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Things to Consider When Buying Home Fitness Equipments

 

Things to Consider When Buying Home Fitness Equipments

Word Count:
540

Summary:
There are a hundred lots of home fitness equipment nowadays that are sold in the market. Do not make the mistake in buying something and then regretting why you bought it after a day or two. Home fitness equipments vary and you should always have one good reason to buy it. Don't believe on everything commercials tell you about the equipment. Some equipment may seem easy to use on television but n fact will

Keywords:
hiit training, tread climber, treadmill workouts, treadmill exercises, treadmill workout, treadmill training, treadmill incline, high intensity interval training, treadmill-dumbbell workout, treadmill faq, treadmill incline workouts, treadclimber, hiit mistakes

Article Body:
There are a hundred lots of home fitness equipment nowadays that are sold in the market. Do not make the mistake in buying something and then regretting why you bought it after a day or two. Home fitness equipments vary and you should always have one good reason to buy it. Don't believe on everything commercials tell you about the equipment. Some equipment may seem easy to use on television but n fact will not really work for you. Try to ask yourself first of these questions before you grab your wallet and buy that equipment.

Do you need it? The equipment should suit your interests and needs. The activities that you will do with that equipment should be challenging and something to enjoy on. Buying equipment is never a guarantee that you will use it especially if it is something new that makes it harder to use. Make sure that you already know the equipment and that it is something that you already tried in a fitness club. Start from buying small equipments that are aligned to your interests.

Can you afford it? Don't be fooled with the thought that you will be forced to use something because you spent too much money for it. Expensive equipments are never an assurance that you will use them or that they are effective for you.  Always consider how much are you willing to pay for certain equipment. Also ask yourself iif it is worth it. Always check on the quality before you buy equipment. The price may be too low but consider that the quality can also be low. Or it may be expensive but then the quality is not that good. You can try choosing on cheaper alternatives but not sacrificing the quality of the equipment.

You may also want to check out for some used equipments. Most of the time, this is where you find a better deal. You can even find equipments that do not seem to have been used at a very low rate. Or you can find the equipment 3 months old but the price is almost half the original.

Do you have enough space for it? This is often what buyers forget to consider. Try to consider first where to place a treadmill before buying it. Before you buy something, make sure you know where you will place it. Your place may not accommodate the equipment. Plan ahead and make sure that the equipment can be placed in your home without causing any hassle.

Is it safe for you? If you have existing conditions, be sure to check with your doctor to make sure that the equipment will be safe for you. Some equipment may be painful to use and might cause harm to your body. So make sure to try it first be fore you buy it.

It also suggested that you first consider if a gym near you already has that equipment.  You can save money by just registering to that gym and use that equipment compared the price you will spend if you will buy that product.

Buying fitness equipments should be bought with consideration. Do not buy by impulse. Always ask the opinion of a professional gym instructor before you buy something.

 

Sauna Belt - Melt Belt - Slimming Belt: a Review of Miracle Weight Loss Devices

 

Sauna Belt - Melt Belt - Slimming Belt: a Review of Miracle Weight Loss Devices

Word Count:
1139

Summary:
A review of weight loss devices and their effectiveness.

Keywords:
Weight Loss, Health, Lose weight devices, slim belt, melt belt, sauna belt

Article Body:
Who hasn't seen an advertisement or so-called 'infomercial' (rather mis-informercial if you ask me) advertising a weight loss device or slimming belt that miraculously makes you lose weight without actually doing sports or changing your eating habits. Common sense alone dictates that such a thing is hardly possible. However, the advertisers are very cunning and they claim to achieve the aim of losing a lot of weight in little time with even less effort by using new, revolutionary technologies.

Now, I am not a tech freak and I cannot claim to understand all the workings of infrared light/ heat (Melt Belt and Sauna Belt, vibrations (Slimming Belt) or whatever 'new' technology is used to supposedly achieve weight loss. So, if I told you these devices are useless why should you believe me any more than the advertisements? It's very simple: you don't. Although I am an expert on the fields of nutrition and sports medicine you should not believe a single person making a claim.

However, the United States Government has realized that obesity is a rapidly growing problem and that deceitful advertisements for weight loss devices can event present a health risk for people relying on these devices to lose weight if they don't additionally work out and change their nutrition. The Federal Trade Commission is a government agency that monitors advertisements for bogus or deceptive claims. In its brochure "Red Flag - Bogus Weight Loss Claims" (downloadable at; an illustrated version of this article is available at  agency lists 7 ways to identify false ads and products. Using those 7 indicators you can check the ads for Melt Belt, Sauna Belt, Slimming Belt and any other miracle weight loss device such as non-prescription diet drugs, dietary supplements, skin patches, creams, wraps or any other product that is worn on the body or rubbed into the skin. Instead of taking my word for it, use the FTC's recommendations and your own common sense to check if Melt Belt, Slimming Belt or the Sauna Belt can help you lose weight - and keep it off.

You are throwing your money out the window if the product you buy claims to:

1. Cause substantial weight loss by wearing it on the body or rubbing it into the skin.

You might think of the US government what you like, but honestly: why should they publish a guideline for healthier living and protecting people from product scams if their findings were not true? Especially since these guidelines only confirm what common sense tells most of us anyways. Products like body belts, body wraps, rings, creams or lotions cannot make you lose substantial weight. Ads claiming that products from this category can make you lose as much as a pound a week are simply put: just lies.

