Is beauty only skin deep? And does it only lie in the eyes of the beholder?
There is no one woman in the world who does not want to look great and beautiful. But of course, beauty has a different definition from one person to another. In fact, it is a totally subjective issue and nobody has the most correct answer to it.
For a native African man, Scarlet Ortiz or better known as Maria Clara of NTV7’s Secreto De Amor, is ugly and unappealing because their definition of beauty is black-skinned, hard, curly hair with only a small piece of cloth covering the below private part. If you ask a Malaysian man, he might say that she is drop dead gorgeous, someone he might be dreaming of in his sleep every night. But try asking another Latino man. You might be surprised at his reply. He might just say that she is OK-looking, simply because women around him are all “Maria Clara” look-alikes.
When we talk about beauty, there is so much to touch on. Too wide a topic to be discussed in just a few lines. Too many things to cover – from head to toe. But it never failed to inspire women all over the world whenever the topic is brought up, be it at the workplace, at home and even during casual chats over a cup of coffee.
Some may consider Normala Samsudin as the most beautiful woman in Malaysia. Why? Because after three kids and approaching 40 years of age, she still looks as stunning as 20-year olds. Or maybe you’d prefer Aida Radzwill (formerly known as Aida Rahim), who is gorgeous and sexy at 40 +? And moreover, she married a much younger man! Anita Sarawak may also be on your list. At 50+, I think she looks superb! Ever wondered whether we would look like that (or maybe a little like that) when we reached 50? Well, I believe the answers are all in our hands. How we shape our lives today, will influence how we look tomorrow.
So, for this issue, I want to bring you into the most talked about beauty scenario – the Botox injection. It has been going around rapidly I could see. Whenever someone looks good, say after many childbirths or after a certain age, people will associate them with Botox. What is it actually? Is it bad to do it? Is it immoral? Is it against the religion? These questions kept playing in mind. I even thought of having one after I read about Kris Dayanti, the beautiful Indonesian singer-actress who did it and was not ashamed to admit it. What does it do really?
Botox is hailed as the fountain of youth in a syringe, as I quoted from The Star dated April 7, 2004. It works best especially in smaller, thinner muscles, such as those around the eyes, on crow’s feet or vertical lines between the eyebrows rather than on the wrinkles around the mouth, chin or neck. But, not everyone can go through this procedure successfully.
It is just like slimming pills in the market. For example, I might tell you that you should try taking the traditional capsules which contained traditional herbs to slim you down because it worked on me. Then, you gave it a go. And it didn’t work on you. It is different for each individual. The reaction is dissimilar. Same goes with this Botox injection. It was perfect for Kris Dayanti but it might just be the opposite for you and me.
For your basic information, you should not even dream of having Botox done if you are pregnant or breast feeding. You also could not have it if you are currently taking medications like calcium channel blockers which are used to treat high blood pressure. Please make sure that it is 100% safe for you and your future. The only side effect it should have on you is making you look younger, better and more beautiful than before. So, if it is the reverse that happened, then you should just forget about it or not even consider it in the first place!
Another important factor that you have to remember is to have it done with a qualified professional. Meaning, you should go to a plastic surgeon or the dermatologist, as they can determine whether the procedure is safe for you. Never ever put the word “cheap” anywhere near when considering whether or not to have Botox. This will lead you to just settle with a spa-like facility or storefront salon where the injection will be given by a non-professional like an aesthetician or a cosmetologist. You must also keep in your diary that the injection has to be repeated every three to six months to maintain the youthful results.
How does it sound so far? Are you already half way in deciding to have Botox some time after this month’s pay check? Whatever your decision is, just ensure that it is truly what you want. After all, trying something once would not hurt so badly. The one due in the next three months should just pass you by, then. Appearing perfect for 3 months would be inexplicable. Outstanding the crowd for just 3 months would give a tremendous boost to your self esteem.
I wonder how I would look like after Botox. I wonder what are the obvious changes it will bring. I wonder how it would affect me emotionally. I wonder whether it really is a short cut to a more youthful and beautiful me. Keep wondering because it keeps your mind working. So Botox, are we meant to be? And is it true after all that beauty is only skin deep? Does it only lie in the eyes of its beholder?
Monday, April 28, 2008
LITERARY APPRECIATION 3
A Poem for My Baby - Yusri bin Yahya
Dearest Baby, I hope that this birthday will bring a better life for you and me.
Happy 37th birthday, darling!!! (3 May 2008)
How Much Do I Love Thee?
by Elizabeth Browning
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints,
--I love thee with the breath,Smiles, tears, of all my life!
--and, if God choose, I shall but love thee better after death.
Dearest Baby, I hope that this birthday will bring a better life for you and me.
Happy 37th birthday, darling!!! (3 May 2008)
How Much Do I Love Thee?
by Elizabeth Browning
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
I love thee to the level of everyday's
Most quiet need, by sun and candlelight.
I love thee freely, as men strive for Right;
I love thee purely, as they turn from Praise.
I love thee with the passion put to use
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I seemed to lose
With my lost saints,
--I love thee with the breath,Smiles, tears, of all my life!
--and, if God choose, I shall but love thee better after death.
TIPS FOR US-NESS 7
Sexy Turn Ons
Want to know other ways to turn on your partner? Try out one or all of these:
Want to know other ways to turn on your partner? Try out one or all of these:
- Appear around the house semi-naked like when setting the dinner table with only an apron on.
- Run your hands gently down your partner’s spines, and slowly kiss it up.
- Gentle smooches on her breasts and on her inner thighs.
- Give gentle and soft bites on his or her bottom.
- Run your lips all around his or her body.
- Walk slowly from behind and grab him/ her and whisper slowly into the ears words of love, then kiss the neck softly.
- Bite on his/her ears gently
- Kissing gently on the tummy while licking softly on the belly button.
- Brush your breasts slowly on his body.
- Phone sex or send sexy SMS to your partner once in a while.
Don’t forget to try them out! Good luck!
FUN TIME!
The Pickle Slicer
Bill worked in a pickle factory. He had been employed there for a number of years when he came home one day to confess to his wife that he had a terrible compulsion. He had an urge to stick his penis into the pickle slicer. His wife suggested that he should see a sex therapist to talk about it, but Bill indicated that he'd be too embarrassed. He vowed to overcome the compulsion on his own.
One day a few weeks later, Bill came home absolutely ashen. His wife could see at once that something was seriously wrong.
"What's wrong, Bill?" she asked. "Do you remember that I told you how I had this tremendous urge to put my penis into the pickle slicer?"
"Oh, Bill, you didn't." "Yes, I did." "My God, Bill, what happened?"
"I got fired." "No, Bill. I mean, what happened with the pickle slicer?”
“Ohhh, she got fired too!”
Bill worked in a pickle factory. He had been employed there for a number of years when he came home one day to confess to his wife that he had a terrible compulsion. He had an urge to stick his penis into the pickle slicer. His wife suggested that he should see a sex therapist to talk about it, but Bill indicated that he'd be too embarrassed. He vowed to overcome the compulsion on his own.
One day a few weeks later, Bill came home absolutely ashen. His wife could see at once that something was seriously wrong.
"What's wrong, Bill?" she asked. "Do you remember that I told you how I had this tremendous urge to put my penis into the pickle slicer?"
"Oh, Bill, you didn't." "Yes, I did." "My God, Bill, what happened?"
"I got fired." "No, Bill. I mean, what happened with the pickle slicer?”
“Ohhh, she got fired too!”
ABOUT OUR KIDS 6
Seven Common Discipline Mistakes Parents Make--And How to Avoid Them
Discipline is not a happy word. But without it kids grow up acting like savages. Tamara Eberlein shares seven common discipline pitfalls and what to do about them:
1. Losing your temper. When parents lose their cool and blow up, kids know it. Danny, eight, hit his four-year-old sister, Sally. Sally screams and Mother comes running. She yells, "You know better than to hit your sister!" She grabs Danny by the arm and pushes him down in a chair. Danny has learned that the way to get attention is to yell. When you habitually yell, your children will soon be yelling back at you.
A better way: Stop the violence. Take both of his hands in yours. Look him straight in the eye and, with a prayer in your heart, firmly say: "You know that we do not allow hitting. Violence is wrong. It makes God feel bad. I am disappointed in you! Do you understand? There will be consequences. You will sit in this chair for 20 minutes and think about your behavior. Then you will go to your room and write a one-page letter to me telling why hitting is not allowed." To manifest passion toward an erring child is to increase the evil. It arouses the worst passions of the child and leads him to feel that you do not care for him.
2. Parents disagree on rules. Sometimes parents disagree on rules. But they must always present a united front. Children are masters at the game of "divide and conquer." Together, set guidelines for your children's homework, chores, bedtime, plus prohibitions against hitting, stealing, and lying. One parent should not be responsible for all discipline. And, of course, never contradict your spouse's orders.
3. Don't treat kids like little adults. We should listen to our children and respect them but do not run your home like a democracy. Raymond, age 6, grabs a video from the shelf at the super market: "Please Mom, I want this video!" "No, Raymond, it's too violent." "But Mom, all the kids at school watch it." It is not necessary to explain all the reasons. "Because, I said so." should be sufficient.
As kids get older, take time to explain and ask for their input, but never compromise your principles.
4. Don't bribe or misuse rewards. "If you two will stop fussing, I will give you a special treat for dinner tonight." This strategy may work for a time, but sooner or later they will start misbehaving to get prizes. A bribe is the wrong way to motivate children. The best rewards are intrinsic--the good feeling that comes from doing right. "It feels good to do something for someone, doesn't it, Larry?" When we do right God rewards us with a sense of peace and joy.
5. Praising too much or too little. Affirmation is a powerful strategy for building self-worth. But if we praise too much, the child will feel let down when he doesn't receive it. Children can become "praise-junkies." "Wow, this report card is great! You are such a smart boy!" To label a child as "smart" is flattery. Give affirmation for positive behavior. "Tommy, I am so proud of the way you helped clean the kitchen. Thank you!" Children will repeat behavior that brings appreciation.
6. Inconsistent discipline. Karen, age 5, was lying on the sofa, sobbing. "Why are you crying, Karen?" "Cause, last time I used a bad word you laughed at me. Now, you take away my dolly." If you are erratic or inconsistent in your discipline they will catch you every time. If they get a laugh one time and punishment the next, they will become confused.
Mother knelt by Karen. "Honey, I'm sorry. Mother was not consistent in her rules. I will try to do better next time." Karen responded with a big hug.
7. Avoid inappropriate punishment. The purpose of discipline is to teach, not to punish. The punishment should be a natural and logical consequence of the misbehavior. Example: When a child abuses television, the logical consequence would be to take away television privileges. If a child refuses to come to meals when he is called, a natural consequence would be cold food or no food. When a teenage boy comes in after his curfew on Friday night, a logical consequence would be to ground him on Saturday night. But to ground him for two weeks would be inappropriate. Children know intuitively what is fair and right.
Adapted from Tamara Eberlein, Redbook, June 1993.
Discipline is not a happy word. But without it kids grow up acting like savages. Tamara Eberlein shares seven common discipline pitfalls and what to do about them:
1. Losing your temper. When parents lose their cool and blow up, kids know it. Danny, eight, hit his four-year-old sister, Sally. Sally screams and Mother comes running. She yells, "You know better than to hit your sister!" She grabs Danny by the arm and pushes him down in a chair. Danny has learned that the way to get attention is to yell. When you habitually yell, your children will soon be yelling back at you.
A better way: Stop the violence. Take both of his hands in yours. Look him straight in the eye and, with a prayer in your heart, firmly say: "You know that we do not allow hitting. Violence is wrong. It makes God feel bad. I am disappointed in you! Do you understand? There will be consequences. You will sit in this chair for 20 minutes and think about your behavior. Then you will go to your room and write a one-page letter to me telling why hitting is not allowed." To manifest passion toward an erring child is to increase the evil. It arouses the worst passions of the child and leads him to feel that you do not care for him.
2. Parents disagree on rules. Sometimes parents disagree on rules. But they must always present a united front. Children are masters at the game of "divide and conquer." Together, set guidelines for your children's homework, chores, bedtime, plus prohibitions against hitting, stealing, and lying. One parent should not be responsible for all discipline. And, of course, never contradict your spouse's orders.
