Memory loss occurs in the young as well as the old. Occurring more frequently in the elderly, Alzheimer's disease and forgetfulness has prompted neurologists, psychologists, psychiatrists and other brainy specialists to come up with ways to prevent such memory loss. Ruling out disease, a major cause of forgetfulness in the young and not so young is having too much on one's mind. 'Too many pieces on the plate, too many things to do and no time to do it' is a common mantra of today's society. With cell phones, computers, email, Web pages, and other modern technology, we have worked ourselves into a non-stop frenzy where we can work 24 hours a day. At this ultra-busy holiday season, it is easier than ever to forget things. To offset forgetfulness, the following tips can help. 'Use it or lose it' is the bottom line.
Focus on listening more and talking less. Listening requires greater concentration.
Avoid hanging around negative people. Thinking positive stimulates the brain as well as brightens your day.
Stick to a healthy diet of protein foods, fruit and veggies. It gives you brain power.
Avoid high fat foods. Fat clogs the arteries that supply blood to the brain.
Take vitamins, especially vitamin E, zinc and Ginko Baloba. Some tests show this can help aging and memory.
Read, read, read and do crossword puzzles. It's exercise for the brain.
Avoid excessive alcohol. Too much may result in loss of brain cells.
Plan activities with others. Socialization offsets brain laziness.
Avoid unnecessary medication. Losing weight, lowering blood pressure and high cholesterol levels can often be achieved through diet and exercise instead of drugs. Learn the side effects of medication you take. Some types of sleep aids may cause memory loss.
Maintain a daily exercise and workout schedule. It improves blood circulation to the brain.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Keep your back fit while you sit.....
Perhaps you're an of office worker, or a driver, a VDT operator, or a student -- you're a person who spends a good portion of each day sitting. So why does your back ache? The fact is, most back trouble is caused by poor posture and weak muscles -- two conditions common to people who sit. You can take care of your back, and keep it fit, by using good posture and building strength and flexibility -- while you sit.
Good Sitting PostureYour back has three curves -cervical (neck), thoraic (chest), and lumbar (lower back). All three curves should be aligned to keep your back in balance. Often, we slouch in our chairs or bend forward over our work, which throws these curves out of balance. Try the following tips to support and balance your back while sitting.
First, place a pillow (or rolled up towel) at the back of your chair seat to support your lower back.
Then, move your seat as close to your work as possible to keep from bending forward.
Finally, angle your work (or VDT screen) so you can look straight ahead rather than looking down.
Strong, Flexible Muscles
The following exercises help build strong, flexible muscles to support your back. They also help relieve tension that can occur when you sit in one position for a long time. Each exercise takes only a few minutes, and can be done while you sit. Try a few and feel the difference! (Note: Be sure your chair is stable before beginning these exercises and stop if you feel any discomfort.) Sit Back and Relax Once you learn how to care for your back while you sit, you can sit back and relax, knowing that you're keeping your back healthy and strong. Sitting doesn't have to be a Pain in the back if you keep fit while you sit.
Let your head roll forward. Slowly rotate your head without straining your neck. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
Sit as shown with feet flat on floor. With your hands on chair (or desk) for support, slowly raise your thighs a few inches above your thighs a few inches above your chair seat. Repeat 5 times.
Clasp your hands behind your head and push your elbows back. Release the tension, then repeat 5 times.
Slowly lean forward until your upper body is resting on your lap. Hold for 10 seconds. Place your hands on your knees. Sit back up. Repeat 5 times.
Good Sitting PostureYour back has three curves -cervical (neck), thoraic (chest), and lumbar (lower back). All three curves should be aligned to keep your back in balance. Often, we slouch in our chairs or bend forward over our work, which throws these curves out of balance. Try the following tips to support and balance your back while sitting.
First, place a pillow (or rolled up towel) at the back of your chair seat to support your lower back.
Then, move your seat as close to your work as possible to keep from bending forward.
Finally, angle your work (or VDT screen) so you can look straight ahead rather than looking down.
Strong, Flexible Muscles
The following exercises help build strong, flexible muscles to support your back. They also help relieve tension that can occur when you sit in one position for a long time. Each exercise takes only a few minutes, and can be done while you sit. Try a few and feel the difference! (Note: Be sure your chair is stable before beginning these exercises and stop if you feel any discomfort.) Sit Back and Relax Once you learn how to care for your back while you sit, you can sit back and relax, knowing that you're keeping your back healthy and strong. Sitting doesn't have to be a Pain in the back if you keep fit while you sit.
Let your head roll forward. Slowly rotate your head without straining your neck. Repeat 5 times in each direction.
Sit as shown with feet flat on floor. With your hands on chair (or desk) for support, slowly raise your thighs a few inches above your thighs a few inches above your chair seat. Repeat 5 times.
