Color Your Way to Daily Health

It’s important that we eat plenty of different fruits and vegetables every day. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, fiber, and other substances that are important for good health. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories and are filling.

You’ve probably heard about the 5 A Day for Better Health program. It provides easy ways to add more fruits and vegetables into your daily eating patterns. It’s vital that we eat a wide variety of colorful orange/yellow, red, green, white, and blue/purple vegetables and fruit every day. By eating vegetables and fruit from each color group, you will benefit from the essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that each color group has to offer alone and in combination.

There’s several different yet simple ways to start incorporating vegetables and fruit into your familiar and favorite meals. You can begin your day with 100 percent fruit or vegetable juice, slice bananas or strawberries on top of your cereal, or have a salad with lunch and an apple for an afternoon snack. Include a vegetable with dinner and you already have about 5 cups of fruits and vegetables. You may even try adding a piece of fruit for a snack or an extra vegetable at dinner.

Don’t be afraid to try something new to increase your vegetable and fruit intake. There are so many choices when selecting fruits and vegetables. Kiwifruit, asparagus, and mango may become your new favorite. Keep things fresh and interesting by combining fruits and vegetables of different flavors and colors, like red grapes with pineapple chunks, or cucumbers and red peppers.

Get in the habit of keeping fruits and vegetables visible and easily accessible – you’ll tend to eat them more. Store cut and cleaned produce at eye-level in the refrigerator, or keep a big colorful bowl of fruit on the table.

The Types Of Contact Lenses

Even though they are great for your eyes, all contact lenses aren’t equal. Although your doctor will help you select the best pair for your eyes, you should always know a little bit about the contacts that are available to choose from. All contact lenses can be separated depending on their wearing schedule, purpose, material, and over transparency.

Materials
Contacts can be separated or best determined by their material. Contacts are divided into two main groups - soft and rigid (hard). Soft lenses are gas permeable to a certain extent, being further categorized by the amount of water they contain. Soft contacts can have either a low, which is less than 50 percent moisture, or a high moisture content, which is more than 50 percent. Rigid or hard contacts on the other hand, are much harder in material and are considered to be gas permeable.

Wearing schedules
Hard contact lenses can last for months, possibly even years before they need to be replaced. Soft contacts on the other hand, have a schedule for replacement. Some may need to be removed every 2 weeks, monthly, or even daily. The more advanced contact lenses, such as Night and Day contacts, will allow you to wear them all day and all night. Just like other contacts however, you will still need to clean them on a regular basis to ensure that the protein is removed.

Contact lens designs
The designs for contacts are divided into three areas - toric, spherical, and multi-focal. Toric lenses are for those who have astigmatism, spherical is for short sightedness, and the correction of long sightedness, and multi-focal contact lenses are used in the correction of presbyopia. All three designs have their distinct purpose, and you should always ask your optician before you rush out and buy one.

Many different purposes
As you may already know, contact lenses serve different purposes as well. They can be optical, therapeutic, cosmetic or decorative. Optical are the most common, as they are for the correction of vision and anomalies you may have. Therapeutic lenses are normally soft contacts that serve to protect your cornea. They are also used as a reservoir for certain medicines that are used to treat various cornea diseases and malfunctions.

Decorative contact lenses are basically color contacts that produce various effects, such as rainbow colors, cat’s eyes, and so on. Cosmetic on the other hand, are meant to change the overall appearance of your eyes. Most types of cosmetic contact lenses are designed to enhance your overall eye color.

The type for you
With there being several different types of contacts available on the market, you should consult with your optician to find out which are the best for you. If you don’t have astigmatism, you certainly wouldn’t want to get toric lenses. If you don’t know anything about contact lenses, you may end up doing your eyes more harm than good. Contact lenses are designed to correct your vision and often times protect your eyes, which is why you want to choose them carefully.

If you pick your contact lenses carefully, you’ll get the best type for your eyes. Your optician will give you his recommendations during your fitting exam, and go over how you should care for your new contacts. This way, even if you are new to the world of contacts, you’ll know what you should and shouldn’t do. With the right type of contacts for your eyes - you’ll find vision to be a new and exciting world.

Handbag Is A Bless

I need a new purse. Funny, how purses make me think of my grandmother and her sister, my great aunt. They called them handbags. Does anyone call them handbags anymore? Maybe your aunt does.

Handbags or purses or whatever you call them, that’s fine with me. I usually have only one at a time that I’m using. I tend toward basic neutral colors like black or brown. Sometimes I will buy a cream colored purse, but they get so dirty! I’m not worried about carrying my black handbag in July. I’m not trying to impress anyone. I just need a place to put my billfold, my brush, my lipstick, notebook and pen and stuff.

For some women, though, handbags are like shoes. They can never have too many of them. Some women have to have a different one for almost every outfit. It can be done, and easily, too. There are purses made from every sort of material imaginable to match anything you may wear from the most casual to the most formal outfit.

Blue jeans. You can find bags made out of blue jean material. Yes, it’s cute I suppose. I actually had one like that in high school. They’re sturdy and you don’t worry too much about how dirty they get. They were really popular in the 60’s and 70’s. They’re still around, too. So are canvas bags. In fact, some of those canvas grocery bags are just fine as everyday casual purses. Or you can go pay designer prices for something a little nicer. You can find a purse made out of all kinds of fabrics in many different designs to match your wardrobe.

Of course, leather is a standard for handbags. Leather can be dyed and decorated in a hundred different ways. If you don’t believe me, go to your local shopping mall and look around. They’re pink and purple and green! They have bows and sequins and designs of all kinds. Leather purses can be small and elegant or they can be large and functional. They do last a long time.

It’s up to you. You can collect handbags. When you’re done with them, if they’re still in decent shape, give them to Goodwill or your favorite charity. Someone else will be grateful for just one.

Making Exercise More Fun To Stick With

Nothing beats waking up in the morning with the thought of going to the gym to lift weights or jog on the treadmill. After a hard days work, the gym is one place you don't even want to think about. Sometimes, even the thought of exercising at home with your own equipment can be less than desirable.

Sometimes, just trying to get and stay motivated to exercise on a regular basis can be a challenge. No matter how you look at it, exercise can be downright boring and even tedious at times.

