Orato Self-Help Articles

Guide Dog Schools & Training Process

Jessica RathwellJessica Rathwell — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 04:02:18 +0000

Pupply Raisers, Typical Commands & Handlers

Many of you may know what to do if you meet a guide dog team, but do you know how guide dogs are trained and what they do to assist their blind handlers?

From Puppy Raisers to Guide Dogs

When puppies are about eight or nine weeks old, they are placed in a family home as guide dogs. The people who take the dogs in are called Puppy Raisers or Puppy Walkers and they are volunteers.

While the puppies are in the care of these gracious volunteers, they learn basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and heal. They also learn to do their business outside and most importantly, they are socialized.

Socializing Guide Dogs

Socializing a puppy involves taking it to restaurants, concerts, grocery stores, churches and other places a future handler might take them. It also involves handling their feet and mouths. Their blind handler will brush their teeth and check their general weight and health by touching, so puppies have to be used to being handled everywhere.

When the puppies are about a year old, they are recalled to the school where they were born. This is where they will stay until they meet their blind handler and where they will undergo their formal training.

Guide Dog Schools

There are 12 accredited guide dog schools in the United States, four in Canada, and several others in other places around the world. Some of the more well known schools include Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael California and Portland Oregon, The Seeing Eye in Morristown New Jersey, Guiding Eyes in Yorktown Heights New York, and BC Guide Dog Services in Vancouver, BC.

Each school's approach to training is a bit different, but the principles remain the same - to provide highly trained dogs to people who are blind or visually impaired, increasing their freedom and independence.

Formal Guide Dog Training

Formal training at the schools usually lasts about five or six months, sometimes less. Dogs are normally trained to work on the handlers' left side unless a special request is made for a dog to be trained on the right.

Dogs are trained to pull into their harnesses, to follow directional commands like forward, left and right, to walk around obstacles, stop for narrow spaces or doorways, stop for up and down curbs, and walk in a straight line, turning only to move around an obstacle until directed by their handler.

They are also trained to take certain precautions around traffic. A dog may stop, pull their handler back or speed up, whatever it takes to get out of the way of a dangerous car. If a handler gives a dog a "forward" command to cross a street and it is not safe to cross, the dog will disobey the command. This is called intelligent disobedience.

Matching a Guide Dog to its Handler

People who are blind come to stay at their chosen school anywhere from two weeks to 28 days. On the second or third day, they are matched with their dog. Trainers interview and observe them for the first day or two and then match them with a dog suited to their lifestyle, personality and walking pace.

While at school, students learn how to correctly handle their dogs and execute the commands the dogs already know. They start off in quiet, residential areas and work up to crossing busy intersections and riding rapid transit in big cities.

Meditation, Self-Talk to Reduce Anxiety

jilliancross jilliancross — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 12:39:42 +0000

Slow Breathing, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

With millions of people suffering from crippling anxiety, more and more are turning to prescription drugs to battle this overwhelming and chronic condition. For those opting for non-prescriptive alternatives, holistic, natural options and visual and relaxing techniques can help calm your mind. Here are some of the most common natural ways to deal with anxiety.

Meditation to Reduce Anxiety

Meditation has been used for hundreds of years to relieve stress and achieve inner calm, so it's no wonder it's used as a strategic tool to reduce and control anxiety. Mantra-based meditation, Zen meditation and mindful cognitive therapy meditation all offer relaxation.

Niya Jones in Everyday Health says mindful cognitive meditation "while not purely a form of meditation, [is a] blend of cognitive therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is usually done in groups, [and] has been shown to ease anxiety.

Focus on the Breath to Relax

"One small study published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that people who underwent this type of therapy experienced considerable relief from their depression and anxiety symptoms."

Mindful meditation "requires you to focus on your breath as it enters and exits your body, and when distracting thoughts intrude, you return your attention to the breathing and let the thoughts pass by. Another aspect involves "scanning" different parts of your body with your mind to assess the sensations in the parts," says Lindsey Marcellin in Everyday Health.

Self Talk Therapy

Sometimes acknowledging anxiety is the best tactic. Self Talk Therapy is a way to verbally acknowledge and help dissipate anxiety symptoms. "When anxiety levels seem out of control or begin to escalate, using self-talk therapy might help. Reaffirming is a helpful tactic.

Julie Boehlke of Livestrong recites: "These are only symptoms, they will come and go just like my anxiety," or "This is only my body's natural reaction to stress. I can choose how I want to react to that stress."

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Self Talk Therapy falls under CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), which help control your negative and intrusive thoughts. "Some research suggests negative thinking causes illness," says Julie Kelly and Rosalie Devonshire in Pro Health.

Self Talk Therapy promotes positive thought and self affirmation. "CBT treatment typically lasts for 6 to 20 weeks and requires you to keep track of symptoms, thoughts, and emotions. You will be given homework assignments to work on between sessions." says Kelly.

Whatever you choose to do to help relieve anxiety symptoms is positive. Only you know whats going to be effective for you and your symptoms. Hopefully the above will show you that there are natural ways to improve your health and it's up to you to take action and achieve success in your mental health.

False Accusations: Exceptional Cases

Michael MacPhersonMichael MacPherson — Sun, 01 Apr 2012 01:21:39 +0000

IMF Managing Director Dominique Strauss-Kahn

A political heavyweight that many thought could challenge Nicolas Sarkozy in the France's upcoming Presidential elections this year, Dominique Strauss-Kahn, fell out of contention in May of 2011 when a maid at the Sofitel Hotel in New York accused him of sexual assault.

After the story broke, Strauss-Kahn was the subject of numerous protests, calling for both his imprisonment, as well as resignation from a Managing Director position at the International Monetary Fund. The outcry successfully brought about the latter, but the former was never pursued after it was discovered that the 32-year-old accuser was found to have lied to investigators.

Duke Lacrosse Players: False Rape Accusation

In March of 2006, three players from Duke University's lacrosse team were accused of raping a stripper. The accusation caused a nationwide uproar, partially because the students were white and the stripper was black. After word reached the media, a number of things happened:

The coach was forced to resign after receiving threatening emails.
Duke students were threatened with gang violence.
Mobs protested outside the house where the party occurred.

However, once the evidence was revealed, the allegation was determined to be completely fraudulent, and overzealous district attorney Mike Nifong was disbarred from practicing law.

Strauss-Kahn's stature and political future were both severely damaged in the aftermath and the accused Duke players had their photos displayed all over campus.

Only 8% of Rape Accusations Are Fals

The FBI says only 8% of rape accusations are falsified. While there are reasons (for both sexes) to make false accusations, like money, shame, and spite, most claims are not fraudulent. Sadly, false claims make it harder for people with legitimate claims to be taken seriously.

Dr.Phil's Advice on False Accusations

So what can you do? Dr.Phil suggests steps to take when falsely accused:

Don't react to rumours. It only draws more attention to you.
Make sure your friends and family know the truth; they know the real you.
The accusations may be unfair and untrue, but the situation is real. Accept it.

Dr.Phil McGraw says, "If you walk into the world, and you're hanging your head, and you kind of don't want to look anybody in the eye, and you're shameful, then people will treat you that way. You've got to decide, I did not do this crime. I am innocent. I've owned my bad decision, which comes with being young, and I am not going to hang my head in shame."

Positive Thought and Laws of Attraction

Diane BoltDiane Bolt — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:23:50 +0000

7 Steps to Visualize Goals & Remain Grateful

Rhonda Byrne wrote The Secret while Louise L. Hay championed positive affirmations in You Can Create an Exceptional Life. Others call it the Law of Attraction. The bottom line is you summon what comes into your life through persistent thought, invitation and reaping what you sew.

Contrary to popular belief "the Universe" wants to give you what your heart desires. However, the universe confuses worries like debt, infidelity, illness, and failure with a desire for more of the same and delivers what it perceives you are asking for. In order to realize your goals, you need to visualize what you do want, not what you don't. Here's how.

1. Identify a Preferred Sense for Visualization

Close your eyes and imagine a river. Engage your senses. Can you picture it, do you hear it flowing, can you smell the surrounding flora, or perhaps you just 'know' it's there. Which sense dominates? When you begin to visualize, work with the strongest sense and gradually enhance the image with the others.

2. Write Down Your Goals

Writing down your goals provides a blueprint for your visualization. Having this structure means that if your mind begins to wander you are able to refer to your notes and stay focused. Write down the personal details associated with your goal.

If your goal is to become a best-selling author. Repeat these sentences: I am writing with ease and confidence. I am working in a bright and airy home office. I am earning $8k per month. I travel to attend book readings and signings. I am inspiring others.

3. Imagine What It Feels Like to Live Your Ideal Life

How does it feel to be living your ideal life? Which emotions do you feel? Write these emotions down beside your goals. Given the above example, this might be something like: I feel happy and in control. I am contented and relaxed. I feel free and secure. I am valued. I feel energized and satisfied.

4. Is this really what you want?

Is what you are asking for really what you want? If you are still struggling to narrow down your goals, try asking yourself what you want before you go to sleep at night. In the morning jot down your thoughts before you begin your day. Review these notes and see if they make your goals any clearer to you. For visualization to be effective, it is imperative that you know what you want.

5. See Your Success

Find a place where you are comfortable, can relax, and will not be disturbed. Focus on your breathing. Spend some time calming your body and mind. Begin to visualize your goal/s and be precise. Where are you? How do you behave? How do you feel? Are there others with you? Who are they? Interact with them. Every detail is important. How does your ideal you behave? Think about traits that have previously held you back and visualize the opposite behaviour.

6. Believe You Have Attained Your Goals

Visualize yourself having already attained your goal/s and having the feelings that accompany your success.

7. Express Gratitude

Say thank you for all that you have now and learn to truly appreciate your gifts, your opportunities, your loved ones and the life that is in progress.

Interacting w/ Guide Dog, Blind Handler

Jessica RathwellJessica Rathwell — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 19:17:03 +0000

Allowing a Trained Canine to Assist Its Owner

Chances are you've seen a guide dog assisting its blind handler when you've been out and though they are usually clean, well behaved and cute, they have a job to do and it's important that they're not distracted from it by someone who doesn't know the rules of interacting with this "team." To learn the appropriate etiquette, read on.

Appropriate Interaction with Guide Dogs & Handlers

If you see a guide dog in harness, it is important that you don't pet, call to, or even make eye contact with them without asking the handler first. When a blind person asks someone not to distract his/her dog it isn't because they don't want their dog to get attention from other people, it is because the dog is working and needs to stay focused on its job.

A guide dog's job is to follow directional cues from its handler and keep him/her safe while getting from point A to B. If the dog is distracted, it could put both its handler and itself in danger.

Although guide dogs are trained to ignore distractions, they are still dogs and sometimes can't resist being distracted by a person petting them or making eye contact. If this happened, they could easily walk out into traffic or make their handler trip on a curb or flight of stairs.

Walking with a Guide Dog Team

When you are walking with a guide dog team, walk either in front of or behind them. If you walk beside them, the dog might see you as an obstacle and try to clear their handler from running into you.

If you come to a set of stairs, a pole, or any other obstacle, don't yell or grab the handler. Stand back and let the dog make a decision about how to handle the situation. Only assist if the handler asks for help. Guide dogs are highly trained to deal with all kinds of situations and if their handlers trust them, then why shouldn't you?

Guide Dog Training

Although every guide dog school trains dogs a bit differently, the principles are the same. If you are walking with a guide dog team in an unfamiliar area and want to give directions, speak to the handler, not the dog. Guide dogs are trained to only take directional cues from their handlers. If they are called or directed by someone else, they will be distracted.

Sometimes you may see a handler giving a short tug on the dog's collar to correct them. Although this may look like it hurts the dog, it doesn't. If you see this, avoid making comments or judgements. Guide dog handlers know their dogs and what kinds of corrections they need to keep them on track. They aren't being abusive; they are doing what is necessary to stay safe and keep their dogs focused on their job.

Guide dogs receive lots of time to just be dogs when they are not in harness. When the harness is off, they are allowed to get attention from other people, play and be regular dogs. This is another reason why when the harness is on, it is important not to distract them. They need to know the difference between work time and play time.

To learn more about guide and other service dog etiquette, visit Please Don't Pet Me.

Students Adopt Healthier PostTerm Habits

Lindsay ReidLindsay Reid — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 03:57:46 +0000

Get Fresh Food, More Sleep, Regular Exercise

As spring approaches, university students everywhere are pulling allnighters, living off caffeine and junk food, and cramming to get all of their papers, projects and studying done by the end of classes. This unhealthy lifestyle should give way to improvements to student habits once exams are finished and summer arrives.

But how can students employ good habits in their routine and maintain them? An interview with Registered Kinesiologist, Claudia Brunner, revealed some tips for easy ways to build a new, healthy lifestyle that won't fall apart when the pressure is on.

Establishing a Holistic Lifestyle

Adopting a holistic approach means paying attention to body, mind, and spirit and focusing on eating, sleeping and exercise habits. This begins with paying attention to what you put into your body and making better food choices.

