How to Create Affirmations to Improve Your Self-Esteem

How to Create Affirmations to Improve Your Self-Esteem



These days, our self esteem can be compromised by almost anything. We are bombarded with unrealistic images of what we should look like, what we should have and how we should live. When our reality does not meet with the fantasy, we can begin to feel bad about ourselves and feel our self esteem plummet.

For some of us, low self-esteem has always been an issue. We have struggled with how we see and feel about ourselves. Sometimes this has been compounded by unpleasant events, failures, failed or toxic relationships etc.

If your self esteem is low or could use some improving, consider changing the way you see yourself. One way, to do this is to create personal affirmations that will help you work on that. Affirmations are positive declarations that can be used to change your self perception and habits for the better. Here are some tips to help you create your own affirmations that will help improve your self-esteem.









Tips & Warnings










Consider reading positive self-help books that offer affirmations or advice on ways to look at yourself in a positive light.








Add any affirmations that you find useful to your affirmation list.








Take anything not so good or that does not seem to be negative and turn it into a positive. You will be amazed at how the change in your perspective can change how you feel about the situation. This in turn, can change how you behave and what happens in your life.








This is a process that may not be complete in a few days. This is only the beginning in a process to delve deep and address issues that you are facing or dealing with. Continue to go through the process and add affirmations to your list until you find a change in the way you see and feel about yourself.








Affirmations are great to write, but you must actually say them aloud every day for them to be effective.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2160482_affirmations-improve-selfesteem.html

How to Create a Formula for Good Health

How to Create a Formula for Good Health



Chinese medicine is an ancient healing art going back at least 3,000 years. Traditional Chinese medicine doctors create personalized herbal formulas for optimal wellness. Creating your own simple formula for good health requires a basic understanding of the principles and a willingness to experiment with your own health. Take a chance on your body and learn how to get healthy. You deserve it.







Things You'll Need:





Vitamin C




Calcium supplement




Therapist









1


Learn about your body and what makes it tick. Read books on Chinese medicine and its origins to get an understanding of the material. Create a health formula from your reading that you can follow daily.





2


Start the morning off with a daily regimen of vitamins to improve your health. Take recommended doses of vitamin C and calcium to strengthen your immune system and bones. Drink a glass of orange juice instead of water with all of your daily medication. Take your pills daily to keep your body in sync. One missed pill puts your whole body out of balance.





3


Get your qi, your body's energy source, back to normal by keeping active. Take a morning bike ride or walk around your block. Focus your mind on the activity and give yourself time to wake up before starting your work day. Impulsive actions reflect poorly on you physically and mentally.





4


Create a yin and yang type diet by balancing meals with healthy foods and your favorites. Reduce the amount of fast food you eat. You can still eat your favorite food, but order it only once a week instead of three times. Cook at least two meals a day and create different food combinations to keep your diet interesting. For example, add some chicken to your spaghetti or your Caesar salad.





5


Deal with stressful situations by taking up yoga to relax and develop your flexibility. Talk with a therapist about any personal issues that hinder your life. Also schedule a massage to physically rub the tension out of your body. If the massage fails, have a glass of wine to calm your nerves.








Tips & Warnings










Give yourself some time to escape from your everyday problems. Erase another hectic work week by doing your favorite activities. For example, have a spa day or go camping with your friends. On this day, think about anything but your problems.








Explore alternative formulas to becoming healthy. See an alternative medicine doctor if conventional medicine has failed. Take the Chinese herb your mother recommended to help fight your cold. Keep an open mind about possible cures for what ails you.








Don't deprive yourself too much of your favorite bad habits (e.g., junk food or buying designer shoes). Give your schedule and diet some flexibility to keep yourself from giving up. Balance some pleasure with health and you'll enjoy life more.








Avoid getting too much or too little sleep because your qi gets run down and susceptible to illnesses. Develop a regular sleep schedule and stick to it. Put aside any remaining work for tomorrow--one day won't make a difference.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2318713_create-formula-good-health.html

How to Create a Cozy Meditation Area in a Bedroom

How to Create a Cozy Meditation Area in a Bedroom



It's important to introduce calm into our hectic lives as a way to reduce stress, tension and anxiety. One way to do this is to create a section in your home exclusively for meditating. The most practical place to put it would be in your bedroom since you're likely to remain undisturbed there. The following tips will help you create a cozy meditation area in your bedroom.









1


Figure out which corner of your bedroom you'd like to use for the meditation corner. It doesn't need to be large, but it should be big enough for you to sit comfortably and stretch out your legs.





2


Clean the area thoroughly. Remove all the clutter. Dust all services. Wash the walls and the floor.





