Significance of 7 Vows in Indian Marriages

These seven vows are supposed to serve as an anchor to keep the couple going through all the ups and downs of life together, as husband and wife tied to each other in a sacred relationship. 

First vow

The couple appeals to the almighty to shower blessings in the form of pure and nourishing food with a respectful and noble life. The groom pledges to provide welfare and happiness to his wife and children, whereas the bride swears to shoulder all responsibilities for the welfare of the groom's entire family. 

Second vow

The groom requests the bride to be his strength so that he can provide security and protect the family with courage. The bride agrees to abide by, while demanding eternal love and undivided attention. 

Third vow

The couple pleads for wisdom, wealth, and prosperity in order to live a content and satisfied life. They pledge to remain spiritually committed and the bride assures the groom that by the virtue of true love and devotion she will remain a chaste wife. 

Fourth vow

The groom thanks his would-be wife for bringing auspiciousness, happiness, and sacredness in his life. In return, the bride takes an oath to serve and please her husband in every way possible. Together, they also pledge to take care and respect their elders in the family. 

Fifth vow

The importance of the fifth vow is to pray for the welfare of all the living things in this Universe and begetting a noble breed. The couple also prays to almighty to bless each other's friends and family with happiness and well-being. 

Sixth vow

In the sixth vow, God is invoked to bless the couple for bountiful seasons and long lived togetherness. The groom wishes that his wife would glut his life with joy and peace; while the bride provides assurance that she would participate with her husband in all his noble and divine acts.

Seventh vow

This is the last vow adding completion to the ceremony. Here the couple pleads for the long lasting relationship, enriched with understanding and loyalty. They take an oath to nourish their relationship with love and honesty and be together with each other forever not only in this life, but also in the lives to come. 

7 Vows in Indian Marriages

When it comes to Indian marriages, words like big, fat, extravagant, pomp and show come to our mind at once. However, irrespective of the style and size of  the wedding, one thing that remains common in all Hindu marriages is the 'seven vows' signified by the sacred 'saat pheras' around fire or 'agni', which  is one of the most imperative rituals of Indian weddings. With each 'phera' the couple makes a vow, a commitment with strong mythological roots, which is to be lived forever and more, its only then that a couple is accepted as husband and wife for the next many lives to come. 

These seven vows are supposed to serve as an anchor to keep the couple going through all the ups and downs of life together, as husband and wife tied to each other in a sacred relationship. 

First vow

The couple appeals to the almighty to shower blessings in the form of pure and nourishing food with a respectful and noble life. The groom pledges to provide welfare and happiness to his wife and children, whereas the bride swears to shoulder all responsibilities for the welfare of the groom's entire family. 

Second vow

The groom requests the bride to be his strength so that he can provide security and protect the family with courage. The bride agrees to abide by, while demanding eternal love and undivided attention. 

Third vow

The couple pleads for wisdom, wealth, and prosperity in order to live a content and satisfied life. They pledge to remain spiritually committed and the bride assures the groom that by the virtue of true love and devotion she will remain a chaste wife. 

Fourth vow

The groom thanks his would-be wife for bringing auspiciousness, happiness, and sacredness in his life. In return, the bride takes an oath to serve and please her husband in every way possible. Together, they also pledge to take care and respect their elders in the family. 

Fifth vow

The importance of the fifth vow is to pray for the welfare of all the living things in this Universe and begetting a noble breed. The couple also prays to almighty to bless each other's friends and family with happiness and well-being. 

Sixth vow

In the sixth vow, God is invoked to bless the couple for bountiful seasons and long lived togetherness. The groom wishes that his wife would glut his life with joy and peace; while the bride provides assurance that she would participate with her husband in all his noble and divine acts.

Seventh vow

This is the last vow adding completion to the ceremony. Here the couple pleads for the long lasting relationship, enriched with understanding and loyalty. They take an oath to nourish their relationship with love and honesty and be together with each other forever not only in this life, but also in the lives to come. 

Even though different religions and cultures have their own unique set of vows and different ways to perform them, the basic meaning of all remains the same 'commitment', a vow of being spiritually united as one. It is a way to assure your partner that he/she is worthy of your love and you are willing to submit, 'till death do you part'. 

True love is all that you need to fulfill all the vows mentioned above; what according to you are the importance of these 'pheras'? Do let us know through comments.

World's top oil producers revealed

1. Saudi Arabia

Barrels per day (bpd): 10,520,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

2.Russia

Barrels per day (bpd): 10,270,000

Date of Information : 2010

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

3 .United States

Barrels per day (bpd): 9,688,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

4 . Iran

Barrels per day (bpd): 4,252,000

Date of Information: 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

5. China

Barrels per day (bpd): 4,073,000

Date of Information: 2011

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)

6. Canada

Barrels per day (bpd): 3,483,000

Date of Information: 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

7. Mexico

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,983,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)

8 . United Arab Emirates

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,813,000

Date of Information: 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

9 . Iraq

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,642,000

Date of Information: 2011 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie/Getty Images).

10. Nigeria

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,458,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by Dan Kitwood/Getty Images)

11. Kuwait

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,450,000

Date of Information: 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

12. Venezuela

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,375,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

13. Brazil

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,301,000

Date of Information: December 2011 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

(Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

14. European Union

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,263,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

15. Norway

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,134,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

16. Algeria

Barrels per day (bpd): 2,078,000

Date of Information : 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

17. Angola

Barrels per day (bpd): 1,988,000

Date of Information: 2010 est.

Source of Information: CIA World Fact Book

World's Top 10 brands in IT services

World's Top 10 brands in IT services

No:1 IBM Brand Value: $39.1 billion

No: 2 HP Brand value: $21.7 billion

No: 3 Accenture Brand value: $ 6.8 billion

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) No: 4 Brand value: $4 billion

No: 5 Infosys Brand value: $3.6 billion

No: 6 Cap Gemini Brand value: $2.8 billion

No: 7 Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) Brand value: $2.1 billion

No: 8 Atos Origin Brand value: $2 billion

No: 9 Cognizant Brand value: $1.79 billion

No: 10 Wipro Brand value:

India’s top 15 cities with the highest GDP

1.     1. Mumbai

India's economic powerhouse, Mumbai not only contributes the highest GDP of $209 billion but is also responsible for 25% of industrial output, 70% of maritime trade in India and 70% of capital transactions to the nation's economy.

