How to Enjoy a Relaxing Sauna

How to Enjoy a Relaxing Sauna



The sauna is an ancient Finnish tradition of therapeutic relaxation and cleansing that has become popular in the United States and around the world. Here is a method for enjoying a sauna while optimizing your level of relaxation.







Things You'll Need:





A sauna with a traditional stove (the kind that is designed to make steam when water is thrown on it)




A water bucket with a medium ladle




Water bottle (optional)









1


Wear a well-fitting, comfortable bathing suit and sandals to protect your feet from the hot floor. Being comfortable is essential to relaxation.





2


Use the ladle to throw water from the bucket onto the stove (the "rocks.") Steam is the key to a relaxing sauna-but don't overdo it! Ambitious novices often throw too much water on the rocks, create too much steam, and chase themselves out of the sauna. Add steam gradually, let your body get accustomed to it, and then add more.





3


Keep yourself hydrated. If there is a drinking fountain nearby (such as in a health club sauna) visit it every five to ten minutes. If not, it's a good idea to bring a water bottle with you into the sauna or have one handy just outside.





4


If you are in the sauna with someone else, talking is optional. Many people find silence in the sauna more relaxing than conversation.





5


Do breathing exercises. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold the warm air in your lungs for several seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. After a few repetitions of this exercise, you should start to feel very relaxed.





6


Do stretching exercises. The warm, humid air should make your muscles feel loose and limber, and your improved circulation will make the stretches feel even better than they would anywhere else.





7


Many people like to take intermittent breaks from the heat to cool down. The traditional Finnish method is to run outside and jump in the nearby lake (or, if it's winter, cut a hole in the ice and then jump in the lake). If there is no lake handy, you can take a dip in the pool, jump in a cool shower, or just sit in the room temperature air for a while.








Tips & Warnings










If at any time you start to feel light-headed, leave the sauna immediately. It is probably a sign that you aren't keeping yourself sufficiently hydrated (Step 3). Drink some water and cool down for several minutes. If you start to feel better, give the sauna another try. If not, it's probably best to call it a day.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2160029_enjoy-relaxing-sauna.html

How to Enhance the Kinesthetic Sense Through Meditation

How to Enhance the Kinesthetic Sense Through Meditation



Energy healers frequently have direct access to information through their five senses. Such high sense perception can be enhanced through practice, enabling the healer to treat their patients more effectively. Learn how to enhance your kinesthetic (movement) sense by reading the steps below.









1


Investigate your internal process of thinking-whether you think in pictures, thoughts or feelings. According to energy healer Barbara Brennan, finding your most developed sense (sight, touch, hearing) is a great place to begin focusing your higher sense perception.





2


Sit in a meditative position and focus on your breathing. Visualize roots extending down from your spine into the ground. Now imagine healing energy pulling up from the earth and through your body. Finally, envision white light flowing downward from the heavens through the top of your head and mixing with the earth energy.





3


Remain in a comfortable position and focus on feeling the inside parts (organs) of your body. Depending on your internal mode of processing, touch or look at the part you are meditating on to remain focused. If you are an auditory learner, listen to your breathing or heartbeat to stay on track.





4


Continue the kinesthetic exercise by meditating on the space around you. Sit and feel the room you are in by reaching for different areas and noting any unusual sensations or thoughts. Different modes of internal processing may call for different strategies such as looking at different areas or touching objects in the room.





5


Repeat the previous exercise blindfolded in an unfamiliar room. Sit and feel the space as you did before and note any differences between your experiences. Afterwards, write down what you learned about yourself and the room.





6


Explore your kinesthetic sense by practicing this technique on other people, plants and animals.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2105406_enhance-kinesthetic-sense-through-meditation.html

How to Enhance Dreams

How to Enhance Dreams



Remembering dreams does not require complicated procedures or high-tech gadgets. Your attitude and receptivity are the most influential factors. If you approach your dreams with an attitude of curiosity and interest, you are likely to succeed no matter what procedures you use.







Things You'll Need:





Bed




Full night sleep




Paper




Pen




Tape Recorder (optional)







How to Enhance Dreams




1


Once waking from sleep, the simples why to enhance dream recall is to keep pen and paper by the bedside and write down everything you can remember. This can be anything from a small detail to full sequences.





2


Another way to help recall dreams is to use a recorder to talk about the dream as well as writing down the dream. The process helps you remember the dreams which will lead to enhanced dreaming.





3


Improving your memory of dreams is to make a review of the day’s events in the evening before going to sleep. Your review can be written in your journal or shared with your partner. Focus on interactions and events that provoked strong feelings. This can make you more sensitive to the issues you’re most likely to dream about and heighten the probability that you’ll remember a dream. At the same time as your evening review, you may also want to picture the faces of the people who are most important to you and about whom you are most likely to dream. Visualizing them will sensitize you to the issues and feelings that are dominant in those relationships. This process will help you establish linkages between your dreams and the challenging aspects of your close relationships.





4


If you are having difficulty remembering your dreams, try to relax in the evening by listening to music, taking a bath, or practicing relaxation or meditation exercises. Avoid alcohol, drugs, and medications, and limit your caffeine intake, as these suppress dreaming. As you are falling asleep, give yourself a simple suggestion that you will remember your dreams in the morning. This suggestion strengthens your intention and reminds you to remain alert and ready to receive dreams when you awaken.





5


When you awaken, reserve a few quiet moments and lie still with your eyes closed or unfocused. Some people find it helpful to stay in the same position in which they awoke and to avoid turning. You can linger in a half-dream state and your dream will often stay with you as you make a gentle transition from sleeping to waking. In the half-dream state of waking up or falling asleep, you may also see vivid images that are akin to dreams. The imagery can be enjoyable to witness and meaningful in much the same way as your dreams.








