Health and Love

It sounds like something out of a Hollywood script, but an unemployed Brooklyn man might as well add “Consummate Hero” to his resume.

Delroy Simmonds missed a job interview Tuesday after jumping in front of a subway car to save a nine-month-old child that had fallen onto the tracks, the New York Daily News reports.

Simmonds, who was laid off last year from his job as a vocational trainer, was en route to interview for a maintenance position when he saw a gust of wind knock the infant’s stroller onto the tracks.

The mother, toting three other kids at the time, reportedly looked on as Simmonds shimmied down the platform and hoisted the child to safety.

An oncoming J train had just rounded the corner, but both Simmonds and the child made it out relatively unscathed (witnesses said the infant suffered gash to its forehead).

“Everybody is making me out to be some sort of superhero,” he told the Daily News. “I’m just a normal person. Anybody in that situation should have done what I did.”

Luckily, his act was enough to wrangle another interview for Wednesday. In response to all the public recognition, Simmonds kept his eye on the prize: ”What I really need now is a job,” said.

***Update: Today, the Daily News reports that Simmonds has been hired as a maintenance man at JFK airport and ”will earn $9.50 an hour, about $2 more than new hires are paid at the company.

A poster on a school notice board declares: “What we habitually say in our heads, we usually end up saying with our lips, which ultimately direct our feet.” Wrds are powerful. From others they often influence or direct our decisions and behaviour while our own words act to elicit responses from those who receive them. 

In the Bible, the Book of Proverbs has much to say about the value of well- chosen words: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” It goes on to prompt us to choose our friends carefully, partly on the basis of the kind of words and speech they habitually use. 

“Speak that which is kindlier,” the Quran instructs, “a kind word with forgiveness is better than almsgiving followed by injury…” A commentary on the meaning of these verses says that the tongue affects the ear. The ear affects the soul. The soul affects the entire body. Every word makes an impression on the listener. But the deepest impression made on the listener is either a kind word or a harsh word. 

Whichever way we look at it, there is no doubt that what we say or write could have impact and so the prudent would use the power of speech very carefully indeed. 

In Buddhism, one aspect of the Eightfold Path, Sama Vaca, is most often translated into English as Right Speech, but a more accurate rendering is Wise Speech or even Skillful Speech, which helpfully suggests speech that is acquired through practice. The concept of Intentional Speech is being mindful of one’s purpose in speaking. 

The following story illustrates well the power of words: An old Buddhist master spoke to his students: “Tonight I would like to speak to you about wise speech. According to the Buddha, wise speech is that which is truthful, gentle, helpful, spoken from a kind heart and is timely.” 

Then he spoke at great length about the harm that results from rude, mean spirited, harsh or careless words. A young disciple said, “Venerable sir, I do not understand how this can be. A stone can bruise. Theft can deprive. But words are just sounds, having no substance. I must disagree with you when you suggest they are so powerful.” 

The master replied, “If you weren’t such an ignorant idiot, you’d understand. So sit down, shut up and stop interrupting.” 

The startled young man fell silent, but about ten minutes later jumped to his feet, face red, eyes bulging, fists clenched, his whole body shaking. 

The old man turned to him, “You seem perturbed. Your gentle disposition is shattered. What happened to you?” 

“You hurtled harsh insults I did not deserve. You cannot possibly be the great teacher you pretend to be. You are a fraud!” 

The old man responded, “Ah, I see. It was my words that had such a transforming effect upon you. It seems you and I agree that speech can be quite powerful.” 

Words, especially from those we consider leaders, can guide us or deceive us, make us knowledgeable or ignorant, violent or peaceful, sad or joyful, wise or foolish. Words give birth to ideas, which in turn create powerful emotions, which rule the hearts of men and women, who then can act constructively or destructively, for justice or injustice.

Ursolic acid from apple peels could help to fight growing waistlines by increasing calories burned, according to new research.

The study — published in PLoS ONE — suggests the natural substance found in apple peel can partially protect mice from obesity and some of its harmful effects.

Ursolic acid is present in many plants including apples, basil, bilberries, cranberries, elder flower, peppermint rosemary, lavender, oregano, thyme, hawthorn, prunes. Apple peels contain large quantities of ursolic acid and related compounds.

Led by Dr Christopher Adams from the University of Iowa, USA, the researchers noted that ursolic acid — a waxy substance found in apple peel — increases muscle and brown fat mass in mice fed a high-fat diet. The research team reveled that mice supplemented with the compound in addition to a high fat chow burned more calories and had a reduced incidence of obesity, pre-diabetes and fatty liver disease than mice not receiving the supplement.

“From previous work, we knew that ursolic acid increases muscle mass and strength in healthy mice, which is important because it might suggest a potential therapy for muscle wasting,” said Adams.

“In this study, we tested ursolic acid in mice on a high-fat diet — a mouse model of obesity and metabolic syndrome. Once again, ursolic acid increased skeletal muscle. Interestingly, it also reduced obesity, pre-diabetes and fatty liver disease.

Looking young seems to be a foremost priority of the over 30 crowd these days. Not just women, even men are wary of aging and hollywood only encourages this preoccupation. Instead of resorting to botox, plastic surgery or using the number of anti-aging chemical creams that have flooded the markets, one can go the natural route and opt for fruits and vegetables to help fight all age-related problems. Here are a few superfoods that can help control aging and make you look younger, but more importantly, vibrant and healthy.

1. Avocado

Apart from being high in Vitamin E, avocados are rich in antioxidants which help protect the skin. Avocados help in regenerating skin cells which makes your skin look fresh, giving a more youthful complexion.

2. Walnuts

Walnuts are a rich source of Vitamin E and having a handful can help your skin look great.

3. Kidney Beans

These pulses are full of fibre and potassium which help reduce the cholesterol levels and thus reduce the risk of any heart disease. But their major health benefit is that they are packed with proteins.

4. Broccoli

Broccoli is a great source of fibre and Vitamin C which not only help control weight, but also help to fight heart diseases. Sulforaphane found in broccoli hinders the growth of cancer cells.

5. Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in Vitamin C, which help in easy circulation of blood. Blueberries also contain certain minerals which help control the anti-ageing process. High in potassium, these berries help fight puffiness.

6. Aloe Vera juice

Aloe vera juice is excellent if you want younger-looking skin. Have 30 ml aloe vera juice diluted with 100 ml water early morning on empty stomach. And after 20-30 minutes you can have your regular breakfast.

7. Brazil nuts

Brazil nuts are a very rich source of selenium, a mineral that works very well with Vitamin E to stop oxidative stress and cell damage caused by free radicals; thus, slowing down the aging process. But should be eaten in moderation (two nuts a day) because of its high fat content.

Getting kids to pass up junk food in favour of healthier fruits and veggies has led to many a mealtime meltdown for parents everywhere. Now, researchers from the University of Alberta offer a simple solution: give them an apron. 

A province-wide survey of Grade 5 students in Alberta suggests the best way to get your child to eat healthier foods — and actually enjoy them — is to have them help with meal preparation.

“Kids who like fruits and vegetables more tend to eat them more frequently and have better diets,” said lead author Yen Li Chu, a post-doctoral fellow in the School of Public Health. “These data show that encouraging kids to get involved in meal preparation could be an effective health promotion strategy for schools and parents.”

Published last month by Public Health Nutrition in an early online release, the study involved a survey of students in 151 schools across Alberta to learn about kids’ experiences with cooking and food choices.

Nearly one-third of children reported helping with meal prep at least once a day; another one-third said they helped one to three times a week. A quarter of children helped once a month, and 12.4 per cent avoided the kitchen completely.

In general, children preferred fruits to veggies, but children who helped with cooking showed a greater preference for both. Vegetable preference was also 10 per cent higher among children who helped cook.

The data also showed that kids who did meal prep and cooking were more confident about the importance of making healthier food choices.

Paul Veugelers, co-author and Canada Research Chair in Population Health at the U of A, said getting children to eat healthier food promotes bone and muscle development, learning and self-esteem.

“Good food is important for us. It keeps weight gain away — and more important than that, it keeps chronic disease away,” Veugelers said. “The overarching objective of our work is to lower the burden of chronic disease in our society. A healthy diet is right at the top.”

Chu said the results underscore the value of getting kids interested in mealtime activities in the home, but added there could be room for schools to get involved, too.

“You can go into schools and have cooking classes and cooking clubs to help them boost their fruit and vegetable intake and make healthier choices,” she said.

Though this survey dealt with Grade 5 students, the lessons are equally applicable to older youth, including post-secondary students, added Veugelers.

“For many of them, it may be the first time they leave home, the first time in their lives they’re responsible for their own diets,” he said. “There are lessons here for them too, to form groups and take turns cooking, and pay attention to good meal preparation.”

This work was part of the Real Kids Alberta evaluation funded by Alberta Health. Real Kids Alberta is a collaborative initiative between the School of Public Health and Alberta Health to provide directions to improve eating habits and activity levels in Alberta children and youth.

About 40 new species of ants have been discovered in the Philippines, ant researcher David General and his colleagues recently announced.

The previously unknown species belong to 11 different genera, the taxonomic classification above species. That brings the total genera (the plural of genus) found in the country to 92, which is nearly a third of the total described worldwide.

That’s highly unusual for a country about the size of New Jersey, General told OurAmazingPlanet in an email. For instance, that’s twice the number of genera found in Madagascar, a place renowned for its biodiversity, said General, a researcher at Palawan State University in the Philippines.

General and colleagues conducted their collections at a reforested study site in 2003 and 2004 on Luzon Island. Trees here had been cut down to grow corn 27 years before, but the area had already recovered its populations of native ants when the team visited, he said. When General returned in 2009, though, all the trees in the area had been cut down and removed again, even the stumps. “It’s like I was in the wrong place,” he said.

General describes the newly identified genera in a paper published in the May edition of the journal Zookeys, although individual species have yet to be named and described.

The unique features of the new genera are pretty subtle; to a nonspecialist, the animals probably look the same as other known ants. General’s favorite new ant has a unique mouth, with mandibles that are extended on stems. “Because ants use their mandibles as ‘hands’ to manipulate their environment, this is an important adaptation,” he said.

Despite the diversity of life on the islands, ant-collecting is still “in its infancy,” he said, and there are many locations yet to be surveyed. That’s due in part to the rugged terrain and the difficulty of traveling between the more than 7,100 different islands of the Philippines, most of which are uninhabited. The adventurous myrmecologist like General also has to contend with an active communist insurgency and malaria-carrying mosquitoes.

Rampant deforestation is also causing species to go extinct before they’re discovered. That’s worrying since ants are important in any ecosystem. “They are undertakers, predators, fungus gardeners, pastoralists of honeydew-producing insects, and serve as food for many birds, lizards, frogs and mammals,” General said. Native ants help maintain the rainforest’s web of life, and are important to preserve. “Protecting native ants will necessarily result in protecting the plants and animals that depend on them,” he said.

