Tips for Everyday Life

FIRE: THINGS TO REMEMBER

2009-08-27T03:38:00.000-07:00

1. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.

2. Keep matches, lighters and the like away from children.

3. Do not hang clothes over a hot stove, and make sure that your kitchen curtains do not get near the stove.

4. When lighting candles, make sure that no inflammable drapery or materials get near them.

5. Do not use inflammable cleaning liquids in a closed room or near a fire.

6. Ensure that cigars and cigarette butts are disposed of properly.

7. If your clothing catches fire, lie down at once and smother the flames by rolling up in a blanket, rug or overcoat, leaving the head uncovered.

8. When getting out of a burning building, or in helping someone else get out, remember that the best air is likely to be 3 or 4 feet above floor level, that leaving doors and windows open will create drafts and make the fire burn more fiercely, and that the air on the other side of the door that feels hot to the hand may be so hot that it will be fatal to inhale it.

9. Do not try to extinguish an oil or grease fire with water. Use sand or salt instead, to smother it.

TREATING A COMMON COLD

2009-08-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

1. Try to have as much rest as possible. Adequate rest builds up resistance and hastens recovery.

2. Diet should be light and must include plenty of liquids like soup, water and fruit juices.

3. Have enough clothing on for warmth.

4. Keep dry and avoid exposure to the breeze.

5. Difficulty in breathing, sore throat and hoarseness accompanying a cold may usually be relieved by steam inhalation.

HOW TO HAVE A LIKEABLE PERSONALITY

2009-08-20T04:28:00.000-07:00

1. Don’t express your opinion freely and unsought.

2. Don’t feel superior among your friends.

3. Once in a while, join friends or colleagues for lunch or snack.

4. Read the papers and be updated on the news that matter, so that you’ll be ready to converse with anyone at anytime.

5. Lessen the habit of borrowing.

6. Don’t be a “Dutch treat” addict.

7. Entertain once in a while, even if it costs money.

8. Don’t pride yourself upon your absolute frankness.

9. Be nice to children (not just your own).

10. Don’t keep people waiting when you have an appointment with them.

11. Dress appropriately on every occasion.

12. Never nurse grudges.

13. Do not say bad things against people behind their backs.

14. Be nice and patient to telephone operators and salesmen.

15. Keep your word. Never break it as often as you keep it.

16. Give only objective and constructive criticism. Choose words that are not demoralizing and degrading.

17. Give sincere compliments.

18. Listen when someone is talking, don’t interrupt.

19. Be genuinely happy for the success of your friends.

20. Smile.

SAFETY TIPS FOR LPG USERS

2009-08-17T02:16:00.000-07:00

1. Have the installation of your LPG done by a contractor experienced on these systems.

2. Periodically examine the color of the flame. A yellow flame indicates poor combustion. Correct according to manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Use your eyes and your nose when detecting a leak in your LPG. Brush on a soap solution and look for bubbles in checking for leaks.

4. Do not look for a leak with a lighted candle, match or other open light.

5. Turn off the LPG at tank and vacate the premises once leak is detected.

6. Ventilate the house thoroughly if a leak occurs.

7. Call your LPG contractor or an experienced repairman to fix the leaks and other problems before using your LPG again.

8. Make sure that there is adequate air for combustion.

9. Don’t refill the storage tank after dark.

10. Don’t open the tank valves and allow vapor or liquid to escape into the air. Use gauge to check gas supply.

11. Don’t allow weeds and grass to grow or trash to collect around the supply tanks.

GET RELIEF FROM DYSMENORRHEA

2009-08-06T09:45:00.000-07:00

Dysmenorrhea happens in a lot of women. Some even dread the days of the month when their period is due.

There are two types of dysmenorrhea.

Primary dysmenorrhea is hereditary and usually begins with the onset of menstruation (adolescence) and may lessen after pregnancy or with age. It is the cramping abdominal pain that lasts for several days during a woman's period. It may be accompanied by a number of related symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, cramps around the thighs, backaches, headache, bloating, diarrhea and even constipation.

Secondary dysmenorrhea develops later in life. Often, secondary dysmenorrhea is caused by fibroid tumors, a narrow cervix or endometriosis (the displacement of tissue from the uterine lining to areas elsewhere in the body).It is characterized by a kind of congested, dull pain that begins around two weeks before the start of your period. This kind of cramping is more common in women in their 30’s and 40’s and usually does not get better with age. It can be accompanied by bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness, headaches, lower back pain, and irritability.

Here are some tips that can help relieve some of the symptoms of dysmenorrhea:

An over the counter Ibuprofen or Mefenamic Acid. Ask tyour doctor for any contraindication if you have allergies or if you are taking other medicines.

Eat small frequent meals. Instead of eating three large meals, eat five or six small meals a day, about two and a half hours apart.

Have a low-salt diet to prevent water retention that causes bloating. Likewise, avoid alcohol to reduce headaches.

Exercise. This raises the levels of beta endorphins, which have a positive effect on mood and behavior. Try aerobic exercises like swimming, walking, bicycling, running and aerobic dance.

Take a warm bath. This relaxes the muscles and helps alleviate pain.

Relax. If possible, get a relaxing massage. Try the essence of chamomile or lavender oil.

Rest. Go to bed or curl up on the couch.

Apply a heating pad to the lower abdominal area.

Massage your lower abdomen with a very very light pressure.

Visit your doctor if excessive pain and cramping persists.

CARING FOR BED LINENS

2009-08-03T02:39:00.000-07:00

We spend about 1/3 of our day in bed. This means that our bed should be comfortable for us to be able to get a good night's sleep and quality rest. Choosing the right bed linens is one step. Caring for these linens is another. Here are a few tips.

Read the care label and follow instructions.

Buy an extra set or two. This will enable you to rotate your bed linens and ensure that they are evenly used or worn.

Change your pillowcases and sheets weekly or every two weeks. Comforter, duvet, and quilts will only need to be laundered monthly.

A mattress pad between mattresses and sheets extends the life of both.

Buy pillow protectors to prevent frequent laundering of pillows.

Machine wash in warm water using a gentle cycle, then rinse with cold water. Do not overload the washing machine.

Use a mild detergent. Pour in the detergent to the water as the wash tub fills or dilute detergent with water, before adding in the linens.

Separate dark colors from the whites.

Avoid using chlorine bleach as it weakens the fabric and cause it to yellow. If white fabrics need bleaching, opt for an oxygen-based bleach.

Machine dry bed linens using low heat, if the care label says it's safe to do so. Otherwise, you can hang them to dry then iron press later on, while the linens are still slightly damp.

When ironing bed linens with decorative details, place it facedown on the ironing board over a towel and iron it, or place a plain sheet over the top of the detailed section and iron over that.

If the label says "hand launder," do so. Use gentle soap and rinse thoroughly in clean water. Do not wring. Hang to dry.

Store bed linens in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. If you are going to store your linens for a long period of time, wrap them in white cotton, old pillow cases or acid-free paper. Do not store linens in plastic bags or boxes, as this can cause permanent yellowing. Take out your linens from the cabinet/storage once in a while to let them breathe.

