How to Define the Alexander Technique

How to Define the Alexander Technique



If you've ever noticed a connection between neck tension, posture, stress and pain, the Alexander Technique may be of interest to you. The Alexander technique is not a treatment for ailments or a set of exercises. It is a method of becoming more conscious of your body and its balance, then using this awareness to relieve discomfort, prevent injury, correct posture problems and relieve stress. Many famous performers use the Alexander Technique and voice a belief in its benefits.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access









1


Know that the Alexander Technique is a method of self help for relieving stress and pain, as well as making task performance easier.





2


Turn to the FAQ page of the American Society for the Alexander Technique for answers to frequently asked questions about the method (see Resources below).





3


Buy a
DVD
or VHS tape from the American Society for The Alexander Technique to learn more about this creative body method and be able to define it.





4


Realize that the Alexander Technique is not a series of exercises. Instead, it is a method for heightening awareness to effect change in your own body and mental state.





5


Understand that the Alexander Technique may be used for certain ailments, like asthma and arthritis. However, it is not a medical treatment.





6


Obtain more information and define the Alexander Technique by visiting the Web site of American Society for the Alexander Technique (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










The cost of learning the Alexander Technique can vary from free to moderately expensive. This depends on the methods you choose for learning. For example, if you learn about the the Alexander Technique on free Web sites, your cost can be nothing. If, on the other hand, you choose to invest in books, videos and classes, you can expect mid-level expenses.








You may read or hear that the Alexander Technique is helpful in dealing with asthma. However, it is not a substitute for the care and advice of a qualified medical professional. Don't discontinue the care regimen prescribed by your doctor without receiving his or her approval.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031387_define-alexander-technique.html

How to Define Biofeedback

How to Define Biofeedback



Although it's been around since the 1960s, Biofeedback has only enjoyed a renewed interest since the turn of this century. A variety of therapists in medical, psychiatric and alternative disciplines have turned to Biofeedback as a way to treat a myriad of disorders. Medical journals define Biofeedback as the real-time report back to the patient of many of the patient's involuntary actions. Temperature, heart rate, respiration rate, muscle tension, brain waves and sweating are all functions that can be measured and reported back to the patient in an attempt to raise self-awareness. Biofeedback techniques have been accepted treatments for incontinence and elimination disorders. There is still controversy over the efficacy of biofeedback treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and learning disabilities. Many patients experience Biofeedback techniques in a climical or therapeutic setting first. Then, patients learn various techniques using portable equipment that can be used at home or whatever environment is necessary. Costs for Biofeedback are moderate. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access to learn more about Biofeedback







Define Biofeedback




1


Discuss your condition with your doctor. Ask your doctor for information about how biofeedback might help your condition.





2


Go online to the "Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback" (AAPB) Web site (see Resources below). Learn about how the medical and therapeutic communities define biofeedback.





3


Scroll through the list of conditions thought to be treatable via Biofeedback. Click on the ones that apply to your situation.





4


Read the information about the types of Biofeedback typically used for your condition. You can also use the AAPB Web site to find providers (see Resources below). Their directory includes any practitioner who paid to be listed. Their credentials have been listed, but AAPB acknowledges that membership in their organization doesn't verify the qualifications of a particular provider. Also check the "Biofeedback Certification Institute of America" (BCIA) Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










There are several distinct types of biofeedback. Keep in mind that you need to find a therapist who can work with the techniques that apply to your condition. It's generally acknowledged within the medical community that a practitioner who is skilled in one form of biofeedback is not necessarily even familiar with another type.








Remember that biofeedback therapy should not be regarded as a replacement for medical care. Sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, bleeding or any sudden changes in your condition warrant seeing your medical doctor as soon as possible.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033141_define-biofeedback.html

How to Define an Apothecary

How to Define an Apothecary



Most people only know the word "apothecary" as an outdated term for "pharmacist" (or "chemist" in the United Kingdom). However, apothecaries in history had a much more active role in medical treatment. They kept stocks of herbal remedies in their shops. They prescribed and mixed the remedies through a process called "compounding." Their wares were used to treat everything from infections to digestive troubles. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Define the Historical Apothecary




1


Study the history of herbal medicines
dating
back as far as the oldest civilization. Thus, it can be hard to define "apothecary." The word has been used for different things at different times, from a simple store of goods to a person who dispenses medical treatments.





2


Discover that apothecaries did the work of doctors, performing surgeries and acting as male midwives. Every ailment known was treated by apothecaries, though poor people often couldn't afford them and had to rely on a relative or friend with some knowledge of herbs.





