The Human Fermentation Chamber

The Human fermentation Chamber – by Dr Sanien de Beer There is a saying – “you are as healthy as your gut”.  The gut is an easily neglected yet ever important part of human anatomy, physiology and pathology.  It is easily influenced by a variety of things – which will be discussed.  If the gut is well functioning, one is hardly aware of it – however as soon as it is not, it can cause agony. Dysbiosis can be defined as the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the intestine. When looking at the causes and consequences of it, one can get a better understanding of the functioning of the colon – and what to do to ensure that it keep functioning optimally.  The adult human intestinal tract is estimated to contain up to 10 times more bacteria than the number of cells that is inside the body. Intestinal micro flora represents an ecosystem of the highest complexity and the colon can also be described as a bacteriological fermentation chamber. Two types of bacteria are present in the intestinal tract. Putrefactive bacteria with the most common species being Escherichia coli, also referred to as coliform bacteria.  These bacteria produce a number of toxic substances including indole and skatole. “Friendly” or Lacto bacteria which primarily produce lactic acid, acetic acid, digestive enzymes, short chain fatty acids and vitamins B and K. The two bests know and perhaps the most important species of Lacto bacteria are Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacteruim bifidus. Both Anaerobia and Aerobic Species are found Anaerobic Bacteria (not needing oxygen) include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacteruim bifidus, Clostridium, Bacteriodes and Eubacteruim.Aerobic Species (needing oxygen)  include E coli, Enterococcus, Streptococcus and Klebsiella. Some causes of Dysbiosis The delicate intestinal balance is maintained by homeostasis.  Some of the factors that can affect the balance of micro flora include: antibiotic use stress diet and hyperchloridia – too little stomach acid. When looking into more depth at each of these factors one quickly realizes that they are inter related. It is not possible to address one, and neglect the other. Antibiotic Use Antibiotics save lives – we are grateful for it and there are times when we need to take it. However the problem comes in with overuse of antibiotics and anti biotic resistance emerging as a result of antibiotic abuse. The dosage, length of administration and spectrum of activity of the specific antibiotic will determine the impact on microbial flora. Penicillin seems to have little effect on intestinal microbes. The use of broad spectrum antibiotics will disrupt the ecology of the gut in a more profound way as Lactobacilli and Bifiduim are very vulnerable to it. Stress Stress may affect bacterial growth by significantly reducing the mucosal production of mucopolysaccharides and mucins, which are important for inhibiting the adherence of pathogenic organisms. The stress hormones stimulate the growth of certain pathological species – especially  gram-negative bacteria.  Gut functioning is under the control of the para sympathetic nervous system, which is dormant during periods of acute and chronic stress. Chronic stress also reduces blood flow to the gut leaving it unable to optimally maintain and repair itself. Diet Some diets promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms, while others promote the multiplication of harmful bacteria. High protein diets result in high concentrations of potential harmful metabolites e.g. ammonia, amines, phenols, sulphides and branched fatty acids due to the fermentation of undigested protein. High simple sugar/carbohydrate diets have a slow transit time which increase bacterial activity resulting in increased exposure time to potentially toxic bowel contents. The role of sufficient soluble and insoluble fibre is essential Hypochloridia Hypocloridia, especially if accompanied by chronic gastritis, can also result in dysbiosis. Bacterial overgrowth in the intestines may often begin to resolve naturally with the re-establishment of normal stomach acid production.  Apart from using Betaine HCL supplementation, this process can also be accelerated by the use of plants/ herbs with  anti microbial properties. This can help to eliminate existing overgrowth of putrefactive bacteria and to replace it with lactic acid dominating flora.                 