HOW TO AVOID CONSTIPATION

2009-07-30T07:17:00.000-07:00

1. Chew your food thoroughly.

2. Increase your liquid intake. Drink lots of water and fruit juices especially after every meal.

3. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables aid digestion naturally.

4. At bedtime, eat about four or five tablespoons of scraped carrots, peanut brittle or a small bag of freshly popped corn. Dried seeds and nuts, like peanuts and raisins are also good laxative choices.

THOUGHTS ON MARRIAGE

2009-07-27T06:35:00.000-07:00

Here's a collection of nice quotes on marriage. Read on and ponder.. :-)

What counts in making a happy marriage is not so much how compatible you are but how you deal with incompatibility.

A great marriage is not when the “perfect couple” comes together, but when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences. – Dave Meurer

That quiet mutual gaze if a trusting husband and wife is like the first moment of rest or refuge from a great weariness or a great danger. – George Eliot

Never go to bed mad. Stay up and fight. – Phyllis Diller

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person. – Mignon McLaughlin

The fulfillment of marriage is that joy in which each lover’s true being is flowering because its growth is being welcomed and unconsciously encouraged by the other in the infinite series of daily decisions which is their life together. – Neville Ward

To keep the fire burning brightly, there’s one easy rule: Keep the two logs together, near enough to keep each other warm and far enough apart – about a finger’s breadth for breathing room. Good fire, good marriage, same rule.

Between a man and his wife, nothing ought to rule but love. – William Penn

When entering into a marriage one ought to ask oneself: do you believe you are going to talking with this woman up into your old age? Everything else in marriage is transitory, but most of the time you are together will be devoted to conversation. – Friedrich Nietzsche

Many marriages would be better if the husband and wife clearly understood that they’re on the same side. – Zig Ziglar

Happy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry. – Tom Mullen

The bonds of matrimony are like any other bonds – they mature slowly. – Peter De Vries

Marriage must constantly fight against a monster which devours everything: routine. – Honore de Balzac

One advantage of marriage is that, when you fall out of love with him or he falls out of love with you, it keeps you together until you fall in again. – Judith Viorst

Even if marriages are made in heaven, they all have to be maintained on earth.

The Christian is supposed to love his neighbor, and since his wife is his nearest neighbor, she should be his deepest love. – Martin Luther

Only choose in marriage a man whom you would choose as a friend if he were a woman. – Joseph Joubert

The thing that counts most in the pursuit of happiness is choosing the right companion. Remember that successful marriage depends on two things: (1) finding the right person and (2) being the right person.

Don’t marry the person you think you can live with; marry only the individual you can’t live without. – Dr. James C. Dobson

More marriages might have survived if the couple realized that sometimes the better comes after the worse. – Doug Larson

Marriage is not just spiritual communion and passionate embraces; marriage is also three meals a day, sharing the workload and remembering to carry out the trash. – Dr. Joyce Brothers

A good marriage requires determination to be married for good.

REDUCING FAT IN YOUR DIET

2009-07-23T06:20:00.000-07:00

1. Serve moderate portions of the lean cuts of meat, or trim off excess fat from meat before cooking or before serving. Eat shellfish and organ meats in moderation because they have higher dietary cholesterol than red meats.
2. Serve more poultry or fish.
3. Boil or broil food from time to time instead of frying them to occasionally avoid unnecessary oil and fat in your diet.
4. Substitute pastries, ice cream and other sugary desserts with fruits and fruit juices.

WHO SAYS FUN SHOULD BE EXPENSIVE

2009-07-20T02:16:00.000-07:00

Here are some fun but inexpensive ways of spending the day with your loved ones. No fancy stuff yet these are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

1. A movie night at home: Rent videos or watch movies on cable. Make homemade popcorn.
2. Do some star gazing. Bring a blanket or sleeping bag and cuddle up in your backyard or at a nearby park.
3. Visit the zoo. For Pinoys, we have the Manila Zoo, Avilon Zoo and Ark Avilon. You may also visit the Manila Ocean Park.
4. Tour a museum.
5. Have a picnic. Pack homemade sandwiches and fruit juices.
6. On a rainy day, prepare your favorite hot chocolate at home.
7. Go to the nearest SM Mall and enjoy ice-skating, knock down some bowling pins or play bingo.
8. Rummage through a flea market or your nearest ukay-ukay store.
9. Cook dinner together and then enjoy the meal by candlelight, dressed in your finest.
10. If you have kids, have dinner with them at home, and then go out with your husband for dessert and coffee.
11. Bring out the diva in you and sing to your heart’s content on your magic mic.
12. Ride the MRT from end to end on a non-busy day.
13. Go to a playground and take turns pushing each other on the swings.
14. Go for a bike ride.
15. Enjoy the sunset.
16. Drive outside of town and pick wildflowers together.
17. Take a roadtrip at a nearby town you’ve never been to before. Drink at a local coffee shop of sample their delicacies.
18. Read aloud to each other. It may be your favorite poem, short story or something you’ve never read before.

GROWING AN INDOOR HERB GARDEN

2009-07-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

1. Purchase herb seeds from your local green house or gardening center. Some malls also have stalls that sell these seeds. Ensure that the seeds are of good quality.

2. You may also choose to buy baby plants but it would be more fun and rewarding to tend your own mini herb garden from day 1.

3. Some good choices are oregano, rosemary, basil, mint, chamomile and lavender, as they grow well indoors.

4. They thrive in indoor window sill herb gardens.

5. You may use a small, fancy pot for your indoor herb garden, or even just the ordinary ones.

6. Make sure that there is proper drainage in your containers .

7. The soil is also crucial so make sure the soil is mixed with sand and lime so the herbs have great soil conditions allowing maximum growth.

8. Choose an area where your plants can have at least partial sunlight. Preferably, place your plants by the window.

9. Fluorescent lighting may also supplement the lighting during non-sunny seasons.

10. Bring your plants outdoors once in a while for direct sunlight and fresh air.

11. Give your plants a good soak once or twice a week. Do not overwater.

12. Make sure that your plants are not infested by small insects.

13. Harvest with care. Clip out just the right amount of herbs you need.

EYE CARE 101

2009-07-13T07:48:00.000-07:00

1. Have an eye check up by an ophthalmologist once a year.

2. Don’t be too near when watching the TV.

3. Make sure there is good lighting in the room where you read or work.

4. Protect eyes from excessive heat or glare.

5. Avoid sharp or pointed objects near your eyes.

6. Do not touch your eyes with dirty hands, hankies or towels.

7. Keep household chemicals beyond the reach of children.

8. Remove foreign object with a clean cotton buds or cloth. Wash any chemical that gets into your eyes immediately.

9. Do not rub your eyes.

10. If your work involves computers, close your eyes for at least 15 seconds every so often.

11. Do not look directly at the sun, bright lights or eclipses.

12. Always soak your contact lenses in a clean case with a good amount of solution for at least 8 hours everyday. Do not sleep with your contact lenses on.

