How Physical Exercise Benefits Mental Health

How Physical Exercise Benefits Mental Health Panic Disorder Coping Print How Physical Exercise Benefits Mental Health By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on May 01, 2019 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on August 10, 2019 How Stress Impacts Your Health Overview Signs of Burnout Stress and Weight Gain Benefits of Exercise Stress Reduction Tips Self-Care Practices Mindful Living In This Article Table of Contents Expand Exercise and Mental Illness Benefits of Exercise Types of Exercise Before You Begin Starting an Exercise Plan View All While the physical health benefits of exercise are frequently discussed, the psychological benefits are often overlooked. But research shows exercise can be quite beneficial for mental health. Physical activity may help ward off mental health problems before they start. Additionally, research shows exercise can improve the symptoms of many existing mental illnesses.?? Verywell / Brianna GIlmartin How Exercise Impacts Mental Illness Mental health professionals often prescribe exercise as part of the treatment for specific mental illnesses. Exercise can alleviate many of the symptoms of depression, such as fatigue, tension, anger, and reduced vigor. For people with panic disorder, PTSD, and other anxiety-related conditions, exercise can be a proactive way to release pent-up tension and reduce feelings of fear and worry.?? Exercise also decreases sensitivity to the bodys reaction to anxiety, as well as decreases the intensity and frequency of panic attacks in some cases.?? Additionally, a regular exercise program can help ease symptoms of other common co-occurring conditions, such as ?IBS.?? How Exercise Promotes Positive Well-Being Exercise can also be used to enhance well-being in people who already feel mentally healthy. Increased physical activity has been found to enhance mood, improve energy levels, and promote quality sleep. There are several reasons why physical activity can be good for psychological well-being: Exercise decreases stress hormones. Exercise decreases stress hormones like cortisol. It also increases endorphinsâ€"your bodys ‘feel-good’ chemicalsâ€"giving your mood a natural boost.??Physical activity distracts you from negative thoughts and emotions. Physical activity can take your mind off of your problems and either redirect it on the activity at hand or get you into a zen-like state.Exercise promotes confidence. Exercise can help you lose weight, tone your body, and maintain a healthy glow and a smile.?? You may feel a subtle but significant boost in your mood as your clothes look more flattering and you project an aura of increased strength.Exercise can be a good source of social support. The benefits of social support are well-documented and many physical activities can be social activities as well.?? So whether you join an exercise class or you play softball in a league, exercising with others can give you a double-dose of stress relief.Better physical health may mean better mental health. While stress can cause illness, illness can also cause stress. Improving your overall health and longevity with exercise can save you a great deal of stress in the short run (by strengthening your immunity to colds, the flu, and other minor illnesses) and the long run (by helping you stay healthier longer, and enjoy life more because of it).Exercise provides a buffer against stress. Physical activity may be linked to lower physiological reactivity toward stress. Simply put, those who get more exercise may become less affected by the stress they face. So, in addition to all the other benefits, exercise may supply some immunity toward future stress as well as a way to cope with current stress.?? Types of Exercise Fortunately, there are many types of exercise that can improve mental health. From weight lifting to running, its important to find exercises that you enjoy doing. Here are some types of exercise that can be good for mental health: Yoga Yoga can range from gentle to challenging. The most common form of yoga (hatha yoga) involves physical poses (known as asanas), controlled breathing, and periods of meditation. Yoga is a low-risk method for healing the body and mind. Often the positive effects can be felt after just one class. A 2018 study published in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice found that yoga can help:Decrease physiological arousalLower heart rateLower blood pressureImprove respirationReduce the stress responseReduce depression and anxietyIncrease energy and feelings of well-being Tai Chi Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that combines meditation and rhythmic breathing in a slow series of graceful body movements and poses (also called forms). Tai Chi has been shown to: Reduce stressLower blood pressureReduce anxietyImprove depressed moodIncrease self-esteem?? Aerobic Exercise There is growing research evidence that regular aerobic exercise (such as running, cycling or swimming) is associated with better psychological health. Although studies have focused on depression, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), theres also some evidence to suggest a positive effect of exercise on social phobia.?? ?? Both single sessions and long-term programs of aerobic exercise have been shown to provide a positive benefit