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Travel   Have a Brilliant Time In Boston
As one of the oldest cities in the US, you can rest assured that Boston is crammed with historical sites and antique attractions. Not only is Boston the capital of the states of Massachusetts, but it's also the largest city in New England and one of the wealthiest and most prominent cities in the States. For all of the New England city's olden day charm, you shouldn't assume that's all it has to offer. Boston is also home to a thriving business community as well as a fertile breeding ground for many cultural outpourings, meaning there are arts and entertainments to suit all tastes in Boston. The city is packed with popular colleges and universities too, and the student scene ensures there are plenty of activities suited to young adults as well as older generations. What's more, as Boston subsumed a number of neighbouring towns during its journey to the metropolis it is today, the city has a number of very distinct and diverse areas and regions. This makes it easy for travellers to enjoy many different experiences on their trip to Boston and ensures that they can experience a range of cultural identities and vibes. There are also a number of districts that can prove perfect for visitors to the city. For example, theatre-goers are sure to want to pay a visit to Boston's theatre district while the Waterfront District is certain to appeal to those who want to enjoy some gentle boasting. Of course, a trip to Boston without checking out some of its museums and galleries is like apple pie without the cream, and travellers will have the chance to sink their teeth into establishments such as Boston's Museum of Fine Arts, the Harvard Museum of Natural History and the MIT Museum. If you're planning on visiting a few, you may find that a GoBoston Card could save you cash. If you want to see a different side to Boston, then a ferry out to Georges Island to take a tour of Fort Warren or enjoy ranger-led activities or the chance to swim and picnic in a scenic spot. There are also some great tours to help you explore Boston proper and this can be an excellent way to make sure you don't miss out on any of Boston's famous sights. Hotels in Boston are plentiful, and many will be able to help you book any tourist attractions or entertainments you are hoping to enjoy on your trip. About the Author: Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
Entertainment   Blu-ray Movies Perfect for Halloween
Halloween is just around the corner, and there's no better way to put you in the mood than with some scary horror movies. Below are some of the best Blu-ray movies available. They range from the truly horrifying (Carrie, Halloween, and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre), to the somewhat lighter side (Evil Dead II: Dead by Dawn and The Nightmare Before Christmas). But all these movies are sure to frighten and entertain you and your friends this Halloween. The Shining [Blu-ray] Many consider this to be THE greatest horror film ever made. Writer Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson, becomes the caretaker of the Overlook Hotel in a secluded part of Colorado. Jack brings along his family. His wife, played by Shelly Duvall and their young son stay with him at the hotel. The hotel is abandoned during the winter, Jack will have only his family for company. Strange and eerie things begin to happen during their stay at the hotel. Danny, Jack's son, is able to envisions brutally graphic images by a force called 'the shining'. Jack is soon affected by this. With a serious case of writer's block and the evil demons of the hotel tormenting him, Jack has a mental breakdown and begins his own version of family bonding fun. Video Quality: Video codec: VC-1 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: LPCM 5.1 (48kHz, 16-bit) English: Dolby Digital 5.1 French: Dolby Digital 5.1 Spanlish: Dolby Digital 5.1 Special Features: - The Making of "The Shining" - View from the Overlook: Crafting "The Shining" - Wendy Carlos, Composer - The Visions of Stanley Kubrick Bram Stoker's Dracula [Blu-ray] The often told story of Dracula takes on new life, in this extravagant and lavish production. With outstanding performances from Gary Oldman as the Count and Winona Rydar as Mina Murray. They play star-crossed lovers, who's turbulent romance transcends the centuries. Mina is engaged to another man and the Count feeds off the living. The cast also includes Anthony Hopkins, who is Van Helsing, the vampire slayer. Who plays the part with the perfect amount of gusto. As does Tom Waits as Renfield, the hapless slave Of Count Dracula, who has a fondness for the blood of cats and insects. Sadie Frost makes for a vibrant Lucy Westenra. And then there is Keanu Reeves, who plays Jonathon Harker; fiance to Mina Murray. In his version of Bram Stoker's Dracula; Francis Ford Coppola has made a film that has a bit of everything ; blood and gore, high-speed horseback chases, lots of passion and longing. What more can you ask for Halloween. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: LPCM 5.1 (48kHz, 16-bit) English: Dolby Digital 5.1 French: Dolby Digital 5.1 Hungarian: Dolby Digital 5.1 Czech: Dolby Digital 5.1 Polish: Dolby Digital 5.1 Russian: Dolby Digital 4.0 Special Features: - Introduction by FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA - Audio Commentary by FRANCIS FORD COPPOLA - Deleted Scenes - The Blood is the Life: The Making of Dracula - The Costumes are the Sets: The Design of Eiko Ishioka, In-Camera: The Naive Visual Effects of Dracula - Method and Madness: Visualizing Dracula) - Youth Without Youth Trailer An American Werewolf in London (Full Moon Edition) [Blu-ray] Simply put An American Werewolf in London is a cult classic, featuring groundbreaking make-up effects by Academy Award winner Rick Baker. Its combination of the macabre and biting sense of humor make it one the most astonishing horror movies ever made. Directed by John Landis, of National Lampoon's Animal House; he puts his own spin on the classic werewolf tale. Set in London, it is about two American tourists who venture out for a stroll on the Moors one night during a full moon. One violent wolf attack later and their lives are changed forever. Also included in this digitally remastered Full Moon Edition is the new feature-length documentary Beware the Moon. Video Quality: Video codec: VC-1 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Original aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 French: DTS 2.0 Mono German: DTS 2.0 Mono Italian: DTS 2.0 Mono Spanish: DTS 5.1 Special Features: - Beware the Moon (SD, 1:37:37) - I Walked with a Werewolf (1080i, 7:31) - Making An American Werewolf in London: An Original Featurette (SD, 5:15) - An Interview with John Landis (SD, 18:20) - Makeup Artist Rick Baker on An American Werewolf in London (SD, 11:14) - Casting of the Hand (SD, 10:59) - Outtakes (SD, 3:08) - Storyboards (SD, 2:28) - Photograph Montage (SD, 3:45) - Feature Commentary with Cast Members David Naughton and Griffin Dunne - BD-Live Functionality Carrie [Blu-ray] It "catches the mind, shakes it and refuses to let it go"; this is what Time magazine said about Carrie, the movie based on the best-selling Stephen King novel. Other critics like Robert Ebert; "absolutely spellbinding" and the Los Angeles Times "outrageously witty" agree. Making this one of the all time great classic horror movies. Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie give Academy Awarded nominated performances, in this quintessential revenge story. The story revolves around a girl named Carrie (Spacek), who is cruelly and often picked on in high school. A misfit with out any friends or confidence, and who is unaware of her extraordinary telekinesis powers. But with the help of her deranged mother and masochistic schoolmates who push her to the breaking point, she unleashes her wrath onto anyone who gets in her way. She leaves in her wake a cinematic flurry of blood, fire and brimstone. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-2 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 English Mono Spanish Mono French: Dolby Digital 5.1 Special Features: - 1080p Trailers for: Carrie The Amityville Horror The Terminator Evil Dead II: Dead by Dawn [Blu-ray] Evil Dead II is more of a remake than a sequel. Armed with a higher budget, writer-director Sam Rami was able to bring more decapitations, zombies, supernatural monsters and bloodshed. Even with these elements involved, the movie itself is a hilarious, finely tuned slapstick satire of horror films. Rami takes ever horror cliche and amplifies it with extraordinary special effects, along with jeering juvenile humor. The plot is a simple one, several teenagers go to the country for a holiday. They stay in a broken down cabin in the woods, miles from anywhere. There they discover the Book of the Dead. Soon the accidentally unleash a supernatural evil being that kill everyone. All except the character Ash. Played by Bruce Campbell, in one of the greatest frenzied feats of physical comedy every seen on film. He spend most of the film getting his body brutalized while fighting this supernatural evil. While mainly unseen in theaters, this film has become a hugely influential cult video. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: LPCM 5.1 English: Dolby Digital 5.1 Special Features: - Commentary featuring writer/director Sam Raimi, actor Bruce Campbell, co-writer Scott Spiegel, and make-up artist Greg Nicotero. - "Film Fast Facts." - Evil Dead 2: Behind-The-Screams (480p, 17 minutes) - The Gore the Merrier (480p, 32 minutes) Hellboy II: The Golden Army [Blu-ray] The sequel to Guillermo del Toro's Hellboy, The Golden Army continues the stroy of the red demon superhero and his friends. An ancient treaty between humans and creatures is broken by an evil elf. He declares war against humanity and he attempts to revive The Golden Army to help him wage this war. The Golden Army is a group of deadly fighting machines who can bring the human race to its end. It is up to Hellboy (Ron Perlman) and his crew, Liz (Selma Blair), Abe (Doug Jones) and protoplasmic mystic Johann, to stop the evil elf before The Golden Army can destroys them all. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1 Spanish: DTS 5.1 French: DTS 5.1 Special Features: - 2 Audio Commentaries - Documentary - Featurettes - Deleted Scenes - Still Galleries - Digital Copy Halloween [Blu-ray] One chilly Halloween night in Haddonfield, Illinois in 1963, a six year old child named Micheal Myers viciously killed his teenage sister after she had sex with her boyfriend. Micheal is taken to Smith's Grove Warren County Sanitarium and locked up under the care of Dr. Simon Loomis. The doctor is the only one who truly see the evil that is within Micheal Myers. Michael is able to escape the sanitarium on October 1978. Dr. Loomis is witness to the escape and travels to Haddonfield, Illinois where he knows Michael will murder again once Halloween night arrives. Michael soon stakes three teenage girls, Laurie Strode, Annie and Lynda. Along with the local sheriff, Dr. Loomis tries to track down Michael and stop him from his savage killings. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 2.35:1 Audio Quality: English: LPCM 5.1 (48kHz, 16-bit) English: Dolby Digital 5.1 English: Dolby Digital Mono Special Features: - Audio Commentary - Documentary - Theatrical Trailer Halloween Starter Pack (Land of the Dead / Dawn of the Dead / The Thing) [Blu-ray] This box set includes three blu-ray movies 'The Thing (1982),' 'Land of the Dead' and 'Dawn of the Dead (2004).' Each is on an individual disc, and identical as the previously-released stand-alone editions. The Thing: John Carpenter is at his terrifying best with this sci-fi thriller. A 12 man research team gets standard in the Antarctica and stumbles upon an alien being that has been buried there for over 100,000 years. Land of the Dead: In a modern day world where the walking dead roam the streets, the remaining living people try to eke out a normal life behind the walls of a fortified city. Quickly, a new socity emerges built by a few merciless opportunist. They dwell in the high skyscrapers high above the mean and deadly streets. However, beyond the city walls, the army of the dead is slowly evolving and soon treating the city's survival. Mercenaries are hired to fight this threat. Dawn of the Dead: Zombies have taken over, resulting in chaos and carnage. Four frighten survivors seek refuse inside a shopping mall. The barricade themselves there and fight the ever relentless zombie horde. This classic horror film still remains as a landmark in make-up effects (Tom Savini), and is truly one of the most important films in the horror genre. Video Quality: Video codec: VC-1 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 2.35:1 Audio Quality: English: DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 Spanish: DTS 5.1 French: DTS 5.1 Special Features: Land of the Dead - The Remaining Bits (480p, 2:56) - When Shaun Met George (480p, 12:59) - Land of the Dead. Scenes of Carnage (480p, 1:43) - Zombie Effects: From Green Screen to Finished Scene (480p, 3:18) - Bringing the Storyboards to Life (480p, 7:55) - Scream Tests: Zombie Casting Call (480p, 1:04) Interview with the Vampire [Blu-ray] Horror Author Anne Rice's much beloved cult classic from 1976 is brought to the screen in this 1994 adaptation. The movie chronicles the life of a 18th-century nobleman Louis de Pointe du Lac, played by Brad Pitt. One night he is bitten by a powerful vampire named Lestat de Lioncourt. Though initially captivated with the life of the undead, Louis is unable to come to grips with the lifestyle. Especially the