Known as the industrial hub of India, the city operates sectors from textiles to petrochemicals and serves as the headquarters for many companies. Important financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, Bombay Stock Exchange and National Stock Exchange of India occupy the land of Mumbai.

The city houses around 14 million people from various backgrounds. This metropolitan city has beautiful colonial architecture, double-decker buses and suburban rail system which carry about 2.2 billion passengers every year.

 

2.     2. Delhi

The national capital contributes the second highest GDP of $167 billion. With a large consumer market, the city has been successful in attracting foreign direct investments.

Delhi is known for its fastest growing retail industries and the city's economy consists of integral sectors like construction, power, telecommunications, health and community services and real estate.

Delhi has a population of 16.3 million as of 2011. This metropolitan city has a large expatriate population in the country.

Considered as one of the biggest commercial center in South Asia, Delhi's transport system includes buses, auto rickshaws and metro rail.

 

3.     3. Kolkata

The capital of West Bengal, Kolkata contributes a GDP of about $150 billion after the highest from Mumbai and Delhi. This city houses many industrial units and steel, mining, cement, pharmaceuticals, food processing, agriculture, textiles and jute are the major sectors responsible for economic growth.

The city is one of the important financial hubs of East and North-East India and houses the Calcutta Stock Exchange.

The city has around 4.5 million residents and attracts many tourists for its stunning architecture.

Kolkata is the only city in eastern India to have an international airport. Cycle rickshaws and metro rail has plays an important role in the city's transport system.

 

4.     4. Bangalore

The garden city of India contributes GDP of $83 billion. It is popularly known as the Silicon Valley of India as many information technology companies are set up in the city.

Many reputed corporate companies like Wipro and Infosys and several public undertakings like Indian Space Research Organisation and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited are headquartered in the city. It also considered a hub for the biotechnology sector.

With an estimated population of 8.5 million, the city is the third largest in terms of high net worth individuals. Bangalore is a multicultural city where people flock in and out for its pleasant climate and various tourist attractions.

The city's transport system includes buses, taxis, autos and metro and the transport infrastructure business however, has major scope for growth.

 

5.     5. Hyderabad

The capital of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad contributes a GDP of about $74 billion. Information technology, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology industries are the main sectors which contribute to its economic growth.

The city has the highest number of special economic zones among all the cities in the country.

Hyderabad has a large informal economy that employs 30% of the labour force. It is known for its Genome Valley and other technology parks.

The city has a population of 6.8 million and is noted for its unique culture. It is a tourist destination for many interesting monuments, museums and bazaars.

As a hub for education and research, this city has about 13 universities and business schools. It is also known for the development of a township with technological infrastructure.

 

6.     6. Chennai

The capital of Tamil Nadu contributes a GDP of $66 billion. The city is considered as the country's second largest exporter of information technology and business process outsourcing services. The automobile sector is based in the city is the backbone of the economy.

Automobile, computer, technology, hardware manufacturing and healthcare sectors includes Chennai's major business activities. The city is a host to many textile manufacturers and the Southern suburb of the city acts as a special economic zone to manufacture apparel and footwear.

This fourth largest metropolitan city in the country has a population of 8.9 million people.

Chennai is sometimes referred to as the city of flyovers because this city has the highest number of flyovers in India.

 

7.     7. Ahmedbad

This largest industrial hub in Gujarat contributes a GDP of about $64 billion. The city is a home for the developing textile and garment industry.

Ahmedabad houses two of the largest pharmaceutical companies of India—Zydus Cadila and Torrent Pharmaceuticals and headquarters other important companies like Nirma and Adani Group. The automobile sector plays an important role in the city's economy.

Ahmedabad has a population of more than 5.5 million and is credited for its architecture, gardens and parks. It is one of the fastest growing cities in India with improved systems of portable water and electricity.

 

8.     8. Pune

The second largest city of Maharashtra, Pune contributes a GDP of $48 billion. Although Pune is known for its educational facilities, the city has developed its manufacturing, glass, sugar and forging industries. Other prominent industries in the city are the automotive and information technology sectors.

The city accommodates automotive companies like Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Mercedes Benz, Force Motors (Firodia-Group), Kinetic Motors to automotive component manufacturers like Saint-Gobain Sekurit, TATA Autocomp Systems Limited, Robert Bosch GmbH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Visteon, and Continental Corporation are located here.

According to the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, Pune has been the single largest hub for German companies for the last 60 years.

It has a population of more than 4 million and takes its cultural activities very seriously.

(photo credit: Getty Images)

less 

9.     9. Surat

The well developed commercial city of Gujarat, Surat has contributed a GDP of $40 billion. The city is popularly known as the diamond capital of the world and the textile capital of India.

Diamond studded gold jewelry and real estate is the new emerging businesses in the city and 92% of the world's diamonds are cut and polished in Surat. Steel, petrochemical and jari manufacturing are among other major industries contributing to the economy.

Apart from having the highest number of embroidery machines in the country, 40% of India's art silk is manufactured in Surat. The city has a population of more than 4.6 million.

Surat's infrastructure includes a computerised water distribution system and computerised drainage system.

 

10.  10. Visakhapatnam

The industrial city, Visakhapatnam has contributed a GDP of $26 billion. The city is home for various state owned heavy industries and a steel plants.

Apart from accommodating various international information technologies and banking firms, the city is a hub for iron ore and other minerals which are exported to China and other countries. The fishing and real estate industry has seen a tremendous growth.

The city has a population of over 1 million. It is appreciated for its natural beauty and described as the land of destiny.

 

11.  11. Jaipur

The largest city of Rajasthan, Jaipur has contributed a GDP of $24 billion. The city pays importance to both traditional and modern industries. It is a large exporter of stone, diamond and gold jewelry in Asia.

Emerging as one of the main global outsourcing cities, Jaipur is projected to become a hub for modern business development in the coming years.

Jaipur has a population of about 3.1 million. It is popularly known as the Paris of India and The Pink City. The city has remarkable architecture with pre-modern infrastructure.

 

12.  12. Lucknow

The capital city of Uttar Pradesh has contributed a GDP of $22 billion. Aerospace, pharmaceuticals, technology, design and tourism are some of the important industries supporting the city's financial system.

Information technology, manufacturing and processing is the backbone of the economy. It is also considered as a potential in the handicraft sector and accounts for about 60% of the total exports of the state.