13. Pay attention to the following danger signs: blurring of vision with or without eyeglasses or contact lens, seeing spots or light flashes, redness, tearing, sensation of foreign object, itchiness, secretion, pain, heaviness, swelling, seeing double, repeated or persistent headache or dizziness.

SIMPLE JOYS: Part 4: Thoughts to Live By

2009-07-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

*Open your arms to change, but don’t let go of your values.
*When someone asks you a question you don’t want to answer, smile and ask, “why do you want to know?”
*Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
*Remember that not getting whet you want is sometimes a stroke of luck.
*Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.
*When you lose, don’t lose the lesson.
*Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
*Live a good life so that when your children think of fairness, caring and integrity, they will think of you.
*Don’t expect money to bring you happiness.
*Take responsibility for your life.
*Take care of your reputation.
*Live a good, honorable life. When you get older and think back, you’ll enjoy it the second time.

SIMPLE JOYS: Part 3 - For You

2009-07-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

*Count your blessings.
*Be thankful for every meal.
*Take a nap on Sunday afternoons.
*Drink 8 glasses of water a day.
*Wave at children on the school bus.
*Leave everything a little better than when you found it.
*Wear outrageous underwear under the most formal business attire.
*Call your mother.
*Say “bless you” when you hear someone sneeze.
*Read more books and watch less TV.
*Invest in good health.
*Trust in God but lock your car.
*Pray. There’s immeasurable power in it.
*Learn and enjoy a creative hobby – paint, sew, cross-stitch, there are lots of these!
*Once a year, go some place you’ve never been before.
*Learn the rules then break some.
*Love and cook with reckless abandon.
*Drive a different route to work.
*Whistle.
*Slow dance.
*If you can, get a pet cat or dog. They will keep you company and you can practice your nurturing side on them.
*Eat a gourmet meal at a fancy restaurant.
*Never refuse homemade brownies.
*Never give anyone fruitcake.
*Sing in the shower.
*Take a bubble bath.
*Play card games.
*Play a sport.
*Watch funny movies on your DVD.
*Keep a journal.
*Don’t postpone joy.

next: Thoughts to Live By

SIMPLE JOYS: Part 2 - Your Social Life

2009-07-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

*Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
*In disagreements, fight fairly. No name-calling.
*Don’t judge people by their relatives.
*Don’t let a little dispute ruin a great friendship.
*Never interrupt when you are being flattered. Smile and say “thank you”.
*Forgive.
*M.Y.O.B. Mind your own business.
*Once on a while, do nice things for people who will never find out.
*Remember to greet people on their birthdays.
*Never give up on anyone; miracles happen everyday.
*Say please and thank you a lot.
*Don’t rain on other people’s parade.
*Be there when people need you.
*Never deprive someone of hope. It might be all they have.
*Keep your promises.
*Don’t be afraid to say I’m sorry.
*Support your community; help in every way you can.
*Be gentle with the earth.
*Be someone’s hero.
*Share your knowledge. It’s a way to achieve immortality.
*Vote.

next: For You

SIMPLE JOYS: Part 1 - On Love

2009-06-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

*Believe in love at first sight.

*When you say “I love you”, mean it.

*When you say “I’m sorry”, look the person in the eye.

*Love deeply and passionately.

*If you don't end up with the one you love, remember that he might be just a marker that would lead you to where you should be or to the person whom you are supposed to be with.

*Be engaged at least 6 months before getting married.

*Marry the man/woman you love to talk to.

*In disagreements with loved ones, deal with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past.

*Remember that the best relationship is one where your love for each other is greater than your need for each other.

next: Your Social Life

MAINTAINING A CLEAN WASHROOM

2009-06-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

1. Washroom maintenance should be scheduled regularly, preferably when traffic is at a minimum.

2. Empty all waste receptacles. If possible, wash the receptacles clean.

3. Pick up waste materials, including loose hair strands from the floor.

4. Sweep all loose dirt.

5. Clean the urinal and the toilet bowl thoroughly, using your trusted liquid disinfectant cleaner. Work the liquid into all recesses and around the water outlets.

6. Clean top and underside of the toilet seat as well as the exterior of the bowl surfaces and fixtures. Rinse, wipe and leave toilet seat up.

7. Clean sink with a disinfectant cleaner. Be sure to include fixtures as well as hardware and pipes under the sink. Rinse with clean water and wipe water spots off with a clean cloth.

8. Spot-clean tiles, walls and ceilings and remove marks and smudges. Include the windows and other surfaces on which dust and dirt accumulate.

9. Note if there are burned out light bulbs, leaky faucets or other irregularities that need attention.

10. Clean the mirror.

11. Refill all dispensers with paper towels, bathroom tissues and soap. Make sure that these dispensers are clean before replenishing them with new supplies.

SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

2009-06-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

1. Clear the crowd. Give the stricken person as much room to breathe as possible.

2. Do not move the person who has fallen. He might have some broken bones or might be bleeding internally.

3. In case of external bleeding, put pressure on the source of the bleeding. A piece of gauze or a clean hanky is fine.

4. Don’t give the stricken person water or alcohol.

5. When a person faints, loosen his clothes especially around the chest and neck. Keep his head lower than the rest of his body.

6. Accidents often involve shock, so keep the victim as warm as possible with extra clothing or blanket. A light massage may help.

7. Clean small wounds and scratches with running water and hydrogen peroxide. Dry and paint with povidone iodine solution.

WHAT TO DO DURING TYPHOONS

2009-06-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

1. Keep your radio open and try to get the latest bulletin and weather update.

2. Get extra food. Stock up on those which can be eaten without cooking or with little preparation. If emergency cooking facilities are necessary, be sure that they are in order.

3. Store water as water service may be cut off.

4. Have a flashlight in working condition and keep it handy,

5. Keep a stash of spare battery for your flashlights or radio. Charge all your cellphone batteries while there is still electricity.

6. Check on everything that may be blown away or turn loose.

7. Be sure that windows and doors can be opened on the lee side of the house – opposite the side facing the wind.

10 STERLING TIPS FOR A HAPPY MARRIAGE

2009-06-15T08:37:00.000-07:00

1.Love each other. Say "I love you" often and in different ways. Surprise each other with gifts of praise to show your love. Remember that love grows in an atmosphere of freedom and trust, not from restraint and obligation. Do things to keep your love and romance new and alive. Don't take things for granted. Ever.

2. Listen objectively to each other as you would to a friend. Give each other the right to disagree. You don't want anyone to control your feelings, so don't try to own the feelings of the one you love.

3. Never stop treating each other like sweethearts. Always do things to make the other one feel loved. Share the chores around the house. Work together in achieving your goals.

4. Take care of each other. Put the other one first, but don't neglect your own needs either. Do the things that show your interest in your partner's needs, desires and problems.

5. Look to each other for help. Don't let your problems or concerns get out of hand and make you go opposite directions. You're in this life together. Be thankful.

6. Talk about things together the way you would talk to a friend. Absolutely refuse to say anything negative about your partner. Share your most important secrets, and never betray the secrets of your partner. Don't ever give up on your love.

7. Settle the fact that you've made your choice and you're no longer looking for anyone else. Don't flirt, think of the consequences. Don't consider it.

