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June 2023

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3D-PMED For Monitoring Of Sweat Metabolites

by Shamsul

3D-PMED (Three Dimensional Paper-Based Microfluidic Electrochemical Integrated Device) For Monitoring Of Sweat Metabolites

In the past few years, wearable electrochemical sensors have gained great importance, and this study aims to determine the use of 3D-PMED (three-dimensional paper-based microfluidic electrochemical integrated device) for observing sweat metabolites in real time. The construction of the 3D-PMED device was based on wax patterns screen printed on cellulose paper. This pre-patterned paper is transformed into a five-layered stack of paper by folding it four times. The first layer is the sweat collector, followed by the vertical channel layer; next comes the transverse layer.

The fourth is the electrode layer, and finally, the sweat evaporator. The sweat monitoring device took place through the integration of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate with glucose screen printed sensors along with the newly invented 3D-PMED. Red ink was in use to model the process of sweat flow to demonstrate the 3D-PMED’s capability of collection, analysis, and evaporation of sweat owed to the filter papers’ capillary action and the wax’s hydrophobicity. With a high sensitivity of 35.7 µA mM-1 cm-2 and a low 5µM detection limit, the glucose sensor was designed considering the low concentration of glucose level in sweat. 

To validate the sweat 3D glucose monitoring device, active on-body experimentation was carried out, and the same was advised to be readily expanded for continuous monitoring of alternate metabolites and electrolytes.

INTRODUCTION

The potential advantages and applications of wearable sensors in personalized medicines have garnered ample attention lately, with their ability to continuously monitor individual situations of health in real-time. (1-4). A vast range of wearable devices targeted to monitor blood oxygenation, heart rate, and electrocardiograms, besides several others, are already commercially available in the market and are increasingly being used by patients. 5 The same, however, is not applicable to chemical sensors, as they are not as popular or widely developed purely owed to the complicated and intricate principles of operations and structures of fabrication. (6,7).

This, however, does not mean that progress is limited in this area; instead, various research groups have recently developed different chemical wearable devices that can measure levels of biochemical analytes in sample sweat. (8,9). Some examples include epidermal-based sweat sensors for glucose analysis, 10 lactate 11, and pH 12 levels. This has been done by the J. Wang Group.

The same group has also successfully developed a sensing hybrid device that continuously monitors the wearer’s electrocardiogram and lactate. (13). Using screen printing technology, the sensor patches were designed on flexible polyester or paper used for tattoos. Gao et al. further proposed that by using a flexible PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) substrate, a wearable incorporated sensor array can be designed by using deposition methods of electron beam and photolithography. 14 This incorporated patch, when worn, offers the ability to continuously monitor the electrolytes and the metabolites present in the sweat of a human. The pH and Ca2+ concentration measurements in body fluids can also be achieved by designing PET substrates using ion-selective electrodes. 15

However, one limitation of previous studies has been their prime consideration related to epidermal devices, focusing only on their stretchable and flexible properties. 16,17 There needs to be more effort placed on analyzing sweat fluid flow under the patch, as it is empirical for the simultaneous real-time sweat analysis and related comfortability factor in the long run for wearables. It should also be considered that the accumulation of sweat under sensors will lead to skin discomfort for the wearer. 18 To date, all paper-based monitoring devices targeted toward monitoring sweat metabolites have been proposed for their intrinsic characteristics of rollability, foldability, flexibility, ease of use, and low cost. 19-21 Furthermore, paper-based devices facilitate the flow of sweat owed to the capillary effect, thus contributing to sweat collection. 22

This study develops a 3D-PMED (three-dimensional paper-based microfluidic electrochemical integrated device) using a cellulose pre-patterned paper folding technique designed using modified wax-based screen printing. The 3D paper-based microfluidic electrochemical integrated device contains five layers. The first layer is the sweat collector. The second is the vertical channel, and the third is the transverse channel, the fourth is the electrode layer, and the sweat evaporator layer (Fig A)41. Additionally, the designed screen-printed electrodes were attached to the device’s electrode layer to measure the sweat analytes, thus allowing the patterned folded paper to form a flow channel (Fig B)41.

The collector absorbed the sweat from the skin and flowed to the next vertical channel layer through the capillary driving mechanism. The sweat evaporator ensured simultaneous sweat flow driven by the evaporation process, providing fresh sweat flow to the electrodes and eliminating the accumulation of sweat within the device. The 3D-PMED also had the ability to avoid direct sensor-to-skin mechanical contact by separating electrodes from skin contact. A glucose sensor was also designed in the 3D-PMED to monitor glucose levels in sweat samples. The glucose sensor is checked extensively for selectivity, repeatability, and sensitivity.

Furthermore, the processes of sweat flow were modeled to confirm simultaneous sweat flow by using red ink in the device. The final step was to monitor the glucose level through the sweat formed on the subjects’ skins after subjecting them to endure physical exercise for a sustained period (e.g., cycling). This was done to validate the 3D-PMED device’s practicability. The sweat glucose corresponding temporal profiles were then recorded using the amperometric method.  

Fig A

Fig B[1]

[1] The 3D-PMED schematic diagram illustrated in Fig A defines the device’s layered structure. It includes five folds respectively 1) sweat collector, 2) vertical channel, 3) transverse channel, 4) electrode layer, and 5) sweat evaporator. The hydrophobic areas are highlighted in white and yellow formed using filter paper or wax screen printing respectively. Fig B illustrates the schematic diagram of the device on human skin. The tiered structure of the 3D flow through the device’s folds facilitates the fresh continual flow of sweat in the device from the skin under the electrodes.

 
Methods and Materials Used
 
Securing Of Chemicals
 
Aladdin Ltd was contacted for obtaining glucose oxidase (GOx) obtained from Aspergillus niger, ascorbic acid and L-lactate acid. Acetic acid, glucose, chitosan, and sodium chloride were secured from the Hushi Laboratorial Equipment Co, Ltd in Shanghai. 0.01 M PBS (phosphate buffered saline) was obtained from Sangon Biotech Co Ltd in Shanghai. Gwent Inc, situated in Torfaen, in the UK, supplied Graphite/Prussian blue ink, while Yingman Nanotech Ltd, located in Jiangsu province of China, helped obtain silver chloride/silver ink. NEXAR was acquired from XXX. No further purification was conducted on all reagents used. Jujo Chemical Co Ltd in Tokyo, Japan, was consulted for the purchase of the Insulator ink.
 
 
Fabrication Process Of the Device
 
The patterned cellulose paper, altered by wax screen printing, was used for the device. CorelDRAW was used to design the patterns for the 3D-PMED, further being outsourced for screen mesh fabrication. The pattern shapes were highlighted on the screen under white areas, depicting the penetration of wax to the hydrophobic regions through the mesh. Initially, the back of the 100 mesh nylon formed screen was covered by filter paper employing pasting to restrict the sliding of the piece relative to the mesh (Fig D). The screen mesh and the filter paper were rubbed over by a crayon over a hot plate. (Fig C). The heating made it easier for the wax to penetrate the paper to create well-defined hydrophobic barriers on the paper. The temperature was set at an appropriate 50ºC to 55ºC. 
 
A temperature lower than those mentioned above restricted the wax from penetrating the filter paper, while a higher temperature was found to create enhanced lateral flow creating fuzzy patterns23. 
 