for psychological health.?? Although as little as five to 10 minutes of aerobic exercise can help to improve your mood and reduce your anxiety, regular programs, lasting from 10 to 15 weeks, seem to improve ones overall mental state. Before You Begin If you are just starting out with an exercise program, its important to consult with your doctor to determine the best form of exercise and intensity level for your physical condition. Your medical history, current medications, and diagnosed conditions can all play a role in your ability to exercise. If you suspect you have a mental illness or youre being treated by a mental health professional, ask about how you can incorporate physical activity into your treatment. A qualified mental health professional can make suggestions about the best strategies for treating your specific condition. How to Start an Exercise Plan Once you have obtained your doctor’s approval and recommendations, you will want to decide on an exercise program thats right for you. Do you want to take a class? Could it be helpful to hire a trainer at the gym? Do you prefer to go for a walk on your own time while listening to your favorite music? The key to sticking with a program is to find something that you enjoy doing. When starting a new exercise plan, you may initially feel very motivated. This motivation to exercise can be extremely beneficial in helping you get started on your new exercise plan. A 2017 study published in Maturitas found that between two and six hours of exercise each week is best for optimal mental health. Here are a few tips to start and maintain your exercise plan: Don’t overdo it. Be careful not to push yourself to extremes in the beginning, as this can lead to physical injury. Remember that exercise can be fun and can help improve your mood and anxiety, but it should not be causing physical issues. Take it slow in the beginning and gradually increase your workouts over time.Make a commitment to your exercise plan. From stressed-out executives to frazzled stay-at-home moms, everyone is busy. Putting time aside to exercise means that you have made your health and well-being a top priority. It can take time before you notice improvements in your panic symptoms. For the best results, stay patient and consistent with your exercise program.Know that your motivation may change at different stages of your exercise plan. It is not uncommon for your initial enthusiasm to fade over time. It can help to change your routine a little or find new exercise options altogether. For example, if youre getting bored with the treadmill at the local gym, try walk ing locally or joining a hiking group. These alternative options can also have the added benefit of helping you socialize while you exercise.Keep experimenting. Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you. If you struggle to stick with exercise first thing in the morning, try exercising in the afternoon. Or, if you discover that you dread hitting the gym, try exercising outside. Keep experimenting until you find something that you are likely to stick to. 17 Highly Effective Stress Relievers

Steinbeck and His Techniques for Success in Of Mice and Men

There is only one way an author can get their readers to cry, laugh, and love or just enjoy their master pieces. That one way is through the uses of literary devices such as similes, metaphors and personification. These are the small things that brings the author`s thoughts and ideas alive. The author`s ability to use literary devices through the book helps in direct characterization and lets readers get a better understanding of Lennie and George, the two main characters Of Mice and Men. It also helps in keeping readers thinking on their feet and constantly questioning George and Lennie`s next move while in Salinas, California. John Steinbeck, in his novel Of Mice and Men, makes use of similes and foreshadowing to keep readers in touch†¦show more content†¦Lennie`s character gets better and better as the story progresses, especially through the use of similes. While George and Slim are sharing their stories, George starts to discuss about the struggles he been through with Lennie. George explains to Slim about how Lennie was and says to him, â€Å"He`s dumb as hell, but he ain`t crazy† (Steinbeck 39).This shows the truthfulness in George`s words and dumb as hell means truly dumb and is usually used in Northern California to describe someone who is extremely dumb. This quote uses a simile and lets readers visualize and understand how dumb and stupid Lennie really is. The simile also helps to exaggerate how dumb Lennie is by comparing it to hell. It lets readers to get a better understanding of Lennie`s disabilities and understand him more. Overall, with the help of similes Lennie`s character comes to life and through the book .Similes give the book an overall effect of more imagery, exaggeration and helps build characters in the story. Lennie`s characteristic described from similes also help to foreshadow a character`s next decision or ending. Steinbeck uses foreshadowing to warn readers of future events that occur later in the story. Crook is a black stable-hand, kind but at the same time hates everyone on the farm. While all the men on the farm are out, Lennie spots a yellow light coming from Crook`s room and soon starts to make a conversation with Crook. Crook asks Lennie what he would do if George did not come back,Show MoreRelatedOf Mice and Men1006 Words   |  5 Pagesof every novel.