Are you balding?

There are many suppossed natural remedies for balding. But, whether or not they will work depends on the individual. But, what do you do if you are already bald? You can definitely get hair transplates. Hair transplate in New Jersey, NH is a good idea if you live in New Jersy. Hair transplates can help boost your self esteem. But, just like with any other surgery, make sure you agree to it for the right reasons. Cosmetic enhancing surgeries of any kind will not solve all your problems. They may make you feel more confident, but they aren't a sure thing.

What kind of surgery?

What kind of plastic surgery would you like? Would you like rhinoplasty Los Angeles? Los Angeles is one of the best places for this kind of surgery. Like I've said, if you get the surgery for the right reasons, it doesn't have to go against a "natural" and healthy lifestyle. Just make sure that before you make any final decisions, you do the right kind of research. What kind of surgery do you feel you need? Rhinoplasty? Liposuction? My advice is to not get all your surgeries at once.

Making Surgery Decisions

So did you decide that you wanted to get plastic surgery? If so, keep in mind that there are some great surgeons out there. For example, you can find a Los Angeles cosmetic surgeon that is at the cutting edge of his/her profession. If you decide to get the surgery there is no point going to a minor surgeon. You may as well see the best. After all, surgery is surgery and they all have their risks.

More thoughts on cosmetic surgery

So what are your views on cosmetic surgery? People have mixed feelings. You know, I have a distinctly Grecian nose. It isn't conventional and I like it. However, there are plenty of people who may feel the urge to get surgery. Rhinoplasty in Los Angeles, for example, is amongst the highest quality. The industry in LA is one where plastic surgery is popular. My only concern is to get it done for the right reasons whether medical, or to repair a severe shattered self esteem.

Cosmetic Surgery

People who live a healthy lifestyle often have mixed feelings about plastic surgery. On the one hand, you should be content with what you have. On the other, if you aren't, changing yourself slightly also has its benefits. And, you could medically need the surgery for scars, deviated septums, etc. Surgery isn't all bad. Liposuction in Los Angeles, for example, has its benefits, especially if you have excess fat cells that are causing you some problems. So, should you get surgery? I don't know. Really think about and make sure you made the decision for the right reasons.

I see red leaves

Fall is almost here. I went for a walk yesterday and there were a lot of leaves that are changing. I smell it in the air too. There is a hurricane or something down by Cuba and it is affecting the weather here. We just have rain and a lot of clouds. But unlike in the summer, there is a crisp undertone to the air and not that sultry heaviness. What do I want to do? Well lately, I've just been eating apples. Crisp, almost in season red delicious apples. I don't think they're ready here... they must be ready a bit further south.

Natural Laundry Powder Recipe

Here is a recipe for my favorite laundry powder. It is written using the simplers method. Just choose a quantity- a cup, a teaspoon, a half a cup. When it says "one part" use one of that quantity.

1 part Borax
1 part baking soda
1 part grated castile soap
10 drops essential oil of choice

Combine ingredients in a bowl and transfer to a paper bag or glass jar. Store away from heat and light. Use 1/2 c. for every medium sized load. Add or subtract amounts depending on how much you are washing.

My poor, messy house

Something needs to change when it comes to my cleaning habits. There are things everywhere and I can't seem to keep the laundry organized. I know, just give me thirty minutes and I can tidy up. But I haven't allowed myself that luxury lately.

My project this week? To give my home some TLC. And maybe have my housecleaner come.

The Joys of Walking

I walked 6 miles today. It was great! Lately, I have been missing Europe and all the walking I did while living there. We're visiting again in October and I need to get my walking legs back to prepare.

So, I needed to go food shopping. Instead of waiting to take the car, I decided to walk. I think I may walk 5-6 miles each day- that's how much fun I had!

About Weddings

Nowadays, weddings can be as traditional or nontraditional as you want. I've heard of people climbing a difficult mountain to be married at the top. People get married in other countries, outdoors, in bowling allies, etc. There's really no limit. One thing that they all have in common are the gifts. Bridesmaid gifts, gifts for the couple, gifts for the guests, etc. Some ideas for gifts include chocolate, wine, trinkets from abroad (if the vacation is at the location), etc.

Unconventional Exercise

When you exercise, do you do the standard things? Running, walking, lifting weights... those activities are pretty common. But, it is possible to get a good workout doing things like paintball. Paintball guns were originally made for farmers. Now, it is a fun hobby with some friendly competition. All you need is some cheap paintball gear and a few friends who are willing to be shot at. This is definately a fun way to get healthy.

