#Disability supports Sydney

[unitinghealth]

3 Mistakes You Should Avoid When Hiring NDIS providers in Sydney

All Australians with a permanent handicap under the age of 65 are eligible for the NDIS. People with impairments now feel more independent, and it has helped them become stable financially over time. They now have the freedom to decide how they want to be supported and how to handle their finances and other related issues.

But you must sign up for NDIS support in order to receive these benefits. To achieve this, though, you'll need to work with one of the best NDIS service providers in Sydney who can guide you through the procedure. However, this raises another issue: how can you choose the ideal NDIS provider if you are unaware of the most frequent hiring blunders? Scroll down and take a look at them.

Hiring irresponsibly

Make sure the person you hire will be capable of providing the service you require. Make sure that anyone you plan to hire has the skills and expertise required for the position before you recruit them.

Not requesting references

Never hire somebody without first requesting recommendations from past customers. It won't be a problem for good service providers to give you these, therefore it's always worthwhile to check them out. Verify that the NDIS service providers in Sydney will be able to offer you the service you require.

Not considering the service cost

The NDIS's funding may seem rich when compared to what persons with disabilities used to get from state-run programmes. However, this does not imply that all NDIS service providers will price their offerings equitably; some will overcharge. So, make sure you consider the service cost before making a choice.

These are the 3 mistakes you should avoid when hiring NDIS providers in Sydney. If you find this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with your friends, and get back to us for more posts like this!

[arpithashetty]

Need a break from caregiving? Respite care in Sydney provides temporary support, ensuring your loved one gets the care they need while you recharge. Explore flexible, professional options tailored to your family’s needs.

[yogabilitymind]

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation

Yoga’s physical postures and controlled breathing help ease stress and anxiety. It also encourages introspection and self-awareness, allowing individuals to better identify the sources of their stress.

Meditation helps individuals focus on the present moment, reducing rumination (repetitive negative thoughts) which can fuel stress and anxiety. In addition, meditation can be paired with yoga to enhance both practices.

1.       Relaxation

Yoga and meditation both help people relax. They both encourage the body to release feel-good chemicals, which can boost mood and reduce anxiety. And they both involve deep, even-paced breathing, which can slow the heart rate and blood pressure.

Both practices also encourage the body to become more aware of itself, which can make it easier to notice and manage stress. And they both help people find a sense of purpose and inner peace.

But it is important to remember that meditation is not about escaping into the inner world, disconnecting from others and being isolated. The goal of meditation is to balance the mind and the body, while bringing love and compassion into the world.

2.       Focus

Whether you’re practicing yoga or meditation, focus is key. The ability to calm the mind and direct attention brings numerous physical, psychological and emotional benefits.

In yoga, it’s important to hone your concentration with the use of drishti, or focused intention. This means paying close attention to the details of your practice, such as the way a small shift in drishti changes the experience of a pose, or how focusing on seemingly minor alignment cues can enhance the intensity of the pose.

It’s also important to be aware of your breath during meditation. Controlled breathing is known as pranayama, and can help you relax the mind by regulating your emotions.

3.       Concentration

Concentration is an important part of yoga meditation. It helps you stay focused on your practice and keeps your thoughts from getting too scattered. In addition, it can help you focus on a particular object or thought. It also allows you to experience deeper states of mindfulness and non-attachment.

Studies have shown that combining yoga and meditation increases concentration, improves mood, and reduces stress levels. It can also boost your resilience by reducing negative emotions and improving self-compassion. This is achieved by lowering the levels of stress hormones and boosting the production of feel-good chemicals in your brain. This in turn, can lower the reactivity of your emotions when faced with challenging situations.

4.       Focus on the breath

Focusing on the breath is a powerful focal point that helps to enhance

concentration. If your mind wanders, simply notice it and gently bring it back to the breath. Over time, this can create a sense of calm and clarity that is beneficial both on and off the mat.

In many spiritual traditions, the breath is seen as a connection to life force energy (prana in Sanskrit or qi in Chinese). The practice of deep breathing helps to cultivate prana, which can then be used to promote balance and harmony within the body and the mind. It also provides an entry point into the meditative state, or samadhi, of Patanjali’s eight-limbed yoga system.