† In your view, what are the distinctive ideas explored in Of Mice and Men? Explain how these ideas are developed throughout the novel. Themes are integral and fundamental aspects which render the literature valuable. They usually provide insight into the author’s perception and internalisations of the world in which they live. Set in California during the Great Depression, Of Mice and Men, by Steinbeck, illustrates the hardships experienced by individuals as they roamed the countrysideRead MoreOf Mice and Men, American Beauty Essay examples1159 Words   |  5 PagesThrough the comparative study of â€Å"Of Mice and Men† written by John Steinbeck in 1937 and â€Å"American Beauty† directed by Sam Mendes in 1999, it is apparent that the concept of the American Dream is timeless and enduring. Mendes and Steinbeck use language techniques such as dramatic foreshadowing and filmic techniques to define the American Dream’s spiritual and materialistic aspects. However, from the context of the Great Depression explored in â€Å"Of Mice and Men† to the economic boom of 1999 which providesRe ad MoreTheme Of Creation And Expulsion Of Cain From The Garden Of Eden Essay2550 Words   |  11 Pages When looking over Of Mice and Men, we come to realize that this work portrays various questions when it comes to man and his life. The main question that this work asks when the story is told is â€Å"is man destined to live alone, a solitary wanderer on the face of the earth, or is it the fate of man to care for man, to go in his way in companionship with another?† Should we ride solo or join others along the way? That is one of the themes of this work. This theme is like the theme that occurs in theRead MoreThemes And Styles Of John Steinbeck s The 4033 Words   |  17 PagesMr. Bruno English IV Period 08 November 17, 2014 Themes and Styles of John Steinbeck John Ernst Steinbeck, Jr. was born on February 26, 1902 in Salinas, California. He spent the majority of his childhood there and readers learn about his home city and childhood in his works. Steinbeck wrote novels, non-fiction books, short stories, poetry, and plays. Some of his most impactful and recognized works include: Of Mice and Men, The Grapes of Wrath, The Pearl, The Moon is Down, East of Eden, In DubiousRead MoreJohn Steinbecks use of Realism, Characterization, and Dreams in The Grapes of Wrath and Of Mice and Men2450 Words   |  10 PagesJohn Ernst Steinbeck has written many award winning novels, some of which has even been produced as plays that captured audiences everywhere. Steinbeck wrote about real life experiences using realism, characterization, and dreams to emphasize his points and make an impact on his readers in order to reform or change society. The realism used in Steinbecks works is not only effective in informing the reader of circumstances that should be changed, but this nineteenth century literary style also createsRead MoreThemes, Styles, And Techniques Essay2289 Words   |  10 Pages 16 November 2016 Themes, Styles, and Techniques as Expressed in the Works of John Steinbeck INTRO INTRO INTRO INTRO INTRO INTRO INTRO When looking over Of Mice and Men, we come to realize that this work portrays various questions when it comes to man and his life. The main question that this work asks when the story is told is â€Å"is man destined to live alone, a solitary wanderer on the face of the earth, or is it the fate of man to care for man, to go in his way in companionship with another?† ShouldRead More Of Mice and Men and Steinbeck’s Life Essay2035 Words   |  9 PagesOf Mice and Men and Steinbeck’s Life      Ã‚   If an author does not have at least one great popular success, he or she may well be ignored by the media, but if he or she is constantly popular, then the critics become suspicious of the writers serious intentions (Benson Introduction). What do critics from the literary world have to say about Steinbecks writings? Critics have much to say, both positive and negative. What link exists between Steinbeck and his writings? Perhaps the most noteworthyRead MoreJohn Steinbeck s Of Mice And Men 1656 Words   |  7 PagesIn the novel ‘Of Mice and Men’, Curley’s Wife is one of the many characters who represent a minority in the American society in the 1930s. In the award winning book, John Steinbeck provides many different aspects to the world he was living in at the time he wrote the novel: dreams, hopes and loneliness to name a few, all channelled through one mentality - prejudice. Curley’s Wife was one of the many characters that Steinbeck used to get his point across about prejudice with. She is not a complexRead MoreEssay on Modernism at Its Finest in Literature756 Words   |  4 Pagesfrom the typical and predicate patterns of normal literature. Poets at this time took full advantage and stretched the idea of the mind’s conscience on how the world, mind, and language interact and contradict. Many authors, such as Fitzgerald, Steinbeck, and Twain, used the pain and anguish in first hand experiences to create and depict a new type of literature, modernism. In this time era, literature and art became a larger part of society and impacted more American lives than ever before. During

Racial and Cultural Test Bias, Stereotype Threat and...