2. Cause weight loss of two pounds or more a week for a month or more without dieting or exercise.

Even though certain advertisements wants to make us believe differently, everybody knows that in order to lose weight you have to exercise more and/or change your diet consuming fewer calories. According to the nutrition experts of the FTC any advertisement that claims otherwise is simply false. I personally agree wholeheartedly that it is not true if a product promises to make you lose weight without changing your lifestyle.

3. Cause substantial weight loss (meaning the loss of at least 1 pound/week or a total weight loss of more than 15 pounds in any time period) no matter what or how much a consumer eats

It is impossible for you to lose weight no matter how much or what you eat. As stated before, losing weight requires consuming fewer calories. Some products may claim to curb your appetite, however that also means you will want to eat less, if they work that is. But, by eating less you might deprive your body of the nutrients, vitamins and minerals it needs. Eating the right amount of healthy food is the key, not eating less of the wrong kind of food.

4. Cause permanent weight loss even if the consumer stops using the product.

You have to permanently change your lifestyle in order to lose weight and keep it off. If you stop using the product and neither change your eating habits nor exercise, you will gain weight again. Now the only question remaining is, if you want to use that specific product (especially critical with diet pills) for the rest of your life just to keep that weight off.

5. Block the absorption of fat or calories to enable consumers to lose substantial weight.

Even legitimate and prescribed fat blockers have to be used in combination with a dietary change in order to achieve significant weight loss. Pills alone won't make you slim.

Again: you cannot achieve significant weight loss just by washing down your burger and fries with diet pills. The calories you consume cannot be miraculously neutralized by any pill. A healthier diet will also benefit your level of cholesterol and your blood pressure.

6. Safely enable consumers to lose more than three pounds per week for more than four weeks

If you lose more than 3 pounds per week you risk getting gallstones and are endangering your health in many other ways, too. If the product claims that no dieting is required it is false for that reason also - as was shown before.

7. Cause substantial weight loss for all users.

Every body is different, has a different metabolism, needs and abilities. It is simply not true that the same product will result in a significant weight loss for anyone using it.

Every type of medication or medical device targets a specific group of people. Within the large group of obese people there are many subcategories as people are overweight for different reasons. Hence, the same pill, lotion or device cannot guarantee to lead to a reduction in weight of any user.

 

The following statements are from respective ads for Sauna Belt, Melt Belt and Slimming Belt. Just read them and check if any of the FTC indicators match the ads for these products. Make up your own mind.

Sauna Belt: The Sauna Pro Deluxe advance heat systems sweats away unwanted fat, eliminate cellulite, lose weight and ease muscle pain, all while in the comfort of your own home. Just apply the Sauna Belt around the chosen body part and let the belt do all the work.

Melt Belt: Lose Inches And Pounds Without Diet Or Exercise. The secret is that you use your body's own heat as you gently massage away unwanted bulges with this amazing ultra-thin rubber belt.

Slimming Belt: The swaying vibration with large arc will make the human body carry out sympathetic vibration and accelerate the blood circulation of the body, speed up the metabolism and achieve double effects of fat dissolving and body slimming.

 

5 Tips To Help You Stop Snoring Tonight

 

5 Tips To Help You Stop Snoring Tonight

Word Count:
389

Summary:
Did you know that there are proven methods to help you stop snoring immediately? No more restless nights. No more arguments with your spouse or sleeping in separate rooms. Individuals who snore are all too familiar with these scenarios, but it doesn't have to continue.

Tip 1
Eliminate the presence of dust, pet hair and cigarette smoke from your home. These types of allergens make it difficult to breathe and especially bothersome for individuals who have been diagnosed wi...

Keywords:
sleep apnea,snoring treatments,sleeping disorder,snoring remedy,stop snoring, snoring, snoring aids

Article Body:
Did you know that there are proven methods to help you stop snoring immediately? No more restless nights. No more arguments with your spouse or sleeping in separate rooms. Individuals who snore are all too familiar with these scenarios, but it doesn't have to continue.

Tip 1
Eliminate the presence of dust, pet hair and cigarette smoke from your home. These types of allergens make it difficult to breathe and especially bothersome for individuals who have been diagnosed with allergies. When breathing becomes difficult, air passages are restricted and this leads to snoring. Lying down at night can make these problems worse, so it's best to rid your home of allergens and always use air filtration units in every room of the home, especially in the bedroom.

Tip 2
Use an anti-snoring device, such as the Sleep Genie from Odyssey Direct Solutions, Inc. This product is doctor tested and approved. It is made of a nylon lycra blend so that it fits comfortable on the head and below the jaw. Comfortably supporting the jaw while keeping the mouth closed during sleep is it's primary goal. Individuals who sleep with their mouth closed do not have the ability to snore, which is why the Sleep Genie is a product that has former-snoring sufferers snoozing without a peep.

Tip 3
Sleep on your side instead of your back. Studies show that people who sleep on their back tend to be more likely to snore than those who are side or stomach sleepers.