US regulators on Wednesday approved the first drug to treat obesity in 13 years, a drug called lorcaserin, marketed as Belviq and made by Arena Pharmaceuticals.

The drug works to control the appetite through receptors in the brain and was approved as additional therapy for certain overweight and obese patients, combined with diet and exercise.

Trials showed the drug helped people lose an average of three to 3.7 percent of their body weight after a year when compared to a placebo, the US Food and Drug Administration said.

It is approved for use in obese adults with a body mass index of 30 or greater, or overweight adults with a BMI of 27 or greater who have at least one other condition such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Arena’s stock opened the day at $9 per share and jumped as high as 47 percent on news of the US approval. The company said it is also seeking approval on the European market, but has no timeline yet for a decision.

Janet Woodcock, director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, described obesity as “a major public health concern,” and said the new drug offers a treatment option when used “responsibly in combination with a healthy diet and lifestyle.”

However, the FDA warned that Belviq is not for women who are pregnant or nursing, and called for further long-term postmarketing studies on the drug’s potential risks.

The label will also recommend that Belviq be discontinued in patients who fail to lose five percent of their body weight after 12 weeks of treatment.

“These patients are unlikely to achieve clinically meaningful weight loss with continued treatment,” said the FDA statement.

Belviq activates the serotonin 2C receptor in the brain, and may cause serious side effects if taken in combination with certain medications for depression and migraine that increase serotonin levels or activate serotonin receptors.

“Belviq may also cause disturbances in attention or memory,” said the FDA.

Common side-effects in patients without diabetes include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, dry mouth, and constipation.

In diabetic patients, side effects may include low blood sugar, headache, back pain, cough, and fatigue.

Lorcaserin was rejected in 2010 by the Endocrinologic and Metabolic Drugs Advisory Committee, which advises the FDA, over concerns that it formed breast tumors in rats.

But those effects did not appear in trials on overweight and obese humans.

An independent advisory committee to the FDA recommended the drug be approved in May after three randomized, placebo-controlled trials of nearly 8,000 patients spanning one to two years.

“All participants received lifestyle modification that consisted of a reduced calorie diet and exercise counseling,” the FDA said.

“Compared with placebo, treatment with Belviq for up to one year was associated with average weight loss ranging from three percent to 3.7 percent.”

Some patients with type 2 diabetes experienced higher levels of weight loss, with 38 percent of these patients achieving at least five percent loss of their body weight compared to 16 percent who did the same on a placebo.

The pills will be manufactured at Arena’s facility in Zofingen, Switzerland, and will be distributed in the US by Eisai Pharmaceuticals.

Arena is headquartered in San Diego, California.

According to Michael Aziz, internist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, the biggest apparent drawback to the drug is the tiny amount of weight loss that patients experience while taking it.

“The only problem with this drug is the weight loss is so, so very low,” Aziz told AFP, remarking that a 200 pound (91 kilogram) person might lose just six pounds (2.7 kg) in a year, based on the study data.

“That is so insignificant,” he said. “I think people should also implement lifestyle changes because the fact is, people can lose one pound a week and that is perfectly healthy.”

The last anti-obesity drug approved in the United States was Xenical (Orlistat) by Roche in 1999.

Sold over the counter as Alli by GlaxoSmithKline, it works by preventing the body from absorbing fat, though its tendency to cause gastrointestinal side effects such as oily, loose stools have curbed its popularity among patients.

Have you ever eaten something because you thought it was healthy, but later found out that food wasn’t good for you at all? Don’t be embarrassed if the answer is “yes.” Advertising and misinformation surround what we eat and can make every food appear healthy-even if nothing could be farther from the truth. To help you distinguish food friend from food foe, we asked two registered dieticians, Lauren Antonucci and Lisa Moskovitz of Nutrition Energy, a sports performance nutrition center in New York City, to unmask some of the diet-sabotaging villains hiding behind “healthy” labels. Here are their nine worst offenders:

Yogurt 

Yogurt in any form is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. But some brands have as much fat and sugar as a jelly-donut. Be sure you’re only getting the good stuff by choosing plain, low-fat versions. Flavor them on your own with fruit and honey. And go Greek when you can. Plain Greek Yogurt offers twice as much protein and half the amount of carbs as the traditional type, Moskovitz says.

Reduced-Fat Peanut Butter 

When manufacturers take fat out of peanut butter, they replace it with sugars. As a result, reduced-fat peanut butter has the same total calories as the original, but more than twice the amount of carbs. “It’s better to stick with the regular stuff,” Moskovitz says. “You’ll eat less, because the full-fat version is more satisfying and filling.” 

Dried Fruit 

With more than 100 calories per ¼ cup serving, calories can add up quickly when you’re eating dried fruit. Antonucci recommends reaching for fresh or frozen fruits instead. “You’ll be able to eat a larger, more satisfying serving for fewer calories and feel fuller from the fluids,” Antonucci says.

Margarine 

In a head-to-head battle between butter and its artificial competitor, the original wins by a landslide. Sure, the spreads have the same number of calories, but Margarine has more trans fat, which simultaneously raises your “bad” (LDL) cholesterol and lowers “good” (HDL) cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic. “That’s the one ingredient we dietitians recommend to avoid completely,” Moskovitz says. To limit your risk of heart disease, stick with the real stuff. And choose whipped butter, which has a lower caloric density.

Protein Bars 

“Protein bars are basically vitamin and protein-infused candy bars,” says Moskovitz. “They seem like a healthy snack replacement, but they can contain more than twice the amount of fat and carbs as a chocolate brownie.” To steer clear of needless calories, look for options that have less than 180 calories and 5 grams fat, and provide at least 5 grams of fiber.

 

You’ve been dating for a few months, or few years and you just love her. You’ve been wondering when to pop the question. 

But then you go out for a few drinks with your friends and they put ideas in your head. You start to question whether she’s the right girl for you. Whether she is or isn’t marriage material? Don’t get into a state. It’s rather easy to figure this out. Read on:

What is she like?

She should be secure and sorted in life. Assess her emotional stability, what is she like around you, your friends and family. See if she accepts them like you do, or tries to find flaws in them. Does she accept you the way you are or is always trying to change you? How does she handle situations in life? Does she crumble under pressure, or stands up and fights? Is she clingy? Wants to know where you are every second of the day? Does she always doubt you? Wants to be the one taking all the decisions? Does she diligently go through your wallet, your cell phone? Wants to know your password to your email account?

Her goals

Does she know where she’s headed in life? Understand what’s important to her. What are her goals and values? What are her personal and professional goals? Can she take care of herself financially? If she is making her own money she won’t expect you to run the household. See how she handles her money? A simple test could be to see whether she reaches for her purse at restaurants when the cheque comes. Find out whether she is a spendthrift or a hoarder? Money is one of the causes why some marriages end up in a divorce. So make sure you lay out clear rules regarding handling of finances.

Physical appeal/desirability

Find out if you truly are sexually, physically attracted to her. Whether she has the same sexual needs? Is she ready to have sex every time you initiate or holds sex back until she feels like it? Do you feel attracted to her only when you’re drunk or at all times of the day? Is there enough romance in your relationship to take it all the way through? Marriage is quite unlike dating. It’s going to be longer periods of togetherness. You need to find out whether you are sexually, physically compatible.

Values

Do your values match up? Say, she wants kids and you don’t. She wants to have an independent house, while you can’t live away from your parents. Having the same values is absolutely important for a successful marriage. If you don’t think the same way about certain things, trouble could rear its ugly head.

Intellect

She should be able to hold decent conversations with you. She should be as intelligent as you are. What are her views about things – politics, sports, science, arts, literature, music – whatever interests you both. Does she make valid arguments? Can she hold her own during a debate? How educated she is? Does she have a good sense of humor? It’s fine for you to make her laugh? But does she make you laugh?

Her interests

She should have her own interests. She should have her own hobbies and passions – things that keep her occupied. She should have her own set of friends that she hangs out with – have her own social life. If she wants to be a part of all your plans, soon enough you will start resenting her and eventually your marriage. See how much time she spends on her hobbies. That doesn’t mean you cannot participate in each other’s interests. If she is into dancing, you can take a lesson or two. If you’re into bungee jumping, she can come along at times and take a plunge. But as far as possible, have your own interests and keep that time for yourself. Don’t mix everything.

Communication

If you thought only men had trouble communicating or expressing their feelings, think again. Women tend to be like that, too. Does your girlfriend pick up a fight with you often, over things you think are not even worth it? Is she always in a sour mood? You know something is bothering her, but instead of talking about it, she will scream at you and want to be left alone. Is she like that often? She is fighting with you over something, for example not calling her enough, but you know the issue is really something else, perhaps she thinks you’re ignoring her and not involving her in your life enough. She should be able to communicate her feelings to you clearly and vice versa, or else the marriage might not work.

Check up on these aspects, ask yourself these questions. If you get a positive answer on all counts, she is one hundred percent marriage material. Don’t let her go; she is THE one.

Red bell peppers: ”This beautifully colored vegetable is bursting with antioxidants (especially vitamin C and beta-carotene) to help your body fight off infections,” says Margaux J. Rathbun, a certified nutritional therapy practitioner and creator of nutrition website Authentic Self Wellness. “They are also stimulating for the digestive system and have been shown to be metabolism-boosters, helping you to lose unwanted pounds. They are perfect for dieters when eaten raw or prepared in a juice concoction.”

Peppermint: ”Peppermint works to reduce bloating and indigestion and soothe the GI tract all around,” says Rachel Berman, registered dietitian and Director of Nutrition for CalorieCount.com. Try mixing up some iced peppermint tea or add a few mint leaves to your water.

Leafy greens: ”Not only are leafy greens a great way to add volume to your meals without the calories, but they are chock full of nutrients (vitamins A, C, K, folate, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and fiber) and easy to incorporate into your day,” says Mary Dinehart-Perry, a registered dietitian and clinical trials director for Zone Labs, Inc. She recommends swapping out iceberg for spinach in your salads, adding mustard greens or collards to your soups, or dishing up a side of sautéed kale to fill up, fight disease, and look fab in your bikini.

Yogurt is magic for the tum. Nutritionist Rania Batayneh recommends yogurt, “The probiotic bacteria in most yogurts help keep your digestive system healthy, which translates into a lower incidence of gas, bloating, and constipation, which can keep your tummy looking flat.” Ideally go for the plain-flavoured yogurts, that don’t contain added sugars.

Switch to whole grain. The body shows a decreased insulin response to whole grain as compared to refined carbohydrate like rice and white bread. So replace those meals of white rice and milk bread with whole grains like lentils, brown rice, and whole wheat bread for a trimmer waistline.

Stock up on cruciferous veggies like broccoli, brussels sprouts, asparagus, peppers, and yellow beans. They contain folate, beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, and fiber, and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K.

