Friday, November 16, 2007

Benefit Makeup: Wearing a Fun Brand

If you’re looking for a makeup brand that can make you look cool and feel fun at the same time, Benefit makeup can be the suitable brand for you. Surely, there are hundreds of well-known brands out there but Benefit makeup is just one of the best there is that not just offer high-quality makeup line but affordable product as well. It is one of the well-loved and most favorite makeup brands in the United States that any woman in the world can try for themselves.

Indiana-born twins Jean and Jane Ford founded Benefit Cosmetics in San Francisco, USA. Starting to work as models, the twins successfully turned their love for beauty and makeup into one of America’s well-known business ventures.

Although started as a small beauty shop, its humor-filled cosmetic or makeup lines made the Benefit makeup brand a trendy craze among makeup lovers. Fashion giant Louis Vuitton even acquired in 1999 and made it flourish globally with more than 650 makeup counters worldwide and best-selling online catalogs.

What was the secret?

The Ford twins are known for its humor and even silliness, which they applied in naming their makeup lines and proved to be the secret in the success of the Benefit makeup brand. People find product names such as ooh la lift, f.y…eye, and swinging sweeties alluring and amusing that they really buy because the names are contagious enough to make them feel good while wearing it. But more than that, offering quality of their product and customer-oriented approach still rule the cosmetic company.

The Fake-It line as well as the Big Beautiful Eyes and the Valley of the Stars makeup kits are among the top favorites in the Benefit makeup brand and often regarded as ultimate must-haves of every makeup lover.

Fake-It line contains the five quick pint-sized best-selling beauty fixers for the eyes and the skin such as the boi-ing under eye circle concealer and the lemon-aid discoloration corrector in a trendy travel size kit. The Big Beautiful Eyes is an eye contour kit containing eye shadows in shades of brown and pink, which can suit almost any complexion, quality application brushes, and a makeup application guide booklet. Finally, the Valley of the Stars is glimmer kit containing gloss and shadows that can really make you stand out in any night parties.

The best part of Benefit makeup is that is it fairly priced and a very good makeup brand to invest your money with.

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Luxury Facial Salts Unscented

Consumer: Acne sufferers

The purpose of the Luxury Facial Salts product is to clear pores and remove impurities that cause acne.

Pros: According to the Dead Sea Cosmetics website, “The Dead Sea's water contains a unique composition of minerals and trace elements that have soothing effects on the skin.  Jericho Luxury Facial Salts contain a high concentration of these minerals and trace elements.  Use the naturally exfoliating Jericho Luxury Facial Salts to clear blocked pores and remove impurities.” The statement goes on to say, “Your complexion will be brighter and your skin will feel soft, young and refreshed.  In fact, many users of Jericho's Luxury Facial Salts consider them an all-natural, in-home micro-derm-abraision treatment.”

To use the Luxury Facial Salts, you simply wet the face, massage in a small amount of the product, and then rinse thoroughly and pat the face dry. It is recommended that the Luxury Facial Salts be used several times each week for best results.

Cons: The Luxury Facial Salts must be completely rinsed off of the skin after use to prevent skin damage. The salt in the product would have a drying effect if it remained on the skin.

Guarantee: There is a limited guarantee of satisfaction that states in part, “The warranty applies based on current statutory provisions. Additional information about manufacturer’s warranties can be found on the product pages or in the product manuals.”

Value for money: The Luxury Facial Salts appears to be an excellent product and a very good value. Not only does it clean and clear the skin, but it is also an natural exfoliant.

CG

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Starbucks Stack form Starbucks Store.com

Consumer: Coffee lovers and gift-givers

The purpose of the Starbucks Stack is to provide a wonderful and unusual coffee gift basket for gift givers.

Pros: The Starbucks Stack consists of five boxes in graduated sizes, stacked up and tied with a bow. Very impressive! Inside the boxes, though, is what really makes the Starbucks Stack so very, very special! Inside those five gorgeous boxes you will find:
* One 12-oz. bag of ground Costa Rica Tarrazu Starbucks coffee
* Five 2.5-oz. portion packs of ground Starbucks coffee - one Breakfast Blend, one French Roast, one House Blend, two Caffè Verona
* Three 1.25-oz. portion packs of Starbucks gourmet hot cocoa
* Two 1.25-oz. packages of Starbucks biscotti
* Three 1.2-oz. packages of Walker Shortbread
* Two packs of Milk Chocolate Covered Grahams
* One coffee scoop
* Two 24-pc. boxes of Tazo teas – Awale, Chai
Now that is what I would call one terrific coffee lover’s gift basket! If you really want to impress that coffee lover on your gift list send him (or her) the Starbucks Stack.

Cons: There are simply no discernible cons associated with the Starbucks Stack. It is an excellent coffee gift basket -- maybe the best one that I’ve ever seen.

Guarantee: The guarantee of satisfaction posted on the Starbucks website reads in part: “At StarbucksStore.com, we want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it for a replacement or refund of the purchase price. We even stand behind our delivery. If your package is not delivered when we said it would, then the shipping is free.”