Tip 4
If you suffer from allergies, sinus infections or have been diagnosed with a cold or the flu, try inhaling steam from hot running water before bedtime. This will help to open up the air passages naturally and allow you to breathe easier, which may reduce snoring

Tip 5
Try using two standard pillows instead of one. With your head elevated slightly, your air passages may not become as restricted. Often, passages become blocked when fatty tissue in the throat relaxes and makes it difficult to breath. Snoring is often the result, but having an extra pillow may help to curb the problem.

This article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be used as, or in place of, professional medical advice. Before beginning any treatment for snoring, please consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and remedy.

 

Great Ways To Enrich Your Children’s Conscience

Great Ways To Enrich Your Children's Conscience

Word Count:
376

Summary:
Children are living with curiosity. They learn lots of things in life, gifted naturally with intuition, and open toward everything they find.

Everything seems to be interesting to them. That's why they want to know about many things. It's indeed a sign of good development.

Parents need to help children develop their conscience, which will be a great means of getting spiritual experiences. Through these, they'll learn about self-esteem and moral values.

Of course pa...

Keywords:

 

Article Body:
Children are living with curiosity. They learn lots of things in life, gifted naturally with intuition, and open toward everything they find.

Everything seems to be interesting to them. That's why they want to know about many things. It's indeed a sign of good development.

Parents need to help children develop their conscience, which will be a great means of getting spiritual experiences. Through these, they'll learn about self-esteem and moral values.

Of course parents want children have and familiar with good values in life. As parents, what can you do then? Here are 5 ways you can do to enrich their conscience:

• Give good examples. What you say and do everyday reflect what you think about the world. If you say good stuff, your children will do the same. Children are great imitators. It's important for you to say and do nice things anytime anywhere.

• Listen when they talk. Sometimes your children ask questions that sound silly to adults, like "Mom, where does the sun sleep when the night comes?" Listen to them and answer seriously, "The sun doesn't sleep. It shines in other places in the world." By listening, children will feel that they get respect from their parents.

• Show happiness. Show and share all the happiness and positive energy and thoughts with the children. If you're happy, they're happy too. By doing this, the children will learn that life is enjoyable.

• Introduce them to nature. Tell them that all things happen in the world are connected to each other and that there's a reason for it. For example, water is needed to irrigate plants and plants are food source for other living creatures.

• Be flexible with your rules. Children should be informed about what they should do. However, always take notice on their development. There will be time when they can decide what they want to do. By being flexible with your rules, children will stay cheerful and expressive.

Those 5 tips are actually easy to carry out. Just place yourself as your children's parents and friends as well.

Again, remember that children are good imitators. Once you do or say something bad, there's a great chance that they will do or say the same.

 

4 Parenting Styles

4 Parenting Styles

Word Count:
369

Summary:
Every grandmother and grandfather will tell you hilarious stories of their children when they were first born. And for every funny and touching story they have, they will be able to tell you another for every hardship they encountered. Parenting is something that is done in many different ways by each parent. The following are four general styles employed by parents.

Authority: Authoritarian parents rule on just that: authority. Commands are given to children that they mus...

Keywords:
parenting,children,kids,parents

Article Body:
Every grandmother and grandfather will tell you hilarious stories of their children when they were first born. And for every funny and touching story they have, they will be able to tell you another for every hardship they encountered. Parenting is something that is done in many different ways by each parent. The following are four general styles employed by parents.

Authority: Authoritarian parents rule on just that: authority. Commands are given to children that they must follow regardless of the circumstances. If these commands are not followed, harsh punishment will ensue. These parents do not welcome feedback from their children. In fact, it is met with severe punishment. The children tend to be quiet and unhappy. They have more of a fear than a love for their parents. Male children have trouble dealing with anger and female children have trouble facing adversity due to their heavily structured life where nothing ever changes.

Indulgent: Indulgent parents tend to be described as lenient. They allow immature and childish behavior. These parents expect the children to learn from their mistakes and to fend for themselves in most times of need. These parents tend to be democratic and allow for feedback from there children on issues. They will hear both sides of an argument and usually make a compromise. Indulgent parents usually avoid confrontation with their children by all means, but do tend to be more involved and emotionally closer to their children.

Authoritative: Authoritative parents are a combination of the two styles previously mentioned. They are the happy medium. While expecting proper behavior from their children, they welcome feedback and questioning on certain issues. They're able to demand things of their children but are also able to respond to what they're child says, questions and requests. These children tend to be the happiest, most confident and self assured of all the mentioned parenting styles. It is very difficult to be a purely authoritative parent.

Passive: Passive parenting is being completely uninvolved. These parents may never be home due to immaturity, work or the like. These children are usually raised by grandparents, older siblings, babysitters or themselves. There is no parental involvement at all.

We wish you many happy stories!

 

4 Blocks to Building a Lifelong Relationship with Your Daughter

4 Blocks to Building a Lifelong Relationship with Your Daughter

Word Count:
1571

Summary:
Learn how to develop and maintain a lifelong, happy, giving relationship with your daughter and still be her parent now!

Keywords:
relationship daughter mother trust communication listening parenting

Article Body:
As with every generation, mothers and daughters share a special bond.  Though one is not quite a woman and one, in many ways, is still no longer a girl – they each bear the qualities of each other.  Little girls want to grow up fast, and dear sweet moms want to regain their youth.  Mothers also know how important it is to be a good role model for their daughters.