It has a population of about 2.5 million. It is known as a multicultural city which has prospered as the artistic capital of North India. The cityscape was heavily influenced by several emperors and the city portrays its natural charm.

 

13.  13. Nagpur

The winter capital of Maharashtra has contributed a GDP of $15.1 billion. It is a major trade center for oranges which are cultivated in the city.

The banking sector and food manufacturing sectors are important to the city in terms of finance. It is also considered a major commercial and political center of Maharashtra.

Nagpur is the headquarters for national level scientific and governmental establishments. It is also the home of National Academy of Direct Taxes. Nagpur has a population of 2.5 million. It is recorded as the third largest city of Maharashtra. The city is administered by Nagpur Municipal Corporation and plays a host to cultural events throughout the year.

 

14.  14. Indore

The commercial capital and the largest city of Madhya Pradesh, has contributed a GDP of $14 billion. Automobile, pharmaceutical, software, retail, textile trading and real estate are some of the major industrial sectors of the city. Several IT sectors also present in the city.

Indore has a population of approximately 2.3 million. It is the only city which has both an Indian Institute of Management and an Indian Institute of Technology.

Indore's local transport system includes buses and radio taxis. However, the metro taxi service of Indore is supposed to be best in India. It includes the Government run Maruti Suzuki SX4 Cars, which are GPS enabled and air conditioned.

 

15.  15. Patna

Patna has the highest GDP of $10.5 billion in Bihar. The city has seen a sustained economic growth and agriculture is the backbone of the economy.

The city is an important center for trade and its most active exports includes grains, sugarcane and sesame. Along with green revolution businesses, Patna has one of the fastest moving consumer goods industry and service industry.

This city has a population which estimates over 1.6 million. While tourists visiting the city accounted for 41% of the total for Bihar, the cultural heritage of Patna has attracted many tourists into the city.

 

Things you should never do in office

This is where we come in. Every office has its set of dos and don'ts, but then there is also a set of general don'ts that you need to keep in mind. We are here to list these general don'ts for you and we are sure they will help you stay clear of getting embarrassed in office.

1. Peep into someone's laptop/desktop

The most annoying person in office is the one who peeps into his colleagues laptop screen. Make sure you are not this annoying person. No matter the urge to see what other people are up to, you must save yourself the embarrassment of being labelled the office's peeping tom.

2. Walk around like you own the place

It is great to be confident, but it is a sin to be cocky. So under no circumstances should you walk around like you own the place. It is advisable to keep your smartness in check and not throw your weight around. Keep it easy going and genuine, and everyone in office will like you instead of bitching about you.

3. Be loud

Oh my GOD!Please don't be that loud person in office. Keep your voice level in check, do not play loud music and stay clear of all things loud. Loud people annoy colleagues like few other people/things do. Train yourself to talk softly yet be audible.

4. Gossip

We are sure you have heard this one before. It is imperative to stay clear of gossip, but we all know that this is not possible. Every nook and corner of office is full of gossip mongers. What you can do however, is keep your tongue in check. Don't bitch everyone out to everyone, and don't allow others to christen you the gossip king.

5. Stealing

Every office goer at some point in time is inclined to steal some office stationery: a pen, a paper, a folder, or a print out. Doing so once in a blue moon is okay, but don't make a habit of it. Stealing is bad and you will be answerable and payable if you are caught.

6. Lie/Blame others

When you find yourself in a soup or in tough situations you will be inclined to lie or shift the blame of your wrong doing on someone else. If you do this, you are putting not only your reputation at stake but your job too. Always stick to the honesty policy and play fair.

7. Share your personal problems

No one lives an easy life. Everyone has their share of personal problems just as you have yours. It would be naïve to share your personal problems with your work colleagues. We suggest you leave these issues at home and come to office with a clear mind. Remember, your colleagues aren't your personal agony aunts.

8. Make out

Irrespective of how hot that colleague of yours is, making out in the office is just unpardonable. Making out is an extremely private affair and an office is the least private of places you know. Besides, if somebody catches you in the act, you can bid your job farewell.

This is our list of general don'ts in work environments. Avoid committing these errors and you are sure to stay in the office good books.

7 things you should never say to your partner

Sometimes our secret thoughts just slip out in a clumsy splutter of word vomit, and boom – we're in the doghouse again. We present you with seven things you should never say to your partner. Ignore this at your peril.

What not to say, rule 1: "My ex used to do that too!"

Whether you're complimenting your partner, or highlighting a less than favourable flaw, comparing your current partner to an ex is not, under any circumstances, a good idea. Telling your other half how a former flame used to give excellent foot massages, or even a catty comment about their awful dress sense, will not go down well with your lady/gentleman friend and is a recipe for disaster as your other half wonders why this ex is on your mind in the first place. Next time you experience boyfriend or girlfriend déjà vu, do yourself a favour and keep it on the down-low.

What not to say, rule 2: "Don't you think [insert relevant name] is pretty/handsome?"

This question is just plain annoying and sets your partner up in a lose/lose situation, which is a recipe for disaster. There are plenty of conversation starters out there that can be used without having to resort to this, so avoid questions based on other people's looks. The first trap you set up for your partner with this question is if they disagree with you. We've all done it; they disagree and you brand them as a liar and say you wouldn't have minded if they agreed with you in the first place (Pfft, of course they can say that someone else is attractive – you're not that insecure!). The second major pitfall that your partner runs a high risk of falling into is agreeing with you. 'Yes' they say, 'she/he is gorgeous', and boom – they've been figured out. You knew they fancied this person all along. Mind games aren't a good recipe for a successful relationship, so avoid them at all costs.

What not to say, rule 3: Don't drool over the opposite sex

Some people don't struggle with an answer when asked if they think someone else is attractive. If you do find someone of the opposite sex good-looking take a moment to gather your thoughts before you start panting in agreement with your partner's passing comment. When asked if you think a member of the opposite sex is attractive, it's often a plea for attention or reassurance neatly disguised as an innocent question. Yep, this is an invitation for you to gush to your lover about how much hotter he/she is, so be tactful with your reply. Try something along the lines of "She/he is alright, but they've got nothing on you". Oh you little charmer!

What not to say, rule 4: "Can we wrap this sex session up? [Insert favourite TV show] is on in five"

This one is self-explanatory. Having their sexual performances ranked below a TV programme can lead to severe feelings of inadequacy for your other half. Even if you have been desperately waiting to find out what happens in the next instalment of your favourite programme, just beware of the trouble this could cause if you express your thoughts out loud. Cutting off a sex session is a big time deal breaker.