8. Be in agreement about how your money is spent. Talk about how to manage your finances.

9. When in doubt, ask yourself how you would want to be treated and then act accordingly. If you've argued, never go to sleep withut a resolution.

10. Add humor into your daily life. Have fun!

AVOIDING THE FLU

2009-06-11T07:46:00.000-07:00

Wash Your Hands

Washing your hands will decrease your likelihood of spreading viruses and bacteria. If your immune system is strong, it should be able to fight off the virus if it does enter your body, but washing your hands provides a bit of extra protection.

Take your Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps strengthen our immune system. Citrus fruits and tomatoes are good sources of Vitamin C. You may also take Ascorbic Acid to supplement your Vitamin C needs - but ask your doctor before taking supplements.

Avoid Stress

It has been estimated that up to 90 percent of illness and disease is stress-related. If you are stressed, your immune system weakens and does not work as it should.

Exercise

Exercise improves the circulation and blood flow throughout your body. Exercising also helps your immune system to be more efficient in getting rid of viruses and diseases.

Get Enough Rest

Regular rest will keep you strong and ensure that your body has the strength to fight off any potential invaders.

Stay Indoors

If you start to feel the symptoms of flu – common cold, fever, cough, stay at home and rest. Drink plenty of liquids to keep you hydrated. Take your medicine as necessary.

BASIC FENG SHUI FOR YOUR HOME

2009-06-08T05:08:00.000-07:00

The term feng shui (pronounced "fung schway") literally means "wind-water". It was originally used as a technique for choosing plots for palaces, as well as burial sites for the rich. Nowadays, people use feng shui as a technique of "working with nature", in the premise that the environment affects the way we feel and the way we act. Feng shui educates us on the importance of how positioning objects in the home or business can create a harmonious atmosphere.

Here are some basic and practical feng shui tips for your home.

1. Remove clutter. Keep your surroundings clean and orderly. Dispose of things that are no longer being used.

2. Choose items of regular shapes and sizes.

3. Wind chimes, bells and crystals dispel negative energy and attract and invigorate the "chi".

4. Choose plants with rounded tips instead of those that are edged or sharp.

5. Position mirros with care, as what you see doubles. Mirrors placed opposite walls or money pots is good, because it doubles your space or money. Never place a mirror opposite a toilet. A mirror placed opposite your bed could lead to infidelity.

6. Happy family photos should be placed on the south-west wall.

7. Fish tanks and fountains are good fortune enhancers.

8. Always display in pairs to ensure relationship success.

9. Never have your bed face the door. Lying in bed with your feet facing the door is known as the "coffin position".

10. If you need to have a fireplace, position it on the south wall, never on the north or north-west wall.

HOW TO STAND OUT AND GET NOTICED

2009-06-04T06:36:00.000-07:00

Take the time to look great!
Make an effort to wear something that will bring out your flattering features, and for ladies, do not be afraid to put makeup on. This will make you feel confident, and, as we all know, confident people attract attention.

Put a smile on your face
Smiling makes you look approachable and fun, qualities that will draw people close.

Make eye contact
Eye contact is a powerful form of non-verbal communication. Making eye contact shows that you are sincere and secure.

Go ahead and participate
If you are at a party, don’t just stay in one corner – mingle, chat or dance! If you’re in a meeting, participate! These seemingly simple actions will get people to notice you.

Use your sense of humor
People love to laugh. This makes us forget all the bad things and just relax.

HOW TO ACHIEVE SELF POWER

2009-06-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

1. Don’t be afraid to approach prominent people. Ask them about their success. Listen carefully to their answers, write them down for future reference and application in your own life.

2. Use motivators to help you succeed. Here are some examples:

POSITIVE THINKING
VISUALIZATION
AFFIRMATIVE REPETITION
DYNAMIC FIRST IMPRESSIONS

3. First impressions are important. You are your own “best” or “worst” walking advertisement. Create an effective “hello”. Dress up your image so that others are impressed by you.

4. Select a hero or role model and emulate his or her outstanding attributes. Picture in your mind’s eye the strength of character and leadership qualities of your selected role model, then picture yourself as one possessing these desirable traits.

HOW TO CURE A HANGOVER

2009-05-28T07:19:00.000-07:00

Studies say that a hangover is not caused by alcohol itself, but by non-alcoholic ingredients called congeners which give the flavor and aroma of different drinks.

1. Drink a glass or two of cold water when you awake.

2. A cup of black coffee. This temporarily disguises the foul aftertaste of alcohol.

3. Take aspirin. A word of caution – make sure that you are not allergic to aspirin before you take it as it may have an adverse effect on you like palpitation and minor chest pain.

4. Lemon juice (or orange juice) and a generous measure of honey. They say this is the best and real cure for hangover as the Vitamin C in lemon and the fructose of honey hasten the rate at which your body breaks up those congeners.

ORGANIZING AT HOME

2009-05-25T07:15:00.000-07:00

1. Have a place for everything and keep everything in its proper place. Let every member of the household know where to find and return things.

2. Invest on a good quality chest of drawers. Sort like colors of shirts, have a drawer for socks, another for underwear, knick-knacks and so on. This will save you from wasting your precious time looking for that lace camisole.

3. Add more storage boxes or plastic containers and label them accordingly. You may keep seasonal clothes – your bikini or winter clothes in a plastic container that fit right under your bed, to save space.

4. Used clothes must be placed in the laundry basket or clothes hamper, and not to be left hanging elsewhere.
5. Give away or sell toys, books or clothes that you haven’t used for a long time. Allow others to enjoy them, instead of having them collect dust in your house.

6. Refrain from buying and collecting small figurines unless you have a glass cabinet to store them in. These items collect dust easily and are very tedious to clean.

7. Use decorative boxes to store your trinkets, sewing materials and other small tools. These boxes not only stash and keep your small items in place, they also double as decors to an otherwise boring room.

HOW TO HAVE FAITH IN YOURSELF

2009-05-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

1. Think success and believe that you are capable of being successful.

2. Cease to think in terms of what you cannot do, but in terms of what you can do. Never think failure, failure is anti-faith.

3. Believe BIG. The size of your success in not determined by the size of your brain, but by the size of your faith. Think BIG achievements and back them with BIG faith.

4. Affirm this belief: “Faith is an attitude of mind. Faith is belief in myself, things, other people, and God. I live in faith.”

5. Never compare yourself or your achievements with others, but make your comparisons only with yourself.
A sign of mental health is to be glad when others achieve, and to rejoice with them.

6. When opportunity appears, hold the deep conviction that, “This is right for me, I will succeed!”.

THE 3-DAY DIET

2009-05-18T09:57:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT: This diet is not recommended and should never be used for more than 3 days. This kind of diet is often used by those who experience “yo-yo” weight - it is not a good habit to get into.

Instructions:

Drink 4 glasses of water or diet soda per day. For additional flavoring you can add herbs, salt and pepper, lemon, vinegar, worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mustard and ketchup.

