Curry refers to a number of Indian and Asian dishes, as well as to the herb and spice blends used to make them. These complex blends vary from region to region--but are usually made from freshly ground and pulverized herbs and spices.
Features
Curry powder usually contains only dried spices, while curry paste contains fresh components such as oil, herbs and liquid flavorings. This gives it a more intense taste than curry powder.
Components
Indian curries usually contain cumin, red pepper and other spices, while Asian curries contain lemon grass, coconut milk and other flavorings.
Uses
Both curry paste and curry powder can be used to make curry. It is common practice to "wake up" aromas in curry powder by briefly simmering it with oil, onions or fresh herbs. Curry paste needs no processing before it can be added to other ingredients.
Types
Curry mixes are most often sold in paste form, while Indian curry blends are more often available in powdered form
Variants
Japan, Iran, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, Malaysia and the West Indies also have curry variants.
Tags: curry paste, curry powder, spices while, used make
Both bee oollen and royal jelly have gained a lot of popularity as a health food source. Many claims have been made about the nutritional and health benefits of both products. You can find information on both sides of the issue.
Bee Pollen
Worker bees collect pollen from plants and combine it with the nectar and their saliva to create small pellets that are used to feed the male drones in the beehive.
Uses
Bee pollen has been used for its health and nutritional benefits in different cultures for many years. However, it has risen dramatically in popularity in the U.S. primarily from claims by professional athletes of its benefits. Their claims of increased strength and stamina, however, have not been verified.
Other Benefit Claims
In addition to athletes' claims that it increases strength and stamina, many users point to an enhanced immune system and increased energy and vitality as a result of taking bee pollen.
Royal Jelly
Royal jelly, a milky white substance secreted by worker bees, is the primary food source for the queen bee. It purportedly produces increased growth of the queen bee.
Royal Jelly Uses
Queen bees are twice the size of worker bees and live 40 times longer, approximately five to eight years. Marketers have seized upon this to promote royal jelly as having the same benefits for humans. Long promoted and used to increase longevity in Asia and Europe, it has also been touted as a medicine, moisturizer, cosmetic, health food and even hair growth stimulant.
Claims
Royal jelly has been studied for its anti-hypertensive, anti-microbial, anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory and immuno-regulatory activity.
Side Effects
Before considering taking either of these products, consult with a doctor. Those with allergies or sensitivity have experienced everything from acute asthma episodes, anaphylactic shock and even death.
Tags: food source, have been, health food, Royal jelly, Royal Jelly
The color theme for your wedding is an indication of your personality and sense of style. Colors are not just aesthetically pleasing; they can also be used therapeutically to infuse a mood into the event and make people feel a specific way. Colors are the basis of any interior design idea, so to plan your wedding theme, bridal party dresses, decor and catering, you need to decide on a color combination that suits the mood you want to convey.
Modern Monochromatic
Monochromatic color schemes include any color added alongside black and white. Monochromatic color combinations look clean, modern and sophisticated. A red, white and black combo or silver, black and white would suit a whimsical "Alice in Wonderland" fairly-tale or Gothic theme. Pink, black and white spells out romance and would match a floral or Victorian theme. Bronze or gold with black and white has a regal look that would flow nicely with an opulent, royal theme.
Color the Mood
According to studies on chromotherapy, or the study of color's effects on the human body, red tends to excite and increase heart rate while blue tends to calm the mind. Yellow is a happy color while purple is both stimulating and calming since it combines blue and red. Green is a mild sedative and is earthy and warm. Combine colors that emanate the feeling you want for your party; choosing green, purple and yellow is a happy, yet serene and healing combination. Choose two shades of blue with white for a calming celebration that you can accentuate with proper lighting.
Accent with Brights
Choose a dark brown or dull, dark color and splash it with small touches of pink or bright red. There should never be too much of a bright color; instead use it as an accent to liven up the decor in a contemporary way. Add hair accessories such as brightly colored flowers to add that splash into the bridal party's ensembles; add the same flower to the mens' lapels. Accent each table with brightly colored exotic flowers and keep the furniture white or muted. Bright colors make a statement and look very classy when used in moderation.
Tags: black white, bridal party, brightly colored, Monochromatic color, your wedding
Our bodies are made up of millions of cells, each with a distinct purpose and function. We may not be able to see them with the naked eye, but some of our body parts contain microscopic forms and materials that help protect us from outside invaders. This article will explore some of these materials found inside your skin, your lungs and blood vessel walls.
Skin Parts
The skin is actually a functioning organ in your body. It is the first layer of defense against viruses and harmful bacteria. It also holds your organs and bones in place. The skin contains a network of nerves that alert your brain when it is being damaged. The skin quickly moves to put new cells into place and push old ones out. In fact, much of what you actually "see" on your skin is old cells. We shed nearly 40,000 skin cells per day.
Inside Skin Layers
The skin's layers are the epidermis (the surface), dermis and subcutaneous layer. Within your dermis are blood vessels and nerve endings. There are also sweat glands that help provide cooling for your body on hot days. Inside your subcutaneous layer are the hair follicles.
Lung Hairs and Mucus
The lungs also have a number of materials that work hard to keep foreign debris out and air flowing in. Just before air reaches the lungs, it must pass by miniature hairs called cilia. The cilia help filter out microscopic dirt and debris.
Whenever you catch a cold or flu bug, your body must also fight hard to keep the airways clear. Mucus membranes begin to produce extra mucus, that slimy-colored stuff that comes up when you cough.
Blood Vessels
Blood vessels are responsible for distributing oxygen-rich blood to your various organs. They are basically miniature tubes with walls made up of three layers: tunica intima, tunica media and tunica adventitia. They are all made of elastic bands and connective tissues. The adventitia layer has the muscle nerves that let the blood vessels know when to contract or expand.
Plaque
Plaque is a foreign material that is sometimes found on blood vessel walls. It is made up of damaged connective tissue cells, fatty lipids and white blood cells. When plaque builds up, it causes clogging inside the blood vessels. This is especially problematic with arteries because they carry blood supplies from the heart. Clogged arteries can lead to heart attacks.
Tags: blood vessels, your body, blood vessel, blood vessel walls, hard keep
With technology constantly advancing, the medical field has the ability to do some truly amazing things. One of those is completely replacing a damaged, or otherwise unusable, hip joint. Often used for victims of disease, automobile accidents, and for patients whose age has begun to show in their hips, this replacement surgery can be a great boon. Famous hip replacers include Johnny Bench and Jack Nicklaus.
Hip
The human hip is a ball and socket joint. This means that the top of the leg bone, the femur, is rounded and fits into the socket of the hip. This joint may need to be replaced if it has worn away, broken, or become chronically painful in some way.
Surgery
The ball at the top of the femur is cut off and the socket in the hip is hollowed out further. Then a steel ball is attached to a brace and screwed onto the end of the femur. The ball fits into a cup in the enlarged socket, providing many patients with a better functioning hip joint.
Joint
An artificial hip is made up of three components. There is the plastic cup that replaces the hip socket, the metal ball replaces the femoral head (the ball at the end of the femur), and a metal stem is attached to the shaft of the bone to add support (the brace mentioned earlier). When these three parts work in concert, they can duplicate the rolling motion of a ball and socket joint.
Movement
While an artificial hip can duplicate many of the necessary movements of a hip joint, such as walking, it is not a perfect recreation. Since the parts are steel and plastic, not biological, they're more rigid and less able to change. This means that certain movements, such as crossing one's legs, should be avoided since the hardware doesn't adjust to movements outside the range of the cup.
Pain, Stiffness, and Upkeep
Generally speaking, having an artificial hip joint replacement will relieve most patients of pain. Additionally, over 80 percent of those who receive the surgery need no help in walking once they've recovered. Some pain and stiffness may persist, and over time the cement that holds the plastic cup in the socket may need to be reapplied.