What not to say, rule 5: "I'm fine", when really you're not

The classic passive-aggressive comment "I'm fine", when you're clearly annoyed that your other half has just switched channels without asking your permission first, creates all sorts of trouble for ten minutes time. As you sit there wallowing in your own little bubble of anger, you feel the tension building in the air and you're both just sat there waiting for the other person to talk to break the stressful atmosphere. By the time you get around to actually solving the first problem, you've created a whole string of others by being in such a mood in the first place. You've both said things you didn't mean and now you're just in a tangled web of problems that could easily have been avoided. When asked if you're okay, use this is an opportunity to outline what's bothering you, not a chance to feel sorry for yourself and create a drama.

What not to say, rule 6: "Do you think it's wise to eat that?"

Asking your lover if they really think it's wise to be eating the chocolate smothered doughnut that is about to disappear into their mouth is a bad move by anyone's standards, particularly if your partner is female. It's basically a sugar-coated version of the phrase, "You've put on weight, stop eating junk". If you have uttered either of these phrases, duck now. Leave the house. Don't ever return.

What not to say, rule 7: "What are you thinking riiight... NOW?"

It's a question that some of us like to hurl at our partners when they're least expecting it. We say it so fast that our other half doesn't have the chance to make up a false reply or even to think straight, which leads him/her to stutter, and then we accuse them of thinking of their ex or having rude thoughts about someone else. The chances are, they were just pondering what they're having for tea or how to tackle a difficult situation at work, but when put on the spot they can't really remember what they were thinking, let alone put it into a coherent sentence. Even if they did happen to be thinking of having sex with a porn star or getting back with an ex, the last thing they'll do is admit it so this will never really be a constructive question unless they answer "thinking of you", but then we'd probably tell them they're lying anyway. Our partners simply can't win.

45 THINGS A GIRL WANT, BUT WON’T ASK FOR:

45 THINGS A GIRL WANT, BUT WON'T ASK FOR:

1. Touch her waist.
2. Actually talk to her.
3. Share secrets with her.
…4. Give her your jacket.
5. Kiss her slowly.

Are you remembering this?
6. Hug her.
7. Hold her.
8. Laugh with her.
9. Invite her somewhere.
10. Hangout with her and your friends together.

KEEP READING ..
11. Smile with her.
12. Take pictures with her.
13. Pull her onto your lap.
14. When she says she loves you more, deny it. Fight back.
15. When her friends say "I love her more than you", deny it. Fight back and hug her tight so she can't get to her friends. It makes her feel loved.

Are you thinking of someone?
16. Always hug her and say I love you whenever you see her.
17. Kiss her unexpectedly.
18. Hug her from behind around the waist.
19. Tell her she's beautiful.
20. Tell her the way you feel about her.

One last thing you need to do to show her you actually do mean it.
21. Open doors for her, walk her to her car - it makes her feel protected, plus it never hurts to act like a gentleman.
22. Tell her she's your everything - only if you mean it.
23. If it seems like there is something wrong, ask her - if she denies something being wrong, it means SHE DOESN'T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT - so just hug her.

24. Make her feel loved.
25. Kiss her in front of OTHER girls you know!

WE MIGHT DENY IT BUT WE ACTUALLY LIKE AND KINDA WANT YOU TO TICKLE US ..
26. Don't lie to her.
27. DON'T cheat on her.
28. Take her ANYWHERE she wants.
29. Text message or call her in the morning and tell her have a good day at school, and how much you miss her.
30. Be there for her whenever she needs you, and even when she doesn't need you, just be there so she'll know that she can always count on you.

ARE YOU STILL READING THIS? YOU BETTER, BECAUSE IT'S IMPORTANT.
31. Hold her close when she's cold so she can hold you too.
32. When you are alone hold her close and kiss her.
33. Kiss her on the cheek; (it will give her the hint that you want to kiss her).
34. While in the movies, put your arm around her and then she will automatically put her head on your shoulder, then lean in and tilt her chin up and kiss her lightly.

35. Don't ever tell her to leave even jokingly or act like you're mad. If she's upset, comfort her.

REMEMBER ALL THESE THINGS WHEN YOU ARE WITH HER NEXT ..
36. When people diss her, stand up for her.
37. Look deep into her eyes and tell her you love her.
38. Lay down under the stars and put her head on your chest so she can listen to the steady beat of your heart, link your fingers together while you whisper to her as she rests her eyes and listens to you.
39. When walking next to each other grab her hand.
40. When you hug her, hold her in your arms as long as possible.

MAKE SURE SHE KNOWS SHES LOVED.
41. Call or text her at night to wish her sweet dreams.
42. Comfort her when she cries and wipe away her tears.
43. Take her for long walks at night.
44. Always remind her how much you love her.
45. Sit on top of her and tell her how much you love her and then bend down to her face and kiss her while you're sitting on her.

Meditation

Have you ever noticed, that the moment someone asks to keep your eyes shut for five minutes, that's exactly when

your eyeballs want to grab on every visual around you! Same goes for being quiet. When the human mind seems to be so uncontrollable, how does someone meditate right without getting distracted? Read on to find out what should a beginner do to stay focused to the meditation routine:

Stay motivated

It is easy to get frustrated easily initially, but try to control that quitting urge in you. Keep a fixed time in your schedule for meditation. Try being consistent on the timing and prefer meditating in the morning hours or late at night as the mind is generally relaxed during this time. Having a partner always helps, so try asking your partner to join in.

Listen to the instructions

There are countless CDs and DVDs available in the market that explains the art of meditation. Grab one of them and listen to it while you meditate. The audio will give you a step by step information on how to meditate. You can also listen to podcasts available online to motivate yourself.

Focus on your body parts

The most effective way of meditating is to concentrate on different parts of the body. Start from your toes, feet and legs and then gradually move upwards till your chest, neck and forehead. Every time you get frustrated or irritated, try concentrating on your breathing to feel more focused.

Meditate in a conducive environment

It's better to select a spot at your house that is disconnected from all that domestic chaos at home. Stay away from loud music as it can get distracting, especially for a beginner. But if you are a music lover, you might want to burn a mix-tape with some soft music in it. This can also help you disconnect from the activities around.