You may also use the following substitutes:

* Orange instead of Grapefruit
* Tuna instead of Cottage cheese (and vice versa)
* Frozen yogurt instead of Ice Cream
* Cauliflower instead of Broccoli (and vice versa)
* Green beans instead of Broccoli or Cauliflower
* Beets instead of Carrots
* Toast instead of 5 crackers (vice versa)

HOW TO PREVENT MOLD AND MILDEW STAINS ON YOUR FURNITURE

2009-05-14T08:05:00.000-07:00

1. Dry out wet/soiled clothes before throwing them into the laundry basket or clothes hamper.

2. Do not use starch on linen that is to be stored for long periods, or don’t store clothes that are unclean.

3. Once in a while, leave closets, cabinets or drawers open to freshen air and to keep interiors dry. You may also use a handy hair dryer to prevent moisture build-up.

4. Brush thoroughly upholstered furniture or rugs that show mildew. If possible, do this outdoors to get more sun and fresh air. Should mildew stains remain stubborn, sponge lightly with thick suds, then wipe clean with damp cloth. A half-and-half solution of alcohol and water may also help, but remember to use this solution sparingly to avoid discoloration, and then dry very well.

5. Wipe moldy leather with half-and-half solution of water and alcohol, then air dry before an electric fan. Once dry, apply a thin coat of paste wax for protection as well as to restore shine.

6. Dust cornstarch or talcum powder between the leaves of damp books, and let it stay until all moisture has been absorbed. In damp weather, keep a small electric bulb open in closed book case, so that the books stay dry.

THE SWINE FLU SCARE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

2009-05-11T09:34:00.000-07:00

What is swine influenza?

Swine influenza, or “swine flu”, is a highly contagious acute respiratory disease of pigs, caused by one of several swine influenza A viruses. Morbidity tends to be high and mortality low (1-4%). The virus is spread among pigs by aerosols, direct and indirect contact, and asymptomatic carrier pigs. Outbreaks in pigs occur year round, with an increased incidence in the fall and winter in temperate zones. Many countries routinely vaccinate swine populations against swine influenza.

Swine influenza viruses are most commonly of the H1N1 subtype, but other subtypes are also circulating in pigs (e.g., H1N2, H3N1, H3N2). Pigs can also be infected with avian influenza viruses and human seasonal influenza viruses as well as swine influenza viruses. The H3N2 swine virus was thought to have been originally introduced into pigs by humans. Sometimes pigs can be infected with more than one virus type at a time, which can allow the genes from these viruses to mix. This can result in an influenza virus containing genes from a number of sources, called a "reassortant" virus. Although swine influenza viruses are normally species specific and only infect pigs, they do sometimes cross the species barrier to cause disease in humans.

What are the implications for human health?

Outbreaks and sporadic human infection with swine influenza have been occasionally reported. Generally clinical symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza but reported clinical presentation ranges broadly from asymptomatic infection to severe pneumonia resulting in death.

Since typical clinical presentation of swine influenza infection in humans resembles seasonal influenza and other acute upper respiratory tract infections, most of the cases have been detected by chance through seasonal influenza surveillance. Mild or asymptomatic cases may have escaped from recognition; therefore the true extent of this disease among humans is unknown.

Where have human cases occurred?

Since the implementation of IHR(2005)1 in 2007, WHO has been notified of swine influenza cases from the United States and Spain.

How do people become infected?

People usually get swine influenza from infected pigs, however, some human cases lack contact history with pigs or environments where pigs have been located. Human-to-human transmission has occurred in some instances but was limited to close contacts and closed groups of people.

Is it safe to eat pork and pork products?

Yes. Swine influenza has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The swine influenza virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160F/70C, corresponding to the general guidance for the preparation of pork and other meat.

Which countries have been affected by outbreaks in pigs?

Swine influenza is not notifiable to international animal health authorities (OIE, http://www.oie.int/), therefore its international distribution in animals is not well known. The disease is considered endemic in the United States. Outbreaks in pigs are also known to have occurred in North America, South America, Europe (including the UK, Sweden, and Italy), Africa (Kenya), and in parts of eastern Asia including China and Japan.

What about the pandemic risk?

It is likely that most of people, especially those who do not have regular contact with pigs, do not have immunity to swine influenza viruses that can prevent the virus infection. If a swine virus establishes efficient human-to human transmission, it can cause an influenza pandemic. The impact of a pandemic caused by such a virus is difficult to predict: it depends on virulence of the virus, existing immunity among people, cross protection by antibodies acquired from seasonal influenza infection and host factors.

Is there a human vaccine to protect from swine influenza?

There are no vaccines that contain the current swine influenza virus causing illness in humans. It is not known whether current human seasonal influenza vaccines can provide any protection. Influenza viruses change very quickly. It is important to develop a vaccine against the currently circulating virus strain for it to provide maximum protection to the vaccinated people. This is why WHO needs access to as many viruses as possible in order to select the most appropriate candidate vaccine virus.

What drugs are available for treatment?

There are two classes of such medicines, 1) adamantanes (amantadine and remantadine), and 2) inhibitors of influenza neuraminidase (oseltamivir and zanamivir).

Most of the previously reported swine influenza cases recovered fully from the disease without requiring medical attention and without antiviral medicines.

Some influenza viruses develop resistance to the antiviral medicines, limiting the effectiveness of treatment. The viruses obtained from the recent human cases with swine influenza in the United States are sensitive to oselatmivir and zanamivir but resistant to amantadine and remantadine.

Information is insufficient to make recommendation on the use of the antivirals in treatment of swine influenza virus infection. Clinicians have to make decisions based on the clinical and epidemiological assessment and harms and benefit of the treatment of the patient2. For the ongoing outbreak of the swine influenza infection in the United States and Mexico, the national and the local authorities are recommending to use oseltamivir or zanamivir for treatment of the disease based on the virus’s susceptibility profile.

What should I do if I am in regular contact with pigs?

Even though there is no clear indication that the current human cases with swine influenza infection are related to recent or ongoing influenza-like disease events in pigs, it would be advisable to minimize contact with sick pigs and report such animals to relevant animal health authorities.

Most people are infected through prolonged, close contact with infected pigs. Good hygiene practices are essential in all contact with animals and are especially important during slaughter and post-slaughter handling to prevent exposure to disease agents. Sick animals or animals that died from disease should not be undergoing slaughtering procedures. Follow further advice from relevant national authorities.

Swine influenza has not been shown to be transmissible to people through eating properly handled and prepared pork (pig meat) or other products derived from pigs. The swine influenza virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160oF/70oC corresponding to the general guidance for the preparation of pork and other meat.

How can I protect myself from getting swine influenza from infected people?

In the past, human infection with swine influenza was generally mild but is known to have caused severe illness such as pneumonia For the current outbreaks in the United States and Mexico however, the clinical pictures have been different. None of the confirmed cases in the United States have had the severe form of the disease and the patients recovered from illness without requiring medical care. In Mexico, some patients reportedly had the severe form of the disease.

To protect yourself, practice general preventive measures for influenza:

• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever and cough.

• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly.

• Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.

