Spa And Beauty

Personal Hygiene Is The Maintenance Of Healthy Practices

2009-04-02T13:05:00.001+07:00

Hygiene ? is a science of preserving and promoting the health of both the individual and the community. It has many aspects: personal hygiene (proper living habits, cleanliness of body and clothing, healthful diet, a balanced regimen of rest and exercise); domestic hygiene (sanitary preparation of food, cleanliness, and ventilation of the home); public hygiene (supervision of water and food supply, containment of communicable disease, disposal of garbage and sewage, control of air and water pollution); industrial hygiene (measures that minimize occupational disease and accident); and mental hygiene (recognition of mental and emotional factors in healthful living). The World Health Organization promotes hygienic practices on an international level.

We will talk about personal hygiene which is very important for men's health. Good personal hygiene is an aid to health, beauty, comfort, and social interactions. It directly aids in disease prevention and/or disease isolation. (That is, good personal hygiene will help keep one healthy and thus avoid illness. If one is ill, good hygiene can reduce one's contagiousness to others, for instance, in one family.) Washing (with water) is the most common example of hygienic behavior. Washing is often done with soap or detergent which helps to remove oils and to break up dirt particles so they may be washed away. Personal hygienic practice, such as frequent body washing, has a profound impact on reducing the spread of disease. This is because it kills or removes disease-causing microbes (germs) in the immediate surroundings. For instance, washing hands after using the toilet and before handling food reduces the chance of spreading E. coli bacteria and Hepatitis A, both of which are spread from fecal contamination of food.

Maintaining personal hygiene enhances an individual?s physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, using bidet leads to better personal hygiene and can provide therapeutic benefits to sensitive genital and rectal areas.

Who uses bidet and why?

?The bidet can and is be used by both men and women. Bidets offer the user a hands-free and supposedly superior water wash in place of the wiping and occasionally irritating action of toilet paper. An invaluable aid to person hygiene, the bidet is gaining popularity among senior citizens, the disabled and those with impaired motor functions or incontinence.

?Bidets are also used for sitz baths. A sitz bath (also called a hip bath) is a type of bath in which only the hips and buttocks are soaked in water or saline solution. Its name comes from the German verb ?sitzen?, meaning to sit.

?A sitz bath is used for patients who have had surgery in the area of the rectum, or to ease the pain of hemorrhoids, uterine cramps, prostate infections, painful ovaries, and/or testicles. It is also used to ease discomfort from infections of the bladder, prostate, or vagina. Inflammatory bowel diseases are also treated with sitz baths. Bidets are principally used to wash and clean the external genitalia and the anus, as well as the skin near these areas. They may also be used to clean any other part of the body; they are convenient for cleaning the feet for example. Despite appearing similar to a toilet, it would be more accurate to compare it to the washbasin or bathtub. In fact, the bidet makes an excellent baby bath. Anyone who has mobility problems and finds it difficult to get into a bathtub, or is afraid of slipping in the shower, may find a bidet an excellent solution for maintaining personal hygiene.

Bidets are made in several different designs. The classic one has a faucet, which pours water into a china basin. The basin can be plugged and filled if necessary, or the water can be allowed to drain away. Modern bidets, as a Bidan, have a nozzle that propels an arc of water up into the air. This jet of water is angled to connect directly with the genital area. Some models, like Bidan Turbo, have a warm air jet to dry the body instead of using a toilet paper. It is strongly recommended for hemorrhoid sufferers. The newest is travel bidet (or bidanit), which is suitable for people-on-the-go. Additionally, there are special bidet seats for disabled people: electronic and pneumatic. The electronic bidan (or bidet) activates by remote control and the pneumatic one by pneumatic pads enabling the disabled to operate it independently and efficiently while retaining privacy.

Popularity
Bidets are common bathroom fixtures in some European countries (especially France, Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal), Latin America (especially Argentina found in approximately 90% of households), the Middle East and some parts of Asia. They may be installed both in private homes and hotels. In Japan, bidets are so common that they are often present in public toilet facilities.

The bidet is not normally used for cleaning the anus after defecation (which is done with toilet paper), but for optional supplementary washing, or for daily personal hygiene.

History
A bidet has allowed men and women since possibly the Crusades (11th to the 13th centuries) to wash feet, hair, beards, genitals and perineum. The bather usually rides it like a pony; pony is what the word meant in the French of 400 or so years ago. This odd etymology exists because early bidets were normally on a stand, which the user would straddle, not unlike mounting a horse.

The bidet appears to have been an invention of French furniture makers in the late 17th or early 18th century, although no exact date or inventor is known. The earliest written reference to the bidet is in 1710.

By 1900, thanks to the plumbing improvements of the Victorian era, the bidet (and chamber pot) moved from the bedroom to the bathroom.

1960 saw the introduction of the electronic bidet (bidan), an attachment that connects on to existing toilet arrangements - ideal for bathrooms lacking the space for both a separate bidet and toilet.

More historic facts:

?In 1750, the bidet ? seringue appeared. It provided an upward spray through the use of a hand-pump fed by a reservoir.

?Until the 1900's the bidet was confined to the bedroom, along with the chamber pot (a bucket that served as a toilet.)

?Modern plumbing brought the bidet into the bathroom and W.C. Where it sits on a basin instead of a regular toilet seat.

In conclusion, the bidet was developed for personal hygiene maintenance to limit the spread of infection and help prevent urinary tract infections. It gives a pleasant ?looked after? feeling and should be used by all family members.

Do you have any questions?

Please, contact:
uzanr@bezeqint.net
Sergei Tereschenko

Experienced, versatile freelance writer. Strong research skills, clear and concise writing, compassionate journalism.

Facial Skincare Tips: Scrubs Masks and Exfoliation

2009-03-30T13:30:00.001+07:00

Your skin is your body?s largest organ. It?s also the first thing that most people notice about you. It shields your bones, muscles, and blood vessels. Skin is so vital, so why do people not take better care of it?

Not drinking enough water, going out in the sun without sunscreen, and using harsh chemical products adds to the damage. There are a myriad of products on the market nowadays to help you keep your skin healthy, among them masks, scrubs and exfoliation products.

Before settling on a skincare regimen, you have to know what skin type you have. If you?re lucky, you might have normal skin ? not too dry or too oily, but just right. More people will have combination skin where there are parts of the face and body which are dry and other parts oily. Or, you might just be all oily or all dry skinned. No matter which type skin you have, there are products made specially for you.

Facial Masks: Facial mask products can be found for any skin type or condition. Do you suffer from acne or blackheads? There are facial masks that you apply, let dry dry and then peel off. Dead skin covering blackheads will become unclogged which helps clear them up. There are also facial masks that you apply and allow to dry, like mud masks. When you are done, you wash your face with warm water to remove the mud mask.

Mud masks have a number of benefits, including oil control. You skin will glow with health, not shine with oil. The impurities in your skin?s pores are removed by the mud mask, and appearance of those pores will be minimized. Pimple growth is lessened and blackheads dissolve and wash away.

Scrubs and Exfoliaters: You can consider exfoliating like using very fine sandpaper for your skin. You will be using a mildly abrasive material that buffs away dead skin cells, leaving glowingly healthy skin in its place. Exfoliating has several benefits. First, old dead skin cells making your complexion dull are scrubbed off, leaving new fresh skin cells. Additionally, after exfoliation, it is easier for skin to absorb moisturizers and other skin treatments.

If your complexion is normal to oily, exfoliating is helpful three to four times a week. For drier skin, exfoliation should only be done one to two times a week maximum. You should establish a skincare routine that includes all of these products, and adds a cleaner and moisturizer. You will keep your skin healthy far longer and feel better as well.

Visit Groominguy.com, where you can read more about treating oily skin and permanent body hair removal.

Hot Tubs Inside and Out

2009-03-29T20:03:00.001+07:00

Hot tubs are a great way to relax after a long day at work. They are also beneficial for those who have medical conditions or injuries.

Having your own hot tub can be very convenient. But, before deciding on buying a hot tub, you will need to choose one of the many varieties of spa that are available.

There are many varieties available and one may be customized suit your needs and available space.

There are both indoor and outdoor versions of hot tubs.

Indoor Hot Tub

An indoor hot tub generally can be found in a bathroom and is made of fiberglass. Similar to a regular bathtub you would see in a home, these hot tubs, sometimes called whirlpool baths or Jacuzzis, are filled with water for each use than drained when your soaking is complete.

Most indoor hot tubs hold one or two people simply because the available space is limited to the standard size bathroom. You still get jet options to concentrate water sprays to various parts of the body for a soothing water massage.

Indoor hot tubs come in a variety of shapes and colors to match your bathroom decor. They also come in a variety of seat types including ones you can lounge all the way back in or round, deep tubs to sink into.

Having a hot tub in your own home can be relaxing and enjoyable. Surround it with candles or soft lighting and add some plants to create a soothing atmosphere. Sinking into the tub after a hard day with some soft music or nature sounds in the background. You have your own mini vacation right in your own home.

Outdoor Hot Tub

Outdoor hot tubs also come in a variety of styles but are generally either a round or octagon shape. Many are made of wood and when installed outside typically have some type of decking surrounding it.

You can get a standard Jacuzzi with a bench all the way around it. Or you can even find models that have reclining chairs. Jets and waterfalls are also features that can come with the hot tub to add to the relaxing benefits and ambiance.

A pool spa is used for people who have plenty of room in their yard and who want the best of both worlds for their swimming and relaxation pleasure. The spa is attached to the pool and has heated water while the pool is a larger area to allow for swimming and exercise.

You can dive into the pool for some exercise and then back into the hot tub where you can warm up and relax your muscles after the invigorating workout.

Finally...

You must decide if you prefer an indoor or outdoor hot tub considering the space you have available and what you will use it for.

At the dealership, do a dry run on all the types available and some research on the best brands and models. Your hot tub dealer will be able to assist you and answer your questions ensuring you get the correct hot tub to suit your needs.

Louis Zhang helps you buy the right hot tub that you and your family will enjoy for years to come. Go to Hot Tub Supplies for health and safety tips, great deals and information on how to choose a hot tub.

Louis's Del.icio.us page is at Louis' Page

Easing Your Distress with a Migraine Remedy

2009-03-27T19:57:00.001+07:00

My first wife had migraine headaches. The throbbing was in the temples of her head. Her migraine remedy was to take over the counter pain medications to relieve her pain. For some reason I did not like the idea of eating of those pain relievers. I used to think that there had to be a better way.

Are you suffering from headaches?

According to the National Headache Foundation (NHF) tension headaches affect nearly 78% of the adult population. 13% of the population suffers from migraines. Because the cause of migraines varies greatly, one migraine remedy may help in one person may trigger an attack in another. The suggestions here are guidelines for those who suffer regularly from tension headaches which may have an identifiable physical cause.

An easy migraine remedy is to check for aspartame in the foods you eat.

Some headache sufferers notice a connection with consuming or drinking foods with aspartame. For those who are sensitive to the compound read the label before you eat the food. The aspartame may promote blood vessels to expand in the brain. This can initiate a headache. Eliminating aspartame from your diet can make a huge difference.

Caffeine is used to contend with headaches. Its proprieties can boost pain medication in providing relief and can be sought and found in treatments to relieve migraines. However, more than a safe level of caffeine can have a 'rebound' effect and actually concern headaches. If you suffer from regular headaches you should avoid daily use of caffeinated beverages such as coffee and certain sodas.

Another migraine remedy according to the McKinley Health Center, should be to do without tobacco. This migraine remedy can be a problem solver for many ailments.

Some headaches also seem to be aggravated by more than a safe level of sun. Excessive exercise outdoors and lack of hydration can contribute to headaches. Keep eyes shaded and be sure to drink plenty water when outdoors.

What you may think is a sinus headache may actually be a migraine. A consultation with your specialist may determine if you should switch to a migraine remedy.

According to the NHF, migraine headaches caused by stress should respond to reducing the stress. Over-the-counter analgesics can also promote migraines. However, if headaches occur almost daily you need to look for ways of dealing with the stress and discuss other options with your health care specialist. Consistent use of over the counter applications can actually induce headaches. Stopping with all the over the counter drugs can be one alternative. This migraine remedy may need the approval of your doctor.

Leading a healthy and active lifestyle has many benefits, including a reduction of migraine type headaches. Combining a healthy lifestyle with avoidance of triggers may improve your headache illness. This may be your best migraine remedy.

Feel free to pass this on to anyone you think would benefit from reading it.

Aron Wallad has been helped by natural herbs. He has dramatically reduced his blood sugar level from 306 to 160 using a 47 year old natural herbs product. Called Immunicin it conttains over 250 herbs. He has finished, smoking cigarettes using some Chinese herbs 12 years ago. Thank goodness he found a better way to taking care of oneself. He is committed to having families have better health in their lives in a natural way.

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Hispanics and Obesity The Worrying Truth

2009-03-26T14:49:00.001+07:00

What is the link between Hispanics and obesity? Are people of Hispanic origin more prone to obesity than others?

Respected Hispanic trend watcher Jaun G Tornoe feels there is enough anecdotal and scientific data supporting the link between Hispanics and obesity to raise warning flags?

One of the culprits he identifies is the huge choice of cheap, fast food and sugary drinks on offer to newly arrived Latino immigrants, many of whom come from extremely deprived backgrounds?

Fast Foods and Obesity - a Warning From a Friend...

In a recent blog, Tornoe recounts how, as a new immigrant himself, a friend had warned him of this danger...

(He) told me right after I moved into the U.S. to be careful with the junk food... He noticed that many new immigrants went crazy with the excessive food offerings this country offers.

If they are not careful, they will watch their waistline be a victim of over choice in just a couple of months.

Victims of Good Intentions...

Second and third generation Hispanic families are also at risk. Ironically, they're largely victims of their parents' good intentions.

Generally speaking, back in Latin America, a chubby baby or little kid is the obvious sign of healthiness (compared with the unfortunate scars malnutrition leaves on many persons South of the Border), writes Torno.

What better way for parents to feel like they are doing a good job taking care of their offspring, than to show all those around them their chubby kids? then the bad eating habits just take control over the little kid?s life and all the adversities obesity brings begin to show up in the kid?s life.

The Bigger is Better Myth

This point is reinforced by an article in another authoritative source of Hispanic news, Hispanicbusiness.com?

?It doesn?t do to tell a mother her chubby baby isn?t healthy and to cut the fat early for a lifetime of health.

We have to change the perceptions of a community where the parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles are overweight and don?t consider that a problem... We need to help the community see that bigger isn?t necessarily better,? says the article.

Hispanics are Not Alone

It's worth mentioning that Hispanics are not alone in this. In my home country, South Africa, many of my countrymen and women struggle with obesity and its associated ills, like diabetes and heart disease.

The chief culprit is the readily available processed food and the rapid spread of fast food outlets. The past decade has brought long-awaited political freedom and increasing prosperity. The flipside is a growing obesity problem.

In people for whom poverty and near starvation still loom large, combating the bigger is better myth is extremely difficult.

Research into Hispanics and Obesity links

There have also been several academic studies of Hispanics and obesity. A survey conducted in May 2004 for Kellogg by La Opini?n/El Diario de la Prensa Market Research Center, shows Latino families not exercising at recommended levels resulting in rising obesity rates among them.

Hispanics and obesity links are also under the spotlight in a five-year study at the University of Texas at El Paso. UTEP has received a $4.1 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to study and reduce health disparities among Hispanics.

The five-year grant will establish the Center for the Advancement of Minority Health and Health Disparities Research at UTEP. The grant will also help recruit and train faculty and will be used to disseminate research results to the community.

So while its clear that Latino Obesity is a large and growing problem, there is also growing awareness of the problem.

Alan Cooper is a journalist with 20 year's experience and the publisher of ObesityCures.com, a site with the ambitious aim of being a one-stop-shop for impartial information on obesity and weight loss solutions - including fad diets, prescription weightloss pills, natural weightloss aides, and the link between fast foods and obesity.

For more on hispanics and obesity, and related issues, including links to the sources quoted in this article, visit http://www.ObesityCures.com/hispanics-and-obesity.html

Signs of Cerebral Palsy

2009-03-25T13:12:00.001+07:00

Depending on a child?s age, there are different signs that may suggest the presence of cerebral palsy. A newborn infant with difficulty in suckling, evacuating the bowels, or breathing should be carefully evaluated, as these are all warning signs of cerebral palsy. Infants may also have abnormal reflexes. As an infant grows, consistent use of one part of the body over the other, or consistently favoring certain postures over others, may also be signs of cerebral palsy. An infant with cerebral palsy may be unusually floppy or stiff, or retain certain reflexes that are normally present at birth but typically disappear as a baby grows. Lack of facial expressions, not following movements with the eyes, not following sounds with head movements, and lack of a response to human voices also suggests something may be wrong. Infants and children with cerebral palsy may be unable to roll over, crawl, sit up, smile or walk or only be able to do so with help. Grasping or playing with toys may be impossible.

Other signs of cerebral palsy depend on the type of cerebral palsy a patient has. Spastic diplegics have legs that may cross at the knees and a typical ?scissors? gait. Patients with spastic hemiparesis have uncontrollable tremors in one half of the body. If athetoid cerebral palsy is present, slow writhing movements of the extremities, face or tongue may be present along with grimacing and drooling. Ataxic cerebral palsy patients have an unsteady, wide-based gait, difficulty performing fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt, and intention tremors that occur while performing voluntary movements.

Because cerebral palsy can be difficult to diagnose, any sign of developmental delays, abnormal movements or abnormal posture in an infant or small child should immediately be brought to the attention of a physician.

Cerebral Palsy Lawyers provides detailed information about cerebral palsy lawyers, ataxic cerebral palsy lawyer, athetoid cerebral palsy lawyer, spastic cerebral palsy lawyer and more. Cerebral Palsy Lawyers is the sister site of Brain Injury Lawyers.

Stevia The Perfect Sweetener Whoops Supplement

2009-03-24T12:21:00.001+07:00

We are all aware that sugar is not our friend. Sugar increases insulin levels and may lead to a myriad of diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, inflammation, premature aging and so on.

Artificial sweeteners such as Aspartame (NutraSweet, Equal) and Splenda come with their own set of debilitating and damaging effects. These chemical substitutes are not the answer for good health or for caloric restriction. Aspartame for example has been linked to brain cancer, emotional disorders, seizures, and birth defects. More than 75% of all non-drug complaints to the FDA are about Aspartame. These side effects are but a small sampling of the 100’s of adverse reactions caused by Aspartame.