The Consequences of Dysbiosis Overgrown pathogenic bacteria produce toxins and compounds that are very detrimentalto intestinal cells. As a result, it can be expected that atrophy of the gastric mucosa and consequent bacterial over growth in the small intestines would have a combined effect on intestinal permeability.This can have many consequences on health and quality of life. Food allergies and intolerances can damage the gut by causing inflammation,resulting in altered permeability of the intestinal wall (also referred to as leaky gut syndrome) Carrier systems that normally transport nutrients through the intestinal wall are less active in damaged or inflamed mucosal cells, leading to nutritional deficiencies. Allergies and auto-immune reactions can develop as a result of increased gut permeability as large undigested food molecules pass into the tissues. The immune system recognizes these molecules as foreign and raises antibodies against them. Chronic activation (inflammation) of the immune system can often be present in auto immune conditions e.g. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS/ME) and System Lupus Erythromatosis (SLE). Another controversial consequence of dysbiosis is Candida infections.  Mucosal colonization by Candida Albicans and other yeasts are indeed very common whenever intestinal overgrowth of these fungi occurs.  As a result, this can trigger an inflammatory response in the mucosa, which if not resolved, could give rise to a chronic inflammatory condition. Among the pathologies that develop following intestinal dysbiosis, the most frequent is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This is characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort along with signs of bowel dysfunction, most commonly diarrhea and/or constipation. IBS is believed to be the result of inappropriate and chronic activation of the mucosal immune system. The causes of this activation are suspected to be multi factorial.       Research on types of Bacteria Obese and lean individuals have radically different profiles of bacteria in their guts. When the obese volunteers went on a one-year diet and lost up to one-quarter of their bodyweight, their bacterial profiles changed to look more like those of the lean people.The theory, based on studies in mice, is that part of the propensity to gain weight might lie in 'obesity-causing' bacteria in the gut that release more calories from food than those found in lean people. Researchers hope to gain further insight into how this happens by comparing the microbial genes in thin and fat people. Each person carries a complex mix of perhaps a few thousand bacterial species, and too little is known to make sweeping generalizations about the implications of the different gut types. There is strength in numbers - some biologists regard a human as a 'super organism' — a community that adds up to more than the sum of its parts. The synergy between the different types of Bacterial Species should also not beunderestimated. Supporting your “fermentation chamber” Prebiotics are food ingredients that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria, including the lacto bacteria. They are not digested in the stomach or upper intestines, but reach the large intestines to feed the beneficial bacteria there.  Harmful bacteria that may also be in the colon cannot use prebiotics. Research studies, which include clinical trials, show that prebiotics can strengthen the immune system because of their stimulating effect on the beneficial bacteria in the colon.  Prebiotics are abundant in cruciferous and sulphur containing vegetables. Probiotics are live microbial food ingredients that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on a host. (WHO/FAO 2002).  Many different types of probiotics are commercially available and it is best to consult with a Health Care Practitioner before taking it – as long term use are not recommended.  Pro biotics occurs abundantly in certain types of fermented foods e.g. Sauer kraut and kefir but is also available in powders or capsules. The human natural evolved relationship with bacteria is almost certainly out of the balance nature intended. Impaired bowel function and unbalanced bowel flora may lead to intestinal toxemia. Improper diet and bowel evacuation may cause the replacement of normal bowel flora by more harmful bacteria which also results in intestinal toxemia. There is speculation that this can lead to auto intoxication – which may be one of the root causes the many new and rapidly growing 21st century diseases.

The Art of Internal Cultivation

T H E   A R T   O F   I N T E R N A L   C U L T I V A T I O N a n d   Q i   G o n g  @  M a y f a i r The Yellow Emperor of China, Huang Di discoursed on subjects like health, medicine, lifestyle, nutrition and cosmology with his ministers Qi Bo, Lei Gong and others. Huang Di reigned during the middle of the third millenium BCE. Taken from the Neijing Suwen ( The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine)...’The accomplished ones of ancient times advised people to guard themselves against zei feng, disease causing factors. On the mental level, one should remain calm and avoid excessive desires and fantasies, recognizing and maintaining the natural purity and clarity of the mind. When internal energies are able to circulate smoothly and freely, and the energy of the mind is not scattered, but is focussed and concentrated, illness and disease can be avoided.’ Tai Chi and Qi Gong are both systems that support and assist the process of internal cultivation. In basic terms this is the pursuit of peace of mind, vital physical health and a balanced emotional state. As one progresses, the journey inwards becomes even more spiritual. The transformative process of internal cultivation, often likened to inner alchemy is achieved through quieting the mind and guiding the Qi with the intention. All internal systems are based on subtle balance. To keep the body/mind/spirit in harmony without either deficiency or excess. Qi Gong, is translated as ‘energy cultivation’ or ‘working with the life energy’. The more we relax and live in the present moment, the less inner and outer conflict we have in our lives. The calmer we are, the easier it is to flow with life and circumstances. Daily practice of an internal art, like Tai Chi, Qi Gong or Yoga are accumulative. If our focus is on stillness and we set our intention towards this goal and then practice...we are on the way to cultivation. Whatever we focus on, we become good at. There is an element of self discipline...one needs to practice, but without attachment to outcome. In today’s lifestyle, this is beneficial. We have become so busy striving, reaching and becoming what we would like to be that we sometimes lose the joy of just being, practicing, breathing, moving. The multi media focus is on losing weight, being healthy, eating in a certain way and this causes stress in itself when we push ourselves into systems that do not fit or benefit us. As we become still and clear, the messages our own bodies have for us will tell us what we need. Qi Gong is subtle, but powerful. Postures are held, the movements are slow and practiced with a sense of vital relaxation. The awareness is held in the lower abdominal area, called the Dantien. The body, mind and emotions become strong and balanced, allowing the spirit to shine. Tai Chi and Qi Gong both contain meditation techniques and principles. Meditation is taught both standing or seated. There is breath work. All the techniques taught are meant to be utilized naturally and without force. Alignment on a structural level is one of the basics, linking to the awareness, movement and breath. Ancient history dates Qi Gong to nearly 7 000 years ago, whilst the traditional Chinese medical community maintain the origins began with Huang Di and his Classic of Medicine (2696 - 2598 BCE) This internal art is beneficial for anyone wanting to live mindfully, with a greater sense of self awareness and the understanding that comes with learning to manage one’s own energy wisely. Health practitioners who enjoy Qi Gong as a part of their daily routine find it of great help in understanding their own and their clients’ health. For any enquiries into Qi Gong or meditation classes (group or private) or upcoming workshops, please contact Lesley-Ann Green lesleyanngreen67@gmail.com or Vivain at info@mayfairwellness.co.za 021 8517037

The Yoga Of Silence with Mansoor

THE YOGA OF SILENCE WITH MANSOOR AT ANAND LOK ON THE GANGES, Near Rishikesh, India 24th to 31st October 2014 The River Ganges has been the source of inspiration and a place for reflection for saints and seekers alike for millennia. Anand Lok “The Abode of Bliss“ on the Ganges is a place of tranquil beauty, situated 20km away from the hustle and bustle of Rishikesh, providing an ideal setting for introspection, exploration and learning. Under Mansoor’s guidance, and in the focused and peaceful atmosphere of Anand Lok, new dimensions in our practice open up. The retreat becomes an opportunity to recognize awareness, to enter more deliberately into the asana and meditation practice, and to sharpen the capacity to understand Indian philosophy through the study of selected sacred texts. The program includes twice daily yoga and pranayama, meditation and study periods. This practice is relevant and accessible to both the beginner and more advanced practitioner since it is not something to be qualified or quantified but simply experienced. Body and mind open naturally to relaxed states, effortlessly entering the underlying, ever present Silence. Yoga Teacher MANSOOR Yoga Teacher MANSOOR MANSOOR was born and raised in New Delhi, India. He began his spiritual quest at the early age of 17 when he per chance picked up and read books of Ramana Maharshi. These teachings were later to have a profound influence on him. Shortly thereafter, he set off traveling through Europe, studying and working along the way and eventually settling in the USA. There he spent the next 24 years exploring and being actively involved with a wide range of spiritual traditions, namely, Vedanta, J. Krishnamurti, Zen, Catholicism, Transcendental Meditation and EST. On moving back to India, he found his way to Vipassana meditation, and then to Yoga. Mansoor received his yoga teacher training in classical Hatha Yoga through the Sivananda Vedanta tradition in Kerala, India. This opened the door to his deep study and love for the scriptures. Over the years of teaching he has developed his own teaching style, having drawn on the experience of several teachers and traditions, and incorporating his knowledge of the scriptures to guide the class.Mansoor has been teaching and conducting yoga retreats in India and Europe for the last 14 years. His multi-facetted background, and his openness to embrace and to experience  Knowledge from many different sources, has given him a unique approach. He has  stirred and motivated students from all over the world. He teaches with humor and focus.  