New Life

Baby Steps To Better You!

2014-02-10T06:48:00.000+02:00

In the beginning of 2014, we all made several resolutions to make smarter choices this year… It’s always super easy to make those resolutions. However, the bigger the resolution, the sooner it breaks. From weight loss to getting more sleep, every New Year resolution meets the same fate (it goes off as easily as it comes) but I get it, you’ve got a busy life and you will always find an excuse !

That's why you need to start with little steps to be able to succeed. Here are some baby steps that can make a huge difference in your life:

Don’t drink your calories: After the holidays, there will plenty of catch-up nights with your girlfriends and let’s be honest, that means cocktails. Be smart and stop ruin your diet with empty calories from sugary drinks. You also might say " I don't like fruit much so I'd rather drink it to get the vitamins." Sure, you get a few vitamins, but they're added back in to replace the fruit's original vitamins, which were stripped out during processing and that goes for the "not from concentrate" juices as well. You'll also be missing out on the vast majority of the actual fruit's fiber and phytonutrients. Ultimately, you should view juice as simply being flat soda with a tiny bit of vitamin C thrown in. If you don't think a glass of soda sprinkled with vitamin C sounds like a healthy beverage, juice is little better.

Drink skimmed milk! Skim milk is tasteless, right? If you are currently drinking whole or 2% milk, you probably think so. It is just too hard for you to drink white water. Understand that by drinking even 1/2% milk over skim milk gives the average person hundreds or thousands of extra grams of fat per year! This can add up to extra pounds of fat each year! It has to go somewhere.

Take the stairs: The elevator is, "of course" the easier option. But this small choice will make you feel better about yourself, burns calories and is a simple way to start making an active effort to chose what’s best for you. Your jeans will thank you.

Read nutrition labels: Another way to make changes is to start taking a look at the nutrition labels of the foods you are eating. Pay careful attention to serving size, as many labels can get tricky in that area; you might actually be eating two or more servings instead of one. Read the ingredients list too, and beware of trans-fats (also called hydrogenated oils), artificial sweeteners (sucralose, aspartame, saccharin to name a few), artificial colors and flavors, high fructose corn syrup, bleached flours, and anything else that you don’t instantly recognize as food.
Give multi-tasking a break: Too much juggling can lead to a lot of stress. “For those who have always aimed to be brave, capable and so hesitated at the toughest times to get help or to connect, stop doing that! Don't hesitate in delegating. Just sometimes, let it be!"
Up your spa visits: It's important to reward yourself once in a while for all the hard work you relentlessly do every day. Compensate a busy week at work with a relaxing escape at a spa. Massages help reduce muscle tension and regain your vitality, restoring inner balance.
Try a new vegetable every week.
Try to cut back on eating out. Most restaurants put far too much sugar and salt in their foods. Not to mention, GMOs. (Extra bonus: this way you can save some money!)
Think positively! The Mayo Clinic reports that Researchers continue to explore the effects of positive thinking and optimism on health. Health benefits that positive thinking may include: lower rates of depression, lower rates of distress, greater resistance to the common cold, reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and much more...
Try -as hard as possible- to get your daily recommended 7-9 hours of sleeping...or at least some power naps (The power nap is thought to maximize the benefits of sleep versus time.)

Use Natural Personal Care Products and Home Cleaners: Your skin is your largest organ and it soaks up everything you put on it and/or it exposed to. Just as there are warnings against second hand smoke, the hazardous labels on these products should say that the fumes are toxic and your skin soaks them up.

When you take a baby step; that first step makes the next one and the later ones much more easier. A few steps in sequence become a path that we walk together.

Have a nice weekend!

How to Deal With Autistic Toddlers?

2013-09-17T23:59:00.000+02:00

Raising a child is tough enough, but when your toddler is autistic, you will be experiencing a greater degree of difficulty and frustration. Autistic toddlers can have trouble communicating, recognizing appropriate social behaviors and may perform repetitive activities that you find annoying. It's easy to lose your temper, but this often makes the situation worse. Working on reducing your own temper flare-ups can help in a better relationship with your child.

Highlights for the four most challenging autism behaviors and advices on how to best handle them:

1-Meltdowns:

Step 1

Develop a predictable routine for your child. Autistic children may be more likely to have a meltdown when things are different, and meltdowns can cause you to lose your temper. When your child knows what to expect, he's comfortable and you can be, too.

Step 2

Avoid activities that trigger anger. Identify the things your child does that make you the angriest. If he's constantly spilling his drink, try different types of cups with tops. If you get frustrated when he doesn't follow your directions while making a craft, try crafts that are more open-ended, the type that don't have a "right" way of doing them.

Step 3

Take deep breaths when you feel anger coming on. It may seem cliché, but taking a short break from a situation where you might lose your temper can help calm you down, according to Operation Autism.

Step 4

Reduce other areas of stress in your life. When life piles it on, you might take out your frustrations on your child. Take time for yourself to do things you enjoy doing, like reading a book or exercising. If there's a part of your day that tends to be particularly stressful, find a way to make changes. For example, if your child has frequent meltdowns during the time when you're trying to cook dinner, you may get less angry if you prepare dinner during his nap time or in a slow cooker in the morning.

2-Sleep Disruption:

Sleep can be tough for kids with autism, as they tend to have highly sensitive nervous systems. Even the slightest variation in their day can affect their sleep for the night.

Be extremely careful not to give your kid anything that has any caffeine
Avoid chocolate after 3 PM.
Make sure he gets a lot of exercise during the day
Use room-darkening shades, a white noise machine, weighted blankets (Basically anything you can do to make sleep more appealing)
Teach their bodies that it's nighttime and we're not going to start the day just because you woke up in the middle of the night...A lot of parents feel that when their child wakes up in the middle of the night they have to get him something to eat, turn on the TV, and immediately cater to the fact that he stirred or woke up as opposed to bringing him or her back to bed. Show them a picture of a clock and a picture of Mom and Dad and say: "You can come into our room when your clock matches this clock."

3- Food Sensitivity:

Kids with autism tremendously picky and selective and limited in what they will eat. "It's a sensory thing; you have to have lots of trial and error, certain textures, and certain foods."

Don't make them eat anything they didn't want to eat. Everybody eats more if they feel relaxed
Try slow, gentle and positive approach because you want them to take their fear and anxiety around food and transform it into a sense of empowerment and a sense of control.

4- Aggressive Behavior:

Aggressive and self-injurious behaviors are fairly common in children with autism, when your son acts aggressively; it's usually due to sensory overload or frustration with his inability to communicate his needs effectively. Most times, when people better understand the basis for the aggressive or self-injurious behavior and then accommodate or support the person with autism, things can improve dramatically…

Keep scrupulous notes about the toddler and his behaviors and all the factors in his day; what he eats, how much he sleeps, even whether his father is on a business trip. You can actually identify seasonal behavioral arcs. So when something is wrong, you can go back and figure it out.

Good Luck!

Causes of Red Tired Eyes.

2013-07-31T19:36:00.001+02:00

Tired eyes occur as a consequence of the effort. In general, there is a serious phenomenon. Tired eyes may indicate an eye disease in children or an age problem to person who are over 50 years old. In rare cases, eye fatigue is due to the presence of a disease or a medical treatment. However there are many contributing factors that can be the cause of red tired eyes. Genetics can play a part but this is not the main cause of this problem.

The symptoms include:

Burning sensation, heaviness in the eyes, sore eyes, watery eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision, an uncomfortable sensation of the eyelids or a pressure in the eye. Sometimes, eye fatigue can be accompanied by headaches, dizziness and migraines.

What are the causes?

The air conditioning
Heating system
Caffeine, tobacco or cigarette smoke
Industrial dust or other dust
Reading for extended periods
Spending several hours a day in front of the TV or computer
Under-performing liver or kidneys
Allergies, hay fever, sinus problems and nasal congestion
Inadequate sleep
Excessive crying
Inadequate oxygen supply to the cornea
Pollution
Exposure to bright light or glare
Straining to see in very dim light
Fluid retention, salt (sodium) intake and lymphatic drainage
Increased pigmentation of the periorbital area (Indian, Asian, African and Mediterranean people)
Aging: It is the main cause of eye fatigue after 50 years; the body releases fewer tears, determining eye dryness.

Home remedies for tired eyes:

Apply compresses of warm water on the eyelids, if the eyes are dry. It's not necessary to use sterile water.
Use eye drops that will temporarily relax sensitive and irritated eyes.
Create a proper humidity in the room at night, in order to avoid waking up with red eyes.

Plan a break from your computer. Take a break of 10 minutes at every hour.
Improve your working environment. Reduce the brightness of the computer screen or install a protection screen, reduce the intensity of colors.
Consult your doctor when you have an eye problem. People often regret that they haven't asked for the advice of a doctor earlier, because the eye exam is not painful and the remedies are efficient.

Have a beautiful day!

Need For Sleep!

2013-07-03T01:11:00.000+02:00

Skipping 1 night's sleep makes a person cranky and clumsy. After missing 2 nights of sleep, a person will have problems thinking and doing things; his or her brain and body can't do their normal tasks nearly as well. After 5 nights without sleep, a person will hallucinate (this means seeing things that aren't actually there). Eventually, it becomes impossible for the brain to give its directions to the rest of the body without sleep!

Sleep is as vital for survival as food, it gives your body a rest and allows it to prepare for the next day…But chronic lack of sleep can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, obesity, depression, irregular hormone production, a weakened immune system and memory lapses…

5 Signs You Need More Sleep:

Cravings & Hunger: If you find yourself hungry all day (and not because you skipped breakfast or have recently amped up your gym routine) it might be because you've been skimping on sleep.
Research presented at the 2010 linked insomnia and lack of sleep with higher levels of the hormone Ghrelin, the same one that triggers hunger. This uptick in the hunger hormone seems to lead to not only increased snacking, but also a craving for high-carb, high-calorie foods, which may help explain why people who don't get enough sleep are at a greater risk of obesity.
You Are Emotional: Ever find yourself tearing up over an embarrassing TV commercial? While women might be quick to blame PMS, it could be a lack of sleep sending your emotions into overdrive. A 2007 study found that sleep-deprived brains were 60% more reactive to negative and disturbing images.
You're Clumsier Than Usual: First you knock the alarm clock off the dresser, then you spill the milk as you're pouring your cereal, then you stub your toe on the way out the door...etc.
Researchers don't know exactly why, but sleepy people seem to "have slower and less skills," Reflexes are dulled, balance and depth perception can be a little wonky and since you may also have trouble focusing, reaction time can be slowed, meaning you can't quite catch the egg carton before it hits the floor.
You feel sick and you never get sick: Your immune system repairs and strengthens while you sleep. So in addition to eating flu-fighting foods, try to sleep at least seven hours a night to stay healthy all season.
You can't remember where you put the car keys: Your brain needs sleep to refresh and regenerate. Without it, your short-term memory may be impaired... And it’s not just your short-term memory: sleep deprivation has been shown to have negative consequences of student’s test scores and grades.

How Many Hours of Sleep Do You Really Need?

The average amount of sleep needed changes over our lifetime, especially during childhood and adolescence. Although there are averages, there will be individuals who fall both above and below these needs:

Infants (3-11 months) need 14-15 hours
Toddlers (12-35 months) need 12-14 hours
Preschoolers (3-6 years) need 11-13 hours
School age (6-10 years) need 10-11 hours
Adolescents (11-18 years) need 9.25 hours
Adults need an average of 8 hours
Elderly adults may need less than 8 hours

Have a Peaceful Night! :)

Facts About Dukan Diet!

2013-06-29T05:22:00.001+02:00

The Dukan Diet, also known as the princess diet. When Kate Middleton wanted to look fit and fabulous in her wedding gown, she chose the Dukan diet for weight loss success.The Dukan also reported to be followed by actress Jennifer Lopez and supermodel Gisele Bundchen. This diet claims dramatic results without requiring dieters to count calories or go hungry. It is a protein-based diet designed by French doctor Pierre Dukan.