Animal research has linked Splenda (succulous) with enlarged liver and kidneys, shrunken thymus glands, reduced growth rate and aborted pregnancies. Available only since 1999, the reports of adverse effects on humans is beginning to evolve, but understand that people having adverse reactions may not make the connection.

Reducing or quitting sugar altogether is beneficial to good health. Yet, we all know how very hard this is to do. In our house, we have consciously reduced sugar to almost nothing. We do however, need a bit of sweetener on occasion, for example to sweeten lemon aid, ice tea, coffee, whole grain cereal, oatmeal etc. We therefore recommend choosing Stevia over sugar or artificial sweeteners.

What is Stevia?

Stevia is a non caloric sweetener, an herb, native to Paraguay. It has been used as a sweetener for centuries in Paraguay and decades in Japan without a single complaint regarding harmful effects. This small green plant bears leaves which have a delicious and refreshing taste that is 10-15 times sweeter than table sugar. Stevia extracts called steviosides, claim as much as 200-300 times the sweetness of table sugar.

Stevia is a natural dietary supplement which studies have shown offers a bounty of health benefits. Here are just some of the nutrients found in the Stevia leaf.

Vitamin A & C, Phosphorus, Potassium, Riboflavin, Fiber, Protein, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Calcium

Because the human body does not metabolize the sweet compound in Stevia, called glycoside, (causing the body to pass it through normal channels without raising blood sugar) it is an excellent sugar substitute for those wishing to lose weight.

Research carried out in Japan and South America, clearly demonstrates the beneficial effects of Stevia in regulating blood sugar levels and supporting the pancreas, reducing the symptoms of diabetes and hypoglycemia. Other traditional uses of Stevia are to lower elevated blood pressure (hypertension), as a digestive aid, to reduces gas and stomach acidity, and inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria that cause gum disease and tooth decay.

Stevia is widely used all over the world, from Japan (claiming 41% of the sweetener market, including sugar), China, Germany, Israel, South Korea and so on. And we repeat, with no reports of toxicity. In the US, the FDA banned this natural non-caloric alternative to sugar and artificial sweeteners in 1991. But, since the passage of the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA), Stevia can be sold legally in the United States, but only as a dietary supplement. Why?…Well, money talks and pockets and influence run deep.

Many companies today are using Stevia as a sweetener (whoops! dietary supplement) in nutrition bars, meal replacement drinks, protein powders, etc. And generally, you don’t have to go to the health food store to find Stevia. Most grocery stores are now stocking it. If yours does not, just ask. I’m sure they won’t mind stocking it. Ours didn’t.

If you give Stevia a try, be patient, it may not suit you the first few times you try it but believe me, soon you’ll wonder why you ever used anything else. Stevia is actually good for your health! It’s a no brainer! Do yourself and your family a big favor and try Stevia like our family has. It just may be a health changing experience.

Stevia, a sweet reward on the road to…TRUE HEALTHY LIVING NOW!

Due to personal health issues we have been researching health & fitness for the last five years. The information we have obtained has helped us and our family members get off pharmaceutical drugs and regain a level of health we had never known. Please visit us at http://www.truehealthylivingnow.blogspot.com.

Wonderful Foaming Honey Foot Bath at Home

2009-03-23T10:28:00.001+07:00

I imagine you can tell me at length about how tired your feet and legs get after your busy day. When?s the last time you got to treat yourself to a day at the spa? Even if you had the time, it?s not too often you can afford the $100 cost of a simple, relaxing, foot soak.

Doesn?t that sound nice? A relaxing foot soak at a spa. So I put together this simple recipe so you can have that soothing soak with ingredients you probably already have at home, and can whip up immediately.

***

Step 1. Create this wonderful foaming honey foot bath at home.

Here?s what you need:

1 tablespoon Honey
1 tablespoon Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
2 tablespoons Sweet Almond Oil

The almond oil was the only things that sounded like it was tough to find, but my wife and I found it at the chain drugstore at the corner of our street. Just take a look in the beauty/cosmetic aisle.

Mix all these ingredients together in a bowl and its ready for your foot bath. Note: If you want to make this stuff in a large quantity to save for later, you can bump up all the ingredients to something like this:

? cup Honey
? cup Liquid Soap (I used dish soap)
1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract
1 cup Sweet Almond Oil

Now you can save this in a bottle and save some time for next time.

Step 2. Find yourself a foot bath

These days you can get a fancy, space-age, foot bath for about $20. They promise they do all sorts of things like vibration, bubbles, and heat. I haven?t tried one myself, but for $20 that probably isn?t a bad experiment.

My wife however didn?t need one as she had me volunteer to provide all the scrubbing and massaging for her.

Wait! Hon, I don?t recall you ever offering me a foot bath?

So anything around the house that can submerse your feet just above the ankle is going to work here. We ended up using a disposable aluminum roasting pan.

Yes it was brand new and didn?t have roasted meat in it!

Step 3. Fill up your foot bath

Put your mixed up concoction from Step 1 into your foot bath and fill with warm water.

Please be real careful with the water temperature. Do this by triple checking the temperature of the water with your hands when it?s done. And if you are doing this for a spouse make sure you understand their taste in temperature.

I speak from experience here. I got a little lazy, and didn?t judge the hotness of the water. Although my wife was a trooper and tried to go along anyways. I could tell from her grimace and refusal to dip more than like a toe into the water, that I made it too hot.

Step 4. Soak for 10 minutes

After I got the temperature of the water right, we soaked her feet for 10 minutes. There is all sorts of good stuff going on now during this soak.

The soap is obviously cleaning all sorts of impurities from your feet. I can?t even explain how many things the honey is doing. Here is a short list:

1) Apparently honey forms hydrogen peroxide which is a great anti bacterial agent. So there is goes cleansing your feet some more.

2) Honey contains antioxidants. Health news constantly revolves around us getting more antioxidants. So without me getting all biologist on us, I?ll just confirm that getting more antioxidants on our skin and in our diet is really super great!

3) Honey is also a terrific humectant. All that means is it makes a great moisturizer.

***

Just knowing about this foot bath, you can get started on your at-home foot spa. So take 15 minutes tonight and pamper yourself. Those feet are going to feel so soft, especially in a comfy pair of flip flops.

Another great way for women readers to treat their feet is to slide them into a pair of ultra-comfortable flip flops. Get a pair at http://www.yourflipflops.com.

Or if you?d like our FREE newletter with more articles about pampering your feet, send a blank email to mailto:flipflops@aweber.com

Acne Skin Care and AntiAging Skin Care Products Deciphering The Ingredients

2009-03-22T16:45:00.001+07:00

You?ve heard the terms Alpha-hydroxy Acids, Beta-hydroxy Acid, Retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, Copper Peptide, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, etc. What do these scientific terms really mean? How do they help your skin?

Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

You will find skin care products containing Alpha-hydroxy acids in creams, lotions and various anti-aging skin care products. Products with Alpha-hydroxy may decrease the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots. If you have sensitive skin, you can consult with your day spa esthetician or dermatologist about using products with Alpha-hydroxy. Side effects of using Alpha-hydroxy acid products, include mild irritation and sun sensitivity. To lessen your chances of developing any side effects, use products every other day in the initial stages of trying the product.

Beta-hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid)

Studies have shown that products with Beta-hydroxy Acid improve the skin?s texture and color. Products with Beta-hydroxy acid tend to be less irritating to the skin than products with alpha-hydroxy acid. Many beta-hydroxy acid products can be found at your local drugstore or department store.

Retinol

Many skin care products contain retinol, a derivative of vitamin A. Retinol is used in acne skin care products such as Retin-A, a popular acne skin care product for teenagers, who tend to suffer harsh outbreaks of acne. Studies show that Retinol is able to penetrate the lower layers of the skin to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and re-hydrate the skin.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C allows the body to produce collagen, which is a key ingredient in the anti-aging process. The environment, sun damage and stress can wreak havoc on our skin, as we age. Vitamin C minimizes the aging process. Ask your day spa esthetician or dermatologist, for the best topical Vitamin C product.

Copper Peptide

Copper peptide, which has only been on the market since 1997, boosts collagen and elastin production. It helps to sustain firm skin and it does it better than other anti-aging skin care products. Copper Peptide also removes damaged collagen and elastin from your skin.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

Alpha-Lopoic acid is believed to be the best anti-aging combatant due to its ability to fight skin damaging free radicals when compared to other antioxidants. Alpha-Lipoic Acid reduces fine lines and gives the skin a luster and healthy glow. It also boosts the levels of other antioxidants such as Vitamin C.

Find day spas in over 50 cities including New York city, Washington D.C., Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, Chicago, Seattle, Houston, etc.

Artificial Sweeteners: A Closer Look at Aspartame Part 1

2009-03-21T22:17:00.001+07:00

Moderation is the key to everything in life. This is true with sweeteners too. We have read and heard of all the dangers of Aspartame. Remember? everything CAN be dangerous. For example, studies have shown that fish is good for you; however, I have friends and family that have major allergic reactions to fish even to the point of not breathing! You might say, ?But these are isolated cases?? Well, let?s see what has been said about Aspartame. This page was titled: ?Aspartame ? Most dangerous of all sweeteners!? Here is the report by Dr. H.J. Roberts, Aspartame (NutraSweet) Is It Safe?, Charles Press, page 283/84.

?Aspartame, a dipeptide of aspartic acid and a methyl ester of phenylalanine, is approved for use in pharmaceutical products and is being used increasingly in chewable tablet and sugar-free formulations. Labels for both prescription and nonprescription products must include the phenylalanine content. The major consideration in the use of aspartame in children is in patients with autosomal recessive phenylketonuria. Although heterozygotes do not appear to have clinically significant increases in phenylalanine after ingestion of even large amounts (equivalent to 24 12-oz cans of diet beverages), homozygotes with strict dietary restrictions should avoid aspartame. Children without dietary restrictions could safely ingest 10 mg/kg/d. [37-40. Dietary consumption of aspartame is typically less than 5 mg/kg/d[41; young children, however, could ingest considerably more. For example, a 2-year-old child weighing 12 kg consumes 17 mg/kg from drinking one 12-oz can of diet soda and one serving of a sweetened product (eg, cereal, pudding, gelatin, or frozen dessert).

Headache is the most common adverse side effect attributed to aspartame but is seldom confirmed by single-dose double-blind challenge. Up to 11% of patients with chronic migraine headaches reported headaches triggered by aspartame; however, a double-blind challenge with three doses of 10 mg/kg given every 2 hours triggered no more headaches than did placebos in patients with vascular headaches believed to be exacerbated by aspartame. A small, double-blind 4-week trial showed an increase in frequency of headaches after ingestion of 1200 mg/d, indicating that a longer challenge period may be necessary. ?

In my next installment, we will finish looking at the report on Apartame and then begin to unpack the report and pull some very interesting insights out of the report. See you then!

Olan Butler is the Chief Architect of BHO Technologists, a computer productivity & organization software provider http://www.bhotechnologists.com with headquarters in Kansas City. Join his FREE newsletter Computing Success Secrets for a steady stream of computer, health and overall life profiting tips. You'll be glad you did! Olan believes poor health produces poor computing. Olan also provides Computer Services in the Kansas City area.

Our Livers Need for Water

2009-03-17T14:16:00.001+07:00

Although many realize that the liver has its own cleansing system, it does need help - as it cannot maintain its healthy state if its being abused. Abuse occurs when too much of the wrong foods are entering the body.

The livers main role is to neutralize the wastes and toxins in the body. Toxins refer to ?bad foods? that do more harm than good. Some of these ?bad foods? are fried foods that are high in fat, caffeine and alcohol.

There is nothing wrong with eating these foods in moderation, however, too much of these unhealthy foods in the body can lead to low energy levels. These low levels are caused because the liver has to work much harder to break down the excessive amounts of ?bad food? in the body and the liver is unable to continue processing the toxins at its optimum rate.

In order to avoid problems, drink plenty of water to assist the livers cleansing function by flushing out wastes. Water hydrates the body and allows the cells to stay healthy and active. This is necessary for the proper function of all bodily organs.

Try to eat green leafy vegetables and fruits and exercise is always recommended.

If you want more details on healthy lifestyle tips and at-home spa living, check out www.homespasecrets.com for free information on natural, healthy living.

Jan Johnson is the founder of http://www.homespasecrets.com offering free information on creating your own at-home spa on a dime. HomeSpaSecrets.com also offers healthy living tips and information.

Spa Supply: Helping You Unwind At Home

2009-03-15T19:08:00.001+07:00

We?ve heard it so many times from all walks of life; Americans are over worked, over stressed and much deserving of a refreshing break. And we all know that one of the best and most popular ways to relieve stress and tension is a visit to the local day spa or better yet a week-long stay at a luxury spa resort. But, unfortunately, all of that rest and relaxation takes time and money. So, what can you do to unwind if you find that you are lacking in both of these precious commodities?

The answer might be as easy as creating your very own spa experience at home with inexpensive products purchased from your local or online spa supply. With products like facial masks, foot massagers and exfoliating body creams at your disposal, you will have no need to shell out money for a masseuse or to cover travel expenses. All you will have to do to get all of the pampering and luxury that you need is delve into your private spa supply collection.

While you won?t need a lot of products to make your home spa experience as luxurious as its more expensive counterparts, there are a few products that every home spa supply should include. Here is a brief look at just a few of the products that you will want to have on hand:

* Massaging foot bath - When you come home from a long day?s work it seems like everything is aching, especially your feet. So, why not come home to your very own foot spa? Many of these spas come with heat and massage features and can do wonders for aching joints and weary feet. And the best part is that you can purchase one of these babies for as little as $25.

* Paraffin wax system - These home systems are also very inexpensive and are great for people with arthritis. The warm wax relieves aches and inflammation in the hands and feet and leaves skin supple, smooth and soft. Also great for people with dry, cracked or chapped skin. The system costs around $40.

* Facial sauna - With a home facial sauna you can steam away the impurities of your skin just like the pros do. Combine this product with your favorite cleansers, toners and moisturizers to create the perfect salon experience at home. You can purchase one of these for about $45.

* Hot oil manicure set - This is the ultimate luxury and will leave your hands and nails feeling and looking great. The soothing heated oil will help repair damaged and dry nail cuticles and will also help condition and strengthen your nails. These are hard to find, but can be purchased for around $30 at most beauty supply stores.

In addition to all of these great spa supply ideas, you might want to consider inexpensive massage oils and creams. Aromatherapy bath gels and lotions also do wonders for a tired and weary body.

You see, it only takes a little bit of money to have the spa experience of your life. And the best part about having your very own spa supply at home is that there?s no commute and the spa is always open for business.

Credit: Ian W Anderson of The Spa Resort, the spa information site. For more spa information and articles like this one visit: Spas.

8 Steps to Natural Beauty from the Inside Out

2009-03-15T12:49:00.001+07:00

Have you ever noticed people that possess a radiant glow about them? It is the type of beauty that goes beyond the surface. If you would like to reflect your best without pricey miracle products, risky procedures or fad diets read on:

1. Follow a natural detoxification program for 3 days once per month. drink plenty of purified water, meditate, drink herbal cleansing teas, fiber rich foods and eliminate processed foods, dairy, alcohol,tobacco, etc.

2. Perform skin brushing to improve circulation and maintain a youthful appearance.

3. Bathe in in relaxing herbs and soothing essential oils. Try dried rose petals, lavender buds, clary sage or patchouli.

4. Moisturize skin with plant based ingredients. (avoid mineral oil) * Beautiful skin is the secret to aging gracefully* Weekly home spa treatments with Indigofera's Body Polishing Scrub and Silken Body Butter reveal smooth glowing skin.

5.Create positive affirmations and repeat them throughout the day. I am light, I attract health, wisdom and beauty

6. Wear authentic gemstone jewelry like, amber, amethyst, citrine, & garnet.

7. Pay special attention to the colors you where, try to avoid dark colors. Study the Seven Chakras and learn about the energy of color.

8. Smile and laugh more often! Unmanaged stress contributed to premature signs of aging.

Chanelle Washington, RN, BSN is a Certified Holistic Practitioner and founder of Indigofera. She is an honors graduate of Temple University and member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor society for nurses. She is an informative speaker, author. She facilitates Optimal Wellness Workshops. To book her as a speaker call 215-525-3594 or e-mail wellness@indigofera.com http://www.indigofera.com

Benefits of Spa Treatments

2009-03-12T20:57:00.001+07:00

Ladies, when was the last time you were treated like a queen? Whether it was in this millenium or the last, spending the day at a Spa guarantees the Star Treatment. Day Spa?s are like hair and nail salons, only better. In addition to hair and nail services, they offer relaxing muscle massages, pedicures, manicures, deep cleansing facials and even body scrubs, all in a comforting, soothing environment. Most offer gift certificates and will combine services into ?packages? at a reduced price.

Winter weather wrecks havoc on our skin, especially our hands and feet, leaving them dry and cracked. I don?t know about you, but my lotion just ain?t getting it! Dead skin cells on your body can prevent your oil and lotion from soaking in, leaving you with a bad case of winter itch. Get rid of all that dead, dry (ashy) skin with an invigorating sea-salt body scrub. Your face can get ashy, also, and feel dry and tight. Contrary to popular belief, Black women and men needs facials too! A good facial will deep clean your pores ? removing black heads, acne and even hair and shaving bumps- and leave your face smooth and hydrated.

If nothing else, get a massage, especially if you have children. They are great for your body and spirit; they can tone muscles and are ultra relaxing. Massages can be purchased by the hour (full body) or half hour (back only). During a massage, you will be asked to remove all of your clothes. Don?t be shy, but feel free to leave your underwear on. You will be covered by a sheet at all times. So, lay back, enjoy the candlelight and listen to soothing sounds while being massaged with warm oil. Or better yet, learn how to massage each other in a class you can take together.

About The Author

Nicole Elizabeth Smith, the author of Healthy Black Hair (2003), is a freelance health and beauty writer and a graduate of Michigan State University. She and her son Zack live in Michigan. Currently, she is beauty editor for www.myhairbook.com.

nicole@myhairbook.com

The Healing Powers Of Water Can Enhance Your Power Of Touch

2009-03-12T17:49:00.001+07:00

Water is one of nature?s gifts as it can be used in numerous ways and can also benefit us it many ways. Its use for therapeutic purposes has been known for thousands of years and by many cultures. We know that it was a major part of Greek and Egyptian medicine to the point that the ancient Greeks believed that seawater had the power to take away malignant tumors and revitalize the nervous system.