If there is an ill person at home:

• Try to provide the ill person a separate section in the house. If this is not possible, keep the patient at least 1 meter in distance from others.

• Cover mouth and nose when caring for the ill person. Masks can be bought commercially or made using the readily available materials as long as they are disposed of or cleaned properly.

• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after each contact with the ill person.

• Try to improve the air flow in the area where the ill person stays. Use doors and windows to take advantage of breezes.

• Keep the environment clean with readily available household cleaning agents.
If you are living in a country where swine influenza has caused disease in humans, follow additional advice from national and local health authorities.

What should I do if I think I have swine influenza?

If you feel unwell, have high fever, cough and/or sore throat:

• Stay at home and keep away from work, school or crowds as much as possible.

• Rest and take plenty of fluids.

• Cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues when coughing and sneezing and dispose of the used tissues properly.

• Wash your hands with soap and water frequently and thoroughly, especially after coughing or sneezing.

• Inform family and friends about your illness and seek help for household chores that require contact with other people such as shopping.

If you need medical attention:

• Contact your doctor or healthcare provider before travelling to see them and report your symptoms. Explain why you think you have swine influenza (for example, if you have recently travelled to a country where there is a swine influenza outbreak in humans). Follow the advice given to you for care.

• If it is not possible to contact your healthcare provider in advance, communicate your suspicion of having swine influenza immediately upon arrival at the healthcare facility.

• Take care to cover your nose and mouth during travel.

Source: World Health Organization

27 April 2009

THE 90/10 PRINCIPLE

2009-05-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

According to Dr. Stephen Covey, 10% of life is made up of what happens to you. 90% of life is decided by how you react…

What does this mean?

We really have NO control
over 10% of what happens to us.

We cannot stop the car from breaking down.
The plane will be late arriving, which throws our whole schedule off.
A driver may cut us off in the traffic.

We have NO control over this 10%.

The other 90% is different.
You determine the other 90%.

How?... By your reaction.

You cannot control a red light.
However, you can control your reaction.

Do not let people fool you.
YOU can control how you react.

Let us use an example…

You are having breakfast with your family.
Your daughter knocks over a cup of coffee
Onto your business shirt.

You have no control over what has just happened.

What happens next
will be determined by how you react.

You curse.
You harshly scold your daughter for knocking the cup over.
She breaks down in tears.

After scolding her, you turn to your wife
and you criticize her for placing the cup
too close to the edge of the table.
A short verbal battle follows.

You storm upstairs and change your shirt.
Back downstairs, you find your daughter has been too busy crying
to finish her breakfast and getting ready to go to school.
She misses the bus.
Your spouse must leave immediately for work.
You rush to the car and drive your daughter to school.

Because you are late, you drive 40 miles per hour in a 30 mph speed limit zone.
After a 15-minute delay and throwing
$60.00 traffic fine away, you arrive at school.
Your daughter runs into the building without saying goodbye.

After arriving at the office 20 minute late,
You realize you forgot your briefcase.

Your day has started terrible.
As it continues, it seems to get worse and worse.
You look forward to coming home.

When you arrive home, you find a small wedge
in your relationship with your wife and daughter.

Why?
Because of how you reacted in the morning.

Why did you have a bad day?
A) Did the coffee cause it?
B) Did your daughter cause it?
C) Did the policeman cause it?
D) Did you cause it?

The answer is “D”
You had no control over what happened with the coffee.

How you reacted in those 5 seconds
is what caused your bad day.

Here is what could have and should have happened.

Coffee splashes over you.
Your daughter is about to cry.

You gently say:
“It’s okay, honey, you just need to be
More careful next time.”

Grabbing a towel you go upstairs and change your shirt.
You grab your briefcase, and you come back down in time to look through
the window and see your child getting on the bus.
She turns and waves. You arrive 5 minutes early a cheerfully greet the staff.

Notice the difference?
Two different scenarios.
Both started the same.
Both ended different.
Why?
Because of how you reacted.

You really have no control over 10% of what happens in your life.
The other 90% was determined by your reaction.

Here are some ways to apply the 90/10 Principle.

If someone says something negative about you,
do not be a sponge.
Let the attack roll off like water on glass.
You do not have to let the negative comments affect you.

React properly and it will not ruin your day.
A wrong reaction could result in losing a friend, being fired, or getting stressed out.

How do you react if someone cuts you off in the traffic?

Do you lose your temper?
Pound on the steering wheel? (a friend of mine had the steering wheel fall off),
Do you curse? Does your blood pressure skyrocket?
Who cares if you arrive 10 seconds later at work?
Why let the cars ruin your drive?

Remember the 90/10 Principle
and don’t worry about it.

You are told you lost your job.
Why lose sleep and get irritated?
It will work out.

Use your worrying energy and time
to find a new job.

The plane is late. It is going to mangle your schedule for the day.

Why take out your frustration on the flight attendant?
She has no control over what is going on.

Use your time to study, get to know the other passenger, why stress out?
It will just make things worse.
Now you know the 90/10 Principle.
Apply it and you will be amazed at the results.
You will lose nothing if you try it.

The 90/10 Principle is incredible.
Very few know and apply this Principle.

The result?

You will see it by yourself!

Millions of people are suffering
from undeserved stress,
trials, problems and headaches.

We all must understand and apply the
90/10 Principle.
It can change your life!

…Enjoy it...

It only takes willpower to give ourselves
permission to make the experience.

Absolutely everything we do, give, say, or even think, it’s like a Boomerang.
It will come back to us...

If we want to receive, we need to learn to give first...
Maybe we will end with our hands empty,
but our heart will be filled with love...

And those who love life,
have that feeling marked in their hearts …

KEEPING YOUR HOME RAT-FREE

2009-05-04T20:21:00.000-07:00

1. Keep garbage cans tightly closed.

2. Keep your basement or storage room floors free of piled boxes or litter. Store things 10 or 12 inches above the floor.

3. Keep your food in closed containers.

4. Screen openings such as windows, doors and ventilators with ¼ inch wire mesh. Keep doors closed when not in use. Close holes around pipes or drains with concrete or sheet metal. Keep floor drains tightly fastened.

5. Outside the home, keep spaces under porches and steps open and clean. Don’t pile wood against the side of the house or garage. Keep lumber or other stored materials off the ground, with space underneath for cleaning.

BULLETIN FOR A HEALTHIER, HAPPIER LIFE!

2009-04-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

more veggies, less meat. . . .

more vinegar, less salt. . .

more fruits, less sweetener. . .

more water, less soda. . .

chew more, eat less. . .

more deeds, less talk. . .

more sharing, less desires. . .

more walks, less rides. . .

more laughters, less anger. . .

more friends, less enemies. . .

more appreciation, less criticism. .. .

more sleeps, less gimmicks. . .

more visions, less disappointments. . .

more prayers, less worries.

