My Beauty Journal

Chocolate and Brain Power

2006-06-04T09:24:00.000+10:30

Chocolate lovers rejoice. A new study hints that eating milk chocolate may boost brain function.

"Chocolate contains many substances that act as stimulants, such as theobromine, phenethylamine and caffeine," said Dr Bryan Raudenbush from Wheeling Jesuit University in West Virginia.

"These substances by themselves have previously been found to increase alertness and attention, and what we have found is that by consuming chocolate you can get the stimulating effects, which then lead to increased mental performance."

To study the effects of various chocolate types on brain power, Raudenbush and colleagues had a group of volunteers consume, on four separate occasions, 85 grams of milk chocolate, 85 grams of dark chocolate, 85 grams of carob and nothing (the control condition).

After a 15-minute digestive period, participants completed a variety of computer-based neuropsychological tests designed to assess cognitive performance including memory, attention span, reaction time and problem solving.

"Composite scores for verbal and visual memory were significantly higher for milk chocolate than the other conditions," Raudenbush said.

And consumption of milk and dark chocolate was associated with improved impulse control and reaction time.

Previous research has shown some nutrients in food aid in glucose release and increased blood flow, which may augment cognitive performance.

The findings, said Raudenbush, "provide support for nutrient release via chocolate consumption to enhance cognitive performance".

Source: Reuters

Salt

2006-06-04T09:22:00.000+10:30

Often regarded as a nutritional bad guy, salt (sodium chloride) is essential for a healthy body. It helps carry nutrients into cells and regulates various bodily functions, including blood pressure.

Most people know that too much salt is bad for you. A high-salt diet contributes to high blood pressure, for instance, with associated cardiovascular risks. And the amount of salt that we need each day is small - merely a couple of grams.

But if you're already careful about what you eat and you're doing a lot of exercise and sweating heavily, you risk developing low blood-sodium levels, which can lead to low blood pressure and dizziness. Adding a little salt to a snack or consuming a sports drink should replace the sodium your body needs.

Frozen Food

2006-06-04T09:17:00.000+10:30

Most vitamins are preserved fairly well during freezing. For carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body, freezing is a bonus.

One study found that frozen peas contain about 60 per cent more carotene than the fresh variety. (It's not the freezing that provides the advantage - the packaging screens vegetables from light, which causes carotene to break down.)

However, levels of vitamin C and folate drop during the commercial freezing process, as do levels of thiamin (vitamin B1). The good news is that once fresh vegetables are cooked, the vitamin content is pretty similar to that of frozen vegetables that have been thawed and cooked.

So if you're struggling to keep up with those five servings of vegetables a day, don't feel bad if you reach into the freezer.

Snails

2006-05-17T00:05:00.000+10:30

If you can get over the "yuck" factor, snails are low in saturated fat and relatively high in vitamins A and D. In Australia, if you ask for edible snails you're most likely to get Helix aspersa, the common garden snail (and a Mediterranean import - although researchers in Queensland are investigating the potential of native snails.)

If you feel like following the French example, go for farmed snails, rather than plucking something out of the backyard. Anyone who eats wild, uncooked or undercooked snails and slugs runs the risk of becoming infected with a parasite that can cause meningitis (swelling of the brain). One Sydney man who ate garden slugs as a dare unknowingly also swallowed larvae of the worm Angiostrongylus cantonensis - and nearly died.

Raspberries

2006-05-17T00:01:00.000+10:30

Rich in vitamin C, raspberries are also a good source of folate, iron and potassium and contain both soluble and insoluble fibre. The fruit is also known for its relatively high concentration of ellagic acid (which is sold as a supplement in health food shops).

Research suggests that ellagic acid might act to mop up some cancer-causing chemicals, rendering them inactive in the body. (Raspberry jam should provide the same benefits, since the compound isn't destroyed by cooking.)

The chemicals that cause raspberries' red colour is also good for you. Anthocyanins, which create the red pigment, act as anti-oxidants, and research suggests they can help reduce the risk of heart disease and also possibly help to control diabetes and even act against cancer.

Yoghurt beats bugs

2006-05-16T23:56:00.000+10:30

The stomach bug Helicobacter pylori is the cause of most stomach ulcers, so doctors often try to eradicate it with antibiotic therapy.

When this doesn't work, as is the case 10 to 23 per cent of the time, a yogurt may help, according to a study conducted in Taiwan.

Specifically, eating yogurt containing the beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium (AB-yogurt) before trying a second round of combo antibiotic therapy can improve its efficacy in eradicating residual H. pylori, the researchers found.

- Reuters

Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Laugh, or even pretend to

2006-05-16T23:49:00.000+10:30

A good belly laugh - or even the anticipation of laughter - appears to beneficially affect the body's hormones.

Researchers in California discovered this in a study of 32 healthy men, half of whom were instructed to view a one-hour humorous video of their own selection.

The other half simply sat in a room with an assortment of magazines. The scientists found that those watching the funny videos had, on average, 27 per cent more beta-endorphins and 87 per cent more human growth hormone in their blood than the control group - before the video clips even started to roll.

The levels of these beneficial hormones remained elevated during and after the experiment.

- Washington Post

Beat Bad Breath

2006-05-06T10:32:00.000+10:30

Japanese researchers believe that natural yoghurt could be the answer to bad breath. In their study:

24 people were given 90g of unsweetened yoghurt every day for six weeks.
Saliva tests showed significant reductions in hydrogen sulphide - a major cause of bad breath - in 80 percent of participants.
The participants also experienced a reduction in plaque and gingivitis.
Experts stress, however, that the best way to beat bad breath is to adopt good oral hygiene practices, that is brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and reducing your intake of sugary snacks and drinks. Plus, of course, regular visits to a dentist.

Source: Good Medicine August 2005.

Happy Single...

2006-05-06T10:26:00.000+10:30

Count to ten and be happy you're single:

Being alone allows you time to indulge in more me-time
You are more likely to be self-reliant and assertive.
You have all the space in the bed.
You're less likely to have a weight problem because you're not eating man-sized portions.
You have controls over the remote.
You are likely to have a wide network of friends for support.
You don't have in-laws.
You are less likely to have a heart attack. Study shows unhappily married women have a three times greater risk of heart attack.
You don't have to pick up anyone's dirty socks off the floor.
You are more likely to be fit, having more time to take part in sports or go out dancing.

Foot Talk

2006-05-06T10:05:00.000+10:30

Your feet take you where you want to go. Look after them and they'll take you even further! Here's how to fix three common foot problems:

BLISTERS:
Blisters form when friction tears the skin and fluid seeps into the space. Wear comfortable shoes and apply vaseline to help minimize frictions.

INGROWN TOENAILS:
These are caused by cutting your nails incorrectly and wearing tight-fitting shoes. To avoid it, cut your nails straight across using nail clippers. Don't cut too low at the sides.

CORNS:
Corns are caused by tight-fitting shoes and high heels, they often form over a joint. Don't try to cut off the corns yourself, always get a chiropodist to do it.

Source: Good Medicine June 2005

10 Superfoods to Keep You Cool

2006-04-25T11:55:00.000+10:30

Chill out with these refreshing and nutritious snacks for scorching summer days.

Super Salads

The summer heat can suffocate even the most voracious appetite. Cultures around the world each have their creative methods for staying cool -- spicy foods are the choice around the equator, while others drink hot tea to make their sweat glands work overtime.

But who wants to be sweaty when it's already sticky outside? What we want are some healthy, refreshing foods -- preferably snacks that satisfy those recommended daily allowances (RDA) for essential vitamins and minerals. So we talked to registered dietician Sharon Saka, of Suffern, New York, who says our best bet is to avoid hot foods and heavy meals, and take advantage of summer's fruits and vegetables. Saka recommends eating smaller amounts more often, and says staying hydrated is essential -- at least 6 to 8 cups of decaffeinated fluid a day -- especially if you're outside and exercising.

So here are 10 superfoods to help you stay cool this summer. And the best part: many of these snacks are great meals in themselves!

Kiwi, Papaya, Raspberry Fruit Salad
When the heat is on, just about any juicy fruit is refreshing and delicious. Kiwi, papaya, and raspberries are a powerful combination because they're each packed with cancer-fighting vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and beta-carotene. In fact, both kiwi and papaya rival oranges for their vitamin C content -- one kiwi contains 117 percent of the RDA and papaya a whooping 313 percent. Vitamin C is, of course, crucial to our immune system, and some studies show it may reduce high blood pressure.

Papaya and kiwi also add potassium to your diet, which helps your body stay hydrated, regulates your nerves, heartbeat, and blood pressure. And 67 percent of your RDA of vitamin K can be found in papaya. This under-rated vitamin is necessary for normal blood clotting, and it helps your body absorb calcium, which is especially important for people at risk for osteoporosis.
Raspberries win in the fiber category with 8 grams, and they're rich in vitamin C as well. In addition to its regulatory qualities, the right amount of fiber is linked to a decreased incidence of colon cancer, and it helps keep cholesterol levels lower. Now, add some protein to this fruit salad -- low-fat cheese perhaps? -- and you have a full meal.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 kiwi, about 46 calories 1 medium papaya, about 119 calories 1 cup raspberries, about 64 calories

Chickpeas and Green Salad
A crisp green salad is the perfect light dinner for steamy summer evenings, especially since no oven is required. Trade in your iceberg lettuce for spinach and get a Popeye-size dose of iron.
Add some chickpeas to it for a protein and fiber bonus, plus 20 percent of your daily folate needs. Folate is essential to red blood cell growth and has been shown to prevent birth defects if taken by pregnant women. Chickpeas are also rich in vitamin B6, which aids in the breakdown of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, and has been used by nutritionists for PMS relief. Mix in some cherry or grape tomatoes and you get more fiber, plus 19 percent of your vitamin A.

Recommended Serving Size: 1/3 cup of chickpeas, about 115 calories 3.5 oz. of spinach, about 24 calories 3.5 oz. of tomatoes, about 17 calories

Refreshing Snacks

Fruit Smoothies or Ice Pops
Here's another twist on using fruits to stay cool. Put those raspberries, papaya, and kiwi in a blender with some crushed ice for a smoothie that will make the heat a distant memory. Or put a pureed fruit mixture into ice-pop molds and put them in the freezer overnight for a frozen fast food treat whenever you're ready.

Crushed pineapple is a great frozen fruit snack too, especially since it's yet another good source of vitamin C and thiamin, a mineral that helps release the energy from carbohydrates and ensures that the brain and nerves have enough glucose.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 kiwi, about 46 calories 1 medium papaya, about 119 calories 1 cup raspberries, about 64 calories 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, about 59 calories

Tuna or Chicken Salad in a Green Pepper
A scoop of tuna or chicken salad in a green pepper is a simple summertime meal. Yellow, red, and orange peppers are all nutritious too, so pick whatever appeals to you. In addition to the protein in the tuna and chicken, you'll get fiber from the pepper, along with 159 percent of the RDA for vitamin C and some vitamin A too. Vitamin A, or retinol, is essential for healthy vision, skin, and growth.
Recommended Serving Size: 2 oz. of canned tuna or chicken and 1 tablespoon of low-fat mayo, about 160 calories 1 medium green pepper, about 24 calories

Cantaloupe and Ricotta Cheese
Having cantaloupe as part of any meal or snack can be wonderfully refreshing. And you'll get 108 percent of your vitamin A RDA and 98 percent of your vitamin C. Combine it with some ricotta cheese and you'll get protein, plus 17 percent of your calcium needs, equal to drinking a 1/2 cup of milk.

Ricotta is a delicious substitute for cottage cheese, and it's lower in sodium and calories. Try it on a slice of whole wheat bread or a small pita (both add fiber and iron), sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar. Or mix it into a fruit salad for a delectable dessert.

Recommended Serving Size: 1 cup cantaloupe, about 54 calories 1/4 cup part-skim ricotta, about 86 calories 1 slice whole wheat bread, about 69 calories 1 small whole wheat pita, about 74 calories

Sharon Saka is a Registered Dietitian, a Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and a member of the American Dietetic Association and the American Association of Diabetes Educators.

Source: Linda Kallman - LHJ

Common Spa Questions Answered

2006-04-25T11:45:00.000+10:30

From tipping to underwear, the rules you need to know for your first trip to the spa.

Making the Appointment

It's meant to be relaxing, but the truth is, many people are intimidated by spas. Betsy Isroelit, a spokeswoman for SpaFinder, a spa-tracking Web site, says most people never trade in spa gift certificates because they have no idea what to expect. So here are answers to 7 common questions so you can enjoy your massage, anxiety-free.

Q. Will the spa mind if I call with questions before making an appointment?
A. They'll appreciate it, and may even encourage you to come in for a free tour to see what the setup looks like. But don't expect to see any therapies taking place, to protect the privacy of other patrons.

Q. Can I request that I have the therapist of my choice, either female or male?
A. Don't be shy about requesting a therapist when scheduling your appointment -- spa experts recommend it.

Q. How do I behave with the therapist? Must I talk, or stay silent?
A. It's okay not to talk during the treatment if you don't want to; therapists take their cues from their clients.

At the Spa

Q. Will I have to be naked?
A. That is up to you. Wear what makes you feel comfortable. Though most people completely undress for a treatment, it isn't necessary. For example, you should feel free to wear your underwear -- a masseuse can usually work around it. Spas will not compromise your modesty. If you're having a water treatment, it is your option to wear a bathing suit.

Q. How much should I tip?
A. Check your service fee first. Spas sometimes include the tip in the total cost of the service. If you do need to tip, between 10 and 20 percent is customary, depending on how happy you were with your treatment. Is the spa has a coordinator who shows you to a changing room, provides you with towels and robes, and offers you tea and water, it may be appropriate to tip between $3 and $9. If you're nervous about this, definitely call ahead and ask the spa receptionist.

Q. What if I'm uncomfortable with something about the therapy?
A. Speak up and let the therapist know if the pressure is not adequate or too firm. Express your likes and dislikes and feel free to ask questions. Remember: their job is to give you the most pleasurable experience possible.

Q. What do I need to tell a spa or individual therapist about any medical conditions?
A. Advise the spa of any medical conditions or pregnancy so they can tailor the treatment to your specific needs. Heart conditions, high or low blood pressure, and arthritis are examples of conditions that you should alert your therapist to so he or she can tailor your treatment appropriately. It's probably also a good idea to alert your therapist to any contagious viruses or skin conditions as well.

Source: Fran Kritz - Ladies' Home Journal

Sweet Corn

2006-04-25T11:34:00.000+10:30

Like other fruits and vegetables, sweet corn contains anti-oxidants, which are linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer. One recent study in the US showed that cooking sweet corn increases levels of a key anti-oxidant found in grains.

The team found that after cooking the corn at 115 degrees for 10, 25 and 50 minutes, ferulic acid was released from its bound form in cell walls and in insoluble fibres, and levels increased by 240 per cent, 550 per cent and 900 per cent respectively. Sweet corn is also a good source of fibre and also contains niacin, folate and some vitamin A.

Source: Emma Young - Sydney Morning Herald

Foundation Secrets For A Flawless Complexion

2006-04-22T09:25:00.000+10:30

For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin.
Spread foundation on your hands and pat it on your face, then smooth out with a sponge making sure not to pull or stretch the skin. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips.
To make foundation last, apply moisturizer first giving the foundation a base. Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation
On hot days foundation can be difficult to keep looking fresh. Set your foundation in the morning using a loose powder and puff, then do regular touch ups throughout the day.
To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer (available from Mary Kay). Don't use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.
To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.
For evening mix some shimmer powder with your powder and put it where you want to attract light such as the bridge of the nose, underneath the brow bone, the temples, cheekbone, chin and shoulders.
Always use a foundation with a sunscreen of at least 15 to prevent future sun damage.
Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.
After you apply foundation go near a window to make sure it looks natural. Natural light is the ultimate test.

Source: Sheila Dicks - http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com/

Discover Effective Home Remedies to Dandruff

2006-04-22T09:15:00.000+10:30

Dandruff is a common problem. You can fall victim to excessive dandruff at any age. 97% of Americans suffer from dandruff at some time. One out of every two persons in the world have problem with dandruff.

Common practice is to treat dandruff with anti-dandruff shampoos. But did you know that you can use simple effective home remedies to treat dandruff? Home remedies may offer complete solutions for controlling dandruff.