There are bathing places built on the shores of the Dead Sea, as it has been renowned for thousands of years as having beneficial effects on the body. Lakes that are high in mineral salts are used by people all over the world as the salts penetrate the body through the pores and have a great therapeutic effect on the skin and total body. They can actually detoxify the body, increase blood and lymph circulation and help speed up the elimination of wastes in the body.

There are many hotels based on the shores on the Dead Sea, which offer a wide range of spa treatments. These Dead Sea minerals are also sold for home use in bathes, body and hair treatments as well as other personal uses.

Another treatment from the Dead Sea is mud baths, which are rich in dissolved mineral salts, and plant extracts. It is another way of cleansing the skin and treating arthritis and skin disorders. Various types of mud are used in salon treatments because they act powerfully on the skin?s surface taking away impurities such as dead cells and grime caused by pollution in the air.

A further medical treatment using seawater is known as thalassotherapy which when used can alleviate stress and fatigue, regulate blood pressure, purify the body and soothe muscular aches and pains. It also assists in improving the skin and hair quality as well as recharging the body by replacing some necessary nutrients.

Floating around in water can also promote deep relaxation and there are many clinics using floatation tanks for this very purpose. Flotation allows you to unwind and even meditate if you so wish. The flotation tanks used have mineral salts, which enables your body to float and in turn allows you to become mentally and physically relaxed.

Many of us have been in a spa and felt the soothing and relaxing effects of the jets and bubbles. These days you can have your very own spa at home, which means that you can get that relaxing experience whenever you want.

Anther similar piece of equipment you can have at home is a power shower which when used stimulates the blood and lymph circulation. I also discovered that women can restore tone to sagging breasts by using alternate sprays of hot and cold water performed on a daily basis for about one minute. Also power showers used in specific areas such as thighs and buttocks can break down fats and help take away toxins through better circulation.

We have all heard of people jumping into icy cold water in the name of good health and thought they were all mad! Well I am here to tell you that research has shown that cold-water baths can boost the production of the blood-thinning enzyme called TPA, which helps in preventing blood clots. Other reactions to the cold water are the release of various hormones into the blood stream, which stimulate the thyroid and thereby increase the oxygen consumption of the blood cells.

Cold water has also been found to increase the production of white blood cells, which are very important in fighting off infection. Many people with chronic fatigue syndrome have also benefited from cold-water baths.

We can go on and on about the virtues of water but that would make this article more like a book. I only wanted to introduce you to some of the ways you can use water to provide healthy benefits. Some of you may want to learn more about water?s magic and you can do this by visiting your local library or bookshop.

In the meantime stay healthy and continue to learn what nature can provide for us.

Walter Pigatto is an expert on the skill of touch and can assist you in finding solutions to you and your family's relaxation/pain solutions. He can also show you how to develop the sensual side of your relationship and much more. To learn more visit Power Of Touch web site today!

The Pedicure A Treat for Your Feet!

2009-03-11T14:34:00.000+07:00

So often we take our feet for granted as they carry us around each and every day. We pamper our hair and faces but tend not to give our feet a second thought. Until the time arrives when we get a remainder in the form of aching arches or even a more serous foot condition. Taking care of our feet with a regular pedicure will add more than pep to your step; it will also keep some of those unhealthy foot conditions at bay.

Pretty and well cared for feet are more than a delight to the eye. A pedicure can be a wonderful form of pampering; it can lift your spirits and soothe your feet at the same time. Whether you choose a full spa pedicure or opt for an at-home treatment your feet will thank you for it!

The pedicure: Ultimate pampering at home or at the spa

1. At home or at the spa start with a comfortable place to sit. A footbath or large bowl filled with warm water and perhaps therapeutic mineral salts. As you soak your feet for 10 minutes or so, listen to music, read a book or just relax and enjoy the sensation of the water.

2. Remove feet from the water and dry with a soft clean towel. Clip and file the toenails carefully and clean gently around cuticles. Rinse feet and gently pat dry.

3. While the feet are still moist apply a foot scrub to remove any hard skin or calluses from the areas around the heels especially. A pumice stone may also be used at this point. Rinse the feet in the warm water. Wipe feet dry paying special attention to the areas between the toes.

4. Apply a good moisturiser or lotion to the feet and ankle area. Steady massaging stokes will give you a relaxing and therapeutic foot treatment. Allow the lotion or cream moisturizer to soak into the skin.

5. Leave toes nails natural or apply the latest nail polish.

Foot Notes: Schedule your spa pedicure in advance. Many spas and salons take walk-in customers; however, you’ll have less stress and far less chance of a long wait if you make an appointment in advance. Bring a pair of sandals with fully open toes. Allow a full hour for your pedicure. You may be done in 30-40 minutes; however, you don’t want to rush it and you’ll want to make sure your toe nail polish is completely dry before leaving. Bear in mind that you may be sitting in an open area with your feet elevated. For your own comfort plan what you wear accordingly!

Angie Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada After many years enjoying spas in Europe and drawing upon her knowledge of the corporate world along with an successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing Spas in Canada was created.

The Spas in Canada website provides a place where premier spas and industry professionals offer useful information for all spa lovers everywhere.

For information on where to find premier Spas in Canada and what to expect from the experience contact the spa team.

Email: spas@spasincanada.ca

Create a Spa Retreat at Home!

2009-03-10T14:40:00.001+07:00

In today?s high-stress world, a visit to a spa can provide a much needed renewal for your mind, body and soul. If you don?t have the time and/or money to head to the nearest spa or resort, consider creating your own. Experience the benefits of a day at the spa by creating a near-professional spa in your own home. Here are some ideas for transforming you bathroom into a relaxing spa retreat.

SPA TREATMENTS
Widely used in spas, bath salts or salt scrubs made with sea salts are wonderful for their detoxifying properties. The Romans, Greeks and other European cultures have long believed in the benefits of healing through bathing in hotsprings.

SPA TOOLS
If you?re giving yourself a body treatment, have a body brush, loofah or sponge within easy reach. One of the best ways to revive skin is to exfoliate before you get in the shower. The ancient spas of Japan were known for their dry brushing techniques. Gently brush your body using circular motions with a soft body brush, starting at the feet and working your way up. This light brushing technique removes dead skin cells while stimulating circulation.

DRY OFF
Pamper yourself with classic and elegant spa garb ? a luxuriously thick white terrycloth robe. If you don?t have a robe handy, find your fluffiest, softest towel. For an unmatched toasty treat, heat your robe or towel in the dryer before using.

MOISTURIZE
Water from the bath has a drying effect on the skin. To make the most of your skin replenishment, keep a special body lotion for spa days ? one with an aroma that you enjoy.

Chere Deshayes is the president of Bath Plantation, a company that specializes in handcrafted bath and spa products. Subscribe to her FREE newsletter at http://www.bathplantation.com/newsletter.html or visit her site at http://www.bathplantation.com.

Laser Hair Removal for Tanned Skin

2009-03-09T01:09:00.001+07:00

Laser hair removal is the trendiest solution for removing unwanted hair that grows in some parts of our body. However, hair removal is not guaranteed for everyone. There are some things to consider before undergoing such treatment.

The decision and determination of enhancing your physical appearance through the removal of the unnecessary hair on other areas of your body serves no assurance that you can already go through the treatment. Hence, you must first assess yourself if you qualify.

The absolute requirement is that one's hair must be darker than the surrounding skin. Since laser hair removal is an advance technological product and uses a highly laser equipment, this should be taken into consideration. People who have darkly pigmented skin are not that suitable to have the treatment because they have a tendency to absorb more light energy. Physicians typically need to make use of high laser treatments for them.

Tanned patients with light hair are not candidates. Tanned patients with dark hair cannot be treated with the usual hair removal lasers. They require treatment with a specialized laser, such as the kind used at the Institute of Laser Medicine in Los Angeles. Lastly, the treatment cost should be within reach of the patient. Laser hair removal, although much less expensive than electrolysis, requires multiple treatments, and generally costs over $1000 in total for most anatomic areas.

Various skin types needs different laser hair removal methodologies. Light skin makes laser hair removal easier to perform. Fewer treatments are required and better, faster results are obtained unlike to those who have darker skin. Although people with dark skin can still be treated, the expected outcomes are slower and more treatments are required.

Dark hair absorbs more laser energy and is easier to treat. Coarse dark hair responds the best to laser treatment. Light hair is more difficult to treat. Blonde or red hair is very difficult to treat. Numerous treatment sessions are required, and results are changeable. Blonde hair usually contains pheomelanin, which absorbs laser energy less fervently than the eumelanin pigment that is present in black or brown hair.

Laser or light source hair removal (photoepilation) is less effective for individuals with light blond, red or graysilver hair, though the results have been significantly improved with the use of Meladine before the treatment. Laser Hair Removal is very effective for problematic ingrown hairs.

Yet while laser treatments for darker skinned patients has improved, it must be considered that those patients with tanned skin are still not candidates and must wait until their tan fades before they can be treated. This is the reason why patients are instructed not to suntan or use sunless tanning products prior to laser treatment. This is very true since tanning alters skin pigment and can affect how the skin absorbs the laser energy.

If not followed properly this could lead to increased side effects such as blistering or discoloration following treatment. The laser hair removal for tanned skin seems to be more complex as compared to those types of skin that are well suited to undergo the treatment. However, people with that type of skin must remain to be optimistic because nobody can tell; maybe years from now newly improvised equipments for hair removal of tanned patients will be invented.

Do you have any questions you would like answered about laser hair removal? laser-body-hair-removal.info has all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best hair removal procedure for you. There is also a hair removal blog

Ever Wondered What A Seaweed Wrap Is?

2009-03-08T02:11:00.001+07:00

With the holiday days coming, you might want to get your body and mind ready by checking out your local spa for a seaweed wrap. And why not? The holidays take out so much on your body that this might be a great new way to relax and unwind. If the thought of a seaweed wrap is new then how about a few facts on the simple but beneficial seaweed wrap. After reading this you might be changing your mind after all.

A seaweed wrap, was created years ago to help with those in need of getting rid of toxins at the spas and maybe loose a few inches at the same time. So why not consider for yourself a seaweed wrap? Seaweed wraps are becoming more popular than ever and after you experience one, you will understand why. Most seaweed wraps are conducted at spas and massage centers, however there are natural recipes that help you in creating the same wrap only at home. Whether you venture to the spa for your first seaweed wrap or choose to enjoy it in your own home, your results will be fantastic.
Ever been curious about why seaweed might be used for a wrap procedure? How about a few facts about the wonders of seaweed? Seaweeds actually provide more than half of the Earth's oxygen. They are one of the most primary life sources because seaweed has been around since just about the beginning of life on this planet. The interesting thing about seaweed is that it absorbs all of the great things from the ocean. Through osmosis, it absorbs copper, iron, potassium, zinc, and iodine. It also absorbs many vitamins that are healthy for our bodies as well.
It is no wonder that seaweed can do so much for our bodies, because our insides are extremely similar in composition to seawater. With our bodies being made of mostly water, seaweed is a welcoming product for our skin. Our skin can never get too much water. Most wraps use seaweed algae from the Brittany Coast of France. Something about the way it grows in that area of the world. A lot of spas will order the seaweed from France to use in their centers for their own famous seaweed wraps. Companies who sell seaweed for the used in wraps have found a way to maintain the natural elements of the seaweed. It's those elements that help the wrap do its job.
Most women try seaweed wraps for their relaxation properties. Seaweed wraps are much more useful than simply for the use relaxation. A simple wrap can stimulate your circulation, making your blood flow better. It can also increase your metabolism, allowing you to have more energy and to lose weight more easily. One of the main things a seaweed wrap does for your body is it helps your body get rid of toxins. It is a gentle form of detoxification for your skin and your body. It will help with cellulite, sagging skin, stretch marks, and help you seem to lose a inch or two.

You can think of a seaweed wrap as a total body cleanser. It cleanses both inside and out. The wrap works by absorbing the vitamins and minerals from where it was grown, those same minerals absorbed by your skin and in turn help break up fatty deposits in your body. It will make your skin look and feel supple and smooth.

While at the spa your wrap specialist will ask you to either remove your clothing, or put on a disposable bikini. Now realize that the specialist is going to be smoothing seaweed paste all over your body. Now if you can't handle the thought of sea paste being painted on then this is not something for you. After the paste is applied, the specialist will then wrap the area with warm thermal sheets. These sheets are very relaxing. You will then relax for up to 45 minutes. The specialist will remove the sheets and you will rinse the seaweed off your body in the shower there at the spa. You should be able to noticed a different in your skin as soon as you dry off.

After receiving seaweed wrap at a spa or if you are thinking about doing it yourself at home, there are a few things you should remember. Since the wrap is removing toxins from your skin, you got to sure to drink extra water for 24 hours before and after your wrap. Drinking water is a great way for your body to replace the toxins with something useful and healthy. Be sure to drink about 4-6 extra glasses to get your body back on track. Not only will drinking more hydrate your body, but it will also allow your skin to stay smooth and supple longer. It's amazing what water does for you!

If you would rather not try a seaweed wrap on your entire body, you can try localized treatments. If you are only concerned with your hips and thighs, you can get a seaweed wrap for your hips and thighs alone. You can also do a seaweed facial wrap. Anyone thinking of getting a seaweed wrap should consider just doing your face, that way you will know that it is something you could handle all over the rest of your body.

Remember any part of your body can have a seaweed wrap. These treatments will improve the firmness in your skin as well as help you with other problems. Just understand for the best results, salon specialists suggest you get a seaweed wrap once a week for at least six to eight weeks. is can be a bit costly, but after all, beauty is not cheap! Well, at least in this type of treatments it isn't easy on your pocketbook. So go ahead, try out a seaweed facial wrap and see if this is something that you want to try on the rest of you. As in all things, don't knock it till you try it!

Copyright 2005 Kim Snyder Owner of Overallbeauty.com Great lover of beauty care and products, never happy without trying to make the world a little prettier for all.
Visit http://Overallbeauty.com to see the latest in beauty products and skin care.
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Acne Skin Care Treatment Tips For A Healthier Looking Skin

2009-03-07T02:42:00.001+07:00

Acne is caused by an overproduction of sebum, a substance which is produced by your Sebaceous glands. Your Sebaceous glands can be found on your face, upper neck and chest. Sebum production increases during adolescence and starts to wean around the age of 20. This does not mean that acne vanishes at age 20. Infact, acne, which is usually thought of as a teenager's skin care issue affects adults both female and male.

Treating acne requires patience, finding the right acne treatment products and sticking to a good treatment routine. Here are tips on what to do and what to avoid.

Dos

Cleanse. Fighting acne requires you to establish a daily routine of gently washing your face with a good acne skin cleanser. Acne skin cleansers will get rid of the accumulated makeup, oils, sweat and dirt on your face. There are skin cleansers for various types of skin types: oily, dry, sensitive and normal. You will want to buy the correct product for your skin type.

Exfoliate. Exfoliation allows your new skin cells to shine through by getting rid of your dead skin cells. The result is a new replenished look that helps give your skin a youthful, fresh appearance. It is advisable to exfoliate more during the summer months since you tend to sweat more.

Moisturize even if you have oily skin. Choose the right moisturizer for your skin type.

Use noncomedogenic comestics and skin care products. These products do not clog your pores.

Consult a day spa esthetician or dermatologist for expert advice, if your problem gets consistently worse.

Don'ts

Do not overwash your face.

Do not scrub or rub your skin excessively.

Never pop, squeeze or pick at acne. This spreads the inflammation and makes things worse.

If you find that certain foods aggravate your acne, try to avoid them (e.g. oily foods such as fast food).

Avoid excessive sun, tanning booths and sun lamps.

Avoid excessive sweating or humidity.

Visit your local day spa esthetician for more skin care tips.

Access the list of day spas in your local community at http://www.dayspafan.com

Spas and Hot Tubs: Relaxing Your Way to a Better Health

2009-03-07T00:51:00.001+07:00

Imagine yourself in a warm, soothing tub of bubbling water, relaxing after a long day. What better way to spend the evening than soaking in the hot tub and in the comfort of your own home. Spas and hot tubs offer ways to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, injuries, or simply promote relaxation and stress relief. Hot tubs also offer a romantic way to unwind with your loved ones.

The use of spas and hot tubs can be traced back to the Romans with their famous bathhouses which is the center of social life and a common daily activity of the elite classes. The earliest spa enthusiast (Romans, Japanese and Chinese) was able to appreciate the health benefits of using hot water to relax the body and generally promote better health.

The body?s first reaction to being immersed in hot water is to try to get back to its normal temperature by pumping the heart faster causing a temporary increase in blood pressure. The longer one soaks in the spa, the more times the blood cycles through the body. The warm blood causes the blood vessels to dilate, thus, lessening the resistance to blood flow and dropping the blood pressure. The muscle-relaxation effects of hot water also help dull muscle pain and help rid itself of lactic acid and other metabolic wastes.

The water jet found in spas can also promote healing by providing more oxygen to its targeted area. This happens when the heat and pressure from the jets raise the level of antibodies and white blood cells delivered to the area, promoting the destruction of bad cells and stimulating the formation of new tissue. There are different spas having water jets but the one with less piping is preferred because it results in less friction being applied to water traveling through the pipe. The massaging water jets therefore feel stronger in all of the spa's seats.

People with conditions that weaken body motion, like arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or paralysis, often will find benefits from bathing in a hot tub. The warm water helps relieve aches and pains, while loosening joints.

Looking back to the history of spas and hot tubs, it has been a luxury item for the elite class. The last few decades saw tremendous development in spa technology, materials and manufacturing, making it reliable and affordable enough for most people. Since then, it became popular not only for the relaxation and stress relieving benefit it offers but also as a means of treating different medical conditions and injuries.

For more information visit www.bullfrogspas.com

Shyr Regueta is a webmaster of Bullfrog Spas She is a college graduate with a degree in Business Administration major in Marketing. Her interests include movies, novels, traveling, and scrapbooking.

Medical Spa's: A Physicians Perspective

2009-03-06T21:36:00.001+07:00

Imagine visiting a facility that allows for medical grade cosmetic procedures to restore skin health and rejuvenate the face and body, maximize health and wellness while in a serene spa-like environment. You would be visiting a Medical Spa.

International Medical Spa Association defines a medical spa as ?a facility that operates under the full-time, on-site supervision of a licensed health care professional. The facility operates within the scope of practice of its staff, and offers traditional, complementary, and alternative health practices and treatments in a spa-like setting. Practitioners working within a medical spa will be governed by their appropriate licensing board, if licensure is required.? It would provide a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates traditional cosmetic procedures and wellness with alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic and holistic care to maximize both health and wellness as well as beauty care. Those that adhere to the guidelines as put forth by the IMSA often have a physician on staff (preferably on site), chiropractors, massage therapists, nutritionists, and holistic practitioners.