Value for money: The Starbucks Stack is a very good value and really is an excellent choice of a gift for a real coffee lover.

Thursday, July 05, 2007

Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi from Starbucks Store.com

Consumer: Coffee lovers

The purpose of the Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi is to provide an espresso coffee maker to coffee lovers that will make espresso coffee completely automatically from grinding the beans to delivering the cup of coffee.

Pros: DeLonghi is a well-known and well-established name in espresso coffee maker circles. They’ve been at it a long time and have all of the ‘bugs’ worked out. The Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi is the top of the top of the line. It automatically grinds, tamps and brews fresh espresso coffee.

The Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi is completely programmable. You can set it to make espresso coffee according to strength, cup size and temperature. There is also a cappuccino frother that automatically mixes steam and milk to create rich, creamy foam. There are Stainless steel conical burrs with adjustable grind setting that will deliver the most accurate and consistent grind.

The Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi even tells you when it is time to clean it…automatically! The height adjustable spouts also allow you to serve coffee in varying cup sizes.

Cons: Unless you are a serious espresso aficionado, the price of the product may be too high. There is a one-year warranty on the Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi, but that hardly seems like a warranty that is long enough considering the price of the machine.

Guarantee: The guarantee of satisfaction posted on the Starbucks website reads in part: “At StarbucksStore.com, we want you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it for a replacement or refund of the purchase price. We even stand behind our delivery. If your package is not delivered when we said it would, then the shipping is free.”

Value for money: The Magnifica Super Automatic by DeLonghi is very expensive, but it may be a good value to real coffee lovers.

Tuesday, June 12, 2007

FootSmart Mens Wrap Around Slippers from FootSmart.com

Consumer: Men

The purpose of the Men's Wrap-Around Slippers by FootSmart is to provide indoor footwear offering both comfort and style.

Pros: FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers are very foot-friendly even for problem feet. According to the website, “The anatomically contoured footbed and wide toe box create a roomier fit. Micro-terry/cotton upper and lining are breathable, absorbent and feel ultra soft to the skin.”

After a long, hard day wearing dress shoes or work boots, your feet will thank you for providing them with all of the comfort they will find in FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers. The FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers are designed with an open toe and a closed heel for the maximum in foot comfort for those tired feet and sore toes. The FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers feel secure on your feet without binding them in any way. The FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers are also stylish while providing your poor aching feet with much-needed breathing room.

Cons: FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers are not washable. They can only be spot-cleaned, and because the uppers are constructed of terry cloth, the shoes could become extensively soiled very easily.

Guarantee: The guarantee on the FootSmart website reads in part: “Everything you buy from us is backed by our 120 Day – 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.  If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return it within 120 days for any reason and your product total will be refunded (unfortunately we cannot refund shipping and order processing fees).  Please remember, though, that footwear products, such as shoes, must be returned in their original, unworn condition, and in their original boxes.”

Value for money: FootSmart Men's Wrap-Around Slippers are a very good value.

Thursday, June 07, 2007

"Skechers Cali Womens Alta Vista Sandal" from Masseys.com

"Skechers Cali Womens Alta Vista Sandal" from Masseys.com

Consumer: Women

The purpose of the Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandal is to provide women with a casual shoe that will be appropriate for many casual occasions.

Pros: The Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandal is one of the coolest shoes that I have seen! It really is quite beautiful! The color is listed as black but that refers only to the sole and heel. The upper is made of satin that has a gorgeous design in earth tones.

The Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandal is a thong sandal with a three and one-half-inch heel that gives it so much class! Is it a casual shoe? Oh, yes, it is certainly casual but it most certainly isn’t without style! This shoe would be right at home in the most elegant of casual situations.

With a pair of Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandals in your closet you will be ready for all of the casual affairs that you are invited to attend, and you will go in style!

Cons: The Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandal is available only in whole sizes. Those who need half sizes must order the next larger size. It only comes in one color, as well.

Guarantee: There is a guarantee of satisfaction. The guarantee posted on the website reads in part, “Naturally we want you to be totally pleased with every product you purchase from us, so if it becomes necessary to return it for a refund or exchange, we want you to be just as pleased with that process as well.” There are two methods for returns offered. Find more info at: http://www.masseys.com/customer.asp

Value for money: The Skechers Cali Women's Alta Vista Sandal is an excellent value for a casual shoe with class.

CJ

"Propet Mens Wash N Wear Walker" from FootSmart.com

"Propet Mens Wash N Wear Walker" from FootSmart.com

A Review...

Consumer: Men

The purpose of the Propet Men's Wash 'N Wear Walker is to provide walking shoes that are comfortable as well as washable.

Pros: The Propet Men's Wash 'N Wear Walker is an excellent active sportswear shoe that are easily donned with the pull-on tab on the heel. There are no laces to tie (or re-tie). This active wear shoe has excellent heel and arch support, molded EVA midsole for shock absorption, and great traction soles. There are removable inner soles that can help the shoes to be more "breathable."