Before you begin

It's is advisable to stretch before you start meditating. It will loosen your muscles, making you sit for a longer while. Meditation post stretching will relax your mind even better showing good results.

Avoid eating right before meditation

Human body needs more blood to digest a heavy meal. Blood is directed to all parts of the body and even the brain which makes you sleepy. So, avoid heavy meals right before you begin. Stick to a light snack if you are really hungry because an empty stomach will only urge you to cut short your session.

There will be times when, despite trying all the above methods, you find yourself unwilling to go forward. During such times, it is only your perseverance that will see you through the entire process.The key is to stick to your new routine no matter how difficult it may seem. Once you start seeing the amazing results of meditation, you will never want to give it up

Top 12 tips for yoga beginners

If you are a yoga beginner or thinking about having a go at yoga then here are realbuzz.com's 12 tips to get you started; some helpful advice for any yoga beginner.

1. Find a good yoga teacher

It is much easier and more enjoyable, to learn yoga, with all its detailed and subtle physical and mental aspects, from an experienced, qualified, real-three-dimensional-living-breathing person, rather than from a book or video. Especially at the beginning, a teacher's presence and ability to actually see you and respond to what you are doing, is essential for building your confidence that you are doing yoga properly.

2. Respect your body's inner wisdom and limitations

Don't push yourself to do anything that feels dangerous or wrong for you. This is 'Ahimsa', the practice of non-harm, which is essential to skilful and beneficial practice of yoga. Talk to your teacher and a health professional if you are pregnant or have particular injuries such as to the knees or spine, or any serious medical condition. Find out which poses to avoid at certain times, and which will be beneficial for you. Be aware of contraindications relevant to your specific circumstances: for example some poses are not to be practiced during early pregnancy, with certain injuries, or during menstruation, whereas other poses may be very helpful.

3. Breathe

Yoga is all about finding a healthier, deeper harmony between our body and mind, and our breathing is central to this. Breathe into your whole body in the poses, and relax. There is a lot to learn about healthy breathing in yoga.

4. Don't compare yourself with others

Look inwards to your own progress; there will always be more flexible, strong and beautiful people around in your yoga class, as in life. Yoga may be fashionable, but it is not a spectator sport or a competition. Appreciate the subtle progress of your own practice, the best part of it is on the inside, in the healing awareness and unity of your own body, mind and spirit.

5. Be aware of the space around you

Yoga classes can be packed out; be aware of the need to leave enough space between yourself and others so that if you topple from your Tree Pose, you don't knock over your neighbor too. There is a certain etiquette of respectful awareness of sharing space with others that is a lovely part of yoga practice.

6. Have a sense of humor

Yoga is a quiet, focused activity, but we need not to take ourselves too seriously. We may feel ungainly and stiff as a board as we try to navigate ourselves into new poses. Humility, an inner smile and a bit of gentleness can save us from pushing ourselves to the point of strain and injury.

7. Eating and drinking and yoga

It is advisable not to eat for one or two hours before yoga practice, and to drink only small amounts of water beforehand and do not drink during practice. Avoid alcohol, sugar or caffeine before yoga.

8. Wear loose comfortable clothing (that stays on)

You will stretch your body in all directions and so you don't want to wear anything that will dig in or restrict your movement. At some point you are likely to bend your body right over and also turn upside down, so it saves wriggling about or exposing more that you wish to if you wear stretch fit gear. For women in particular, tops that won't fall down over your head in a shoulder stand might be more relaxing to wear, for example! If you prefer looser fit clothes that may slip, make sure you have substantial underwear on.

9. Make practice frequent

Little and often is more effective than occasional long sessions of yoga. Even 15 minutes a day of a few well-chosen poses can have a very positive effect on your physical, emotional and mental well-being. A regular discipline will reap more benefits, as that way the body begins to feel comfortable and familiar with the process and gradually becomes more flexible and subtly aware of the sensations, rather than 'starting from cold' again once in a while.

10. Modify postures for your body

The perfect pose we may see in a book or see a teacher demonstrate may be a long way from what our own body can currently achieve. A good yoga teacher will show you how to ease your own body carefully towards the ideal posture, perhaps with use of yoga props like extra blocks, bolsters, a belt etc., bringing attention to the principle of the inner stretch or direction of energy that the pose is aiming to evoke in us.

11. Communicate with your teacher!

Many yoga teachers will observe and assist individual students during a class. A touch may help to bring your awareness to where you actually are in your posture, and support you so that you can make your own adjustments. However, unless a teacher knows your yoga practice very well and is fully aware of any historical injuries that you have had, it is risky for them to try to forcefully adjust your posture by moving your body beyond your natural limitations into a posture; this may cause injuries, so don't be afraid to say no. In the same way, be careful of yourself and others in partner work. If a pose feels wrong or painful for you, stop and say so, your teacher may be able to help.

12. Relax! End your yoga practice with Shavasana

Finish your practice with Shavasana, 'Corpse pose', lying flat on the floor, resting and consciously relaxing your body for five to 15 minutes. Don't rush out of it; get up very gently, rolling onto your right side and coming up to a sitting position in your own time.

Job Hunting Mistakes

plantingdollars.comThere are several common mistakes that all job hunters make.

It's good to know them, so you can avoid them the next time you decide to quit and find a better job.

A Flawless Resume

No mistakes in spelling, grammar and your details. Then, after researching through the job position, modify your resume (experience and skills) to match the job advertised for.

Look Professional

Apart from not 'looking' the professional part, there are several things you can do wrong to effect a bad impression of you on your interviewers.

These include arriving late, not knowing enough about the company, the position you are applying for, behaving arrogantly (instead of confidently) and having a closed body language (no eye contact, arms crossed)

Losing your Cool

By getting tense, you might forget your answers and fumble through the interview Which is why you you should research the company extensively, as well as the position applied for weeks before applying. This will keep you calm, and having absorbed this information, allow you to use your own common sense in the interview.

Further, if you don't know the answer to a question, mumbling about wont get you anywhere - it's safer to admit that you don't know. You can add that you can research about it.

Referrals

An internal referral (i.e. from one of the company employees) will boost your chances of landing the job.

lualumni.com

If you don't know anyone at the company, network from the alumni of you college, school, social networks, and professional

associations.

Not Applying Properly

Don't write a casual email job application. A formal, well written is essential, and represents your capabilities and skills.

Don't meander around with "I'de like to bring to your attention…" - get to the pint.

