It Can Be Better the 2nd Time Around

Posted by on Jan 25, 2012 in Health, Personal Development, Physical Fitness | 6 comments

It Can Be Better the 2nd Time Around

 Where do you want to be …and with whom?

What do you want to do?

Whatever it is… have faith – whether, or not it’s even been tried before – You can do it… anybody can!

It can be even more enjoyable given a 2nd opportunity to achieve your goal(s). Hold tightly on to your dreams… don’t let anyone steal them under the guise of “helping you see reality”. The mere existence of a desire within you, brings about the possibility of it’s manifestation in the quantum field. It’s not magic!

All one has to do is to do the best you can, with what you’re given… that is, if you are going to be a “success” in any aspect of life. Listen for yourself – to those people who have “made it”. It’s not just the Rich and Famous, or the “Beautiful” people that we hear of… it’s also the “regularJoe” and “Jane” who have accomplished great results. As examples, they are a little harder to find. They don’t necessarily stand out in the crowd because of their lack of notoriety. Yet because of their persistence and determination we often get inspired to go beyond our comfort zone and reach our zenith.

“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves” Sir Edmund Hillary (1st Man to reach the peak of Mount Everest – tallest point on Earth)

I wanted to be proficient in the martial arts. I knew that I’d never be a “Bruce Lee”, but I had a feeling that I had a “natural” ability for it. Turned out that I was very strong in “kumite” (sparring, or fighting).

What am I saying ? Is all of this simply gibberish? No… the theory is to”make lemonade out of lemons”. If you have not yet reached your plateau of success – for whatever reason – don’t give up… it may only remain unseen for a scant few hours of work, or mere inches away from the gooollllddddd.

Have a listen to the story of my “hobby”…and how the “lost years” make engaging in it once again has brought a “joie de vie” back in my life!

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Breaking Boards… Breaking Shacles

Posted by on Nov 20, 2011 in Personal Development, Physical Fitness | 0 comments

Breaking Boards… Breaking Shacles

Yesterday was a day for breaking boards and breaking shackles... a most gratifying but unusual day! I attended a seminar at the Kai-Shin Karate Club in Haliburton, Ontario. The seminar was conducted by Sensei Mike Chapman (6th Dan) and was well attended by affiliated club members, some who had traveled 2 hrs or more to attend.

I had not met Sensei Chapman before this seminar… he’s strict, tough, but a most likeable instructor. He’s not a big man physically and I dare say (respectfully) if you saw him on the street, only his confident stride would give you any indication of his skill and mastery of this martial art.

In attendance there was a good representation of the many levels from beginners to expert, both male and female. There was , I’d guess about 50 or so participants including 15 -20 Black Belts. Everyone was paired up with a team member whom they would spend the seminar with breaking boards.

I referred to it as “breaking boards… breaking shackles” because only through experience will you ever know what you ARE… or ARE NOT capable of. One of the most astute attendees was a young lad, a Green Belt… who was probably no more than 10 or 12 years old. Sensei Chapman endearingly referred to him throughout the seminar as “a Monster”…not because of misbehavior, but because of his tenacity. I think the kid outperformed some of the BlackBelts inasmuch as he broke every board, except 1 on his first attempt.

I had the good fortune of working along side the Head Instructor of our own club Bancroft Martial ArtsSensei Dave Dalley, who would extend the benefit of his knowledge which helped me position myself correctly and focus properly on the clean execution of  the techniques we were practicing.  (…and yes, for the record I made clean breaks on each first attempt) We also had several other senior belt students from our club attending… all of whom did exceptionally well. (My thanks also to Sensei Wayne Lord and fellow students  from Bancroft Martial Arts – Diana, Paula, Victoria, Bill, Celum, Kevin and Fraser)

Sensei Chapman did a lot to put the group at ease just by his demeanor, his straight-forward manner of speaking - imbued with some subtle humor, and of course, his technique. He assured all of us that some would be successful, others may not… but the key was to learn something from the experience. He also suggested that “attitude” and “focus” would prevail. If  you practice, focus on what you’re about to strike… you will be successful, he said – it’s easy!