So, with only the best of intentions, moms and daughters travel their journeys through life.  It is every mother's hope that their daughter grow to be strong, independent, caring, and giving.  A mother's dream is to enjoy the fruits of her labor (no pun intended) …to know that her daughter is happy, confident, and kind to all.  There are many detours and roadblocks along the way, but you can overcome them using these four building blocks to obtain and maintain a relationship with your daughter that will last a lifetime!  Because of your efforts in developing this relationship now, not only will you enjoy a close unique friendship with your daughter, you will also pass on to her the wonderful gift of future strong relationships with her own children.  Really, what can be more important and rewarding than that?  Not much, it ranks right up there at the top!

Life is based on building blocks.  Relationships, too, are based on the same.  Given the tools, you can build yours strong…strong to last the bumps in the road and the trials of life.  A strong foundation provides the anchors to weather any storm.  It's never too late to begin.  With each new day comes renewal, forgiveness, and a positive step towards building once again. 

BLOCK #1…TRUST.  Without trust, any relationship doesn't stand a chance!  Trust often is confused as a "given".  A God given right!  As a loving mother, your daughter has grown to trust YOU.  She knows you will pick her up when you say you will.  She knows that she is cared for and provided for by YOU.  Your daughter also knows your love is unconditional and that regardless of her doings, you'll be there.  She might get yelled at, but she TRUSTS you above all.  Realize that YOU have earned her trust through word, credibility, and actions. 

How about her perception of earning trust?  Each young lady must understand that TRUST is earned.  The same way YOU earned her trust in YOU!  Ask yourself:  Why is it that sometimes we feel the need to accredit our children with attributes that should be earned?  Our daughters need to understand that trust is patient.  The small steps/small rewards process is a journey to gaining their independence.  They need to take responsibility for earning the trust, and guarding it dearly, as one of the most valuable aspects of your shared relationship.  When you, as her mother, make this important, it becomes important.

There are five steps to establishing trust between a mother and a daughter.  Each important and well guarded.  They include:  HONESTY; AWARENESS; FOLLOW UP; CONSEQUENCE; and finally, PRIVILEGE.  Knowing each of them and how to apply these steps to a working relationship is key in maintaining a loving relationship.

BLOCK #2…COMMUNICATION.  Funny when our children are born, we seem so in tuned to their needs.  We know the difference between a hungry cry and a mad cry.  We can sense the slight mood change and worry for hours that there is a cold coming on.  As our little girls grow, we teach them to talk.  We repeat sounds and clap for joy when they say "ball" and "Mama".  We are elated to know that our little girls are on their way.  We pay close attention to all of their needs and kiss them softly and quietly goodnight. 

Just because we teach language, an ensemble of "sounds" does not mean we teach communication.  Communication as defined by Webster is: an act of transmitting OR an exchange of information or opinions.  Think about this, "an act of transmitting" which can mean giving orders, commands, and/or instructions.  This of course is necessary at times.  It means we mean what we say – and do it!  No questions, no discussion.  This form of communication is certainly acceptable and appropriate at times. Taking the other side of the definition, "an exchange of information" we understand this to be a form of exploring another's opinion, thoughts, and logic.  This too is very important.  As a matter of fact, this is the foundation of effective communication involving two people. 

When does it start?  As our girls learn their words at the age of 2, they also begin to learn communication skills.  These skills are mostly taught by our physical reactions and not our verbal capabilities.

Physical reactions involve the delivery of our words, the tone of our voices, and the actions of our body.  It is not about getting through – it's about logical reasoning and openness to understanding another human being.  Since your daughter has already achieved a level of trust in you, she will embrace your skills of communication if delivered in a manner that support her best interests without threatening her own desires.  YOU, as the parent, are in control at all times.  YOU just need the tools to help educate your daughter on the ways of the world.  With these tools and exercises, you are able to begin to lay the strong foundation of open-minded, free exchange of information without losing your position of authority.  Remember communication can be a "two way street" or a single command.  Your choice, your control.

BLOCK #3…EFFECTIVE LISTENING.  Now that we have defined communication, I urge you…don't spend too much time talking.  Teach by actions as well! How?  It's easy…(once you understand how). Spend a lot of time listening!!!  Effective listening provides an avenue showing insight into your daughter's life.  There is so much you can learn by listening and observing.  Listening not only involves what your daughter says, it involves what others say too.  This includes her friends, teachers, enemies and anyone she has contact with.  I'm not suggesting you spy or have "reports back".  Just listen – you'll learn more than you can imagine.  Listening is a skill.  Creating environments of opportunity is what you want to do.  For example…Car pools are painful to be sure, but when you pick up a bunch of her friends, keep the music to a soft level -  don't talk – just listen!  The girls will be open with their chatter and you'll be able to interpret not only the quality of her friendships, but the collective views of the group.  This can be very valuable in future conversations you may have with your daughter.  It's also a great way to get to know her friends!  Subtle suggestions from your side will have a better impact if you are more informed...remember what you learned regarding communication…Since your daughter has already achieved a level of trust in you, she will embrace your skills of communication if delivered in a manner that support her best interests without threatening her own desires.  YOU, as the parent, are in control at all times.