 
In about 4 minutes, the filter paper had a distinct wax area formation. The filter paper with the wax pattern was then cut into a rectangular shape of 3cm by 15cm, considering the pattern edges, and folded into five equal 3cm into 3cm parts, forming the five-tier structure. As mentioned earlier, the screen mesh fabrication was outsourced, while the CorelDRAW-designed electrode patterns were used following previous works done in the area with slight changes.24 The process included first using silver/silver chloride ink before using Graphite/Prussian blue ink before the blue insulator layer. A curing period of 15 min at a temperature of 90º C was observed throughout each printing. Later pasting of electrodes was done over the electrode layer. The round working electrode has a diameter of 2.5 mm, whereas the counter electrodes and reference were circled in part with a respective area of 19.4mm2 and 2mm2.
 
 
 
 
 
Fig C
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Fig D
 
 
Modification Of Electrode
 
Modification of glucose sensors was done as follows.14,25 2µL of Nexar: Ethanol = 1:10 was released on the surface of the working electrode and left to dry for 30 minutes at an ambient temperature. Further, 5% chitosan solution measuring 3µL was cast in 3% acetic acid and left to rest for 8 hours at 4ºC. Also, GOx (10mg mL-1) measuring 2µl was released on the surface of the working electrode and was left to dry for a period of two hours at an ambient temperature before releasing over it the 5% chitosan and 3% acetic acid on it. Lastly, 2µl of NEXAR: Ethanol 1:10 was released on the surface of the working electrode and left to dry out before storing at 4ºC as standby. (Fig E)
 
 
 
 
 
Fig E
 
 
 
Electrochemical Assays
 
All experiments performed were done within a chemical workstation. Amperometric sensors used contained 3 electrode systems, and all counter and working electrodes were printed using Graphite or Prussian ink with an Ag/AgCl electrode reference. All measurements of in vitro amperometric solutions in the experiments utilized 0.01 M PBS. The utmost effective catalyst for the electro-reduction of hydrogen peroxide, in terms of modified Prussian Blue electrodes, is amperometric detection26. The Prussian Blue modified molecules have a cubic geometry shape rendering their electrochemical selectivity as being practical. Instead, any molecule with a higher weight than the H2O2, e.g., uric acid or ascorbic acid, cannot penetrate the Prussian Blue lattice, thus offering a reaction resembling catalytic redox. 
 
These advantages above have successfully been used for acquiring interference-free and sensitive probes for the detection of H2O2. 27 Since H2O2 has the overpotential to accelerate electrocatalytic oxidation of interferents in sweat, such as ascorbic acid and uric acid, in conventionally printed electrodes, in the fabrication process, Prussian Blue modified printed biosensor was used to decrease the potential of consequent electrochemical interferences. 28 To achieve on-body measurements and calibration curves, -0.1V (against an Ag/AgCl) applied potential was used in the amperometric detection. 25, 26, 28, 29
 
 
 
 
 
[1] Fig R1 – The current amperometric response at -0.1V (reference electrode versus Ag/AgCl) with a 0.1 mM glucose successive addition with concentration ranging between 0mM – 1.6mM in M PBS solution 0.01; The calibration plot (inset).
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fig R2[3]
 
 
 
 
Figure R 3[4]
 
 
 
 
Fig R-4[5]
 
 
 
 
 
 
Figure R5[6]
   
 
 
 
 
Experiment Results
 
Glucose Sensor Characteristics
 
The concentration of glucose present in sweat is much lower compared to blood; however, it is still an effective glucose level indicator in humans. 30-33 Having said the low concentration between 0.25 – 1.5 mM range also makes developing practical sweat-based glucose sensors difficult. 
 
In this study, many major analytical parameters had to be evaluated beforehand to successfully achieve a sweat-based glucose sensor that is high performing in terms of repeatability, linearity, and sensitivity. 34 It was also imperative that the glucose sensor offered a reproducible and selective response, high sensitivity, and a low detection limit. The core of the glucose sensor was the Glucose Oxidase (GOx), an enzyme vastly used to enhance glucose sensors. Glucose Oxidase simultaneously catalyzes the process of oxidation in glucose, transforming it into gluconolactone while generating H2O2, whereas Prussian Blue directly reduces H2O2 electrochemically. Prussian Blue is effective against selectively detecting H2O2 in oxygen presence and other interferents acting as a redox mediator, owed to its geometrical shape and extremely low -0.1 V (versus Ag/AgCl reference) 35 – 37 catalytic potential.
 
 
In Fig R1, the glucose sensor amperometric response is illustrated after the addition of 10 µl 1 M drops of glucose with concentrations of 0 – 1.9 mM, using a beaker containing 10 mL 0.01 M PBS. The measurement process and system were controlled at an ambient temperature. The fig represents a good linearity of 0-1.9 mM glucose concentrations depicting a correlated 0.99 coefficient covering the human sweat physiological glucose concentration range (0.25 – 1.5 mM). 38 The glucose sensor sensitivity touched the 35.7µA mM-1 cm-2 (the electrode area consisted of 4.906 mm2) offering quick response. The glucose sensor’s detection limit was analyzed with current amperometric responses after successive addition of 5, 10, 20, and 40 µM.; the lowest detection limit was computed AT 5 µm. 
 
The human perspiration existing interferents (e.g., 0.1 mM NaCl, 2 µM UA, 5 mM lactate, and 2 µM AA) influence was examined using the sensor response. No significant signals of interference were found compared to the drops of glucose. The A fluctuating curve was achieved with the high volume lactate addition, which was acceptable in this study. The reproducibility of the inter-electrode in the glucose sensor was also evaluated, with the five sample-based standard deviations not being more than 10%. This was taken as satisfactory reproducibility considering the low-cost route of electrode fabrication. This thus concluded the good performance of the adapted glucose sensor.
 
 
3D PMED Fluid Flow Modelling
 
The sweat fluid flow modeling using the 3D PMED was done by releasing red ink on the PMED and monitoring the flow process in real time. Taking two plastic plates and placing the 3D PMED in between with holes on both plates to ensure the entering and exporting of red ink, the first and last layer, sweat collector and sweat evaporator, were aligned with the holes created in the two plates. Securing them using two clips on both sides. Gradual successive red ink addition on the sweat collector surface was done following the 50, 100, 150, 200, and 250 µL measurements, respectively—the filter paper’s capillary effect limited ink flow within a second. The later unfolding of the paper revealed a complete flow of red ink through the layered channels from the first to the fifth layer. 
 
Clear boundary creation was witnessed between the hydrophilic channels and hydrophobic barriers. The first drop of 50µL remained on the first layer of the sweat collector, only covering a vast area. This layer was intended to collect the maximum possible perspiration. As the drops of ink increased, it gradually penetrated all channels reaching the next layers until all chambers were filled. This revealed the evidence that the 3D PMED has the capacity and ability to catch perspiration from human skin. The 3D PMED can thus prove to be a promising sweat accumulation-based sensor.
 
 
 
3D – PMED Based Glucose Sensing Experiments
 
As mentioned earlier, the 3D-PMED integration with glucose-based sensors was measured in real-time by absorbing sweat from human skin. The experiment was conducted by incorporating the device between two plates made of plastic, with the glucose sensor integrated within. The sensor was further connected to the workstation, which was analyzed electrochemically. Fig R4 depicted the current amperometric responses at -0.1 V (versus Ag/AgCl reference electrode) the current amperometric responses after adding glucose successively in the following quantities: 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 mM, and PBS. The fluid’s evaporation was relatively slow. Thus, another filter block paper was placed on the last layer of the sweat evaporator so that increased fluid flow could be made possible. With a break of 500s between adding new fluid, the calibration plot was depicted as linear with a 17.49µA mM-1 cm-2 sensitivity. Thus good concentration linearity and repeatability were achieved, ranging between 0-1.9 mM.
 