Tips & Warnings










These are just a few steps to help you remember your dreams better and enhance your dreaming state. A full night rests is normally advised for helping to achieve REM or dream mode for people.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4421222_enhance-dreams-.html

How to Enhance Diabetes Treatment With Herbs

How to Enhance Diabetes Treatment With Herbs



If you have diabetes, you may be wondering about the role herbs can play in your treatment. Well, there are some very useful herbs out there than can really help your condition.

Understand that no matter whether you have Type I diabetes or Type II, if your doctor says you need insulin, KEEP TAKING IT. This is very important. The herbs I am about to discuss can help your condition greatly, but never, ever use them without consulting your doctor and keeping up with your regular treatments.

Some of these herbs work because they reduce inflammation. Others do because they reduce inflammation and tissue damage brought on by diabetes. Either way, if you make an effort to use more of these herbs and spices while you cook, it can help greatly.

It is important to only take these herbs in small amounts. Taking them in large amounts is not only unpleasant, but also not very helpful. Just cook with them and don't worry about taking capsules, teas and any additional herbal preparations unless indicated by a naturopath or other trusted natural health professional.

The following are ways to incorporate herbs to make your diabetes care regimen more effective.







Things You'll Need:





Cinnamon




Cloves




Sage




Marjoram




Onion




Garlic









1


Cinnamon has been in the news lately because researches in Pakistan realized back in 2003 that it may be helpful for lowering blood glucose levels in those with Type II diabetes. Bottom line? It really couldn't hurt. The accepted dose is 1/4 tsp. daily consumed in food. You can shake it over oatmeal or cereal and even use it in savory cooking.





2


Cloves have also been tested for effectiveness in helping to lower glucose and improve insulin. Researchers at the Experimental Biology Meeting in 2006 demonstrated their findings after having used clove oil on the study participants. The findings were that the cloves can be an aid to diabetics because of the affect the spice has on glucose levels and insulin function. Though the study used clove extract, I recommend using it in cooking rather than taking in the clove oil.





3


Popular herbs such as sage and marjoram can also help diabetes patients. One of the problems that a diabetic faces is tissue inflammation. Herbs like sage, marjoram,
basil
and oregano can help reduce the inflammation.





4


Onions and garlic have long been understood to aid the body in many ways. One of these is helping to lower blood sugar. Of course you can buy garlic capsules and take a few each day, however, the safest way to consume garlic and onions is to simply cook with them.








Tips & Warnings










Find creative ways to use herbs and spices in your healthy cooking lifestyle instead of taking these herbs as supplements.








Always consult with your doctor and never neglect your doctor's advice when it comes to anything related to your diabetes treatment.








Always take your insulin as directed!



http://www.ehow.com/how_4575680_enhance-diabetes-treatment-herbs.html

How to Enhance Breasts Naturally

How to Enhance Breasts Naturally



If you have a small bust, you may have considered enhancing your breasts through surgery. However, you may not feel comfortable about going under the knife for larger breasts. Luckily, there are ways to naturally enhance the size of your breasts.









1


Massage your breasts. Regular massages on your breasts can increase your bust size. Massage has the ability to stimulate blood flow to the area.





2


Use modified push-ups to get larger breasts naturally. Do the modified (or ladies) push up from your hands and knees. Slide your knees back as far as possible and then lower your upper body just until your upper arms are parallel to the floor. Perform this exercise three or more times a week in sets of 3 with 12 reps.





3


Try a bust-increasing herbal supplement. Many women swear by the Bust Enhance supplement available through drugstores and online. Within a month, you should notice a much more ample chest.





4


Rub a breast enlargement cream on your chest. You may have seen the As Seen on TV ad for the Perfect Woman breast enhancement cream. You'll not only increase your chest size, but firm your breasts as well.








Tips & Warnings










You don't need large breasts to feel attractive. In actuality, many larger-breasted women envy their smaller-busted counterparts.








When you get pregnant, you'll also naturally increase your breast size. Some women never lose their larger breasts, even after having the baby.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2292684_enhance-breasts-naturally.html

How to End Self Hypnosis

How to End Self Hypnosis



Thousands of people use self hypnosis to alleviate stress, emotional or physical pain and to break bad habits. You can use self hypnosis as a way to promote a healthier lifestyle through relaxation and stress relief. The technique is useful in a myriad of ways, but how do you end it?









1


Enter into a hypnotic state using whatever means you find helpful. Some people listen to audio CDs, while others choose to pre-record a script with themselves as narrator. Those who are well versed in self hypnosis can enter a state of relaxation without any auditory assistance. Whichever method you use is fine, as long as you enter into a relaxing hypnotic state. Enjoy your relaxed state of mind until you're ready to end the session.





2


Draw your hypnotherapy to a close by making a mental note that the session is ending. This mentally prepares your body for the change from the altered state back to a normal state of being.





3


Envision a change of scenery that involves upward motion. For example, picture yourself rising into the sky slowly in the basket of a hot air balloon. Picture the sky and sun becoming crisp and clear while the ground fades away beneath your feet.





4


Count yourself out of the session from 3 to 1 while picturing yourself rising in the balloon. Think to yourself, "On number 3 I'm relaxed and calm. It's time to finish this session." Allow the thought to sink in for a few seconds and then, "Number 2, it's time to come more alert. I'm feeling more wakeful now." Breathe deeply once or twice and then think, "I'm coming fully awake, refreshed and alive on 1." You are now out of your hypnotic state.