Tags: ball femur, ball socket, ball socket joint, fits into, means that, socket joint, This means
The South Beach Diet is known to be a very effective weight loss solution, when the diet is followed accordingly. Anyone who is interested in trying out this diet may be a little bit confused at first. There are three phases of this diet that will need to be followed. The first phase is the one that people tend to find the most challenging to follow, which may be because they do not understand it. Here are some helpful tips.
Instructions
1. Read the "South Beach Diet" book. This sounds like common sense, but there are many people who try to get started on the South Beach Diet without ever actually reading the book. To fully understand the way that this diet works, it is a good idea to read the book first.
2. Familiarize yourself with the Glycemic Index. It has gotten a lot of recognition lately, so there are a variety of websites on the Internet which can introduce you to the way that it works. The reason that the Glycemic Index is important is because it is the basis of the South Beach Diet.
3. Know which foods will need to be eliminated during the first phase on the South Beach Diet. Alcohol, fruits, grains and starches are all prohibited from your diet during the first phase of the diet. In order to stick to the South Beach Diet, you must avoid all of these foods.
4. Understand what meats can be consumed during the first phase of the South Beach Diet. Ground sirloin or ground beef with less than 10 percent fat are acceptable. Chicken and turkey white meat are also both acceptable forms of meat. Fish and seafood are also safe to eat during the first phase of the diet. Keep in mind that anything fried or breaded should be avoided in the first phase of the South Beach Diet.
5. Choose from the list of vegetables that are acceptable during the first phase of the South Beach Diet. Only vegetables that are low in carbohydrates are allowed. Some of the different choices include celery, radishes, mushrooms, lettuce, beans, lentils, spinach, sprouts, cabbage, cucumbers, asparagus, green beans, broccoli and cauliflower.
6. Know what types of dairy products are allowed during the first phase of the South Beach Diet. Fat-free, low-fat or 1 percent are the only types of dairy products that you should be consuming when you begin the diet. Cheese can be eaten when it is low-fat, but avoid brie, camembert, cream cheese and mascarpone. Remember that yogurt cannot include fruit during the first phase of the diet.
7. Drink water as much as possible during the first phase of the diet. It is important to avoid anything that has been sweetened with sugar. Fruit juice, except for V8, should be avoided. Tomato juice and milk can be enjoyed occasionally. No more than three cups of coffee should be consumed in one day.
Tags: Beach Diet, South Beach, South Beach Diet, first phase, during first
You feel a sinus infection coming on. Your stomach is upset. You have a migraine, and there's dandruff on your collar. It is possible to combat each of these symptoms with a few drops of oregano oil. Oreganum valgare, part of the mint family, has exceptional antioxidant properties that extend to many different physical ailments. This oregano is not to be confused with the type in pizza sauce. That is common oregano, known as Oreganum marjorum, and far less effective.
Potent and Effective
The most potent oregano comes from Morocco and is called Oreganum elongatum. Two essentials extracted from this plant are carvacrol and thymol. There is approximately 14 percent of natural phenol carvacrol to 27 percent thymol in the most potent oil of oregano. They work synergistically to promote a natural antimicrobial, that works against even staphylococcus. Check the ingredients to ensure that the oil you are buying meets these standards.
How Oil of Oregano is Used
Oil of oregano comes in a liquid concentrate or in capsule form. Either is as effective as the other as long as package directions are followed. The oil can be dissolved in juice or water and swallowed. It can also be used in a dab of shampoo and applied directly to the scalp to alleviate dandruff. Mix 1 drop with a teaspoon of olive oil and apply to skin eruptions. Never ingest or apply to the skin or gums unless it is diluted. A mild side effect of drinking oil of oregano is that it occasionally causes burping. Capsules do not seem to have the same result but are equally effective.
Effectiveness with Certain Conditions
From ancient Grecian times, physicians used oil of oregano to treat viral and bacterial infections. They chased away head and body parasites. Today, oil of oregano has become useful as a cough suppressant, immune system booster and anti-fungal. It also fights off both viral and bacterial infection and can reduce pain and inflammation in joints.
Suggested Amounts in Treatment
If a sinus infection is imminent, take 2 or 3 capsules daily or mix 2 or 3 drops of oil in juice and drink it. If used at the onset of symptoms, it is immediately effective, but if the infection has already started, it can take from three to five days. Repeat the treatment each day until the symptoms are gone.
Treat an upset stomach by dissolving two or three drops of oil of oregano in a glass of milk or juice for immediate relief.
The same two or three drops of oil of oregano are good for coughs, aches, pains and as an aid to digestion.
External recommendations include the same two to three drops, but mixed with oil of coconut or olive oil to dab on anything from skin eruptions to cuts. Dandruff or itchy, flaky scalp is improved within a week by mixing two or three drops into shampoo and applying as usual to the scalp every other day.
Counter-indications
Pregnant women should not take oil of oregano on a regular basis, because there may be iron-absorption issues. Except as noted for pregnancy, those who take oil of oregano can take iron supplements if there is an issue of iron deficiency.
Allergies to basil, mint, thyme or sage, all in the same family as oregano, indicate caution if rash or vomiting occurs. If either happens, discontinue use of oil of oregano.
Tags: three drops, drops oregano, apply skin, most potent, most potent oregano
Since dogs can't communicate like humans, they depend on their owners to notice nonverbal cues to determine sickness. Ear infections are common in canines, though breeds with floppy ears are more prone to them. Cocker Spaniels, Labrador retrievers and basset hounds are likely candidates for ear infections, so their owners need to be aware of signs of the ailment. Dogs can suffer from outer ear, middle ear and inner ear infections. Symptoms can worsen quickly, so it is important to contact a veterinarian with concerns so treatment with a cleaning solution and possibly antibiotic eadrops can be started quickly.
Abnormal Head Placement
Dogs with an ear infection are likely to hold their heads at a different angle than normal. It is her way of attempting to rid her ear of the problem.
Shaking of Head
When humans have water in their ear, they shake their heads to remove the problem. Dogs behave in a similar way. When they feel something in their ears, like ear mites or ticks, they shake their head in an abnormal manner. It is common for dogs suffering from ear infections to shake their head in a constant movement from side to side.
Malodorous Ear Discharge
Excessive ear wax or abnormal discharge with a foul odor often signifies an ear infection.
Ear Scratching
To help alleviate discomfort, dogs often rub their ears with their paws. Excessive scratching in this manner is a common sign of an infection.
Inflammation
Excessive redness inside the ear is another symptom of an ear infection because healthy ears do not become inflamed without just reason. There is a direct correlation with the longer an ear is inflamed, the worse the infection is becoming.
Lack of Balance
In the worst cases of ear infection, a dog experiences the diminishing of balance. If you notice your four-legged friend is unable to stand normally, call the veterinarian immediately because the infection is likely severe.
Infection Causes
Ear infections are a common ailment in dogs. There are a number of causes, but the most common are ear mites, bacterial infections, food allergies, problems in the environment and hygiene.
Tags: shake their, infection likely, infections common, manner common, shake their head
Three million people worldwide have been diagnosed with lupus, an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the body's organs. Lupus has a number of symptoms that vary from person to person. One of the symptoms is a skin rash which can appear on any part of the body. When a lupus rash appears on the face, it is called a malar rash and appears across the nose and cheeks. A less common facial symptom is the appearance of skin lesions or ulcers.