Racial and Cultural Test Bias, Stereotype Threat and Their Implications A substantial amount of educational and psychological research has consistently demonstrated that African American students underperform academically relative to White students. For example, they tend to receive lower grades in school (e.g., Demo Parker, 1987; Simmons, Brown, Bush, Blyth, 1978), score lower on standardized tests of intellectual ability (e.g., Bachman, 1970; Herring, 1989; Reyes Stanic, 1988; Simmons et al., 1978), drop out at higher rates (e.g., American Council on Education, 1990; Steele, 1992), and graduate from college with substantially lower grades than White students (e.g., Nettles, 1988). Such performance gaps can be attributed to†¦show more content†¦Labeling bias exists when a test claims to measure one thing but actually measures something else. Tests that claim to assess such traits as â€Å"aptitude† or â€Å"intelligence† imply that they are measuring something innate, given that many people assume that these traits are gene tic. However, Jencks notes that â€Å"almost all psychologists now agree that while an individual’s score on an intelligence or aptitude test depends partly on his or her genetic makeup, it also reflects a multitude of environmental influences† (p. 56). Thus, such tests are racially biased estimates of the innate traits that most laypeople think these tests are purporting to evaluate. Fortunately, this bias can be eliminated by simply changing the names of what these tests claim to measure. Closely related to labeling bias is content bias, which arises when a test claims to measure something that could in theory be measured in an unbiased manner yet is unsuccessful at doing so because it includes questions that favor one group over another. The clearest example of content bias can be seen in the case of English language proficiency differences between American and Mexican students in California. Lee and Parthasarathy (2002) described a 2002 College Board report that indicated that Mexican American students on average scored 81 points lower than White students on the verbal section of the SAT I. Clearly, most Mexican American students from familiesShow MoreRelatedUntangling the Relationship Between Race and Intelligence1543 Words   |  7 Pagesand intelligence has been highly contested by psychologists for many years. With the emergence of genetic research in recent times, some clarity has been provided, however, many unanswered questions still remain. This essay d iscusses the implications of IQ test scores and the potentially misleading information they generate when administered to non-Western individuals. Although it is argued that race is a dynamic social construct and therefore not scientifically sound, this essay will explain whyRead MoreRacial Prejudice And American Culture2553 Words   |  11 Pagesera. One such connotation that was a major source of internal conflict within the country was that of excessive racial treatments towards minorities. Beginning with the enslavement and horrific mistreatment of African populations, all the way to the discrimination and stereotypical atmosphere of American society towards ethnic immigrants, racism has been a crucial component of cultural and social change. Despite coming a long way from the inhumane treatment of African slaves, and becoming more explicitlyRead MoreEssay about hate crimes3282 Words   |  14 Pagesguide is offered as a starting point for your studies. It is not exhaustive. All topics covered in class lectures, readings and films may appear on the exam. The Hows and Whys of Hate Crime Laws What is a hate crime? A crime motivated by racial, sexual, or other prejudice How many hate crimes were recorded by the FBI in its most recent hate crime report? 6,222 According to the Petrosinos article and our text, were there hate crimes before hate crime laws? Give examples and discussRead MoreEthical Standards For Mental Health Service Providers3426 Words   |  14 Pagesto warn is outlined in B3 of the CCPA standards of practice (2015) and should be understood as the counselor?s responsibility to inform anyone outside of the counseling relationship, known as a third party, of the possibility that the client is a threat to themselves or another person who has been identified. This would be an example of when a counselor would break confidentiality as they believe their is immediate danger that could be prevented. In consultation with colleges the counselor shouldRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesOrganizations 20 †¢ Helping Employees Balance Work–Life Conflicts 21 †¢ Creating a Positive Work Environment 22 †¢ I mproving Ethical Behavior 22 Coming Attractions: Developing an OB Model 23 An Overview 23 †¢ Inputs 24 †¢ Processes 25 †¢ Outcomes 25 Summary and Implications for Managers 30 S A L Self-Assessment Library How Much Do I Know About Organizational Behavior? 4 Myth or Science? â€Å"Most Acts of Workplace Bullying Are Men Attacking Women† 12 An Ethical Choice Can You Learn from Failure? 24 glOBalizationRead MoreAll About Peace Education13195 Words   |  53 PagesINTRODUCTION: Education shall be directed toward the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It shall promote understanding, tolerance and friendship among all nations, racial or religious groups and shall further the activities of the United Nations for the maintenance of peace. Article 26, The Universal Declaration of Human Rights Peace education is an elusive concept. AlthoughRead MoreMarketing Discussion15807 Words   |  64 Pagesvulnerability for Coca-Cola. Additionally, as the brand expands into third-world countries, lifestyles and customs provide challenges. 