Tips & Warnings










Competent professionals are the best instructors for self hypnosis techniques. Incorrectly entering or exiting an altered state of consciousness can be detrimental to your emotional and mental health. Have a professional guide your first forays into self hypnosis to ensure you're using proper methodology.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2295800_end-self-hypnosis.html

How to End a Psychic Attack

How to End a Psychic Attack



Chances are that if you are reading this article you believe in the spiritual realm and in psychic energy. You may also be in need of advice due to a prior or current belief that you are under psychic attack. My hope is that this article will help you to find some peace and arm you with the tools you need to regain your power and detach from the unwanted attack.







Things You'll Need:





Sea Salt - not table salt




Will Power




Belief that you can overcome the attack









1


OWN YOUR OWN POWER.

Know that you do have the power to detach and end the attack. It is imperative that your 'own your own power'. This means that you must realize that somehow and on some level you allowed this to happen, and without questioning how it happened just know that you can make it stop.

This is most important! You may read other articles that tell you to use various objects and crystals, but really you have to set your boundaries and cleanse your space of the bad energy. You need to know thatyou have the power and the control to overcome and detatch!





2


CLEANSE YOURSELF OF NEGATIVE ETHERIC ENERGY.

This step requires the sea salt and is optional but suggested. If you don't have sea salt you can use kosher salt (restaurant supply stores carry kosher salt in large bags) which you can get from your local Whole Foods or other health food store.

- Draw a bath
- Add 3-4 cups of either sea salt or kosher salt
- Create a soothing environment
- Get into the bath (remove clothes of course) and soak for 20 minutes
- While bathing submerge your head as it you were washing your hair - because you want to remove all the etheric debris
- Say a prayer and call in your angels and guides to help
- Also state that you own your own power and that you break this psychic connection.





3


CUT THE ETHERIC CORDS.

Once your energy field has been cleaned, stand and using a sweeping motion across your solar plexus (above your naval) use your hand to slash through and cut any etheric cords that are attached to you. Say that you are cutting the cords from any energy that is not for your highest good.

Repeat this step as often as needed.





4


STATE OUT LOUD (quietly if needed)

Leave me alone! You have no power over me! I raise my vibration and shield and send this negative back to you 100-fold. I have cut the cords and return the negative engery to you.





5


Continue to repeat these steps as often as needed. And, if you hear voices don't listen to them. Try your best to raise your vibration through chanting, praying, getting out and exercising - anything that will get your mind to stop focusing on the attack.








Tips & Warnings










Repeat the salt bath daily for as long as you feel it is needed. Don't worry about drying out your skin. You can use lotions if needed. It is more important to keep your body free of etheric residue.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2186924_end-psychic-attack.html

How to Eliminate Intestinal Parasites Naturally

How to Eliminate Intestinal Parasites Naturally



Intestinal parasites are often caused by poor hygiene, contact with animals or from infected food or water. Common parasites include protozoans, roundworms and tapeworms. Intestinal parasites can cause coughing, intestinal pain, bloating and cramping, vomiting, bloody stools as well as diarrhea. While a doctor is required to administer testing that can determine the presence and type of parasite, natural treatments can be just as effective as medications without the harmful side effects.









1


Have your doctor perform urine and fecal tests to determine the type of parasite that is causing your symptoms. While a doctor may recommend prescription medications, with proper diagnosis you can find the correct herbal remedy to eliminate intestinal parasites naturally and at home.





2


Include as much fresh garlic in your diet as possible to free your intestinal tract from parasites. Garlic is especially useful for the elimination of roundworm, Giardia Lamlia, Typansoma, Leishmania and Plamodium.





3


Take the herb goldenseal in tablet or tincture form. Lab studies have shown that berberine, the active element in goldenseal, can effectively work against parasites such as Entamoeba Histolytica, Plasmodium and Giardia Lamblia. Goldenseal can also help treat mucous membrane and respiratory tract infections triggered by intestinal parasites.





4


Use Black Walnut tincture, an herbal remedy commonly used to treat ringworm and athlete's food. The tincture of unripe black walnut hulls can remove parasites and relieve fungal infections.





5


Make tea or take extract of wormwood to eliminate intestinal parasites naturally. Sesquiterpene lactones, the active element in wormwood, weakens parasite membranes and helps the body to eliminate them. Research suggests that an herbal remedy that includes wormwood can work actively to treat Plasmodium, Giardia, Ascaris Lumbricoides and Schistosoma Mansoni.





6


Drink wormseed tea, a common herbal remedy in the tropical regions of the world used to expel hookworms, tapeworms and roundworms. Concentrated wormseed oil is extremely potent and can be toxic, so it is preferable to drink tea.





7


Clean your intestinal tract by purchasing a natural high-fiber detox that includes supplements such as papaya extract, activated charcoal, psyllium husks, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and citrus pectin. A natural detox is a great combination with other herbal remedies to aid in the elimination of parasites.








Tips & Warnings










Following herbal remedy treatment, visit your doctor for a second test to verify that the parasites have been successfully removed from your system.








Always follow the manufacturer's directions for natural tablets, detox formulas, teas and tinctures.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2099326_eliminate-intestinal-parasites-naturally.html

How to Eliminate Head Lice With Herbs

How to Eliminate Head Lice With Herbs



Having head lice is a problem for both the victim and their family, but help is in sight with some simple herbal tricks. Lice are especially prevalent in
children
, who have many close encounters with other children. This small insect likes to live in dirty places and when it can, it finds a nice head of hair where it can live, happily biting the scalp and sucking small amounts of blood for nourishment. When many lice are present, their numerous bites can cause itching and when the afflicted person scratches those bites too much, infection can result. The trick is to treat an occurrence of head lice as soon as possible to prevent further problems from happening. If you or your child develops a case of head lice, don’t despair—it doesn’t mean that you are a poor housekeeper or parent. This insect is opportunistic and can affect people in all walks of life.







