Yoga and meditation may do more than just help you feel relaxed in the moment. A new scientific review suggests that these and other mindfulness exercises can actually reverse stress-related changes in genes linked to poor health and depression.

In the new paper, published in Frontiers in Immunology, British researchers analyzed the findings from 18 previously published studiesinvolving a total of 846 peopleon the biological effects of meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, Qi gong and Tai Chi. Together, the authors say, the studies show that these mind-body exercises appear to suppress the expression of genes and genetic pathways that promote inflammation.

Inflammation can temporarily boost the immune system, and can be protective against infection and injury, the authors write in their paper. But in todays society, in which stress is primarily psychological, the bodys inflammatory response can become chronic and can impair both physical and mental health.

Researchers found that people who practiced these activities regularly had fewer signs of inflammation, including a decrease in their production of inflammatory proteins. This signals the reversal of the molecular signature of the effects of chronic stress, they wrote, which may translate to a reduced risk of inflammation-related diseases and conditions.

Environment and lifestyle can both affect which genes are turned on and off , and that can have real effects on disease risk, longevity and even which traits get passed on to future generations . Stressful events, for example, can activate the fight-or-flight response and trigger a chain reaction of stress-related changes in the bodyincluding activating specific genes involved in making proteins that produce inflammation.

Lead author Ivana Buric, a PhD student in Coventry Universitys Brain, Belief and Behaviour Lab in England, says her team was surprised to see that different types of mind-body techniques had such similar effects at the genetic level. Sitting meditation is quite different than yoga or Tai Chi, she said in an email, yet all of these activitieswhen practiced regularlyseem to decrease the activity of genes involved in inflammation.

This is a relatively new field of research, she adds, and its likely that similar benefits could be obtained from other lifestyle changes like healthy eating and exercise. There arent yet enough studies to know how activities like yoga compare to other types of physical activity in terms of altering gene expression.

Buric says the existing studies suggest that mind-body interventions cause the brain to steer our DNA processes along a path which improves our well being. She also emphasizes that inherited genes are not static and that DNA activity can depend on things people can control. By choosing healthy habits every day, we can create a gene activity pattern that is more beneficial for our health, she says. Even just 15 minutes of practicing mindfulness seems to do the trick.

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Yoga and Meditation Can Change Your Genes, Study Says - TIME

Meditation is supposed to be one of those practices that brings you immediate relief.

However, for some reason, the thought of it tends to feel like just another task on the to-do list.

But the truth is, it really doesnt have to be.

Yes, its an allotted time of peace and quiet, but instead of feeling like you have tohalt all of your responsibilities to sit in unbearable silence, there are actually ways you can make meditation work so that its a normal, more natural part of your day.

If you take public transportation on your way to work, then this just might be the best time for you to plug in those headphones, turn on some ambient sounds, and zone out.

By the time you reach your destination (especially if youre commuting for more than 10 minutes), youll feel renewed and ready to go with a totally clear mind.

Yaaas, inner Buddha.

If youre lucky enough to enjoy an hour-long lunch break, take 10 out of those 60 minutes to simply walk around the block.

Walking can put you in a complete meditative space. Breathe in the sights and sounds around you. Actually take the time to notice how the leaves sway ever so slightly in the breeze. Watch the people pass you by.

It really makes you feel in control when youre at peace while you watch everyone else scramble by. Take this moment to simply be alive.

You werent alive this morning; you were rushing through the motions. Now, you owe it to yourself to just be alive.

Yes, right there, right at your desk. There are apps and videos out there that feature short one, three, and five-minute guided meditations.

A quick closing of the eyes and solemn retreat to your inner peace may be all you need to bang out another couple of hours on that Excel spreadsheet.

You are a human being, so no matter how much time you think you dont have, you are absolutely entitled to three to five minutes for a bathroom break.

Allow two, or even three, of your bathroom breaks to be meditation breaks if you absolutely have to step away.

Its only natural to settle into your comfortable routine when you get home. You change into your comfy clothes, lounge on the couch with your loved ones, watch pointless television. Believe me, I get it.

Overall, your after-work goal shouldbe tounwind from the tension and stress of the past several hours.