One of the best ways to control dandruff is to apply a mixture of vinegar and water on the scalp. Make a mixture of 2 teaspoons of vinegar and 6 teaspoons of water and apply it on the scalp before you go to bed. Keep it for the whole night with a towel around the head. Rinse your head with vinegar water again in the morning. If you continue to treat your hair with it for few months, it will serve your purpose.

You can also use a mixture of 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 2-teaspoons of vinegar. Massage the scalp with this solution. After the massage, treat your hair with an egg shampoo.

You can rub a combination of 1 part sulfur powder, 2 parts surgical spirit, 1 part almond oil and 4 parts rose water or distilled water on your scalp to keep dandruff at bay. Or:
Boil a mixture of 4-5 dried thyme and two cups of water for 10 minutes. When the mixture cools down, massage it on the scalp and leave it for half an hour. Wash it afterwards and see the results. You will have a dandruff-free head.

You can also soak ground fenugreek seeds overnight in water and massage the paste on the head, leaving it for a few minutes. Wash it afterwards using a mild shampoo.

You can also prepare a homemade mixture of 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice with 100 grams witch hazel in 200ml of water and use it on washed hair. Applying the mixture several times is helpful in warding off the problem of dandruff.

If you wash your hair with warm apple cider vinegar, leaving it for 30-40 minutes and then rinsing it with plain water, you are sure to control dandruff positively. You have to continue this process regularly to stop its return. The smell of the vinegar does evaporate!

Try a mixture of olive oil and almond oil. Massage your scalp with the mixture and leave it for five minutes after you feel the burning sensation. Rinse properly and you should have a dandruff-free head.

Did you know the well-known pain killer aspirin, used for relieving aches, can serve you equally effectively to eliminate the problem of dandruff? Just crush and powder two aspirin tablets and add it to your shampoo. Leave the mixture on your scalp for two minutes. Rinse and wash properly to remove the aspirin particles completely from the scalp.

You can directly use Aloe Vera gel to remove excess dandruff. Apply the gel on your scalp 10-15 minutes before you plan to wash your hair. Regular use of the gel before shampooing will keep down the growth of dandruff.

These remedies take time to show a visible change but are effective for some people.
The best point concerning a home remedy is that you have many options and, if you think that a particular ingredient does not suit you, you can try an alternative. You should give each remedy at least a week before trying another.

Source: Alex Fir - Hair Styles For Dummies

Pumpkin Benefits

2006-04-16T17:48:00.000+10:30

Pumpkins are believed to have their origins in Central America and have been part of the human diet for centuries. In the US, where they were a staple for native Americans long before the pilgrims arrived, various folk health tales sprung up - including a recommendation to eat pumpkin to remove freckles.

In Chinese medicine, pumpkin is also considered useful in relieving vomiting and reducing fever, among other things, while the seeds have been used to kill intestinal worms. Claims have even been made that eating the seeds can help prevent prostate cancer. What is clear is that pumpkins are rich in fibre, low in fat and packed with nutrients, including vitamin A and potassium. On their own (and not roasted in oil or soaked with honey in a pumpkin pie) they're undeniably good for you.

Mouthwash Is Not The Solution

2006-04-16T16:52:00.000+10:30

Mouthwashes are mainly used to freshen the breath. If you have to keep using a mouthwash to mask bad breath, you should see your dentist. Bad breath can be a sign of poor general health, as well as unhealthy teeth and gums. A fluoride mouthwash can help prevent tooth decay. In some cases, your dentist might recommend the use of an antibacterial mouthwash to help control a bad case of plague and reduce gum disease.

Winter Survival Guide

2006-04-16T16:47:00.000+10:30

Kick start your autumn with life coach Fiona Harrold's four step plan:

Always have something to look forward to

Life is full of highs and lows, but it's easier to get through them in between bits (like months of rain and cold) if you can focus on how much you've got to look forward to and plan how to make those events even better than you imagined.

Fight the urge to hibernate

Wrap up and get outside as much as possible. Daylights fuel energy even if it's freezing. Stay active and alert.

Identify a new project

Life is exciting when you find something interesting. Plan a project to keep you firing on all cylinders, then take the first step! Join that Italian cooking class, find a writers' group, put your name down for the local marathon.

Eliminate blood suckers

Find out what drains you of energy and eradicate it from your life. For most working women with families, it's housework. So, get a cleaner. If you work, it makes sense financially and there's no need to feel guilty. The same goes to friends who don't support you and clutter that's getting you down. Don't ignore it and do something about it now!

Calcium and Weight Loss

2006-04-14T18:55:00.000+10:30

A new study does not support the theory that a boost in calcium intake or dairy consumption is useful for maintaining or losing weight.

"Media have been promoting dairy to lose weight and therefore this topic has gained a lot of importance," Dr. Swapni N. Rajpathak, who led the study, told Reuters Health. "At this time, there is not enough justification to increase dairy intake to lose weight," the researcher warned.

"Calcium and therefore dairy -- the best source of calcium in the diet -- may be associated with weight loss, based on some data suggesting that calcium has some role in fat synthesis," Rajpathak explained. However, the results of studies of calcium and dairy intake in relation to weight loss have been inconsistent.

Rajpathak, from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University in New York and colleagues looked for links between baseline calcium intake and change in calcium intake and weight change over time in about 43,000 healthy middle-aged men participating in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study -- a prospective study launched in 1986 to evaluate the role of diet in chronic diseases.

After taking into account multiple potentially confounding factors, baseline or change in intake of total calcium was not significantly associated with a change in weight, the team reports in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

"We found that men who increased their dairy/calcium intake did not lose more weight -- in fact, they gained slightly more weight -- in the 12-year period," Rajpathak told Reuters Health. This was primarily due to an increase in high-fat dairy intake.

However, even low-fat dairy intake was not significantly associated with a change in weight.
The take home message, said Rajpathak, is that "calcium is important for optimal health and people should have adequate calcium from diet (including dairy) or use supplements if they wish. Importantly, it is advisable to consume dairy in low-fat form."

However, increasing calcium in the diet as a means to lose weight is not advisable, the researcher said.

Source: American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, March 2006.

Kahuna Massage

2006-04-13T17:43:00.000+10:30

Steph Sands is a busy woman. Outside her full-time job as a marketing consultant, she's co-chair of Sydney's gay and lesbian mardi gras, a role that includes chairing a board of directors, motivating volunteers and managing press-related matters.

About five months ago, Sands says she was feeling tired, stressed, and "looking for a physical release". She found it through the ancient Polynesian tradition of Kahuna massage. "I have one every two to three weeks. It can be a different experience each time you have one," she says.
Describing the massage as "a journey to emotional and spiritual healing", Sands says her first experience left her feeling totally relaxed. "It was very surreal. You are completely in a state of bliss. You feel very whole within yourself."

Before a massage, her therapist chats to her for 10 minutes or so to establish what is going on in her life. Depending on her mood, different music is chosen. "They play all sorts of music. If you want to be motivated, they'll play a motivational tape. If you want to feel relaxed, they'll play classical music. At other times they'll play traditional Hawaiian music. It's my favourite."

During the massage, Sands says, therapists apply hands and elbows "all over the body". The aim is to release physical and energetic blockages. "They lather you up with so much oil you think you are going to slide off the table."

Each massage lasts an hour. "It's more than just a physical thing. It's certainly taken me on a journey to the point where I'm more in touch with how I'm feeling."

Dr Marc Cohen, head of complementary medicine, RMIT.

Cohen says all massage has benefits. "You need to find a stroke that you like. Kahuna massage gives very broad strokes across large areas of the body, rather than intense pressure on specific points. It's very relaxing.

"It gets the fluid moving through your body so it may help in removing waste products from muscles."

Source: Belinda Cranston - Sydney Morning Herald

Inner Cleanliness - Detox Everyone?

2006-04-13T17:18:00.000+10:30

If December is the month of indulgence, The new year is for atonement, and the modern equivalent of a hairshirt - the detox kit - is flying off the shelves at chemists and health food shops as Sydneysiders try to purge their bodies of the excesses of the festive season.
Shane Bryan of Balmain Health Foods said detox-related sales rise by up to 70 per cent in January. "It's the biggest month of the year; everyone wants to get over the Christmas-new year period.

"Things to do with liver detoxing, anything like that, is very popular. We sell a lot of liver cleanser and whole-body detoxes. We always keep them well in stock and out the front of the stores."
Demand is surging: in the past year the detox market grew 90 per cent and was now worth $13 million, said Cecilia Howard, marketing director for Blackmores, which sells a 10-day program.
Detoxes range from diets designed by nutritionists to ready-made kits, which include strict dietary guidelines, menus and herbs to help cleanse the liver, stomach and intestines.
Some say detoxing rids the body of impurities but others say that claim is not backed by scientific evidence.

The kits can cost up to $100. Their demands differ, but most recommend avoiding caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes and refined sugar, and advise ingesting plenty of water and vegetables.
Sarah Gawthorne, 26, of Kirribilli, is a regular detoxer. She finished a 15-day kit last month after a run of parties and has now embarked on a post-Christmas plan. "I want to give my liver a break, make myself feel a bit better," she said.

Giving up dairy, alcohol and red meat was not too hard; coffee was harder. "I have no qualms in saying I have a coffee addiction. I have coffee in the morning and I need it to kick-start the day."
Ms Gawthorne said she usually felt poorly in the first few days of a detox program, but by the end of it her skin has improved and she had lost weight. "I feel a lot more energetic."

A nutritionist, Fay Fain, said detoxing eliminated bad bacteria, food that could not be absorbed, parasites and even mould. It helped banish bloating, indigestion, constipation and tiredness. "The best time to cleanse is normally January or spring," she said. "It's a kick-start to the system ... if you have over-indulged, especially after alcohol and eating all that rich food at Christmas."
However, the Australian Consumers Association said that while some information in the kits was useful, some was scientifically unproven and confusing.

"The message to consumers is, we don't necessarily need a detox kit to improve our health," said Clare Hughes, a food policy officer. "Long-lasting changes like increasing fruit and veg, limiting caffeine, cigarettes and alcohol, are going to be of much more benefit to our health than spending the $50 or $60 it costs to get one of these kits."

Source: Jordan Baker - Sydney Morning Herald

Six Steps To A Flatter Stomach

2006-04-12T12:33:00.000+10:30

A few simple changes will leave you with a toned tummy.

Start Exercising
"Don't kid yourself that you can get away with just sit-ups," warns celebrity fitness trainer Matt Roberts. "You might have good abs, but they'll be impossible to see because there's an inch of fat over them." For fast results, mix aerobic exercise (running, cycling and swimming) with resistance training (weights, press-ups and push-ups). Researchers have found that aerobic exercise boosts your metabolism for an hour, while resistance workouts can affect it for up to 48 hours.

Leave Stress Behind
Whenever we're stressed, the brain produces cortisol and adrenaline: hormones designed to activate the "fight or flight" response that was once crucial to our ancestors' survival. These hormones, in turn, trigger a chain reaction that results in certain cells retaining more fat. According to nutritionist Kate Cook, "Fat caused by adrenal stress tends to accumulate around the abdomen."

More Water and Fibre
All the experts agree on two things - drink two litres of water a day and eat plenty of fibre. Fibre combined with water will flush out the intestines and make you more regular.

Deflate With Dill
In The Little Black Dress Diet (Lauren Glen Publishing, rrp $9.9), Michael Van Straten recommends parsley and dill tea to fight bloating. Mix a tablespoon of both chopped parsley and crushed dill seeds in a glass, and boiling water and leave for 10 minutes. Strain, and drink first thing in the morning. Parsley eases water retention and the dill eliminates wind.

Cut Down On Meat
Avoid eating animal protein for lunch and dinner. Meat is difficult to digest and can stay in your gut for days. Opt for vegie alternatives one meal a day as they provide protein and fibre.

Attack on All Fronts
We have three sets of tummy muscles and need to work them all. Roberts says, "Most people have one or two stock exercises and avoid anything that's too hard, but you need to attack all the muscles. The more variation, the better."

Source: Eleni Kyriacou - Marie Claire March 2006

Smoke-Free Shopping

2006-04-12T12:30:00.000+10:30

Want a reason to ditch the ciggies? Based on the cost of a packet-a-day habit, here's what you can buy instead:

1.5 days = $15 = BOTTLE OF WINE

1 week = $70 = NEW TOP

1 month = $300 = CITY MINIBREAK

6 months = $1800 = WIDESCREEN LCD TV

For more help, check out The 90 Day Quit Smoking Diary (New Holland, rrp $9.95)

Meditation : It's All the Rage

2006-04-11T13:35:00.000+10:30

Ever wish you could step outside of daily life and find calm? Think meditation requires years of training in a monastery? Well, think again. At its simplest, the act of meditation is about focusing the mind on physical sensations "in the moment". You too can benefit from this simple technique. Start with ten minutes a day.

Wearing loose clothing, find somewhere quite and sit comfortably. The classic posture is to sit cross-legged on a cushion that tilts your pelvis forward. You can also sit on a chair, always keeping your spine straight.
Concentrate on your breath, without forcing it. When you breathe in, be aware of breathing in. When you breathe out, be aware of that. If your mind wanders, draw it back.
Become aware of your toes, then your feet, then your calves, and so on. Work through the whole of your body.

This focus requires a lot of discipline, but in time your mind should become calmer even when you're not meditating, and your happiness will be less dependent on the ebb and flow of external circumstances.

Along with meditation, in case you need some help in handling day to day anxiety, Cardiologist Dr. Graham Jackson shares his top anxiety-busting techniques:

Try to remove yourself from the stressful environment or the people who irritate you at least once a day (going for a quick walk doubles the stress-busting benefit).
If you are angry, write a letter about the person or problem expressing your anger, then tear it up. (Don't send it!). Yell and shout at a mirror, then laugh at yourself. That old advice about counting to ten slowly while breathing deeply really does have a physical effect.
Don't rely on caffeine, alcohol or cigarettes when the going gets tough.
Don't repress problems and let them fester - bring them into the open and try to talk things through with a friend or partner.
Try relaxation tapes, doing yoga or some breathing exercise (see above).
Avoid over-commitment. Don't be afraid to turn things down.
Most of all try to keep life in perspective. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow hasn't happened. Ask yourself what you would be doing if you had one day alive. Get on with today and enjoy it.

Source: RD Living

Dental Floss Dilemma

2006-04-11T13:23:00.000+10:30

Waxed, unwaxed, skinny, wide, flavoured, prethreaded... You just wanna buy a dental floss, but now you feel like you have to consult a Magic 8 Ball in order to choose one. All types remove plaque, so find whichever one you feel most comfortable, says Richard H. Price, a consumer adviser for the American Dental Association.

Narrow, waxed floss slides most easily, making it a good choice if your teeth are close together. If there's more room, try unwaxed floss, which tends to cover more surface as the fibers separate. And if your teeth are widely spaced, dental tape can work for you.

Teflon-coated floss, such as Glide, is highly resistant to shredding. If you have large hands or if you find the process awkward, prethreaded, disposable floss holders may solve your problem. "The real issue isn't what kind of floss you use - it's whether you're flossing at all," says Dr. Price. "you need to do it once a day in order to clean all those nooks and crannies where toothbrush bristles can't reach."

Heal Your Headache Now!

2006-04-09T13:49:00.000+10:30

Another average day dawns. You hit the snooze button once too often, miss the train, get to your meeting late, skip lunch to catch up on the 57 emails in your inbox, have a few drinks after work in an attempt to wind down, then grab a hurried snack before crashing out for a few hours' sleep. And you still wonder why your head feels like it's crushed in a vice? Here are the most common reasons for your pulsing pain:

TENSION HEADACHES

Caused by: Lack of sleep, anxiety and depression, says Sarah Cumbers of the UK's Migraine Trust. "Stress makes you tighten your neck and forehead muscles, bringing on a horrible headache."
Symptoms: You may be sensitive to lights or sounds. Pain-wise, it's a pressing sensations around your head.
Treatment: First, try a good night's sleep. If you don't like over-the-counter painkillers, meditation and massage will release tension. To get to the source, try acupuncture. It's very effective in treating headaches, stress and related conditions, according to Judy James of the Australian Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Association.