Flowers beautify

I can think of nothing better than flowers to help beautify your living space. They also make great gifts. There are so many different flowers in this world, why not try something a little different the next time you buy flowers? The corpse flower, for example, is at one extreme due to its smell. But, the standards also have their place. Use your judgement when decorating and shopping for gifts.

Do you have a truck?

A truck is a great thing to own, especially if you do a lot of things outdoors. A great four wheel drive vehicle is sometimes necessary for some of the activities you do, and it is an added benefit to be able to tow a trailer. A good truck can be used for both business and pleasure. You may want to consider purchasing a truck toolbox to help expand the usability of your SUV, truck, etc. The company has plenty of options for toolboxes and other accesories that are geared toward the type of contracting work you do.

Change of Air?

Despite the fact that Florida has had a rocky past (Indian wars, gun fights, etc), it is now a thriving state and one people relocate too all the time. (Thank the Citrus Industry, and later, tourism). Well, if you would like to move to Florida, more specifically, the Orlando area, Windermere Real Estate can help. They are full time buyer's agents, which means they have expert knowledge on every aspect of buying a home in the area. Orlando is a great place to raise a family and also a great place to own some investment property.

Moving to a New Home

How many of you would like to move to a new home? What are your criteria? My guess is you would like to move somewhere that has plenty of jobs and a great place to raise a family. Have you ever considered Barrington? Barrington real estate is thriving. New Castle Real Estate is a good place to go to get information on buying property in Barrington. They have listings for condos, homes, and other home owning options. It should be relatively easy to relocate here- their unemployed rate is only 2% with plenty of jobs in the area and it seems like a great place to raise a family.

Garden Vegetable Scramble with Olives

The nice thing about this recipe is that you can serve it for any meal of the day. Use any vegetable you like. My last version included garlic, scallions, olives, tomatoes, and peppers. Here's the recipe.

6 Large Eggs
2 T water
2 T olive oil
Salt, pepper
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 small pepper, chopped
8 olives, pitted and chopped
1/2 tomato, chopped
2 Scallions, chopped
1 t dried dill

In a medium bowl, crack eggs. Add 2 T water. Scramble. Heat nonstick skillet on medium high heat. When pan is hot, add olive oil. Warm the olive oil then add peppers and garlic. Sautee about 2 minutes. Add olives and tomatoes and sautee for another minute. Add eggs, pinch of salt, and some pepper. Lower heat to medium and cook as you would scrambled eggs. Add scallions when scramble is nearly done. When eggs are cooked through, turn off the heat. Sprinkle dill just before serving.

Beginner Exercise Routine

I realize that some of you may be complete beginners at exercise. Don't worry about catching up! If you want to run, don't jump in right away. I did that and now have knee problems. Start slowly and build your endurance. Then you can add more activity at your own pace. Here is a simple routine that will help get you started.

Walking. Walk 30 minutes 3-4 times a week at a pace that's comfortable. Don't be afraid to push yourself a little, though. But make sure you are going at a pace that will allow you to finish 30 minutes. Increase your pace and the time you spend walking as you are able.

Abs. Situps are great. Do as many as you can, but aim for 3 sets of 15. Make that your goal!

Pushups are a great upper body toner. Do them against a wall, on your knees, or on your toes depending on your ability. Aim for 3 sets of 15 as a goal.

Add things to your routine as comfortable. But this will provide you a good base once you want to up the intensity.

Trail Running

I ran a marathon last year. I trained for it without have a proper base. I only ran about 9 miles a week, if that -- and my routine was rather inconsistent.

As a result, I had problems with pain and blisters and my joints through the entire training. In order to train for and run a marathon successfully, you really need to have a base of at least 15 miles a week during a consistent running program for at least 6 months.

My knees STILL hurt, and the marathon was last October. Still, I love running. I just can't get the same workout from biking or aerobics classes or anything like that.

When I went to the REI flagship store in Seattle, I happened to see an announcement for a class on trail running. The description boasted that trail running was pretty joint friendly. I was intrigued but only passing through so I didn't attend the class. Still it stayed with me.

When we got back from our vacation, I bought a pair of trail running shoes. And I've been doing it ever since. I went for a run today. :-)

I'm too crazy!

A friend just made me realized that I have been entirely too concerned with the fact that I've gained some weight since moving from Germany and that's it. I've had enough!

Fact 1- I am at a healthy weight even though I gained some so that's good. If I give my body the proper amount of exercise and the right kind of fuel, I am sure it will all work out.