So, you may be wondering just how you can get the motivation you need to exercise on a regular basis. If you've been wondering what you can do to make exercise more fun, you'll find some ideas below that just may help to make exercise more fun and a little bit easier to stick with.

First things first, you should exercise with a friend. You can challenge each other, help each other out, keep each other motivated and on track, make each other laugh or just make a game out of your exercise programs.

You can also try something different. If you go to the gym each and every day and use the same piece of equipment or use the same piece of equipment at home, you should try mixing things up. Reverse your routine or just change the order of your exercises.

Go to a city park that has playground equipment and use the slide, climb on the monkey bars, do pull-ups, hang from your knees, just let your imagination guide you. You don't always need to follow a strict routine, just get out there and have fun working your muscles.

An outdoor circuit in the park is also something you can try. There are some parks that have circuit courses set up with a planned course where all you have to do is walk or jog to each station and then follow the instructions. If there isn't a planned course, then you should do a combination of jogging and walking, picking a distance of a couple hundred feet. Jog 100 feet then drop and do a couple of pushups, walk the next 100 feet and then drop to do sit ups.

You can also ride a bike around your neighborhood or hike on a hiking trail. A walk in the park or around your neighborhood is also a great way to get some exercise. Doing yoga in the park or on a beach is also a nice and relaxing way to exercise both your body and your mind.

Playing a competitive sport is also something you can try. A lot of cities have team activities such as softball, volleyball, tennis, soccer, and so on. These types of activities will not only provide you with good exercise but they will also help you to meet new people as well.

When you exercise, try to picture your muscles getting bigger. Research has shown that if you focus all of your thoughts on the muscles that you are working, they will respond better. Try to watch them work with each repetition as your muscles contract and relax.

As you can tell, there are plenty of ways you can make exercise more fun and interesting. You don't need to follow the same routine day after day, as you can do many other things to get in some exercise.

The important thing is that you should always try to incorporate exercise in any various form into your everyday life and make these habits the kind of habits that will last a lifetime.

Shop for Replica Handbags Sensibly

We all acknowledge that handbags are great business. The top designers like Prada, Gucci, Coach, Burberry, Dooney and Bourke command large investments when you acquire one of their purses, often in the thousands of dollars. So, it is no big surprise then that replica handbags, often called “knock-offs,” are growing like a big business.

If you’re looking for the real deal for a steal, be aware that in order to actually get the authentic designer item you will have to most likely fork over some big bucks, regardless of that tip your friend gave you for a little shop where you can get the same thing for hundreds less. It is not likely, say most experts. In fact, top designers make it rather common knowledge how you can spot the real product. And they say, you will not find a real Gucci through a street vendor, regardless of what he or she is advertising.

How do you tell the difference? Experts say there are all kinds of clues that will alert you to a fake. There is exact match of fabric and material, the way labels and decorations are attached to the bag, even the type of thread and stitches that are used. Tips such as these are just as handy when you are shopping for a replica and trying not to be duped into spending more than you must. Handbag counterfeiters try their hardest to lead you to believe that the bag you just picked up is a real Prada, and that you can have it for an attractive percentage less than the real thing just because that’s the last one they have in stock.

When you are shopping for a replica, shop with a vendor who advertises top quality replicas up front. A reputable retailer will be honest about their products, and their prices should reflect drastic differences between the authentic designer purses. Also, shop with a business that is recommended by a friend or colleague. Shopping over the internet, sight unseen, puts you at risk for being ripped off. Make sure the online retailer has drastic differences in prices from the originals. They should be honest that they are in fact selling replicas and not hinting that the handbags are originals with deep discounts. To many consumers, quality replicas are a fine replacement for the original.

Tips For Buying Contact Lenses

There are some people out there who wonder why people spend money on expensive contact lenses or expensive glasses. If you’ve never worn glasses or contacts, then chances are that you have really good vision. On the other hand, those that don’t have really good vision will need to get either contact lenses or glasses in order to have near perfect vision.

Contact lenses, in most cases, will drastically improve your vision without having to get glasses, which is reason enough to invest in a pair of contacts. They are very lightweight, and they offer you a full range of sight and mobility. Unlike wearing glasses, contacts don’t hang on your face - when you wear them others won’t able to tell. If you wear glasses, you may want to look into getting a pair of contact lenses.

You can buy contact lenses in several different ways. You can order them online, which is what most people tend to do. Companies such as contacts.com offer hundreds of contacts and prescriptions, which they deliver right to your door. When you order online you can get a great price, and then have the contacts brought right to you - with no travel or waiting in line required to get your contact lenses when you need them.

You can also purchase your contacts at your opticians office as well. Buying this way is a great decision if you don’t have access to the Internet. You can also purchase at a local store that sells contacts and glasses, such as Wal-Mart. The prices are great here as well, as they offer a variety of different contacts for those who need them. You can also buy solution here as well, making it well worth the trip to get your contact lenses.

If you shop around, you can normally find some great deals for your lenses. Depending on the brand and type your optician prescribed, the prices will vary. If you are buying the latest and greatest brands of contacts, you can obviously count on the price to be a bit higher. This is to be expected, as contacts cost the most when they first come out and are available for purchase.

Several people who need contacts will want them, although they think bad things and normally don’t end up purchasing them - choosing to go with glasses instead. Contrary to what many think, contacts don’t get stuck behind your eyes, nor do they damage your eyes when you wear them. If this was indeed the case, contacts wouldn’t be legal to sell - or recommended by top opticians.

In order to buy contacts, you’ll need a prescription. When you go to an optician for the fitting process, he will examine your eyes and let you know if you can wear contacts. There are a few types, such as soft and hard. Depending on your eyes, you may have to get a special type of contact lens. The optician will give you his recommendation, and tell you everything you need to know and do for the contacts that he will give you a prescription for.

If your vision is bad, or if you just want to ditch the glasses, you should look into a pair of contact lenses. They are very affordable, easy to take care of, and easy to use. You can wear them during the day, then take them out at night - or get a pair that you can wear night and day. They won’t stick out like glasses, as it is very hard to tell if someone is wearing contacts. With many ways to buy them - contact lenses are the best option for those with not so great vision.