Eat regularly, but have smaller meals, more often. Brunner recommended six small meals per day, totaling 2000 calories - this number varies depending on the individual's body mass index and the amount they exercise each day.
Make realistic changes to what you eat. Try to acquire habits that you will be able to keep up; think of it as a lifestyle change, not a diet.
Try to reduce your sodium (salt) intake. Try products labeled "low sodium" or check the nutrition information on the box to see what the sodium content in a product is.
Eat "clean." This means choosing items with as few additives as possible. Look for products with shorter ingredients lists, and try to eat more fruits and vegetables than processed foods.

Create an Exercise Routine

Incorporating exercise as a regular part of your life can be a big challenge. It takes about 5 months of repeating a behaviour like exercise for your brain to accept it as a routine and permanent part of your lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you get that far:

Create a weekly workout plan - print out a schedule and post it somewhere you will see it every day. Planning ahead will increase the likelihood you'll do it.
Find an exercise buddy. Working out with someone else makes you more committed to your exercise plans. It will add a social element to your workout, and if you enjoy competition you can use it for added motivation in your workout.
Begin slowly. Don't shock your body by doing too much, too soon. Start with a comfortable pace and gradually build intensity from there so injury won't interfere with your new workout routine!

Get Enough Sleep!

It's easy to get caught up in the business of life and over-schedule our days. According to Brunner, our bodies and brains need 7-8 hours of sleep each night to rest, repair muscles, process information, and reap the significant benefits of rest. Maintain a regular sleep schedule from day to day.

Lisa Belyea Founds JOI Wellness Centre

H RobertsonH Robertson — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 23:47:46 +0000

Recovery Facility in Memory of Joilinn Egar

On November 21, 2009 Lisa Belyea received the devastating news that her 19-year-old daughter, Joilinn Edgar, had been involved in a car accident that had taken her life, along with three of her closest friends.

Joilinn had just been accepted to the University of Calgary, where she had planned to focus on Child Studies and Culture and Communication. Despite the heartache, Belyea has decided to honor her late daughter's memory by establishing a children's wellness centre in her name.

Creation of the JOI Centre

The JOI Centre will be healing places for children who have lost friends and family members, hospital patients who have finished their treatment cycle, children with autism spectrum disorders, and youth in distress.

It is not intended to be a medical facility, but rather a retreat. "A place to find quiet and welcome company, a place to dance, to laugh, to create, to rest, and to heal in all ways," according to the JOI Centre Website. The JOI Centre aims to open its doors in 2014.

"Jump for Joi" and the YMCA Strong Kids Foundation:

Through events such as the annual Jump for Joi, hosted by the YMCA, a significant amount of money has been raised to benefit the Strong Kids Foundation which finances tuition for children who want to attend camp. It was a foundation close to Joilinn's heart as a past counselor at the YMCA,. The remainder of the funds raised are directed to the building of the JOI Wellness Centre.

Jewelery Lines to Benefit the JOI Centre and Education in Southern Sudan:

Belyea has now announced the debut of the new "Oh JOI!" line of jewelry, proceeds from which will help support the JOI Centre. She is also introducing the Wadeng and SaYes lines of jewelry from Africa, with sales going to children's education and welfare in southern Sudan.

"Wadeng" is a Dinka word meaning "Look to the future; it will be better. Follow your dreams."The sale of Wadeng jewlery raises money to buy goats for villages in south Sudan. The SaYes is the "goat girl" symbol and this line raises money to purchase sewing machines and teach women to sew. This allows local communities to make their own uniforms, so their children can go to school.

Shop & Fashion Tips for Plus-Size Women

Sophie LyleSophie Lyle — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:19:13 +0000

Online Stores and Style Advice to Dress 14+

Plus-sized women are often ignored by fashionable, trendy clothes designers and retailers who preference sizes and designers who favour slim, younger women. But there is another demographic of shoppers who are equally interested, yet stuck with limited options (compared to women sized 12 and under) - in store and online.

Read on to find clothing that will give these women options when it comes to beautiful, sexy and confident couture.

Online Plus-Size Retailers

Finding fashionable plus-sized clothing online gives most larger women more choice. Most companies ship internationally, so American and British plus sized-clothing companies are viable options.

Of course, the downside to shopping online is that you don't get to try the garment on first, the actual shipping takes at least a couple weeks, and you have to pay for shipping on top of the total for the clothing and accessories.

Here are some online options for plus-sized women:

Plus Size Doesn't Have to Compromise Style

In contrast to this variety, when a plus-sized woman goes to one of the two (if she's lucky) clothing stores in her area to find something new and fresh, she often has little choice but to pick through the plain black t-shirts, the boring buttoned dress blouses and the jeans that lack any sort of shape or detail.

To truly rival the fashion options of other sizes, the plus-sized woman needs to look outside these limited styles. Try on that sequined dress, or that animal print high-waisted skirt because sometimes once it's on, it will look like it was made for you.

Sometimes finding your own unique style, begins with accentuating positive attributes. Too often women think that tighter equals sexier, which is definitely not the case. Or, on the other end of the spectrum, some women don't think they're beautiful or sexy so resort to wearing lifeless, black tops and jeans that are two sizes too big.

Plus-sized Blogs

Accessories to Dress Up Basics

There are few accessories that work like magic if you're stuck with a basic style or colour and need a little punch. If you're wearing a long, tunic-like top, match it with a belt just under the bust to avoid it looking like a muumuus. If you're really set on wearing a solid, black blouse or sweater, accessorize with a big, colourful necklace and bracelet.

If you're going out for a night of dancing or to an evening work function and you have a fabulous short dress, wear solid or patterned black tights. Lastly, if one day you look in your closet and can't find anything that will make you feel confident and sassy, spend extra time on your hair.

Pole Dancing Fitness Gymnastic Workout

Teri Jean ParkerTeri Jean Parker — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 04:48:30 +0000

Men Join Pole Dancing Trend & Competition

Until recently, pole dancing made one think of one-dollar bills and a woman spinning around a pole wearing a barely-there costume and stiletto heels, but these days pole dancing is a "form of performing art, [and] a combination of dancing and gymnastics" and its not just women who are getting in on the act.

Male Pole Dancing on America's Got Talent

A poplar television show, America's Got Talent, recently showcased its first male pole dancer. Last year, judges Howie Mandel and Sharron Osbourne advanced "polefessional" Steven Retchless to the Las Vegas round of the contest against the wishes of the third judge, Piers Morgan.

More and more male pole dancers are taking to the stage and the classroom. More men are attending classes, as well as teaching them. There is a Mr. Pole Competition and the World Pole Dancing Competition now has a male dancer category.

Reporter for The Wall Street Journal, Alistair Macdonald wrote on article on Mr. Shields, one of seven men who competed in the World Pole Dance finals for the first time. But Mr. Shields and many other male pole dancers have been met with a world of criticism. Some spectators at the competition told Macdonald that pole dancing is a "feminine sport" and that a man on the pole is a bit too much.

Check out this video that CBC posted of the Polecats in Manila, Philippines. This group of gymnasts focus their routines on the pole but argue that what they are doing is Parkour, a popular, otherwise known as free running. This involves that individual is his/her environment to jump, flip, kick, and move with speed.

Pole Dancing Competitions

There are now hundreds of small and large competitions that strictly focus on the art, fitness, and performance of pole dancing. Recently Stephan Smith of CBC posted an article about the Pole Fitness Association's attempt to get pole dancing recognized as an Olympic sport for the 2012 London Games.

The Pole Fitness Association is currently circulating a petition to recognize the sport insisting that "[l]ike the horizontal bar, the vertical bar should have a place in international competitive sport" too.

Pole Dancing Trends Ignites Controversy

Pole dancing has been linked with stripping for so long that there is strong controversy regarding the appropriateness of pole dancing for fitness. In an article for families.com, Michele Cheplic noted that the South Devon College in Europe offers a course in pole fitness to its students, but sees it as "merely a source of fitness."

Lindsay Goldwert, a NY Daily News staff writer says that a group of Houston, Texas women "aren't pole-dancing for tips[,] [t]hey're pole-dancing for Jesus." At the Best Shape of Your Life studio Crystal Deans teaches pole dancing to the top Christian music hits.

Pole Dancing Training

Loud music and sexy moves make pole dancing a lot more fun than walking on the treadmill. Pole fitness trainer, Susan Peach utilizes the pole for an all-body workout. She suggests 4 reasons pole-dancing should be a part of your exercise regime, namely to:

build and tone muscle
burn calories for weight loss
increase your flexibility to help prevent injuries
and improve body awareness to help you look and feel your best

Whether you're in it to win or to get fit, pole fitness is a trend that shows no sign of abating.

Managing Student Stress at University

Amanda OlsonAmanda Olson — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:38:05 +0000

Techniques to Lower Anxiety on Campus and Off

University life is stressful thanks to homework, group projects, public speaking, teacher expectations, personal relationships, sharing living space, lack of sleep, part-time work, tight finances, maintaining a scholarship and worries about launching a career upon graduation.

Elizabeth Scott MS, a.wellness coach and health educator, says that stress can be anything that, "causes physical, emotional or psychological strain." This can have many adverse effects on your health. When your health is compromised, your ability to do assignments and focus in class is limited, so it is important that you learn strategies to overcome it before your grades are negatively effected.

According to Melinda Smith, M.A. Senior Editor, and Robert Segal, M.A., Managing Director and Co-Publisher at helpguide.org, to de-stress, you should, "focus on what makes you feel calm and in control." Some strategies to take control of your life are:

Schedule Tasks: Having a schedule can help you plan in advance for big projects or events that are coming up. You can use portable day planners, calendars, or schedule applications that you can get on your smart phone to help you plan your days. Schedules are important because, "[w]hen you're stretched too thin and running behind, it's hard to stay calm and focused," according to Smith and Segal. If you know when you have important things to do, you will know when you can fit in time to relax and have fun.
Prioritize Immediate Obligations: Plan what assignments, projects, and tasks need to be done first, then schedule when you will work on them and give yourself some wiggle room in case things take longer than expected. If you set aside these times in advance, you are more likely to commit to them, and your projects are likely to be completed sooner. Health Canada (2007) states that to avoid stress, you should "[a]void putting things off," and this is easier once you know your priorities.
Select a Specific Study Spot: Some places are more conducive to studying than others. For example, the library may be better than your bedroom because there are fewer distractions and less likelihood that you'll fall asleep. Find the one that works for you and stick to it.
Balance Work and Play: Work and school are both important, but it is essential that you also give yourself time to have fun. According to Smith and Segal, some things you can do to de-stress are: go for a walk, call a friend, read a book, get a massage, write in a journal, or have a good workout. Another way to eliminate stress from your daily life is to incorporate basic meditation techniques into your schedule. This can be just as simple as deep breathing and being aware of where you are in the moment.

Consequences of Built-Up Stress

Dealing with stress is difficult, and people don't always use these positive coping techniques. Some negative coping mechanisms include drinking excess alcohol, turning to illegal drugs, taking anger out on friends or loved ones, or isolating yourself.

These ways of coping can be harmful to your health as well as to your relationships with your family and friends.Your positive coping skills should outweigh your negative coping skills for healthy stress resolution. To find out your status, check out this stress test tool to print and fill out.

University students have many stresses to deal with, so anything that can alleviate some of this stress is helpful. Following some or all of these recommendations can gradually increase your sense of control on your life and ultimately decrease stress.

Beginner Meditation: Spiritual Benefits

Delaney SullivanDelaney Sullivan — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:09:34 +0000

Focused Breathing Techniques & Non-Doing Tips

Jon Kabat-Zinn in Full Catastrophe Living said,"Meditation is really a non-doing. It is the only human endeavor I know of that does not involve trying to get somewhere else but, rather, emphasizes being where you already are."

Meditation invites you to focus on nothing but your own mind and your breathing. You concentrate on where you are and your sense of well-being. Some meditate after exercising or as part of a religious or spiritual practice.

Meditation can channel your thoughts and facilitate a more positive state of mind, alleviate stress, and increase happiness. To begin your meditation practice review your options.

Types of Meditation

Other well-known and popular kinds of meditation:

Chanting
Musical
Spiritual
Chakra
Transcendental

Meditate in a Peaceful and Quiet Spot

Find a quiet place to meditate. Turn off all music, phones, computers, etc. and embrace the silence. Place yourself in a room where you cannot be easily interrupted and where outside noise cannot disturb you.

Some people also like pillows and comfortable fabrics, incense, talismans or statues that suggest thoughtfulness or plants and bright windows that bring nature indoors. Favourite spots include rooms with patio doors and skylights or outdoor spots with a view of a pond, fountain, garden, forest or mountains.

Sit Up Straight to Meditate

Once you have chosen your spot, sit down on either the floor, a blanket, a pillow or a chair. Wherever you chose to sit, make sure you are comfortable. Then, sit down in lotus position, with your legs crossed and your hands in your lap, or on your knees.

To ensure that you are sitting up straight in lotus position, Craig McGuigan, a counsellor at Vancouver Island University, explains that you should imagine that your spine is lining up one vertebrae on top of the other, similar to a stack of coins. Some people do meditate lying down, as after a yoga class, but this risks drifting into sleep. This is a personal preference and experimentation is key.

Concentrate and Clear the Mind

Now it's time to focus and concentrate. There are two ways that you can do this: either close your eyes, or focus on a spot on a wall where you cannot be easily distracted, then breathe. Observe and listen to your breathing.