The nicest thing about the Propet Men's Wash 'N Wear Walker is that it is washable. You can simply toss the shoes into the washing machine and they come out clean and presentable again, no matter how far or how hard they have traveled. You cannot toss them into the dryer, however; they must be air-dried.

A quilted leather upper with a nylon-neoprene padded collar enables the shoes to stay looking newer longer.

Cons: The design of the Propet Men's Wash 'N Wear Walker means that it will not be "breathable." Although they are very well made, these shoes will not allow any air circulation at all around the foot.

Guarantee: The guarantee on the FootSmart website reads in part: “Everything you buy from us is backed by our 120 Day – 100% Satisfaction Guarantee.  If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply return it within 120 days for any reason and your product total will be refunded (unfortunately we cannot refund shipping and order processing fees).  Please remember, though, that footwear products, such as shoes, must be returned in their original, unworn condition, and in their original boxes.”

Value for money: The Propet Men's Wash 'N Wear Walker shoes are really a very good value.

Friday, May 18, 2007

Discovering Nature on Bora Bora

Bora Bora is a haven of wonderful nature that will inspire travelers from its incredible peaks of black rock to its verdant surroundings and the turquoise waters of the lagoon. Exploring nature in Bora Bora is truly an adventure that will bring you down to lush valleys, deeper still to crystal-clear waters and high up dramatic mountains.

A two-lane road circles the island so you can easily take a tour on your own but the ideal way to discover the inland beauty of Bora Bora is an island excursion with a knowledgeable tour guide. There are many reliable tour companies in Bora Bora that will be glad to show you the wonders of nature in this island.

The typical nature tour on the island is on a four-wheel drive. The tour will circle the entire island through towns and several cultural and historical sites. This is a thrilling jeep ride that will take you zooming down hills, around road curves, through muddy paths and trees. These island tours usually take 2 to 3 hours.

You can also enjoy the beauty of nature in Bora Bora by hiking, biking, or horseback riding. You can also rent a scooter and ride around the island or rent a helicopter for a spectacular bird’s-eye view.

Many consider Bora Bora to be the most beautiful island of French Polynesia. The volcanic island has slightly steeper mountains than other islands in the region that makes a dramatic background to lush greeneries and bright tropical flowers.

But, of course, the most fascinating of Bora Bora’s nature is its lagoon. You can join many of the lagoon excursions in Bora Bora or have a company arrange a customized lagoon sightseeing tour. A popular lagoon tour is on board a boat with a glass bottom that allows you to view the wonders of Bora Bora’s marine life without having to swim at all.

A romantic way to enjoy the lagoon is to take a sunset cruise where you will sail around the island while enjoying the gorgeous sunset and sipping cocktails. Other fun ways to experience the lagoon aside from swimming is by snorkeling, windsurfing; jet skiing, scuba diving, or simply sunbathing on some of the world’s finest white sand beaches.

So whether you are looking for a peaceful commune with nature or a thrilling adventure Bora Bora offers plenty of opportunities to do both whether on land, on air or water.

Saturday, May 12, 2007

The Mayo Clinic Diet Plan from eDiets.com

The purpose of The Mayo Clinic Plan is to help people lose unwanted pounds in a way that is heart healthy.

Pros: The Mayo Clinic is a world famous health care facility. World leaders go to the Mayo Clinic for health care concerns. So you can easily trust them with your weight loss diet and be certain that is will be a healthy plan that is based upon sound principles.

The Mayo Clinic Plan is built upon the famous Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid. What this means to you is that you will consume all of the nutrients that your body needs each day without consuming too many calories or too much fat. According to Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid you can eat enough of the right things so that you are never hungry. You will be well satisfied after each and every meal on Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid.

The menus and the shopping lists are personalized just for you on Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid so you will be eating foods that you actually like.

Cons: There are no discernible cons for The Mayo Clinic Plan.It is actually a very, very good plan that is well balanced and safe.

Guarantee: There is no guarantee of success offered and none would apply.

Value for money: The Mayo Clinic Plan is a very good value.

Price: Undetermined. Membership dues are billed on 28 day cycles and there is a $25 penalty for early cancellation of membership.

Consumer: Dieters

Wednesday, May 09, 2007

Super Line Preventor from www.prescriptives.com

Super Line Preventor from www.prescriptives.com - Consumer: Women

The purpose of the Super Line Preventor is to give 24-hour protection for the prevention of wrinkles.

Pros: A full 80% of the fine lines and wrinkles that appear on our faces are NOT caused by the passing of time but rather by such things as smoke and pollution. That is amazing. We have always been told that time was the culprit but it turns out that time is not the worst of the culprits when it comes to the fine lines and wrinkles that form on our faces.

Super Line Preventor is a product that can help prevent smoke and pollutants from damaging our skin. It is a real breakthrough in skin care! The idea is to protect your skin twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week because the damage is occurring even when you are not out and about in the world. Super Line Preventor works both day and night to protect the skin.