The practice draws on several different sequences in pranayama to explore subtle states.  The set of asanas, while not physically demanding, are powerful in their effect in balancing  the body and mind. The primary focus is on Awareness, in preparing body and mind to be  receptive to sitting for meditation, and open to hearing the subtle teachings of Yoga.  A typical two hour class would contain about 30 minutes of preparatory exercises in  chakra balancing, 45 to 50 minutes to asana practice and 45 minutes devoted to  pranayama and deep relaxation. This combination can vary according to the student’s  capacity. His two books: Chup Sadhana (Lulu.com 2009) and Ashtavakra Gita – translation  and commentary (Lulu.com2010) highlight his great talent to convey the messages with  extraordinary simplicity and beauty. Yoga Teacher SUSIE ROY Susie initiated to Yoga through the International Sivananda Yoga School in Kerala, India,  Susiecompleted the basic and advanced yoga teacher training programs. Since her initial  training in 1998, shehas been inspired and taught by many international yoga teachers and  spiritual masters in India, USA and South Africa. Her greatest guidance and inspiration has  come from the continued study with her ownteacher, Mansoor, with whom she has been  working and teaching closely since 1999, both in India and in Europe. Her teaching  experience covers individual and group classes, workshops, residential retreatsand teacher  training programs. Susie is currently a visiting faculty member at the School of Inspired Leadership, Gurgaon, India where she formulated and conducts a course in Wellness  through Yoga and basic Ayurveda. She teaches in Europe and Asia with the Global  Leadership Program.Susie holds a BSc. (Hons.) Dietetics degree from the University  of Stellenbosch, South Africa and a Diploma in Hospital Dietetics from the University  of Iowa Hospitals, Iowa USA. What to bring: -Anand Lok needs your passport and visa details. Bring either a photocopy of those pages or the original passport please -The weather is gorgeous on the Ganges in October but mornings and Several sets of comfortable clothes for Yoga asana class (laundry takes two days) -Wool shawl and warm socks evenings may be a little cool. The days will be T-shirt weather -Cotton sarong -Walking shoes or sneakers - to reach Anand Lok we have to walk over a rocky path and cross the river in a row boat so please wear your walking shoes for the trip. -Slip on sandals or shoes (yoga hall is “no shoes”) -Yoga mat - let us know if you need one so that we can bring extras -Flashlight -Notebook and pen -Mosquito repellent -Swimsuit and sarong for Ganga dip -Sunscreen -We are 20km from the nearest shop and while there is a dispensary at Anand Lok be sure to have enough of any medication you may need. RETREAT DAILY SCHEDULE: We maintain a daily schedule but keep it somewhat flexible to meet the needs of the group. 5:30 Kriyas 3:30 Tea 6:00 Pranayama and Guided Meditation 4:00 Asana Class 7:00 Tea 5:30 Pranayama and Guided Meditation 7:30 Asana Class 6:30 Dinner 10:00 Fruit / Tea / Free time 7:30 Teachings 11:00 Teachings 9:00 Rest 12:30 Lunch RETREAT FEE: $ 700 double sharing, $ 800 single The fee includes the Yoga program, teaching materials, accommodation, all meals and  beverages,travel from Delhi to Anand Lok and back to Delhi by train and taxi.                            TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS: We will meet at New Delhi railway station and travel as a group. Name: ……………...………………………………………………………………… DOB: ………………… Gender: ……… Nationality: ………………………………… Address: ……………………………………………………………………………… City: ………...………………………………………………………………………… State: ……………………...…………………… Pin Code: …………………………… Tel (Home): …………………………………… Mobile: …….....……………………… Tel (Work): ……………………………….. E-mail: …………………………………… Please advise us of any medical conditions or dietary needs that you would like us to be  aware of. ……………………………………………………………………………………… Any other information you would like to share. ……………………………………………………………………………………… REGISTRATION 24th to 31st October 2014 At Anand Lok on the Ganges, India PLEASE NOTE: All meals will be vegetarian and no alcohol will be served. No smoking is permitted on the  premises and we would urge you not to smoke whilst on the retreat. Please do not swim in  the Ganges alone and only swim in the recommended areas. The current is unpredictable. Name: ……………...