The diet is based on a list of over 100 allowed foods, as well as four specific ground pillars also known as phases: attack, cruise, consolidation, and stabilization.

The Dukan method:

The attack phase is designed to enable dieters to rapidly lose 2 to 3 kilograms (4.4 to 6.6 lb) in 2–7 days by kick-starting their metabolism. Dieters are allowed to eat as much as they want of 72 protein-rich foods.
The cruise phase is designed to allow dieters to more gradually achieve the weight they aim for by eating protein-rich foods with the addition of 28 specific vegetables. The length of this phase is usually calculated as 1 kilogram (2.2 lb) of weight loss per week, but this is based on specific personal conditions. Tolerated foods are also allowed as per the programme, but any weight gain will ban some of these.
The consolidation phase is designed to help in preventing any future massive weight gain. During this phase, fruit, bread, cheese and starchy foods are reintroduced into a normal diet, leaving two celebratory meals a week as directed by the plan.
Finally, in the stabilization phase, dieters can essentially eat whatever they want without gaining weight by following a few rules:

protein day once a week
eating oat bran every day and making a commitment to "take the stairs". According to Dukan, dieters shall follow this last phase for the rest of their life to avoid regaining weight.

The official 100 Eat As Much As You Want Foods list:

MEAT AND OFFAL: Beefsteak, breasola/air-dried/wind dried beef, calf's liver, Fat reduced bacon, fillet of beef, game, kidney, pre-cooked ham slices (without any fat or rind), rabbit, roast beef, rumpsteak, sirloin steak, tongue, veal chop, veal escalope

POULTRY: Chicken, chicken liver, guinea fowl, ostrich, pigeon, poussin, pre cooked chicken and turkey slices, quail, turkey

FISH: Bass, cod, seafood sticks, dab/lemon sole, dover sole, grey mullet, haddock/smoked haddok, hake, halibut/smoked halibut, herring, mackerel, monkfish, plaice, pollock/coley, red mullet, salmon/smoked salmon, sardines, sea bream, skate, swordfish, trout (rainbow and salmon), tuna, turbot, whiting
SEAFOOD: Calamari/squid, clams, cockles, crab, crayfish/crawfish, dublin bay prawns, lobster, mussels, prawns/shrimps, oysters, scallops, whelks.
EGGS: Hen's eggs, quail's eggs
DAIRY PRODUCTS: Cottage cheese (low fat), fat free fromage frais, fat free Greek yogurt, fat free yoghurt, Quark (low fat), skimmed milk
VEGETABLE "PROTEINS": Konjac, oat bran, tofu
VEGETABLES: Artichoke (globe), asparagus, aubergine, beetroot, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrot, cauliflower, celery/celeriac, chicory, courgette, cucumber, fennel, French beans, kohlrabi, lamb's lettuce, leek, lettuce, mushrooms, onion, palm hearts, peppers, pumpkin, radish, rhubarb, soya bean sprouts, spinach, tomato

Oat Bran:

Oat bran plays a very important role in the plan.Oat bran is nothing but the fibrous husk that surrounds the oat grain and is one of the staple foods of the Dukan Diet because of its many properties including making us feel fuller for longer and cholesterol reduction. You allowed to eat

1 and ½ tablespoons during the Attack Phase, 2 tablespoons during the Cruise and Consolidation Phases and 3 tablespoons per day during the Stabilisation Phase.

Special Benefits of Oat Bran:

Oat Bran is Delicious! Ideal for breakfast as hot cereal or mixed with yogurt or cottage cheese. Oat bran can also be used to make savory pancakes, pizza crust, muffins, cookies and much more! As the only source of carbohydrates during the Attack phase and Pure Protein days, oat bran brings an extra element of variety to the diet.
Oat Bran Helps Lower Cholesterol: Oat bran contains soluble fiber, which reduces the low-density lipoprotein (LDL), otherwise known as the "bad" cholesterol. The soluble fiber reduces the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream. When compared to oatmeal, on average oat bran has 50% more fiber and soluble fiber, making it much more efficient.
Oat Bran Creates a Feeling of Fullness: Once consumed, oat bran enters the digestive tract where its soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance, creating a feeling of fullness. Oat bran absorbs on average 25 times its volume in liquid. A tablespoon of oat bran, about half an ounce, forms a 13 ounce ball in the stomach. The feeling of fullness and being less hungry leads to much less frustration while dieting.
Oat Bran Slows Down Sugar and Fat Absorption: Once ingested, the bolus (the gel-like substance created by the oat bran and water) passes through the gastric acid, bile, and finally the pancreatic juices. This turns the bolus into pulp and reduces it to a mix of elementary chains, fatty acids, amino acids and glucose.This process both slows down the sugar assimilation and removes calories from the body by reducing the absorption of dietary fat, while keeping your blood sugar levels low and stable

What is the difference between oat bran and oatmeal?

Oat bran contains about 50% more fiber and soluble fiber than oatmeal, making it more effective at lowering cholesterol and helping digestion. It also has more protein, calcium, iron, thiamin, phosphorus, riboflavin, magnesium, and zinc.

The main structural difference is that oatmeal (typically rolled oats) is whole grain, while oat bran is just the bran of the oat.

Finally, because oat bran is creamier (due to the finer texture of the product), it satiates hunger more than oatmeal.

For more information

Creative Ways To Exercise At Home without Equipments!

2013-06-09T01:17:00.002+02:00

Do we really need an expensive membership in the gym to stay in shape? How many people prefer to lose weight at home because lack of time; or because of low self esteem?
Since exercise is so important, you need to find effective exercises that don’t require any equipment at all, you will be able to workout anytime during the day...even before going to your work!

Here are 10 great exercises:

Step Exercises: Use the steps in your home, you can do repetitions which will tone your leg muscles. (Just remember to be careful!)
Dancing : Dancing is a wonderful exercise, which is great for your heart. Not only that, but it can lift your spirits as well, and give your overall feeling a boost.
Squats: These are wonderful exercises for your legs and butt. You can even just try these by sitting and standing up again from a regular chair, if you’re finding them to be too difficult. As long as you’re able to do a few repetitions, you will be providing some benefit to your body. Try to take a 30-day squat challenge, trust me it's fun and easier than you think!
Pushups: These are probably not the most favorite exercise of many people, but while they can be hard to do, you can find easier ways to do them. You don’t need to pretend you’re “Rocky”, and do them with one hand; just do what works for you. Do them on your knees, instead of keeping your legs straight. Or, do them standing up against a wall. You will be building up arm strength and working out muscles in your chest area.
Superman Back Extension: Lay on your stomach and reach your arms forward (like you're flying). Gently raise your legs and upper body off the floor while keeping your head straight. Pause for three seconds and repeat.
Bird Dog: Begin on all fours (downward dog), ensuring your hands are directly under your shoulders and your knees are directly under your hips. Slowly extend your right leg behind you and reach your right arm forward into a straight line. Hold your balance without arching your back. Return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite side.
Modified Chair Dips: Tone those triceps, Firmly grip a chair, table or any firm object that will support your weight. Fingers should be facing your back and your knees should be bent with feet shoulder width apart and flat on the ground. Lower yourself until your arms are bent at 90-degree angle and then push yourself back till arms are straight again. Repeat for one minute. Tip: To make this more difficult you can straighten your legs and even raise one leg at a time while you continue to dip.
Overhead Lunges Wlak: This is a classic exercise with a little twist. Holding something overhead really stretches out your fascia and gives you an extra hip flexor stretch. Doesn’t matter what it is. Start with your feet together and step out into the lunge. Ensure that you step far enough so that your knee does not go in front of your toe, and to make sure you get good hip flexor stretches. You can hold a book or something light overhead.
Step Ups: These are really good for your legs and your bum. Find a stable chair and you can get started. If the exercise is too easy find something heavy to hold to your chest or put a back pack on your back. Start doing these slowly and controlled on the way down.
Dead Bugs: A great abdominal and core stability workout. Lay on the floor with your arms and legs up as shown in the picture. From here you need to drop your arm and leg on the same side. Make sure your leg doesn’t touch the floor. Bring them slowly back up and repeat.

And to make these exercises even more fun, you can blast music while you’re doing them. Some you can even do while watching TV. Now you have no more excuses!

Good Luck & Have a Beautiful Weekend!

Cheer Yourself Up!

2013-05-25T23:50:00.000+02:00

When you try your best to stay positive and keep yourself from getting too down or you feel completely alone in life and it just seems like there's no hope of ever getting better. When you feel you just want to crawl into a hole somewhere and die. Don’t give up!!

We all need to cheer up; but sometimes we have no idea where to start from or you can't find a reason to go on anymore. Here is a list of ideas to get you out of that “Dark Zone”.

Dress Up: Create outfits of ridiculous clothes and accessories to do fun tasks. Walk the dog in your bondage pants and Pantera shirt, vacuum the house in a tutu and high heels, buy milk at the store in nothing but a trench coat. (invent your own definition of “ridiculous”).

Make Magic Everyday: Learn a magic trick – it could be something a simple as a card trick or a slight-of-hand. Practise until you’re really good, and delight your friends next time you see them. Don’t give away your secret.

Laugh: Watch a DVD of one of your favorite stand-up comedians. If you don’t have a favorite stand-up comedian, try to watch The Simpsons , Homer and Bart always make me laugh!! ;)
Bathtime: Run yourself a bath. Gather together all your exquisite bathroom pampering treatments – all the luscious soaps and decadent shower gels you haven’t opened because they’re “special” and you don’t want to use them up. Open them all. Use them all. Take the phone off the hook, put up a do-not-disturb sign, pour yourself a glass of wine, put on some relaxing music, and read a book, or stare just at the ceiling.

Bubbles! Blow bubbles. You can buy little jars of bubble mixture, or make a simple bubble mixture at home using dish washing liquid, water, and sugar or corn syrup. TIP: Storing your solution for a day can actually lead to better bubbles.

Hydration: You should drink water more often – it’s good for you and makes you feel happy. But it should also be fun. Buy yourself a water bottle – not one of those one-use plastic ones, but something grymm, like a stainless steel masterpiece or a skull-shaped bottle. Or find yourself a beautiful vintage glass bottle and use that. I bet you’ll feel like a pirate!

Presents! Buy or make an amazing gift – like a mix CD of your favorite songs or a beautiful box of chocolates – and wrap it in a big box with a pretty ribbon. Give it a tag saying “to you”, and place it in the middle of the sidewalk outside your window. Watch how long it takes before someone picks it up.

Wear a Mask: If you’re feeling lonely and self-conscious, why not hide your face with a mask? If you want to hide away, hide behind a wall of latex or leather or sequins or lace.

ExerciseYou know exercise is good for you, and it makes you feel good. So exercise! Run around the block, do star jumps in the living room. Find the local ice-skating rink or rock climbing wall, hike through the park, practise yoga, salsa dancing or burlesque (you can find lots of free lessons on youtube).

Music: Dig out your favorites – the music that makes you feel the world is full of wonder. Play loud, sing along, dance on the bed, throw your arms around, headbang, smash something, slow dance with your cat.Just have fun!

ღ Have a nice Weekend! ツ

Anger Management!

2013-04-26T08:48:00.001+02:00

No, I'm not talking about Charlie Sheen's new show!

In this post, you will find simple tips to control your emotions and overcome your anger if you're experiencing overwhelming rage!

Take a break: Stop what you're doing, get away from whatever is irritating you, and just take a breather. Getting away from whatever's upsetting you will make it easier to calm down. Try it out in these situations:

Road rage: pull over on a side road and turn off the car.
At work: go to to a room or step outside for a moment. If you drive to work, consider sitting in your car so that you're in a space you own.
At home: go to a single-occupancy space (such as the bathroom) or for a walk.
Unfamiliar place: Close your eyes and try to imagine yourself somewhere peaceful.