 
The glucose sensor sensitivity in the device was, however, decreased owing to the difference in the 3D PMED device and the beaker. The Standard deviation, however, lay between 0.02 – 0.12, which was acceptable as the performance of the device’s sensor. It was considered suitable for glucose monitoring from sweat samples. The 3D-PMED device and the glucose sensor were then analyzed by integrating it as a monitoring device that can be practically used to measure glucose levels on human skin. This was done by designing a ventilated band that prevented delamination and protected the device from folding into a 60mm into 80mm device attached to the forearm of the selected subject. 
 
Consent was achieved before the experiment from all issues involved, and they were informed that the findings would be used for research work only. Using a cycle ergometer, practical body measurement of glucose through sweat was conducted using the electrochemical workstation. After a 10-minute warm-up, a 25 minutes cycling session at a constant speed and a 10 minutes interval were set as a protocol for all subjects.
 
 
All involved subjects were also asked to drink honey water before exercising with a honey-to-water volume ratio of 1:19 so that blood glucose could be raised. The measurement started after the 10-minute warm-up exercise, aiming for subjects to acquire enough sweat during the measurement time. The cycle ergometer calculated all subjects’ calorie and heart rates in real-time. The heart rate naturally rose after warm-up, with the calorie also rising linearly owed to constant exercising intensity; the consumption of blood glucose during exercise gradually lessened till the end of the practice ranging between 1.5mM to 0.04mM. 
 
The heart rate recovered during the break between cycling, while the level of glucose also increased a bit, leveling off the blood glucose regulation. Since the level of metabolism and glucose differ among subjects, there was a variance in the heart rate of all issues. The results revealed an active change in the glucose concentration during the exercise. Besides the differences occurring in the three subjects, the glucose change concentration in sweat showcased the exercise throughout the process. This also proved that the 3D-PMED showed decent performance and can be actively used as a form of on-body-based measurement.
 
 
Conclusions
 
The 3D-PMED device was initially proposed to be constructed and used as a wearable device to monitor glucose levels through sweat. The device is designed by channeling a 3D flow using the five-folding technique on a pre-patterned paper filter. The first layer absorbs the sweat on the skin, the sweat collector, further flowing into the second and third layers of the vertical channel and transverse channel, respectively, using the capillary driving technique, flowing further into the electrode layer and the final sweat evaporator layer. The device is precisely designed for the collection and circulation of sweat and the sensor isolation to monitor sweat. The proposed 3D-PMED device effectively controlled sweat flow and successfully accumulated sweat.
 
Further on, the screen-printed-based glucose sensor helps detect glucose from sweat. The 3D-PMED successfully proved to be a practical and usable device with essential characteristics: low cost and easy and straightforward use. A few challenges appeared during the experiment and remained unsolved, such as the sensor stability and the device’s size of channeling. Future experiments will see a downsizing of the device to enhance wearing comfortability and further addition of pH electrodes and sodium and lactate sensors. The current need, however, is to develop a printed flexible circuit board to facilitate wireless monitoring through the device.
 
 
Interest Conflicts
 
No Conflicts of Interests Are to Be Declared.
 
 
 
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  [1] The 3D-PMED schematic diagram illustrated in Fig A defines the device’s layered structure. It includes five-folds, respectively 1) sweat collector, 2) vertical channel, 3) transverse channel, 4) electrode layer, and 5) sweat evaporator. The white and yellow hydrophobic areas are using filter paper or wax screen printing. Fig B illustrates the schematic diagram of the device on human skin. The tiered structure of the 3D flow through the device’s folds facilitates the fresh continual flow of sweat in the device from the skin under the electrodes.
 
2)  Figure R1 – The current amperometric response at -0.1V (reference electrode versus Ag/AgCl) with a 0.1 mM glucose successive addition with concentration ranging between 0mM – 1.6mM in M PBS solution 0.01; The calibration plot (inset).
 
[3] Fig R2 – Glucose sensor inter-electrode reproducibility table
 
[4] Fig R3 – amperometric current responses based selectivity experiment of the biosensor with successive glucose addition, furthered by interfering electroactive species of NaCl and last glucose in 0.01 M PBS at -0.01 V applied potential.
 
[5] Fig R4 – Calibration plot with 0mM to 2.0mM error bar range
 
[6] Figure R5 – Measurement of on-body glucose in sweat using 3D-PMED
 
 
 
 
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  Happiness Leads To Better Health  
 
 
Better TipsHealthPersonal GrowthTrendingWriting
 
Happiness Leads To Better Health – It’s Scientifically Proved
 
 by Shamsul   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Happiness Leads To Better Health – It’s Scientifically Proved
  
Conversely, being healthier also contributes to happiness. It is, therefore, a worthy circle that begins.
 
We have listed the studies that show that happiness has a direct impact on the health of individuals.
 
 
Contents
 
1- Being Happy Encourages Healthy Eating
 
2- Happiness Could Strengthen The Immune System
 
3- Happiness Helps Fight Stress
 
4- Happiness Could Protect Your Heart
 
5- Happy People Would Live Longer
 
6- Happiness Could Help Reduce Pain
 
7- Happiness Enables You To Sleep Better
  
Happiness Encourages Healthy Eating
 
It is not Bridget Jones’s Diary, slumped on her sofa to devour an entire tub of ice cream, who will say the opposite.
 
Studies show that happy people tend to have a more balanced diet, with higher intakes of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains (Dubois et al., 2012 and Carvajal et al., 2012).
 
Another study of more than 7,000 adults found that people with a positive mindset were 47% more likely to consume fresh vegetables and fruits than those who were less positive.
 
Diets rich fruits and vegetables offer many health benefits. It includes less risk of diabetes, stroke or heart disease.
 
In the same study, researchers found that positive people were 33% more likely to be active physically, with 10 or more hours of physical activity per week.
   
 
 
Happiness Could Strengthen the Immune System
 
A functioning immune system is important for overall health. Research has shown that being happier can help maintain a healthy immune system (Costanzo et al., 2004).
 
A study of over 300 people showed that the least happy people were almost three times more likely to develop a cold than those who were happier (Cohen et al., 2003).
 
In another study, researchers found that happier students were almost twice as likely to have a high antibody response after receiving a hepatitis B vaccine.
 
The effect of the feeling of happiness on the immune system is still being studied to understand how it works. It could be linked to the impact of happiness on the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which regulates the immune system and releases hormones such as cortisol, also called stress hormone.
 
 
Happiness Helps Fight Stress
 
Excess stress generally increases cortisol levels, which can induce sleep disorders, weight gain, type 2 diabetes, or even high blood pressure.
 
Several studies show that cortisol levels tend to be lower when people are happier (Smyth et al., 1998).
 
For example, one experiment involving more than 200 adults subjected participants to a series of stressful tasks. Measurements then revealed that the cortisol levels of the happiest people were 32% lower than those of the unhappy participants (Steptoe et al., 2005).
 
Moreover, these beneficial effects seem to persist over time. When the researchers controlled the same group of adults three years later, they found a 20% difference in cortisol levels among the happiest and least happy people.
 
 
Happiness Could Protect Your Heart
 
Happiness can protect the heart by reducing blood pressure. BP is one of the major risk factors for heart disease.
 
Further, a study of over 6,500 people over the age of 65 found that feeling happier was linked to a 9 percent lower risk of high blood pressure (Steptoe et al., 2005).
 
Many studies have also shown that being happy and optimistic is associated with a 13–26% lower risk of heart disease (Ostir et al., 2006).
 
However, further research is needed to confirm this causal relationship.
 
A study in older adults revealed that positive well-being also reduced stroke risk by 26%. A stroke triggers when blood flow to the brain is unstable.
 