LIFE-SAVING THINGS TO REMEMBER FOR PEOPLE WITH HYPERTENSION

2009-04-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

1. Always walk, never run when taking the stairs

2. Try to get a short nap or two every day

3. Take five light meals a day, instead of three heavy meals

4. Don’t push yourself to your limits – quit before you become tired

5. Reduce your daily caffeine consumption

6. If you can’t quit smoking, lessen your cigarette consumption

7. Avoid heated arguments

8. Try to go to bed before midnight and get a good night’s sleep regularly

9. Be conscious about your weight – know the calorie contents of your food. Substitute high calorie foods with fruits, vegetables and fresh fruit juices

10. Exercise. It doesn’t have to be strenuous. A 30-minute walk daily can do you wonders

HERBS AND SPICES 101

2009-04-23T09:59:00.000-07:00

Starters in the use of herbs and spices might wish to try a little at a time, until they get accustomed to using them as part of their cooking ingredients. Here are a few set of herbs and spices to start your kitchen adventures with:

Herbs: basil, bay leaves, parsley, rosemary, thyme, mint, marjoram, chives and sage.

Spices: pepper, ginger, garlic, curry powder, nutmeg, dry mustard, paprika and cinnamon.

Flavoring extracts: vanilla, peppermint, lemon, maple, almond, orange.

Here’s a list of what you can use to flavor meat, poultry, fish and eggs.

Beef: bay leaf, lemon juice, mushrooms, dry mustard, nutmeg, onion, green pepper, sage, thyme, currant or grape jelly

Poultry: basil, bay leaf, lemon juice, marjoram, onion, pepper, rosemary, sesame seeds, sage, thyme, cranberry juice

Lamb: curry, garlic, mint, onion, oregano, parsley, rosemary, thyme, mint, jelly, broiled pineapple

Pork: garlic, lemon juice, marjoram, sage, applesauce, spiced apples, cranberries

Veal: bay leaf, curry, dill seed, ginger, marjoram, oregano, summer savory, currant jelly, broiled apricots or peaches.

Fish: lemon juice, onion, mustard, garlic, bay leaf, mushrooms, pepper, paprika, dill

Eggs: basil, chives, mustard, parsley, green pepper, diced tomato, rosemary, mustard, curry

Vegetables can be enhanced by the following herbs and spices:

Asparagus: lemon juice, caraway, unsalted chopped nuts

Green beans: lemon, rosemary, onion, dill, marjoram, nutmeg, slivered almonds

Corn: parsley, chives, green pepper, tomato, pimiento

Peas: onion, parsley, mint, mushroom, green pepper

Potatoes: onion, parsley, green pepper, chives, mace

Squash: ginger, onion, oregano, basil, mace

Sweet potatoes: cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar

Tomatoes: basil, oregano, parley, marjoram, sage

Note: Always add a dash of sugar while cooking vegetables to bring out flavor.

MAKING YOUR SICK BED SOFTER

2009-04-20T10:53:00.000-07:00

From “Tomorrow Can Be Beautiful” and “Just For Today” by Harold J. Sala

On his sickbed prior to death, Charles Spurgeon said, “If you do not wish to be full of regret when you are forced to lie still, work while you can. If you desire to make a sickbed as soft as it can be, do not stuff it with mournful reflections that you wasted time when you were in health and strength.”

Here are four guidelines for living a life without regrets:

1. Plan it now. Some things you can’t do now, but you can prepare to do then when the right time comes.

2. Do it now. Don’t wait until you retire. To start a hobby, take a trip, or remodel the house.

3. Say it now. Tell your spouse and your kids that you love them.

4. Live it now. Make your peace with God now, not in your deathbed.

PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF CONTAGIOUS DISEASES

2009-04-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

1. Wash your hands thoroughly – after using the comfort room, before eating, after a visit to the hospital, or as often as necessary.

2. Observe personal hygiene and teach everyone in the household to do the same.

3. Avoid spitting around. It is one of spreading harmful microbes or germs.

4. Avoid overly crowded places.

5. Keep rooms clean and well-ventilated.

6. Illnesses should be considered contagious until the diagnosis is definitely made. At the first sign of illness in any member of the household, isolate him as much as possible and separate his linen and utensils.

7. The sick should be attended to and treated at once.

8. Get further instructions on how to prevent the spread of disease from your attending physician.

KEEPING YOUR HOUSE CLEAN AND ORDERLY

2009-04-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

Keeping your house clean is one thing, keeping it orderly is another – these two are different, but having a clean and orderly home is ideal. Together, these two will make us look forward to coming home after a long day at work.

Get help. Involve everyone in the household. Assign a specific task on each member of the household or allow them to choose a task that they enjoy doing. This gives a sense of responsibility and accountability as each one has a role in making your home clean and orderly.

Choose a household cleaning product that suits your needs best. There are quite a lot of products in the market to choose from. Remember to always read product labels and instructions before buying and using them.

Keep a stock of cleaning aids such as scouring pads, protective gloves, sponges, brushes, spray bottles, etc.

Have a well-organized cleaning closet. Place items you use for daily cleaning on the front where they are most accessible, and those for weekly or monthly usage behind.

When cleaning your house, have everything you need handy. This will save you energy going back and forth your storage area. Sponges, cloths, cleaners, brushes, recycled supermarket plastic bags for litter, should be in one handy tote or basket.

Organize household items, decors, furniture, clothes, etc. Sort items depending on its use (i.e., linen must all be in the linen cabinet, food must be stored in the pantry, tableware must be kept in a safe cabinet, etc.) and keep everything in its proper place. Use plastic containers to store similar items and label each container for easier retrieval of your household supplies.

If you live in a two-storey home, have a separate set of cleaning materials upstairs and downstairs. This will save you time and energy and will not spread kitchen germs inside your bedroom and vise versa.

Protective mats or rugs at entrances will minimize tracking in of dirt into the house. Keep a rubber or rubber doormat outside where gritty soil or mud is a problem.

Replace and wash used linen and curtains every two weeks maximum. This will protect you from allergy-causing dust.

Apply the clean as you go policy at home. This way, your home will always be clean, and you need not do a one-time, big-time cleaning session.

ON ATTAINING TRUE HAPPINESS

2009-04-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

1. Be grateful. Begin the day with thanksgiving, for another opportunity at life unfolds.

2. Live a Simple Life. Make your habits reasonable. Avoid selfishness and self-centeredness. Simplify your daily plans and activities. You are less likely to be disappointed and frustrated if you keep things simple and attainable.

3. Spend less than you earn. We hear this over and over. It may be difficult, as more often, it is tempting to splurge than to spend within our budget. Living within or below our means will earn us dividends in the long run, and will keep us out of stress-causing debts.

4. Be objective and constructive. Always look at the logic and rationale behind things. Think clearly and accurately, without the clouds of emotions and subjective thoughts.

5. Resist the tendency to always want and do things your own way. It also pays to consider the viewpoint of others.

6. Rule your emotions. Cultivate a disposition of peace, goodwill and happiness.

7. Be generous. The way to be truly happy is to make others happy.

8. Live one day at a time. Plan your activities for the day – focus on the most important task but don’t forget to set aside a schedule for the things that you enjoy doing.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOUSE SAFE WHILE YOU ARE AWAY

2009-04-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

1. Shut off electricity and gas; disconnect all appliances.

2. Bring down curtains and draperies, and store them.

3. Close all windows and make sure they cannot be forced open. Lock all doors and secure other possible points of entry.

4. Lock all closets and cabinets, especially those where valuables are stored.

5. Dispose of perishable food.

6. Discard inflammable material such as old newspapers, cleaning fluids, varnishes, etc. and don’t leave matches lying around.