Breathe deeply: If your heart hammers with rage, slow it down by controlling your breathing. Count to three as you inhale, hold the breath in your lungs for three more seconds, and count to three again as you exhale. Focus only on the numbers as you do this, and refuse to think about whatever is angering you. Repeat as many times as necessary.
Go to your "happy place": If you're still having a difficult time calming down, imagine yourself in a scene you find incredibly relaxing. It could be your childhood backyard, a quiet forest, a solitary island - whatever locale makes you feel at home and peaceful. Focus on imagining every detail of this place: the light, the noises, the temperature, the weather, the smells. Keep dwelling on your happy place until you feel completely immersed in it, and hang out there for a few minutes or until you feel calm.
Ask for the support of someone you trust: If you're still upset, sharing your concerns with a close friend or confidant might help.
Set a time limit: Give yourself a set amount of time to deal with what's upsetting you, and stick to it - when time is up, your rant is over. This will help you move on instead of dwelling on the situation endlessly.
Engage in physical activity: The endorphins that come from exercise can help you calm down, and moving your body provides a physical outlet for your rage. Try these activities you can practice alone:

Running.
Weight training.
Cycling.
Yoga
Basketball.
Martial arts.
Swimming.

Keep a journal of what upsets you and how you plan to fix it: Every time you're overwhelmingly angry, write down exactly what happened. (It's important to be honest, even if it casts you in an unfavorable light - remember, a journal is meant to be private.) Then plan out what you're going to do to fix the problem and avoid running into it next time. If you do find yourself in the same upsetting situation, refer back to your journal notes to see what else you can do.
Remember! we are all human and tend to get angry at someone or something. You can tell someone how you feel and see if they can help you.
For every negative thought you have, challenge it with three positive thoughts.
If you're ever angry with your family, think about what they mean to you.
Sing one of your favorite songs (with a happy beat).
Try thinking of stuff that you are thankful for.
Watch what you say when you're angry. You don't always feel the same as when you have calmed down and thought of the situation

Have a Peaceful Weekend!

My Source

Unhealthy Facts About Everyday Foods!

2013-03-23T22:42:00.002+02:00

Salad, bran muffins, fat-free foods...They're good for you, right? Not always. Nutrition experts reveal surprisingly unhealthy foods. Eating bad foods without even knowing it's unhealthy for you can make you feel like crap, lead to weight gain and cause all sorts of health problems. Read more facts about everyday foods

Cereal bars: Cereal bars have the appeal of being a healthy snack on the go. We tend to think of these bars as nutritious and packed with fiber, but in reality many of them are made with high-fructose corn syrup and have quite a high amount of carbs and fat packed in a single bar!
Turkey burgers: If you're going with a turkey burger for dinner, make sure that the decision is based purely on taste and nothing else. Turkey burgers actually pack in much more fat than beef or chicken burgers. It's easier to make burgers with lean ground beef or a chicken breast.
Healthy Margarine: Margarine actually has around the same calories as butter does, so what's the difference? Unlike butter, margarine is loaded with trans fat, making it one of the top unhealthy foods you can purchase straight off the shelf.
Non-dairy whipped topping: Saturated fat and high fructose corn syrup, these are two ingredients that are used plentifully in non-dairy whipped toppings. Need some whipped cream? Just whip up a small portion of pure whipping cream to go with the dessert you're serving.
Sushi rolls: For those who watching their weight, sushi is often a go-to meal when out for a night on the town, but few people realize that sushi rolls pack a sizable amount of rice and very little protein. When having sushi, opt for sashimi instead to get your protein fixing.

Dried fruit: Have you ever wondered about the health benefits in dried vs. fresh fruit? Dried fruit stacks up calories quickly and easily, and though they contain fiber, you can gain all the benefits of dried fruit and more by eating fresh fruit.
Flavored low-fat yogurt: Low-fat yogurt is usually high in carbohydrates. Why not buy some greek yogurt and slice up fresh fruit? A much healthier alternative to processed jelly-like fruit preserves sitting on the bottom of those low-fat yogurt cups.
Ramen and Cup Noodles: Don't be fooled by their speedy prep instructions and convenience. Cup noodles/ramen tend to be high in sodium, fat, carbohydrates, and cholesterol!
Low-fat salad dressing: Another example of how something marketed as low fat can actually be bad for you. Low-fat salad dressings are everywhere, but what they don't have in fat they make up for in carbs and other unnecessary processed ingredients. Do yourself a favor and make an easy vinaigrette from scratch.
Canned vegetables: Not all canned veggies are bad for you, but there are definitely certain brands that pack on way too much unnecessary sodium or sugar. Next time you shop canned vegetables, opt for the ones labeled 'no salt added' and season the food yourself!
Trail Mix: Pre-packaged and processed trail mixes are actually high in fat (from peanuts, chocolate, etc.) and high in carbohydrates (from the candied fruit, dried fruit, and chocolate), making trail mix one of the most unhealthy snacks out there. When it's snacking time, go for some fresh fruit or make your own trail mix from scratch

Healthy sport drinks: The benefits of Vitamin Water is a touchy subject for diehard Vitamin Water drinkers, but unfortunately a look at the label tells us that it's basically just sugar water with a small dose of vitamins. For a sweet drink, why not pick up some fresh squeezed orange juice or opt for a lightly sweetened tea?

Have a nice weekend!

Home Remedies for Hair Care!

2013-03-20T06:30:00.000+02:00

With this humidity, our hair is the first to drop. And our comb keeps ending up in clusters of hair and the entire process becomes heartbreaking. Home remedies are a natural and inexpensive way to treat and cure common disorders. Let's try some simple remedies for attaining beautiful and lustrous hair.

Beautiful and healthy hair boosts up our beauty and confidence. But chaotic and deskbound lifestyles give us an excuse for ignoring hair, which bring about common problems such as dry hair, dandruff, graying, hair loss and split ends.

Here are some simple home remedies with natural ingredients that will bring back life to damaged hair.

Regular massage with mustard, coconut or almond oil for 15 minutes twice a week will strengthen and rejuvenate your hair. Following the massage, go for a “steam-towel-wrap” for 10-15 minutes.
Soak multani mitti (Multani Mitti is Fuller's earth. You can find it is small local stores or one of those weekly markets. It look likes clay and is kind of creamish in color except that its hard, sometimes even in a brick form) in water overnight. Mix into it 2 tablespoons of curd and a few drops of lemon. Apply this paste over scalp and hair and leave for an hour. Wash off with water. It is a very effective home remedy for softening hair and imparting a lustrous shine.
Take 3 tablespoons of ghee (clarified butter) and heat it. Mix into it a teaspoon of finely powdered almond. Massaging the scalp with the same will strengthen hair roots and give them a natural luster.
Mix equal amounts of almond oil and castor and warm it. Massaging the same into scalp once a week, will beneficial for hair loss.
Prepare a natural conditioner by mixing a cup of curd and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply it on scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. This treatment is also effective in curing dandruff.
Mix a teaspoon of lemon juice in 2 tablespoon of mustard oil and apply over the scalp. Rinse off with a mild shampoo. Follow this treatment twice a week for curing dandruff.
Take 3 tablespoon of coconut oil and warm it lightly. To it, add a teaspoon of camphor and massage the scalp. This is another effective remedy for treating dandruff.
Eating 3-4 teaspoons of sesame seeds every morning gives nourishment to the hair.
Add 6-8 drops of lemon juice to an egg. Beat well and apply on your hair followed by washing with a herbal shampoo.
Use a very mild shampoo and condition your hair at least twice a week. Make sure to rinse out the conditioner thoroughly.
Massaging with aroma oils once a week reduces hairfall and makes them soft and silky. Rosemary oil and titri oil can also be used.
Add few leaves Hibiscus (China rose) to a glass of water. Heat it. The juice of a lime should be squeezed in the sieved mixture and it should be applied to the hair before shampooing.
Use lavender or lemon shampoo if your hair are oily and if dry, use titri oil or rosemary shampoo too.
Rinse hair with lemon juice or vinegar
Soak a towel in hot water and squeeze lightly. Cover your hair with this for 10 minutes and do try this for almost a week.
Dry peels of lemon and oranges should be used. This will maintain soft and silky hair and also removes dandruff from the scalp.
Drink 10-12 glasses of water daily and have a high protein diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and dairy products.
Mustard oil boiled with henna leaves is useful for the healthy growth of hair.

These home remedies are effective in keeping hair problems at bay, but there are other important factors one should take care of. Always eat a balanced diet that includes green leafy vegetables, fruits, milk and milk products, sprouts and whole grains. Maintain hygiene and brush your hair daily with a comb with widely spaced teeth. Don’t comb when hair are wet. Avoid use of dryers, synthetic hair colors and dyes. Do exercise and meditation to remain healthy and stress-free.

How to Clean Your Skin Properly!

2013-03-11T21:03:00.000+02:00

Leaving on makeup longer than necessary can damage your skin, especially if it is thick makeup or there is a lot on. Removing your makeup as soon as you back home is a key to keep a beautiful-clear skin, especially overnight. However, it can be tricky to make sure all of it is gone. But first you need to know your skin type:

Different skin types need different care. It's very important to know what type of care you need to get the best methods for clearing your skin.

Dry Skin: Usually has a dull appearance, feels dry and itchy and is sometimes sensitive. Dry skin must be hydrated regularly from the inside (with fresh water) and outside with (lotions), as well as moisturized with rich hydrating creams.
Oily Skin: Usually looks slippery and shiny and has a greasy texture. This type of skin is prone to acne. Oily skin benefits from periodic herbal steam treatments and clay masks.
Normal Skin: This type is a gift. Not too oily and not too dry. Normal skin looks consistently plump, moist, and vibrant. What a great blessing but it still requires no less attention than other skin types. It benefits from regular cleansing, toning and moisturizing.
Most people have at least two different types of facial skin at any given time. The combination of skin is frequently characterized by an oily “T-zone” area, which covers the forehead, nose and chin. While the skin around the cheeks, eyes and mouth is normal or dry. People with combination skin should assess their skin regularly and use different products on different areas of the face.