Things You'll Need:





Rosemary tea




Tea tree oil




Rosemary oil




Almond or apricot oil




Hot water and soap









1


To identify the presence of lice, check your scalp, or that of your child, for their eggs. Eggs are very small and can be various shades ranging from yellow to brown in color. You might think they are dandruff, but they don’t flake off as dandruff does.





2


Wash your hair with a strong tea made from
rosemary
leaves. To make rosemary tea, simply simmer about Вј cup of dried or fresh rosemary leaves in four cups of water for 20 minutes.





3


For added effectiveness, combine about 20 drops of tea tree essential oil or rosemary oil with Вј cup of vegetable oil such as almond or apricot. Apply this mixture to the scalp of the affected person and massage it in. Leave this on the head for one hour, and then shampoo thoroughly. The herbal oil and vegetable oil tend to smother the lice.





4


If you purchase a very fine-toothed comb, you can successfully remove many of the eggs. Destroy them in a jar filled with bleach or isopropyl alcohol. Continue doing this for about two weeks after every shampoo.





5


Wash all of the affected person’s clothes and bed linens in very hot soapy water as soon as you discover lice. Even stuffed animals can harbor lice, so get them dry cleaned or replace them with new ones.





6


Carpets in your home and even your vehicle can house lice, so vacuum thoroughly after you discover an infestation on any member of your family.





7


Do not allow children to share combs or brushes, even barrettes or other items that contact the scalp, such as towels, with other children.








Tips & Warnings










To prevent head lice and to help get rid of them after you discover them, it’s important to wash your hair, bedding, any brushes or combs and clothing frequently.








If you soak combs and brushes in a solution of isopropyl alcohol, any existing lice and their eggs will perish.








Avoid close contact with others you know are afflicted with this pest.








It’s often easier to detect lice eggs than to find the actual lice. The insect itself is the size of a small seed and is normally light brown in color.








If you moisten the hair before using your fine-toothed comb, it’s easier to get as many lice eggs as possible.








This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The use of herbal products should not be taken lightly. Always consult a qualified health care practitioner before using any herb, especially if you are pregnant or nursing or if you are taking any prescribed medications.








Some children react to lice bites with swollen lymph glands. If infection begins, seek medical attention promptly.








Over the counter remedies are available commercially, but beware when using such products because they are basically insecticides.








Do not use medicated lice products on children who are under two years of age. You must remove lice and their eggs by hand, or use the herbal remedies suggested here.



http://www.ehow.com/how_4480439_eliminate-head-lice-herbs.html

How to Meditate for Health

How to Meditate for Health



The leading six causes of death in the US are linked to stress, so if you want to improve your health, start by eliminating stress. Meditation is one step you can take to promote relaxation.









1


Find a quiet place. Meditating for health means turning off the world and giving your brain a break. Find a place to meditate that's free of noise and other disruptions and where you aren't likely to be disturbed.





2


Get comfortable. You don't need to take the crossed-leg position commonly associated with meditating. Simply sit comfortably or lie on your back so there's no stress on any part of your body. Assume a position that allows you to breathe fully and doesn't cause any pain if you hold that position for several minutes.





3


Look at a spot. Find a spot on the ceiling or the wall in front of you and simply stare at it. Your eyes should remain open for the entire time and they should be fixed on one spot.





4


Breathe. Take a deep breath in through your nose, hold it for a count of two and then slowly exhale through your mouth, feeling the stress exit your body with the air. Do this several times, more slowly each time.





5


Clear your mind. Allow random thoughts to come in and out of your mind. Don't focus on any of them. Concentrate on your breathing until your mind is completely blank. Maintain that blank state as long as possible. It should get easier each time you meditate.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2069752_meditate-health.html

How to Massage Yourself

How to Massage Yourself



When you're stressed or feeling achy, there isn't always a masseuse around to ease your pain. These times call for giving yourself a massage. With a bit of knowledge about anatomy and applying the proper techniques, you'll be relaxed in minutes from a rejuvenating massage.









1


Preface your massage with a warm bath. Loosened muscles will best respond to a massage. Soaking in Epsom salts will help to alleviate the soreness you feel.





2


Dry yourself and keep your clothing off. Skin to skin contact is more effective as clothing creates a barrier to your touch. Use massage lotion to reduce friction. As another option, use
sports
balm to break down knots and loosen muscles.





3


Work your fingers in small circles, starting at the back of your head and working down towards the shoulders. Continue past the shoulders, down the arms until you are massaging your hands. When you reach a knot, work it out in small circles with your fingers. Breathe slowly and evenly. Once working out all the knots, stretch your shoulder blades giving yourself a "hug."





4


Reclothe to work on your lower back. Roll up a large blanket, towel or yoga mat; place it on the floor. Lie down, face up, positioning your lower back over the roll, shoulders touching the floor. Extend the arms outwards from the shoulders and breathe into the stretch.





5


Position yourself into child's pose to stretch your back. Sit on your knees. Lean forward, with arms folded or extended toward your front. Stretch your arms forward or fold them and rest your head on your hands.