REBOUND HEADACHES

Caused by: Taking too many painkillers. "If you're always popping pills, your body gets used to them and they'll be less effective," says Sarah.
Symptoms: They occur on a nearly daily basis and symptoms are like migraine.
Treatment: Going cold turkey will bring on one mother of a headache. If you want to quit those pills (never take more than 15 painkillers a month) ask your GP for help.

SINUS HEADACHES

Caused by: Inflamed sinuses due to infection or allergy.
Symptoms: Sleepy eyes, runny nose and a dull ache around your nose, eyes, ears and forehead. You may also feel weak and shaky and have swollen or dark circles under your eyes.
Treatment: You'll need antibiotics if your sinuses are infected but a bit of steam can work wonders. Fill a basin with hot water and inhale the steam, or place hot and cold compresses across your sinuses to ease the swelling.

EYE STRAIN HEADACHES

Caused by: Hours in front of a computer, too much TV, bad posture and high blood pressure.
Symptoms: Pain in your forehead, with a sore neck, a dull ache behind your eyes and blurred or double vision.
Treatment: Take regular breaks, get your eyes checked and make sure your chair, desk, and PC are positioned properly.

MIGRAINES

Caused by: Lack of food or sleep, stress, hormonal imbalance and food intolerance.
Symptoms: A recurring headaches with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound, says Sarah. You'll get a throbbing pain in one side of the head, lasting from four hours to three days.
Treatment: There's no definite cure but evidence suggests botox injections can help by loosening muscle tension in the brain. It's worth watching what you eat, says dietician Sarah Schenker. "Some food, especially those containing phenyl enthylamine (cheese, chocolate, wine) can trigger attacks."

Source: New Woman - Health Check, July 2005

Whole Grains Help Your Heart

2006-04-08T13:46:00.000+10:30

Want to help your heart? Eat more whole grains, say doctors at the Harvard School of Public Health. In a study of 42,850 men, they found that those who ate more than 25 grams of whole grains per day reduced their risk of heart disease by about 15%; those who ate more than 11 gram of bran, the highest fiber-part of whole grains, daily cut their risk by a whopping 30%. Good sources include brown rice, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, popcorn and bran muffins, says study co-author Pauline Koh-Banerjee, a professor in the department of preventive medicine at the University of Tennessee.

Researches are still trying to figure out exactly how whole grains help the heart. It could be that fiber, plant sterols or other nutrients lower cholesterol. Or it may be the antioxidants, which help protect against hardening of the arteries. Perhaps it's the simple fact that eating them keeps you feeling full and thus may help prevent obesity, a risk factor for heart disease, says Koh-Banerjee. In any case, eating just three servings of whole grains will easily get you a heart-healthy 25 grams.

Hot Dogs and Diabetes Risk

2006-04-08T13:41:00.000+10:30

We know that eating lots of hotdogs and bacon isn't heart healthy. Now research from Brigham and Women's Hospital shows these food can also increase risk of diabetes.

In a study of 37,309 women, those who ate bacon at least twice a week had a 17% higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who ate it less than once a week. Those who had hotdogs at least twice a week increased their risk by 24%

Researchers aren't sure how eating these meats leads to diabetes, but say it may be nitrates and nitrites, preservatives and additives that can be toxic to pancreatic cells (damage to these cells is a hallmark of type 2 diabetes).

so, how much is too much? The optimal amount is a matter of debate, says study author Yiqing Song, "But avoiding a diet high in processed meats, French fries and sweets may be more important than emphasizing in any individual foods."

Source: Patricia Curtis - RD Food Extra, A focus On Diabetes And Heart Health

Don't Swallow Your Pills With.....

2006-04-08T13:28:00.000+10:30

You may be tempted to take your daily pills / medications with a sip of juice, coffee, or even a beer. Pharmacist Mary Euler explains why water is a safer bet:

Grapefruit juice - It may inhibit enzymes that help metabolize certain pills, including some heart drugs, antidepressants and antifungals. That can make them less effective and worsen side effects.

Coffee, tea, cola - Consuming caffeine regularly while using certain asthma drugs may increase side effects. Caffeine can irritate the stomach, so avoid with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen.

Milk - Calcium prevents absorption of some antibiotics.

Alcohol - You risk liver damage if your drink regularly and use acetaminophen. Alcohol can diminish the effects of antidepressants and worsen side effects of other drugs.

Cranberry juice - Reports suggest drinking it while on warfarin, an anticoagulant, may increase bleeding.

Fiber drinks - Fiber can bind with many drugs, decreasing effectiveness

Source: Neena Samuel - Reader's Digest May 2005.

For Skin Like A Peach

2006-04-08T12:37:00.000+10:30

If you're keen to look after your face but blanch at the cost of skincare products, you can make cleansers, toners and nourishers from fruit, vegetables and other foodstuffs, says herbalist Pierre Jean Cousin, author of Natural Recipes for Perfect Skin.

Many fruits have a nourishing, revitalizing and astringent action. Some vegetables fight inflammation and contain vitamin A. Here are some recipes to try:

Cucumber Cleanser:
Peel, seed, puree and sieve one quarter of a small cucumber. Stir two tablespoons of honey into two tablespoons of the juice, and add a tablespoon of full-cream milk. Apply to the face and neck for 20 minutes, then wash off with bottled water.

Banana Anti-ageing Face Mask:
Mash a small banana and stir in two tablespoons of fresh double cream, one tablespoon of honey and one tablespoon of potato flour. Apply for 30 minutes and then rinse off.

Lemon Toning Mask:
Beat one egg white until stiff, then fold in the juice of half a lemon. Apply to the face for 20 minutes, then wash off.

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Fast fact: Women under stress eat twice as much fatty food as those who aren't. Stress men's snacking stays constant (Journal of Applied Social Psychology)

Honey, Honey!

2006-04-06T12:13:00.000+10:30

The bumblebees are all abuzz. Recent studies have found that honey contains many of the good-for-you antioxidants found in fruit and vegetables. Generally, the darker the honey, the higher the concentration of the antioxidants. Nature's sweetener has trace amounts of vitamins, minerals and amino acids also, making it a good choice over refined sugar, which has no real benefits.

Honey is also a sweet deal for people on the go. A great pick-me-up, honey has been shown to provide quick bursts of energy, help prevent fatigue, and enhance athletic performance. Stir a spoonful into a glass of water before your daily work-out.

And if you're under the weather, honey may help soothe an irritated throat. Swallow a dollop as you need it, or add it to a cup of hot tea.

Appetizing Adjectives

2006-04-06T12:07:00.000+10:30

Taste is one thing, the sound of a meal is quite another. Boy, are we gullible! Scientists at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found that when a restaurant named its dishes using geographic, sensory, or nostalgic labels (think Traditional Cajun Red Beans with Rice, or Satin Chocolate Pudding, or Grandma's Zucchini Cookies), sales rose 27 percent compared with the same dishes with plain names (Red Bean with Rice, Chocolate Pudding, Zucchini cookies).

Customers not only favoured the cleverly named foods, but they also rated them as being high quality and good value. Plus, they were more likely to indulge in or go for more descriptively labelled treats. "We have this expectation that these foods will taste better," says food psychologist and study author Brian Wansink.

So when we're offered regular chocolate cake, we may think, "I don't want to exercise to burn off the kilojoules", but when it's Grandma's Traditional Cake, we say, "I think I deserve that."

Careful Exercise

2006-04-06T11:57:00.000+10:30

If some hyped-up aerobics instructor taught you how to bend and stretch, you might be doing it all wrong. Rachel Whiffen, a fitness adviser with the Victorian government's VicFit program explains:

Toe-touches won't strengthen abdominal muscles or stretch lower back muscles and hamstrings. In fact, they stress the vertebrae, discs and muscles of the lower back. Adding a twisting movement can, overtime, "grind away" at joints.
Squats should never go beyond 90 degrees, as this strains knee joints, ligaments and cartilage. Stick to half-squats.
Stretching needs to be slow and gentle. Once the muscles feel comfortable, gently increase the stretch and hold again. Don't bounce, you can tear muscle fibres.
Sit-ups with anchored feet or straight legs risk strain to the lower back and target the wrong muscles. Instead, do the abdominal curl - on your back with knees bent and arms by your sides. Curl to bring your ribcage and pelvis closer together.
Double leg raises place enormous stress on the lower back. Keep one leg on the ground, slightly flexed.
Head circles should be slow and focused. Quick movements may injure neck joints and soft tissues.
Star jumps can cause shoulder injuries, shin splints and foot injuries. Avoid this exercise altogether.

Gum Is Good For You

2006-04-06T11:46:00.000+10:30

Adult reasons for blowing bubbles:

Heartburn healer - A study from King's College, London, suggests that chewing gum after a meal fights acid reflux.
Dental dazzler - Chewing sugarless gum slows cavity growth by lowering acid levels.
Wake-up call - People who chewed gum while pulling an allnighter felt less tired in the wee hours than those who didn't. Driving at night? Try chewing gum to be more alert.

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Quick Tip: The first two minutes of a toothbrushing routine removes just about all the plaque you're likely to get. Brushing longer risks damage to gums and enamel. Use 150 grams of pressure - equivalent to the weight of an orange (Source: University of Newcastle, UK)

Natural Beauty Ingredients

2006-04-05T13:36:00.000+10:30

If you have wondered which herbs, oils and vitamins will benefit your skin and hair the most, help yourself to better understand and choose the ingredients of your skin and hair products. Find out all about the beauty ingredients, get cracking and make your own little beauty treatments products that can make you look simply amazing!

The important AHA (Alpha hydroxy acid) products can easily be made at home, since they are made of fruit, and you are bound to find the remaining ingredients on your kitchen shelf or in the fridge! Fruits are natural anti-oxidants.

CUCUMBER
Cucumber is one of nature's great healer. It contains anti-inflammatory properties to reduce redness and puffiness, and good when suffering from sunburn.
Slice a large cucumber, reserving two slices to place over eyes during the treatment. Peel and puree the remaining cucumber. Apply as a pack onto your face. Remove after fifteen minutes. Apply a heavy-duty moisturizer to seal in water.

POTATO
Potato is high in alkalinity and rich in vitamins A and B, calcium, phosphorus and iron. The enzymes in the potato nourish neglected cellular skin tissues. The cleansing properties of potatoes make them great for use on the face and body. Raw potato juice is soothing and anti-inflammatory, and helps fight skin blemishes.
Grate a raw potato. Mix with curd and apply on skin blemishes and dark patches. Massage on the face to get rid of wrinkles as your beauty aid.
For dark circles, grind a raw potato and add almond paste to it. Use the mixture regularly under your eyes to get rid of dark circles and puffiness.

RADISH
You can make your own deodorant from radish! Extract the juice from about 2 dozen radishes, add 1/4 teaspoon of glycerin. Pour into a spary bottle and keep refrigerated. Squirt under arms after a bath or pour some into the palm of your hand and rub under the arms.

ALMOND
You can't do much better than almond milk cleansers if you have dry skin. Almond oil lubricates and softens the skin, and glycerine helps it retain moisture.
Ratio: 1/2 cup rose water :1 teaspoon pure glycerin
Add 1 teaspoon almond oil

LAVENDER
Make the rose or lavender water by placing a small handful of dried organic rose petals or lavender in a glass jar. Add boiling water to cover. Let it stand overnight, then strain well. Combine the remaining ingredients in a glass jar and shake to blend. Dab on fingers and massage into your skin. Rinse with warm water.Shelf life: 1 month in refrigerator.

Source: Womendiary.Net

Four Reasons Not To Get Wasted This Weekend

2006-04-05T13:24:00.000+10:30

It's already midweek again, and soon (in just 2 days actually) it will be weekend again. Weekend?? Yeah.. weekend.. you know... Friday night, get together with mates, parties, dance, drinks, and get drunk... NOT!

Need convincing to ease on your drinking this weekend? Here it comes!

At about 590 to 670 kilojoules per glass of beer, it's diet sabotage! While alcohol contains no fat, your body has to burn the energy first before even starting on the nuts, chips and kebab you demolish with it.
That hungover headache is due to pressure on the cranial nerves from distended arteries in your head and brain; some cells might even have been permanently destroyed - scary! (Source: Uncorked! The Hidden Hazards of Alcohol by John F. Ashton and Ronald S. Laura)
Feeling sexy and flirty on a few drinks is far cooler than getting shit-faced because you're trying to keep up with friends. Five to six drinks are classified as risky drinking for a woman 50 kg or more, but if you're lighter, lower levels apply. For more info log on to www.health.qld.gov.au
You won't wake up next to some dude you don't know. Or worse, get an STD because you had unprotected sex.

Soft Drink? Think Again.

2006-04-05T12:59:00.000+10:30

Do you guzzle soft drinks and sports drink to keep yourself hydrated? Not a good idea, says the Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch (ADAVB), as they can lead to dental decay and erosion. The ADAVB's recommendations:

Try not to "swish" soft drinks or sports drink around your mouth, as this increases the likelihood of dental decay and tooth enamel erosion.
Try to drink chilled soft drinks and sports drinks, as cooler temperatures have been shown to be less likely to encourage tooth erosion.
Drink fluoridated tap water as much as possible. Have a glass of water after a soft drink or sports drink to wash away the sugars and acids.
Use a straw whenever possible, as this minimizes the teeth's exposure to the harmful sugars and acid contained in the beverages.

Feel Better In Five Kisses

2006-04-04T13:29:00.000+10:30

Kissing is 100 percent natural and is great for your health.

FRENCH KISS
A French kiss is like a facelift. It uses more than 30 facial muscles, which will be kept taut and toned, helping combat wrinkles and sagging skin. Using these muscles can also reduce layers of subcutaneous fat, slimming the face.

PASSION KISS
If you're a bit down in the dumps or suffer from winter blues, a passionate kiss is a great therapy to lift a low mood. During a kiss, your body releases mood-boosting endorphins and the "happy" hormone oxytocin.

LENGTHY KISS
The longer the kiss, the more energy you'll burn. A prolonged kiss will reduce stress as your breath becomes deeper and your eyes close. As you "smile" when kissed, levels of the stress hormone cortisol are reduced.

MORNING KISS
Insurance companies have found that a husband who receives a goodbye kiss from his wife each morning is less likely to crash his car and will also live up to five years longer than those who don't get a goodbye kiss.

FIRST KISS
Smooching is the best way to find your ideal partner. When two people kiss, concentrated amount of pheromones are released, which can indicate whether a person is a good biological match.

Keep Yourself In Shape At Your Desk

2006-04-04T13:24:00.000+10:30

Work hard, and you'll reap the benefits. But taking care of yourself while you do it is vital.

Take regular breaks - at least a five-minute break every hour - whether it's walking to the printer, photocopying or making a cup of tea.
Give your wrists frequent breaks - Turn them over and rest the backs of your hands on the desk.
Your arms are under extra strain when using a laptop. Try buying a separate mouse and keyboard and raise the screen on a phone book when at your desk.
Use keyboard shortcuts - Your index finger needs a break from all that clicking and scrolling.
Keep the area under your desk clear to ensure you have enough leg room.

Bottom Tone

2006-04-04T13:14:00.000+10:30

Want to look trim and toned? Work your bottom and the back of your legs with this simple exercise:

Step #1
Lie back on your back with your heels on a step or low chair and bend knees 90 degrees.

Step #2
Place your arms by your sides with your palms facing down.

Step #3
Raise pelvis until your body is straight from the knees to the chest.

Step #4
Squeeze and release your buttocks.

Step #5
Slowly lower to your start position. Repeat 20 times

Tip: To increase the intensity of the move, point your toes away from you (your feet will be flat on the surface).

Five Steps To Sleep Tight Tonight

2006-04-04T13:04:00.000+10:30

Sick of counting sheeps instead of getting a good night's sleep? There are ways to wake up rested, here's how:

Check the age of your mattress: The average mattress has a life span of 8 to 10 years. Keeping your mattress for longer than this can affect the quality of your sleep.
Breathe fresh air: Ensure your bedroom is adequately ventilated.
Pillow perfection: A wool-blend pillow can help to keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. If you're allergic, try latex.
Sleep to dream: Use your bed to sleep and limit the time you spend in bed while not sleeping.
Don't oversleep: Avoid that weekend sleep-in. Sticking to a regular pattern helps the body establish a sleeping pattern.