Getting rid of wrinkles can and often does involve expensive surgeries so prevention is much better than the cure.

Cons: Like all preventtaive treatments, you need to give Super Line Preventor enough time to work its magic.

Guarantee: Returns and exchanges are allowed.

Value for money: The Super Line Preventor is a very good value.

Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Cellular Replenishing Serum & AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser from Murad Skincare


The purpose of the Cellular Replenishing Serum & AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is to gently clean and exfoliate and moisturize dry skin.

Pros: All of the Murad skincare products are based upon formulas designed by Dr. Murad. Dr. Murad has devoted a lifetime to skin care and health care. He is a board certified dermatologist, a trained pharmacist and an Associate Clinical Professor of Dermatology at UCLA.

The AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is used first in this anti-skin aging program. The skin is gently cleansed and exfoliated with jojoba beads that counteracts dryness and leaved the skin soft and smooth.

The Cellular Replenishing Serum plumps up fine lines and in effect gives the skin a drink of water. This weightless gel restores hydration as well as elasticity.

Cons: Cellular Replenishing Serum & AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser is not hypo-allergenic so those with very sensitive skin should be very careful when using these products.

Guarantee: There is 100% guarantee of satisfaction with every product sold on the Murad Skincare website for 60 days. The guarantee of satisfaction is ‘bottom-of-the-bottle”. That is...an empty bottle may be returned for a full refund if the customer is not satisfied.

Value for money: The two products included in the Cellular Replenishing Serum & AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser are a very good value and when you add free shipping, free gift wrapping, free samples of other products and a 100% money back guarantee the value becomes excellent.

Monday, April 23, 2007

Avido Shampoo from Aveda?

The Avido Shampoo is both: for men and women, who have very fine or brittle hair that needs body so that it will appear fuller.

The purpose of Avido Shampoo is to add body to hair that is very fine or very brittle to enhance the appearance of the hair.

Pros: Avido Shampoo has been used by thousands of men and women to strengthen and thicken fine and brittle hair. Avido Shampoo builds body in the hair with A-V-7.

Botanic Choice sells many different products for natural health care. There are categories covering weight loss, anti aging, digestion, heart, joints, respiratory, vision as well as beauty care.

Many women (and men) have hair that has been overly processed with bleaches or permanent wave solutions. Additionally, aging often causes the hair to thin and become brittle. Avido shampoo can help no matter what the cause of the hair problem.

Cons: There are no cons associated with Avido Shampoo. It is not, however, hypoallergenic and those who have very sensitive skin or who are prone to allergic reactions to hair care products should use it with caution.

Guarantee: Botanic Choice offers a very generous money back guarantee. The guarantee covers the price, the effectiveness, the purity, the potency and the quality of every product sold. A product may be returned for a full no-questions-asked refund even if the bottle or jar has been opened and used.

Value for money: Avido Shampoo is a really good value. The guarantee makes is doubly valuable. If it doesn’t work for the customer, it can be returned for a full refund.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

The cost of laser hair removal these days

People, especially women nowadays, are becoming more conscious with what they have and what they don't have. Some are concerned that they have too curly hair or very straight hair, some are worried that they have too fair-colored skin or very dark-skinned, and some are conscious that they have too much of this or too less of that. Well, it is a fact that one can never be contented or satisfied with what he or she has, the person will continuously look for something more or for something less, it is just part of man's nature --- to always look and want something else.

In fact, even in body hairs, this concern is quite obvious. Just take for example the appearance or growth of unwanted hairs in some delicate and sensitive parts of the body. Recently, with the innovation in technology, this has been resolved in a way through laser hair removal --- it's painless, safe, and fast. However, you also have to face the idea that this procedure --- because of its benefits --- is quite costly. The cost of laser hair removal does not come in handy, and that is indeed a fact, which most people sometimes realize, only when they are about to do it or when they are over and done with it. The cost of laser hair removal must be in the top part of one's priority's list of laser hair therapy. This shouldn't be the last thing that one should encounter, but rather, because of the high cost of laser hair removal, this must be tackled and understood first before continuing with the study of the pros and cons of laser hair removal.

It's not easy to just pay off whatever the cost of laser hair removal is, just so you'll get it over with or just to complete and finish this hair removal procedure. This should not be the case, this is only a sign of weakness and immaturity --- how, then can you handle the series of sessions of this hair removal treatments, when in fact you can't even decide whether the expensive cost of laser hair removal is worth it in the end or not. You must understand that even if you think and believe that the cost of laser hair removal is actually fair for such therapy, you must also consider some factors and things like: don't you have other important things needed to be paid and purchased first, or don't you need the funds for your big plan and project in the next couple of months, or don't you feel the effort of saving such amount, etc.

Well, the cost of laser hair removal is actually both expensive and not, like with everything else, it just depends on the person, if he truly needs to do it or not, or if it's just simply an extra cash for him to spend.