Clasp your hands behind your head and push your elbows back. Release the tension, then repeat 5 times.
Slowly lean forward until your upper body is resting on your lap. Hold for 10 seconds. Place your hands on your knees. Sit back up. Repeat 5 times.
Cure for toothache and mouth pain.....
To ease toothache or other mouth pain, make a tea by boiling 5g of fresh peppermint in 1 Cup of water and adding a little salt.
Peppermint is an antiseptic and contains menthol, which relieves pain when applied to skin surfaces
Other tips that one can try :
Use oil of cloves. Apply a little of the oil on to some cotton wool and dab it onto the area affected. It will numb the pain.
You can also try the following take two whole cloves, the kind you stick into oranges around holiday time, place them between the offending tooth and your cheek. You might want to chew them a little to release their juices. This is a centuries-old trick that really works.
Peppermint is an antiseptic and contains menthol, which relieves pain when applied to skin surfaces
Other tips that one can try :
Use oil of cloves. Apply a little of the oil on to some cotton wool and dab it onto the area affected. It will numb the pain.
You can also try the following take two whole cloves, the kind you stick into oranges around holiday time, place them between the offending tooth and your cheek. You might want to chew them a little to release their juices. This is a centuries-old trick that really works.
Cure for toothache and mouth pain.....
To ease toothache or other mouth pain, make a tea by boiling 5g of fresh peppermint in 1 Cup of water and adding a little salt.
Peppermint is an antiseptic and contains menthol, which relieves pain when applied to skin surfaces
Other tips that one can try :
Use oil of cloves. Apply a little of the oil on to some cotton wool and dab it onto the area affected. It will numb the pain.
You can also try the following take two whole cloves, the kind you stick into oranges around holiday time, place them between the offending tooth and your cheek. You might want to chew them a little to release their juices. This is a centuries-old trick that really works.
Peppermint is an antiseptic and contains menthol, which relieves pain when applied to skin surfaces
Other tips that one can try :
Use oil of cloves. Apply a little of the oil on to some cotton wool and dab it onto the area affected. It will numb the pain.
You can also try the following take two whole cloves, the kind you stick into oranges around holiday time, place them between the offending tooth and your cheek. You might want to chew them a little to release their juices. This is a centuries-old trick that really works.
Colds....
More than 100 viruses can cause colds, the world's most common illness, so few people escape being exposed to at least one of them. In the United States, most people average about three colds every year. Once it enters the body through the nose or throat, the cold virus begins to multiply, causing any of a number of symptoms: sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, aches and pains, mild fever, nasal congestion and coughing. A cold usually lasts a week or two.
The best way to treat a cold is to take a mild pain reliever, avoid unnecessary activity, get as much bed rest as possible and drink plenty of fluids, especially fruit juices. Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies may relieve some of the symptoms, but they will not prevent, cure or even shorten the course of the illness. While there is no vaccine to protect you from catching a cold, there are ways to lessen your chances of coming down with the illness. Keep up your natural resistance through good nutrition and getting enough sleep and exercise. Turn your thermostat down and keep the humidity up in your home. Dry air dries out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat and causes them to crack, creating a place where cold viruses can enter your body. Avoid direct contact with those who have colds and wash your hands frequently.
The best way to treat a cold is to take a mild pain reliever, avoid unnecessary activity, get as much bed rest as possible and drink plenty of fluids, especially fruit juices. Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies may relieve some of the symptoms, but they will not prevent, cure or even shorten the course of the illness. While there is no vaccine to protect you from catching a cold, there are ways to lessen your chances of coming down with the illness. Keep up your natural resistance through good nutrition and getting enough sleep and exercise. Turn your thermostat down and keep the humidity up in your home. Dry air dries out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat and causes them to crack, creating a place where cold viruses can enter your body. Avoid direct contact with those who have colds and wash your hands frequently.
Colds....
More than 100 viruses can cause colds, the world's most common illness, so few people escape being exposed to at least one of them. In the United States, most people average about three colds every year. Once it enters the body through the nose or throat, the cold virus begins to multiply, causing any of a number of symptoms: sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, aches and pains, mild fever, nasal congestion and coughing. A cold usually lasts a week or two.
The best way to treat a cold is to take a mild pain reliever, avoid unnecessary activity, get as much bed rest as possible and drink plenty of fluids, especially fruit juices. Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies may relieve some of the symptoms, but they will not prevent, cure or even shorten the course of the illness. While there is no vaccine to protect you from catching a cold, there are ways to lessen your chances of coming down with the illness. Keep up your natural resistance through good nutrition and getting enough sleep and exercise. Turn your thermostat down and keep the humidity up in your home. Dry air dries out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat and causes them to crack, creating a place where cold viruses can enter your body. Avoid direct contact with those who have colds and wash your hands frequently.