Thanissaro Bhikkhu reminds you to notice the different traits of your breath as it enters and exits your body, as your chest rises and falls. Do this for at least 15 minutes.

You may often find your mind floating off topic, and thinking about tasks your need to do in the day, or things you forgot to accomplish, etc. When this happens, refocus on your breathing. Be in the moment rather than thinking about what you are going to make for dinner that night.

Meditation Resources

If you follow these 3 steps, you will hopefully be more calm, centered, and relieved. There are many more intensive and developed forms of mediation that you can explore if this is for you.

Meditation for Beginners by Jack Kornfield, and 8 Minute Meditation by Victor Davich can help you find a form a mediation that is perfect for your lifestyle, You can also pair these with online meditation videos and instructors.

Reclaim The New Year With Meditation

Alex BlanesAlex Blanes — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:18:13 +0000

Lao Tzu's Standing Visualization Release

The start of a new year is always a period of reflection - but is it negative or positive? Hurried resolutions, back-to-work/school anxiety, body image depression, and panic over bills coming in from the holidays make up only a few of the many problems faced by many in this tumultuous annual restart.

As a result, we often fail to take stock of where, who, and how we are. The first weeks of a new year could be an exciting time to explore new directions and close doors on that which no longer serves us; more often than not, however, these best efforts are short-lived, and we can default to our old patterns and habits.

Release Anxiety by Emptying the Mind

If you're one of the many feeling this struggle, consider the advice of spiritual master Lao Tzu, who proposed emptiness was all we needed to become whole. Mystics throughout history have suggested that nothing is the source of everything; in other words, unnamed, unstructured, undiscovered emptiness is the source of all creativity.

Keeping this in mind, much of our stress may arise simply from trying to figure out who we are and how we should be. Attempting to abandon ourselves, at least temporarily, may be the fresh start we need. What follows is a simple exercise which applies this ancient knowledge to make you feel happier, healthier, and more at peace.

Standing Meditation Exercise

Stand up, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Focus on your breathing, and let all thoughts go as easily as they come. Make no judgements about your process - there are no wrong ways of doing this.
Breathe easily and freely. Feel the weight of your body at the points where your feet touch the ground. Do you notice any parts of your body that feel heavier or lighter than others?
Now, imagine your body is being filled with sand. You feel heavier than you were before. It is harder to move your limbs.
Are the heavier areas sites of previous injury? Are the lighter areas places where you feel healthy?
Now, steadying your feet, imagine a hole in the bottom of each foot. Feel the sand start to drain, slowly at first, and then gradually picking up pace.
As the sand drains, you feel yourself become a part of the world around you. Claim its spaciousness as your own.

Remember, if you're sick and tired of being sick and tired, it's time for you to reclaim the New Year as the fresh start it should be. Practice and consider the value of meditation exercises like this one, each reminding us that less is more, and that periodic 'emptiness' may be the key to living life to its fullest.

Gym Etiquette for Healthy Exercise

Dana WackerDana Wacker — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 04:29:00 +0000

The Dos and Don'ts of Working Out in Public

For many, January kick starts New Year's Resolutions to hit the fitness facilities, but frequent gym attendees know that this is the busiest time of the year and 'newbie' often are unschooled in proper gym etiquette. Common sense and courtesy are required, so here are a few specifics for new athletes who want to 'fit' right in.

The Scent of Exercise

Using a deodorant or antiperspirant and showering regularly is probably one of the most considerate things you can do for those around you. Unscented products are your safest bet given the number of people with scent sensitivities or allergies. Most gyms post signs requesting use of these products. Perfume and cologne should never be worn at the gym for these reasons.

Don't Monopolize Gym Equipment

Whenever using a machine, a good rule of thumb is to limit yourself to about 30 minutes per station. In most gyms there is a 'Sign-Up' board, which should be used, especially during peak times. If you are using a weight machine, once your set is done it's courteous to get up rather than linger on the equipment. Sharing is encouraged! Elizabeth Quinn for About.com encourages allowing others to use the equipment while your resting between sets.

Clean Up After Exercise

Always remember to wipe the equipment when you're done. Every facility should provide cleaning products necessary to do this and if not, ask for them. There are hundreds of people touching the same thing you are so gym equipment can be a cesspool of bacteria. If everyone remembers to wipe, we can all stay healthy! It's also a good habit to clean and return any mats, balls, free-weights etc to where you found them. Dummies.com reminds everyone that it's important to keep in mind "not everyone can lift the same amount of weight as you."

Gym Etiquette for Newbies

Don't try to pick people up at the gym; It's okay to inconspicuously admire so long as you don't pursue.
Dress appropriately. Keep in mind some workouts require bending and moving and short-shorts leave nothing to the imagination. This applies to both genders.
If you choose to shower at the gym, refrain from overly long usage. Don't treat the bathroom and change areas like your bathroom at home (please check that you didn't leave any hair on the shower floor, or bottles of hair product behind).
Whether you're working out in the free-weight section or open floors, always be aware of how much space you are using. Most gyms have very limited space, so know how much you need and use only that.
If you load weights on a bar, ensure you put them back when done.
Bring a towel if you sweat.
Don't give unsolicited advice.

So as you head out into the fitness battlefield, arm yourself with these habits and lead by example - it will make for the sweet smell of success and give you a leg up on those who haven't yet learned the rules.

Ten Tips for Successful Online Dating

Victoria BelVictoria Bel — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:47:32 +0000

Pay Attention to Form, Language, Photos

Online dating is is gaining in popularity to meet new people. The rhythm of today's living doesn't give a possibility to big number of people to find their love in the reality and internet solves this issue.

At the same time, online dating has its peculiarities and if you haven't found your love yet pay attention to our tips and we believe that you'll find your love online shortly.

Your behavior on online dating site normally must change depending on your goals. If you want to build long-time relationships, keep in mind that, the form you fill in on the website is one-half of your success. Because of it, spend all necessary time but make it totally individual.

The second issue that normally arises is what picture to prefer. If you really desire to reveal your serious intentions, it's better to choose a picture on which you are at home or just a photo of your smiling face.

The text is also of big importance. Don't choose common phrases that say nothing about you. If you need to attract attention and to find your love, your form must be not usual and individual. Don't write a lot about your career. It's more interesting to mention your interests and what you like to do in free time. It's significant to show your way of life and interests in a few sentences. They must help everybody who reads them to understand what a life with you will be like. If you want to meet a person with really common hobbies say much about your hobbies and likes in the form.

If you wish to meet a person for a flirtation or love affair, than your form can be different. The best photo in such case can be your picture on the sea-shore. Smiling face also can attract attention. The text in such case can be shorter and less private information can be written. But don't forget, it all the same should be original and interesting to read. On online dating website your form is your image and it must look attractive and make people want ot met you you.

Ten main pieces of advice for original form

1. Your form should be noticable. Emphasize your individuality, think what may attract your attention.

2. Details are everything. Your form must be precise, but not too long. Tell people about yourself, but don't say too much.

3. Write your the text as if you were talking to your future girl/boyfriend. Never use third person here. If you use second person you'll attract much more people, because many will recognize themselves in your words.

4. Don't write your form in oficial style. Naturally it should not be not serious at all, but try to write in casual style.

5. Don't tell all secrets. It can look strange, but it's better to leave something unsaid, it will make a person want ot know you.

6. Don't write too many requirements. It will frighten many people you would like to meet with.

7. Literacy is significant. If you fill in the form with a lot of mistakes, orthographical, or stylistic, many people just won't want to speak with you. It's better to check the text twice and only afterards publish.

8. Truth and only truth. The lie will come out earlier or later and your affair will be destroyed.

Making People Laugh & Being Humurous

Berit BrogaardBerit Brogaard — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 05:26:46 +0000

Even Top Comedians Have Their Down Days

Should you be all serious or a bit of a stand-up comedian on your first date, on your first day at work, at the bachelorette party or on that rainy Monday morning?

Aim for somewhere in between. Humor is good, in moderation. Humor can break ice, diffuse tense situations and strengthen bonds. Humor is one of the traits that most people value in a partner. But keep it light.

Humor can be learned

What if you are not a very funny person? Don't worry. Humor can be learned just like swimming, painting or playing an instrument.

Work on your self-confidence and get over your shyness. If you try to be funny, everyone's eyes will be resting on you (regardless of whether you succeed or not).

Then learn a few tricks. Having a good sense of humor doesn't equal cracking one joke after the other. I can hardly think of anything more annoying.

You can make other people laugh when you break their expectations in a cute way. Here is an example. Suppose this winter has been worse than almost anyone you can think of. Saying "This is the worst winter since 1994″ is not funny, though it may be an OK conversation starter. Saying "this is the worst winter since 2009″ is funny. Why? Because it's true (in this geographical region anyway) yet the ending is unexpected and a bit absurd.

Other Ways to Make People Laugh

Here are some other simple tricks you can use to make people laugh:

(1) Extreme exaggerations ("I met this guy. He's got to be at least 120″)

(2) Extreme understatements ("Then I went and, .. umm…, bought a few essentials" after a completely irrational shopping spree that your audience knows about)

(3) Using expressions in the wrong context ("I second that motion" in response to someone's unimportant remark, e.g. "It's raining").

Avoid mean-spirited teasing, ridiculing and potentially hurtful remarks. This will backfire.

Use Failure to Your Advantage

Accept the occasional failure. Even top stand-up comedians have their down days. Have a few comebacks ready for those embarrassing situations where your audience unexpectedly doesn't laugh.

Some frequently used ones that never get old (said with a big smile):

(1) "Guess you had to be there"

(2) "Oh I guess that wasn't funny"

(3) "Just kidding! Had you worried for a minute there, didn't I?"

(4) "Now that we got that straight, let's talk about women in combat" (or some other serious topic).

If you are lucky, the comeback will make people laugh. Good luck!

Six Ways to Make Hair Thicker

Katherine MastonKatherine Maston — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 05:50:58 +0000

Make Your Hair Grow Faster And Stronger

Did you just come from your salon and fell victim to a case of unsatisfying hair cut? Well, don't worry. There are a lot of ways by which you can make your hair grow faster immediately. Follow the next few tips and tricks to ensure that you are able to make hair thicker right away:

1. Find a hair stylist that will suit your needs.

Get hold of a haircutter who can style and cut your mane in a way that it will look fuller and thicker. It does not matter if you have thinning hair for as long as your stylist can create an illusion of thick and healthy hair in you. You can ask if bob style will look good on you since it is known to make hair appear fuller and thicker as well.

2. Get regular hair trim of not more than one inch to make hair thicker.

Make sure that when you have your hair trimmed, it will not exceed one inch. That way, you will be able to achieve the kind of length that you want. By getting the services of an expert hair cutter, your hair will definitely take on its own form which will make it easier for you to style and manage.

3. Explore as to what style could be most suitable for you.

Seek advice from your hair consultant as to what hair style you should take in order to masquerade your thinning hair. More often than not, the hairstyle that is advised is that of the layered, wherein the stylist will shear your tresses creating layers of hair that gives the illusions of shape and thickness.

4. Choose the hair products that claim of giving volume.

If you will take time to scrutinize the various products you are using, you should look for the promise of providing fullness or volume. In that way, you can easily get hold of the product that is most ideal for you.

5. Be adventurous about your hair.

It takes a lot of guts to be adventurous especially when talking about our hair. But then, if you will not take any risk to change your hair style or perhaps, try new hair products, you will never know which one can be most perfect for you. Strive on creating thicker hair since it is associated with women of beauty and splendor. Just make sure that you will wash them off well to get rid of the dirt and pollutants that it has absorbed every time you go out.

6. Examine the ingredients in your hair products.

Last but not least, check out the composition of every product you are using so that you will know which ones you can continue to use and which ones you should throw away. Leave with you those that have provided some thickness or volume in your hair.

Dating: Should Ex-lovers be Friends?

Casey-Leigh HethersCasey-Leigh Hethers — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 11:48:28 +0000

Love Turns Sour, Can Friendship be Salvaged?

Ex-lovers are no longer together for a reason. It is that reason, which determines whether or not ex-lovers should consider being friends or not. In fact, most relationships, no matter if they are platonic or passionate, will only develop and continue if there is a lasting compatibility between both the parties.

For ex-lovers whose relationship ended bitterly, any lasting contact will only serve to drag the issue to the surface time and time again. When love turns into hate, it is unlikely that even friendship can be salvaged from the wreck of the relationship. In situations like where relationships turned bad due to domestic violence, cheating or intense dislike for a partner's family or friends, it is best to cut your losses and call an end to any attempt to make a friendship last where love did not.

If, on the other hand, you simply reached a level of incompatibility with an ex-lover, then a friendship may be a suitable alternative. Remaining friends could give you the best of both worlds - someone you trust and understand, as well as someone who will be happy to invest time in making an effort to communicate with you. Since you have already established the ground rules, continuing the relationship in a platonic manner would mean not wasting the effort you both took while getting to know each other's interests and hobbies. Some of these may be shared and mutually enjoyed.