Main steps of removing makeup:

Do not start by washing your face, this dries out the skin and does not get off most of the makeup.
Do not over exfoliate the skin or use abrasive products. These can damage the skin and leave it looking dull and wrinkled.
Remove any eye makeup. Use a gentle makeup remover just for eye makeup. Regular makeup remover can irritate the eyes. Make sure you get most of any eyeliner and mascara you had on, as well as some eyeshadow.
Note: If you don't have eye makeup remover, baby oil on a cotton ball works really well (just make sure to rinse the oil off afterward to prevent break-outs). Alternatively, you can skip the step to remove eye makeup, especially if you don't have mascara on, because the steam will dislodge most of the makeup.
You may also use the HydraMitt which is a microfiber mitt that removes makeup in seconds by using warm water only. It's also very gentle on your eyes and will not scratch your skin like your typical microfiber cloth.
Remove your lip color. Apply a small dab of petrolatum jelly to your lips, and gently rub it in with a tissue. Fold in the tissue, and blot the lips.
Pat your face dry with a towel and rub in a light moisturizer. The rigor of the applying of makeup and removal of makeup can dry out your skin in irritation. Soothe this with a light moisturizer.
For a more relaxing treatment, try adding orange or eucalyptus scents.
Vaseline/ Paraffin Oil is also a good makeup remover, Some Olive Oil on a soft tissue will work, too.
Always use a non-comedogenic moisturizer.They don't clog pores.(Noncomedogenic is a term applied to oils, lotions, and skin creams that do not block pores. Noncomedogenic products are also sometimes referred to as non-occlusive)

General Skin-care Tips:

Drink alot of water: Water cleanses your body, helping eliminate toxins. It also hydrates you and rids your skin of dirt and oils. Try to drink half your body weight in ounces (for example, if you weight 100 lbs, drink 50 ounces of water a day).
Don't get too much sun: Too much sunlight to the skin can cause freckles. So if you do go out in the sun, if needed, wear sunscreen! Remember to use NATURAL sunscreen, SPF 15 or higher.Try not to go in the sun for long periods between 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM. That time of day is when the sun's rays are their strongest. Sunlight on your skin is a great source of vitamin D but it it can also lead to wrinkles and skin cancer.
Change your diet. Eat lots of fruits, nuts, seeds, beans etc. Eating healthy along with taking in the right vitamins can do wonders for your skin. Try going vegan for a week to see what it does for you.
Avoid eating fried foods, white flour and white sugar products, soft drinks, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, including contraceptive drugs, and any other stimulating over-the-counter medicines.
Do not use creams containing Vitamin A or Vitamin D as these vitamins are not absorbed by the skin and thus such lotions are unnecessary.
Do not pick your acne or touch your face and avoid anything that puts pressure on or rubs against the skin (such as headbands or hats) as this increase the irritation of acne. Picking your acne spreads infection and causes permanent scarring by forcing the oil and bacteria into the deeper skin layers, which causes cysts, the inflamed acne that causes scarring.
If you like to use a facial scrub, only do so once a week, scrubbing gently and lightly.
Exercise, around 15 minutes a day. Exercising properly can make your skin glow. Be sure to wash your face afterwards, sweat and dirt can clog your pores.
Do not clean your face with soap, which is harsh and irritates the skin follicles and the oil glands. “Twenty-five percent of acne can be managed successfully by washing the face four or five times a day...But this cleansing should not be done with soap...The sebaceous glands are irritated by soap and the irritation causes the glands to secrete still more sebum than normal." Soap has been documented frequently in medical literature to have irritating qualities.
Drinking three cups per day of organic red clover tea as a natural blood purifier can help your acne clear up. Besides purifying the blood.
Avoid using cosmetics as much as possible. If you do wear cosmetics, try to use as many natural cosmetics as possible or choose cosmetic products that state that they are either oil-free (water based) or non-comedogenic, which means that they have a low potential for producing acne. Also, always remember to wash off your make-up at night.

Have a Beautiful Week! ツ

Cancer Fighting Foods & Spices!

2013-02-27T08:11:00.001+02:00

One of the easiest things for us to fight cancer is to change our diet. The National Cancer Institute estimates that roughly 1/3 of all cancer deaths may be diet related. What you eat can hurt you, but it can also help you. Remember that ´good nourishment´ is a crucial weapon in the fight against cancer and any illness. Good nutritions can be vital in increasing your personal odds of survival.
Also remember that natural compounds are likely to do you a lot better than synthetic pills!

Many of the common foods that found in grocery stores or organic markets contain cancer-fighting properties, from the antioxidants that neutralize the damage caused by free radicals to the powerful phytochemicals that scientists are just beginning to explore. There isn't a single element in a particular food that does all the work: The best thing to do is eat a variety of foods.

Here are some foods that have the ability to help stave off cancer and some other that can even help inhibit cancer cell growth or reduce tumor size:

A- Foods

Flax contains lignans, which may have an antioxidant effect and block or suppress cancerous changes. Flax is also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to protect against colon cancer and heart disease. Try to use flax seed oil and cottage cheese as a breakfast or a light snack.

Garlic has immune-enhancing allium compounds (dialyl sultides) that appear to increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and indirectly help break down cancer causing substances. These substances also help block carcinogens from entering cells and slow tumor development. Diallyl sulfide, a component of garlic oil, has also been shown to render carcinogens in the liver inactive. Studies have linked garlic as well as onions, leeks, and chives to lower risk of stomach and colon cancer. According to studies, people who consume raw or cooked garlic regularly face about half the risk of stomach cancer and two-thirds the risk of colorectal cancer as people who eat little or none. Sudies didn't show garlic supplements had the same effect. It is believed garlic may help prevent stomach cancer because it has anti-bacterial effects against a bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, found in the stomach and known to promote cancer there. It is a truly wonderful food. Two or three raw cloves of garlic per day will ward off more than vampires!
Avocados are rich in glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that attacks free radicals in the body by blocking intestinal absorption of certain fats. They also supply even more potassium than bananas and are a strong source of beta-carotene. Scientists also believe that avocados may also be useful in treating viral hepatitis (a cause of liver cancer), as well as other sources of liver damage.

Oily Fish: Vitamin A is an important vitamin in the fight against cancer. Oily fish is the best provider, with herring, mackerel and salmon top of the list. Fish oil will also give you long chain Omega-3 as well which has been linked to reduced levels of prostate, breast and colon cancer. You’ll also get a little vitamin D, a proven cancer-fighter too.
Carrots: Along with apricots, peppers and pumpkins, they provide cancer carotenoids like beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, when required by the body. 1 cup of carrot juice, 2 sweet potatoes, 16 dried apricots and 4 cups of red cherries will each provide 25mgs. Don’t eat them all at once - people have been known to turn a little orange!

A great juice to make yourself involves carrots and apples (for quercitin) and beetroot (for anthocyanins). A real cancer fighting drink!

Carrots help to reduce a wide range of cancers including lung, mouth, throat, stomach, intestine, bladder, prostate and breast. Some research indicated beta carotene may actually cause cancer, but this has not proven that eating carrots, unless in very large quantities (2 to 3 kilos a day)can cause cancer.

Red and Yellow Peppers: The top source of vitamin C - even better than oranges. Vitamin C strengthens your immune cells and neutralizes toxins. Linus Pauling thought cancer patients should consume 2 to 10 gms per day. A large red pepper is 250 mgs. 200 gms raw broccoli 175 mgs. 150 gms papaya 90 mgs. An orange 65 mgs.
Chili peppers and jalapenos contain a chemical, capsaicin, which may neutralize certain cancer-causing substances (nitrosamines) and may help prevent cancers such as stomach cancer.
Oranges, lemons and Grapefruits: citrus fruits, contain monoterpenes, believed to help prevent cancer by sweeping carcinogens out of the body. Some studies show that grapefruit may inhibit the proliferation of breast-cancer cells in vitro. They contains vitamin C, beta-carotene, and folic acid. They also contain Iimonene which stimulates cancer-killing immune cells (lymphocytes, e.g.) that may also break down cancer-causing substances.

Sunflower Seeds: High in zinc and vitamin E. Zinc helps vitamin C do its work and accelerates healing time. It is important to a healthy prostate. You need 15 to 25 mgs per day. Five tablespoons of sunflower seeds give you 10 mgs. Best are oysters, 3 are enough. Milk can block zinc absorption. Sunflower seeds will also provide a little selenium.

Pumpkin Seeds: can be mixed with the sunflower seeds in your morning mueseli. 5 tablespoons will each provide 20 mgs of vitamin E, the ultimate cancer buster, which inhibits cancer cell growth and protects immune cells from free radicals. Vitamin E boosts your immune systems fighting abilities. The target is 300-600 mgs and is difficult to achieve without supplements. Green vegetables, soya and almonds are also good sources.
Cruciferous vegetables: Like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage contain two antioxidants, lutein and zeaxanthin that may help decrease prostate and other cancers. Broccoli, especially sprouts, also have the phytochemical sulforaphane, a product of glucoraphanin - believed to aid in preventing some types of cancer, like colon and rectal cancer. Sulforaphane induces the production of certain enzymes that can deactivate free radicals and carcinogens. The enzymes have been shown to inhibit the growth of tumors in laboratory animals.
Figs apparently have a derivative of benzaldehyde. It has been reported that investigators at the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Tokyo say benzaldehyde is highly effective at shrinking tumors. In addition, the U.S. Department of Agriculture says figs, which contain vitamins A and C, and calcium, magnesium and potassium, may curtail appetite and improve weight-loss efforts. Fig juice is also a potent bacteria killer in test-tube studies.

Soy products like tofu contain several types of phytoestrogens, weak, nonsteroidal estrogens that could help prevent both breast and prostate cancer by blocking and suppressing cancerous changes. There are a number of isoflavones in soy products, but research has shown that genistein is the most potent inhibitor of the growth and spread of cancerous cells. It appears to lower breast-cancer risk by inhibiting the growth of epithelial cells and new blood vessels that tumors require to flourish and is being scrutinized as a potential anti-cancer drug. However, there are some precautions to consider when adding soy to your diet. Eating up to 4 or 5 ounces of tofu or other soy a day is probably ok, but research is being done to see if loading up on soy could cause hormone imbalances that stimulate cancer growth. As a precaution, women who have breast cancer or are at high risk should talk to their doctors before taking pure isoflavone powder and pills, extracted from soy.
Kale has indoles, nitrogen compounds which may help stop the conversion of certain lesions to cancerous cells in estrogen-sensitive tissues. In addition, isothiocyanates, phytochemicals found in kale, are thought to suppress tumor growth and block cancer-causing substances from reaching their targets.
Egg Yolk: Along with green leafy vegetables, avocado, beans, carrots, apricots and pumpkins, egg yolk will give you folic acid. If you have cancer, this will help your DNA to replicate properly and protect it during radiotherapy. 400 micrograms is a recommemended amount. Folate, biotin, niacin and vitamin B6 are all B vitamins that help in the cancer fight. Egg yolk, greens and whole grains are the best sources.

B- Spices

Rosemary may help increase the activity of detoxification enzymes. An extract of rosemary, termed carnosol, has inhibited the development of both breast and skin tumors in animals. We haven't found any studies done on humans. Rosemary can be used as a seasoning. It can also be consumed as a tea: Use 1 tsp. dried leaves per cup of hot water; steep for 15 minutes.
Tapioca is derived from the cassava plant. It is one of the many plants that manufactures cyanide by producing a chemical called linamarine which releases hydrogen cyanide when it is broken down by the linamarase enzyme. Spanish researches have been studying the cassava and attempting to clone the genes from the plant which are responsible for producing the hydrogen cyanide and then transfer it to a retrovirus.
Licorice root has a chemical, glycyrrhizin, that blocks a component of testosterone and therefore may help prevent the growth of prostate cancer. However, excessive amounts can lead to elevated blood pressure.

Tumeric (curcuma longa), a member of the ginger family, is believed to have medicinal properties because it inhibits production of the inflammation-related enzyme cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2), levels of which are abnormally high in certain inflammatory diseases and cancers, especially bowel and colon cancer. In fact, a pharmaceutical company Phytopharm in the UK hopes to introduce a natural product, P54, that contains certain volatile oils, which greatly increase the potency of the turmeric spice.

C- Drinks:

Red wine: even without alcohol, has polyphenols that may protect against various types of cancer. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants, compounds that help neutralize disease-causing free radicals. Also, researchers at the University of North Carolina's medical school in Chapel Hill found the compound resveratrol, which is found in grape skins. It appears that resveratrol inhibits cell proliferation and can help prevent cancer. However, the findings didn't extend to heavy imbibers, so it should be used in moderation. In addition, alcohol can be toxic to the liver and to the nervous system, and many wines have sulfites, which may be harmful to your health. Note: some research indicates that alcohol is considered a class "A" carcinogen which can actually cause cancer...You should probably switch to non-alcoholic wines.

Green Tea and Black tea contain certain antioxidants known as polyphenols (catechins) which appear to prevent cancer cells from dividing. Green tea is best, followed by our more common black tea (herbal teas do not show this benefit). According to a report in the July 2001 issue of the Journal of Cellular Biochemistry, these polyphenols that are abundant in green tea, red wine and olive oil, may protect against various types of cancer. Dry green tea leaves, which are about 40% polyphenols by weight, may also reduce the risk of cancer of the stomach, lung, colon, rectum, liver and pancreas, study findings have suggested.
(Three cups per day help to neutralize free radicals. The Mayo clinic even claims from research that 3-5 cups a day can stop the growth of certain cancers.)