5.       Focus on the body

The practice of yoga, with its poses and breathing exercises, helps improve flexibility, balance and strength. Yoga also provides mental benefits such as stress reduction, increased focus and a sense of calmness and peace.

The conscious control of the breath during a yoga session is often compared to meditation techniques. For example, ujjayi breath (also known as ocean breath) can be used to anchor the mind in the moment and help reduce anxiety.

Studies have shown that meditation can change gene expression, meaning that it can alter your biological response to stress. This can lead to a stronger immune system and reduced risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression and sleep problems.

6.       Visualization

Visualization (or dharana) is one of the core practices that helps to develop a clear and strong intention for our life. It is also known to create new brain networks that can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

It is a simple but effective exercise that can be used by anyone. You can practice it on its own, or in conjunction with other meditation techniques.

When practicing visualization, focus on a place that feels comfortable and safe to you. Try to engage all of your senses to add depth and detail to your image. This may feel difficult at first, but keep working at it — you'll get better and more comfortable as time goes on.

[avajonesss087]

6 Disability-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in Sydney

Sydney is a vibrant city known for its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and a wide range of activities that cater to everyone, including people with disabilities. Whether you’re a local or visiting the city, there are plenty of accessible and disability-friendly experiences to enjoy. With the support of various disability support services in Sydney, the city is increasingly inclusive, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can explore its attractions comfortably. Here are six disability-friendly activities to enjoy in Sydney.

1. Explore the Sydney Opera House with Accessible Tours

The Sydney Opera House, one of the world’s most famous architectural masterpieces, offers a range of accessible tours designed for visitors with disabilities. These tours provide access to performance spaces, backstage areas, and stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The Opera House has ramps, lifts, and accessible seating options to accommodate guests with mobility impairments, and the tours are tailored to ensure everyone can enjoy the cultural experience.

Accessibility Features: Ramps, elevators, hearing loop systems, and accessible toilets.

Special Services: Audio-described tours, Auslan (Australian Sign Language) interpreted tours, and sensory tours designed for visitors with autism.

Exploring the Sydney Opera House is a fantastic way to connect with Sydney’s cultural scene, and the venue’s commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can participate in the magic of this iconic location.

2. Stroll Through the Royal Botanic Garden

Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden offers a peaceful and picturesque environment with pathways that are wheelchair-friendly and accessible for people with different mobility needs. The garden’s wide, flat paths make it easy to explore the diverse plant collections, beautiful water features, and open green spaces.

Accessibility Features: Wheelchair-accessible paths, accessible restrooms, and benches throughout the garden.

Guided Tours: There are free guided tours available, including special tours for people with visual impairments.

The Royal Botanic Garden is a serene spot for a day out, providing a break from the bustling city while remaining close to major attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay.

3. Enjoy the Views at Sydney Harbour Bridge and Accessible Lookouts

The Sydney Harbour Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city, and there are accessible ways to experience its breathtaking views. While the famous BridgeClimb might not be suitable for all, the Pylon Lookout offers an excellent alternative with a series of ramps and accessible viewing platforms.

Accessibility Features: Ramps, elevators, and accessible viewing platforms at various points around the harbour.

Accessible Walkways: Circular Quay to Barangaroo via the harbour foreshore offers scenic and accessible walkways suitable for wheelchairs and mobility aids.

For a different perspective, consider a harbour cruise on an accessible vessel, where you can see the bridge, Opera House, and city skyline from the water.

4. Relax at Accessible Beaches like Manly Beach and Bondi Beach

Sydney is renowned for its beautiful beaches, and many of them are becoming increasingly accessible to ensure everyone can enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Manly Beach and Bondi Beach are two of Sydney’s most famous coastal destinations that offer disability-friendly amenities.

Accessibility Features: Accessible bathrooms, beach wheelchairs available for hire, and ramp access to the sand.

Accessible Beach Mats: Some beaches, including Bondi, have accessible beach mats that extend across the sand, allowing easy wheelchair access to the water.