Olive Oil: Mono-unsaturated fats like those found in olive oil, work to reduce belly fat and don’t increase calorie intake.

Apple cider vinegar: New research indicates that 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (ideally mixed with a glass of water), consumed daily over a period of 12 weeks, works to lower body weight and reduce belly fat. This is attributed to vinegar’s acetic acid, which is believed to pump out proteins that break down fat.

Green tea contains certain chemicals called polyphenols and catechins that boost metabolism and help burn fat. Including 2-3 cups of green tea in your diet will help reduce that waistline, as well as provide a host of other health benefits.

Apples are one of the most popular negative calorie foods. This means that an apple burns more calories that it adds to the body, while being digested, making for a great, tasty snack that does nothing to add to body fat.

Eggs are a great source of protein and contain essential amino acids that the body needs to build everything from muscle fibres to brain chemicals. It is the perfect breakfast food, and ensures you feel less hungry during the day and reduces that urge to snack.

Almonds provide the body with minerals like magnesium, and regulate blood sugar levels. A stable blood sugar level is key to prevent cravings that can lead to overeating.

Salmon, tuna and mackerel, in addition to being a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, also improve metabolism and help burn fat faster by improving the body’s glucose-insulin response.

It certainly looks sweet, but we’ll see what Microsoft’s radically redesigned Windows 8 operating system will offer computer users later this year.

Until then, there’s still a lot to learn about your existing Windows PC.

Yes, even if you’ve been tapping and clicking away on it for years, you’ve probably only scratched the surface of what it can do. Like our brains, it’s estimated we only use about 10 percent of what our tech toys are capable of.

To help bridge the gap, here we offer a number of assorted tips and tricks, shortcuts and other little-known features built into your Windows machine. Some are tied specifically to Windows 7, where indicated, but most are applicable for all versions of Windows released over the past decade.

Get to know shortcuts

If the extent of your shortcuts is CTRL+C for copy and CTRL+V for paste, you’re not taking advantage of all Windows has to offer. There are many, many dozens of handy shortcuts to master, including one of my favorites: Windows key + left or right arrow button, which snaps the window to the left or right, so you can see two open windows equally — perfect for multitasking. As a journalist who uses a word processor every day, I’ve also grown reliant upon “undo” (CTRL+Z) and “redo” (CTRL+Y). By the way, you can even create your own shortcuts to get more done in less time.

Pin those apps

See that taskbar at the bottom of the screen? In Windows 7, you can pin any application, website, file or folder you use a lot, so you can easily click to open it — regardless of what program you might be in. That is, if you use the calculator a lot, simply right mouse click on the app and choose “Pin to Taskbar” and move it wherever you like. This is much faster than clicking on the Start button, selecting All Programs, then Accessories and finally Calculator. For files, such as a Word or PDF document, simply drag to the taskbar and let go. If you have a lot of pins on your taskbar, you can press the Windows key (beside Alt) and a number (e.g. 1 or 2) and the corresponding app will launch from your taskbar.

Jump around

Speaking of those pinned apps on your taskbar, Windows 7 can take advantage of “jumplists” by simply right mouse-clicking on the pinned app and selecting from one of the options. For example, if Internet Explorer is one of your pinned apps, right click to select your most visited websites. If you’ve got Windows Media Player you can listen to recently played songs. Not all pinned apps offer jumplists, of course, but those that do let you get more done in less time. Experiment to see what’s available. Watch this short video to get you started, too.

Need more time?

This is one of my favorites. If you’re using Windows or Microsoft Office and you’d like to extend the activation period to the maximum 120 days instead of the usual 30-day period, it’s possible if you use Windows Vista and Windows 7 and you’re the administrator of the PC. Simply click on the Start button and in the search window, type in cmd and you’ll see the Command Prompt at the top of the page. Don’t press Enter yet — instead, right-mouse click on the shortcut and select Run as Administrator. Now, after the Command Prompt loads up, type this: slmgr.vbs -rearm and the hit Enter and reboot. That’s it.

Stop YELLING at people

Have you ever written an email to someone and when you look up at the screen you realize you accidentally tapped the Caps Lock key? Now it seems like you’re YELLING AT SOMEONE IN THE EMAIL? It’s happened to most of us — especially those who look at their keyboard while typing instead of the monitor. If you’re nodding right now, chances are you’ve manually deleted everything you wrote in uppercase and wrote it all over again in lowercase. That’s a waste of time when you can simply highlight the text in question, hold down the Shift button on the keyboard and tap F3. Doing so will immediately change the case from lower to upper (or vice-versa). Yes, really. Tap a third time to change the highlighted text to Title case, Where The First Letter Of Every Word Is Capitalized. This little-known SHIFT + F3 shortcut will save you time — and frustration — and works in Outlook, Wordand other Microsoft programs.

Shake it up

Ever glance at your computer monitor and see a cluttered mess of open windows, such as a browser, media player, IM window and word processor? A quick way to close it all and focus on one application is to click and hold your mouse on top of an open pane and give your mouse a shake. Doing this will minimize all your open windows, except for the one you’re in. Give your wrist a shake again and they all reappear. Windows calls this “Aero Shake” and it can be a fast way to get rid of the clutter in a snap. Give it a shot. If your version of Windows doesn’t have it, you can download it for free here.

Batch rename

Photo takers should get to know the “batch rename” feature in Windows Explorer. Instead of all your images having arbitrary names like IMG_0339.jpg or DSC01121.jpg, you can highlight all your photos in a folder, right mouse-click and select Rename; now type in something relevant to the photos, like Spring Break 2012. And hit Enter. Now, all of those files will be renamed with a number at the end, such as Spring Break 2012 (1).jpg, plus you can quickly see what’s inside the photo file by changing from “list” view to “large icons.” This batch rename tip can also be used for documents and other media.

Encrypt it

If you share your Windows computer with someone and have a folder or files you want to password-protect, there’s an easy way to do it with a built-in encryption tool. First select the folder or file you wish to encrypt, right-click on it and choose Properties. Now click the Advanced button and add a check beside “Encrypt contents to secure data” option. Click Apply and then Ok. To access this file you’ll type in your Windows password used to log into your account. If your version of Windows doesn’t offer this feature, there’s always the free TrueCrypt software.

Get a boost

If you own Windows Vista or Windows 7, a little-known feature called ReadyBoost can give your PC a boost — without having to add more RAM (system memory). Instead, ReadyBoost lets you use a USB flash drive or SD memory card — which you might already have in your desk drawer — to improve performance without having to install purchased memory. The flash memory you connect externally serves as an additional memory cache — meaning the computer can access data quicker on this than on the hard drive. You can choose to allocate part of a USB drive’s memory to speed up performance and use the remainder to store files. More information on ReadyBoost is here.

Search me

It might be an obvious one but be sure to use the search window to find what you’re looking for — be it a program or file. Simply click the Start button and you’ll see a universal search window at the bottom of the pop-up window. Start typing a few letters and Windows will try to guess what you’re looking for by showing you matching apps or files near the top of the window (such as typing C and U, and immediately seeing Cute FTP Professional as a selectable option). This simplifies the search process that used to take a while on older versions of Windows.

Ah, so you’re the boss-man or boss-woman, having a great time at the top. Great pay, awesome perks, company car, glitzy parties and what not.

But spare a thought for the poor, underpaid, overworked souls working under you. Before we go into that, have you ever wondered what kind of a boss you are, or rather how other people see you as a boss? Do they see you as Jason Bateman’s boss from hell in Horrible Bosses who takes credit for everything, or as a nut-case boss like Steve Carell in The Office? Whichever kind you are, you still need to run a company, and to run a company and do it well, you need to become a better boss. And how, do you say?

Communication is vital

Clear and accurate communication is the first step towards being a better boss. Every employee should know all their job responsibilities and duties. There should be no confusion regarding what’s expected of him or her. You have to be equally good at talking and listening. Pay clear attention to what you say in your written and verbal communication. But more importantly, what you say through your non-verbal communication. Employees can pick up things from your body language. If you’re saying, We all have to work as a unit, you can’t be crossing your arms and pushing back in your chair. Also, be aware of everything your employees are saying and not saying.

Motivate and Encourage

Motivating and encouraging your employees is a great way of building a wonderful work atmosphere. Motivate all your employees in a helpful, positive manner and see them bloom into great assets for your company. Show that you trust them to do a good job. Responsibility works wonders. Importantly, reward achievements to keep getting the best out of them.

Don’t be a bully

If you think intimidating employees into doing what you want is the right way, think again. Good work doesn’t come out of fear, it comes of genuinely wanting to do well. Also, fear doesn’t necessarily mean respect. Fear also reduces productivity and moral of your employees. You need to respect employees and treat them like people, not hired slaves.

Be friendly and approachable

Do away with hierarchies. Treat your employees as people you work with, not people who work under you or for you. Just because you’re the boss doesn’t mean you have to go sit in your ivory tower. Mingle around with the people you work with. Have an open door policy, meaning anyone can walk in anytime they want when they are facing a problem or have an issue. There’s a thin line though. You should be friendly, but not back-slapping friendly. Maintain a respectful distance at the same time. They should know you’re still the boss.

Be unbiased

You don’t want your employees see you favouring someone more than others. That sort of favouritism does the most damage to an organization. Just because someone is your best pitcher, doesn’t mean you practise double-standards. Treat everyone equally and justly.

Practise what you preach

If you ask people to show up at work on time, you should be on time yourself. If some deadline calls for work on weekends, you come to work as well. If you want people to be excited and enthusiastic about your work, you have to display the same traits.

Keep it fun

No one likes working all the damn time. You might be a workaholic, but you shouldn’t expect everyone to be like you. In fact, you should lighten up sometimes. People need entertainment and want to have a good time. Throw occasional parties, organize team-building exercises, and inter-office sports and such. Basically, you should try and create a fun environment for people to work in. Some offices have special spaces dedicated for creative pursuits, like a musical instrument, or a pool table or a dart board etc.

Be kind and helpful

Come across as someone who is kind and helpful, someone that people can come to when in need. Show that you care. Show that if the need be, you will go the distance for your employees and when the time comes they sure will go all out for you.

It’s not very hard to become a better boss. It requires some sensitivity, and the knowledge that you too at one point worked under someone.

It’s a headline serious journalists shudder to read, let alone write: “Coffee is way cooler than tea, says coffee company Nespresso”. But once we’d finished laughing at the shameful propaganda being poured down our throats – like so many perfectly blended flat whites – we realised there could be a grain of truth further down the press release.

The firm says coffee is the drink of choice for “ambitious high achievers” with the muddy hot stuff “seen as a status symbol and an indication of a person’s success”. It got this line from a survey of 2,081 UK adults, which found that almost half (45%) of people believe coffee has a higher status than tea, and 70% of high earners prefer coffee over tea. Poor old Tetley.