3


Purchase a comfortable mat, blanket, cushion or chair for the meditation corner. Also place a small table in the corner of your room. Make sure the table has sturdy legs since you may want to put lit candles on it during your meditation session. If space is really limited, you can use a tray.





4


Separate the meditation corner with a screen or some other partition. If space is limited and money is tight, you can use the small table as a partition.





5


Beautify your corner. What you use will depend on your personal tastes. It can be flowers, candles, incense, an assortment of inspirational quotations, a picture of a relaxing scene or crystals.








Tips & Warnings










If noise is an issue in your home, you can drown most of it by creating some white noise with something like a fan. White noise tends to be unnoticeable and also blocks out other noises. Remember, for meditation to be as effective as possible, it's crucial that you have silence.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2238847_create-cozy-meditation-area-bedroom.html

How to Create a Beach at Home While Bathing

How to Create a Beach at Home While Bathing



The beach has long been a source of relaxation and stress relief. If you live away from the shores of the ocean, you can recreate the beach effectively in your home through a luxurious bath. Here are the steps to do so.







Things You'll Need:





Candles




Audio recording of the beach




Beach pictures




Bath tub




Beach drink




Bath oils









1


Use every one of your senses when creating a beach experience while taking a bath. Start with your sense of smell with a number of ocean mist candles. These candles can be found very inexpensively; the more the better. These candles will help you to really build the smell of the beach while you relax in your stress-busting bath.





2


Visualize the beach by hanging a few pictures of your favorite beach trip in the bathroom while you take your bath. This is particularly effective if you have some larger pictures. Anything that can help you relive the sights of the beach will do. Some seashells do the trick nicely if you spread them around the edges of the tub.





3


Pamper your skin and your sense of touch by using some bath oils or spritzers that have a beach smell. These oils will leave your skin feeling refreshed and will also aid your efforts to recreate the smell.





4


Play a audio tape or CD of the ocean waves crashing on the shore to take advantage of the sounds of the beach. This is absolutely vital to your beach bath experience.





5


Mix up your favorite beach drink to bring the ever popular tastes of the beach to your bath tub. A great blizzard or Mai Tai will liven up the party a bit.








Tips & Warnings










Do put plenty of time into the set up.








Do allow yourself to relax without being bothered.








Do turn off the phone.








Do not put any electrical devices near your bathtub to avoid electrocution.








Do not put the shells in your bathwater. While authentic it can lead to a very uncomfortable experience.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2289967_create-beach-home-bathing.html

How to Cope with Sacroiliac Joint Pain

How to Cope with Sacroiliac Joint Pain



Roughly speaking, the sacroiliac joint is the connection between your spine and hip. The sacroiliac joint (also called SI joint) acts as a shock absorber and has little movement. An injury to the joint, which could be caused by a fall, can result in long lasting lower back pain. These tips can help you cope with the back pain. Always follow your doctor's recommendations.







Things You'll Need:





Heating pad




Ice pack




Thin pillows or towels




Over-the-counter pain reliever




Foam bed pad




SI belt




Seat cushion









1


Sleeping. Lying in bed can be the most difficult time for someone suffering for sacroiliac joint pain. They can not lie on the sore side and in most cases, can not lie on their back or stomach because rising from a back or stomach position can send sharp pain to the sore hip. To make sleeping a little more comfortable, add a couple inches of foam to the bed. Sleeping on the uninjured side is a given. If remaining on your uninjured side is difficult, try sleeping on a couch where you can press your back against the back of the couch. You can also try placing a thin pillow or folded towels between your knees and down to your ankles to lift the injured side slightly, keeping it more aligned with your spine, to help reduce pain.





2


Medication. The use of over-the-counter NSAIDs, like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) can be extremely helpful. Read the labels; there are risks with taking NSAIDS, particularly over a long time. However, the benefits of using an NSAID to reduce pain and inflammation to give you more mobility is a very important consideration. For severe cases, your doctor may prescribe pain killers and muscle relaxants, or a stronger NSAID.

According to Dr. Ranit Mishori, a Washington, D.C. based doctor and writer for Parade Magazine, it's usually more effective to take medications "around the clock" (every few hours) than to wait for an episode of pain before the next dose.





3


Heat and cold therapy. Take advantage of heat and cold therapy. The type of pad that is filled with gel and can be kept in the freezer will be easier to use and is worth the investment. Buy two, one to keep in the freezer and one to be able to heat in the microwave. The gel pack also takes away concern of falling asleep with an electric heating pad since the gel pack will slowly return to room temperature. When the pain is at its worst, apply an ice pack to help reduce inflammation. Heat can be used to help relax muscles, and is a good thing to use at bedtime. Lie down on your side and lay the pack across the painful hip, leaving it on for up to 30 minutes. If possible, try to establish a routine of a mid-day lie-down break of at least 30 minutes, applying either heat or cold. If you have a small heat/cold pack, you can tuck it inside clothing whether or not you are lying down.