killing of humans. He soon gets despairing about being undead. To help him, Lestat creates yet another vampire, played by Kirsten Dunst. She is turned when she is a young girl, so therefore will never age. Also, staring in the movie is Antonio Banderas, who plays a 400 year old vampire Armand. Christian Slater plays the radio producer who interviews Louis. Directed by Neil Jordan, the film is able to create the decadence and erotic passion of the novel. While never forgetting its rich darker tones. Video Quality: Video codec: VC-1 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: Dolby Digital 5.1 French: Dolby Digital 2.0 Spanish: Dolby Digital 1.0 Special Features: - Audio Commentary - Documentary - Introduction - Theatrical Trailer The Nightmare Before Christmas [Blu-ray] Digitally restored and remastered with state-of-the-art technology, THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS becomes more glorious than ever. The story revolves around the Pumpkin King Jack Skellington, who is getting bored with the same old scary routine he is used to. Wanting to spread the joy of Christmas, his mission soon puts Santa in danger. As well as creating a nightmare for good little boys and girls. Danny Elfman provides the fantastic soundtrack to the imaginations of Tim Buton and Henry Selick film creation. With this Blu-ray edition The Nightmare Before Christmas is now more frightening and extraordinary then ever. Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-4 AVC Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.66:1 Audio Quality: English: Dolby TrueHD 7.1 (48kHz, 24-bit) English: Dolby Digital 5.1 Spanish: Dolby Digital 5.1 Portuguese: Dolby Digital 2.0 French: Dolby Digital 5.1 Special Features: - Audio Commentary - Documentary - Tim Burton Short Films - Tim Burton's Original Poem - Featurettes - Deleted Scenes - Still Galleries - Trailers - DisneyFile Digital Copy Poltergeist [Blu-ray] Poltergeist, in the beginning, starts out on a playful tone. The Freeling family having moved into a new housing development, with a somewhat 'unique' kitchen; to say the least. But soon things turn darker. One night there is a storm, a tree attacks the family and Carol Anne Freeling is abducted into a spectral void. The family encounters horrors beyond belief in trying to bring young Carol Anne back. Produced by Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall and directed by Tobe Hooper (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre), Poltergeist is a landmark in using special effects to bring out the jaw dropping frights. Whether its floating phantasms, monsters popping out of closets, or an entire house disappearing into nothing, Poltergeist deliverers the scares. Video Quality: Video codec: VC-1 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 2.40:1 Audio Quality: English: Dolby TrueHD 5.1 English: Dolby Digital 5.1 English: Dolby Surround Stereo French: Dolby Surround Stereo Spanish: Dolby Surround Stereo Special Features: - Featurette Saw [Blu-ray] In a dirty abandoned bathroom, two men wake up to find themselves chained on opposite sides of the room. Between them is a dead man lying in a pool of blood and holding a tape recorder and a revolver. Both men have a cassette tape. When played it reveals a task for both. One is to kill the other by 6:00 or his wife and child will die. Hacksaws are also found, but they are unable to saw through their chains. Both have become victims of the Jigsaw Killer. Through a series of flashbacks we learn of more victim of this killer, who actually never kills anyone. Instead he finds clever and sadistic ways for the victims to either kill themselves or each other. He is meticulous in his planning, with seemingly no way, or is there? Video Quality: Video codec: MPEG-2 Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.85:1 Audio Quality: English: Dolby Digital 5.1 EX English: DTS-ES Matrix 6.1 Special Features: - None The Texas Chain Saw Massacre [Blu-ray] Many people have tried to describe The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, calling it grisly, sick, perverse and raw. But without a doubt it is a movie that redefined the horror genre. Churches organized protested against it. Governments went as far as banning the movie. Only a few scant, brave critics dared give the movie any kind of acclaim. Audiences were astounded by it worldwide. Setting a new standard in terror. The writer-producer-director responsible was Tobe Hooper, who in 1974 brought us a story of five friends who face the ultimate nightmare at the hands of a psychotic Texas family. Regarded as one of the most frightening movies ever made, it is also a shining example of independent film-making. Video Quality: Video codec: TBA Video resolution: 1080p Aspect ratio: 1.78:1 Audio Quality: English: Dolby Digital 5.1 EX English: DTS-ES Matrix 6.1 Special Features: - Audio Commentaries - Documentaries - Featurettes - Still Galleries - Theatrical Trailers About the Author: ... For more information on Blu-ray and Blu-ray Players try this handy comparison guide: Blu-ray Players Or view our list of the Best Selling Blu-ray Players and Blu-ray Deals: Blu-ray Player Deals Copyright 2010. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