BLOCK #4…LETTING GO.  Letting go is the ongoing process we all deal with.  When, how, just enough, not too much.  Knowing when to allow your daughter to find her way and knowing when to hold her hand and guide her.  There will be times when your heart breaks for her, when you want to  take her pain, her place, her path – but the same lessons we've learned, so too shall they. We realize we can't (and should not) always shield her from everything.  If you think about it, looking back on our own life – some of the most painful situations taught us the most powerful life lessons.  Whether that was empathy and compassion for others, or our ability to forgive and move on; whatever crisis we face we have a choice – We can choose to be "bitter or better".  It's a choice.  In being there for your daughter, while letting go you provide the strength she'll need to stand on her own.  Through pain we grow and through growth we become whole.  Sometimes there are no words, sometimes silence and solidarity speak louder than any great speech.  If you have built upon the three previous blocks, letting go will be a natural process of love.  There is no fear where love dwells. Your goal is accomplished – you have the strong foundation for a lifelong, healthy relationship with your daughter.

Being there involves just that…being there as a friend, a parent, a role model, a mother.  Learning today how to build and enjoy a mother/daughter relationship is the best gift you will ever give to both yourself and your daughter.  This is a gift that can be passed down from generation to generation, building stronger and deeper each time. 

Learning about enriching your relationship with your daughter is one of the most valuable educations you will ever do for yourself.  The building blocks can show you the way.  From beautiful baby girl in your arms, through the turbulent teens, the age of independence and self discovery, to watching her gain total confident independence.  Your reward is knowing that your job of parenting has now become your fruit of friendship.

 

Ways To Inspire A Love Of Reading In Your Children

Ways To Inspire A Love Of Reading In Your Children

Word Count:
539

Summary:
If your child is showing little interest in reading, there is hope. Sometimes moms and dads have to get sneaky, but you can still turn your child into a reader, even if he is reluctant about it.

1. The Early Bedtime trick.
One of my favorite ways to get my kids to read is something they hopefully will not figure out until they have kids of their own. Two words "Early Bedtime".

You might be wondering how an increase in sleep can help your child to spend more time readin...

Keywords:
3 Ways to Inspire a Love of Reading in your Children

Article Body:
If your child is showing little interest in reading, there is hope. Sometimes moms and dads have to get sneaky, but you can still turn your child into a reader, even if he is reluctant about it.

1. The Early Bedtime trick.
One of my favorite ways to get my kids to read is something they hopefully will not figure out until they have kids of their own. Two words "Early Bedtime".

You might be wondering how an increase in sleep can help your child to spend more time reading. Well, here's the trick. Set their bedtime for 45 minutes to an hour before they need their lights out.

Here's how our bedtime routine goes. The kids brush teeth and use the bathroom. Then I read them their stories. This is all done before their official bedtime. Then, I simply give them an option. I say "It's time for bed, now. Would you like lights out or would you like to stay up and read for a bit?"

Unless they are really tired, they'll always choose to read awhile. I do not have to beg nor manipulate them into reading. In fact, they think it's their idea and they have grown to love their chance for a 'late' bedtime. Then, I back off. I don't try to instruct them in any way, nor help them choose books. This is their time. They can choose whichever book they like and look at it however they like until I come in to kiss them goodnight and turn their lights out. Of course, if they want me to stay and listen to them read, I'm more than happy to comply. Try it. It works.

2. Summer reading incentives.
You can sign up for a summer reading program at pretty much any library in the country. If your local library does not have a summer reading program, then create one at home, with rewards for reading books. You can use a Monopoly (or Life) board and allow your child to move one space for each book he reads. Or if you want to have more fun, let him roll the dice each time he reads a book and have prizes available for passing certain points.

Make sure the rewards are something very desirable. If your child values time with you more than toys, then set a date together doing his favorite thing. If he values a certain toy, let him earn it. Or let him earn a chance to get out of his regular chores. Take him to his favorite restaurant. Just have fun with it and he will, too.

3. Read the book before you can see the movie.
This is a standard in our home. We won't go see any movie until we've read the book. Whether my husband and I read the book to the kids or they read it alone, each member of the family can go see the movie after the book is read. So, if your child is looking forward to seeing the next Chronicles of Narnia movie, the next Harry Potter movie or the next Lemony Snicket movie, they'll have to read the book first.

That's it. Three easy ways to turn your child into a reader for life.

 

Reasons Mom Should Have A Hobby

Reasons Mom Should Have A Hobby

Word Count:
356

Summary:
Moms these days are so very busy, but we're more stressed than ever before and in need of lifestyle choices that help us be happier. Pursuing a hobby may be just the ticket.

Here are a few reasons why a hobby is a great idea, even for a busy Mom.

Having a hobby relieves stress and tension

Spending time with a hobby replaces negative thoughts and replaces them with positive thoughts and feelings. Having a hobby or creative outlet can lift your spirits and help with de...

Keywords:
crochet, embroidery, sewing, tennis, hobby, hobbies, mom

Article Body:
Moms these days are so very busy, but we're more stressed than ever before and in need of lifestyle choices that help us be happier. Pursuing a hobby may be just the ticket.