There’s more, too. More than three-quarters of senior managers (77%) choose coffee over tea when meeting important business colleagues or clients, while strong coffees such as an espresso or macchiato are the coffees of choice among Gordon Gecko types.

This is something I had long suspected. At the seemingly endless stream of lunch meetings I attended with investment managers in the early 2000s, nearly all of the besuited, towering, strutting human success stories would order a double espresso after they had polished off their (always rare) slab of lamb or beef. As a younger journalist I would attempt to match them, downing a double espresso before escaping to the loo, a caffeine-induced panic coursing through my system. These days I know my limits and stick firmly to weak filter coffee or tea, even if it marks me out as a lesser achiever.

It’s the same on my morning train commute. As I extract a little carton of orange juice from my bag, I try not to notice the businessmen and women watching me fumble with my plastic straw while they clutch cups of steaming hot coffee. As they take power gulps of their success-syrup, I take emasculated sips of weak-juice, fully aware I am somehow not keeping up with my peers (it could be worse, there’s a commuter older than me who wears Star Wars-branded trainers every day).

Perhaps the problem is that tea takes too long and high achievers are all go-go-go. If you order a take-away espresso there’s a noisy bit of steaming and it’s in your hands quicker than you can say “low-hanging fruit” or some other important business speak. With tea, there’s the whole issue of pouring the hot water, dunking the tea bag, letting it steep, pouring in exactly the right amount of milk and stirring to achieve your desired colour – it’s the hot drink equivalent of wading through War and Peace versus coffee’s “Management in 10 Words”.

High achievers are also the type to get up at the crack of dawn in desperate need of a caffeine hit to kick-start their day. Underachievers, by comparison, have plenty of time to slowly roll out of their messy beds, sleepwalk to the kitchen and absent-mindedly boil a kettle for tea.

But I love tea and want to reclaim it as a drink of choice for successful people. I want power-meetings chaired by directors proudly holding dainty china cups, I want Mad Men-types asking for a peppermint tea while their eyes twinkle mischievously, and I want chief executives drilling into their staff that “the leaf is better than the bean”.

Do you agree? Is coffee the drink of choice for the high fliers in your office, or can a nice cup of tea cut it in the boardroom?

Although known to be a very dangerous and addictive habit, 

smoking has always been a go-to for many people dealing with stress. Those who have contemplated quitting have tried a host of nicotine replacement methods, but only a few succeeded. The following list provides a host of benefits that the body will experience if you quit smoking.

1. Positive Side of Quitting

Here are some of the positive aspects of quitting, which range from immediate to long-term effects on the body.

• The heightened blood pressure levels will resume to the normal level in 20 minutes.
• The level of carbon monoxide in the blood stream will gradually reduce to let the oxygen levels become normal, in about 8 hours.
• In 2 days, all the nicotine surging through the body would have left the system, and the perception of taste and smell would have returned to normal.
• In 4 days, the bronchial tubes of the body would have relaxed and your energy levels will increase.
• In 2 weeks, the circulation will get better and will continue to improve for the next 10 weeks.
• In 9 months, all respiratory troubles would have ceased and the lung capacity will increase by 10%.
• In 5 years, the heart and lung would be functioning like that of a non-smoker, with reduced risks of heart attacks and lung cancer.

2. Negative Side of Quitting

Listed below are some negative aspects of quitting, mainly resulting due to body trying to adapt to the sudden change. These symptoms tend to dissipate in no time.

• Digestive Changes: Quitting smoking can lead to acidity, indigestion and heartburn as immediate effects along with chances of flatulence and border-line diarrhoea, constipation and nausea.
• Respiratory Changes: Because the body is no longer being polluted by harmful tar, the respiratory system will be on a regenerative mode. This may lead to sinus congestion, cold, throat clearing and hoarseness of voice.
• Circulatory Changes: With the heart no longer pumping furiously to maintain the high blood pressure, the balanced circulation could have some temporary side effects like tingling fingers, dizziness, muscle stiffness and fluid retention in the body.
• Psychological and Mental Changes: Nicotine has vascular-constricting properties and makes the heart weaker by forcing it to function much faster than its capacity. With the heart now attaining normalcy, fatigue and drowsiness could be temporary side effects.

Sleep patterns also tend to witness alterations as you will go into the REM (Repeated Eye Movement) or the light-sleep mode, with frequent vivid nightmares. Since smoking suppresses modes of normal mental expression, dreaming becomes the only way of dealing with the daytime stresses and problems. Quitting smoking could make you slightly irritable as well.

At the end of the day, your decision to stop smoking is actually saving your life. While the body takes time to adapt to a non-smoking lifestyle, the occurrence of certain side effects is inevitable. However, with healthy lifestyle alternatives one can stay true to their decision and enjoy a smoke-free life.

Be easy

No, not in that way. Research says you should try to act available on a date instead of playing hard to get. Unless you’re on a blind date, it’s clear you both like each other, otherwise why would you have agreed to go out? Secondly, playing hard to get doesn’t actually work. It is thought that we find people attractive when they are hard for everyone else to get, but love the fact that they are easy for us to have.

Therefore on your date, if someone asks you to dance or offers to buy you a drink, politely say no and give all your attention to your date. Make them aware that you’re a catch, but remind them that they are the one who has caught you.

Talk about yourself

The conversation aspect of a date is scary.  The thought of awkward pauses and ugly silences is enough to make anyone’s stomach churn like a washing machine. Don’t run off to a nunnery yet though. An easy conversation to have is one that focuses on you. Talk about your past, where you grew up or where you studied. Discussing your background will not only point to values that are important to you, it will also indicate to your date the potential you have to be a long-term partner.

Researchers found that the most stable relationships were built by people who had similar backgrounds and similar attitudes. Avoid talking about yourself too much though, this is one of the biggest dating no-no’s. Instead, once you’ve talked about your hometown, ask them where they first lived, or their terrible teenage fashion.

Dress to impress

Admittedly what you look like is important, but really it’s not what you wear that counts, but how you wear it. When we decide who we fancy, body language and tone of voice are key players. So don’t fret about how you look. The key to a good outfit is one that improves your body language. Make sure the clothes you choose fit, are comfortable and practical.

There are a few little tricks you can use that may help your dating success too. Firstly, ladies if you want a second date leave your neck and your wrists bare. For both guys and girls, avoid wearing strong perfume (but do take a bath!). Smell is intrinsic to dating and they need a whiff of your natural scent.

Show them that you like them

We all know body language is hugely important when dating, so use it to show your date you like them. Not only will this make them feel great, you’ll be able to judge quickly if they like you back. Women have 52 signals that tell men they’re keen, whilst guys only have 10.

Ladies if you want to give him a clear message, tilt your neck to the side, lock eyes with him and touch his forearm. Although cheesy, you can also subtly lick your lips. For the guys, pay attention to how you look. Checking your shirt is straight and your jacket neat may sound odd, but preening yourself is a clear indicator that you care about the girl you’re with. Also while you’re listening to your date, slightly raise your eyebrows, it shows you’re really interested in what she is talking about.

Surprise them

You’ve been wined, you’ve been dined and now it may be time for a cheeky smooch. The first kiss is a deal maker or breaker for most so getting it right is important. Remember to vary your speed. Start off slowly, and then build pace before easing off again. Our lips, mouths and tongues are highly sensitive so make the most of the kiss and try new things. They’ll think you’re a kissing guru.

Life is supposed to be easier now. With improvements in communications, transportation, and technology, going out and meeting new people should be less complicated than it used to be. In the age of Facebook, Skype, webcams, and online dating, there are so many opportunities to meet new people than ever before. Despite all these, something as basic as defining if or when two people are merely hanging out or are actually already on a date remains a point of contention. You might think you’re already on a date but the person you’re with believes you two are just hanging out as friends. That lack of communication is something that needs to be addressed to avoid any further misunderstanding.

1. It’s planned and it’s exclusive.

Guys and girls hang out all the time. That’s just the nature of most people. In a group of friends or in a barkada, the entire group or smaller spinoff groups could choose to go to a mall or catch a movie. The confusion sometimes arises when it’s only one guy and one girl who go out. Twenty-something economist Cito de Leon says, “I don’t believe in “group dates” so I think that what primarily differentiates ‘gimmick’ from dates are the exclusivity (it’s just you and the girl, no one else),” he shares. “There has to be some element of intimacy involved, like dinner or the guy picking up and bringing home the girl.”

Another primary consideration is that dates are hardly ever impromptu. “There has to be some planning involved,” Cito emphasizes. “Not some random ‘Tara, let’s hang out’ thing. A date has to be scheduled.” The planning involved and the absence of randomness gives some considerable weight to a date that isn’t present in a simple dinner or movie hangout session. 

Regarding expectations, the difference between a mere “tambay” and a date become even more pronounced. Cito notes that, “there are different expectations for dates, especially if its the first.” “I always feel the need to put my best foot forward, so I can’t say I’m completely myself.” The reverse also applies though as Cito notes that, “I also expect the girl to be the same, that in some sense, she’s also putting out the best version of herself.”

2. Both parties are clear about their intentions and there’s chemistry.

For 30-something senior marketing manager Mike Lopez, the delineation between a date and a non-date is clear as day. “When you try to kiss her on the lips, and she either kisses you back, or doesn’t feel uncomfortable in the attempt, then it’s a date,” Mike says. “If she tries to kiss you, and you are uncomfortable with it, it’s a date.”

Mike elaborates further by saying, “If she is not comfortable with your romantic intentions, she’s not your date, and she may not be your friend for much longer.” 

Clearly, intent of both parties needs to be considered when Mike explains, “If she doesn’t know you have romantic intentions for her, it’s not a date and she is just your friend.” As for blind dates and setups, Mike notes the following: “A blind date can be considered a date by definition and people on them are supposed to be single, so the romantic intention is not strong, but may be there. A setup is not a date, especially if the other person was not informed it’s supposed to be a date.”

Exclusivity, planning, raised expectations, intimacy levels, and intentions of both parties. Add one final factor in assessing whether it is a date or not: mutual awareness. Mike encapsulates this point thusly, “ “If there is ever any doubt whether it really is a date, by any one of the two people, then it’s not a date. Period. A date is like love, if it isn’t mutual, it isn’t there.”

Losing someone you have been in love with, over irreconcilable differences, can be the hardest thing to deal with in the world. With the memories of the good, bad and ugly moments looming over your head, the future alone may seem bleak. Let this list guide the broken hearts on how to ease the ache and move on to a world of brighter possibilities.

1) Evaluating Choices

When recently out of a relationship, the primary thing that you need to do is to evaluate your feelings, the past and the togetherness shared. This is not hard to do, mostly because the broken heart keeps mulling over the details anyway. What you need to do is to think constructively to realise the good and the bad parts of the relationship and ponder over the necessity of choosing to part ways. If the differences in the relationship were too vast, not going back is a potent decision. However, if the differences were petty and mostly based on ego issues, then you need to seriously rethink the decision.