Sunday, April 08, 2007

The South Beach Theory

Like other diets that are based on the Glycaemic Index (GI), the South Beach diet severely restricts the carbohydrates in the first two weeks before gradually reintroducing those with a low glycaemic index.

The idea is that our bodies break down carbohydrates into sugars and absorb them into the blood, thus, causing high blood sugar. In response, the pancreas releases the hormone insulin to facilitate the use of sugar in the blood. The more sugar there is in the blood, the more insulin is also released.

Carbohydrates rich foods with high glycaemic index, such as bagels, cornflakes, white bread and jacket potatoes can cause a rapid rise in blood sugar. As a result, when you eat lots of these foods, your pancreas also releases voluminous amounts of insulin.

This rapid release of large amounts of insulin likewise results in rapid drops of blood sugar levels, leaving you lacking in energy. Since carbohydrates are your body’s prime source of energy, you start to crave more carbs, leading to carb-splurging – that is, eating too much carbohydrates at one time.

If this pattern is repeated, you are likely to gain weight as a result of constant overeating. On top of this, your body may develop resistance to the action insulin over time. When this happens, your body starts to store more fat, especially around the middle.

That said, there is no question then that foods with a high GI are definitely out.

Instead, Dr. Agatston suggests carbs with a low glycaemic index like pasta, pulses and porridge. These foods contain low amounts of sugar, which are slowly released into the blood. The result is a steady supply of energy for your body that will leave you feeling satisfied for a longer period of time.

Since you don’t feel constantly hungry and have few cravings, you are less likely to overeat. In addition, your body is less likely to develop resistance to insulin action, thus allowing your body to become more effective in burning fat.

So if you want to lose weight, then better start eating foods with low GI.

Friday, April 06, 2007

Swimming With Dolphins: Making It A Reality

Not many get the chance of seeing dolphins live.

More so, not many get the chance to go swimming with dolphins.

Can you even imagine that?

How amazing do you think that would be? The experience would be well worth it, and pretty much gives you bragging rights afterwards. Swimming with dolphins will give you a once in a lifetime experience you would be proud of. This unique marine adventure has attracted many to partake of – and most come out of it with an experience they will never forget.

There are swimming dolphin operators that give you this opportunity for a certain fee. Some include this in their week long of cruising. And on the natural environment where dolphins can be found – there you will get the chance in swimming with the dolphins. You will be accompanied by their personnel in the water, together with other people who like you dreamed before of this chance.

It is best that you book in advance a specific date, as these operators will usually limit themselves to a particular number of individuals per trip. So, if you want to book it for the whole family, it would be double the fun. Rates differ for adults and children for some of these operators, so check with their policies.

There are also some who offer this opportunity with around two hours of cruising, which already includes the briefing sessions. The briefing will cover mainly on how to interact with dolphins. Snorkels and wet suits will be provided – and if you are new to snorkeling, you will be aided by their crew. Check out www.blackcat.co.nz and you will get an idea on their service and pricing.

There is also www.dolphinsplus.com that has their dolphins on a natural seawater facility - which can also accommodate for those who want to go on swimming with dolphins. You will be accompanied as well with their highly trained staff for that one-on-one encounter with these friendly dolphins.

Swimming with dolphins has indeed provided humans the opportunity to connect with animals. The experience will give one some perspective on the nature of dolphins and how they interact with humans. Dolphins after all have records of saving human lives in various cases – and having that chance to meet face to face, with what could be man’s best friend in the water – would be an experience to die for.

This opportunity can be possible. With some degree of courage and adventurism, this experience of swimming with dolphins will allow us the chance to interact - so to speak, with such wonderful animals that live with us in this world.

Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Personal Stress Management for One Week

Personal Stress Management for One Week - Getting ahead of the competition seems to be the prevailing mantra for competitive people. In a world where only the fittest survives, has to go through different challenges and hurdle a variety of difficulties before they can even reach the ladder of success. Some people may be successful in their pursuit while others have succumb to the negative effects of stress that their lives demand.

Each one of us can face myriad faces of stress. True enough stress can give us positive effects thus unleashing the power within us to be productive while others can have negative impact thus making us harbor feelings of distress, depression, anxiety, anger, and most of all exhaustion. These negative effects can threaten, all the good things that we had earned through hard work, to go for naught.

There is no denying that stress is not permanent especially when it addressed with immediately when the early signs are obvious. However the effects can be permanent especially if it is taken for granted. The worst thing could happen is the toll it can take on the mental, physical, social, emotional, and the spiritual health of each one of us. Hence a personal stress management for one week is recommended.

A personal stress management for one week can give a person to reflect on how to cop e with stress. There are many approaches on how go about a personal stress management for one week. One of which is writing a daily journal on the things that stresses a person out. Making a journal can provide ample time to reflect on what really are the stressors that negatively affects his or her performance at work, relationship at home and in some other aspects of human spheres. A recollection of the things that transpired will help an individual determine the types of stress and their possible sources. Reflecting on them will likewise provide opportunity to think of possible means to cope with them.