Contact Lenses Versus Glasses

As you probably already know, there are quite a few differences between contact lenses and eye glasses. Glasses have been around a lot longer than contacts, although most people prefer to wear contacts instead of glasses. Contacts have become popular over the years, proving to be the best alternative to wearing bulky glasses.

When you compare contacts against glasses, there are several things that stick out like a sore thumb. The first difference in the two is the field of vision. Glasses offer good front vision, although their peripheral vision is quite poor. Contact lenses on the other hand offer you a great field of vision, including peripheral. You won’t be hindered to just looking straight ahead, as contact lenses allow you to look anywhere you want without any problems.

Another major difference is the weight. Glasses are uncomfortable weight on both your ears and your face. They also need to be tightened on a frequent basis, along with adjusting. Contacts on the other hand don’t weigh anything at all. When you wear contacts you don’t need to worry about tightening them or worry about them constantly sliding your face - which can be very annoying.

Glasses are also known to fog up frequently, and they are very distracting during any kind of sports you play. Contacts however, don’t fog up. You can carry out any activity you choose without having to worry about them all. They won’t fall off or slide down your nose when you run, nor will they limit what you can do when you play sports.

Another bad thing about glasses is the fact they need to match what you wear. If you have casual frames, they may not suit your evening attire. The colors may also clash, which is a bad thing for those who crave style. Unlike glasses, contact lenses will compliment everything you wear, for the simple fact that they don’t stick out.

Although there are quite a few differences between the two, they do have a few things in common as well. Both glasses and contacts require cleaning and careful handling. You’ll need to spray your glasses and wipe them off a few times each day. Contacts need to be cleaned as well, before you put them in and soaked in solution when you aren’t using them. You may also need to use eye drops as well throughout the day when wearing contacts, especially if your eyes start to dry out.

Glasses and contact lenses can both correct astigmatism as well. If you have astigmatism, you can wear either glasses or contacts. Astigmatism is an odd cornea shape that impairs vision, common with older people. Although most people think that only glasses will correct this problem, contacts can fix the problem as well.

The best thing about both contacts and glasses is the fact that they are both affordable. You can get contacts and glasses at very affordable prices. Considering the fact that you will probably be wearing them for the rest of your life, they will be the best purchase that you’ll ever make. Over the years, you’ll get your money back and then some for each day you wear either of them.

No matter which one of the two you decide to go with, you are sure to get the vision you need. If you aren’t lucky enough to have perfect vision, contact lenses and glasses are the perfect way to correct your vision. If you’ve been living with not so great vision, contacts and glasses are the ideal way to do the things you love - with perfect vision.

Why Beauty is Not Only Skin Deep?

Ancient Chinese proverbs have taught us that beauty is not only skin deep. By delving deeper into the soul of a person, you will learn if they are really beautiful.

In the movie “The Truth about Cats and Dogs”, Ben Chaplin’s character said: “You know how someone's appearance can change the longer you know them? How a really attractive person, if you don't like them, can become more and more ugly; whereas someone you might not have even have noticed... that you wouldn't look at more than once, if you love them, can become the most beautiful thing you've ever seen?”

This is true because real beauty glows from within and is a matter of perception. You do not need to spend a great amount of money for beauty products or artificial procedures to make you look good: it all comes from within.

An example is: you undergo liposuction to remove or reduce the fat in your “tummy” but after that is done you find another flaw that you want to correct, etc.

It is a vicious cycle where you are not, nor will you ever be content with your appearance because of low self esteem.

On the other hand, if you completely accept who you are and know how to emit your good points, then your satisfaction will reflect on the outside, creating a positive and vital aura.

Here are some tips on how you can maintain your beauty from within and not merely settle for skin-deep beauty.

1. Stay happy!
This is the number one rule for looking and feeling beautiful.

If you have a myriad of problems and you think that you carry the world on your shoulders, it will reflect on your appearance.

There will be “circles” under your eyes from lack of sleep, and you will look harassed and distressed.

By staying happy and feeling young, you will exude an air of confidence and contentment that will make your skin glow.

2. Be healthy.
If you have a desk job and are tied to a desk for eight hours a day, you need to participate in extracurricular activities and spend some time outdoors under the sun.

Engage in a physical sport with your friends to burn calories. Giving yourself a break will help boost your spirits

Eat healthy to avoid illness.

3. Have a positive outlook in life.
Negative vibes are never good for anyone. Having a positive outlook on life, no matter what problems may occur, is a sure way to achieve happiness and stay beautiful.

Superfoods for Super Skin

It’s been said we are what we eat, and that sentiment definitely holds true when it comes to our skin. It’s our body’s biggest organ, and it deserves all the nutritional TLC we can give it. So take a look at what you’ve been feeding yourself, and therefore feeding your skin.

One the most important components of skin health is vitamin A, and probably one of the best sources of it is low-fat dairy products. It could be said the health of our skin depends on vitamin A. Low-fat yogurt is not only high in vitamin A, but also acidophilus, the "live" bacteria that is good for intestinal health. Turns out, it may also have an impact on the skin, since it aids in digestion. Other good sources of vitamin A include cod liver oil, sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy vegetables, and fortified breakfast cereals.

It’s important to also make sure you’re eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and plums. The benefits of these foods for healthy skin are plentiful. The antioxidants and other phytochemicals in these fruits can protect the skin cells, so there is less chance for damage. This in turn guards against premature aging, and keeps skin looking younger longer. Other fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidants include artichokes, black, red, and pinto beans, prunes, and pecans.

Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are essential to your skin. Include salmon, walnuts, canola oil, and flax seed. EFAs keep cell membranes healthy, and allow nutrients to pass through.

We also need healthy oils, which contain more than essential fatty acids. Eating good-quality oils helps keep skin lubricated and keeps it looking and feeling healthier overall. Look for oils that are cold pressed, such as olive or extra virgin oil. We only need about two tablespoons a day of healthy oils, so use wisely.

Selenium plays an important role in the health of skin cells. Turn to foods like Whole-wheat bread, muffins, and cereals; turkey, tuna and brazil nuts for this important nutrient. Recent studies show that if selenium levels are high, even skin damaged by the sun may only suffer minimal, if any, damage.