Fact 2- I am going to focus on my workout routine and eating healthy foods and drinking lots of tea. Period.

My Goal then is to enhance my state of health. Period. And that's what the rest of this blog will be about. Enhancing health. Enhancing yours, enhancing mine, enhancing everyone!

Now, we're going to have some fun. How about some more recipes? :)

E-Zine Issue out at last!

My Latest issue of the Living Naturally E-Zine is out at last. This issue includes summer weight loss tips and a recipe for a mozzarella and tomato salad.

Check it out! You'll start recieving next week's issue but you can also view the archives.

Natural_life_zine-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Fitness Gear

Do you have a weakness for buying fitness equipment? I know, most of us do. I have a few things lying around the house myself that I bought on impulse. Well, online auctions are a great way to get rid of them and make extra money. We use auctions all the time to sell different household goods and they are a great way to get rid of clutter and give us some extra spending money. The key to a successful auction is putting together a great ad, and a good auction template can be really helpful, especially if you aren't technically savvy. I know. My parents have some fitness equipment they'd love to sell. I think I'll teach them how to do that sometime in the next few weeks.

Motivation to Exercise

We could all use a little motivation when it comes to exercise. We have goals. We want to look good in the bathing suite, lose weight, lower our cholesterol, etc. But why is it so hard to find the time and the desire despite the burning desire? Perhaps the answer is that we need to find someone to help give us the motivation. I know for me, it is easy to make excuses. I love running... usually. But when it's raining, or snowing, or anything I have a hard time going. If I had someone to run with me, or just simply say something motivating, it can help. There's a personal trainer near you whose personality is perfect. San Diego personal training, Chicago personal trainers, Deluth, MN personal trainers... I bet you can find one anywhere. So, what is the real reason why you aren't exercising? Perhaps you should consider hiring your own trainer!

Favorite Gyms

Since my husband is in the millitary, I always just use the gym the base has to offer. Hey, it's free. But my current gym is a temporary gym- the old officer's club. There's a chandelier in the weight room with an elaborate ceiling pattern and ornate curtains. In a gym? Well, it works, but it isn't my favorite. What is your favorite gym? Whether it is La Jolla gyms, Gold's Gym, or anything else, it's GOTTA be better than mine. (No offense, for those of you out there who know what I'm talking about!) You want a gym that has a great atmosphere, great classes, and is certainly not a temporary gym where the weight room is in a former ballroom.

Benefits of Personal Trainers

Personal trainers are knowledgeable and experienced professionals who work with clients to help them achieve their fitness goals. They encourage you and force you to push yourself and they are great motivators. Where do you live? There is San Diego personal training, Boston personal trainers, etc. Basically no matter where you live you can find a personal trainer. During your first session, tell them what your fitness goals are. Do you need to lose weight or just get in shape? Let them know. They can create a plan just for you that will help you meet your goals.

Healthy Italian Food

Italians have one of the healthiest cuisines in the world. Go to Italy and it is a rare thing to see someone who is extremely overweight. The lifestyle, the wine, the olive oil, the fresh produce... these things all combine to deliver the benefits of lasting health. Do you have a restaurant near you that prepares fresh, healthy Italian food? There is an Italian restaurant in California, for example, that many consider to be amongst the best san diego restaurants. There are also great Italian restaurants in other cities such as Boston, New York, Chicago, etc. And sometimes the best places are the ones you discover by accident. You know the ones I'm talking about. Tucked away in a corner with just a few tables. Good food, great atmosphere, and lasting health, after all are a benefit of living a Mediterranean lifestyle.

Exercise from Today

Today my exercise goal was to do 1 hour of recreational cardio. My husband is training for a marathon in October so I went with him to the Charles River. He ran, I walked. Walking is something I did all the time in Germany and had no problem maintaining my weight. I walked for around 80 minutes today.

Eight Week Exercise Plan

I am starting a new eight week long exercise program. I like it because it has you going to the gym and actualy doing some serious lifting. I've had a handful of false starts this year with other challenges found in magazines because the exercise routine wasn't hard enough. This plan has me doing cardio with heart rate training and requires that we hit the gym to lift weights. I love exercise and this plan is more intense and more at my level.

Tomorrow I get on the scale...

I've designated monday as my weigh in day. I don't know if I should skip it this week because I'm bloated and I may get discouraged. But maybe I'll just suck it up and do it anyway. I am still not sure how often I should weigh myself. Recent studies are showing that people who weigh themselves every day lose more weight. I am not sure if that will apply to me, though.