Personal stress management for one week can also be done through a change of scenery, taking a break from the usual routine. Going on a personal retreat will definitely help recharge an individual with all the lost energies. Moreover it can give an individual a chance to get out break free from the bondage of monotony that his or her work and family relationship bring. Giving oneself a much deserved vacation and experience the best in life has to offer is one of the best antidote to the poison that stressed out life can give.

When you are feeling tired and totally drained, never ever think that its okay, because it may already be a good signal for you to recharge. It may also be the right time to take control of your life before stress controls you.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

5 Ways to Become More Likeable

Man is a social animal, as Aristotle once said. This want and need to belong and be accepted by others is what drives us to be civil toward others. In fact, there might be times when we want nothing but to see our intimidators get run over by a bus (yikes!) but we choose to endure the pressure and react in an amiable manner in order to merit niceties, as well. In order to achieve this kind of response from everyone we meet, we must strive to be likeable.

Now, likeability does not always entail that people will throw a party every time you come into the room. A person can be likeable yet not grandstanding. You don't really have to be popular to be one. All you need to do is adjust your attitude and outlook in life toward the positive. When you feel good about yourself and always look at the bright side of things, your likeability factor will naturally rise.

Here are five ways to become more likeable in any situation.

1) Think happy thoughts
According to Peter Pan, think happy thoughts and you will fly. This applies to your attitude toward the challenges that come your way. For instance, if you received low marks for your exam, don't think of it as the end of the world. Instead, be grateful it happened because it will motivate you to study harder and manage your time better next time. Behind every dark cloud is a silver lining. If you keep this as your mantra, you will never have to harbor depressing thoughts ever again.

2) Contribute something
Whether its a group project or a personal endeavor, contributing something of value, no matter how small makes a big difference. If you compare a person who always mutters about how difficult a task is and a person who acknowledges the difficulty but tries to lighten the mood by finding humor in the activity, you'd want to go with the latter, right? If you want to be likeable, don't put others down and bear more weight on a challenging activity.

3) Rein your insecurities in
There is none more annoying than a person who throws a pity party for himself or herself. Examples of insecure people are those who always have to be right at everything, those who always say 'just kidding' at the end of every comment, and those who do not know how to laugh at themselves and their mistakes. An insecure person is a crab. A crab is animal that brings everybody down when he or she is down. If you want to have more friends, don't be one. You don't have to apologize for everything you say with 'just kidding.'

4) Believe in what you are saying and stick to it
A person who keeps changing his or her opinion or merely mimics what other people are saying about a particular event or object not only has zero personality but a very low likeability rate, as well. You don't need to have an opinion about everything -- that would be equally annoying, but you don't need to say 'yes' to what others say either. You'll only end up looking like a desperate sycophant.

5) Avoid judging others
Finally, if you don't want to be judged, don't judge. First impressions might sometimes put you off but it pays to know the other person better than to immediately make conclusions about his or her character. Judgmental people, if you notice, are the ones who usually eat alone at the cafeteria because his or her colleagues are tired of hearing him or her point out the flaws of others. Surely you don't want to be this person.

Saturday, March 03, 2007

Eight Helpful Tips to Win the Battle of the Bulge

Do you have problems with weight gain?

Can’t seem to get enough of eating?

Is weight gain your main concern now?

Chances are you are one of the 1.2 billion people in the world who are having problems controlling their diet and weight. In the United States alone, 93 million Americans are classified as obese.

Losing weight is one of the most daunting tasks that a person can undergo. It requires a great amount of discipline and perseverance on the part of the obese person.

Some people have the tendency to go on a “crash” diet just to be able to get rid of those fats and calories. The bad news is dieting is just not effective in the long term. You will have to change your lifestyle, if you are bent on shaving off some weight.

If you are seriously considering reducing some pounds in your weight, read on.

1.Determine if there is a real need to lose weight. Look at your shape, height, weight, and history of obesity in your family. When was the last time you gained weight? Does obesity run in your family?

2.Evaluate your eating habits. Are you constantly starving or craving for food? If you are, you first need to learn how to eat in a normal pattern. Erratic eating habits and dieting may reduce your body metabolism causing you to starve and hoard food into your stomach.

3.Make a plan. Once you have set your mind on changing your pattern, you have to determine how to do that. You can choose the food you eat, the amount of food you ingest, or the physical regimen you will engage in. You can also seek the help of a dietitian.

4.Don’t aim to lose too much too quickly. Avoid getting the habit of losing weight at once. Don’t try to lose more than half a pound in just a week. Take it one pound a week. Make changes gradually.

5.Start with damage control. You can handle this task yourself. If you are not in-charge of the shopping chores, you can ask the one doing the shopping not to include chocolates or potato chips in the shopping list. Rather, opt for the low-calorie diet.

6.Don’t give up easily. Just because you failed and chose the wrong food one day doesn’t mean you should totally forget the weight loss issue. You can always start out the next day.