Showcase Your Skills

newsjunkiepost.com

You are offering them the advantage of hiring you over the many applicants being interviewed for the job. To do this, you need to know your strengths and weaknesses.

Know your skill set - don't add false details to it. you should be able to tell your interviewer your capabilities and expertise in different situations.

Practice

Give yourself time for the interview, and use this margin to prepare. Your wardrobe, your grooming, skill set and last minute checks can make the difference in a major interview. 

New Tech Job Titles For the 21st-Century Organization

ComputerWorld's Mary Pratt just published what may be some key emerging tech job roles for the 21st-century organization.  Anyone have these titles yet in their companies? My suspicion is that many of these job descriptions already exist, and are being absorbed into existing positions.

My favorite is the "machine-to-machine communications enabler." Actually, this is likely something SOA proponents have been doing all along for the past decade, has it not?

Director of cloud transformation: Could also be called vice president of virtualization or cloud transformation officer. As the title suggests, charged with overseeing the move to cloud IT. May be transitional.

Socialite: Strange title, more likely to be seen as chief social media strategist, new media coordinator, or manager of social media. Whatever the title, "it's about leveraging technology to monitor online activity and interactions and to engage consumers."

Data scientist: "The data scientist position goes beyond the skills generally seen in a BI analyst. These new specialists will not only find and deliver the data; they will also be the ones using it for extensive forecasting."

Augmented reality specialist: Visually oriented, tasked with "building apps that are designed to enhance how people view the world around them."

Chief agile officer: Charged with employing agile techniques and bringing together teams of business users and technologists.

Flexible resource manager: "Ccan foresee what skills will be needed and how long they'll be needed… are also responsible for bringing people with new talents into the organization and integrating them with existing staff to assemble high-performance teams."

Health informatics expert: Capable of optimizing the acquisition, storage, retrieval and application of health-related data."

Machine-to-machine communications enabler: Someone to oversee the growing interoperability of all manner of software, servers, devices and production equipment.

Outsourcing manager: A job that is already prevalent in many places. Tasked with keeping tabs on all the relationships between the enterprise and its contractors.

Improve Brain Power

1. Breath deep. More air in means more oxygen in the blood and therefore in the brain. Breath through your nose and you'll notice that you use your diaphragm more, drawing air deeper into your lungs. Several deep breaths can also help to relax you, which is conducive to clearer thinking.

2. Meditate. A simple meditation you can do right now is just closing your eyes and paying attention to your breath. Tensing up your muscles and then relaxing them to start may help. When your mind wanders, just bring your attention back to your breath. Five or ten minutes of this will usually relax you, clear your mind, and leave you more ready for any mental task.

3. Sit up straight. Posture affects your thinking process. Prove it to yourself by doing math in your head while slouching, looking at the floor and letting your mouth hang open. Then do the mental math while sitting up straight, keeping your mouth closed and looking forward or slightly upwards. You'll notice that it's easier to think with the latter posture.

4. Phosphotidyl Serine (PS). This supplement has been shown in clinical studies to increase lucidity and rate of learning. It activates cell-to-cell communication, helps regulate cell growth, improves the functioning of the special receptors found on cells, and prepares cells for activity. In other words, it can help your brain power. It's also thought to reverse memory decline. Phosphatidylserine has no known adverse side effects.

5.Vinpocetine. This extract, derived from an alkaloid found in the Periwinkle plant, is used as a cerebral vasodilator. It increases blood flow to the brain, which improves its oxygenation and thereby increases mental alertness and acuity. Research suggests it may also be the most powerful memory enhancer available to date.

6. Gingko Biloba. The leaves of this tree have been proven to increase blood flow to the brain. The trees are often planted in parks. My friends and I used to eat a few leaves when we wanted a brain boost. It is also inexpensive, if you buy the capsules or tea at any health food store.

7. Saint John's Wort. This is a common weed that may be growing in your yard. Although it's brain enhancing qualities are less documented (studies do show it's usefulness for treating long-term depression), many people swear by it's temporary mood-elevating effect, and our brains tend to function better when we are happy. It is inexpensive, but I used to just collect it in the yard and make tea of it. (Hyperacum Perforatum, if you want to look it up by it's botanical name.)

8. Good thinking habits. Just use a problem solving technique for several weeks and it will become a habit. Redesign everything you see for a while, and that will become a habit. You can develop many good thinking habits with some effort, and then be more resourceful effortlessly from that point on. Use the power of habit.

9. Use dead time. This is time that is otherwise wasted or just under-utilized. Driving time, time spent in waiting rooms, or even time spent raking your yard can be included in this. With a tape player and a trip to a public library, you can start to use this time to listen to books-on-tape. You may spend 200 hours a year in your car. What could you learn in that time?

10. Learn a language. Learning a new language has been shown to halt the age-related decline in brain function. It also introduces your mind to new concepts and new ways of looking at things (in English we are afraid, whereas in Spanish we have fear). It is one of the best brain exercises.

11. Rosemary. This common herb may have an effect on the brain when the scent is inhaled. We are waiting for the research, but some people swear that just sniffing rosemary wakes up their brain. It seems safe, so if you have rosemary in your spice rack, give it a try.

12. Mindfulness exercises. Concentration and clear thinking are more or less automatic once you remove distractions. Learn to stop and watch your busy mind. As you notice things that are subtly bothering you, deal with them. This might mean making a phone call you need to make, or putting things on a list so you can forget them for now. With practice, this becomes easier, and your thinking becomes more powerful.

13. Write. Writing is good for your mind in a number of ways. It is a way to tell your memory what is important, so you'll recall things more easily in the future. It is a way to clarify your thinking. It is a way to exercise your creativity and analytical ability. Diaries, idea-journals, poetry, note-taking and story-writing are all ways to use writing to boost your brain power.

14. Listen to Mozart. In a study at the University of California, researchers found that children who studied piano and sang daily in chorus, were much better at solving puzzles, and when tested, scored 80% higher in spatial intelligence than the non-musical group. In another study, 36 students were given three spatial reasoning tests on a standard IQ test. Just before the first test, they listened to Mozart's sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, K. 448 for ten minutes. Before the second test, they listened to a relaxation tape. Before the third, they sat in silence. The average scores for all 36 students: 1st test: 119. 2nd test: 111. 3rd test: 110. A nine-point boost from Mozart!