 
Happy People Would Live Longer
 
A 2015 study looked at the effect of happiness on the life expectancy of 32,000 people (Lawrence et al., 2015).
 
The probability of death over the 30 years study period was 14% higher in unhappy individuals compared to those who were happier.
   
 
A large meta-analysis examined the relationship between moral and mental well-being and longevity in healthy people and those with a health condition such as heart or kidney disease (Chida and Steptoe, 2008).
 
Higher moral well-being was found to have more survival, reducing the death ratio by 18% in healthy people and by 2% in those with pre-existing diseases.
 
Happiness Could Help Reduce Pain
 
A number of studies have shown that being happier can reduce the pain associated with arthritis (Strand et al., 2006).
 
A study of more than 1,000 people with knee arthritis found that happy people took 700 more steps per day, or 8% more than less happy people (White et al., 2012).
 
Happiness can also help reduce pain caused by other conditions. A study of just under 1,000 people recovering from stroke shows that the happiest people had 13% less pain three months after leaving the hospital (Berges et al., 2011).
 
 
Happiness Helps You Sleep Better
 
Being happier can also improve sleep, which is important for focus, productivity, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
 
A study of over 900 adults found that sleep problems were 47% higher among people who reported being less happy (Steptoe et al., 2007).
 
 
 
 
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References
 
 
(1) Dubois CM, Beach SR, Kashdan TB, Nyer MB, Park ER, Celano CM, Huffman JC. Positive psychological attributes and cardiac outcomes: associations, mechanisms, and interventions. Psychosomatics. 2012 Jul-Aug;53(4):303-18. doi: 10.1016/j.psym.2012.04.004. PMID:
 
22748749. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22748749/
 
(2) Carvajal SC. Global positive expectancies in adolescence and health-related behaviours: longitudinal models of latent growth and cross-lagged effects. Psychol Health. 2012;27(8):916-37. doi:
 
10.1080/08870446.2011.633241. Epub 2011 Dec 12. PMID: 22149606; PMCID: PMC4442683. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22149606/
 
(3) Sapranaviciute-Zabazlajeva L, Luksiene D, Virviciute D, Bobak M, Tamosiunas A. Link between healthy lifestyle and psychological well-being in Lithuanian adults aged 45-72: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open. 2017 Apr 3;7(4):e014240. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-014240. PMID: 28373254; PMCID: PMC5387968. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5387968/
 
(4) Steptoe A, O’Donnell K, Marmot M, Wardle J. Positive affect, psychological well-being, and good sleep. J Psychosom Res. 2008 Apr;64(4):409-15. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2007.11.008. PMID:
 
18374740. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18374740/
 
(5) Costanzo ES, Lutgendorf SK, Kohut ML, Nisly N, Rozeboom K, Spooner S, Benda J, McElhaney JE. Mood and cytokine response to influenza virus in older adults. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2004 Dec;59(12):1328-33. doi: 10.1093/gerona/59.12.1328. PMID: 15699534.
 
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15699534/
 
(6) Cohen S, Doyle WJ, Turner RB, Alper CM, Skoner DP. Emotional style and susceptibility to the common cold. Psychosom Med. 2003 Jul-Aug;65(4):652-7. doi: 10.1097/01.psy.0000077508.57784.da. PMID:
 
12883117. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12883117/
 
 
(7) Smyth J, Ockenfels MC, Porter L, Kirschbaum C, Hellhammer DH, Stone AA. Stressors and mood measured on a momentary basis are associated with salivary cortisol secretion. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 1998 May;23(4):353-70. doi: 10.1016/s0306-4530(98)00008-0. PMID:
 
9695136. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9695136/
   
 
(8) Steptoe A, Wardle J, Marmot M. Positive affect and health-related neuroendocrine, cardiovascular, and inflammatory processes. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2005 May 3;102(18):6508-12. doi: 10.1073/pnas.0409174102. Epub 2005 Apr 19. PMID: 15840727; PMCID: PMC1088362. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1088362/
 
(9) Ostir GV, Berges IM, Markides KS, Ottenbacher KJ. Hypertension in older adults and the role of positive emotions. Psychosom Med. 2006 Sep-Oct;68(5):727-33. doi: 10.1097/01.psy.0000234028.93346.38. PMID:
 
17012526; PMCID: PMC1615677. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17012526/
 
(10) Kim ES, Smith J, Kubzansky LD. Prospective study of the association between dispositional optimism and incident heart failure. Circ Heart Fail. 2014 May;7(3):394-400. doi: 10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.113.000644. Epub 2014 Mar 19. PMID: 24647117; PMCID:
 
PMC4608236. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4608236/
 
(11) Lawrence EM, Rogers RG, Wadsworth T. Happiness and longevity in the United States. Soc Sci Med. 2015 Nov;145:115-9. doi: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.09.020. Epub 2015 Sep 18. PMID: 26421947; PMCID: PMC4724393. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4724393/
 
(12) Chida Y, Steptoe A. Positive psychological well-being and mortality: a quantitative review of prospective observational studies. Psychosom Med. 2008 Sep;70(7):741-56. doi: 10.1097/PSY.0b013e31818105ba. Epub 2008 Aug 25. PMID:
 
18725425. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4724393/
 
(13) Strand EB, Zautra AJ, Thoresen M, Ødegård S, Uhlig T, Finset A. Positive affect as a factor of resilience in the pain-negative affect relationship in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. J Psychosom Res. 2006 May;60(5):477-84. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2005.08.010. PMID:
 
16650588. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16650588/
 
 
(14) White DK, Keysor JJ, Neogi T, Felson DT, LaValley M, Gross KD, Niu J, Nevitt M, Lewis CE, Torner J, Fredman L. When it hurts, a positive attitude may help: association of positive affect with daily walking in knee osteoarthritis. Results from a multicenter longitudinal cohort study. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2012 Sep;64(9):1312-9. doi: 10.1002/acr.21694. PMID:
 
22504854; PMCID:
 
PMC3410957. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3410957/
 
(15) Berges IM, Seale G, Ostir GV. Positive affect and pain ratings in persons with stroke. Rehabil Psychol. 2011 Feb;56(1):52-7. doi: 10.1037/a0022683. PMID: 21401286; PMCID:
 
PMC3063951. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3063951/
 
 
 
 
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  crux of David Allen’s book  
 
 
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Getting Things Done | Employing Schedule For High Achievement in A Limited Time
 
 by Shamsul   
 
 
 
 
 
Getting Things Done | Employing Schedule For High Achievement in A Limited Time
 
  
 
Getting Things Done 
 
What It’s All About 
 
Presented here is the crux of David Allen’s book ‘Getting Things Done.’ The book explains in detail how an individual, through practicing specific strategies, can manage to accomplish a plethora of tasks in a given amount of time in a relaxed, tension-free manner. It also explains how the energy can be obtained to achieve a seemingly impossible work routine through employing a work schedule that allows top accomplishments in a limited time, with much less effort than earlier. 
 
I have divided the book into four major sections, which is a lot of work to do in a short time, but then I have been reading the book, and so in a stress-free manner, I extracted the teachings under four main sections. The first explains how an individual can manage the ever-increasing workflow; the second discusses how to get control over various factors that affect implementing a new time management system. The third section explains how to start practicing the stress-free productivity system, while lastly, the tactics of how the technique can be mastered are discussed.  
 
 
Managing Workflow | Getting Things Done
 
(Problem)
 
Managing Workflow is the very first step towards introducing a new system in life that allows us to achieve more in a given period while reducing significant stress levels that are presently a part of our daily lives. To do so, the first step would be to analyze and understand the problem at hand. 
 