6


Finish with your feet. Dig your thumbs in a circular motion into the soles of your feet and the bottoms of your toes. Start at your ankle, rubbing your thumbs outwards across the top of your feet and down the toes. Roll your feet clockwise, then counterclockwise, to stretch the ankles.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2093461_massage-yourself.html

How to Make Your Own Sports Drinks

How to Make Your Own Sports Drinks



I am very active. I've tried the typical
sports
drinks but I don't like them. To me, they taste like artificial juice drinks with too much salt. I know this can't be good for me. And I know that there is research out there that suggests that the ingredients contained in them are actually beneficial. But I don't care. I just don't agree. Refined sugar is refined sugar and it will always not be a very good choice.

So, I've started making my own sports drinks out of my favorite herbs. I find these to be energizing and refreshing and they make me feel healthy. Here's how you make them.







Things You'll Need:





Tea bags (or loose herb) of choice. Herbs to try include stinging nettle, dandelion leaves, peppermint, green tea, mate and ginger




Raw honey or local honey (of different flavors if you want)




Natural fruit juice at health food stores and even in the supermarket.




A pinch of sea salt You can leave this out if you already consume a lot of high sodium foods.




Water







Instructions




1


Choose one tea from the list. Each of the herbs listed are beneficial in some way so choose one that suits your needs.

* Stinging Nettle - helps strengthen and heal connective tissue
* Dandelion leaves - are a good source of potassium which are needed while doing strenuous activity
* Peppermint - the scent of the peppermint leaves is stimulating and can enhance workout performance
* Green tea and mate - both are energizing. Green tea has caffeine and some antioxidants, too
* Ginger - is a good thing to add if you are working out in the winter because it helps keep you warm. It's also energizing.





2


After you decide on the herb, place one tea bag or 2 teaspoons of loose herb in a 2 cup glass measuring cup. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and pour into the glass measuring cup. Let stand for 10 minutes.





3


Remove tea bag or strain out the herb and pour into a glass jar. Add one teaspoon honey and one pinch of salt and stir until dissolved.





4


Pour 2 cups of the natural fruit juice into glass jar and shake to distribute the flavors. Let the contents cool slightly and then refrigerate until chilled.





5


Drink 8 to 16 ounces of this sports drink during your workout. Some of the herbs are a diuretic like dandelion and stinging nettle. So don't include them in your sports drink unless you stay near a bathroom.








Tips & Warnings










You can omit the fruit juice and double the recipe if you want a lighter sports drink.








Make sure you research the herbs you choose.








Consult with your doctor just to make sure the herbs you choose are suitable.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2070634_herbal-sports-drink.html

How to Make Oil Infusions

How to Make Oil Infusions



Making an oil infusion is simply pouring boiling water over herbs to extract the essential oils. This can work for leaves and flowers. The infusions can be used for massage, creams, ointments or aromatherapy purposes. Some medicinal herbs are volatile, and it is safer to make a cold oil infusion rather than a hot oil infusion with them.







Making Hot Oil Infusion




1


Place either nine ounces of dried or 1-1/4 pound fresh of your chosen herbs and 2 cups of a light oil, such as sunflower, safflower or sweet almond, in a glass bowl, and place it over a saucepan with simmering water. Heat for about two hours.





2


Pour through cheesecloth into a clean, glass container.





3


Squeeze the oil through the bag. The bag will be hot, so wear gloves.





4


Pour oil into clean, dark, glass bottles.





5


Seal tightly and refrigerate for up to three months.



Making Cold Oil Infusion




1


Pack your herbs in a large, glass jar and cover with oil. Use nine ounces of dried herbs or 1-1/4 pound of fresh herbs and 2 cups pure vegetable oil, such as sunflower, safflower or sweet almond oil.





2


Seal the jar and leave it in a warm, sunny place for two weeks.





3


Pour into a clean, glass jar, straining through cheese cloth.





4


Squeeze as much oil through the bag, and pour into clean, dark, glass bottles.





5


Seal the bottles and store in the refrigerator for up to three months.








Tips & Warnings










To make the infusion stronger, repeat the first three steps with a fresh batch of herbs, but use the same oil.








Store oil in small bottles because the oil begins to deteriorate after it's opened.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2093152_make-oil-infusions.html

How to Properly Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry

How to Properly Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry



If you own a lot of sterling silver jewelry and always wondered how best to clean it when it tarnishes and turns black, here's an easy, fail safe way to clean your pieces with all items that you already have in your home. It's so simple; you'll be amazed by its simplicity.







Things You'll Need:





Aluminum Pan



Baking Soda



Hot Water



Towel









1


Start by placing all your silver pieces laying flat on the aluminum pan (the kind you get from takeout food) spread out so there isn't crowding and that each piece of silver touches and interacts with the aluminum surface.




2


Sprinkle a light dusting of baking soda over the jewelry, enough so that every piece is covered but not buried.




3


Boil water. Once the water reaches boiling point, pour it over the pan immersing the jewelry completely.




4


Let the jewelry soak in the hot water solution for a minute. The water will start to fizzle and emit a foul smelling steam reminiscent of rotten eggs. That's because the steam is partly composed of sulfur (which is what creates the tarnish).




5


Stir the water a little bit to ensure that all the baking soda has dissolved.




6


Once the fizzle stops, you can pour out the water and rinse the jewelry in cold water.




