sleep

Studies have found that regular exposure to traffic noise raises blood pressure and may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, and that nighttime traffic noise interrupts sleep and impairs physical performance in the morning. While you can’t reroute the highway or move to the sticks, you can make a concerted effort to close windows, turn off the TV and the stereo, put on a fan or other white noise machine, and create as much serenity in your bedroom as possible before you go to bed. If there’s no way to block out the sounds of cars whizzing by, consider using earplugs.

adapted from wholeliving.com, Oct. 2011

One of the ultimate Zen like experiences is waking-up from a great slumber refreshed and energized. Your mind and body are harmoniously one, both alert and focused. Having a refreshed mind and body are two keys to a natural and Zen lifestyle. Waking up in the morning should not be a loud and abrupt awakening, but rather it should be a peaceful positive experience.  The right natural alarm clock can transition your deep and tranquil sleep into a serene start to consciousness. Imagine a long-resonating Tibetan bell-like chime waking you up to a beautiful morning experience.

The right alarm clock can be the most beneficial investment for you. With our Now & Zen natural alarm clock you are awakened more gradually and thus more naturally. Now & Zen is focused on creating a naturalistic lifestyle, and our clocks are an example of our philosophy.

zen alarm clock

Now & Zen – The Gradual Alarm Clock Store

1638 Pearl Street

Boulder, CO  80302

(800) 779-6383

Too frazzled to focus at work? Meditation may help hone your attention — even if you’re new to the practice. In a University of Pennsylvania study, a group of 17 beginners showed great improvements in focus after meditating for a half-hour, five times a week for eight weeks. Regular meditation also enhanced their ability to manage tasks and stay alert while working. To ease into a practice, find a quiet place every day, and simply focus on following your breath. “Even if you’re doing five minutes, three times a day, it can help a lot in getting your body accustomed to slowing down,” says Vandita Kate Marchesiello, director of the Kripalu Yoga Teachers Association. For more guidance, she recommends picking up a meditation book, CD, or DVD, or attending a local class.

adapted from wholeliving.com, Oct. 2011

Now & Zen

1638 Pearl St.

Boulder, CO  80302

(800) 779-6383

zen alarm clock

As the temperature drops, your superficial venous circulation slows down, meaning your body has to work harder to get blood from your feet back to your heart. To help your venous circulatory system and keep varicose veins at bay, Dr. Luis Navarro of the Vein Treatment Center in New York City suggests getting your feet 6 to 12 inches above your heart at least once a day. Tonight, try a yoga pose that raises your legs against a wall, or lie on the couch with your feet resting on a stack of pillows. Cup of hot tea (or hot toddy) optional.

adapted from Wholeliving.com, Oct. 2011