Smart Super Bowl Snacking Ideas!

2013-02-03T06:16:00.001+02:00

Excited for Super Bowl Sunday? The Super Bowl is one of the biggest eating/snacking festivals of the year for many Americans!
The average American consumes while snacking during the Super bowl about 1,200 calories. This doesn’t include meals or drinks!
Did you know that Americans pack away 11 million pounds of chips on Super Bowl Sunday!!

The question is: What can you do?
Stay away from all the wings, guac, chips, and beer while cheering for your favorite team?! Let's be realistic, that’s certainly not gonna happen!

Here are some ideas to snack smarter…

Warm Spinach-Artichoke Dip: A sneaky, low-cal way to get your family to eat iron-rich spinach and beans! Ingredients: Olive oil, lima beans, cream cheese, Tabasco sauce, capers, mustard, artichoke hearts, frozen spinach, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, lemon juice
Pistachios :Yes, pistachios are high in fat, but it’s healthy fat. With all the other food options around, pistachios can help you slow down because it takes time to remove that shell and you won’t be mindlessly munching. Adding to this snack strategy: Keep a bowl in sight that has the shells that were removed, seeing how much you’ve already had might just curb how much you eat during the game.
Pizza! Frozen pizzas can be great (and less expensive than what you’d pay from a traditional pizza chain!). The BBQ Recipe Chicken pizza is a really good, unique, and may very well appeal to those guests who would normally crave wings instead.
White Bean Dip: A strong-flavored dip is a great trick because it makes you feel satiated, it won’t break the bank in terms of calories, and you can pair it with heathier chips.
Chicken Chili: While there are plenty of vegetarian chili options, sometimes the mood strikes for something a little heartier. Substituting ground chicken for beef brings the same traditional flavors and textures of the classic chili you crave, just lightened up for your healthy diet.
Cucumbers With Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip: Rethink ranch dip by substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise. Instead of the powdered spices and salt, quickly chop up some chives, parsley, and garlic for cucumbers with ranch Greek yogurt dip. There is so much flavor packed in these fresh herbs; only a little salt is needed to satiate your palate.
Bloody Marys: there's nothing better than a delicious Bloody to kick off game day! They give you a serving of veggies, and when made fresh, they're already one of the healthiest cocktail options available.
Roasted Tomato Hummus: Whip up a batch of roasted tomato hummus, you'll be making it well beyond Super Bowl season. Ingredients: 4 garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 cans chick-peas, drained and rinsed, 2/3 cup well stirred tahini, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil and 1/2-1 cup roasted tomato... Add all of the ingredients to a food a processor and blend until smooth.
Eggplant Stacks: If you need a more substantial snack, try making eggplant stacks. The heartiness of the eggplant makes it a great meat replacement, and the fresh basil and mozzarella add flavors that take center stage. Ingredients: 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2-pound eggplant, trimmed and cut into six 1/2-inch slices
4 1/4-inch thick slices fresh mozzarella (about 4 ounces)
1 large beefsteak tomato, cut into four thick slices
4 large basil leaves, plus more for garnish...
Directions
Makes two appetizer servings.

Heat the grill to medium (or the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit).
In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of water. Puree.
Brush the eggplant slices with the olive oil mixture and let stand for 5 minutes.
Grill, turning occasionally, until they just begin to soften (or bake on a greased baking sheet for 12 to 15 minutes).
Place the cheese on 4 slices. Put the tomato slices on a piece of aluminum foil on top of the grill to warm. When the cheese begins to melt, transfer the eggplant slices to a platter. Top the cheese slices with a basil leaf and a warm tomato slice. Top each with another cheese-topped eggplant slice and tomato. Top both with a basil leaf and a plain eggplant slice. Serve hot.

Goat Cheese Spread: Give your party a bit of a tart kick with light goat cheese spread. This versatile spread works on fruit and crackers. Ingredients: 1 sprig chopped fresh rosemary
1 sprig chopped fresh thyme
2.5 ounces chèvre (soft goat cheese)
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions

Chop all of the herbs and set aside.
Mix the chèvre, yogurt, and olive oil into a small bowl.
Add the herbs, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix together.
Serve with celery sticks and garnish with any extra rosemary.

Happy munching!

Foods That Help Relieve Constipation!

2013-01-30T23:29:00.000+02:00

A diet that's too low in fiber may be to blame for your slow bowel movement. Constipation can means different things to different people. Medically speaking, constipation usually is defined as fewer than 3 bowel movements per week. And yet, for many people, it simply means infrequent stools, hard stools, difficulty passing stools, or a sense of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement.
The causes and reasons of each of these “types” of constipation are different. 95% of adults have bowel movements between three and 21 times per week, and this would be considered normal.While having a bowel movement once a day is common, it can vary person to person. The number of bowel movements generally decreases with age. Some people can have a movement two times a day, others may go two times a week.

It is important for women to know that most people are irregular and do not have bowel movements every day or the same number of bowel movements each day.

And the question now; Has anyone really tried a high fiber diet and did this work for you?
You can increase your fiber intake and find that you got worse constipation! Don't worry. This can happen only if you don't drink enough water! When you start a high-fiber diet, you should drink more and more water.
Think of your Intestines as a ''sponge'', without water it get's dried up and hard and that's what you will have in your intestine, a dried up, hard sponge, if you don't drink PLENTY of fluids with a high fiber diet. And let's just say it can be extremely painful.

The average adult needs between 25 and 30 grams of fiber a day. And this is less than most of us typically eat. But to avoid bloating and cramping, you don't want to suddenly go from eating 10 grams of fiber to 25 in a day. Add more fiber-filled foods to your diet gradually, and be sure to drink plenty of fluids to help the fiber flow properly through your digestive tract.

Some inexpensive examples of constipation relief foods

Try Berries as a Treat: For a sweet constipation remedy, take your pick of luscious raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries. “All are examples of fruits that have a good amount of fiber. A half-cup of fresh strawberries provides 2 grams of fiber while the same size serving of blackberries will provide 3.8 grams and raspberries 4 grams. Berries also are low in calories, so you can eat a big bowl of plain berries with low-fat whipped cream as dessert or toss them on your breakfast cereal, or mix them in pancakes.

Beans: Beans can provide twice as much fiber as most vegetables, and making them a regular part of your healthy diet will help ward off constipation. A half-cup serving of navy beans will provide 9.5 grams of fiber, while a similar size serving of kidney beans provides 8.2 grams. Beans can be tossed into any number of salads, soups, casseroles, and pasta.
Popcorn: Popcorn is a great low-calorie way to get more fiber in your diet, especially if a lack of fiber is your constipation cause. However, if you pile on the salt and butter, you could undo some of its benefits. Go for air-popped or a healthy variety of microwave popcorn( some microwave popcorns are butter-flavored and low-fat.) Popcorn is a whole grain, and increasing the whole-grains in your diet is an effective constipation remedy.
Dried Fruit: Dried fruits, such as dates, figs, prunes, apricots, and raisins, are another great source of dietary fiber that acts as a constipation remedy. “Prunes, in particular, are great because they not only are high in fiber, but also contain sorbitol, which is a natural laxative,” . Like fiber, sorbitol is a type of carbohydrate and has a molecular structure similar to sugar. Fiber isn’t digested and so it retains water as it passes through your gut. The water softens your stool, helping to relieve constipation.
Start Your Day With a High-Fiber Cereal: Years ago high-fiber breakfast cereals tasted like cardboard, but not anymore. There are so many wonderful high-fiber cereals now. Choose a cereal that has at least 5 grams of fiber per serving. If your favorite cereal doesn’t have a lot of fiber, add your own: Sprinkle a few tablespoons of wheat bran or flaxseed on top. If lack of fiber is a constipation cause for you, starting the day with a bowl of high-fiber cereal is a smart move.
Nuts: Among the best are Brazil nuts, peanuts, and walnuts. A 1-ounce serving of almonds provides 3.3 grams of fiber, while a similar size serving of pistachios will provide 2.9 grams of fiber, and pecans 2.7 grams. However, nuts come with a caution: Watch how many you eat because nuts are calorie-dense. Here is a trick to figure out how much to eat: Cup your hand and only fill the palm part.

Quick remedy:

Dissolve two to four level teaspoons of Epsom salt in an 8-ounce glass of water for adults and children aged 12 and older.
Dissolve one to two level teaspoons of Epsom salt in an 8-ounce glass of water for children aged 6 to 12 years.
Drink the entire glass in one sitting

Tips &Warnings

The Mayo Clinic states that bulk-forming laxatives which are essentially fiber supplements are the gentlest on your body and the safest to use long-term.
The Mayo Clinic warns consumers of the dangers of self-treating with over-the-counter laxatives.
Epsom salt is not a long-term treatment for constipation and should not be used for more than one week without consulting a doctor.
The Mayo Clinic advises users that Epsom salts laxatives can cause "bloating, gas, cramping, choking or increased constipation" if not taken with enough water

Stay Warm In Cold Winter Days!

2013-01-19T01:47:00.001+02:00

Every year during the winter,hundreds of people die because of cold weather. They’re victims of hypothermia(condition which sets in when the deep body temperature falls to 950F or below).
Those most vulnerable are the elderly and young kids. Infants in particular can be affected if they’re changed, bathed, or left in cold surroundings. Whatever the reason is, it's cold and you need new ways for keeping yourself and your family warm.
But first, you have to know that hypothermia isn’t the only danger. Cold weather also makes people, especially older people, more vulnerable to heart attacks, strokes, and pneumonia. To help protect against these, you should keep your home warm, dress properly, and eat well.
And here are some more ways:

1-Warm Your Home:

Try to keep the temperature in the rooms you use as close to 70F (22C) as possible, and not lower than 65F (19C).

Don't use an electric blanket with a hot water bottle, or for a person that is incontinent.

If fuel bills are a worry, you could move your bed into the living room and keep just that room warm.

Use clear shower curtains over the windows that receive sun light. This will keep the cold air out, and the warmth from the sun will heat your house without cold air coming in. You could also cover your windows with clear plastic sheets and make it airtight.

Let as much sun hit your house as possible. Check for obstructions (plants/sheds) that might keep the sun's rays from reaching your house. Remove items leaning against walls on the sunny side of your house. (Ideally, put them back again at night for additional insulation).

Put down a rug or carpet. Rugs and carpets help prevent heat loss through the floor. They are generally warmer to the touch than wood or stone and so offer a warmer surface to walk on.

Cook...Bake cookies or a pie. Your oven will help to dry the air and heat the kitchen. The kitchen will be warm while you are cooking, and then you can have a great home cooked meal too! Limit cooking that gives off steam, as this will increase the humidity in the air and make your house damp. Lowering humidity in the winter time helps you to feel warmer.

Light candles can produce a lot of heat, just be mindful of where they are placed and do not leave them unattended. A trip to most any grocery store or discount store can provide you with a number of candles cheap

2- Warm Yourself:

Whether something is warm enough for you depends on your metabolism (how easily do you get cold and how difficult is it for you to warm up once you get cold) and your lifestyle (do you walk, wait for a bus, drive a car, park outside at either end of your commute).

Drink warm beverages. Warm beverages will raise your core temperature. The process can be very relaxing and even stimulating. Make a cup of tea or coffee. Sip on some warm broth.

When it’s cold, it’s very important to dress warmly, and to protect your head, hands and feet. Several layers of light clothing made from natural fibres, cotton or wool, for example, will help trap your body heat more effectively than a few layers of heavy clothing.