Here are a few reasons why a hobby is a great idea, even for a busy Mom.

Having a hobby relieves stress and tension

Spending time with a hobby replaces negative thoughts and replaces them with positive thoughts and feelings. Having a hobby or creative outlet can lift your spirits and help with depression.

Unlike passive activities like television viewing, a hobby provides intellectual stimulation while simultaneously relaxing you. Repetitive actions like those used in knitting are especially calming.

Hobbies help you parent better

We are so good at signing our children up for lessons and classes and encouraging them to have hobbies, even paying for these classes and driving them to and fro! But we forget that we also need to learn new things and grow as people. Hobbies also connect you with other people who share your interests.

A hobby can help you maintain your separate identity as a real person and not just as Mom. This models healthy habits and boundaries for our kids.

Hobbies provide a refreshing change from your daily routine

If you're a stay at home Mom, you may be frustrated because at the end of the day you can hardly point to anything you've "done". This is because of the repetitive nature of housework and childcare.

In generations past, women pursued hobbies like quilting, sewing, knitting, crochet and embroidery not only because they were enjoyable but because they provided tangible value to the family, either providing clothing for their backs or much needed income.

Some hobbies like tennnis, gardening or belly dancing can even provide great exercise with all of its accompanying benefits. The best exercise activity is one that combines mind and body and is enjoyable to pursue.

Why not carve out some time to pursue your hobby Mom? Don't let a shortage of time stop you. Rearrange your schedule and put YOU back in it, and start carving out time for your favorite pastime.

 

Key Challenges To Reduce Homework Time and Stress - What Parents Can Do

Key Challenges To Reduce Homework Time and Stress - What Parents Can Do

Word Count:
453

Summary:
Tips on how parents can help their children with their homework and stay calm, when they have attention and/or vision issues.

Keywords:
dyslexia, homework, learning disabilities, attention, reading, self-esteem, math, vision

Article Body:
Parents have asked us why homework takes their child 2, 3 and even 4 times longer than their peers and what they can do about it.  This article defines the 3 key issues and what parents can do about it.  Student's key issues often include:

1-  Attention is a major problem, both in class and while doing homework
2-  They often have one or more vision issues – too often these student's eyes are either: not working together; skipping words or lines when reading; or they have difficulty copying off the board
3-  They become tense when doing homework and often lose it

When a student has trouble paying attention in class, they often must be re-taught the information at home.  What makes matters worse is that the students homework time which should have taken 45 minutes gets stretched to 1 and ½ hours due to re-teaching, and then to over 2 hours because they cannot stay focused. 

Vision issues impact their homework in several ways:
1-  They have trouble copying the notes off the board correctly and you spend time trying to understand the assignment
2-  They skip words or lines when reading, further complicating life
3-  When they do math problems they do not often align their work correctly, they miss minus and division signs so they make careless errors

Students often get tense when doing homework and battles often follow.  What often happens is:
-  Students are too intimidated to ask questions in class and they simply get stuck 
-  The student or parent gets angry and then …
-  An argument starts which often escalates into a battle royale

What we recommend is that parents:
-  Stay clam when doing homework with your child
-  If your child gets stressed, give them a 1 or 3 minute break
-  Hydrate them before doing homework and while doing homework
-  When reading, use an index card or their finger to keep them on the right line
-  If the attention is a significant issue, consider getting an ADHD diagnosis – if they have a learning disability or attention issues significantly impact their academic performance, the student could qualify for an Individualized Education Plan and they could get accommodations for homework which might include:

  o  Getting copies of notes – either provided by the teacher or by another student
  o  Seating by the teacher to improve attention
  o  Having the teacher check to make sure the student has written the assignment correctly
  o  Having you sign that they completed the assignment and putting it in a place they can find it
  o  An early warning system, where the teacher alerts you to issues early on
-  If vision is a major issue see an optometrist – even if your child has 20/20 vision

At 3D Learner we have helped thousands of parents and students to reduce homework time and stress.

 

“They Should Have Beat Me More” - The Cycle Of Physical Abuse

"They Should Have Beat Me More" - The Cycle Of Physical Abuse

Word Count:
745

Summary:
In December, 2005, I conducted a two-day workshop with men who had recently been released from prison for domestic violence. With the men were their wives, as well as the father of a batterer who was still in prison.

The father, Douglas, sat in front of me, sharing his childhood experiences.

"My momma was a very loving woman – a big-hearted, hard working loving woman," he told me. From my many years of counseling, I knew that my definition of love and his definition of...

Keywords:
domestic violence, physical abuse, abuse, parenting, parenting advice, authoritarian parenting

Article Body:
In December, 2005, I conducted a two-day workshop with men who had recently been released from prison for domestic violence. With the men were their wives, as well as the father of a batterer who was still in prison.

The father, Douglas, sat in front of me, sharing his childhood experiences.

"My momma was a very loving woman – a big-hearted, hard working loving woman," he told me. From my many years of counseling, I knew that my definition of love and his definition of love were likely very different.

"Did she ever beat you?" I asked.

"Oh yeah. She beat me all the time. My daddy beat my momma and my momma beat me. But she beat me because I was bad. I was really bad. Maybe if she had beat me more, I wouldn't have been so bad."