3


Remember that herbal medicine has been used everywhere in the world. In some cultures, these medicines and the role of the apothecary aren't considered outdated. You'll find apothecaries in many Asian countries and in Asian communities in Western countries.



Define the Modern Apothecary




1


Discover that the traditional apothecary is making a comeback now that herbal and natural medicines are becoming more popular. There are many pharmacies who also act as apothecaries, creating dosages of medicines that are tailor-made with fresh or dried natural ingredients.





2


Define the modern apothecary as someone who believes that nature provides the resources people need to heal their bodies and spirits. Apothecaries assist their customers with their knowledge of herbs and other natural remedies, and give them the power to keep themselves healthy.





3


Learn herbal and natural medicine from apothecaries who hold training classes or from one of the few schools that offer courses in this area of study. Contact the "Old World Apothecary" Web site for a class schedule (see Resources below).





4


Read more about modern apothecaries by visiting "The Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London" Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Herbal medicine has become much more precise since it's become possible to measure the effects of their active ingredients.








Many doctors are more willing to work with herbal and natural remedies than they used to be.








Learning to define an apothecary is free (if you use online resources) or inexpensive (if you purchase a book on the subject).








Visit the ER immediately if you're experiencing intense chest pain and shortness of breath.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try apothecary treatments, keep your doctor informed about the ones you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033058_define-apothecary.html

How to Cure Fibroids With Massage

How to Cure Fibroids With Massage



Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that are usually found in the uterus or other muscle tissue. They can be caused by many things, including diet, lack of exercise, poor digestion, accumulation of toxins and stress. They can be surgically removed, but they can also be cured with massage.









1


Get deep tissue massages. These help remove toxins from muscles and tissues and allow you to release them from the body through sweating and urinating.





2


Use massage to help increase circulation. Due to a lack of exercise and poor circulation, fibroids can build up in the body. Massage can help cure these by increasing your circulation.





3


Find a qualified masseuse. An Ayurveda masseuse will use the right herbal oils which, along with massage, will create heat and friction that will cleanse the tissues of impurities. The oils will then help to nourish the tissue and muscle under the skin. These cosultants will also be able to help you find the source of your physiological imbalance that leads to the fibroids in your body.





4


Go for daily massages. To cure fibroids with massage, the massages should be done daily. This will give continual ease to the muscles, and create a natural rhythm for releasing and ridding the body of toxins that tend to build up and create fibroids.





5


Learn how to give yourself massages at home. Ayurveda health consultants will be able to give you the best oils and show you how to massage certain parts of your body every day. This way you can give yourself the health benefits of massage without paying someone else to do it.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2124687_cure-fibroids-massage.html

How to Cure a Stiff Neck

How to Cure a Stiff Neck



Stiff neck is a common problem among people young and old. It is caused by sudden neck movements or jerks or by bad posture or sleeping position. You can get rid of stiff neck by following these guidelines.









1


Seek immediate advice from a doctor for stiff neck, particularly when there is excruciating pain.





2


Place a hot water bag on the stiff neck once every hour until the stiffness lessens or disappears.





3


Apply a pain relief ointment. Get a prescription from the doctor, if necessary. Use the ointment on the affected area to warm it up. This will gradually facilitate easier movement.





4


Go in for chiropractic treatment on the advice of a doctor.





5


Get your neck and shoulder area massaged by your partner or by a qualified massage therapist.





6


Take painkillers as a short-term relief from neck pain. Make sure to ask your doctor about side effects.








Tips & Warnings










Use a soft pillow and mattress while sleeping. Old and soiled pillows will not provide adequate support.








If you have to sit for long hours, it is advisable to take short walks every hour. It will increase the flexibility of neck muscles.








Follow the Alexander Technique to improve posture and deal with stress. Visit the link in the Resources section below.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2038944_cure-stiff-neck.html

How to Use Abalone Shell Energy

How to Use Abalone Shell Energy



The abalone shell has been a source of magic for thousands of years. Its connection to the sea links with the tides and every changing quality of the ocean. The abalone shell is a source of mystery--rocky and plain on the outside, shining and beautiful on the inside. It can help bring out the essence of a hidden emotion, and has been used as a ceremonial bowl for incense. Pieces of the inner shell are polished and used in jewelry, and they carry the same energy with them, that of change and mutability protected by a tough, unchanging shell. Look to abalone shell to represent the changeable but constant
beauty
of life.







Things You'll Need:





Abalone shell



Other associated minerals



Small bag or pouch (optional)



Incense



Sand









Step
1



A disc of abalone shell is worn on the forehead of Apache girls as they greet the sun in the morning of their initiation into womanhood. Use abalone shell as a calming influence for menstrual problems.