2) Keeping Space

After break-ups, a large amount of time is spent in denial. At this point, it is suggested to maintain your solitary space and give yourself the time to compose your thoughts. Staying away from anything that connects you to the world, is probably the best idea. This will give you the time to listen to your inner voice. Keep a journal, engage in sporting activities, or hang out more with the buddies – anything that lets you spend time alone or with those you feel at ease with.

3) Coping with Pain

It is understandable to feel that your heart has been punched out of your chest and that nothing in the world can compare to the heartache that you might be experiencing then. However, you also need to realise that if given enough time, this pain will ease as well. After denial, most people experience surmounting anger as a response to the pain, followed by extreme hatred. This is totally normal. It means that the mind is actively trying to overthrow the emotional weakness by replacing it with another strong emotion. Talking to friends about coping will also prove to be helpful. You should not fight this phase off. After anger, acceptance will soon follow, along with the eventual peace that is needed.

4) Removing Old Memories

A break-up need not signify an end by all means. It can also usher a new beginning. Nevertheless, holding onto the past will not let you accept the future. Old photographs, memorabilia, gifts that remind you of the past loves, should be packed away or disposed of. Deleting emails, numbers and texts is a way to consciously stop living in the past.

5) Living Anew

Only after relinquishing all the old stuff, can you bring in new memories. Choosing to repaint and redecorate the house, revamping the way you look, or even a small getaway can provide the requisite escape from the past experience. You need to understand that a break up need not imply that your life should come to a standstill. You simply need to find a new outlook to keep you going.

Life post-breakup does not need to be torrid and messy. You need to be mature enough to understand that the only constant in life is change, and with every breath drawn in, you are that much closer to the next miracle. With this understanding, you can sail through all storms in life and live to see tomorrow.

Forehead acne. According to Chinese medicine, the forehead is closely linked to the digestive system, while the area between the eyebrows is linked to the liver. Over-indulgence of rich foods and alcohol may cause temporary spots in this area, while frequent breakouts could indicate poor nutritional habits. To help get rid of these spots, try to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated. You may also wish to get tested for suspected food intolerances, which can affect both the liver and digestive system.

Congested cheeks, and spots on the chin and jaw line. While spots on the cheeks may have simple causes such as cosmetics or unclean pillowcases, this area is also thought to be linked to the lungs. Spots in this region can therefore be indicative of respiratory distress, with smokers, asthmatics and allergy sufferers being prone to breakouts or broken capillaries on the cheeks. Spots on the chin and jaw line are generally thought to be due to hormonal fluctuations and may appear on women at particular stages of their menstrual cycle. Persistent spots in this area, however, may be a symptom of a hormone imbalance or endocrine disorder such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, so it may be worthwhile getting your hormone levels checked if you are experiencing other symptoms such as missed periods or weight gain.

Dark circles and under-eye bags. Dark circles and under-eye bags are mostly hereditary, however if you find they make a sudden appearance or get significantly worse, this may point to certain health problems. The under-eye area is thought to be linked to the kidneys, so changes here may suggest dehydration or a build-up of toxins. To counteract this, drink more water and cut down on alcohol, caffeine and salt. Alternatively, circles could be caused by anaemia, due to vitamin B12 or iron deficiencies.

Unusual tongue. According to Chinese medicine your tongue is a map to your health, and orthodox medical professionals also use the tongue to identify various conditions. Anaemia (caused by a lack of iron, folate or vitamin B12) is one such condition - with symptoms of the illness including a burning, sore or red tongue. Alternatively, a blue discolouration of the tongue (cyanosis) could indicate a lack of oxygen in the blood stream, while white lesions on the tongue could be a sign of oral thrush.

Excessive facial or body hair. For females suffering from excessive body or facial hair (hirsutism), this can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem. However, it can also be a symptom of an underlying endocrine disorder, which may need to be checked out. One of the most common female endocrine disorders is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - a condition which frequently results in excessive body hair as well as acne, weight gain and irregular periods.

Moles. Ending on a high note, moles may often get bad press, however, providing you look after them properly (by applying sunscreen, staying out the sun and checking them regularly), moles may actually be a good sign for your health. A research team from King’s College London found that those with over 100 moles have tougher bones and are less likely to develop osteoporosis, while research has also suggested that those with moles are likely to have healthier eyes and heart.

When it comes to being a “man’s man”, grooming plays such an important role, 

and it is surprising how so many men out there get even the most basic of grooming essentials wrong. Whether it’s about being the top cat at the office or being a hit with the ladies, you need to know how to play your cards right, or you will never win.

Here are five common grooming mistakes that you should ideally avoid.

1. Smelling too good can be bad!

This is one of the most common grooming bloopers observed with men. When it comes to cologne or deodorants there is a tendency to go overboard with the amount that is applied or sprayed. This will have a reverse effect causing people to run away from you. Remember that these fragrances are meant to enhance your natural scent, not overpower everybody’s nostrils. Subtle works best.

2.Locking away the razor

A lot of men are caught up with the macho look and start sporting stubble to get that look right. But the thing is, too much stubble just makes you look shabby and unkempt. The stubble look is not for everyone. If you have a face that can pull it off make sure you use a trimmer to keep it down to the bare minimum. If you work in an ultra-professional corporate environment, then it’s time to bring out the razor. A clean shaven look can never go wrong, but not keeping that stubble under check, certainly can.

3. Skin ill-treatment

Some men are under the false impression that skin care is a girly thing. It most certainly is not. Although men’s skin is tougher than women’s, it is still susceptible to aging, wrinkles and other skin ailments. So, make sure you get plenty of moisturizer wherever needed, use a face wash daily and drink lots of water to keep your skin hydrated and younger looking.

4. Hair or there?

Your mane is perhaps the best asset that you will possess so make sure you take good care of it. Depending on your hair type, take some time out to visit a salon and get some professional advice and styling done. At home, use products but don’t go overboard. Men have this tendency to slap on waytoo much gel making their hair look very gooey. Just a little bit worked well into damp hair with the fingers should do the trick. Also, be sure to use shampoo and conditioner.

5. Bad dental can make you look mental

Oral hygiene is supremely important, especially when you are in an environment where you need to work with many people. Too many men out there take this for granted and if you have ever wondered why people tend to make a run for it when they see you, now you know. Use mouthwash daily and equip yourself with a pack of mints when on the move. Avoid eating garlic and onions before walking in to a meeting or going on that special date.

Getting your act right when it comes to grooming will not only make you a more socially acceptable and enjoyable person but you will also have a certain feel good factor about yourself. Self-confidence, charisma and personality are few of the positive side effects of good grooming habits.

We have all done it and also know that many people do it to us too, i.e. Tell Lies.

Many of us are good at decoding when being lied to while some of us struggle to identify liars. Thus, it makes sense in knowing a bit about how to decipher if somebody is lying. The following tips will help you identify a liar:

Get Started with Reading the Liar’s Body Language

It was once stated in a Quentin Tarantino movie that people who have served time in prison have a typical way of walking, as if they are carrying a few bricks on their shoulder. Such typical, body language traits are present in liars too.

Many liars try not able to face their audience with an open stance. Their palms might be folded tight and they might be a bit fidgety. A tightly clinched fist or slight blushing on the face or around the ears too is reflective of a lie.

However, the more seasoned liars can easily hide such traits. These liars can be found out by reading more into their face rather than their body. Some of the most experienced liars too tend to develop typical facial mannerisms when lying. This includes increased creasing in their forehead or a nervous smile before answering questions.

Some liars tend to place their hands very firmly on the chair or table as if they are holding on to these objects to save their lives. This is essentially a way of de-stressing the body that is reacting to the growing anxiety within them.

Catching Liars by Noticing their Eyes

Those who are good at grasping the eye language have a much better chance of find out if they are being lied to. Apart from the seasoned crooks, most liars cannot hold their glare straight towards a person. They tend to look around or divert their range of vision, desperately hoping that their nervousness will not be revealed. The most unskilled of liars have a tendency to look downwards when lying. Their eyes tend to wander about. This is caused by their guilt that makes it difficult for them to maintain eye contact.

Lookout for Inconsistencies to Identify Liars

Even the more experienced liars can commit the mistake of not remembering the story they had spun to hide the facts. This is something you can use to your advantage. Just try to remember the things the person you suspect of lying is saying. After a few minutes, question about the smallest of details that the liar had mentioned. If the person isn’t an expert liar, he is bound to make mistakes in answering the question. This is the easiest way to find out if you have been lied to.

Liars are Prone to Getting Anxious

Most folks suffer from some form of anxiety when lying. You can use this to find out if somebody is lying. All you need to do is watch-out for the typical signs that suggest an increased degree of nervousness. Typical traits of a person getting anxious when lying include sweating excessively, talking too fast, getting fidgety with the legs or arms or stammering. For instance, a person lying to you might repeatedly change his seated position, as if the chair or sofa is making him feel very uncomfortable.

Catch Liars by Identifying Superficial Talk

Most liars are prone to avoiding the subject which they fear will expose their act. This can be easily identified. You need to notice if a particular topic is making a person uncomfortable. The person you suspect of lying might continuously try to change the subject or ignore it with a nervous laugh. These are tell-tale signs of a liar.

Many liars create another kind of trace when communicating, i.e. they are not very assertive. You might find the suspected person giving very short or vague answers. This kind of superficial talk lacks any degree of surety. This is a major indicator that the person isn’t sure what he is talking about, i.e. he is either lying or trying to cover-up the facts.

Concluding Thoughts: Being a Keen Observer is Elementary to Identify Liars

If you find it difficult to use any of the above-listed techniques for identifying a liar, just remember than your ability to detect lies is essentially a result of your observation skills. As one of the best on-screen personas to identify liars, Sherlock Holmes, once said, “It’s elementary…”

As we move closer to a cashless society, some consumers are quietly challenging the idea of money in the first place––by giving it up completely.

Daniel Suelo, 50, traded his nine-to-five for dumpster diving and a cozy cave in Utah’s canyonlands back in 2000.

But before Suelo, there was Germany native Heidemarie Schwermer.

When she was in her early 50s, Schwermer wanted to see what it’d be like to leave her cushy job as a psychotherapist and live money-free.

Sixteen years later, she hasn’t looked back.

“I noticed less and less that I needed money,” she told BI by phone from Hamelin, Germany. “I didn’t want to go back to my old life.”

Her fascination with finding an alternative way of life goes back to her childhood. WWII refugees, Schwermer’s family fled from Prussia to Germany in the 1940s. Her father had owned a successful coffee roastery and kept a nanny and full-time gardener on his payroll. Then they lost everything.

“We were well-off but ended up as riff-raff,” she says.

