Socks?
This is a natural remedy that is good for anything in the head - insomnia, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion. I know it sounds strange - I had to hear it from three different sources before I tried it the first time.
Before bedtime, warm up your feet, perhaps in a nice, warm bath. Take thin, short cotton socks, such as summer ankle socks - not knee-highs or athletic socks. Get them wet, wring them out thoroughly, and put them on. Put on wool socks over them and go to bed right away. The wool socks will keep your feet warm, and blood circulation will be drawn down to your feet. Before morning, the socks will be dry, and more importantly, you will have slept better for the symptomatic relief of your head malady. Not recommended for people with serious circulation problems, such as Raynaud's disease or diabetes.
Musician Jokes
"Blessed are we who can laugh at ourselves, for we shall never cease to be amused."
A gentleman is someone who can play the accordion, but doesn't.
Q: How can you tell when a singer is at your door?
A: They can't find the key, and they never know when to come in.
Q: What did the drummer get on his I.Q. Test?
A: Saliva.
Q: Why do some people have an instant aversion to banjo players?
A: It saves time in the long run.
Q: What's the difference between a jet airplane and a trumpet?
A: About three decibels.
Q: What's the latest crime wave in New York City?
A: Drive-by trombone solos.
Q: How do you get an oboist to play A flat?
A: Take the batteries out of his electronic tuner.
Q: Why do clarinetists leave their cases on the dashboard?
A: So they can park in the handicapped zones