7


Pat the jewelry dry with a towel. It should now sparkle and shine and look like new. If there's still some tarnish, repeat the process again.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2135426_properly-clean-sterling-silver-jewelry.html

How to Properly Care for a Belly Piercing

How to Properly Care for a Belly Piercing



It's got to be the most popular place to get a piercing second only to the ears. Yet the details on what to do once you've got a belly button piercing are fuzzier than my favorite teddy bear. I've run the gamut of tricks and tips, and decided I couldn't be the only one wandering aimlessly through the land of confusion without a map. If you've been wanting to get your belly button pierced, or have it pierced and don't know why it wont heal, this should help







Things You'll Need:





A pierced belly button



Surgical steel ring or belly jewel



A shot glass



Table or Sea salt



Antibacterial Soap



A clean towel or washcloth



Patience









Step
1



Expectation: It's important to know what you've just gotten yourself into. A belly button piercing is one of the hardest piercings to heal, and takes the longest. Some people can heal in as fast as two or three months. For others, it can take up to a year. If your piercing artist tells you a couple weeks, forget it. Not going to happen. Know that this will take a while, and you'll have tons more patience as it gets further into the healing process.




Step
2



Resistance: After you've gotten your belly button pierced, your natural inclination will be to mess with it. Spin the ring, or tweak the jewel, pull on your tummy so you can see it better. DONT. You've just had a piece of metal shoved through
your
skin


where metal was not supposed to go. It's a wound, and needs clean conditions to heal properly. Each time you tug on it you aggravate the edges of the wound. The more you leave it alone, the quicker it will heal. The only time you should mess with the piercing is when you clean it.




Step
3



Endurance: The first week of your piercing will be the best you'll have during the healing process. The skin is smooth and clear, you can wear those short tops that show off the new decoration. You might want to take pictures now, so that in two months when you're tired of messing with it, you can look back and see how killer your tummy will look when it's all said and done.

Your piercing will require attention every other day if not every day. It wont take long, fifteen minutes at the most, which includes prep and actual cleaning. For some you'll just be able to add a short routine to your shower, for others it'll take that extra step. Don't fall into the same trap I did: Oh, it's been long enough, I don't need to care for it every day, every two or three days should be plenty. Nope.




Step
4



First Two Weeks: Wash the piercing every day, once in the morning and once before bedtime. Use only antibacterial soap, like Dial, and make sure you have a clean washcloth each time. Wash your hands thoroughly with the soap, then rub a good lathering of soap onto your fingertips, and thoroughly clean your piercing. Get the sudsy stuff into your actual belly button; clean the ring itself; clean the skin around the piercing. Last but not least, get the ring nice and sudsy, then spin it thru the piercing to get the soap down into the wound itself. Don't worry, it wont sting. Not even a little bit.

Time to wash it off. With luke-warm water, lean over the sink and cup the water onto your piercing. Be sure to spin the ring again so you rinse out the wound. PAT it dry, and make sure you've got any excess water out from inside your belly button. Now that you've got everything clean and dry, don't twirl or mess with the ring anymore. Total time? Five minutes or less. And yes, this can be done in the shower.




Step
5



Weeks Three thru Final Healing: Now comes the tedious part. You can drop the washings down to just once a day, like during your shower or before bedtime. Just make sure you do it at least every other day. Remember that this will last for at least a couple, if not several months. If you keep a daily routine and don't mess with the piercing, you shouldn't get any infections. Just keep the routine, and it should heal fine.




Step
6



That Extra Step: A lot of piercing artists recommend the shot glass method. If you get bad crusties, or have a minor infection, the shot glass method will help get rid of the bacteria, and set your healing back on the right track. If you've got extra time, I highly recommend using this method every day in place of one of your cleanings as a preventative measure.

Take a shot glass and pour about half a teaspoon of table or sea salt into the bottom. Add hot water to dissolve the salt, and stir to ensure proper disbursement of the solution. While the mixture is cooling off (to luke-warm) grab a pillow and a clean wash cloth, and arrange them on the surface of your choice.

Once the solution is ready, take the shot glass, and leaning over at the waist, line up the bottom rim of the glass just underneath your belly button. Quickly place the rest of the shot glass over the piercing, surrounding it. If you remain leaning over during this process, you wont have any spillage, and it will suction to your tummy.

At this point you can stand up, and go lay down on your back. Wait five or ten minutes allowing the solution to soak into the wound. Once your time's up, stand up, and reverse the process. Lean over, remove the shot glass by pulling away from the top of the piercing first, and empty the glass into the sink.

Check your piercing for any oozing of pus or fluid. If there is any, squeeze as much out as you can, and wipe it clean. Be sure to rinse the salt solution from your piercing, and pat dry.







Tips & Warnings









In the first couple of weeks it's possible the piercing may develop dry skin and crust over. If this happens, use A&D ointment, just the tiniest drop, and lightly lubricate the piercing holes. Be sure to clean it thoroughly before doing so.








If you see a little bit of white or offcolor crusty bits on the ring itself, and you don't have dry skin, don't be alarmed. It's the result of your body trying to heal itself, and producing extra fluid to flush the wound. Just be sure to wash off the crusty bits from the ring before you clean the wound by twirling it around inside so you don't tear anything.








Be sure to wear loose clothing and shirts that have breathable material for the first couple months. Tight clothing can restrict the blood flow and irritate the piercing.








For the first couple weeks, try to sleep on your side. If you tend toward sleeping on your tummy, then prop a pillow on your side so you don't roll over.








Try to get the piercing during the winter, so you don't miss out on swimming. Chlorine can irritate the wound and cause infection. If you do go swimming, or take a dip in a hot tub, be sure to immediately clean out the piercing.








Don't swap out your ring until the wound is fully healed. Anything less than surgical steel can flake or cause infection inside the wound, which can cost you the piercing.








A lack of attention to your piercing can result in severe infection, swollen skin, redness, pus, the list goes on. If the infection is bad enough, it can even cause the metal to rip itself out of your skin and cause a tear. OUCH. Take the fifteen or less minutes a day to keep the piercing clean, and it'll last you your whole life.








It's important you have a dry belly button - excess moisture can cause bacteria to grow.