Types
Lupus facial symptoms can occur with all three main types of lupus: systemic, discoid and drug-induced. Systemic lupus, in which the immune system attacks internal organs, can result in a facial rash. With discoid lupus, the skin is attacked, causing rashes and lesions on different parts of the body, including the face. A facial rash can also occur in response to certain medications. Lupus skin rashes and lesions are commonly known as Cutaneous Lupus.
Characteristics
The lupus facial or malar rash is often one of the first symptoms of systemic lupus. It is commonly called the butterfly rash because of its shape and appearance on the cheeks and across the bridge of the nose. The lupus rash can be flat or raised and pale or bright red and often worsens after exposure to the sun. Lupus discoid, meaning coin-shaped, lesions appear on the body, sometimes including the face. Scaling gives them a whitish appearance and scarring can occur.
Diagnosis
Facial and discoid lesion rashes are often the first lupus symptom to present. Other symptoms of lupus include fatigue, photosensitivity, sores in the mouth, arthritis, and depression. Lupus facial rashes can be mistaken for Rosacea but can be differentiated; besides appearing across the nose and cheeks like with the butterfly rash, Rosacea additionally appears on the nasolabial folds and can include small pimples. Skin lesions can be diagnosed by biopsy.
Treatment
Dermatologists often successfully treat lupus facial symptoms with prescribed corticosteroid cream or injections to reduce swelling and redness. Another component of treatment is the use of sunscreen, which can help avoid breakouts caused by sensitivity to ultraviolet light. Cutaneous lupus has also be treated successfully with argon laser treatments. When a facial rash is a reaction to medication, the rash will disappear once the patient quits taking the medication.
Prevention
Wearing sunscreen and avoiding direct sun can help prevent rash breakouts. Other ways to lessen the flare of rashes or other lupus symptoms are to maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, manage stress levels and get plenty of rest. Lupus symptoms can also be managed with prescribed medications that reduce inflammation. With regular care from a physician and attention to lifestyle, many lupus patients remain symptom-free for many years.
Tags: facial rash, across nose, across nose cheeks, butterfly rash, immune system, immune system attacks, including face
Fleas are pests. These tiny insects cause people, their pets and other animals to itch, scratch and sometimes get sick. Many people hope that as winter approaches, the cold weather will kill the fleas. Cold weather does kill some fleas. Adult fleas often die if exposed to temperatures under 40 degrees F. Cold weather does not kill fleas that are sheltered from cold. Fleas in the larva and pupa or cocoon stage can survive winter. Cold weather is not a reliable flea control.
History
Fleas are small, wingless, blood-feeding insects. They commonly infest domestic pets and can infect animals and people with parasites and diseases. Fleas have no wings but can jump up to 200 times their own length. They feed off the blood of birds and animals. They have a tough body and are hard to kill. The Food and Drug Administration reports that a flea can bite a pet more than 400 times in a day.
Significance
Fleas are most active in spring and autumn. They thrive in humid climates with moderate temperatures of 65 to 80 degrees F. Adult fleas usually die in freezing temperatures, and their immature offspring are dormant until temperatures warm. Weather too hot, too dry or too cold causes fleas to be less active and can mislead people into thinking the fleas are dead or no longer in the area. Fleas can survive all year inside a home protected from extreme temperatures.
Types
Over 2,000 species of fleas are known. The most common fleas have four life stages. An adult flea lays up to 50 eggs each day. Eggs drop into carpet, bedding, soil or pet hair. The egg hatches in 2 days or in several weeks depending on favorable environment. A larva emerges and in 1 to 2 weeks spins into a cocoon as a pupa. It remains in this stage for a few days or for over 1 year until conditions are right to emerge as an adult flea.
Misconceptions
Many people believe that fleas are killed by cold weather. They think that if they keep their pet inside, the animal will not be exposed to fleas. Because fleas in various stages can survive cold weather, fleas are often brought into the house on shoes. When people walk through grass or soil where flea eggs, larva or pupa are dormant, these dormant stages can be tracked into the house where warm conditions cause the fleas to mature as adults.
Prevention/Solution
Treat flea problems as a year-round nuisance. A University of California study showed that vacuuming picks up over 90 percent of adult fleas. The vacuum must be promptly emptied to keep fleas from hatching in the vacuum. Fleas need moisture. Apply a desiccant to carpets to dehydrate the fleas. Use a commercial product or sprinkle diatomaceous earth, then vacuum after 1 week. This kills many insects, including fleas. Follow veterinary guidelines for treating pets against fleas.
SAD light boxes are easy to use, but the intensity (lux) of the light, the duration of each daily treatment, the ideal time of day for treatment, and the distance you sit from the light has to be individualized. People who have ever experienced a major depressive episode or a manic or hypomanic episode should consult with a psychiatrist or other medical doctor before using a SAD light box. People with diseases of the retina or other eye disease should seek the advice of an opthamologist, who should monitor the patient during the course of treatment.
Instructions
Determine Your Best Time of Day for SAD Light Treatment
1. Go online to the not-for-profit Center for Environmental Therapeutics (see link in the resources section.) Enter the site for consumers and patients and click on the "self-assessment" tab.
2. Click on the the link for "Your circadian rhythm type Auto(MEQ.)"
3. Answer the 19 questions in this free, anonymous test. "MEQ" stands for Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire. Based on your answers to the MEQ, you will receive a recommendation about the best time of day to start your SAD light therapy.
The test was developed by SAD light treatment expert Michael Terman and others. Terman is the Director of the Center for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms at Columbia University New York-Presbyterian Hospital.
Set up Your SAD Light and Begin Treatment
4. Place the SAD light at a table with a comfortable chair and turn on the light. The treatment usually begins with 30 minutes of exposure to 10,000 lux in the morning.
5. At the designated treatment time, sit 12 inches from the screen and focus on the work surface. You can read, write, work on a laptop computer, eat breakfast, or do another task that draws your eyes to the work surface while seated in front of the light.
6. Make sure your head and body are oriented towards the light, but do not look directly at the light.
Monitor for Side Effects and Improvement
7. Improvement should be seen within the first week of regular treatment. If no improvement occurs, consult a professional.
8. Notice if you experience minor side effects, such as fidgetiness, eye strain or irritation, restlessness, headache or mild nausea. These usually subside within a few days. If not, you may wish to decrease the lux.
9. If eye irritation does not resolve, you can try sitting farther from the light, sitting for less than 30 minutes, using a humidifier or artificial tears eyedrops.
10. If you experience insomnia, a "speedy" or "too high" feeling, restlessness and irritability, this could be a manic episode and can indicate the presence of bipolar disorder. Seek the care of a psychiatrist immediately. Sometimes light therapy can be continued with the use of a mood-stabilizing drug.
11. Continue treatment daily until the time of year your mood and symptoms usually resolve themselves naturally, without treatment. For most people this is in spring.
Tags: from light, light therapy, light treatment, work surface
Bowel cancer accounts for nearly 10 percent of all cancer cases worldwide, making it the third most common cancer in the world. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, early screening for bowel cancer reduces death rates by as much as 16 percent. For this reason, it is crucial that anyone who is symptomatic, has multiple risk factors for bowel cancer or who has a positive family history for the disease be screened regularly to check for bowel cancer.
Instructions
1. Watch for symptoms of bowel cancer, as early diagnosis is essential for a positive outcome. Early symptoms include rectal bleeding, fatigue and pale skin. The rectal bleeding may be mistaken for bleeding hemorrhoids. As the tumor grows, other symptoms may develop due to bowel obstruction. These symptoms include abdominal pain and distension, persistent nausea or vomiting, weight loss, changes in bowel movements, narrow stools, rectal pain and a sensation of needing to defecate.
2. Visit your doctor for a physical and rectal exam. During your appointment, your doctor may perform a digital rectal exam, which involves inserting a gloved finger through your anus and into your rectum. The procedure is not painful, although it may be physically and psychologically uncomfortable for some people.