3. Don't treat kids like little adults. We should listen to our children and respect them but do not run your home like a democracy. Raymond, age 6, grabs a video from the shelf at the super market: "Please Mom, I want this video!" "No, Raymond, it's too violent." "But Mom, all the kids at school watch it." It is not necessary to explain all the reasons. "Because, I said so." should be sufficient.
As kids get older, take time to explain and ask for their input, but never compromise your principles.
4. Don't bribe or misuse rewards. "If you two will stop fussing, I will give you a special treat for dinner tonight." This strategy may work for a time, but sooner or later they will start misbehaving to get prizes. A bribe is the wrong way to motivate children. The best rewards are intrinsic--the good feeling that comes from doing right. "It feels good to do something for someone, doesn't it, Larry?" When we do right God rewards us with a sense of peace and joy.
5. Praising too much or too little. Affirmation is a powerful strategy for building self-worth. But if we praise too much, the child will feel let down when he doesn't receive it. Children can become "praise-junkies." "Wow, this report card is great! You are such a smart boy!" To label a child as "smart" is flattery. Give affirmation for positive behavior. "Tommy, I am so proud of the way you helped clean the kitchen. Thank you!" Children will repeat behavior that brings appreciation.
6. Inconsistent discipline. Karen, age 5, was lying on the sofa, sobbing. "Why are you crying, Karen?" "Cause, last time I used a bad word you laughed at me. Now, you take away my dolly." If you are erratic or inconsistent in your discipline they will catch you every time. If they get a laugh one time and punishment the next, they will become confused.
Mother knelt by Karen. "Honey, I'm sorry. Mother was not consistent in her rules. I will try to do better next time." Karen responded with a big hug.
7. Avoid inappropriate punishment. The purpose of discipline is to teach, not to punish. The punishment should be a natural and logical consequence of the misbehavior. Example: When a child abuses television, the logical consequence would be to take away television privileges. If a child refuses to come to meals when he is called, a natural consequence would be cold food or no food. When a teenage boy comes in after his curfew on Friday night, a logical consequence would be to ground him on Saturday night. But to ground him for two weeks would be inappropriate. Children know intuitively what is fair and right.
Adapted from Tamara Eberlein, Redbook, June 1993.
ABOUT OUR KIDS 5
Seven Common Discipline Mistakes Parents Make--And How to Avoid Them
Discipline is not a happy word. But without it kids grow up acting like savages. Tamara Eberlein shares seven common discipline pitfalls and what to do about them:
1. Losing your temper. When parents lose their cool and blow up, kids know it. Danny, eight, hit his four-year-old sister, Sally. Sally screams and Mother comes running. She yells, "You know better than to hit your sister!" She grabs Danny by the arm and pushes him down in a chair. Danny has learned that the way to get attention is to yell. When you habitually yell, your children will soon be yelling back at you.
A better way: Stop the violence. Take both of his hands in yours. Look him straight in the eye and, with a prayer in your heart, firmly say: "You know that we do not allow hitting. Violence is wrong. It makes God feel bad. I am disappointed in you! Do you understand? There will be consequences. You will sit in this chair for 20 minutes and think about your behavior. Then you will go to your room and write a one-page letter to me telling why hitting is not allowed." To manifest passion toward an erring child is to increase the evil. It arouses the worst passions of the child and leads him to feel that you do not care for him.
2. Parents disagree on rules. Sometimes parents disagree on rules. But they must always present a united front. Children are masters at the game of "divide and conquer." Together, set guidelines for your children's homework, chores, bedtime, plus prohibitions against hitting, stealing, and lying. One parent should not be responsible for all discipline. And, of course, never contradict your spouse's orders.
3. Don't treat kids like little adults. We should listen to our children and respect them but do not run your home like a democracy. Raymond, age 6, grabs a video from the shelf at the super market: "Please Mom, I want this video!" "No, Raymond, it's too violent." "But Mom, all the kids at school watch it." It is not necessary to explain all the reasons. "Because, I said so." should be sufficient.
As kids get older, take time to explain and ask for their input, but never compromise your principles.
4. Don't bribe or misuse rewards. "If you two will stop fussing, I will give you a special treat for dinner tonight." This strategy may work for a time, but sooner or later they will start misbehaving to get prizes. A bribe is the wrong way to motivate children. The best rewards are intrinsic--the good feeling that comes from doing right. "It feels good to do something for someone, doesn't it, Larry?" When we do right God rewards us with a sense of peace and joy.
5. Praising too much or too little. Affirmation is a powerful strategy for building self-worth. But if we praise too much, the child will feel let down when he doesn't receive it. Children can become "praise-junkies." "Wow, this report card is great! You are such a smart boy!" To label a child as "smart" is flattery. Give affirmation for positive behavior. "Tommy, I am so proud of the way you helped clean the kitchen. Thank you!" Children will repeat behavior that brings appreciation.
6. Inconsistent discipline. Karen, age 5, was lying on the sofa, sobbing. "Why are you crying, Karen?" "Cause, last time I used a bad word you laughed at me. Now, you take away my dolly." If you are erratic or inconsistent in your discipline they will catch you every time. If they get a laugh one time and punishment the next, they will become confused.
Mother knelt by Karen. "Honey, I'm sorry. Mother was not consistent in her rules. I will try to do better next time." Karen responded with a big hug.
7. Avoid inappropriate punishment. The purpose of discipline is to teach, not to punish. The punishment should be a natural and logical consequence of the misbehavior. Example: When a child abuses television, the logical consequence would be to take away television privileges. If a child refuses to come to meals when he is called, a natural consequence would be cold food or no food. When a teenage boy comes in after his curfew on Friday night, a logical consequence would be to ground him on Saturday night. But to ground him for two weeks would be inappropriate.
Children know intuitively what is fair and right.
Adapted from Tamara Eberlein, Redbook, June 1993.
Discipline is not a happy word. But without it kids grow up acting like savages. Tamara Eberlein shares seven common discipline pitfalls and what to do about them:
1. Losing your temper. When parents lose their cool and blow up, kids know it. Danny, eight, hit his four-year-old sister, Sally. Sally screams and Mother comes running. She yells, "You know better than to hit your sister!" She grabs Danny by the arm and pushes him down in a chair. Danny has learned that the way to get attention is to yell. When you habitually yell, your children will soon be yelling back at you.
A better way: Stop the violence. Take both of his hands in yours. Look him straight in the eye and, with a prayer in your heart, firmly say: "You know that we do not allow hitting. Violence is wrong. It makes God feel bad. I am disappointed in you! Do you understand? There will be consequences. You will sit in this chair for 20 minutes and think about your behavior. Then you will go to your room and write a one-page letter to me telling why hitting is not allowed." To manifest passion toward an erring child is to increase the evil. It arouses the worst passions of the child and leads him to feel that you do not care for him.
2. Parents disagree on rules. Sometimes parents disagree on rules. But they must always present a united front. Children are masters at the game of "divide and conquer." Together, set guidelines for your children's homework, chores, bedtime, plus prohibitions against hitting, stealing, and lying. One parent should not be responsible for all discipline. And, of course, never contradict your spouse's orders.
3. Don't treat kids like little adults. We should listen to our children and respect them but do not run your home like a democracy. Raymond, age 6, grabs a video from the shelf at the super market: "Please Mom, I want this video!" "No, Raymond, it's too violent." "But Mom, all the kids at school watch it." It is not necessary to explain all the reasons. "Because, I said so." should be sufficient.
As kids get older, take time to explain and ask for their input, but never compromise your principles.
4. Don't bribe or misuse rewards. "If you two will stop fussing, I will give you a special treat for dinner tonight." This strategy may work for a time, but sooner or later they will start misbehaving to get prizes. A bribe is the wrong way to motivate children. The best rewards are intrinsic--the good feeling that comes from doing right. "It feels good to do something for someone, doesn't it, Larry?" When we do right God rewards us with a sense of peace and joy.
5. Praising too much or too little. Affirmation is a powerful strategy for building self-worth. But if we praise too much, the child will feel let down when he doesn't receive it. Children can become "praise-junkies." "Wow, this report card is great! You are such a smart boy!" To label a child as "smart" is flattery. Give affirmation for positive behavior. "Tommy, I am so proud of the way you helped clean the kitchen. Thank you!" Children will repeat behavior that brings appreciation.
6. Inconsistent discipline. Karen, age 5, was lying on the sofa, sobbing. "Why are you crying, Karen?" "Cause, last time I used a bad word you laughed at me. Now, you take away my dolly." If you are erratic or inconsistent in your discipline they will catch you every time. If they get a laugh one time and punishment the next, they will become confused.
Mother knelt by Karen. "Honey, I'm sorry. Mother was not consistent in her rules. I will try to do better next time." Karen responded with a big hug.
7. Avoid inappropriate punishment. The purpose of discipline is to teach, not to punish. The punishment should be a natural and logical consequence of the misbehavior. Example: When a child abuses television, the logical consequence would be to take away television privileges. If a child refuses to come to meals when he is called, a natural consequence would be cold food or no food. When a teenage boy comes in after his curfew on Friday night, a logical consequence would be to ground him on Saturday night. But to ground him for two weeks would be inappropriate.
Children know intuitively what is fair and right.
Adapted from Tamara Eberlein, Redbook, June 1993.
LEARN A WORD A DAY 5
galvanic \gal-VAN-ik\, adjective:
1. Of, pertaining to, or producing a direct current of electricity, especially when produced chemically.
2. Affecting or affected as if by an electric shock; startling; shocking.
3. Stimulating; energizing.
Reading the epic known to us as the Iliad is vastly different from the preliterate experience of hearing and seeing it performed. In place of the bard's galvanic flow of sound and image, the reader beholds a mute tome, the size of longish novel. --Michael E. Hobart and Zachary S. Schiffman, [1]Information Ages Hemingway's letters, which often seem to have been dashed off at the end of the day, display little of the galvanic style that animated his early (and finest) fiction. --Michiko Kakutani, "Tone It Down, He Urged Hemingway," [2]New York Times, November 19, 1996 What was special -- and at the time, galvanic -- about his early writing was its precision and concision. --Michiko Kakutani, "The Hunter Returns, Weary but Still Macho," [3]New York Times, June 22, 1999
1. Of, pertaining to, or producing a direct current of electricity, especially when produced chemically.
2. Affecting or affected as if by an electric shock; startling; shocking.
3. Stimulating; energizing.
Reading the epic known to us as the Iliad is vastly different from the preliterate experience of hearing and seeing it performed. In place of the bard's galvanic flow of sound and image, the reader beholds a mute tome, the size of longish novel. --Michael E. Hobart and Zachary S. Schiffman, [1]Information Ages Hemingway's letters, which often seem to have been dashed off at the end of the day, display little of the galvanic style that animated his early (and finest) fiction. --Michiko Kakutani, "Tone It Down, He Urged Hemingway," [2]New York Times, November 19, 1996 What was special -- and at the time, galvanic -- about his early writing was its precision and concision. --Michiko Kakutani, "The Hunter Returns, Weary but Still Macho," [3]New York Times, June 22, 1999
WHAT SAYS THE TABIB? 5
10 Tips for a Better Sleep
Feeling crabby lately? It could be you aren't getting enough sleep. Although the average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep a night, that number could be hard to come by if you factor in work, taking care of children and managing a household. Then, there are the unexpected challenges that can keep you up at night — financial worries, layoffs, and illness or relationship issues.
Grumpiness isn't the only result of sleep deprivation. Getting too little sleep impairs memory, reaction time and alertness. Tired people are less productive at work, less patient with others and less interactive in relationships.
Try one or two of the following tips or a combination until you have enough quality sleep to feel alert and well rested. If these tips don't work, see your doctor. You could have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea, that requires medical attention.
1. Stick to a schedule, and don't sleep late on weekends. If you sleep late on Saturday and Sunday morning, you'll get Sunday night insomnia. Instead, go to bed and get up at about the same time every day.
2. Don't eat or drink a lot before bedtime. Eat a light dinner about two hours before sleeping. If you drink too much liquid before sleeping, you'll wake up repeatedly in the night for trips to the bathroom. Don’t eat spicy or fatty foods. They can cause heartburn, which may interfere with your sleep.