Wear gloves, a couple of pairs of socks, a scarf, and a hat even indoors! as 20% of the body’s heat is lost through the head. You may think you look silly, but at least you’ll be warm.

Dress well in bed too. Wear socks, a dressing gown, gloves, and most important of all, a night cap. Duvets keep the heat in better than conventional blankets.

3- What to Eat:

The body needs proper fuel to protect its ‘thermostat’, and an ideal diet should include protein foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and cheese, plus green vegetables and potatoes.

Porridge makes a good start to the day. Try to arrange frequent small meals including at least one hot meal every day.

Hot soups are also very good, as are complete ‘meals in drink’ such as Complan.

Keep a flask with a hot drink by bed at night. Before the cold weather arrives, try to build a stock of items such as tinned fish in oil, tinned fruit and vegetables, long life milk, cracker biscuits and tinned meat and pies.

Buying one item a week will help spread the cost. If your budget is small, vitamin pills, food supplements, and soups can be useful.

4-Exercise:

One of the best ways to keep warm is to exercise. It stimulates circulation and keeps the blood flowing to all parts of the body.

If at all possible, go for a walk outside everyday, even if it’s just around the block or down to the local shop.

If you do have to stay inside, try not to spend all day sitting down.Be active. Moving around produces body heat! The more active you are, the better your blood circulation will be. This means that warm blood gets to your fingers and toes, keeping them warm.

20 minutes of vigorous exercise can warm you up and keep you warm well after the exercise session. Plus, a healthy body is generally more tolerant of the cold.

5-When You Need to Go-Out:

When you're shopping for a new winter coat, look at long ones instead of jackets, as they can help keep your legs warm.
Like we said about indoors; wear warm clothing with several layers and take special care to keep your head, hands and feet warm. Wear a windproof and waterproof outer layer, and thick waterproof shoes or boots.
Warm boots and Gloves or mittens for your feet and hands (Hint: mittens are warmer than gloves, because fingers retain more heat when they touch each other.)
Nothing chills you like wet skin. It’s very important to keep dry, because you lose far more heat when the body is wet. If you’re going some distance, always take a change of clothing.
Take nuts, raisins, chocolate, or other high carbohydrate snacks, they provide calories for heat production.
Drink warm liquids to keep a balance fluid level, but avoid alcohol.
are critical, you can get Sorels and Sorel-type boots that are very warm. As well, be sure that you always have something with you to cover your ears and face, even if it isn't cold in the morning.

6- After showering:

Do you experience that fear at the end of your hot shower because you know you will be freezing once you open the door/curtain? Don't worry because here are some helpful steps for you to follow so you can enjoy your showers on cold days:

Make sure the hot water is on. You don't want to step into a shower which jets icy water all over you.
Take both hair towel and body towel into your bathroom and hang them over the door of the shower. If you leave them outside the shower, you will have to open the door to access them and the cold air from outside the shower will freeze you!
Have your shower and wash your hair quickly. While you may enjoy hot water more, it dries out your skin.
There will be lots of steam when you are finished. This will keep you warm. Squeeze the water from your hair using your hair towel. Drape the towel over your head. This will keep any heat which could escape from your head, trapped close to your body still.
Wrap yourself in your towel before stepping out of the shower.

More Tips

Make sure you are dry before you're out of the shower. Otherwise the water on your skin will evaporate, taking your body heat away with it.

Drape your clothes over a radiator for a few minutes to heat them. Be sure to keep an eye on them, or they may burn.

Avoid keeping the water really hot the whole time, turn it down near the end.

Your towels should be hot and dry before use. Try putting them in the dryer right before you shower, though be aware that this is environmentally unfriendly because dryers are extremely high in electricity usage.

Try putting an ice cube in your mouth. This will help lessen the shock of the colder air.

Have a nice Weekend! ツ

Get Back on Track After Holidays!

2013-01-05T22:17:00.001+02:00

A few days after the ''New Year'' It might seem so hard to get back to workouts. However it's not impossible if you have he right motivation and attitude. But first, you have to know that there is a real disorder called SAD which effects many of us with a depression due to lack of light in winter in addition to the depressions we feel from eating too much over the holidays, guilt of not working out due to family and friend gatherings as well as having a hard time returning to a healthy schedule.

You may feel like you are lifting your feet out of quicksand but the only way to avoid the depths of these depressing holes by returning to some activity in your life. Workout time is time for you which is justified because it is healthy. If you cannot see yourself getting into the old routine then look into some new activities to try out. Not only for the body but the mind, you must continue exercise.

Stop feeling so guilty: despite your best intentions to stick to your diet plan during holidays, you couldn't...Big deal! But here's a secret, non of us really can!
You need to ditch any guilt you feel and stop beating yourself up about it. Feeling guilty about overeating is wasted energy, spend that energy doing something productive instead.
Find a partner: finding a partner before starting a regular workout routine has miraculous effects. Besides sharing the proper interests and goal, you'll be also motivating each other. Alone you might be feel temptations of spending the day in bed. However a ''workout buddy'' might have the power to encourage you to fun exercise for the desired result, the time goes by faster, you and your partner can celebrate every few weeks after you've achieve some of your goals and you'll be less likely to cancel your workout sessions.
Start moving right now: Begin with a 20 min daily walk and 3 basic exercises. There is no excuse to not do at least this much.You even can workout while Watching TV
Try a new activity you have always wanted, join golf class, pilates, yoga or dance classe. The excitement from participating in something you have always wanted to try will get you motivated!

Start watching your diet: Pick olives and nuts for good fats and choose lean proteins. Add salad to your daily life. Eat frozen yogurt instead of ice cream. If you’ve got extra food around the house from the holidays donate those boxes of food to poor people.Why keep unhealthy, calorie loaded food around to tempt you?
Keep the alcohol down to one glass per day with/after dinner at most. Red wine is said to be highest in positive nutrients although more than a glass then makes it a negative!
Drink a lot of water: Flush out those ‘''Holiday'' toxins and fats with pure water.
Music: Music is one of the basic accessories to complete workout session. Because ofits effect to motivate you to achieve your goals it can also serve as the best means to turn an exhausting session into a fun activity. Choose your playlist with good care and include songs that would boost your energy.

Be reasonable and reset your goals: Sometimes you just lost sight of your goals or have set your goals too high. A goal of “I’m never gonna eat pizza again” may be too strict for you and cause you to overindulge, using a holidays as an excuse to ditch your diet plan.
Schedule: It is also useful to analyze your schedule and look for a workout that can be embedded in your busy days.

And here are some more ideas: Fun and creative ways to burn more calories

Have a nice weekend! :)

Tips For Healthy Hair During The Winter!

2013-01-04T05:39:00.000+02:00

We all know that the cooler temperatures and the fewer hours of sunlight can cause several hair problems. Snow, rain, and icy cold make hair brittle and dry. Did you know indoor heating can be as damaging as spending the afternoon under a hair dryer?!

Eventually all of these factors can give you split ends, dry frizzy hair, static electricity, soften the keratin of the hair and weaken your hair(it may break all together)

Somehow girls who aware of the importance of using conditioner in the summer months because of the heat and the sun, forget that from December to March, indoor heating can dehydrate your hair. But don't worry. No matter what's causing your hair woes, you can take the protective steps to insure your hair does not get damaged.

Here are some winter hair care tips:

The hair gets more damage from blowing it dry than other heat styling tools so try to wash it the day before so it can air dry, then in the morning you can use a curling iron or flat iron to style it. It really saves it.
Condition your hair every day but only wash it a few times a week. Besides saving time, this will keep your hair from drying out too much.
Hot Oil Treatments: Grab some Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Castor Oil, it will help heal your hair from daily wear and tear. Apply directly to damp hair, and put on a plastic cap and/or a hot towel. Hello, hair repair!
Take a warm/cool shower vs a hot one. This will help lock in the moisture and give your hair extra shine. Hot showers tend to dry out and damage your hair as well as your skin.
Try wearing styles that don’t need much maintenance. You might be tempted to run your fingers through your hair and comb your hair throughout the day. Leave your hair alone! The extra manipulation can cause an increase in shedding as well as those annoying split ends.
Trim your hair regularly: The best way to get rid of split ends is to do it yourself! Take some hair shears and attack the split ends about 1/4 inch above the splitting. Many women with perfect hair never have split ends because they make it a priority to get their hair trimmed, or trim it themselves, every 6-8 weeks.
Water, Water, Water: During winter the temperature drops and sweating is less; that is the reason we have less desire to drink water. However, there is no change in the functioning of our systems; we must become more careful during winter about drinking enough water and fluids( for Hair and Skin)

Eat healthy to give your hair the right amount of vitamins. I'm sure most of us eat sugary/junk food during the winter to get more energy. But our hair is made of proteins, make sure that you eat a balanced diet rich in lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet will ensure better-looking hair.

Make sure you get plenty of vitamin C (strengthens hair), iron (helps transport oxygen to blood vessels), zinc (grows and repairs tissue), and omega-3 fatty acids (grows healthy hair).

Please share your best winter hair care tips!

Have a nice night! :)

The 2013 New Year's Resolutions!

2012-12-30T22:48:00.001+02:00

With the beginning of each year, we open a fresh new page with ourselves. We all make personal goals, projects, or dreams we want to achieve. People committing themselves to a New Year's resolution generally plan to do so for the whole following year.
At this time of the year,we can forget the previous year with all its disappointments or failures and start over with a new hope for the best.

Here is my list of resolutions for 2013:

Make a lot of new friends
Be happy
Less crying/less tears as possible
Be a better person
Help people more often
Close facebook extra accounts
Visit pyramids
Get my driving license
Take a lot of photos out doors
Get my ICDL
Get my jewelries fixed and cleaned
Become healthier
Achieve my goal weight
Fix my body and skin
Treat my hair
Less drama with my mom
Replace my black teeth filling with white ones
Anger management
Get some adventures
Join the teachers union
Sell me blog
Highlight my hair
Back to my workouts
Buy a good quality digital camera.
Visit London
Visit new places
Sponsor an orphan
More time for charity
Organize my things( clothes/shoes/jewelries/ purses/wallets/watches/perfumes)
Be a vegetarian for 30 days
Organize my computer files and folders
I will focus more on giving rather than taking.
I’ll learn from the past, and try to avoid making the same mistakes again.
spend more time with family
forgive people who have hurt me

What about your New Year's Resolutions? I'd love to add more for my list!

Happy New Year!

10 Weight-loss Myths!

2012-12-24T11:19:00.002+02:00

So much is said about losing weight that it can be hard to sort truth from fiction. Here's the truth about 10 common weight-loss myths.

1. Starving myself is the best way to lose weight
Crash diets are unlikely to result in long-term weight loss. In fact, they can sometimes lead to longer term weight gain. The main problem is that this type of diet is too hard to maintain. Your body will be low on energy, causing you to crave high-fat and high-sugar foods. When you finally give in and eat those foods, you will often eat more calories than you need, causing weight gain.

2. A radical exercise regime is the only way to lose weight
Not true. Sensible weight loss involves making small changes that you can stick to for a long time. That means building regular physical activity into your daily routine. Adults between 19 and 64 should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity - such as fast walking or cycling -every week, and those who are overweight are likely to need more than this in order to lose weight.

Adults who are overweight are likely to need to do more than the recommended amount of activity in order to lose weight, and this activity should be accompanied by changes to diet.
Recommended physical activity levels for adults

To shift 450g (1lb) a week, you need to create a calorie deficit - that is, more calories used than consumed - of 500 calories per day. This can be achieved by eating less, moving more, or, best of all, a combination of both.

3. Slimming pills are effective for long-term weight loss
No, they're not. Slimming pills alone will not help you keep the weight off long term. They should only be used when prescribed by a doctor.