3. Have your blood drawn to screen for signs of bowel cancer. Blood tests can check for the presence of anemia, which is very common in people with bowel cancer. Your doctor may also order a complete blood count and tests to make certain your kidneys and liver are functioning correctly.
4. Submit a stool sample to your doctor or hospital for analysis. The fecal occult blood test can look for traces of blood in your stool. Another, the fecal immunochemical test, may be performed at home or in the office. This test checks for the presence of blood proteins in the stool.
5. Undergo a colonoscopy to check for bowel cancer. A colonoscopy is performed using a thin, flexible tube with a camera on one end that is inserted into your colon through your anus. The test checks for the presence of tumors, polyps and other bowel and colon abnormalities. Colonoscopies may be uncomfortable, and you will need to drink a laxative solution prior to testing to flush out your bowel.
6. Schedule an appointment for an air-contract barium enema, a test that uses barium and X-rays to check for bowel tumors. Barium is introduced into your bowel through your anus, and then multiple X-rays will be taken to identify tumors and other abnormalities.
7. Have a computed tomography (CT) scan of your abdomen and chest performed if any of your other examinations showed abnormalities. CT scans look for tumors and are used to determine if bowel cancer has spread. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be done in addition to, or instead of, the CT scan.
8. Repeat your colonoscopy at regular intervals as determined by your doctor. You will need to be retested following surgery for bowel cancer or if you are at risk for the disease. A measurement of your carcinoembryonic antigen level may also be used to check for bowel cancer recurrence.
Tags: bowel cancer, bowel cancer, your doctor, check bowel, into your, through your
Artists examine the world around them and portray it in painting or sculpture, with each art movement describing a changing perspective.throughout history.
Art historians divide the scope and expanse of world art into defined periods and movement. Within each period and movement, artists use similar techniques and often portray similar subjects of themes. Three important periods in the history of Western art are the Renaissance, Romanticism and Impressionism. These three art movements had a lasting impact on artists who came afterwards.
The Renaissance
The word "renaissance" means rebirth. In terms of art history, the Renaissance is the period during which there was a rebirth of interest in Greek and Roman art forms. The Renaissance began in Italy in the 1300s and was characterized by an intellectual movement away from the religious themes that had dominated the Middle Ages. Instead, Renaissance artists began to focus on worldly themes such as the importance of the individual. At the same time, artists began to emulate the styles, particularly in sculpture, that were common in antiquity.
The Renaissance was a time when learning in many disciplines expanded due to a higher standard of living which led to increasing numbers of universities, academies, and libraries. Much of this learning influenced the art styles of the period. Painters during the Renaissance used increasing levels of mathematical precision in their work, learning apply techniques we take for granted today, such as the use of perspective to portray scenes which appear highly realistic to the viewer. Portrait artists used improved anatomical knowledge to paint human figures which looked authentic. The main distinction between the art of the Middle Ages and that of the Renaissance is the level of realism present in painting and sculpture.
Soem of the most famous artists of the Renaissance include Michelangelo for the frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and his statue of the biblical David; Leonardo da Vinci for his many paintings including the Mona Lisa; and Raphael for his painting The School of Athens, which depicts important philosophers from antiquity.
Romanticism
The artistic movement of Romanticism, which began in the late 1700s and lasted about a century, was first and foremost a reaction against the industrial revolution which swept across Europe during that period. Beginning in Britain and then spreading to Germany, France and northern Italy, the industrial revolution transformed Europe from a mainly agricultural economy to a factory-based one. This caused a huge increase in the growth of cities and the destruction of the natural environment.
The Romantics were artists and writers who looked back to the pre-industrial past as a better time to live. They valued the past over the present and the natural world over the industrial one. They also focused on the importance of the individual; this was a reaction against the tendency in industrial societies to regard humans as cogs in a machine. Romantic paintings frequently depicted glorious scenes of cliffs, mountains and meadows that existed only in the artist's imagination. These scenes would depict nature as wild and free, with no sign of human intrusion anywhere. At times a single human figure would be present, admiring the view and representing the value of the individual. An example of such a painting is "The Wanderer Above the Mists" by German painter Caspar David Friedrich. Other important painters of the Romantic period include William Blake, John Constable and JMW Turner.
Impressionism
Impressionism was a short but highly influential period in art history. It began in France and lasted less than 30 years during the late 1800s. Impressionist painting was a reaction against the rigid rules that characterized "proper" art during this period. Instead of taking months to meticulously paint a scene so that it would resemble reality as closely as possible, the Impressionists would use quick brush strokes to capture an "impression" of the object. In part, this was a recognition that the improving technology of photography, then in its infancy, would always surpass painting as a means of expressing objective reality. Artists therefore needed to use art to express something other than stark realism.
A major goal of Impressionism was to "catch the light" as it was falling during a particular moment in time. They were interested in playing with color so that their paintings would seem to depict how light was shifting and reflecting on buildings or flowers, particularly at key times of the day such as early morning and twilight. An Impressionist painting is like a quick glimpse of an object, implying that the object will appear differently in different light and at other times of the day. In order to capture such images in paint, impressionists worked very quickly, using dabs of paint and large, obvious brush strokes. In this they broke the old rules which said that fine paintings do not have any brush strokes visible. Impressionists often finished a painting in 15 minutes; some could produce a dozen or more paintings in a single day.
The most famous Impressionists are Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who often included people and city scenes in his paintings, and Claude Monet, whose painting "Impression: Sunrise" gave the movement its name. Monet is best known for his many paintings of the water lilies in his garden.
The Legacy of These Art Periods
These three art periods have left a lasting impressions on Western art. The Renaissance artists provided those who would follow with standard techniques and procedures that endure to this day, such as the use of perspective to make a scenes painted upon flat canvas appear to have realistic depth. The Romantics popularized the idea of using artistic expression as a form of social protest against what they saw as the evils of their time, a trend which continues to this day. The Impressionists were perhaps most influential of all. By breaking with the established "rules" for art during their time, they demonstrated that what should drive an artist is his own sense of what is right and proper in terms of style and technique.
Strengthening is the most important developmental stage of the shoulder after rotator cuff surgery. Given that the four muscles of the rotator cuff (subscapularis, infraspinatus, supraspinatus and teres minor) have become weak, they must be stretched and strengthened through rehabilitation exercise to increase flexibility and obtain a pain-free range of motion.
Isometric Exercises
You may begin isometrics as the first phase of exercise following rotator cuff surgery. Isometrics are performed by isolating each muscle in the shoulder and training the muscle without using weights. The subscapularis is best strengthened by holding the arm out straight in front of the body, then flexing it to a 90-degree angle. To strengthen the supraspinatus, hold the arm out straight in front of the body with your thumb pointed towards the ground. Then, slowly elevate the arm above the body. If this is painful, you should stop immediately because the rotator cuff is under the maximum amount of stress during this motion.
The infraspinatus and the teres minor can be strengthened by doing the same exercise. To perform this exercise, hold the arm out as if you are holding a ski pole right before you plant it. Then rotate the arm from this position out to the side.
It is important to note that, in the beginning, you should do these exercises without weights. Performing these exercises with too much weight can cause an individual to reinjure the surgically-repaired rotator cuff muscles. There are also a number of stretches that can be performed to help strengthen the shoulder, such as pendulum swings, the overhead stretch, the towel stretch and wall climbs.
Resistance Exercises
After you have become comfortable with the isometric exercises, you can progress to resistance or tubing exercises. The tubing is simply a big elastic band that is used to provide resistance for exercise. The first tubing exercise is external rotation. To perform this exercise, connect the tubing to a doorknob or another object that is at waist level. Grasp the tubing with the hand on your injured side, and then rotate the arm out and away from the waist. Keep your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle and the forearm parallel to the ground. Repeat 10 times.