My observation was that there were some students (including some BlackBelts) who did not have the focus or the attitude to break the boards, (and later concrete) for no apparent reason… they beat themselves. Our little Green Belt “monster” was breaking the same boards as everyone else. My guess is that he did not think that he would notso he did!

As Sensei Chapman came by our stations throughout the proceedings, he would comment on one’s apparent readiness, posture and technique. I took a couple of shots to the chest, ribs and abs as he demonstrated for me – on me – what the technique I was about to perform would do if executed correctly. Let me just say… Sensei’s gentle shots were well placed and effective.

That’s really where this story comes full circle. Prior to attending, I wasn’t sure about breaking boards and was hoping that I wouldn’t embarrass myself. (* I had worked hard to earn Shodan {BlackBelt 1stDan } in Shorin-Ryu Karate 30 years earlier, but until a couple of months ago had never been back to train, gained 30 lbs. and have Parkinson’s) These type of events are something where you can defeat yourself with the wrong attitude. I learned alot yesterday, about myself, my focus and my abilities.

As a metaphor for achieving what you want in life, it was a good exercise to illustrate what you can do with the right attitude, no matter how big, or how small you are. Breaking Boards… Breaking Shackles

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Go Beyond Your Perceived Limitations

Posted by on May 1, 2011 in Health, Personal Development, Physical Fitness | 0 comments

Go Beyond Your Perceived Limitations

Yesterday was a day for going beyond our perceived limitations by breaking boards and breaking shackles... a most gratifying but unusual day! I attended a seminar at the Kai-Shin Karate Club in Haliburton, Ontario. The seminar was conducted by Sensei Mike Chapman (6th Dan) and was well attended by affiliated club members, some who had traveled 2 hrs or more to attend.

I had not met Sensei Chapman before this seminar… he’s strict, tough, but a most likeable instructor. He’s not a big man physically and I dare say (respectfully) if you saw him on the street, only his confident stride would give you any indication of his skill and mastery of this martial art.

In attendance there was a good representation of the many levels from beginners to expert, both male and female. There was , I’d guess about 50 or so participants including 15 -20 Black Belts. Everyone was paired up with a team member whom they would spend the seminar with breaking boards.

I referred to it as “breaking boards… breaking shackles” because only through experience will you ever know what you ARE… or ARE NOT capable of. One of the most astute attendees was a young lad, a Green Belt… who was probably no more than 10 or 12 years old. Sensei Chapman endearingly referred to him throughout the seminar as “a Monster”…not because of misbehavior, but because of his tenacity. I think the kid outperformed some of the BlackBelts inasmuch as he broke every board, except 1 on his first attempt.

I had the good fortune of working along side the Head Instructor of our own club Bancroft Martial ArtsSensei Dave Dalley, who would extend the benefit of his knowledge which helped me position myself correctly and focus properly on the clean execution of  the techniques we were practicing.  (…and yes, for the record I made clean breaks on each first attempt) We also had several other senior belt students from our club attending… all of whom did exceptionally well. (My thanks also to Sensei Wayne Lord and fellow students  from Bancroft Martial Arts – Diana, Paula, Victoria, Bill, Celum, Kevin and Fraser)

Sensei Chapman did a lot to put the group at ease just by his demeanor, his straight-forward manner of speaking - imbued with some subtle humor, and of course, his technique. He assured all of us that some would be successful, others may not… but the key was to learn something from the experience. He also suggested that “attitude” and “focus” would prevail. If  you practice, focus on what you’re about to strike… you will be successful, he said – it’s easy!

My observation was that there were some students (including some BlackBelts) who did not have the focus or the attitude to break the boards, (and later concrete) for no apparent reason… they beat themselves. Our little Green Belt “monster” was breaking the same boards as everyone else. My guess is that he did not think that he would notso he did!

As Sensei Chapman came by our stations throughout the proceedings, he would comment on one’s apparent readiness, posture and technique. I took a couple of shots to the chest, ribs and abs as he demonstrated for me – on me – what the technique I was about to perform would do if executed correctly. Let me just say… Sensei’s gentle shots were well placed and effective.