When children are involved, it is definitely in everyone's best interests to remain friends; if possible. If this is not possible, each party must remain neutral and indifferent to any disagreements from either side. For the sake of the children, arrangements should be made with the convenience of both parents in mind. Particularly when dealing with the child's education and discipline, it is vital to prepare a strong front that a child cannot break down by playing one parent off against the other. When ex-lovers can remain friends, the child is not going to be able to influence parental decisions to their own advantage.

Many ex-lovers, especially those who were a couple for a significant amount of time, will share many of the same friends and local hang-outs. Unless tolerance and acceptance can be established - including in the boundaries of friendship - collective gatherings could become problematic for the mutual friends. In that case, unless you can socialise with your ex-lover, it may lead to your mutual friends cutting you both out of their lives so that they don't have to choose a favourite. If nothing else, being civil for everyone else's sake would be desirable when a loving relationship hits the rocks.

All considered, it is not impossible for ex-lovers to remain friends after the relationship draws to a close. It must, however, be negotiated with diplomacy and a good degree of healthy communication. Sometimes, taking a break from each other will be enough to draw a line between the old relationship of love compared to the new relationship as friends that rises from the ashes. It all depends on the willingness of each side and also the events that have occured between the two while they were lovers.

The Illusion of Pain

Lawrence R. MathewsLawrence R. Mathews — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:31:13 +0000

Eliminate Heartache Forever

The Illusion of Pain

A person can eliminate heartache and pain from their life forever. However, approaching these problems from a different perspective can help us get rid of them.

When people are young they are introduced to the idea that emotional heartache and pain are real. Over time this idea changes into reality and people believe this is true. People grow to believe these emotional states are a normal part of human life. However this idea is not true. These emotions are something we create based upon our actions. They are self inflicted unconscious creations.

An Example

As a child I grew up believing that I was supposed to grow up with both of my parents. My parents divorced when I was about 5 or 6. I don't know where I got this idea from. I'm sure no-one verbally told me this. Maybe I got it from the programs on television. Maybe it came from seeing other families in my neighborhood with two parents in their homes. What is important is that it was mistaken and I believed it was true. It took most of my life to discover that the idea of having two parents growing up caused me emotional heartache and pain.

The belief in this mistaken idea caused me to feel like I had been deprived of something. I thought I had missed out on an important part of life. I felt like I had been abandoned. And at the tender age of 5 or 6, I felt like I had to "grow up" and be the "man" in the family. This "grown up" mindset caused me to become reclusive as I began to keep my feelings to myself.

The Mistaken Idea is Not True

It is now clear that this idea was mistaken and untrue as different ideas produce different mental constructs and experiences. For example, a different idea such as "growing up with one parent was just the way it was," or "coming from a single family home gave me just one parent to focus on….." would not have given me a reason for being in pain like I was under the mistaken idea. Also no one in life is promised a rose garden. The idea that life is supposed to be the way we think it should be is not based in reality. Nothing happens according to a self-scripted plan. Life is what it is and unfolds in that way.

With this realization comes freedom because the tendency to emotionally attach ourselves to mistaken ideas is stopped. We can then respond to life events and situations with balance and poise. Actions performed can be done in the moment free from the desire to achieve a particular result. Emotions then become servants of this person instead of his/her master. Living in this way produces a deep level of contentment.

I now realize that pain is caused from the belief in ideas that are untrue. I believed I was supposed to have a family structure the way I thought it should be. That gave me a reason to feel bad when it did not happen. Had my idea been different, my feelings about my circumstance would have differed as well. I now see that my entire concept of pain was nothing more than an illusion that I unconsciously created. Now instead of creating pain against my best self interest, I can do the opposite and create joy, peace, and happiness. Creations that allow me to have the type of life I say I want. A life free from emotional pain!

How to Say "No" and Mean It

Heather GreenHeather Green — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 01:34:14 +0000

Achieve life goals by feeling less guilty

For some people it is very hard to say no to people. They enjoy the momentary appreciation on being called "too nice". However, when you're saying yes to something you secretly don't want to do (like stay an extra unpaid hour at work or watch over your neighbor's horribly obnoxious, hell-raising children), you're saying no to something you do want to do. That's a disservice not only to you but to the things and people you love. You do not have to feel guilty for saying no to certain things and learn to say it in the right manner.

Here are things to keep in mind the next time you feel yourself being guilt-tripped into anything.

Know what you want to say yes to. What are your long- and short-term goals? What are your dreams?
What are the long- and short-term consequences of saying yes to this particular situation? Will they bring you closer to the things listed in Point 1?
Remember this: saying no is okay, being dishonest is not.
Be honest about why you're saying no or yes.

If being sought after is a problem, make yourself less accessible. Instead of being on Facebook, near your cell phone, at the office after hours, go do the things you want to say yes to, like spending time with family, playing basketball with friends, or walking the dog through a nature trail. In the long run, you'll find yourself happier, stronger, and more respected than when you were "too nice."

How to Say "No"

Heather GreenHeather Green — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 01:31:01 +0000

...and Mean It!

I've been told before that I am too nice usually after I've done a person a favor and I know they'll come back to me again for that same favor. But I didn't really believe it until I saw an article online listing key traits of people who are "too nice."

1. You are always longing for something (or someone). Check.

2. You feel worried or fretful so often it seems normal. Check.

3. You can't keep romance sizzling, and often can't even get romance started. I'm happily romantically attached now, but that's not been true before

4. You often don't know what you want (As in: "I don't care where we go to dinner..."). Check. Upsets said romantically attached partner often.

5. You apologize frequently, or for things you are not responsible for ("Bonus points if you apologize for apologizing," says English). Check.

6. Your emotional state mirrors your partner's (if your partner isn't happy, you aren't happy). Check. Also upsets romantically attached partner often.

After reading the article I had a nice, long talk with my mother about this and she told me that I have to learn to say ``NO`` to people.

The key is this: when you're saying YES to something you secretly don't want to do (like stay an extra unpaid hour at work or watch over your neighbor's horribly obnoxious, hell-raising children), you're saying NO to something you do want to do. That's a disservice not only to you but to the things and people you love. Who would you rather say YES to, your unappreciative boss and neighbors or your bestie you haven't spent enough time with lately?

Here are things to keep in mind the next time you feel yourself being guilt-tripped into anything.

Know what you want to say YES to. What are your long- and short-term goals? What are your dreams?
What are the long- and short-term consequences of saying YES to this particular situation? Will they bring you closer to the things listed in Point 1?
Remember this: saying NO is okay, being dishonest is not.
Be honest about why you're saying NO or YES

If being sought after is a problem, make yourself less accessible. Instead of being on Facebook, near your cell phone, at the office after hours, go do the things you want to say YES to, like spending time with family, playing basketball with friends, or walking the dog through a nature trail. In the long run, you'll find yourself happier, stronger, and more respected than when you were "too nice."

How To Write A Reflection Paper

Cody HodgeCody Hodge — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 06:04:51 +0000

Show Readers What You're Thinking

If you are in school, you will probably have a lot of experience with these types of papers, but no matter where you are a reflection paper is something that can always come in handy. A reflection paper is basically what it sounds like - a paper that you write that is more or less a reflection of what you are thinking of.

It can be a reflection on life, your goals, or anything else that you are thinking about. It can be a useful tool for gathering your thoughts, or planning a career move.

Writing A Reflection Paper

A reflection paper should be written as an essay, although it can be written in a question and answer format. The length of a reflection papers should be 300-700 words, although you can go a little longer if you need to. The main time you will write a reflection paper is to gather your own thoughts, but it can also be used as something to explain to a reader what you were going for when you are writing an article.

For example, if you were going to write about your experiences as a writer, you might write a quick reflection paper. It would explain what you are going for, and it would explain any concepts, or anything else that would be helpful to not only you, but to anyone else who would be reading it. Whether you are explaining how to write an article, or if you are explaining how you came to write about what you enjoy writing about, it would be something reflective.

Reflect on Your Experiences

When you are writing a reflective paper, make sure you spend some time talking about the various aspects of what it was that you are writing about. If you were writing about a really hard article, or an article that helped you break out as an author, you would want to describe the experiences that you went through in order to get that article published, and what you did to get it out there.

Make readers really feel your journey, and show them why they should sympathize with you, and why they should care about your experience. What did you want them to know the most? What do you want them to learn from your struggles if anything, and show your growth as a person because of the experience. Don't just tell your audience that the article was hard, and that it took a long time; tell them why it was difficult, and why it took so long. Was it a lot of words, or was it a subject you typically don't write about?

A reflective paper is something that you can write about so that you can truly recount what you have been through. It should tell the tale of your craft, and why what you did was important. Keep it short, but make it descriptive, and show the growth that has taken place, or the learning that has taken place because of your experience. Help yourself, and help others with your words, and make it a good read that really shows why you did what you are writing about.

Sexy Affirmations

Kimberly BurtonKimberly Burton — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 21:42:32 +0000

Be Confident in Your Own Sexuality

Say it with me while standing in front of a mirror or getting ready for an evening in or out: "I am hot!" until you see your words are true. "I give and am given ecstasy and fulfillment in sex beyond my imagination". "We are bliss together. We are ecstasy. We are hot sex". "My body is perfection."

Sexual Affirmations

"I am comfortable in my skin. I am open to the pleasures of my body that are as normal and natural as the air I breathe". "I release all outside thought and influence that do not serve me. I am the embodiment of sexual joy". And for those who just want to make every sexual encounter memorable, "I will make you scream!"

These are some of the most powerful sexual affirmations for those that looking to improve (or reignite!) their sex lives or who are beginning fresh with a new lover. Act as if your sexual wish has already come true, if you find yourself resistant to speaking your sexual affirmations out loud, perhaps your sex life is a bit rusty, or you're trying to break old ways of thinking about sex. Write the affirmations repeatedly, until you become comfortable with the ideas, and then state them verbally.

Affirmations are an important tool when it comes to self-improvement, but what about "Sexy Affirmations"? We use affirmations to break old patterns, create positive mental attitudes and fight any negative speak in our head and now to have better sex! Most people don't think of affirmations as a valid and useful way to spice up their sex life. Think again! Sex affirmations can help you attract your deepest intimate desires and enjoy sex more freely, according to our psychics.

Remember, sexual affirmations are a conscious way of working on your sex life, fanning the flames of lust, and keeping your sexual intention refreshed. Just like any affirmation, the wording needs to be positive with an energy behind the practice that's very much in the moment as if your sexual wish has already come true.

Meditation for Daily Life

keerthi illangaratnakeerthi illangaratna — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 15:13:57 +0000

Incorporate this Stress Free Practice

"Meditation is a very effective tool to control stress in modern busy life," said Ms Anna, Stress Councilor in the United Nations. According to many researchers, mantle activities create more stress than physical activities. If we pay attention to our mind and make it strong and healthy, we can have a stress free and happy life in the middle of busy days. Mediation is a useful tool to make our mind healthy and strong.

Meditation and the Mind

Our mind makes us happy or sad. People respond to same situation in different ways. For example, one incident creates stress in one person and but it does not create same level of stress in another person. It is the perception of people toward incidents that make difference. Our perception toward things around us depends on our thought about them. We can control our thought process by taming our mind.

In addition, our mind needs exercise to keep it strong and healthy. As much as our body needs physical exercise and rest to keep it strong and healthy, our mind needs rest and exercises to keep it healthy. Mediation provides both rest and exercise to our mind simultaneously.

Mediation is not difficult as many people think. People think that meditation is a religious activity that monk and sage practice. It is a wrong perception. Ordinary people too can use meditation to overcome stress and regain lost energy. We can make mediation a part of daily life and benefit from it.

Simple Method of Meditation

In order to practice meditation, you must find a quiet place where there is no disturbance. You can sit on a chair keeping you body straight or lay down on your back on ground or on bed. Then, start relaxing you body. You must pay attention to your body and imagine that you are relaxing your body. You can visualize relaxing your body starting from toe, calf, torso, stomach, arms, neck, and head. Do it ten times. You will feel your body is relaxing and becoming weightless.

Once you feel body is relaxed, focus your attention on breathing. Visualize how air hit the tip of your nose when you breathe in and breathe out. At the beginning, you will find it difficult and your mind will wonder around. If your mind moves aware from your focus, bring it back to breathing. Continue this for 15 minuets and you will feel relaxed and energized.

Make it a habit in your life. If you spend about 10 to 15 minutes daily on mediation, it is enough to energize you. You can do it in the morning when you get up or when you are going to sleep at night or whenever you feel stressed.

As much as we need physical exercises to keep our body strong and healthy, our mind needs exercise to keep it fit. Meditation is an effective exercise to keep our mind energized. Spend few minutes daily and make mediation a part of your life.

Finding an Acne Treatment

Lydia LynnLydia Lynn — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 06:23:03 +0000

Different Methods for Cleaner, Clearer Skin

We are naturally gifted by radiant and glowing skin. But the polluted environment hampers the natural beauty of our skin. There is harmful dust and germs surviving in the environment, and when exposed to our skin it can cause problems like acne.

Acne is the skin condition responsible for pimples. It generally occurs over delicate areas of the skin like face, shoulders, neck, back etc. Another major cause of acne is the severe hormonal change. It is very much common in the youngster as change in hormone occurs only in the teenage.