These beachside experiences offer a fantastic way to enjoy Sydney’s coastal lifestyle, whether it’s a stroll along the promenade, enjoying a meal at an accessible café, or taking a dip in the ocean.

5. Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum

The Australian National Maritime Museum, located at Darling Harbour, offers a range of accessible exhibits that delve into Australia’s rich maritime history. The museum’s design is highly inclusive, with wheelchair access throughout, tactile displays, and interactive exhibits that cater to all visitors.

Accessibility Features: Accessible parking, wheelchair access, hearing loops, and audio guides.

Special Exhibits: Tactile experiences and interactive exhibits are designed for visitors with sensory impairments.

This museum provides a fun and educational experience, with exhibitions that are engaging and accessible for people of all abilities.

6. Enjoy Accessible Wildlife Experiences at Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo, located on the shores of Sydney Harbour, is a fantastic destination for animal lovers. The zoo is committed to accessibility, offering a variety of services to ensure all visitors can enjoy their day. Wheelchair-accessible paths wind through the exhibits, and the zoo provides accessible transport options within the grounds.

Accessibility Features: Wheelchair-accessible pathways, ramps, accessible restrooms, and accessible parking.

Additional Services: Free wheelchair hire, sensory maps for visitors with autism, and mobility assistance via accessible transport options within the zoo.

Visiting Taronga Zoo offers a unique opportunity to encounter wildlife up close, from native Australian animals to exotic species, all while enjoying panoramic views of Sydney Harbour.

Conclusion

Sydney offers a wealth of disability-friendly activities that cater to individuals of all abilities, making it a truly inclusive city. From iconic landmarks and tranquil gardens to accessible beaches and engaging museums, there’s something for everyone. Thanks to ongoing improvements and the support of disability support services in Sydney, these activities are designed to provide enjoyable and memorable experiences for all visitors. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or education, Sydney’s accessible attractions ensure that everyone can be part of the action.

[planmanager2]

Comprehensive Care: Exploring the Types of Disability Support Services in Sydney

Navigating the landscape of disability support can be daunting, but understanding the variety of services available can make a significant difference. Disability support services in Sydney cater to a broad spectrum of needs, ensuring that individuals with disabilities can lead fulfilling and independent lives. Here’s an overview of the different types of disability support services in Sydney and how they contribute to improving quality of life.

Personal Care and Assistance

Daily Living Support: Daily living support services are designed to help individuals with disabilities manage everyday tasks. This includes assistance with personal hygiene, dressing, eating, and mobility. These services ensure that individuals can maintain their independence and dignity while receiving the care they need.

In-Home Care: In-home care services provide support within the comfort of the individual’s home. Carers assist with various activities, including meal preparation, cleaning, and medication management. This type of support is particularly beneficial for those who prefer to stay in a familiar environment.

Community Participation

Social and Recreational Activities: Engagement in social and recreational activities is crucial for overall well-being. Disability support services in Sydney offer various programs that encourage social interaction, skill development, and enjoyment. These activities include sports, arts and crafts, community outings, and group classes.

Day Programs: Day programs provide structured activities and opportunities for social engagement outside the home. These programs are designed to enhance social skills, build friendships, and foster a sense of community. They also give caregivers a much-needed break, knowing their loved ones are in a safe and stimulating environment.

Educational and Vocational Support

Special Education Services: Special education services cater to the unique learning needs of individuals with disabilities. These services include personalised education plans, specialised teaching strategies, and support from trained educators. The goal is to provide an inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.

Employment Support: Employment support services help individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful employment. These services include job training, resume building, interview preparation, and ongoing workplace support. They empower individuals to achieve financial independence and contribute to their communities.

Health and Well-Being

Therapy Services: Therapy services encompass a range of treatments aimed at improving physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and psychological counselling. Access to these therapies is crucial for managing conditions and enhancing quality of life.

Medical and Nursing Care: For individuals with complex medical needs, specialised medical and nursing care is essential. These services ensure that individuals receive the appropriate medical attention, medication management, and health monitoring. Professional nursing care can be provided at home or in specialised facilities.