Advancing technology allows for more dramatic non-invasive and minimal ?down time? cosmetic procedures to fit patients active social and career lifestyle. This, coupled with mainstream acceptance, has led to an ever-growing consumer demand. Numerous facilities are appearing almost daily, whether attached to an already existing medical practice or as a stand alone new practice. Even some traditional hair salons and day spa?s are enlisting physicians to come by their facility periodically to perform Botox? or Restylane? injections.

With this booming demand, many investors see an opportunity to cash in on this growing market by opening medical spas ranging from ?one of? to franchises. Many non-medical persons are opening up facilities ranging from laser hair removal facilities to medical spa?s, staffing them with estheticians, ?laser technicians?, or nurses. For a facility to purchase a laser, a physician has to be affiliated with that facility. Thus many physicians serve as Medical Director, yet have no direct clinical interaction with clients in their evaluation, treatment or follow-up.

Indeed, for some facilities the physician is not even located in the same community. Some Medical Directors have residency training in Dermatology or Plastic Surgery, while others are from different medical specialties. However, since many of these procedures and technologies are relatively new, current and ongoing postgraduate medical education and training are important.

With this rapid growth, many states medical regulations are not keeping pace with the evolving technologies, which result in loose regulatory oversight. In fact many states allow non-physicians to own and operate laser hair removal spas.

With increasing popularity and availability of these services, the incidence of injury from these ?low risk? procedures is increasing. While very rarely serious injury occurs (there have been two deaths, including one in North Carolina, associated with laser hair removal and use of topical anesthetic), troublesome injuries requiring evaluation and treatment by a medical specialist are becoming more commonplace. Injuries can include scarring, pigmentation changes, and even blindness. A study on complications from laser procedures by Vic Narurkar, MD was presented this year at the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery. He found that 82% of all laser related complications occurred in facilities that had no direct physician supervision. 1

Training is another big issue. For example, an esthetician requires a minimum of 600 hours training before being issued a license to perform skin care and superficial peels. However, to operate a laser most states have no set training requirements. In most cases the training is done by the laser manufacture and may be only a day or two in length. While lasers are generally safe in the right hands and most persons have no contraindications, there are a few medical conditions that can lead to adverse out comes. Certain medical conditions, such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, adrenal or ovarian tumors, can manifest themselves by excessive facial hair or male pattern hair growth. These could be easily missed if not appropriately screened for. Certain medications can place the laser patient at higher risk for complications. Appropriate medical screening is warranted in all new laser patients.

Another concern is what happens if someone is injured. Or, while screening a prospective laser patient, concern of an underlying medical condition arises. Can most of these facilities handle these situations? Does the staff know what to do? Is the staff astute enough to notice that a mole has some suspicious features before performing a laser treatment on it? Is there a physician on site or readily available to evaluate that mole, or treat a complication?

Medical spas provide clients aesthetic and wellness care in a serene, relaxing and pampering environment. Most patients will have no adverse outcomes or are treated without injury. However with the increasing popularity of these procedures, adverse outcomes are bound to increase. Having a physician who is actively involved in patient evaluation, treatment and follow-up is an important component to preventing injury. Establishment of a training program with ongoing education and evaluation of all practitioners is paramount. Finally, the ability to treat and refer patients who are injured or have other medical concerns is also important.

1. Complications from Laser Procedures Performed By Non-Physicians. Vic A. Narurkar, MD. Skin & Aging. Sep 2005, pg. 70-71.

Donald Sudy, MD
Medical Director
ReGenesis Medical Spa & Wellness Center

Exercising Over 50: How to Begin

2009-03-06T02:19:00.000+07:00

When it comes to exercising past the ages of 50 or 60, many people look at gyms, yoga studios, and health clubs with trepidation. Often, this reaction is a result of fear; fear of looking out of place, not knowing what to do or how to do it; price can also be a major consideration.

Unfortunately, this seems to be the time when many people seeking to improve their physical conditioning say the heck with it and just take a nap or watch a movie and eat another cookie.

Years ago, the options for these same somewhat determined would-be-over 50 exercisers were to workout at home. They would buy magazines on: physical fitness, books on aerobics, calorie counting, muscle building, running or yoga; then came exercise videos.

Today, there are daily fitness programs on cable. These programs cover the gamut of yoga, chair exercises, aerobics, aerobics with weights, and Pilates. The problem is you have to be ready to workout when the TV program airs, which may or may not fit your schedule.

Deciding what type of exercise program is right for you is often a daunting task for the un-initiated as well. For those who are too over-weight and out-of-shape to begin with, running is probably out of the question. Bicycling may be difficult as well.

One smart alternative to get started is to purchase a generic, aerobic chair or seated exercise video. This will allow the newbie to break-in slowly, stay motivated, and progress at their own speed.

Seated exercises are a great way to add aerobic conditioning to your daily routine, avoid damage to any joints, increase your metabolism to lose weight and accomplish the rest of your daily tasks with renewed energy.

Many of these videos will offer beginner, intermediate and advanced programs to allow for steady progress to greater fitness.

To get started:

?Check with your physician before beginning any exercise program.

?Start out slowly at a pace you can repeat several days a week.

?Steadily increase your participation from one or two days a week, to three and ultimately four. Resting in-between workout days.

?If something hurts, either don?t do it or do it slower, or easier and allow your body to become accustomed to the new demands you're placing on it.

?Drink enough of water to replace what you lose sweating and to flush-out toxins. This is a wonderful way to detoxify the body, burn calories and gain strength and energy all at the same time.

?Eat a sensible diet, reducing calories and you will see quick results.

Re-evaluate your progress every 30 days so you don?t settle into a comfortable routine; the body needs to be challenged to improve.

Once you can complete an exercise program with ease, celebrate your accomplishment and move up to the next level. This could include: standing or step aerobics, cycling, swimming, jogging, weight lifting, etc.

The most important things are: to start, be kind with yourself, if you find the exercises difficult to perform, don?t be discouraged, be encouraged and proud that your have taken the first step at improving your life. Be persistent, consistent and brave.

Keith Edwin Renninson is co-owner, along with Jeffrey Forman, of Golden Years Videos, LLC a production company dedicated to filming exercise videos for anyone over 50 or those of any age rehabilitating from an accident or illness.

Renninson is an avid exercise enthusiast. Now in his late 50?s, he still races bicycles in the Cat 4 55+ class and regularly skis the black diamond runs in Colorado where he lives. For many years a bona fide gym rat, Renninson loves to lift free weights and use exercise machines.

You can contact Renninson or read more about his company and their videos at: http://www.goldenyearsvideos.com

Latest Medical Spa Equipment Showcased at New York Medical Spa Expo

2009-03-06T01:35:00.000+07:00

This year, the New York Medical Spa Expo confirmed the Medical Spa industry is continuing to grow. ?Not only did thousands of Spa and Medical Spa owners visit this year?s show, but we also saw the release of some new and noteworthy equipment perfect for the medical spa environment? says Jeff Russell, the CEO of MedSpa Financing.

New this Year ? Hair Rejuvenation

When you attend these shows you know you are going to see many devices for removing unwanted hair, but what about improving the appearance of thinning hair? Well this year, for the first time ever we saw the impressive CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 unit. Owners of Medical Spas are constantly looking for that piece of equipment that will differentiate them from their competitors, well this is it!

Robert Kramer, President of Current Technologies says Growth of the Medical Spa industry is being fueled by a demand for more and better services devoted to making men and women look and feel better. Current Technololgy's CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 offers a once a week, safe, painless and successful method for improving the appearance of thinning hair. The Mark 5 utilizes non-invasive pulsed electrostatic energy that can noticeably create the look of fuller, more luxurious hair. www.current-technology.com/CTG/

Microdermabrasion Equipment Moving to the Next Level

Another standard piece of equipment in a Medical Spa is the microdermabrasion machine. This year we saw one that not only targets the face, but actually treats the whole body while applying topical treatments. Medical Spa owners are going to like the extra revenue streams that will be found by adding topicals to their microdermabrasion procedures.

The Vibraderm skin station exfoliates the skin while creating new collagen. It employs a patented vibrating head with a stainless steel abrasive surface to evenly exfoliate the skin. New is the Vibrafusion? system, which results in a vibrant tone and texture to the skin. The Vibraderm?s full body treatment can be performed on all skin types including Fitzpatrick skin type V and VI. Medical spa owners will like the fact that the procedures are less technique dependent, since the size of the unique paddle prevents the potential of uneven treatments and happier clients. Unlike traditional microdermabrasion equipment, there are no crystals or suction, this gives you a clog-free treatment with a quick clean-up. www.vibraderm.com

Medical Spa Software

Harms Software demonstrated the medical spa friendly Millennium? advanced booking, point-of-sale, information and customer relations management system. Millennium?s advanced security allows you to maintain HIPPA compliancy while still allowing you and your staff to navigate seamlessly from screen to screen. You can handle real world situations quickly and help your clients easily. For example, while you are booking a client?s appointment, you can check their gift certificate balance or information on a product or service they purchased in the past. The software allows you to track skin/facial information, prescriptions/analysis, photos, documents and more. The advanced appointment booking is also a ?must have? when it comes to managing not only your staff and doctors, but your rooms and equipment. Harms Software has been built on 17 years of experience, bringing you software that works in a Medical Spa environment. www.harms-software.com

Advanced Muscular Therapy

Hard to miss was the impressive robotic massaging arm of the Meilus Muscular Therapy (MMT) machine. This unit is designed to effectively lengthen muscles, which will improve your client?s body tone, increase flexibility, and enable muscles to rid themselves of waste and toxins. The MMT can give your Medical Spa that extra edge in helping your client?s live better, more pain-free lives as their body naturally ages. www.meetmeilus.com

From this show, we can see the Medical Spa industry is evolving. ?Many doctors are tired of slow paying reimbursements, and want to move into a cash business where they are paid for the services they perform. Medical Spas are the answer for many doctors, it also gives doctors the opportunity to enter the growing anti-aging market. With the right Medical Spa equipment, you can make your transition to a Medical Spa owner a very profitable one!? says Jeff Russell.

For More Information:

CosmeticTrichoGenesis Mark 5 unit. Call 1-800-661-4247 or visit www.current-technology.com/CTG/

Vibraderm. Call (800) 494-7181 or visit www.vibraderm.com

Millennium? from Harms Software Inc. Call 1-888-813-2141 or visit www.harms-software.com

Meilus Muscular Therapy (MMT) machine. Call 1-800-237-8300 or visit www.meetmeilus.com

About MedSpa Financing (Oakridge Healthcare) - MedSpaFinancing.com is a division of Oakridge Healthcare, which provides turn-key healthcare financing solutions to medical practices and equipment vendors throughout North America (http://www.oakridgehealthcare.com).

MedSpa Financing is the only financing company that specializes in financing Medical Spas. We have financed Medical Spas from California to New York, and everywhere in between. Through our network of financial partners, we have the capacity to finance everything from a single treatment machine to an entire $20 million Medical Spa facility.

For additional information, visit our website: http://www.medspafinancing.com. MedSpa Financing is a sustaining member of the International Medical Spa Association, and proud member of our local Chamber of Commerce.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Jeff Russell 1-800-485-5759 MedSpaFinancing.com http://www.medspafinancing.com

Skin Care How To Take Care Of The Skin You're In

2009-03-05T22:37:00.000+07:00

Take care of your skin now and you?ll reap the rewards later. Celebrities such as Jennifer Lopez, Jennifer Aniston and Nicole Kidman have flawless skin. Legendary beauty, Sophia Loren gives meaning to the phrase ?aging with grace?.

Of course these beauties have an advantage that most Americans do not have ? large amounts of money. Many of us cannot afford to spend large amounts of money for beauty products. Some celebrities are known to spend up to $500 on small jars of ?fountain of youth? type elixirs.

So what can the average American do in their quest for healthy looking skin? Stick to two basic practices:

Pick the Best Skin Care Products For You

The biggest factor in achieving healthy skin is to utilize products that your skin loves. In order to do this, you need to understand your skin type. Do you have dry skin and therefore need dry skin care products or do you have oily skin?

Knowing your skin type will narrow you playing field. There are many, many products on the shelves at your local drug store or in your higher-end department stores. You?ve probably heard terms such as Alpha-hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta-hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid), Retinol, etc. Cosmetic manufacturers use these propaganda-like words to sell their products. Do these terms really mean anything? How do they help your skin?

The simply fact is that you don?t need to be a scientist to find the best products. Let common sense be your guide. Do you know someone, who has used the products before? Did they find it helpful? These are questions that you should ask when selecting products.

After suffering from acne and oily skin as a teenager and now dry skin ? I have tried every acne skin care product, oily skin care product and dry skin care product on the shelf. I have also tried several natural/organic skin care products. Some work and some don?t.

Over the years, I have developed my list of the best of the best skin care products including acne skin care products, dry/oily skin care products, natural skin care products and anti-aging skin care products.

Make Your Beautification Ritual, Routine

Once you find the best skin care products, develop a skin care treatment/beautification routine. If your routine is in the morning or evening, then give yourself about 15 to 30 minutes to engage yourself without interruption.

Take pictures of your starting point so that you can track your progress each week.

Consult with your local day spa esthetician for more skin care ideas.

Beauty is only skin deep but a beautiful heart and mind, deserve beautiful skin.

Find the list of day spas in your local community.

Health Spas Pure Indulgence

2009-03-05T18:14:00.000+07:00

Health spas are places where you can go to get a range of health treatments, intended to relax you and relieve stress. They are a modern phenomenon, and are often seen as a product of our high-stress lifestyles, with busy professionals paying large sums of money just to get away from it all for a few hours. However, that isn?t to say that spas can?t be very nice places to go, because they are.

There are lots of different kinds of spas: day spas (where you just drop in when you have an appointment) and resort spas (where you stay like in a hotel) are the most common, with others including spas on cruise ships and medical spas run by doctors.

Most spas offer a wide range of services, with some of the most common and popular being facials, saunas, massages, and various skin and body treatments. Some spas are devoted to a particular aspect of health, such as weight loss or the treatment of back pains.

When you choose a spa, you should make sure that you speak to other customers who have been there before. In common with much of the health industry, many spas can be somewhat disreputable, charging large amounts to stay and further large amounts for each treatment you take. Some spas take deceptive pricing a very long way, and will threaten you with legal action if you don?t pay. This isn?t to scare you away from health spas altogether, but simply to warn you to make sure to stick to ones that have a good reputation, where you know what you?re getting for your money.

If you don?t want to go to a full-blown health spa, though, there are plenty of alternatives. Most of the treatments offered at a health spa are offered by individual practitioners separately, and they are often better at what they do than the staff at a spa. Failing that, beauty salons can also be good places to go for many treatments.

John Gibb is the owner of health spa guides, For more information on health spas please check out http://www.Health-Spa-Guides2k.Info

Longevity Can Fat Cells Dictate How Long a Human Survives?

2009-03-05T02:09:00.001+07:00

According to the September Issue of Popular Mechanics, a report written by Jim Wilson explains how human beings may some day have the capability to survive to be 180 (one hundred eighty) years old!

Based on research from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology -( MIT ) - and Professor Leonard P. Guarante; genetic makeup that rules our individual time-clocks can be virtually erased.

* How is this possible?

Every person has DNA fragments dubbed telomeres Our telomeres are specifically designed to extend our lives. These telomeres are copied from genetic material in our chromosomes. As mitosis occurs, these telomeres pass to our newly formed cells. As we age, however, our cell information becomes illegible - similar to ...a document that is photocopied too many times... [1 Once this happens, our cells are depleted of telomeres before our chromosomes are completely corrupted. Without telomeres, our cells no longer have the vital information to reproduce themselves. Based on this research, our maximum human lifespan - theoretically - could typically range from 120 to 180 years of age IF we can instruct our genes how to tell our body to lose fat as opposed to storing it.

* So what does fat content have to do with longevity?

According to studies which began halfway in the 20th century; yeast, worms and lab rats who sustained themselves on the brink of starvation lived substantially longer than their well-nourished counterparts. Genetically tied to our personal genepools are WAT (White Adipose Tissue) cells; otherwise known as fat cells, our bodies automatically preserve fat for future unsurities. Aside from starvation ditets, Professor Guarente is optimistic that research will lead to a drug that may bind the single protein (Sirt1) (which directs the body's ability to store fat in WAT cells) and trick it into thinking that it needs to release fat as opposed to saving it. In this sense, we could - hypothetically speaking - have our cake and eat it too. And perhaps, live to be nearly two centuries old!

The moral dilemmas of super-long, life expectancies could inevitably trigger social and economic controversies. In closing, I leave you with my own thoughts on this topic, based on a satirical analogy from MountainWings.com:

The Dragonfly

Once, in a little pond, in the muddy water under the lily pads, there lived a little water beetle in a community of water beetles. They lived a simple and comfortable life in the pond with few disturbances and interruptions.

Once in a while, sadness would come to the community when one of their fellow beetles would climb the stem of a lily pad and would never be seen again. They knew when this happened; their friend was dead, gone forever.

Then, one day, one little water beetle felt an irresistible urge to climb up that stem. However, he was determined that he would not leave forever. He would come back and tell his friends what he had found at the top.

When he reached the top and climbed out of the water onto the surface of the lily pad, he was so tired, and the sun felt so warm, that he decided he must take a nap. As he slept, his body changed and when he woke up, he had turned into a beautiful blue-tailed dragonfly with broad wings and a slender body designed for flying.

So, fly he did! And, as he soared he saw the beauty of a whole new world and a far superior way of life to what he had never known existed.

Then he remembered his beetle friends and how they were thinking by now he was dead. He wanted to go back to tell them, and explain to them that he was now more alive than he had ever been before. His life had been fulfilled rather than ended.

But, his new body would not go down into the water. He could not get back to tell his friends the good news. Then he understood that their time would come, when they, too, would know what he now knew. So, he raised his wings and flew off into his joyous new life!

~Author Unknown~

Longer lives - longer civilizations? Some thoughts to ponder...

****************************************************

By, C. Bailey-Lloyd

References:

PM Magazine, Live to Be 180 Massachusetts Institute of Technology Telomere.net

About the Author: C. Bailey-Lloyd - Author of Somewhere Along the Beaten Path

Feel free to visit Media Positive Radio -- Providing a positive and uplifting listening experience - All the Time! Featuring the finest music from Independent and Mainstream musicians all focusing on the power and greatness of every individual as well as the collective power of unity and brotherhood.