Choosing the whole grain versions of complex carbohydrates can have a significant effect on insulin levels. Processed and refined sugars can cause inflammation that may ultimately be linked to skin break outs.

Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties, and it protects the membrane of the cell. It may even help prevent or reduce skin cancer risks.

Water plays such an important role in your overall health, and it has a profound effect on your skin’s health as well. Well-hydrated skin is healthy and young-looking. It also helps move the toxins out of your system so they have less chance to do damage.

Diamond Brands and What They Mean

Diamonds are one of the few products that simply cannot be ‘branded.’ Even though there are different cuts, different grades, and different values placed on each and every diamond in existence, no diamond is any specific brand – just as gold is not a specific brand.

Branding is actually based on who owns the diamond. For instance, if DeBeers owns the diamond, it is a DeBeers Diamond – but it is still just a diamond. If the diamond was cut by a specific well known cutter, then it might be branded in that way as well – but it usually isn’t. It is still branded based on who owns it at the time. So basically, when it comes down to it – diamond brands mean absolutely nothing at all.

Do not allow a jeweler to try to talk you into paying an exorbitant price on a diamond because it is a specific brand. This is a bit of trickery used by unscrupulous jewelers when they know that they are dealing with people who don’t know much about diamonds. Remember that diamonds are not actually branded – unless mother nature has her own brand!

Confidence Enhances Beauty

Some of the most successful people in life know what is needed to make any of their dreams come true. The task may take a great deal of time and effort and the only thing that will keep the individual going, despite the setbacks, is confidence.

Whenever a challenge presents itself, people should be optimistic. If fellow colleagues succeed, congratulate and praise them for a job well done. This will cause others to think highly of you as a “self-starter” and help you no matter what the odds are.

Confidence always starts with good posturing and a smile. Everyone has accomplished certain feats in life and a person should always remember this to be able to achieve a second triumph.

Being confident is also about being realistic. If a certain task is difficult, a person should be honest and speak up. Rather than just mentioning the problems, a smart person will offer solutions for overcoming these obstacles.

Some people may envy the many accomplishments of an individual and will try to discourage that person. A confident individual knows who to listen to and what to believe. The goal must be kept in mind the entire time and simply ignore discouraging statements .

Confidence can also be enhanced by associating with people who share the same enthusiasm. This can be accomplished by joining a club or finding new friends. These individuals may have ideas worth sharing and listening to that will help a person achieve more in the future.

Some people believe that the attire a person wears is another sign of confidence. This doesn’t mean buying expensive clothes or make up: it simply means dressing properly for the occasion and using proper grooming.

Everyone has role models. These individuals may be deceased but the accomplishments of these people have lived on. By thinking of that key personality and being consistent, a person will be able to succeed in a similar manner worth remembering.

Humans are not perfect and mistakes will happen. By being aware of these limitations, a person will still have room for improvement.

There are strengths and weaknesses in everyone. By having friends and family members present to challenge the person to move forward, an individual’s true beauty is apparent. This will make it possible to overcome the odds and succeed in life’s challenges.

What You Need to Watch Out when Purchasing Designers Handbags from Online Auctions

First of all remember that a handbag reflects your personality! That's why you need an authentic handbag that you will have forever and be proud of.

First thing you have to see when you are about to bid on a designer's handbag is: Does the auction states and guarantees that the handbag is authentic or full money back? If not, you should ask. Make sure you can get a full money back guarantee if the handbag is found to be fake. Authentic handbag sellers don't mind guaranteeing full money back if the handbag is found to be fake. They know their merchandise and they would not jeopardize their reputation to make $50 extra on a fake.

Be extremely cautious if the seller has no feedback. The lower the seller's feedback the greater the risk you are taking in purchasing from him/her. On the other hand, the higher the sellers' positive rating, the more likely you will at least get your money back if the item is found to be fake.

Does the seller offer multiples of the same and/or new items at a very low price? Does the offer sounds too good to be true? It might be. Some times the merchandise is counterfeit, but the pictures might reflect authentic merchandise. Check out how much the other sellers are selling the specific model. Is the seller you are buying from selling way too low? Be cautious.

Does the seller have hidden feedback? Some sellers hide their feedback after a negative feedback left from a bad transaction. Why the seller hides his/her feedback should make you think twice. The seller should have his/her feedback available for buyers to see. This is what differentiates sellers that work hard to keep satisfied clients, and people that try to make quick money selling fakes.

Are the photographs in the auction taken from another website that is selling authentic merchandise? Look for inconsistent pictures in the listing. If the picture is taken from someone else, you never know if you are receiving authentic or fake merchandise. Further more, even the seller sometimes might not know that he’s selling is a fake.

Be very cautious if the seller is very new and holds a private auction. The seller should have a decent feedback before choosing the option of private auction.

If you have even the smallest doubts ask for more photos. If you get excuses from the seller and he/she is reluctant in providing more photos, think twice. Also, if the seller provides you with more photos, again look for consistency. Is there a date on the photos? If so, were the photos taken the same day?

Remember: Always ask. The seller should always provide answers. The seller wants your business. An honest and professional seller will always reply with clarifications you might need.

Does the seller have negative feedback reflecting dissatisfied customers? You don't want to buy from someone that has many negatives. If you do not feel comfortable do not buy because it is cheap. Even if seller sells authentic merchandise, he might be selling defective merchandise that could not otherwise sold in a boutique.

Check out this small but extremely important detail on the picture: DO NOT BUY a Gucci, Prada, or Louis Vuitton if there is a round tag hanging from the handbag. Those tags are attached on the fakes.

Jump for Joy and Juice!

Juice can actually be considered a natural water source and provides the body with protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that can be absorbed quickly and efficiently. Fresh juice also contains necessary enzymes, and pigments such as carotenes, chlorophyll, and flavonoids.

Juicing fresh fruits and vegetables provides numerous nutritional advantages that are extremely important to weight loss. In addition, diets containing a high percentage of uncooked foods are significantly associated with weight loss, improved blood sugar control, and lower blood pressure.
Your appetite finds a raw foods diet more filling. Cooking can cause the loss of up to 97% of water-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Since uncooked foods such as juices contain more vitamins and other nutrients, they are more satisfying to the body, so it does not feel starved for nutrients. This means the metabolism will keep running efficiently and keep your weight loss efforts headed in the right direction

Juicing kick-starts your body's digestive process and enables quick absorption of high-quality nutrition, which can result in increased energy. This is one of the great advantages of achieving weight loss through improved nutrition. Fresh juices, combined with a well-balanced diet will provide you with the energy needed to burn more calories, fat, and provide you with the fuel you need for physical activity.