………………………………………………………………… DOB: ………………… Gender: ……… Nationality: ………………………………… Address: ……………………………………………………………………………… City: ………...………………………………………………………………………… State: ……………………...…………………… Pin Code: …………………………… Tel (Home): …………………………………… Mobile: …….....……………………… Tel (Work): ……………………………….. E-mail: …………………………………… Please advise us of any medical conditions or dietary needs that you would like us to be  aware of. ……………………………………………………………………………………… Any other information you would like to share. ……………………………………………………………………………………… I confirm that I choose to attend this course, and therefore accept any risks inherent in this  program. I agree to hold harmless the teachers and organizers from any liability in this  regard. Signature: ……………………...…………………… Date: ……………………………………… For further information about the retreat, and registration contact Susie Roy at: Susie70@gmail.com | 91-9811217849 For further information about Mansoor and other retreats see website: www.chup-sadhana.com For further information about Anand Lok please see website: www.anandlok.info

Chakra Points & Africology

Chakra Points & Africology In order to understand chakras, one must acknowledge and respect the presence  of energy in the human body. There are centres of energy that correlate to particular  emotions, functions and colours.  Research has shown that these areas have been proven to lie along certain hormonal  systems and can be manipulated to improve mental and physical imbalances.   Contrary to popular belief, chakras are not related to a particular religious system.  Part of their benefit is that chakras stand outside any religious system, and instead  work on the principle of energy, something all believers and non‐believers can  understand and partake in. So, what is the DEFINITION of a chakra? "A chakra is an energy centre where a  concentration of physical nerves congregates, overlaid by an energy 'body' with  subtler vibrations. The chakra is commonly referred to as a subtle wheel of energy.  It is associated with a specific  endocrine gland(s) or organ(s) in the physical body,  and a consciousness in the emotional/mental bodies." AFRICOLOGY OFFERS THE FOLLOWING –  CHAKRA MASSAGE CANDLES & OILS… Each chakra has a  blend of essential oils to aid and to rebalance the chakra so  to have one's energy levels revitalized. Chakra One: RED Earth, Physical identity, oriented to self--‐preservation Base/Root Chakra: Ideally this chakra brings us health, prosperity, security, and dynamic presence. • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL  – Patchouli • Patchouli oil has a  rounding and  balancing effect on the emotions and banishes lethargy, while sharpening the wits, fighting depression and anxiety. It is also said to create an amorous atmosphere.   Chakra Two: ORANGE Water, Emotional identity, oriented to self--gratification  Spleen Chakra: Ideally this chakra brings us fluidity and grace, depth of feeling,  sexual fulfilment, and the ability to accept change. • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL – Grapefruit •  Grapefruit refreshing oil helps to  boost digestion, benefits the immune system by helping to clear the lymphatic system,  helps with skin problems, and can be used for muscle stiffness, water retention and for bolstering the nervous system. Chakra Three: YELLOW Fire, Ego identity, oriented to self--definition  Solar Plexus Chakra: When  healthy, this chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity,and non--‐ dominating power.  • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL --‐ Lemon • Lemon's clean smelling citrus essential  oil is not only good for helping you make decisions and to improve your concentration,  but cuts down on acidity in the body --‐ thereby assisting the digestion, as well as with rheumatism, arthritis and gout, while also sorting out cellulite,  abscesses, boils, carbuncles and acne. Chakra Four: GREEN Air, social identity, oriented to self--‐acceptance Heart Chakra: A healthy fourth chakra allows us to love deeply, feel compassion,  and have a deep sense of peace and centeredness. • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL – Bergamot Bergamot's fresh smell is a  favourite in aromatherapy and is great for creating a more relaxed and happy feeling,  relieving urinary  tract  infections, boosting the liver, spleen and stomach, while fighting  oily skin, acne, psoriasis, eczema, as well as cold sores. Chakra Five:   BLUE Sound, Creative identity, oriented to self--‐expression  Throat Chakra: Here we experience the world symbolically through vibration, such as  the vibration of sound representing language. • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL – Lavender • Lavender oil is one of the most favourite essential oils, as it has wonderful qualities and also smells great. It is an calming, relaxing oil, which combats stress and crisis, while the antiseptic properties helps with cold, flu and other ailments. It is excellent  for asthma and migraines.  