NOTICE: Article may be republished free of charge as long as Author Resource Box (above) is included, and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN in tact and active.

Spa Treatments and Skin Care Care That Your Body Mind and Soul Deserve

2009-03-04T02:29:00.001+07:00

A spa treatment is often labeled as ?a great way of pampering the body?; however, considering the great burden of these stressful times, going for spa treatments is a necessity they are on every stars healthcare and appearance plan. From Jessica Simpson to Halle Berry, Jodi Foster, Oprah, etc... These are the most highly sought after treatments and women are shelling out thousands for this 'fountain of youth.' The body, soul and mind very well deserve these spa treatment indulgences. In fact, a holistic spa treatment is a complete invigorating experience that revitalizes the mind and soul while stimulating body?s self-healing mechanism and should be used by everyone atleast once a year.

Therapeutic massages and face / body treatments are some of the basic services that the spas offer. Modern day spas have developed different types of massages ? Aromatherapy, Ayurvedic massage, deep tissue massage, lymphatic drainage massage, Neuromuscular therapy, Shiatsu and many more. These ancient techniques of rejuvenating the entire system by caressing the skin and kneading the muscles is performed by licensed therapists with extreme care. Remember! Each massage has its typical utility.

The spa treatment services for your facial and body skin involve deep cleansing, exfoliating, massaging, toning and moisturizing. These treatments remove the damaged epidermal layers to reveal younger, healthier-looking skin. Both facials and body treatments, cleanse the deep-seated impurities, stimulate blood circulation and hydrate the skin surface.

In general, spas prefer non-chemical and non-invasive procedures like Oxygen therapy, Photo facial, Vitamin peels, homemade oilbaths, skin peels and indigenous body scrubs. However, now that the effectiveness and harmlessness of TCA peels (the most prescribed skin peels by dermatologists and plastic surgeons) have been certified and proven to be the most effective, many spas are using these peels for treating skin problems. Equally effective at home as in spas, the TCA peels work real fast removing your dead skin, enhancing blood circulation and aiding the process of the re-growth of collagen and elastin. Basically, the tca peel is the single most effective and least invasive treatment on the market.

Considering TCA peel your ?at-home spa treatment? will be no exaggeration, especially if you consider the lasting results it produces ? changing your lusterless, dead hide for a more glamorous, youthful covering. Remember, the TCA treatment promises you emotional indulgence at a cost-effective rate.

TCA peels are on every hollywood stars skin rejuvenation program and they should be on yours also. There's no luck in the glowing skin of the celebrities at the Oscars - its simple - spa treatments and TCA peels. It is also interesting to note that TCA peels are one of the most effective treatments for acne and wrinkles in current use.

David Maillie is a chemist and an alumni of Cornell University and specializes in biochemical synthesis for public, private, and governmental interests and manufactures various skin peels and acne treatments for doctors offices and medispas. He can be reached at M.D. Wholesale: http://www.bestskinpeel.com

While Thinking About Ephedra Diet Pill!

2009-03-03T22:32:00.000+07:00

Hello FDA (the one we know, not the one we'd wish: Food and Diet Administration :) Is every diet pill a drug?

No Sir. Listen please, the difference is.. FDA explaining.

..Yes.. But.. So.. Aha.. No.. Now, I got it.. Okay then, thanks medical folk. I said

..Goodness, and I thought I knew that before!

Ephedra Diet Pill to get the point.

Suppose you want to market a new product called Best Dietum Pillz Ever having a drug label as status, then before going any further and dealing with the potential consumers, you should get an approval from The Food and Drug Administration. But to get approved, you have to prove that Best Dietum Pillz Ever is safe. So the proof burden is on you, as manufacturer.

Here is the second element of our comparison

History flash: Dietary supplements is a substance class created in 1994 by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act. Briefly, if a product belongs to the dietary supplements category, then it is not considered as a drug but as food. Hence, less restriction than those implied on conventional drugs .

Now again, suppose you want to put a new product called Best Dietum Pillz Ever on the market but this time as dietary supplements product, then don't look around, go further and jump on your potential consumers. Forget about The Food and Drug Administration. You don't even have to register it. If the FDA desires any restriction about your Best Dietum Pillz Ever product. Just say: Burden on you, FDA. Prove that my Best Dietum Pillz Ever is Not safe!

Ha! A bit strange! Right. This is why some are calling for a more restrictive law revision concerning this category.

Realizing such and such, we can understand why Ephedra as a drug is banned because of the cardiovascular effects it may cause due to its active ingredient ephedrine. But those dietary supplements containing the same ephedrine ingredient are generally still being marketed. (Except in some states)

Redistributing roles, it comes out this way:

When it comes to drugs, you may feel safer, because The Food and Drug Administration is more restrictive as every new drug is subject to pre-approval and safety proofs before being thrown on me and you. But once, face to face with dietary supplements, FDA is on stand-by unless critical reports of some unsafe experiences while using them are reported to it. Congratulations, the burden is ours!

Finally, the point is: the more information you do gather about dieting methods, the best choice you may do and the less risks you may encounter.

Till next time, take care of your cells :)

Rabah Qial is a member of FattyBeauty.com editorial team. In addition to biology and computer science, he is also interested in scrutinizing the relation between diet and fat-acceptance/self-esteem trends.
Rabah Qial Blog

Body Talk

2009-03-03T17:57:00.001+07:00

ZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

How many times have you zoned out in front of the television, only to discover an empty bag/bottle/carton of (substitute your current no-no food) sitting in front of you and you have NO MEMORY of having consumed it, let alone enjoying it?

Come on, we?ve all done it.

It?s OK ? well, actually, it?s not OK, but we?ll talk about that in a minute.

Mindless eating is a favorite recreational past time. It fills time and space and those emotional holes that sometimes cry out for attention.

Mindlessness is a mindset that?s narrow, inflexible, repetitive and automatic. It blocks development.

But there?s an antidote to all this ? it?s called ?Mindfulness.?

What?s ?Mindfulness??

?Mindfulness,? is a Buddhist term meaning being conscious and aware of everything we think and do ~ from the food we consume to the people we associate with. It is a simple yet profound approach to relating to your food and life and aging.

What are the benefits of Mindful eating?

1. No more Cheetos bags stuffed into the couch
2. Less anxiety around food
3. Reduced amount of overeating
4. Smaller food bills
5. Increased sense of calm
6. A break from negative people and situations
7. Thinking creatively about everyday life

Here are Ten Easy Steps to Mindful Eating:

STEP 1: Make a conscious choice to eat. Eat only when you?re hungry. Sometimes fatigue or dehydration can be mistaken for hunger. Eat to fill your stomach, not an emotional hole. If you?re lonely, call a friend, or put on an old movie and have a good cry or laugh.

STEP 2: Ask your body what it?s hungry for. Be willing to experiment: eat what your body tells you it wants to eat and do it wholeheartedly.

STEP 3: Express gratitude before eating. This can be in whatever form feels most comfortable to you. For some it would be saying grace, for others a brief meditation. Breathing and relaxing the body will allow the food to enter you in a more loving way.

STEP 4: Eat with awareness. Be conscious when you eat and pay attention to all your senses. Chew food completely before swallowing. Pause before taking the next bite.

STEP 5: Listen for feedback. See how what you ate and how much you ate makes your body feel and make note of it. Remember, it takes 20 minutes before your stomach registers fullness.

STEP 6: Stop when you?re satisfied ~ not full, but satisfied. Try to learn the difference.

STEP 7: Release the meal. After the meal, forget about food or anything that has to do with eating for awhile and move on to the next activity. Avoid labeling food as ?good? or ?bad? depending on your weight or food choices on any given day. By letting go of such judgments, you de-escalate the importance of any one food experience.

STEP 8: Breathe. Be aware of your breath throughout your meal. Take deep breaths, filling your lungs all the way down to your abdomen. Let oxygen nourish you as well as the food.

STEP 9: Drink water. Water is the universal symbol of spirit. Let it flow through you and cleanse your body of toxins by aiding digestion. Some say that it?s better to drink before and after, but not during the meal. See what feels best to you.

STEP 10: Expand your mindfulness by practicing kindness and generosity to others and yourself. Practice mindful consumption by being aware of what magazines, books, plays, TV, and movies you consume, as well as the people you choose to have around you.

Our bodies have an intelligence that?s far superior to our brains. Sometimes the best thing to do is to stop thinking and just listen to our bodies.

Have a happy, healthy and very mindful day!!

Carol Moss, LCSW, Life Coach http://www.CarolMoss.com Sign up now for FREE e-course: 21 Days to Re-Ignite Your Inner Sparkle.

Carnitine Weight Loss Revealed: Why LCarnitine Should Be The #1 Weight Loss Drug

2009-03-02T22:47:00.001+07:00

Carnitine is simply the safest and healthiest supplement you can use to boost weight loss and energy. So then why isn't it touted by drug companies as a miracle weight loss drug? First of all, it is not a drug, but a natural compound found in meats and all throughout your body. We need carnitine to metabolize fat. Drug companies dish out at least 300 million dollars to get each new drug researched, approved, and produced. Because Carnitine is one of the least expensive fat burners on the shelves, the drug companies simply can't afford to spend that money developing their own Carnitine drug.

Why is Carnitine better than fat-burning supplements?

The typical fat-burning weight loss supplements you see on store shelves do more than just help you lose weight. They can raise your heart rate and blood pressure, cause addiction, insomnia, and other unwanted, health-hurting symptoms. These supplements contain herbal extracts like burnt-orange, cocoa, and plenty of caffeine. You still have to exercise a great deal to make them work, but during exercise, you'll probably get scared because of your hightened blood pressure. Typical fat burning supplements are a lose-lose option.

Carnitine is quite the opposite. As a natural component of your body, it is already inside you, doing its job of bringing fat to the metabolising stations in your cells to be burned and turned into energy to keep you alert and healthy. So if it's already inside you, then why should you take a Carnitine supplement? I'll use an example of annual income. Let's say you make $10,000 a year. You can live off of that, but certainly not to the fullest and healthiest possible. Now suppose you rake in $100,000 a year. You could live life to the fullest and you'd certainly be more healthy.

While we do all have Carnitine working in our bodies, most of us have a huge Carinitine deficiency, and thus cannot metabolise fat as well as we should be.

Where Can I Buy Carnitine?

Just stop by your local grocery store such as Kroger. Scope out the health food section and you should be presented with many unnatural fat burners. Somewhere among them you'll find L-Carnitine. The most effective form of Carnitine is the tartrate, and you'll see the best results at a dosage of at 1000mg a day. Happy weight loss! ... Wait, there's more.

There's more? What else is good about Carnitine?

I almost forgot to let you in on the other great benefit of Carnitine. You already know that this compound is naturally in your body to burn fat, right? Well, this fat doesn't just disappear without going to good use! Instead of an artificial drug like caffeine giving you a boost, the fat burned by Carnitine is just made into pure energy. Your body will love you for giving it the Carnitine it needs to live life at optimimum efficiency.

Get the support you need to lose weight and keep it off forever at the PhenForum.com, the best weight loss forum on the net. Join in our quest for long-term health and great weight loss support.

Inexpensive Hot Tubs Champagne Taste on a Beer Income.

2009-03-02T16:48:00.001+07:00

Have you ever thought of owning a hot tub but just couldn?t justify that big ticket price? Well friend, I?m here to tell you of one of those deals that sounds too good to be true but actually is !

I work and struggle from paycheck to paycheck just like you do and so some of the amenities of life just don?t fit in the old budget. Or so I thought. Yep, that?s right, you can have champagne taste on a beer income.

Recently I was grazing the web looking for a good deal on a hot tub. I work as an emergency room nurse and my days are long (12 hrs a day). Like everyone else in the rat race, I get tired and so do these old tired aching bones of mine. Although I am able to retire in the next 6 years, I still have to work until then and put up with my body?s aches and pains.

Enter the Portable Spa. That?s right, a portable spa. Now at first I thought just like you are now, ?Oh sure, a portable spa.? What is it an inflatable pool? Yes, I too was skeptable until I took a close look at the product. Its called the 6 foot SPA-N-A-Box and it will seat 4 or 5 people. Its really quite nice. (http://www.spa-box.com/catalog/shopping/6FootSimulatedWoodSpa-N-A-Box)

Now a little about the price. Most of the spa?s I looked at started at a mere $2,500 and went skyrocketing up from there. But not this little beauty. It was a mere $1,200.00. And yes, I was skeptable but the fact is, I bought it and it?s a gem !

This has to be one of the best kept secrets around. It assembles in about an hour and works, feels and functions just like the big expensive Spa?s. It has many of the same features as the more expensive ones except that you have to assemble it and its portable. I couldn?t be more satisfied with my decision and Spa if I had purchased a big expensive one.

It has 100 plus jets, runs on a 110 outlet just like your toaster, It stands about 30 inches off the ground and is virtually maintenance free. Simulated Wood, spa, with all of the beauty and design of real wood, without the necessary upkeep. The 6 Foot Simulated Wood Spa-N-A-Box features side panels manufactured by incorporating a state of the art silk screening process.

This is a must for those of us who would like to own one but just can?t afford the big store prices. Do yourself and your significant other a huge favor and check out the link at the beginning of this article and start enjoying life like the other half does.

Let me know what you think of your new spa when you get it and set it up, I?d love to hear from you.

Denny Knutson, LPN,EMT, Maa
Emergeny Room Nurse
Bellin Health - Bond Health Center

Anxiety Management With Prescription BuSpar: Don't Worry Be Happy

2009-03-02T01:21:00.001+07:00

We?ve all had one of those weeks: the washing machine overflows, the dog forgets his housetraining and the toddler her toilet training, the boss is going through a divorce and making everyone miserable. And you feel like you just don?t know how to handle it all.

Anxiety is, unfortunately, an inevitable part of modern life. But when anxiety prevents you from engaging in day-to-day activity or trying anything new, it may be time to see your doctor for anti-anxiety help.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety is the feeling caused by the release of stress hormones and brain chemicals which help us fight for our lives or flee from danger. In our evolutionary past, bursts of stress hormones may have helped give us a boost when running away from large animals with big teeth! And believe it or not, in the right situation, these hormones can be a big help in day-to-day activities. Mild tension before giving a presentation can help you do your best. A burst of brain chemicals can help speed your reaction time when you see a pedestrian dashing in front of your car and can save someone?s life!

When anxiety becomes a constant companion in our lives, we may start having symptoms of anxiety when we think about anything - work, marriage, children, even going to the grocery store. The symptoms include muscle tension, sweating, nausea or ?butterflies,? clammy hands, difficulty swallowing, jumpiness, stomach distress.

If these symptoms have become part of your everyday life, it may be time to talk with your doctor about an anti-anxiety medication like BuSpar.

But I?d rather be anxious than spacey!

You may remember the days where anxiety was treated with heavy-duty drugs that could tranquilize a bad-tempered elephant! But as scientists have learned more about the biology of anxiety, anxiety management has become more sophisticated, helping your mood without making you a zombie. You won?t turn into a Stepford wife. Instead, you?ll go back to reacting the way you used to, both to happy events and anxiety-provoking situations.

BuSpar works gently by affecting your feelings over the course of a few weeks. Most people begin getting relief over that time period and can start getting back to living their lives.

While you don?t have to worry about walking around in a haze, many people do feel some dizziness or drowsiness when they are first getting used to BuSpar. You may want to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your body has adjusted to the medication.

Sounds great! Let?s head to the drug store.

Well, not just yet. BuSpar is a prescription drug, and you?ll want to check a few things out with your doctor before she gives you a prescription. If you?re taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (a kind of anti-depressant) or certain other drugs, have ever had an allergic reaction to mood-altering drugs, or have severe kidney or liver damage, this may not be the right drug for you.

Lastly, alcohol can have a major impact on how your body responds to BuSpar, so you may want to skip the champagne in favor of a pancake brunch when celebrating your anxiety-free life!

Compare prices at top-rated pharmacies to buy BuSpar, learn about BuSpar side effects and join the free buspar forum.

Ian is a fat-to-fit student of health, weight loss, exercise, and several martial arts; maintaining several websites in an effort to help provide up-to-date and helpful information for other who share his interests in health of body and mind.

Lose Weight Faster With High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

2009-03-01T22:35:00.001+07:00

The one of the latest buzzwords in fitness and weight loss circles is High Intensity Interval Training or HIIT. This method of exercise has the potential to allow an exerciser to lose weight faster that any other form of ?aerobic? exercise. Although interval training is not a new concept in the field of sports conditioning, it has recently become a popular exercise form for general conditioning and weight loss. This article provides some basic information on HIIT and explains why this form of exercise is so effective for weight loss.

The concept of power output

To fully understand the many benefits of HIIT it is important to first understand some basic physics and the concept of power. Generally speaking, power is a measure of the ability to perform work per unit time (Work/time). Work is defined as the amount of force required to move an object a certain distance (Force x Distance). So power is defined by the following formula: Power = Force x Distance/time. If you recall that velocity (speed) is equal to distance divided by time (Distance/time), then it is easy to see that power is actually a measure of how fast you generate force.

Power output and energy expenditure

Obviously from the previous explanation, it should be clear that the amount of energy required to perform a task is directly dependent on the power required to do so. So if we now apply this concept specifically to human exercise, we recognize that muscles use chemical energy produced from the food we eat to generate power. Consider the muscle power required to walk 3 miles per hour and that required to run at 11 miles per hour. The muscle power required in each example is strictly dependent on the speed since the force (body weight) being moved changes very little and essentially remains constant (assuming sufficient hydration). It is possible however to regulate power output by other variables other than speed by manipulating the amount of force (wearing a weighted vest) or increasing the resistance to movement like increasing the gradient of a treadmill or running up hills.

What is HIIT?

HIIT involves performing bouts of high intensity running (1-3 minutes) separated by recovery periods of walking for about the 2-3 times the duration of the running bout. The work: recovery ratio should therefore be 1:2 or 1:3. The intensity of the running portion should be near your VO2 max (maximal oxygen uptake). Since most casual exercisers and those looking to lose weight rarely know their VO2 max, is may be helpful to use a perceived effort scale of 1-10 to regulate intensity; with 1 representing no effort, and 10 representing absolute maximal effort. Aim for about 8-9 on the effort scale. Note that HIIT describes what it is - HIGH Intensity Interval Training so before you begin such a regime it is advisable to have yourself cleared by a physician.