Acne is not a serious disease, but it can be worsen and cause scarring if not taken care of. It gradually decreases the tone of the skin and makes it rough and pocketed. That's why it's important to find an acne treatment that works for you, be that regular washing or antibiotics.

Some of the important benefits of creams and medications for acne are:

Remove the acnes permanently
Enhance the skin tone by removing the dead cells
Soft and glowing skin
Free of any side-effects
Lessens skin problems like itching, irritation etc.

You should follow some tips so that you can prevent yourself from the reoccurrence of acne:

Drink plenty of water
Do daily exercises
Eat fresh fruit and vegetables
Avoid use of chemical cosmetics and cream
Stay away from stress and tension

Avail Cheap Insurance Policy

criston Stewartcriston Stewart — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 06:38:44 +0000

To Cope any Unexpected or Accidental Events

Today you can't assure that you are 100% safe and you don't need any type of security because you are unaware of it that when and where what will happen with you. Your life is surrounded by a number of risks and dangers that are around you at all times.

So, before any unexpected events or happenings takes place and snatch your happiness you get ready to tackle the event boldly and get back to your enjoyable and peaceful life. So, you should take proper steps to protect yourself and your family from any kinds of danger. These steps come in the form of cheap insurance policy. Insurance is one of the best ways to provide security to your family against any uncertain event.

Insurance - Why You Need It

Insurance is an essential part of your life. You can live without any tension after approval of any insurance policy. You can have insurance of anything you want whether your life, your partner's life, your health, your home and even your vehicle & ornaments. It can defend you from any type of financial loss by sharing the financial losses with the insurance companies. There are number of insurance companies available in the market that will provide you various insurance schemes. You can easily get the insurance facility from there but it takes a great deal when you need Cheap Insurance Policy that can cope your stipulated budget.

In such situation you have to find out such insurance company that can offer you insurance policy that remain within your budget and also covers your requirements. You should properly explore the insurance rates, terms, conditions and premium policies. If you find that the policy is cheaper than the other and covering your requirement along with full protection to your family when you are not with them, then you must opt for it. You can also protect your home and car through this insurance policy.

How to Tune An Electric Guitar

Kyle FrankeKyle Franke — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 21:53:34 +0000

Get Your Instrument Sounding PItch Perfect

You have just got your new guitar, but it sounds really bad. No matter what you play, it doesn't sound right. The reason for this is because you need to tune your guitar. It is almost impossible to do without a guitar tuner or another guitar, so go down to the music shop and buy a guitar tuner before continuing on with this article.

How to Tune Your Guitar

First of all, don't use a pick when you are tuning otherwise the sound waves will go higher, therefore not making the tuning accurate. Now you should have a lead so plug that into the guitar and the other end into the tuner. Play the E string (the one closest to your head) and look at your tuner. If the reading shows E, you are on the right note. If it doesn't, fiddle around with the tuning peg on your guitar until it shows E. You should then be able to see something telling you if it if flat or sharp (left is flat and right is sharp).

To get it exactly in tune, you have to make it in the middle. Use the corresponding tuning peg and turn the correct way (clockwise is higher) until the tuner is green. Do this with all the strings and your guitar will be successfully in tune.

Now you can enjoy playing your guitar to its full potential. Once you've tuned your guitar, it will become way more fun. Let it take you away to a faraway land of music, where you can play whatever you want.

How to Spot A Phony Business or School

tiffany richardstiffany richards — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:23:57 +0000

Protect Yourself from Scams

There are various ruses and ploys which bogus business people and fake therapists use to lure vulnerable, gullible, naive people in order to recruit and victimize them mentally, financially, emotionally and even sexually.

1. Fake businesses and schools are covers for charlatans looking to prey on victims. They seek out isolated, lonely, traumatized, well-to-do individuals. Therefore, it behooves you to surround yourself with a support system of people in your life; family, friends, neighbors, religious leaders, lawyers,etc. to who you can go before you make a decision concerning where you put your money, your time and yourself.

2. Fake businesses and false therapy schools such as Unarius academy of science in El Cajon, California, manipulate the public via fraudulent advertising and shrewd marketing schemes designed to hide the truth of their criminal behavior behind a facade of pretending to have the solutions to your problems. Since there is no way to truly find out what their real motives and hidden agendas are, you should take multiple precautions if you interact with them. One way to spot a scam business is that they never give you a straight answer with exact proof to back it up. They lie about everything from their lack of credentials, to their lack of educational degrees, their inability to actually help or teach you, while demanding tuition money from you.

3. Tape record all your telephone conversations with new business people. Make multiple copies of all correspondence from them and place them with trusted friends or in a safe deposit box at your bank. It so easy for a bogus therapy school to disguise their true intentions so you must be vigilant against giving them your money

4. Few people go thru life without drama or trauma, so they can be victimized by charlatans like the Unarians in El Cajon, California, who offer fake healing with their dangerous, useless, bogus classes and books. They appeal to the public by pretending they will heal you of problems with their "new world order" psychotherapy.

5. Fake businesses and bogus therapy schools such as Unarius academy of science in El Cajon California have NO licenses, degrees or State accreditations to do therapy on the public, to teach or practice psychotherapy on the public, a direct violation of Profession and Business codes of law. They are merely amateurs who peddle their own personal opinions disguised as facts, and sell their opinions in expensive books and diaries of their sexual perversions, criminal sexual attacks, abuses, dysfunctions, fears, rapes and killings of their prior victims where they vent their fury, then sell their diaries to the public as "textbooks" for their useless bogus therapy classes.

6. Finally, insist on seeing everyone's collegiate graduation certificates, degrees and licenses. If they refuse or fail to provide the necessary documentation, sever your ties from them immediately. Do not explain, argue or debate the issue with them. If you do, they will only proceed to mind control, coercively influence you against your will and ensnare you into their cult business therapy school. Any scam artist who exploits you financially or sexually has agendas exactly like cults, mind control groups and they all mislead you the same exact way; bait, hook and switch. They use false advertising ploys to bait you, they hook you with their lies, misleading promises and lures, then switch from fulfilling their contracts to stealing your bank account. They will then dump you and move on to their next victim.

How to Pick the Best Summer Shorts

Pat JacobsPat Jacobs — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 20:25:24 +0000

Dress Up A Neckline As Well

Looking for a great pair of shorts for the summer? There are plenty of options, and with a little bit of research you'll be able to find the perfect pair of shorts for the season.

Flat-front shorts are flattering because of what they LACK, no details to distract the eye. These shorts provide one sleek, narrow line from waist to thigh. They're great for minimizing tummy bulge and making hips and derriere look trimmer. Mid-lengths offer plenty of thigh coverage. The short-shorts length makes all legs look long and lean!

Drawstring shorts are probably the most comfortable. There are two types: waist highs and low riders. Waist highs have the fullness to hide a prominent tummy and make the waist seem narrower. Low riders do the same, and also elongate the upper body. Choose drawstring shorts in a fluid fabric (like rayon or soft cotton) if you're plus-sized. They'll ease over the tummy, hips and derriere, helping to camouflage bulging.

Cargo shorts (a retro to the late '60s look) come two ways-with pockets in front or on the sides. Front-pocket cargos draw the eye to the middle of the leg, making hips and thighs seem narrower. Pockets on the side widen hips and thighs, which is great for balancing a top-heavy figure.

For those with heavy legs, try Bermuda or walking shorts that hit just above the knee and have a flat front. They'll give the illusion of thinner, shapelier legs.

Shorts that Suit Your Shape

If you have wide hips or a big tummy, go for a solid color, flat-front style with straight legs that aren't too fitted. Avoid shorts that have side pockets; they'll add bulk exactly where you don't want it.
If you have short legs, look for shorter shorts in a solid shade (without cuffs) to show off more skin, thus making your legs appear longer.
For the short-waisted, choose mid-thigh length low-rise shorts in a small print to make your torso look longer. A flat-front, side-zip style will reduce tummy bulge.
If you're long-waisted, go for walking shorts with a wide waistband to visually "raise" your waistline and balance your proportions.
High-waisted styles define curves, while shorts with low waistlines help minimize them.
For the most flattering look, shorts should fall above or below the widest part of your leg.

Dress Up a Neckline by:

1. A fitted scoop-neck or jewel-neck top paired with a simple multi-strand puts the full focus on (and plays up your eyes!). It's also the perfect frame for a choker or a 16-inch chain with pendant that falls to the collarbone.

Above the neck, wear small, button-style earrings; anything larger will look too fussy.

2. For a plunging neckline, pair with jewelry that follows its shape to create the illusion of curves.

3. A crew neckline can be dressed up with a medium-length necklace or end that ends about 2" above the cleavage. A long strand of beads or a sweater tied around the shoulders will also add pizzazz.

Above the neck, keep the earrings, so they don't interfere with the neckline.

4. For a high-cut neckline, pair with a choker to create a horizontal line, which will instantly broaden shoulders.

5. A mock turtleneck covers part of the neck; because of this, it should be worn with a long necklace to balance out the torso. Chose a 24" chain or long beads.

Above the neck, go for medium or large hoops, or drop-style earrings.

6. A "V" neckline (particularly a ruffled one) puts the focus on skin. They also create a vertical line. Wear with a delicate charm (adds to the skin effect), fine, dainty chains or delicate "Y" necklaces. Avoid chokers, for they'll make the neck appear wider.

Above the neck, go for teardrop and other dangling earring styles.

Easy Exercise for Non Athletes

Nigel WickendenNigel Wickenden — Sun, 06 Jun 2010 12:07:50 +0000

Improve Your Fitness Without Losing Your Life

Many wonder how can a person have a life and exercise too? The answer is simple and difficult for many. Your ancestors did not need to make time for exercise as they usually had physical work as part of their job. People of the present must find exercise they enjoy and make time for it, or, build some exercise into their daily lives. Preferably both.

Walking for Exercise

What about cost? Look at the cheapest options first. You do not need any special equipment for walking. We should get all the exercise we need if we just walk ten thousand steps per day. That sounds easy doesn't it? Unfortunately, that is quite a lot of steps That's eight thousand yards to walk the required ten thousand steps each day. That rounds out to about four and a half miles. Getting up to four and a half miles is actually easier than you probably think.

Park your car on the opposite side of the car park from your office. Walk up and down stairs instead of riding the lift (elevator). Take sandwiches to lunch and walk somewhere to eat them. When going shopping, park the car away from the store doors and then walk between shops. When one starts thinking along these lines, more places to walk to and from will spring to mind.

Cycling

Pedal cycles are much cheaper to run than cars and will provide exercise as well. In some cities it will actually be faster to bike to work too. Save money & time, and, get much needed exercise as well, what a win-win situation.

Find Exercise You Enjoy

Only you can know what form of exercise is acceptable to you. Some will be happy just walking or cycling as above. Others will not mind putting on some trainers and jogging along to Tina Turner, or whoever your favourite artists are. Moving up the price scale, there are step machines, static cycles, elliptical trainers and rowing machines. If you need company, there are gyms everywhere waiting for your membership.

The bottom line is, if you want to live longer active lives, you must make time to do some form of exercise. It is up to each individual to find a regime that allows them to "have a life" as well.

How to Get An Ex Back

lindasns555lindasns555 — Mon, 24 May 2010 17:10:19 +0000

Reunite with A Former Lover

Your romantic relationship has ended, but you still have feelings for your ex. Want to know how to win your ex back? Here are several things that you should and shouldn't do if you're trying to win back your former flame.

Getting Your Ex Back

Pay attention to your ex's jealousy. If they are getting jealous over other people paying attention to you, perhaps they still have feelings for you.
If your ex asks you to become friends after the break up, go for it.
Be yourself.
Bring up times that the two of you enjoyed.
Be presentable whenever you decide to meet your ex. Your appearance can make a difference.
Be subtle. You should pick up his signals very first just before you attempt something obvious.

Avoid These Ex Tactics

Don't flirt with his friends.
Don't call or text all the time. It can come off as desperate which can be a huge turnoff.
Don't get jealous.

While these tactics won't guarantee you success, sometimes relationships haven't run their course and a reunion can happen.

Dealing with Panic Attack Syndromes

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Sat, 22 May 2010 20:09:12 +0000

Online Support Groups

When experiencing a panic attack, you might feel like a completely different person within seconds. You may not recognize yourself after an attack as the situation sends an extra doze of adrenalin to your blood. In similar circumstances, others may behave normally and manage the problem, while you could be left breathing rapidly and feeling claustrophobic.

Deal with Panic Head On

It is not normal to feel such panic during a regular situation, but a knee jerk way of dealing with a sudden change. What you end up doing is impairing your health, as rapid breathing at every instance can cause heart failure in the long run. Your blood pressure will be at an all-time high and it will become difficult for you to contain the impulse to feel frightened at any negative changes that take place around you.

An attack panic can happen anytime and your best bet is to deal with it head-on. There are obviously several calming drugs and medications, but these are best avoided unless absolutely necessary. All over the counter drugs come with a trail of side effects as they artificially soothe and calm your nerves.

Your best help is from within not without. The more you begin to rely on outside help like medications, you will lose the spirit to use your own mental and physical strength in such circumstances.

