Skin Care Beauty Tips

Skin Care Beauty Tips
The best treatment is done with preventive efforts. Try different anti-stress treatments. Eat healthy. Drink alcohol with moderation. Take care of your beauty sleep. I know it doesn't sound all that fun, but no gain without pain.
Source: EzineArticles.com

Barbara Hannah Grufferman: Fight 'Bat Wings' With These 2 Star-Approved Exercises

Barbara Hannah Grufferman: Fight 'Bat Wings' With These 2 Star-Approved Exercises

A few years ago I turned 50 and realized that I had been letting myself go: Packing on the post-menopausal pounds and not doing any regular exercise, it was all really starting to show.

Unsure of what steps to take, I did what so many of us do under these circumstances: nothing. When the weight gain started to go past 15 pounds and my arms took on the look of bat wings, I decided that drastic measures were required.

I started eating all the right things (and stopped eating the ones that were wreaking havoc on my health and weight) and embarked on a run/walk program developed by Olympian runner Jeff Galloway, eventually losing all 15 lbs and going down an entire pant size.

But even though I was fitter (and a lot healthier), my upper arms were still as mushy as ever (my daughters would say "squishy"). It's true that as we get older, firming up certain parts of our bodies isn't as easy as it once was. But I soon found out it is far from impossible.

For many years I had heard about the NYC-based celebrity trainer David Kirsch, who regularly works with Heidi Klum, Anne Hathaway, Ellen Barkin and many others. In the name of research (I was just starting to write "The Best of Everything After 50", I called David and told him that I wanted to get stronger and firmer -- with a special focus on my upper arms -- so he graciously invited me to come to his world-famous gym for a little assessment. When he asked me to get down and "do 10" (push-ups), he didn't laugh or smirk or roll his eyes when I couldn't even do one. Instead, David gave me a challenge I couldn't refuse:

Barbara, do these two exercises -- which I will show you -- every day for four weeks. When you come back to see me again, your body -- especially your upper arms -- will be transformed. I guarantee it.

Result? My arms developed curves I never thought I would ever have, and I can now do 20 or more push-ups (yes, at the same time, smarty pants). I am stronger, feel more powerful and I know I'm doing everything right to fight osteoporosis. (I'm proud to report that the National Osteoporosis Foundation will be honoring me at an awards luncheon on September 24th in NYC because of my articles about creating a sustainable approach to healthy and positive aging.)

That was three years ago, and I still do them every day. Just as David challenged me, here's my challenge to you: Do these two exercises every day for four weeks, exactly as I outlined below (correct form is key: check out the short video showing me doing push-ups below) and then look in the mirror and let me know what you see. (Or better yet, have someone take a "before" and "after" photo of you wearing a spaghetti strap dress.) Of course, you'll look even better if you follow the healthy eating plan designed specifically for post-50 women and burn some calories by running and/or walking -- see the chapter on fitness for exact details. But even if you do nothing else, you will see a change. And keep it going! These exercises are not a quick fix, although they do work remarkably fast. They are for life.

Here's what you'll need:

• yoga mat
• sneakers
• form fitting workout clothes (so you can check on your form)
• timer

Here are the rules:

• Get the green light from your doctor.
• Do these every day.
• Do one set in the very beginning, but work up to three sets.
• Do these moves as a "circuit" (move very quickly from one exercise to the other so you're getting a cardio workout, too).
• Follow the exact directions for each move (details below).
• Remember to breathe.
• Take a 10 second "breather" between each set.

Other things you can do to help with your overall fitness program:

• Try to do some kind of cardio exercise every day for at least 30 minutes: Walk, run, elliptical, swim, bike, Zumba... Whatever you enjoy doing.
• Eat small, healthy meals throughout the day (every two to three hours) that include whole grains, dark leafy greens and no processed foods or sugar.
• Drink lots of water and green tea

And here are the two exercises that will transform your upper arms (and other parts, too!):

The Push-Up:
Nothing symbolizes fitness quite like the simple push-up. It tests your entire body by engaging every part of it -- arms, chest, abdomen, hips and legs. Doing them is the easiest, fastest and most effective way to get fit. They are the gold standard. You may need to start with a modified push-up (on your knees), but eventually, you'll build up to the full push-up.