The best way to treat a cold is to take a mild pain reliever, avoid unnecessary activity, get as much bed rest as possible and drink plenty of fluids, especially fruit juices. Over-the-counter cough and cold remedies may relieve some of the symptoms, but they will not prevent, cure or even shorten the course of the illness. While there is no vaccine to protect you from catching a cold, there are ways to lessen your chances of coming down with the illness. Keep up your natural resistance through good nutrition and getting enough sleep and exercise. Turn your thermostat down and keep the humidity up in your home. Dry air dries out the mucous membranes in your nose and throat and causes them to crack, creating a place where cold viruses can enter your body. Avoid direct contact with those who have colds and wash your hands frequently.
Daily Exercise Suggestions:
Walk 10 Minutes a Day and Increase Your Fitness Level:Old thinking was to work out in a sweat-filled gym for hours a day. No pain, no gain. New studies show that even short bouts of activity can increase your fitness level, especially if you're new at working out.
Park and Walk:Whenever you have an errand, park your car as far away as you can handle and walk to the store. At the mall, park at the farthest end and walk the length of the mall. Use every opportunity to walk. At the end of the day, it all adds up to better fitness.
Crunch in Bed:Before you even get out of bed in the morning, do 10 stomach crunches while lying flat on your mattress. Increase daily by one until you get up to 100. Think you'll never get there? Try it. You may eventually have to set your clock to wake up 15 minutes earlier, a small price to pay for a flatter stomach.
Park and Walk:Whenever you have an errand, park your car as far away as you can handle and walk to the store. At the mall, park at the farthest end and walk the length of the mall. Use every opportunity to walk. At the end of the day, it all adds up to better fitness.
Crunch in Bed:Before you even get out of bed in the morning, do 10 stomach crunches while lying flat on your mattress. Increase daily by one until you get up to 100. Think you'll never get there? Try it. You may eventually have to set your clock to wake up 15 minutes earlier, a small price to pay for a flatter stomach.
Avoid Excessive Drinking....
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
Getting Rid Of Existing Acne....
Here are some great tips and home remedies on getting rid of acne you already have.
Keeping the skin of the face as dry and clean as possible.
Washing the face carefully and gently twice a day with an anti-bacteria soap.
Using a light, non oil-based moisturizer on the face after each washing.
Avoiding cosmetics that contain synthetic chemicals and vegetable oils.
Keeping hair clean and off the face.
Avoiding picking at or touching blemishes.
Avoiding pressure on irritated skin from tight collars or head-gear.
And using over-the-counter products that contain sulfur plus resorcinol that can be applied to the skin to unclog pores and heal acne.
To dry out a pimple overnight, try using toothpaste (not gel) directly on the zit. This should help dry it out overnight.
A great face mask is to use the white part of an egg and apply it to your face for about 15 minutes. The vitamin A in the whites is also good for your skin.
The egg white is also a great overnight remedy, but just use a Q-tip to dab on the egg-white directly to the pimple.
To rid redness from an inflamed zit, use visine eyedrops and apply to the red spots.
Another way to get rid of redness: try hydrocortisone cream or pop two Advil.
Keeping the skin of the face as dry and clean as possible.
Washing the face carefully and gently twice a day with an anti-bacteria soap.
Using a light, non oil-based moisturizer on the face after each washing.
Avoiding cosmetics that contain synthetic chemicals and vegetable oils.
Keeping hair clean and off the face.
Avoiding picking at or touching blemishes.
Avoiding pressure on irritated skin from tight collars or head-gear.
And using over-the-counter products that contain sulfur plus resorcinol that can be applied to the skin to unclog pores and heal acne.
To dry out a pimple overnight, try using toothpaste (not gel) directly on the zit. This should help dry it out overnight.
A great face mask is to use the white part of an egg and apply it to your face for about 15 minutes. The vitamin A in the whites is also good for your skin.
The egg white is also a great overnight remedy, but just use a Q-tip to dab on the egg-white directly to the pimple.
To rid redness from an inflamed zit, use visine eyedrops and apply to the red spots.
Another way to get rid of redness: try hydrocortisone cream or pop two Advil.
Getting Rid Of Existing Acne....
Here are some great tips and home remedies on getting rid of acne you already have.
Keeping the skin of the face as dry and clean as possible.
Washing the face carefully and gently twice a day with an anti-bacteria soap.
Using a light, non oil-based moisturizer on the face after each washing.
Avoiding cosmetics that contain synthetic chemicals and vegetable oils.
Keeping hair clean and off the face.
Avoiding picking at or touching blemishes.
Avoiding pressure on irritated skin from tight collars or head-gear.
And using over-the-counter products that contain sulfur plus resorcinol that can be applied to the skin to unclog pores and heal acne.
To dry out a pimple overnight, try using toothpaste (not gel) directly on the zit. This should help dry it out overnight.