Unwinding is nice, yes, butmindful unwinding is even more powerful. So before you race to your car or the train, perhaps take just a few minutesbefore heading home to simply sit with yourself.

Trust me, by the time you get home and lounge on that couch, youll feel so much better.

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Imani Brammer is a writer, on-air talent and YouTuber, where she produces videos on how to navigate the nuances of adulthood. Subscribe to her channel at YouTube.com/ImaniBrammer.

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5 Ways To Sneak Some Meditation Into Your Hectic Work Day - Elite Daily

A labyrinth is often confused with a maze. So what is the difference? A maze is designed to confuse anyone who enters, while a labyrinth has only a single path. Instead of being designed to lose the user, wandering through a labyrinth is thought ofas a way to find answers or to meditate.

The history of labyrinths dates back to ancient times. Famous ones include the cathedral of Chartres, France, and the cathedral of Duomo di Siena in Tuscany.

Labyrinthshave been used by a wide variety of cultures too, with evidence of them in Egypt, Italy, Scandinavia, North America and Crete. While they are sometimes pagan, used as part ofritualistic dances, they have also been used by Christian religions for centuries.

There has been a resurgence of labyrinths in the last decade, something Ecobotanica owner Linda Brennan knows all too well. After all, she has one in her own back yard.

Brennan sayssome people chant while walking the labyrinth, others dance. She likes to stand at the beginning and think of a question she needs an answer to, before slowly walking the path through the labyrinth. As you walk the circle you will find the best way to answer, she says. By the time you get to the middle, your mind has worked through it.

Patterns for a labyrinth can easily be downloaded from online and there are lots of different styles to choose from.

Brennans Seven Circuit Classical Labyrinthstarted as a sketch on paper, which she thenapplied to a flat area in her yard. The base is decomposed granite, while rocks marking out the labyrinth path were hand-selected from a landscape yard. The actual construction was done during a workshop, where a team of volunteers formed a chain gang, passing rocks along the line.

When making a labyrinth, there are several ways to form it. The design can be made with rope, chalk, paint on tiles or even a grass marking line. Some have created the pattern on canvas and then roll that out. Elaborate ones use hedges or mosaic tiles.

The entry should face east, for the rising sun. By the time you are in the middle you should be back facing east.

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Make your own mystical garden meditation labyrinth - Starts at 60

ahmedabad, June 17 A grand celebration was held today on the centenary of Sabarmati Ashram founded by Mahatma Gandhi here today.

Mahatma's grandson Gopalkrishna Gandhi, who attended the celebration, said at a time when the country is divided on the lines of religion and caste, Gandhi's ideas have a special significance.

Two new permanent exhibition galleries on Gandhi's life -- My Life is My Message Gallery and Charkha Gallery -- were opened at the Ashram on this occasion. Also, there was a tree plantation program.

Gandhi established the Ashram on June 17, 1917. As he became the leader of the freedom struggle, the Ashram virtually became the movement's headquarters.

It was also from here on 12 March 1930 that Gandhi launched the famous Dandi march and vowed not to return to the Ashram till India gets freedom.

Two books -- 'Letters to Gandhi' and 'Pioneers of Satyagraha' -- were released on the occasion today.

My Life is My Message Gallery has exhibits depicting Mahatma's entire life. Charkha Gallery showcases models of Charkha (spinning wheel) collected from across India.

"After the Ashram's establishment, the freedom movement was run from here," Gopalkrishna Gandhi noted.

As the country is increasingly divided on religious and caste lines, we need to spread Gandhi's ideas, said the former West Bengal governor.

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Gandhi's Sabarmati Ashram was set up on this day 100 yrs ago - Outlook India

Theres no denying that type 2 diabetes is a serious health concern which is on the rise both in the U.S. and around the world. If you have recently been diagnosed with this condition, then you are probably searching for methods and strategies for controlling it, or even reversing it altogether.

Luckily, the good news is that unlike type 1 diabetes which must be controlled with insulin injections, type 2 diabetes can often be managed by sticking to a range of healthy lifestyle choices and habits.

In fact, when you are dedicated to doing so, there is a possibility that you can reverse the diagnosis and once again be able to live free from this condition.