However, juicing does remove the fiber from these nutrient-dense foods. So be sure to include an appropriate amount of fiber-rich foods in your daily diet. Juicing should be a complement to a well-balanced healthy diet, not a substitute.

So with a little planning and creativity, juicing could enhance your well-balanced diet and add some zest. The internet is a great resource for juicing recipes and information, and with the realization that raw foods and juicing is a great health boost, books and magazine articles are touting the benefits and offering recipe ideas.

What's Your Reason to Exercise?

Many of us follow an exercise program, but on the other hand, many of others who don't. Have you ever asked yourself, what is the number ONE reason for you to exercise?

Below are several good reasons that I can think of as why one should start exercising now:

1. Contributes to fat loss
It is well proven from scientific research all over the world that physical exercise contributes to weight loss. If you burn more calories than you consume through nutrition, you'll lose weight. When you exercise, you burn more calories than when you don't. It's really simple - the more you exercise, the more weight or fat you'll lose.

2. Prevent disease
The chances of developing several various diseases has been proven to decrease when exercising. These diseases include heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and the stroke.

Around 4 out of 5 deaths caused by heart disease and cancer, are linked to factors that include stress and lack of exercise. We all know that diabetes increases the chance for heart attacks and strokes. What this shows, is that many of the risk factors and diseases caused by not exercising are working in conjunction to damage your health. To prevent this from happening, start exercising.

3. Improving disease
Many severe and minor diseases can be improved or even healed through regular exercise. These even include the diseases listed above. By following a regular plan, you can also decrease HDL cholesterol levels, decrease triglyceride levels, and decrease your blood pressure as well.

Exercising on a regular basis will also reduce the risk of prostate cancer for men, breast and uterine cancer for women, and much more. All of this is scientifically proven, which is why you should start exercising today.

4. Enhance your state of mind
Everyone knows from the many scientific studies that regular exercising will lead to an increased release of endorphins in the body. These chemicals will fight depression and make you feel happy. The body releases these endorphins only 12 minutes into the workout.

There is another chemical known as serotonin that is increased during and after a workout. The increased levels of serotonin in the central nervous system is associated with feelings of well being and decreased mental depression. The chemical can also help you sleep better at night.

5. Enhance your wellness
When you are in great shape and well fit, you'll have more energy and you'll notice that your overall mood is improved. You will have experienced that you can stretch beyond your own limits and you know that you can do more than you thought possible.

6. Persistence
Exercising regularly will give you more energy, which can help you be more productive at home and at work. Exercising can help give your new goals a sense of purpose and give you something to focus on and aim for. This can help to increase your persistence and prevent you from going off track while you aim for your goal.

7. Social capabilities
After a workout on a regular basis you can boost your self esteem. This can help you look better and you'll be more comfortable as well. Exercise will also help you to become more active and meet new people, which will prevent you from feeling isolated and unsupported. Exercise will also increase your interests in sex, and can help you to improve your marriage or your partner relationship.

After knowing all of these tips and reasons to exercise, you shouldn't hesitate to get out there and exercise. You can exercise at home or go out there and join a gym. There are several different ways that you can exercise, all you have to do is select a few that you like. Take a little bit of time out of your day and start exercising - you'll feel better than ever before and your body will thank you.

Being Happy and Beautiful

Happiness is not an end-all product. It is actually one of the factors in keeping one’s beauty.

Being happy is one of the key things that keep a person healthy and beautiful. I will share some tips on how to maintain beauty by being happy.

Happiness

How does one actually define happiness? Is it a state of mind or just an emotion? There are many schools of thought with regards to defining happiness. Whether it is a state of mind or just an emotion, people would know how to internally define what happiness is.

Feeling good about oneself and his surroundings is a general definition of happiness.

Happiness is said to be directly correlated somewhat with one’s physical state. Yes, it doesn’t necessarily have any effect on the inborn attributes of a person, but it does affect the glow of one’s skin, the shine of one’s hair and the overall aura of a person.

Tips on how to stay happy

1. Positive light

People have a choice regarding how they perceive things. Everything is subject to one’s view and we can use a positive light to be able to see through things. Seeing positively is one of the key secrets of a happy person. Yes, life is composed of ups and downs but people should always remember that there is a silver lining for all the upsets that are happening in their lives.

2. Down with stress

Work is usually equated with stress and stress is mainly a key driver of unhappiness. It’s all about making the right choice and the proper budgeting of one’s time and energy. There are people who stay well and happy even though they are subject to stressful work because they know how to allocate time and energy and they love what they are doing.

3. Exercise

Research has revealed that exercising regularly delivers emotional and mental boosts. Exercise improves one’s mood, self-esteem and confidence. A recent study done in Duke University has shown that regular exercise is very much effective in reducing depression, tension, confusion and anger.

4. Take a time out

Taking a rest, whether it be a long vacation or intermittent breaks during work, will benefit a person greatly.

Being happy makes one beautiful and being beautiful makes one happy. It’s a good cycle that one has to get into. It’s all about taking that first step towards self-liberation down to the road of happiness.

Switching To Contact Lenses

Switching from glasses to contact lenses is easier than you may think. Contact lenses are the preferred alternative to vision correction these days, offering you the vision enhancement you need at a price you can afford. There are a lot of things you’ll to need to know about your contacts, although they are far superior to the traditional correction of glasses.

The first thing you’ll need to do when getting contact lenses is to visit your optician and be fitted for the lenses. Your optician will give you a prescription for your contacts, examine the health of your eyes, and tell you which type of contacts will work the best for you. He or she can also tell you which contacts are best for your budget as well.

These days, there are several contact lenses to choose from. You have many different manufacturers as well, offering many different types, colors, and styles. Not all are suitable for you though, as no 2 eyes are the same. When you get fitted for your contact lenses, your optician will be able to help you make that decision.