7. Check all faucets and shut off water connection.

8. Cover your furniture with dust sheets to protect them from dirt.

9. Clean the house before you leave, and spray with insecticides to minimize pest infestation.

10. Leave duplicate key of the house to a trusted neighbor for emergency purposes.

HOW TO GET A RESTFUL SLEEP

2009-04-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

1. Do mild forms of exercise before bedtime. You may take a short walk after dinner or do some stretching.

2. Read light material. Avoid reading the news that will cause you unnecessary stress or other materials that will activate your brain instead of shutting it off in preparation to bedtime.

3. Slow down all mental and physical activity one hour before hitting the sack.

4. Take a warm, relaxing bath.

5. Wear soft and comfortable sleeping clothes.

6. Listen to soft, pleasant music.

7. Do not eat or drink before sleeping. Indigestion and a heavy stomach will give you difficulty sleeping.

8. Forget about all your worries and problems when you go to bed.

9. Picture a tranquil scene – mountains, the peaceful waves of the beach, etc.

BOREDOM-BUSTERS

2009-03-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

1. Don’t be a couch potato. Watch television less. Instead, go for a walk, see a movie, play sports or be with friends.

2. Break that routine once in a while. Hire a baby-sitter, or take a day off from work, and have a delightful lunch out- or go window-shopping. Doing spontaneous things brings instant happiness to our day.

3. Call a friend. Chat on the phone or invite your friend for coffee.

4. Allot a “me-hour” each day to do only the things you want – read, listen to your favorite CD, re-do your hair, polish your nails, or just sit quietly and think.

5. Laugh. See the funny side of life. The more you laugh, the less bored you will be.

6. Give your home an occasional face-lifting. You need not spend anything for this. You may r e-arrange your furniture, change your curtains or put indoor plants.

7. Have a recreational activity that you really enjoy. Our hobbies and recreational activities should be those that give us a “high”, and not something that we ought to do just because our spouse or our children said so.

8. Change the way you do your work. Repetitious chores can be fun if you keep your mind active while engaged in them. For example, devise ways in making dusting and cleaning to make it easier, better or shorter.

9. Watch your appearance. Keep yourself attractive with a new hairdo every now and then, or change the way you part your hair. Wear accessories to update and upgrade your clothes.

10. Have more family fun. Include your children and your spouse in even the simplest chore. You may take them along to the grocery store, have picnic with them in the park, or play board games together.

11. Cultivate new friendships. People who have genuine interest in people seldom get bored. Have a small talk with your manicurist, your barber or your doctor’s assistant. Conversing with people allow us to get to know them on a deeper level.

A GUIDE ON HOW TO ACHIEVE PEACE OF MIND

2009-03-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

1. Learn the art of forgiveness. Don’t hold grudges. Grudges drain our energy without us knowing it. A person who knows how to forgive is free from the negative effects of resentment.

2. Learn from your mistakes. Forget the blunders of the past and commit to learn from the errors that you’ve made.

3. Compete with yourself, not with someone else. Trying to keep up with others merely forces you to play second best. Instead, focus on ways to improve yourself based on your standards and you’ll find joy in the fulfillment it brings.

4. See yourself at your best. Don’t torture yourself with frustrations and disappointments. Choose to focus on your good qualities and your talent. Live for the fun of today instead of looking back at the regrets of yesterday.

5. Conserve energy.

a. Do not rush – work, eat, play, sleep leisurely
b. Do not consume your energy on work or play – reserve some for other worthwhile activities
c. Avoid the excesses and do things in moderation – eat, drink, work, play, everything
d. Say no. Do not be afraid to decline requests that you deem unimportant or burdensome.

6. Stay calm and serene. Do not fret or worry. Too much of heavy emotion sucks up our peace of mind.

a. Past is past and you can never bring it back
b. Do your best today and let it go at that
c. Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself – most worries never come to pass
d. Put your trust in God and forget all your fears. If God is with you, who will be against you?

Remember that with peace of mind comes the power to live life more effectively.

MAKE YOUR HOME LOOK COOL AND FRESH DURING SUMMER

2009-03-23T08:53:00.000-07:00

1. Decorate your home with potted plants. Greens bring a feel of instant freshness.

2. Open your windows to let the air inside your house. You may also drape your windows with curtains made of very light materials to make it look more flowy and breezy.

3. Change your linen. Use colors that are fun and light. Green, yellow, white and blue are the best choices for pillowcases, bed sheet and table cloth.

4. Shells, crystal clear vases, and bamboo sticks also give a summery feel. Decorate your rooms with these items and get an instant summer vibe.

5. Remove the carpet. Let the natural beauty of your floors shine this season.

EFFECTIVE DIET

2009-03-19T10:05:00.000-07:00

1. Cut down on calories, don’t cut them out. Do not starve yourself or deprive yourself of nutrition just because you want to lose weight. A sensible diet means eating sensibly.

2. Have smaller servings of high-calorie food like red meats, baked goods and sweets.
Burn calories through exercise.

3. Follow a realistic, attainable diet program, especially designed for you. What works for your friend might not work for you. Some people lose weight faster, some gain faster. Know your body and find out what will work best for you.

4. Weigh yourself on an accurate weighing scale at the end of each week. Let them be the judge of your success.

5. Find out what motivates you to stay fit – and commit to it. It may be wearing that beach-babe bikini, or increasing your self-esteem. Whatever it is, do it for yourself, not for others.

YOUR DAILY REQUIREMENTS FOR LIVING

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1. Love. We cannot survive a day without it. It may be your love for your spouse, kids, parents, siblings, friends, relatives, neighbors or pets.

2. Security. Be it financial, emotional or spiritual, security provides us peace of mind.

3. Creativity. We need to express who we are and what we are made of in this world, be it through our work, the music we play, our passion for the arts, or even our love of food. Self-expression allows us to live instead of letting life just pass us by as if we are life’s idle bystanders.

4. Recognition. We need to be accepted and appreciated, not just by others but ultimately, by ourselves.

5. Goals. Reaching our goals gives us satisfaction and enhances our self-worth. This also brings personal success and maturity.

6. New experiences. Do or learn something new everyday. This allows us to grow and appreciate life more.

7. Be involved. Look out for opportunities to help. It need not be through financial or monetary ways. You can also help by sharing your talents, your skills or your knowledge.

8. Forgiveness. Forgiving others rids us of the emotional baggage that hinders us from having a peaceful life.

9. Rising above a mistake. Do not be hard on yourself when you commit errors in life. Forgive yourself and remember that what’s important is you learn something from your mistake and commit do better next time.

10. Relax. After an exhausting day, we owe it to ourselves to wind down, rid ourselves of tensions and recharge our energies.

11. Share your happiness with others. Happiness is contagious. A happy person radiates happiness wherever he goes.