3. What should they watch out for? Any demographic, or lifestyle changes that would have long-term consequences would be a threat for the brand. Young consumers must embrace the brand to ensure that they continue to drink Coca-Cola as they age. If Coca-Cola misses a generation, sales will suffer for a long time. 4. What recommendation would you make to their senior marketingRead MoreEthnic Reproduction and the Amniotic Deep: Joy Kogawas Obasan13316 Words   |  54 Pages434) Interpersonal attraction: how relationships get started (p. 434) Proximity (p. 434) Exposure and familiarity (p. 435) Similarity (p. 435) Meet the Researcher: Steve Duck (p. 436) Physical attractiveness (p. 438) The attractiveness stereotype (p. 438) The evolutionary approach: sex differences and sexual selection – what do males and females find attractive? (p. 438) The importance of facial symmetry (p. 439) Is attractiveness really no more than averageness? (p. 440) Body symmetryRead MoreMagistrates4753 Words   |  20 Pagesability to concentrate - ability to communicate effectively. Social awareness: Appreciation and acceptance of the rule of law - understanding of the local communities and society in general - respect for people from different ethnic, cultural or social backgrounds - experience of life beyond family, friends and work. Maturity and sound temperament: Ability to relate to and work with others - regard for the views of others - willingness to consider advice - maturity - humanityRead MoreThe Effects of Advertising on Children33281 Words   |  134 Pages.................................................................................. 7 Media literacy ............................................................................................................................... 7 Gendered, racial and cultural portrayals ....................................................................................... 8 The state and perspective of knowledge ....................................................................................... 8 INTRODUCTION

The Beneatha’s Dreams Free Essays

Hansberry’s play â€Å"A Raisin in the Sun† is the story of the Youngers, a poor African- American family in the 1940s. All of the Youngers have important dreams that they wish to realize but due to their economic status and the abundant racism of the time, and they are forced to put aside these dreams. However, due to the insurance money from â€Å"Big Walter†Ã¢â‚¬Ëœs death, they have a chance to overcome these obstacles and achieve their dreams. We will write a custom essay sample on The Beneatha’s Dreams or any similar topic only for you Order Now Beneatha is a good example of a character whose dreams have been deferred. Beneatha dreams of being a doctor and throughout the play, struggles to determine her identity as a well-educated black woman. Beneatha is a collage student and is obviously the best educated member of the Younger family. Her education is very important to her and she hopes to one day become a doctor. Beneatha believes in education as a means to understanding and self-fulfillment through knowledge and wisdom. It was rare at this time to find a poor well-educated black woman with such high ambitions. Beneatha took pride in this fact and often flaunted her intelligence to her family. Mama, knowing how much her education meant to her, instructed Walter to save $3000 for Beneatha’s medical schooling. When it was discovered that Walter had invested the money in his liquor store scheme and Willy had run off with all the money, Beneatha was devastated. She had lost all hope and even though her spirits may have been lifted after her talk with Asagai in act III and the chance to move into a new house, it seems that Beneatha will never realize this dream. Another major dream that Beneatha wants is to have her own identity. In the play she does this by trying to gain a better grasp on her cultural identity as an African-American. The rest of her family, after living in America for five generations, seem out of touch with their African heritage, so Beneatha turns to Asagai, a native Nigerian, to see if he can supply the lost part of herself. Beneatha dresses in Nigerian garb, dances to African music, and lets her hair grow naturally in an attempt to become more African. Beneatha does this in part because she sincerely wants to identify herself as an Africa-American but she also does it in protest of what she calls an â€Å"oppressive† white culture. Beneatha also dreamed of overcoming not only the prejudice against blacks, but also the prejudice against women. In the 1940s, it was common belief that a woman’s place was at home and it was very rare for any woman to become a doctor. Even Walter suggests that she become a nurse, a traditionally woman’s job, instead. Beneatha was an early feminist and did not take the traditionally submissive role of a woman. Instead, she spoke up against anything she perceived as an injustice. She became particularly passionate about freeing the Africans from French and English colonizers after talking to Asagai. In the play â€Å"A Raisin in the Sun,† all of the main characters were guided by their dreams, and the same is true for Beneatha. In the play, Beneatha struggles to create her own identity while battling against the abundant prejudice of the day. While she partially succeeds at creating her own identity, her dreams of becoming a doctor fall short when Walter losses the necessary money. However, Beneatha is a strong, intelligent woman and will most likely succeed later in life. How to cite The Beneatha’s Dreams, Papers

The History Of Amsterdam Essays - Geography Of Amsterdam, Baltic Sea