How do I begin HIIT?

There are no hard and fast rules to HIIT other than those mentioned above, so this article will not aim to provide a strict program of exact times and durations. The basic principle of HIIT is to manipulate intensity to increase power output and accelerate weight loss. Initially if you are just beginning HIIT, your work sessions may be much shorter than 2-4 minutes ? work your way from whatever you can handle to the goal duration. As you become more conditioned, you may also start to increase the intensity of the sessions by aiming for the higher end of the perceived effort scale or reducing the recovery walking periods or both. If you plan on exercising on a treadmill or elliptical machine, an excellent way to perform HIIT is to choose an intense interval or hill program. If you prefer to get the session over quickly as possible (like me), you can manually adjust the speed and incline randomly depending on your perception of effort. If you are sadistically self-destructive however, you may try ?running the hills and walking the flats? on a treadmill ? this will greatly increase your power output and energy expenditure. Experiment with these techniques of manipulating the intensity of your workout and depending on your level of fitness (or patience!), the entire interval training session should last from about 10-20 minutes in duration.

How does HIIT allow for faster weight loss than traditional ?aerobic exercise??

HIIT is a big ?bang for the buck? exercise modality compared to traditional extended duration aerobic exercise like walking, jogging and running. Walking requires a relatively low power output and high speed running simply cannot be sustained for very long periods of time. The great benefit of HIIT is that the low intensity walking bouts that separate the high intensity bouts allow for a much greater power output and caloric expenditure, providing much more ?value for time?. Depending on the intensity of the session, it may be possible to burn the same number of calories in a HIIT session as a walking/cycling session many times longer in duration.

HIIT spares muscle mass and maintains metabolism

Recall from an earlier article on our website Spare Muscle Mass and Power, Lose the Fat where we discussed how HIIT helps avoid the muscle wasting effects associated with continuous low intensity exercise such as jogging and walking. HIIT helps spare valuable lean muscle mass which is a key determinant of your RMR or Resting Metabolic Rate. Simply put, a higher muscle mass will cause you to expend more energy even while you sleep! The technical term for this muscle wasting effect is ?protein sloughing?, caused by extended periods of elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone released from the adrenal gland during all forms of stress including exercise. Although cortisol is crucial for a person to adapt to stressful stimuli, a negative side-effect is its direct muscle wasting effect. Cortisol stimulates muscle protein breakdown in order to increase the amount of free amino acids (protein building blocks) in the blood. The majority of these amino acids are used for the remanufacturing of glucose (gluconeogenesis) in the liver to maintain blood sugar levels. While some personal trainers and exercise physiologists may argue that the increased exercise intensity (stress) of HIIT causes a higher increase in cortisol, the important factor to remember is that the duration that the hormone levels remains elevated is significantly shorter than in extended lower intensity aerobic exercise.

How can I lose fat when I?m burning mostly carbohydrates with HIIT?

Remember even though HIIT is a high intensity form exercise, relying heavily on the metabolism of carbohydrate, weight loss is determined by energy balance. In other words, if on a daily basis you consume less energy than you expend, you will lose weight regardless of the ?primary fuel source? of your exercise bout. An HIIT session that decreases your carbohydrate stores (muscle and liver glycogen) simply means that more calories from subsequent meals will be will be directed toward replenishing glycogen stores, and less will be directed toward fat storage. It is only after glycogen stores have been replenished that excess calories can be directed toward the manufacturing and storage of fat. Also, caloric expenditure continues for several hours after a bout of high intensity exercise, as energy is required in the recovery process.

In conclusion, this article has explained and highlighted the benefits associated with the use of HIIT for weight loss. Other benefits such as faster fitness improvements and immune system maintenance associated with HIIT have not been covered in this article, but may be discussed in future articles on our site. Clearly if the goal is to lose weight fast and boost metabolism by sparing muscle, then HIIT is the ideal form of exercise.

David Petersen is a Personal Trainer/Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and the owner and founder of B.O.S.S. Fitness Inc. based in Oldsmar, Florida. More articles and information can be found at http://www.bossfitness.com

NOTE: You're free to republish this article on your website, in your newsletter, in your e-book or in other publications provided the article is reproduced in its entirety, including this note, author information and all LIVE website links as above.

Bird Flu Origins

2009-03-01T19:44:00.001+07:00

I am often asked, where did Bird flu come from. There really isn't a definitive answer, a variation of bird flu has probably been around since the dawn of humankind in one form or another. The first known avian influenza virus was identified in Italy in 1878 as a ?serious disease of chickens?.

In Hong Kong 1997, the H5N1 strain of avian influenza virus was first documented, when it caused severe respiratory problems in 18 humans, of whom six died. A total culling of all chickens and removal of chicken meat from all markets in the area was supposed to put a stop to the virus, however less then 6 years later in February of 2003 another outbreak of H5N1 killed 1 person and sickened another in Hong Kong.

Recent research suggests that the Spanish flu of 1918 was a mutated form of the H1N1 virus, the name associated with the then current Bird Flu mutation. Two teams of scientists conducted this research.

One led by Sir John Skehel, director of the National Institute for Medical Research in London and another by Professor Ian Wilson of the Scripps Research Institute in San Diego.

They used a sample of lung tissue collected from the remains of an Inuit woman, in Alaska, who died during the 1918 Spanish flu and DNA samples from the remains of solders who died during world war two of the disease.

The two teams analyzed the structure of the gene and discovered how subtle alterations to the shape of a protein molecule had allowed it to move from birds to humans with such devastating effects.
Since the Hong Kong strain of the bird flu in 1997 was reported, tens of millions of birds have died of H5N1 influenza and hundreds of millions of birds were culled (slaughtered and disposed of).

All evidence suggests that if in fact the H5N1 virus were to mutate into a human transmittable disease, somewhere around 150,000,000 human deaths directly due to H5N1 infection (or two to three percent of the world's human population) would occur.

John Thompson
Research agent for http://www.avianinfluenza.org
Your source for Bird flu, Avian Influenza information.

The Effectiveness of Spa Treatment

2009-03-01T16:00:00.000+07:00

Spa treatment is gaining its importance nowadays. The benefits of spa are not limited to beauty purposes. It employs a magical way of reducing stress, soothes muscles and relaxes mind and body. Spa treatments have been proved effective and beneficial to a lot of people around the world. From the tight schedule of work 24 hours a day, spa provides a way of escapism to a world, calm and quiet.

There are many treatments available under spa. It is only necessary to choose for the best treatment and select for the one you are in need of. The manual treatment of the body?s muscles is known as therapeutic massage. Massage is a very aeffective method of treatment. Massages relieve muscle rigidity, tremors, or cramps and to relieve anxiety and tension.

Types of therapeutic massages

There are various types of massages which perform different functions for the body. They are:

Swedish massage

This involves a variety of techniques for muscle relaxation by applying pressure to them against muscles and bones. The main purpose behind this is increasing the oxygen flow in the blood and releasing pollutants from muscles.

Advantages

Shortens recovery time from muscular strain
Increases blood circulation without increasing heart load
Stretches the ligaments and keep them flexible.
Reduces both emotional and physical stress
Stimulates skin and nervous system and soothes nerves

Swedish massage costs around $75-$100 at a spa. The location and place also matters in the cost factor.

Deep tissue massage

This is a massage done on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. It releases chronic patterns of tension in the body by applying pressure on the contracted areas. This is used to release chronic muscle tension through slower strokes and also by applying friction across the grain of the muscles.

Advantages

Eliminate scar tissue
Loosens muscle tissue and releases toxins from muscles
Proper circulation of blood and oxygen

Sports massage

This type of massage, as the name suggests is used mainly for sports people and done necessarily before, during and after an athletic event. This helps the person to drain away exhaustion, relieve swelling, reduce muscle tension, and prevent injuries.

The main aim behind the therapy is to help reduce stress and tension which builds up in the body?s soft tissues especially during physical strain.

Advantages

Reduces heart rate and blood pressure
Increases lymph flow
Increases blood circulation
Relieves pain
Greater athletic endurance

This is a common method of spa treatment which is very effective and inexpensive.

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of essential oils. During the massage one would inhale volatile essential oils through the mucosa of the nose and mouth. An electronic massage system is then sent to the limbic system of the rain which causes messages to be sent to other parts of the body. Many mental and emotional benefits can be seen this way.

The method of aromatherapy massage is being used in many spa centers and many found it to be useful and effective.

The other treatment method involve in spa is facial.

Facial

This cleans and cleanses the skin by maintaining it by casting off dead skin cells. Facial smoothens and maintains a well hydrated skin.

Types of facials

Deep-Cleansing Facial: this type of cleansing targeted to skin type usually uses a gentle botanical peel with essential oils.
Oxygenating Facial: this type of facial is especially for dull looking skin. This treatment contains a vitamin formula that revives tired skin.
Sea Beauty Facial: this treatment re-vitalizes the skin.
D.N.A. Facial: this special treatment for the skin helps restoring collagen as it nourishes tired skin.

Body treatment

Body treatment is essential for your body to nourish, hydrate and eliminate dirt form the pores inside. There are various types of body treatment like body scrub, body mask and body wrap.

Body scrub involves massaging on your skin with a mixture of salt, oil, and aromatics like lemon on your skin. Once the dirt is removed from the uppermost part of the skin, it remains extremely soft and smooth. Body mask is usually done after a body scrub. Body wrap can be herbal or involves moor therapy treatment.

Spa proves to be effective in lot many ways. It is expected to provide more features in the near future as life and life style changes drastically and as people demand a remedy from the stress of the ?digital world?.

Devi sri is a seo copywriter for juvenexspa. She has written various articles for juvenexspa. For more information on spa treatment you could visit the site http://www.juvenexspa.com. You could contact her through mail at devisrri@gmail.com

Spa ? For Relaxation and Rejuvenation

2009-02-27T12:51:00.002+07:00

It is really a task to find out the type of spa that wholly suits you. You must firstly determine what type of spa you would like to visit depending on your expectations. There are different types of spas available depending upon your needs such as relaxation, rejuvenation or conditioning etc.

There are four distinct spas that are available and they are the following:

1.Fitness: they are designed for people who want to stay fit and relax. Therefore activities such as aerobics and outdoor sports take place here. The people who are interested in sports etc, are bound to enjoy this program because they get a chance to take part in many new activities.

2.Wellness: the people who have an eventful medical history are treated here. The people, who conduct tests are licensed health care specialists. Different treatments are administered to the patients. The visitors here are usually persons who are recovering from operations or trying to quit smoking, alcohol, drugs etc.

3.Day spa: Visitors here are usually the beauty-conscious people. They come here to beautify themselves and also relax here.

4.Holistic: Most of the folks join this circle to learn more about spirituality. It is a center for self-realization. Different meditation techniques are taught here ranging from different cultures such as Chinese Tai Chi meditation, Indian Yoga etc.

Visiting a spa is good if you want to relax and rejuvenate.

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn1598.html

You are welcome to republish the above article only if you add our hyperlinked URL.

Your Perfect Spa

2009-02-27T12:51:00.001+07:00

Finding the perfect spa requires much research. There is not just one type of spa. In fact, spas are about as diverse as their customers. In order to find a spa that will fulfill your expectations, decide ahead of time what your goal is. Is it relaxation, rejuvenation, or some form of therapy for a condition or a trouble area you are dealing with? Once you know your expectations, you should familiarize yourself with the different types of spas available to you, what each spa provides, and the amount of time each program takes.

Normally, spas can be classified into four basic categories. The following is a list which also states and defines each category:

1. Fitness: these spas incorporate fitness into the spa routine. Everything from aerobics to sports can be found for people who want to relax and lose weight at the same time. These spas are very therapeutic for active people who enjoy being outdoors, or for those who wish to learn a new activity.

2. Wellness: For people who have certain health issues, licensed health care specialists supervise their clients while first class and clinically effective treatments are administered on the patient's request. The patients vary from those overcoming an operation to those who are trying to quit smoking or drinking.

3. Day Spa: This popular form of spa is used primarily for pampering. These centers are not as expensive as other spas and have a more generalized menu. Most clients come to day spas looking for a few hours of relaxation and beautification. Day spas are great as a preparation for weddings or a formal event where you will need to look your best. They are also great gift ideas for anyone looking for a rejuvenating experience.

4. Holistic: The philosophy of these centers is to treat the body as well as the mind and spirit. Many new techniques are implemented and often include traditions from other cultures such as meditation and Tai Chi. Even the cuisine makes an effort to be fully nourishing.

These few examples are a great way to begin research on your dream spa experience. Along with the desired goal, make sure you know the quality of the center. Be picky on cleanliness and the attitudes of the employees. If these elements are above par with you, you will surely be rewarded with the spa experience beyond your expectations.

Briana Liebmann is a regular writer of original content articles for http://www.youseekit.com, where you can find original content on a variety of topics.

The original article can be found at http://www.youseekit.com/spas.htm

Yoga Has Gone Mainstream in a Big Way

2009-02-27T12:40:00.001+07:00

It?s pretty hard to have not noticed that there are yoga studios, classes and magazines popping up everywhere. Yoga has gone mainstream in a big way in the past few of years.

What once was looked upon as a form of exercising which only the extremely limber would attempt, yoga has been given new life with many new forms arriving in a neighborhood class near you.

You don?t even have to study Indian spirituality, become a vegetarian or burn incense to become a devout follower. It does, however, help to have a desire to eat properly, exercise regularly, have an inherent love of quiet time, and the will to become healthy.

I recently took my 84 year-old Father to a physician for plantar fascitis (an inflamed ligament in the heel) and the doctor actually recommended yoga and stretching as a cure. When did Western medicine become so non-traditional? If you can?t beat ?em, join ?em? Maybe.

It could be that the benefits of yoga are beginning to show themselves in so many ways that it can?t be overlooked anymore.

Upscale spas now offer Pilates and yoga where you would have found free weights and aerobics just a few years ago. Many triathlete and cycling magazines now tout the benefits of yoga as an aid in pre and post-event stretching. The names of the new generation yoga studios are even more eye-catching, such as: Power Yoga, Core Yoga and Love Yoga.

The old days of yogi?s sitting in a lotus position offering lyrical and mystical Indian names of poses in high-pitched calming voices has been replaced by the Type A personality instructor giving praise and encouragement to a class full of executives as they strain and stretch to improve performance in all areas of their lives.

Retreats are offered from Maine to San Diego and everywhere in between. Exotic vacations are designed around yoga on island getaways in the Caribbean, Pacific, the Mediterranean, and at mountaintop hotels in Vail, Aspen and Lake Tahoe. Workshops on how to reach enlightenment, become healthier in mind and body are also offered at the best urban health clubs.

What all of this boils down to is, the realistic results offered and obtained from the sustained practice of yoga are now widely recognized. The centuries-old traditions have finally proven to be of practical advantage to the Western train of medical thought.

Okay, so we?re a little slow, but at least we?ve arrived. If you haven?t looked into yoga maybe now is the time. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Keith Edwin Renninson is co-owner, along with Jeffrey Forman, of Golden Years Videos, LLC a production company dedicated to offering exercise videos for those over 50 or of any age who are rehabilitating from an accident or illness.

Renninson is an avid exercise and yoga enthusiast. Now in his late 50?s; he still races bicycles and regularly skis the black diamond runs in Colorado where he lives. For many years, a bona fide gym rat, Renninson still loves to lift free weights and use exercise machines.

You can contact Renninson or read more about his company and the videos they have available at: http://www.goldenyearsvideos.com

Health Spas: More than Relaxation

2009-02-27T00:35:00.001+07:00

In the past, spas were primarily frequented by affluent women looking for a week?s worth of pampering. Many of the services offered included facials, massages and body treatments. But today a new trend is being seen in the spa industry. It is a trend of health.

Today?s spa has become a center of health and revitalization. A visit to a health spa can not only afford you the opportunity to get pampered, it may also help you recuperate after an illness. Here are just a few of the services offered at health spas:

* Rehabilitation - Instead of staying in a hospital for post operative care, many patients and hospitals have teamed up with health spas for post-op rehabilitation. Pools, hot tubs and exercise equipment all make recuperating from an injury or surgery at a health spa ideal. And who wouldn?t rather stay in a five-star resort than in a double-occupancy hospital room? Not to mention, the food is a lot better.

* Pain management - Many spas are now offering pain management programs to help their patrons overcome and deal with chronic pain. And when you choose a health spa for pain management, you will be far from alone. Many spas have experts on hand to help you with all of your alternative pain management needs. Services can include therapeutic massage, acupuncture, heat therapy and much, much more.

* Weight loss and fitness - How does a week-long personal training session to help you get a head start on physical fitness sound? Add to that a nutrition specialist, and you could be looking at your very own body-shaping experience of a lifetime. After a week at a health spa where you focus on your entire health and body image, you will be well on your way to adapting a healthy lifestyle.

* Dental procedures - No, you didn?t read wrong, you can get dental procedures at health spas. This is because health spas have recognized that going to the dentist can be very stressful and traumatic for some folks. Keeping this in mind, they have incorporated simple dental procedures into day-long packages of rest, relaxation and luxury. Imagine getting a relaxing full-body massage after getting your teeth cleaned. Now, that would make even the faintest of heart want to go to the dentist.

Stays at health spas are also more affordable than they?ve ever been before. A single person can get a package for as low as $1,500 for a four-day, three-night stay at certain resorts. Of course, if you stay longer, it will cost you more. On average, though, a four-night stay in a world class health spa will cost about $3,000. You can expect to spend $5,000 to $7,000 for a seven-night stay.

And if it sounds like a health spa is not the way to spend a vacation, you could not be more wrong. In addition to helping you heal your mind and body, health spas offer all of the relaxing amenities that traditional luxury spas offer.

Credit: Ian W Anderson of The Spa Resort, the spa information site. For more spa information and articles like this one visit: Spas

The Dangers of Sodas and Diet Drinks

2009-02-25T00:55:00.001+07:00

Sodas and colas are incredibly popular across the world. These beverages account for more than a quarter of all drinks consumed in the United States. More than 15 billion gallons were sold in 2000. That works out to at least one 12-ounce can per day for every man, woman and child.

Sodas are full of empty calories and will contribute to obesity, tooth decay, weakened bones and caffeine dependence. Studies have shown strong links between children who drink sodas and childhood obesity. No one can deny the ties to soda and tooth decay, and it isn't just the high levels of sugar that cause it. The acids in sodas begin to etch away the tooth enamel within 20 minutes. These acids also upset the gastrointestinal system and cause many stomach disorders, as well as disturb the acid/base balance in the body, making an acid climate in which disease flourishes.