3. Avoid caffeine and nicotine. They're addictive stimulants and keep you awake. Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms at night, and smoking in bed can be dangerous. Caffeine should be avoided for eight hours before your desired bedtime.
4. Exercise. If you're trying to sleep better, the best time to exercise is in the afternoon. A program of regular physical activity enhances the quality of nocturnal sleep.
5. A slightly cool room is ideal for sleeping. This mimics your internal temperature drop during sleep, so turn off the heat and save on fuel bills. If you tend to get cold, use blankets or wear socks. If you tend to over heat, wear light clothes and sleep under single sheets.
6. Sleep primarily at night. Daytime naps steal hours from nighttime slumber. Limit daytime sleep to less than one hour, no later than 3 p.m.
7. Keep it quiet. Silence is more conducive to sleep. Turn off the radio and TV. Use earplugs or a fan or some other source of constant, soothing, background noise to mask sounds you can't control, such as a busy street, trains, airplanes or even a snoring partner. Double-pane windows and heavy curtains also muffle outside noise.
8. Make your bed. A good bed is subjective and different for each person. Make sure you have a bed that is comfortable and offers orthopedic comfort. If you share your bed, make sure there’s enough room for all. Use your bed only for sleep and sex.
9. Soak and sack out. Taking a hot shower or bath before bed helps bring on sleep because they can relax tense muscles.
10. Don’t rely on sleeping pills. Use the lowest dosage. Try doing away with it gradually.
(Adapted from a relationship advice website in 2004)
Feeling crabby lately? It could be you aren't getting enough sleep. Although the average adult needs seven to nine hours of sleep a night, that number could be hard to come by if you factor in work, taking care of children and managing a household. Then, there are the unexpected challenges that can keep you up at night — financial worries, layoffs, and illness or relationship issues.
Grumpiness isn't the only result of sleep deprivation. Getting too little sleep impairs memory, reaction time and alertness. Tired people are less productive at work, less patient with others and less interactive in relationships.
Try one or two of the following tips or a combination until you have enough quality sleep to feel alert and well rested. If these tips don't work, see your doctor. You could have a sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea, that requires medical attention.
1. Stick to a schedule, and don't sleep late on weekends. If you sleep late on Saturday and Sunday morning, you'll get Sunday night insomnia. Instead, go to bed and get up at about the same time every day.
2. Don't eat or drink a lot before bedtime. Eat a light dinner about two hours before sleeping. If you drink too much liquid before sleeping, you'll wake up repeatedly in the night for trips to the bathroom. Don’t eat spicy or fatty foods. They can cause heartburn, which may interfere with your sleep.
3. Avoid caffeine and nicotine. They're addictive stimulants and keep you awake. Smokers often experience withdrawal symptoms at night, and smoking in bed can be dangerous. Caffeine should be avoided for eight hours before your desired bedtime.
4. Exercise. If you're trying to sleep better, the best time to exercise is in the afternoon. A program of regular physical activity enhances the quality of nocturnal sleep.
5. A slightly cool room is ideal for sleeping. This mimics your internal temperature drop during sleep, so turn off the heat and save on fuel bills. If you tend to get cold, use blankets or wear socks. If you tend to over heat, wear light clothes and sleep under single sheets.
6. Sleep primarily at night. Daytime naps steal hours from nighttime slumber. Limit daytime sleep to less than one hour, no later than 3 p.m.
7. Keep it quiet. Silence is more conducive to sleep. Turn off the radio and TV. Use earplugs or a fan or some other source of constant, soothing, background noise to mask sounds you can't control, such as a busy street, trains, airplanes or even a snoring partner. Double-pane windows and heavy curtains also muffle outside noise.
8. Make your bed. A good bed is subjective and different for each person. Make sure you have a bed that is comfortable and offers orthopedic comfort. If you share your bed, make sure there’s enough room for all. Use your bed only for sleep and sex.
9. Soak and sack out. Taking a hot shower or bath before bed helps bring on sleep because they can relax tense muscles.
10. Don’t rely on sleeping pills. Use the lowest dosage. Try doing away with it gradually.
(Adapted from a relationship advice website in 2004)
TIPS FOR US-NESS 6
This issue’s tips may seem short but I believe they are very useful ones especially most of us are young parents with small kids. We spend too much time on our kids that we some time forget about the people who brought the kids into the world – US!
To enhance your relationship with your life partner:
Just one five minute connection a day can make for a happier marriage. So go ahead and spend five minutes.
Cuddle at the most important time of the day.
Most couples fit their cuddles in at the end of the day, but cuddling in the morning is even more rewarding. The physical contact will keep you feeling close to each other all day, so set the alarm five minutes early, and then snuggle. You can talk, but you don't have to. The most important part is that you're holding each other. It'll help you both start the day feeling loved, and you'll feel that way all day long.
Ask each other one simple question before you head out the door.
What is it? "Anything special going on today?" Talking about the daily details of our lives is just as important to couples as sharing hopes, dreams, and fears with each other. The nitty-gritty details determine a lot of how we act and feel on any given day, so asking about them is a great way to build understanding and rapport. Then, when you're together again at the end of the day, ask how that special something -- that meeting, phone call to an important client, or lunch with a friend went. The results? You'll feel connected.
Share what you like about each other
When a conversation about cars sprang up at a gathering with friends, one woman gave her husband credit for making their old clunker last with his TLC. She later said, "He looked so happy, I realized I should tell him more often how much I appreciate the things he does. I didn't think I had to tell him. I assumed he knew how much I appreciate him." The moral? If there's something you appreciate about your partner, from his parenting skills to the way he painted the garage last month, speak up! If you start, you may enjoy the same treatment from your husband. How does praise work magic? It reminds your partner that you love them, and knowing they're loved makes them more willing to iron out differences.
Do small kindnesses for each other
The good we do for our partner tends to come back to us. When you're thoughtful to your partner, they're inclined to be thoughtful in return. And those acts of kindness make for a loving feeling between two people. So pick up each other's favorite dessert, or clip articles you think your spouse might like. The amount of love those small kindnesses will bring you is without limit.
Use this instant stress buster
One of the most important things we've discovered about happy couples is that they spend five minutes griping to each other about things that stressed them out during the day, taking turns talking. This lowers the amount of stress they feel and lets them enjoy the rest of their evening together.
I hope we all benefit from these tips and practice them everyday. Once they become habitual, you needn’t remind yourself anymore as they will happen naturally. Good luck!
(Adapted from a relationship advice website in 2004)
To enhance your relationship with your life partner:
Just one five minute connection a day can make for a happier marriage. So go ahead and spend five minutes.
Cuddle at the most important time of the day.
Most couples fit their cuddles in at the end of the day, but cuddling in the morning is even more rewarding. The physical contact will keep you feeling close to each other all day, so set the alarm five minutes early, and then snuggle. You can talk, but you don't have to. The most important part is that you're holding each other. It'll help you both start the day feeling loved, and you'll feel that way all day long.
Ask each other one simple question before you head out the door.
What is it? "Anything special going on today?" Talking about the daily details of our lives is just as important to couples as sharing hopes, dreams, and fears with each other. The nitty-gritty details determine a lot of how we act and feel on any given day, so asking about them is a great way to build understanding and rapport. Then, when you're together again at the end of the day, ask how that special something -- that meeting, phone call to an important client, or lunch with a friend went. The results? You'll feel connected.
Share what you like about each other
When a conversation about cars sprang up at a gathering with friends, one woman gave her husband credit for making their old clunker last with his TLC. She later said, "He looked so happy, I realized I should tell him more often how much I appreciate the things he does. I didn't think I had to tell him. I assumed he knew how much I appreciate him." The moral? If there's something you appreciate about your partner, from his parenting skills to the way he painted the garage last month, speak up! If you start, you may enjoy the same treatment from your husband. How does praise work magic? It reminds your partner that you love them, and knowing they're loved makes them more willing to iron out differences.
Do small kindnesses for each other
The good we do for our partner tends to come back to us. When you're thoughtful to your partner, they're inclined to be thoughtful in return. And those acts of kindness make for a loving feeling between two people. So pick up each other's favorite dessert, or clip articles you think your spouse might like. The amount of love those small kindnesses will bring you is without limit.
Use this instant stress buster
One of the most important things we've discovered about happy couples is that they spend five minutes griping to each other about things that stressed them out during the day, taking turns talking. This lowers the amount of stress they feel and lets them enjoy the rest of their evening together.
I hope we all benefit from these tips and practice them everyday. Once they become habitual, you needn’t remind yourself anymore as they will happen naturally. Good luck!
(Adapted from a relationship advice website in 2004)
FEATURE STORY 5
American Idol Syndrome
(Written on 15 April 2004)
So, what’s the most talked about TV show now? Some might say CSI. Some others might suggest Friends. Or maybe it’s Gerak Khas? Well, I am not sure anymore but I guessed the show that everybody seemed to be watching now is American Idol. Even my 4-year old is willing to sacrifice his Cartoon Network for this and Explorace, too.
When we mention American Idol, I couldn’t help but to fall back on Akademi Fantasia the first season. I remembered when my cousins were all into the show starting from week one and I was left in awe, what is it with the show that they liked it so much? It must be quite interesting then especially when they gave up Coffee Bean, Starbucks or even the movies on each Saturday night just to be home to watch the weekly concert. Then, my turn came. I started becoming addicted to the show. I was truly mesmerised by Burn before he was voted out. Afterwards, it shifted to Vince and I could recall the fact that I used up RM198 on the final concert night simply because I desperately wanted Vince to get the Champion title. Something to laugh about? Yeah, I should think so.
Now, it’s American Idol. Almost everyone at work talks about William Hung. Hung this, Hung that, here Hung, there Hung. Again, I was left to marvel alone. Who the heck is this William Hung guy? Is he a new singer? They were associating him with the song “She Bangs” and so I said to myself that maybe he’s just as sexy, hot and good looking as Ricky Martin.
One night, while I was browsing through the TV channels from RTM 1 to RTM 2 to TV3 and to NTV7, there was nothing interesting to settle with. Next, I pressed number 6 on my remote control, and there it was – an ad where clips of contestants were shown on this singing contest. There was this plain looking Chinese guy who was shaking his way through a song that sounded like “She Bangs.” After that the TV said, don’t forget every Friday at 9.45 pm on 8TV and the results at 3 pm every Saturday – American Idol. Ah ha! This is it! Yes! I found it. The TV show that Malaysians are watching now.
Honestly speaking, in my truest opinion, the best part of the show is the segment on the judges’ comments. I really love Simon Cowell. I think he is truthful. He is honest. He doesn’t lie. He says what he thinks is right for the sake of a singing career. And I believe that is the
best practise and exposure a star could ever get because once they become a star, there are more than just Simon Cowell they have to face out there. So many challenges. So many obstacles. Infinite barriers.
And yesterday, I saw the ad on Malaysian Idol coming to town. You might think it’s great but I beg to differ. There are already a few in the market – Akademi Fantasia, Bintang RTM, Who Will Win and etc. What happened to the winners anyway? As it is, only Siti became popular and rich. She is the only one worth mentioning. Next, is Vince. He just released his debut album. Do you think he’ll sell like Siti did? Even Enrique Iglesias couldn’t sell his concert tickets in Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and also Manila. What would make Vince different, then? What about the others? Where have they gone to?
Many of our young, new singers became recording artistes not because they’re rightly talented but most of them are chasing the glitters and glimmers of show business. Which I think is not permanent. Neither does it warrant a better living. A huge number of them didn’t even complete high school with commendable results or maybe didn’t finish high school at all! Some of them just disappeared after one album. Is this the kind of future generation we’re creating for our beloved country?
Don’t compare us with the US. It’s undoubtedly beyond comparison. In the states, one can definitely make a living with singing. Not just that. One can make a living with dancing, acting, playing musical instruments, sports – in short, one can make money by doing just about anything! And mind you, some even get filthy rich because of that. But is that possible here in Malaysia? Maybe not now. Maybe in 30 years time. Or maybe not ever. Do you dream of your child becoming the next Malaysian Idol? Will you allow him to be in showbiz one day? Does it make you proud if he is on every magazine cover in Malaysia? Tell me about it.
