Tips for strong and healthy nails

Tips for brittle nails by beauty expert Shahnaz Husain

Hands and nails come in contact with soaps and detergents daily, when we do our daily chores. These play havoc, not only on the skin, but also the nails, making them rough, dry and brittle, causing them to chip and break easily. Here are a few tips to protect your hands and nails.

- Wear rubber gloves for your washing chores

- Massage cream on the hands and nails daily, especially after using detergents and soaps. Put cream on each nail and massage the nail and the skin surrounding it, using circular strokes with your thumb. Daily massage is even more important during the dry season, to prevent brittleness and to restore the health of your nails.

- Pour a cup of warm milk into a bowl. Soak your hands in it for five minutes to strengthen nails and soften the skin.

- Avoid using very hot water to soak your hands, as this can cause dryness of the skin and nails.

- If you have brittle nails, avoid frosted nail varnish

- For brittle nails include adequate protein and calcium in your diet. Include skimmed milk, yoghurt, cottage cheese, fish and sprouts in your diet

- Follow a ten-day programme of taking gelatin. Dissolve one teaspoon gelatin in a little boiling water. Cool the water and add it to fruit juice. Have this daily for ten days.

Menstrual cycle: What's normal, what's not

Source: Mayo Clinic

Your menstrual cycle can say a lot about your health. Understand how to start tracking your menstrual cycle and what to do about irregularities.

Do you know when your last menstrual period began or how long it lasted? If not, it might be time to start paying attention. Tracking your menstrual cycles can help you understand what's normal for you, time ovulation and identify important changes — such as a missed period or unpredictable menstrual bleeding. While menstrual cycle irregularities usually aren't serious, sometimes they can signal health problems.

What's the menstrual cycle?

The menstrual cycle is the monthly series of changes a woman's body goes through in preparation for the possibility of pregnancy. Each month, one of the ovaries releases an egg — a process called ovulation. At the same time, hormonal changes prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If ovulation takes place and the egg isn't fertilized, the lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina. This is a menstrual period.

What's normal?

The menstrual cycle, which is counted from the first day of one period to the first day of the next, isn't the same for every woman. Menstrual flow may occur every 21 to 35 days and last two to seven days. For the first few years after menstruation begins, long cycles are common. However, menstrual cycles tend to shorten and become more regular as you age. Your menstrual cycle may be regular — about the same length every month — or somewhat irregular, and your period may be light or heavy, painful or pain-free, long or short, and still be considered normal. Within a broad range, normal is what's normal for you.

How can I track my menstrual cycle?

To find out what's normal for you, start keeping a record of your menstrual cycle. Begin by tracking your start date every month for several months in a row to identify the regularity of your periods. If you're having problems or you're concerned about the timing, flow or discomfort of your periods, then also make note of the following every month:

·         End date. How long does your period typically last? Is it longer or shorter than usual?

·         Flow. Record the heaviness of your flow. Does it seem lighter or heavier than usual? How often do you need new sanitary protection?

·         Pain. Describe any pain associated with your period. Does the pain feel worse than usual?

What causes menstrual cycle irregularities?

Menstrual cycle irregularities can have many different causes, including:

·         Pregnancy or breast-feeding. A delayed or missed period can be an early sign of pregnancy. If you haven't had your period in six weeks and you've been sexually active, take a pregnancy test. Breast-feeding typically delays the return of menstruation following pregnancy.

·         Eating disorders, extreme weight loss or excessive exercising. Eating disorders — such as anorexia nervosa — extreme weight loss and increased physical activity can disrupt menstruation.

·         Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This common hormonal disorder may cause small cysts — fluid-filled sacs or pockets — to develop in the ovaries along with irregular periods.

·         Premature ovarian failure. Premature ovarian failure refers to the loss of normal ovarian function before age 40. Women who have premature ovarian failure may not have periods or may get them irregularly.

·         Endometriosis. This disorder causes tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus to grow outside your uterus. Endometriosis can cause pain — sometimes severe — especially during your period.