Your piercing will go through phases: for a while it will look clean and have an even skin tone. Then it will get a little red, appear aggravated, have a crusty edge on it. It's alright. Don't panic unless it gets seriously red, tender and sensitive to the slightest touch, and starts to ooze thick, yellow pus. IF this happens, go to a piercing artist and have him/her help you pop the infection and clean it.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2072151_properly-care-belly-piercing.html

How to Prevent Suntan Lotion Stains on a Bathing Suit

How to Prevent Suntan Lotion Stains on a Bathing Suit



Bathing suits have gone up in both price and quality recently. It is possible to spend as much one a good suit these days as it once was to purchase an evening gown. As quality swimsuits have become an investment, it is imperative to take good care of them and that includes preventing suntan lotion stains.







Things You'll Need:





Water-based lotion



Stain remover









Step
1



Buy suntan lotion that is water-based rather than oil-based to prevent stains on your suit. These are relatively new products but can be found with a little hunting. Always check the label to make sure it is free from mineral oil.




Step
2



Apply lotion to your entire body before putting on your bathing suit. Allow it to dry completely before you dress in your suit. When you need to reapply, do so in a restroom where you can remove the suit first, or have a mirror in front of you while you carefully put on more lotion.




Step
3



Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after putting on suntan lotion. To give yourself enough hand-washing time, sing the ABC song in your head while you lather up, and don't stop washing until you have gone through the entire song.




Step
4



Obtain your tan the sunless way to avoid having to overuse suntan lotion, which will prevent stains on your bathing suit. There are great spray-on tans and tanning beds you can use, but be sure not to get
tanning
products


on your favorite suit. Always wear an old bathing suit or tan in the buff to prevent this.




Step
5



Remove those stains you could not prevent with Bio-OX

Citrus


Concentrate. It will get rid of the stains if you soak your suit in a water-filled sink with a small amount of the stain-removing product. Air-dry your suit the following day. You can find out more about how to purchase and use Bio-OX Citrus Concentrate from its official website (see Resources below).







Tips & Warnings









If you do suffer a stain on your bathing suit, rinse it out in cool, chlorine-free water as soon as possible.








Save your favorite and most expensive swimsuits to wear at evening pool parties when you won't need to worry about suntan lotion stains.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228133_prevent-suntan-lotion-stains-bathing.html

How to Prevent Sandals From Causing Blisters

How to Prevent Sandals From Causing Blisters



It's typical for new

sandals


to cause blisters to form on your tender feet. In fact, just about any new shoe is bound to do this. This happens because new shoes are still rather stiff and unyielding against your feet, causing parts of the shoes to rub back and forth against your feet as you walk, which leads to blisters. It usually takes a few days to one week for sandals to stretch out enough to stop causing blisters. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to prevent blisters from forming.







Things You'll Need:





Adhesive bandages



Piece of smooth, comfortable fabric



Talcum powder



Baby oil









Step
1



Wear socks with your sandals until they're sufficiently stretched out and worn.




Step
2



Put an adhesive bandage across your heel where the back strap of your sandal rubs. This way, the strap will rub the bandage and not you skin. If your sandals rub other parts of your foot as well, place bandages in those places.




Step
3



Glue or tape a small piece of smooth, comfortable fabric on the inside of your sandals in the places that are causing blisters. Once you've broken in the sandals, you can remove the fabric.




Step
4



Ask someone with slightly bigger feet than you to wear your sandals for one or two days to stretch them out, so they won't continue causing blisters.




Step
5



Dust talcum powder on the areas of your foot where the sandals are causing blisters. This will help the sandal parts slide comfortably over
your
skin


. If you don't have talcum powder, baby oil also works.




Step
6



Tape three to four cotton balls to your heel or other blister-prone area, and then slide socks over your feet. The more cotton you use, the more padding you'll have to prevent blisters. Just make sure you don't tape on so many cotton balls that you can no longer get your sandals on your feet.







Tips & Warnings









You can put a piece of soft fabric inside your sock if you're wearing socks with your sandals. Position the fabric so that it takes the brunt of the rubbing that's been causing blisters.








If wearing one pair of socks doesn't prevent blisters, put two pairs on each foot. The thicker the padding between you and the sides of the sandals, the less likelihood there is of blisters forming.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228114_prevent-sandals-from-causing-blisters.html

How to Prevent Muffin Top in Fashion

How to Prevent Muffin Top in Fashion



Walk down any street or high school hall in America and you will see the muffin top. No, it's not a baked good. A muffin top is a condition that happens when the belly spills over the waistband. It is a curable condition; just follow these steps to get rid of your muffin top.









Step
1



Wear clothes that fit all of you. Your hips may fit a size 8, but your waistline is busting out of a ten. Wearing clothes that fit your whole body prevents the restriction on the abdomen, which leads to a muffin top.




Step
2



Wear a size larger. The long-standing myth is to make yourself look smaller by wearing smaller clothes. Well, this is how a muffin top is formed; the tight waistline constricts the belly fat, pushing it up and out of the pants. Find your size, and then go up one. Contrary to belief, a size larger is flattering on a woman's figure. The clothes lay on the body, accentuating it, not clinging to it for dear life.




Step
3



Get rid of the belly fat. There are several ways to rid the abdomen of the fat that causes a muffin top. Weight training, cardio exercises and eating well are a few ways to reduce the belly fat, and eliminate the muffin top.