Step
2



Abalone shell is useful in emotional situations. Use an abalone shell filled with sand to burn sandalwood or frankincense when your emotions seem heavy. The same shell can be used with sage to smudge your house or property.




Step
3



Wear jewelry made with abalone shell to keep your mood balanced throughout the day.




Step
4



Find mantra beads, prayer beads or worry beads made from abalone shell. They will be a calming influence throughout the day. Keep them handy in a pocket.







Tips & Warnings









Clear quartz and aquamarine are potentiators for abalone shell.








Aquamarine is a land mineral with many of the same properties as abalone shell.








Try combining these minerals in bracelets or necklaces.








Combine pieces in a pouch and wear them, or just tuck them in your pocket.








Some people are more sensitive to mineral energy. Watch your reactions.








If you experience anxiety or restlessness, or physical symptoms like nausea, you may want to cut back your exposure.








If you are sensitive, try using only single stones, and not combinations.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2218838_use-abalone-shell-energy.html

How to Use Abalone Pearl Energy

How to Use Abalone Pearl Energy



Abalone pearls are some of the rarest pearls in the world and considered by many to be among the most beautiful. They have an intense luster and can be blue,
lavender
, orange, green, pink, silver and nearly every conceivable combination. The abalone pearl typically has an irregular shape because of the shape of the abalone. Abalone pearls carry the same energy as abalone shell, but greatly magnified. Because of their calming influence, abalone pearls have been used in large statues of Buddha since 300 A.D.







Things You'll Need:





Abalone pearl



Other associated minerals



Small bag or pouch (optional)









Step
1



Use it to keep your emotions in balance when you're in stressful situations. An abalone pearl is powerful medicine for a personal medicine pouch.




Step
2



Wear abalone pearl at the throat:
This will help you to manifest only balanced thoughts and emotions. It will also protect you from the harmful thoughts and emotions of others.




Step
3



Give this gift to strengthen or stabilize an emotional connection:
A gift of abalone pearl creates an emotional bond between the giver and the receiver.




Step
4



Keep it in your pocket:
Handle it as much as possible throughout the day to foster your inner calm. An abalone pearl can be a wonderful touch stone or worry stone.







Tips & Warnings









Clear quartz and aquamarine are potentiators for abalone pearl.








Aquamarine is a land mineral with many of the same properties as abalone pearl.








Ruby is an intensifier and balancer for abalone pearl.








Try combining these minerals in bracelets or necklaces.








Combine pieces in a pouch and wear them, or just tuck them in your pocket.








Like all pearls, abalone pearls are delicate and can be scratched if not protected from harder stones.








Some people are more sensitive to mineral energy. Watch your reactions when you use these stones.








If you experience anxiety or restlessness, or physical symptoms, like nausea, you may want to cut back your exposure.








If you are sensitive, try using only single stones and not combinations.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2218841_use-abalone-pearl-energy.html

How to Use a Bra Size Calculator

How to Use a Bra Size Calculator



One of the most common mistakes women make when buying bras is not buying the correct the size. In order to get a correct fitting bra to give you the most lift and support it's important to take a few minutes to get two correct measurements. These measurements can be put into a bra size calculator to determine your correct bra size.







Things You'll Need:





Tape measure



Calculator









Step
1



Take a tape measure and wrap it around your rib cage just below your bust. The tape measure should sit where an underwire would go on a bra and be close fitting around your body.




Step
2



Add five inches to the measurement. This number will become your band size for a bra. If the number is odd, go up to the next even number for a correct size.




Step
3



Measure around your bust at the fullest point. This is generally directly over a woman's nipples. Double check to make sure the tape measure goes straight around you and isn't too tight.




Step
4



Subtract the measurements in Step 2 from Step 3 above. The difference will be your cup size. Every inch difference signifies a cup size. For example, a three inch difference would mean you're a C cup.







Tips & Warnings









Remember that different brands may fit differently. Use the size from the calculator as a starting point but if a bra feels to tight or if the cups are too small, don't hesitate to go up a size. Size doesn't matter, but comfort will.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2273621_use-bra-size-calculator.html

How to Use a Beach Umbrella

How to Use a Beach Umbrella



A beach umbrella is an essential item to take on any trip to the beach. The sun's ray can be very harmful and damaging to skin, and the use of a beach umbrella provides some protection. Additionally, the shade from a beach umbrella offers a cool retreat from the hot sun, allowing you to enjoy the beach longer.