How to do a full push-up: Make your entire body straight, like a plank, with your toes and the balls of your feet on the mat, and hands directly under your chest. Using your arms, go down to the count of four, and back up to the count of four. Do 12 to 15 reps. (Watch this YouTube video of me demonstrating how to do a push-up, below. David taught me that how low you go is not the most important thing. Keeping the proper form is.)

The Plank: This is an incredibly hard, but Zen-like position that is one of the most effective exercises you can do because it works your entire body, including your upper arms.

How to do The Plank: Hold your body in a "plank" position, simulating the "up" part of a push-up (see YouTube video above), but stay there, holding perfectly still, for 30 to 60 seconds. Keep your abs tight and your back flat the entire time. Try to lengthen your whole body, reaching back through your heels and forward through the top of your head. Your heart will be pounding, your arms will be shaking, but try to make it to 60 seconds (or more).

You can do it!

* * *

Barbara Hannah Grufferman is the President of Best of Everything Media, Inc., author of "The Best of Everything After 50", a guide to positive aging, and is at work on her second book, "Fifty Rules: What Every Woman Needs to Know Before Turning 50," which will be published in late 2012. Barbara is the Chief Pundit at Fab Over Fifty, one of the largest websites for women over 45. She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Earlier on Huff/Post50:

• Yoga

  Yoga offers a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/deepak-chopra/yoga-heart-health_b_900621.html" target="_hplink">myriad of wellness benefits:</a> flexibility, balance, centeredness, strength, mindfulness and others. Yoga is a great option for aging bodies, as it promotes working within your own comfort zone. Postures and sequences range from gentle and relaxing to more intensive for advanced yogis.

• Stretching

  Another way to promote flexibility and overall health is incorporating some simple stretches into your daily routine, be it at home, at the gym or even outdoors. Stretching prevents injury, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/10/24/yoga-stretching-back-pain_n_1029014.html" target="_hplink">can relieve back pain</a> and boosts energy. Note: It's important to stretch properly to avoid injury. Check out some good <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/healthtool-basic-stretches" target="_hplink">examples of stretches here</a> and these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/08/stretching-mistakes_n_892444.html#s304603&title=Not_Doing_It" target="_hplink">common stretching mistakes</a>.

• Biking

  Biking is a great low-impact, cardiovascular workout, not to mention it's a lot of fun. There are a few ways to incorporate biking into your routine. Joy rides in your free time are always a good option -- alone or with a group. You could consider joining a local bike group or riding to nearby destinations instead of taking the car. <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/456032-stationary-bikes-and-health-benefits/" target="_hplink">Stationary bikes</a> also have great health benefits. Already a cycler? Here's how to get <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/05/30/6-ways-to-get-more-benefi_n_868670.html#s285033&title=Get_in_tune" target="_hplink">more benefit from your bike ride</a>.

• Brisk Walks

  One of the most <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/walking/HQ01612" target="_hplink">beneficial exercises</a> is something humans have been doing for centuries: walking. Simple modifications to your routine, like parking further away and walking the extra distance or taking the stairs instead of the elevator, can really add up to boost your overall health. For an even greater benefit, take brisk walks that get your heart rate up.

• Pilates

  <a href="http://pilates.about.com/od/whatispilates/a/WhatIsPilates.htm" target="_hplink">Pilates</a> is another low-impact exercise that's ideal for aging bodies. It's similar to yoga but puts more emphasis on gaining control and balance of the body by strengthening the core muscles. Pilates can be done in a class or at home with a video or other guide. <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/paola-bassanese/keep-fit-with-classical-p_b_987756.html" target="_hplink">This piece</a> offers a great run-down of the activity, along with images of some classic pilates stretches and workouts.

• Tennis

  Tennis is a classic sport, well-loved for being fun and <a href="http://my.clevelandclinic.org/heart/prevention/exercise/tennis.aspx" target="_hplink">great for you</a>. It's a strong aerobic workout and helps keep you agile, especially important as you get older. Tennis is also a very social activity -- great for the body, mind and spirit!