When you first start wearing your contacts, you should never wear them for extended periods of time. Contacts will need some time to adjust to your eyes, and your eyes will need some time to rest. If you wear them too long when you start wearing them, they can harm your eyes. Your optician will tell you what he recommends, which is normally a few hours during the day then take them out. With each passing day, you can wear them for longer periods until your eyes gradually adjust.

Another aspect that will take some getting used to, that you don’t face with glasses, is knowing how to handle your contact lenses. You’ll need to make sure that your hands are clean before you handle your contacts, to avoid scratching or damaging the lenses. When you take your contacts out or put them in your eyes, you’ll need to handle them - which requires your hands to be clean.

Something you may experience with your new contacts is dry eyes. Dryness in the eyes when wearing contacts is very common, and should be expected. When wearing glasses, this is one problem you won’t have. If your eyes start to dry out when wearing your contacts, you should put a few drops of re-wetting or saline solution in your eyes. These drops will help to moisten your eyes and give you some relief from the irritation that dryness causes.

Although glasses need to be cleaned frequently, contact lenses need to be cleaned and disinfected on a daily basis. Protein will build up on the surface of the contacts, requiring them to be cleaned with a disinfecting or multi-purpose solution. The easiest way to do this is to soak your contacts in the solution when you go to sleep at night. This way, you can wake up in the morning and your contact lenses will be ready to wear.

All in all, contact lenses are preferred over glasses. You’ll need to change them out though, normally every couple of weeks. Changing them out with a fresh pair will make your eyes feel refreshed, and keep you from getting infections. Contact lenses are great for virtually anyone, and they can give you a full range of sight. They won’t hang off your face like glasses - yet they will give the freedom in knowing that you can do virtually any activity you choose.

All About Contact Lenses

As most of us know, contact lenses are the best alternative to glasses. They are small, plastic shaped discs that are made to correct eyesight problems like nearsightedness, astigmatism, farsightedness, and other problems. Contact lenses are also used by those who have had cataract surgery, as they can help the eyes to heal a bit faster.

Contacts are used in the eye, where they will float above a sea of tears that rest in front of the cornea. You should always go to a doctor to be fitted, as the proper fitting and design is very important for safety, comfort, and the accurate vision. If you don’t get fitted for your contacts, you could very well get a pair of contacts that could damage your eyes.

There are several types of contact lenses available in two main types - hard contact lenses and soft contact lenses. The hard contact lenses include gas permeable and the conventional hard lenses. Soft contact lenses include daily wear, extended wear, and disposable wear. These are all great contacts, although you should check with your optician to see what he recommends.

If you are just starting to wear hard contact lenses or have thought about them in the past, you’ll need a 2 - 4 week break period, where you will gradually wear the contacts longer and longer with each passing day. Soft contacts on the other hand, will take less time to get used to, as most people who wear them can break them in a few days.

Contact lenses, as we all know, have many different uses. They are mainly used to correct vision, although they can also be used for those who have just had cataracts, especially if the natural lens around was removed. Contacts can also be used in the treatment of various eye diseases, and scars on the cornea that have been caused by infections or injury.

Contact lenses are a great choice for those who have active lifestyles, such as athletes. They won’t fall off like glasses when you run, nor do they hang off your face or fog up. They also offer you a full field of vision as well, which is great for sports. The lens and focus is the same as glass, meaning that you will get the same vision from contacts as you would with a pair of glasses.

A lot of people who have vision problems consider getting Lasik eye surgery to fix their vision problems so that they won’t have to wear glasses or contacts. On the flip side, there are several risks and problems associated with this procedure, besides the fact that it is very expensive. Contact lenses aren’t expensive, and they are a safe alternative to vision correction.

Keep in mind that contact lenses aren’t available without a prescription. Although you can get certain contacts without a prescription, they won’t correct your vision. To get contacts that correct your vision, you’ll need to visit an eye doctor and get fitted for them. Your doctor will tell you the health of your eyes, as well as the contacts you need to correct your vision.

For several years, contact lenses have been an ideal way to correct your vision. They are more popular than glasses, and they won’t limit what you can and can’t do. Contacts fit snugly in your eyes and they won’t make you feel out of place. You can wear them with any type of clothing you desire - as it is very hard to tell if someone is wearing them or not.

The Best Beauty Secret - Beyond Makeup and Hair Treatments

Simply looking like a model will NOT qualify you to be called beautiful, and that is the honest truth.

Beauty is more than just the perfect hair, makeup, dress, teeth, skin and clothes. Yes, those things help make a woman look good. But beautiful is a class of its own – a class a woman like you can achieve.

Of course, looking good can help as you make your way toward being beautiful. So here are some tips to get from looking good to becoming beautiful.


Your crowning glory
You don’t need to visit the salon every week, but neither should you keep your ‘mane’ looking like a mat on your head.

Take care to keep your hair clean and shiny. On occasion (every 2 months or so), visit a hairstylist who can suggest a good cut that will suit your face and body shape.

Carry yourself like royalty
The idea is for you to be able to walk down the street WITHOUT shuffling your feet and with your head bowed down as if apologizing for your existence.

Push your shoulders back with your head resting squarely on your shoulders and stride! Walk as if every hall you pass is a runway – because it is.

You make the clothes (not the other way around)
Be realistic about your body shape. Not everyone’s got an hourglass figure (and guess what? Not everyone desires that either!).

Don’t torture yourself by forcing your body into clothes that will not suit you. It is about as sad a thing as you could do to yourself. Take what you’ve got and dress to highlight what your mama gave you. Consult with a professional to determine what types of clothes will flatter your body shape.

Makeup not mock-up
The only time too much makeup is a good thing is when it’s on a clown or mime. Otherwise, less is more.

Much like with clothes, use makeup to highlight the nice things about your face. Are those your eyes? Your lips? Your cheeks? Caution though, if you feel your face has got all of those; choose only one part to emphasize or risk looking like a member of K.I.S.S.

Finally, the best beauty secret of all…

…love yourself! It is by far the best beauty treatment you can get. Develop a positive attitude on everything there is about you – from the way you think, to how you talk and of course how you look. People will recognize that there is something about you that makes you irresistible – and that is when you feel great about yourself, no matter what others think or say. You can start being beautiful – now!