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Quick Tip: Cut back on sugar to improve te texture and the tone of your skin. Sugar can bind to the skin's elastic fibre and make them less flexible. Scan the ingredients of the food to check the sugar content. Ten grams of sugar per 100 gram is too much. It's a good idea to stick to no more than 5 grams per 100 grams.

Soya - A Superfood

2006-04-03T16:15:00.000+10:30

Once the territory of the "sackcloth and sandals" brigade, the soya bean has had a boost in popularity over the past few years. Soya is a superfood - it helps to lower cholesterol, may ease menopausal symptoms and can reduce the risks of osteoporosis. There is some evidence that it may protect against prostate cancer, and it also features in vegan and dairy-free diets, as it is as high in protein as meat, fish and dairy products. It is cholesterol free and low in saturated fat. Soya comes in many forms and it's easier than you may think to include it in your diet. (Note: people with thyroid problems should seek advice from their GP before eating soya products, especially in forms of supplements.)

SOYA MILK
Comes in sweetened and unsweetened forms, the latter being much better. Be aware that soya doesn't contain as much calcium as milk, so look for calcium-enriched soya milks. Some people are happy to use it in their tea or to order a soya cappuccino. Where you won't notice the difference is in cooking - pancakes, soda breads, milkshakes, smoothies and sauces are a good place to start.

TOFU
Great for vegans and carnivores alike. Tofu is made by grinding cooked soya beans to produce a "milk" which is then solidified. You can buy it tinned (not so great for gourmets), in Tetrapaks or fresh from Chinese, Japanese and health food stores. There are generally two types: soft or silken tofu, which can be used to make ice creams, dips, sauces and desserts, and firm tofu, which can be cut into cubes, then marinated and used in stir fries, soups and grills. To confuse matters, you can also buy firm, silken tofu but as long as it says "firm" on the pack, you'll know how to use it. Tofu has a bland flavour and needs a little bit of help in the cooking. Firm tofu tends to work much better with oriental flavours. It's delicious deep-fried (not quite so healthy), but does need marinating beforehand. Tofu also comes smoked, which has more flavour, but some say it is an acquired taste.

SOYA OIL AND MARGARINE
High in polyunsaturated fat, low in saturated fat and cholesterol free. The oil is quite bland, so it doesn't impart flavours to foods. Good for frying and making mayonnaise. The margarine can be used as any other spread, but don't expect it to taste as good as butter.

SOYA DESSERTS
There are various soya desserts and yoghurts on the market, most widely available. Read the label carefully to ensure they're not overloaded with sugar. To make them more palatable, they often have some chocolate or strawberry flavours added. Plain soya yoghurt is great as a base for dips, just add fresh herbs, lime juice, chopped avocado or tomato.

SOYA BEANS
Even after soaking, soya beans are pretty tough and indigestible, hence in China and Japan they are rarely eaten as dried bean. However, freshly steamed green soya beans, known as Edamame, are great with pre-dinner drinks. Served with salt, you hold them to your mouth and squeeze the beans out of the pod. You'll find them in Japanese supermarkets.

SOYA SAUCE
True soya sauce, called shoyu, is produced by fermenting soya beans with cracked roasted wheat, salt and water. Tamari is similar, but slightly stronger and as it is made without wheat, it's gluten free. Both types are fermented for around a year, but beware of imposters! Much of the cheap so-called soya sauce is not fermented and is made from caramel colouring, corn syrup and prcoessed de-fatted soya flour. So, buy top brands like Kikkoman. Although an essential ingredient in oriental cuisine, soya sauce is quite high in salt, but you don't need much of it to get flavour.

For more info on soya or to get some free recipe on how to use soya, visit www.alprosoya.co.uk

Affordable Glamour Outfit

2006-04-03T15:04:00.000+10:30

Cleo magazine featured 3 pretty cool ways how we can get a glam wardrobe without maxing on our credit cards:

CYBER SWAP: Grab that $500 frock you wore once that's now sits at the back of your wardrobe and dryclean it. Then log onto www.swapstyle.com and browse through the designer gear. When you find something you want, email the owner and ask if you can swap it for an item in your closet. Shell out $19.95 to join, and watch your wardrobe go from drab to fab.
DESIGNER DISCOUNT: Sass&Bide, Seduce, Zimmermann - top designers often have end-of-season sales. Get onto their mailing lists and you'll be sent the update when they'll be having the next sales.
HOT AUCTION: Sick of hearing "Oh, this old thing" from your super glam mate? Suggest a clothes auction. Send an email out, tell everyone to bring clothes they want to get rid of, nominate an auctioneer and let the fashion flow. eBay is also a great option to buy some greatlooking new or used clothes, or sell those you no longer wear.

Get Fit Celebrity Style

2006-04-02T18:20:00.000+10:30

Pamela Anderson and Britney Spears have made pole dancing a part of their fitness routine. If toning your thighs by gyrating around a cold steel pole is not your style, check out how other stars are keeping in shape:

HALLE BERRY
To keep her Bond-girl form, Halle goes for regular morning runs. Running is great for cardio fitness and strengthening bones. It burns 1440kJ per hour.

CHRISTINA AGUILERA
Brisk regular walks are essential for her dog's health and are a good way for Christina to keep in shape as well. Brisk walking shapes your legs, improves fitness levels, and burns 575kJ per hour.

CAMERON DIAZ
The Charlie's Angels star didn't get those great legs by being a couch potato (eventhough I think some genetic factor didn't hurt either). Cameron whizzes around LA on a bike and keeps herself fit at the same time. Cycling is great for cardiovascular fitness. Toned legs and a toned buttom will be your reward. It burns 1150kJ per hour.

Walk Tall, Walk Right

2006-04-02T18:10:00.000+10:30

Is walking your favourite way to keep fit? When you walk, it's important to get your techniques correct - posture is everything. With good posture, you'll be able to breathe easier, avoid back pain and injury, and you will maximize your results. The National Heart Foundation recommends this mental checklist for the best postures.

Stand up straight.
Consciously think about being tall and straight without arching your back.
Don't lean forward or backwards. It puts strain on the back muscles.
Keep your eyes forward, not looking down, but rather 6m ahead.
Keep your chin up (parallel to the ground). This reduces strain on your neck and back.
Shrug once and let your shoulders fall and relax, with your shoulders slightly back.

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Fast Fact: Chewing raisins may ward off tooth decay, because phytochemicals may fight bacteria in the mouth, according to the University of Illinois scientists.

Save Your Beauty Dollars

2006-04-02T17:59:00.000+10:30

Being well-groomed doesn't have to cost the earth. A few strategies will help you look good without breaking the bank.

Have your hair done at home. Find a mobile hairdresser who will visit you and you could save up to half the price for a colour, cut and blow wave. Look on noticeboards at your local shopping centre.
Go to beauty colleges for leg waxing and manicures. You can get good discounts on beauty treatments if you're willing to let students have a go. Look in the yellow pages for nearby colleges.
Get free make-up. Have your face made up at a beauty counter in department stores such as David Jones and Myer (beware of the hygiene issue though), ask for some sample before you leave.
Pharmacy points. Many pharmacies give you points for dollars spent. You can then use the points on top-of-the-range cosmetics brands.

Quick Tips To Choose A Cosmetic Surgeon

2006-04-01T12:09:00.000+11:00

You only have one face and body, so don't take any chances with cosmetic surgery. Find out as much as you can before you go under the knife. You wouldn't wanna end up like this:

Check the surgeon's qualifications. Play it safe by calling your local institute of cosmetic surgery. Check out the American Society of Plastic Surgeon to find a reputable surgeon.
Get a recommendation from a former patient. Ask if there is a patient who's willing to answer questions, and also ask to look through the before and after photographs.
Ask lots of questions. A good surgeon will be happy to provide all the facts about risks, what result to expect, length of recovery and so on.
Seek a second and third opinion. A reputable surgeon will recommend you to do this.

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has issued a warning to people attracted to the new trend of "cosmetic tourism" packages. Dr. Scott Ingram from ASPS says, a growing number of Australians are traveling overseas to countries in Asia for a $3,000 holiday package that doubles as an opportunity to have cosmetic surgery. This is very risky, he warns. "If you go somewhere exotic for a cosmetic procedure than you are basically relinquishing your confidence in the surgeon's ability to adhere to standards set down by a professional body, you don't even know if the person doing your operation is qualified as a plastic surgeon or is even a doctor," says Dr. Ingram.

Where To Be Happy

2006-04-01T11:48:00.000+11:00

What pushes your happiness buttons can depend on where in the world you call home. Here are some interesting ways how people in different countries boost their happiness, according to Karen Fittall from the Good Medicine.

INDIA
In India, belief in the beneficial powers of happiness is so strong that the country has more than 500 laughing clubs. Locals get together for 15 minutes a day just to have a good chuckle.

JAPAN
Research published in a book available in Japan claims that clenching your buttocks 100 times a day can cure depression (I tried to imagine myself doing it, and I couldn't help laughing, lol, probably that's how it cures depression :-p)

TANZANIA
Africans believe laughter is addictive. Back in 1962, a giggling fit among a group of teenage girls in Tanganyika (now called Tanzania) was so bad that schools were closed and it lasted for six months (lol, funny just to imagine it happening).

NIGERIA
Nigerians are the happiest people in the world. In a study in New Scientist magazine, the African country topped the 65 others that were surveyed, while Romania came in last.

USA
What makes Americans happy? Personal success and self-expression. But in Japan, people are happiest when they feel they've fulfilled their family's expectations.

As a rule, people from Japan, Korea and China see the glass as being half empty rather than half full. It's thought that they tend to be more pessimistic because they have to be careful not to offend others.

Talking Lips...

2006-04-01T11:38:00.000+11:00

... I've featured a couple of articles about being sun-smart and how to protect ourselves against sunburn. We all know what sun can do to our skin, but what about our lips? Here are some lips facts

Lips have five layers of skin cells compared with 15 elsewhere on the body, so they actually DO need extra protection.
The coloured areas of the lips have no sweats or oil glands, so they become dry and cracked in the sun.
Anyone who carries the cold sore virus may suffer an attack after being in the sun, as UV rays stimulate the virus.

So, now when we all get busy putting sunscreen, wearing hat and doing all the sensible things, there's just one more thing to do. Lipgloss! Lipgloss or lip balm with extra sun protection factors are available everywhere with different kinds of flavours too!

Music For Your Heart

2006-04-01T11:33:00.000+11:00

Music to your ears is also good for your heart, it seems.

A group of 75 men and women were put through a challenging mathematical test to raise their blood pressure. They were then randomly selected to listen to different types of music or just sit in silence.

It turned out that those who listened to classical music had significantly lower blood pressure than those who were given nothing to listen to or were exposed to other types of music, such as jazz or pop.

Source: Good Medicine February 2006

How To Get Perfect Nails

2006-03-31T16:41:00.000+11:00

Bitten, broken, chewed. Sounds like your nails? Follow the rescue plans from Cleo beauty team, for fingers that look salon-perfect in 30 minutes.

Soak those cuticle - Healthy cuticles promote healthy nails. Allow your nails to sit in a bowl of warm soapy water for a couple of minutes, then exfoliate (you can use Creative Nail Design's Solar/Manicure). Only clip cuticles if dead skin is present; the unnecessary irritation can make them puffy and inflamed.
File and shape - File nails in one direction to avoid breakage. As far as shape goes, a squarish-oval offers the best protection against chipping and tearing.
In the buff - Buffing increases circulation in the nail bed and stimulates growth. But only buff once a week as it can reduce the strength and thickness of the nails.
Instant therapy - Use a good hand cream regularly.
Salon treatment - A daily dose of treatment oil will ensure plump, well-nourished cuticles.
Stronger in seconds - For natural nails, apply two coats of OPI Nail Envy, to the nail in thin, even strokes. It provides instant strength and durability for weak nails. For perfect polish, apply a base coat as it will give your lacquer extra staying power and help stop it staining your nails. Try Revlon Top Speed 60 second base.
Colour me vibrant - Apply two coats of nail lacquer. The first provides coverage, the second intensifies colour.
The finishing touch - Complete the look with a strong shiny top coat. Let your nails dry for ten minutes to avoid dents and chips, or spritz them with nail enamel drier which helps prevent polish shattering.

THREE STEPS TO STREAK-PROOF POLISH

Apply polish in three lengthwise strokes. First stroke down the centre of the nails, then do one side followed by the other.
Don't overfill the brush - one dip in the bottle should do an entire nail.
Use the "flat-out" approach - The brush should be sprayed out against the nail. Use the whole brush not just the tip. It will mean thinner layers, which gives you a much more professional look.

DIY FRENCH MANICURE

Create a French manicure the easy way with Manicure's French Manicure Pen. One side features a non-clumping, chip-resistant Stretch White formula to define the tips of your nails. The other side contains a sheer French Pink. It's easy to hold, convenient to use and small enough to fit in a handbag or office drawer. Plus, it's free of toluene and formaldehyde which may cause allergies to some people.

Look Amazing on Lousy Day

2006-03-31T15:53:00.000+11:00

We're having a miserable rainy weather today here in Brisbane, and I'm having a nasty cold. This isn't exactly the day that I look my best. Yet, lousy days, weather, sickness, shouldn't be the obstacles to look good -or at least decent :-)
Here are some prettifying tips from Cosmopolitan's beauty editor Emma Vidgen:

Case #1 - WEATHER'S A SHOCKER

Colour is your saviour: Go for a sky-blue or grass-green eyeshadow. "Since they're cool tones, they'll be an alluring contrast to all that grey," says make-up artist Mally Roncal, who beautifies Beyonce. Recommended is CoverGirl Eyeslicks Gel EyeColour in Crystal Mint.
Carry a white umbrella: A white umbrella will reflect a hint of light on to your face brightening up your skin tone, says photographer Cliff Watts.
Outwit frizz: Frizz serum is a must on crap days. Apply to freshly washed wet hair before styling. And keep some on hand to run through your hair before you head outside (or to fix it when you get back inside). Recommended is Pantene Pro-V Smooth and Sleek Leave In Hair Moisturizer - it cuts frizz to the max in no time.
Curl-up: Humidity has natural curling power, so let your coils run free in the wet. Tousle in a curl enhancer, then twirl sections around your finger, aiming a blowdryer with a diffuser at each for a few secs.
Damage control: If you get caught in a downpour, head to the nearest bathroom and blast your hair with the hand dryer. To control any frizz on your ends, smooth on a little gel, hand lotion or lipgloss - anything you've got that's gooey. Easy!
Do dewy: Your skin will generally appear dewy if you spend time outdoors on a rainy day, so play up the radiance factor. "Slick on a tinted moisturizer and a peach or fuchsia lipgloss - they'll give a healthy gleam," says Roncal. Try Dove Essential Nutrients Proactive Tinted Moisturizer, or Clinique Superbalm Tinted Lip Treatment in Raspberry.

CASE #2 - YOU GOT, LIKE, NO SLEEP AT ALL

Watching that second DVD seemed like a great idea at 11 pm, but now your 6am alarm is buzzing and you're so tired, you're actually considering chucking a sickie (tut-tut) - by the way, I couldn't sleep last night, so I got off my bed at 1am and watch a DVD till 3am :-p

Say buh-bye to eye bags: Press some cold herbal tea bags over your eyes for five minutes (while you're laying down), then pat on some eye cream with caffeine or mint - both help to shrink dilated blood vessels. Estee Lauder Stress Relief Eye Mask is a great product for a quick remedy.
Go nude: When you look tired (and yes, we all have a tired face), go for peach and brown blush and eyeshadow shades. These neutral tones warm up drained complexion.
Stop circles: To hide dark undereye rings, use an illuminator over your regular concealer. Dab it on quite heavily, then put it in. Don't rub or blend. Don't have one? Mix a tiny bit of cream-based eyeshadow in a soft white with your regular concealer. Try Nutrimetrics Luminous Cover Concealer.
Get perky: There is a reason why you crave OJ in the morning, "Data shows that citrus scents are stimulating and make you feel more alert," says Helen Murphy, a fragrance developer for International Flavours and Fragrance Inc. Rev up with a crisp citrus perfume, like Clarins Eau Dynamissante Natural Spray.