The other tubing exercise is internal rotation. Again, connect the tubing to a doorknob or something at waist level. Grasp the tubing. Be sure to keep your elbow in and forearm parallel to the ground. Rotate the arm inward across the body. Repeat 10 times.
Build up your strength until you are able to do three sets of 10 repetitions for each exercise. As your shoulder muscles become stronger and you become more confident, you can add more resistance by shortening the length of the tubing, which will make the exercises more difficult and more strenuous on the muscles. Dumbbell (hand-held) weights can also be used to strengthen the shoulder. They come in a series of weights, which make it easy to increase the difficulty of an exercise when it becomes too easy.
Tags: rotator cuff, 90-degree angle, connect tubing, connect tubing doorknob, forearm parallel, forearm parallel ground, front body
Every parent knows just how frustrating it can be when a child is in the midst of temper tantrum, whether it's because they are not getting something that they want or because they are simply cranky and tired. To avoid temperamental behavior from young ones, it is vital for parents to be aware of effective ways to calm their children down.
Talk it Out
It is all too common for parents to become annoyed with cranky children and to either ignore them or get mad in turn. Both of these things can backfire and make a child even less calm. To calm a child, it can be beneficial to talk things out. Speak to your child and try to work out with him exactly why he is feeling the way he is. Be gentle and find out what is bothering him and why exactly it is getting to him. Ask clear questions such as "Are you sad?" or "Do you feel scared?"
Games
Children tend to get irritated in times of boredom, such as on long and tedious car rides. In many cases, children lash out as a result of the boredom they are experiencing. To keep your children occupied and happy, provide them with a small stash of entertainment options (such as board games and stuffed animals) in these types of situations, whether you are visiting the home of a friend or driving across the country.
Set an Example
To keep children calm, it is vital to set a good example for them. Manage your own feelings of anger in a calm, cool and collected manner. If children witness their parents blowing up in fury over every slightest thing, it will convey to them the message that this type of behavior is acceptable for them, as well. In the case that you do lose your temper, be sure to say that you are sorry and acknowledge that you should not have behaved in that manner.
Relocation
If a child is upset about a situation, a change of scenery can sometimes do wonders. If she is throwing a temper tantrum in a mall or store, get her out of the environment as soon as possible. Even if you leave the store for just five minutes, the scenery change might be all that she needs to calm down and forget what she was upset about. Leaving the situation might also indicate to her that you are serious about your actions.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy can be highly effective for soothing children who are riled up. Utilize serene essential oils to mentally stimulate your children without making them feel hyper. Consider vanilla, Roman chamomile, sweet orange, tangerine, tea tree and lavender essential oils. Put a drop of any of these oils into a warm bowl filled with water, and watch the stress melt away from both you and your child.
Zero-Tolerance
With a child that is acting out, it is important to show him that you are serious in your disapproval. Enforce a zero-tolerance policy by not accepting any type of behavior that is aggressive or pushy. Always be consistent to drive the point home and ensure your child is not confused. Set a strict rule that aggression and temper tantrums are absolutely off limits in your household.
Snacks
Sometimes when children act out, they are doing so to send off a message of discomfort or satisfaction, such as hunger or sleepiness. In many cases, hunger is the culprit behind grouchy children. Offer some nutritious snack options to calm down a tense and hyper child, such as cheese cubes, yogurt cups, orange wedges, apple slices and granola bars.
Tags: your child, because they, calm down, essential oils, many cases, temper tantrum
Meningiomas are found on the brain and spinal cord.
Meningiomas are tumors that grow in the meninges--the three layers of membranes protecting the brain and the spinal cord. Meningiomas have been classified into three grades by the World Health Organization.
Description
Grade 1 meningioma is the slowest growing and usually curable. The tumor can grow inward and press on areas of the brain or spinal cord.
Types
The nine types of Grade 1 meningiomas are: Meningiothelial, Transitional,
Fibrous, Psammomatous, Angiomatous, Microcystic, Secretory, Lymphoplasmacyte-rich and Metaplastic meningiomas. All Grade 1 tumors are considered benign.
Causes
Meningiomas indicate that cells in the meninges have been altered. One possible cause is excessive exposure to X-rays. Since females suffer more from meningioma than males, doctors believe there may be a hormonal link. A relationship between the tumors and head trauma is also being investigated.
Symptoms
Signs of meningioma include seizures, headaches, loss of vision or weakness in the extremities. Symptoms such as memory loss or unsteadiness often appear over time.
Treatment
MRIs are used to diagnose and monitor the tumors.
If the tumors are not causing symptoms, they can be monitored with CT scans, MRIs and examinations. The preferred treatment is surgical removal of the tumor. If surgery is not an alternative, tumors are treated with radiation.
Tags: brain spinal, brain spinal cord, spinal cord, cord Meningiomas, have been
An eating disorder is a very scary illness. It is usually maintained by a desire for control, and is therefore often well hidden by those who suffer from it. In a society that praises perfect-looking thin bodies and small dress sizes, it isn't any wonder that so many people suffer from them. Both men and women can suffer from this condition and it can involve anorexia, bulimia, overeating or any combination of the three. If you have an eating disorder and are seeking help, there are some steps you can take to help get your eating habits under control.
Instructions
Get over an Eating Disorder
1. Recognize that you have a problem. Because eating disorders tend to be secretive illnesses, they can be very hard for friends and loved ones to identify. It is easy for the victim to pretend like nothing is wrong when nobody else notices. Sufferers from this condition can therefore easily fall into denial. Admitting there is a problem is an essential first step. Telling a reliable friend, family member or doctor that you have a problem and need help will be the first step on the road to recovery.
2. Seek medical attention. A lot of damage can be done to a body that is starved of food or constantly made to purge food from its system. You will want to be physically checked to see if you need medical attention to address the effects of your condition. Based on his assessment, your doctor may recommend that you visit a treatment center for eating disorders to help you recover. Treatment centers for eating disorders specialize in helping women gain a proper perspective about their bodies and food.
3. Go to counseling. Whether or not your doctor recommends a treatment center; you will want begin weekly or bi-weekly counseling sessions. Eating disorders generally involve more than a quest to be thin. They can involve a desire for control when life feels out of control due to abuse, irrational thinking or an abundance of pressure a person is experiencing. A trained counselor will be able to help you identify the underlying reasons why you have this disorder and help you to work through them.
4. Create a supportive environment. You will want to enlist the help of others to help you be successful. This will mean communicating with friends and family about your condition so you are no longer prone to secrecy. Inform them of the triggers, whether it be pressure that is placed on you or obsessive conversations about weight. Ask them to help you avoid your triggers. You will also want to ask a person or persons to help you stay accountable in your eating habits.
There are many foods that can be very helpful in treating ADHD naturally. Foods for ADHD having a calming effect in children and can help kids focus better in school. If you are treating your child's ADHD holistically, finding foods that ease ADHD symptoms can be a very helpful part of your regimen.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids into your child's diet can reduce or even eliminate ADHD symptoms. According to the International Review of Psychiatry, giving your child Omega-3 fatty acids daily can have extraordinary results in treating ADHD without medication.
Vitamin-Rich Foods
Try to make sure that your child is getting enough vitamins and minerals by serving more fruits and vegetables as snack, instead of packaged foods. Vitamin deficiency can mimic ADHD symptoms in children.
Foods to Avoid
There are certain foods to avoid in treating ADHD naturally. Certain foods, such as wheat, eggs and nuts, can cause a reaction in children that manifests itself as behavioral problems.