Step
1



Find a good spot on the beach to use your umbrella. Try not to be too close to someone else, particularly if you are between them and the beach. Your beach umbrella will the block their view, and that can be rude.




Step
2



Drive the beach umbrella deep into the sand. The top layer of most sandy beaches is pretty loose, so it's important to get the stake of the beach umbrella into the more compacted sand below for stability's sake. If you can't get it down as far as you need by driving it straight down, pushing it further down into the ground while twisting the pole may work.




Step
3



Test the sturdiness of the umbrella positioning by pushing and pulling on the canopy a little to see whether it will fall down.




Step
4



Position your towels and beach chairs as desired within the shade given off by the beach uumbrella.




Step
5



Readjust towels and chairs as the sun moves throughout the day. It's usually easier to move these items than to pull up and reposition the beach umbrella.




Step
6



Shake any sand off the umbrella before collapsing it when the day is over.







Tips & Warnings









Buy a beach umbrella with sun-resistant fabric for the most protection. If you have a history of skin cancer or any other conditions that require staying out of the sun, sun-resistant beach umbrellas may help you enjoy the weather from a safe position.








Choose a uniquely colored or patterned beach umbrella to help you find your camp on the beach from the water and when you take a walk. The areas of the beach can start to all look alike, but a bright beach umbrella can act like a homing beacon.








Get a lightweight aluminum beach umbrella if you don't go to the beach often and don't want to carry a heavier umbrella.








Buy a beach umbrella that is wind resistant. Some of the strongest winds are at the coast and an umbrella that isn't wind resistant can blow away easily.








Always use sunblock when you go to the beach. An umbrella won't protect you from all of the sun's rays and you shouldn't expose skin without using sunscreen.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2119818_use-beach-umbrella.html

How to Upgrade Bling

How to Upgrade Bling



Bling is used to describe the glitter of gold and other jewelry worn by hip-hoppers. But the word has gone mainstream and almost everyone, from the suburban housewife to the urban teen, wears bling, shows off bling in pictures and videos and always wants more bling. Bling can begin with the cheap stuff from the flea market and graduate to the Tiffany's blue box.









Step
1



Upgrade one piece at a time. Bling should glitter, so it will take a whole lot of cash to get the shine and bling from a string of diamonds or a shiny new diamond pendant.




Step
2



Wear your real, upgraded bling with your cheap jewelry. A true jewel connoisseur will notice the difference, while others will notice the total package.




Step
3



Add bling to other accoutrements that you wear, such as hair clips and belts. This can be a cheaper way to upgrade your bling ratio while not adding too much gaudy or expensive jewelry to your wardrobe. If you love your gold or silver plated bling and still want to upgrade, put it on your waist and continue wearing your favorite bling around your neck, on your fingers and in your ears.




Step
4



Put bling on your computer in a new software package of the same name. It allows you to add sparkle and glitter and other fun extras to your pictures.




Step
5



Stretch your bling budget and add some of the shiny stuff to your ride. Chrome wheels will add to your street cred, while real bling hanging from your rearview mirror is a picture of prosperity.







Tips & Warnings









Talk about your upgrades to platinum or white gold only to those you trust.








Flashing and bragging will excite the thieves and get you in a whole lot of bling trouble.








Make sure your upgraded bling comes with really tight hooks and clips. You don't want to be dancing up a storm and have it fly across the room.








Don't put your bling on over a sink. Drop a real piece of platinum down a drain and you will sink yourself. Put it on over a counter or dresser, then check it out in the mirror over the sink.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2209714_upgrade-bling.html

How to Update Your Wardrobe

How to Update Your Wardrobe



If you feel like your clothes may be frumpy or a bit out of style, maybe it's time to update your wardrobe. It's an easy fix that won't take long and doesn't have to cost a fortune if you shop smart. By adding some well-chosen new items into the mix, you can give your wardrobe and yourself an instant style update.







Things You'll Need:





Bright cardigan



Metallic or colored flats



Straight-leg jeans or pants



Bitted blouse



Long tunic



Pencil skirt



Cropped jacket









Step
1



Figure out what items in your closet get the most use. If you generally wear jeans and a top, consider stepping the presentation up a notch by layering some new pieces, such as wearing a crisp fitted blouse under a bright cardigan or long tunic top.




Step
2



Assess the shapes of your current items. If your jeans and pants have outdated cuts, such as sitting too high on the waist or tapering toward the ankle, replace them with more modern cuts. Today's most flattering styles include skinny or straight legs or wide legs that are the same width from the hip to the ankle.




