http://www.womensbeautylife.com/ en-us http:/www.womensbeautylife.com/images/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930714.html Though strong emotions can trigger cravings for food, you can take steps to control those cravings. To help stop emotional eating, try these suggestions: * Learn to recognise true hunger. Is your hunger physical or emotional? If you ate just a few hours ago and don't have a rumbling stomach, you are probably not really hungry. Give the craving a few minutes to pass. * Know your triggers. For the next several days, write down what you eat, how much you eat, when you eat, how you are feeling when you eat and how hungry you are. Over time, you may see patterns emerge that reveal negative eating patterns and triggers to avoid. * Look elsewhere for comfort. Instead of unwrapping a candy bar, take a walk, treat yourself to a movie, listen to music, read or call a friend. If you think that stress relating to a particular event is nudging you toward the refrigerator, try talking to someone about it to distract yourself. Plan enjoyable events for yourself. * Don't keep unhealthy foods around. Avoid having an abundance of high-calorie comfort foods in the house. If you feel hungry or blue, postpone the shopping trip for a few hours so that these feelings don't influence your decisions at the store. * Snack healthy. If you feel the urge to eat between meals, choose a low-fat, low-calorie food, such as fresh fruit, vegetables with fat-free dip or unbuttered popcorn. Or test low-fat, lower calorie versions of your favorite foods to see if they satisfy your craving. * Eat a balanced diet. If you are not getting enough calories to meet your energy needs, you may be more likely to give in to emotional eating. Try to eat at fairly regular times and don't skip breakfast. Include foods from the basic groups in your meals. Emphasize whole grains, vegetables and fruits, as well as low-fat dairy products and lean protein sources. When you fill up on the basics, you are more likely to feel fuller, longer. * Exercise regularly and get adequate rest. Your mood is more manageable and your body can more effectively fight stress when it is fit and well rested. If you give in to emotional eating, forgive yourself and start fresh the next day. Try to learn from the experience, and make a plan for how you can prevent it in the future. Focus on the positive changes you are making in your eating habits and give yourself credit for making changes that ensure better health. Read more: http://www.thedailystar.net/story.php?nid=27711 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930713.html There are thousands of "experts" out there trying to sell you their weight loss solution, which usually involves a huge calorie reduction in order to see results. It is impossible for me, having been in the fitness industry so many years, to justify starving yourself as a healthy practice. I am exercise advocate; I don´t believe in dieting. Nutrition, however, IS a very important component in maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Simple choices often make the difference and I´d like to offer up some easy tips for you to use everyday. First, it´s important to understand the reason we gain fat weight. When more calories are consumed than the body has current use for, it converts those extra calories to fat for storage. It was an evolutionary survival necessity; when food was plentiful we ate in abundance and when times were lean survival depended on having enough fat stored. If we want to lose excess fat we need to consume fewer calories than our body needs—this is called energy deficit. If one were to consume 100 less calories everyday, or burn 100 more, it would result in over 10lbs of fat loss in a year´s time. If we want faster results, we have to make the energy deficit greater. Tips to Creating a Daily Calorie Deficit Avoid Liquid Calories: A can of Coke has 139 calories; an average latte with regular milk has 180 calories; a 471 mL (16 fl oz) bottle of orange juice can have 225 calories…I´m sure you get the point. Opt for water (0 calories) and tea (5 calories per 250mL). Just for comparison, a plain donut has 185 calories, and a Subway roast beef deli sandwich has 215. Read Food Labels: Find out how much a serving size is; it is often less than we think. Products that boast of being low-fat or fat free are not necessarily low calorie. Just as a label that proclaims low-carb or sugar-free doesn´t mean a low fat or calorie count. Don´t Skip Your Meals: Try and eat 5-6 times per day. If you eat smaller amounts more often it will keep your metabolism revved up, keep you from over eating at meal times, and help balance your blood sugar level. If you are used to eating only 2 or 3 times a day, try gradually increasing your meal frequency so it doesn´t seem so overwhelming. Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/55340 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930712.html THIS YEAR is very significant with regards to wellbeing, for instance the number eight is the power of two and represents strength, new beginnings and regeneration. With each new year there is talk of new beginnings, but while new resolutions and commitments are made with good intentions, they tend to tail off before spring. If you’re still feeling the pinch of the Christmas spend two months on, and the bank credit crunch, it’s hard to be optimistic when there seems to be little light at the end of the tunnel. Wellbeing not only relates to physical health, it is a state of mind. The mind, body and soul need to work in tandem to create a complete sense of self. So, a total declutter is required, from the removal of negative thoughts, to organising your life to better manage your time between work. The goal is to have more time for friends, family and, most importantly, you. Most people set out to self-improve and take stock early in the year, but unfortunately, these recycled promises are too often broken, leading to disappointments. Not following through can have a negative impact on your self-image, your relationship, or your lifestyle. So, if you are ready to embrace 365 days of excitement and challenges, the following wellbeing guide will be of great use to you. Most people have the desire to learn new things, maintain a healthy lifestyle, get their finances in check, and become more family-orientated. Sadly, only a very small group of people will ever attempt to fulfil these desires, and actually make them happen. Nevertheless, it is never too late to achieve your chosen life improvements. Rededicate yourself daily to the journey towards becoming a more complete and happier person. Happiness needs to be prepared, cultivated, nurtured, defended and protected, so that it has longevity. Achieving happiness starts with positive thoughts. Believing that happiness is possible for you will open doors to healthy relationships. Cultivate your mind to eliminate negative thoughts and make way for positive ones. Happiness is a choice – you choose to be happy or not. Most of us are waiting for something or someone to make us happy, but before you can expect someone else to appreciate you and what you stand for, you have to value and love yourself. Working hard and managing your time effectively will ensure you give each task your all, as well as allow you ‘down time’. Read more: http://www.voice-online.co.uk/content.php?show=12870 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930711.html Heesacker says focusing on healthy eating and regular exercise will go a long way toward