We'll see. I guess I'll need to think about it.

Nutrient Dense Foods

I've been wracking my brain... what am I doing different in the U.S. than I was in Germany. Then I figured it out. When I was there I focused on eating nutrient dense foods. I'd add spices, herbs, and even seaweed to the foods I eat in order to make it more nutritious. So for the past week, I've focused on this aspect. Here's what I used to do, and what I started to do again...

• Drink a lot of herbal teas
• Make herbal infusions (steeping certain herbs for about eight hours in a covered glass jar). The herbs I use for infusions are typically stinging nettle, oatstraw, and sometimes red clover, mullein, or red raspberry leaves mixed with a little mint.
• I consumed a lot of "warming" herbs that boost your metabolism such as ginger, cayenne, and cinnamon. I add these whenever I can.
• I put a pinch of dulse flakes in almost everything I cook, especially soups. Dulse is so nutritious!

My Weight Loss Goals

I have a goal to lose 20 pounds. I have until October 9. I've been steadily gaining weight since moving back to the U.S. from Germany in 2004. Two years later I've decided to do something about it. I even ran a marathon and haven't lost weight.

I've been puzzled but decided to change one thing at a time. I'll speak on that in another post.

Nightime Tea Blend

Here is a great blend to help you sleep:

2 Parts Chamomile Flowers
1 Part Lemon Balm leaves
1 Part Spearmint

It is light and refreshing and nourishing to the nerves. Enjoy!

The Mail

I really need to organize my mail better. I get it, then it goes "somewhere" so I can organize it. I have a few of these somewheres and I am currently buried under paper.

I'll keep you posted on what I do to fix this!

My house is a mess

Oh gosh. My house is a complete mess. I need to learn how to manage my deadlines AND the household chores such as laundry. Plus, I would love to be able to save money on cleaning. I pay someone to come every week (or every other week).

My solution is the fly lady. www.flylady.net

I obviously need some outside help!

Trail Running

I've been trail running lately and I must say, I love it! After I ran that marathon last year, I got tendonitis. And I still have it! Frustrating, I know. But, I can still get my running high. Since I've discovered trail running, my joints have been happier and I get that happy buzz from running. You guys should try it!

Healthy Dinner Ideas

What's for dinner? When you're in a rush, chances are you aren't worried about if your dinner is healthy. We eat pre-packaged foods or go out to dinner. Well, it is possible to throw together a healthy meal in no time. Here are some ideas:

• Make healthy soups in advance. That way, you'll have a quick dinner. All yo uneed to do is reheat!
• Learn the fine art of making a great pasta dish. Healthy pasta meals can be thrown together in under 20 minutes.
• Make hot sandwiches. Just make your favorite sandwich and throw it in the oven at 400 degrees F until it's nice and crispy. Serve with steamed veggies or a salad.

Orlando vacation

What if you took a vacation that was more than a vacation? Does this make any sense? lol. Vacationing is good for the soul. It can help your mind and your body. Orlando is a great spot for your health. The economy is sound so no stress in getting a job if you move there, there are pletny of spas and things to do... it is more than just about Disney these days. That's why a vacation home Orlando is a great investment. If you decide not to live there full time you can rent it- there's certainly plenty of demand!

liposuction

In the previous post I talked about plastic surgery. There are reasons other than vanity why people would get it, I am sure and I understand many of you are concerned with things like los angeles liposuction. Have you decided to check out the new place on Rodeo Drive? If you decide to go there for your treatments I am sure you'll get star quality treatment!

Plastic Surgery

I know, this blog is about living a healthy lifestyle. I also know that there are many of you out there who are unhappy with parts of their bodies or may need some help for other reasons such as breast reductions or to reduce scars. Well, for those of you considering plastic surgery, you'll be happy to know that Los Angelas liposuction has a new member of its kind right on Rodeo Drive with a view of the Chanel and Hugo Boss shops. I don't know what they prices are, but they tag them as "reasonable". I guess if you would like to give them a try, be my guest! I am sure they are professional and at the forefront of their field.

Debt and Your Health

It is no secret that being in debt causes stress. And we all know what stress can do for your health. Do you know how much debt you really have? This is the first step to gaining control of your finances. The second is to do some debt consolidation. Debt consolidation is when you combine all your debts into a low interest loan. Sound good? Well yes, it is. It is nice only having one payment to worry about. However, they do ask for collateral. Most make you put your home up for collateral which could also add stress. This is a good option overall though and one you may want to consider.