Sodas are a huge contributor to caffeine dependence, and it often starts with young children. And diet colas are often packed with a lot more caffeine than their regular counterparts. With the popularity of stimulant drinks such as Red Bull, that contain extra amounts of caffeine, there is a reported rise in aggressive behavior and violence among youths that consume these drinks.

Besides acids and caffeine, sodas contain phosphorus, an ingredient shown to weaken bones by promoting the loss of calcium. Phosphorus contributes to bone breakage during childhood, and osteoporosis later in life.

Another danger is aspartame added to diet sodas as a sugar substitute. There are over 92 different health related side effects associated with aspartame consumption, including brain tumors, birth defects, diabetes, emotional disorders and epilepsy/seizures. Plus, when aspartame is kept in warm areas or stored for long periods of time, it changes to methanol, an alcohol that converts to formaldehyde and formic acid, both of which are carcinogens.

There really are no good reasons to drink sodas. Juices, herbal teas and water are much better substitutes.

Dianne Ronnow's best selling book, Coconut Oil Diet Secrets reveals how thousands of people are losing weight and getting healthier with coconut oil diets. To find out what the secrets of coconut oil dieting are, Check out her site at http://coconut-oil-diet.com . Get the book now and start losing weight today!

Artificial Sweeteners: A Closer Look At Aspartame Part 2

2009-02-25T00:47:00.001+07:00

Let?s finish reading the article we started in Part 1 and then get down to uncovering insights.

In anecdotal reports, aspartame has been linked to various neuropsychiatric disorders, including panic attacks, mood changes, visual hallucinations, manic episodes, and isolated dizziness. A small, double-blind crossover study of patients with major depression revealed a higher incidence of reactions in these patients compared with nondepressed volunteers after administration of 30 mg/kg for 7 days; symptoms included headache, nervousness, dizziness, memory impairment, nausea, temper outbursts, and depression. None of these conditions has been rigorously proven to be caused by aspartame, but carefully conducted double-blind challenges may be indicated in patients with histories that suggest aspartame as a cause.

Patients with underlying mitral valve prolapse or affective disorders may be at increased risk for neuropsychiatric effects; several studies have shown that individuals without psychiatric or seizure disorders do not demonstrate these effects.

Seizures have been reported via passive surveillance data collected by the FDA and in a few case reports. A recent analysis of FDA reports showed 41 cases of rechallenge with a temporal relationship to aspartame consumption. Most seizures occurred in patients who had an acceptable dietary intake, except for a 16-year-old who ingested up to 57 mg/kg of aspartame. Aspartame is generally considered safe for children with epilepsy. One study found increased spike-wave discharges in children with untreated absence seizures after a high dose of aspartame and suggested that children with poorly controlled absence seizures avoid aspartame.

In the beginning of this article the statement: ?The major consideration in the use of aspartame in children is in patients with autosomal recessive phenylketonuria? warrants careful inspection.

First, what is autosomal recessive phenylketonuria a.k.a PKU?

Phenylketonuria is a type of birth defect a child inherits from both parents, who pass along the abnormal gene. A person who has phenylketonuria is missing or deficient in a specific enzyme needed to process an essential amino acid called phenylalanine. Amino acids are the building blocks for protein. For babies or adults with phenylketonuria, too much of this amino acid can be dangerous. An affected newborn needs special low-phenylalanine formula to meet its nutritional needs. Older children and adults must continue to follow a strict diet low in this amino acid. Although phenylketonuria is rare, recognizing it right away can help prevent serious health problems.

Hmmm?a rare defect that prevents a person from processing a particular amino acid (phenylalanine) because of a missing or deficient enzyme. My first question: Why isn?t lactose intolerance seen is the indicator of milk being bad for you?

After all, people with lactose intolerance do not produce enough of the lactase enzyme to break down lactose. Instead undigested lactose sits in the gut causing gas, bloating, and stomach cramps, and then usually diarrhea because the intestine cannot absorb the lactose-containing foods.

As I end this article series, I want you to read the aspartame article in this series again. Look critically at what is being said. Think heavily about my statement of moderation. Think over the facts about the enzyme deficiency issues above.

After doing these things, I leave you with two questions: What should you responsibly do to insure that aspartame is safe for your use? What tests should you have performed to decide whether aspartame will meet your needs?

What You Can Do About Your Own Back Pain

2009-02-20T22:27:00.001+07:00

The first thing to consider is, What is the origin of the sharp or sudden pain of a back injury? To some, it feels like a sharp, stabbing pain; to others, a seizing grip that interferes with breathing. Perhaps it is just that: the seizing grip of muscles going into spasm, causing stabbing back pain and interfering with breathing, nothing more.

Back Pain Treatment and Physical Therapy

Medical practitioners, including physical therapists, face a peculiar quandary with regard to back pain and muscle spasms in general: so often, the pain they encounter in their patients comes from muscular spasticity, so much of their effort goes into ending muscular spasms, and yet so many of their patients return with the same muscle spasms and back pain for which they have been treated in the past. According to one physical therapist, the likelihood of a patient who has had back pain returning again with the same problem is about 80%.

Let's take another look at back pain, in particular.

Overview Of Back Pain And Muscle Spasms

Unless you have had a violent accident, your back pain, whether sudden or chronic, has been coming for a very long time. Muscular tension builds up for a long time before crossing the point of no return and becoming a back spasm. Then, like the straw that broke the camel's back, a small movement is sufficient to trigger a crisis.

We return to the quandary of back spasms. What causes the build-up of tension? What controls muscular tension?

The answer may be obvious to you: your brain controls your muscular tension; your brain causes your muscles to go into spasm.

Why?

Muscle Spasms -- Usually a Brain-Conditioning Problem

Here, the answer may not seem so obvious -- but obvious it is when you think about it: brain conditioning. Your brain, the master control organ of your muscles, is an organ of conditioning (learning). People acquire their tensions through conditioning: repeated overuse, repeated overstrain, repeated stress. Repetition leads to habit formation and habit formation leads to involuntary habits of tension. Back pain is a nervous tension habit conditioned into you through the repetitive strains of life. At that point, your nervous tension is no longer a reflection of a momentary emotional state, but set in the habituation operation of your brain and muscular system.

So the problem is simpler than you might expect. You probably do not have a medical problem; you probably have a conditioning problem. With tingling or numbness, the muscles of your back are so tight that they are pulling your vertebrae (the small bones of your spine) so close that they are pinching nerves. By relaxing those muscles, you can take the pinch off the nerves.

Fortunately for those using the right methods, a muscular conditioning problem can often be cleared up fairly quickly -- past experience notwithstanding.

Perspective on Therapeutic Methods to End Back Pain

The problem with most methods used to relax muscles -- mental methods, manipulative methods, therapeutic methods in general --is that they may not adequately teach muscular control. Muscular control has two parts: the ability to create muscular tension and the ability to relax muscular tension. Both abilities are needed; otherwise, you are either musclebound (and prone to cramping) or weak. Such methods also often neglect an important part of control: sensory awareness. Too often, people are given therapeutic exercises but no instructions in how to do them; they're told, These are strengthening exercises, so people go for strength instead of control; they go for effort instead of sensory awareness. If you can't feel how to regulate your muscular tension, you can't feel how to relax your muscular tension. You feel pain with no connection to the sense of contracting those muscles to the point of fatigue. Progress comes slowly, at best, from working too fast and too mechanically.

So you need to improve both muscular control and the ability to feel your muscles.

Then, you develop freedom of movement, and then, you can relax more completely than you ordinarily do and stay more relaxed without thinking about it. Freedom of movement means it's your natural state.

To, show you how do-able this is, I'll present some coordinated movements that can often restore your comfort. Before I do, read and understand the following instructions:

(NOTE: If your problem is severe, (numbness or tingling in your extremities) see your doctor to rule out a medical emergency. That done, find a Hanna Somatic Educator (for fastest results) or use the procedure shown below or other self-help resources found below.)

Simple Somatic Coordination Exercises to Help End Back Pain

Do these movements as a way of creating sensations of movement.
Move slowly and smoothly.
Be gentle, working within the range of sensations you're willing to experience. Done gently, they are safe to do even with disk problems. If in doubt, consult your physical therapist before proceeding.
Always separate repetitions of a movement with complete relaxation.

If you do these movements mechanically (for example, by counting repetitions instead of feeling movement), if you do them too quickly or too hard, you deprive yourself of the sensations needed to discover your own control over yourself. You may make yourself tighter, instead of looser. You will get better results by doing too little than by doing too much. You will have an easier time if you have somebody read these instructions to you. The movements should feel comfortable to do; if they create pain, do a smaller amount of movement. Move more slowly, more gently.

A: STARTING POSITION:

on your belly
face turned to the right
right hand under your left cheek (like a pillow, palm down)
left arm loosely by your side

Slowly lift just your left leg.

Feel the first sensations of muscular effort. Go slowly.

Slowly lower your left leg.

Feel the last sensation of relaxation, as it happens. Take a deep breath and let everything go.

REPEAT THIS LEG LIFT FOUR (4) TIMES AT DECREASING LEVELS OF EFFORT.

Simultaneously lift your left leg, head, and right arm.

Slowly lower yourself down, take a deep breath and relax all the way.

REPEAT 4 TIMES AT DECREASING LEVELS OF EFFORT, THEN SWITCH SIDES.

B: STARTING POSITION:

On your back
knees up
feet near your buttocks
Fingers interlaced behind your head.
Elbows out flat on the floor

Arch:

Inhale.
Gently, gradually turn your tailbone down into the surface (arch your low back).
Gently press your elbows down.
Tug your heels toward your buttocks and hold.

Curl:

Begin to exhale.
When you can feel your back tighten, relax your back and gradually press your back onto the surface.
Bring your elbows together. (pause)
Press down on your feet.
Continue to exhale.
Use equal strength to curl as you did to arch.
Point your elbows at your knees.

Curl forward and look at your knees.
Exhale completely.

REPEAT THIS ARCH AND CURL MOVEMENT FOUR TIMES MORE AT DECREASING LEVELS OF EFFORT.

Do these movements for ten minutes daily for a week or two. Many people get just the results they need.

Dr. Hanna's definitive article on clinical somatic education: Clinical Somatic Education - a New Discipline in the Field of Health Care, by Thomas Hanna, Ph.D.

See also: The Psoas Muscles and Abdominal Exercises for Back Pain

Lawrence Gold served for two years on staff at the Wellness and Rehabilitation Center of Watsonville Community Hospital, California and for two years as part of the Novato Institute training team for new practitioners. As part of the team, he presented Hanna Somatic Education at Esalen Institute, Big Sur, California.

He has published books for professional practitioners and movement therapists, and self-care instructional programs on back pain and movement health, for the general public.

Click for a preview of the self-help program, Free Yourself from Back Spasms.

Manufacturing Sickness Through The Food Supply

2009-02-19T10:54:00.001+07:00

Have you ever considered just how much our diets have changes over the last 50 to 100 years, or how much our health is connected to the types of food we consume. With the majority of us eating on the run and looking for a quick way to produce a meal for our families, we thought it would be interesting to take a look at the modern diet. Without doing a lot of research to substantiate the exact date of introduction into the food supply, lets take a look at the approximate time frame of some of our most common food items.

If my memory serves me right, most neighborhoods started seeing an influx of McDonalds and other fast food restaurants somewhere around the mid nineteen seventies. Sure there were some McDonalds and other fast food joints before this time, but we?re talking about when this industry started to become mainstream. Early to mid seventies just about hits it right!

Soda drinking falls along the same lines as the fast food industry. There is no doubt that sodas were created much earlier, but when did it become commonplace to consume this sugary beverage on a daily basis? It was around 1965 that soda?s ?previously thought of as occasional treats? were dispensed in cans from vending machines. Today, sodas account for at least a third of the liquid consumed in the US. On average a 12 oz can of soda, is equivalent to 10 teaspoons of sugar. When you consider that many people drink them non-stop throughout the day, that?s a lot of sugar.

In the early 20th Century sugar consumption averaged about 5 pounds a year. Today according to the Department of Agriculture, that number is estimated at anywhere between 140 to 170 lbs a year. That?s alarming! Refined sugar contains no vitamins or minerals. It has zero nutritional value. Since the body is self regulating, it will call upon its own stores of micro-nutrients in order to assist the body in metabolizing sugar into the system. Sugar also suppresses the immune system, and contributes to just about every illness known to man.

Monosodium Glutamate has been used with increasing regularity since it?s introduction into the food supply some 50 years ago. You?d be hard pressed not to find this additive in most processed/boxed foods and many canned products as well. Fast food restaurants have also notoriously been a source of this chemical additive. MSG?s only value to the food industry is that it makes food taste appealing, causing folks to eat more. Evidence has shown that animals fed MSG become obese and prone to type 2 diabetes.

The artificial sweetener Aspartame entered into the food supply in the early 1980?s. Its use in diet soda?s and other diet products accounts for 75% of the adverse reactions to food additives reported to the FDA. Products that contain aspartame can include anything from instant breakfasts drinks and other beverages, cereals, desserts, candies, supplements, pharmaceutical drugs, sugar free products and much more.

Both MSG and Aspartame are excitotoxins. They over stimulates neuron receptors in the brain that allow brain cells to communicate with one another. This over stimulation causes them to die, and can result in brain damage. Science has shown that exposing the brain to these substances can produce symptoms of Alzheimer?s and Parkinson?s. Use of these products have also been linked to cancer.

Antibiotics came into wide spread use in the 1950?s. In the 1960?s they were introduced in livestock production. Today 3 million lbs of antibiotics are utilized for humans per year, while approximately 25 million lbs are used on livestock There is evidence that this over consumption of antibiotics in animals (as well as humans) is contributing to bacterial resistance. Taking antibiotics also decreases your ?good bacterial army? which accounts for 75% of your immune system. This assault can leave you open to additional infections and yeast overgrowth which can result in ever declining health. Yeast overgrowth is often called the great mimicker because it can imitate many diseases.

But lets say you eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and only the best of meat, poultry and fish. Evidence has shown the our soils are depleted in trace minerals. This mineral depletion existed in the early part of the last century, as evidenced by the US Senate Document 264, 74th Congress in 1936 Second Session.

Here is a partial quote from that document:

?It is bad news to learn from our leading authorities that 99% of the American people are deficient in these minerals, and that a marked deficiency in any one of the more important minerals actually results in disease. Any upset of the balance, any considerable lack of one or another element, however microscopic the body requirement may be, and we sicken, suffer, shorten our lives.?

A recent article on ABC News by Megan Carpenter validated this continuing trend when the article revealed that ?recently grown crops have shown decreases of up to 38 percent in protein, calcium, vitamin C, phosphorus, iron and riboflavin when compared with produce from past decades.?

When you consider other food additives, radiation, pesticides, nitrates, trans fat and hydrogenated fats along with the changes in agriculture, food processing and lifestyle there is no wonder why people are dealing with the explosion of health conditions that we are today. Are we manufacturing sickness! You bet we are!

Learning the truth is essential to TRUE HEALTHY LIVING NOW!

Resource box or bio: Due to personal health issues we have been researching health & fitness for the last five years. The information we have obtained has helped us and our family members get off pharmaceutical drugs and regain a level of health we had never known. Please visit us at http://www.truehealthylivingnow.blogspot.com

Finding a Health Spa

2009-02-19T10:44:00.001+07:00

There are many types of Spas each offering a different type of Services for their Customers with varied needs. You have to be careful in selecting your Spa and before your visit to your Health Spa, you must be clear about what you need to get out of your intended visit. You must know beforehand that all your requirements will be fulfilled in the Health Spa you have selected.

Finding a spa is based on what you are looking for like relaxation, rejuvenation, or some form of therapy for a condition or a trouble area you are dealing with. Each of these Services is offered by different types of Spa and you must be aware which type of Spa to select to get the Service you require.

A memorable Health Spa visit can be yours only if you are familiar with different types of Spa and their amount of time available to you for the Services you have selected. Spas can be classified into four basic categories as fitness, wellness, and day spa and holistic.

In fitness spa you can find aerobics to sports for People who want to relax and lose weight. These spas are very therapeutic for active People who enjoy being outdoors, or for those who wish to learn a new activity.

Wellness is for People who have certain Health issues. Licensed Health care specialists supervise their clients while first class clinically effective treatments are administered on the patient's request. The patients vary from those overcoming an operation to those who are trying to quit Smoking or Drinking.

Day Spa is used primarily for pampering. This type is not an expensive when compared to others. Clients come to day spas looking for a few Hours of relaxation and beautification. Day spas are great as a preparation for Weddings or a formal event where you will need to look your best. They are also great gift ideas for anyone looking for a rejuvenating experience.

Holistic is to treat the Body as well as the Mind and Spirit. Many new Techniques are implemented and often include traditions from other Cultures such as Meditation and Tai Chi. Even the cuisine makes an effort to be fully nourishing. These are some of the useful ideas in selecting your Spa. Try to maintain cleanliness in your Spa visit.

If you follow these things then your Health Spa visit will be an memorable experience and you can get the Treatment or Service in such a way that you get the benefit for the Money spent and you get a feeling that the Money has been well spent.

John Gibb is the owner of health spa guides , For more information on health spas check out http://www.Health-Spa-Guides2k.Info

Phentermine Diet Pill in Some Words

2009-02-19T10:32:00.001+07:00

I know you know. But I don't know how much you know!

So. let's refresh :)

Phentermine In Some Words

First of all, phentermine is a generic name. An umbrella of so many drug brand names. Among others: Adipex-P?, Ionamin? and Fastin? .

It is a medication used mainly for weight loss purposes in combination with other healthy diet and exercise programs. This combination is optional. It aims making Phentermine usage more effective.

Phentermine belongs to the appetite suppressants drug category. That is, it makes us feel less hungry than normal, hence, the weight loss resulting of eating less.

Simple, he!

Hold on. There is no simple drug ;)

Phentermine Health Tips

It is strongly recommended to use Phentermine in combination with other suitable and healthy diet programs to get the best results. But don't use it without consulting with your doctor or pharmacist as phentermine may be harmful for you.

Anyway, be medically advised and more alert in case of:

- Combining phentermine with other drugs.

- Being allergic to drugs.

- Using other prescription and nonprescription medications

- Having or have ever had heart disease, high blood pressure, narrowing of the arteries, overactive thyroid gland, diabetes, glaucoma, or a history of drug abuse.