Step
3



Broaden your work wardrobe to include easy-to-wear dresses in all shapes and fabrics. There are many to choose from right now and they come in a wide array of fabrics, shapes and price points. A short dress can even do double duty as a top over fitted or cropped pants or leggings. Also buy a nicely tailored pencil skirt (or pull one out from the back of your closet!) and wear it with a tunic or fitted blouse and cropped jacket.




Step
4



Adapt the ballet-inspired look to fit your lifestyle with a few key pieces. Longer tunic tops or cardigans over ballet-necked t-shirts and close-fitted pants or swingy A-line skirts and of course, ballet flats in colors or metallic finishes can help you appear very "with it."




Step
5



Realize that shoes can go a long way. If the shapes of yours are old-fashioned or the pairs you wear frequently look worn or too scuffed to fix, invest in some stylish high-heeled booties that are perfect to wear with skirts and pants.




Step
6



Look for elegant patent leather accessories in colors (or black) to make your wardrobe pop. A nice pair of patent pumps, a rich patent belt or a big patent leather handbag will instantly make your look more modern.







Tips & Warnings









Incorporate some new trendy pieces with some of the classic items that you've had for years. You don't have to spend a lot on these items since they may go out of style quickly, but by sprinkling in a few current pieces, you can instantly look fashionable.








If your budget is very tight, invest in a few inexpensive new accessories, such as costume necklaces and bangles and a handbag to get the most impact for your money.








Wear black opaque tights with a formal dress and heels to look very stylish instantly.








Don't get rid of your very favorite items even if they are out of style. It's better to store them someplace safe so you will have them ready and waiting for the next time they come into fashion.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2144156_update-your-wardrobe.html

How to Update Your Wardrobe On a Budget

How to Update Your Wardrobe On a Budget



Need a wardrobe overhaul but have limited funds to buy this new wardrobe? There are many ways to obtain a new wardrobe on a budget.









Step
1



Buy clothing at the end of the season. It is amazing how inexpensive your favorite items can be at the end of the year. While it will not help you out immediately, you will love it when you pull out clothes with tags on them next year.




Step
2



Most people donate, give, throw away or sell clothes every year. Go to freecycle.com. You can look under others posts or you can post under wanted. Freecycle allows people to help others in their community and it is free.




Step
3



Garage sales!!! Loaded with lots of clothes that people didnt wear, or dont wear anymore. Styles range from jeans to business wear.




Step
4



Second hand stores. There are many upscale stores that dont charge outrageous prices. many have coupons or frequent guest card to save even more. many will also take your old clothes on consignment. You could use this money to fund your new wardrobe.




Step
5



Thrift shops also offer a wide variety at great prices.




Step
6



Ask friends to remember you when they go through their closets. Again, many people are going to throw them away or donate them anyway. What a wonderful way to obtain clothes and
go green
!!


http://www.ehow.com/how_2277139_update-wardrobe-budget.html

How to Update Your Wardrobe Inexpensively

How to Update Your Wardrobe Inexpensively



Any woman can look fashionable when they know how to shop right without breaking the bank. If you need to modernize your old clothes, here are some ways to do so and still be in style. Read on to learn how to update your wardrobe inexpensively.









Step
1



Mix the old with the new. If you have clothes that is in your closet collecting dust for months, take it off its hanger and try to see what can go best with it. Whether it is a pair of jeans or a cute sweater, match it with something new that can go well with the clothing, in style and color.




Step
2



Add accessories to your clothing. Sometimes a plain looking skirt or shirt you just bought can look very fashionable if you become creative and buy accessories to go with the clothes. Check out the catalog, magazines and shop around in stores to find out what is hot and mentally picture if a pair of earrings or a nice necklace can go completely well with your item of clothing. You will be amazed at the compliments you might receive if you add a little flair into your wardrobe.




Step
3



Understand that great deals mean more money in your pocket. Take notice of clothes on clearance racks at the department stores--it is best to look when the clothes are on sale from last season, as other shoppers really don't care to check them out since it is out for the season. The clothing would most likely be half off than the original price so buy many as you can and by the time the season finally started, you will not have to worry about buying new clothes.




Step
4



Get help if you don't know where to start. If you know someone that is trendy and keep up with the times, ask for advice from a friend, daughter or female relative so they can give you their opinion on what is best for you to buy. You can also search in the closet with them to find clothes that is a keeper or throw things out that is outdated. Or they can give you some clothes they'd never wore before that might look great on you.







Tips & Warnings









Go to any thrift store or yard sales as you may never know what type of good clothes you will find.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2278773_update-wardrobe-inexpensively.html