·         Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This infection of the reproductive organs may cause irregular menstrual bleeding.

·         Uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus. They may cause heavy menstrual periods and bleeding between periods.

What can I do to prevent menstrual irregularities?

For some women, use of birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles. However, some menstrual irregularities can't be prevented. Regular pelvic exams can help ensure that problems affecting your reproductive organs are diagnosed as soon as possible.

In addition, consult your health care provider if:

·         Your periods suddenly stop for more than 90 days

·         Your periods become erratic after having been regular

·         You bleed for more than seven days

·         You bleed more heavily than usual — soaking through more than one pad or tampon every hour or two

·         Your periods are less than 21 days or more than 35 days apart

·         You bleed between periods

·         You develop severe pain during your period

·         You suddenly get a fever and feel sick after using tampons

5 Types of women men can't stand

Source: Times of India

We all know what women don't like in men, but do we have even the slightest idea about what type of women put off men? Here is the lowdown on the personality types men don't like at all.

Cribber: Women who crib, talk negatively and belittle people are a great turn-off. Sure we all have our bags full of complaints, but it is one thing to complain once in a while, and it's something else to crib big time 24x7 about every issue or every person one comes across. Men can't understand why a woman has to crib and bitch all the time. Either you do something about the issue or stop complaining - it's as simple as that.

Weight-watcher: 'Oh can't have beer, it has 150 calories', 'I must hit the gym everyday' - if these are your favourite catchwords, you have trouble coming your way. There is only so much diet, exercise regimens men can take and if you are too conscious, a man is likely to be exasperated. Women need to know when to give in 'without throwing their weight around'!

In-law basher: Agreed only the fortunate are blessed with a good set of in-laws. So if you are not one of the lucky ones, will you constantly bash them up verbally? They are somebody's parents and if you don't have anything nice to say something about them, don't say anything. How does that sound?

Worker bee: If you are buzzing nineteen to a dozen only about the presentations you have to make for the boss, deadlines, colleagues, HR head and the office janitor - it's obvious you have nothing else to talk about. A man may want to know about your interests, your views on him, and more, but you prefer to hide behind 'work' all the time. If you want a man, any man actually - get a life first.

Agony aunt: There are some women who constantly feel they are an 'advisory body'. They feel it is their business to hear out the whines of everyone around them and suggest suitable solutions. They are so deeply involved in this part-time job that they inadvertently sound like they are advising you as well. Nobody wants to date a mom, you know.

What Every Man Wants Every Woman To Know

-          Ms. Denise Wade

Somehow over time we women tend to give our intimate relationships less nurturing as a couple as we gave ourselves as a single. We indulged our single selves and nursed our dating needs. We sought out our significant other like it was a search and rescue mission. Time passed and we came to invest more into our rescued canine that resulted from that union. We cannot wait to get home to our comfy slippers, our fuzzy four legged companion, that Chinese takeout or the nightly cocktail. What about our partner? Do we relish seeing him as much as that sesame chicken and broccoli?

How is it that our girlfriend has that ideal relationship? Perhaps she knows how to meet her partner’s needs. I will let you in on a little secret, you can too. There is no limit to what a man will do for you if you understand his needs. It is that simple.

* MEN NEED APPRECIATION: Remember why you fell in love with your partner. Make a list of his top ten character traits that caused you to want to be with him in the first place. Make a conscious effort to appreciate and compliment him. Even simple domestic tasks, like picking up takeout and taking out the garbage can be appreciated.ad20751v300x100A

* MEN NEED RESPECT: The two worst enemies of respect are criticism and judgment. This includes making him wrong or scolding him like a child. Above all else never berate him in public or you will lose him for good. It is imperative that a woman create a safe nonjudgmental space for her significant other or a man will shut down emotionally and sexually.