4. Healthy foods are more expensive
In fact, healthy foods are not necessarily more expensive than their unhealthy alternatives. You'll typically pay more for a high-fat, high-salt ready meal than you would if you had bought fresh ingredients and made the meal yourself.

5. Foods labelled ‘low fat’ or ‘reduced fat’ are always a healthy choice
Be cautious. Foods labelled 'low fat' have to meet legal criteria to use that label. Labels such as 'reduced fat' do not have to meet the same criteria, and can be misleading. A reduced-fat snack should contain less fat than the full-fat version, but that doesn't automatically make it a healthy choice: it could still contain a lot more fat than, say, a portion of fruit. Low-fat foods also sometimes contain high levels of sugar.

6. Margarine contains less fat than butter
Margarine and butter contain different types of fat. Margarine is usually lower in saturated fat than butter. But it's more likely to contain hydrogenated fats. Hydrogenated fats, also called trans fats, may be more harmful to health than saturated fats. To lose weight, and for heart health, reduce the amount of saturated and hydrogenated fats you eat. If oil in margarine has been hydrogenated, this has to be listed on the ingredient listing on packaging, so check labels carefully.

7. Carbohydrates make you put on weight
Eaten in the right quantities, carbohydrates will not cause weight gain. A 2003 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine concluded that dieters on the best-known low-carb diet, the Atkins diet, tended to lose weight not because they ate fewer carbohydrates, but simply because they ate less overall. Eat wholegrain and wholemeal carbohydrates such as brown rice and wholemeal bread, and don't fry starchy foods when trying to lose weight.

8. Cutting out all snacks can help you lose weight
Snacking isn't the problem when trying to lose weight: it's the type of snack. Many people need a snack in between meals to maintain energy levels, especially if they have an active lifestyle. Choose fruit or vegetables instead of crisps, chocolate and other snacks that are high in sugar or saturated fat.

9. Drinking water helps you lose weight
Water does not cause you to lose weight, but it does keep you hydrated, and might help you snack less. Water is essential for good health and wellbeing. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger; if you're thirsty you may snack more. Drink around two litres of fluid a day.

10. Skipping meals is a good way to lose weight
Skipping meals is not a good idea. To lose weight and keep it off, you have to reduce the amount of calories you consume, or increase the calories you burn through exercise. But skipping meals altogether can result in tiredness and poor nutrition. You will also be more likely to snack on high-fat and high-sugar foods, which could result in weight gain

Source

10 Tips for Making Your Child Fall Asleep Faster!

2012-12-23T13:02:00.000+02:00

After a long day, many of us can hardly wait for our little angels to go to sleep. But what if yours take forever to get to la-la land? Here are 10 tips to help your toddlers learn to fall asleep faster and on their own.

Avoid feeding your children big meals close to bedtime, and don't give them anything containing caffeine less than six hours before bedtime.
After dinner, avoid all stimulating activities and Warn your children that bedtime is in five minutes, or give them a choice: "Do you want to go to bed now or in five minutes?" but do this only once.
Establish a Consistent Routine: Among the first steps in helping your child fall asleep is cueing that it’s bedtime. Follow the “3Bs” bedtime routine: bath, book, bed — in the same order, at the same time each night. Try to make sure your children eat dinner at the same time, play a little ( again; NOT stimulating activities) after they’ve eaten, and then wind down with the first B. Avoid scary stories or TV shows. It's better to read a favorite book every night than a new one because it's familiar.
Try a 'Cry It Out' (CIO) Method: Although it’s controversial but give it a try and let your children cry it out as soon as you sense that they are old enough to start falling asleep on their own. “I know how hard it is to let them cry. I've done it with all [of] mine and my partner often had to physically stop me from going up and picking them back up. But it does work,”
Avoid singing or rocking your children to sleep, because if they wake in the middle of the night they may need you to sing or rock them back to sleep, a condition known as sleep-onset association disorder. (If you have already been doing this, try to phase this behavior out gradually.) Instead, have them get used to falling asleep with a transitional object, like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal.
Make sure your child is comfortable. Clothes and blankets should not restrict movement, and the bedroom temperature shouldn't be too warm or too cold.
If your child calls for you after you've left his room, wait a few moments before responding. This will remind him that he should be asleep, and it'll give him the chance to soothe himself and even fall back asleep while he is waiting for you.
If your child comes out of his room after you've put him to bed, walk him back and gently but firmly remind him that it's bedtime.
Give your child tools to overcome his worries. These can include a flashlight, a spray bottle filled with "monster spray" or a large stuffed animal to "protect" him.
Set up a reward system. Each night your child goes to bed on time and stays there all night, he gets a star. After three stars, give him a prize.

Additionally, what works one month may change as your child grows. Keep working at a style of night-time parenting that fits the temperament of your baby and your own lifestyle. If it's working, stick with it. If it's not, be open to trying other nighttime parenting styles.

Have a nice day! :)

5 Easy Steps to Get that Holidays Glow!

2012-12-22T19:25:00.000+02:00

This holiday season, you can look and feel your best with few steps to your lifestyle and just a little bit of willpower. It is all about keeping the body balanced, hydrated and properly rested. With these easy steps, you can maintain a healthy glow, manage your figure, and have more energy and joy.

1. Hydrate

We have all heard the messages. Our bodies need water. During the holidays if you make this a priority it will help your energy levels, your appearance and your waistline. When you feel the urge to snack, ask yourself if maybe your hunger pans are actually due to dehydration.
Drink green tea. Studies suggest that the compounds in green tea called catechines appear to speed up the rate at which calories are burned. It is also loaded with antioxidants and isn’t as dehydrating as other caffeinated beverages.

2. Pick 3 System

The last word anyone wants to hear during the holidays is diet. Remember that any diet that recommends the elimination of one of the macronutrients- proteins, carbs or fats- is not a viable method of eating that can be sustained, nor does it have a foundation in health and wellness. In fact, radical and fad diets actually hinder future weight loss by slowing down the metabolism. So don’t diet, just be mindful.
For each meal, envision your plates divided into three sections: one third whole grains and vegetables; one third protein; and the other third fats such as nuts, seeds, avocado, olive oil, nut butters, butter. Whole fruits are always a top choice as a treat. Cut your alcoholic beverages with seltzer and eat something small before going to a party.

3. Daily Detoxification

If we can keep the body eliminating our excesses we’ll feel and look out best. Time now to stock up on Brassica family vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage), high fiber cereals and bars, as well as acidophilus-rich yogurt, plus water and herbal teas.

4. Rest and Reflect

It seems there is never enough time in the run up to the holidays. Sometimes we need to know when enough is enough. Adequate rest gives the body a chance to properly digest and heal. Keeping stress in check is one of the best beauty secrets out there.

Take time for you. You know what you like to do in your “down time”. Whether it is reading, doing cross-words or taking a bath, gather any supplies you will need now and schedule in the time for you. Your body will thank you.
Also, make sure you plan time to get fresh air. It is the best pick-me-up. The air might feel chilly at first but within 20 minutes you can return home from a brisk walk revived and ready to tackle the next festive gathering.

5. Supplement where needed

Most of us do not think ‘health, nutrition and exercise’ when we think ‘holiday’. Certainly, there are times when we will veer off the nutritional path to wellness on occasion and that is okay. Just be aware that there are supplements and functional foods for days when we are less than perfect in the nutrition category. For many, they can be an inexpensive nutritional insurance policy.

Create a fabulously festive look
Luckily, it’s never been easier to create a fabulously festive look with a minimum of fuss. To learn how, we checked in with makeup artist at Beauty Mark in Yaletown, who created a sleek but sexy look that works for a variety of skin tones, ages and social events.

Here’s how to get this season’s best makeup look in 9 easy steps:
1. Skin
Start prepping the night before the event by applying a hydrating mask to your face. It will create a nice, natural luminosity, making pores appear smaller, smoothing out skin tone and providing an all-over glow.

2. Nails
A festive manicure will put holiday sparkle at your fingertips without the risk of looking garish. What’s especially fashionable right now are dark and unconventional hues like green, blue or metallic.“The trend is to have one highlight nail.”

3. Hair
When it comes to hair, it’s all about tousled, sexy glamour, think messy updos, lazy curls and easy accessories:

Try a ballerina bun, Classically prim ones ruled the runways, but Gwen Stefani’s messy bun is rock-star cool—go with what feels right for you! To do it fast, tease hair on top, then smooth it all back into a ponytail; secure with an elastic. Twist and wind hair around, pinning as you go.
Slip on a Headband.
Clip It Half Up: Make a side part, then pull the top and front sections of your hair back with a glitzy barrette.
Tease That Pony: Give your sweet standby style a little edge: After pulling your hair back (no need to be neat about it), run a fine-tooth comb up and down the length of your hair to rough it up and create that fun, fuzzy effect. It’s that easy.
Curl Just the Front: Make playful waves: Use a medium-barrel curling iron to create a couple of spirals in the front sections of your hair only. Comb through with your fingers. Done!

4. Foundation
Unless you plan to spend time under high-definition cameras, your foundation should just even out your complexion, not cover everything in a layer of beige. Think “smooth glow,” not “matte mask.” “I would choose an illuminating foundation,You want more of a dewy complexion. It’s even more important with older skin. The more matte you go, the more it will settle in the fine lines.”

5. Brows
It’s time to create a frame for all this holiday beauty by grooming the eyebrows. If your brows are already well shaped, use a little brow gel and a fine brush to tidy them up, then a pencil to fill them in.

6. Eyes
“If you’re doing a strong lip, you want to keep the eyes neutral,”. Since this season is all about the bold lip in deep, intense hues, that means avoiding competing colours on the eyelids. Instead, think definition and shimmer. Try a soft gold shadow all over eyelids, then sweep a subtle highlighter under the browbone and in the corner of the lid to open the eye. “This shiny gold colour is very simple and it works on many, many skin tones,” noting that it is soft enough to work on older skin as well as younger. The key is to go for “glow” rather than “sparkle.” Finish the eye makeup by adding further definition with liquid back eyeliner and a touch of black mascara.

7. Cheeks
Brush a soft, natural-looking pink blush on the apples of cheeks, just enough to create a healthy glow. The key with blush is to avoid bright clown spots and stripey ’80s contouring; rouge should be applied so subtly it is barely noticeable at all.

8. Illumination
Indeed, more important than colour is illumination. This is a subtle way to add brightness and “a nice glow” to skin of all colours, conditions and ages, without looking overdone.

9. Lips
Finally, the finishing touch and the holidays’ big impact look: the beautiful, bold lip. Start by brushing a lip scrub overyour lips to remove any dry flakes. “It’s essential because in winter, our lips are drier,” Then apply a deep purple lipstick to the lips. “A lot of people recommend a lip liner, but I say you can go without, The shade for the season is this nice plummy wine colour. It works on so many skin tones as well as a porcelain complexion.”

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Source 2

Vitamin B Complex Benefits and Sources

2012-12-21T14:43:00.002+02:00

The Vitamin B Complex comprises of the essential B Vitamins ,Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6, Vitamin B9, Vitamin B12 plus the vitamins Biotin, Choline and Inositol. Vitamin B Complex is needed for the proper functioning of almost every process in the body. Here are my 5 top reasons you need to get plenty of B Complex vitamins in your diet.

1. Energy Production

Vitamin B1 is needed to help convert the carbohydrates we eat into glucose. The following B Vitamins are needed at a cellular level to convert glucose into energy - Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6 and Biotin. A Vitamin B deficiency in any of these vitamins can lead to decreased energy production.

2. Healthy Nervous system

The Vitamin B Complex is essential for the healthy functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B5 is needed for the correct functioning of the adrenal glands and the production of some hormones and nerve regulating substances. Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 are essential for the regulation and correct functioning of the entire nervous system including brain function. Vitamin B9 is essential to prevent neural tube defects to the foetus during pregnancy. A deficiency in any of the Vitamin B Complex vitamins can lead to feeling stressed, anxious and depressed.