• Swimming

  Swimming is easy on the body and is also one of the most comprehensive workouts, hitting <a href="http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/guide/fitness-basics-swimming-is-for-everyone" target="_hplink">all the major muscle groups</a>: shoulders, back, abdominals, legs, hips and glutes. If you're getting serious about swimming, it's important to learn proper techniques, but even free-styling in the local pool or outdoors in the summer is a great way to exercise.

• Dance

  Dancing is one of those activities that doesn't feel like working out, but is an incredible <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/91589-fitness-benefits-dance/" target="_hplink">aerobic exercise</a>. It's a good option for those that want more physical activity but don't like the gym or in the winter when it's harder to get outdoors. There are a bunch of styles to choose from: ballroom dancing, contra dancing, salsa, ballet, tap, country and others.

• Elliptical

  As the body ages, running and jogging can take a toll on the joints, knees or back and potentially cause injury. An elliptical cross-training machine is an alternative to running, which still gets your heart rate up but at a <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/elliptical-machines/AN01620" target="_hplink">lower impact</a>.

• Strengthening Exercises

  You can take a simple walk to the next level by bringing weights along to build strength in your arms and boost the cardio benefits. Strength-building techniques like pushups, squats and lunges are easy to do at home or can be squeezed into buckets of free time throughout the day.

Follow Barbara Hannah Grufferman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/BGrufferman

FOLLOW HEALTH AND FITNESS

Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Asthma Attack

Asthma causes people to miss work and the children are missing more and more school because of this disease. People are being hospitalized because of the severity of asthma. There is no cure only medication can help to relieve the symptoms.

Asthma develops in the lungs and pulmonary system and when a person gets a virus infection it in the lungs, it can bring on an asthma attack. A person not even knowing they have asthma (inflammation in the airways) can sometimes have an attack. A simple cold or flu can bring on an asthma attack as well. A virus infection does not cause asthma but will bring out the worst of asthma. A known study found that children with frequent virus infections at the age of 3 showed a lower risk of having asthma.

Asthma attacks are not only limited to the tightening of the muscles of the air tube but it can be caused by the inflammation of the airway’s lining as well. Have you ever experienced scraping your knee? If you’re observant, you will notice that the knee area swells and a fluid oozes out. This fluid is made up of cells which fight the infection but it also contributes to swelling. The same thing happens in the airways. When the airways are inflamed, the lining oozes out fluid which contributes to swelling and at the same time, it obstructs the air passage. 

This writer also writes Does Cold Sore Zapper Work.

Dr. Karen Becker: Is Every Trip to the Vet Traumatic for Your Pet? This Service Could Be for You

Dr. Karen Becker: Is Every Trip to the Vet Traumatic for Your Pet? This Service Could Be for You

A growing number of pet owners are turning to mobile veterinarians or "vets on wheels" to care for furry family members.

Mobile vet clinics can be an ideal solution for families with pets who are:

• Shy, scared or skittish
• Elderly
• Large breed dogs with mobility problems
• Aggressive

Having your vet come to you instead of the other way around can also be a blessing for:

• Multi-pet households
• People with hectic or unpredictable schedules
• Couples with a new baby or young children at home
• Shut-ins, senior citizens, and people who don't drive
• Breeders who don't want to expose very young animals to other patients

Why Some Pet Owners Prefer Mobile to Brick-and-Mortar Vet Clinics

Many family pets, especially cats, experience extreme, debilitating stress when they must travel even a short distance. It's not unusual for a very distressed, frightened cat or dog to vomit or lose bladder or bowel control on car rides to and from the vet's office.

With a vet on wheels, the travel your pet endures is no more than a short walk down the driveway to the waiting mobile vet unit.

Lots of pets and their owners find waiting around for the vet during a clinic visit unnerving. When your vet comes to you, you're waiting in the comfort of your own home, and your pet remains calm.

Families with several pets can get everyone wellness checked at the same time. This avoids multiple vet appointments or trying to wrangle several pets at once to, from and at the veterinary clinic.