15. Develop your intuition. Intuition can be an important part of brainpower. Einstein and others have relied heavily on their intuitive hunches. How to develop your intuition.

16. Avoid foods that cause subtle allergies. These can include wheat, corn, peanuts and dairy products. Watch yourself to see if you have a problem with any of these. They cause digestive problems and brain fog in some people.

17. Sleep better. As long as you get a certain amount of sleep - probably a minimum of five hours - the quality seems to be more important than the quantity. Also, short naps in the afternoon seem to work well to recharge the brain for some people.

18. Caffeine. The research shows higher test scores for students who drink coffee before major exams. My chess game gets better. In other studies, it has been shown that too much caffeine leads to poorer quality decisions. Caffeine affects individuals differently, and has some nasty long-term side effects for some of us, but short-term - it works!

19. Avoid sugar. Any simple carbohydrates can give you "brain fog." Sometimes called the "sugar blues" as well, this sluggish feeling makes it hard to think clearly. It results from the insulin rushing into the bloodstream to counteract the sugar rush. Avoid pasta, sugars, white bread and potato chips before any important mental tasks.

20. Hypnosis audios. The power of suggestion is real, and one way to use it is with hypnosis tapes, CD's or downloads. This type of brain "programing" has more evidence for it than subliminals.

21. Speed reading. Contrary to what many believe, your comprehension of material often goes up when you learn to speed-read. You get to learn a lot more in less time, and it is definitely a good brain exercise.

22. Exercise. Long term exercise can boost brainpower, which isn't surprising. Anything that affects physical health in a positive way probably helps the brain too. Recent research, though, shows that cognitive function is improved immediately after just ten minutes of aerobic exercise. If you need a brain recharge, you might want to walk up and down the stairs a few times.

23. Imaginary friends. Talking to and getting advice from characters in your mind can be a great way to access the information in your subconscious mind. Imagine a conversation with a person who has a lot of knowledge in the area you want advice in.

24. Develop your creativity. Creativity gives power to your thinking. Raw computation can be done by computers now, but humans provide the creative thought that shapes our world. Tips on developing your creativity.

25. Learn more efficiently. When you decide to learn something, take notes from the start. Leave each "learning session" with a question or two in mind, to create anticipation and curiosity. Take short breaks, so there will be more beginnings and endings to your studies (Things learned at the beginning or ending of a class or session are remembered better).

26. Use techniques for clear thinking. Cluttered rooms and offices can contribute to cluttered thinking. Organize a space for mental work. Sigh, stretch, and take a deep breath before you start on a tough mental job. Plan some distraction-free time for brainstorming.

27. Brain wave entrainment. The newest brain wave entrainment products are powerful tools for altering your brain function. Some will almost immediately relax you, while others will put your brain waves in a pattern that is most conducive to analytical thinking.

28. Creatine. This is a compound found in meat, used by athletes to help build muscle. Now the evidence is here to show that it helps your brain as well. Proceedings B , a journal published by the Royal Society reports that the research showed improvement in working memory and general intelligence resulting from creatine supplementation. The dose used in the study was 5 grams per day. This is about the level used to boost sports performance, and is as much as you'd normally get in four pounds of meat, according to lead researcher Dr. Caroline Rae.

29. Talk. Talking is only good for the brain if you are actually exercising it, of course. Try explaining something that you don't understand very well to a friend, though, and you'll notice that the process of explaining will help you clarify your understanding.

30. Do something you enjoy. This is a way to both lower stress and rev up your brain. The key is to do something active. Watching TV doesn't count. Whether it is playing Scrabble or building birdhouses, when you are actively engaged in an activity that you enjoy, you worry less about things and you start to think better.

31. Adjust your beliefs. Believe you are smarter, and you'll become smarter. For this, affirmations may work, but even better is evidence. Make a note of your successes. Tell yourself, "Hey, that was really creative," when you do something creative. When you have a good idea, make a note of it. Gather the evidence for your own intelligence and you'll start to experience more of it.

32. Brain exercises. Do math in your mind while driving. Think of a new use for everything you see. Regular use of the brain has been shown to generate new neuronal growth, and even halt the decline of mental function that often comes with age.

33. Learn new things. This is another way to exercise the brain. It can also be done with little time investment if you use books-on-tapes while driving.

34. Walk. Exercise has been shown to benefit the brain, and walking is one of the best exercises for many. It is low impact, and the rhythmic nature of it seems to put you in a state that is very conducive to clear thinking. In fact, carry a tape recorder with you to take notes, and a twenty minute walk can be a great way to solve problems.

35. Model others. Find others that are creative, intelligent, or very productive. Do what they do, and think what they think. This is a key principle of neuro-linguistic programming. Be careful about taking their advice, though. Successful people often don't really understand why they are successful. Do what they do, not what they say.

36. Eat fish. Eating fish actually speeds up brain waves, and improves concentration. Researchers have also found an almost perfect correlation between intake of fish and lowered levels of depression in the various countries of the world. The U.S. has 24 times the incidence of depression as Japan, for example, where fish intake is much higher.

37. Avoid unnecessary arguments. When you defend a position too vigorously, especially when it is just to "win" the argument, you invest our ego into it. This is not conducive to the easy acceptance and use of new information. In other words, you put your mind in a rut, and you dig it deeper with each argument. Debate can be a valuable thing, but when the ego takes over, the mind closes a little. This is not a recipe for better thinking.

38. Laugh. The release of endorphins caused by laughter lowers stress levels, which is good for long term brain health. Laughter also tends to leave you more open to new ideas and thoughts.

39. Play. Stimulating the brain causes measurable changes in the structure of the brain. New connections are made and new brain cells are grown. Intellectual play, as well as any playing that involves hand-eye coordination stimulates the brain.

40. Do puzzles. Crossword puzzles, lateral thinking puzzles, and even good riddles are a great way to get brain exercise. You can work on them while waiting for a dentist appointment, or on the bus, if you are short on time.

41. Sing. When you are alone in your car, try singing about something you are working on. This taps into and exercises your right brain. Have you ever noticed how it is easier to rhyme when you sing than when you just speak or write? This is because the right brain is better at pattern recognition. By doing this brain exercise regularly you can train yourself to tap into the power of the right brain. This will make you a more effective problem-solver. If you doubt the distinction between the hemispheres of the brain, look at how stutterers can stop stuttering as soon as they start singing. Try it.