Once her father was able to start over with a tobacco company, cash started pouring in again. But she still found herself at odds with their lifestyle: “We became rich again and (we) had to defend it. I’ve always had to justify myself, whether we were rich or poor.”

For all intents and purposes, you could call Schwermer homeless. She has no permanent address and drifts between lodgings, spending no longer than a week at each. Most of her hosts are acquaintances she makes at the speaking engagements she travels to across the country. Others are long-time friends.

In a documentary made about her life, “Living Without Money”, she’s seen foraging for leftover produce at fresh air markets and trading a shopkeeper a few hours of cleaning services in return for food. She often receives clothing from friends, donating what she doesn’t have room for in the small suitcase she carts from home to home.

But she bristles at comparisons to the homeless, explaining that she sees herself in a much different light.

“I’m always thinking about how I could make things better for life in the world,” she says. “I am something like a peace pilgrim. I go from house to house sharing my philosophy.”

Part of that philosophy requires her to put a lot of faith in the unknown. Other than the small notebook she uses to keep track of her scheduled speaking engagements and housing arrangements, most of her plans are left to fate.

“I see a lot of miracles in my daily life. For example, in the beginning I found food. I thought about things and then I found them in the street or people came to bring them to me,” she explains. “I think these miracles happen because of our thoughts.”

When seasons change, she gives away whatever clothing she has and waits for new items to come along. Most are given by hosts and friends she meets along the way.

The road wasn’t always easy. With two adult children and three grandchildren, Schwermer admits her family wasn’t exactly on board when she pitched the idea. She now sees them only a few times per year, but says they eventually warmed up to her come-and-go lifestyle.

“Now they’re proud of what I’m doing. It’s enough for us,” she says.

Although she never had plans to go public with her life, after a German book publisher pushed her to put pen to paper, Schwermer relented. The latest of three books on her journey, “Seeing Miracles In Life Without Money,” will be released this summer in Germany. As with its predecessors, all her royalties will go to the various charitable groups she supports.

“Now, more and more young people want to change something in their lives and often they don’t know what they can change,” she says. “I changed something in my life.”

Despite the legion of fans that have followed her for years, Schwermer has met her fair share of critics. After a trainwreck appearance on Italian talk show RAI TV, she stopped doing television interviews (in one taping, a host actually rifled through her suitcase).

More often than not, however, it’s her friends who become frustrated with her come-and-go lifestyle. She’s turned down many invitations to extend her visits, including offers to stay permanently.

“There are so many people who are lonely and they like to have friends at their side,” she says. “But I say no because I can’t. I feel that I must go. It’s always my job to be in the world with people.”

Is it really possible to lead a life like Heidemarie Schwermer? Do you think we are obsessed by money? Please share your views by posting a comment below. Thank you!

Walnuts: Inflammation Fighters 

In addition to containing the most antioxidants of all nuts, which help protect your body from the cellular damage that contributes to heart disease, cancer, and premature aging, “walnuts are also the richest in omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation,” says Bauer. They’re an especially great way to get these healthy unsaturated fats if you’re not a fan of fish, where these types of fats are predominantly found. A walnut snack may also turn around a bad day during that time of the month: The manganese they contain may reduce PMS symptoms. 

Serving info: About 14 walnut halves = 185 calories, 18 grams fat 

Almonds: Good for Your Gut 

Almonds contain the most fiber - about three grams per ounce - compared to other nuts, and are richest in vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant. Almonds may even help you slip into those skinny jeans: In one International Journal of Obesity study, when two groups of obese adults followed low-calorie diets for six months, those who included almonds in their weight loss plans lost more weight than those who ate more complex carbohydrates. Other research shows that almonds are especially healthy for people worried about their blood sugar: Those who ate about 20 percent of their calories from almonds for four months saw their bad LDL cholesterol drop and their insulin resistance decrease compared to a control group who didn’t eat them. Almonds may even safeguard your gut: A test-tube study (funded by the Almond Board of California) found that the nuts raised levels of good bacteria that bolster the body’s immune system. Serving info: About 23 nuts = 170 c

Cashews: Brainpower Boosters 

Cashews are particularly rich in iron and zinc. “Iron helps deliver oxygen to all of your cells, which can prevent anemia, and zinc is critical to immune health and healthy vision,” says Bauer. Cashews are also a good source of magnesium: One ounce provides almost 25 percent of your daily need. Magnesium may help improve memory and protect against age-related memory loss, according to a study in the journal Neuron. 

Serving info: about 18 nuts = 165 calories, 13 grams fat

Pecans: Artery Defenders 

Pecans aren’t just for making tasty pies, they can also help improve your heart health. “Pecans are among the most antioxidant-rich nuts,” says Bauer. “They may help prevent plaque formation in your arteries.” In fact, a Journal of Nutrition study (funded partly by the National Pecan Shellers Association) found that consuming pecans can help lower LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 33 percent. Pecans may also buffer your brain health, according to an animal study from the University of Massachusetts Lowell. The vitamin E found in the nuts could delay progression of degenerative neurological diseases like amyotropic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. 

Serving info: About 18 halves = 200 calories, 21 grams fat

Brazil Nuts: Potent Cancer 

Protector Just one Brazil nut packs more than 100 percent of the daily value for the mineral selenium, which may help prevent certain cancers, including bone, prostate, and breast cancer. A recent study in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggests that the selenium found in Brazil nuts, along with soy, may help fight prostate cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells. However, don’t overdo it on Brazil nuts: High levels of selenium can be harmful, so stick to a serving or less. 

Serving info: 5 to 6 nuts = 185 cals, 18 grams fat

Macadamia Nuts: The Most MUFAs 

Although ounce for ounce they’re one of the most calorie-dense nuts, macadamia nuts contain the greatest amount of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat (MUFA) per serving. “This ‘good fat’ lowers LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol levels and blood pressure,” says Bauer. A Pennsylvania State University study (funded partly by the Hershey Company, which owns the Mauna Loa Macademia company) found that people who added macadamia nuts to their diets reduced their triglyceride levels, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol by nearly 10 percent. 

Serving info: About 10 nuts = 200 cals, 22 grams fat

Pistachios: The Skinniest Nut 

Pistachios are the most slimming nuts, with less than four calories each. Their shells make them especially dieting-friendly: “Eating them in the shell automatically slows down your pace so the snack lasts longer and you eat less overall,” says Bauer. They may also help you breathe easier: University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center researchers found that eating two ounces of pistachios daily may reduce lung cancer risk. Pistachios are rich in the antioxidant gamma-tocopherol, a form of cancer-fighting vitamin E. Pistachios are also packed with potassium, a mineral essential for a healthy nervous system and muscles, and are a good source of vitamin B6, which can lift your mood, fortify your immune system, and more. 

Serving info: About 50 nuts = 160 cals, 14 grams fat

Hazelnuts: More Than Just Coffee 

Flavoring An all-around healthy nut, hazelnuts are notable for their high levels of monounsaturated fats, which can improve cardiovascular health and help to manage type 2 diabetes, according to Bauer. They’re also rich in the antioxidant vitamin E, which may prevent cataracts and macular degeneration, maintain healthy skin, and reduce risk of dementia. 

Serving info: About 21 nuts = 180 cals, 17 grams fat 

1. Monounsaturated fats: Replacing carbohydrates in your diet with monounsaturated fats will help you slim down by shuttling fat away from your midsection (See my Ask the Diet Doctor column on this topic for a more in-depth explanation).

Where to get it: Avocados, Macadamia nuts, and olive oil are great sources of monounsaturated fats. They also come packaged with great nutrients such as antioxidants (in olive oil), fiber (in avocado), and B-vitamins (in macadamia nuts).

2. EGCG: EGCG or Epigallocatechin gallate is an antioxidant found in green tea (and put in most weight-loss supplements available today). EGCG can increase thermogenesis or heat production through extra calorie burning and the use of stored fat as energy. Some research also shows that EGCG can stop the growth of new fat cells.

Where to get it: The greatest weight loss effects of EGCG are seen when combined with caffeine, as it naturally occurs in green tea.

3. Raspberry ketones: Raspberry ketones are an antioxidant found in raspberries that preliminary research shows have some interesting fat loss effects. Raspberry ketones can increase the production of the muscle-energizing, fat-burning hormone adiponectin as well as directly increasing the burning of stored fat.

Where to get it: You can’t come close to getting enough raspberry ketones via eating raspberries so to reap these benefits you’ll need to take a concentrated raspberry ketone supplement (they are inexpensive and available at more health food stores). Keep an eye out for more about raspberry ketones and weight loss as new research gets published.

4. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA):Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA is one of the two omega-3 fats found in oily fish like salmon. DHA can stop growth of young fat cells and actually causes them to die, says research published in the Journal of Nutrition.

Where to get it: To get more DHA in your diet, you can eat more oily fish or just take a fish oil supplement. If you are a vegetarian, pick up an algae-based DHA supplement to reap the same benefits.

5. Acetic acid: Vinegar, a dilute form of acetic acid, has potent glucose-lowering effects. One study in Italy found that when participants added just more than1 tablespoon of vinegar to their meal (as salad dressing) they experienced a 30 percent decrease in their post-meal blood sugar levels. Controlling blood sugar remains an essential component to weight loss and maintaining a lean body.

Where to get it: Adding vinegar to salads should be standard protocol, but if you can manage to find chocolate balsamic vinegar, it makes an excellent addition to a protein-packed chocolate smoothie.

6. Protein: Protein from lean sources like beef, poultry, fish, dairy, or soy are weight loss rock stars. The amino acids that make up protein cause your body to release the fat-burning and energy-stabilizing hormone glucagon. The process of digesting protein also stimulates your body to release the satiety hormone CCK. This one-two punch combined with the fact that it takes your body more energy to digest and breakdown protein compared to carbohydrates or fat makes it a must-have at every meal throughout your day.

Where to get it: The possibilities are endless, but lean proteins like Greek yogurt , cottage cheese, and organic grilled chicken strips are especially convenient.

7. Caffeine: Caffeine is one of the most potent weight loss compounds available to you each and every day. Caffeine blocks the breakdown of a compound call camp, which is responsible for mobilizing stored fats so they can be burned as energy.

Where to get it: If you are looking for a bigger fat-burning boost, then make sure to choose black tea over green tea or light roast coffee over dark roast for a larger dose of caffeine.

8. Fiber: Fiber is often touted to be a great nutrient for weight loss because it slows down digestion, allowing for sustained energy and stable blood sugar. However fiber can also optimize hormones released during digestion that are responsible for feelings of hunger and satiety.

Where to get it: Try to get your fiber in its raw form instead of from foods that have been overly processed. The processing of fiber can change its chemical make-up, which can decrease its effectiveness at promoting satiety or lowering cholesterol. Next time you have the choice between oatmeal and cereal made from baked oat crisps, opt for regular oatmeal.