The History Of Amsterdam An Investigation into the Historical Development of Amsterdam. 1. Introduction This project focuses upon the development of Amsterdam between the years 1200 and 1800 AD. The city of Amsterdam is of great importance to the Netherlands, as it is the country?s nominal capital (the political centre is Den Haag). Alongside being the most carefully constructed Dutch city, Amsterdam attracts the highest number of foreign visitors to the Netherlands. The city itself stands upon the confluence of the rivers Amstel and Ijsselmeer, at the heart of the Randstad . As Amsterdam was one of the first medieval cities to be established in the Netherlands, it has a long and interesting past. It has a present-day reputation for as a multicultural, tolerant, and prosperous area; naturally, this has arrived as a result of its history. The aim of the project is to produce a comprehensive, chronologically organised discussion of Amsterdam?s development. This will involve looking at the early establishment of a small fishing village upon the marshy riverbanks (c. 1200). The religious and dynastic conflicts that shaped much of the Low Countries? medieval development will be discussed. This will precede an account of Amsterdam?s metamorphosis into a major European market and global centre, particularly during the Golden Age of the 17th century. The consolidation of Amsterdam?s wealth during a nationwide recession, followed by the city?s decline (1672 ? 1813), will be considered. A secondary consideration will be the ways in which Amsterdam?s political and economic position influenced the Republic as a whole, and vice versa. The city?s financial climate will continually be compared with the Republic?s wealth; I expect to find some interesting differences between the two. Social and cultural aspects, which 00obviously play an important role in any city?s development, will be addressed when relevant. The conclusion of the project will comprise a summary of the above. This will include an analysis of general effect Amsterdam?s prominence had on the Dutch Republic during this time period. 2. Amsterdam?s Origins and the Medieval City (1200 ? 1520) a. The beginning of Amsterdam Amsterdam was settled in approximately 1200 AD. According to Dedalus Cassaro, author of A Short History of Amsterdam, legend has it that a boat, containing two fishermen and their dog ran aground at the mouth of the Amstel river . When the dog leapt out of the boat, the men dicided to set up home on the marshy land. This is reflected in many versions of the city?s coat of arms, upon which the three figures can be seen. The new settlers began to build huts on `terpen? . As the Amstel community expanded, the early residents found a way to protect themselves from the Zuiderzee?s unpredictable tides: this was the point at which the dam system was introduced. The first, built in 1220, was likely to have been a sluice gate across the Amstel?s mouth. The dam became a network of dykes, stretched across the Southern Ijsselmeer?s banks. This system was later adopted by the entire country. It has been modified over the centuries, and is still essential for Dutch water management By 1275, a ribbon-shaped development of homes, as well as the predecessor of the Oude Kerk, zhad been built alongside the dykes. The hamlet known as ?Amstelledamme? was, according to archaeologist Jan Baert, built by construction workers who had come from the Utrecht bishopric to create more dykes . Amstelledamme?s shaping fell under the influence of religious and dynastic conflict. The feudalism between the German emperors and French kings, who had been involved in power struggles over control of the Low Countries, gradually began to subside. This was replaced with a complex network of local allegiances, which led to further feudal struggles. The most important conflict of the time was between the Lords van Amstel and the Counts of the province of Holland. The latter were backed by the Bishop of Utrecht, who technically held power over the future Republic. In approximately 1275, Floris V (the Count of Holland) granted the Freedom Charter, from his court in Den Haag. This stated that Amstelledam residents were exempt from paying tolls when shipping their goods through Holland county. The Charter is the city?s oldest surviving document This would later play an important role in making the city

Castlereaghs foreign policy 1815-1822 was more successful than Cannings foreign policy 1822-1827 Essay Example

Castlereaghs foreign policy 1815 Castlereaghs foreign policy 1815-1822 was more successful than Cannings foreign policy 1822-1827 Paper Castlereaghs foreign policy 1815-1822 was more successful than Cannings foreign policy 1822-1827 Paper Essay Topic: Claim of Policy History Whilst Viscount Castlereagh and George Canning were foreign secretary, both achieved many things, some of which still exist in modern day foreign policies. They also can be seen to have failed in some areas, but to find out which of the two was the more successful, both need to be studied to enable one to make a conclusion. In 1815, Viscount Castlereagh became foreign secretary. At the time, his first and main problem would have been the problem of how to deal with France, who had recently been defeated in the Napoleonic wars. The Congress of Vienna 1815 drew up a treaty that formally ended the Napoleonic wars. This all began in 1813 when Napoleons Empire began to fall, France was invaded and Napoleon later abdicated. 1814 brought the Treaty of Paris which restored peace, reduced France to its 1792 frontiers and restored the Bourbon monarchy. It was then decided that a congress would be held in Vienna, however, all the important decisions would be made by the four great powers: England (represented by Castlereagh), Austria (Prince Metternich), Prussia (Count Hardenburg) and Russia (Tsar Alexander I). Vienna had three main aims. The first was to make sure that the French, who were primarily responsible for the wars, paid for what they had caused. Secondly, the great powers gained some compensation for what had happened in the wars. The third was to prevent further French aggression which may have threatened the peace and resulted in another war. A key issue from Vienna was trying to maintain a balance of power (maintaining no single power dominated the rest). This would ensure that all the powers remained on good terms. As Lord Acton said: All power tends to corrupt, absolute power corrupts absolutely. In some ways the Congress of Vienna was unsuccessful because it ignored principles such as liberalism (liberal ideas) and nationalism. However, it can be seen as mainly successful because it didnt humiliate France, which prevented further aggression (and therefore another possible outbreak of war) and, importantly for British interests, Britain gained useful possessions overseas. There is evidence for supporting the claim that Vienna was successful in there being no wars until the 1830s. For starting the period of peace in Europe and for the successful conclusion to the French wars, Castlereagh is given the credit. 