4


Physical Therapy. Learning what exercises are best for you to help tone back and abdominal muscles is quite beneficial. If you are unable to see a physical therapist, check out websites for back exercises directed toward low back pain. Just keep in mind that if the exercise hurts, do NOT continue doing it.





5


Joint restraint. Using a sacroiliac belt when performing household chores may help to reduce over-extending the joint. The belt can be worn under or over clothes.





6


Riding in the car. The jiggling of the car, and especially a sudden turn or hitting bumps can be excruciating. Use seat padding and if a passenger, use pillows on both sides of your body to help reduce and cushion movement. In addition, take along a heat or cold pack and don't forget pain medication.





7


Joint injection. A pain management specialist can inject a numbing solution and anti-inflammatory into the joint. Sounds painful, but it's actually a less painful experience than getting a shot in your arm. The results can be dramatic, leaving you completely or almost pain free. However, this is not a cure, nor will the affects last indefinitely.








Tips & Warnings










A pain management specialist can provide you medications to help you through your pain. It's critical that you also take care of yourself by not doing things that cause you pain. With time, your discomfort will ease.








An alternative to, or in addition to pain management, you might want to try a chiropractor or acupuncturist.








Consider adding supplements like Fish Oil that have been shown to help reduce inflammation.








Though some days you may be on the verge of tears from the pain, if you can practice restraint to allow the joint to heal, you will see an improvement in time.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2259414_cope-sacroiliac-joint-pain.html

How to Cope With a Stutter

How to Cope With a Stutter



Living with a stutter can be frustrating, no matter what your age. Although common in
children
with growing mouth muscles, stuttering is generally considered abnormal in adults and is usually treated as a psychological problem. It is unknown why people stutter, or if everyone stutters for a reason different from everyone else. This writer has had to deal with a stutter almost all of her life. This advice is geared more for the moderate stutterer.







Things You'll Need:





Doctor, dentist or pediatrician




Internet connection




Thesaurus




Library card (optional)




Cassette tape recorder or other recording device







That's Easy For You To Say




1


Go to your doctor, dentist or pediatrician to be sure there isn't any physical reason like a growth that may cause you to stutter. This is especially important if you are an adult who suddenly starts stammering for no reason. If you don't find a physical reason, your doctor may advise you to see a speech therapist or psychologist, suggesting that you have a fear of communication with others.





2


If you are sure that the diagnosis is wrong, record yourself speaking with a cassette tape recorder or other recording device. Record for a couple of hours so that you are sure to record yourself speaking when you don't feel so conscious of being recorded. You want to hear yourself as others hear you.





3


Make note of what sounds you have the most trouble pronouncing. When you are talking from now on, try to substitute other words for those words that give your trouble. Use a thesaurus to find other word options.





4


Read out loud when you can to your pets, toys, artwork or non-judgmental friends. Choose a story you can really get lost in, so you enjoy the exercise.





5


Sing and listen if you stutter. Record if if you think it will help. If you do not stutter when you sing, then pretend that you are singing in monotone or rapping whenever you are speaking.





6


Read as many books on stuttering as you can. Even if you don't agree with the authors, they can still give you some good tips. Check out the website for the Stuttering Foundation of America, too.








Tips & Warnings










Talking in an accent sometimes helps you to speak more clearly, because it is a bit like singing.








A good book to read about stuttering is "Trouble With Explosives" by Sally Kelly (Scholastic, 1976).








Remember, lots of celebrities stutter and are still successful. These celebrities include world-famous singer Carley Simon and the actor James Earl Jones.








Things get better!








Don't think about your stuttering all of the time. Be sure to live as busy and normal a life as possible.








Don't think you have done anything to "deserve" being a stutterer. These things just happen. You wouldn't blame yourself for getting a cold, would you?



http://www.ehow.com/how_4421162_cope-stutter.html

How to Make an Herbal Remedy

How to Make an Herbal Remedy



In this modern age, we have come to rely on synthetic pharmaceuticals and over-the-counter chemical concoctions, when the best and most effective remedies may already be sitting in our kitchens. If you are interested in exploring the use of herbal remedies and would like to begin a healthier, more natural lifestyle, it is easy to get started. Read on to learn how to make an herbal remedy.









1


Find a reputable book on herbal remedies or visit a trained specialist in your area. It is best to find a book that has been written by a naturopathic doctor or formally trained herbalist. There are many amateur "medicine men" out there, so do your research, to find a reputable source.