Symptoms May Vary

There are several self-help groups that those who have suffered from panic related anxiety. There are those who have overcome the problem and are now out there online to provide tips and trade secrets with others like you. You can benefit by interacting with other sufferers as attack panic symptoms can vary. What makes you suddenly frightened can make others suffering from panic attacks feel perfectly normal.

The problem should be seen on a case by case basis, and the more you interact, the better you'll know how people managed to overcome fear. Learning from support groups can be a great way to get out of the trapped situation that you are in. If you are unable to locate groups in your own, you can consult your doctor for a trip to the therapist for getting rid of attack panic syndromes.

How to Diagnose a Panic Attacks

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Sat, 22 May 2010 20:05:00 +0000

Diagnose a Panic Attacks

In an ever-increasing competitive and fast-paced world, there are very often many individuals incapable of dealing with the circumstances of day to day life. Where work pressures and deadlines are a must, feelings of anxiety and panic aren't abnormal.

Professional help may not be readily available so it's important that people know how to diagnose panic attacks.

Diagnosing Panic Attacks

Many panic symptoms seem rather similar and it becomes quite tedious trying to identify them. But it is always good to know how to detect or diagnose what it is you're feeling.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines and conducts the diagnosis of many such mental abnormalities.

According to the association, diagnosis can be difficult as symptoms tend to resemble or mimic the conditions prevalent in many other types of disorders. Usually the individual's doctor or any other medical professional dealing with mental health is the best choice to deal with the diagnosis of such attacks.

The diagnosis includes an eye for repetitive or recursive attacks, while keeping in mind that the former has been followed by the latter within an interval of at least one month. These attacks have nothing to do with the adverse physiological effects of any substance, such as chemicals or any kind of drugs that may have been used by an individual to treat other health problems.

No other medication can cause or bring about panic attacks. These panic attacks do not even accompany any other type mental disorder like the obsessive compulsive disorder, or separation anxiety disorder and post traumatic stress disorder.

Once these grounds are clarified, the next level of diagnosis can include agoraphobia. Panic attack can be found with or without the presence of agoraphobia. This is a kind of fear which certain individual feels when in an open space like a market or so on. So in order to diagnose panic attacks there are certain set of procedures which have been discussed in the above paragraphs.

Major Panic Attack Symptoms

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Sat, 22 May 2010 20:01:29 +0000

Panic Attack Symptoms

In the last few years, as economic, financial and family pressures increased, panic attacks have become a part of society. Pay some attention to the symptoms of such attacks and hopefully you can avoid any major pitfalls.

Though the overlapping nature of these symptoms make the detection a tough job for any ordinary person, an overview of such symptoms can be helpful. The DSM-IV-TR, Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders grouped the symptoms under four or even more symptoms for a simpler understanding.

Symptoms of A Panic Attack

Palpitation - It is one of the most significant symptoms observed in individuals. This is mainly due to elevated heart beat rates, and the thumping of the heart really hard.
Perspiration - The individual will sweat profusely, the intense sweating at times is perceived as a reason of tension.
Trembling - The cluttering of hands and feet. It appears as if they are literally scared of some kind of situation and can't cope well with it.
Shortness of Breath - There is a terrible feeling of strangulation and suffocation felt by the individual.
Nausea - A feeling of dizziness. One feels extremely light in the head and experiences feelings of vomiting.
Unreality and Depersonalization - Mental images or illusions are certain things one feels, a kind of detachment from near and dear ones are also felt hugely. This is a cause which drives the person quite crazy. A terrible feeling of ending one's life also comes in the mind of such individuals, a complete sense of hopelessness.
Numbness and tingling sensation - The sensation that nothing in the body exists, not getting to feel the body parts properly, something going completely inert is also found in such victims.

All the above panic attack symptoms are due to the fact that blood from the brain rushes to other parts of the body to support it, starving the brain of oxygen causing illusions and images.

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Sat, 15 May 2010 19:09:36 +0000

Stress, Phobias and other Conditions

Anxiety disorders are varied and include things like social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and phobias. Millions of people around the world are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder during their lifetime, and the majority of them are looking for answers as to what has caused this medical condition.

You may have an anxiety disorder for any number of reasons, or a combination of reasons. In order to learn more about your condition and try to pin point its cause, here are a few of the things that play into the development of an anxiety disorder.

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

First and foremost, many people want to know if anxiety disorders are genetic, passed down through generations. Studies show that this may be the case. If a parent has an anxiety disorder, there is a chance that you may get this disorder as well. However, family factors may play a role in this as well.

When you are raised by someone who has an anxiety disorder, you are essentially taught these panic behaviors. Phobias are commonly passed to other family members. Unstable relationships with parents may also cause anxiety disorders later in life. In short, this passing down of phobias and anxieties may be partially due to genetics, but also has something to do with your childhood environment as well.

Other environmental experiences outside of your childhood living conditions play into the development for anxiety disorders as well. If you experience a traumatizing event as a child, or even as an adult, the trauma could stay with you, causing post-traumatic stress disorder, or could affect your thinking, causing other types of anxiety disorders. Social pressures and culture may play a role in this as well, where a person's environment teaches them to become anxious at certain times or fearful of certain things.

Anxiety and Health

An anxiety disorder may also be the result of health factors not related to genetics. Phobias and other anxiety disorders sometimes develop due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, especially with the chemical serotonin, which also can cause depression in some people. Evolution comes into play, because you automatically have a fight-or-flight system built into your brain. The foods you eat, amount you exercise, and the quality of sleep you get every night all play roles into how your brain functions.

Lastly, anxiety disorders may develop due to stress. When you are stressed about something, you may find that you slowly start to wear out. While your body is built to handle certain amounts of stress, over time, this simply breaks down and you give in to anxiety, which can develop into an anxiety disorder. No matter what the reason, however, it is simply important that you ask for help dealing with your condition.

Cognitive-Behavior Therapy

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Sat, 15 May 2010 19:07:39 +0000

Treating Phobias, Anxiety and Stress Disorder

Anxiety disorders can be very difficult medical conditions with which to live. However, if you are suffering from panic disorder, social phobias, generalized anxiety disorder or any one of the number of other anxiety disorders, all is not lost.

By talking to your doctor, you can get help controlling your symptoms and treating these disorders at the core. One form of treatment you can consider is cognitive-behavior therapy.

Cognitive-behavior Therapy

Cognitive-behavior therapy is a combination of cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. With cognitive therapy, a person learns to understand and change their thoughts and beliefs. With behavioral therapy, a person learns to change specific actions. Combining these two therapies is not difficult and has provided anxiety disorder patients with the very good results.

Cognitive therapy focuses mainly on patients recognizing certain things within themselves. Many people are confused about cognitive therapy; it isn't about changing negative thoughts to positive thoughts in order to push for happiness. Instead it's about changing and destructing thoughts that are often repetitive and feed into anxiety to thoughts that are more easily controlled and do not trigger anxiety attacks.

Behavior Therapy

Behavior therapy, on the other hand, focuses on changing your actions. Relaxation and breathing exercises are common with behavioral therapy for anxiety disorder patients. Another type of behavioral therapy treatment commonly used is desensitization, which places patients in situations that cause anxiety gradually, in order to get used to the idea and control the anxiety.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy does not work for everyone. While there are many people who can benefit from this form of treatment, there are others who will do better with other types of treatment. If you are considering cognitive-behavioral therapy, you need to meet two qualifications. First, you have to be motivated to change. If you are resistant to change, you won't do the work required to make cognitive-behavioral therapy work and recovery won't be possible. Secondly, you need to have access to a therapist specially trained to deal with cognitive-behavioral therapy. Your doctor can help you find a professional in your area.

In short, think about trying cognitive-behavioral therapy as a form of treatment for your anxiety disorders, even if nothing else has helped you. When you seek treatment, you put yourself on the right track for actually feeling better. Seeing a doctor and learning about all of your treatment options is the first step towards overcoming your anxiety disorder and controlling your life once again.

Anxiety or Depression?

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Fri, 14 May 2010 20:54:33 +0000

Which Disorder are You Suffering From?

It may sound strange but a lot of people suffering with anxiety actually believe they have depression. One of the side affects of anxiety is to become reclusive and emotional, which can become confused with actually suffering from depression.

Because people generally have the tendency to shy away from social settings when they have an anxiety condition, friends and family can automatically presume that depression is the cause. The difference between the two conditions is vast, below is a detailed outline of each condition.

Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety is the feeling of fear and apprehension; this can be caused by a multitude of different reasons depending on the type of anxiety condition a person has.

A person suffering with anxiety will have physical symptoms like trembling and excessive sweating on the surface while underneath the blood is flowing to the major muscles inhibiting the digestive and immune systems. Anxiety also causes the heart to beat very fast.

The anxiety can make panic set in, which causes a person to feel the "flight or fight scenario". Anxiety is not hereditary and anyone can suffer with the condition, sometimes for no apparent reason.

Depression

Depression is the feeling of overwhelming sadness, guilt, worthlessness and isolation; these emotional feelings cause physical issues like fatigue, problems concentrating and difficulty sleeping.

It is believed that depression is caused by a chemical imbalance in the neurotransmitters found in the brain and central nervous system. These neurotransmitters (Serotonin and norepinephrine) help manage a persons mood so if there is an imbalance a crash in a person's mood can happen.

When a person does have depression they will feel like the world is falling around them, it is common for thoughts of suicide to cross their mind and feelings of woe are never far from a sufferers mind.

Depression has been shown to be hereditary, if a family member has suffered with depression it is likely another family member will be diagnosed in their lifetime.

Anxiety and Depression are Two Different Things

As you can see, anxiety and depression are two totally separate conditions. If you were to have anxiety then yes, you may shy away from the world outside, but this is not out of sadness or thoughts of suicide it is out of general fear of what is happening on the other side of your front door.

About 3.5% of the population suffer with an anxiety condition in their lifetime with many not even realizing they have one. One in sixty people in the western world will have an isolated anxiety attack every year.

It is true that the medication used in the treatment of anxiety is the same as that used for cases of depression, but this has no bearing on the conditions themselves.

The next time you think a person you know has depression, look further in to the symptoms they have and you may be surprised to find that anxiety is the reason they are unsocial.

What is Agoraphobia?

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Wed, 12 May 2010 20:15:29 +0000

Phobia of Leaving A Controlled Area

There are many different anxiety disorders a person could develop. These disorders are usually characterized by intense anxiety leading to panic attacks. Under the umbrella of anxiety disorders fall the category of phobias, which as intense and irrational fears that lead to panic. Agoraphobia is one such fear a person could have, and it is the most commonly treated phobia in the mental health world.

It may not be the most common, but its symptoms are severe enough that treatment is almost always necessary.

What is Agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia is the fear of leaving one's home or safe area and venturing into the outside world. It is also found in combination with other phobias or obsessive-compulsive disorders. People suffering from agoraphobia usually have panic attacks when they feel unsafe, and these unsafe feelings include when the person is trapped, out of control, or too far from a personal comfort zone. Many people suffering from agoraphobia are confined to their homes or even to a specific room in their home.

There are many misconceptions surrounding people with agoraphobia. First of all, agoraphobia is not a fear of open spaces, nor is it a fear of crowded spaces. While these conditions may exist for particular persons, agoraphobia is specifically a fear of being too far from a normal area, regardless of the crowd. Many people welcome visitors into their home, even if they themselves do not leave. Agoraphobics usually simply need to be in complete control of a situation.

Who is Affected by Agoraphobia?

Agoraphobia can affect any person, regardless of gender, age, religion, race, ethnicity or economic status. The disorder is about twice as common among women than among men, however. The condition usually begins with generalized panic attacks or slight phobias, and develops into a more serious condition. Thankfully, treatment is available.

A gradual process of exposure is usually recommended, along with anti-anxiety medication including benzodiazepines like alprazolam. Anti-depressants can also be used. Some therapists will make house calls to help patients with agoraphobia, and alternative treatments like hypnosis are becoming more and more popular in the medical world as a treatment for agoraphobia and other anxiety conditions.

A number of famous people have suffered from agoraphobia in the past, including celebrity chef Paula Dean, actress Kim Basinger, director Woody Allen, and Nobel laureate for literature Elfriede Jelinek. The key here, however, is to realize that there is hope. If you suffer from agoraphobia, ask for help and you can begin the healing process.

How Panic Attacks Happen

Robert RilesRobert Riles — Wed, 12 May 2010 20:12:18 +0000

Harmless Situations Changed by Anxiety

Anxiety panic attacks are not a mental illness or signs of an unbalanced personality. It can happen to anyone. The difference is in the way people with anxiety respond to certain situations that makes them stand apart from others.

While most people can handle all types of situations while maintaining control, those known to have panic attacks easily fall prey to the situation and give in without a fight.

Harmless Situations Turn to Panic

A sudden situation like a financial loss the death of someone close can cause extreme anxiety for anyone. Anxiety panic attacks can come suddenly after a person experiences a frightening reaction to a fairly normal situation. In normal circumstances, people without anxiety would have completely normal responses, but not for those suffering from anxiety and panic attacks.

A chronically anxious person sees it differently and reacts in a knee-jerk fashion. For people who suffer from panic attacks, it is common to think that the world will come to an end to feel as if everything will be lost and gone forever. Your heart starts to pound fast and you sweat profusely leading to a choked out feeling.