* MEN HATE COMPLAINTS: The words “you” and “why” will send your guy into defense mode. Men are competitive by nature so he may fight with you when he feels challenged. Turn complaints into requests. Try starting with “I love it when you……” or “It makes me so happy when you……” This alone will cause him to sit up and take notice.

* MEN FEEL EMOTIONALLY DISADVANTAGED: Research suggests emotions are overwhelming for men. They tend to operate off the logical side of the brain. So when faced with an emotionally charged woman a man will respond in anger 80% of the time. This coping mechanism is what he uses to attempt to gain control. A man cannot help but to be attracted to a woman who exercises emotional self control.

* A MAN’S ATTENTION SPAN IS 2-3 MINUTES: Condense the story. Know yourself and how many words you need to speak, divide by four. That is about how many words he can physiologically handle, more than that and your message will be camouflaged. You may also set him up to fail and set yourself up for disappointment when he fails to recall your running commentary. Practice listening more, talking less. If he needs the juicy details, he will ask. Also, monopolizing all his time and energy could associate you with unpleasant feelings.

* A MAN’S SCOREBOARD: The male neural circuit is wired with a scoreboard. They are competitive creatures by nature. There is only a win or a loss, nothing else matters. If you criticize him, it is an automatic loss. That is why he needs adventure and business and sports challenges. He needs to win. When he has not made you happy, that is a loss. And a loss is failing. Set him up to win and always reward his efforts.

* A MAN’S MOST FEARED WEAPON: A woman’s angry tongue can be a man’s most destructive enemy. A deadly weapon as any guy will attest to. Make a conscious effort to reclaim that sweet, soft feminine voice you were born with. Nothing shuts down communication like a woman’s irritated tone or harsh criticism. Studies show the majority of men hear voice tone over words. Talk slower and softer and I guarantee he will react better. Instead of correcting your partner, positively impact your relationship with your speech. And lastly, do not underestimate the power of sultry, flirtatious suggestions. You will train him to respond eagerly to your voice.

If you truly are committed to developing a better relationship, ask yourself where there is room to apply these suggestions. Give it 30 days of hard work and I guarantee you will experience empowerment and notice a positive shift in your relationship.

Effective Living Clinic

                       Bringing Positivism in Life

We welcome you to Effective Living Clinic at Vashi, Navi Mumbai, India, an unique clinic that caters to psychological as well as physical cure in most scientific and natural way. Effective Living Clinic gives a professional touch to your issues and would bring positivism in your Life. 

We all need right guidance and moral support to excel in life sometimes....real good professional touch to cater to exact needs that you currently face. At Effective Living Clinic, we provide scientific guidance and therapeutic care for relief from pain and suffering, instill confidence and mental peace, mend relationships and help you take right decisions at the right time both in your personal and professional life.

A complete rejuvenating experience awaits a tourist coming to India for wellness tourism as they surrender to the expert services of wellness therapist and age old Ayurvedic therapy.  At Effective Living Clinic we have the unique blend of goodness of age old ayurveda with modern techniques that are believed to counter the effects of stress and pollution from urban lifestyle environment.

Today in India,  Effective Living Clinic is seen as a preferred Wellness destination with Yoga, K Yoga, Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Therapeutic and Wellness Massage, etc. together with medication which alleviates stress, removes toxins, tones skin with anti-aging properties, removes unwanted fats in the body, reduces weight, adds vigor along with providing nourishment and pampering the body and mind.

The potential of Wellness tourism is being further explored by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.  Over the years, Medical Tourism has gained momentum and today India is medical tourism hub. More and more tourist are coming to India to avail State-of-the-Art health care services at an affordable cost.

Effective Living Clinic has the advantage of having highly qualified and experienced doctor and medical professionals with world class infrastructure in terms of Clinic and if need be take guidance and treatment from the best hospitals around to take care all of your medical needs. Effective Living Clinic also provides counselling and psychotherapy sessions to those needed during your visit to the Clinic to channelize your mind and relationship that brings positivism in your life.