815 also brought with it Castlereagh becoming part of the Quadruple Alliance. The members of the Alliance were Austria, Great Britain, Prussia and Russia. They agreed to have meetings at fixed periods and the main interest of the Alliance was to preserve the Peace of Europe. Two months before the Quadruple Alliance was formed another Alliance came into being The Holy Alliance. The members of the Holy Alliance were three monarchs; Tsar Alexander I of Russia, Francis I of Austria and Fredrick William III of Prussia. This was a reactionary alliance as all three monarchs were trying to prevent revolution in Europe and preserve autocracy. Castlereagh refused to commit Britain to the Holy Alliance because he didnt consider revolution was necessarily always a bad thing. Castlereagh once described the Holy Alliance as a piece of sublime mysticism and nonsense. There was a need for both of these alliances because the Holy Alliance was purely for preserving autocracy and the Quadruple Alliance (formed by Great Britain who was democratic as opposed to autocratic) was concerned with keeping the peace in Europe. For Castlereagh, the Quadruple Alliance was a way of upholding the Vienna settlement -it wasnt a way of interfering in European affairs. The Congress system was an attempt to maintain peace and order throughout Europe and Congresses were held to resolve disputes. The first congress was the congress of Aix-la-Chapelle 1818. It met to consider what to do about France which had paid off the 700 million franc indemnity and was settling down under Louis XVIII. It decided that the army of occupation should be removed and that France should take part in congresses, so France was admitted to what became the Quintuple Alliance. The Congress of Troppau Castlereagh refused to attend the Congress of Troppau 1820 as he knew would be a response to revolts in Spain, Portugal, Piedmont and Naples. He instead sent his half brother, Lord Stuart, as an observer. The Congress of Laibach 1821 was the same as Toppau in reference to Castlereaghs disapproval and he again sent Lord Stuart to show his disapproval. At Laibach, Austria and Russia were ready to send soldiers against Italian revolts and as Castlereagh didnt want to use the alliance to quell revolts, he refused to attend. Castlereagh is also responsible for the base of foreign policy for many years after he was foreign secretary. These principles were in his May 1820 state paper. At the time his objectives in foreign policy were to check French expansion, check Russian expansion and support Turkey, to protect British trading interests, prevent a combination of France and Russia (Britain could handle France by themselves and Russia by themselves, but a combination of the two would have been much too much for Britain to take on. ) and to maintain a balance of power in Europe. The reason Britain was so interested in Russian expansion was because Britain had to travel through Turkey to reach India. India became known as The jewel in Britains crown as it had so many resources that Britain traded as Britain had very few of its own. Russia had no access to the sea for some months as its coastline froze for part of the year. Russia wanted control of the straits between Europe and Asia, which would give her access to the Mediterranean and thus aid the growing business of grain exports. This expansion worried Britain as it was easy to travel through Turkey to reach India as Turkey was weak. With this in mind, Britain decided to support Turkey against Russia. The principles of Castlereaghs State paper of May 1820 remained from 1815 to 1865 unaltered. This can only be seen as a success on the part of Castlereagh. However in some aspects, Castlereagh can be seen to have failed. The Congress system had a tension built into it the fact that three great powers were autocratic where as Britain and only Britain was democratic, so from the very start there were going to be disagreements. Castlereagh was also poor at communicating with others and especially the public. Being able to talk to people and express reasons why you are doing certain things can be seen as a very important skill of a politician and Castlereagh didnt have this skill. Many people seem to have misunderstood him as is illustrated in a rather harsh obituary on the death of Castlereagh: The name of Castlereagh will long be connected with tyranny abroad and all that is slavish and oppressive at home. (The Scotsman Newspaper) After Castlereagh commits suicide in 1822, George Canning takes over as foreign secretary. Canning had many aims whilst he was foreign secretary. Canning was not an enthusiastic supporter of liberalism and revolution abroad, but he did believe that whenever there was a bad government, change must come. Like Castlereagh, Canning didnt approve of great powers interfering all over the world as they saw fit. Whereas Castlereagh had merely protested against the Metternich policy of intervention, Canning intended to be more decisive and actually help the revolutionaries in Greece and Portugal. However, this is what Castlereagh had been contemplating. Cannings overriding concern was to protect British interests rather than to preserve the Alliance. His policy was based on a careful, even opportunist calculation of what would best preserve peace and promote Englands prestige and prosperity. (Wendy Hinde (Cannings Biographer)) Cannings specific aims were to prevent the French from interfering in Spain, preserve the new Portuguese constitution, maintain the independence of the Spanish colonies with which Britain had developed valuable trade and help the Greeks, while at the same time making sure that the Russians didnt gain too much advantage of the situation. Canning feared that the French and Spanish might invade Portugal and may even be