CASE #3 - YOU'RE FEELING FLU-EY (like me now)

Ah yes, the scratchy throat, the watery eyes and just way too much mucus going on for anyone's liking.... Colds aren't cool for kids, but when you do get hit with one, you needn't look as horrid as you feel.

Prevent a cold sore: Act lightning fast! Start applying an antiviral cream like Zovirax, or try taking over-the-counter oral aid Lipreve.
Whiten up: To cure red eyes, lie down on a pillow and put a cold pack over your eyes. This whitens them in minutes by constricting the blood vessels.
Radiate a little: Pep up your face by adding some illuminator to your base, or switch to one with a shimmer. Recommended is Max Factor Sheer Radiance.
Go for bronze: Piling pink blush on a face that's feverish can leave you looking flush and, well, odd. What looks better, according to Troy Jensen, make up artist for Gwyneth Paltrow, is "a creamy bronzer as it counteracts pinkness".
Liven up your lips: A rosy glow or stain is perfect for a can't-call-in-sick day. The colour brings a vitality to your lips that nude tones don't. Great choice: Estee Lauder Pure Pops Brush-On Color in Pink Cupcake.

Motivation Tricks - Just Do It!

2006-03-31T14:55:00.000+11:00

We all have goals, but often they can be hard to achieve. Procrastinating is for me a basic instinct :-p , but there are simple tricks to overcome this and have the willpower to hit a target. Latest research suggests that it may be possible to strengthen our motivation exactly the same way we build muscles - with training. The simple act of setting goals and starting to work toward them also brings its own rewards with a greater satisfaction about our lives. The following tricks may help us to get ourselves motivated.

Start working toward a new goal on a Monday
The beginning of the week just feels like a fresh start (unless you're Garfield). Mondays give you the sense of energy that comes on 1 January, and then do it every week.

Do it early in the day
Always put your goal first. As the day wears on, there's less time to get to every item on your "to-do" list. If you give your project top priority, you'll help ensure that you get it done.

Ease into it
When you feel like completely abandoning your goal, find a way to put in just five or ten more minutes. It may not be the project that's so hard - it's just the struggle to get going. You never know, you may be inspired to continue.

Put your money where your goal is
After you splash out on new trainers, or sign up with a Spanish tutor, you'll be more motivated to stick with it because you'll want to get your money's worth.

Find a mantra
If you're struggling or even panicking en route to a goal, recite an empowering calming, or even spiritual line such as: "There are no problems, only solutions".

Make it pleasurable
Try to keep yourself entertained as you work toward your goal. Use your mobile phone to talk to old friends as you walk, for example. Play some music as you de-clutter a cupboard, or light a scented candle when you sit down with one of the paperworks.

Ask for praise
In one of the workplace studies conducted by Gallup, people who received regular recognition and compliments for their works showed higher level of happiness and productivity than others. A little bit of praise can motivate you to continue making big improvements in your hobbies, workouts, volunteer work, parenting and relationship.

Source: Woman&Home

Got To Get Braces?

2006-03-30T16:26:00.000+11:00

Ok, so braces don't top many wish lists, but don't freak just yet. Would you rather fix your teeth now or have a wonky smile later? Specialist orthodontist Dr. Andrew J. Pitsis shares five secrets to straight teeth:

CERAMIC BRACES:
They're tooth-coloured braces and wires bonded to the outside of the teeth.
Pro: They're more effective over a short period of time than other options.
Con: They're not as obvious as metal-coloured ones, but can still be seen.

LINGUAL BRACES:
These are similar to traditional ceramic braces, but are attached to the back of the teeth, not the front.
Pro: You can't see them.
Con: They can be obtrusive when eating and can affect speech.

CERAMIC BRACES COMBINED WITH ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
A specialist orthodontist places braces on your teeth to straighten them while a maxillofacial surgeon repositions one or both jaws.
Pro: Highly effective.
Con: The surgery makes it quite an involved process.

INVISALIGN:
These removable aligners fit on your top and bottom teeth and gradually move them into place. They're custom made for each patient using 3D computer imaging technology.
Pro: You can't see them.
Con: They don't correct severe alignment or bite problems.

VENEERS:
Crooked teeth can be filed back and fitted with ceramic veneers on top.
Pro: Gives you an instant perfect smile.
Con: They don't correct your bite or jaw alignment.

Can a retainer help? Retainers are good for a number of reasons, but they won't make a stitch of difference to crooked teeth or cross bites. If you're not loving any of the braces options and your main concern is that your bite or teeth will get worse over time, a retainer worn at night will make sure your teeth stay exactly as they are. And if you're a teeth grinder (like me), a retainer will stop you from filling your teeth away while you sleep.

Papaya Power

2006-03-30T11:35:00.000+11:00

From cooking to beauty products, who knew this mild-mannered fruit was so nutritious and versatile?

Papaya (or wellknown as Paw Paw in Australia and South Africa) is one of the most nutrient-dense in the fruit world (compared to orange or the legendary apple). It contains more vitamin C than oranges, a third more potassium than bananas, and three times the dietary fibres of apples. It also stands out with a vitamin A level that exceeds the RDI (Recommended Daily Intake) by 30 per cent.

How to choose Papaya?
Ripe papayas are green with overtones of yellow and creamy orange. They will yield to gentle pressure and should be well-shaped, reminding you of a large pear. The stem end should smell softly sweet, not acrid or harsh.

Kitchen tips
Store ripe papayas in the fridge where they will last for about a week. To prepare, use a sharp paring knife to peel then scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Add raw to green or fruit salads - or puree and use in frozen desserts. Always use cooked papaya to dishes that rely on gelatine - raw papaya contains an enzyme that will prevent gelling. Unripe papaya is cooked and eaten like squash.

Accent on Enjoyment

Use half shells of ripe papaya to hold crab or prawn salad
Sprinkled chilled papaya with lime juice and serve with smoked salmon or smoked trout.
Add pureed ripe papaya to meat marinades for extra tenderness
Use papaya to replace pumpkin in a pie recipe. Unripe fruit is well suited for this use.
Give papaya seeds a try - they are crisp and peppery. To prepare, rinse the seeds well, pat dry, and place in a jar. Cover with mild vinegar and refrigerate, then use as you would capers - in salads and sandwich fillings and as garnishes.

Papaya Facts

Papain, a milky latex collected from unripe papayas, is dried and sold as a disinfectant, digestive aids, beer clarifier, and meat tenderizer
Slightly underripe papaya, which is not so sweet, can be cooked and served as a side dish, like a vegetable
Because the papaya's flesh is packed with alpha-hydroxy acids - natural exfoliants that smooth the skin - it makes a great blemish clearing mask.
In Australia and South Africa they're paw paws, everywhere else in the world, they're called papayas.

Fresh Papaya Parfait

2 ripe papayas
2 tbsp lime juice and pulp
1 1/2 cups vanilla yoghurt
whole fresh berries

Using a sharp paring knife, halve and peel papayas (it's best to do this over the sink). Scoop out the remaining seeds with a spoon, then slice papaya flesh into a food processor or blender. Add lime juice and pulp, and process until smooth.

Spoon some papaya into the bottom of four parfait glasses or wine goblets. Then add a layer of yoghurt. Continue layering, using all of the papaya and yoghurt. Sprinkle with whole fresh berries and serve for dessert or a fancy breakfast. Make 4 servings.

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Source: Patricia Hausmann - The Healing Foods.

Review on eDiets

2006-03-30T10:28:00.000+11:00

Having been titled the best diet site on the internet by Forbes Best of the Web, eDiets is certainly the sharpest looking and most accessible slimming programs. Its great attraction is that it offers online versions of 17 popular diets, including Dr. Phil's Shape Up and the Mediterranean diet, as well as customized plans for diabetics and vegetarians. If one diet doesn't work, members can easily switch to another without extra cost. Non-members can sign up for free emails offering encouragements, success stories, and access to articles about nutrition, fitness, recipes and sex.

eDiets' Best Features

In a world where diet diversity is the buzz, eDiets caters for everyone. Each diet has a menu plan that includes alternatives, fast food, and quick recipe ideas, as well as current information about each diet, why it works and who it works for.
Unlike some sites where weight loss is the only focus, eDiets has a My Exercise section. Once signed up, members can choose which body part needs work, then have a program designed for them by eDiets' expert Raphael Calzadilla. A virtual trainer - a perky, 3D redhead in bicycle shorts - then demonstrates the activity, and offers pointers.
There are also a wide range of alternatives to weights and aerobics, and for the more adventurous, the benefits of exercise such as pole dancing are available for consideration. They have a range of nifty online tools to measure cardio fitness, body mass index (BMI), resting heart rate and waist to hip measurements.
The site's support arm, eDiets Solution, is a glowing example of how the internet can be the life coach you can't afford. Members pay US$1 extra, and have access to chat rooms, online meetings, an online journal, 24-hour support and a mentoring program. But if voicing your diet woes to anyone who'll listen doesn't work for you, Solutions also has the Circle of Winners, where smaller online groups find common ground and advice. For an additional US$2 the Recipe Club offers 2000 tasty selections dieters can make for themselves, personalized to their programs.

Drawbacks

eDiets is backed by sprawling consumerism, and has advertisements for dating services, supplements, trendy exercise gear, books, videos and equipment.

Cost

eDiets works on a supermarket-style approach to its products, so the price tag depends on the purchases. On average a membership, including the Recipe Club and Solutions, would be around US$ 5 a week, or $260 per year. They also sometimes have special deals that can cut cost by 40 percent.

So, check them out! You'll find one that suits you! Or, at least, you'll be able to take advantage of the free information and articles they offer!

How to Choose A Yoga Class

2006-03-29T13:05:00.000+11:00

Thinking of joining a yoga class? You may still think of what style is best for you. Here are three main styles to help you make up your mind:

Hatha - This helps the student become stronger and more flexible, allowing the muscles to relax. As the body becomes more supple, you can sit comfortably for longer periods of meditation.
Iyengar - This style is firmly based in the tradition of the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, sayings which outline a way of life that can lead to peace of mind and harmony, and ultimately to bliss. A distinctive feature is the use of equipment to enable a student to develop control in a posture.
Ashtanga - More of a workout. You repeat a series of postures. This works like a combination lock - if you do the right poses in the right order, the mind and body open up.

Don't forget the Yoga Journal Boston Conference is on April 7-10!!!

Five Minute Check That Can Save Your Life

2006-03-29T12:33:00.000+11:00

While winter is approaching us here down under, I keep thinking of how lucky everyone else in the northern hemisphere who is having their springtime now, and busy planning their summer vacation... *sigh dreamily*

Well... have fun guys! But don't forget one thing: SUNSCREEN! OK?

Believe it or not, despite having the highest skin cancer rates in the world, fewer people actually die of cancer here in Australia than in the UK, where rain is the usual forecast. The disease claims the lives of 600 more Britons than Australians every year, thanks to the love of traveling and the continued enthusiasm for tanning.

After 20 years of health warnings, Australians now take more care to protect themselves from the sun (wonder why it's taken THAT long!), and they get suspicious-looking mole regularly checked. Here is how we all can do it too. It's easy and it takes only 5 minutes. We should look out for the followings:

An existing mole or dark patch is getting larger or a new one is growing (growth or change in moles becomes less common as we get older).
A mole has a ragged outline (ordinary moles have a smooth regular shape).
A mole has a mixture of different shades of brown and black (ordinary ones may be dark brown but are all in one shade).
An inflamed mole or one with a reddish edge (an ordinary mole is not inflamed).
A bleeding, oozing or crusting mole (ordinary moles do not do this).
A change in sensation of a mole, like a mild itch (an ordinary mole is not usually itchy or painful).
A mole that is bigger than all your other moles.

Ask your friends or partner to check moles on your back, on the backs of your arms and neck and the backs of your legs. Women are most likely to get skin cancer on the legs, predominantly because those are the bits we try hardest to tan.

And stay SunSmart! These are the SunSmart self-preservation rules instilled in every Australian:

S-tay in the shade from 11 am to 3 pm.
M-ake sure you never burn.
A-lways cover-up with a t-shirt, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
R-emember to take extra care with children and make teenagers aware too.
T-hen use SPF15+ sunscreen - apply 20 to 30 minutes before exposure and reapply regularly.

For further information and advice, visit www.sunsmart.org.uk

Balancing Work and Home

2006-03-29T12:06:00.000+11:00

There is nothing quite so satisfying as the feeling of a job well done, followed by a well-deserved rest. In other words, all is right with our world. We are in control. We all need goals to give structure and meaning to our lives, yet we also need time and space to relax and enjoy ourselves. This is not so easy to achieve. Some simple lifestyle changes I read from Lynda Field's book Weekend Life Coach this morning might be helpful to give us some hints as to how we can make a difference in our life quality, how to balance work and home

Make yourself THE priority. Schedule free time for doing absolutely nothing and, even if you're surrounded by chaos, find a quiet space and put your feet up. Try this for at least 15 minutes every day, and tell your family that you're not to be disturbed.
Domestic chores are never ending and guilt-inducing. Assign three hours at the beginning of a weekend to household tasks and leave the rest of it free. Whatever you don't complete will have to wait another week.
Delegate! Think of three jobs you can hand over to others at home and three jobs you can hand over at work. Now hand them over!
Book exercise into your diary, but don't take your foreign language tapes with you to the gym. Focus on one thing at a time. Better to have done one thing well than two things half-heartedly, which will only leave you feeling dissatisfied.
Slow everything down - your breathing, your talking, your pace. Next time you're feeling under pressure, just stop, count to ten and breathe.
Leave work issues at work and home issues at home. It's better to stay an extra hour at work to complete a task than take it home and feel guilty all evening because you've been too busy with the kids/supper/husband/laundry to do it.
Learn to switch off. If you find it hard to wind down in the evening, do something that marks the end of the working day and the start of your own time. It may be having a shower, taking the dog for a walk or just changing out of your work clothes.

For more details, plus positive tips and strategies, check out the Weekend Life Coach by Lynda Field at Amazon.

Avocado? Yes, please!

2006-03-28T16:02:00.000+11:00

Avocados originated in Mexico and Central America, and their name comes from Aztec word for testicle. If, after hearing this, you need some convincing to eat them, here are five good reasons:

Half a large avocado contains the same fibre as two apples.
They're good source of beta-sitosterol, a plant compound that can help lower blood cholesterol.
Half a large avocado will provide most women with the recommended daily intake of vitamin E.
They're packed with lutein - a carotenoid that protects against prostate cancer, cataracts and macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness.
They're rich in an antioxidant called glutathione, which can help reduce the risk of early ageing, some cancers and heart disease.

Fast fact: The first carrots were grown by the Egyptians in 2000BC, and they were purple!!

The Atkins Diet

2006-03-28T15:34:00.000+11:00

We've had an earful of the Atkins diet, everyone's talking about it, with celebrities such as Catherine Zeta-Jones, Jennifer Aniston and Renee Zellweger gracing magazine covers, singing its praises and losing flab before our eyes. Even UK food queen Nigella Lawson calls it "the perfect diet for those who love food". So, why does it attract bad publicity after all?

The Atkins diet works by drastically reduces carbohydrate intake in favour of protein and fat. So bread, pasta, potatoes, rice and cereal are out. The diet claims to work on the principle that by cutting down on the amount of carbohydrates you eat, you cut down on the body's supply of glucose that can be turned to fat.

Experts claim that stuffing yourself full of protein and saturated fats for extended periods of time can raise the risk of high cholesterol, bowel cancer and even kidney and liver damage, as the body struggles to cope with processing so much protein. However, there are no studies showing that the diet causes kidney or liver problems in healthy individuals, but even so you're advised to see your GP for tests before starting it.

Other negative effects include bad breath. A by-product of burning fat is ketones, which are released by the body in the urine and the breath. The diet could also cause constipation because fruit and wholegrains are not allowed, and vegetables are limited in the early stages of the eating program.

The Atkins diet was devised by Dr. Robert Atkins who died in April 2003. His best selling book is called Dr Atkins' New Diet Revolution.

Five Reasons To Meditate

2006-03-28T12:43:00.000+11:00

Without further ado:

RELAXATION

Meditation creates a unique hypo-metabolic state, in which the metabolism is in an even deeper state of rest than during sleep.

STRESS REDUCTION

Meditation releases the calming harmonies melatonin and serotonin, and decreases the stress hormone cortisol.