Stress, Anxiety and Amygdala

You get the feeling that you can pass out at any moment even though the situation is harmless and perfectly manageable. Many people feel a heaviness in their chest and loss of breath. These are not harmless symptoms as repetitions can lead to heart ailments.

If you are suffering from panic attacks, consult your doctor who can refer you to a therapist or a counselor. Some people need psychiatric care to get their lives in order.

Primarily, anxiety attacks are triggered by Amygdala, which is an organ responsible for switching on the panic button. It is switched on and if as soon as there is a negative situation, leading to rapid breathing, uneasiness in the chest and a choking sensation. It can also make you feel nervous and anxious during normal circumstances. Calming your mind and getting on top of the situation can prevent anxiety panic attacks.

Maximizing Your Talents

Jonathan AquinoJonathan Aquino — Tue, 11 May 2010 07:15:54 +0000

Getting the Most out of Yourself

Professional life today is about doing your own thing now - leapfrogging the corporate ladder while making your own rules and being your own boss, says Über-guru Tom Peters. Here's some ways to drive your career to its fullest, from Talent: Develop It, Sell It, Be It, part of his Essentials Series (DK).

Think like an entrepreneur - Drei Felix wanted to be more than just a 103 ½ MaxFM deejay. He knew he has what it takes to be a VJ so he auditioned for Myx. Sadly, he didn't make it the first time, but since he didn't quit, he made a fourth try - and got the job.

Market yourself. Migs Escueta grew up on the music of Coldplay, Lifehouse and Foo Fighters, and he wanted to chart an alt-rock musical career too. But though he was 1 runner-up in the Magic 89.9 Acoustic Break in 2003, he knew he should take the initiative rather wait for offers so he sent his demo tapes to major record labels - and clinched a deal with MCA Universal.

Thrive on ambiguity. Robert Pattinson tasted fame after playing the wizard Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. But his whole world changed after playing the vampire Edward Cullen in Twilight, and he eventually learned to just take it in stride. "Right now its, fine," says the British actor, "it's just bizarre."

Embrace technology. Fil-Am nursing student Christine Gambito-Rodgers was an aspiring actress but the cameos she did weren't enough: she wanted to be a star in her own right. Taking advantage of modern technology, she wrote, directed and produced footages starring herself - including "Mixed Nuts," winner of the 2006 YouTube Video Awards for Best Comedy - and became famous around the world as Happy Slip.

Power of Stability

Robin RoychaudhuriRobin Roychaudhuri — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 19:37:50 +0000

Remain Calm Even During Chaotic Times

Stability is love of equanimity in the midst of adventure. It is the straight, flat runway that allows the plane to take off to new ways of seeing things. No hasty departures, dramatic exits, but a gentle, strong take-off to brilliance. Everything packed, understood, stored, but nothing dangling carelessly, to be pulled at by questioning fingers.

Learning to be Stable

To be stable takes immense alertness, to watch the approach of praise, catch it and divert it to God or the Universe, where it's due. An equally great challenge to stability is insult. When you're doing your best and someone pushes you and it's the last straw, you topple; when you're not doing your best, it's worse. And the deeper the stability, the more subtle and searching the challenges that come. They're like hailstones chipping away at your heart.

Stability at its deepest is flying free of everything, resting quiet above praise, but it is also having two feet firmly on the ground, so that you can't be charged with negligence, because that's an obvious target. Above all, stability comes from understanding that, whilst you should remain level-headed, life is full of ups and downs. When praise is in the air, you've got to be in the air too: free, light, empty, above, and then return, ready to start again fresh, unprejudiced and never smug.

When insult is in the air, then you've got to be anchored in wisdom so safely that you can think deeply and surface with a solution that nourishes the enemy as well as yourself. Enemies are those with hunger.

Finding Moorage at A Vancouver Marina

Donalda MeyersDonalda Meyers — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 22:23:45 +0000

Considerations in Your Search for Moorage

Do you spend every waking moment out on the water feeling the wind on your face? Or do you prefer to hang out at the dock, welcoming your neighbours as they come in from their day(s) of sailing or cruising. Either way, finding the right moorage at a Vancouver marina will greatly impact your pleasure.

Vancouver, Canada, has several active marinas to serve the range of needs that boaters bring. When looking for moorage at a marina in Vancouver you need to consider the following.

1) Location of the Marina - What are Your Needs?

Do you use your boat a lot or a little?
Are you power boater or sail?
Does the marina have speedy access to open water? How important is this to you?
Are there tides and bridges to contend with?
Are you close to good coffee in a friendly atmosphere to get your day off on the right foot?

2) How does the Marina Calculate Moorage Fees?

By the length of your vessel-including bits hanging off the ends-or the size of the boat slip. You may have a 20-foot boat in a 28-foot slip, but you pay for the slip length.

3) What is or isn't Included in Your Moorage Fees?

There is usually an additional cost for hydro. Is that metered or by the month?
Some marinas include parking others don't. Check this before you commit to a slip rental.
All marinas have washroom facilities, but the standards can vary greatly. Take a walk through.

4) Greater Vancouver Marinas Where You Might Find Moorage

Union Steamship Company Marina on Bowen Island

A lovely marina in the heart of Snug Cove with great facilities. There is, though, the twenty-minute ferry-ride from Horseshoe Bay to consider. Good sailing in Howe Sound in the northerly outflow, and easy access to the Sunshine Coast.

Sewell's Marina at Horseshoe Bay

If a ferry ride to your boat is a turn-off, try Sewell's in Horseshoe Bay. Again, right in Howe Sound, possesses a fuel dock-increasingly rare-and the village has good coffee shops and restaurants.

Vancouver Parks Board Marinas

For boat moorage at a marina in downtown Vancouver, check out the wait lists at Heather Civic or Burrard Civic Marinas. Both are in False Creek with all that Vancouver has to offer close at hand, but are only minutes from the open water of English Bay.

Vancouver Rowing Club

Situated at Vancouver Park's crown jewel, Stanley Park, this private and friendly, club and marina has great moorage, a uniquely lovely old clubhouse and complete facilities.

North Vancouver Marinas

Three more marinas on the North Shore that you might want to check out are Deep Cove, Mosquito Creek, and Lynnwood. All three marinas are well established and offer a range of services.

This is far from an exhaustive list of the many marinas in the Vancouver area that provide moorage. Good luck with your search.

Relaxation Techniques for Stress

NISHANTBAXINISHANTBAXI — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 11:47:33 +0000

Relaxing in the Midst of Stress

Stress management is an important practice that most people nowadays need to learn. With a fast paced working environment, people are constantly subjected to tremendous pressure that result to unpleasant levels of stress in their lives. You need to be able to cope quickly with the amount of stress that you have to deal with since it produces several negative effects on your body in mind.

Starting a Relaxation Practice

As with anything, starting a relaxation practice is often the biggest hurdle that people are faced with. Once you begin to notice that you seem to quickly lose energy and constantly change your mood, then maybe it's time to re-evaluate yourself because this can be all caused by stress. There are several relaxation activities that help combat stress in your life whether as simple as deep breathing, stretching or meditation, to more advanced relaxation methods such as yoga or tai chi.

To experience the full benefits of such relaxation methods, you need to take time each day to perform them. Only then would you be able to harness its relieving power so you can benefit from stress relief. It does not have to take so much of your time each day, maybe at least 10 minutes to as much as 20 minutes is enough for stress management.

For better success at developing this practice, take note of the following tips:

Determine a given schedule for each day when you can perform these relaxation exercises. If possible, schedule once or twice a day, whichever is most convenient for you. Then, make sure you follow your schedule strictly.
Refrain from scheduling your relaxation practices near bedtime since you're sleepiness could get in the way.
Never opt for an exercise method that could stress you out all the more. Find a level of practice that are most comfortable and feel relaxed with.

Stress Relief Through Deep Breathing

This is one of the easiest and simplest exercise you can perform to achieve stress relief. This would allow fresh air to get into your lungs. To perform effective deep breathing, follow these methods:

Sit straight with one hand on your chest and the other on your stomach.
Breathe through your nose, enough to make your stomach rise. Make sure that your chest doesn't produce too much movement.
Use your mouth to exhale and push the air out with as much force as possible.
Repeat the same process. Take note of the rise and fall of your lower abdomen.

Muscle Relaxation, Yoga and Meditation

For further stress relief, you can perform different relaxation methods that involve your muscles and mind. In muscle relaxation, your objective is to tense and relax the various muscle groups in your body. To do this, find a comfortable position and start by taking slow and deep breaths. Then, create tension on your body by squeezing them tightly while counting slowly until its time to let go. Focus on the release of the tension in a specific body part until you feel relaxed. When doing this, start from foot and eventually move upwards.

Yoga and meditation are also two other techniques used in stress management methods. These are associated with slow and steady movements, as well as gentle stretching. This practice is best for relieving tension in the body and mind, which is why it is recommended for stress relief practices.

How To Improve Digestion

Priyanka GharpurePriyanka Gharpure — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:39:54 +0000

Simple Tips for a Better Stomach

Most of the stomach-related ailments are caused by waste products accumulated in the body, due to improper digestion. This is a very simple fact that most tend to overlook. If food is not digested properly, it gives rise to acidity, which can cause more complex ailments if ignored for too long.

Some of the causes of improper digestion are:

Not exercising regularly
Not breathing fully
Eating unhealthy foods that are not good for the stomach and intestine. E.g.: fried foods
Sedentary lifestyle and work pressures
Not performing yoga postures and 'pranayama'
Drinking less water
Not passing stools due to laziness

Tips for Better Digestion and A Healthy Stomach

Here are a few tips that you can add to your daily routine:

Massage the stomach with oil, preferably in the morning. Coconut oil or any other massage oil can be used.
Include yogasanas such as 'paschimottanasana' and 'pavan-muktasana' in your daily exercise routine.
Keeping a hot water bag on your stomach for some time also provides relief.
Include more green leafy vegetables and fruits in your daily diet.
Put two teaspoons of ghee (clarified butter) in some warm milk and drink it before going to bed. It clears your bowels in the morning.
Drink a glass of warm water in the morning, after you wake up.
Exercise regularly.
Soak two dry figs and ten to twelve black raisins overnight in water. In the morning, crush these figs and raisins in the same water and drink it. This mixture is very beneficial for clearing the bowels and helping digestion.
Eat meals at a fixed time, preferably not late in the night.

So Long Insecurity: Beth Moore

Lindsey RenuardLindsey Renuard — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 06:19:11 +0000

Insecurity Covered in New Book

Beth Moore has really outdone herself this time. Her most recent book So Long Insecurity: You've Been a Bad Friend to Us hit store shelves on February 2, 2010. It immediately began flying back off of those shelves as women everywhere rushed to purchase the book in order to get it home and remove the book jacket so no one would know they were reading a book on insecurity.

So Long Insecurity

Moore jumps right into the tough subject of insecurity with her blonder-than-she-pays-to-be stories and her larger than Texas insights. Just a warning, the first seven chapters of this book will leave you in tears. You will be mortified as each page turn builds the mountain of your insecurity higher and higher. Then again, you have to recognize what causes your insecurity before you can overcome it so sayeth the Beth.

Beginning in chapter eight, you will be lifted and healed in ways you could previously only dream of. Chapter nine will leave you face down on the floor feeling closer to your Lord you ever thought possible. By the end of the book, you will rejoice and feel free. Now you just have to live it.

You can participate in the So Long Insecurity discussions that are currently going on at the Living Proof Ministries Blog. Moore will also be covering this subject with her online Bible study beginning on July 19th. You can find her online Bible studies at OnePlace.com.

How to Pray: Getting Started

Heather RollinsHeather Rollins — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:54:09 +0000

What to do? What to say? God help me!

You want to pray. You're always meaning to, but it never feels right. You know prayer is important: it's good for your body, it's good for your mind and maybe your prayers will help someone else, too. But, what are you supposed to do? How do you even start?

Praying: Just do it!

With apologies to Nike, the way to start praying is to just start praying! There are no wrong ways to pray, and anyone who says you're failing at prayer or not praying right is just plain wrong. There are as many ways to pray as there are people, probably more. So get started!

In fact, you already pray, whether you realize it or not. We pray when we're at our most stressed, when we exclaim, "Oh, please!" or "Help!" St. Augustine called these 'arrow prayers', that shoot straight up to heaven. These are the most sincere and honest prayers you can have, when you don't even think about praying. You didn't know it was that easy, did you?

Prepare Yourself for Prayer

Setting aside time or space for prayer can be helpful to anyone, those just starting on a prayer journey and those who have been working at prayer for decades. Here are some things you can try, to create this sacred space and enter into it.