Residential Support

Supported Independent Living (SIL): Supported Independent Living services enable individuals with disabilities to live independently while receiving the necessary support. SIL services include help with daily tasks, financial management, and accessing community resources. These arrangements often involve living in shared or individual accommodations with varying levels of support based on individual needs.

Respite Care: Respite care temporarily relieves primary caregivers by offering short-term care for individuals with disabilities. This can be provided in the individual’s home, in a community setting, or in specialised facilities. Respite care ensures that caregivers can take a break while their loved ones continue to receive quality care.

Navigating NDIS and Support Coordination

NDIS Plan Management: Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can be complex. Plan management services assist individuals in managing their NDIS funds, ensuring they are used effectively. This includes budgeting, processing invoices, and financial reporting, allowing participants to focus on their goals.

Support Coordination: Support coordination services help individuals understand and implement their NDIS plans. Coordinators work with participants to identify suitable services, connect with providers, and monitor progress. This personalised support ensures that individuals make the most of their NDIS plans.

Conclusion

The diverse range of disability support services in Sydney reflects the city’s commitment to inclusivity and care. From personal assistance to educational support, these services empower individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives. Understanding and accessing these services can significantly enhance quality of life, providing the necessary support for both individuals and their caregivers. Whether through in-home care, community programs, or specialised therapies, Sydney offers a comprehensive network of support to meet the diverse needs of its residents.

[ndisproviders]

[tipsnupdates]

From personalized care plans to empowering services, we're here to support your journey every step of the way. Let's make your aspirations a reality!

[carloshealthcare]

Agency Nursing Companies Near Me

Keeping healthcare facilities like hospitals and nursing homes well-staffed is vital to their operations. When staffing companies find qualified nurses, they connect them with jobs at these health care facilities, making it easy for the nurses to get hired and for the facilities to have the staff they need when they need them. Those who are looking to become travel nurses or allied health professionals can use the services of these nurse staffing agencies to find the best opportunities in their field.

These agency nursing companies near me are known for providing excellent customer service and offering a comprehensive benefits package to their travelers. They also provide a wide range of nursing and allied health positions to choose from, including per diem, contract, and temporary-to-hire opportunities. These agencies are able to offer these opportunities due to the fact that they have relationships with health care providers who are constantly seeking additional nurses to help meet their needs.

One of the top travel nurse staffing companies is RN Network, which has more than two decades of experience in the industry. The company has an extensive job board and boasts a high rate of placement for its nurses. It offers the standard range of benefits, as well as a rare sick pay policy and short-term disability insurance. It also reimburses nursing license fees and partners with Aspen University to facilitate the quick completion of an associate or bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Another top travel nurse agency is TNAA, which provides a full-team approach to assist its travelers. This includes specialty staff that handle housing experts, clinical leadership, and more. The agency is also known for its low census pay, which allows nurses to work more hours if needed, and for covering or reimbursing nurses’ licensure fees before their first assignment. It has also partnered with Talkspace and Teladoc, which helps nurses with mental health issues.

The next top travel nurse company is Host Healthcare, which has a reputation for fostering great relationships between its recruiters and the healthcare professionals they place on assignments. The company is also known for its exceptional benefit packages, including health, dental, and vision coverage, and a generous housing stipend. It also has a unique COVID-19 quarantine pay policy and a 401(k) with a company match.

Other notable nurse staffing agencies include NuWest, which prides itself on its speed of deployment for new assignments. It has a smaller feel and a personal touch, but still offers competitive pay rates and standard benefits. Another top travel nursing agency is OneStaff Medical, which also has a dedicated team and claims to have a high placement percentage for its healthcare professionals. The company has a strong presence in the Southeast and is based in the United States. Its dedicated recruiters are known for building long-term relationships with their clients, and many of its clients have remained loyal to the firm for years. They are praised for their expertise and dedication to the field of healthcare.

Carol’s Healthcare is a specialised disability support and Aged Care in Homes or within or existing care facility. We not only provide essential respite for caregivers while offering NDIS Support Services in Sydney, but we also strive to increase our participants’ freedom so that they can achieve their full potential.

[basedisability]

How Will You Become A Good Disability Support Worker?

Disability support worker is one of the most noble jobs that you can do for helping other people who would require your help. There are many disabled people in Australia and helping them to live a better life will provide you with immense joy and sustainability.