PAIN RELIEF

People who meditate regularly claim it eases chronic pain.

ANTI AGEING

Meditators secrete more of the youth-related hormone DHEA as they age.

SLEEP QUALITY

Meditation eases insomnia and encourages deep unbroken sleep.

For the novice, meditation can be difficult, and beginners find that music helps them to focus, breathe deeply, and shut out external distractions. A good set of headphones and a CD of music that has been specifically composed for meditation can be all you need to start. Guided meditation CDs are also helpful. These generally contain spoken instructions that prompt you to relax muscle groups and regulate breathing, and suggest relaxing visual scenes. Here are two recommendable CDs:

CHAKRA BALANCING (Perry Wood)

Life giving energy is distributed through the seven main chakras into pathways known as nadis or meridians. Free flowing energy creates balanced health. This music has been specially composed to help align your subtle energy centres, leaving you feeling relaxed, uplifted and balanced. It also includes a full colour guide to Chakra Balancing by Caroline Shola Arewa.

TIBETAN MEDITATION (Phil Thornton)

A distant temple bell sounds, as the unmistakable tones of the ancient tradition of meditative chant resonate. Inspired by the distinctive culture of Tibet, Phil Thornton has created an exceptional album that captures the very essence of Tibetan music. Listen to the sounds of overtone chanting. Tibetan singing bowls, the Ragdung, cymbals, gongs and the Tibetan thighbone, and take time to reflect, explore and discover.

Beauty and The Bug - Cosmetic Counter Caveat

2006-03-28T11:46:00.000+11:00

Ever wonder how clean make-up samples are? The answer isn't pretty, say researchers at Rowan University in New Jersey. When they tested make-up counters on weekend morning, most were contaminated.

Don't blame shops. Retailers have policies to keep products clean, but there are no make-up police. When a shopper goes to the toilet, does not wash their hands and touches a powder, it's all over, says study author Dr. Elizabeth Brooks.

Minimize your risk. Test lipstick on your wrists, not on your lips. Ask for samples to take home. Often they're behind the counter.

Have you had any experience with unclean make-up samples? Have you got any tips? Feel free to leave your comments :-)

Hair Apparent

2006-03-28T11:31:00.000+11:00

Do blondes have more fun? Don't know - but natural redheads need more anaesthetic. Red hair is the first known visible genetic trait that indicates how much anaesthetic a person needs.

Twenty women, aged 18 to 40, were given a common anaesthetic gas. Ten had red hair, ten ha dark hair. Each received a mild electric shock. Those who twitched were given more anaesthetic until reflexes stopped; those who didn't got less until they reacted. Redheads needed 20 percent more gas than brunettes, said anaesthetist Daniel Sessler of the University of Louisville.

The link may occur because a genetic variation that produces red pigment also triggers higher levels of the hormone that increases pain sensitivity. Blondes should respond like brunettes because they share the same pigment, only in smaller amount.

Meanwhile, do blondes really have more fun? Share your opinion!

Source: Australian Readers Digest.

Eight Glasses of Water

2006-03-27T14:05:00.000+11:00

It is well known that water is the best weight loss tool, as well as good for detox and health. We need to drink at least 2 litres of water, or eight glasses in a day - not the easiest thing in the world. But there are ways to slip in some sips without it feeling like you're drinking the stuff all day.

When you get up, drink a glass of water with maybe a squeeze of lemon.
Have another just after your bath or shower to rehydrate you.
Have one more when you feel those mid-morning tummy rumbles.
Have a glass before lunch (not with it, as it spoils proper digestive action). It hydrates you, making you feel full and eat less.
Slip in another mid afternoon when you're feeling a little headachey - another sign of dehydration.
Have another glass when you get home to put fluids back after a stressful journey.
Sip one more after dinner before you hit the sack.

Source: Woman&Home - A Brand New Attitude

Keep The Workout Glow

2006-03-27T13:06:00.000+11:00

Have you been wondering how you could keep doing your early morning workout and still look good for work, after you've given your all on the step machine, getting the redness, blotches and oiliness? Don't worry! The effects aren't lasting and there are always ways of minimizing them. Two or three strategic items will get your skin clean, moisturized and ready for your make-up.

Cut down on blotchiness and the odd post-routine blemish, by clearing grease and debris from your skin. Toxins exit your skin via pores while you exercise, and the cleaner they are, the easier the exit. No need to tote your whole skincare regime with you to do the job effectively. Keep it simple by sweeping cleansing wipes over your skin before and after a workout. Champneys All-In-One Skin Smoothing Facial Wipes, are really good for this. They cleanse, tone and refine your skin, thanks to the gentle polishing action of the textured cloth.

Skin can be a little oilier than normal post-workout, so after you've cleansed, try skipping your usual day cream and choose something light that sinks in fast, leaving skin prepared for makeup in less time. A quick spritz of Clinique's new Moisture Surge Face Spray gives a rush of comfort to your skin. With vitamin E and chamomile, it calms, cools and moisturises in one hit.

If your skin's feeling dry or you're heading out in the sun, choose a tinted moisturizer that hydrates skin, colours it evenly, and protects with a good SPF. A recommendation is Clinique Moisture Sheer Tint. Oil-free and with a cream gel formulation, it is pampering, tinted and light enough to let skin breathe. As a bonus, it calms disturbed skin too. Visit Clinique Skin Care for more products.

How Much Fat Is In Food?

2006-03-27T10:22:00.000+11:00

Forget all the four-letter words in the English language! There's one three-letter word that's enough to make most of us start to feel a little queasy: F-A-T.

Why? Fat, we're led to believe, is a killer, to our arteries as well as our social lives. So we've been getting rid of the fat from our steaks and buying reduced-fat milk for as long as we can remember. The problem is, fat is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL for our bodies to function effectively.

Nutritionists tell us we should consume 30 to 60 grams of fat a day, and there are good fats and bad ones. Dr David Cameron-Smith, Senior Lecturer at the School of Health Sciences at Deakin University, Victoria, confirmed that we should be getting between 20 - 30 percent of our energy everyday from fat.

So, how much fat is in a food? Keeping in mind that we need between 30 to 60 grams of fat per day, here are some fats some common foods contain:

GENERIC FOOD:

30g cream cheese - (10g fat)
1 tbsp mashed avocado - (3g fat)
1 tbsp butter - (16g fat)
1 tbsp vegetable oil (all type) - (18g fat)
30g toasted muesli - (7g fat)
60g egg - (7g fat)
100g tinned salmon - (6.5g fat)
100g fresh salmon (grilled or steamed) - (10g fat)
100g canned tuna in oil - (10g fat)
2 fried sausages - (24g fat)
200g lean steak - (15g fat)
1 cup cooked lentils - (1g fat)

CONFECTIONERY & TAKEAWAY FOOD

50g potato crisps - (18g fat)
50g potato lite crisps - (16g fat)
Half BBQ chicken - (26g fat)
A quarter large super supreme pizza - (26g fat)
KFC chicken fillet burger - (16.5g fat)
Big Mac - (25.7g fat)
1 Arnott's Tim Tam Caramel - ( 5.5g fat)
1 doughnut - (10g fat)
60g Mars Bar - (11g fat)

What food has which good fats and bad fats?

BAD FATS:

Trans Fatty Acids: processed food, fries and margarine, as well as fatty meal and sausages.

Saturated fats: meat, chicken, dairy foods, palm oil, coconut milk and chocolate, as well as fast foods and many snacks and processed foods.

GOOD FATS:

Mono Unsaturated Fats: Avocado, olives, almonds, sesame seeds, peanuts, cashews, macadamias, lean red meat, fish, olive and canola oils.

Polyunsaturated Fats: Omega-3 (salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies, tuna, linseeds, walnuts, canola and soybean oils). Omega-6 (sunflower and sesame seeds, Brazil nuts, pecans, walnuts, legumes, wheatgerms, corn and sunflower and soybean oil.

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Source: Allan Borushek's Pocket Calorie, Fat & Fibre counter, McDonald's, and Red Rooster.

What's Hip In Alternative Health?

2006-03-26T11:41:00.000+11:00

Still in the topic of alternative health, imagine opening an average person's medicine cabinet. It would be fairly safe to bet you'll find some sort of herbal or vitamin supplement in there, like evening primrose oil, or magnesium etc. These "rescue remedy" are all part of complementary, or alternative medicine. A loosely used term might be naturopathy, homoeopathy, and it can also be advices about nutrition.

According to a recent University of Adelaide study, Australians now spend about $2.3 billion a year on alternative medicine and therapies - a figure that has increased 120 per cent since 1993. Rod Brennan, the principal of Nature Health College in Sydney said it's due to people having more confidence of the effectiveness of complementary medicine, and also wanting to take responsibility of their own health. With the rising number of people turning to natural therapies, more treatments are becoming available. Here are the five fastest growing complementary treatments in Australia:

PRANIC HEALING

It is an energy based healing technique based on the idea that when your "prana", or life-force is blocked or unbalance, you're likely to feel unwell - both physically and psychologically. Pranic healing encourages a sense of wellbeing by correcting energy imbalances and blockages and replacing "unhealthy" energy with fresh prana.
Pranic healing treats a patient through their aura (visible only to some people), an indicator of how healthy a person's energy is. While a healthy person has an aura that's a glowing field of white light and pure colour, the aura of a person who is unhealthy will appear depleted, congested, or "dirty" looking
During pranic healing, a practitioner performs a series of "hand sweeps" and movements, designed to transfer and rebalance your energy. You are fully clothed during the treatment and there is no contact at all between you and the practitioner.
Based on the idea that a body's energy and physical health are closely linked, pranic healing can treat psychological and physical ailments. However, practitioner stressed that this should be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. For more info about pranic healing, click here.

SHIRODHARA

This therapy is part of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian health system. Shirodhara - "shiro" meaning head and "dhara" meaning flow - is a highly relaxing treatment that rids the body of disease-causing toxins, while also replenishing the tissues with nourishment. Practitioners of Ayurveda believe shirodhara is a rejuvenating therapy and the key to sustaining good health.
In a shirodhara treatment, you lie back and relax on a massage table, warm oil is gently poured onto the middle of your forehead - an area that's known in Ayurveda as the "third eye". Often touted as the easy way to meditate, shirodhara works to clear the mind, giving it space to rest and replenish
Shirodhara is believed to treat a variety of ailments including insomnia, tension, anxiety and even depression. It's also said to enhance blood circulation to the brain, which is thought to improve memory. For more information, click here.

CRYSTAL SOUND THERAPY

Based on the concept that certain sounds can create a strong feeling of wellbeing, crystal sound therapy is a type of vibrational healing that targets the body's energy system. Quartz crystal bowls are used to create the sounds. The Quartz is the key, as its electrical capability is believed to generate a response from our bodies, harmonizing the heart and the mind. Each crystal bowl is tuned to a key in the musical scale, with each key being linked to one of the body's seven chakras (main energy centres)
It involves listening to the sounds made when a practitioner "plays" the crystal bowls. It doesn't have to be enjoyed on a one-on-one basis, as group healing concerts and retreats are also effective.
This therapy is used to enhance creativity and inspiration, encourage relaxation, and intensify feelings of wellbeing and success. For info about practitioners in NSW, Victoria and Queensland, click here.

REBIRTHING

Although it sounds a bit scary, this therapy is all about breath-work - learning to breathe in a ways that helps your health. As many yoga teachers will agree, breathing can have an extremely calming effect, encouraging the mind to simply accept things without stressing about why they happen.
Rebirthing refers to the healing of negative traumas that are locked in the body. Breathing exercises can help heal even those traumas that happened a long time ago, starting with the very first one - birth.
It involves simple exercise where the practitioner will teach you to breathe properly and deeply. The breathing session usually takes 45-60 minutes depending on your experience.
When you breathe properly, about 70 percent of the body's waste is exhaled. Useful for eliminating stress and anxiety, practitioners also claim that rebirthing is crucial for staying physically and emotionally young. For more info, visit the Rebirthing School of Australia.

KLAMATH ALGAE

This type of algae grows naturally in Oregon's Klamath Lake, in the northwest of America, and is rich in antioxidants, providing a great nutritional top-up for people who lead stressful lives.
Klamath algae is taken as a supplement. It is usually bought as a capsule or an instant coffee-like powder, but can also be taken as a liquid, which tend to be much more potent.
According to the experts, there isn't much this algae can't help. From stabilizing mood swings to balancing the endocrine system, lowering blood pressure and increasing energy and stamina, this algae is power-packed nutrient. For further info, click here.

Hollywood Health

2006-03-26T11:03:00.000+11:00

Many Hollywood celebrities enjoy complementary medicine every now and then. Karen Fittal reports on who swears by what:

Herbalism

In true Hollywood style, herbal bars have popped up all over Los Angeles and are frequented by stars keen to boost their health with a herbal potion. Devotees include Gwyneth Paltrow, Cameron Diaz, Paul McCartney and George Clooney.

Ayurveda

Based on a 3000-year old Indian philosophy, Ayurveda combines herbal treatments with meditation and lifestyle changes. Celebrities Madonna and Geri Halliwell are among those who are turning to this.

Yoga

Christy Turlington, Lisa Kudrow, Uma Thurman, Melanie Griffith, Sting, and Cindy Crawford all enjoy a yoga session, but the two who love it the most would have to be Meg Ryan and Dennis Quaid. when they divorced, they fought over who should have access to their yoga teacher. Now that's devotion to your health!

Holistic Jewellery

Halle Berry favours worry beads, while Robbie Williams often wears a bangle bearing the ancient Indian mantra "Om Namah Shivaya" (I bow to Shiva)

Zen Haircare

Jennifer Aniston and the rest of the Friends team are said to visit a "feng shui" hair specialist, who uses Ayurvedic hair dyes, and massages the acupuncture points on the head with aromatherapy oils to help preven hair loss.

Are You A Serotonin Seeker?

2006-03-26T10:46:00.000+11:00

If you feel happy and calm one day, but empty and listless the next, you may have a serotonin imbalance. Serotonin is a brain chemical that affects mood. If you answer "Yes" to three or more of the following questions, you may be a serotonin seeker.

Do you find that a cloudy day affects your mood?
Do you eat after you have had an argument?
Do you crave sugar mid-afternoon?
Do you find you snack mainly on carbohydrates rather than proteins?
When stressed, are you likely to have mood swings?

To find your serotonin balance, try to control cravings by eating regularly and well. Eat foods rich in tryptophan (meat, milk and eggs) and omega-3 fats (salmon, tuna and canola oil). Exercise at least every other day, de-stress with a massage and try to enjoy every moment.

Keep Colds At Bay

2006-03-25T13:32:00.000+11:00

Winter is coming soon in the southern hemisphere and the sights of people blowing their nose and sneezing on the street are becoming a regular view. It took only one person at a lecture room to make my little sister came home with a sore throat a couple of days ago, and now she is sitting on the couch, with her lecture notes, a running nose, and tissues all over her, trying so hard to concentrate for her coming exams.

Don't waste precious time coughing and snuffling through the chilly months. Follow the following guide from Good Medicine's health experts, and help prevent those winter colds.

Keep away - Avoid contact with people who have a cold. Try not to touch anything they have touched, or coughed or sneezed on. Also, keep your fingers away from your nose and eyes to avoid infecting yourself with virus particles you may have picked up.
Wash - If your child has a cold, wash toys after play. If someone in the household has a cold, ask them to use a separate hand towel.
Blow it - Ask your family to use tissues to blow their nose, and dispose of the tissues immediately.
Drink up - Boost your immune system so that it's able to fight infection by keeping up your fluid levels. Also, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly and eating food that contain zinc, such as meats, oysters, eggs, seafood, tofu and wheat germ, may help.

Make That Holiday Glow Last

2006-03-25T12:43:00.000+11:00

All holidays must come to an end, but you can bring home a few habits that can help you keep that spring in your step a little longer.

Eat fresh fruit with breakfast:
Buffet breakfast at resorts normally include tempting frsh fruit, At home, try to continue eating at least one portion of fruit before 9am. It will help you to meet the five-fruit-and-vegetable target by the end of the day.

Take time over dinner:
You had plenty of time to do this while you were away and the good news is you have plenty of time now. You're less likely to snack before bedtime if you take your time over dinner and favour each mouthful.