Step
4



Banish those low rise jeans. They were once thought to prevent a muffin top, but low rise jeans actually create one. Go for the mid rise jeans which have an added bonus: they prevent the showcasing of your underwear to that world--an unwanted feature of low rise jeans.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2126803_prevent-muffin-top.html

How to Prevent Foot Odor in Sandals

How to Prevent Foot Odor in Sandals



Foot odor is a common pitfall of wearing

sandals


. This pernicious odor is caused by bacteria that invade the shoes and the soles of the feet in warm, damp conditions. Foot odor is usually not noticed until the sandals are taken off, but if it's present, it won't be long before everyone in the room knows about it. This can be embarrassing to say the least. Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent foot odor in sandals.







Things You'll Need:





Foot deodorant



Zinc supplement









Step
1



Use a high-quality foot deodorant on a daily basis. Make sure the foot deodorant contains zinc oxide, as this ingredient is key in keeping odor-causing bacteria away.




Step
2



Scrub your feet thoroughly with soap and water every day. Clean feet aren't as susceptible to odor-causing bacteria infestations.




Step
3



Get at least 15 mg of zinc every day, either through
your
diet


or through supplementation. Zinc creates a hostile environment for odor-causing bacteria and helps prevent it from attaching to your feet.




Step
4



Wear socks with closed-toe sandals. The sweat from your feet will get absorbed into the base of the sandals if you're not wearing socks, allowing odor-causing bacteria to breed. Socks form a barrier between your feet and the sandals.




Step
5



Wear open-toed sandals whenever possible. Closed-toed sandals create a warm, wet environment that is perfect for the formation of odor-causing bacteria. Open-toed sandals let fresh air circulate between the foot and the shoe, which helps to prevent the bacteria from forming.




Step
6



Select sandals made of cotton or leather. It is easier for odor-causing bacteria to grow in synthetic materials.




Step
7



Buy odor-eating insoles for your sandals. These insoles are infused with bacteria repellents that will help keep your feet from having any sort of odor when you remove your sandals.







Tips & Warnings









Put your sandals in a clean, cool, dry place each night to let them breathe. This will discourage the proliferation of bacteria on the sandals and keep them smelling fresh.








Air out your odor-eating insoles each night. Leaving them in the sandals makes them lose their effectiveness sooner. Allowing them access to air circulation at night will keep them operational for a long time.








If none of these suggestions works for you and you still have foot odor, you may have to throw out your sandals and buy a new pair. If foot odor persists even then, you may have a systemic problem that requires medical attention, so you should make an appointment with your doctor.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228113_prevent-foot-odor-sandals.html

How to Preserve a Prom Dress

How to Preserve a Prom Dress



Prom night often ranks high on the list of events a girl will want to remember for the rest of her life. Many women want to keep their prom dresses years after they've gone out of style, never to be worn again. For the sake of memories, it's important to keep the dress looking like it did on that magical evening.









Step
1



Have the dress professionally cleaned as soon as possible to remove any food, drinks or body oils. The longer these things are left on the gown, the harder it is to remove them later. Be sure that any sequins or beads on the dress can survive the cleaning process.




Step
2



Stuff bodices and curved areas of the prom dress with acid-free white tissue paper. This will prevent these areas from becoming creased over time.




Step
3



Fold the dress carefully and wrap it entirely, using the same acid-free tissue paper that was used to stuff the curved areas.




Step
4



Place the prom dress in an acid-free, archival safe cardboard box. Many formal wear and bridal gown shops offer special boxes for preservation purposes.




Step
5



Keep the prom dress stored in a cool, dry location. Dampness and heat can ruin the dress over time.




Step
6



Change the box that the dress is stored in every 3 to 5 years to prevent the box from re-acidifying and harming your prom dress.







Tips & Warnings









Check on the condition of your dress every 1 or 2 years to ensure that there are no severe creases and/or latent stains.








Do not store your prom dress in plastic. As plastic breaks down, it releases chemicals and fumes that will ruin your dress.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2108262_preserve-prom-dress.html

How to Prepare for Winter If You're From Warm Climates

How to Prepare for Winter If You're From Warm Climates



If you're from a warm climate and about to head somewhere chillier for the fall and winter months, you'll definitely need to look for some clothes to keep you toasty through the seasons. Coats, sweaters, long underwear, gloves and hats are not all created equally, and you need to figure out the things that will protect you from the elements.









1


Buy an excellent three-season coat. This is a coat that you can wear when it's a little nippy or rainy but that you wouldn't wear in the snow or when it's very cold and windy. Look for something in a lighter fabric, like a lightweight wool or heavy cotton, but also keep your eyes peeled for something lined. A classic trench will do.




2


Look for a coat that's made of wool or a wool-cashmere mix for colder weather. In addition to lining, try your best to find a coat with a thinsulate lining. This material is excellent at keeping the elements off of your skin. It acts just like fleece, stopping wind from cutting through your garments, but like its name implies, it's very thin. Try to find a coat, also, with a hood.




3


Get a couple of pairs of sweater tights to wear either with skirts or under your jeans. Look for tights with a thick knit, which will block the cold from your skin.




4


Invest in a pair of flannel-lined jeans for days when the weather is REALLY cold. In general, it's pretty hard to find a pair that looks flattering or anything in a modern cut, but when it's really cold outside and you have to take Lassie for a walk, you probably won't even care what you look like.




5


Find hats, gloves and scarves made of cashmere or wool. For hats, look for something that covers your ears. Buy gloves that are lined with thinsulate. Look for a scarf that matches most of your things but won't dirty too easily.




6


Buy two pairs of boots: one leather pair, for walking around on a daily basis, and one pair of snow boots, which should be waterproof and complete with a rubber sole to protect you while walking on slippery, icy spots.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2129952_prepare-winter-youre-warm-climates.html