Substances to Avoid
It is widely known that substance such as food coloring, food additives, preservatives, nitrates, and nitrites can have mood altering side effects. Avoid these substances at all costs when treating ADHD naturally.
Effects
By incorporating foods for ADHD into your child's diet and avoiding certain foods that trigger behavioral symptoms, you will see an enormous improvement in no time at all. Treating ADHD naturally can be effective even if the only aspect you change is diet.
LLINs are a powerful form of defense against mosquitoes.
Whether looking to protect yourself against the annoyance of a mosquito bite or more serious malaria, Long Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLIN) are an effective solution. This type of net does not have to be treated once a year like regular Insecticide Treated Nets (ITN). LLINs are also superior to untreated nets because they not only keep out mosquitoes, but the insecticides in the net kill the mosquito once it makes contact.
Pramex
Pramex mosquito nets use Olyset controlled release technology. Olyset Technology injects insecticide into the net and releases it slowly over the years. This is the only net available in the U.S. that has this particular form of chemical treatment. Pramex nets are highly tear-resistant and washable.
Perma Net 2.0
Perma Net technology specializes in slowing the process of insecticide traveling from the interior of the net yarn to the surface. This will ensure that insecticide will remain on the net for years of protection even after washing. This brand of net protects against insects carrying dengue, malaria, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease and lymphatic filariasis.
Interceptor LLIN
Interceptor nets use Fendozin textile auxiliary which binds the insecticide Fendona with the fibers of the net. The process results in the slow release of the insecticide to block and kill mosquitoes on contact. The chemicals involved in the insecticide are odorless and colorless, providing protection that is undetectable by humans.
Shingles is a virus that causes a person to develop a rash on their body, usually affecting either their left or right side. If a person is diagnosed with shingles, their symptoms will be treated, but the virus is not curable. Steroids and painkillers may be administered to help decrease their discomfort level. There are several ways that a person can get a shingles rash.
Instructions
1. Review your medical history. Shingles is a viral infection, known as herpes zoster that results from the same virus that causes chickenpox. If you have ever had chickenpox in your lifetime, you can later develop a shingles rash.
2. Come into contact with a person with chickenpox. If you never had chickenpox, stay away from a person with shingles or chickenpox. You may catch the virus and later develop a shingles rash.
3. Consider your age. Besides exposure to chickenpox, age plays a factor in whether you get shingles. Individuals over the age of 50 are more likely to develop a shingles rash.
4. Determine if any health problems put you at risk. Shingles rashes are more likely to affect someone with a weakened immune system. People under stress or that have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease have a much higher risk of getting a shingles rash.
5. Receive a chickenpox vaccine from your doctor. Individuals over the age of 60 can receive a vaccine against chickenpox. However, the vaccine may cause you to get a mild and less painful case of shingles.
Coronary heart disease is the number 3 killer in the United States. Mild or severe, a heart attack requires immediate treatment and medical intervention. Signs and symptoms vary and are often different for women than for men. Some heart attacks strike quickly and severely (like those on television or in the movies) others are milder in nature and with more vague symptoms. Receiving rapid medical attention for a mild heart attack is crucial for long term survival and to minimizing any further damage to your heart.
General Symptoms
Symptoms of mild heart attacks often differ from patient to patient but generally include pain or pressure in the chest, anxiety, shortness of breath and nausea. Chest discomfort can range from a tight feeling, pressure, aching or squeezing in the center of the chest which lasts for more than a few minutes and may be intermittent. That discomfort may radiate to other areas of the upper body. Pain may also take on a heartburn-like quality in the abdomen. A cold clammy sweat, lightheadness, a sense of panic or doom and a feeling of needing to either pant or deeply breathe to catch your breath are all typical symptoms of a heart attack.
Symptoms in Women
Many women experience none of the usual symptoms of a heart attack. Some experience all or a few of those listed above. In general, the most common symptom of a mild heart attack is pain, discomfort or pressure in the chest. Women are, however, more likely to have other symptoms like:
• Pain in the neck, shoulder, jaw, upper back and/or abdomen
• Nausea/vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Heartburn
• Feeling of dizziness
• Abnormal fatigue
Diagnosis
Diagnosing a heart attack involves several tests. Your doctor will need a complete medical history and examination. You will also be given an electrocardiogram (or EKG) to show the medical staff if you have any damage to your heart (it picks up abnormalities and anomalies by recording your heart's electrical activities). Doctors also will need a blood test to determine if you have had a heart attack. The tests will reveal any markers to indicate heart damage or abnormalities in your cardiac enzymes.
Treatment
Medical therapy like reperfusion therapy (which restores blood flow) is often a first line of treatment once you've reached the hospital. Thrombolysis is a treatment in which a medication like streptokinase or urokinase is injected into the blood stream to dissolve a clot. This also utilizes medication to dissolve blood clots. PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) is often considered the first treatment for an STEMI (a specific type of heart attack which occurs when one of the coronary arteries is 100 percent blocked). Both thrombolysis and PCI aim to restore blood flow and prevent further damage or death of the heart muscle. Surgical intervention may be required depending on the severity of your condition.
Prevention
The American Heart Association teaches the ABCs of preventing heart attack: Avoid tobacco, Become more active and Choose good nutrition. A healthy lifestyle can go a long way to preventing both heart disease and stroke. Here are some of the risk factors for a heart attack:
• Smoking
• Poor nutrition (leads to high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity)
• High cholesterol (can be passed on from family members--important to have treated medically)
• High Blood Pressure
A healthy diet rich in fruits, whole grains, high-fiber foods and vegetables along with low fat dairy and lean protein helps to maintain a healthy weight and often have a positive impact on both cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Physical activity (recommended 30 minutes, 5 days per week by the American Heart Association) also is imperative for heart health.
Tags: heart attack, mild heart, your heart, American Heart, American Heart Association
Everyone wants the classic flat stomach and six pack abs. There are many fad diets, pills and machines which all claim to work. However often these amount to nothing more than a waste of money. This guide will explain get rid of tummy fat -for good.
Instructions
Get Rid Of Tummy Fat
1. Burn the fat off. Your biggest asset in the battle of the bulge is exercise. Fat, whether on your stomach or elsewhere, amounts to nothing more than stored energy. In order to release this stored energy you must participate in some sort of sustained physical activity such as jogging or walking for at least thirty to forty-five minutes each day five days per week.
2. Tone your muscles. If your muscles are weak they will not look or feel firm and your posture will suffer. Work your abs with crunches, leg lifts and other such exercises two or three times a week. Also be sure to spend some time doing exercises which focus on the obliques. Also, stand up straight!
3. Get into the right mindset. Set a goal and work towards it. Don't just depend on the scale. Look at your body in the mirror. It is a good idea to keep a photo journal as this will be a much more accurate gauge of your progress than relying on your total body weight alone.
4. Eat right. You are not going to lose tummy fat, but eating foods that are high in calories, sugar and fat. Eat whole grains, vegetables, fruits and lean meats. Drink plenty of water. Your body needs to stay hydrated to be at its best.
5. Remember the role of your genes. Genetics play a huge role in the way that your body will look. No matter how much you work out, you may not ever have a six pack to show for it. However, that does not mean that it is pointless to focus on losing fat. Your stomach will be tighter, firmer, and your entire body will be leaner and more healthy.
Tags: body will, more than, nothing more, nothing more than, stored energy, will look, your body
Breathing is such an integral part of daily life that it's probably something you don't think about often. However, the way you breathe can have an important impact on your physical and mental state. Setting aside time to take a deep breath has many physical and mental health benefits.
What is Deep Breathing?
As opposed to shallow breathing, which can cause the body to become tense, deep breathing requires using the diaphragm to taken in slow, relaxed breaths - ideally six per minute, according to Discovery Health. When you breathe, focus on making your abdomen rise instead of your chest. This will allow your lungs to more completely fill with air and will leave your body in an overall more peaceful state.