weight loss and fitness. But don’t expect dramatic results overnight. “Weight loss isn’t going to be immediate if you do it in a healthy way,” she says. “Beware of diet plans that promise quick weight loss. It may look good on the bathroom scale, but it isn’t good for you.” She recommends aiming to lose one to two pounds a week by reducing calories and increasing exercise. “At this rate, the weight lost will be mostly stored fat and not muscle tissue,” she says. Before starting an exercise program, check with your doctor, she says. And don’t think you have to go out and run a marathon to meet the exercise requirement. “Try for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day,” she says. “Those minutes don’t need to be continuous but can be in 10-minute segments throughout the day.” Among other tips: - Choose a variety of activities for exercising so you don’t get bored. Try to think of ways to incorporate more physical activity into your life. - Make a tracking chart to keep you motivated. - When shopping for groceries, focus on making healthier food choices. Avoid the processed snack aisles and soda pop. Choose whole-grain foods rather than white flour products. Eat more fruits and vegetables whether they are fresh, frozen (without sugar added) or canned (with less sodium added). Buy leaner cuts of beef and pork and eat more skinless chicken and fish. - Cook from scratch at home more often. Buy yourself a new (healthy) cookbook or subscribe to a magazine such as “Cooking Light” or “Taste of Home Light”. Read more: http://www.kvnews.com/articles/2008/01/03/news/doc477d35aa38921459914730.txt http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930710.html Break the lip-licking cycle Many people think that licking the lips helps the dryness but it can actually cause dry, cracked lips. Digestive enzymes and bacteria in saliva can damage the lips, leaving them in worse shape than before. Also, when the moisture evaporates after you have licked your lips, they become even drier as they lose the moisture into the dry, cold air. Instead, break yourself of the lip licking habit and apply a moisturizer or lip balm throughout the day. Eliminate the cause of the condition Chapping from an allergic reaction to a skin care product will go away when you stop using the product. Products that cause these reactions include toothpaste, mouthwash, lip balm and lipstick. It is the flavoring agent, cinnamate, in toothpaste and mouthwash that causes the chapping reaction. Some people are allergic to the sunscreen ingredient, oxybenzone, found in lip balms that contain sunscreen (so check that one off of your list). Finally, dyes contained in brightly colored lipstick can cause a chapping reaction in susceptible women. If you suspect that you are having an allergic reaction, stop the product for 10 to 14 days and you should see an improvement. Moisturize To prevent and repair chapping, use a lip balm or petrolatum based ointment (Vaseline, Aquaphor) to seal in moisture and form a protective barrier. Use it frequently throughout the day. Use a balm at bedtime which can help repair damage while you sleep (there are ones especially made for overnight which contain vitamins and aloe vera). Don't forget your children's dry lips (they can be encouraged to use lip balm by selecting the fruit flavored varieties). Finally, a lip balm containing sunscreen is important especially while skiing or engaging in out-door winter activities. Hydrate Keep the body well hydrated by drinking ample amounts of water each day. Women forget that they can become dehydrated in the winter as well as in the summer. Also, humidify your home and office with a cool mist humidifier and plants so less moisture evaporates from your lips. read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22505976/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930709.html 1. Deep condition Ask your hairstylist for special treatments such as SalonCapri's L'Oréal Professionnel Power Dose Deep Conditioning Treatment or use salon products at home, such as L'Oréal Professionnel's Absolut Repair Mask or Kerastaste Masquintense, for deep hair repair and nourishment. Also, make sure to switch your regular condition to one suitable for "dry hair." 2. Wash hair less often Let the natural oils from your scalp nourish your locks by only washing your hair every second or third day. 3. Avoid hats in winter Hats contribute to fly-aways, dull and tangled hair. To stay warm, use ear muffs or a headband instead. 4. Protect your hair before using hot tools Hot hair styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, can damage the hair and make it more prone to breakage. Be sure to use a protective thermal spray before ironing, such as Shu Uemura's Irondesign, to seal the hair cuticle and avoid Read more: http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/news_press_release,249814.shtml http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930708.html In this world of extreme makeovers and desperate diets, there are two definitive actions that bring about effective long-term weight loss—(1) a high nutrition and high protein, low calorie meal plan and (2) consistent, regular exercise routine. Forget about magic pills that melt the fat away or sauna wraps that steam away inches. There are, however, herbs for weight loss that can supplement—not replace— healthy eating and exercise. These herbs can help increase the body’s digestive and metabolic efficiency and make easier the process of long-term health and weight management. The principle behind weight loss is that energy intake must not exceed energy expenditure. What you eat must have fewer calories than what you put out in day to day activities. A body composed of lean muscle (built from protein and exercise) will use more calories than an unexercised body. There is every reason to maintain a solid exercise regimen and high protein consumption because you need both to turn your body into a fat-burning machine. Some herbs that can help weight loss and make this process more efficient are Green Tea, Flaxseeds, Psyllium and Chromium. Green Tea is not only a powerful anti-oxidant but a fat-burner as well. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (January 2005), consuming green tea rich in catechins leads to a lowering of both body fat and cholesterol. These compounds enhance nervous system activity at the level of the fat cell, causing it to release more fat. In another recent study, one group of subjects was given green tea extract (with 150 mg of caffeine) and 375 mg of catechins three times a day. A second group was given just 150 mg of caffeine alone and a third group was given a placebo. These subjects spent three 24 hour periods in an energy chamber during which they received their green tea, caffeine or placebo 3 times a day. Results show definitely that the green tea group burned the most energy—by almost 5 percent more when compared with those who received the placebo alone and 3.2 percent more than those who received the caffeine alone. In addition, fat burning was increased in the green tea group. Researchers speculate that a special antioxidant compound in green tea called EEG may trigger fat oxidation and thermogenesis (fat burning). What is also interesting is that the maximum fat-dissolving capacity of green tea comes from the tea in concentrate form, which provides the benefits of 5-6 cups of tea in a single dose of tea powder. Green tea is an herb that has demonstrated effectiveness in encouraging weight loss. Read more: http://www.bestsyndication.com/?q=123007_using_herbs_to_lose_weight_diets.htm http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930707.html One of the biggest mistakes dieters make is to “crash,” that is, to go on a starvation or total liquid diet in order to realize huge weight loss quickly. There are two problems with this: 1.The body is thrown into a type of shock. The dieter may experience a variety of symptoms, to include dizziness, loss of any energy, insomnia, anxiety to name a few. Physical activity may become to taxing and so it is simply avoided. 