The more I watch American Idol, the more I couldn’t imagine how it is going to be like in Malaysia. It is so much fun running through the audition tapes over and over again. It is funny when we see how people in the states would do whatever it takes just to get to the audition stage. Now, the show is almost reaching its finale. There were 12 finalists at the beginning, all of whom, none of the 12 finalists of AF was anywhere near their standards. As it goes by, one will be voted out each week. It’s only left with 8 finalists now, excluding the pretty Leah La Belle, the macho Matthew Rogers, the funky Amy Adams and the sexy Camile Velasco. Who will be going home next? We’ll wait and see.
In the meantime, let’s ponder over the coming Malaysian Idol and see whether another Siti Nurhaliza will be created. Or maybe another Kelly Clarkson or Gareth Gates or even Guy Sebastian. Hopefully, one day, Malaysians will be able to make a great living out of a singing career, who knows?
(Written on 15 April 2004)
So, what’s the most talked about TV show now? Some might say CSI. Some others might suggest Friends. Or maybe it’s Gerak Khas? Well, I am not sure anymore but I guessed the show that everybody seemed to be watching now is American Idol. Even my 4-year old is willing to sacrifice his Cartoon Network for this and Explorace, too.
When we mention American Idol, I couldn’t help but to fall back on Akademi Fantasia the first season. I remembered when my cousins were all into the show starting from week one and I was left in awe, what is it with the show that they liked it so much? It must be quite interesting then especially when they gave up Coffee Bean, Starbucks or even the movies on each Saturday night just to be home to watch the weekly concert. Then, my turn came. I started becoming addicted to the show. I was truly mesmerised by Burn before he was voted out. Afterwards, it shifted to Vince and I could recall the fact that I used up RM198 on the final concert night simply because I desperately wanted Vince to get the Champion title. Something to laugh about? Yeah, I should think so.
Now, it’s American Idol. Almost everyone at work talks about William Hung. Hung this, Hung that, here Hung, there Hung. Again, I was left to marvel alone. Who the heck is this William Hung guy? Is he a new singer? They were associating him with the song “She Bangs” and so I said to myself that maybe he’s just as sexy, hot and good looking as Ricky Martin.
One night, while I was browsing through the TV channels from RTM 1 to RTM 2 to TV3 and to NTV7, there was nothing interesting to settle with. Next, I pressed number 6 on my remote control, and there it was – an ad where clips of contestants were shown on this singing contest. There was this plain looking Chinese guy who was shaking his way through a song that sounded like “She Bangs.” After that the TV said, don’t forget every Friday at 9.45 pm on 8TV and the results at 3 pm every Saturday – American Idol. Ah ha! This is it! Yes! I found it. The TV show that Malaysians are watching now.
Honestly speaking, in my truest opinion, the best part of the show is the segment on the judges’ comments. I really love Simon Cowell. I think he is truthful. He is honest. He doesn’t lie. He says what he thinks is right for the sake of a singing career. And I believe that is the
best practise and exposure a star could ever get because once they become a star, there are more than just Simon Cowell they have to face out there. So many challenges. So many obstacles. Infinite barriers.
And yesterday, I saw the ad on Malaysian Idol coming to town. You might think it’s great but I beg to differ. There are already a few in the market – Akademi Fantasia, Bintang RTM, Who Will Win and etc. What happened to the winners anyway? As it is, only Siti became popular and rich. She is the only one worth mentioning. Next, is Vince. He just released his debut album. Do you think he’ll sell like Siti did? Even Enrique Iglesias couldn’t sell his concert tickets in Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong and also Manila. What would make Vince different, then? What about the others? Where have they gone to?
Many of our young, new singers became recording artistes not because they’re rightly talented but most of them are chasing the glitters and glimmers of show business. Which I think is not permanent. Neither does it warrant a better living. A huge number of them didn’t even complete high school with commendable results or maybe didn’t finish high school at all! Some of them just disappeared after one album. Is this the kind of future generation we’re creating for our beloved country?
Don’t compare us with the US. It’s undoubtedly beyond comparison. In the states, one can definitely make a living with singing. Not just that. One can make a living with dancing, acting, playing musical instruments, sports – in short, one can make money by doing just about anything! And mind you, some even get filthy rich because of that. But is that possible here in Malaysia? Maybe not now. Maybe in 30 years time. Or maybe not ever. Do you dream of your child becoming the next Malaysian Idol? Will you allow him to be in showbiz one day? Does it make you proud if he is on every magazine cover in Malaysia? Tell me about it.
The more I watch American Idol, the more I couldn’t imagine how it is going to be like in Malaysia. It is so much fun running through the audition tapes over and over again. It is funny when we see how people in the states would do whatever it takes just to get to the audition stage. Now, the show is almost reaching its finale. There were 12 finalists at the beginning, all of whom, none of the 12 finalists of AF was anywhere near their standards. As it goes by, one will be voted out each week. It’s only left with 8 finalists now, excluding the pretty Leah La Belle, the macho Matthew Rogers, the funky Amy Adams and the sexy Camile Velasco. Who will be going home next? We’ll wait and see.
In the meantime, let’s ponder over the coming Malaysian Idol and see whether another Siti Nurhaliza will be created. Or maybe another Kelly Clarkson or Gareth Gates or even Guy Sebastian. Hopefully, one day, Malaysians will be able to make a great living out of a singing career, who knows?
LEARN A WORD A DAY 4
cock-a-hoop (kok-uh-HOOP) adjective
1. Being elated or exulting, especially in a boastful manner.
2. Askew.
[Of uncertain origin. Perhaps from the phrase to set cock on a hoop (to be festive).]
"Randy Atkinson and Shawn Ewing, the Vancouver Pride Society's co-chairs, were all cock-a-hoop when the 25-year-old organization's ninth annual gala dinner sold out at the Coast Plaza hotel Sunday." Malcolm Parry; Pride Society Dinner Humbles Debt; Vancouver Sun (Canada); Jun 17, 2003. "The Blues come to Newlands this week cock-a-hoop while the Stormers dressing-room had a funereal look ..." Stormers' Monday Blues; Cape Argus (Cape Town, South Africa); Apr 14, 2003.
1. Being elated or exulting, especially in a boastful manner.
2. Askew.
[Of uncertain origin. Perhaps from the phrase to set cock on a hoop (to be festive).]
"Randy Atkinson and Shawn Ewing, the Vancouver Pride Society's co-chairs, were all cock-a-hoop when the 25-year-old organization's ninth annual gala dinner sold out at the Coast Plaza hotel Sunday." Malcolm Parry; Pride Society Dinner Humbles Debt; Vancouver Sun (Canada); Jun 17, 2003. "The Blues come to Newlands this week cock-a-hoop while the Stormers dressing-room had a funereal look ..." Stormers' Monday Blues; Cape Argus (Cape Town, South Africa); Apr 14, 2003.
TIPS FOR US-NESS 5
Places to Make Love
We have to be creative to ensure that our sexual relationship with our husband or wife will always be lively. So, use these places as your next place to get sexy and intimate.
1. In a public restroom
2. In a movie theatre
3. On a soft rug on the floor
4. In your backyard under the stars
5. In the woods right after the rain stops
6. On a train at night
7. On a motorcycle
8. In bed with silk or satin sheets
9. On the beach under the moonlight
10. In the backseat of your car
11. On the bed full of rose petals
12. Under the waterfall
13. In your car parked at the garage
14. On your house’s balcony
15. In your car parked at a shopping complex’s car park
16. On your office table
17. In the elevator
18. In your bath tub
19. At the swimming pool
20. At the park on a bench
Don’t forget to try some out and tell me how it goes…
p.s. I totally forgot where I got this from in 2004. Sorry Mr/Ms Author.
We have to be creative to ensure that our sexual relationship with our husband or wife will always be lively. So, use these places as your next place to get sexy and intimate.
1. In a public restroom
2. In a movie theatre
3. On a soft rug on the floor
4. In your backyard under the stars
5. In the woods right after the rain stops
6. On a train at night
7. On a motorcycle
8. In bed with silk or satin sheets
9. On the beach under the moonlight
10. In the backseat of your car
11. On the bed full of rose petals
12. Under the waterfall
13. In your car parked at the garage
14. On your house’s balcony
15. In your car parked at a shopping complex’s car park
16. On your office table
17. In the elevator
18. In your bath tub
19. At the swimming pool
20. At the park on a bench
Don’t forget to try some out and tell me how it goes…
p.s. I totally forgot where I got this from in 2004. Sorry Mr/Ms Author.
LEARN A WORD A DAY 3
epigram (EP-i-gram) noun
A short witty saying, often in verse.
[From Middle English, from Latin epigramma, from Greek epigramma, from epigraphein (to write, inscribe), from epi- (upon, after) + graphein (to write). Other words originating from the same root are graphite, paragraph, program, and topography.]
According to poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge,
What is an epigram? A dwarfish whole; Its body brevity, and wit its soul.
Here is one from Benjamin Franklin that truly demonstrates the power of a pithy epigram: Little strokes Fell great oaks
A short witty saying, often in verse.
[From Middle English, from Latin epigramma, from Greek epigramma, from epigraphein (to write, inscribe), from epi- (upon, after) + graphein (to write). Other words originating from the same root are graphite, paragraph, program, and topography.]
According to poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge,
What is an epigram? A dwarfish whole; Its body brevity, and wit its soul.
Here is one from Benjamin Franklin that truly demonstrates the power of a pithy epigram: Little strokes Fell great oaks
ABOUT OUR KIDS 4
Why is Hand washing So Important?
Your children may not always listen when you tell them to wash their hands before dinner, but it's a message worth repeating. Hand washing is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep your kids from getting sick.
The First Line of Defense against GermsGerms - such as bacteria and viruses - can be transmitted in several different ways:
through contaminated water and food
through droplets released during a cough or a sneeze
through dirty hands
through contaminated surfaces
through a sick person's body fluids
If your child picks up germs from one of these sources, he can unknowingly become infected simply by touching his eyes, nose, or mouth. And once he's infected, it's usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness.
Good hand washing is your first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses - and not just the common cold. More serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea can be stopped with the simple act of washing your hands.
How to Wash Your Hands CorrectlyHere are some simple steps for scrubbing those germs away. Demonstrate this routine to your child - or better yet, wash your hands together with your child several times a day so he learns how important this good habit is.
Wash your hands in warm water, which kills germs better than cold water. Make sure the water isn't too hot for little hands.
Use soap and lather up for about 10 to 15 seconds (antibacterial soap isn't necessary - any soap will do). Make sure you get "in-between" places like between the fingers and under the nails (where uninvited germs like to hang out). Don't forget the wrists!
Rinse and dry well with a clean towel.
To minimize the germs passed around your family, make frequent hand washing a rule for everyone, especially:
before eating and cooking
after using the bathroom
after cleaning around the house
after touching animals, including house pets
after visiting or taking care of any sick friends or relatives
after blowing one's nose, coughing, or sneezing
after being outside (playing, gardening, walking the dog, etc.)
Don't underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink with your child could very well save you trips to the doctor's office.
Adapted from the article written by Dr. Kim Rutherford
Your children may not always listen when you tell them to wash their hands before dinner, but it's a message worth repeating. Hand washing is by far the best way to prevent germs from spreading and to keep your kids from getting sick.
The First Line of Defense against GermsGerms - such as bacteria and viruses - can be transmitted in several different ways:
through contaminated water and food
through droplets released during a cough or a sneeze
through dirty hands
through contaminated surfaces
through a sick person's body fluids
If your child picks up germs from one of these sources, he can unknowingly become infected simply by touching his eyes, nose, or mouth. And once he's infected, it's usually just a matter of time before the whole family comes down with the same illness.
Good hand washing is your first line of defense against the spread of many illnesses - and not just the common cold. More serious illnesses such as meningitis, bronchiolitis, influenza, hepatitis A, and most types of infectious diarrhea can be stopped with the simple act of washing your hands.
How to Wash Your Hands CorrectlyHere are some simple steps for scrubbing those germs away. Demonstrate this routine to your child - or better yet, wash your hands together with your child several times a day so he learns how important this good habit is.
Wash your hands in warm water, which kills germs better than cold water. Make sure the water isn't too hot for little hands.