2


Look for remedies that uses the herbs, fruits and vegetables that grow naturally in your area. Humans adapt to their local environments, therefore locally grown ingredients will work best with your system.





3


Buy a guide book on local flora in your region that explains how to identify and utilize the vegetation that grows wild, where you live. These books can also help you to determine when various plant's growing seasons are and how to store them throughout the year.





4


Shop in natural food stores when you can't pick the plants yourself. The point of an herbal remedy is to avoid harmful chemicals and synthetics, so always buy natural, preferably organic, ingredients.





5


Follow the instructions for the herbal remedy preparation to the letter. The experts who have created these recipes have studied and investigated the best way to create the remedy, so trust them and don't alter their methods of preparation in any way.





6


Experiment. There is always more than one herbal remedy for every ailment, so if you try one remedy and it doesn't seem to be right for you, try something else.





7


Remember that herbal remedies are not limited to things you can grow in an
herb garden
, but also include fruits and vegetables, honey, flowers, tea, grains and just about anything Mother Nature has to offer.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2083061_make-herbal-remedy.html

How to Make an Herbal Cough Remedy

How to Make an Herbal Cough Remedy



There are many over-the-counter cough remedies in many forms, however cough drops don't always have a long lasting effect, syrups often make us feel drowsy and liquid cough remedies often taste horrible. If you are looking for a natural way to curb your cough, there are many herbal remedies that you can prepare easily in your own home, which are often easier and more affordable than other methods. Read on to learn how to make an herbal cough remedy.







Things You'll Need:





8 eucalyptus leaves




Garlic




Honey




6 papaya flowers




2 cups of milk




Eucalyptus oil




Linseed oil









1


Treat a moderate cough by heating two cups of water with six to eight eucalyptus leaves. Add six medium garlic cloves to the water and boil for five minutes. To sweeten the remedy and soothe the throat, stir in a spoonful of honey.





2


Calm a chronic cough by boiling six papaya flowers in 1/2 L of water. Again, honey can help soothe the throat and sweeten the herbal remedy. Drink one cup every half hour.





3


Soothe a strong, rasping cough by slowly boiling five cloves of garlic in two cups of milk. Add a spoonful of honey and drink the remedy as hot as possible. This herbal remedy is especially good for
children
.





4


Make a hot compress with water and a few drops of eucalyptus oil and place it on your throat.





5


Rub linseed oil gently on the chest and back several times a day.








Tips & Warnings










The point of an herbal remedy is to avoid synthetics and chemicals found in over-the-counter cough remedies. Buy your herbs, fruits, oils and honey in a natural food store and always prepare with clean, filtered water.








A cough is not an illness, but a symptom of an illness. None of these remedies can cure a cough, they can only soothe. See a doctor if your cough lasts for more than a week or is accompanied by a fever or other symptoms.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2086140_make-herbal-cough-remedy.html

How to Make a Natural Remedy for Stretch Marks

How to Make a Natural Remedy for Stretch Marks



Almost every woman at some point in their lives will develop stretch marks. They look like red to purplish lines across the body, and with time, they will turn white. Two conditions that tend to make the lines appear are
pregnancy
and obesity. The only way to avoid stretch marks is preventing them. Once the stretch marks develop, they will stay with you forever; but with time and some work, they will be less noticeable. Read on to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Pure water




Borax




Olive Oil




Vitamin E capsule




Plastic Wrap




Petroleum Jelly









1


Dissolve 1/2 tsp. of borax in 2 tsp. of boiling water.





2


Melt 4 tbsp. of petroleum jelly and 4 tbsps. of olive oil together over low heat.





3


Slowly add the borax mixture, stirring to mix thoroughly.





4


Remove the mixture from the heat.





5


Open a capsule of Vitamin E and squeeze its contents into the mixture.





6


Beat the mixture as it starts to cool to emulsify.





7


Rub the mixture onto the stretch marks using a circular massaging motion once it has cooled. Wrap the area with plastic wrap, place a hot towel or heating pad on it, and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Remove the wrap and massage into the skin, wiping off any excess.








Tips & Warnings










The mixture may be stored in an air-tight container for future use in the refrigerator.








