HB News Network

long term hair removal

Unwanted hair unfortunately plagues most individuals at some point. For some, these undesired hairs sprout earlier in life, while others find them as they age. Instinctively, it may seem easiest to reach for a nearby razor and shave them off. But this simple gesture automatically signs you up for a prickly problem that requires ongoing attention.

Shaving hairs leads to quick regrowth and a constant stubble that is anything but soft. Rather than getting stuck in the cycle of shaving, it may be beneficial to seek out a long term hair removal method.

Long Term Hair Removal Methods

There are a variety of long term hair removal treatments that are currently available. Some yield hair-free results. Others reduce hair growth significantly. Despite the different processes, some methods are more suitable for certain hair problems than others. And the cost factor is definitely a big one with these procedures. Read on to find out if permanent hair removal is best for your hairy situation.

Electrolysis

How it works

During electrolysis a professional electrologist essentially zaps the unwanted hair. They do this by inserting a very fine needle (about the width of a hair) into the follicle of the hair being removed. Then a small amount of electrical current is shot through the needle. The purpose is to destroy the hair at the root.

Cost Factor

The price of electrolysis is usually based on the length of time in the session. A fifteen minute session costs approximately $20 – $40, while an hour long session runs $60 – $90. The more hairs there are and the larger the area of hair removal, essentially means a higher price to pay.

Pain factor

When it comes to electrolysis, the old saying, “beauty is pain,” is definitely applicable. In fact, it may be wise to repeat this mantra continually during a treatment so that you direct your attention on something other than the pain. Since the skin is penetrated during this treatment this often results in a painful sensation. Additionally, since the hair root is targeted and is close to sensory endings, this adds to the unpleasantness factor as well. When being compared to laser hair removal, most agree that electrolysis is the more painful treatment.

Permanency

Since the cells of the hair follicle are destroyed in electrolysis, this treatment is intended for permanent hair removal. However, because the growth cycles differ for each hair, a client usually needs to go more than once. The electrologist needs to zap hair in the same area at a few different spaced out appointments in order to establish a hair-free zone.

Drawbacks

During electrolysis only one hair can be targeted at a time. As a result, this method of hair removal takes quite some time. If you have a lot of hairs concentrated in one area, this will obviously take a lot of time. And since this process is billed by time, it gets to be pretty expensive.

Many would also argue that a major drawback of electrolysis treatments is the pain factor. The zapping of the hair itself is not enjoyable, and there is usually some tenderness to the area afterwards as well.

Best For

Electrolysis is effective for all types of hair and all skin types. Since not every person is an ideal candidate for laser hair removal, many opt for electrolysis. Although not entirely comfortable, it is a safe and proven way to permanently remove hair.

Laser hair removal

How it works

Even though laser technology was shown to be an effective long term hair removal method in the 1960’s, the FDA didn’t approve this method of long term hair removal until the mid 1990’s. In this treatment a licensed esthetician aims a special laser at the designated area. The laser beam then seeks out the dark hair area, or melanin, on the skin. The laser light then is absorbed into the dark hair follicle but not the rest of the skin. By absorbing the laser the intent is to damage the follicle significantly; thus the follicle will hopefully not be able to sprout future hairs.

Cost Factor

The cost of laser hair removal typically depends on the size of the area being targeted. For example, an area on the face will range from $100 to $350 a session. The bikini area generally runs for $150 to $500 a time. Doing a larger area like half the legs costs $300 to $700 for a visit. Keep in mind that the price is her session; in order to establish an area that is free of hair long-term will take multiple sessions.

Pain Factor

Compared to electrolysis, laser hair removal is far less painful. Laser hair removal is not invasive and no tangible object gets inserted into the skin. However, those undergoing laser hair removal say that the process feels like a rubber band snapping against the skin. Additionally, some areas of the body are more sensitive than others.

Even after a laser hair appointment some discomfort can occur. The laser should only target the hair follicle, a feeling of being sunburned is typical afterwards. Applying a cooling gel or aloe helps alleviate this. If there is severe burning afterwards, the esthetician should be notified. In following treatments the esthetician should then adjust the laser level to reduce burning of the skin.

While not exactly painful, some do get bothered from the odor of laser hair removal. Even though clients should shave the area prior to the appointment, the smell of burning hair is not atypical. Even though this unpleasant smell is common during treatments, it’s a sign of a treatment that is working.

Permanency

Laser hair removal is intended to remove hair permanently. However, this usually will not occur after just one session. It generally takes 6 sessions to remove 70 percent of the unwanted hairs permanently within one area.

Drawbacks

Because laser hair treatment is most effective on those with light skin and dark hair, candidates with this combination see more optimal results. Even those who mostly have this combination may have a few blond hairs that won’t get sought out by the laser. For those that want to completely eradicate any hair growth may need to do a combination of laser hair removal and electrolysis.

Best for

As mentioned above, laser hair removal works best on those who have light skin and dark hair; the contrast is ideal for the laser to detect melanin. However, there have technological advances made so that those with other skin and hair combinations can benefit from this hair removal process as well.

Those who have dark hair and darker skin may benefit from an esthetician that uses a YAG laser. This light absorbs less melanin making it ideal for those who don’t have light skin. However, because it absorbs less melanin, this usually means more treatments are required long term hair removal.

For those that have light skin and light hair a Ruby laser is probably more effective for this combination. This laser has a higher level of absorbing melanin. Unfortunately, those who do not have very pale skin, or are sporting a tan, may experience burning and discoloration of the skin afterwards.

When pursuing laser hair removal it is generally advised to schedule a consultation appointment with a licensed esthetician. He or she will analyze your skin and hair growth and assess which laser is best for you. They will also be able to give you an idea of how many sessions will be required in order to achieve hair-free permanent results.

Getting the most for your money

Long term hair removal is very costly for most. Even though electrolysis and laser hair removal require multiple sessions, many clients can’t afford to continue with an entire series of treatments. Below are a few tips on how get the most bang for your buck:

Schedule a couple consultations

Even though scheduling these visitations is time-consuming, it may be worth it. First of all since the process itself is expensive and time-consuming you want to be sure it will work for you. An esthetician will be able to assess if you are a good candidate for a procedure and what your expectations should be. And it’s nice to compare the prices of different venues to get the best rate.

Schedule a series of appointments

Because hair grows in a cycle, it is best to work with the esthetician to schedule appointments effectively. Some offices recommend that hair removal treatments take place every six weeks to account for this. When scheduling a series of appointments, it may be beneficial to ask if a discount is possible. Some offices will knock off a percentage of the total price if a client commits to a series of appointments.

Special offers

Keeping an open for special offers is another easy way to save money. Many spas or hair removal clinics will give you a great deal if you are a new client. Many of these venues will also give you a discount if you refer a friend.

Other offers might appear as part of a seasonal mailer that showcases advertisements and coupons – more commonly known as “junk mail.” But if you are contemplating permanent hair removal, taking a minute to flip through these ads can save you a bundle in discounts.

While many offers arrive via postal mail, an increasing amount are also available online. Signing up for a group-on or a daily deal is another great way to get savings on hair removal procedures. Just be sure to pay attention to the fine print. Many times they are good for a limited time only. Starting the process generally takes a bit of research and effort. However, if a year later you no longer reaching for a razor, it just may be worth it!

The post Long Term Hair Removal Methods appeared first on HB News Network.

caffeine trap

We are a nation of caffeine addicts. Most of us can’t get through our day without a cup of caffeine, and many can’t even start their morning without it. Drinking beverages infused with caffeine is so common these days, it is almost more difficult to find a tasty beverage that doesn’t have caffeine in it. In addition, beverages are coming out on the market that contain less drink and more caffeine. While many grew up in households where drinking a cup of coffee led to a caffeine jolt, we are now able to attain this much caffeine by consuming, a single, sweet shot’s worth of liquid. With this easy accessibility of caffeine, it may be time to ask ourselves if we have fallen into a caffeine trap. And if so, how can we break free of the caffeine trap?

Breaking Free of the Caffeine Trap

How much caffeine is too much?

Every person is different with regard to how much caffeine they can tolerate or how sensitive to caffeine they are. Those who do not consume caffeine everyday usually have a greater sensitivity to it. Having said that, most health professionals recommend up to 400 mg of caffeine a day is generally a safe amount. This is essentially the equivalent of four cups of coffee.