2.The weight loss will probably be only temporary. You cannot keep up this type of regimen for long, and, as soon as you cease, the pounds will come back. It is also unsafe to rely totally on liquid diet drinks. I have seen many friends do this with the same effects as listed above. Diet drinks should be used to replace perhaps one meal a day, and it should not be breakfast. The food you consume at breakfast is the most easily metabolized, because your general schedule in mornings means you will burn it up. A diet drink used for lunch would be appropriate, along with an early dinner. Never, never eat after 7:00 p.m. in the evening. Your body uses the least energy in the evening and while you sleep. If you work a second or third shift job, you have to alter this schedule, because your days and nights are reversed. When you begin to cut your food intake, make certain that the choices you make are healthy. Plan for a balanced intake of foods that will give you iron, vitamins and minerals that are essential for your well-being. The best foods to cut are those that you probably love – fried anything, sweets, high fat content foods. But cut these you must. When you begin an exercise regimen, go gradually. If you have been basically sedentary, a jump into 1-2 hours of exercise a day can be injurious. People who decide to run, for example, will experience all kinds of muscle and tendon ailments if they have not worked up to it. Likewise, aerobics and workout machines can cause lots of inflammations, and you will set yourself back because of the necessary recuperation. Start walking, gradually picking up the pace and distance, then move onto additional more strenuous forms of exercise. The key here is moderation until you are physically ready to assume the more demanding forms. Never get into a practice of binge eating and then regurgitating. This is bulimia, and it is horribly dangerous. As well, totally cutting out food for long periods of time will affect every system in your body. Anorexia is always a danger when you begin these types of procedures, and people die from this! Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=46739 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930706.html Nothing is more frustrating and depressing to be overweight and to have tried every weight loss diet pills known to mankind, only to continue on the roller coaster of loss and gain, or, worse, to be unable to get any significant weight loss at all. There are a number of possible reasons for failure to reach weight loss goals, as follows: 1.What is the cause of the weight gain? Until the dieter is able to identify the cause, and attack weight at that level, the potential for success is slim. There are a variety of psychological causes for overeating, and these should perhaps be explored with a professional counselor. If the cause is worry or stress, for example, sessions with a counselor would be helpful. If an individual suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder, it may manifest itself in continual over-eating. Do some introspection and seek some advice. 2.Activity is one key factor in weight loss. Many would be dieters suffer from the false notion that they can simply eat a little less, take a pill or two, and the weight will fall off. Not so!! If your lifestyle is basically sedentary, then you must change it. You may not be ready for an aerobics class yet, but you can begin a regimen of walking and work up from there. Commit to 30 minutes of some activity every day, and you will see the difference! 3.It is tough to give up the foods we love. So, we cheat! When no one is around, we eat that piece of cake, or a couple of those cookies, and tell ourselves that this one little cheat will not matter. It does! You must find some way to avoid the cheating and get some support from family and friends to do so. Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=46733 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930705.html Weight control is hard work for overweight adults but it can be a whole lot easier with a few tips from the experts. Everyone approaches weight loss in a different way, but there are a few tried-and-true rules. Here is some advice to help you shed a few pounds: • Keep a food diary. Know what you are eating. It's easy to think you hardly eat anything, but calories add up. • Write down manageable goals. Instead of "I will lose three sizes by summer," try "I will eat a healthy, low-fat breakfast and lunch this week." Half a pound a week can add up to a 12-lb. weight loss in six months. • Begin an exercise program- walk for 10 minutes-even five minutes-if that's all you can tackle right now. • Reach out. You need the support of family and friends. • Monitor your environment. Make it more diet friendly. "Let's face it-temptation is much easier to resist if it's not around. Managing weight loss successfully is more than managing eating and activity habits; it also includes managing your environment," says Anne Wolf, M.S., R.D., University of Virginia School of Medicine dietitian. • If your weight won't budge, talk to a registered dietitian or local pharmacist. There could be an underlying physical reason for stubborn weight. A registered dietitian or local pharmacist can also give you tips on products to help, such as alli, the only FDA-approved, over-the-counter weight-loss product with a plan. Adding alli to a low-fat diet can help people lose more weight than dieting alone. Read more: http://www.imperialvalleynews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=587&Itemid=9 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930704.html Everybody needs a little rest and relaxation. You may not be able to afford a costly day at the spa, but we've got good news. You can have all the beauty perks without the financial pains... right in the comfort of your own home. From soothing foot massages to feel-good facials, we've got the simple spa secrets that won't leave your wallet sore. Just open your refrigerator and the basic ingredients are right at your fingertips. It's as easy as... 1. Invigorate and soften feet with 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons almond oil added to a basin of warm water. Gently massage feet and slip into cotton socks. 2. It's not an old wives' tale: thin cucumber slices used as compresses over closed eyes will relieve soreness and puffiness. 3. Mash up a melon and apply the remains to your face. Rinse clean after 15 minutes. Melons are rich in beta carotene, a substance that combats cell damage. 