Ways to help prevent stretch marks are: a balanced diet, drinking water (at least 8 to 10 glasses a day), taking your vitamins, exercise and not smoking.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2076919_make-natural-remedy-stretch-marks.html

How to Make a Milk Foot Soak

How to Make a Milk Foot Soak



If your feet are hot and achy, everything feels out of sorts. Your feet support you all day long and it is high time to give them a little support back. Try a homemade "feet treat" tonight. Make a milk foot soak and give those tired
dogs
a little extra for all the work they've done that day. Read on to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Vodka




Whole milk




Lemon essential oil




Lemon juice




Whole egg




Peppermint essential oil




Water




Stove or microwave




Large pan




Olive oil




Epsom Salts




Lavender essential oil




Almond oil




Baby oil




Essential oil of choice









1


Heat 7 cups water and 2 cups milk in a large pan on the stove or in the microwave for a simple homemade foot soak. When it's just barely steaming, remove it and test it. It should be just as hot as possible to be comfortable enough to put your feet in. Pour the mixture in a large enough bowl to accommodate both it and your feet. Soak your feet at least 10 minutes to get the maximum benefit. Rinse your feet with clear water and pat them dry. Afterward apply some lotion for a short massage.





2


Mix 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cups milk together well in a pan large enough to hold at least 3 gallons. Add 1 gallon water to this mixture. Soak your feet for at least 10 minutes or until mixture is cool.





3


Combine 1/2 cup lemon juice with 1 whole egg and 1 tablespoon vodka for a homemade moisturizing soak. Add 1 drop lemon essential oil and 1 cup warm whole milk. Massage this into your feet as you soak them about 10 to 15 minutes. Bathe the feet in a container of warm water for another 5 minutes and dry.





4


Warm 4 cups whole milk, 5 to 6 drops
lavender
essential oil and 2 tablespoons Epsom Salt to a gallon of very warm water. Soak your feet for 15 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.





5


Blend 4 cups warmed whole milk, 2 tablespoons almond oil, 2 tablespoons Epsom Salt and 3 drops peppermint essential oil to a gallon of hot water for an invigorating homemade soak. Make certain that the container is large enough that it can hold the water and your feet. Soak your feet for 15 minutes. Rinse and dry.





6


Pour 1 cup instant dry milk, 1 tablespoon baby oil and 4 to 5 drops essential or fragrance oil of your choice into 1 1/2 gallons hot water. Make certain that it isn't so hot that it will burn your skin. Soak your feet for 15 minutes and rinse with adequate amounts of warm water.








Tips & Warnings










Make certain to test the water before submerging the feet to avoid burns.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2089003_milk-foot-soak.html

How to Make a Massage Oil with Herbs

How to Make a Massage Oil with Herbs



Getting a massage is a great way to relax. But, some of the massage oils that are on the market or not made of natural ingredients. This is not healthy for your skin.

The good news is that you can easily make your own herbal massage oil using ingredients that you have on hand or that you can easily find at the supermarket or store.

Here are the steps on how to whip up your own massage oil.







Things You'll Need:





1 tbsp. Your herb of choice--try cinnamon, ginger, peppermint, or vanilla pods




1 cup Light oil of choice--almond oil works well, but you can also use a light kitchen oil such as olive oil




Small saucepan or microwave safe dish




Amber glass jar




1 drop essential oil of choice--use an oil that compliments the herb you choose (optional)









1


Add oil and herb to the small saucepan and heat on the stove at the lowest setting. Heat until the oil is slight warm, about five minutes.





2


You can also use the microwave. Add oil and the herb you chose to a microwave safe dish. Microwave on high 30 seconds.





3


When oil is heated, remove from the heat source (microwave or stove, depending) and let it sit until cool--at least 30 minutes.





4


Strain herb into an amber glass jar. Add 1 to 2 drops of essential oil, if desired.





5


Cover and store in a cool, dark place. This will keep for about a month.








Tips & Warnings










To lengthen the shelf life, place the oil in the refrigerator. Let it warm up before applying to the skin.








Do a patch test on the underside of your wrist first to make sure you aren't allergic. Apply a small amount to the wrist and wait 24 hours to see if you break out.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2080483_herbal-massage-oil.html

How to Organize Hats Stylishly

How to Organize Hats Stylishly



Do you love hats but you don't want them lying around? Display your hats so they look attractive and they won't look like clutter. Organize hats stylishly using these tips and you'll soon have a collection you're proud of displaying.







Things You'll Need:





Hooks



Shelves



Hat boxes









Step
1



Hang white or gold hooks on your wall in two different rows in a diagonal pattern so one hook is not directly under another. Leave enough room for each hat to hang freely. Organize the hats by color, by size or by style.




Step
2



Use matching hat boxes in different sizes to organize your hats around a room. You can get large ones for brimmed hats and small ones for ball hats. Hat boxes are round, square or oval shaped and they can be set up individually or stacked.




Step
3



Buy two different styles of hat boxes and put one pattern in one area of the room and put the other style in another area to create two attractive hat box areas. You can create a Victorian look in a room by decorating with hat boxes that match the room.