That’s really where this story comes full circle. Prior to attending, I wasn’t sure about breaking boards and was hoping that I wouldn’t embarrass myself. (* I had worked hard to earn Shodan {BlackBelt 1stDan } in Shorin-Ryu Karate 30 years earlier, but until a couple of months ago had never been back to train, gained 30 lbs. and have Parkinson’s) These type of events are something where you can defeat yourself with the wrong attitude. I learned alot yesterday, about myself, my focus and my abilities.

As a metaphor for achieving what you want in life, it was a good exercise to illustrate what you can do with the right attitude, no matter how big, or how small you are. Breaking Boards… Breaking Shackles – Go Beyond Your Perceived Limitations

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How Much Do You Believe in Yourself?

Posted by on Feb 17, 2011 in Health, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, Spiritual Growth | 0 comments

How Much Do You Believe in Yourself?

Faith

Now you’d be forgiven if you thought – “ here’s a loaded question… if ever I heard one!”  I don’t need to know your answer to the following, but you may be interested…  How much do you believe in Yourself?

I am asking for a purpose for which I shall explain shortly…but let me pose another question. Do you have any Super Human Powers?

Human Potential

No…I’m not talking about the likes of “X-Men” or “Superman“. I’m referring to YOU… and the God-given abilities that you possess in this very moment! The truth is, there is absolutely NO limit to our human mind power. Think about this for a moment: If we were to line up the neurons (brain cells) in your brain, they would reach all the way to the moon and back. This is not an exaggeration. It is scientific fact.

The great American psychologist William James said: Compared to what we should be, we are only half alive. We are making use of only a small part of our mind power. Deep down inside of us are vast powers we know nothing of and never use.

We are ALL blessed with awesome mental potential. Right now, your mind has the power to answer and solve any of your problems, dilemmas and personal challenges. You have the power to create your perfect life, regardless of the world economy. You are not limited in any way by your environment, your background, your intelligence or even by lack of money.

But… we have been “conditioned” by society and the environment that we live in, that we have certain limitations.

Break FREE

There are also other personal factors such as our life experiences, our friends, family, loved ones, peers, bosses… who have told us that we have only certain potential and to think otherwise is not only fool-hardy, but borders on arrogance. DON’T LISTEN TO THEM! That is why I asked my original question. It’s an interesting challenge isn’t it? Conform to what others “hold you to be” …or be all that you can be… live to your fullest potential – unleash your true abilities. Then you ask…. “how do I master that?” Most of us need help… and as Lady Luck just showed up – there is a FREE Conference Call this week that you don’t want to miss.

 

Dr. Pillai is conducting a seminar this week and you can benefit from a FREE  CONFERENCE CALL … the topic is “MASTERING SUPER HUMAN POWERS” . The call is this SAT. FEB.19TH  @ 10PM (EST) call 212-461-5830 pin code 9481 Don’t Miss It!

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Making Time For Exercise

Posted by on Aug 23, 2010 in Health, Physical Fitness | 14 comments

Making Time For Exercise

For a long time,  most people felt like they could only get a workout by going to the gym. Exercise equipment used to be very expensive, and bulky, making it an impossible option for home use, and free weights just don’t provide the same level of resistance that an actual piece of workout equipment can provide. Fortunately, all that has changed, and no matter how busy your schedule might be, there’s a way that you can work exercise into your day.

Buy A Home Gym

Products like the Soloflex, and Bowflex can provide a great total body workout for a reasonable price. Instead of taking the time to go to the gym, all you have to do once you have one of these machines is clear a half hour of time each day to use it. I’m very fortunate to have room in our basement to have an intermediate version of Bowflex, as well as an NordicTrac Elipitical Trainer. Most of these home gyms include upper body, and lower body exercises so you can get a good total body workout with them.