4. Boil some whole milk and then let cool. Lift the "skin" that forms on the surface and apply it to your face until it dries out. Scrub it off gently with a vegetable brush or coarse washcloth. http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930703.html The battle to lose weight can be frustrating, anxiety-producing, and depressing. Some people fight this battle only once or twice in their lifetimes, while others must wage a war throughout their entire lives. The reality is that every body is different, including its hereditary makeup, it metabolic rate, its ability to rid itself of excess ingredients, and its ability to utilize weight loss methods successfully. Further, the psycho-emotional makeup of individuals varies to such degrees, that motivation and self-discipline relative to dieting differ significantly. What works for one will not work for another, and this is part of the frustration involved in the process. Each individual must discover the causes of his/her overweight condition and then establish an individual plan to resolve those causes. Once the causes are in check, the chances of success in any weight loss program truly increase. Methods of weight loss may include one or more of the following. Again, remember that works for your best friend may not work for you – you have to explore, investigate, and experiment to find what you can live with. 1.Exercise. Exercise increases metabolism and burns calories. When you burn more calories than you take in, you lose weight – it’s that simple. If you can’t jump into aerobic activity right away, start walking, increasing pace and distance, move on to jogging, to running, and, finally, to aerobics. This plan will result in slower weight loss in the beginning but has the potential to be a lifetime cure if you can become accustomed to it regularly. Most people who develop a daily exercise routine find that they crave it. 2.Food. The source of all of the problems in the first place! People are overweight because they take in more calories than they use. Whatever the cause, physical or emotional, food intake has to be reduced. Many people have success with significant decreases in fat or carbohydrates or sugar. Choose one of these, and try it. If you love pastas and breads, lower your fat intake to less than 20 grams a day. If you have to have the fat, get rid of the pastas and breads. Or, if you can live without sugar, give up all sweets. Some foods have all three, so be careful. If you count grams (located on all food labels), you can reduce your intake of any one of these things. Rad more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=45705 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930702.html Finding the right bag often seems like an endless search. Just when you find one you love, you find something lacking and on the search goes. It’s a trial and error game that can drain your wallet and energy. Here are some steps to help you develop a more organized approach. Investing a little time to really assess your ideal bag before you start your search will save you time, energy and money. Style Preferences: * Color: What color(s) do you like? What is the color you often carry? Before you decide on a color change, consider how you plan to use it. * Shape: Lightweight or structured? * Opening: Do you prefer zip, drawstring, flap, buckle, toggle or magnetic closures * Straps: Are you into shoulder bags, top handles, clutches, totes? Also consider the strap type …thick, thin or rolled. * Extras: What are the added items that you love … protective feet on the bottom, cell and zip pockets, external pockets, special details? * Load Style – What works for you? Do you simply need something to hold your wallet and keys, or are you the “carry everything” type? * Bag Load-Ability – Will the bag accommodate your load style, plus how easy can you access everything? Carry everything packers might want to strongly consider lightweight bags with thick or rolled straps. Rolled straps don’t cut into shoulders or hands. Thin straps dig into skin the most and work best with the light load carriers. Shoulder bags are good for light to medium loads. Heavy loads constantly carried in the shoulder bags can affect the back.Strap length is also important. The longer the straps, the more you feel the weight. Functionality – Does this bag work for you? There are two functional points to consider: * Fit – Does it fit and complement you? Make sure the bag size in proportion with your build … not too small or large and overwhelming. Also, a shoulder bag tip; the shoulder bag should fall next to a good area for your body. If I have hips, I want the bag to fall above them to balance them out. If I have large breasts, I will avoid the short straps so the bag doesn’t draw more attention to that area. * Use – How will you use the bag? Daily for work, weekends or special events? These factors should influence your choice. Rad more: http://womentodaymagazine.com/fashion/perfect_bag.html http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930701.html 1. Buy a piece of clothing you love. Hang it out in full view, so you can see it everyday. Remind yourself that you will be wearing it as soon as your goal is reached. 2. Put pictures on your refrigerator and food cabinets of people who have the body weight you want. Look at these thoroughly each time you go to the food places. Contemplate yourself in that body before you open that frig or cabinet. 3. Tell others what your goal is. Tell them what your benchmarks are. When you tell others that you are going to lose a specific amount of weight by a certain time, you will feel more motivated, because you will not want to admit that you “cheated” and didn’t reach the goal. 4. Ask for support. Tell your family and friends that you need them to get “on board” with your plan. They have to refrain from tempting you or eating enticing fattening foods in front of you. Your husband or wife can do his/her “fat food” eating while away from home. Our friends can go out with you to restaurants that have “light” fare, and eat that light fare with you. 5. Find another friend who wants to lose weight too. Do it together. There is strength in numbers. 6. Join a weight loss program – they are all over town. Regular meetings and celebrations of everyone’s small successes will serve to keep you on the right track. Most important, reward yourself for your success. After you have lost 15 pounds, have one item on your list of favorite foods that you have denied yourself. And then, back to it! Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=45712 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930700.html 1. WAAAYYYY too much blush - Blush is supposed to look natural, flushed, pretty. Think J.Low. She's got it down. Apply your blush before ANY other color on your face. If you look like you could throw on lip gloss and mascara and run out the door, you're good! 2. The dreaded blue eyeshadow a la 1960's. Okay, I think whenever someone is in that dreaded "color" shadow mode, it's because someone at some time said "gee! that looks great honey!" When it painfully didn't. We're suckers for a compliment. Someone likes that blazer I'm wearing and I'm wearing that thing 3 days in a row. Beauty is supposed to make you look at the whole image. Not just one thing. You want the whole you to shine. In photography makeup, a trait of a good makeup artist is when their makeup style blends in with the whole photo. It doesn't stand out like a sore thumb. I feel complimented on my work when someone oohs and aahs over the photo, not my work. Then I know I've done a good job. 3. Navy blue, dark blue, any blue. - Anything with blue, dark blue or grayish blue around your eyes really brings out the dark blue undereye circle under it. Copy a color on your face that you don't like in your makeup, and it'll look worse. Way worse. Case in point: a red dress with sunburn. See? Doesn't work. Go warmer, chestnutty, bronzy in shadows and liner instead. Trust me. 4. "You're looking a little tired. Are you feeling