Make a date with God. Put an appointment on your calendar, just like a meeting with your boss or a customer or your child's teacher. Then keep it!
Light a candle - Even though most don't use candles for light now, candles can help set the time and space apart for prayer.
Settle your mind - Mentally review the day you've just had, or the day you're about to have. Rather than dwelling on fears and frustrations, let them flow through you; mentally bookmark them to remember in your prayers. Reflect on your mistakes; be honest with yourself about them.
Ask God to be with you - Don't worry about an elegant or fancy invitation; "God, please be with me" is entirely appropriate.
Find some prayers to use - You may want to use traditional prayers (the Lord's Prayer, the Prayer of St. Francis), or you may pray from a book... or you may pray in your own words.
Make your body comfortable - Like your mom always taught you, use the bathroom before you start. Your spirit will be more free when your knees don't ache and your shirt doesn't itch.
Embrace the silence... or play some meditative music. Learn what works best for you, and don't be afraid to change it.
Think about the world - What have you seen in the news recently that makes you the most angry? the most fearful? the most frustrated?
Think about those you love - Is someone ill, under stress, in need? Does someone need encouragement or strength?

You're Really Praying

As you do some of these things, you'll realize that you've already entered the place of prayer. A thoughtful review of your day, or a review of world events, or thinking about the people dear to you -- these are prayer! God is hearing you already. When you intentionally enter into a time or place of prayer, your thoughts and words and actions become sacred, become prayer.

Once you're comfortable in this space of prayer, you can branch out and try new things. Bookstores and the Internet are full of resources on prayer; use them! If something works for you, keep it up. If it's too awkward or uncomfortable, pass it by. Just keep praying. It's good for you. It's good for all of us.

How to Cope with A New Disability

Heather RollinsHeather Rollins — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:55:18 +0000

Learning to Live with the Diagnosis

Your symptoms have bugged you forever. You've bounced from specialist to specialist, trying to find out what's wrong. Now you know about your new disability. It may come as a relief; it may feel like disaster. Most likely, it's some of both. So what do you do now?

Give Yourself Permission to Mourn

As cliché as it sounds, a new chapter in your life is starting. You will learn new lessons, gain new experiences and meet new people. Just as importantly, you'll set aside elements from your past. There will be activities that you used to enjoy, but now cause pain. There may be friends who don't call as often, because you just don't seem as fun. And these things are worth mourning.

The initial diagnosis can come as a real shock, even to those who expected the diagnosis or fought for it. The validation feels great (Yes! Something really is wrong with me!), but in its wake you may experience desolation. Yes. Something really is wrong with you. You're going to have to deal with this for the rest of your life. Everything is going to change. A handicapped parking placard reads "Permanently Disabled." Those are hard words to read about yourself.

Make Plans

It's absolutely critical to plan for your future. If you are working, how long will you be able to continue? Will you need changes to your duties or to your workstation? Do you have leave time saved up? Do you have short-term and long-term disability coverage?

If your employer offers a Flexible Spending Account for healthcare, use it! With an FSA, money is deducted from your pay on a pre-tax basis, for you to use to pay for medical expenses. Look at your medical expenses from prior years: doctor visits, therapy visits, prescription medications, supplies, equipment. Plan to use at least this much in coming years. Some FSA providers include a debit card, which you can swipe at the doctor's office and at the pharmacy, even online. With others, you'll have to keep your receipts and send them in for reimbursement. Either way, make sure to save your receipts.

If you have extra money at payday, consider starting a Health Savings Account, so that more of your healthcare costs will be pre-tax. This is like a healthcare FSA, but you manage this account rather than your employer. You can withdraw your money for any reason, but withdrawals you make for qualified medical expenses be tax-free.

Most importantly, build a network of friends and caregivers. You will need support and help, and you want to know where to go in a crisis. It's best to have both online and real-life support; Internet support is available on those sleepless nights, on holidays, on weekends, anytime you need it. Know the phone numbers of your doctors, therapists, and caregivers. Keep them in your cell phone, in case of emergencies.

All will be well

Keep your sense of hope in the future. Though we all weep, whine, rant, and complain about our conditions, it is crucial to focus on the positive. There may not be a cure for your condition, but there are treatments, and there are caregivers, and there are people who want to help.

Your new diagnosis is not the end of the world. Take time to grieve your former life, then make plans for your future. And keep the faith: there is hope. All will be well.

Lose Weight with a Good Mind Set

vikki MacDonaldvikki MacDonald — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:14:22 +0000

Lose Pounds by Using Your Head

Everyone has heard that when you loose weight you gain confidence, but how do you gain confidence to loose weight? The psychological aspect of weight loss is the most difficult action to change and yet is the most crucial to ensure success. The following tips are aimed at helping you gain the confidence you need to make a healthy lifestyle change and ultimately loose the weight you want too.

Mind Power for Weight Loss

The idea of personal affirmation was ridiculed on Saturday Night Live and the act may seem funny to many, but the benefits of practicing it are great. Using that little voice inside your head to boost your self-esteem and motivation can make or break any healthy choices. Always be positive even in light of a binge session at a social gathering over the weekend. Dust the crumbs off your lap, stand up and tell yourself "tomorrow I will be better". Look in the mirror each morning and repeat such positive phrases as "I am worth it", "I can do this", and "I will reach my goals". Soon enough, that little voice will become your friend rather than foe. Allow the positive inner strength to guide you in your journey to good health.

Many times in your hectic lifestyle you can lose yourself in the commotion of children, family, and career. It is imperative to realize how important you are and appreciate the need to be healthy. Being self-indulgent doesn't mean you are the only person in the world; it means that you are the only one responsible for your health and wellbeing and understanding the effects that this can have on other areas in your life. By realizing how important your health is, you can begin to reflect that by having more energy to enjoy your family, be more efficient and positive about your workplace and feel the true benefits of being self indulgent.

Perception is Key to Weight Loss

You can quickly change your perception of the world (or perception of healthy living) by surrounding yourself with positive people in a positive environment. Friends and family can be a wonderful support group, if they are onboard with your healthy choices. Tell them your choice to pursue a healthy lifestyle and ask them to respect and support your decision. Look around at your environment and eliminate anything that may have a negative effect. Spring clean in every area of your life. Whether it be giving away your left over Christmas baking, planning a healthy holiday dinner, or scheduling a morning walk with friends, small changes can make a huge difference.

Allow your inner voice to help you be positive, you are worth it!
Have confidence in your ability to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
You are the most important person in your pursuit of health.
Embrace healthy living and all that it has to offer.

Confidence+Commitment+Action = RESULTS!

10 Time Management Tips for Your Home

Sheila Murray-NellisSheila Murray-Nellis — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 16:44:02 +0000

When a Messy House Messes You Up

Most people these days have so many things to juggle that the mess in their homes can get the best of them. At times the piles of papers and books can become mountains that threaten to become an avalanche!

Here are some tips for taming the mess monsters.

House Management and Organization

Never bring junk mail into the house. If you pick up your mail at the post office, go through it there and throw unwanted flyers and advertisements in the recycle bin. Or, better yet, ask the post office not to deliver flyers to your box at all. If your mail is delivered to your door, keep a bucket or bag dedicated to the purpose by the door or in a closet and go through your mail, discarding junk mail there before you get tempted to stash it on a counter or in a drawer somewhere else in your house.
Clear off counters and tables. Learn to enjoy the look of empty spaces. If there are objects in the room without a useful purpose or that don't make you smile when you look at them, take them out. Give things away or have a yard sale for getting rid of excess items in your life. You don't need more than one of an item, even if you love the person who gave you a second one.
Spend the time to organize a closet or a cupboard. Designate a place where things belong and then develop the habit of returning them there when you are done with them. (Our grandmothers were right!) If you can teach your children this simple rule, you will be saving them and yourselves a lot of grief in the long run.
Vacuuming is good exercise! Change your way of thinking about chores and you can accomplish a lot more and get them done more often.
If you can develop a system, you won't have to think as much about what needs to be done: Monday is laundry, Tuesday is trash day. . . .
For jobs you really hate, put on a favorite CD while working. You only have to work on that project while the CD is on. (You can repeat the CD if you're going strong.) This is good for those projects you procrastinate about, such as cleaning the basement or organizing the closet. Sometimes doing these projects in tiny chunks makes them easier to handle.
Go over surfaces with one of the new microfiber cloths. Keep one in each room and give surfaces a quick wipe on a regular basis.
Before leaving a room, do at least one thing to make it nicer: tidy a surface, arrange the cushions on the sofa, etc.
Ask for help. You don't have to do everything all by yourself.
Invite somebody to come for dinner that other people in your family care about and then get everyone involved with cleaning up for your guests.

Of course, these are only ten tips. You may think of others. Feel free to suggest them in the comment section.

Effect Television Has on Personal Debt

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 03:08:07 +0000

TV & and Your Money - How They're Related

Television plays such a discreet role in affecting personal debt that most people never see it coming.

A fantasy world lies at the touch of your fingers with the television remote. It's one way to relax and escape after a day at the grind but if you're not careful, it can negatively impact your total personal debt without you even realizing it.

When you think about the way that television could affect debt, the first thing that comes to mind is advertisements. While television advertisements do adversely impact personal debt, they are not completely responsible for the magic that happens to our bank accounts because we watch T.V.

Think about what you watch on television. What are the most common shows/programs that you or your family, like to watch? What makes you want to watch them - - do you like the characters/hosts? Does it make you laugh? Does it allow you to relax in the fact that while watching you are so in-tune that you're able to escape everything else around you? Favorite programs are often those that enable us to live the life that would otherwise exist only in our dreams. While this is neither bad nor unhealthy, it can come with a hefty price tag.

What Effect Does TV Have on Your Mood?

Have you become so enthralled with television that when a program is over, suddenly you're depressed because the reality of your life pales in comparison to what you see on television? The truth is programs rarely present the picture of the average, true-to-life, normalcy most of us live because; well...it's boring. Even the reality TV programs fail to show true, everyday life. Television is all about ratings. Modern day life doesn't earn network ratings so they have to up the ante preying on hopes, dreams and fantasies of its viewers. As a result, subconscious negative feelings often prompt the desire to have more, do more, or rise above one's current economic status in ways that go beyond one's financial capabilities.

Commercials and advertisements are strategically designed to entice people to buy. The sole purpose of commercials and advertisements is to sell. Watch children react to commercials that begin airing a couple of months before Christmas. Adults react in much the same way although it's not displayed outwardly; therefore, it's less noticeable.

Just as watching television subconsciously affects your debt situation in a negative way, watching less television will have a positive impact on personal debt. Additionally, you will have a lower electric bill and you may determine you don't need cable or satellite service at all; saving another $45 to $75 each month. This can significantly impact your debt situation, in a positive way!

Obscenity: The Players and The Game

Tom HartleyTom Hartley — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:57:40 +0000

Censorship Versus Free Speech Debate

Inherited and multi-generational programmes have historically proscribed the various convoluted legal rights and intertwined moral responsibilities surrounding the production, distribution, control and consumption of porn. Lately, however, these traditional forms of hegemony are being eroded by rampant controversy at all levels of political decision-making (federal, provincial, local, community, family and personal).

Countless competing groups and organizations vie for control over our minds and bodies in the contest of classifying and controlling sex. In the past, dominant social forces and culturally imperialistic groups -- typically those of the white bourgeois, European male-enforced their values, experiences and perspectives. Today there are religious fundamentalists, staunch traditionalists and radical feminists who usually play on the pro-censorship side, while free speech proponents, pornographers and their customers line up on the other.

Endless Arguments Over Censorship

Public attitudes change arbitrarily to meet the political needs of the moment, and governments become fickle and contradictory in their response to obscenity. Attempting to respond to cries from its citizenry, various political institutions raise or lower their standards, endlessly vacillating between allowing and disallowing specific forms of sexual imagery, sometimes even condemning porn's valid uses while praising its outright abuses. Society ends up with patchwork legal definitions that fail to meet the many requirements of entertainment, science, literature, art and education.

Officials, courts, juries, publishers, artists and the general public all have constantly varied obscenity 'standards' until there is an exception for most any previously unauthorized sexual behavior or depiction. Worse are the erratic fluctuations in policy and ethics that now complicate the issue to the point where it all seems beyond control or even comprehension.

The Contradictions of Agenda

Frantic efforts to define porn often become highly reductionist. Some people attempt to hermetically package and label porn with pat answers and clichés. Others dismiss porn in movies, magazines, books and so on by saying 'seen one, seen 'em all 'or,' I know it when I see it,' or 'it's all in the eye of the beholder.' Others use strong adjectives like 'filth' that are substitutes for real thought and say more about the speaker than the thing being described.

Porn is variously referred to as: free speech, or an obstacle to free speech; as a feminist freedom, or as demeaning to women; as educational, or as misrepresenting sexual roles and relations; as a cause of sexual violence, or as a healthy outlet for energies which might otherwise result in violence. Each side argues about oppressive and exploitative social relations that shape our sexual identities and then goes about setting its own obscenity standards, saying they should be either higher [narrower] or lower [wider] than the existing ones. Their essentialist mindset tends to polarize every situation according to imbalances in power. (When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail.)

Just as the propagandist is 'for' something and, by logical necessity, 'against' something else, so too the Conservative is against obscenity, and therefore for morality, while the Liberal is for erotica, and therefore against censorship. The furor swells into "knee-jerk reactionism and single-minded reductionism" as people with the power to shape public opinion rally for support and capitalize on high levels of literacy, our susceptibility to propaganda, and powerful media technologies in order to further their cause. The issue, it appears, is not so much sex as self-interest.