Social issues   Save Your Relationship For Yourself
So many times relationships start out wonderfully, the person is joyous and feels as if they've found, "the one". Then as time passes, they begin to wonder where has the love gone? Many feel lost when this happens. They do not know what went wrong, or what steps need to be taken to make things right again. It seems to many that love is a mystery. When one relationship ends, they fear they may never find someone new, or be able to love again. Or, even when things are going well, unexpected obstacles can arise that seem to difficult to overcome. Tremendous amounts of time and emotion are spent trying to figure out what is going on. But stop a moment and think about it. You would never try to build a building without first getting an architect's plan. Without a strong foundation, any passing storm would easily knock the building down. The same is true of relationships. Although we learn many things during years of schooling, most never have the opportunity to learn the basic laws of loving relationships, what is required to make them work. So many jump into relationships wanting to fly to the heights without having any understanding at all of how to build a solid foundation that will allow their relationship to stand strong. However, just as an architect knows and respects the laws of gravity, we too must know and work with the basic laws of love. These laws operate unfailingly. They are the cornerstone of all relationships and guidelines for the human heart. Once we learn and apply the basic laws of love, it is truly impossible to fail at love. No matter what happens. Unfortunately, rather than learn these simple laws, most have absorbed many myths and fantasies. They then suffer greatly when their dreams do not come to pass and either blame themselves and others. However, it is extremely important to realize that the only thing that causes hurt, loss, or distress in relationships are the fantasies we hold onto. Once we replace these fantasies with the simple laws of love, a whole new world opens. Confusion is cleared up and we naturally see the right steps to take. To begin with, let us absorb this law #1. It is impossible to fail at love. No one is a failure in love. Our mistakes, losses, confusion and mishaps do not arise because of love. They arise simply out of our ignorance of who we are and what love truly is. In order to recognize real love, we must move onwards to law #2. There is a difference between real and counterfeit love. Counterfeit love is based upon the idea that love is an emotion, a wonderful feeling, not a way of life. In counterfeit love, when we have strong feelings towards someone, we immediately assume that we are in love. But all feelings naturally change, that is their nature. Many feel that love is leaving when this happens. They do not realize that it is the nature of feelings to change, and that this is also the nature of counterfeit love. Counterfeit love is confusion between excitement, dependence, attachment and love. Real love does not fluctuate. We do not reject the other person if they do not meet our needs. Real love grows through action. It is love is a verb, upon deeds of kindness, value and respect. It knows that the foundation of lasting relationships is built something deeper than feelings that come and go. Love brings fulfillment, healing, kindness, warmth and inspiration. Let us separate truth from error here. If this is not what's going on in your relationship, it is not an expression of love. But it is easy to save your relationship. Let us learn how to build relationships that are based on a strong foundation. Once you learn and practice the laws of love you will not only save your relationship, but become all you were meant to be. Cc/author/2005 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ About the Author: Learn about tummy growl and tummy tuck recovery at the Tummy Pain site.
Motivation   Be Happy! Why Worry?