As a disability support worker, you will have to have enough skills to make a positive contribution in the society and in the lives of many people who are unable to do things on their own.

That is why you need to be a good disability support worker in Sydney to help the disabled. 

How you can become a good disability support worker to help others.

Being able to help and allow the person to be supported:

One of the main qualities that you will require to be a good disabilities support worker is that he will have to understand what kind of support your patient will require and help them with it.

There are many times when the disabled people do not want to take advantage of other people and that's why it becomes quite difficult for them to live a fulfilling life. But with the help of a support worker, they will be able to make positive contributions in the society. 

Being communicative and empathetic:

You have to be empathetic and supportive when you are providing service to a disabled person. Most of the people with disabilities do not have people to share their emotions and that is why you will have to be an empathetic individual to listen to them and communicate with them.

It is one of the most important works for NDIS disability support service providers in Sydney to be able to communicate and engage with the disable people for providing the support. 

Understanding different ways of communication:

Apart from communicating verbally, you will have to learn sign language to communicate with your patience and be resourceful. There are many patients who cannot communicate verbally and that is why it becomes difficult for them to express themselves.

Learning alternative language or sign language can be a very good way of preparing yourself for a better support provider.

You need to have certain qualities that will make you different from other support workers and this way you will be able to contribute to society.

[dignifiedcaring]

Why Do Disability Support Services Matter So Much Now?

People who are physically or mentally disabled need support services to lead a normal life. But if the right support is not provided, they feel helpless and insecure. 

Today, people can access different types of technology. This can help overcome all sorts of disabilities, but only if the right assistance is given. This is where disability care in Sydney comes into play. This is all about offering customised expert support services to mentally and physically disabled people. For more information about the importance of these services, continue reading the blog.

Helps you enjoy a fuller life

If you have a disability, you might not be living an active lifestyle unless you are given support. The support must be provided in a variety of ways, including mentally, physically, and emotionally.

Regardless of your financial situation, you will always require special physical and mental assistance. The top team members are available to recruit from disability support services. You can expect to be able to live your life to the fullest for a minimal monthly premium.

Quality health care services 

What if your family is required to look after you? The level of service should always be compromised. Family members are not qualified to carry out all of your responsibilities.They lack professionalism and expertise.

The finest workers are available via "NDIS support services." The trained disability assistance team will always be available to help you when you need it.

Helps create jobs

Thousands of health professionals and carers worldwide have employment prospects thanks to disability support in Sydney. These services provide them with an opportunity to earn a respectable wage. You will always find a job if you have the skills and desire to look after those around you.

Hope, you now know the importance of disability support services in the present time. Share this blog with your friends if you find it helpful! 

[dominionnursings-blog]

The Best Nursing Agencies in Sydney to Boost Your Staff and Your Bottom Line

A nursing agency is a company that provides nurses to hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities. Nurses are an essential part of the healthcare team. They help doctors and other medical professionals provide care to patients by performing various clinical duties. Nurses can specialize in a number of different fields such as pediatrics, geriatrics, or emergency care.

[southwestcare]

What Types of Home Care Services Are Available?

Whether you need care for yourself or a loved one, you have many options to choose from. The first type is home care services Sydney, which involves a professional caregiver providing services in your home. These services can be either supportive or health care. They include physical and occupational therapies, companionship, and nursing care.

Nursing care

Getting nursing care at home can be a good way to improve the health of your loved one. This is a cost-effective and convenient way for your loved one to stay healthy. It can also make your loved one's life easier and happier.

Home health care services are provided to patients by a variety of healthcare professionals. These professionals include therapists and nurses. A doctor may also visit a patient's home for an assessment. The doctor may prescribe medication for the patient, or make healthcare referrals. The patient may also receive wound care.

Home health nurses work with the patient and his or her doctor to develop a plan of care. The nurse may also monitor the patient's progress. The nurse may help the patient set up a medication regimen. A nurse can also communicate side effects to the prescribing physician.

Physical and occupational therapies

Occupational and physical therapies for home care services are useful ways to help people recover from an injury, illness, or surgical procedure. They can also help patients adapt to their new environment. They are also effective in relieving pain.