Designer Handbags for the Rich and Famous

For as long as I can recall, I have been completely obsessed with designer handbags. I spent the majority of my youth dreaming of the day when I could afford to buy my favorite designer handbags. Here I am, some ten years later, still looking forward to that day. While I have been known to skip out on my bills to buy the latest trendy handbag, I have yet to spend more than $1000.00 on an individual bag. A girl can still dream, can't she?

I was leafing through some catalogs over the weekend, and I was amazed at how incredibly expensive some of the high-end designer handbags really are. I knew they were expensive, but I had no clue how very expensive. Oh…the innocence of youth! I decided that it would be useful for our legion of faithful readers to have a handy reference of the most expensive designer handbags on the planet. So here goes…

It has been written about countless times in the press and in the blogosphere, but I simply cannot resist this little gem! If I had to name an all-time favorite design house, Fendi would be the one. I don't know how they manage to do it, but they are consistently able to strike an incredible balance between innovation and classic design in all of their creations. Fendi designs some of the most exciting handbags in the fashion industry, and the "B.Bag" is one of the most sought-after handbags in the world. One might think that the $30,000 price tag might be a deterrent, but not for those with the means to support their addiction!

Another bag that has given me far too many sleepless nights is the Hermes "Birkin" bag! These bags were named after Jane Birkin, the oh-so-fabulous British actress and fashion icon. These bags are often duplicated, but never truly replicated. With a price tag of over $20,000, it is easy to understand why they are a favorite of vendors of cheap, imitation handbags. As you are likely aware, these bags are available by special order only. Furthermore, the final costs will very much be dependent on the materials and hardware used in their construction. Wow! Do I need a Sugar Daddy, or what?


If there was one other bag that creeps into my dreams with any regularity, it would be the "Muse" from Yves Saint Laurent. It is very much like a traditional bowling bag in shape and design. The first time I saw her was at Saks on Fifth Ave in NYC, and from that moment I knew one day she would be mine. If I had my way, I would choose the oh-so-supple white crocodile version. I cannot think of anything I would rather spend $20,000 on…aside from the "Birkin" bag mentioned above. Wouldn't I make the perfect girlfriend? Wanna go shopping sometime?

Appreciation -
Image source:
Bagarama.net
ValueBags.com
eFashionHouse.com
IOfferStores.com

Watch What You Eat to Enhance Beauty

Today beauty is associated with a beautiful body. From TV commercials to fashion magazines, thin women are in and those who are overweight are out. However, more than half of the population is overweight. This problem is affecting not only women but men of all ages.

A healthy lifestyle not only increases a person’s energy but it can also enhance their appearance. Most people who are overweight do not watch their diet, and that leads to unwanted obesity.

Here are some tips to follow to achieve a beautiful body through proper dieting:

1. Eat high-fiber, low fat foods such as salads, vegetables, and pasta.

2. Eat small amounts of food every two hours instead of having a big breakfast, lunch, or dinner. By doing this, the metabolism will increase and burn calories faster. Do not skip a single meal as there is less temptation to eat junk food when the stomach is full.

3. Instead of cornflakes, try oatmeal for breakfast to lower your cholesterol level. Eating oatmeal for breakfast keeps a person from wanting snacks before lunch because it is rich in fiber.

4. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. It helps cut the appetite and improves the appearance of the skin.

5. Avoid alcoholic beverages especially beer; instead, try fruit juices or iced tea.

6. Avoid sweets. Chocolate specifically can ruin the diet. Avoiding it does not mean total abstinence from it though - have some once a week!

7. Instead of eating meat, try fish. Eating a large amount of fish does not make you fat.

8. Abstain from eating after 6 PM. This has worked for many people. The idea behind it is to keep food away from the body when its metabolism is at its slowest state. For people who cannot totally eliminate food during this time eat yogurt, cabbage, fish, or green salad.

9. Lose weight sensibly. Do not keep the stomach hungry. It is a common belief that skipping meals is a sure way to lose weight; but that is just plain wrong! Instead, try eating fruit like watermelon, papaya, etc.

10. Avoid frying with oil: try to use non-stick cookware to cut down the oil or use paper towels to remove excess oil.

11. Instead of whole milk, put skim milk in your coffee or tea. There is no difference in the taste, just the number of calories.

Loosing weight has been one of American’s problems that’s affecting more than half of the population. To decrease that percentage, follow the simple 11 steps above.

You Have To Feel Good To Look Good

People love to look good and appreciated. Many of them are going to spas, using beauty treatments, dieting, and other beauty rituals. What they often forget is that beauty must start from within.

When people feel good about themselves they are unknowingly boosting their self-esteem, projecting positive aura, and looking younger than their age.

People feel good if they are satisfied, when they are fit and healthy, but not necessarily ultra thin. Perhaps, the most significant factor necessary to feel good about “you” is feeling good about the body and its appearance.

Here are some simple tips that make people feel good about themselves:

1. Appreciate yourself.

Ever wondered what simple praise can do for a person? It cannot only boost your self-esteem but “fuel you” so that you do better by knowing that your appearance and efforts are recognized. This works similarly if a person often praises himself instead of frequently absorbing blame or pity. Optimistic people usually get the most out of life, they think positively; and in turn feel more positive about the things that they do. As a result, they attain an excellent personal and body image.

2. Fitness and exercise.

People feel good when they see a great body when they face the mirror. It makes them confident enough to wear clothes that they would not have worn previously and they are generally energized. Achieving this is easier said than done. Beginners can exercise in the comfort of their own homes, enroll at a gym, and become involved in sports. Exercise will improve their posture and balance as well as reduce stress that can cause unwanted wrinkles.

3. Proper diet.

Eating sensibly does not just guarantee a leaner and healthier body, but people feel good when they are spared from the trauma of admission to a hospital. They can participate in activities that they enjoy and spend quality time with their loved ones. Eating foods that are healthy and good for the body eliminates worries about unwanted weight gain and related diseases.

4. Make and keep friends.

People always feel better when they are surrounded by good friends who contribute to their enjoyment of life. Studies show that people who have friends have a lower stress level, recover from illnesses quicker, and live longer compared to those people who have few friends and prefer to be alone.