3. Good Digestion

The Vitamin B Complex is essential for correct digestion, production of HCl (Hydrochloric acid) and to assist in the breakdown of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Especially vital for good digestion are Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3 and Vitamin B6. A deficiency in any of these B Vitamins can lead to impaired digestion and deficiency of essential nutrients.

4.Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails

The Vitamin B Complex is essential for correct RNA and DNA synthesis and cell reproduction. As our Skin, Hair and Nails are constantly growing and renewing themselves we need the following B vitamins to ensure the good health of these structures - Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5, Vitamin B9, Vitamin B12, Biotin and Choline. Deficiencies of any of these B Vitamins can lead to dry, grey skin, dermatitis, wrinkles, acne, rashes, falling hair and weak, splitting nails.

5. Synergy

The B Vitamins work so closely with one other that a deficiency in any one B Vitamin can lead to poor functioning of any or all of the others even if they are in good supply. Always take the B Vitamins in a Complex and then top up with any individual Vitamin B, if needed.

B vitamin sources
B vitamins are found in whole unprocessed foods. Processed carbohydrates such as sugar and white flour tend to have lower B vitamin than their unprocessed counterparts. For this reason, it is required by law in the United States (and many other countries) that the B vitamins thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid be added back to white flour after processing. This is sometimes called "Enriched Flour" on food labels.
B vitamins are particularly concentrated in meat such as turkey and tuna, in liver and meat products.Good sources for B vitamins include kombucha, whole grains, potatoes, bananas, lentils, chili peppers, tempeh, beans, nutritional yeast, brewer's yeast, and molasses. Although the yeast used to make beer results in beers being a source of B vitamins, their bioavailability ranges from poor to negative as drinking ethanol inhibits absorption of (B₁),(B₂), (B₃),(B₇) and(B₉).In addition, each of the preceding studies further emphasizes that elevated consumption of beer and other ethanol-based drinks results in a net deficit of those B vitamins and the health risks associated with such deficiencies.

The B₁₂ vitamin is of note because it is not available from plant products, making B₁₂ deficiency a legitimate concern for vegans. Manufacturers of plant-based foods will sometimes report B₁₂ content, leading to confusion about what sources yield B₁₂.

Another popular means of increasing one's vitamin B intake is through the use of dietary supplements. B vitamins are also commonly added to energy drinks, many of which have been marketed with large amounts of B vitaminswith claims that this will cause the consumer to "sail through your day without feeling jittery or tense."Some nutritionists have been critical of these claims, pointing out for instance that while B vitamins do "help unlock the energy in foods," most Americans acquire the necessary amounts easily in their diets.

Extra Tip
B Vitamins are water-soluble which means any excess will be excreted through the urine. This also means that B Vitamins need to be taken on a daily basis, as the only one we can store is Vitamin B12. Taking a high dose Vitamin B Complex (50mg - 100mg) daily can turn urine a bright fluorescent, this is perfectly safe and normal so don't be alarmed!

References:
Health and Goodness
Wikipedia

Tricks to Lose Weight in Winter!

2012-12-20T12:37:00.001+02:00

Losing weight is a simple equation: if you burn more calories than you eat, the weight will come off.

The summertime offers plenty of opportunities for people to lose weight. Generally, people get more exercise in the summer because they spend more time outside and are more active. People tend to make excuses for why they can't lose weight during the wintertime. But there are steps you can take to make sure you continue to drop pounds during the winter months.

Sniff a banana, apple, or peppermint: You might feel silly, but it works. When Dr Alan R. Hirsch of the Smell & Taste Treatment and Research Foundation in Chicago tried this with 3,000 volunteers, he found that the more frequently people sniffed, the less hungry they were and the more weight they lost, an average of 30 lb each. One theory is that sniffing the food tricks the brain into thinking you're actually eating it.

Stay active around the house. While it may be cold outside, there are things you can do inside your house, such as sit-ups and push-ups, that will contribute to weight loss.
Take up a new hobby or participate regularly in an activity that you enjoy. Play basketball, tennis or racquetball, or join a dance class. You will lose weight and have fun at the same time. If you see results from participating in activities you enjoy, it's likely you will stay motivated.
Turn off the TV: Dining while viewing can make you take in 40 percent more calories than usual, reports a new study. And texting, driving, or any other distracting activity during a meal can also result in your eating too much. Instead, make each meal something you put on a plate and sit down to, even if you're eating solo.
Step on the scale daily: If your regular weight increases several days in a row, it's a red flag letting you know you need to cut back a little or beef up your workouts slightly.

Sculpt 3 times a week: Doing 5 minutes each of push-ups, lunges, and squats (in 30-second intervals) will help build and maintain muscle mass. The more muscle you have, the higher your metabolism will be, so you'll torch more calories as you go about your day.
Next time your mind gets stuck on a certain food, call a friend and redirect your brain by asking how her day's going. Research shows that cravings only last about 5 minutes, so by the time you hang up, the urge to devour junk will have subsided.
Hang a mirror opposite your seat at the table: One study found that eating in front of mirrors slashed the amount people ate by nearly one-third. Seems having to look yourself in the eye reflects back some of your own inner standards and goals, and reminds you of why you’re trying to lose weight in the first place.
Surround yourself with blue: There’s a good reason you won’t see many fast-food restaurants decorated in blue: Believe it or not, the color blue functions as an appetite suppressant. So serve up dinner on blue plates, dress in blue while you eat, and cover your table with a blue tablecloth. Conversely, avoid red, yellow, and orange in your dining areas. Studies find they encourage
Shoot your food: Rather than writing down every morsel, take a picture of it, and file the photos on your phone or computer by date. A visual account of your consumption may help you curb your intake. “Snapping photos and then looking back at them can make people stop and think before indulging,” nutritionist Joan Salge Blake says. It needn’t be a big production: your cell phone will do. Think about it: there you are at the salad bar, making a plate of vegetables. Don’t pat yourself on the back quite yet, though. A simple snapshot of your heaping dish may “show your extra helping of cheese or deep-fried croutons"
Tie yourself up: You could try fitness guru Valerie Orsoni’s “Le Petit Secret”: “A number of French women wear a ribbon around their waist and underneath their clothes when they go out for dinner. It keeps them conscious of the tummy...particularly if the ribbon starts to feel tighter as the evening goes on!”

Beware of the holidays. Holidays provide a great excuse to eat poorly. If you choose to do this, make sure you get back to the gym or back on your exercise plan immediately after

50 Tips For Happiness And Productivity!

2012-12-19T09:35:00.000+02:00

If you at times feel stressed out and overwhelmed, you are not alone. “Stress is the dirty secret of success: as life gets better than ever, people are feeling worse.”
Daily life can be made happier. It is a matter of choice. It is our attitude that makes us feel happy or unhappy. It is true, we meet all kinds of situations during the day, and some of them may not be conductive to happiness. We can choose to keep thinking about the unhappy events, and we can choose to refuse to think about them, and instead, relish the happy moments. All of us constantly go through various situations and circumstances, but we do not have to let them influence our reactions and feelings.
These suggestions to move to a healthy level of stress include both short-term lifestyle changes as well as longer-term goals:

- Try rising early.
- Do less.
- Practice patience.
- Practice compassion.
- Find your passion.
- Lose weight.
- Exercise.
- Eat healthy.
- Meditate.
- Get organized.
- Think positive.
- Simplify your finances.
- Simplify your life.
- Accept what you have.
- Envision your ultimate life.
- Set long-term goals.
- Review goals.
- Plan your big tasks for week and day.
- Maintain focus.
- Enjoy the journey.
- Create a morning and evening routine.
- Develop intimate relationships.
- Enjoy the simple pleasures.
- Empty your inbox and clear your desk.
- Build an emergency fund.
- Keep a journal.
- Read, and read to your kids.
- Take time to decompress after stress.
- Be present.
- Think globally.
- Spend time with family and loved ones.
- Pick yourself up when you’re down.
- Don’t compare yourself to others and DO NOT envy people who are happy. On the contrary, be happy for their happiness.
- Focus on benefits, not difficulties.
- Be romantic.
- Lose arguments.
- Go outdoors.
- Savor the little things.
- Plan a trip to somewhere new.
- Help others...Each day do at least one act to make others happy. This can be a kind word, helping your colleagues, stopping your car at the crossroad to let people cross, giving your seat in a bus to someone else, or giving a small present to someone you love. The possibilities are infinite. When you make someone happy, you become happy, and then people try to make you happy.
change the way you look at things. Always look at the bright side. The mind may drag you to think about negativity and difficulties. Don't let it. Look at the good and positive side of every situation.
Think of solutions, not problems.
Listen to relaxing, uplifting music.
Watch funny comedies that make you laugh.
Each day, devote some time to reading a few pages of an inspiring book or article.
Watch your thoughts. Whenever you catch yourself thinking negative thoughts, start thinking of pleasant things.
Always look at what you have done and not at what you haven't. Sometimes you may begin the day with the desire to accomplish several objectives. At the end of the day you might feel frustrated and unhappy, because you haven't been able to do all of those things. Look at what you have done, not at what you have not been able to do. You may have accomplished a lot during the day, and yet you let yourself become frustrated, because of some small things that you did not accomplish. You have spent all day successfully carrying out many plans, and instead of feeling happy and satisfied, you look at what was not accomplished and feel unhappy. It is unfair toward yourself.
Each day do something good for yourself. It can be something small, such buying a book, eating something you love, watching your favorite program on TV, going to a movie, or just having a stroll on the beach.
Smile more often.
Associate with happy people, and try to learn from them to be happy. And always Remember, happiness is contagious.

How to Use Baking Soda as Acne Treatment?

2012-12-18T10:38:00.000+02:00

Acne leaves scars on your face that will just make you feel very inconvenient to participate in social gatherings. You might have tried many creams and herbs which are not very promising. Baking soda will not only work but is also a very inexpensive way to cure acne compared to those expensive creams.

You should know first how to use baking soda as an effective measure to treat acne:

Before the application of baking soda, it is essential to wash your face thoroughly to get rid of all the dirt and any make up.
Now, do not dry the face with a towel. Let it remain damp.
Take about three to four teaspoons of baking soda in your palm. Just add few drops of water. Make sure not to make it too watery. If the solution is very watery it will run down the face and will not work.
Now, apply the paste to the face. Let it dry for about a minute and wash the face.

Be cautious not to use baking soda for quite a long time. It will cause dryness of the skin. In some people with dry skin, the skin may appear dry even after applying baking soda for about a minute. This can be overcome by applying moisturizer to the face immediately after washing off the baking soda.

What is principle behind the working of baking soda?

Washing the face after application of baking soda causes the skin pores to open up. They open up the clogged skin pores by eliminating the top most skin layer that is filled with oily secretions, dead skin cells and dust. As a result it restricts bacterial growth and hence, helps to gain control over acne.

The benefit of using baking soda is that it is free of chemicals. Hence, it will not leave any unwanted side effects such as additional scars or dullness of skin texture and color which is commonly seen in case of commercial acne creams. It will not cause any irritation even upon regular use. An added benefit is that it gets rid of dead skin cells and thereby improves your skin tone.

It is suitable even for daily use. However, people with very sensitive skin should not use it on regular basis. It can cause skin irritation.

Lastly, some people say that long term use of baking soda causes pH imbalance of the skin. This in turn promotes bacterial growth, a major factor responsible for acne. No treatment works for each and every patient. The effectiveness of any treatment depends on the body condition and the extent of the disease. The same applies to acne and the use of baking soda to gain control over the acne. Test your skin initially, if you see an increase in acne or if you do not experience any positive results even after long term use of baking soda, discontinue using it and take the advice of a dermatologist to cope up with acne.

The faster you take action to control acne; the better would be the results of any acne treatment
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