Worry is a silent killer. It is like a slow poison. It is a chronic illness. In fact, it is an illness which is many fold dreadful than the physical illnesses. Worry not only affects our body but our mind too. If you think seriously, you would find that it is really no use worrying about anything. It is really foolish to worry about past or future. Nobody can change the past. Whatever has happened has happened. Why worry? How can something that has yet not come to pass affect us? How are we so certain that the future is so bleak? Things may turn out well. Why worry then? Worrying just tires us and diminishes our capacity of clear thinking and planning. It promotes negative thinking. Instead of worrying we should use positive affirmations and resolutions. If worry could solve the problem, everybody would worry as much as possible. Problem solving requires clear thinking and planning. But worry makes us incapable of clear thinking and planning. Many things, if they are going to happen, will happen regardless of our worry. If it is going to rain, it will. We worry for small things. The worst-case scenario may not even be bad enough to worry. You have made your boss angry. You worry that he may fire you. What of it? That is not the end of the world. You are still alive. Perhaps you would get a better job. You dread to go to the office next day. You think of sending in your resignation letter. Worrying you reach office. The boss calls you. He apologizes. It was his mistake! Not only we should not worry about little things, but we should also not worry about seemingly big things. The things that seem today very big and important will seem trifle tomorrow. In your student life you must have worried for days about the wrong answer you gave, even though you knew the right answer, to an objective type of question carrying just half mark. How much you worried about a dress on a special occasion, meeting a boy or girl whom you fancied, or the change of residence of a friend's family? Do these matter a bit today? Why worry about spilled milk, or a broken glass, or a missed bus? Of course, no body worries for the sake of worrying. Worry just comes into mind and then never leaves. But many people never worry. It seems that worrying is a sort of bad habit. As all bad habits the habit of worrying is also difficult to get rid of. So, in the first instance, never make worrying a habit. Secondly, try to divert your mind. Think of positive things. Get busy with some physical activity. Keep yourself away from people who are habitually worrying type and who always see the negative side of a thing. Instead of useless worrying, one should take positive action — BE HAPPY! About the Author: Would you like to discover the forgotten ancient secrets of authentic happiness and learn how to create the reality which resonates with the deepest part of your being? Visit http://www.theforgottensecretsofhappiness.com for more info (free preview!)
Motivation   12 Ways to Come Alive!
What's the purpose of life? What an age-old, persistent question of humankind. Why is the answer so elusive for so many people? Because we allow our mind to complicate the issue. The mind will always complicate any issue. That's its job. That's its nature. That's its joy! The mind has to complicate every aspect of life that it can. So that it can separate life into parts. So that it can do what it loves to do—analyze, contrast, compare, categorize and judge! And if we allow our mind to complicate every activity of our lives, we'll keep looking to our mind to figure it all out. And we never will figure it all out. So, we'll always keep thinking and struggling—seeking and not finding! As Lester Levenson, one of my dear teachers enjoyed saying, "The mind will never assist you to free yourself from the mind!" So, the answer is to not consult the mind. Rather, consult the heart. "The heart has its reasons that reason does not know." (Blaise Pascal 1623-1662) So, then, what is the purpose of life? The heart has a simple answer. The purpose of life is to experience. Simply to experience. Experience what? Life. Simply life. Explore. Enjoy. Embrace. Embody. Life. I offer a menu of 12 simple ways to come alive. … To fulfill your deepest inner passion to fully experience life! 1. Find a Secret Special Place Find a place that is easily accessible so that you can go there often. And a space where most people wouldn't look for you to be, so you can have some good quality alone time. It might be a park, the roof of a parking structure, under a bridge by a river, an unused room at work, a friend's apartment or cabin, or a secluded part of your own house or yard. Choose a space where you can be solely (souly) with yourself. Spend some quiet time with yourself every day. It's very important to have a place or time just for yourself. To re-connect. To relax. To collapse. To relapse. To freelance. To feel free. To be free. As we claim our own time and