What induces stress regularly in our lives is the fact that new demands and pressures arise from every walk of life, and since days are still limited to 24 hours a day, managing all of it is a daunting task. Our lives and work are constantly changing. Office work has no boundaries; personal relationships expect much more; personal life wishes and objectives change regularly; etc., the available options and opportunities are overwhelming. 
 
Another fact is that applying traditional methods or systems to manage all these things constantly proves to be insufficient in accommodating the complexity, speed, and control required for efforts to bear fruitful results. And if matters were not still worse, the regular distractions make matters even worse.
 
(Promise)
 
Remember, most of the distractions that keep us away from achieving our goals effectively are created by us for ourselves. One major reason why we fail to achieve more with less effort is the stress we take upon ourselves, which limits rather than diminishes our ability to focus on the problem at hand. To tackle these situations and to manage situations in life or at work, Allen proposes that every individual requires his or her mind to be in a water-like state.
 
It is like throwing a pebble in a pond; it creates ripples in it based on the mass and force of the object thrown in before returning to its calm state. Similarly, it is important to react accordingly to any problem at hand and leave it off your mind once its proportionate importance is given to it. 
 
The key is to overwhelm but not get overwhelmed.
 
Be forced to change, but avoid getting frustrated in the process.
 
As Allen defines, “the ability to generate power is directly proportionate to your ability to relax.”
 
   
 
 
Managing Workflow | Getting Things Done
 
(Principles)
 
After analyzing the problem and knowing what to do about it, the next step towards stress-free productivity is to stick to your defined principles, which are your commitments to yourself. 
 
One major reason people face stress is not being able to adhere to their obligations and not managing them properly. By controlling the open loops of your life, you can experience more relaxation, better focus, and enhanced productive energy, allowing you to achieve more than otherwise. 
 
A prerequisite at this point is to clear your mind from all other thoughts and pressures. Know your commitments and direct all present actions towards their accomplishment. Stay organized towards your plan, keep reminders, and regularly review your actions.
 
(Process)
 
Executing your activities is the last and most crucial act toward managing workflow and reducing stress levels. Train yourself to be more responsive, fast, proactive, and effectively focused on your problems. This will allow you to practice more control over situations and actions with lesser effort. This facilitates decision-making processes and enables you to operate in a standard procedure where every step will get its due focus and time. 
 
Remember you cannot manage time; five minutes will be five minutes; you cannot transform them into six.
 
You cannot even manage priorities; you have them.
 
You can also not manage information overload. Otherwise, libraries would have been walking death sentences.
 
The only thing you can manage is your actions!
 
 
 
Getting Control | Getting Things Done
 
(Capture)
 
The capture feature of control is all about initially assigning whether a task lies under the ‘should,’ ‘need to,’ or ‘ought to’ category, and based on the final result, kick everything not immediately important out of your mind and focus only on what is needed to be done RIGHT NOW! 
 
Prioritizing tasks is the first step towards filling in loops that delay your efficiency and cause stress. After you prioritize a task or action, it gets easy to clarify which one requires immediate attention and which can be left for later, narrowing down the list of actions in your mind that require immediate attention. 
   
 
Remember, without prioritizing, every task remains in your head, causing stress and lowering your capability to focus on the prime tasks that demand instant action. So get all the less important tasks out of your head, and handle only what is needed to be handled immediately.
 
Use tools such as digital note-taking devices or pads and papers to categorize tasks according to priority so that you can return later to the less immediate tasks, and make sure to regularly attend to all of them so that they do not pile up.  
 
 
(Clarify & Organize)
 
It is practical to know that not every task or action is doable all the time. So once you are done with assigning priority to tasks, it is also essential to consider what a task, either immediate or requiring attention later, is and whether or not it is actionable.
 
To do this, you must first assess whether a task is doable. In case it is not, immediately discard it or remove it from your to-do list. If it is doable, plan how it will be done and review it again before assessing whether you want to do it immediately. If it is a high priority, Do It; if not, either assign someone else to do it, assign a date to do it, or leave it to get back to whenever you find the time and need.
 
 
Getting Control | Getting Things Done
 
(Reflect)
 
Reflecting indicates doing what you have written down or categorized your tasks into. It is one thing to say you will do something and another to do it. The control system’s reflected part is where you put all your planning into the implementation phase. 
 
Once you are done with the organization of tasks, it is time to get into action through systematically processing the tasks as per priority, reviewing your activities at least every week, if not possible daily, update your priority settings as per new circumstances if any, and make sure your To-Do List is cleaned off pending tasks regularly, clearing and completing all listed actions. 
 
(Engage)
 
The primary aim of devising a management workflow process or system is to develop good choices for managing time most effectively and efficiently. Until now, we have been planning, prioritizing, and getting ourselves ready to follow accordingly. However, one more step to take is choosing the correct method. 
 
 
 
Practicing Stress-Free Productivity | Getting Things Done
 
Practicing stress-free productivity is about starting with what has been planned. You will require setting up time, space, and tools to carry out work as planned from initial prioritization to implementation. 
 
(Setting Time)
 
Set aside some time to review all your tasks, prioritize them, and plan exactly what you will do. It is only possible to follow some steps defined here, but at least attempt to follow as many steps as possible. Dedicate a day or two to implement the process in your life. A weekend or holiday may be a good time, too; ensure minimal disturbance is present and that you are fresh and energetic to do it.
 
(Setting Space)
 
Also, it is recommended that you choose a specific physical place for conducting these time management activities, which will be a place from where you control your time and life from the day onwards. This office should be a place you visit daily, either your office or your home, or if you travel a lot, it can also be in the form of a briefcase that is always with you. 
   
 
(Getting Tools)
 
Those committed to making this workflow process work for them will always require specific tools to be available at hand. These will include basic supplies and equipment such as papers, work pads, digital organizers (if needed), a calendar, your PC or mobile device, etc.
 
(Keeping Things Out Of Mind)
 
After getting time out of your routine, setting up a workplace, and collecting all essential tools, the only one thing left to do, which is a prerequisite, is to clear your mind out of everything else and just cut yourself out of the rest of the world for the period. Once this is done, you are ready to start implementing the workflow process. 
 
 
 
Achieving Mastery Over Getting Things Done 
 
The workflow process explained in ‘Getting Things Done’ defines activities or processes that should be practiced lifelong and thus require different levels of mastery as life progresses. It’s like practicing a sport or a game, where you progress as you keep playing or practicing it. It’s all about dealing with the workstream or other life engagements that a person goes through in a lifetime. Not only are these constantly evolving, but a person is also almost always faced with the need to identify and navigate between various interests and commitments. It is always a matter of choice. 
 
Mastery of workflow management does not mean that some Permanente enlightenment will be achieved or a form of peace will be encountered. It refers to only improving an individual’s capability to overcome life’s challenges by attaining clarity, stability, and focus.  
 
The three tiers of mastery involve
 
Mastering the basics 
 
As explained earlier, the basics include building proficiency with the fundamental components of Getting Things Done. This is not easy to incorporate into daily life and may take some time to establish as a life practice fully. You will need time to adjust to the principles and concepts explained here and accept them as being effective in improving productivity and enhancing focus while declining stress levels. Implementing these principles as a way of life will be challenging initially; however, you will get acquainted once you spend time with them. 
 
Integrated Life Management
 
As you get familiar with the principles and concepts of Getting Things Done. You will gradually get ready and prepare to transcend to the next level: implementing these principles in other walks of life, incorporating them weekly and daily. 
 
This level will offer more experience in dealing with more stress as you practice staying calm and handling any situation. You get better control, and your issues start to transform into opportunities. 
 