A great face mask is to use the white part of an egg and apply it to your face for about 15 minutes. The vitamin A in the whites is also good for your skin.
The egg white is also a great overnight remedy, but just use a Q-tip to dab on the egg-white directly to the pimple.
To rid redness from an inflamed zit, use visine eyedrops and apply to the red spots.
Another way to get rid of redness: try hydrocortisone cream or pop two Advil.
Keeping the skin of the face as dry and clean as possible.
Washing the face carefully and gently twice a day with an anti-bacteria soap.
Using a light, non oil-based moisturizer on the face after each washing.
Avoiding cosmetics that contain synthetic chemicals and vegetable oils.
Keeping hair clean and off the face.
Avoiding picking at or touching blemishes.
Avoiding pressure on irritated skin from tight collars or head-gear.
And using over-the-counter products that contain sulfur plus resorcinol that can be applied to the skin to unclog pores and heal acne.
To dry out a pimple overnight, try using toothpaste (not gel) directly on the zit. This should help dry it out overnight.
A great face mask is to use the white part of an egg and apply it to your face for about 15 minutes. The vitamin A in the whites is also good for your skin.
The egg white is also a great overnight remedy, but just use a Q-tip to dab on the egg-white directly to the pimple.
To rid redness from an inflamed zit, use visine eyedrops and apply to the red spots.
Another way to get rid of redness: try hydrocortisone cream or pop two Advil.
Avoid Excessive Drinking....
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
Brain Gym Exercises...
Our bodies are very much a part of all our learning, and learning is not an isolated "brain" function. Every nerve and cell is a network contributing to our intelligence and our learning capability. Here are four basic "Brain Gym" exercises which implement the ideas developed in "Smart Moves" and can be used quickly in any classroom. They are surprisingly simple, but very effective!
Drink Water:Water comprises more of the brain (with estimates of 90%) than of any other organ of the body. Having students drink some water before and during class can help "grease the wheel". Drinking water is very important before any stressful situation - tests! - as we tend to perspire under stress, and de-hydration can effect our concentration negatively.
Brain Buttons:This exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain to "switch on" the entire brain before a lesson begins. The increased blood flow helps improve concentration skills required for reading, writing, etc. Put one hand so that there is as wide a space as possible between the thumb and index finger.
Place your index and thumb into the slight indentations below the collar bone on each side of the sternum. Press lightly in a pulsing manner. At the same time put the other hand over the navel area of the stomach. Gently press on these points for about 2 minutes.
Cross Crawl:This exercise helps coordinate right and left brain by exercising the information flow between the two hemispheres. It is useful for spelling, writing, listening, reading and comprehension. Stand or sit. Put the right hand across the body to the left knee as you raise it, and then do the same thing for the left hand on the right knee just as if you were marching. Just do this either sitting or standing for about 2 minutes.
Hook Ups:This works well for nerves before a test or special event such as making a speech. Any situation which will cause nervousness calls for a few "hook ups" to calm the mind and improve concentration. Stand or sit. Cross the right leg over the left at the ankles. Take your right wrist and cross it over the left wrist and link up the fingers so that the right wrist is on top. Bend the elbows out and gently turn the fingers in towards the body until they rest on the sternum (breast bone) in the center of the chest. Stay in this position. Keep the ankles crossed and the wrists crossed and then breathe evenly in this position for a few minutes. You will be noticeably calmer after that time.
Drink Water:Water comprises more of the brain (with estimates of 90%) than of any other organ of the body. Having students drink some water before and during class can help "grease the wheel". Drinking water is very important before any stressful situation - tests! - as we tend to perspire under stress, and de-hydration can effect our concentration negatively.
Brain Buttons:This exercise helps improve blood flow to the brain to "switch on" the entire brain before a lesson begins. The increased blood flow helps improve concentration skills required for reading, writing, etc. Put one hand so that there is as wide a space as possible between the thumb and index finger.
Place your index and thumb into the slight indentations below the collar bone on each side of the sternum. Press lightly in a pulsing manner. At the same time put the other hand over the navel area of the stomach. Gently press on these points for about 2 minutes.
Cross Crawl:This exercise helps coordinate right and left brain by exercising the information flow between the two hemispheres. It is useful for spelling, writing, listening, reading and comprehension. Stand or sit. Put the right hand across the body to the left knee as you raise it, and then do the same thing for the left hand on the right knee just as if you were marching. Just do this either sitting or standing for about 2 minutes.
Hook Ups:This works well for nerves before a test or special event such as making a speech. Any situation which will cause nervousness calls for a few "hook ups" to calm the mind and improve concentration. Stand or sit. Cross the right leg over the left at the ankles. Take your right wrist and cross it over the left wrist and link up the fingers so that the right wrist is on top. Bend the elbows out and gently turn the fingers in towards the body until they rest on the sternum (breast bone) in the center of the chest. Stay in this position. Keep the ankles crossed and the wrists crossed and then breathe evenly in this position for a few minutes. You will be noticeably calmer after that time.