Step
4



Shop for a hat rack to hang your smaller hats or baseball hats instead of placing them in a pile. You can buy a hat rack that stands on a shelf or one that hangs from the back of your door. Organize the hats by color or style to make it look tidy or hang them by alternating colors for a more patterned look.




Step
5



Use a drawer or a wooden open style shoe organizer to display your hats. They look tidy and attractive when displayed neatly; you can also find the one you want with ease. Build wooden shelving with different sizes of cubby boxes to display all your hats stylishly.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2270580_organize-hats-stylishly.html

How to organize earrings

How to organize earrings



It doesn't take long for an earring collection to get out of control. If your

earrings


aren't organized, you won't be able to find the pair you're looking for when you need it. Use some or all of these ideas to organize you're earrings.







Things You'll Need:





Earrings



Ice cube trays



Mesh desktop organizer



Ribbons



Hanger



Lace



Window screening



Picture frame



Tea cup or goblet









Step
1



Keep in mind that mesh desktop organizers that you can find at office supply stores or, even better, thrift shops, are perfect for organizing post earrings. You can arrange dozens of earrings in one mesh organizer.




Step
2



Know tackle box inserts, especially the clear ones, are also great for organizing small earrings. Each pair of earrings gets its own compartment, and you can scan them all at once.




Step
3



Understand french hook earrings can dangle over the side of a cute tea cup or goblet. This way you can see all your French hook earrings an even use the center of the cup for another jewelry item such a necklace or bangle bracelets.




Step
4



Remember ice cube trays make a practical container for holding earrings. You probably don't want an ice cube tray sitting out on your dresser, but it may fit nicely in a drawer. You can even stack multiple ice cube trays full of earrings in a drawer.




Step
5



Be aware clip-on earrings can easily snap onto a thick piece of ribbon. Let ribbons dangle from a hanger, and you can organize dozens and dozens of clip-on earrings.




Step
6



Staple a piece of window screening into a picture frame. The earrings fit through the tiny spaces in the screen, and you can see them all at once. Choose a frame that complements the theme in your bedroom or bathroom and your

earring


organizer will fit right in.




Step
7



Find a wide piece of lace and hang it on the wall just from the top. Your earrings can fit in all the holes.







Tips & Warnings









Be creative. Once you start thinking of other ways to use things, you may find many items in your home that could be used for organizing jewelry.








If you haven't worn a pair of earrings in the last year, give it away. It's just clutter.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2276819_organize-earrings.html

How to organize a successful clothing swap

How to organize a successful clothing swap



Hosting a successful clothing swap can be fun and adventurous. If you have several friends that are the same size as you then test it out first amongst yourself. If you want to have more people then you can post flyer's locally or get it out by word of mouth through friends and family







Things You'll Need:





Clothing in good condition you wish to trade



Friends and family members to come









Step
1



Here are tips that should ensure a fun evening of clothing swapping ~

1. Gather all you clothing that is in good shape together and have all your friends and family do the same.




Step
2



2. Invite everyone that you know that you think has great fashion sense and is close to your size and have them invite their friends and family as well. The more people that show up, the more clothing to swap.




Step
3



3. Make sure that you have a couple of full length mirrors available for people to see themselves. If you do not have any them borrow some from a neighbor or someone that you know. Set them up in areas that are available and comfortable for others to check themselves out.




Step
4



4. If two people are fighting over the same item then have them do something fun to settle who gets it first. Like a coin toss or have them each try it on and have a vote in who should get it, or make up some other fun game, whatever you think is fun at the moment.




Step
5



5. Allow all types of clothing so there is a wide variety and not just what is on season or style at the moment. Allow everyone to choose what style they wish to bring as long as it is in good condition.




Step
6



Have fun with it and watch the ladies have fun as well. When there is clothing involved most women do not need anything else to have a good time. It is a fun way of shopping and keeping your money at home. Watching someone else share the appreciation for clothing that you once admired yourself is fun.

Clothes swapping allows you and your friends to be well dressed at a great price.







Tips & Warnings









Be careful about allowing strangers into your home








Try thins with your children's clothing as well








When possible fights arise, find a peaceful solution



http://www.ehow.com/how_2199261_organize-successful-clothing-swap.html

How to Organize a Clothes Swap

How to Organize a Clothes Swap



A clothes swap is a great way to de-clutter your closet and enjoy guilt-free shopping at the same time. Swap participants bring unwanted or unused clothing to a meeting place, where everyone "shops" for a new (and free) wardrobe. Organizing your own clothes swap is a great way to get people together and have some fun.