Focus, Direction, and Creativity
 
The last level of Getting Things Done is utilizing the freed focus you now have and transforming it into new values and commitments in life. At this level, you start using your external mind to create new value and achieve the freedom to do more meaningful things in life. You control your life activities and can now effectively transform practical outputs from available inputs.
 
   
 
 
Concluding Notes | Getting Things Done
 
Getting Things Done is a guide to explaining how stress-free focus can be achieved to accomplish more.
 
It defines how we can manage various actions based on priority with a clear mind yielding more efficiency from the decisions made.
 
This guide defines the process following which the cumbersome workflow process of life can be streamlined.
 
It strengthens the mental system by relieving stress and creating a system that allows equal and relevant importance to every action.
 
Overall, it is a front-end planning system that can be implied in everyday life.
 
 
 
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HOW TO DISTINGUISH YOURSELF AND BE UNIQUE
 
YOGA – A GUIDE TO INFORMATION RESOURCES (PART 2)
 
HOW TO DEAL WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE BEHAVIORS
 
 
 
 
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How to Distinguish Yourself and Be Unique
 
 by Shamsul   
 
 
 
 
 
 
How to Distinguish Yourself and Be Unique
  
How to Distinguish Yourself? Excellent question. Maybe you’ve heard the expression, “You attract the customers you deserve”. Without going into an esoteric debate on the question, it is in fact an effect that I have seen (and I am not the only one). Nothing magic there; it is essentially a question of distinguishness.
 
What is meant by that? Depending on your positioning, you will meet a need for a specific market segment. And on which you are not (always) alone. Yes, competition exists. There is a point and it’s good that it exists. It proves a market for the product or service we are trying to sell. And in addition, it challenges us to find ideas to run and develop our business.
 
Note that – for those of you who are employed or job seekers – it also works perfectly for you. Read on; you’ll see!
 
 
How to differentiate yourself and make yourself unique in the eyes of your prospects and customers?
 
When talking about the training and coaching sector (because it is the one I know best), we often hear that it is a saturated sector. It is clear that – without being yet saturated – the number of coaches is increasing from year to year all over the world. Which in itself is good news.
 
It means that there is a demand for this type of service.
 
The more coaches there are, the more likely coaching will become known to the public.
   
 
Only here, if we only take the example of coaching, it can be challenging to break through and differentiate yourself. Because yes, the more “competition” there is, the more effort it takes to make yourself known and create a profitable business.
  
However, there are ways to clearly differentiate yourself from others and increase your chances of standing out. I have identified for you six possible ways to differentiate yourself, whatever your sector of activity and your status (job seeker, employee or entrepreneur).
 
1- Showcase Your Talents
 
As you know, talents are a favorite subject. And there is a good reason for this: if we refer to the 34 talents identified by Gallup in the CliftonStrengths test, this gives approximately 33 million possible combinations. And our way of expressing them will also be extremely personal. As you can see, just by focusing on this aspect of things, you will easily succeed in finding a trademark.
 
 
2- Capitalize On Your Experience
 
If there is one thing that no one can copy or take away from you, it is your experience, your life experience. What if you went back in time to identify the elements that influenced you during your life or career? What are the elements of your context that could help you create your story and differentiate yourself? Depending on this, it’s a safe bet that some audiences will recognize themselves more than others. And this will allow you to resonate with them more easily.
 
 
 
 
3- Put Yourself at the Service of a Target Audience
 
I don’t know if you already know the expression “niche market.” When I discovered it, it was a marketing term that radically changed my perception of the market I wanted to address. Indeed, a mistake frequently made (especially when starting an entrepreneurial career) is to believe that our products or services are for everyone. It is a fake concept!
 
We end up reaching no one because we want to target everyone. Rather than using a bazooka to try to kill a mosquito, ask yourself if there is a particular market for your products or services:
   
 
Is there a segment of the population that would be more likely to be interested in what you have to offer?
 
Are there individuals on whom you want to focus your attention (especially based on your life experience)?
 
To take a concrete example: Nathalie Alsteen. Nathalie is a coach, therapist, and speaker, as there could be thousands of others. Except that, Nathalie – based on her own experience and experience – decided to focus on people with so-called “high potential” (or “talented emotional people” as she prefers to call them).
 
 
4- Play On Your Passions and Interests
 
I must admit that this is something I have only sometimes believed in. And yet, in terms of personal brand, it makes it possible to differentiate oneself in an exceptional way.
 
I will take here the example of Thierry Croix. Thierry is a graphic designer. Again, designers, there are thousands. Except that, if you go to Thierry’s profile on social networks or even on his website, you will quickly see that several things are present, in particular, his passion for Star Wars and LEGOs. And that is clearly reflected in his communication.
 
And it’s so apparent that he is recognized for it and that some of his clients come looking for him for it (among other things, eh, he also has plenty of other strings to his bow!). This fuels the reasons why some customers will favor HIM rather than another designer.
 
You will tell me: “Yes, but it risks scaring off some customers if I expose my areas of interest”. So yes, if you are passionate about midget dildos, chances are it will play on your reputation!
 
But on the contrary, talking about what interests you (science, music, literature…) will attract adequate customers to you and will save you from wasting time with annoying people. Remember this: “You can’t please everyone!
   
 
 
5- Find Your Style
 
To pick up on the previous point, I invite you to try to find your style, your tone… in short, the way that suits YOU and you feel comfortable communicating. I reassure you right away: it is something that needs to be worked on, that takes time (and that evolves over time, too), and it is not acquired once and for all. I’ve come to realize many things I want to inject into my com over the past few months, and it’s still being considered.
 
To begin, try to take stock of your personality, the values that drive you, and the famous. And don’t forget that it’s by testing and doing things that all of this will be put in place: no pressure, no “You have to, I have to,”.
 
 
6- Adopt Different Approaches, Methods, and Tools:
 
Finally, it is not the most original element, but it is nevertheless one of the musts to highlight. Especially if you are trained or if you have developed your own approach or methodology. So look for the training you have taken, the certifications you have obtained, and the tools you use on a daily basis. In short, all the skills can help you strengthen your profile and help you Distinguish Yourself.
 
Above all, no bullshitting: Yes Distinguish Yourself, and stay who you are!
 
As we have just seen, there are many ways to Distinguish Yourself and make yourself unique in the eyes of an employer or a potential client. And I claim here to have yet to make an exhaustive list; feel free to share your tips and tricks in the comments.
 
On the other hand, what I would really like for you is to adopt the 0% bullshit attitude:
 
     
  • Stay who you are.
    •  
  • Be steadfast.
    •  
  • Be authentic.
    •  
  • Don’t try to put on a mask… nothing worse than to find yourself faced with a layer of make-up that does not suit you.
    •  
 
   
 
 
 
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Also, if you want help in writing content to drive more traffic and boost conversions; please get in touch through  Contact our team.
 
Do you want help writing quality content, driving traffic to your website, and boosting conversions? You can contact me through my Freelancer.com profile also. I always prefer to work through my Freelancer.com profile for smooth functioning. Here you pay safely and securely.
 
 
 
Read More:
 
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  Yoga  
 
 
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YOGA – A GUIDE TO INFORMATION RESOURCES (PART 2)
 
 by Shamsul   
 
 
 
 
 
 
YOGA – A GUIDE TO INFORMATION RESOURCES (PART 2)
  
Integrate Yoga Into Your Lifestyle 
 
Reflection
 
My desire to integrate Yoga into my lifestyle has existed for a while. Although, initially, I learned a lot about yogic practices, by accessing different resource guides and organizations, I gained a lot of information that will help me understand all types of yogic practices and styles that are very beneficial for my health and wellness. The reason for creating this guide is to help those who want to understand Yoga, its different types and practices that include both physical and mental techniques, and how it can impact the health and well-being of an individual.
 