Are you drinking enough water during your workouts?....
Staying hydrated is a must to ensure endurance, coordination and safety during exercise. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercise. If exercising aerobically for longer than 45 minutes, you
may want to include a sports drink (Gatorade® et al) containing 6-8% carbohydrate to improve performance and enhance fat-burning. Try following the guidelines below:
Drink 8-16 ounces of water 30-60 minutes before exercise
Drink 4-10 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes during your workout
Drink 8-16 ounces of water after exercise
may want to include a sports drink (Gatorade® et al) containing 6-8% carbohydrate to improve performance and enhance fat-burning. Try following the guidelines below:
Drink 8-16 ounces of water 30-60 minutes before exercise
Drink 4-10 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes during your workout
Drink 8-16 ounces of water after exercise
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Ayurved Healthtips:
Headache: 5-10 leaves of holy basil + 10 black pepper + 1 teaspoon honey. Recommended thrice in day.
Hoarsness of voice: 1teaspoon piper longum + 1 teaspoon honey + 1 teaspoon ginger powder. Recommended thrice a day. This combination can also be used in Hiccough.
Insect bites: A paste of 1 teaspoon powder of black pepper + 1 teaspoon ghee. Recommended twice or thrice daily.
Intestial worms: 1 teaspoon bishop seeds + 1 teaspoon castor oil. Recommended 1-2 times a day.
Malaria :10 leaves of holy basil + 10 pieces of black pepper +1 teaspoon of honey. Recommended 3-4 times a day.
Piles :1/2 teaspoon dried ginger powder + 1 teaspoon jaggery. Recommended two or three times a day.
Prevention of Malaria :1/2 teaspoon of asofoetida powder once a day after lunch to prevent recurrent attacks of malaria.
Cough & Cold :1 teaspoon. dried ginger powder + 1 teaspoon. black pepper + 5-10 leaves of holy basil in a cup of tea. Recommended 3 -4 times in day.
Dental pain :10 pieces of clove + 1 piece of camphor in a cotton piece and place it over the area of pain as required.
Diabetes :One teaspoon of powdered Emblic Myrobalans + one teaspoon of turmeric powder & honey. Recommended thrice in a day.
Hoarsness of voice: 1teaspoon piper longum + 1 teaspoon honey + 1 teaspoon ginger powder. Recommended thrice a day. This combination can also be used in Hiccough.
Insect bites: A paste of 1 teaspoon powder of black pepper + 1 teaspoon ghee. Recommended twice or thrice daily.
Intestial worms: 1 teaspoon bishop seeds + 1 teaspoon castor oil. Recommended 1-2 times a day.
Malaria :10 leaves of holy basil + 10 pieces of black pepper +1 teaspoon of honey. Recommended 3-4 times a day.
Piles :1/2 teaspoon dried ginger powder + 1 teaspoon jaggery. Recommended two or three times a day.
Prevention of Malaria :1/2 teaspoon of asofoetida powder once a day after lunch to prevent recurrent attacks of malaria.
Cough & Cold :1 teaspoon. dried ginger powder + 1 teaspoon. black pepper + 5-10 leaves of holy basil in a cup of tea. Recommended 3 -4 times in day.
Dental pain :10 pieces of clove + 1 piece of camphor in a cotton piece and place it over the area of pain as required.
Diabetes :One teaspoon of powdered Emblic Myrobalans + one teaspoon of turmeric powder & honey. Recommended thrice in a day.
Ayurved Healthtips:
Have you ever felt the "wind go out of your sails" halfway into your workout? Glycogen stored in the liver and muscle tissue is a primary fuel for exercise. During exercise, glycogen is quickly depleted, leaving one feeling fatigued. To increase your body's capacity for glycogen storage, give yourself a "sweet reward" within 15-20 minutes after your workout. While simple carbohydrate (sugar) consumption is usually not recommended as part of an optimal diet, this is the one time when simple sugars can give you the most benefit. So go ahead and have a (small) treat! You deserve it, and your body can use it!
Aerobics: Are your really at your Target Heart Rate?
If you've been eating a low-fat, balanced diet consistently, and have been doing aerobics 3-4 times per week, but you still aren't getting the results you'd expect, you may want to check the intensity of your aerobic sessions. For maximum benefits, you must train continuously for 20-60 minutes per aerobic session in your target heart rate zone. The activity can be anything you choose that raises and maintains your heart rate to the training zone for 20-60 minutes. But you should check your heart rate periodically to make sure you are in your training zone. Don't cheat by "taking it easy" for 10 minutes, then sprinting for 30 yards and then taking your heart rate! Your heart rate should be steadily maintained in the zone for the entire 20-60 minute aerobic session for maximum effectiveness.