ok?" - We've all been there. If people ask if you're tired when you aren't it's could be your makeup. Incorrect make-up color choices can actually make your skin look tired. How? By unintentionally wearing colors that have gray in them. A grayish pink blush, a grayish mauvey lipstick, a grayish eyeshadow -- even your foundation might be gray. All that gray can make you look tired by bringing out the gray in your skin. The good news is, you don't need a facial. You need another color. How can you tell? Put your cosmetic color onto white paper. What color do you see? If you see gray, that's the culprit. And gray is the #1 added color to cosmetics. Makes me wonder how many women have run to the skincare counters to get the latest alpha hydroxy, skin brightening wonder creams, only to find out it's really the makeup that makes you look, well, you know, tired. Read more: http://womentodaymagazine.com/beauty/makeup_mistakes.html http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930699.html o, as you go further into the weight loss process and begin to approach your target weight, you also get further away from your set point weight. This, in turn, may trigger a strong reaction from your body, slowing the rate of loss and thus discouraging you. Let's assume you are determined to stick with it. Your diet is sane, and you increase your exercise. Eventually you may reach your goal of 160 pounds. But what happens to your set point? If it's still set at 200, the body won't be content until you return to that weight. Is this one reason why, in the long run, almost all diets fail? Maybe, but if this is true, why are some folks successful in taking off weight and keeping it off? Were they able to reset their set point to a lower weight? If they can do it, why can't others? Or is it that they still have the same old set point, but they control the situation by exercising daily? This allows them to eat more, thus satisfying that urge. The exercise also boosts metabolism sufficiently during and after the exercise to burn enough calories to keep the weight down. Thus, to placate the old set point, exercisers eat more, and their metabolic burn-off each day, thanks to exercise, is similar to what it used to be at their heavier original weight. But their weight is sustained at a lower level, suggesting that if the set point cannot be reset, exercise may outwit it. I have no idea if this is true or not, but it's worthy of consideration. There is some research that supports this notion. An ongoing national research study on weight loss has found that those who successfully lost at least 30 pounds and kept it off for at least two years had two things in common. One, they lost the weight slowly by following a sane and healthy diet that entailed only a modest drop in caloric intake. And, two, they all exercise regularly. The bottom line If you want to take off weight and keep it off, regardless of what your set point thinks you should weigh, put less effort into a restrictive and punishing diet, and more effort into daily exercise. Read more: http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071213/FEATURES03/312130013 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930698.html Quite a number of people claim weight loss success through the use of herbal treatments and supplements. There are a wide variety recommended by just as wide a group of diverse people. Basically, herbal supplements perform two functions: 1.The action of some natural ingredients trick the brain into thinking the stomach is full. This concept is actually quite accurate, because the “fullness” of the stomach is actually a signal sent by the brain which results in a person’s cessation of eating. Soy protein is a natural ingredient which actually expands a bit in the stomach. It is free of fat, carbohydrate and sugar, and is considered an ideal diet food. If it is prepared in a method pleasing to taste, it can become a staple of many dieters. Soy has a tendency to produce gas, however, so it may be wise to take an anti-gas medication if soy is to become a large part of your diet. 2.A number of herbs actually speed up metabolism, giving the dieter much more energy. More energy means more activity. More activity means more calorie burning. Some of the most common herbals producing this effect are ephedrine, guarana, St. John’s Wart, nettle, dandelion, green tea and cayenne. Before taking any of these, however, it would be wise to investigate studies and reports about the possible side effects of their use. Ephedrine(commonly called ephedra), for example, has been suspect in causing high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. Because most clerks in health food stores are not completely versed in the potential effects of these supplements, it would be wise to check them out on the Internet and to consult your physician before you begin a regular regimen of intake. Others, like green tea, dandelion, cayenne and St. John’s Wart have not been linked to negative side effects and are considered to be relatively safe. Herbal and natural weight loss treatments are certainly an option as you explore what works in your case. Again, however, remember to thoroughly investigate any one that you are considering, check with your doctor, and be aware that you want to use them in conjunction with other methods. Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=45707 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930697.html So what can we do to keep our healthy resolutions and avoid falling into the same pitfalls? Wright suggests streamlining your resolutions: “Pick one thing versus taking on so many things. For example, quitting smoking is a massive life change that has so many health benefits to it, but choosing to lose weight on top of that is way too much to handle all at once.” Enacting small and feasible changes may make it easier to incorporate into in already busy lifestyle. Focus on one change at a time. For example, if you want to exercise more, try to work that into your routine before taking on any more challenges. Even if you walk briskly to work, take the stairs instead of the elevator or get to the gym once a week, it can make a difference. “Perhaps incorporate other goals throughout the year,” says Wright. “It doesn’t necessarily have to get done by January 1st.” Read more: http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977202977 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930696.html Exposing your skin to warm, moist steam from recently boiled water, be it from a pot in your kitchen, an electric facial sauna, a sauna at the Gym or by application of a hot compress (a flannel soaked in hot water, rinsed out and placed on the treatment area such as the back and shoulders) will help to deep cleans your skin. The warmth in the steam will improve the blood circulation to the skin, resulting in detoxification of the skin by removal of any Toxins built up in the skin. Steaming the face is the best way to thoroughly deep clean your pores, to get rid of pimples, blackheads and whiteheads. Steaming is very important to loosen debris that may be embedded into the skin. When steaming the face your wide the clogged pores and soften the skin in order to cleanse more easily the impurities, the traces of makeup, the dust, the sebaceous secretions as well as the dead skin cells. It is helpful for both acne and blackheads. Facial steaming is recommended to be done on a weekly basis as part of your beauty routine. Other benefits of steam on the skin is Softens and re hydrates outer layer of skin , Stimulates skin blood circulation and helps soften plugs in pores for easy removal. The steam will open the pores, loosen blackheads and bring spots to a head. Do not get too close to the boiling water, for if the steam is too hot, it might cause broken veins. To make steaming more beneficial, add a tablespoon of herbs to the water. You can also try lavender, thyme and rosemary for a stimulating cleanse. These herbs smell delicious. Steam your face for about ten to twenty minutes. By steaming blackheads come out of the pores and it becomes easy to extract them. Lower your face over the pot which should cover the head and pot in a way that steam is directed towards your face. You should add peppermints, rose petals, mint petals in the water. Use a soft towel to dry your face. Steaming should be done once in a week. You can also apply a moisturizer and massage the face and neck and then steam your face. With the help of cotton gently wash your face. The benefits of steaming your face are many. It opens your pores, removes dead skin cells, improves circulation and allows for a deep cleansing of your skin. It is helpful for both acne and blackheads. Facial steaming is recommended to be done on a weekly basis as part of your beauty routine. It is normal after the first few times for a few blemishes to appear, this is due to the steam releasing the impurities in the skin. However using too high of a temperature for either of the following methods can do more harm than good. Excessive steam can burn your skin so be careful and only do what is comfortable for you. If you have sensitive skin or any skin conditions it is best to discuss with your doctor prior to facial steaming. The best time for applying facial mask is after steaming your face, because the pores are open and mask will be able to penetrate deeply into the skin. Steam and sauna bathing is one of the simplest and most comfortable ways to rid the body of accumulated toxins as perspiration helps eliminate waste products and accumulated toxins and a steam bath is a powerful perspiration inducer. Steam bathing is very dehydrating, so make sure you drink up. Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=42599 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930695.html If, since the beginning, your sex drives have always been mismatched, it might be that your husband merely has a lower libido than you do. Not all men have enormous sex drives. In some cases, this has to do with low testosterone levels. This should be checked out by a doctor. If this is the problem, it can be remedied fairly easily with testosterone replacement. If it’s not the result of a hormonal problem, which is more likely, the goal is to raise his level of desire. You can do this by figuring out what things are sexually stimulating to him and adding more of them. In trying to ascertain this, throw out different ideas. These might include reading erotica to each other, watching porn together, wearing outfits he finds particularly appealing, going dancing, visiting the sex store for new toys or having sex in new places. You might think you already know what he likes. But, as is often the case when it comes to men with low libido, you actually don’t. So ask. (But don’t ask when you’re in the bedroom arguing about this. Do so when you’re in the car, raking leaves, cooking dinner or doing something else ordinary, where he will not feel so vulnerable.) The idea is to introduce exciting activities that will whet his appetite and increase his desire. To an extent, you will likely have to compromise. If your sex drives are out of balance, your aim is to meet in the middle, having sex a bit more than one partner likes but probably a bit less than the other likes. There is nothing wrong with self-satisfaction to help make up some of what you might miss from your partner. This kind of compromise is what healthy couples do. If this is a newer problem, that raises the red flag of a possible medical issue. Health conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, and new use of medications such as antidepressants or antihypertensives can cause erectile dysfunction. Your husband might choose to avoid sex altogether rather than feel he is embarrassing himself in the bedroom. His lack of desire might also stem from something you are not aware of — stresses over work, finances or something else. It is important to have a discussion about this — again, not in the bedroom. Allowing him to share his anxieties and helping him brainstorm solutions may make him feel more comfortable in the bedroom. Your husband might be less inclined to work on the problem if he doesn’t perceive it as a problem. But if he knows how vital it is to you, it is something you can work on together. As you know, this kind of problem can seriously erode a marriage. Without sex and romance, you might as well be roommates. In many cases, mismatched desire could benefit from seeing a certified sex therapist, who can lay out specific and concrete treatment. Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21340656/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930694.html 1. Be flexible — or pick someone similar to you. In terms of maintaining a long-term love, one of the best predictors of longevity is how similar your morals, values, goals and ways of thinking about important issues are. Obviously the farther apart you are, the more likely there will be frequent disagreements, unless you and your partner are particularly flexible people who are good at compromising. Of course there will be still be arguments — that is a part of even the strongest relationships. But if the gap between the two of you is relatively small, your task of compromising will be less onerous. 2. Give 80 percent to your partner. Nothing solidifies love and trust like being thoughtful and giving toward your mate. If both of you are doing this, then each feels pretty satisfied and loved. Of course, there will be and should be times when you need to put yourself first — but these times should be in the minority. If you give to your mate, he or she will really enjoy giving to you. Nothing breeds love like giving love. 3. Love on balance. By this I mean that no one is perfect and you will not love everything about anyone. Unfortunately, many people think they are supposed to love everything about their partner and so when there is something they don’t like, they begin to fixate on this characteristic and even try to change it. When it comes to love, you must take the good with the bad, because in the grand scheme of the relationship, the positive should outweigh the negative. 4. Determine the source of your unhappiness. Marital dissatisfaction often has its roots in personal unhappiness (which can be related to work, level of success, health or weight, etc.). Often these personal shortcomings are blamed on the marriage. In fact, many couples that at one time chose to remain in unhappy marriages end up happy five years later — even though nothing in the marriage itself has changed. So if you feel it’s your relationship that is making you miserable, try to step back and see if it is really you. Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21818739/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930693.html Here is what I want you to do: * Strategically arrange the bedroom furniture around any incoming light and noise. * Replace high-wattage bulbs with low-wattage bulbs. Replace your switchers with “dimmers.” Aim to reduce the total “time-for-bed” wattage in your bedroom to 45 watts or less. * Make sure your windows are covered. Consider blackout shades or heavy drapes to cover windows. These can also dampen sounds. Don’t forget to use a drape clip, which will securely close the two sides of the drapery. (Try starting out by using a “chip clip,” which work great.) * Have a reading lamp or book light available for the one who wants to read before going to bed. (I like the itty-bitty book light, but you’ll find many to choose from. Go with what you like.) * Use night lights for hallways and bathrooms. These should be emit low-level ambient light and be placed along a pathway to the target restroom. * Keep eye shades in your bedside table. There are about 20 different kinds on the market. Sound Sound rings in as the second most important variable to creating a sound sleep environment because you can hear in your sleep, and some noises will keep you out of deep sleep. * Consider music: nature and ocean sounds can help with relaxation and sleep. * Consider a relaxation CD (you can download my personal favorite at my site, www.soundsleepsolutions.com for free when you register for my newsletter) * Consider white noise machines. Some companies specialize in “sound conditioners” that drown out noise. Or you can use the old trick of setting your radio between stations and keeping the volume low to create your own! * Consider ear plugs. * Consider a system for the television and any other device emitting sound. Earphones, pillow speakers, and a TV timer (for both light and noise) are options. Touch How you feel physically while in the comforts (hopefully) of your bedroom has a major influence on your ability to sleep well. Pillow Talk: Shopping for the perfect pillow is intimidating; any single store will carry dozens of brands with their own labels and fancy names. Pillows come in all shapes, sizes, and fillers. Let’s review the main filler options, which is the first decision you have to make. A pillow may last anywhere from 12 months to 18 month. And you get what you pay for. Think how much you spend on other items you use every day, like clothes and accessories. If you have a suit that you wear 12 hours a day, four days a week and it lasts three years, that’s 7,200 hours of use. Your pillow is used every night, for about 8 hours = 2,920 hours per year. Don’t underestimate the overall value of a good pillow. Spend wisely. I have developed a quiz at www.sleepbetter.org that you can take that tells you which is the best pillow for you. Smell Your olfactory system (sense of smell) is one of the most influential sensory parts of the body. Does Aroma Therapy really work? Actually it does: To date the research on Aromatherapy and sleep tells us a few things: first that generally speaking you do not just sniff something a pass out (unless it is ether, or something like that!) aroma therapy provides a relaxation response thus allowing your body to relax enough to go to sleep. As for the sleep itself there are a few studies looking specifically at Lavender (also known to decrease heart rate and blood pressure):One Study out of Korea showed that the length of time taken to fall asleep, severity of insomnia and self satisfaction with sleep improved- the study was not specific in terms of what exactly improvement meant.In one study Lavender increased slow wave aka “deep sleep” in the first part of the night, which is when you get the most deep sleep and when growth hormone is emitted by the hypothalamus-this is important to weight loss, and how you look! The study also found that people do not wake up as often, it takes a shorter time to get to deep sleep and to REM sleep. Another study showed that “relaxing odors” showed a decrease in heart rate. Taste The effects of various foods on individuals vary greatly due to how sensitive a person is to substances in the food, the time of day one eats, other dietary factors, medical conditions, medications, exercise, bedtime, stress levels, and other factors. Although there is no doubt that foods affect the quality of our sleep, convincing clinical studies on how specific foods and substances affect sleep are often hard to come by. That said, certain foods do have sleep-friendly effects, while others have ones that can keep you awake. And the time of day you eat certain foods can impact your sleep. Sleep-Friendly... Eating a healthy diet goes a long way toward sleeping well. If you eat well, you can sleep well. Sleep-friendly foods may help you relax and fall asleep, but don’t view them as "sleeping pills." All the sleep-friendly foods in the world won’t help much if you are working until midnight, chugging coffee, and your mind is racing about the next day’s work. Foods that, as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, help promote sleep may include tuna, halibut, pumpkin, artichokes, avocados, almonds, eggs, bok choy, peaches, walnuts, apricots, oats, asparagus, potatoes, buckwheat, and bananas. They contain generous supplies of the vitamins, minerals, fats, and proteins necessary for proper functioning of our nervous, muscular, metabolic, skeletal, and hormonal systems. Important nutrients include calcium, magnesium, selenium, zinc, omega fatty acids, amino acids to build proteins, vitamins C, E, and B-complex, and iron (especially for premenopausal women). * By curbing your hunger, a light snack may allow you to fall asleep more easily Carbohydrates and dairy products have been shown to help decrease the time it takes to fall asleep. * Tryptophan is a building block of serotonin, which has been shown to have a calming effect on the brain and help regulate sleep. Tryptophan is absorbed best when eaten with carbohydrates and without other proteins in the stomach. ...And sleep-unfriendly Caffeine is a stimulant and can keep you awake. Cutting out caffeine at least four to six hours before bedtime can help you fall asleep more easily. It can stay in your body longer than you may think -- up to 14 hours. So if you drink a cup of coffee at noon and are still awake at midnight, that may be the reason. But watch out -- if you usually consume large amounts of caffeine and cut yourself off too quickly, you may get headaches that also could keep you awake. Caffeine is present in: 1. Beverages like coffee (100-200 mg), tea (50-75 mg), soda (50-75 mg) 2. Frozen coffee deserts (8-85 mg) 3. Prescription and over-the-counter medications cold remedies, diuretics, stimulants, and weight loss products, such as like extra strength Excedrin (two tablets, 130 mg), Dexatrim (200 mg), Vanquish (33 mg), Dristan (one tablet, 30 mg) 4. What about chocolate?! Gotcha. Many people think chocolate is high in caffeine. Actually it’s not; milk chocolate and chocolate milk have only about 5-6 mg of caffeine per serving. That’s a 1-ounce serving for chocolate and 8 ounces for chocolate milk. A tip about caffeine consumption: Although many people do not abuse caffeine, its use can be insidious: Say you drink some coffee or tea in the morning, a couple of sodas during the day, some more tea or coffee after dinner. You may well have enough caffeine to keep you awake and disturb your sleep. Now what happens the next morning? You wake up tired, so what do you do? Brew up some more coffee, of course, and start all over again. It’s a vicious cycle. When you wake up tired, you should actually CUT caffeine, not increase it. We should note that caffeine use, in and of itself, is not a bad thing and has been shown to have some positive effects. Nicotine: Although not a food per se, nicotine is ingested and associated with eating and drinking. Having a smoke before bed — although it feels relaxing — actually puts a stimulant into your bloodstream. The effects of nicotine are similar to those of caffeine. Nicotine can keep you up and awaken you at night; it can stay in your body as long as 14 hours. It should be avoided particularly near bedtime and if you wake up in the middle of the night. Alcohol: Alcohol is a depressant. Although it may help you fall asleep, as your body clears it from your system while you are sleeping, you have a withdrawal that can cause symptoms like nightmares, sweats, and headache. Try drinking one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage to try to reduce these effects. Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21837885/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930692.html Every two years these women were asked if they had tried to become pregnant without any success for more than one year (which pretty much defines infertility). They were also asked to indicate if their inability to conceive had been diagnosed and found to be due to fallopian tube blockage, endometriosis, their husband’s low sperm count, problems related to ovulation, or if no problems were found. The researchers did find a relationship between diet, exercise, weight and successful pregnancy. They found that the lowest risk of ovulation problem-related infertility occurred in women who exercised vigorously (at least 30 minutes per day) and had a body mass index (BMI) of between 20 and 24.9. These women’s diets also had a ratio of monounsaturated fats to trans fats of at least 10%, animal protein made up less than 10% of their energy and calories, vegetable protein made up more than 7% of their calories, iron intake was greater than 40 mg, and their diets had a low glycemic load (less than 107 grams of processed carbohydrates). These women also ate less than one serving a week of low-fat dairy, had one or more servings a day of high-fat dairy (the authors don’t understand this particular result), and consumed six or more multivitamin tablets a week. The difference in “ovulation disorder” infertility between women who didn’t attain these criteria compared to the women who did was sixfold. The author’s conclusion was that infertility cases due to ovulation disorders may be prevented through modification of lifestyle: Eating vegetable protein versus animal protein, complex, rather than processed carbs, the right fats and increasing physical activity (while maintaining adequate body weight) made a huge difference. In other words, before and while getting pregnant, eat and do what your doctors have been advocating all along for your heart and body health! Read more: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21756605/ http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930691.html If you want your eyeshadow to last all day long simply apply a thin layer of concealer before applying your eyeshadow. It will usually last you for 24hrs. Eye shadow is a cosmetic which is applied on the eyelids and under the eyebrows. Eye shadow adds depth and dimension to one's eyes, compliments the eye color, or simply draw attention to the eyes. Eye shadow comes in many different colors, and is usually made from a powder. Eye shadow is perhaps the most beloved cosmetic of creative makeup artists. The most important trick to keep in mind is that the light colors highlight the spots while dark colors tame them down. Apply the medium shade on the lower lid and blend it into your base shade. Apply the medium shade on the lower lid and blend it into your base shade. Eye shadow comes in many different colors, and is usually made from a powder, but can also be found in liquid, pencil or mousse form. Eye shadow is a cosmetic which is applied on the eyelids and under the eyebrows, to help make wearer's eyes stand out or look more attractive. Eye shadow adds depth and dimension to one's eyes, compliments the eye color, or simply draw attention to the eyes. Eye shadow can be applied in a variety of ways depending upon the desired look and formulation. Typically application is done using sponges, fingers, and/or brushes. An eyeshadow primer or base can be applied to prevent the shadow from fading or migrating to the crease. Many eyeshadow sets come with three colors, the lightest being the highlighter while the darkest is used in the crease. An eyeshadow primer or base can be applied to prevent the shadow from fading or migrating to the crease. Eyeshadow apply Tips 1. Before using eye-shadow, use a little powder on the eyelid as a base. 2. Never share the eye makeup tools. 3. For day makeup, base color and mascara are the only things you need to wear for eyes. 4. Apply the darkest shade to the outer corners of the eyes from lash line to the crease. 5. Use brushes to apply eye shadow. Try to avoid those nasty foam applicators that come with it. Read more: http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=42624 http://www.womensbeautylife.com/a-930690.html In the single most important study conducted so far on the connection between lifestyle choices and cancer risk, the World Cancer Research Fund confirms the crucial role healthy habits play in the prevention of this disease. On the menu: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating lots of plant products, reducing the consumption of red and processed meats and exercising regularly. This second report, released jointly by the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, is the result of a whirlwind of work. During a five-year period, hundreds of scientists from various countries carefully scrutinized the results of more than 7,000 studies focusing on the connection between lifestyle choices and cancer risk. These results were then analysed by a panel of experts consisting of 21 distinguished scientists who work in the cancer, nutrition and physical activity fields. The result was impressive: A 517-page report that summarizes the knowledge gathered to date on the effect of diet and physical activity on the risk of developing 17 different types of cancers. The detailed analysis of cancer risk factors enabled the panel of experts to make 10 major recommendations to reduce the burden of cancer in the world: - Stay as thin as possible, with a body mass index between 21 and 23. BMI is your body weight in kilograms divided by the square of your height in metres. For example, someone 1.75 m tall who weighs 70 kg has a BMI of 23: 70 / (1.75 x 1.75) = 23 - Exercise at least 30 minutes a day. - Avoid soft drinks and minimize your consumption of foods that contain large quantities of sugar and fat. (In other words, reduce your fast-food consumption.) - Eat abundant quantities of fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole-grain foods. The panel recommends that these foods comprise two-thirds of each meal, the other third coming from animal protein. - Reduce your consumption of red meats (beef, lamb, pork) to about 500 gm a week and replace them with fish, egg or plant proteins. The panel also recommends to completely avoid eating delicatessen meats because these significantly increase cancer risk. - Limit your daily intake of alcohol beverages to two glasses if you are a man and one if you are a woman. - Limit your consumption of products preserved in salt (salted fishes, for example) and products containing high amounts of salt. - Do not take supplements to prevent cancer. Studies show the synergy of combining foods is far superior to supplements in reducing the risk of developing cancer. Read more: http://lfpress.ca/newsstand/Today/2007/11/12/4649380-sun.html