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The urge for self-improvement is an inherent quality in human nature. When trying to compare ourselves with others we may seem to be better than some, and yet with others we may seem to fall short of their fine example. Regarding comparisons of obvious differences in specific talents it may not be too difficult to compare ourselves with others. But when it comes to personality, character and overall nature we should not look so much to others, but to our own concept of human excellence to motivate us towards self improvement. But where do we start?

It seems a very complex a task to try to improve our whole nature. However, the task is made easier when we have a clear plan and patiently construct a scale of priorities that gradually allows us to focus upon each of the factors we have determined upon as important as we embark upon our personal and long-term program of self-culture.

Although some people are fortunate enough to have a mentor or a spiritual guide to show us the way, the majority of us have to find our own path.

There are many existent programmes focusing upon self-improvement regarding business issues and material success and it has become fashionable to adhere to one or another. However, studying a number of different systems can be confusing so it is usually best to find a simple system that clicks or appeals to you, and the simpler the better. You will soon be able to assess its value, not by understanding the theory, but by earnest application and testing of the principles.

The same applies to programmes written specifically to improve character or to offer assistance regarding psychological issues. Some programmes are based upon intense self-analysis. Others consider it important to find strength in the over-view or ultimate plan for change rather than examining the past. Still others seem to overlook the logical approach and focus upon abstract techniques of prayer and the mystical or psychic. The quality methods are usually balanced between aspiration and practicality.

Psychology may be helpful by offering reasons why we behave as we do but unless we have our own vision and can program our mind accordingly, it provides little assistance in helping us improve ourselves in the future. We need more than this. We need an inspirational concept that will motivate our efforts to become a better person, or to improve certain facets of our character.

Astrology is becoming a popular choice today. It is an age-old science revered in all early civilizations. People use astrology to help them understand the various components of their psyche and on a broader scale, to understand the global effects of the cosmos on humanity as a whole. The simplest use of it gives personal encouragement. It outlines a general forecast for people born under a specific zodiacal sign, in relation both to their individual talents and to their future fortunes. It also provides information that helps us focus upon any indication of a weakness. Many who are seriously studying astrology find this simple introduction leads to a further discovery of a well tested and tried system to help us in self-improvement.

Yoga, another path available to the self-improvement aspirant, is a time-tested philosophy based upon a recognition that we have to advance through our own individual efforts, and outlines patterns for physical, emotional and mental self-discipline. That it has a broad coverage of each facet of personal human nature has a general appeal. Many people who commence with the practice of hatha Yogawhich involves the physical disciplines, choose then to progress to Raja Yoga, or ashtanga Yoga to add a knowledge of Eastern psychology to their Western experience.

So it can be seen that every path will offer attractive promises of self-improvement, but the desire to improve ourselves, as well as the action to do so, has to come from within ourselves. It is then that we will find the tool that is meant for us among the many that are available.

However, as in all achievement, theory is one thing; practical results are up to us!

Sally Janssen is one of the best known Yoga teachers in Australia, and is a former President of the International Yoga Teachers Association. She runs an informational website that deals with the very spirit of traditional yoga. To benefit from her extensive knowledge be sure to visit her site at http://www.classical-yoga.com

posted by 10022  # 3:55 PM 0 comments

What's the best muscle building supplement available today? You might not like the answer.

And if you don't, you might want to consider getting away from all those "steroid-like" results ads you are bombarded with in all the magazines.

If you get a chance, take a look back at all the muscle magazines from eight to ten years ago. What do you see?

I'll tell you. You see a lot of ads for "wonder" supplements, many of which were called the best muscle building supplement available at the time. Only problem is, you don't see any ads for those muscle building supplements today. Why is that?

Because they just don't work! Eventuall, consumers figure that out and the supplements stop selling. So the supplement companies come out with the latest, greatest, cutting-edge, best muscle building supplement for you to spend your hard earned money on.

There are a couple of supplements that you still see ads for today. But they aren't sexy, they aren't new, they aren't cutting edge, and they aren't "drug-like" grey area supplements. So I give two answers to the best muscle building supplement question - protein and creatine.

If you want to make outstanding muscle building progress, put together a solid weight training program, train with a high level of intensity, add poundage to your exercises as often as possible, eat six high protein meals every day, and make sure you are out of the gym often enough to recover from your workouts so that you can build the muscle you are triggering into growing.

Oh, and add the dual "best muscle building supplement" to your program - protein and creatine. protein powders make it extremely easy and convenient to eat six meals a day and to get enough quality protein into your body.

Use protein Shakes - This will make it easier for you to consume enough calories and protein each day, as well as making it much more convenient to have 6 meals a day.

Here's a sample weight gain drink you can make up with the best muscle building supplement and use in your muscle building diets.

100 grams of protein powder

2 quarts of whole or 2% milk

2 cups of skim milk powder

2 cups of chocolate ice cream

4 tablespoons of peanut butter

1 banana

Mix in a blender and drink throughout the day, in addition to your regular food meals. Add or subtract ingredients based on individual taste preferences and number of calories needed.

high quality protein, aka, 'the real best muscle building supplement' should be the center point of all your meals. Intense exercise increases demand for protein, which support muscle repair and growth.

When you train with weights, you should eat a minimum of 1.5 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight. If you weight 150 pounds, try and take in at least 225 grams of protein each and every day.

I know this sounds like a lot and you could probably do okay with 1 gram of protein per pound of bodyweight. But if you find it really difficult to gain muscle, this extra protein can help. You don't have to have carbs or fat at every meal, but you must have protein. When I say protein, I am referring to high quality protein derived from animal sources.

For getting bigger and stronger, the only protein you need to be concerned with are those found in whey, casein (cottage cheese), eggs, beef, poultry, and fish. This is the best muscle building supplement and the cornerstone of your muscle building nutrition plan.

through in a high quality creatine product and you are good to go. As for the rest, save your money and stick with the dual stack 'best muscle building supplement' for massive muscle mass gains.

Gregg Gillies

Gregg Gillies is the founder of http://www.buildleanmuscle.com His articles have appeared in Ironman Magazine and he is a regular contributor to body Talk Magazine. He has written two books, available at his site. He has also written a free report, fast Mass, available at Fast Mass Muscle Building Secrets

posted by 10022  # 8:32 AM 0 comments