Mental Benefits
Because deep breathing requires relaxed, full breaths, it is a well-known stress-relief technique and is important to maintaining mental health. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, deep breathing "provides extra oxygen to the blood and causes the body to release endorphins." The Eastside Center for Counseling and Psychotherapy in Kirkland, Wash., recommends using "relaxed diaphragmatic breathing," a type of focused deep breathing, to reduce anxiety.
Physical Benefits
Your body needs appropriate levels of oxygen to function properly, so the way you breathe can have an affect on your physical health. For example, some studies have shown that deep breathing lowers blood pressure. In 2002 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the non-prescription use of a device called RESPeRATE, a device shown to lower blood pressure by helping users pace their breathing. More research is being done into how deep breathing can help lower blood pressure. Having properly oxygenated muscles also improves fat burn and muscle function, according to an article on Military.com. Deep breathing also can enhance a person's vocal performance, whether she is speaking in public or private. Both deep breathing and speaking/singing are associated with the diaphragm, so a person who knows control her breathing through her diaphragm will have more controlled, confident vocal abilities as well, according to Vocal-Sphere.com.
Breathing Exercises
Deep-breathing exercises focus on learning to use the diaphragm to breathe. To perform what the Eastside Center for Counseling and Psychotherapy calls "relaxed diaphragmatic breathing," you should lay down in a relaxing position while wearing loose-fitting clothes. Place one hand on your abdomen, over your belly button, and focus on breathing to make your abdomen rise and fall rather than your chest. Take four to five relaxed, slow breaths, breathing air in through your nose. This exercise can also be done standing. Periodically check your breathing throughout the day. Make sure you are not sucking your stomach in when you breathe, which can lead to shallow breathing.
To learn other deep breathing exercises, consider joining a fitness class that emphasizes deep breathing, such as yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi.
Warning
Whenever using deep-breathing techniques and exercises, avoid overbreathing. Breathing to hard or frequently can cause hyperventilation, which can also cause muscle spasms and lightheadedness.
Tags: deep breathing, blood pressure, your abdomen, abdomen rise, Benefits Deep, Benefits Deep Breathing
Sage has been significant for a variety of uses for centuries.
Sage, an ever-present herb in gardens and containers, has a long history in cooking and medicine. Not only is it a common ingredient in the kitchen, but its flowers, color and aroma make this perennial a focus of herb gardens. Intriguing studies on its use for certain ailments add to its significance.
Significance
Sage is used for cooking, decoration and medicinal purposes. From seasoning meats to scenting toiletries, sage is ubiquitous in the garden and is a common potted plant indoors and out.
Identification
While other plants have "sage" in their common name, the herb sage is termed Salvia officinalis. It is very aromatic and has a woody shrub appearance. It typically grows to 24 inches, has oval-shaped leaves that can be gray, green or golden-hued, and features bluish, spiky flowers.
Potential
Sage has been used to help a variety of ailments, from menstrual pain to diabetes, and has been used for such diverse purposes as a remedy for gas and an insect repellent. It is being studied as a way to help Alzheimer's patients.
Warning
Although a common ingredient in the kitchen, take care to avoid sage in certain situations. Sage has been linked to early contractions in pregnant women. Large amounts can cause seizures, particularly in people with disorders of the nervous system. Small children and diabetics should also avoid large amounts of sage. Ingesting the essential oil can be lethal.
Fun Fact
The idea that sage heals came from the Middle Ages. Throughout European history it has been used for medicine, ceremony and cuisine. Sage has been linked to wisdom and even to theories of immortality.
Tags: Sage been, been used, been linked, common ingredient, common ingredient kitchen
Quartz is one the most abundant minerals on earth and can be found in many shapes, sizes and colors. Many experienced rock collectors can tell if a crystal is real quartz through careful examination. They examine the crystal for small naturally accruing abnormalities (man-made crystals are usually flawless, without abnormalities). Natural quartz crystals will have areas with small cracks, cloudiness or areas where other minerals are forming. Because of the natural flaws, a grade system was developed to determine the quality of the crystal. Grade A quartz is the highest quality of quartz. This grade is identified by its crystal clear transparence, and lack of abnormalities within the crystal's structure. Grade B quartz contains a small amount of natural abnormalities with a small number of tiny cracks in the crystal, and may have small cloudy areas. Grade C quartz will have small chips along the edges, slight damage to the point and several small cracks that do not damage the crystal's structure. Grade D quartz has damaged points and large cracks that damage structure of the crystal, making it very fragile and easily broken. A simple method to determine if a crystal is real quartz is to a perform a scratch test using the Mohs scale of hardness as a guide. The Mohs scale, developed in 1812 by German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs, is a popular guide used to measure the hardness of gemstones by judging scratch resistance. Quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, meaning that it will easily scratch glass, metals and softer stones. This test will not harm the crystal if it is real quartz because glass has a hardness of 5.5 to 6.5.
Instructions
1. Clean the surface of the glass, with a streak-free glass cleaner. Completely dry the surface with paper towels.
2. Examine the glass for scratches. Mark scratches using a permanent marker.
3. Press the point of the crystal firmly against the surface of the glass. Add a small amount of pressure as you drag the crystal across the surface.
4. Examine the surface of the glass carefully; the scratch will be faintly visible. If no scratch is visible, repeat the test adding more pressure as you drag the crystal.
5. If after several tests the surface of the glass is unaffected, you may want to consider trying to scratch the crystal. Find an unscratched, flat area of the crystal and repeat step 1.
6. Press the corner of the glass firmly against the surface of the crystal. Add a small amount of pressure as you drag the glass across the surface.
7. Examine the surface of the crystal. If a scratch is visible on the surface, the crystal it is not real quartz.
Tags: crystal real, crystal real quartz, Grade quartz, real quartz, surface glass, Mohs scale
You can try over-the-counter remedies for warts, or go to a doctor to have them removed.
Some warts disappear on their own over time, but different treatments can get rid of them -- such as burning or freezing the wart. Like any treatment, burning or freezing a wart has side effects. These side effects apply to common warts, not genital warts or plantar.
Pain
When a wart is frozen or burned off, there will be pain at the site of treatment. The pain is usually mild, so it's unlikely you'll be given an anesthetic for the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to help with pain. Pain from the procedure can last up to a few hours; however, if a blister occurs, it can cause pain until it disappears.
Blisters
Because of the irritation to the skin caused by treatment, a blister is likely to develop at the site. These blisters are mildly painful and disappear within a few days. To avoid further pain caused by the blister, use an adhesive bandage to protect it. It's best to leave the blister intact to help avoid infection. If you notice any signs of infection, such as pus or extra redness, contact your doctor.
Dead Skin
Burning or freezing a wart kills the top layers of skin, so you'll see dead skin coming off the treatment site. This side effect should not cause pain, and the dead skin will fall off by itself.
Skin Discoloration
Treatment causes temporary skin discoloration around the treatment site. Discoloration is caused by the extreme temperature that the skin is exposed to, whether from burning or freezing the wart off. You should expect redness around the treatment site. The skin will return to its normal hue within a few days.
Your hair is an inseparable part of your particular look. Whether it's long or short, dyed or natural, straight or curly, your hair can be an essential fashion ally. For your hair to look its best, it's important to care for it properly. Washing, conditioning and drying on low heat are all helpful, but to ensure that your hair is lustrous and strong, you should use essential oils.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are more or less components that are taken out of plants. You can rub them into your hair to help nourish and strengthen the hair follicle and shaft, and promote hair growth at a rate higher than usual.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba essential oil is one of a large variety of essential oils currently on the market. Jojoba essential oil works with any hair or skin type, and its properties are best used on hair that's damaged, dry and breaking. Applying jojoba oil to hair that's been towel dried and leaving it on for half an hour will help nourish the damaged hair and encourage health as well as growth.