Occupational therapists can help patients with daily activities such as getting dressed, bathing, and eating. They can also advise on equipment or assistive devices that may help. They may also help with household chores, such as cooking or cleaning.

Physical therapy is similar to occupational therapy in that it focuses on improving movement and coordination. It may also help patients avoid re-injury or pain. It can also improve strength and balance. The physical therapist may recommend assistive devices, or may even work with the patient to train him or her to perform certain activities independently.

Personal care

Whether you are an elderly patient with an illness or recovering from an injury, a personal care service can help you stay at home instead of moving into a nursing home. These services are available through several programs, and can help you age in place.

If you are looking for help in your home, you can choose from two options: hire a caregiver on your own or use an agency to provide services. The choice is up to you, but either way, you should ensure that you understand the coverage and fees.

Typically, the cost of personal care services varies depending on the type of care you need. The cost can range from a few dollars per hour to thousands of dollars per year.

Companionship

Having a companion at home can help you or your loved one stay healthy, active and social. It is especially important for older adults who may need a little extra help with daily activities. A companion can help with meal preparation, shopping, housekeeping, and transportation.

A companion may also help with medical appointments and transportation to and from them. They may also offer companionship, which can benefit everyone in the family. This relationship can bring a new meaning to life.

Many older adults find it difficult to remain social. The stress of isolation can lead to mental and physical problems. Loneliness is also associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

A companion can help older adults keep their appointments. It may also assist with other tasks such as meal preparation or laundry. They may also accompany a senior to social events or religious services. This can help them build new friendships, which are important to older adults.

Hospice care

Whether you have a terminal illness or just need help with chronic conditions, home care services can help you recover. Hospice care may be covered by Medicare or Medicaid, or you may need to pay privately. Choosing a hospice is a personal decision, but you can find a team of trained professionals available to provide care at your home.

A hospice team can provide respite care for a few hours or days, or even for a few weeks. It is important to contact your hospice provider first to determine whether or not your hospice benefit will cover respite care.

Hospice care providers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They will make regular visits to the patient to make sure they are comfortable. They may also prescribe medications and therapies to alleviate symptoms.

[yogabilitymind]

The Benefits of Yoga and Meditation

When you think of meditation, you probably picture someone sitting cross legged on the floor or a cushion. While it is possible to meditate in this position, many people who can’t sit cross legged find it easier to do so while seated in a chair.

By incorporating meditation into your Yoga practice, you can create an opportunity for continuous growth and self-discovery. It will support your mental, physical and spiritual health.

Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a mental state of awareness, focused on the present moment. The goal is to observe without judgment thoughts and feelings that are arising in the mind, body and surroundings. This practice is a great way to reduce stress, improve sleep and increase self-esteem. It can also help with physical ailments such as back pain, heart disease and depression.

Yoga meditation helps you reframe the way you relate to your body and emotions, allowing you to become less reactive. For example, if you feel restless in a class or bored, you can practice mindful breathing to bring your attention back to the present moment and focus on your breath.

For this, it’s best to meditate in a quiet room that is free from noise and distractions. Sit in a comfortable position, close your eyes and notice the rise and fall of your breath. Breathe in through the nose, out through the mouth. Try counting your breaths to see if you can keep your attention on this simple process for the duration of the meditation.

Breathing

Many yogis believe that the breath is what links body, mind, and soul. Yogic breath techniques are undergoing intense scientific scrutiny and may offer significant health benefits.

A gentle focusing of the breath can offer a focal point to help calm the whirlwind of thoughts that often plague us. Bringing the mind back to the breath on a regular basis can also offer a sense of stability and control during meditation.

For example, alternating nostril breathing, called Nadi Shodhana in yoga, is said to "unblock and purify the nadis" that carry energy and life force throughout the body. The practice, which involves inhaling through the right nostril, then exhaling through the left, can also lower blood pressure.

Another common pranayama yoga technique, ujjayi breathing (sometimes referred to as victorious breath or ocean breath), encourages deep abdominal breathing. This type of breathing can help calm the mind and reduce stress, according to integrative medicine physician Chiti Parikh.