The guide is divided into different sections (Read part 1), including guidance resources. You can get read a wide range of books, articles, blogs, associations, foundations and non-profit organizations, ayurvedic treatment, institutes dedicated to offering yogic therapies, and sources to access the power of healing yogic music. The resources cover a wide range of aspects like yoga practices and styles for beginners and pros, where you can find experts and teachers, how yogic practices help in maintaining a mind and body balance, along with how you can integrate yoga into your kid’s lifestyle along with its practices for parents as well. 
 
 
Writing this guide gave me great pleasure in sharing information with other people interested in Yoga; however, the most challenging part I encountered was determining which resource to include and which to leave because of the large volume of valuable information available. Several resources offered similar services, and selecting one resource that perfectly fits this resource guide was quite a difficult task for me. Another significant problem I encountered in preparing this guide is analyzing and summarizing every resource so that it not only presents information about the resource but even explains how it can help the target audience. My point was to present resources in such a manner so that those who are interested in Yoga can easily understand why the given resource is helpful for them. 
 
Moreover, I wanted to present the resources covering every aspect of Yoga, whether practicing on your own through tutorials or becoming a member of different associations and organizations. Another area I could have done better in preparing the resource guide was that many resources targeted a specific region or area, which I consider narrowing the field. I intend to include resources that provide helpful information for people worldwide, not for a particular site.
 
 
The time duration involved in preparing the resource guide was longer than expected because of the huge amount of information available. Selecting and filtering resources from a widely available database has been challenging; however, it opened new venues for me to increase my yogic knowledge.
 
Creating this guide was an exciting task for me as it took me back to my old days when I was looking for resources and guides to understand more about Yoga. I have included as many resources as possible covering nearly all elements of yogic practices and techniques so that the reader finds it a complete guide. Every moment I spent preparing the guide was worthwhile as I have developed a feeling of providing helpful information to people who want it. In this way, I intend to help them understand how they can balance their physical and mental health and live their daily lives more brilliantly. My creation will serve as an excellent guide for your requirements. I have included links to every resource so you do not have to do much work searching these resources online. Click on the link, and you are there to seek information.
 
  
Blogs, Articles, and Other Teaching Resources On Yoga
 
 
1- It’s All Yoga, Baby 
 
https://www.jbrownyoga.com/yoga-talks-podcast/2018/2/roseanne-harvey
 
Roseanne Harvey’s podcast includes a whole of information about it and its related aspects. The content on the blog investigates the relationship between practice and the human body and popular culture. The blog aims to shed some light on yoga culture along with celebrating the community, creativity, service, and its independent spirit of fun.
 
 
2- SF Yoga Magazine
 
http://www.sfyogamagazine.com/ 
 
A community in San Francisco operates the platform with a vibrant and amazing yoga community. The underlying concept of the platform is very simple, promoting these studios, workshops, studios, teachers, and events in San Francisco, especially in Bay Area. 
 
 
3- Love Yoga Anatomy
 
http://loveyogaanatomy.com/
 
If you are willing to seek expert advice from anatomy teachers and yoga experts, this resource is a perfect guide where there are hundreds of articles, interviews, videos, and more.
 
 
4- The Yoga of Parenting 
 
http://www.theyogaofparenting.com/
 
Partly Yoga, partly parent support this blog is dedicated to parents who want some relief time from their stressed schedule. The parenting program has been designed to help integrate some of the best mindful practices. The best thing about the resource is that the program keeps in view the approaches of the latest mind science, which will change the way of parenting.
 
 
5- YinYoga.com 
 
http://www.yinyoga.com/
 
The resources are great and amazing. No matter which type of yogic practice you want to know about, the Yin Yoga community has all the information you want to know.
 
 
6- NACAMS 
 
https://www.nacams.org/yoga/
 
If you are looking for a reasonably priced instructor, this blog is my ultimate selection.
 
 
7- Teachasana 
 
http://www.teachasana.com/
 
This is an online educational resource alongside a community that yoga teachers have created for students. If you are an instructor and want to learn more, Teachasana is the best place to find information, education, and advice on it and its practices.
 
 
8- Yoga Dork
 
http://yogadork.com/
 
This is like a forum for yogis where all practitioners’ whether teachers or students come, converse and convene about Yoga and related aspects. You will find very smart as well as un comments from people in the yogic world.
 
 
9- Yoga Journal 
 
http://www.yogajournal.com/ 
 
This source is excellent for understanding virtually everything related to Yoga. There is also a Journal magazine also issued in this respect.
 
   
 
10- Yoga International
 
https://yogainternational.com/
 
This is a transformation of the popular Yoga International magazine. The website fits all relevant information, including classes, meditation, guided relaxation, and many others.
 
 
11- Yogi Times 
 
http://www.yogitimes.com/
 
This place is basically a forum where yogis can interact with each other and express their enthusiasm, creativity, and knowledge.
 
 
12- Yoga U 
 
https://www.yogauonline.com/
 
 If you are looking for the best in online education, this is the ultimate place to visit. The site is operated by a group of people who are passionate about spreading the healing benefits of Yoga more widely to people.
 
 
13- Yoga Teacher Central 
 
https://yogateachercentral.com/
 
This place is a very organized storehouse where you can access various tools and information that has been collected from teachers and experts. Teachers can personalize their classes. Teachers can also explain their classes’ style, inspiration, and planning. 
 
 
14- Yoga Teacher Resource 
 
http://teachingyoga.net/
 
There is a lot of information from yoga books, resources, and classes as well as the personal experiences of experts. This site is great for those who want to polish their skills.
 
 
15- YOAGAANONYMOUS 
 
http://yoganonymous.com/
 
If you want to keep track of all yoga-related activities like events, workshops, retreats, or about your favorite teacher, this website is an excellent option to consider.
  
Yoga Associations Worldwide
  
1- The International Association of Yoga Therapists 
 
International Association of Yoga Therapists, PO Box 251563, Little Rock, AR 72225
 
http://www.iayt.org/
 
The association serves as a professional organization for all therapists and teachers across the world. The association aims to establish as a recognized and respected healing therapy. If you want to be a part of this association, this place is the best stop.
 
 
2- Association for Yoga Studies
 
25 Castle Street Penistone, Sheffield South Yorkshire, S36 6AP
 
http://www.ays.org.uk/
 
The Association for Yoga Studies is a community of teachers and students of every level. Members of the association have a common interest in Viniyoga. Membership is offered to become a member of this association. 
 
 
3- The British Wheel Of Yoga
 
British Wheel of Yoga, 25 Jermyn Street, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7RU
 
http://www.bwy.org.uk/
 
It is the largest yogic membership organization and is committed to promoting a greater understanding of its practices. Being a member of the association will offer access to several other aspects, including different courses or becoming a instructor.
 
 
4- Independent Yoga Network
 
IYN, PO BOX 5525, WOLVERHAMPTON, WV1 9PH
 
https://www.independentyoganetwork.org/
 
This place is an organization of yoga teachers and training schools. Individual and school membership programs are available. Upon becoming a member of the association, members will be represented in different forums linked with creating or increasing awareness about it and its practices.
  
Web-Based Yoga Associations 
  
1- Integral Yoga Teachers Association
 
https://iyta.org/
   
 
This is a membership association that is open to every integral teacher. The association aims to offer mutual support and spiritual fellowship for sharing information, guidance, and ongoing training.
 
 
2- Yoga Alliance
 
https://www.yogaalliance.org/
 
This is a perfect resource where you can find thousands of yogic studios, schools, teachers, and continuing education providers.
 