space, our spirit is free to be restored and creative. Turn off your cell phone and pager. If we allow it, today's technology can render us too accessible and vulnerable to other people's agendas and demands. If noise and social pressure constantly bombard your space, you're drowning out your inner guidance. In your special place just sit quietly with no expectations. Do nothing. This may feel very uncomfortable and strange in the beginning. Persist. Give time and space for the inner voice to make itself heard. It will do so either during that quiet time, or through signs and messages during the events of your life. A synchronistic happening will occur. Someone will tell you exactly what you need to hear. You will get a sudden flash of insight. Become a quiet, clear, pure vessel for the higher self to fill. Listen to yourself and trust what you hear. 2. Immerse Yourself in Color Every color is a unique aspect of the full spectrum of light (life). Immerse yourself in whatever colors call to you each day to allow each different frequency of Life Force to shift your energy--and expand your experience of life's banquet. Touch a bright flower. Draw with vibrant crayons. Paint with subtle watercolors. Wear brilliant clothes. Dissolve into sunsets. Stand in the end of a real rainbow and let the array of frequencies dance through your being. 3. Connect with a Wild Animal Embark on a Walkabout (ala an Australian aborigine). Anywhere outdoors. In a city park. Along a waterfront. In an empty lot. At the edge of town. In a woods or meadow. Welcome a face-to-face encounter with a wild animal. Small or big. Furry or smooth. An insect in the grass or a fish in the pond. A bug on a tree or a mole poking its head out of the ground. Invite a butterfly to land on your hand. Feed a seagull. Pet a lizard. Talk to a snake. Go into trance with a bird. 4. Overcome a Fear When you feel adventurous and strong, deliberately do something you are terrified to do. A true leader is a person who makes friends with fear. Choose to feel the e-motion of fear as e (energy in) motion. Allow the intense sensation to flow over and through you as you wade through the feeling as you would bubbling water. Breathe deeply into the tightness in your body—and invite your muscles to release their tension. Allow the anxiety to exit through your exhale. Start with a small fear and work up to more convincing "terrors." End the tyranny of the fears and dreads that limit your options and aliveness. Love a fear a day. Keep the shrink away! 5. Take Mini Vision Quests Often "Your mission, should you choose to accept it" is to simply have fun. Whether it's 2 minutes, 2 hours or 2 days, quest for a vision of carefree joy. Devote bits—or bundles—of your free time to ventures that enrich your pure enjoyment of life. Pursue activities that make you feel fantastic and vibrant. Take a stretch break. A bagel break. Take five for fun. Take a breather for your body. Take it easy for your heart. Take yourself on a date. Take a drive in the country. Go on a trek around the block, to Starbucks, or to your favorite store. Do something, anything, that is alive and energizing for you. Shift your space. Move your body as much and as often as you can all day. Active, physical movement will center, balance, ground and revitalize you. The more you participate in life, the more life—in the form of love, money and health—will flow through you. Hike, jog, skip, swim, garden, cook, sing, skydive, quilt or paint. Let your body dance you. Play music that speaks to your soul. Start every day with activities that are the most exciting to you, not the tasks you think you should get done. Focus on keeping and building your momentum as you flow through your day. You'll have plenty of energy and time to accomplish all necessary chores. 6. Choose Innocence (Freedom) Choose in-no-sense. Choose non-sense. Light some in-sense so you can enter into non-sense. Choose to be innocent—free—of preconception, prejudice, expectation. Adopt a beginner's mind. Be a blank slate. "Become ye as a child and enter the Kingdom of Heaven." Be open to unexpected sources of income, resources and support. Invite surprise. Welcome serendipity. Travel light—and journey in the land of delight. Play on the ground like a baby. Fly a kite, roll in the grass, or build a fort like a kid. Laugh with delight for no reason like a child. Dance all night like a teenager. Sit on a mountaintop like an old sage. 7. Reach across Barriers Be a "Doctor without Borders." Your own doc. Treat yourself and others to the wide open spaces of acceptance and play. See people, not categories. Be colorblind and non-denominational. Play with whatever form of human being shows up in your day: Women and men. Straight and undecided. Kids and adults. Large and small. Rich and not-so-rich. Find somebody on the opposite end of a belief spectrum from you and begin a genuine conversation. Seek to understand, not to convert. Find common ground, not battleground. 