Avoiding and Treating Blisters:
Cause and EffectBlisters form when the skin rubs against another surface, causing friction. First, a tear occurs within the upper layers of the skin, forming a space between the layers while leaving the surface intact. Then fluid seeps into the space. Soles and palms are most commonly affected for several reasons. The hands and feet often rub against shoes, skates, rackets, or other equipment. Blister formation usually requires thick and rather immobile epidermis, as is found in these areas. In addition, blisters form more easily on moist skin than on dry or soaked skin, and warm conditions assist blister formation. Blister CareIf you get a blister, you’ll want to relieve your pain, keep the blister from enlarging,
and stave off infection. Specific steps depend on the size of the blister and whether or not it is intact. You can treat the vast majority of blisters yourself and need to call a doctor only if blisters become infected, recur frequently, form in unusual locations, or are very severe. Signs of infection include pus draining from the blister, very red or warm skin around the blister, and red streaks leading away from the blister. Small, intact blisters that don’t cause discomfort usually need no treatment. Nature’s best protection against infection is a blister’s own skin, or roof. To protect the roof, this type of blister can be covered with a small adhesive bandage if practical. Larger or painful blisters that are intact should be drained without removing the roof. First clean the blister with rubbing alcohol or antibiotic soap and water. Then heat a straight pin or safety pin over a flame until the pin glows red, and allow it to cool before puncturing a small hole at the edge of the blister. Drain the fluid with gentle pressure, then apply an antibiotic ointment such as bacitracin with polymyxin B (double antibiotic ointment) or bacitracin alone. Avoid ointments that contain neomycin because they are more likely to cause an allergic reaction. Finally, cover the blister with a bandage. Change the dressing daily--more frequently if it becomes wet, soiled, or loose. Blisters with small tears are treated the same as those that you have punctured. Blisters with larger tears should be "unroofed" carefully with fine scissors, and the base should be cleansed thoroughly with soap and water or an antibacterial cleanser. Apply antibiotic ointment and bandages as described above. Additional padding may be necessary for exercise or sports. Ring-shaped pads made of felt will protect small blisters. Larger blisters may require dressings. Some of the many available dressing materials are DuoDerm (ConvaTec, Princeton, New Jersey), Spenco 2nd Skin (Spenco Medical Corporation, Waco, Texas), Vigilon (CR Bard Inc, Murray Hill, New Jersey), and Opsite (Smith & Nephew United, Largo, Florida). Additional, doughnutshaped padding made of felt or lamb’s wool may be applied over the area surrounding the blister. Then the entire dressing can be applied to help keep the dressing in place on sweaty skin.
and stave off infection. Specific steps depend on the size of the blister and whether or not it is intact. You can treat the vast majority of blisters yourself and need to call a doctor only if blisters become infected, recur frequently, form in unusual locations, or are very severe. Signs of infection include pus draining from the blister, very red or warm skin around the blister, and red streaks leading away from the blister. Small, intact blisters that don’t cause discomfort usually need no treatment. Nature’s best protection against infection is a blister’s own skin, or roof. To protect the roof, this type of blister can be covered with a small adhesive bandage if practical. Larger or painful blisters that are intact should be drained without removing the roof. First clean the blister with rubbing alcohol or antibiotic soap and water. Then heat a straight pin or safety pin over a flame until the pin glows red, and allow it to cool before puncturing a small hole at the edge of the blister. Drain the fluid with gentle pressure, then apply an antibiotic ointment such as bacitracin with polymyxin B (double antibiotic ointment) or bacitracin alone. Avoid ointments that contain neomycin because they are more likely to cause an allergic reaction. Finally, cover the blister with a bandage. Change the dressing daily--more frequently if it becomes wet, soiled, or loose. Blisters with small tears are treated the same as those that you have punctured. Blisters with larger tears should be "unroofed" carefully with fine scissors, and the base should be cleansed thoroughly with soap and water or an antibacterial cleanser. Apply antibiotic ointment and bandages as described above. Additional padding may be necessary for exercise or sports. Ring-shaped pads made of felt will protect small blisters. Larger blisters may require dressings. Some of the many available dressing materials are DuoDerm (ConvaTec, Princeton, New Jersey), Spenco 2nd Skin (Spenco Medical Corporation, Waco, Texas), Vigilon (CR Bard Inc, Murray Hill, New Jersey), and Opsite (Smith & Nephew United, Largo, Florida). Additional, doughnutshaped padding made of felt or lamb’s wool may be applied over the area surrounding the blister. Then the entire dressing can be applied to help keep the dressing in place on sweaty skin.
Avoid back pain......