Kids should not consume more than 100 mg of caffeine a day, and young children should be given even smaller amounts, if that. And for women who are pregnant it is recommended to consume no more than 200 mg of caffeine per day. Various studies on animals showed that more than 300 mg of caffeine consumed a day led to an increase of miscarriages and birth defects in the study group.

Also Read: 5 Amazing Health Benefits Of Coffee

Common caffeinated beverages and caffeine content

We definitely like our caffeinated beverages. While currently water is currently the most frequently consumed beverage in the U.S., it recently traded places with soda which has a history of sitting at the top. Some of the caffeinated drinks that are frequented the most and their caffeine amounts are as follows:

Coffee

83% of Americans are consumers of coffee, and 54% of them drink coffee every day. Trends indicate there are more coffee drinkers now than in previous years. While the blend and strength of coffee varies, an 8 ounce cup of coffee typically yields 95 – 150 mg of caffeine. Coffee that contains dark roasted Arabica beans generally contains less caffeine that blends that incorporate Robusta beans.

Frappes and Frozen Coffees

In the summer many opt for the cool, sweetened frappes over traditional coffee. Starbucks came out with the Frappuccino beverage in 1995 and sees much financial successes as a result. An 8 ounce frozen coffee drink generally contains 60 – 150 mg of caffeine, but most consumers don’t drink just 8 ounces worth.

Soda

About half of Americans drink soft drinks on a daily basis; consuming soda is one of the easiest ways to fall into the caffeine trap. Those that do consume the sweet, caffeinated form of carbonation usually drink 2.6 glasses of soda per day. A 12 ounce can of caffeinated cola contains 35 to 55 mg of caffeine. Some brands of diet soda even contain more caffeine than their sugary counterpart.

Also Read: Dangers Of Diet Soda

Energy drinks

Energy drinks have taken off in popularity within the last 15 years, although they started to appear on the market during the 1980’s. Teens and young adults gravitate to these beverages more than older adults; 66 percent of those who consume energy drinks regularly are between the ages of 13 and 35 years old. Redbull, which is the most popular brand of energy drink, contains 80 mg of caffeine in its 8.2 oz. can. Energy drinks come in a variety of formats from small, single shots, to drinks sold in monster-sized cans.

Tea

Tea is found in roughly 80% of U.S. households. And 85% of tea consumed in the U.S. is iced. Despite all the energy drinks on the market tea has seen a steep increase of popularity among Millennials. 87% of Millennials claim to drink tea frequently.

There are four major types of tea; black, green, white, and oolong. These major types all come from the same plant, but the different methods of treatment result in the different types. Black is the most commonly consumed type of tea. Black tea contains about 40 – 70 mg of caffeine. Green tea, which is the second most popular tea type contains about 15 – 45 mg of caffeine.

The Effects of Caffeine

Caffeine Dependency

Most consume caffeine because they like the quick feeling of alertness it brings. Caffeine is a stimulant and quickly affects the brain. Those who are feeling tired or sluggish suddenly start to perk up with just a few sips of a caffeinated drink. Many also find themselves in a caffeine trap because they feel they need to have caffeine in order to focus on a task. Students often rely on caffeine to get some major studying done. Additionally, many employees in the workplace have a cup in hand in order to battle the tasks of the day.

Irritability & Anxiety

While caffeine does help kick-start the mind, there are many negative consequences that come into play when consuming too much. For starters, since caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, many of the negative effects mess with our heads. After consuming an abundance of caffeine it’s not uncommon to experience the jitters and feel anxious. Some also feel suddenly irritable, especially when the caffeine wears off.

Insomnia

Consuming caffeine in the evening, or even in the late afternoon causes some to have a hard time sleeping at night. Drinking excessive amounts of caffeine leads to insomnia in some people. And while we don’t generally think of caffeine being a drug that one overdoses on, it is possible. For those that do overdose on caffeine they may experience confusion. Overdosing even leads to hallucinations in some cases.

Heart Complications

In addition to affecting the brain, caffeine also negatively impacts other parts of the body. It takes an hour or two for caffeine to enter the blood stream. When it does it results in an increase of blood pressure and a faster heartbeat. In addition to a rapid heartbeat, too much caffeine also causes some to experience an irregular heartbeat. For those with heart trouble, caffeine can cause further heart complications.

Nausea

Another common side-effect of caffeine can be an upset stomach. Consuming caffeine increases the amount of acid in the stomach. For some this results in nausea and vomiting, while others experience diarrhea. Acid-Reflux is another consequence of digesting large amounts of caffeine. One way to reduce stomach issues is to eat something before consuming a caffeinated drink.

Tips for breaking away from the caffeine trap

If you are one who consumes caffeine throughout the day, suddenly stopping any caffeine from entering the body is actually not the best approach. Cutting caffeine out completely will mostly likely result in a gigantic, painful headache and will make you feel extremely irritable. If you very dependent on caffeine, suddenly eliminating caffeine can actually make you feel sick. Most health professionals agree that breaking away from the caffeine trap should be a gradual process of reducing caffeine over time. Below are some tips on how to cut out some caffeine if you are caught in the caffeine trap.

Be aware of your intake

If you are someone who doesn’t keep track of your caffeine consumption, now may be a good time to start. Since you feel the effects of caffeine pretty quickly, you probably are aware when you are drinking caffeine. However, you probably don’t know exactly how much. It may be beneficial to keep tabs on the caffeine content of your drinks. Also be aware of how much you are drinking.

To go along with this, learn to distinguish the difference between a serving and what you are actually ingesting. A convenience store may label their 32 ounce beverage cup as “small,” but if you are consuming 32 ounces of Mountain Dew, your caffeine intake is anything but small. The bottom line is the cups we are drinking from usually contain multiple servings. Therefore the caffeine content entering our system needs to be multiplied when keeping track of the math.

Opt for half-decaf

One way to decrease the caffeine content in your beverage is to mix in the decaffeinated or caffeine-free version of your drink with the regular caffeinated kind. For example, rather than drinking a cup of fully leaded coffee, brew a half-eineited version as an alternative. This requires a little bit of an adjustment, but is much easier on your system than cutting out caffeine cold turkey. Going half-decaf will still perk you up, but allows you to reduce your caffeine intake.

With this method you can eventually wean yourself entirely off caffeine over time. You may want to start by having 75% of your preferred beverage be caffeinated and 25% non-caffeinated, but over the course of a month or so you can switch the ratios by adjusting the beverage. Many women who discover they are pregnant find this approach useful in order to have a healthier pregnancy.

Drink water

Unfortunately, many drink their favorite caffeinated beverages instead of drinking water. When faced with some of the more unpleasant side-effects affiliated with caffeine, or even withdrawal symptoms, it’s a good idea to drink some water. Staying hydrated helps reduce headaches and will keep you healthier in the long run.

Also Read: 3 Major Benefits Of Water

Stretch

It is quite common to seek out a caffeinated beverage when we are feeling tired or lethargic. During the work day this sleepy feeling typically finds us a couple of hours after lunch. Since napping is usually not an option, we once again get sucked into the caffeine trap. To shake this feeling, rather than reaching for a caffeine-filled soft drink, try reaching for the sky instead. Doing a quick stretch routine is an easy, fast way to rejuvenate the mind and body. This doesn’t have to be a 30 minute, sweat-inducing cardio routine. Even taking just a few minutes to wiggle the limbs, or walk around the building helps stimulate the mind. It’s also good to wake up your body with a little exercise as well.

Head outdoors

Venturing outdoors is another way to energize the senses without falling back into the caffeine trap. Going outside for even a few minutes is a great way to perk up and obtain Vitamin D. In addition, research studies have found that taking a brief walk outside helps to foster creativity. Instead of relying on a chemical stimulants, let the fresh air stimulate you. Studies have also shown that being outdoors generally improves our overall mood. And heading outside, rather than the convenient store for a caffeine fix is good for another reason: it will conveniently save you some cash.

Breaking free from the caffeine trap isn’t always easy and requires hard work and dedication. Utilizing the above tips and sticking to a plan will allow you to make strides over time. Hopefully you will experience the benefits of not having to rely on caffeine and feel like a healthier person overall.

The post Breaking Free of the Caffeine Trap appeared first on HB News Network.

food labels

Food has definitely changed over the last few decades. In former times most of our food was either picked or hunted. Nowadays it seems that most of what we put in our mouths comes from a crinkly package. These snacks certainly manages to fill us up, and not many people complain about the taste. But if you take a minute and read the fine print of the food labels, you will probably find that you are not familiar with a few of the ingredients used. In fact, after reading some food labels, it almost seems that there are more ingredients that are unfamiliar than those that are familiar.