Take Exercise To Work With You

If you have a busy work schedule, you can still make time to workout. Keep a set of free weights at your desk so that you can get in a little bit of exercise during your lunch break, or on a fifteen minute break. Free weights may not provide the same type of workout you can get from hitting the gym, but when you’re working late, a quick workout with some free weights is better than no workout at all. Now, for those of you who work at home, my friend Mary Lou Kayser has put together some interesting articles on working out while working at your home-office desk.

If you really can’t find time to workout in your work day, you can still make small changes in your habits. Consider taking the stairs instead of using the elevator, or walking to that restaurant down the street on your lunch break instead of driving.

It’s All Fun And Games

If you can’t workout at work, and you don’t have room for a home gym, there’s still hope. If your family has a video game console in the house, chances are there’s an exercise game for it. There are games to teach you everything from Yoga to cardio, and some of them will even help you track your fitness progress. The real advantage to something like this as opposed to a workout video is that the video stays the same each time you do it, while a workout game will change each time.

No matter how busy you  are or how limited your space is, you can find a workout option that works for you.  If  you want to get healthy, or stay healthy, whether you are 9 or 90 years old,  nothing is more important to you overall well-being than looking after you’re physical body. If you’re dedicated to your health, you’ll find a way to fit working out in to your day. Your Body, Mind and Spirit will Thank You for it.

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4 Keys To Enjoying Your Job and Your Life

Posted by on Apr 14, 2010 in Personal Development, Physical Fitness, Relationships | 10 comments

4 Keys To Enjoying Your Job and Your Life

Pursuing a career doesn’t mean having to choose your job over your life. If you know how to strike a balance between work and your personal life, then you won’t have to pick one over the other. To be your best in both, however, it’s advisable to develop a system that works for you.

TIME MANAGEMENT

Your ability to manage time is really one of the top two causes of success or failure in your life. What can you do to pave your way to success? Start a commitment notebook for your tasks. This way, it becomes easier to track your to-do lists and deadlines. Plus, you can even log in your personal goals you can incorporate into your work schedule, like a fitness regimen you’ve been dying to try for instance.

When you see your tasks laid out like that, balancing a fabulous life and a stellar career will be a breeze. It helps to define the importance of the different aspects of your life so that you know what you can focus on. A true successful individual will keep doing things that matter.

DEALING WITH STRESS

Of course, you will encounter stress along the way. Say no to stress-eating. Sit up straight at all times because slouching decreases your body’s oxygen intake, which eventually drains you of energy. Moreover, poor posture makes you develop chronic back and neck pains. Deal whatever it is you’re faced with by holding your head high. Flexibility and multitasking are things successful people do because of either socialization or nature.

Personally, I have modified my own view of multitasking recently, simply because of effectiveness, or lack thereof. I found that I was not following through completely on the task at hand, if I was trying to accomplish several at one time. You’ll have to see what works for you, based on your own needs.

LAUGHTER… IS THE BEST MEDICINE

More importantly, know the value of laughter. This is a foolproof stress buster. Sharing your humour with others eases up any awkwardness or pressure brought on by work. Say something silly or crack a joke because sillier can sometimes be better. If you’re not comfortable delivering one face-to-face, send it via email. To avoid blurting out inappropriate remarks, talk with your friends and colleagues. You will soon get to know them well enough to understand which things they’re not comfortable talking about or making fun of.

Please check out this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqevYfbx55g from my friend, Lyn-Dee Eldridge, CPC, CPMC               ( www.lyn-dee.com )

FINDING YOUR PURPOSE IN LIFE

You have to know that you have a purpose in life. Working towards this purpose at a gradual but steady pace will keep you hopeful even during your darkest moments. Take things lightly but have a sense of responsibility. This should keep your smile on despite difficulties. It is innate in a person to know what their purpose is; they just need time to soul search and realize what needs to be done. When you follow what you have been meant to do, you will live in harmony with the rest of the world.

The balance you are seeking should already be found within. It just needs to be rediscovered and unearthed. Embrace what you have right now and celebrate what is yet to come. Remember, you are all capable of great things. Fear limits what you can achieve and you must remove this from your heart. Remember, your psyche knows no boundaries, so live a little but always remember that you also have to be responsible about the things you do.

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