Relaxation

Meditation can help you focus, calm your mind and relax. While many yoga poses and exercises can be considered meditative, you can also practice mindfulness through simple breathing techniques or sitting in stillness. When combined with a healthy diet, yoga and meditation can bring you more peace of mind and overall wellness.

One technique you can try is progressive muscle relaxation, which helps to reduce stress by focusing on the feeling of each muscle group. Start at the feet and move slowly up through the body, contracting and then relaxing each muscle. Listen to this guided meditation from HelpGuide for an example of how to perform progressive muscle relaxation.

While yogic meditation is not a goal in and of itself, it can lead to better concentration, greater control over the mind and deeper understanding of life. With a dedicated practice and proper guidance, yoga meditation can be an effective part of a holistic lifestyle.

Self-awareness

In addition to the benefits of physical and mental relaxation, yogic meditation promotes self-awareness. This can help you learn to recognize negative patterns and break them. It can also lead to greater compassion and empathy with others.

Yoga teaches us that all forms of the mind are products of prakrti, or matter, and that they are completely distinct from the soul or true self, purusa. As a result, the yogic disciplines of shaucha (purity and cleanliness), santosha (contentment and acceptance), tapas (discipline and austerity), swadhyaya (study and contemplation of sacred texts) and ishvara-pranidhana (surrender to a higher power) all help cultivate a sense of sensory and ego detachment.

Yoga meditation can be a powerful tool to feed the self-awareness wolf so that we can go the distance in life with clarity, balance, contentment and internal resilience. But, like any long-distance marathon, it requires practice, training and first aid. Charlotte Nuessle is an internationally certified yoga therapist, gerontologist and mindfulness teacher.

[copperbadge]

Radio Free Monday

Good morning everyone, and welcome to Radio Free Monday!

Ways to Give:

penndragon is raising funds to help fix his LGBT+ family's car; they've recently been dealing with job loss and other unexpected expenses, and while they have found new employment opportunities, they require a running car. You can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

Anon linked to arlingtonchamberofgay, who lost their job in April and has been unemployed since; they are working towards attaining legal disability status but the process moves slowly, and they've been homeless and couch surfing for several months. They're raising funds for bills, gas money, and a storage unit; you can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

kitweewoos is raising funds to get her car back from repossession before it's auctioned in about three weeks; her partner has been on medical leave which has reduced their household income to hers alone, and her paycheck has been going towards keeping them housed and fed. They're raising money to pay the past due amount and repossession fees to the bank. You can read more, reblog, and find giving information here.

stabbedinthenameofscience linked to a fundraiser for IronAngel Forge in Michigan, the longest continually operating forge in the state (founded in 1884). A neighbor's shed caught on fire and it leapt to the forge building, resulting in a near-complete loss of the building, although the anvil, several of the tools, and even some of the art escaped destruction. The current owner John and his partner Julie are raising money to rebuild the shop in order to continue the tradition and history of the site; you can read more and support the fundraiser here.

wordstreamer's cat Diva needs urgent medical care at a time when they are already in a bad financial situation; they're raising funds for vet bills and future treatment. You can read more, reblog, and find giving information and kitty pictures here.

Recurring Needs:

like-the-midnight-sun linked to a fundraiser for a close friend, Sydney, who is queer, trans, disabled, and currently homeless after leaving an abusive situation; they have a job but are living in their car and need help to keep their dog, Felix, safe during the day while they're at work. They're raising funds to board Felix during the day so that they can keep their job and get back on their feet; you can read more and support the fundraiser here.

chingaderita's partner recently lost their job due to a house fire that also destroyed the house, and his most recent job has not yet paid him; they're raising funds to keep food on the table for a family of nine, to try and get a supply of water to keep clean which is increasingly difficult during a drought, and for medications and bills until they can find new work. You can read more, reblog, and support the fundraiser here.

And this has been Radio Free Monday! Thank you for your time. You can post items for my attention at the Radio Free Monday submissions form. If you're new to fundraising, you may want to check out my guide to fundraising here.