Reading the Fine print of Food labels

Since we purchase these foods time and time again at our trusty supermarket, and we like them, we don’t get too concerned about what’s in them. But maybe it’s time for a closer look. Some ingredients lead to negative health consequences, while others are fairly harmless. But many of us can’t even get beyond pronouncing the unknown ingredient correctly. Therefore many don’t care to take the time to investigate whether these complex ingredients are healthy or not. Below is a list of some of those common unknown ingredients that are listed on the food labels of most packaged foods:

Ammonium Phosphate

What is it?

This compound is very common in foods packaged by companies that are involved with high-tech food production. It is usually added as a salt. Since many of the processed desserts or snacks are baked, it serves as a leavening agent as well.

Where is it found?

Ammonium Phosphate is in many packaged baked goods from large, food production companies. It appears in a variety of brands of cookies, crackers, breads, and snack foods. It also appears in some processed cheese products.

What are the health effects?

Ammonium Phosphate also is a prime compound used in lawn fertilizers. The fact that this ingredient is included in harsh chemicals as well as in our food has become quite a matter of controversy.

Spokespersons for the food manufacturers claim that the ammonia basically evaporates in the baking process. However, many nutritionists feel that incorporating ammonia and related compounds into food is unsafe. Studies also show that frequently consuming foods containing Ammonium Phosphate increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)

What is it?

BHT along with Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) are synthetic compounds that are added to foods and cosmetics to help better preserve freshness. Many of the ingredients in prepared foods alter in taste and color as time goes on; BHT and BHA are added to slow down this process.

Where is it found?

Foods labels that have BHT and/or BHA are as follows: cereals, chewing gum, crackers, snack foods, and butter. A variety of cosmetics also contain BHT and BHA. These compounds are also found in electrical transformer oil, petroleum products as well as embalming fluid.

What are the health effects?

BHT and BHA are currently facing a lot of scrutiny with regard to their impacts on health. Sadly, the studies thus far show that the BHT’s impacts are not positive. Consuming these compounds in high quantities impair blood clotting. They also may impair the liver’s ability to function. Research has also found that BHT and BHA increases the risk of cancer. In a recent study conducted on mice, ingesting foods with the compounds promoted the growth of tumors.

BHT and BHA continue to appear on many food labels of large packaged food companies in the United States. But their link to negative consequences has not gone unnoticed world-wide. Incorporating this compound in food is banned in England, Japan, along with other European countries.

Dextrose

What is it?

Dextrose is a sweetener that is a form of glucose. It does originate from a natural source since it is made from starchy plants. However, it is still processed. Dextrose is generally used in foods that are sweet. Dextrose also appears on food label of packaged foods since it prolongs shelf life as well.

Where is it found?

Many packaged candies, cookies, and desserts contain Dextrose. Sodas and chips contain this sweetener as well. If the package lists corn syrup as an ingredient, essentially Dextrose has been added.

What are the health effects?

Just like consuming an excessive amount of sugar is unwise, eating a multitude of foods that contain Dextrose is also a bad idea. Diabetics in particular need to watch how much of this simple sugar they ingest; otherwise their blood sugar levels could rise leading to serious consequences. Studies have shown that those who frequently consume additional sugars as part of their diet are also at risk of developing heart disease.

Malic acid

What is it?

This natural substance is added to various foods to give them a sour or tart taste.

Where is it found?

Malic acid naturally is found in fruits and vegetables; apples are very common source of the substance.

Packaged foods manufacturers usually add Malic acid to incorporate a tart taste into the food. Many sour-tasting foods such as candies, and fruit snacks contain this substance. Jellies, sherbets, and a variety of drinks also have Malic acid listed on their food labels.

In addition to food items, Malic acid is also added to different cosmetics, lotions, and skin care products.

What are the health effects?

Seeing the word “acid” may lead many to think that this substance is hazardous. But studies have found to the contrary. Malic acid contains anti-oxidants and studies have shown it to help maintain a healthy heart. For those suffering from fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome ingesting Malic acid helps to improve conditions.

Studies also show that Malic acid is beneficial for reducing the signs of aging. Using cosmetics and lotions that contain this substance reduces fine lines and wrinkles. A variety of anti-aging beauty products now contain Malic acid.

There are a few individuals who have an allergic reaction when coming in contact with Malic acid. Symptoms generally include itchy skin and minor skin irritation. If a rash develops on your skin, wash the area thoroughly, and discontinue using skin care items with Malic acid.

Sorbic Acid

What is it?

Sorbic acid is a colorless, fatty acid that is added to foods to prevent the growth of mold. Food is usually either dipped in the substance or sprayed with it.

Where is it found?

Food labels that list Sorbic acid are as follows: baked goods, refrigerated meats, cheeses, canned goods, and prepared salads.

Sorbic acid also is incorporated in different beauty products such as lotions, sunscreens, and cosmetics for the purpose of prolonging shelf life.

What are the health effects?

Sorbic acid is generally harmless and non-toxic. There are a few cases where some individuals develop an irritation to this substance. And those who do usually have an aversion to creams and other topical products that contain Sorbic acid. Symptoms usually include itchy skin or a rash. To reduce the skin irritation clean the affected area entirely.

Yellow #5

What is it?

Yellow #5, also known as Tartrazine is a vibrant food dye. This synthetic dye is usually listed on food labels of foods or drinks that are yellow, or even bright green, or orange.

Where is it found?

As mentioned above, manufactured foods that appear yellowish in color contain this food dye. This includes processed cheeses, macaroni and cheese, as well as various chips, and snack foods. Many bright candies and sodas usually list Yellow #5 on their food labels as well.

What are the health effects?

Back in the 1990s there was a lot of attention was suddenly directed at Yellow #5. Many people were under the impression that consuming an abundance of beverages made the dye affected fertility. Many men feared that drinking soft drinks like Mountain Dew would reduce their sperm count. And many women feared they would not be able to get pregnant.

Since then studies have surfaced on the health effects of Tarrazine. Thus far, there is no concrete evidence indicating that consuming foods with the synthetic dye directly affects fertility. At least not in humans. There have been a few studies within the last ten years on mice. And on these studies there was evidence that Yellow #5 led to a reduction of sperm count within the mice.

Aside from possible fertility issues, research has also shown other undesirable consequences of the yellow dye as well. Recent studies have revealed that Tarrazine increases hyperactivity in children. For children who are already diagnosed with ADHD the hazardous dye alters their behavior further. Other crtics of the dye claim that ingesting the chemical leads to other possible side effects such as the following: migraines, anxiety, blurred vision and fatigue.

Because of the numerous negative effects of the yellow dye many nutritionists feel that this dye should not be used in high tech food production. Many of the packaged foods sold in the United States that use the dye sell a dye-free version of the food to other countries.

In fact, in Europe foods that contain Tarrazine are required to include a special warning on the packaging. In the United States, there are no laws concerning the hazardous dye. However, food companies are required to list the dye on their American food labels.

Keep an eye out

When reading the list of ingredients listed on the food labels of packaged foods it’s disconcerting to see how many unknown ingredients there are. It may be awhile yet before we know all the health effects of these compounds, substances, and chemicals. Until that time comes – if it comes – it is beneficial to take a good look at the foods you are putting in your body everyday.

If you are constantly reaching for something that was processed and pre-packaged, you may want to change your diet. Choosing fresh fruits and vegetables over processed foods means less chemicals entering your body. Fresh produce provides vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Processed foods seldom provide these healthy nutrients. Therefore, opting for the heathy benefits of fresh foods over processed ones is a win-win.

The post Reading the Fine print of Food labels appeared first on HB News Network.

games to play with your girlfriend

There are various ways to keep a relationship sweet and enjoyable. One of the best ways of keeping things exciting and fresh is to play a variety of fun games. These are fun games to play with your girlfriend and not only full of fun, but they also help you learn more about your partner and for your partner to learn about you.

If the relationship with your girlfriend has become a little dull lately, worry not, there are so many exciting games you can try to spice your relationship up a little. Here are 33 fun games you can play with your girlfriend.

32 Fun Games To Play With Your Girlfriend

Angry birds

Angry Birds is one of the most addicting games to play with your girlfriend, which requires little to no skill to start. Begin by setting a high score and challenge your partner to surpass it.

Gaming consoles

There are lots of games you both can play on various gaming consoles. Yes, you don’t even need special skills for these games to play with your girlfriend. You can enjoy hours of pure fun playing games such as racing, tennis, soccer or flying jets.