With all that is happening in today’s world, feeling positive and good is something that seems difficult or impossible to achieve. However, by learning to practice the simple tips mentioned above you will at least one-step closer to that goal.

Beauty Products That Can Enhance Appearance

The cosmetics industry has an average growth of more than 20% every year because women are very conscious about their appearance in the presence of others. This has prompted many companies to research and develop better products for customers of all ages.

Simply putting on makeup is just one of the things needed to enhance a person’s appearance. The face should be properly cared for even when an individual is at home.

Before going to bed, a facial cleanser should be used to remove the makeup and dirt that was accumulated during the day. These cleansers are available in the form of creams and oils which can be purchased at the grocery store.

Another product that can remove oil and dirt is a facial mask. These are available in singles or in packs. All you need to do is apply it to the face and peel it off after five minutes.

Puffy eyes are usually caused by fatigue. A person will notice some swelling or redness and this can easily be fixed by applying some eye gel. Cucumber, chamomile, and a cold compress can also be used for those who want to look beautiful when on a small budget.

Since the body is also exposed to dirt and other elements, purchase and use a body scrub every time you shower to wash away dead skin to feel refreshed.

Some men pay attention to the hands of a woman. The nails can be made attractive and sparkling by using a nail polish which is available in different colors. For those who don’t want to buy a polish they can simply use some lemon juice and nail buffer to create the same effect.

Women should not forget to give the hair some attention. Use shampoo and conditioner to make it look shiny and radiant. Some companies have combined these into one formula making it possible to buy one bottle instead of two.

The scent of a woman is another thing that attracts men. Don’t forget to use a good perfume which can be sprayed on during different times of the day.

Beauty products are available over the counter or recommended by a dermatologist. If a person experiences any allergic reaction, it is necessary to stop using a product(s) and consult a doctor.

There are many ways to enhance your appearance without spending a lot of money. Just compare the performance of the brands of a product before becoming a regular user of a product.

How to Choose Clothing That Suit You Best To Improve Your Appearance

Your style of clothing affects your appearance. Research show that what a person wears really does make a world of difference; and, in fact influence the people around you.

When your integrity is necessary in situations such as sales presentations, job interviews and first dates or any date, it is very important to create a "good" impression.

It will be much easier to dress appropriately and appealingly when you are aware of the types of clothes that will look good on your body.


Body shapes and clothes styles guidelines:

• No to high collared blouses as they shorten the appearance of the neck.

• No to tight, short sleeved, breast pocket tops as they detract from your figure.

• Shoes with straps will shorten the appearance of your legs.

• Your torso may be narrowed by belts, seam lines, collars and bows.

• Short necklaces will make the neck appear shorter.

• A belt or scarf hanging down toward your legs makes the legs seem longer.

• Vertical lines create the illusion of a thinner and slimmer body.

• Overall prints can hide figure problems, prints scattered too much can make you appear heavier.

• Prints located over the shoulders will make them appear wider. Wear prints on your assets, since they usually attract the eye.


Tips for petite women:

• Yes to vertical prints and slim belts.

• Yes to a slight dissimilarity in the colors.

• Yes to flowing and soft fabrics that fit your body well.

• No to overwhelming prints.


Tips for tall women:

• Yes to wider belts.

• No to tight dress or tops and skirts which are too long or too short.


Clothing guidelines for the hip heavy “triangle” women:

• Yes to vertical prints and lines

• Yes to V-neck tops.

• Yes to dresses with small shoulder pads.

• Yes to tailored suits, shirtwaist dresses and jackets with classic, straight cuts.

• No, to bulky and stiff fabrics.

• Yes to just “below the knee” skirts and dresses.

• No to pinafore skirts.

• Say no to A-line skirts.


“Top heavy” women:

• Long jackets and no shoulder pads are recommended.

• No to tops with ruffles or fancy details.

• No clingy fabrics for blouses.

• Wear dark colored tops.

• Yes to thin fabrics such as cotton jersey or cotton.

• Yes to one color scheme dressing.

• Yes to flat shoes.


Rectangular women:

• No to tops or jackets that hug your waist.

• Yes to patterns on tops or pants to add length.


To look good, choose clothing that is comfortable to wear so that you can carry it well!

How to Choose the Perfect Handbag

There are so many handbags on offer, how to select the one that would complement your figure and go with most of your outfits? See fashion expert tips.


What purse style would work best with your figure?

Never mind the current fashion: your handbag should first of all complement your figure. A tiny purse on a largish woman looks a bit silly. But even though large bags are in fashion now, don't go overboard, otherwise the bag will distract attention from your person. See examples of how to match purses to your figure.

If you are slim and tall, go for a round or square shaped purse. If you are not very tall, a bottle shaped handbag would look best. And, of course, a not very large backpack works perfectly for any figure.

Most handbags have adjustable handles, so make use of them. Large bags should never hang at the level of your hips: if necessary shorten the handle, so the bag comes to your waist line. And if you wear a backpack, it should not hang down over your backside: adjust the handles so it is just above your waist. This looks better, doesn't put as much pressure on your lower back, and forces you to keep a good posture.

What color should you choose?

These days handbags are very colorful. Of course, this means that you can no longer have just one bag that would go with any outfit you wear. However, if you wear a lot of blue, orange or green, a matching color purse would make your outfit complete. Fruit prints are currently 'in', with the most popular being cherries, peaches and apples.

As far as prints go, a plain, one-color handbag is more practical as it is easier to match with your clothes. However, if you wear a single-colored dress, adding a bright, multicolored handbag might be a good idea.

Also each season of the year favors different handbag colors. All greens are very popular in spring, while red and orange are often seen in autumn. Winter favorites are white and all shades of blue.

And, of course, black is still a classic, which goes with any outfit. Brown handbags, too, are still popular although they are not very practical: a brown bag would only work with brown or beige clothing.

What are most fashionable purse materials?

Leather is always a classic, and it works for any situation and with any outfit. However, other purse materials are fashionable now. Fabric bags can look very stylish, as well as a mix of fabric and leather. Straw bags are simple, and create a great look for the summer. Moreover, since straw looks very natural, it works well with a summer outfit of any color.