Visit Effective Living Clinic to enjoy the unique experience of your journey from illness to wellness.



Breast feeding week begins

In the first week of August, Haryana will be participating in World Breast Feeding Week, a week-long campaign to spread awareness about and promote breast-feeding of children in the state.

The event which begins on August 1 and lasts seven days, will be taking place in different districts of the state, and will be specially focused on creating awareness in various villages of Haryana.

"The objectives of this year World Breast Feeding Week were to launch a campaign for creating a breastfeeding friendly environment and reaching out to people, especially the youth with information on breastfeeding," said a spokesman of Women and Child Development Department.

The organizers aim to advocate for community and family support to help enhance breast-feeding, and protect the children against manufactured baby food.

All women want is sex

Source: Times of India

Picture this: Champagne, candlelight, a man at the door who craves commitment. Does it sound like every woman's ultimate fantasy?

For ages the world has been trying hard to figure out what's going on in a woman's head? What does a woman want: the quintessential question? The answer: champagne, candlelight, a man at the door...most of the times. The stuff most women fantasize about.

It's not hard to understand actually...women do fantasize. A woman's fantasies are certainly not limited. All have their own peccadilloes. If your body hasn't been called "perky" since Gymboree, in fantasy you can give yourself permission to swing naked from a crystal chandelier. Here's another favourite: a rustic cabin in the woods, pink Champagne and Benicio Del Toro. The reality: a cramped studio in the city, Diet Snapple and a guy who hogs the remote. Don't get me wrong; I've got nothing against the keeper of my remote. It's just my fantasy and reality never find common ground. But we still continue to fantasize. And

yes, if it involves sex, it's all the better.

Nothing beats a good sex fantasy. Even researchers agree. Linda Wolfe a famous author studied a sample of 15,000 women aged 18-34 years, and less than three percent said they never fantasize. It was seen that females are more likely to prefer erotica with a "softer," more imaginative side than the "harder," more explicit forms preferred by males.

Dr. Nimish Seth, psychologist says: "There's no such thing as an inappropriate fantasy. A lesbian fantasy is not proof that you're gay; a dominatrix fantasy doesn't mean you ought to run right out and invest in a pair of leather pants. Whether you choose to explore your fantasies-however mild or wild they may be-is up to you. But by all means don't hesitate to let your imagination jump-start your body into a sexier sex life. Sometimes a girl needs a jolt of adventure-if only in her daydreams".

Types of sexual fantasies

Almost all sexual fantasies fall into one of the three general categories:

Sex with previous, imaginary, or celebrity partners

Sexual fantasies about submission and/or dominance

Unconventional sexual practices or settings

Nihal Seth, a young entrepreneur points out that "now sex fantasy is the safest, healthiest way to have more fun in bed." The occasional fantasy is to sexual pleasure what green chutney is to chicken tikka: that little something extra that elevates the delicious to the sublime!

The world is not perfect. We all know that. It's not always possible for us to get what we want. This is where fantasies help. Pooja Bedi, Bollywood actress, says that "every woman wants her man to be James Bond who holds the image of tall dark handsome and also has a kid within him. Women still fantasize with fairy tales".

Aarti (name changed), 24, a marketing manager admits, "I fantasize my husband tying me to the bed and spanking me, abusing me and playing hard on me. It makes me feel like a wild cat waiting to be controlled."

Think of your sexual fantasies as a reflection of who you are. Fantasies may supplant reality for some. Pragya goes as far as to describe, "I often imagine myself stuck with a stranger in a dingy room during a calamity. Finally we end up making wild love amidst all the rush and hurry. It excites me to the core."

Devyani Pandit, a PR professional, says: "Doing it in bed gets boring after some time and we can explore new avenues. Our upbringing also at times acts as mental blocks as we struggle with feeling okay about our desires". The good news is that everyone can have sexual fantasies; it's just that some of us need a little more inspiration than others.

So the next time your woman seems to be wandering off in thought, you'll know exactly what's on her mind!