Here are some of the best ways to work towards getting rid of type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed when your blood sugar levels are too high. During your diagnosis, your doctor should make it clear to you which level your blood sugars are at, along with giving you advice on how to reduce them.

The time and work required to reverse your diagnosis will depend on how far over the threshold for diabetes you are in terms of blood sugar level.

Firstly, you must work to restrict the amount of sugar you are putting into your body through your diet. Eat foods such as fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products, whilst avoiding any processed or sugary foods.

When it comes to reversing the symptoms of type 2 diabetes, exercise is your best friend. Many people diagnosed with this condition are overweight or obese; this is a direct risk factor for diabetes and therefore weight loss is essential for symptom reduction. But, even if you dont exercise to lose weight, getting more active can help to improve your condition significantly.

When you exercise, your muscle contractions will push glucose into your cells from your blood, resulting in lower blood sugar levels. Where possible, dedicate your time to taking part in more intense exercise, such as jogging or running rather than walking, or even weight-lifting.

The more often you exercise, the better! Learn more about selling your diabetes test strips once you no longer need them.

If you have been suffering from heightened stress levels recently, this could be directly contributing to your condition.

According to the experts, high stress levels can make your blood sugar levels much more difficult to control. In addition, if your stress is causing your sleep to suffer, then this can contribute to issues such as impaired tolerance to glucose, resulting in a higher risk of diabetes.

There are several options available to you wheno managing stress; you might want to speak to a therapist, who can help you with finding healthier coping strategies. At home, setting aside time to do something relaxing such as meditation, massage, relaxing music, or even taking a warm bath can help you to de-stress and relax.

Please note that these tips may start to reduce the symptoms of diabetes, they are not medical advice. Always consult with your own doctor before making changes that can affect your health.

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Three Methods of Reversing Your Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms - NewsBlaze (registration) (blog)

Auburn Journal

Yoga meets world music Auburn Journal It will be outside on the tennis courts where yoga mats will be available for participants who don't have one. We just want people to show up with their friends to have a good time, said van der Linden. It won't be a hard class. It will be relaxing ...

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Yoga meets world music - Auburn Journal

Electric Picnic is back this September 1-3, and tickets sold out in the blink of an eye.

The music is of course top class, but let's not forget about the myriad of other events and experiences on offer!

From crafts to comedy, here are nine areas you should check out.

Soul Kids is a space just for children - full of activities, performances and workshops!

It's a celebration of nature, creativity and all things magical.

Body & Soul offers a relaxing area where you can do yoga, get a massage, or soak in a wood-fired outdoor hot tub.

It's a great place to unwind and get away from the madness.

In the Greencrafts Village you can choose from forty different daily workshops.

Carve a wooden plate, make a silver ring, weave a willow basket - the world is your oyster!

Laugh your socks off at the comedy tent!

Previous acts have included Dylan Moran, The Rubberbandits and David O'Doherty, so you know you're in for a treat.

Mindfield is an oasis of literary readings, political debate, news quizzes, science experiments and more.

Fill your brains with new thoughts, ideas and experiences!

Foodies unite! The Theatre of Food features workshops, demonstrations and lots and lots of delicious dishes.

The Happy Pear, Rosanna Davison and many more chefs and food writers will be in attendance.

Trailer Park is made of joined-up campers, vintage caravans, stylised mobile homes and reconditioned retro trailers.

Expect performances, miniature restaurants, hula dancers and more.

Enter Electric Picnic's woodland haven, where you can find otherworldly creatures, interactive theatre, shadow puppetry and storytelling.

Want to try the tango or bust some Hip Hop moves? Curious about contemporary dance?

Then embrace the rhythm and get yourself to Dance Days - dance workshops thatll have you grooving all weekend long!

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Electric Picnic 2017: Want a break from the music? Here's everything else the festival has to offer - Dublin Live

Check out what weve been listening to this past week!

Michael Cottone:One song I chose this week for Fresh Music Friday was Girl Like You by Toro y Moi. Chazwick Bundick returns with this new hit single. He also is set to release his next albumBoo Booon July 7th. This song is romantic, with the lyrics resembling how he can get a certain type of girl. Toros voice in this song is soothing, and his harmonies are beautiful. Im very ready for his next album.