[artist-issues]

Hey, it’s me again

I know this was a while back but I just remembered what you said about cultivating tastes

My unwillingness to do so cane from my experience from those who lectured me to do the same but they themselves did not practiced what they preached

"You need to curate your tastes if your tired of being disappointed with shows"

Fine *does so*

"Ugh, you're so close minded and immature, why don't you take risks, broaden your horizons, and cultivate your tastes?"

Okay, why don't you do that too?

"Well I prefer the broad and nitty gritty things tragically, which are broad and risky by default so I don't need to do that."

It just felt like people like me had to keep bending over backwards and follow all these rules and regulations while those who preferred things tragically could just do whatever and act however they want

They were kinda like Uncle Andrew from The Magician’s Nephew, they have these deeper knowledge of things and are not bound to the same rules as us ordinary people

Hey, I'll be honest, I can't find my answer to your original ask and I don't fully remember our conversation (I vaguely remember the context, though!)

I mean, Uncle Andrew was wrong and being ridiculous when he said that rules don't apply to people like himself. But I guess that's your point.

I don't understand. So people are telling you that you should like things that are "gritty and tragic?" And that that is where your deficiency in taste is? Thats silly. A story is not high-quality because it has "grit" or "tragedy" in it. It has high quality elements if the "grit" or "tragedy" support the main point of the story well. But tragedy or grit for the sake of shock-jock emotion-grabbing is a waste of time and energy.

Also, I'm not advocating for adjusting your tastes so that you like disappointing shows. I don't know who is doing that, but whoever they are, that's a silly goal. It's like telling someone who got sick because they ate a whole can of spray-cheese, "you know what, it's just because you're not used to it. Eat another can of spray-cheese and you'll gradually start liking it."

Okay, well, that's a terrible goal to have. I don't want to have a taste for something that is bad. I don't want to like spray cheese, which tastes awful and also has no nutritional value and is going to make me sick. There's no point in me liking it. It's a good thing that my body's (my tastes') natural response is to reject something that is bad. Why would I want to dull it? Disappointment in a show that is poorly made and has no value is a defense mechanism that you shouldn't disable.

All I'm saying is, why are you disappointed in the show? Is it because it's poorly made? Is it because the story has no point, or makes its point badly? <- Those are good reasons to be disappointed in the show.

Or is it just because the story doesn't have the kind of "flavors" you are used to liking? Maybe the tragedy serves the story (like Sydney Carton dying in a Tale of Two Cities) but you don't like to feel sad for any reason, (even though feeling sad in the case of A Tale of Two Cities can lead you to appreciating the lesson better) so you don't read/watch that story because it's not your "flavor." <- That's an example of a not-very-good reason for being disappointed in a story.

And ultimately, who cares what other people are doing or liking? Figure out what is good, true, beautiful—objectively, whether anyone believes it or not. Then measure everything by that, whether everyone else does or not. And shrug off people's badly-thought-out reasons for liking or disliking something.

I believe and have found it to be true that God invented storytelling by inventing this reality we're living in. And His story has a point. And everything He put in His story—the setting, the characters, the mood, the way it all works—points back to the point of the story, and it does so in a beautiful, engaging way, with no shortcuts or laziness in craft. Therefore, all human-made stories are echoes of that. Some of our echoes are really good, close resemblances to God's story, because they support the main point of their story in an engaging way. But some are not, because they don't. It's a simple metric to measure things by.

But some people's standard is just "does the story entertain me?" And that's a fine sub-standard. Stories can't be engaging if they're not, on some level, entertaining. But it's a terrible ULTIMATE standard—because your tastes in entertainment can be bad, or change, or be inconsistent. Other people's standards are "does the story make me feel something?" But that's another poor ultimate standard. Because an emotional bit of music can make you feel just about anything, for a moment, even if the story behind it makes no sense. Better to ask, "what is the story making me feel, about what?"

Anyway. Thats what I believe. So I don't give two shakes of a lamb's tail what other people think I should like or dislike. I mean, I'll consider it, if they have good reasons for me to like or dislike something. But the point is, I know what I believe about the world. So I know what I believe about storytelling. And I'm trying to train my tastes to match up with that—regardless of who agrees or disagrees with me.