Use soap and lather up for about 10 to 15 seconds (antibacterial soap isn't necessary - any soap will do). Make sure you get "in-between" places like between the fingers and under the nails (where uninvited germs like to hang out). Don't forget the wrists!
Rinse and dry well with a clean towel.
To minimize the germs passed around your family, make frequent hand washing a rule for everyone, especially:
before eating and cooking
after using the bathroom
after cleaning around the house
after touching animals, including house pets
after visiting or taking care of any sick friends or relatives
after blowing one's nose, coughing, or sneezing
after being outside (playing, gardening, walking the dog, etc.)
Don't underestimate the power of hand washing! The few seconds you spend at the sink with your child could very well save you trips to the doctor's office.
Adapted from the article written by Dr. Kim Rutherford
WHAT SAYS THE TABIB? 4
The Top 10 Foods to Beware – they can cause cancer, heart diseases, diabetes and high cholesterol level.
1. Spreads. Margarine is a twisted sister -- it's loaded with trans fats and saturated fats, both of which can lead to heart disease. Other non-butter spreads and shortening also contain large amounts of trans fat and saturated fat.
2. Packaged foods. Cake mixes, Bisquick, and other mixes all have several grams of trans fat per serving.
3. Soups. Ramen noodles and soup cups contain very high levels of trans fat.
4. Fast Food. Bad news here: Fries, chicken, and other foods are deep-fried in partially hydrogenated oil. Even if the chains use liquid oil, fries are sometimes partially fried in trans fat before they're shipped to the restaurant. Pancakes and grilled sandwiches also have some trans fat, from margarine slathered on the grill.
5. Frozen Food. Those yummy frozen pies, pot pies, waffles, pizzas, even breaded fish sticks contain trans fat. Even if the label says it's low-fat, it still has trans fat.
6. Baked Goods. Even worse news -- more trans fats are used in commercially baked products than any other foods. Doughnuts contain shortening in the dough and are cooked in trans fat.
7. Chips and Crackers. Shortening provides crispy texture. Even "reduced fat" brands can still have trans fat. Anything fried (like potato chips and corn chips) or buttery crackers have trans fat.
8. Breakfast food. Breakfast cereal and energy bars are quick-fix, highly processed products that contain trans fats, even those that claim to be "healthy."
9. Cookies and Candy. Look at the labels; some have higher fat content than others. A chocolate bar with nuts -- or a cookie -- is likely to have more trans fat than gummy bears.
10. Toppings and Dips. Nondairy creamers and flavored coffees, whipped toppings, bean dips, gravy mixes, and salad dressings contain lots of trans fat.
Can you eliminate trans fats entirely from your diet? Probably not. The goal is to have as little trans fat in your diet as possible.
(Adapted from one health website in 2004)
1. Spreads. Margarine is a twisted sister -- it's loaded with trans fats and saturated fats, both of which can lead to heart disease. Other non-butter spreads and shortening also contain large amounts of trans fat and saturated fat.
2. Packaged foods. Cake mixes, Bisquick, and other mixes all have several grams of trans fat per serving.
3. Soups. Ramen noodles and soup cups contain very high levels of trans fat.
4. Fast Food. Bad news here: Fries, chicken, and other foods are deep-fried in partially hydrogenated oil. Even if the chains use liquid oil, fries are sometimes partially fried in trans fat before they're shipped to the restaurant. Pancakes and grilled sandwiches also have some trans fat, from margarine slathered on the grill.
5. Frozen Food. Those yummy frozen pies, pot pies, waffles, pizzas, even breaded fish sticks contain trans fat. Even if the label says it's low-fat, it still has trans fat.
6. Baked Goods. Even worse news -- more trans fats are used in commercially baked products than any other foods. Doughnuts contain shortening in the dough and are cooked in trans fat.
7. Chips and Crackers. Shortening provides crispy texture. Even "reduced fat" brands can still have trans fat. Anything fried (like potato chips and corn chips) or buttery crackers have trans fat.
8. Breakfast food. Breakfast cereal and energy bars are quick-fix, highly processed products that contain trans fats, even those that claim to be "healthy."
9. Cookies and Candy. Look at the labels; some have higher fat content than others. A chocolate bar with nuts -- or a cookie -- is likely to have more trans fat than gummy bears.
10. Toppings and Dips. Nondairy creamers and flavored coffees, whipped toppings, bean dips, gravy mixes, and salad dressings contain lots of trans fat.
Can you eliminate trans fats entirely from your diet? Probably not. The goal is to have as little trans fat in your diet as possible.
(Adapted from one health website in 2004)
TIPS FOR US-NESS 4
How to Improve Your Love Life with the Power of Feng Shui...Without Spending a Dime
FENG shui is the art of creating a home environment that supports the life you wish to live. A key element of feng shui is creating a smooth flow of chi (positive energy) through your space. Chi likes to move through your home as though it were a gentle breeze or a meandering stream. Where it is blocked, the energy becomes stagnant--like a pond choked with algae and fallen leaves. You are likely to feel blocked in life, and your energy and enthusiasm for matters of the heart will be low. Balancing and correcting the chi of your bedroom helps encourage and invigorate romance. Here are some quick and easy ways to improve your love life by improving the energy of your home:
Clean up your bedroom
When your bedroom is cluttered and untidy, the energy in there will be low and slow. Clutter is a sure sign that chi is stuck, so roll up your sleeves and clean the place up if you want to jump-start your love life. Ring a bell, shake a rattle, or clap your hands loudly around the room to clear out old, stale energy.
Make room for love
If you want to attract a new romantic partner--or move a casual relationship closer to commitment--make sure there is space for that person in your home. Look at your closets, shelves, and dressers, especially in the bedroom; if they are all filled to capacity with your own stuff, make clearing some room for your current or future partner a priority. Aim to free up 25% of the space in your bedroom for someone else's things. When you are done, take a moment to visualize your loved one's belongings finding a home there.
Don't work out in the bedroom
When you exercise in the bedroom, or store your sports equipment there, you bring the energy of hard work and exertion into your romance space. Do you want your relationship to feel like a tough workout? If not, move your workout stuff somewhere else; your relationship is likely to move along more smoothly.
Remove inappropriate imagery
The images with which you surround yourself can have a powerful effect on your love life. Feng shui clients who complain of difficulty finding romance often have surrounded themselves with images of a person alone. Inappropriate imagery includes anything that represents solitude, loneliness, aggression, hard work, conflict, or disagreement in any way.
Open the door to love
Make sure both the front door of your home and the door to your bedroom open easily and completely. Doors that stick, squeak, or that only opens partway because of all the stuff stored behind them are blocking the flow of romantic energy and opportunity into your home. A loose doorknob on your bedroom door could mean you're having a hard time "getting a handle on" romance; get out your screwdriver and tighten it up.
Create a path for chi
Walk slowly from your front door to your bedroom, pretending that you are a gentle river of chi. Look for any areas where furniture or other belongings are stopping or slowing the flow of chi, or where chi is diverted away from the bedroom to other areas of the house. Clear a path so fresh chi can find its way to your bedroom and nourish your love life. Make sure all the lights along this route are working, replace any burned-out bulbs, and be alert for dark or dingy corners where you can increase the energy by adding more light.
Move your bed
If one side of your bed is against the wall, the person who sleeps on that side may feel confined or disempowered in the relationship. If possible, place the bed so there is equal space on either side, so you and your partner can find equal enjoyment in the relationship. The ideal position of the bed will be on the opposite side of the room from the door, but not directly in line with it. If you can't see the bedroom door from the bed, hang a mirror where it will provide a reflected view of the entry.
Bring romance chi into the bedroom
Be sure to place romantic imagery in these two key places in the bedroom: the wall opposite the foot of the bed (where you naturally look when lying in bed), and whatever area of the room you first see when you enter. Beautiful, romantic artwork is always good, as are fresh or silk flowers and anything in pairs (such as birds, cherubs, candles, or decorative pillows). A round mirror is also good for the bedroom, as the shape signifies completion and unity. Look around your home for whatever says "romance" to you, and find a good spot for it in your bedroom.
Clarify your intention
Make a collage of images that symbolize your perfect relationship, and place it where you will see it every day. If you are already in a relationship, invite your partner to make a collage with you, to represent your intention to build a joyful and loving future together.
(Adapted from an article written by Stephanie Roberts in 2004)
FENG shui is the art of creating a home environment that supports the life you wish to live. A key element of feng shui is creating a smooth flow of chi (positive energy) through your space. Chi likes to move through your home as though it were a gentle breeze or a meandering stream. Where it is blocked, the energy becomes stagnant--like a pond choked with algae and fallen leaves. You are likely to feel blocked in life, and your energy and enthusiasm for matters of the heart will be low. Balancing and correcting the chi of your bedroom helps encourage and invigorate romance. Here are some quick and easy ways to improve your love life by improving the energy of your home:
Clean up your bedroom
When your bedroom is cluttered and untidy, the energy in there will be low and slow. Clutter is a sure sign that chi is stuck, so roll up your sleeves and clean the place up if you want to jump-start your love life. Ring a bell, shake a rattle, or clap your hands loudly around the room to clear out old, stale energy.
Make room for love
If you want to attract a new romantic partner--or move a casual relationship closer to commitment--make sure there is space for that person in your home. Look at your closets, shelves, and dressers, especially in the bedroom; if they are all filled to capacity with your own stuff, make clearing some room for your current or future partner a priority. Aim to free up 25% of the space in your bedroom for someone else's things. When you are done, take a moment to visualize your loved one's belongings finding a home there.
Don't work out in the bedroom
When you exercise in the bedroom, or store your sports equipment there, you bring the energy of hard work and exertion into your romance space. Do you want your relationship to feel like a tough workout? If not, move your workout stuff somewhere else; your relationship is likely to move along more smoothly.
Remove inappropriate imagery
The images with which you surround yourself can have a powerful effect on your love life. Feng shui clients who complain of difficulty finding romance often have surrounded themselves with images of a person alone. Inappropriate imagery includes anything that represents solitude, loneliness, aggression, hard work, conflict, or disagreement in any way.
Open the door to love
Make sure both the front door of your home and the door to your bedroom open easily and completely. Doors that stick, squeak, or that only opens partway because of all the stuff stored behind them are blocking the flow of romantic energy and opportunity into your home. A loose doorknob on your bedroom door could mean you're having a hard time "getting a handle on" romance; get out your screwdriver and tighten it up.
Create a path for chi
Walk slowly from your front door to your bedroom, pretending that you are a gentle river of chi. Look for any areas where furniture or other belongings are stopping or slowing the flow of chi, or where chi is diverted away from the bedroom to other areas of the house. Clear a path so fresh chi can find its way to your bedroom and nourish your love life. Make sure all the lights along this route are working, replace any burned-out bulbs, and be alert for dark or dingy corners where you can increase the energy by adding more light.
Move your bed
If one side of your bed is against the wall, the person who sleeps on that side may feel confined or disempowered in the relationship. If possible, place the bed so there is equal space on either side, so you and your partner can find equal enjoyment in the relationship. The ideal position of the bed will be on the opposite side of the room from the door, but not directly in line with it. If you can't see the bedroom door from the bed, hang a mirror where it will provide a reflected view of the entry.
Bring romance chi into the bedroom
Be sure to place romantic imagery in these two key places in the bedroom: the wall opposite the foot of the bed (where you naturally look when lying in bed), and whatever area of the room you first see when you enter. Beautiful, romantic artwork is always good, as are fresh or silk flowers and anything in pairs (such as birds, cherubs, candles, or decorative pillows). A round mirror is also good for the bedroom, as the shape signifies completion and unity. Look around your home for whatever says "romance" to you, and find a good spot for it in your bedroom.
Clarify your intention
Make a collage of images that symbolize your perfect relationship, and place it where you will see it every day. If you are already in a relationship, invite your partner to make a collage with you, to represent your intention to build a joyful and loving future together.
(Adapted from an article written by Stephanie Roberts in 2004)
LITERARY APPRECIATION 2
The Wedding Poem
Author: Unknown
When our daughter was a little girl,
we often used to say,
How proud and happy we would be,
on this her wedding day.
Our daughter is not lost to us,
in fact, we have gained a son.