Pokémon Go

This is a game that gets you to explore the outdoors with your partner and meet new people as you go. Pokemon Go has taken over the lives of many and is one of the funnest games to play with your girlfriend if you’re tired of sitting in your house all day.

Prank calling

Prank calling has been around for ages from phrases such as “is your refrigerator still running” to other lame jokes it is one of the easiest ways to pass time with joy and laughter. Whether you are prank calling your partner or if both of you are calling your friends and family its as easy as dialing *67.

Skiing/Snowboarding

A real skill that can be started off as just a game, skiing or snowboarding would be an awesome sport to pick up. Unless you live near mountains it will most likely only be a seasonal thing, but it is an awesome way to bond with your partner.

The dice game

Mark different actions such as kiss, massage, hug, etc. on each side of the dice. When you roll the dice, one of you should do whatever is written on the side that appears. This is one of those romantic games to play with your girlfriend.

Blindfold walk

Blindfold her and put many obstacles in her path. Now guide her to walk following your instructions. This game is known for increasing trust between the two of you.

Movie game

Watch a film together. Choose a random word in the movie, such as “love”. Now every time love happens, share a kiss. This can be a crazily entertaining game to play together.

Target Practice

Taking that someone special to the gun range to do some target practicing is a fun game you two can play. Choose different targets and see who which of you is the better shot. This game is a responsible game that teaches each other trust and responsibility.

Tattoo game

Draw a tattoo on her body and ask her to tattoo you as well. You don’t need to be a tattoo professional to make a design on your girl’s back. Heck, you both don’t even have to make creative sketches on one another’s body.

Eyes wide open

Kiss each other without closing your eyes. The one who’ll close their eyes first will be the loser and vice-versa.

Outdoor game

Take her out to your backyard and play whichever game she loves to play. You can enjoy a game of tennis, cricket, soccer, basketball, etc.

Fruit picking

Go to a fruit orchard with her and enjoy picking fruits. Pick as many as you both can until your hands ache. Winner is the one with the most fruits.

Giant Jenga game

This game, which involves constructing a structure with wooden boards, can make your day even more fun. You can play it in your backyard.

Spin the bottle

If you’re dying to kiss her but haven’t yet mustered the courage, this could your perfect excuse to kiss your girlfriend. Just grab that bottle before she has a rethink. One of most interesting games to play with your girlfriend.

Song lyrics/Movie quotes

You can share your interests by texting song lyrics or movie quotes back and forth. Give each other points for guessing the correct song or movie, as well as the singer or character.

Online games

Playing online games with your significant other can add some thrill between the two of you. There are lots of online games to play together, including card games like blackjack and board games like chess.

Name that tune

This game’s perfect if you both love music. It’s a lovely way of finding out each other’s tastes in music and learning more about each other. Tell her to hum a few lines and guess the song’s name and artist.

Board games

Board games also offer lots of fun, though they often won’t lead to conversation. They involve tactics, but not everyone enjoys them. Just make sure none of you are upset or crying after losing.

Truth or dare

Have her decide between truth and dare. If she chooses truth, she must answer your choice of question, and if she opts for dare, she must complete the dare. After her, it’s your turn.

Love puzzle

Create a puzzle that both of you will complete together. Write something romantic on a big blank puzzle, or draw something romantic. Mix up the bits and ask her to complete the puzzle. You can help her if you wish.

Romantic scrabble

Add some romantic twist to a scrabble game by introducing your own rules. Every word you spell must have some significance in your relationship, such as your favorite meal as a couple, or where you went for your first date.

Trivia

This is an exciting mental game that can build your relationship. Challenging each other with trivia questions will make you both think, and you’ll learn lots about each other’s abilities and interests. To make the game more exciting, put a scoring mechanism in place where each answer is given a rating.

I-Spy

This is a simple game that can be played almost in any circumstance. Find something in the current setting you’re in and name what color it is and have your significant other spot it. If they do, it is now their turn.

Coloring Books

Although coloring was something you probably last did in middle school, coloring books have resurfaced and become an interactive game for couples to play as they travel down memory lane.

Food tasting

Get small samples of different foods and don’t let your significant other see them. Pick foods with different textures and texts. Use less common foods to up the stakes. Blindfold her and let her guess each food sample she tastes.

Adventure games

Plan an outing with her and try some adventurous games like trekking, boating, hill climbing, rock climbing, hunting, etc. Just make sure you’re both safe.

Wrestling

Although you think you’re the man in the relationship you’d be surprised by how much energy your girlfriend may have. Nothing is funner than a good old fashioned wrestling match.

Surfing

If you both love going to the beach, you can try surfing. Get out the surfboard and just go for it, start having some fun and joy.

Also Read: Why Swimming Is Important

Texting Game

This is a creative game that you can play with her even when you two aren’t in the same place. Send her a text message and see if she’s able to answer a few questions about your relationship such as the location of your first date, where you first kissed, your favorite movie, restaurant, movie, etc. This game will rekindle the sweet memories that you both share. You can make it more exciting by requesting her to also ask you similar questions.

Blind date game

This game involves each of you separately writing down the locations you’d like to go for a blind date. Put the cards into a hat and choose one card. The location you choose will be where both of you will go on the blind date. To make things exciting, make reservations and dress up appropriately for the blind date. During the blind date share childhood stories, your most funny phobias, embarrassing moments, etc.

Childhood Picture Game

This game involves each of you collecting 10 Pictures from your childhood. Let your partner say something about each photo, likewise, say something about her pictures. Then once you are done, shuffle all the pics, and let your partner choose one. Once she’s made her pick, ask her to remember what the pic was all about. This game is perfect for walking down the memory lane, as well as testing your current memory.

There’s a limitless amount of exciting games you can play with your girlfriend. It doesn’t have to be Pokemon Go. Remember, you’re both seeking fun in the games, so you should stop being too serious. Try injecting some fun in your interactions regularly and your relationship is sure to benefit.

The post 32 Fun Games To Play With Your Girlfriend appeared first on HB News Network.

foods that make you sluggish

For those who frequently find themselves feeling sluggish during the week, it’s easy to point the blame on lack of sleep. To run like a well-oiled machine, we need sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet. If you are getting plenty of sleep but just not feeling 100% during the day, it might have something to do with your diet. It isn’t as farfetched as you may think! Put the snack down and read on to see the kinds of foods that make you sluggish.

Foods That Make You Sluggish

Bagels, Donuts, and Muffins

It may well be that our favorite breakfast items could be doing the opposite of what they’re supposed to! You wake up well rested, and these three bad guys instantly ruin the good vibes. What makes them so dangerous? The high amounts of sugar and refined carbs. A single bagel has an average of 9 grams of sugar. That’s just over two teaspoons and more than most people put in their coffee! For a food that isn’t labeled as sweet, it’s sure a shocker. Donuts are even higher; as most are laced with a delightful coating of frosting and sprinkles. These three are amongst some of the most popular foods that make you sluggish.

Once any of these three killers hit your system, insulin and blood sugar levels spike which gives you a short burst of energy. After the burst, you’ll quickly sink into a sluggish slump. The bummer is that the slump is even lower than where you were before the food. Because bagels, donuts, and muffins are all predominately bread, you’ll find yourself getting hungrier faster than if you had consumed a protein based meal. That is why these are foods that make you sluggish. Instead of reaching for one of those items with your morning cup of Joe, opt for steel cut oats, a banana or yogurt. Tasty and filling!

Sub Sandwiches & Soda

A yummy sandwich paired with an ice cold soda is a lunch break paradise. Sorry to break the bad news to you, but each of those items are foods that make you sluggish as you head into the final stretch of the day. Most sandwiches are loaded with sodium and are typically high in MSGs. Studies show that MSG messes with your body’s natural ability to regulate insulin, which again leads to a high spike and low crash. Insulin also regulates your body’s metabolism which plays a significant part in energy. Not to mention the large portions of bread that hold all of the naughty ingredients in. Like the killer breakfast trio, sugar is sneaking up to bring you down.

Regular and diet sodas have a naughty hidden ingredient; aspartame. Diet soda makers use this sugar imposter to make up for the flavor notes that standard sugar provides. Dozens of studies have highlighted the various negative impacts that aspartame has on one’s system. Emotional disorders and diabetes in particular. Commonly found in energy drinks, its benefits are short lived and force you to keep coming back for more. Get your lunchtime fix by digging into a leafy green salad topped with the protein of your choice. Slug down some water and leave that soda in the cooler! Pop as a whole isn’t kind to your teeth and could lead to gum disease. Skip it and save the calories! Want to promote healthy digestion? A splash of lemon will do just that. Soda is in the midst of the worst foods that make you feel sluggish.