Another song I chose for this week was pick up the phone by Travis Scott. I recently saw him perform at Bonnaroo, and his performance wasinsane.He came on stage about 15 minutes late (which is oddly not surprising), and had the crowd rowdy his entire set. Before he played this song, he ran through the barricade and climbed up on top of the tent where they film the concert. He hung up there for about 5 minutes, freeing people to take plenty of videos and pictures of the rapper. ARE WE TIRED, he said. He then followed that statement with do I have to call you? which was then followed by the beginning of the track. The crowd lost it, and he rapped most of it while still hanging up there. Definitely attend a Travis Scott show if you have the opportunity.

Max Denari: Nights by Frank Ocean A tune that is as sensual as it is catchy. One of the hits off of Oceans latest LP Blond. Showcasing Oceans lyric prowess and ability to craft a certain type of atmosphere. He hits the nail on the head with this one.

Walk on the Wild Side by Lou Reed The legendary song-writer and musician really set the tone for his solo career post-Velvet Underground with his hit song Walk on the Wild Side off his breakthrough solo LP Transformer. This is a song that many may recognize as being sampled by A Tribe Called Quests on their tune Can I Kick It?. That alone shows the influence that Lou reed had throughout his career and beyond.

Cole Callahan: Cocaine Jesus by Rainbow Kitten Surprise I stumbled upon a blacklight mini golf place called GlowGolf here in Indianapolis and I grabbed an application and got an interview on the spot. The manager of the shindig asked me first of my major and I told him Video, and because he had a Pond shirt on I proceeded to tell him that I had shot photos at Bunbury. We talked about music for an hour and he offered me the job right there. As we talked more he introduced me to Rainbow Kitten Surprise so I looked them up on Soundcloud on my way back home. Now, I am hooked.

Lil Pump by Lil Pump I picked this song because I am surprised/bummed Lil Pump didnt make the XXL Freshman Class. Considering how popular he has gotten this year and the style of music he brings to the table, Im not sure how it happened.

Madeline Grosh:New Slang; by The Shins Ive been obsessing over this band throughout my summer so far. The folks Im traveling with listen to them constantly, and Ive fallen in love. Theyre calming, relaxing, but talk of one days, adventures, new possibilities, and just ease the mind. Theyre my new love.

Violet by Hippo Campus Because of the new obsession over The Shins, Ive been introducing everyone to Hippo Campus. This song has become a favorite among the crowd. Even if you dont listen to the words, the music is so incredibly lyrical, fascinating and heart-warming. The actual lyrics then talk of how Violet sees, hears, speaks and how she changes those and the world around her. But each of us have a voice, we each have a say, a way, and a path to form for ourselves.

Matthew Keyser:This week I chose Safari Song by Greta Van Fleet. Greta Van Fleet is a young band out of Frankenmuth, Michigan whose music is a throwback to 70s classic rock with subtle modern touches. Safari Song showcases singer Josh Kiszkas unique vocal range, at times sounding nearly identical to Led Zeppelin singer Robert Plant. I largely chose this song because its been stuck in my head the past few days.

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Fresh Music Friday: This Week's Best Music (6/16/17) - Verge Campus (blog)

Savannah Vasquez @DestinLogSav

Solaris Cruise: For the ultimate cruise experience, hop on the Solaris for a Fathers Day lunch cruise 1-3 p.m. The cruise includes a three-course meal as well as the amazing views of Choctawhatchee Bay. For reservations, visitwww.SunQuestCruises.comor call850-650-2519.

World of Beer: With the slogan, Beers to you Dad, World of Beer in Destin has a promotion where dad will get his first select draught free on Fathers Day. If Dad chooses a Blue Moon Belgian White, he will also get to keep the glass. World of Beer is at 4285 Legendary Dr. in Destin. Visit http://www.worldofbeer.com/locations/destin.

The Gulf: Kick back and relax at The Gulf restaurant with fire-roasted barbecue and craft beer tastings from Destin Brewing Co. 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Visit http://www.thegulf.com.

Fathers Day Brunch: The Fish House in Pensacola is hosting a special Fathers Day Brunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday. There will be bottomless champagne and mimosas. For a full menu and more details, visit http://www.fishhousepensacola.com or call 850-470-0003. The Fish House is at 600 South Barracks Street in Pensacola.