Often, examining a pet in his own environment is more helpful and productive than attempting to diagnose a problem when the animal is stressed out during a visit to the vet.

Also, having your vet come to you lowers the risk your pet will be exposed to diseases that may be lurking in a clinic waiting room. This is a tremendous advantage if your pet is very young, elderly or has a weakened immune system.

Many owners who are facing the death of a beloved companion prefer to have their pet euthanized at home, surrounded by family members.

Potential Drawbacks to Using a Mobile Veterinary Service

While there are a number of benefits to using a mobile veterinary service, there are also some drawbacks you should be prepared for if you decide to look into the service for your pet.

• Availability of services. While mobile vet units seem to be catching on with both new DVMs and those who want to expand their existing practices, there are still many more brick-and-mortar veterinary practices than there are clinics on wheels. If you don't already know of a mobile vet in your area, I recommend either Googling the information or contacting your state veterinary medical association for assistance. You can also check the listings at the American Association of Housecall Veterinarians or the AAHV.

In addition, currently most mobile DVMs are the equivalent of primary care doctors for humans. In other words, you won't find veterinary specialists aboard a mobile unit, nor are you apt to find integrative or holistic vets, or specialists in pet chiropractic, acupuncture or physical rehabilitation.

• Appointment scheduling. Due to travel, set-up time and other peculiarities of operating a mobile vet clinic, DVMs-on-wheels are able to see far fewer patients each day than their counterparts in regular practice. You could run into a situation where appointments are booked far in advance, which may or may not work with your needs or the needs of your pet.

• Cost. Mobile veterinary services are typically more expensive than the same services at traditional veterinary clinics. Travel to and from appointments carries its own expense, and each mobile call takes considerably longer than regular clinic visits. Mobile vets have no choice but to charge higher fees for the convenience of bringing their clinic to their patients rather than the other way around.

• Limited services. While some mobile veterinary units are well-equipped to perform an amazing menu of medical services, many are limited to just a few types of exams and procedures. If your pet is very ill or requires a specialist, a mobile unit probably isn't the way to go. Mobile clinics are also not typically equipped to handle emergencies.

Dr. Karen Becker is a proactive and integrative wellness veterinarian. You can visit her site at: MercolaHealthyPets.com.

Her goal is to help you create wellness in order to prevent illness in the lives of your pets. This proactive approach seeks to save you and your pet from unnecessary stress and suffering by identifying and removing health obstacles even before disease occurs. Unfortunately, most veterinarians in the United States are trained to be reactive. They wait for symptoms to occur, and often treat those symptoms without addressing the root cause.

By reading Dr. Becker's information, you'll learn how to make impactful, consistent lifestyle choices to improve your pet's quality of life.

For more by Dr. Karen Becker, click here.

For more on pet health, click here.

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Source: www.huffingtonpost.com

Laser Hair Removal Is Way Way Better Than Shaving

Why would you need to expend all of your time shaving or waxing if you can do one thing that would have a long term effect on the problem? Laser hair removal is probably the right solution for you!! Just imagine how much time you could save by not having to shave every day. Get the rest of the article

Healthy Skin Care Means a Younger You

Skin that is unhealthy and damaged can make you look much older than you really are. However, on the other hand, skin that looks healthy and radiant can make you look younger. Get the rest of the article

Understanding VelaShape: Is It Right for You?

Understanding VelaShape: Is It Right for You?
If you've heard of VelaShape, it probably sounded like miracle cure for cellulite! VelaShape is one of many tools that women everywhere add to their cellulite-fighting arsenal because of the great online and word of mouth reviews from friends and practitioners alike. Although it is a highly effective treatment that can make a big difference to your body, it does require a bit of lifestyle care to realize its full potential. So before you run to your local medical spa in a frenzy, it's a good idea to investigate how it works and what's involved. That way, you can make any suggested lifestyle adjustments that might enhance its treatment capabilities, and also feel confident that it's safe and has potential for being effective for your specific set of needs. Here is some valuable information regarding how VelaShape works to fight cellulite and what your best treatment options might be.
Source: EzineArticles.com