If you sit in front of a computer screen all day, make sure to sit up straight and keep your feet slightly raised off the floor on a footstool or other low object. Don't sit for long periods; get up and walk around the office or step outside for a break at least every half hour.
Wear flat, comfortable shoes. As your stomach grows and your balance shifts, a pair of high heels will only make your posture worse.
Always bend from your knees and lift objects and children from a crouching position to minimize the stress on your back. Let someone else lift heavy objects; this is not the time to risk throwing your back out completely.
Start an exercise programme early in pregnancy, one that includes stretches that strengthen and stretch muscles that support the back and legs. Don't worry if you're well past your first trimester; you can start a simple stretching routine at any time. Swimming is a particularly good choice for pregnant women because it strengthens your lower back muscles, and the buoyancy of the water takes the strain off your joints and ligaments. Avoid doing breaststroke, though, as this can affect your lower back joint.
Stand up straight. This gets harder to do as your body changes, but try to keep your pelvis tucked in and your shoulders back. Pregnant women tend to lean back as their bump grows, which puts more strain on the spine.
Wear flat, comfortable shoes. As your stomach grows and your balance shifts, a pair of high heels will only make your posture worse.
Always bend from your knees and lift objects and children from a crouching position to minimize the stress on your back. Let someone else lift heavy objects; this is not the time to risk throwing your back out completely.
Start an exercise programme early in pregnancy, one that includes stretches that strengthen and stretch muscles that support the back and legs. Don't worry if you're well past your first trimester; you can start a simple stretching routine at any time. Swimming is a particularly good choice for pregnant women because it strengthens your lower back muscles, and the buoyancy of the water takes the strain off your joints and ligaments. Avoid doing breaststroke, though, as this can affect your lower back joint.
Stand up straight. This gets harder to do as your body changes, but try to keep your pelvis tucked in and your shoulders back. Pregnant women tend to lean back as their bump grows, which puts more strain on the spine.
Avoid Eye Strain When Using Computers.....
If you spend most of your weekday sitting in front of a video display terminal, you've probably noticed that using a computer can be a pain in the neck, the eyes and almost every other part of your body! It's no wonder computers cause eye strain. Studies have shown that computer users tend to stare at a glowing screen without blinking for much longer periods than do people who use typewriters. This is why many people using computers experience dry eye problems. In addition, computer screens reflect a great deal of glare - from windows, overhead lights and even the user's own bright clothing. Finally, many computer users sit practically face-to-face with the monitor.
Whether you spend every day or only a few hours a week using a computer, there are steps you can (and should) take to reduce the physical strains from computer use. Steps to follow, when using a computer:
Have a thorough eye examination. While everyone should have their eyes checked once a year, annual eye exams are especially important for computer users.
Follow the "20/20 rule." Keep your face at least 20 inches from the screen and pause every 20 minutes or so to look around the room, so your eyes can focus on distant objects. Regular eye exercise helps prevent eye strain.
Place all materials you are working with at the same distance as the screen. This reduces strain of your eyes and neck.
Make sure you have a glare screen, which should block glare without making the characters on the monitor appear fuzzy. Also if possible, move or adjust the computer screen to avoid reflections from windows or indoor lights.
Sit on a stable, comfortable, adjustable chair. If it is possible to put the keyboard a few inches below the desktop, for example, with an adjustable table, or by using a center drawer of a desk for a pullout keyboard rest, do so. This will keep your arms at a more comfortable angle.
Place computer monitor at a 35-degree angle below your eyes. This reduces incidence of Dry Eye.
Use preservative-free artificial tears intermittently when on the computer if your eyes get red and irritated. Much of computer fatigue is caused by Dry Eye.
Finally, take periodic breaks from the computer during the day, walk around and do some non-computer tasks for about 15 minutes every two or three hours.
Whether you spend every day or only a few hours a week using a computer, there are steps you can (and should) take to reduce the physical strains from computer use. Steps to follow, when using a computer:
Have a thorough eye examination. While everyone should have their eyes checked once a year, annual eye exams are especially important for computer users.
Follow the "20/20 rule." Keep your face at least 20 inches from the screen and pause every 20 minutes or so to look around the room, so your eyes can focus on distant objects. Regular eye exercise helps prevent eye strain.
Place all materials you are working with at the same distance as the screen. This reduces strain of your eyes and neck.
Make sure you have a glare screen, which should block glare without making the characters on the monitor appear fuzzy. Also if possible, move or adjust the computer screen to avoid reflections from windows or indoor lights.
Sit on a stable, comfortable, adjustable chair. If it is possible to put the keyboard a few inches below the desktop, for example, with an adjustable table, or by using a center drawer of a desk for a pullout keyboard rest, do so. This will keep your arms at a more comfortable angle.
Place computer monitor at a 35-degree angle below your eyes. This reduces incidence of Dry Eye.