7.Reduce the fat. Cutting out on fatty foods is not only good for your figure but also for your health – you can lower your risk for heart diseases as well as cancer. Fatty foods eat up a lot of calories in your body. A gram of fat contains nine calories while a gram of protein or carbohydrates contains four.

8.Have a regular exercise. Exercise and other strenuous activities can burn out unwanted calories. However, it may also increase your metabolism so choose the right kind of exercise. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Ride the bicycle or do brisk walking.

Weight loss programs may provide empty promises. Taking into consideration these eight helpful tips may be the key to a genuine weight loss program.

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Foot Care

Foot Care - Our feet keep us standing and allow us to reach all kinds of places. It is only necessary that we keep in mind some words of advice regarding the care of our feet.

Choose comfort over vanity. It is certainly flattering for our height to wear high-heeled shoes or sandals. However, it also places undue pressure on our heels and ankles, which are elevated and stretched at an angle, respectively. In fact, varicose veins and early rheumatism are highly attributable to high-heeled shoes. Because of this, such footwear must be reserved only for formal events and other gatherings in which high-heeled shoes are quite required.

The material of the footwear must also be considered for evaluation. The general rule is for the shoes to allow the feet to “breathe,” or at least ensure that the sweat is not kept inside but absorbed by socks. In this case, cotton sneakers are preferable over leather pumps.
Soft, smooth materials such as velvet, wool, and fleece must be chosen over hard, textured ones such as snakeskin or synthetic leather.

Keep the feet clean. Before wearing socks, be sure to wash the feet and pat them dry so as not to keep the dirt inside. This will stop the germs from proliferating. Before going to sleep, wash your feet, apply lotion, and wear socks to keep them smooth and soft. Occasionally, go to a foot spa or make an improvised one at home, using lukewarm water, two tablespoons of shampoo, and five tablespoons of liquid soap to scrape off the dirt which cannot be removed by daily bathing. Get nails cleaned thoroughly once in a while by using nail brush and soap at home. However, be careful not to wash them immediately after a long day of wearing rubber shoes or high heels, and definitely not after a strenuous activity that tires out the feet, such as driving, jogging, or walking. The feet must be allowed to rest before washing.

Maintain good physical health. Exercise. It is healthy to walk briskly for at least ten minutes a day to ensure a regular flow of blood not just in your feet, but also in the whole body. Moreover, eating a healthy diet will ascertain calcium for the bones in your feet and protein for your muscles. Maintaining a good posture is also beneficial since it eases the feet’s burden of supporting your whole body weight.

Thursday, February 08, 2007

Homo Nocturnos: Understanding Your Insomnia...

Have you met a homo nocturnos?

Maybe you meet him every night...

We have met those types during our college days – guys and girls who burned the midnight oil literally, not because they are the diligently studying, but because they just couldn't sleep.

They would flip over in bed from edge to edge, making annoying noises and disturbing our sleep, then they would get out of bed and turn the lights on, and create more annoying noises and an even greater disturbance.

The next day, these people get raccoon eyes and take pills with long and difficult to spell names. Who can claim that he has a life when he's losing sleep for no apparent reason? Even nocturnal animals like the night owl would certainly look unglamorous with raccoon eyes.

Most people get catatonic over the littlest things. Some do after ingesting mushrooms, chocolates, breads and pasta, beer, and other so-called poisons. It is probably the mold. To avoid insomnia, you can try avoiding such foods and answering crossword puzzles and the like.

Let us take the example of Linda, a young accountant. Her main problem is that she has preconditioned herself about insomnia. She says it has been that way since she was still in school, driven by her desire to be at the top of her class. She just had to study all night through. Eventually, the habit caught up with her and even though she has long left school, the sleeplessness remained.

Those who do the graveyard shift understandably look at insomnia as an advantage – they are paid for it. Other folks, likewise, would rather stay awake. Linda took advantage of it to graduate cum laude. Some people even go as far as justifying insomnia, calling sleep a waste of time because they do not really accomplish anything.

There is no exact pathophysiology for insomnia because it has a variety of causes. Extrinsic insomnia results from transient situation insomnia or inadequate sleep hygiene. Emotional stress triggers such type of insomnia. Then there is drug or alcohol dependent insomnia, altitude insomnia, restless legs syndrome, periodic limb movement disorder, insomnia associated with mental disorders, and the list goes on.

There are no definite answers even from those who prescribe Valium, Dormicum, and Lexotan themselves, perhaps its time for extreme measures?
Hey, if you are really desperate, maybe breeding tse-tse flies could be the answer? You know, tse-tse flies… sleeping disease… Good luck!

Wednesday, February 07, 2007

Turbo Boost Your Brain Power

Finally, people are starting to understand!

Brains matter. Despite the negative stigma on the intelligent and “nerds”, society now understands that intelligence counts more than muscle power, especially in this day and age.

People want to develop brainpower these days. This is just not being smart in the sense of having tons of raw knowledge, but smart in the area where it matters - practical application.

