Beauty

Hi Guys!

 I posted this quote to my Facebook and so many people wrote me about how it inspired them in their own lives about how they were feeling about themselves. I decided I would print it here on my blog as well for those who did not see it:

 “Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.”
 ― Marilyn Monroe

So true isn't it. In this age of cosmetic quick fixes, I think true unique beauty is being lost. I do think beauty lies in the little quirky features that make "YOU" "YOU". So, don't pick yourself apart about a birthmark, hairstyle, wrinkle, breast size, etc. and always think twice about permanent cosmetic alterations because you just may miss the "old You". I think it takes years for people especially women, to realize the true natural beauty that's unique to them and to embrace it. My hope is that the younger generation will come to this realization sooner rather than later because quick fixes are so prevalent now in the media that young people often feel they don't measure up to the media personalities. So my message to all the beautiful young teens and 20 somethings is that the very people you idealize are just as insecure as you feel at times and their fear of not being accepted by their audience drives them to alter their natural beauty with more than just hair and makeup. It used to be that only older actors and actresses did this sort of thing to try to erase years of aging or a bad lifestyle, so they could continue working in film etc.in younger roles. It is unfortunate that now we see so many young beautiful girls altering their faces, breast, etc. before they even reach full maturity. I hope this trend will fade as trends often do, but it can take years to happen and that means that someday many people will look back at a high school or middle school photo and wish they still looked like they used to.

 There is power in acceptance of yourself, so please try that first, O.K. 

See you on YouTube,
 -YouTips4U

How to Break Up with Your Hairdresser

I call it a break-up because it can feel that way. You feel loyal to your hairdresser, almost as though they are a friend of yours, and they are, to a point. This is still a business relationship and you are a paying customer. So that means you call the shots! If you've left your hairdresser on more than one occasion feeling as though you were not treated as personally as you used to be or would like to be, or you have had bad color or cuts for the last few visits, it's time for you to consider making a change. Everyone has a bad day and that includes hairdressers. Unfortunately, their bad day can be carried home on your head. When poor results become a routine and you no longer look forward to going, but feel like you're settling, you should find someone new. Also, if your desire is to try something fresh and bold and you don't think your hairdresser is up to the job, that's another telltale indication that you may need to move on. Another reason for deciding to move on is if you are forced to wait a long time between appointments or if they keep you waiting a long time once you arrive. A poorly run salon is like any other business that's poorly run, it doesn't deserve your patronage. It's a competitive world out there and businesses are competing for you. If they are not putting their best foot forward, find someone who will. I once went to a salon where the receptionist who checked you in and who you saw when you were finished was very unfriendly. Not a smile on her face, nothing. This wasn't just A BAD DAY. The receptionist is the first person you meet when you walk in and it gives you a feel for the business and the way it's run. I go to a salon to be lifted up, not brought down, needless to say I eventually left. If a business wants to make a good impression, they will care about who answers their phone and who greets and serves their customers. So how do you make the break: If you have been going to a particular hairdresser regularly for years and you've finally strayed and found someone new, you may want to send a quick note explaining why you're taking a break. Perhaps say you received a gift certificate for another salon so you are going to give it a try. That way if you want to go back, there won't be any hurt feelings. Many times you can find a new style or cut elsewhere and just have your tried and true stylist duplicate the look for you. If you haven't gone for many years to your hairdresser, or you've been irregular at best, then it's easy to just disappear and move on. Your hair is a very personal part of your body and very tied into who you are. A good stylist recognizes and respects this and accommodates you. Remember, you know your hair best so good communication is key to good results from your salon. See you on YouTube, -YouTips4U

Herbal Tea Remedies

I usually always use natural herbal remedies for whatever ails me rather than turning to over-the-counter medications. I find I get excellent results and very quickly from using the right herbal teas. They are soothing and restorative. Here are a few that have helped me: 1) If you're suffering from period cramps: -Red raspberry tea is wonderful. Sip it as warm as you can while resting on the couch. 30 minutes later, you will be good to go. 2) Having allergy problems: -try nettle tea. It can help inhibit the production of histamines that trigger allergies without the side-effects of using over-the-counter antihistamines. It's also good for urinary tract infections. 3) Having urinary tract issues: -Dandelion leaf tea is wonderful. Nettle tea may also be used and don't forget cranberry juice. Be sure you buy unsweetened cranberry juice. You can mix it with the sweetened one and water to make it more palatable, but you don't want all that sugar from regular cranberry juice. 4) Having trouble sleeping: - valerian tea can help as it helps increase a brain chemical that helps induce relaxation and sleep. Warm milk is wonderful as well and so is having a cup of kefir. 5) Have a tummy ache or unsettled tummy: -Peppermint tea is terrific as it helps to relax the stomach muscles and ease bloating. I also love fennel tea for any gassy tummy problems. 6) Have indigestion: -Try some ginger tea. Works wonders for me. 7) Need stress relief: -Chamomile tea has a very relaxing effect on the nervous system. I also use this one for helping me sleep. 8) Reduce a fever: -try Elderberry tea. I also use this when I'm sick but don't have a fever. It's terrific. These herbs have been around for centuries, but you always want to make sure you are not allergic to any herb before you consume it, so always check first. I have used each of these herbs as herbal teas with no problems and only terrific results. The brands I use most are Alvita Herbal Teas and Celebration Herbal Teas. Be sure to steep tea bag for at least 5-10 minutes for best results. You can find them in natural foods stores like Whole Foods or online. See you on YouTube, -YouTips4U

Treadmill Tip

A quick tip for those of you who use the treadmill: increase the incline! Having the incline set to zero is actually slightly downhill, so raise it up to at least 1.0 if you want to simulate a flat surface and help burn more calories. Raising the incline level is a great way to shed extra calories and fat and firm up your entire lower body. So try to get up to at least an incline of 4.0 with a good solid pace where you're swinging your arms and using full strides. If it gets to be too much for you, you can always lower both. Interval training is a great way to challenge your fitness level. See you on YouTube, -YouTips4U