8. Make Friends with Birth and Death Say "Yes!" to the transitions of life. Our Western culture does not prepare us to deal gracefully with the natural passages of life: birth, puberty, coming-of-age, leaving home, menopause, 7-year-itch, divorce, bankruptcy or death. Embrace the inherent changes that we all go through as human beings. Attend with awe as many births as you can: human, kitties, puppies, lambs, horses, eggs-a-hatching! Also the birth of a new day (sunrise), a new business, a new product, a new idea! Embrace the end of as many cycles as you can: the "death" of a friend, a pet, a leaf. Also, the end of the day (sunset), a business, a familiar service, an old belief! When we realize that all of life is one continual transition form one form to another, then each particular passage becomes easier to accept and even enjoy as the wondrous spiritual adventure that it is. 9. Go Natural Be outside naked for no reason at all—in public on a clothing-optional (nude) beach, skinny dipping at the local swimming hole, or in the privacy of your own backyard or hot tub. Feeling the wind gently caress your whole body is invigorating—and liberating. To enjoy this natural benefit, there are now a growing number of naked races, hiking clubs, picnics, dances, meditations and gatherings all over the world. Our clothes are the costume we feel we have to present to the world at all times. Being naked allows us to feel our natural worthiness and completeness just as we are! 10. Travel without Money Just as our clothes can over-define—and confine—us, so can our bank account! Make a personal pilgrimage of liberation. Take a trip somewhere, anywhere, without any cash, checks, cards or other means of credit. And to a place where you don't know anyone you can borrow money from. This personal freedom trek can be on foot, car or public transit. It can be for a mile or 1,000 miles, it can be for an hour, a day, or a year. Every time we venture out into the world without our trappings—and protections (armor)—of civilization, we gain in courage, strength, self-reliance, and trust. Trust in yourself—and the Universe—to provide. Every time we act out this trust in the world, we increase our ability to attract and create Universal Support and Supply. There are people who have gone around the world with no money whatsoever. What freedom! 11. Practice Random Acts of Connection Really. It works. Wave to a firefighter. Smile at a cop. Salute a soldier. Hang with a kid. Have a friendly conversation with the cashier. Leave an outrageously generous tip. Drop in a shelter. Volunteer at a literacy program. Show up at a community fund-raising event. Serve others. When you give, you feel more connected to other people. And if you're not naturally motivated to reach out to others, think selfishly: any altruistic gesture—from buying someone a coffee to letting another driver in front of you—puts you on the fast track to feeling good. 12. Cross a Body of Water Water is archetypal. Crossing over or through a body of water is one of the most mystical—and profound—acts a person can pursue. Crossing over is a symbolic journey of growth and power. It's a metaphorical act of birth, transition, new beginnings. The form and scope of the water element don't matter. Hop a puddle. Ford a stream. Wander through fog. Bridge a river. Swim a channel. Sail an ocean. Notice how expanded and enlivened you feel on the other side. Boost Your Aliveness You can either live your life regretting all the roads left unexplored, or you can start living the life you really want now. Shift from thinking of yourself as a victim to realizing you can be the source, cause, creator, of whatever happens to you in life! About the Author: Bio: A vibrant film maker in college, at the tender age of 19, Keith Varnum went totally blind before he could launch out on his own. The prognosis of Western doctors that Keith would be blind for the rest of his life catapulted him into the adventure of his life! On this journey he studied with medicine men, shaman, Hawaii Kahuna and Eastern spiritual masters, regained his eyesight, and discovered the secrets of all healing, transformation and success. Keith has tested these practical secrets in his 35-year career as an author, Certified Matrix Energetics Practitioner, Life Coach, Vision Quest guide, acupuncturist, sound healer, radio host, and vice-president of a multi-million dollar company. When not exploring consciousness in the canyons of Arizona , Keith travels around the world assisting people to open to life's wonders and surprises in his Dream Workshops. Terms for reprint: 1. You must publish the article AS IS. Do not modify, alter or edit it. 2. The author's resource box must accompany the article at all times. 3. The link/s must be active or clickable. 4. Notifying the author is not required, but doing so is appreciated.
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