Props 5K: Have an active Dad? Sign him up for the Props Fathers Day 5K on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. The run begins and ends at Props Brewery & Tap Room on Lovejoy Road Parkway in Fort Walton Beach. After the run, stick around to enjoy gumbo and beer. To sign up visit http://www.active.com and search Fathers Day 5K-Props to you Dad!

Fathers Day Picnic: For a true community event this Fathers Day, head to Pat Covell Park 2 in DeFuniak Srings for a Fathers Day Appreciation Picnic. Festivities include free barbecue and drinks, tournaments for kids and father-son games, and music by a local DJ. Donations are accepted to cover event costs. The event begins Sunday at 3 p.m. For more information visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1574354019250157/

Ultimate Fathers Day:Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson wants to make this year the ultimate Fathers Day experience. Nominate your dad, or a deserving dad in your life, by Saturday for a chance to win a surprise giveaway. Come out to Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson at 788 Beal Parkway NW in Fort Walton Beach Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. to enjoy live music, free cookout and beer and wait for the announcement of the giveaway. Visit http://www.emeraldcoasthd.com.

Zoo Fathers Day: Make Fathers Day a wild family event at the Gulf Breeze Zoo. Visit the zoo at 5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy. on Sunday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Dad will receive a free train ride. Visit http://www.gulfbreezezoo.org.

Fathers Day Funk: Make your way to The Hub on 30A for a Funky Fathers Day thanks to New Orleans band In Business. The funk band will perform 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and again 6-9 p.m. Enjoy plenty of food and outdoor fun with the whole family at The Hub. Visit http://www.hub30a.com.

Fathers Day Film: For a relaxing wind-down from Fathers Day weekend, bring your lawn chairs out to Baytowne Wharfs Events Plaza Lawn at Sandestin in Miramar Beach and settle in for a free film of "The BFG" at 8 p.m. Sunday.

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Fabulous Father's Day - The Northwest Florida Daily News

Jun.16.2017 / 10:12 AM ET

Mindfulness has become a trendy buzzword among the wellness community. Yoga studios and meditation centers continue to pop up as people seek refuge from being constantly on the go (and feeling the draining effects).

But it turns out these practices are doing more than simply providing us a much-needed time out from our jam-packed schedules. In fact, according to a new study, they may actually be changing how our DNA responds to stress.

New research published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology looked at over a decade of studies, analyzing how our genes are affected by different mind-body interventions including mindfulness, yoga, meditation and Tai Chi. What they found is that these activities dont simply relax us they may actually have the ability to reverse molecular reactions to stress in our DNA that can lead to poor health and depression.

When we encounter a stressful situation (or prolonged periods of stress) our sympathetic nervous system is triggered. In reaction, our genes produce proteins called cytokines that cause inflammation at a cellular level which, over time, increases our risk of health issues like cancer, accelerated aging and psychiatric disorders like depression.

But there is some good news for those of us who find ourselves wrapped up in the chronic cycle of stress and anxiety: Researchers found that people who engage in mind-body interventions actually exhibit the opposite effect. That means that doing yoga or meditating may lead to a decrease in cyctokine production, and a reversal of the inflammatory gene, which ultimately lowers the risk of inflammation-related diseases and conditions.

"Millions of people around the world already enjoy the health benefits of mind-body interventions like yoga or meditation, but what they perhaps don't realize is that these benefits begin at a molecular level and can change the way our genetic code goes about its business, says Ivana Buric, Lead investigator from the Brain, Belief and Behaviour Lab in Coventry University's Centre for Psychology, Behaviour and Achievement. These activities are leaving what we call a molecular signature in our cells, which reverses the effect that stress or anxiety would have on the body by changing how our genes are expressed. Put simply, mind-body interventions cause the brain to steer our DNA processes along a path which improves our wellbeing.

Finally convinced you need to drop onto the mat? Here are three yoga moves to help combat those sky-high stress levels: Upward-Facing Dog in Yoga, Downward Facing Dog, Pigeon Pose.

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Meditation and Yoga May Change How Stress Affects Our DNA, Study Finds - NBCNews.com