We're happy you can share our joy,
and see them joined as one.
So, may we welcome all of you,
and may this whole day be
a happy and a joyous one,
for friends and family.
Author: Unknown
When our daughter was a little girl,
we often used to say,
How proud and happy we would be,
on this her wedding day.
Our daughter is not lost to us,
in fact, we have gained a son.
We're happy you can share our joy,
and see them joined as one.
So, may we welcome all of you,
and may this whole day be
a happy and a joyous one,
for friends and family.
FEATURE STORY 4
The Wedding Day Fairytale
(Written on 31 March 2004)
It is still very fresh in my mind how it felt like a few days counting down to my wedding day. Now, the feelings come rushing in all over again. Not because I’m getting married again but because my sister-in-law is going to tie the knot this weekend.
It was just like yesterday that I was going through all the hassles and sleepless nights. Imagine this – the decision to be married was made within a month and a half. I never thought it was a reality at the time. All the while I kept pinching and shaking myself ensuring that it was not merely a sweet dream because if it was then I never wanted to wake up!
Who would ever think that a man you met just a few weeks ago would be your lawful wedded husband? Well, I definitely didn’t.
They all started with my aunt (Mak Andak) and my mom-in-law ended up sharing the same hotel room in Kelantan one fine day. They were on a short three-day trip there under the Women Institution program of their kampong. According to Mak Andak, she was supposed to share a room with another lady but when she entered that room the lady had already found her own room mate and politely requested Mak Andak to look for another.
So, while Mak Andak was browsing for a room on the same floor, my mom-in-law was also doing the same. Then, they saw an empty room, still unoccupied and decided to stay in together. That night, they took the opportunity to catch up on old times. It had been long since they last talked and saw each other. The casual chat brought about the story that my mom-in-law was searching for a suitable girl to match her eldest son with.
Guess what happened next? Mak Andak mentioned that she has a niece who is still single at 25. And my mom-in-law immediately asked if Mak Andak could help match us together. That was where and how it all began…
To cut the story short, a month and a half after that, we were already preparing for our big day. I was all the time nervous. I was afraid if it was not the right thing to do. I was always asking myself whether this man would actually make me happy. Would he love me sincerely? Would he be there for me forever? Would he accept me for better and for worse? In sickness and in health? Till death do us part? Would he be loyal till eternity? And most importantly, would I be able to love him back dearly?
Then, I told myself…never mind, maybe I should just give it a shot and if it didn’t work I’d figure a way to get myself out from the mess. Funny, huh? I made it sound so easy. As if marriage was a playful thing. As if marriage was for a day or two. As if the tie would not mean a thing.
When the same puzzle was projected to my future husband (at the time), he told me to perform the “hajat” and “istikharah” prayers. He, too, did not want to commit into something uncertain. What did you expect? We’ve only known each other in a blink of the eyes. So, the only way was to ask God as He is the only one who knows everything and beyond.
After our wedding on July 31, 1999, things were difficult for the both of us. We were starting too many relationships at one time. We were trying to be friends. We were trying to be lovers. We were trying to be husband and wife. We were also trying to be son-in-law and daughter-in-law. But worst of all, I had two additional tasks – learning to be the “big” sister to his siblings and “mak long” to his nieces and nephews. I found it darn hard because I am an only child.
Three years down the road, new leaves began to take over. I could trust him more, and he too. We went through the first serious huge barrier together, and succeeded. I was slowly feeling that I could fit into the gloves nicely then. There were fewer arguments. Fights were almost none. Happiness was gradually embarking on us. We missed each other if one of us had to be away. I, too, frequently pray that we would be together until the day we die. And I settled myself by saying that the salad days are leaving us little by little.
Now, after 5 fruitful years, I can confidently say that I am so thankful I took the step to marry my husband. I believe this is the best decision I ever committed myself into. Nothing else has ever felt so right before. Each passing day I put my palms up and pray that God will bless this marriage and allow us to stick together through thick and thin and most of all to only let death tear us apart, inshaAllah…
And to our beloved son, Yadiy Furqan, you are the most precious bond that binds us close and tight and we love you with all our hearts.
Added on 28 April 2008 - And to our beautiful daughters, Faqihah Yamna (born: 6 May 2004), Fajriyah Yubdina (born: 8 Feb 2006), and Farisah Yasmyne (born: 26 Feb 2007), you are the jewels in our hearts and you are what that keep us going.
(Written on 31 March 2004)
It is still very fresh in my mind how it felt like a few days counting down to my wedding day. Now, the feelings come rushing in all over again. Not because I’m getting married again but because my sister-in-law is going to tie the knot this weekend.
It was just like yesterday that I was going through all the hassles and sleepless nights. Imagine this – the decision to be married was made within a month and a half. I never thought it was a reality at the time. All the while I kept pinching and shaking myself ensuring that it was not merely a sweet dream because if it was then I never wanted to wake up!
Who would ever think that a man you met just a few weeks ago would be your lawful wedded husband? Well, I definitely didn’t.
They all started with my aunt (Mak Andak) and my mom-in-law ended up sharing the same hotel room in Kelantan one fine day. They were on a short three-day trip there under the Women Institution program of their kampong. According to Mak Andak, she was supposed to share a room with another lady but when she entered that room the lady had already found her own room mate and politely requested Mak Andak to look for another.
So, while Mak Andak was browsing for a room on the same floor, my mom-in-law was also doing the same. Then, they saw an empty room, still unoccupied and decided to stay in together. That night, they took the opportunity to catch up on old times. It had been long since they last talked and saw each other. The casual chat brought about the story that my mom-in-law was searching for a suitable girl to match her eldest son with.
Guess what happened next? Mak Andak mentioned that she has a niece who is still single at 25. And my mom-in-law immediately asked if Mak Andak could help match us together. That was where and how it all began…
To cut the story short, a month and a half after that, we were already preparing for our big day. I was all the time nervous. I was afraid if it was not the right thing to do. I was always asking myself whether this man would actually make me happy. Would he love me sincerely? Would he be there for me forever? Would he accept me for better and for worse? In sickness and in health? Till death do us part? Would he be loyal till eternity? And most importantly, would I be able to love him back dearly?
Then, I told myself…never mind, maybe I should just give it a shot and if it didn’t work I’d figure a way to get myself out from the mess. Funny, huh? I made it sound so easy. As if marriage was a playful thing. As if marriage was for a day or two. As if the tie would not mean a thing.
When the same puzzle was projected to my future husband (at the time), he told me to perform the “hajat” and “istikharah” prayers. He, too, did not want to commit into something uncertain. What did you expect? We’ve only known each other in a blink of the eyes. So, the only way was to ask God as He is the only one who knows everything and beyond.
After our wedding on July 31, 1999, things were difficult for the both of us. We were starting too many relationships at one time. We were trying to be friends. We were trying to be lovers. We were trying to be husband and wife. We were also trying to be son-in-law and daughter-in-law. But worst of all, I had two additional tasks – learning to be the “big” sister to his siblings and “mak long” to his nieces and nephews. I found it darn hard because I am an only child.
Three years down the road, new leaves began to take over. I could trust him more, and he too. We went through the first serious huge barrier together, and succeeded. I was slowly feeling that I could fit into the gloves nicely then. There were fewer arguments. Fights were almost none. Happiness was gradually embarking on us. We missed each other if one of us had to be away. I, too, frequently pray that we would be together until the day we die. And I settled myself by saying that the salad days are leaving us little by little.
Now, after 5 fruitful years, I can confidently say that I am so thankful I took the step to marry my husband. I believe this is the best decision I ever committed myself into. Nothing else has ever felt so right before. Each passing day I put my palms up and pray that God will bless this marriage and allow us to stick together through thick and thin and most of all to only let death tear us apart, inshaAllah…
And to our beloved son, Yadiy Furqan, you are the most precious bond that binds us close and tight and we love you with all our hearts.
Added on 28 April 2008 - And to our beautiful daughters, Faqihah Yamna (born: 6 May 2004), Fajriyah Yubdina (born: 8 Feb 2006), and Farisah Yasmyne (born: 26 Feb 2007), you are the jewels in our hearts and you are what that keep us going.
FUN TIME!
Riddles
1) At dusk I come without being fetched. At dawn I disappear without being stolen. I am a poet’s tears and a sailor’s guide. What am I?
Water
Night
Darkness
Stars
Pens and papers
2) I am a token of one’s love. I have no beginning and no end. I am…
A ring
A heart
A rose
Time
3) What has 4 legs in the morning, 2 legs at noon and 3 legs at night?
A human
A frog
A sphinx
4) I am greater than God and more evil than the Devil. The rich need me. The poor have me. What am I?
Time
Humility
Divinity
Hatred
5) Who ever makes me, sells me. Who ever buys me, doesn’t need me. Who ever needs me, doesn’t buy me. What am I?
Respect
Friendship
Money
A coffinRags
1) At dusk I come without being fetched. At dawn I disappear without being stolen. I am a poet’s tears and a sailor’s guide. What am I?
Water
Night
Darkness
Stars
Pens and papers
2) I am a token of one’s love. I have no beginning and no end. I am…
A ring
A heart
A rose
Time
3) What has 4 legs in the morning, 2 legs at noon and 3 legs at night?
A human
A frog
A sphinx
4) I am greater than God and more evil than the Devil. The rich need me. The poor have me. What am I?
Time
Humility
Divinity
Hatred
5) Who ever makes me, sells me. Who ever buys me, doesn’t need me. Who ever needs me, doesn’t buy me. What am I?
Respect
Friendship
Money
A coffinRags
ABOUT OUR KIDS 3
How much sleep is enough for my child?
"I'll go this time."
With relief, Mary rolled over in bed when her husband got up to answer their newborn's cries. "Will I ever get to sleep through the night again?" she thought.
Sleep - or lack of it - is probably the most-discussed aspect of baby care. New parents discover its vital importance those first few weeks. The quality and quantity of an infant’s sleep affects the well-being of everyone in the household, and it's the difference between having cheerful, alert parents and members of the walking dead.
And sleep strife rarely ends with a growing child's move from crib to bed. It simply changes form. Instead of cries, it's pleas or refusals. Instead of a feeding at 3 AM, it's a nightmare or request for water.
It sounds like parents don't get a good night's sleep until their kids have left home. Well, actually, it's not all that bad. But how do you get them to bed through the cries, screams, avoidance tactics, and pleas? How should you respond when you're awakened in the middle of the night?
And how much sleep is enough?
It all depends on age.
How much is enough?
Charts that list the hours of sleep likely to be required by an infant or a 2-year-old may cause concern when individual differences aren't considered. These numbers are simply averages reported to be slept by large groups of children of particular ages. There is no magical number of hours required by ALL kids in a certain age group. For example, 2-year-old Sofia might sleep from 8 PM to 8 AM, while 2-year-old Yadiy is just as alert the next day after sleeping from 10 PM to 5 AM.
Most children's sleep requirements fall within a predictable range of hours based on their age, but remember that your child is a unique individual with distinct sleep needs. Here are some approximate numbers based on age, accompanied by age-appropriate pro-sleep tactics.
The first 6 months
Newborns generally or drowse for 16 – 20 hours a day equally divided between night and day. Their longest sleeping period is about 4 to 5 hours because this is how long the small bellies can go between feedings. However, some may go on to 10 hours in a stretch or some just about 2 hours at a time. As long as they are healthy, anything goes.
6 – 12 months
At 6 months, an infant may nap about 3 hours in the day and 11 hours sleep in the night. If your baby cries at night, give him about 5 minutes to go back to sleep on his own. If he doesn’t, comfort him without picking him up (rub his back or talk softly to him), then leave, unless he is sick. Sick babies need to be picked up and comforted.
1 – 3 years
Most toddlers will sleep between 10 to 13 hours. Separation anxiety or desire to be up with Mom and Dad could motivate a child to stay awake. Note when the time your child shows signs of sleepiness and try to establish that as his regular bedtime. Don’t force him to take a nap during the day unless he appears to be cranky and overly tired. This will enable him to be more ready and relaxed for bedtime. For toddlers or preschoolers, this routine may take up 15 to 30 minutes. Include activities like story telling, warm bath or listening to soft music.