42. Nuts. University students in Brazil and other South American countries often eat several Brazil nuts before an exam, believing they are good for their mental power. The evidence is starting to confirm this. Other nuts that have minerals and amino acids that are beneficial to the brain include almonds and walnuts.

43. Olive oil. High in mono-unsaturated fat, olive oil has been shown to improve memory. A cheaper alternative is canola oil, but this hasn't been studied much yet.

44. Vitamin supplements. In studies, children scored higher on tests when on a regimen of daily vitamin supplements. "Experts" will tell you that if you eat a balanced diet, you don't need supplements, which, given the culture here, is really just a sales pitch for vitamins, isn't it? Who eats a perfectly balanced diet?

45. Fiber. It isn't just what goes in, but what comes out that is important to brain function. Toxic build-up in the body and brain can cause "brain fog." People often report clearer thinking as one of the benefits of curing their constipation.

46. Self awareness. This may not seem important to brain power, but it is. When you know yourself better, you can avoid the usual effects of ego and emotion in your seemingly "rational" thinking. Or you can at least take it into account. Watch yourself, especially as you explain things or argue.

47. Motivate yourself. Motivation is as important to mental tasks as it is to any other. Learn a few simple techniques for self motivation. You can start with those.

48. Avoid too much stress. Neuropsychiastrist Richard Restak, M.D., form the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Services, sums up the research thus: "Stress causes brain damage." Long term stress has repeated been shown to hurt the brain, not to mention the rest of the body. Learn a few stress reduction techniques if you get stressed out often.

49. Get educated. Scientists have known for a while that the less educated get alzheimer's more frequently. Education in any area seems to make the brain stronger.

50. Avoid too much fat. In laboratory studies, animals consistently learn slower when they are on a diet high in fat. Type of fat may make a difference, so you may want to stick to using olive oil and other non-saturated fats. Saturated fats have been shown to actually stunt the growth of brain cells.

51. Eat less. Overeating has the immediate effect of redirecting more blood to the digestive process, leaving less for the brain. Long term, it can cause arterial obstructions that reduce blood flow to the brain permanently. In at least one study, rats on a restricted-calorie diet had more brainpower.

52. Avoid suspect foods. There is evidence that the following foods can be bad for your brain: Artificial food colorings, artificial sweeteners, colas, corn syrup, frostings, high-sugar drinks, hydrogenated fats, sugars, white bread, and any white-flour products.

53. Eat breakfast. When kids who didn't eat breakfast started to eat it, researchers found that their math scores went up a whole grade on average.

54. Avoid diabetes. The development of diabetes coincides with a dropping of IQ scores. In other words, if you want to maintain your brain power, follow your doctors dietary recommendations for preventing or treating diabetes.

55. Eat foods high in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect all your cells, including brain cells. Some of the foods highest in antioxidants include: prunes, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, garlic, kale, cranberries, strawberries, spinach, and raspberries. In one test, rats had age-related mental decline reversed by eating the equivalent of a 1/2 cup of blueberries per day.

56. Drink wine. In moderation, red wine can be good for the brain, it seems. It is rich in antioxidants, which protect brain cells. One glass per day for women and two for men is usually considered a safe and moderate amount.

57. Use alcohol in moderation. In a study at the University of Indiana School of Medicine, elderly light drinkers (fewer than 4 drinks per week) scored higher on tests of thinking abilities than non-drinkers. Those who drank 10 or more drinks per week scored lower. It is known that alcohol can kill brain cells, so moderation seems to be the key.

58. Folic acid. According to one study, 200 micrograms of folic acid, the amount found in 3/4 cup of cooked spinach, alleviates depression and reverses memory loss.

59. Potential brain foods. Other foods that may be good for your brain include: Avocados, bananas, lean beef, brewer's yeast. broccoli, brown rice, brussel sprouts, cantaloupe, cheese, chicken, collard greens, eggs, flaxseed oil, legumes, oatmeal, oranges, peanut butter, peas, potatoes, romaine lettuce, salmon, soybeans, spinach, tuna, turkey, wheat germ, and yogurt.

60. Vitamin E. Jean Carper, in researching her book, "Your Miracle Brain," found that many brain researchers are taking 400 I.U.s of vitamin E daily. It is an antioxidant, and reduces the clogging of blood vessels, including those going in the brain.

61. Vitamin C. Taken in the form of orange juice in a study at the Texas Women's University, vitamin C increased the IQ scores of children.

62. Selenium. 100 micrograms of selenium has been shown to be a mood-elevator. Your brain almost certainly functions better when you are in a better mood. Foods rich in selenium include Brazil nuts and garlic.

63. Alpha-lipoic acid. Alpha-lipoic acid (10 to 50 milligrams daily) improves memory and protects nerve cells.

64. Inositol. This is a safe and natural substance that is often grouped with the B-vitamins. It reduces stress and promotes clear thinking. It contributes to energy production, and so can "wake you up." Animal studies show a measurable increase in physical activity for up to five hours after taking it.

65. Huperzine A. This is a compound extracted from the Chinese club moss. Researchers both in Israel and the U.S. have used it to treat alzheimer's. It improves memory and learning an seems to be very safe.

66. Ask questions. This is a great way to keep your brain in shape. Just get in the habit of asking questions often, even if it is only in your own mind. Why are taller buildings better? what is the purpose of curbs? Ask anything that comes to mind, and ponder the possible answers.

67. Sniff basil. This another of the herbs that may be good for your brain. No studies yet, but many report a brain boost from smelling basil.

68. Temperature. Many people have noted that they think better at certain temperatures. In general, it seems that being slightly cool, but not uncomfortable, is most conducive to good thinking. Try experimenting on yourself to see what temperature works best for you.

69. Use systems. From the time I was ten years old, 12 x 49 was always (12 x 50) - 12. It's easier to figure in your head this way (588, by the way). I didn't get any credit for my personal algorithms then, but they are selling these shortcuts on late-night TV now, because they work. You can find your own easier ways to do mental math or other mental tasks, or read a good book on them.

70. Make a brainpower plan. It takes about twenty to thirty days of repetition to establish new habits, many psychologists will tell you. This means that when you create your plan for better brainpower, be sure you plan to use that new problem solving technique, or eat those new brain foods for at least three weeks. You can use many of the brain boosters here and get immediate results, but it is creating new habits that will give you the most brainpower.


http://www.mindpowernews.com/BrainPower.htm