Here are five tips you can do to increase brainpower and increase your mind's capacity to absorb and process information faster:

1) Choose supplements wisely
Yes, these actually do work. These may include memory-enhancement pills or anti-mental fatigue medications for adults, or the IQ enhancement milk supplements for children. A good number of these supplementary products out in the market can actually grant an edge to learning. Keeping a good balanced diet and avoiding cell-destroying vices, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and using illegal drugs, are also ways to avoid the mind’s deterioration over time.

2) Try speed-reading
This is a good way to bump up your learning curve. Speed-reading courses not only allow you to cover data faster; these also train your mind to pick up visual details at a greater rate.

Another good thing about learning to speed read is that you train your brain to pick up the important details on the written text. Contrary to claims of some self-help courses, you cannot learn to get photographic memory EVER! Speed-reading is the next best thing for those of who were not born with good memory.

3) Test yourself often!
Here is a good drill for enhancing your memory. A study conducted by several colleges separated students into two groups. One group was given 5 minutes to study a text, then they were immediately given three 5-minute tests. Another group was given four 5-minute periods to study the same text, but were not immediately given a test afterwards.

A week later, they were all given a test on the same subject. The group, which studied only once but took three tests, outperformed the group, which had studied the text 4 times over. The results are clear: don’t learn by just reading. Apply the knowledge and test yourself repeatedly.

4) Do some basic Math drills
Basic math drills using flashcards may seem like a grade school thing, but even adults can benefit from it. Let's face it, we are all spoiled by having calculators to do our addition and subtraction. At its core, math embodies the purest form of logic. Letting your basic math skills rot is like letting your logical and deductive reasoning take a similar downslide.

5) Take Abstract Logic Tests
There are test books available in bookstores that give extensive tests for abstract logic. These come with sets of 3 pictures and you have to extrapolate from the first three pictures what the fourth logical concluding picture will be.

Buy these books and do them all! Abstract logic may not directly help much in terms of "real" learning, but it actually improves your brain's deductive reasoning capacity.
Try any of these activities and boost your brainpower. Increase your mind's capacity to absorb and process information faster.

Saturday, January 27, 2007

Full Body Massage

A full body massage is one of the most commonly applied techniques for therapy. Many of those who have tried it have claimed that it does balance and relax the entire body, leaving the person feel both physically and mentally soothed.

Well, a full body massage is a system of stroking, pressing and kneading the different areas of the body to relieve pain, stimulate and tone, as well as relax the body. All of these can actually be attained as full body massage works deeply into the tired muscles, allowing the body to release toxins that were trapped on the systems.

Perhaps what’s more worth noting about full body massage is that it does much more than create a pleasant sensation on the skin. Numerous reports have noted that although the massage soothes the skin and affect the muscles just under the skin; its benefits may even reach the deeper layers of the muscles. Chances are, the organs of the body themselves will also be affected, significantly.

More to that, a full body massage stimulates blood circulation. Experts have further revealed that this therapeutic practice may aid the lymphatic system of the body, which actually runs parallel to the circulatory system.

A full body massage, as the name implies, includes massage of all parts of the body, from head to toe. However, of all the parts involved in the massage, it is basically the back that needs the largest amount of time to be pampered. Well, this is partly because the back represents such a large part of the body, and it is the very common place for people to accumulate tension.

Aside from the back, another area of focus in a full body massage is the neck and shoulders. These parts are the common areas of soreness and tension, so most therapists focus more on these parts than the other areas of the body. Also, to have the pain and tension eased away from the neck and shoulders can be a source of great pleasure.

The chest also needs attention. So it’s no wonder that in a full body massage, the chest part is also of great focus. Usually, when massaging the chest, the massage therapists change their position from time to time to make the receiver comfortable with the massage. The therapists even involve their whole body to make the receiver more in the same rhythm as the strokes they are creating.

After the chest part, the abdomen becomes the focus of a gentle touch. As you may know, the abdomen is the softest and least protected area of the body. Given this fact, it’s no doubt that the abdomen is also the area of great vulnerability for many people. So when massaging this part for a full body massage, therapists need to work very gently and rhythmically, only increasing the pressure once the receiver feels relaxed and secured.

There are also the lower parts of the body, including the legs and feet that need to be pampered with a full body massage. Massaging these areas will ease the pain and tension present and revitalize in the long run these weight-bearing parts of the body. The people who usually find a legs and feet massage useful are those whose jobs entail a lot of standing, like the sales ladies out there in the malls.

Going back to the upper part of the body, a full body massage involves massaging the head and face of the receiver. Many find the amount of tension they hold here a bit surprising, particularly around the jaw, but many have said that it’s a pleasurable experience. But unlike the other parts of the body, these areas are often ignored in a full body massage.

Finally, a full body massage involves a work on the arms and hands, which are constantly used throughout the day. When these parts are touched, tension faded, leaving the person relaxed and with an improved sense of well-being.