Burdock Oil
Another type of essential oil that's good for both the hair and the skin is burdock oil. This essential oil should be applied in the same manner, but burdock oil should also be worked into the scalp. Not only does it promote hair growth, but it also helps keep the scalp healthy and moisturized.
Citrus
Citrus essential oils, such as those extracted from grapefruit or lemons, are often beneficial for oily or greasy hair. When put into your hair, citrus essential oils clean the hair and scalp, as well as nourish them. Apply the oils to your hair before you shower and leave them in for roughly an hour. The oils then can be washed out with a gentle shampoo and the hair conditioned.
Essential Needs
When trying to decide on a type of essential oil to suit your needs, decide what's important to you. If your hair is thinning, use an essential oil that encourages hair growth and thickness. If you want natural perfume, use an essential oil that smells nice. Don't be afraid to change oils if your first try doesn't work the way you want it to.
Tags: your hair, essential that, essential oils, hair growth, hair skin, hair that
Sources of Drinking Water and Possible Contaminants
Water treatment plants may receive water from surface sources, such as lakes, streams, and rivers, or draw from underground reservoirs. As water flows, whether underground or above ground, it can pick up contaminants that would be unsafe for consumption. Fertilizer from agricultural fields, runoff from livestock, mine drainage, and wastewater from industrial activity are some of the many avenues for pollutants or harmful bacteria to enter the water system. Because there are so many undesirable metals, microorganisms and chemicals, water treatment plants must use sophisticated testing and purification processes to ensure that water is safe to distribute.
Filtration
One of the first steps in treating water for drinking is to filter out unwanted material. Coagulants are added to the water to make particulate matter clump into larger chunks which settle to the bottom. Water flowing through a treatment plant moves very slowly in order to allow these materials to settle and to keep circulation steady. In addition to the coagulants, water usually runs through several types of filters of varying sizes. Sand filters, which can reduce biological content by 90-95 percent, are often used. Activated charcoal is another highly efficient filter.
Purification and Testing
Once water is filtered, disinfectant or other chemicals may be added to meet drinking water standards. If the water is acidic, a plant may add lime or soda ash to raise the pH slightly. Chlorine or chlorine compounds are often added to kill any viruses or bacteria that made it through the filters. Ozone is also very effective, as is ultraviolet radiation. In many areas, treatment plants add fluoride to drinking water to prevent tooth decay. Because the EPA strictly regulates drinking water, all water is tested at many points during the treatment process and before it is released from the treatment plant.
The seeds from morning glory plants can produce a psychedelic high much like taking LSD. Also called ololiugui by the 16th-century Indians, the seeds of the morning glory plant produce a hallucinogenic effect when ingested.
What Are They?
The morning glory plant is a twining perennial vine that is cultivated in many gardens.The plant bears clusters of blue to purplish flowers, and sometimes will produce white flowers. The seeds that are produced from the morning glory plant are brown or sometimes black in color. Once eaten, they are what produces a psychedelic high.
LSD-Like Properties
The active ingredient in morning glory seeds is an alkaloid called R-lysergic. The seeds also contain D-isolysergic acids. The acids are similar to ingredients found in LSD. The more seeds ingested, the greater the high.
Intense
Psychedelic or hallucinogenic substances produce a distortion in the brain of an actual stimulus. The drug does not create a new event. It basically expands on what is happening at that moment. In other words, if a good event is happening, then the person ingesting the seeds may experience a good trip. Although when negative things are going on, then the person may experience a "bad trip." The hallucinogenic agents affect the brain by interacting with the serotonin synapses. In sum, the drug will bring a heightened sense of what is happening.
Synestheia
Morning glory seeds will produce a heightened sense of awareness of colors, textures and sounds. A person can experience a sensory change from one sense to another that is called synesthesia. In other words, the drug user can hear colors or feel sounds. After having ingested morning glory seeds, they may take affect in about three hours.
Drug Effects
The drug-like experience that can occur while taking morning glory seeds includes having a diminished sense of reality. A person may do things he never did before due to an increased sense of suggestibility. Time is often slowed down while having a morning glory hallucinogenic experience. A person's ego will often intensify during a morning glory drug trip as well.
Opposites Attract
A person ingesting morning glory seeds may have massive mood swings while on the drug.The seeds may make a person experience ecstatic feelings and become very blissful, and then the drug can cause one's mood to change in the opposite direction to become very miserable and down.
Warnings
Ingesting morning glory seeds isn't all bliss and great feelings. A person can become nauseated and vomit due to ingesting too many seeds. When a person experiences a "bad trip," he may need a friend to stay with him and help him get through the experience. A sense of major anxiety and panic can set in also. Sometimes a person may need to be taken to an emergency room because he can experience a psychotic episode from taking the seeds. At the emergency room, the drug user may need to be given a sedative or a tranquilizer to help him ease through the morning glory seeds' hallucinogenic effects.
Pink, widely thought of as a female color modern day, wasn't always thought of that way. Baby boys at one time wore pink, and preppy men in the 19th century made the color popular. Originally named after the hue of a flower, the phrase "in the pink" originated from the much in demand scarlet hue for men's jackets in the 18th century.
Origins in Infant Clothing
In the 1800s, both boys and girls wore long white dresses. Even as late as 1829, children were dressed in unisex dresses. In the 1920s, Macy's tried to distinguish a color for boys and girls to discourage hand-me-downs.
Christian Influence
Red has always been a strong color in the Christian tradition, and associated with men. Pink became a boys' color as a lighter hue of red. Blue was associated with the Virgin Mary and therefore considered a girls' color.
Blue for Boys, Pink for Girls
After the World War I, and soldiers' uniforms made in blue, it became associated as a masculine color. After the 1940s, pink became more of a feminine color. The idea was later perpetuated by marketing groups that pushed the post-war consumer boom and the creation of the middle class in the 1950s. Barbie, introduced in 1951, solidified the feminization of the color pink.
The best posture for sitting in meditation is one that is comfortable for you. Meditation offers you an opportunity to get in touch with your spiritual self, and this is difficult to do if your physical body is uncomfortable. Here are a few tips for sitting during meditation.
Instructions
1. Meditate in a comfortable chair with your feet on the ground. If your feet don't touch the ground, put a pillow or cushion beneath them. Position your sitting bones so they are firmly connected to the chair, and lengthen your spine. Tuck your tailbone and gently draw in your abdomen. Place your hands on your legs--either palms up or down.
2. Sit cross-legged on the floor. Put a cushion or pillow under your hips. Cross your legs at the shins, and position one foot under each knee. Create length in your spine by imagining spaces between each vertebra. Place your hands on your legs palms up or palms down.
3. Try the Siddhasana pose. Sit on your meditation cushion or pillow. Pull one leg in toward your groin so that the top of your foot is facing toward the floor. Then, pull your other foot in so it is on top of or in front of the first foot. Gently drop your chin in, so your neck is in alignment with your spine.
4. Assume a half lotus position. Sit on your meditation cushion or pillow and pull one leg in toward your groin. Bring the other leg in and place your foot in the crease at the inner portion of your leg. The bottom of your foot will be facing the ceiling.
5. Challenge yourself--try a full lotus position. Sit on your meditation cushion or pillow. Pull one leg toward you and place your foot in the crease at the inner portion of your leg. The bottom of your foot will be facing the ceiling, and your knee will be down near the floor. Next, bend your other knee in toward you and place it on top of the other thigh, toward the crease of your inner thigh.
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