 
3- National Association of Certified Yoga Teachers 
 
http://www.nacyt.org/ 
 
If you are looking for a certification body that offers certified courses, this non-profit association is an excellent place to stop. No matter which type of Yoga you are an expert in, this association caters to all.
 
 
4- International Yoga Teachers Association
 
 
International Yoga Teachers Association
 
 
The association upholds the highest ethical standards of teaching. If you want to get an insight into the teachers and experts worldwide who will share their love and knowledge, this association is an excellent one to join.
 
 
5- British Council for Yoga Therapy
 
http://www.bcyt.co.uk/ 
 
A professional forum in the UK comprises professional therapy training and professional organizations that are also members of therapists. Membership will allow access to affiliated training and professional
 
 organizations.
 
 
6- Yoga for Health and Education Trust
 
http://www.yoga-health-education.org.uk/
 
The association is dedicated to spreading yogic practices amongst all, whether fit or unfit. Different residential courses are available for those who are interested in yogic practices. Membership will get available yogic course options.
 
 
7- Friends of Yoga Society International
 
http://www.friendsofyoga.co.uk/
 
An association of qualified teachers and yogic instructors, this place has its aims to teach the next generation the ethics and values of yogic practices; however, this can be achieved through junior memberships only. 
 
 
8- Grampian Yoga Association
 
http://grampianyoga.org.uk/
 
The association is dedicated to promoting in and around Grampian City. Experienced tutors and eminent Swamis attend this association’s seminars to encourage the practices and how they can change the body and soul. Memberships are available from its official website.
  
Yoga Events and Workshops                                 
  
1- Oriental Dance Classes with
 
Tianyi Kiy
 
If you are looking for a healthy and fun-packed aerobic workout in rhythms and exotic music, Oriental Dance Classes with Tianyi is the most enjoyable way to connect with your body and soul. These classes work on posture, weight loss, and toned muscles.
 
 
2- BWY Foundation Course with
 
 
 
An excellent opportunity by the BWY Foundation Course will cover different aspects of programs. An interesting event for those who want to have a deeper understanding of Yogic philosophies and practices. Limited spaces are available for application through BWY’s official website.
 
 
3- Yoga Teacher Training
 
 
 
A new instructor’s course explores yogic themes like posture, chakras, consciousness, breath, energy, and philosophy. Enrolling in the course will help in understanding yogic practices in detail.
 
 
4- Secrets to Inner Peace & Personal Transformation
 
 
 
Master of meditation David Ji and Yog Sundari have arranged a workshop to guide you throughout personal transformation through yogic practices. This two-day course will give you the tools to feel refreshed and develop the ability to make better choices that will take your life to the next level.
 
   
 
5- Yoga Bodhi, Bath
 
 
Held at: Studio 1, Somerset
 
This event is a must-visit if you want time to relax from the stressed daily routine. Relaxation and refreshing are the two main focuses of the program, and you will feel completely relaxed from tight breathing patterns.
  
Yoga Product Suppliers
  
Ruth White Yoga Products Shop
 
 
 
http://www.ruthwhiteyoga.com/shop/
 
Ruth White Yoga Products are amongst the supplier of the top product across the UK. These products can be ordered either through their outlet or through their webshop. From apparel to mats, all the way to pillows and everything in between, you can get them all here. 
 
 
BWY Shop
 
The Mad Group (HQ) Ltd, 430 Enterprise Way, Vale Park, Evesham, Worcestershire, WR11 1AD https://www.mad-hq.com/bwy-shop
 
The official online yoga shop of the British Wheel of Yoga offers a comprehensive range of equipment and products, including mats, belts, blocks, and bricks, along with a wide selection of CDs, books, and videos to enhance your practices.
  
Foundations and Other Inspiring Places You May Want To Visit
  
1- Give Back Yoga 
 
http://givebackyoga.org/
 
The foundation believes in passing over the yogic gift, one individual at a time, thereby building communities, empowering individuals, and helping people become part of this excellent healing therapy.
 
 
2- Eat Breath Thrive 
 
http://www.eatbreathethrive.org/
 
This non-profit organization aims to prevent and help individuals to recover from their negative image arising from eating disorders. They present evidence-based programs that integrate Yoga, mindfulness, and community support.
 
 
3- Mind Body Solution
 
http://www.mindbodysolutions.org/
 
The mission of this non-profit organization is to transform loss, trauma, and disability into potential and hope by awakening the connection between the human body and mind. The institute is very popular for integrating yogic practices for those who have any disability.
 
 
4- Yoga for Classrooms 
 
http://www.yoga4classrooms.com/
 
A simple, low-cost, sustainable, and effective school program that integrates mind and body practices and works on every child’s psychological and physical well-being.
 
 
5- Yoga Health Foundation 
 
http://www.yogahealthfoundation.org/
 
The program promotes awareness about the proven health benefits associated with yogic practices. You can also access a wide range of actionable guidance and tools for enhancing your well-being.
 
 
6- Yoga in Schools 
 
http://yogainschools.org/
 
For all those who want to make it a part of their kids’ life, this organization makes programs available in all schools so that teachers and students can develop body and mind awareness and nurture their own well-being. 
  
YouTube
  
1- Yoga Practice Videos
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0o0kNeOyH98
 
This video is excellent for beginners and demonstrates different poses and exercises that will leave you fully recharged and refreshed.
 
 
2- eFit30
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIFHwqjFoZg
 
The video presents a 30-minute yogic routine with Iyengar Yoga with David McLaughlan that can be easily done at home and with minimum equipment.
 
 
3- AerialYogaUK
 
 
 
 
This is a video showcasing a new concept – aerial Yoga. The video demonstrates different poses and techniques used in this type of yogic practice.
   
 
 
4- Gaiam
 
 
 
 
This video includes a 6-min abs workout with yogic movements. Gaiam is a leading company for toga wellness and fitness products and content and is dedicated to making yogic practices accessible easily.
 
 
5- BeFit
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPUjtPRnQWk&list=PL1c41tQdiDhOqKUHqPhu52Ir+YlDq1vfl%C2%AD&index=2
 
With this video, you do not have to go to a studio to learn the basics. This is an excellent source for understanding the basics. Different poses and postures have been included with detailed explanations, which will help understand yogic practices.
 
 
6- BrettLarkin Yoga
 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJi17P7iKNM
 
Great for beginners. No prior experience is required. Includes different poses, and the benefits of every pose are explained. Perfect for morning yogic practices.
  
Music
  
1- Spirit Voyage Music
 
 
http://www.spiritvoyage.com/
 
This is the best place to visit if you are looking for online Yogic-inspiring music.
 
 
2- 8 Tracks 
 
http://8tracks.com/explore/yoga
 
A hand-crafted internet radio station with playlists that are great inspirations for yogis. 
 
 
3- Yogi Tunes 
 
https://yogi-tunes.com/
 
A non-profit organization arranging the healing music of Yoga for the masses.
  
Yoga Therapy
  
 
1- Inner Peace Yoga Therapy 
 
http://innerpeaceyogatherapy.com/
 
Looking for a comprehensive and modular therapy certification program? IPYT is a complete professional training program that starts with a 300-hour program. Excellent faculty here.
 
 
2- Integrative Yoga Therapy 
 
https://iytyogatherapy.com/
 
This is a pioneer and a leader in teaching professional yogic therapies. The experts bring ancient insights into Yoga within the modern techniques of well-being.
 
 
3- Yoga for Special Child 
 
http://www.specialyoga.com/
 
The program includes yogic techniques designed to meet the developmental requirements of children with special needs.
 
 
 
 
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