- Being pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or breast-feeding.

- Having diabetes, you may need a larger dose of insulin while taking phentermine.

Important!

Due to the risk of insomnia, you should be more cautious driving or operating other machinery.

Phentermine diet pill is meant to be taken on a short-term basis, unless otherwise medically advised , to avoid psychological addiction to it.

Till next time, take care of your cells :)

A Portable Sauna Surely Not

2009-02-19T01:17:00.001+07:00

It sounds like a dream, a sauna that can be taken anywhere to enjoy at your leisure, the best thing about this is that it is a reality, not a dream.

There are many different options available when you are deciding to buy a sauna, but many people are opting for the portable infrared sauna because of its abilities to be moved easily and the fact that infrared heating is a great, easy and quick way of heating your sauna.

How easy is a portable infrared sauna to move?

You would think a portable sauna would be fairly heavy and difficult to move, but it is very easy. What you need to understand about the portable infrared sauna is it?s size and how you move such an item.

Size

A more expensive portable infrared sauna is about the same size as a large wardrobe and is also made by wooden paneling, sometimes with glass windows, the only difference being the depth of a sauna is greater than that of a wardrobe.

The portable sauna also comes in a smaller version, which is even easier to move. This sauna is made for a single person and is a tent made from special material surrounding a simple chair.

Moving the sauna

The larger saunas are made in a do it yourself way so they can be easily assembled and disassembled, this means they can easily be carried in smaller parts and stored away in an easier fashion.

The other saunas made in the form of a tent are even easier to move than their larger brothers, as they are smaller and created from a foldable material; you simply fold this sauna away and carry it under your arm.

Summary

Overall you can make any choice you wish in purchasing a sauna, but it is worth investigating the possibilities of a portable infrared sauna as they have so many advantages over other types of sauna.

If you?re interested in reading about the new Infrared Sauna , or you want to know more about Infrared Sauna Health Benefits please visit Infrared-Sauna-Health-Benefits.com

Spa Treatments Facials Natural Facials and Spa Therapy are Great Ways to Relax Before your Weddin

2009-02-17T18:35:00.001+07:00

Brides, prepare for your Wedding Day by having a facial about a week before. This will give your skin a chance to breathe and clear of any impurities. You could have the facial at a spa or salon, or choose to give yourself a home facial, for example, using cucumber slices or whisked egg white. Steam your face with water, and than splash with cool water to feel refreshed. There are many other natural home facials you could do yourself. Whatever you choose, your skin will be looking great for your big day. Spa treatments, facials, natural facials, and spa therapy are great ways to relax before your wedding day.

When choosing make up for your day, for that more natural look wear a couple of light dustings of powder instead of foundation which can look heavier. If your eyes and hair are light in color choose an ivory foundation, golden pink blush, pastel colors for your eye shadow and pink or red tones for lipstick. This is an example of how a makeup chart may give advice on coloring and makeup. Spa treatments, facials, natural facials, and spa therapy are great ways to relax before your wedding day.

Please see the following resources to find skincare information and makeup hints.

Ken and Deidre are successful authors and publishers of Wedding information for you wedding day. Take the next step to a stress free wedding http://www.weddingdresses-gifts-flowers.com

How To Do A Pedicure

2009-02-17T18:14:00.001+07:00

If you are accustomed to wearing nail polish, remove this first. If your remover is alcohol or acetone free, it may not be as effective on darker colors. Also, some people prefer to use gauze pads as opposed to cotton balls to avoid any fuzz leftover on the nails. But if your ball is wet enough and wiped well, this shouldn't be a problem.

Next, cut your nails, using a proper toenail cutter and not a fingernail clipper. The toe clippers are made specifically for the nature and shape of foot nails. Cut straight across, leaving one-eighth to one-quarter of an inch, depending on the shape of your toe. Nails can then be filed down with the rough side of an emery board, the corners shaped, and the smooth side of the board used to buff the edges.

Use a bowl, or dishpan from the Dollar Store as a footbath. Soak your feet in warm water for 15 minutes. For a more relaxing session, add some aromatherapy oils or crystals to the water. The soaking will help soften skin that you will be working with next.

Use a cuticle softener around the edges of each nail, and then an orangewood stick to gently push back any skin extending over the nail. Go only to the edge of the nail and no further. If you have a piece of loose skin, there are cuticle clippers that will remove it.

The ball and heels of your feet is where the toughest and roughest skin is. Use a scrub meant for removing dry skin, and put it on a pumice stone or foot scrubber. Rub firmly in order to get the softened dead skin off, but don't go so far that you irritate the foot.

Now indulge yourself by moisturizing while you massage your feet. There are creams made specifically for foot skin, which will condition it better. Rub and massage it into all areas of the foot, especially the thicker skin portions, and then continue up the ankle to the lower calf. You might also like to use a drop of cuticle oil, massaged in to keep them soft and pliable.

Allow your feet to dry thoroughly before putting on any kind of footwear, or re-painting the nails with polish.

If you love luxury and a little pampering yourself, you can create a home business out of that love. Find out about the many opportunities to sell body care products, spa products and other pampering goodies from the comfort of your home by visiting http://www.pamperingbusiness.com

Ohh La La Your Body Knows The Benefits Of Spa Treatments

2009-02-15T16:53:00.001+07:00

Spa treatment is becoming more and more popular these days. Spa treatment is not limited to beautification purpose, it offers several other benefits and this is one of the main reasons why most spa treatment is gaining such popularity. It can help to reduce stress, soothes your muscles, and provide overall relaxation for your mind and body. Visiting the spa provides an effective way of escapism from your tight work schedule to a world that is quiet and peaceful.

Most spas offer various treatments and it is vital from your part to select the best that suits your needs. Some of the most popular treatments include Massages, Facials, and full Body treatment.

Massaging is considered as an effective technique of body treatment. Massaging helps to lighten muscle rigidity, cramps, or tremors and help to alleviate tension and anxiety.

Types of massages

There are several types of massages that execute various functions for your body. The different types of massages include:

Swedish massage

Swedish massage includes a wide range of techniques for muscle relaxation. This is achieved by applying pressure to them against bones and muscles. Swedish massage helps to boost the oxygen flow in the blood and releases the pollutants from your muscles.

Deep tissue massage

Deep tissue massage is performed on the deeper layers of one?s muscle tissue. This helps to releases chronic muscle tension from one?s body. Deep tissue massage allows proper circulation of blood and oxygen and releases toxins from your muscles. It also helps to eliminate scar tissues.

Sports massage

Sports massage is exclusively designed for sports personnel. A sports massage is done to reduce tension and stress, which develops in the body?s soft tissues mainly during bodily strain. It can be done before, during, or after an athletic event. Sports massage helps the athletes to reduce muscle tension, relieve swelling, and drain away exhaustion.

Aromatherapy massage

Aromatherapy is a very useful and effective spa treatment. During aromatherapy massage one need to inhale essential oils through the mucosa of the nose and mouth. It is found that this type of massage offers several emotional and mental benefits.

Facial treatments

Facial treatments help to clean and cleanse the skin by dropping dead skin cells. Facials increase the smoothness of skin and maintain a good hydrated skin. There are different types of facial treatments. Such as:

Oxygenating Facial ? This treatment is perfect for those with dull looking skin. This type of facial features a vitamin formula that helps to restore tired skin.

Deep-Cleansing Facial ? this type of facial is targeted to skin type that generally utilizes a gentle botanical peel with essential oils.

D.N.A. Facial: this is a unique treatment for the skin, which helps to restore collagen. This helps to nourish tired skin.

Sea Beauty Facial ? this facial treatment helps to re-vitalizes one?s skin.

Body Treatment

Almost all spas offer body treatments. Body treatments are considered very important to your body as it helps to hydrate, nourish, and remove dirt from the inside your pores. Body wrap, body scrub, and body mask treatments are some of the most popular body treatments.

Body wraps may include moor herbal therapy treatment. Body scrub consists of massaging of the person?s skin with a blend of oil, salt, and aromatics like lemon. This eliminates the dirt from your skin and makes it smooth and soft. A body mask usually follows a body scrub.

To conclude, spa treatments prove to be a very effective way to provide relaxation for your mind and body. It is a perfect way to get relief from the strain of this high-tech world. Do your body a favor, and treat it to a spa treatment that it is right for you. Your body will be saying ooh la la!

Keisha Seaton is the owner of My Articles Directory. Visit My Articles Directory today to read more Beauty Articles, your body depends on it!

Spa Etiquette What You Need to Know

2009-02-14T00:55:00.001+07:00

Spa-goers visiting the spa for the first time often need to know what is expected of them as they prepare for their spa experience. As the spa strives to provide the client with a tranquil and safe environment so too the spa-goer has certain expectations placed upon them. To make the spa experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible here are a few simple guidelines to follow:

1. Book well in advance and where possible pick up a brochure from the spa that includes prices and treatments. Call 24-hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule.

2. Request detailed information on the type of treatment booked.

3. Ask about the therapist assigned to you. Do you prefer a male or female spa therapist? An often missed and important detail.

4. Wear suitable clothes and be prepared to undress according to spa treatment you have booked. Spa robes and slippers are provided for the comfort of the client and spa personnel are trained in proper draping techniques for complete comfort and privacy.

5. Arrive 10 ? 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to ensure you are calm and relaxed before the spa treatment.

6. Always alert the spa therapist to any current or chronic health condition that may need to be addressed before your spa treatment.

7. In consideration of the other spa clientele, cell phones and pagers are not a good idea in the spa ? remember your there to get away from the stress!

8. Allow the therapist to advise and prepare you for the treatment you have reserved. As you relax and benefit from the spa treatment you will be sure to feel the stress melt away.

9. Everyone is different ? so feel free to speak or not during your treatment. Share information and feedback on your personal comfort level or any sensitive areas on the body.

10. Relax you?re at the spa! Enjoy the treatment and reap the full benefits.

11. Take time as you prepare to leave the treatment room, however, remember there may be another client waiting to use the space.

12. Determine the tipping policy in advance and be prepared accordingly.

13. Let the spa personnel know if your experience at the spa was as expected. Your feedback is always appreciated.

14. Now is a good time to ask about any new products to take home. Scented candles or essentials oils will help you to enjoy the spa experience at home.

15. Remember the right way to spa is your way so always have good communication with the spa personnel and make the experience a relaxing and memorable one.

Canadian spas offer many innovative ways to experience spa. For more information please go to Spas in Canada

Contact: email spas@spasincanada.ca

Spas in Canada ?2005

A. Kocsi is co-founder of Spas in Canada

After many years enjoying spas in Europe and drawing upon her knowledge of the corporate world along with an successful career in Public Relations and International Marketing Spas in Canada was created.

Top 10 EMail Health Hoaxes of the Decade

2009-02-12T00:38:00.001+07:00

Here, In no particular order, are the 12 worst a-mall health hoaxes of the last decade. Al1 have been thoroughly debunked by health ant medical experts

1. Antiperspirants cause breast cancer.
This hoax began circulating In 1999 and claims that the use of antiperspirant (deodorants are safety) is the leading cause of breast cancer. Citing a ''health seminar'' as the source of information, the writer alleges that antiperspirants prevent the body from eliminating toxins through sweat, resulting in the accumulation of toxins in lymph nodes, which eventually leads to cancer. Men are less likely to develop breast cancer through the use of antiperspirants because most of the antiperspirant product is caught in their (armpit) hair and is not directly applied to the skin. '' .The writer then urges readers to pass on the message ''to anyone you care about ''.

2. Aspartame causes serious disease.
Also making its first appearance in 1999, this hoax claims that the artificial sweetener aspartame causes more than a dozen serious medical conditions, including brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, and lupus, ant confusion, memory loss, and severe vision loss among diabetics There are two versions the first and more popular was supposedly written by a Betty Martini, an alleged lecturer at the World Environmental Conference. In the second version, a Nancy Markle is the author. The Multiple sclerosis Foundation denies any knowledge of association between aspartame and multiple sclerosis, whale the American diabetes association debunks the allegations regarding aspartame and diabetes. The US FDA attests to the safety of aspartame.

3. Bananas spread flesh- eating disease.
This hoax first appeared In January 2000 and claimed that several shipments of bananas from Costa Rica were infected with a flesh-eating bacterium that causes necrotizing fasciistis. The e-mall cites a Manheim Research Institute as the source of the warning. Necrotizing fasciitis is a real but rare infection caused by Group A streptococcus, the same bacterium that causes strep throat. It attacks soft tissues under the skin, resulting In gangrene, amputation and even death. Group A streptococci are spread by direct contact with secretions from the nose and throat of infected persons or by contact with infected wounds or sores. The germ lives in the human body and cannot survive long enough on the surface of a banana.

4. Cough CPR can save your life.
In 1999, e-mall purportedly endorsed by the Rochester General Hospital and Mended Hearts (a support group for heart attack victims) claimed that repeated, vigorous coughing could save the life of a person who suffers a head attack while alone. According to urbanlegendsaabout.com, through CPR'' (or self-CPR'') is a real procedure occasionally used in emergency situations under professional supervision. It is not, however, taught in standard CPR courses, nor is it advised by most medical professionals as a ''lifesaving'' measure for people who experience heart attacks while alone.

5. Fish Contaminated With Deadly 'Zulican Virus '' After Tsunami.
Immediately after the Asian tsunami disaster In December 2004, a wave of text messages (SMS) and forwarded e-mails warned Asian consumers to avoid eating seafood ''because fish killed bathe Indian Ocean tsunami are infected with the deadly 'Zulican virus ''. This hoax caused not only fear among consumers but also a drastic drop. In sales of fish and fish products. In several Asian countries HeaIth authorities have since declared that the ''Zulican virus'' is bogus, and there is no evidence suggesting toadfish caught after the tsunami are unfit for consumption.

6. Freezing Water In Plastic Battles Releases Cancer-Causing Dioxin.
This widely circulated 2004 hoax purportedly relayed information from a Johns Hopkins newsletter claiming that freezing water in plastic bottles can release toxic dioxin and cause cancer. Johns Hopkins university denied they issued such information in a special news release. Professor Rolf Haiden of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health said This is an urban legend Freezing actually works against the release of chemicals. Chemicals do not diffuse as readily in cold temperatures, which would limit chemical release if there were dioxins in plastic, and we don't think there are ''

7. Woman Catches Leptospirosis From Unwashed Coke Can.
In 2002, several variants of this hoax claimed that a woman in North Texas (or Belgium, Botswana, etc was infected with the deadly leptospirosis disease after drinking Coke straight from an unwashed can contaminated with dried rat urine. Leptospirosis is a real disease transmitted via rat urine or feces. Urbanlegends about.com says soda cans are usually stored and shipped in shrink-wrap or cardboard cases and are, therefore, unlikely vehicles for dried rat urine, contaminated or otherwise. Of course, washing off the top of a soda can-or any bottle, for that matter-before drinking. It is always a good idea.

8. Lead In Lipstick.
This 2003 hoax claimed that several brand-name lipsticks (Christian Dior, lancome Clinique, YSL, etc ) contain cancer-causing lead '' and Its presence can be tested by scratching products with a 24-karat gold ring Urbanlegends about com found neither reliable Information to support the claims nor warnings or references of any kind in International medical Journals and the FDA'S online database on the presence of lead in lipstick.

9. Tampons Contain Asbestos.
This e-mall scare story began circulating In 1998 It alleges that tampons pose a serious health threat to women because they contain asbestos As usual, the message was unsigned, urged recipients to send It to every Woman they knew, and positively unsettling. Experts dismissed the allegations as absurd ''Tampons do not contain asbestos and never have. No research has been published anywhere to even suggest lid's according to urbanlegends about com

10. Shampoo Causes Cancer.
Circulating since 1998, this hoax claims that sodium laureate sulfate, a synthetic chemical found in brand-name shampoos and other personal-care products, causes cancer Again, the message Is unsigned and cites no references to support its claims It Is true that sodium Iaureth sulfate (SLES) is found frequently In shampoos ant occasionally In toothpastes However, the chemical does not appear on any official list of known or suspected carcinogens, says urbanlegends about com

SMART SKEPTIC
Why do people create and sent hoax messages? Hoaxbusters com says only the original writer knows, but cites some possibilities to see how far a message would go, to damage a person's or organization's reputation, or simply for the perverse pleasure of spreading misinformation Whatever the motivation may be behind hoax messages, maintain a healthy dose of skepticism when checking your inbox When you receive an e-mall that looks like a hoax, the most prudent course of action Is to verify the Information with a medical professional before acting on or sharing It Or just hit the delete button As hoaxbusters com aptly puts it, ''When in doubt, don't send it out ''

Manolito Montala is a webmaster and one of his interests is collecting local medicinal herb plants information which can be found in Filipino Herbs Healing Wonders. You can also visit his site in http://www.filipinoherbshealingwonders.filipinovegetarianrecipe.com/.

Day Spa Gift Certificates: Not Just for Women Any More

2009-02-03T23:47:00.001+07:00

From Raleigh, NC to Beverly Hills, CA, every man wants to be taken care of. Stress relief, pampering, and even some rejuvenation is something everyone, including men crave. Day spa gift certificates are becoming more and more popular with men, and it is no wonder. Computers, cell phones, and other advancements designed to make life easier can actually mean that it can be more difficult to leave business stress at the office. Men are asking for stress-relief and spas like Blue Water Spa of Raleigh, NC are listening.

Gone are the days that a man would walk into a spa and there would be looks of shock from other guests. At Blue Water Spa, in Raleigh, North Carolina, men make up approximately 40% of the clientele. Men are often introduced to the spa when a man?s wife or girlfriend purchases him a gift certificate. Other times, men can come in looking for the perfect gift for the lady in their life and find that they, too, could benefit from many of the spas offerings.

With men, the key to satisfaction is combining results and relaxation. To a man, the best possible treatment is when they feel extremely relaxed and stress-free, and then they look in the mirror and say, ?wow.? Some say a way to a man?s heart is through his stomach, but one treatment every man loves is a foot fantasy treatment with hot stones and aromatherapy. This can be added to any treatment giving the experience of two therapists providing decadent relaxation simultaneously.

Kile Law owns Blue Water Spa in Raleigh, NC. The spa has been voted one of the top four medical spas in America by American Spa magazine and has been voted best day spa in Raleigh. Blue Water Spa provides relaxation and results for men and women.

Kile Law frequently contributes to plastic surgery and spa magazines. She is the winner of the 2005 Humanitarian of the year award in the spa industry and the 2004 ABBIES award for best editorial feature in a spa publication