Read More: The Dangers of Diet Soda You Need To Know

Red Wine

Oh, no! Not that! Wine boasts many health benefits and can reduce your risk of a heart attack when consumed in moderation. Sadly, wine sends your energy packing. Alcohol slows down the central nervous system which leads to you feeling beat. Insomnia is a known side effect of alcohol consumption and that obviously does your energy situation no favors. Try a green smoothie instead!

Dark Chocolate

Between the wine mentioned above and what you’re about to read, the pieces of the sluggish puzzle may finally be coming together. Dark chocolate is widely considered the healthier of the available selections, and that is completely true! Although, dark chocolate has high levels of serotonin, which tells your brain to calm down and relax. If you can’t afford to be sleepy, switch to milk chocolate.

Combat Sluggish Foods

Looking for a quick energy boost to combat some bad diet choices you’ve made today? Grab a handful of almonds, a spoonful of peanut butter or a banana. The sweet spot for energizing snacks is one that is loaded with fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates (instead of reformed). Adding some healthy fats like avocado will slow the sugar rush as it hits your metabolism. Walnuts are also an excellent choice for getting a salty fix that does a whole lot of good for your body.

Also Read: Health Benefits of Bananas

How to Avoid Foods That Make You Sluggish

It’s not nearly as hard as you may think. A good way to start is by trying to cut out foods that are heavy in reformed carbs and opt for ones with complex carbs instead. The biggest offenders are candies, pizza, and sodas. Watch out for unassuming foods with high sugar content! Dry fruit, barbecue sauce, and granola bars fit the qualifications. Indulge in alcohol in moderation and try to avoid drinking earlier in the day. Stay true to whole foods and eat up to get your daily servings of fruits and veggies in. The fewer the ingredients on the label, the more likely it is to be a healthier choice. As with everything in life, a little bit is okay, but moderation is key!

Also Read: 6 Exotic Fruits You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Healthy Starts Slowly

Start slowly and take baby steps as you change your diet. Swap one or two things for healthier choices, and you’ll set a foundation for new eating habits. Head to the grocery store and stock up on nuts, fruits, and veggies. Addressing the foods you choose to snack on is the easiest way to start. By choosing to ditch these energy draining food and drinks, you’ll be a more vibrant you! The midday slump will no longer get you down, and you are likely to lose a few pounds in the process. What will you do with all of that extra energy?

The post Foods That Make You Sluggish appeared first on HB News Network.

easy halloween costumes

Have you been invited to a last minute Halloween party? Or maybe you’re just trying to save money and don’t want to spend a fortune on a costume. Either way, there are plenty of cute easy Halloween costumes lurking right within your home! Use this article as a guide on how to craft the perfect costume without too much effort and breaking the bank. There’s something to fit everyone’s style; so whether you’re looking to be cheeky and cute or mysterious and scary, we’ve got you covered.

Quick and Easy Halloween Costumes

Mysterious & Famous No More

Easy Halloween costumes shouldn’t be time consuming so if you have 5 minutes – this is the costume for you. Grab a paper grocery bag, a pair of scissors and a marker. Place the bag on your head and have a friend trace out two holes for your eyes. Use the scissors to carefully cut holes for a line of vision. Then, use the marker to write something clever. “Please, no photos,” “I’m not famous,” or “Invisible celebrity” are awesome suggestions.

Bat Girl

Break out your black pair of leggings and a form-fitting black shirt (ideally long sleeved). Slip on a pair of heels or a comfy pair of flats. Then, reach into your makeup bag and take out your black eyeliner and mascara. Find the inner artist in you and get creative with drawing a bat on your face. Try drawing one across your forehead or opt for two smaller ones on each one of your cheeks. Go snag two black plastic garbage bags and some masking tape from the kitchen. Carefully make each one into a wing, using the tape to secure the wings onto your arms. Another handy trick is to break apart an umbrella as pictured above. If you have time to pick up some cat ears, it’ll boost the look. You’re ready to go!

This Pun is a Hit!

Fifty Shades of Grey caught the attention of readers and movie goers alike. Well, here’s your chance to be a part of the action! Stop at the local hardware store on the way home from work and pick up a handful of gray paint swatches. Choose a variety of different shades to get the best look possible (do see where this is going now?!). Carefully cut each of the shades apart from the swatches. Dig out some safety pins from your sewing kit and attach each swatch to a shirt or dress. Scatter the shades for a cute look. Slip on gray heels or boots before heading out!

Dalmatian

These spotted, dotted dogs are adorable! Find a white shirt in your closet that you won’t mind throwing out after Halloween. Take a black marker and create different sized spots all over the shirt. Do the same with pants. If it isn’t possible to outfit a pair of pants with spots, opt for a simple black or white. Take it over the top and use a face friendly marker to add extra spots to your face!

Sightseer

By the time you’re reading this, it is too late to jet to somewhere tropical for this Halloween. Don’t let that keep you down! Find a funky tropical button down shirt and pull the binoculars out of your closet. Pair it with a fanny pack, sunglasses, and a sunhat for the whole look!

Snuggle Monster

Live the dream and never have to change out of your pajamas! Find a pair of footie pajamas and break out your childhood favorite teddy bear and don’t forget slippers! Bonus points if you can bring a mug of coffee around with you.

Your Favorite Color

This one is so simple and winds up being so good! Dress from head to toe in your favorite color. From a hat to shirt, pants, socks and shoes – make sure everything is your favorite color. Throw on a scarf, bow tie, belt, shorts over pants… Anything and everything! Guaranteed to get a laugh from someone who asks what your costume is. Get friends in on the fun of a group costume and coordinate to make a rainbow!

Looking for a group costume? These are some of the best:

Ninjas

There are many easy Halloween costumes and one of the most classic looks is the Ninja. Dress in all black, gloves included. Get different colored eye masks and make some swords out of tinfoil.

Also Read: How To Make A Ninja Costume

An Old Photo

Google around and get inspired with photos from the good old days. Then, recreate the looks with clothes in your closet. Choose black and whites only, as you’ll need to keep in the spirit of the old times. If you’d like to see some scary examples read the article below.

Also Read: Vintage Halloween Costumes

Secret Agent

Break out your formal gear and throw on your coolest pair of shades and a fancy wrist watch. Spend the whole night acting serious and communicating through your “wrist device” to the other agents throughout the party. Remember…. DON’T BLOW YOUR COVER!

Don’t forget about your kiddos!

Ladybug

In similar thinking to the Dalmatian costume, get a red hoodie and red pants. Cover them with dots! For a girl, have her wear a black headband to serve as makeshift antennas.

Old Man or Woman

Opposites attract?! Find the cutest pieces of their wardrobe that could represent something their older counterparts wear. Use facial paint to create a beard or wrinkles. Have them wear costume glasses or remove the lenses from reading glasses around the house. Older kids can carry a cane!

Their Favorite Animal

Embrace their wild side and let your child be their favorite animal. Dress in all gray for an elephant, black for a cat or black and white for a zebra! Teach them how to make the sound of the animal and encourage them to crawl, hop or walk around in the same fashion.

Halloween is a piece of cake! With so many options right within your home, there’s no need to fight the crowds at busy costume pop up stores. Get your creative juices flowing and slap together a winning costume just in time. Opt for one of these easy Halloween costumes in a group and your friends or coworkers will hail you as the Halloween Superhero! For next year, continue the frugal trend or search for area exchange groups. Groups within the local community feature costume exchanges at very low prices.

The post Easy Halloween Costumes for Kids, Groups and You appeared first on HB News Network.

dangers of high heels

Many women admire heels because they are fashionable. However, they’re certainly not comfortable. You hear women say how these take them to new heights yet can’t go the distance in them. These are high heels. These shoes have made their appearance in the circles of style since WWII. Although the height of the heel may change from season to season, as well as the shape, high heels always find a way of stepping into the latest fashion trends. And despite all the moaning and groaning that occurs after spending a day in them, new pairs have a tendency to walk into our closets. As innocent and fashionable as they may seem, people often times fail notice the dangers of high heels.

The Dangers Of High Heels

The sad truth is that the dangers of high heels are not a laughing matter. And this danger is present even without experiencing the occasional heel suddenly breaking off mid-stride. Many already know that wearing high heels temporarily causes discomfort, but dressing in them over time leads to several negative, long-term health consequences. Learn why it’s important to keeping your feet healthy so you can always put your best foot forward.