Things You'll Need:





Unwanted clothing



A swap venue



Several tables



Refreshments (optional)









Step
1



Select a venue. If you are planning a small swap amongst
girlfriends
you can host the clothes swap at someone's home. If you are planning a larger swap, you'll need to find a venue such as a hotel banquet room or coffee shop. If there is a reservation fee involved, consider charging a nominal entry fee for the swap, to recover your costs.




Step
2



Spread the word. Set a
date
for your clothes swap and start spreading the word. Talk to your girlfriends and encourage them to invite their own friends.




Step
3



Set the ground rules. Everyone who attends the swap will want the opportunity to find treasures, not trash. Make a list of swapping rules (like no holes, no stains, etc.) and share them with the participants beforehand.




Step
4



Set up the swap. Label several tables beforehand with clothing types (such as jeans, dresses, shorts, etc.) When the guests arrive, ask them to sort their clothing onto the tables.




Step
5



"Shop" until you drop. Enjoy the free "shopping" spree with your girlfriends.




Step
6



Donate the leftovers. Chances are, you'll have leftover items when the swap has ended. Pick a local thrift store or charity (such as a homeless or domestic violence shelter) and deliver the remaining items to them.







Tips & Warnings









If two people are eying the same item, make it fun by having them draw straws or flip a coin to determine the winner.








Set up a private dressing area or encourage the swappers to wear bathing suits underneath their clothing, so that they can try things on.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2067494_organize-clothes-swap.html

How to Neutralize Chlorine in Bathing Suits

How to Neutralize Chlorine in Bathing Suits



Chlorine smells. It is rumored to turn dyed hair green. It is known to wreak havoc on a favorite swimsuit. While this strong chemical is essential in the pool for the sake of hygiene, it poses a far from friendly environment for bathing suits. To keep a suit in good condition and extends its life, it is necessary to neutralize the effects of residual chlorine.







Things You'll Need:





2 tbsp. vinegar



Chlor-Out



Chlorine-resistant swimsuit









Step
1



Rinse your bathing suit with cool water immediately after

swimming


in a chlorinated pool to help neutralize the effects of the pool chemicals. Don't just hop in the shower while wearing your swimsuit. Remove your suit and run it under cool tap water for a few minutes to get out as much chlorine as you can before washing it.




Step
2



Soak your bathing suit in a sink of very cool water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Vinegar is a good general neutralizer. Don't worry about the smell. You can remove the vinegar scent when you wash your suit.




Step
3



Purchase a bottle of Chlor-Out if you are a frequent pool swimmer. This product added to a sink full of cool water will neutralize the chlorine that remains in your suit following swimming. This is a product used in aquariums, but many swimmers swear by its effectiveness in getting chlorine out of bathing suits and claim it is gentle to the fabric.




Step
4



Shower between your swimming sessions. Don't get out of the pool and sit on a lounge chair before you take the time to rinse off the chlorine. You should ideally remove your suit in the locker room, rinse it well for several minutes in cool water and then put on your swimsuit again.




Step
5



Invest in a swimsuit that is made to be chlorine resistant. Always check the label, where information will be given as to whether the suit is made of chlorine-resistant material.







Tips & Warnings









Switch out bathing suits if you are going to be spending your summer at a pool. By limiting the use of each one and taking proper care of them, they will last longer in the chlorine environment.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228127_neutralize-chlorine-bathing-suits.html

How to Modify a Dress Pattern

How to Modify a Dress Pattern



What to do when you're not a standard size, but want a beautifully fitted dress anyway.







Things You'll Need:





Model



Measuring Tape



Pins



Paper Scissors



Embroidery Snips



Cloth Scissors



Waste Muslin



Adjustable Dress Form



Sewing Machine



Fabric



Thread



Notions



Patience









Step
1



Pick out the dress pattern that you want to modify. Choose pattern sizing by the hip and bust size of the person whom it is for, hereafter called the model.




Step
2



Using tape measure, carefully measure the model's hip, bust, waist, length of back from neck to waist, neck to hip, and neck to heel. Write all measurements down.




Step
3



Adjust dressform to match written measurements precisely.




Step
4



Using paper scissors and embroidery snips for tight corners and pattern notches, carefully cut dress pattern out in the closest approximate size, gotten from the measurements and the size chart featured on dress pattern packages.




Step
5



Lay dress pattern out on waste muslin as if it were the dress material. When satisfied with layout, pin down.




Step
6



Cut dress pattern out of waste muslin with cloth scissors, using embroidery snips for tight corners and pattern notches.




Step
7



Sew all seams together, allowing the seam measurements called for in the dress pattern, usually 5/8th of an inch. Do not hem or add trim, buttons, or fastenings, this is just a model shell.




Step
8



Pin muslin shell onto the dressform at the shoulders for stability. See where the shell does not fit, and use the pins to take up excess fabric until it does fit. Pin excess fabric away from the dressform carefully.