tempted to regain lost colonies. To prevent the French and Spanish from doing so, the British navy was sent to defend the Portuguese and their defense was successful. Plus, this course of action had restored Britains prestige. Canning, like Castlereagh had many successes through his time as foreign secretary. He achieved recognition of the south American states. In 1823 France offered Spain to restore the Bourbon monarchy (restore autocracy). This news appalled the British government as all the work of eighteenth-century British statesmen to get France out of the New World would be undone so Canning proposed that the United States and Great Britain join to warn off France and Spain from threatening to take over new republics. John Quincy Adams (Secretary of State) argued against the proposal saying: It would be more candid, as well as more dignified, to avow our principles explicitly to Russia and France, than to come in as a cockboat in the wake of the British man-of-war. Adams won over the cabinet and resident Monroe delivered what is now known as the Monroe Doctrine which declared four basic points. The United States would not interfere in the internal affairs of or the wars between European powers; the United States recognized and would not interfere with existing colonies and dependencies in the Western Hemisphere; the Western Hemisphere could not be colonized in the future and any attempt by a European power to oppress or control any nation would be viewed as a hostile act against the United States. Cannings successes continued in the development of a constitution in Portugal, the ending of the Quadruple Alliance (Canning didnt approve of it), Greek independence, South Americas independence and he gave huge emphasis on British interests. Canning was more independent and nationalistic as opposed to Castlereaghs approach. He believed in a Diplomatic free-for-all in which every country looks after their own which would eventually achieve peace. But along with his successes, Canning failed in some areas too. Canning helped, through his policies, to develop Greek independence but this in the long run weakened Turkey and strengthened Russia which was definitely not in Britains interests. South American republics were not Cannings idea; he merely carried out what Castlereagh had started. Castlereagh had also set up a period of peace which Canning ended. This can also be said for South Americas independence as it said to have been Castlereagh to have started off this process. In conclusion I think that Castlereaghs foreign policy between 1815 and 1822 was more successful than Cannings foreign policy of 1822 to 1827 for a number of reasons. Castlereagh laid down principles whereas Canning appears to have simply carried out policies and made things worse by leaving Turkey weak and Russia strong. Castlereaghs policies were misunderstood whereas Caning took the time to explain to the public what he was trying to achieve. This gained him public support and popularity but appears to have cleverly turned everything into a publicity campaign, which from some peoples point of view may make him appear to be less serious and less of a politician. T may have made him look like he took the job less seriously than he should have and that he was more interested in public support than what he actually achieved, which is the opposite of the impression one gets of Castlereagh. A quote that supports this argument is: There was no fundamental change of policy when Canning took over in 1822. Canning merely accelerated existing trends

How to Identify the Larch Pine Tree

How to Identify the Larch Pine Tree Larches are conifers in the genus  Larix, in the family  Pinaceae. They are native to much of the cooler temperate northern hemisphere, on lowlands in the far north, and high on mountains further south. Larches are among the dominant plants in the immense boreal forests of Russia and Canada. These trees can be identified by their coniferous needles and dimorphic shoots which bear singular buds within clusters of needles. However, larches are also deciduous, meaning that they lose their needles in the fall, which is rare for coniferous trees. North American larches are typically observed as either tamarack  or western larch and can be found in many parts of North Americas lush deciduous  forests. Other conifers include bald cypress, cedar, Douglas-fir, hemlock, pine, redwood, and spruce. How to Identify Larches Most common larches in North America can be identified by their coniferous needles and single cone per shoot of needle clusters, but also by the larches deciduous quality wherein they lose these needles and cones in the autumn, unlike most evergreen conifers. The female cones are uniquely green or purple but ripen to brown five to eight months after pollination, however, northern and southern larches differ in cone size - those in colder northern climates have small cones while those in southern climates tend to have much longer cones. These differing cone sizes use to taxonomize this species into two sections - the Larix for the shorter and Multiserialis  for the long bracts, but recent genetic evidence discovered suggests these traits are merely adaptations to climate conditions. Other Conifers and Distinctions Larches arent the most common conifers in North America, cedars, firs, pines, and spruces - which also all happen to be evergreen - are much more common throughout Canada and the United States due to their ability to survive in harsher and warmer climates. These species also differ from larches in the way their shoots, cones, and needles are shaped and grouped.  Cedar  trees, for instance, have much longer needles and often bear cones in clusters with shoots containing multiple clusters. Firs, on the other hand, have much thinner needles and also bear one cone per shoot. Bald cypres,  hemlock, pine, and  spruce  are also included in the same family of coniferous plants, each of which is also evergreen - with only a few exceptions in the redwood family, which only contains a few larch-like genus.