How the heels stack up

Despite what the media portrays, not all women wear high heels. In fact, 28% of women never wear them and prefer flatter shoes. While the majority of women have put on a pair of these unfriendly shoes at some point in their lives, most don’t make a daily habit of it. The majority of women who do own a pair generally wear them on very special occasions only. Others wear them as part of their evening attire or if they are going out dancing. And only 31% of women even wear them to work.

When it comes to high-heeled shoes, there are statistics that show that age is a factor. Generally, younger women are much more likely to wear these shoes than older women. 49% of the women who sport high heels regularly are between the ages of 18 and 24. That percentage drops to 42% for women between the ages of 25 and 49. And that percentage drops even further to 34% for women who are 50 years of age or older. The data seems to suggest that as women age they are more likely to go for comfortable feet rather than fashionable feet.

It also is worth considering how many of those who wore high heels regularly when younger are then no longer able to wear these kinds of shoes as they get older. For many older women, wearing high heels is not even an option. Read on to learn how high heels negatively impacts the feet and perhaps even your lifestyle.

The Short-Term Factors

You probably don’t need to read an article to discover that getting dolled up in fancy high heels for a day brings discomfort. You could walk for a mile (or less) in high heels to learn this lesson first-hand, although it is not recommended, nor preferred. The initial complaint most have after wearing high heels for some time is, “my feet hurt!” Aching foot muscles, sore heels and blisters are common un-pleasantries discovered after prying off these straining shoes.

In addition to sore feet, high-heeled shoe-wearers also experience aches and pains in other arenas of the body. Because high heels alter a body’s natural alignment, we unconsciously adjust our posture throughout the course of the day. As a result, this causes strain on other muscles and ligaments of the body. The hips, lower back, calves, and knees are all areas that usually experience tension after a day in heels. While wearing these shoes for a day leads to temporary discomfort, this pain becomes extensive when heels are continually outfitted. The dangers of high heels eventually lead to long-term problems.

The Long-Term Factors

Several women who avidly wear high heels claim their shoe-wear strengthens their ankle muscles. Even though this happens initially, over time the ankle muscles actually weaken. Keeping the foot in an unnatural position is the reason for this. Nerve and tendon damage around the ankle are also possible long term.

As mentioned previously, wearers of high heels typically change their natural posture to compensate for the unnatural shoe. Specifically, women have a tendency to arch their back for long periods of time as well as push their hips forward. Doing this on a frequent basis alters the spine’s alignment. And this leads to lower back pain and perhaps even nerve damage.

The dangers of high heels most common long-term issue is back pain, but many females experience ligament and muscle problems as well. The knees and calves are also common areas for these problems. Because of the unconscious shifting many do in these shoes, this may lead to a restriction of blood flow in the lower half of the body. Developing spider-veins is a long-term impact. Spider-veins are one unsightly consequence, and toenail issues are another one that results from this dangerous footwear.

Toenail issues

Closed-toe high heels don’t typically have as much room in the front of the shoe as other types of shoes. Because of the lack of space, women usually jam their toes inside in order to make the shoe fit adequately. And because of the way high heels change the way we walk, the toes are constantly rubbing against the front of the shoe. This periodic perturbing is a perfect way to ruin a prettily, polished pedicure.

In addition to causing damage to the outer nail, this daily abrasion also leads to painful ingrown toenails. In fact, wearing high heels is the single, leading cause of ingrown toenails. Opting for open-toe heels, or wearing nylons is one way to reduce the problem.

The Athletic Factor

If you are someone who is athletic and partakes in sports that requires a fair amount of running, the dangers of high heels is especially harmful. To be faster at running, athletes want to develop calve muscles that are long and flexible. Wearing high heels does the exact opposite. Tighter and shorter calve muscles make it much harder to run effectively.

Also Read: How To Run Faster – 4 Useful Tips

In addition to short-changing the leg muscles, dangers of high heels also negatively affect the athlete in other ways. First of all, it alters our natural, walking gait. Because we are forced to walk differently with the uncomfortable shoes on, this way of walking continues even after we take the shoes off. As an athlete you want to focus on your sport, not on your gait or stride.

Other dangers of high heels are also putting additional strain on the insides of the knees. Many athletes and runners have enough knee issues as is with their sport, adding high heels to the outfit only adds to the pain factor. Perhaps it’s best that Caitlyn Jenner decided to showcase sexy high heels after her Olympian career in track; otherwise, she might not have become a gold medalist.

The Disaster Factor

When getting dressed first thing in the morning, no one likes to envision themselves in the midst of a major catastrophe. And we all hope it doesn’t happen to us, (nor anyone else for that matter). But if you are one who likes to be prepared in the event of an emergency, wearing high heels is not ideal for quick exits and fast getaways. In the book The Survivor’s Club, author Ben Sherwood encourages women to travel in flats. Flats are better for being mobile in the event of a plane crash or if an emergency happens. In the moments of peril, seconds are often crucial factors and can be game-changers. To increase your odds at winning, it’s best to be prepared.

When reading the headlines in the news it’s disturbing to see the amount of shootings that occur in the most unlikely of places. However, if something like this were to unfold an escape is easier in shoes without heels. And on a less dramatic scale, even an unexpected car fender-bender makes a day suddenly stressful. There’s no telling when these situations are about to arise and wearing shoes that don’t allow for easy movement makes these unfortunate events even more distressing.

Having Happy Feet

The simplest way to prevent the issues that high heels create is to not wear high heels. But if you don’t prefer that sound piece of advice there are other measures that you can take as well. You can start by buying shoes with less of a high heel. The higher the heel means the greater the impact. Buying a heel that is over three inches will lead to more pain and more problems. It’s also a good idea to buy heels that have more room in front since that is where many of the problems start.

Secondly, when wearing heels, it’s a good idea to stretch out before you put them on and after you take them off. If possible, stretch every other hour or so. Stretching out the calves and rolling the ankles around helps to reduce tightness. Even taking a minute or two and wiggling the toes and feet allow the blood to circulate a little better.

Also Read: Foot Stretches to Counteract High Heels

It is also important recommended that you don’t forget the dangers of high heels and try not to wear heels every single day. Give your feet a break. If you wear heels one day, then wear flats the next. And for the days you do choose to wear heels, try to not wear them more than a few hours at a time.

Unless you work for a shoe company like Nike, you may not feel professional rolling into work dressed in sneakers. But there are plenty of shoes on the market that are stylish and functional. Wearing high heels might make you think you are a step above your average shoe, but usually makes you crabby overall. Choosing shoes that make your feet happy generally means you’ll be happier too.

The post The Dangers of High Heels That You Should Know appeared first on HB News Network.

relationship betrayal

The feeling of being in love definitely makes the world a brighter, happier place. When in love, we tend to walk with a spring in our step. The birds are cheerily chirping all around us (even if it’s just in our head). We feel happy when in a trusted, committed relationship. Even when the initial honeymoon phase is over, we assume our partner is looking out for us. We trust our partner is protecting our heart. When we feel we are in a secure, betrayal-free relationship, life is good. Here’s how to move above and beyond a relationship betrayal.

Moving Beyond Relationship Betrayal

If you were betrayed by a partner or spouse, the feeling of love and happiness may quickly be swept aside. Many feel as though the rug they stood proudly on only moments before is suddenly yanked from beneath their feet. Those faced with betrayal usually feel blindsided by it. Trying to even stand on two firm feet again and breathe afterwards is suddenly a major undertaking. While there is no magic solution to make the hurt and pain of betrayal vanish, there are steps to take that help make life more bearable. Below are some steps to take after a betrayal has impacted a relationship.

Identify the betrayal

In a relationship betrayal trying to get the facts is often tough. Despite solid efforts you may never be able to uncover all the answers to know the full extent to what has occurred. Even if you found some questionable text messages from someone else in your spouse’s phone, this may not paint a complete picture of what has taken place. Hopefully after confronting your partner he or she is forthright with information, but that seldom occurs. But at the very least, you want to try and get enough information to know what has taken place and for about how long. Having this information will allow you to process it better and know how you want to handle the relationship, along with the betrayal, going forward.

Take time to Process

Nobody likes to experience emotional pain. Unfortunately, a wound of a relationship betrayal takes a long time to heal. And even then, some never fully recover. Many feel that an innocence may be permanently lost. It is important to understand that recovery is NOT a quick process. While there can be good days, there are days when the emotional sadness of the situation is all-consuming.