Use preservative-free artificial tears intermittently when on the computer if your eyes get red and irritated. Much of computer fatigue is caused by Dry Eye.
Finally, take periodic breaks from the computer during the day, walk around and do some non-computer tasks for about 15 minutes every two or three hours.
Avoid sun, avoid skin cancer.....
Skin cancer is the most common kind of cancer, and its incidence is increasing. The #1 defense against skin cancer is prevention. When you are outdoors, follow these guidelines:
Stay away from the midday sun and its intense rays. Try to schedule outdoor activities before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.
Wear a T-shirt and a hat - use clothing to protect your face, arms and legs.
Use sunblock lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher. Cover your skin thoroughly with the protective lotion and reapply after swimming or sweating.
Examine your skin for any abnormalities. Seek medical treatment if you notice any changes.
Sunscreen and melanoma:
Sunscreen prevents sunburn, which is the cause of basal cell and
squamous cell carcinomas, the most common forms of skin cancer. So you should wear sunscreen if you have to be outdoors. However, don't rely on sunscreen to prevent melanoma. The only way to protect yourself against melanoma is to stay out of the sun's harmful rays. This is especially important if you have fair skin, light hair or eyes.
What you may not know? Clouds will not protect you. Harmful rays still penetrate overcast skies. You can get sunburned, and you can damage your skin. Water will not protect you. Even though your skin feels cool in the water, the sun's rays can penetrate up to three feet of water. You're still in danger. Cooler temperatures will not protect you. Even in the winter, sunny days can cause sunburn. The incidence of melanoma has more than doubled during the past 20 years. Protect yourself by recognizing the signs of disease, avoiding the sun and visiting a physician on a routine basis
Stay away from the midday sun and its intense rays. Try to schedule outdoor activities before 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.
Wear a T-shirt and a hat - use clothing to protect your face, arms and legs.
Use sunblock lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher. Cover your skin thoroughly with the protective lotion and reapply after swimming or sweating.
Examine your skin for any abnormalities. Seek medical treatment if you notice any changes.
Sunscreen and melanoma:
Sunscreen prevents sunburn, which is the cause of basal cell and
squamous cell carcinomas, the most common forms of skin cancer. So you should wear sunscreen if you have to be outdoors. However, don't rely on sunscreen to prevent melanoma. The only way to protect yourself against melanoma is to stay out of the sun's harmful rays. This is especially important if you have fair skin, light hair or eyes.
What you may not know? Clouds will not protect you. Harmful rays still penetrate overcast skies. You can get sunburned, and you can damage your skin. Water will not protect you. Even though your skin feels cool in the water, the sun's rays can penetrate up to three feet of water. You're still in danger. Cooler temperatures will not protect you. Even in the winter, sunny days can cause sunburn. The incidence of melanoma has more than doubled during the past 20 years. Protect yourself by recognizing the signs of disease, avoiding the sun and visiting a physician on a routine basis
10 Ways To Get A Good Night's Sleep......
Listen to soothing music.
Set up a routine. Go to bed at the same time every night.
Read a book of your choice.
Do some light exercise.
Consider aromatherapy.
Shower before bed.
Don’t eat sugar or caffeine before you sleep.
Try to avoid heavy meals before bedtime.
Don’t face the clock while you try to sleep so it doesn’t distract you.
Use breathing exercises to relax you.
Set up a routine. Go to bed at the same time every night.
Read a book of your choice.
Do some light exercise.
Consider aromatherapy.
Shower before bed.
Don’t eat sugar or caffeine before you sleep.
Try to avoid heavy meals before bedtime.
Don’t face the clock while you try to sleep so it doesn’t distract you.
Use breathing exercises to relax you.
12 Week Training Program
When trying to improve your health, you can't follow a simple program and just change it as you feel like it. You need something progressive, something that provides you with small changes each week that help you work toward your goal.
Soon I will be offering such a program. All you need to do is provide me with:
your goals,
how many sessions you can do per week,
how long each session can be,
a list of equipment you have available (although, you don't need any)
I will then write you a personalised 12 week plan that will see you reach those goals.
This is the type of plan I write for athletes to ensure they continually improve, and to make sure they peak for major competitions. I will have a sample up here soon so you will see just how powerful this type of detailed planning is.
The cost of the program is $480 and you will also recieve 12 weeks email support for those 12 weeks.
Soon I will be offering such a program. All you need to do is provide me with:
your goals,
how many sessions you can do per week,
how long each session can be,
a list of equipment you have available (although, you don't need any)
I will then write you a personalised 12 week plan that will see you reach those goals.
This is the type of plan I write for athletes to ensure they continually improve, and to make sure they peak for major competitions. I will have a sample up here soon so you will see just how powerful this type of detailed planning is.
The cost of the program is $480 and you will also recieve 12 weeks email support for those 12 weeks.
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