Apart from that it supports female health and on the skin it has a healing effect, while preventing scarring and balancing the skin.  Chakra Six: INDIGO Light, Archetypal identity, oriented to self--‐ reflection Third Eye/Brow Chakra: When healthy it allows us to see clearly, in effect, letting us  "see the big picture." • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL --‐ Geranium • Geranium helps to balance the mind and emotions, while stimulating the adrenal cortex and balancing the hormonal system and stimulating the lymphatic system. On the other hand, it balances the production of sebum in the skin, while keeping it supple and helping with the  healing of wounds. Chakra Seven: PURPLE Thought, Universal identity, oriented to self--‐ knowledge Crown Chakra: When developed, this chakra brings us knowledge,  wisdom, understanding, spiritual connection, and bliss. • MASSAGE CANDLE & OIL --‐ Ylang-Ylang Ylang--‐Ylang is extremely  fragrant and has a calming effect on the mind and body and is used in cases of  frigidity and impotence. It has a wonderfully balancing and stimulating effect on the  skin, to correct sebum production and is also used to stimulate hair growth.  CANDLES – R310 each OILS – R150 each FOR FURTHER INFO… CONTACT VANESSA WEYERS 082 335 1523 /  vanessa@chansonhospitality..com

Pilates For The Mind

Written by: Shiela Pigott It was on one of those days when I glanced in the mirror, and felt uncomfortable with what I saw. "Oh dear!" I saw myself looking a little baggy here, and a bit saggy there. “Hmmm” I thought, “it’s time to get back into shape”.I joined a local Pilate’s group, where a small group of people were trimming and tightening  tummies, and lots more besides! The exercises were unfamiliar at first, but with  practice, I got the hang of how to do it.  As I walked home after last week’s session,  I wondered if it were possible to apply the Pilates principles to my mind and brain.  After all, the brain is like a muscle, although of course it is made up of extremely  complex brain tissue. The more we use and exercise our brain, the stronger it  becomes. And, when we don’t use it we really do lose some of its functions!  So, I wondered, how can we exercise our brains?We all know that emotions in  others trigger (sometimes different) emotions in ourselves. Feelings can be difficult  to manage when they suddenly flare up inside. And here’s an interesting statistic,  an emotion rarely lasts for more than 90 seconds if we are curious and interested in it! Imagine striking a match. There is the scraping friction, the sudden spluttering flame  with its peculiar smell, and the steady burn as the flame makes its way along the  matchstick. Now, think of an emotion like resentment. Feel how the resentment flares  inside; sense its energy and heat. Your body (possibly around your neck or face and  down your back) feels hot. Your hands might want to curl into fists, and your feet might  want to kick out. Resentment can burn on for days, years even. It can be fuelled with the  oxygen of grudging thoughts, a determination to cut off all contact with the person who  caused the hurt, and even by enjoying the thoughts of revenge. The problem is that  we can scorch ourselves inside. Smouldering resentment and bitterness compromises  our immune systems so that we get infections, colds and even arthritis more easily.  Sleep patterns are disturbed, digestive systems suffer, and relationships with others  and with ourselves, become difficult.So how can we manage these emotions safely?  Counting to 10 slowly really does help, but don’t just count. Pay close attention to your  breathing and use calming words like “be still” as you breathe in and “relax” as you breathe out.Don’t just sit there brooding, do something active and satisfying. You’ll sense your thinking becoming calmer, you’ll feel more in control and as you feel your body relaxing, that resentful flame starts to dim and go out. The painful situation will look different.Here’s another helpful exercise. Choose a good feeling, like feeling loved, successful, or satisfied. Notice how your body carries these feelings and what happens as you pay close attention to what feeling good is really like. This exercise is excellent for building resilience and mental strength. Just like beginning Pilates, learning new mental and emotional skills takes time and determination. Athletes keep on practising in order to build their skills and strength, we do the same when we regularly exercise our minds, and take care of ouremotions.A calm mind and settled emotions mean lower stress chemicals, a healthy immune system, and good self esteem that gives us that feel good factor. There are huge benefits that comewith regular emotional ‘mind Pilates’.Have a go and start practising. Enjoy your life, your health your mental abilities! Website Reference http://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellor-articles/pilates-for-the-mind