Questions to ask

Many therapists hold the opinion that when there is a betrayal in a long-term relationship, it takes about two years to fully recover. And while no one likes to experience long-term emotional pain, this is also a time for learning and growing. The following are some questions to ask, and maybe revisit as part of moving beyond the relationship betrayal:

Just like every person is unique, every relationship is unique as well. Everyone is going to process and handle a relationship betrayal differently. The important thing is to take the time for reflection. A betrayal often leads to an ending or death of a relationship; going through the grieving process is important for mental health. Even though it may seem like rubbing salt in the wound, taking this time makes a stronger individual in the long-run. Additionally, it hopefully paves the way for a better relationship in the future.

Don’t jump into a new relationship

Getting out of a hurtful situation and getting into a better one is initially appealing. But the wound of being betrayed tends to run deep. Starting a new relationship only serves as a bandage. It’s crucial to let the wound ample time to heal before getting involved in another relationship.

Rebounding is usually a bad idea for a couple reasons. One, it takes a messy situation and makes it messier. After a relationship betrayal or break-up there is a lot of hurt and emotions to sort through. Starting a new relationship adds more feelings to a plate that’s already full. Adding these new relationship feelings to existing ones makes the entire situation even more complicated to deal with.

Secondly, rebounding generally leads to an unhealthy cycle of relationships. After being in a relationship betrayal, taking the time to process and grow from it is essential. Jumping into a new relationship seems initially enjoyable. But after some time old issues find a way of resurfacing. Your own mental state eventually experiences angst. Or, you may find that you are experiences some of the problems of your old relationship – just with someone else. It is important to develop skills to function better in a relationship, and this is not attained overnight.

Explore Interests

It’s easy to get up in in the emotions surrounding a relationship betrayal, In fact, many of those who experience this distress have a tendency to spend too much time inside their heads. It gets difficult to even focus on the here and now and what is going on around us. Ad while it’s often difficult to focus on the simple things in life, it’s important to not let negative be all-consuming. Otherwise, it will take a toll on your mental health.

Also Read: Staying Mentally Healthy

Personal Exploration

One way to take a break from the emotional turmoil is to use the present situation as an opportunity for personal exploration. Betrayals are generally unexpected. And once it happens in a relationship, there are an abundant of unknowns for the future. And since those unknowns do exist, and can’t necessarily be controlled, it’s nice to be able to control something in life. Taking the time to explore a new interest or hobby is a great way to have that sense of control.

Sign Up For A Class

An easy way to go about this is to sign up for a class. Most community centers offer a wide-range of lessons from beginning golf to cake decorating. Electing to take a class and choosing to attend it is a way to have control in life. And it’s possible to meet new, interesting people also in the pursuit of something different.

Try Something New

Exploring interests can also be a positive way to redirect life when things get to a negative or stressful point. Having something new to learn forces you to direct your thoughts on learning that new skill rather than on the negative emotions of the betrayal. And by continuing to attend that new class and practice that new skill you will begin to feel that the betrayal or negative relationship no longer holds as much significance in life. Despite the fact that unfortunate situations happen, you do have control over the decisions you make in life.

Also Read: Why Swimming Is Important

Sort through the friendly advice and support

After a discovering a betrayal in a relationship it is natural, and usually a good idea, to seek out the support from family and friends. Having these close bonds adds some stability when your marriage or relationship is in turmoil. However, often times comments from these friends and family members adds to the emotional confusion. Sometimes comments people make can be helpful. However sometimes they may be hurtful – even if the comments were made with positive intent. For example, consider the following comment a friend might make. “I can’t believe he cheated on you, although I always thought he was a complete jerk.” While the friend saying this is just trying to show empathy, a comment likes this is delivered with a sting.

No one likes to feel that they picked a jerk as a partner or spouse. And no one likes to feel like they are a poor judge of character. Getting bombarded with similar comments from close family and friends can make the emotional rollercoaster of a betrayal an even more distressing experience.

Prying

After sharing the news of the incident, some family and friends have a tendency to continually pry for information and details. You may feel like discussing these specifics of your situation, you may not. At some point you may want to take a break from the emotions running around inside your head. And therefore, you may prefer to discuss something other than the betrayal with family and friends. Sometimes chatting about a lighter topic, such as the latest movies in the theater, is a way to channel your thoughts elsewhere. Good family and friends should respect your needs and not add to the drama.

Sorting

Likewise, it is a good idea to learn to sort through the comments others make regarding the unfortunate situation. If someone’s advice or comments are continually rubbing you the wrong way, you may not want to continue to disclose details of the betrayal to that person. You also may want to keep your emotions in check as well. Or you may want to wait until you have achieved some clarity and stability for yourself. If you’re betrayed and are experiencing distress in your partnership measures can be taken and may be able to regain emotional stability. Until that is established you may need to find a different, grounded source to confide in.

Seek out help from a professional counselor

It is especially difficult to move beyond a betrayal by yourself if you’ve been in a relationship that is long-term. Seeking out help from a mental health professional is one way to make this process easier. Despite the recent betrayal, you and your partner may find that you still want to move forward in life as a couple. Being able to simply pick up the pieces and move on in the relationship is often tough for either person in a relationship. It’s hard to know where to start. A marriage counselor helps couples work through their issues. It is even possible to learn how to move forward even when the betrayal seems a gigantic hurdle to get over.

Even though counseling often improves a broken relationship it’s not easy. Often times during counseling issues may arise that probably may not discussed before. Also, counseling generally brings out even more angry feelings from both parties at the beginning. But over time coping skills may be developed. Although the betrayal is seldom forgotten, it is possible to grow as a couple in a more positive direction.

If your situation unfolds so that you are no longer with your partner, counseling is still worthwhile. Having a professional listen to you allows a safe place for your feelings. A counselor will also guide your healing in a positive manner. A good therapist will help you attain clarity of your situation. In addition, a counselor will help you to develop better skills for a future relationship, and help you to become a better you overall.

The post Moving Beyond a Relationship Betrayal appeared first on HB News Network.

exotic fruits

When we think of fruits, certain ones usually pop in our heads. And typically, we integrate these same ones into our diet. Apples, bananas, strawberries, or whatever is in season are examples of common fruits that are frequently sold at the majority of grocery store chains. Therefore, we repeatedly purchase and eat these fruits. While just about any fruit offers health benefits it may be worthwhile to pick an exotic fruit if presented with the opportunity. Exotic fruits add some pizazz to the palate and offer some additional nutrients that are generally fruitless to the ordinary, mundane diet.

What Makes Exotic Fruits Exotic?

Exotic fruits generally grow in a foreign part of the world. Many grow in a warm or tropical location. When looking at an exotic fruit for the first time it may seem strange and unusual. Many people are not even be sure how to go about eating it. Before sinking your teeth into this foreign fruit, you may want to conduct some research on the new piece of fruit. After all, some exotic fruits can make you extremely sick if eaten improperly.

While one’s familiarity and knowledge of exotic fruits vary from person to person, there are probably 40 to 50 fruits that most are not aware of. Below is a list of the names of some names and descriptions of exotic fruits from around the world. Read on to learn how these different fruits can add some flavor to your diet and provide health benefits as well .

6 Exotic Fruits You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

Aizen Fruit

Place of Origin: West Africa

Description: This berry grows in clusters, much like grapes. More sphere-like in shape however, this fruit starts off yellow and turns green as it ripens.

How to eat: It is important to peel the outer scaly layer prior to eating. Aizen fruit is usually eaten as is, cooked, or dried. It is also popular in juices and as a syrup.

Health benefits: Vitamins B1, B2, and B5 are provided by this fruit, along with iron and potassium. This fruit is also a healthy source for energetic carbohydrates.

Conkerberry

Place of Origin: Central Australia

Description: This berry resembles a large cranberry in size, but a plum in color when fully ripe. These berries grow on shrubs and start out green. They darken to black or a deep purple when they are ripe.

How to eat: When the fruit is ripe it is usually sweet in taste but can only be eaten directly when ripe. Unripe Conkerberries are actually poisonous, as is the rest of the plant.

Health benefits: Conkerberries contain a significant amount of iron, calcium, and Vitamin C. This fruit is also a great source of fiber. Many natives even use conkerberries for medical purposes. Users say that it can do wonders from easing a toothache to combating venereal diseases.