When I was nominated and named as one of the “Pitong Pinoy,” Yahoo! Philippines’ search for the 7 Modern-Day Filipino Heroes, I knew that it also meant great responsibility.

And so over the last 12 months, it has been a struggle to live up to the name “hero” or someone who is locally called a “bayani.”  For me, a “bayani” is someone who loves his country and tries his best to show it.

The road to Pitong Pinoy

I never imagined that I would one day be part of something as awesome as the Yellow Boat Project. The Yellow Boat Project is a story of hope, inspiration and change.

The Yellow Boat Project started because of an equally inspiring story where children had to swim or wade through bodies of water just to get to school.  That story really moved me in 2010 and a simple status message on Facebook changed everything.

To-date, the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation has built over 150 yellow boats in three communities, a school in Masbate, a day-care center in Zamboanga and has raised over $30,000 in the last year through our online efforts.

But the real heroes in our story are these kids who brave the waters just to get to school.  Whether by boat or by swimming to school, they have conquered the challenges of water and distance.

The boat is a symbol that serves as a vehicle for knowledge and learning.  We hear of stories about affluent kids in Manila who skip school to go swimming but here are kids who swim just to get to school.

Throughout all these, here are some things I learned:

There are no accidents in life.  Sounds familiar? This adage came from the movie Kung Fu Panda where Master Oogway (the turtle kung fu master) repeated it thrice.  I truly believe that we all come into this world for a reason and one of our goals in life is not necessarily to find that mission but to decide what it is.  Believe in your dreams and pursue them.  Life is about being open to what’s possible but it also means grabbing an opportunity when it presents itself.

HOPE is real.  Prior to becoming a Fire Starter – short for someone who has started something.  I never really thought much about hope.  I thought it was just a vague idea that we all believe in – something that makes us cope with life better.  But because of the Yellow Boat Project, I learned that HOPE can be very real.  When we were deciding what to name the first Yellow Boat that we were to turn-over to our community in Layag-Layag in Zamboanga City, we asked them what the boat stands for them and one of the community leaders answered that it meant a sort of new hope, that finally someone has finally noticed them and helping them.  And so we christened the first Yellow Boat – Bagong Pag-asa (New Hope) and all succeeding boats bear the same name.

Make meaning.  The “Yellow Boat” didn’t really mean anything before we came along. Each day we should strive to create and make meaning. It took the many efforts of many individuals and organizations to create something out of the common boat. From the start, we tried our best to bring out the best in everyone and also to make sure that what we are building can be sustainable.  The Yellow Boat has now become a bit iconic and it symbolizes hope as much as the heart symbol symbolizes love. It’s hard to make meaning but it is the most fulfilling endeavor in the world.

Any simple act can make a difference.  In my case, it was a simple Facebook status.  The boat we turned over was christened ‘Bagong Pag-asa’ (New Hope) – it is a symbol of change and hope for the communities we are helping.  It has become a symbol of people power in action.  Nation-building is truly about ordinary people helping other ordinary people.  Anyone can be part of the solution – YOU can be part of the solution.  I believe it is time we extend the meaning of People Power, one that not only changes governments and leaders, but one that also truly empowers our people – a people power that calls on every Filipino to become an active nation-builder.  One single Facebook status led to the Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation with over 150 yellow boats in one year.  Imagine how much more we can achieve if more people take up the task of nation-building?

Leadership is a platform.  Leadership in this day and age should function more like a platform – leaders must become enablers for personal and professional growth. The ultimate goals of leadership are two-pronged: influence and reproduction.  Success without succession is a failure. Success without inspiring others to do the same is also a failure.  For me, it’s very important that leaders today not only train but see to it that the people they are leading are empowered and trained to succeed them.  Leaders should also know when their time is up and allow younger leaders to take the helm.  The Yellow Boat is like a figurative “boat” that ferries people from one place to a better place – leadership is a lot like that too.

The only reason why poverty continues to exist is because we expect it to.  I came to believe that one of the biggest obstacles to poverty eradication is that most people assume it’s a fact of everyday life and so many of us including those government give up hope that we can create a world beyond poverty. 

Sometimes you may feel that you do not have any power to make change.  But that is not true.  You can make the choice today to make a difference, however small and one of our guiding philosophies in the Yellow Boat Project is this: “The great thing a little lamp can do which the big sun cannot do is to give light at night. It shows no one is superior by size but by purpose. If we cannot do great things, we can do small things in a great way. Little things make a big difference to God.”

It is ultimately your choice.

Let’s inspire every Filipino to be a hero!

Lonesome George has died, leaving the world one species poorer.

The only remaining Pinta Island tortoise and celebrated conservation icon passed away Sunday, the Galapagos National Park Service said in a statement.

Estimated to be more than 100 years old, the creature’s cause of death remains unclear and a necropsy is planned.

Lonesome George’s longtime caretaker, Fausto Llerena, found the tortoise’s remains stretched out in the “direction of his watering hole” on Santa Cruz Island, the statement said.

Lonesome George was discovered on Pinta Island in 1972 at a time when tortoises of his type were already believed to be extinct. Since then, the animal had been part of the park service’s tortoise program.

Repeated efforts to breed Lonesome George failed.

“Later two females from the Espanola tortoise population (the species most closely related to Pinta tortoises genetically) were with George until the end,” the park service said.

In honor of Lonesome George, the park service said it was convening an international workshop in July on management strategies for restoring tortoise populations over the next decade.

The Galapagos Islands, situated about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off Ecuador’s coast, is considered a haven for tortoises.

When it comes to a man’s heart, cholesterol seems to be an all-season lover. And yes, this relationship is definitely unhealthy for your heart. Most people usually follow the age-old diet regime of cutting down on the oil and red meats. But is that enough to protect the most essential organ in your body? Sadly not. Read on as we list some of the most essential foods for a healthy heart.

Apples: An apple a day keeps the doctor away: a very clichéd saying but very true. Phytochemicals, present in apples, act as an anti-inflammatory and also prevent the blood from clotting. It is also high on fibres and vitamins. An apple also makes the perfect snack for someone who is always on the go. Plus it is available in different varieties, so you might not get bored of it soon. Add a few chopped pieces of apple in your Greek salad making it healthier.

Almonds: Have you been avoiding nuts for the oil they contain? If yes, then bring it back to your plate because this oil is actually healthy for your heart. The Vitamin E that almonds contain helps in keeping your cholesterol level under control. Like apples, almonds are also high on fibre and Vitamin content. Again a perfect 5 PM snack. Add to your heart’s health by eating 4–5 soaked almonds each morning with your breakfast.

Soy: Soy is not a very tasty option but it’s really good for your heart. Soy protein can prevent you from having a stroke. It is also a great replacement for the red meat that you’ve been trying to cut on. This will help in reducing the intake of saturated fats. Add a few chunks of soy to your rice or stir fry it with your veggies. You can also use soy milk as a substitute for regular milk, for making milk shakes and with your morning cereal.

Berries: Strawberries, cranberries, blueberries, mulberry, huckleberry, gooseberry and all the other berries are a pack load of vitamin C. With so many flavours you can possibly never get bored of eating berries. Apart from vitamin C they also contain calcium and beta-carotene. These fibrous fruits are perfect with breakfast oats or with yogurt. Out of all these berries blueberry has the most nutrients that will keep your heart healthy.

Salmon: Your heart will love you for the fresh salmon you have and so will your taste buds. Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids. This will help your blood from clotting. It is suggested that you should eat fish (sea food) atleast twice a week for a healthy heart. Opt for grilled fish and avoid spicy seasoning. You can also add a dash of lime to it for an excellent flavour and add it to your green salad.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain lycopene (a phytochemical) that is known to lower cholesterol, cut risk of colorectal cancer and heart disease. Studies show that men who regularly eat food rich in lycopene have lesser chances of developing prostate cancer and heart disease. You might want to start enjoying tomato sauce as it has more lycopene. Cooked tomato works much better on your body that raw ones. So start adding it to your vegetables and salads. Tomato is also known to improve memory and other signs of aging.

Green leafy vegetables and olive oil are vital for maintaining a healthy heart. One serving of leafy greens a day can be key to preventing heart disease. So add them in plenty to your daily diet!

Whole Grain: Starting the day with whole-grain cereal may lower the risk of heart failure in the long run, as whole grains protect against coronary heart disease.

Oats: Start your day with a bowl of oats! Oats are full of fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and potassium, and can help lower cholesterol levels and keep arteries clear.

Brown rice: may be a better choice over white because it has an ingredient that protects against high blood pressure and atherosclerosis. It is also a good source of fibre and helps lower cholesterol levels in the body.

Red Wine: And last, but not the least, ditch your beer and whiskey and say cheers with wine. Antioxidants in red wine called polyphenols may help protect the lining of blood vessels in your heart.

Get rid of hard skin 

Hard skin is caused by stress or friction on your foot and so tends to form on the heel, sides and balls of the feet. It’s tempting to ignore but left untreated can soon turn into corns. ‘The best way to deal with it is to remove the hard skin with a foot file and apply an intensive moisturiser immediately after,’ says Michael Harrison-Blount, podiatrist and lecturer in podiatry at the University of Salford. 

Diet for nail health 

Our toenails receive daily abuse through ill-fitting shoes and general wear and tear. However, what you eat can have a positive effect on keeping your nails healthy. If your toenails are brittle and dry, it’s likely your diet is deficient in fat and certain vitamins. A diet rich in vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and biotin will help. A deficiency in any of these may lead the nail to become misshapen, brittle, thickened or discoloured. To help avoid this, eat plenty of: 

• fish and meat 
• eggs and dairy products 
• salad vegetables, tomatoes and carrots. 

Deal with bunions 

Bunions, or hallux valgus, is a condition that affects the bones and joints associated with the big toe. Bunions usually develop slowly. They are hereditary in nature, and are more common in women than men. ‘Footwear, however doesn’t cause bunions,’ says Michael Harrison-Blount. ‘Some shoes can exacerbate the condition, but only if other factors or causes already exist.’ 

If you have a bunion Michael Harrison-Blount suggests the following. 
• Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box. You should be able to ‘dimple’ the leather over your bunion. 
• Avoid all high-heeled shoes. 
• See a podiatrist or GP for advice.

Cut your toenails properly 

When it comes to caring for your nails, perfecting your cutting technique is vital. Michael Harrison-Blount advises never using scissors. ‘It’s better to opt for a pair of nail nippers or clippers instead because they have a smaller cutting blade and longer handle,’ he says. 

Nails should then be: 

• trimmed once a week cutting nails straight across. Aim for square-shape as this will prevent ingrown toenails 
• use a nail file to smooth down any rough edges, but avoid abrasive metal files, which can splinter the nail. 