Allow him to make bedtime choices within the routine: which pyjamas to wear, which stuffed animal to take to bed and what music to listen. This gives a sense of control over the proceedings.
(Adapted from the article written by Kim Rutherford, MD and Rhonda Walters, MD.)
"I'll go this time."
With relief, Mary rolled over in bed when her husband got up to answer their newborn's cries. "Will I ever get to sleep through the night again?" she thought.
Sleep - or lack of it - is probably the most-discussed aspect of baby care. New parents discover its vital importance those first few weeks. The quality and quantity of an infant’s sleep affects the well-being of everyone in the household, and it's the difference between having cheerful, alert parents and members of the walking dead.
And sleep strife rarely ends with a growing child's move from crib to bed. It simply changes form. Instead of cries, it's pleas or refusals. Instead of a feeding at 3 AM, it's a nightmare or request for water.
It sounds like parents don't get a good night's sleep until their kids have left home. Well, actually, it's not all that bad. But how do you get them to bed through the cries, screams, avoidance tactics, and pleas? How should you respond when you're awakened in the middle of the night?
And how much sleep is enough?
It all depends on age.
How much is enough?
Charts that list the hours of sleep likely to be required by an infant or a 2-year-old may cause concern when individual differences aren't considered. These numbers are simply averages reported to be slept by large groups of children of particular ages. There is no magical number of hours required by ALL kids in a certain age group. For example, 2-year-old Sofia might sleep from 8 PM to 8 AM, while 2-year-old Yadiy is just as alert the next day after sleeping from 10 PM to 5 AM.
Most children's sleep requirements fall within a predictable range of hours based on their age, but remember that your child is a unique individual with distinct sleep needs. Here are some approximate numbers based on age, accompanied by age-appropriate pro-sleep tactics.
The first 6 months
Newborns generally or drowse for 16 – 20 hours a day equally divided between night and day. Their longest sleeping period is about 4 to 5 hours because this is how long the small bellies can go between feedings. However, some may go on to 10 hours in a stretch or some just about 2 hours at a time. As long as they are healthy, anything goes.
6 – 12 months
At 6 months, an infant may nap about 3 hours in the day and 11 hours sleep in the night. If your baby cries at night, give him about 5 minutes to go back to sleep on his own. If he doesn’t, comfort him without picking him up (rub his back or talk softly to him), then leave, unless he is sick. Sick babies need to be picked up and comforted.
1 – 3 years
Most toddlers will sleep between 10 to 13 hours. Separation anxiety or desire to be up with Mom and Dad could motivate a child to stay awake. Note when the time your child shows signs of sleepiness and try to establish that as his regular bedtime. Don’t force him to take a nap during the day unless he appears to be cranky and overly tired. This will enable him to be more ready and relaxed for bedtime. For toddlers or preschoolers, this routine may take up 15 to 30 minutes. Include activities like story telling, warm bath or listening to soft music.
Allow him to make bedtime choices within the routine: which pyjamas to wear, which stuffed animal to take to bed and what music to listen. This gives a sense of control over the proceedings.
(Adapted from the article written by Kim Rutherford, MD and Rhonda Walters, MD.)
WHAT SAYS THE TABIB? 3
In this issue, I want to attract your attention to a disease called “Thyroid.” It seems women are more at risk. So, what is thyroid exactly?
According to a research study done in the states in February 2000, women are at greater risks of getting thyroid diseases – about 7 times more than men. A woman faces as high as a one in a five chance of developing thyroid problems during her lifetime which increases with age and for those with a family history of thyroid problems.
Thyroid is a small bowtie or butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck, wrapped around the windpipe behind and below the Adam’s Apple area. The thyroid produces several hormones, of which two are key: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxin (T4). These hormones help oxygen get into cells, and make your thyroid the master gland of metabolism.
The thyroid has the only cells in the body capable of absorbing iodine. The thyroid takes in iodine, obtained through food, iodized salt, or supplements, and combines it with the amino acid tyrosine. The thyroid then converts the iodine/tyrosine into the hormones T3 and T4. The "3" and the "4" refer to the number of iodine molecules in each thyroid hormone molecules.
When it's in good condition, of the entire hormone produced by your thyroid, 80% will be T4 and 20% T3. T3 is considered the biologically more active hormone -- the one that actually functions at the cellular level – and is also considered several times stronger than T4.
Once released by the thyroid, the T3 and T4 travel through the bloodstream. The purpose is to help cells convert oxygen and calories into energy.
As mentioned, the thyroid produces some T3. But the rest of the T3 needed by the body is actually formed from the mostly inactive T4 by a process sometimes referred to as "T4 to T3 conversion." This conversion of T4 to T3 can take place in some organs other than the thyroid, including the hypothalamus, a part of your brain.
The thyroid is part of a huge feedback process. The hypothalamus in the brain releases Thyrotrophic-releasing Hormone (TRH). The release of TRH tells the pituitary gland to release Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This TSH, circulating in your bloodstream, is what tells the thyroid to make thyroid hormones and release them into your bloodstream.
Causes of Thyroid DiseaseWhat causes thyroid problems? There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the development of thyroid problems:
Exposure to radiation, such as occurred after the Chernobyl nuclear accident
Over consumption of isoflavone-intensive soy products, such as soy protein, capsules, and powders
Some drugs, such as lithium and the heart drug cordarone, can cause hypothyroidism.
An over consumption or shortage of iodine in the diet can also trigger some thyroid problems. (This also applies to iodine-containing supplements, such as kelp and bladder wrack.)
Radiation treatment to the head, neck or chest. Radiation treatment for tonsils, adenoids, lymph nodes, thymus gland problems, or acne.
"Nasal Radium Therapy," which took place during the 1940s through 1960s, as a treatment for tonsillitis, colds and other ailments, or as a military submariner and/or pilot who had trouble with drastic changes in pressure
Over consumption of uncooked "goitrogenic" foods, such as brussel sprouts, broccoli, rutabaga, turnips, kohlrabi, radishes, cauliflower, African cassava, millet, babassu, cabbage and kale
Surgical treatments for thyroid cancer, goitre, or nodules, in which all or part of the thyroid is removed, leave you hypothyroid
Radioactive iodine treatment (RAI) for Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism typically leave patients hypothyroid.
You have a higher risk of developing thyroid disease if, among a variety of factors:
…You have a family member with a thyroid problem
…You have another pituitary or endocrine disease
…You or a family member have another autoimmune disease
…You've been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
…You've been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia
…You're female
…You're over 60
…You've just had a baby
…You're near menopause or menopausal
…You're a smoker
…You've been exposed to radiation
…You've been treated with lithium
…You've been exposed to certain chemicals (i.e., perchlorate, fluoride)
(Adapted from a health website in 2004)
According to a research study done in the states in February 2000, women are at greater risks of getting thyroid diseases – about 7 times more than men. A woman faces as high as a one in a five chance of developing thyroid problems during her lifetime which increases with age and for those with a family history of thyroid problems.
Thyroid is a small bowtie or butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck, wrapped around the windpipe behind and below the Adam’s Apple area. The thyroid produces several hormones, of which two are key: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxin (T4). These hormones help oxygen get into cells, and make your thyroid the master gland of metabolism.
The thyroid has the only cells in the body capable of absorbing iodine. The thyroid takes in iodine, obtained through food, iodized salt, or supplements, and combines it with the amino acid tyrosine. The thyroid then converts the iodine/tyrosine into the hormones T3 and T4. The "3" and the "4" refer to the number of iodine molecules in each thyroid hormone molecules.
When it's in good condition, of the entire hormone produced by your thyroid, 80% will be T4 and 20% T3. T3 is considered the biologically more active hormone -- the one that actually functions at the cellular level – and is also considered several times stronger than T4.
Once released by the thyroid, the T3 and T4 travel through the bloodstream. The purpose is to help cells convert oxygen and calories into energy.
As mentioned, the thyroid produces some T3. But the rest of the T3 needed by the body is actually formed from the mostly inactive T4 by a process sometimes referred to as "T4 to T3 conversion." This conversion of T4 to T3 can take place in some organs other than the thyroid, including the hypothalamus, a part of your brain.
The thyroid is part of a huge feedback process. The hypothalamus in the brain releases Thyrotrophic-releasing Hormone (TRH). The release of TRH tells the pituitary gland to release Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This TSH, circulating in your bloodstream, is what tells the thyroid to make thyroid hormones and release them into your bloodstream.
Causes of Thyroid DiseaseWhat causes thyroid problems? There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the development of thyroid problems:
Exposure to radiation, such as occurred after the Chernobyl nuclear accident
Over consumption of isoflavone-intensive soy products, such as soy protein, capsules, and powders
Some drugs, such as lithium and the heart drug cordarone, can cause hypothyroidism.
An over consumption or shortage of iodine in the diet can also trigger some thyroid problems. (This also applies to iodine-containing supplements, such as kelp and bladder wrack.)
Radiation treatment to the head, neck or chest. Radiation treatment for tonsils, adenoids, lymph nodes, thymus gland problems, or acne.
"Nasal Radium Therapy," which took place during the 1940s through 1960s, as a treatment for tonsillitis, colds and other ailments, or as a military submariner and/or pilot who had trouble with drastic changes in pressure
Over consumption of uncooked "goitrogenic" foods, such as brussel sprouts, broccoli, rutabaga, turnips, kohlrabi, radishes, cauliflower, African cassava, millet, babassu, cabbage and kale
Surgical treatments for thyroid cancer, goitre, or nodules, in which all or part of the thyroid is removed, leave you hypothyroid
Radioactive iodine treatment (RAI) for Graves' disease and hyperthyroidism typically leave patients hypothyroid.
You have a higher risk of developing thyroid disease if, among a variety of factors:
…You have a family member with a thyroid problem
…You have another pituitary or endocrine disease
…You or a family member have another autoimmune disease
…You've been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
…You've been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia
…You're female
…You're over 60
…You've just had a baby
…You're near menopause or menopausal
…You're a smoker
…You've been exposed to radiation
…You've been treated with lithium
…You've been exposed to certain chemicals (i.e., perchlorate, fluoride)
(Adapted from a health website in 2004)
TIPS FOR US-NESS 3
Tips for Men
How you may unknowingly turn off your partner
Mistakes men commonly make...
1. He doesn't listen, gets easily distracted, doesn't ask interested or concerned questions
2. He takes her feelings literally and corrects her. He thinks she is asking for solutions so he gives advice.
3. He listens but then gets angry and blames her for upsetting him or for bringing him down
4. He minimizes the importance of her feelings and needs. He makes children or work more important.
5. When she is upset, he explains why he is right and why she should not be upset.
6. After listening, he says nothing or just walks away.
Why she doesn't feel loved...
1. She feels unloved because he is not attentive or showing that he cares.
2. She feels unloved because he doesn't understand her.
3. She feels unloved because he doesn't respect her feelings.
4. She feels unloved because he is not devoted to her and doesn't honor her as special.
5. She feels unloved because he doesn't validate her feelings but instead makes her feel wrong and unsupported.
6. She feels insecure because she doesn't get the reassurance she needs.
Tips for Women
How you may unknowingly turn off your partner
Mistakes women commonly make...
1. She tries to improve his behavior or help him by offering unsolicited advice
2. She tries to change or control his behavior by sharing her upset or negative feelings. (It is OK to share feelings, but not when they attempt to manipulate or punish)
3. She doesn't acknowledge what he does for her but complains about what he has not done.
4. She corrects his behavior and tells him what to do, as if he were a child.
5. She expresses her upset feelings indirectly with rhetorical questions like "How could you do that?"
6. When he makes a decision or takes initiatives, she corrects or criticizes him.
Why he doesn't feel loved...
1. He feels unloved because she doesn't trust him anymore.
2. He feels unloved because she doesn't accept him as he is.
3. He feels taken for granted and unloved because she doesn't appreciate what he does.
4. He feels unloved because he does not feel admired.
5. He feels unloved because she feels she has taken away her approval of him. He no longer feels like the good guy.
6. He feels unloved because she does not encourage him to do things on his own.
The 12 kinds of Love
Women need to receive… Men need to receive…
1. Caring 1. Trust
2. Understanding 2. Acceptance
3. Respect 3. Appreciation
4. Devotion 4. Admiration
5. Validation 5. Approval
6. Reassurance 6. Encouragement
Adapted from John Gray, PhD, “Men Are from Mars and Women Are from Venus.”