Try new food:
A holiday usually promps us to try new and unusual foods. Keep this up at home by adding exotic spices, tropical fruits, or Asian greens to your cooking now and then. Variety is a good way to get all your nutrients.

Be A Better Person

2006-03-24T14:52:00.000+11:00

You are a social butterfly and not short of friends, but are you really a good person? Answer the questions below for a quick self-check:

Do you engage in idle gossip about friends and colleagues?

Gossip doesn't have to be malicious to be harmful. Even a seemingly innocent comment can hurt another person's feeling.

Do you offer to help people when and how they need it most?

Put yourself in their shoes and offer to help in a practical way - babysitting, food shopping, making a meal.....

Do you listen to someone in need?

Sometimes a good chat and a shoulder to cry on is all a person needs.

Are you generous when it counts?

Being generous doesn't apply only to money and possessions. Be open and available to others. chat to the old lady on the park bench or make a conversation with the person sitting next to you on the bus.

Do you talk about doing something good, but never get around to it?

Don't just say it. do it and make a difference!

Self-Treatment Appliances

2006-03-24T14:25:00.000+11:00

Do you often find you feel more harrassed than relaxed? Try a self-help appliance to treat yourself to some tender loving care without leaving the comfort of home.

Massage Cushion

It is a seat and back rest, which is good if you want a shiatsu massage at the touch of a button. It targets specific areas of the back to eliminate knots of tension.

Paraffin Bath

It is a hand bath that warms hypo-allergenic paraffin wax. It helps to hydrate and soothe dry skin, stimulate circulation and relieve sore joints.

Personal Ionizer

It generates negative ions, which neutralize the effects of chemicals, pet dander and cigarette smoke.

Facial Sauna

A good facial sauna with adjustable steam control helps cleanse the skin, and can improve tone and texture to give a healthy glow. An inhaler is also included.

Love Yourself

2006-03-24T09:49:00.000+11:00

If you've been less than positive about yourself for a long time, it will take work to learn to love yourself and your body. Turn your thoughts to yourself and what you need to feel good. Boost your self-image with these tips from Good Medicine's Beauty and Health:

Take off your clothes and look at yourself in a full-length mirror. List three parts of your body that you really like. Do this everyday, and gradually increase the number of parts you like.
Stop asking for approval. Make up your mind whether or not you look good in something.
Be sensual with yourself. Take a hot bath in soothing essential oils. Indulge!
Stop complaining about yourself. Don't put yourself down to your friends. Learn to praise eachother instead.
Be physical. Regular exercise will release endorphins to enhance your mood.
Treat your body. Look after your skin, hair, nails, and have a health check-up.
Relax. Find 30 minutes a day just for yourself. Read, listen to music, or simply let your thoughts wander.
Try an alternative therapy. Massage, reflexology, acupuncture.... anything that improves your wellbeing.
Have a mini makeover. Change your hairstyle or bedroom. You'll feel like a new person.

Detox In Your Sleep

2006-03-24T09:29:00.000+11:00

Forget hard-to-stick-to-elimination diets - there is a new way to detox that's so easy you can do it in your sleep.

Sticking a teabag to the soles of your feet before bed may sound unconventional, but the maker of Koyotakara - a tea-bag-like toxin absorbent - claims it extracts toxins while you sleep.

While it's hard to prove if it really works, reviewers have reported experiencing the best sleep ever while using the bag.

How do the tea bags work though?

The soles of our feet have more than 60 acupuncture points, and according to Eastern medicine, the feet reflect the health of our internal organs. While you sleep, the dry bag allagedly extracts the toxins from your body. In the morning, the bag will have changed colour and smell. after five to seven days, the bags no longer change colour or smell, and this possibly indicates that your body has been detoxified.

To find out more, visit Masters Marketing or Koyotakara.

What's Your Sleep Style?

2006-03-23T15:17:00.000+11:00

Some people need less sleep than the others. Are you a lark or an owl?

OWL:

Owls like to go to bed late, sleep in later and are a bit slow to get going in the morning. They're usually raring to go by the evening. Owls are more likely to get difficulty getting to sleep if they go to bed too early. and if they get up early, they feel as if they haven't had enough sleep.

LARKS:

Larks like to go to bed early and get up the minute they open their eyes. They become sleepy earlier in the evening, tend to fall asleep easily and reach deep sleep quickly. If larks do stay up late, they are still likely to wake up early.

Source: Good Medicine

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Quick Tip: Wait until your hair is 80 percent dry before using a hair dryer to minimize hair damage and maximize shine.

The Yoga Journal Boston Conference 2006

2006-03-23T14:04:00.000+11:00

Yoga Journal presents, The Yoga Journal Boston Conference, on April 7-10, 2006, at Sheraton Boston, Boston, MA.

........ from Ashtanga to Anusara, backbends to forward bends, discussions to demonstrations-you'll choose from innovative programming led by the world-class teachers you've seen in books and videos, but only dreamed of studying with. In addition to our action-packed Weekend Conference, take the plunge with our Beginners' Conferences, Continuing Education for Teachers, and All-Day Intensives for in-depth study. Soak in the knowledge of our keynote speaker Gessner Geyer, and watch the gravity-defying moves of the yoga dance troupe Tripsichore. In between, browse the Yoga Marketplace and connect with the ever-expanding community of yogis around you.

Click here for further details and registration. Don't miss out!

Loving Your Body

2006-03-23T11:21:00.000+11:00

Do you sometimes feel that you're beating your head against a brick wall when it comes to losing weight? Knowing what your body type is can help you to accept your shape and work with it.

MESOMORPH:

People with this body type tend to be big-boned with a strong muscular physique. Shoulders are strong, waist is narrow and posture good. Mesomorphs can look rectangular-shaped, and losing and gaining weight are quite easy. Good mesomorph exercises include walking and short distance running, or sports requiring balance and power.

ECTOMORPH:

People of this type are tall, with long slender necks and lightly muscled with narrow shoulders, chests and hips. With a naturally high metabolism, they find it hard to gain muscle and fat. This makes them poor candidates for swimming, but good at jogging, skipping, tennis and other racquet sports.

ENDOMORPH:

Endomorphs are round, prone to being chubby. Broader at the hips than the shoulders, and small boned, they are not naturally muscular, and can carry higher than average body fat. With a slower metabolism than the other body types, losing weight is difficult. Poor candidates for high-impact activities, they can be good at low-impact exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming.

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Source: Firm Abs, Flat Stomach by Anne-Marie Millard

Dandruff Myth

2006-03-22T15:54:00.000+11:00

Many of us (including myself) still sometimes think that dandruffs are caused by dry skin. It's actually not.

It is a medical condition caused by an overgrowth of yeasts called Malassezia, normally found on the scalp. When an overgrowth occurs - often caused by stress, hormonal changes or even perspiration - the flakes associated with dandruffs appear.

Tip: Use a good dandruff shampoo twice a week until the problem has cleared, then reduce frequency to once a fortnight to prevent recurrence.

Daydream Rejuvenation Spa

2006-03-22T15:08:00.000+11:00

Still on the topic of relaxation and looking after oneself, Daydream Island on the Whitsundays (Queensland) might be your next destination for a pampering getaway. Daydream Rejuvenation Spa is one of Australia's most state-of-the-art spas. The resort also boasts lagoon-style swimming pools, Australia's largest outdoor movie cinema, a gym, tennis court, and an amazing mini golf course, complete with a mini Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House! The huge rooms overlook either the turquoise-colored waters of the Great Barrier Reef or the lush tropical garden.

The treatment rooms are located above the tranquil beach, making you feel relaxed even before the therapists come. The resort has the most advanced hydrotherapeutic and salon equipments. The treatment list is very extensive, with facials, aromatherapy, body treatments, massages, and colour therapy, as well as a naturopath to tailor a program for you.

Their signature treatment is Daydream Delight ($170), which consists of cleansing from neck to toe with marine based products before being smothered in a therapeutic clay wrap. Then you'll receive a blissful hair mask and scalp and face massage. You'll be left to rinse off and frolic about in a high-tech shower (there are only three in existence!), and after that... there is still the delicious body massage to come!!!

Daydream Island is a half hour launch ride from Airlie Beach. Check out them out here for more details.

Choco-Boost

2006-03-21T19:32:00.000+11:00

Eating chocolate is a popular way to improve your mood. However, if you eat too much, it can result in a thicker waistline in no time. Here are four satisfying ways to indulge in chocolate for less than 500kJ.

A few strawberries dipped in chocolate

About three squares of a chocolate bar

Five tablespoons of Coco Pops with skim milk

One chocolate biscuit or fun-size chocolate bar

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Better still, try one of these healthier longer lasting mood boosters:

Apples,
Pears,
A punnet of berries.

The 20 Minutes That Can Save Your Life

2006-03-21T14:45:00.000+11:00

Put this list on your fridge door and incorporate these simple healthy habits into your day - it'll take no more than 20 minutes:

Eat a salad - Raw vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Drink a cup of tea - An excellent source of powerful antioxidants.
Eat Omega-3 fatty acids - It reduces the risk of stroke.
Take a mineral supplements - Minerals help build strong bones and healthy muscles.
Get some sunlight - 5 to 10 minutes daily, three times a week, to get a dose of vitamin D.
Drink a raw vegetable juice - A detox drink packed with nutrients.

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Did you know? Cigarettes contain more than 4000 chemicals, including nicotine, ammonia (floor cleaner), acetone (nail polish remover), DDT (insect killer) and carbon monoxide (motor vehicle exhaust fumes) - Source from NSW Health.

Meditation to Overcome Anxiety

2006-03-21T09:22:00.000+11:00

I was thinking about small messages exchanged between me and my lovely friend Nana, about yoga and meditation. We (and most of us) spend our time trying to make our lives as content and comfortable as possible, but the sad fact is that most of life is uncertain. We often become anxious, uncomfortable or fearful about our circumstances or possible future events.

I used to be a carefree, easy to please, happy go lucky sort of girl. But as one grows up, one is exposed to more responsibilities, more pressures, more stress. My anxiety got to the point where my jaw became stiff and my breath hyperventilated. I went to my GP, who suggested that I try controlling my breathing through meditation and other relaxation methods (eventhough he also said that I suffered from mild asthma). Relaxation? He must be kidding, right? I started work very early and didn't get home till late. How should I get the time to relax?

In the end, my mind took its own control. When I felt like the stress started to build up, my mind would tell me to put down the pen, lean back against the chair, close my eyes, and take deep and regular breaths. I tried not to think of anything - just me and my breathing. It all took a mere 5-10 minutes, and it made me feel a bit better. I would do the same again before going to bed, this time for a bit longer, like 15-20 minutes. Sometimes I even fell asleep without realizing it.

While reading, I happened to find the following tips from Miriam Austin (Meditation for Wimps - Finding Your Balance in an Imperfect World), that might be useful for us to help calm our fears and anxiety:

Sit or lie down
Gently close your eyes and focus your inward gaze towards your heart.
Affirm to yourself that the intention for practising this meditation is to relieve your anxiety about life's uncertainty.
Focus on your breath for a minute or two to relax your body and quieten your mind.
On the inhalation, silently repeat, "May I be safe and secure."
On the exhalation, silently repeat, "May I be safe and secure."
Continue the meditation for as long as you like.

Hope it helps!

The New Beauty Food

2006-03-20T13:59:00.000+11:00

Go on, make yourself even more gorgeous with these treats!!!

FOR SUPER-CLEAR SKIN:
Prawn is packed with zinc, which is the ultimate acne-zapping material. It reduces the inflammation that makes the red spot sore, helps them to heal quickly, and boost your immune system to stop you getting them in the first place.

FOR WIDE-AWAKE EYES:
If you've got dark circles under your eyes, grab a banana. It contains an amino acid called trytophan, which is converted into serotonin. This acts like a natural sedative, helping you get a decent night's sleep - and lose those eye bags!

FOR RICH HAIR COLOUR:
Sunflower seeds are packed full of copper, a mineral that boosts the production of a pigment in the hair root called melanin. It's the lack of this particular pigment that can lead to those scary one-off white hairs.

FOR EXTRA GLOSSY HAIR:
Are your locks more grease and gloss? Try snacking on natural yoghurt. It's crammed with B vitamins, especially riboflavin (vitamin B2), which helps to reduce oil production. Mix it with a little honey if you don't like it plain. You'll get an extra silky effect when you mix oats / muesli with the yoghurt, too!

FOR A SMOOTH BODY:
Dry-skinned babes should stock up on avocados. They're loaded with vitamin E and monounsaturated fats, which help skin cells in top condition - just what you need for smooth and supple skin.

FOR BRIGHT EYES:
Spinach is loaded with vitamin C, which helps fight infections that can cause eye problems like inflammation. It's also full of beta carotene, which the body uses to make vitamin A.

FOR A YOUNGER LOOKING FACE:
Who needs a facelift? Not you, when you cotton on to the fact that blueberries are packed with powerful antioxidants. They help combat the effects of wrinkle-forming free radicals and slow down the ageing process naturally.

FOR NICE NAILS:
If you've got ridges on your nails, go for a diet that's rich in sweet potatoes - an excellent source of beta carotene, which helps to repair and strengthen damaged nail tissue.

The Ultimate Exfoliation Guide

2006-03-20T13:23:00.000+11:00

Run your way to the silkiest body ever with the following easy guides:

Jump in the shower and get your skin slightly damp.
Using your body scrub, massage your skin in small circles to encourage circulation as you polish away your dry winter skin. The water acts as a barrier to prevent you from scratching the skin's surface.
Start at the feet and work your way up. It's worth staying in the shower so you don't make a mess.
Rinse off and remember to apply body moisturiser afterwards to soothe the skin - exfoliating actually makes the product absorbs better too.

Some recommendations from Kristie Rogers (New Woman beauty director) are:

Dermalogica Exfoliating Body Scrub - It has a light, fluffy texture, gentle on skin and leaving it feeling soft and radiant.
Avon Solutions Smooth Surface Pomegranate Body Polisher - Fruit scented, very subtle, ideal before fake tanning for a deep exfoliation. The pomegranate extract smoothes away dry areas.
Botanics of Australia Raw Cane Sugar & Native Grape Extract Body Polish - Delicious smell. It polished the skin without damaging it. The sugarcane crystals scrub away dead skin then dissolve, leaving your skin feeling fresh.
Lancome Gommage Caresse Exfoliating Body Gel - Perfect to use in the shower. the super fine granules leave your skin silky smooth. Fresh peachy fragrance, and the tinted shimmer illuminates dull skin. Very girlie!

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Spraying perfume on your neck can be ageing - the alcohol dries your skin and makes it susceptible to sun damage. Spritz scent on clothes or in your hair instead.

Watch The Booze

2006-03-19T09:39:00.000+11:00

Why do we tend to indulge in junk food after a night's out? Here are five reasons why we should watch what we drink when we're out partying on the weekend.

It batters your resolve. Alcohol shuts down the part of your brain responsible for self-restraint, hence we feel the need for the 4,187kJ kebab!
It stops you burning fat. Because alcohol is a toxin, our body processes it first, which means, any excess food calories will be stored in our fat cells... arrgghhhh!!!!
It gives you the munchies. Ever woken up with a hangover and reach for the Coco Pops? Well, a night on the grog made your blood level so low it's practically on your slippers, and a 2,512kJ eggs and bacon-fest is a must.
It leaves you parched. Booze strips the lining on your tongue and cheeks so your mouth feels like the floor of a pub. A litre of freshly squeezed juice will put you back on track.
It stops you moving. Prising yourself out of bed before midday is a miracle when you're hungover, but staying horizontal means you only burn 301kJ per hour instead of the usual 837kJ.

But, no drink at all? Why go out in the first place then?

I know the feeling that when you go out, partying or having the weekend night-outs, your friends would sorta puts on a radar, and "monitor" what you're having. Sometimes I did feel for alcoholic drink, and sometimes not. It's just about the taste, the same way like sometimes you feel like a gourmet penne all'arrabiata, and other times you just feel for that good old frozen lasagna.

I'm never the kind of person who must have alcoholic drinks to have fun (I drink them for the taste). Booze or no booze, I sing, I dance, I have a good time. It depends on the company, the situation, the music.