Yellow nails 

Yellow nails can be the result of wearing dark polish regularly. If so, skip the polish for a month and let the nail improve. If things don’t get better, this may indicate onychomycosis, a fungal infection. Untreated, this can cause nails to thicken, become brittle and flaky and separate from the nail bed. Mild fungal infections can be treated with topical treatments, such as Loceryl nail lacquer. In severe cases, it’s important to get a diagnosis and you should arrange to see your GP or podiatrist for advice. 

Moisturize your feet 

Moisturising your feet and exfoliating on a daily basis with scrubs can help prevent hard skin and calluses from forming in the first place. However, as the skin of the foot is much thicker than elsewhere on your body, you need a moisturiser with deep penetrating properties to help keep the skin supple. To help yourself: • if the skin on your feet is particularly dry, apply cream at night when you can put your feet up • use a cream that contains urea, which is known to help bind water in the layer of callus tissue, reducing the extra formation of dry skin cells. 

Keep your feet dry 

Athlete’s foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin that occurs when feet are kept in moist conditions. It commonly affects the skin between the toes first and is associated with intense itching. 

Help yourself by: 

• drying your feet thoroughly 
• not wearing wet socks 
• changing your socks often to keep your feet dry. Athlete’s foot can be diagnosed at home and treated with over-the-counter medicines without having to see your GP or a podiatrist. However, if the symptoms are severe or if the problem is not resolving, seek advice from a healthcare professional. 


Healthy heels 

Nearly a third of the UK population suffers from cracked heels, which are caused by dry skin at the edges of the heel being put under pressure as you walk. Although not serious, it can lead to an infection if not treated. Cracked heels mean that the skin is dehydrated so the best prevention and cure is to use an intensive moisturising cream. Use one that is specially formulated to repair cracked heels, and look for a product that contains keratin - a proven wound-healing protein that helps restore the heel’s natural elasticity and flexibility. 

Happy eaters go on fewer diets 

According to a survey of 4,000 women that SELF conducted with Cynthia M. Bulik, Ph.D., director of the eating disorders program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, happy eaters are much less likely to have started dieting before age 20. “If you start early, dieting can become a lifestyle,” says Bulik. Julie Waldrop, 40, the owner of an eBay store in Crestwood, Kentucky, is 5 feet 6 inches and makes choices daily to maintain her 130 pounds. “I plan to have protein, veggies and fruit at meals. I avoid anything fried; I have irritable bowel syndrome, and junk food makes it worse,” she says. 

Happy eaters have breakfast, lunch and dinner 

Lisa Dolan, a 44-year-old mother of five from Cazenovia, New York, organizes three moderate meals a day for her entire brood. “I take a few extra steps: TV off, music on, the table set,” says Dolan, who is 5 feet 2 inches and weighs 114 pounds. “We sit down instead of standing at the kitchen counter. I take my time-I’ve actually gone on yoga retreats where I wasn’t allowed to talk while I was eating.” The rest of the day, Dolan says, “I don’t focus on food too much. I enjoy it, but I don’t ritualize it.”

Happy eaters use a scale, but not daily 

“Patients tell me, ‘Getting on the scale tells me how my day will go,’” says Ellen Astrachan-Fletcher, Ph.D., director of the eating disorders clinic at the University of Illinois in Chicago. “That’s a lot of power for one little number.” Happy eaters, she says, know that weight fluctuates daily and that weighing each morning doesn’t give you an accurate measure. 

Happy eaters splurge with no regrets 

When happy eaters do treat themselves, they don’t beat themselves up. “If I want a bag of chips, I’ll have it. I don’t deny myself,” Dolan says. “Everyone needs Dairy Queen once in a while, right?” Waldrop reasons. Eve Metlis, a 33-year-old real estate agent from Orlando, Florida, builds splurges into her regular meal plans. Metlis is 5 foot 4 and weighs 140 pounds-a number she’s proud of, as she lost 70 pounds to get there. At a party, she says, she’ll choose a glass of wine over cake. “I might take a forkful of icing,” she says. And she knows when going whole hog is the happy choice. “On holidays like Thanksgiving, I indulge. I can enjoy it because it’s about being with my family,” she says. 

Happy eaters know women come in all sizes 

Danielle Trentacosti, 32, is 5 foot 7 and a size 0 and freely admits she has a blessed metabolism. “I thank my mother for that,” says the stay-at-home mom in Toms River, New Jersey. Food and body image are not her issues-except to the extent that other women single her out. “I was at the beach with my friends, and someone hopped up to take a photo,” Trentacosti recalls. “All the women scrambled to move away from me, saying they didn’t want to be next to the ‘skinny mom.’ I was embarrassed and uncomfortable. I would never comment on what other women weigh or eat.”

Happy eaters exercise without anxiety 

For happy eaters, “exercise is a means to have a healthy body and cope with stress. It doesn’t define them,” says Graham Thomas, Ph.D., assistant professor of behavioral medicine at Brown University Medical School in Providence, Rhode Island, and coinvestigator for the National Weight Control Registry. Happy eaters “listen to their body and rest when they need to,” says Gregory Florez, CEO of FitAdvisor.com, a corporate health-coaching service in Salt Lake City and spokesman for the American Council on Exercise. “Give your body time to recover and your next workout will be of a higher quality.”  

If you ask most people this question, you’re likely to get answers that go down party lines. Those without advanced education will likely say that they’ve done just fine without spending a lot of time in the classroom, while people with a lot of formal academic knowledge would say that success is largely the result of education.

This is more than a trivial debate. Recent statistics from the Federal Reverse show that the American middle class has seen its net income drop 40% from 2007-2010. What was an average net worth of $126,400 shrunk to $77,300 in 2010. Even worse, the Pew Charitable Trusts’ Economic Mobility Project found that 42% of people whose father was in the bottom fifth of the earning curve remained in the same earning bracket for life. Only 30% of Britons and 25% of Danes and Swedes were destined to the same fate. This has led some people to believe that America isn’t the land of opportunity it once was. Americans in the now-popular 99% are not only upset that the divide between rich and poor continues to widen, they want to know how they can assure a better life for themselves and their families. Is a better paying job impossible without a formal education, or is there hope for the non-college educated?

Steve Jobs
Steve Jobs, co-founder of Apple, is widely regarded as one of the best business men of his day. He didn’t have a college degree and neither did Steve Wozniak, the other founder of Apple. Other successful businessmen without college degrees include Dell Computer founder Michael Dell, Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Virgin Brands founder Richard Branson. People all over the world have found success without a college degree, but is that the rule or the exception? Unemployment data shows that more than 8% of the population looking for a job can’t find one. However, for those with a bachelor’s degree, the unemployment rate is only 3.9%. The unemployment rate is 13% for people without a high school diploma. A college degree doesn’t guarantee success, but BLS unemployment statistics show book smarts more than double your chances of finding a job.

Who Works Harder?
One side believes that book smarts allows you to get a higher-earning job and work less, while poorer Americans remain poor because they are forced to work more hours for less money. A paper by Orazio Attanasio, Erik Hurst and Luigi Pistaferri found that higher-educated people work more hours than poorer income groups. Although income inequality is growing, leisure inequality is growing, too. While higher earners are earning more, they’re losing more leisure time in order to do it. Lower-educated men had 35.2 hours of weekly leisure time (socializing, gaming, watching TV, etc.) compared to 35 hours when the study was last conducted. Higher-earning men had 33.2 hours compared to 34.4 hours previously. Less-educated women saw their leisure time grow to 35.2 hours from 35 hours. Higher-educated women went down to 30.3 hours compared to the previously reported 32.2 hours. The study mentions that some of the increase in hours at the lower income levels comes from increased unemployment, but only half of the increase could be attributed to that.

The Bottom Line
Some consumer finance experts believe that becoming more financially prosperous is as much a function of cost control as it is advanced degrees and higher-paying jobs. Statistics seem to indicate that more education dramatically increases a person’s chances of achieving financial prosperity, but one basic rule remains largely uncontested: a college degree may help to open doors to a better paying job, but hard work and responsible choices is the best path to career and financial success.

Migraines represent one of the most challengingtypes of headaches.

Migraines are essentially chronic and severe headaches that have a vascular diagnosis. This means they are caused by neurological and blood circulation problems. Migraines often spread across the upper face, including the jaw and sinuses. Rather than using non-prescription painkillers that can be highly addictive, it is better to use some more natural migraine remedies, such as:

1. Eat to Prevent Migraines

Try to break away from snacking incessantly and getting high on sweetened, aerated drinks. These fast food items tend to hamper the harmony across our body systems, often pushing us towardsailments like migraines. Instead, keep your body well hydrated and healthier my consuming lots of fruit juices, i.e. the non-sugary variety, along with eating at regular intervals. Migraines can be initiated due to sudden sugar spikes that are induced by cold drinks and hunger pangs. Ensure that you don’t work under stressful conditions on an empty stomach. Don’t punish your body with emotional eating like gobbling up cups of puddings or ice creams. Choose your alcohol smartly. Stay away from pure whiskeys and limit yourself to a few sips of a wine or rum. Food high in preservatives and cholesterol contribute towards migraines while those that keep you hydrated (like salads and fresh fruits) and are easy on the stomach help to counter such health problems.

2. Rejuvenate Your Senses with a Bath

Migraines are often deep rooted in your psyche, arising out of stress and unresolved anxiety. To relieve yourself of such stressful migraines, plan a bath that helps to refresh your senses. Plan a longer steam bath or get seated in a bathtub filled with lukewarm water. Light some scented candles and add a few drops of scented oils like lavender oil to the water. This works at par with aromatherapy. You will gradually feel the pain ease away and the effect lasts for a few hours. Since this is a fully-natural remedy, you can use it every alternate day to relax yourself.

3. Cold Compresses Might Work

You can try some proven short-term remedies like using a cold compress. Please note that if you tend to catch flu or allergic conditions like rhinitis easily, don’t try this one. However, for others this can work rather well, i.e. relieve the headache for a few hours. Use this when you are struck with an acute attack of migraine pain and you don’t want to pop that pill again. A cold compress is just a hand towel wrapped around a few ice cubes that you need to keep pressed against your temple or on the top of your head.

4. Herbal Teas Can Relieve Migraines

The marketplace today seems overloaded with various types of herbal teas. Seek those that have natural ingredients like ginger extracts, peppermint, Tulsi and chamomile that are established remedies for relieving anxiety and distressing your muscles. Stay away from coffee since caffeine tends to raise the blood pressure that might worsen the migraine.

5. Deep Breathing & Stretching

Don’t wait for a migraine episode to hit you. Instead, prepare your mind and body every day towards preventing migraine headaches. Stressed muscles of the eye, neck and shoulder are known to contribute towards migraine. Stretch your neck and shoulder muscles at least three times during the day, keep your back straight as much as possible and ensure that you don’t keep staring at the computer screen. Take short breaks from your work, where every two hours or so, you take at least 15 deep breaths to relax yourself.