"What did she beat you with?"

"Anything she could get her hands on. Extension cords, wooden spoons. Often I had to go into the yard and pick out the switch."

"How did you feel when you knew you were going to get a beating?"

"Oh, I was terrified. I'd beg and plead and promise not to do again whatever it was she was mad at. But that never worked. I always got the beating. Then after the beating she would tell me that she loved me, that it was for my own good, and that it hurt her more than it hurt me."

"And how were you bad?"

"Well, sometimes I'd come in late, and sometimes I would talk back. Then I got into alcohol and drugs at a very early age. Maybe if she had beat me more, I wouldn't have done the alcohol and drugs."

"Why do you think you did the alcohol and drugs?"

"I was just hurtin' too much. It took me outta all the pain for awhile."

"What was the pain?"

"I don't know. I was just hurtin' a lot."

"Do you think it is possible that you were hurting because the woman who was supposed to protect you was instead hurting you? That she was confusing you by telling you she loved you while she was beating and terrifying you? That there was no one to turn to for safety and nurturing? That you were scared much of the time for fear of the beatings? That you were terribly lonely and could not turn to your parents because they were the ones causing the pain?"

Silence………Then he looked at me in shock. As the light bulb when on in his mind, the tears started rolling down his weathered cheeks. Soon he was sobbing.

"That's right…That's right….The beatings were the problem. More beatings would not have helped. And I beat my children thinking it was the right thing to do, and now my son is in prison for beating his wife and protective services want to take away their daughter. And I almost hit her the other day when she didn't mind me. I'm so glad I didn't. This has to stop! This has to stop!"

I looked around the room. Everyone was in tears. Kathy, the wife of one of the batterers, spoke up, sobbing.

"I've always hit my kids, and no matter what anyone told me about it not being good, it never made sense to me. This is the first time I understand why it's not a good or loving way to discipline my kids. And I can see why I'm having so many problems with my older son and why he is on drugs. He has always been furious with me and I had no idea why. Now I understand. I need to learn a new way to discipline. I'm going to take a parenting class and start reading parenting books."

I hugged Douglas for the profound work he did, and for the effect his work was having on everyone in the room. I thanked God for giving me the privilege of working with these people. All of them, it turned out, had been severely beaten as children.

I am deeply grateful to James Beard who conducts workshops within the prison with batterers and to Lindsay Wagner, who also works with these men and their families. Both of them were assisting me at this workshop. We all smiled at each other in deep gratitude for the healing that was taking place.

 

"Safety First" Tips For Water Fun

"Safety First" Tips For Water Fun

Word Count:
283

Summary:
There may be few better ways to spend a hot day than at the beach, lake, water park or swimming pool but amid all the fun and games it is important to put safety first.

Keywords:
"Safety First" Tips For Water Fun

Article Body:
There may be few better ways to spend a hot day than at the beach, lake, water park or swimming pool but amid all the fun and games it is important to put safety first.

Learning to swim and be safe in and around the water are important survival skills. Accidents only take a few seconds to occur, but they can often be prevented by ensuring your loved ones follow simple water safety guidelines.

Pioneers in swimming instruction and water safety, the nation's YMCAs are celebrating 100 years of group swimming instruction to children and adults. The YMCA offers these tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe in and around the water during the summer and at any time of year:

; Make sure children are supervised by an adult at all times.

; No one, not even adults, should ever swim alone.

; Be prepared in an emergency by learning lifesaving, first aid and CPR techniques.

; Always have a stocked first aid kit, phone, emergency numbers and sunscreen close at hand.

; Follow the posted rules in any water environment.

; Backyard pools should have posted rules, ring buoy and security fences with self-closing gates and childproof locks.

; If you have an above-ground pool, secure and lock the steps or remove them completely when not in use.

; Be aware of water depth, incline and any underwater obstructions before diving. Never dive in water less than nine feet deep.

; Children should use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Avoid inflatable toys including armbands or "swimmies"-they can be dangerous, giving a false sense of confidence.

; And finally, everyone should learn swimming and basic water safety skills. The YMCA offers swimming classes for all ages and levels.

 

"Clean Your Plate" Is Not Always The Way To Go For Healthy Kids

"Clean Your Plate" Is Not Always The Way To Go For Healthy Kids

Word Count:
467

Summary:
Like most parents, you want your children to be healthy. However, not everything your parents did is necessarily what experts consider to be most healthful now.

Keywords:
"Clean Your Plate" Is Not Always The Way To Go For Healthy Kids

Article Body:
According to obesity researchers, the United States obesity rate has more than doubled for preschoolers and adolescents-and more than tripled for ages 6 to 11-over the past 30 years. Obese children are at greater risk for health problems such as diabetes and heart disease, and often carry these problems into adulthood.

So, how do parents help children, and the entire family, eat healthier, both at home and away-from-home?

"Talk to your pediatrician, family doctor or registered dietitian to determine the healthiest weight goals for the entire family," said nutrition expert Jenifer Bland-Campbell, "then make a plan to tackle the issue."

She offers these tips to help parents help their families eat more healthfully:

; Eat at least one meal together daily, at regular intervals to discourage snacking.