Unfortunately, some "well-meaning" friends would just never stop saying, "What have you got there? Just a coke? Come on... you gotta have some rum in it! I'll fix you some, ok? No? But this is a paaaarrrttttteeeyyyyy...." or, "Is that orange juice you're having or orange vodka? O-Juice???? Wait, I'll show you something yummie."

Then, they're gone for a minute and came back with an orange vodka. Geez, would they ever stop?! They meant it so well that I was torn between saying, "Ooh, thanks sooo much!! This is the yummiest mix I've ever tasted in my life!", or "Are you deaf? I said I'd really rather be having my orange juice".

Some tips what to say when you happen to be in my above situation could be, tell them you're taking medication, they would normally respect that and wouldn't nag you further. If you don't feel like drinking that night, offer to be a designated driver, they wouldn't hassle you to have a drink 'cause they might need you to drive them home later on. Or, mix yourself some orange juice with sparkling mineral water, and tell them it's orange-vodka, or ask the bartender to put a bit of grenadine inside the o-juice to make it look like a cocktail (they won't be able to tell the difference).

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PS: To get rid of the Pina Colada you had last night (1,130kJ), you need to do one of these - 36 minutes of swimming (freestyle, moderate pace), 77 minutes of walking (at 4 km per hour), 62 minutes of step machine (moderate level), or 37 minutes of cycling (also moderate pace).

The Best Treatment For Sunburn

2006-03-18T06:47:00.000+11:00

I once went with my friends to the Sunshine Coast. We were just doing some window shoppings and having a look around the areas. I was wearing a sleeveless shirt at that time, and I didn't think of applying any sunscreen as I didn't think it was that hot, and it's not like we were going swimming or sunbathing anyway.

How wrong!

The same afternoon before we drove back to Brisbane, my arms and shoulders started to become very red and painfully itchy. At that time, I got a bottle of aloe vera gel and rubbed them on my upper arms and shoulders to soothe the burnt feeling. It taught me to wear sunscreen everywhere I go regardless, especially in Australia where we have the highest rate of skin cancer in the world.

Dr. Penny Adams suggests that the best treatment for sunburn is to apply cold compresses, drink plenty of water and avoid further exposure. If the skin blisters, bandage lightly and don't pop the blisters as that can increase the risk of infection.

You can also apply moisturizer or aloe vera, but avoid using salves or butter. If you have any pain, take paracetamol or ibuprofen. And if the sunburn is severe and widespread, is associated with vomiting, or in an infant less than 18 months old, you should see your doctor.

Shape Up With Pilates

2006-03-18T06:21:00.000+11:00

Pilates, like yoga, is becoming the must-do exercise routine. Pilates is not just about fitness, the exercises target the core muscles in the stomach, back and buttocks - this core supports the entire body.

It is also great as it suits everyone who wants to get into shape, as well as people in office jobs who suffer from chronic back and neck pain and muscle strains.

If you can't find a Pilates class in your areas, you can always learn with some series of DVDs, available from your local libraries, or DVD rental shops, or there is a new series called Pilates TV (rrp $24.95) produced by health and fitness queen Kylie Jaye.

Giving Up On Diets?

2006-03-17T12:11:00.000+11:00

Tried every diet under the sun and still can't manage to lose the excess weight?

Possible cause?
* Slow metabolism

Possible reason?
* Low kilojoule diets

Why?
* Many weight-loss diets are low in nutrients that support your metabolism - like folic acid, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc and B vitamins. Some of these nutrients also assist energy production. On top of this, these diets can be low in iron (which decreases your capacity for exercise) and calcium (which promotes cellular fat breakdown).

What to do?
* Eat a diet of salads, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy and fruit. Take regular exercise.

Try:
* Health supplements to help boost metabolism, break down fats, increase energy and replace nutrients.

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Source: Health Handbook - Good Medicine February 2006.

Quick Tips for Stiff Fingers

2006-03-17T11:35:00.000+11:00

For stiff fingers, grasp fingers one at a time with the thumb and forefinger of your opposite hand, and pull gently, then give the tip a quick squeeze. Next, press gently along the length of your finger.

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Source: Quick Fix Massage by Nitya LaCroix (Gary Allen, rrp $16.95)

Juicing for Health

2006-03-17T10:52:00.000+11:00

I love juice.. and smoothies too, anything to do with fruits. I love Mango Magic from Boost Juice Bar. The new Melon Zen is also really yummie and refreshing. Since I arrived in Brisbane, my new favourite juice is the mixed fruit ice blend from Coors.

I read that the amount of vitamin C in carton orange juice deteriorates by two percent per day after it has been opened. So, if you want the freshest, most vitamin-packed juice, no matter what type, you should make your own, or buy it from a juice bar. Here are some ideas of what juices are best:

Tomato
Tomato is good for weight loss. It has only 200kJ per 250 ml glass. The lycopene in tomatoes has been linked with a decreased risk of prostate cancer. So it's important for men's health too.

Mango
It's good for the eyes and skin, and as protection against cancer. Mangoes are rich in free-radical zapping beta-carotene - also used to make vitamin A, which keeps the eyes, skin and lungs healthy

Pineapple
Good for energy and the digestion. It contains bromelain, which helps digest heavy protein, and is high in natural sugar for an energy boost.

Orange
Good for immunity and anaemia protection. Oranges are the best source of vitamin C. When you drink orange juice with your meals, it can increase the uptake of anaemia-protective iron.

Blueberry
Good for the skin and also as protection against cancer. It is rich in anthocyanins that zap cancer-causing free radicals and protect collagen from deteriorating.

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Exercise and a healthy diet can lower your cancer risk by 40 per cent (American Institute for Cancer Research)

Youthful Grapefruit

2006-03-16T16:28:00.000+11:00

Who needs botox? The scent of grapefruit makes women seem younger to men!

If you've been browsing the local chemist or cosmetic shops for the perfect fragrance, there is one ingredient you should be asking for - grapefruit. It seems this citrus fruit is hot property in the scent world, because it supposedly makes a woman seem younger to men - six years young, in fact.

In a recent experiment by Dr. Alan Hirsch at The Smell and Taste Institute in Chicago, several middle-aged women were smeared with broccoli, banana, spearmint leaves and lavender. But none of these scents made a difference, until the grapefruit came along. When male volunteers were asked to estimate a woman's age, their guess was considerably lower than reality.

Hmmmm.......

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Love is blind, but marriage is a real eye-opener – Paula Deen on The Food Network

The 24-Hour Holiday

2006-03-16T15:35:00.000+11:00

A holiday doesn't always have to be an excursion, or an overseas trip, nor do you always have to spend a fortune for a holiday. What you need is called "Time" and time is priceless. I know it is often hard to take some times off, a day off, let alone a week! But if you do manage to get 24 hours just for yourself, you'll be amazed at what you can do!

DVD Fest: Rent a series of movies you have always wanted to see and view them all in one sitting. Don't worry about anything that's happening outside except when the pizza arrives. There are also many online DVD rental services available nowadays. I rent my DVDs from Bigpond Movie (http://www.bigpondmovies.com/index.htm). They have various plans to suit your need from as little as $9.95 monthly. You get your DVDs mailed to you, and after you've watched it, simply use the prepaid envelope provided to send them back. How convenient!
Get a dose of friendship: Catch up with friends at someone's house or a holiday home. chat till late, sleep in. It definitely gives you an A+ feel-good factor.
Water Therapy: If you don't have so much time, or if gym membership is too costly, some hotels and spas often offer special day passes to use their saunas and pools for small fees.
Gourmet for a day: Sign up for a day long cooking course and learn the secret of chocolate truffles, perfect pastry, or sensational French sauces. Or if you love cooking, you can combine this with Point 2 above. Spend the whole day cooking all your fave food, or try recipes you have always wanted to try, and invite your friends for a night in! If you're adventurous enough, try foreign cuisines, or unknown restaurants!
Go back to school: Try skydiving, driving a race car, glass-blowing, dancing, rock climbing. For a single day, immerse yourself in the pursuit of a new skill completely unrelated to your daily life.

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Behind every great man is a woman rolling her eyes – Jim Carrey in Bruce Almighty

A Mum's Bath Experience – Funny Story

2006-03-15T20:12:00.000+11:00

So, there is nothing like a soak in the tub to relieve stress, right? Shelley Divnich Haggert shares her experience in August 2005 edition of Australian Reader’s Digest. Sounds familiar perhaps?

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I’ve never been a bath person. For me, a quick shower is the way to get clean. But unless you have been living on Mars, you’ll know that everyone is extolling the virtues of baths as the answer to stress. It’s no longer just a solution to the day’s grime. Put a couple of candles around the tub, throw in some fancy oils, and it’s an experience. So I decided to give it a try.

I gathered up candles and headed for the tub. After moving the kids’ plastic toys, I turned on the tap and began searching for something fancy to put in the water. It came down to a Harry Potter bubbles or a sample of Avon Soothing Seas from 1997.

Soon I was attracting attention.

“Whatcha doing, Mum?” I heard from the doorway.

“Taking a bath.”

“Why? You had a shower today.”

“I feel like it. Go out and play.”

“Why did you take the candle off the piano, Mum?”

“It’s for my bath. Go out and play.”

“Can I watch?”

I shut the door. Searching for a safe place to put the candles. I threw away four empty shampoo bottles and a can of shaving cream and gathered the stray ponytail holders, hairbrushes and curling irons.

Soon the tub was full so I lit my candles and stepped in, tucking a rolled-up towel behind my shoulders.

I heard my husband outside the door.

“Whatcha doin’?”

“Taking a bath.”

“Aren’t you feeling well?”

“Just trying to relax,” I told him.

I settled in. But when I propped my feet on the edge of the tub, I knocked a Barbie doll into the water. As I leaned forward to fish it out, my rolled-up towel fell in.

I dried my hands, got myself into position and reached over the side for my book. My towel fell in again.

OK, no reading. Just relaxation.

There was a knock on the door.

“Mum? Are you done? I have to go.”

I sighed, and from behind the shower curtain I heard my six year old come in. “Pretty,” she said, seeing the candles. “How come I don’t have candles when I have a bath?”

“Because they’re for grown-ups.”

“Not fair!” she said. “Can I have a bath when you’re done?”

“I’ll think about it.” I promised.

She left, leaving the door wide open. When I stepped out to shut it, my towel fell in again.

“Mum?”

“Yes?”

“Amanda says you’re using my Harry Potter bubble bath, and you didn’t even ask my permission!”

“I’ll replace it.”

“Why are you taking a bath with the lights off?”

Why indeed.

A second voice joined in the first.

“Will you leave your mother alone. She’s having a bath.”

“I want to see,” the child insisted.

I slid down until the water covered my ears and closed my eyes. When I opened them again, a child was staring down at me. “How come you always say there’s not time for bubbles when I take a bath? It’s not fair.”

I gave up. Maybe someday, when we have a second bathroom or when the kids are adults, I’ll have a relaxing bath. For now, I’ll settle for wrapping up in my flannel pyjamas and snuggling in my queen-size bed.

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Have a lovely day for all of you beautiful mothers out there! :-)

No Jewellery? No Worries

2006-03-15T20:05:00.000+11:00

If you’ve got a special function coming up and no jewellery to wear – don’t worry.

You can now create your own pair of earrings, a special brooch or a necklace – with little know-hows and small budgets too.

Jewellery workshops and party plans are becoming trends everywhere to meet the demand of people wanting to fashion their own one-of-a-kind designs. Beginners’ workshops cost around $15 and teach basic techniques. Even a complete novice can get the hang of costume jewellery making in less than an hour. You’ll find a variety of beads and jewellery supplies at your local craft store. Examples of different workshops and classes could be checked out on www.auscraftnet.com.au

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The most beautiful makeup for a woman is passion. But makeup is easier to buy (Yves St Laurent in Women’s Wear Daily)

The Perfect Diet Food?

2006-03-15T20:03:00.000+11:00

Next time you’re at the shop, buy some yoghurt – and watch your weight drop.

In a University of Tennessee study, overweight people who ate three servings of yoghurt daily lost 22% more weight, 61% more body fat and 81% more abdominal fat over 12 weeks than those who ate the same kilojoules but didn’t consume any dairy.

Muscle helps burn energy, says study author Michael Zemel. This study shows that a diet high in dairy foods help you lose more fat and protect more muscle.

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There is nothing better than contagious laughter – Jennifer Aniston

Feel Better in Five Massages

2006-03-14T14:22:00.000+11:00

Kick back and enjoy one of these blissful full body massages:

Hot Stone: A treatment that uses heated volcanic river rocks, heated in water, then laid on the body to warm the muscles ready for massage. The hot stones are placed on specific acupressure points on the body to melt away knots, tension and stress.
Lymphatic Drainage: It helps to drain excess fluid and reduce swelling in the body, using circular movements designed to improve the functioning of the lymphatic system. This treatment was developed in the 1930s by Danish doctor Hans Vodder.
Aromatherapy: It can make us smell good and feel relaxed and the essential oils used can help treat physical and emotional problems as well. This massage is rhythmic with some focus given to various pressure points and remedil techniques.
Ayurvedic: A massage that concentrates on marma points in the body where nerves, cartilage, muscle, bones and lymph glands are said to connect. These techniques are used to promote relaxation, circulation and elimination of toxins.
Moving or Massage Cupping: Oil is applied to the skin before placing a small cup on the skin. this helps to create a vacuum. The practitioner glides the cup over the skin's surface to relieve muscular tension or inflamed joints.

Source: Good Medicine, April 2006

Does Deodorant Really Cause Breast Cancer?

2006-03-14T11:05:00.000+11:00

Back in 2004, the Northwestern University in Chicago released a study, which found that frequent underarm shaving combined with deodorant use might increase a woman's chances of developing breast cancer. The theory is that the aluminium salts found in deodorant could enter the shaven skin and alter a woman's DNA.

Since then, it has been a frequently argued issue. Does deodorant really cause breast cancer? According to the National Breast Cancer Centre, the link between antiperspirants and breast cancer is a misconception, saying that, "there is no quality evidence which shows the use of antiperspirant deodorants is associated with or causes breast cancer".

So, what about the 2004 Northwestern University study? According to Professor Mathew Vadas, Chairman of the Australian Cancer Research Foundation's medical advisory committee, the study is flawed. He argues, "The sample size was small and didn't consider body mass index, or the role of post menopausal hormones".

So, what do we have to do to avoid breast cancer? Karen Fittall, as featured in April 2006's edition of Good Medicine, wrote in her article, that we should pay more attention to proven risk factors for breast cancer, and do what we can to prevent them. While things like losing excess weight, reducing alcohol intakes, and enjoying regular exercise are measures we can take to decrease the risk, we also need to understand our family history of breast cancer, and the role age has to play.

Healing Power of Hobbies

2006-03-13T14:49:00.000+11:00

When I was in high school, I loved collecting phonecards. I had heaps of them from all over the world. Along with that, I loved “collecting” penpals. I had joined this International Youth Services where we got in contact with so many youths from all over the world, and corresponded with them. I used to drive everyone mad, asking them to send me phonecards from their countries, or asked anyone who’s going overseas to bring me back phonecards.

It’s been many years since. I have met some of my penpals, lost contact with some, and kept in touch with some (eventhough now we use emails rather than snail mails). I still keep my phonecard collections, but don’t really add to them anymore. Nowadays, I spend a lot of my time reading, writing, and learning to do carpet-knitting handcraft. What about you? Do you collect stuffs? Do sports? Woodworks? Do crossword puzzles? Painting? Cooking? Do people often think you’re obsessed?

Alice Domar, director of the Mind/Body Centre for Women’s Health at Harvard Medical School, says that hobbies reduce stress. They distract you from everyday worries. A hobby like knitting, or anything requiring repetitive motion, is relaxing. One gets the feeling of serenity, marked by lower blood pressure. It also provides a calming sense of control, and research suggests this strengthens immunity.

A Swedish study showed that hobbies such as gardening and sewing help to avoid mental decline. A hobby that challenges the brain, such as doing crossword puzzles, lowered the risk of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, says Joe Verghese, a neurologist and lead author of The New England Journal of Medicine, while a Japanese study showed that people whose hobbies deal with community or social activities were less likely to die of stroke. Hobbies that involve physical activities are, of course, good for your physical wellbeing.

So, keep collecting, keep fishing, keep doing what you enjoy as hobbies. Others may think you’re obsessed, but you know otherwise. Everything in good balance and moderation is the key.