Durian

Place of Origin: Malaysia and Indonesia

Description: This unique fruit is a rather large one. Durians grow to be almost a foot long and 6 inches in diameter. They generally weigh two to seven pounds. The outside of the fruit is spikey and greenish in color, while the flesh inside resembles a smooth cheese.

How to eat: Once removing the spikey exterior, the flesh inside is edible. Take caution however, because the inside of the fruit has an extremely strong odor. And not a pleasant one. Despite its pleasant taste, many can’t get beyond the raw sewage-like smell to even desire taking a bite.

Health benefits: This fruit provides a significant amount of Vitamin E. Natives who eat this fruit regularly believe that Durians provide energy and also serve as an aphrodisiac. Because of the odor, cutting open one of these is also an easy and effective way to drive unpleasant people away.

Kumquat

Place of Origin: China and Southeast Asia

Description: A Kumquat is about the size of a large olive. It is yellow or orange in color and has leathery skin like an orange.

How to eat: Unlike an orange, this fruit’s outer layer is edible. The outside is sweet, while the inside has segments that usually taste more tart. Kumquats are commonly used in jams and jellies.

Health benefits: This fruit is low in calories and is a great source of fiber. Kumquats also contain a significant amount of Vitamin C and are rich in antioxidants.

Dragon Fruit

Place of Origin: Mexico, Central and South America. Although this fruit originated in South America it also grows in Southeast Asia and Israel.

Description: This fruit received its name because when fully ripe it resembles a dragon. The plant it grows from is actually a cactus. There are three variations of this fruit: two have a bright pink skin and either white or dark pink colored. The other one has a yellow exterior and a white interior. When ripe, the fruit exterior is an even, bright color and has scales like a dragon.

How to eat: Despite its inviting color, the skin of the Dragon fruit is not edible. An easy way to consume Dragon Fruit is to cut the fruit in half and scoop out the flesh inside. It is possible to eat the flesh directly. Some even like it chilled. Dragon Fruit is sweet and tastes like a combination of kiwi and pear. It also contains tiny seeds like kiwi which are edible. Different juices and tropical drinks are made using Dragon fruit.

Health Benefits: Dragon Fruit contains Vitamin C, Potassium, and Calcium. Dragon is also a strong source of fiber and antioxidants.

Pummelo Fruit

Place of Origin: This fruit originated in Southeast Asia, but now grows also in warmer areas of the United States like California and Florida.

Description: This fruit very much resembles a grapefruit but larger. Additionally, it is much sweeter in taste. The fruit’s smooth exterior appears greenish yellow in color when it is ready to eat.

How to eat: Pummelo fruits are eaten just like a grapefruit; the flesh inside is directly consumable and the peels have culinary properties as well. Unlike a grapefruit, this fruit is very sweet. In fact many compare the fruit’s taste to chocolate pudding! Many bartenders even use Pummelos to make tasty tropical drinks.

Health Benefits: Pummelos are high in Vitamin C. Eating this exotic fruit also boosts the immune system and prevents Osteoporosis and strokes. While this fruit does have many health benefits, it is dangerous when mixed with certain medications.

The post 6 Exotic Fruits You’ve Probably Never Heard Of appeared first on HB News Network.

aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is becoming an increasingly popular way to enhance one’s well-being. The aromas from various essential oils, extracts, and herbs are useful in reducing stress and enhancing one’s mood. Certain aromas even increase cognitive functions. Some chronic sufferers of pain even argue that this type of therapy leads to pain relief.

Because of its frequent appearance in social media and health magazines these days, many assume that Aromatherapy is a new term. Some skeptics think the term was coined by air freshener companies as a marketing stunt. But the truth is that this technique has quite a history to it. While some of the aspects and procedures of it have changed over the years, aromas had healthy effects thousands of years ago. Many incorporate natural scents into their lives in current times to have health benefits as well.

A Brief History of Aromatherapy

Egypt

The basis for this health therapy started more than 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. In those early days, aromatics was tied with religion and spirituality. Ancient Egyptians used to burn spiced incense in hopes of the scented smoke reaching upwards to the heavenly gods.

Not too long afterwards, the Egyptians made perfumes out of various herbs and spices. Many women also created scented oils. They applied these oils after bathing to nourish the skin and protect it from the harsh, desert sun. As the Egyptians increased their making of fragrances, their perfumes were purchased from people all over the Middle East. Over time, the Egyptians gained a reputation of being master perfumers.

Greece

Years later, aromatics spread to Europe. The Greeks especially took an interest in the effects that herbs and plants have on the body. Hippocrates (circa 460 – 377 BC), known as the founder of medicine, made the discovery that illnesses are explained by science. Previously, people thought illnesses were caused by supernatural forces. During his lifetime he experimented with many herbs and plants to see which ones benefited patients suffering from a particular illness. He also used aromatics to see how different herbs and spices helped to enhance one’s overall mind, body, and spirit. These are the key fundamentals of holistic health.

Another Greek who made a key contribution to the foundation of aromatics is Theophrastus (circa 371 – 287 BC). This student of Aristotle studied plants over his lifetime. He wrote several books giving details about the different types of plants and herbs. He also wrote how to grow them and the practical uses of them. Because of his extensive work he is commonly known as the father of Botany.

The actual term Aromatherapy didn’t come about until 1937. Rene- Maurice Gattefosse, a French chemist and perfumer, wrote a book entitled “Gattefosse’s Aromatherapy.” Hence, the term was founded. In his work, Gattefosse wrote how using essential oils helps treat a variety of physiological illnesses.

Since then many have shown interest in the study of aromas and its health benefits. Many advocates of this scented therapy like the fact that it is natural and non-invasive. It is a healthy alternative to medicines that incorporate a ton of chemicals. Different herbs and spices have different effects. To see a list of common aromas used in this process and their healthy effects read on.

10 Common Aromas used in Aromatherapy

Basil

This herb is useful in suppressing coughing. Basil also helps provide respiratory relief to those suffering from Asthma, Bronchitis, or sinus infections.

Cinnamon

This spice often reduces drowsiness. Additionally, when the essential oil is added to a bath, it can reduce muscle tightness. Cinnamon also has a history of being a natural aphrodisiac and can spice up the romance.

Coffee

Even the mere smell of coffee awakens the senses. In a study conducted with rats, the aroma of coffee reduced stress on a group of sleep-deprived rodents.

Eucalyptus

Inhaling the oils produced from this evergreen reduces anxiety and stress. Also, breathing in the aroma of eucalyptus helps to sooth respiratory issues – especially those that arrive during cold and flu season.

Also Read: The Healing Properties Of Eucalyptus Oil

Ginger

The oils from this plant root are effective in fighting sensations of nausea. Ginger also energizes the mind and body. After a night of drinking, Ginger helps to alleviate a nasty hangover.

Jasmine

The essence from this flower leads to a calming effect. It is useful in reducing fears and anxieties; it also is beneficial to those suffering from post-natal depression.

Lavender

In addition to being a pretty flower, lavender also has a calming effect. It frequently leads to a more restful sleep at night. When lavender oil is added to bathwater it helps to reduce muscle pain and soreness.

Also Read: Health Benefits Of Lavender Oil

Lemon

Breathing in this fruit instantly awakens the senses. In addition to stimulating the senses, lemon oil improves neurological activity. This essential oil also can help combat depression and improve one’s overall mood. Lemon can also help ease a hangover.

Peppermint

This fragrant plant is useful in elevating one’s mood. Its stimulating nature also helps to fight mental fatigue and improves concentration.

Vanilla

Extracted from the vanilla bean, vanilla has several positive effects. It is useful for elevating one’s overall mood, combating anxieties and depression. It also stimulates testosterone and estrogen hormones and serves as a sweet-smelling aphrodisiac.

Practical ways of incorporating Aromatherapy

It is easy to incorporate aromas daily in plenty of ways. One way is to add a few drops of the essential oils to water in a spray bottle. Spritzing the scented water in the room as an air freshener is easy and effective. Spraying water with calming oils directly onto pillowcases promotes a more relaxing sleep.

For those that enjoy taking a warm bath, add a few drops directly to bath water. This is especially effective for those that take baths to relieve sore muscles and have pain.

Lighting scented candles also have beneficial aromatic results. Some prefer to make their own scented-candles by adding a few drops of their favorite essential oil onto the melting wax as the candle burns.

Finally, some prefer to simply massage a few drops of their favorite essential oil directly onto the skin. The scent stays with you for most of the day and will hopefully lead to a better day as well as better health overall!

The post Making Sense of Scents: A Guide To Aromatherapy appeared first on HB News Network.