; Prepare healthy dishes for the whole family, not just special foods for an overweight child.

; Don't use food as a reward, comfort or punishment.

; Watch portions. "Clean your plate" is not always the way to go.

; Eat slowly. It takes almost 20 minutes for the brain to register that the body is full.

; Encourage water or skim or 1% milk instead of high-calorie, sugary drinks.

; Getting kids to eat at least five servings of vegetables and fruits each day will not be easy, but focus on the colors to make it more fun. Visit www.5aday.org for more tips.

; Use low-fat or fat-free dressings, mayonnaise and dairy items at home as if they are the full-fat versions. Kids will take your cues. Ask for the same items on the side when eating away-from-home.

; Take the stairs. When you go shopping, park the car farther away from the store and walk.

; Limit television, video games or computer time.

; Replace mayonnaise and cheese on burgers or sandwiches with catsup, mustard or barbecue sauce.

; Stick with items that are baked, broiled, steamed or poached-not fried.

; Ask for nutritional information when eating out.

; Look beyond the children's menu, often limited to fried, high-calorie, high-fat foods. Split one healthier adult entrée between two children.

; Ask for a takeout container and put some of the food in before you eat.

Ask that bread, beverages and tortilla chips be served with the meal, not beforehand.

"Parents can help children reach wellness goals by first making healthy changes at home, then teaching kids what to do away from home," said Bland-Campbell. "Healthy eating does not happen overnight, but children take cues from their parents and will learn behaviors over time."

Bland-Campbell is a registered dietitian with ARAMARK, a company that manages food service programs at businesses, colleges, hospitals, and approximately 4,000 schools across the country.

You can find research on the away-from-home nutritional preferences of Americans at ARAMARK'S Web site, There, parents can find their own dining style and receive tips from dietitians on more ways to eat better.

 

and she pushed them, and they flew! more inspiration for control freak parents

and she pushed them, and they flew!  more inspiration for control freak parents

Word Count:
728

Summary:
You cannot catch a child's spirit by running after it.  You must stand still, and for love it will soon itself return. -Arthur Miller

Keywords:
parenting advice, discipline, power struggles, controlling kids, behavior problems, difficult children, strong willed children, parenting coach

Article Body:
You cannot catch a child's spirit by running after it.  You must stand still, and for love it will soon itself return. -Arthur Miller

This became evident to me several summers ago, when I spent 6 weeks suffering with a severe case of hives all over my body.  When the itching first began, the only way to find relief was to lie absolutely motionless.

My kids, who are delightfully self-entertaining, went about their business for the first few hours, checking in on me occasionally to see if I needed anything.  As the day wore on, they realized that I was a sitting duck.  They set up camp on my king size bed, and we proceeded to have some very deep and thought-provoking conversations. 

I doubt these interactions would have occurred if I had been my usual productive and bustling self.  I probably would have interrupted the quiet time that was necessary for their questions to emerge in order to jump up and fold the laundry before it wrinkled. 

I hardly ever sit still when I'm healthy.  There's always so much to do.  Hives taught me lots of important things ... not the least of which is that the world will not collapse if I don't hold it up.  Sure, I fell behind on things.  For the first time in my life I left phone calls unreturned, and dishes in the sink, and laundry wet and wrinkled for days. 

But the sun continued to rise and set anyway.  I didn't lose any friends due to my poor response time.  And my kids learned how to take care of dirty dishes and clothes.
 
My son is a budding chef, and he had lots more freedom in the kitchen when I wasn't there telling him what to do or how to do it better.  He was so proud to serve us the delicious meals he had prepared.

I'm sure you know where I'm going with this.  Sometimes the best thing we can do for our kids is drop out and let them experience their own competence.  My kids blossomed during my down time.  I think it was really great for them to feel needed and important; to make a contribution to the family that really mattered. 

Yeah, it's sad that it took a nasty case of hives for me to realize that I was not giving them enough opportunities to experience their own competence, but so be it.  Now I know.  True confessions of a compulsive caretaker.

Testing my lessons learned, I asked my son if he would fix a towel hook that had fallen off the wall.  He seized the mission with zest, gathering all his tools together and tackling the problem with great concentration.
 
I stayed busy elsewhere in the house and left him alone.  I'll never forget the look on his face when he came to tell me the job was done.  Not only had he fixed the hook, but he had even cleaned up the mess and put all the tools away!

I've realized that the best way to love my kids has changed as they've grown older.  It's not so much about taking care of them anymore.  Now they need opportunities to discover their ability to take care of themselves. 

I've graduated from being their source to being their resource.  My job has changed from doing things for them to expressing my confidence that they can learn to do things for themselves.

Just in the nick of time, too.  I've been craving uninterrupted opportunities to write and think and meditate.  I'm relieved to know that I can take this time for myself without feeling that I am depriving them somehow. 

I guess I needed the reassurance that it was ok, even good for them, that I wanted space to myself.  Mama Bird at some point needs to get tough on her babies while getting them ready to fly.  Maybe Mother Nature gives her a helping hand by offering her the tool of irritation to toughen her up so she does what must be done.

Traditionally it's been hard for me to trust that even my irritation could be ok.  Once more, I have been reminded that all is truly as it should be.  And for that, I am grateful.