Step
9



Snip away excess fabric and sew seams where the cuts are to make the shell fit properly.




Step
10



Take muslin shell carefully apart with a seam ripper to get the dress pattern you will be using on your good fabric.




Step
11



Lay out muslin dress pattern pieces on your good fabric, aligning all pieces to take advantage of fabric pattern or nap, if there is any. Once happy with the alignment, pin pattern pieces in place, and cut out carefully with cloth scissors.




Step
12



Again with suggested seam allowance, sew all pattern pieces together as per dress pattern instructions. Fit to dress form or model one more time to ensure fit, and pin up hem to desired length. Trim and hem according to dress pattern directions.







Tips & Warnings









Wash all washable fabric before use, as fabric generally comes with sizing. The fabric can shrink upon first washing, so you want to be sure that's before sewing, not after.








If not already familiar with your sewing machine, dig out the manual and make friends with it








If you are going to make a mistake, it is far better to make it on the muslin shell than the good fabric.








It is generally a good idea to try the muslin shell on the model before taking it apart to make sure it really fits.








Measure the hem while it is hanging on either the dressform or the model to ensure it falls evenly all the way around.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2110611_modify-dress-pattern.html

How to Model Swimsuits for a Beauty Pageant

How to Model Swimsuits for a Beauty Pageant



The swimsuit competition can be the most intimidating portion of a
beauty
pageant competition. Plenty of poise and a quick pace can make it easier for the contestant to model her swimsuit in a beauty pageant.









Step
1



Prepare your body prior to the pageant. This competition is sometimes called "physical fitness in swimsuit," so the judges are looking to see how physically fit you are. Stay trim and toned with a
healthy
diet


and frequent exercise. Spend extra time toning your legs and buttocks, as these tend to be problem areas for many women. Your thighs should be super tight when walking the runway to avoid unattractive jiggling. Knowing that your body is in its best possible shape boosts your confidence in the pageant.




Step
2



Secure your swimsuit properly. Use tape or spray adhesive on the bottom of your suit to prevent it from riding up when you walk. If you are a newcomer to the pageant scene, enlist a veteran contestant to assist you with this beauty pageant rite of passage.




Step
3



Choose a high-heeled shoe. This lengthens the leg and gives a leaner silhouette on the stage. Choose a clear pump or nude shoe to avoid distracting footwear.




Step
4



Move with energy, and at a brisk pace. The modeling of a swimsuit should be one of the peppiest most upbeat moments of a pageant. Take advantage of this tempo to strut your stuff and show your personality on stage.




Step
5



Make eye contact with the judges and the audience. This helps show your confidence and helps you connect with the judges. Scan the audience with your eyes while smiling brightly. The swimsuit competition is not only about your body; your face and personality are on display as well.




Step
6



Strike poses that are flattering. A bent knee and an angled pose when you stop and pause is flattering to the figure and shows a certain level of confidence.







Tips & Warnings









Avoid standing with your back to the audience and judges during the swimsuit competition. Make broad sweeping turns and don't pause with your rear end toward the judges. This prevents them from scrutinizing your backside too closely.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2267399_model-swimsuits-beauty-pageant.html

How to Model for American Apparel

How to Model for American Apparel



American Apparel is one of the fastest growing companies in the U.S. More than this, however, the company has transformed itself from a mere fashion concern into a fashion idea, a trend unto itself. Modeling for the company has a very definite meaning, as American Apparel models have a distinctly American Apparel look. Follow a few steps to model for the up-and-coming company.









Step
1



Learn the American Apparel look. It might be difficult to explain in words, but American Apparel has a look. It's mindful of haute couture as it sneers at high fashion; and it evokes the values of fur while putting more store in animal rights than high design. Look at American Apparel catalogs, clothing and videos to try to internalize the image.




Step
2



Act the part. American Apparel look is as much about a swagger and a disinterested look in the eye as it is about clothes. You should innovate your own style on the basis of American Apparel designs, but also take care to carry yourself correctly. It's not a nose in the air, one foot in front of the other demeanor the company is looking for, so be relaxed and casual to act American Apparel cool.




Step
3



Be in the right place at the right time. The company has been known to spot models on the street as well as in its stores. While hanging around the stores is not a bad way to get noticed, working in one of them is even better. Try getting a job as a salesperson as American Apparel to catch someone's eye.




Step
4



Get an agent or talent representation. At the end of the day, a talent agent is most likely to place you in a American Apparel ads. Find a good talent agent in your area who can get you in front of American Apparel marketing execs to give you your chance at becoming a model for the company.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2068155_model-american-apparel.html