How you may unknowingly turn off your partner
Mistakes men commonly make...
1. He doesn't listen, gets easily distracted, doesn't ask interested or concerned questions
2. He takes her feelings literally and corrects her. He thinks she is asking for solutions so he gives advice.
3. He listens but then gets angry and blames her for upsetting him or for bringing him down
4. He minimizes the importance of her feelings and needs. He makes children or work more important.
5. When she is upset, he explains why he is right and why she should not be upset.
6. After listening, he says nothing or just walks away.
Why she doesn't feel loved...
1. She feels unloved because he is not attentive or showing that he cares.
2. She feels unloved because he doesn't understand her.
3. She feels unloved because he doesn't respect her feelings.
4. She feels unloved because he is not devoted to her and doesn't honor her as special.
5. She feels unloved because he doesn't validate her feelings but instead makes her feel wrong and unsupported.
6. She feels insecure because she doesn't get the reassurance she needs.
Tips for Women
How you may unknowingly turn off your partner
Mistakes women commonly make...
1. She tries to improve his behavior or help him by offering unsolicited advice
2. She tries to change or control his behavior by sharing her upset or negative feelings. (It is OK to share feelings, but not when they attempt to manipulate or punish)
3. She doesn't acknowledge what he does for her but complains about what he has not done.
4. She corrects his behavior and tells him what to do, as if he were a child.
5. She expresses her upset feelings indirectly with rhetorical questions like "How could you do that?"
6. When he makes a decision or takes initiatives, she corrects or criticizes him.
Why he doesn't feel loved...
1. He feels unloved because she doesn't trust him anymore.
2. He feels unloved because she doesn't accept him as he is.
3. He feels taken for granted and unloved because she doesn't appreciate what he does.
4. He feels unloved because he does not feel admired.
5. He feels unloved because she feels she has taken away her approval of him. He no longer feels like the good guy.
6. He feels unloved because she does not encourage him to do things on his own.
The 12 kinds of Love
Women need to receive… Men need to receive…
1. Caring 1. Trust
2. Understanding 2. Acceptance
3. Respect 3. Appreciation
4. Devotion 4. Admiration
5. Validation 5. Approval
6. Reassurance 6. Encouragement
Adapted from John Gray, PhD, “Men Are from Mars and Women Are from Venus.”
LITERARY APPRECIATION
The Beauty Of A Woman
Author: Ardem
The beauty of a woman
Is not in the clothes she wears,
The figure that she carries,
Or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman
Must be seen from her eyes,
Because that is the doorway to her heart,
The place where love resides.
The beauty of a woman
Is not a facial mole,
But true beauty in a woman
Is reflected in her soul.
It is the caring she lovingly gives,
The Passion that she shows.
The beauty of a woman with passing years --
Only grows and grows.
Author: Ardem
The beauty of a woman
Is not in the clothes she wears,
The figure that she carries,
Or the way she combs her hair.
The beauty of a woman
Must be seen from her eyes,
Because that is the doorway to her heart,
The place where love resides.
The beauty of a woman
Is not a facial mole,
But true beauty in a woman
Is reflected in her soul.
It is the caring she lovingly gives,
The Passion that she shows.
The beauty of a woman with passing years --
Only grows and grows.
FEATURE STORY 3
(Written on 11 March 2004)
What fear you most about your wife when she reaches 50?
That question made me think actively and my imagination running so wild. Well, it was actually one of the questions asked in the Perfect Match slot aired everyday on the Mix.fm at about 8 am. The options given after the questions were; a – wife gains excessive weight, b – wife becomes saggy and wrinkled, and c – wife becomes cranky and moody because of menopause. The intriguing respond given by the contestant that morning was if his wife gained excessive weight. Wow! I guessed all men think alike, huh? Because when I asked my husband the same question after that, he uttered the same exact thing.
What is it about men and their wives getting fat? I believe this must be in every married man’s mind. According to an informal survey done by a slimming salon, Malay women have the highest rate of being obese and lead a sedentary lifestyle. What do you think of that? In my opinion, it is the fact that most Malay women devote extra attention to their children and husband that they forget the most important person to look after – themselves! So, when they suddenly realize about the way they look, it might already be too late. Maybe because they are getting too old. Or maybe because they just couldn’t figure out where to start. Or maybe because they really don’t care. Or maybe even because by the time they noticed, the husband has already opened up a new “branch”.
I still remembered my conversation with the two closest men in my life – my dad and my husband. My dad specifically mentioned about how concerned he has always been on my mom’s physical outlook. Even now at 54, my mom still goes on occasional diets to maintain her weight. I grew up in an environment where my dad always played the major part in informing us “what’s good and what’s bad” for our body and health especially after he undergone the bypass surgery somewhere in the year 1996. Likewise, my hubby shared the same opinion about weight gain and women.
Somehow, I believe it is more to health than looking stunning. A doctor cousin of mine did mention when we met for the Hari Raya gathering last December. She said that women should take extra care of her food intake the moment she turns 30. We have to revise here and there about what goes into our tummies. We ought to be extra careful because the consequence is much greater if we don’t.
A Malaysian survey finding on TV1 earlier this year showed that the no.1 killer among Malaysian women is heart disease. And I think all of us are aware that one of the main factors contributing to heart diseases is being overweight. What more if you lead a passive lifestyle. When you think of it, it shivers you down your spine. So, what’s the solution? Many people of today claimed that there is just not enough time to exercise especially for women who are mothers and wives. Too much to catch up with the moment you get home from work. There’s cooking, washing, cleaning, mending, bla bla bla bla… and the list goes on and on. Where’s the time to exercise? Where’s the time for you?
Today, 11 March 2004, I read in The Star that the no.1 cause of death in the US now is O-B-E-S-I-T-Y. Simply because, obese or overweight people are more prone to capturing unwanted and fatal diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, gout, heart disease, and even cancer. Should we wait much longer, ladies? Can we take this as a starting point to alter our lifestyles? Forget about looking stunning in body wrapping outfits, let’s be more real and start reflecting ourselves for the sake of our health. We have children or may I add young children, who need us not only for now, but for many, many more years to come.
Let’s enroll into kick-boxing classes or aikido or aerobic or let’s start swimming again, play tennis or even just jog around the block.
What fear you most about your wife when she reaches 50?
That question made me think actively and my imagination running so wild. Well, it was actually one of the questions asked in the Perfect Match slot aired everyday on the Mix.fm at about 8 am. The options given after the questions were; a – wife gains excessive weight, b – wife becomes saggy and wrinkled, and c – wife becomes cranky and moody because of menopause. The intriguing respond given by the contestant that morning was if his wife gained excessive weight. Wow! I guessed all men think alike, huh? Because when I asked my husband the same question after that, he uttered the same exact thing.
What is it about men and their wives getting fat? I believe this must be in every married man’s mind. According to an informal survey done by a slimming salon, Malay women have the highest rate of being obese and lead a sedentary lifestyle. What do you think of that? In my opinion, it is the fact that most Malay women devote extra attention to their children and husband that they forget the most important person to look after – themselves! So, when they suddenly realize about the way they look, it might already be too late. Maybe because they are getting too old. Or maybe because they just couldn’t figure out where to start. Or maybe because they really don’t care. Or maybe even because by the time they noticed, the husband has already opened up a new “branch”.
I still remembered my conversation with the two closest men in my life – my dad and my husband. My dad specifically mentioned about how concerned he has always been on my mom’s physical outlook. Even now at 54, my mom still goes on occasional diets to maintain her weight. I grew up in an environment where my dad always played the major part in informing us “what’s good and what’s bad” for our body and health especially after he undergone the bypass surgery somewhere in the year 1996. Likewise, my hubby shared the same opinion about weight gain and women.
Somehow, I believe it is more to health than looking stunning. A doctor cousin of mine did mention when we met for the Hari Raya gathering last December. She said that women should take extra care of her food intake the moment she turns 30. We have to revise here and there about what goes into our tummies. We ought to be extra careful because the consequence is much greater if we don’t.
A Malaysian survey finding on TV1 earlier this year showed that the no.1 killer among Malaysian women is heart disease. And I think all of us are aware that one of the main factors contributing to heart diseases is being overweight. What more if you lead a passive lifestyle. When you think of it, it shivers you down your spine. So, what’s the solution? Many people of today claimed that there is just not enough time to exercise especially for women who are mothers and wives. Too much to catch up with the moment you get home from work. There’s cooking, washing, cleaning, mending, bla bla bla bla… and the list goes on and on. Where’s the time to exercise? Where’s the time for you?
Today, 11 March 2004, I read in The Star that the no.1 cause of death in the US now is O-B-E-S-I-T-Y. Simply because, obese or overweight people are more prone to capturing unwanted and fatal diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, gout, heart disease, and even cancer. Should we wait much longer, ladies? Can we take this as a starting point to alter our lifestyles? Forget about looking stunning in body wrapping outfits, let’s be more real and start reflecting ourselves for the sake of our health. We have children or may I add young children, who need us not only for now, but for many, many more years to come.
Let’s enroll into kick-boxing classes or aikido or aerobic or let’s start swimming again, play tennis or even just jog around the block.
LEARN A WORD A DAY 2
variegated \VAIR-ee-uh-gay-tid\, adjective: 1. Having marks or patches of different colors; as, "variegated leaves or flowers." 2. Varied; distinguished or characterized by variety; diversified.
Colours range from golden yellow to blue and include conspicuously variegated examples. --Catherine Fieldman, "Hostas don't bear grudges," [2]Times (London), September 2, 2000
But as no one was being hurt, you were right to sit quietly and marvel at the variegated -- and sometimes idiotic -- beliefs of humanity. --Randy Cohen "What Can I Say?" [3]New York Times Magazine, July 11, 1999
Colours range from golden yellow to blue and include conspicuously variegated examples. --Catherine Fieldman, "Hostas don't bear grudges," [2]Times (London), September 2, 2000
But as no one was being hurt, you were right to sit quietly and marvel at the variegated -- and sometimes idiotic -- beliefs of humanity. --Randy Cohen "What Can I Say?" [3]New York Times Magazine, July 11, 1999
ABOUT OUR KIDS 2
(Adapted from a children advice website in 2004)
Kids and Their HeadachesIn general, children suffer from the same types of headaches that plague adults. An infection in the body can cause a headache; so can medications a child is taking. Headaches also are a potential side effect of most medications.
There are many other potential causes for headaches as well. In young children, dental caries, ear infections and sinusitis can all cause pain that is described as a headache. Children also can suffer from migraine and tension-type headaches, commonly called tension or muscle contraction headaches.
The pounding, throbbing pain of migraine headaches probably afflicts some children early in life. If you have an infant or toddler, it's unlikely you'll be able to tell if he's experiencing migraines because he won't be able to tell you. One thing you might notice, however, is something called a migraine variant. One such migraine variant, called paroxysmal vertigo, affects toddlers. This is described as a sensation of spinning or whirling, which comes on suddenly and disappears in a matter of minutes.
Older children and adolescents suffer more visibly from migraine headaches: either migraine with aura or migraine without aura. The aura is a symptom that usually occurs before the onset of the pain itself. It's most often a visual symptom such as the perception of bright lights followed by black "holes" in the vision.
**To be continued.
Kids and Their HeadachesIn general, children suffer from the same types of headaches that plague adults. An infection in the body can cause a headache; so can medications a child is taking. Headaches also are a potential side effect of most medications.
There are many other potential causes for headaches as well. In young children, dental caries, ear infections and sinusitis can all cause pain that is described as a headache. Children also can suffer from migraine and tension-type headaches, commonly called tension or muscle contraction headaches.
The pounding, throbbing pain of migraine headaches probably afflicts some children early in life. If you have an infant or toddler, it's unlikely you'll be able to tell if he's experiencing migraines because he won't be able to tell you. One thing you might notice, however, is something called a migraine variant. One such migraine variant, called paroxysmal vertigo, affects toddlers. This is described as a sensation of spinning or whirling, which comes on suddenly and disappears in a matter of minutes.
Older children and adolescents suffer more visibly from migraine headaches: either migraine with aura or migraine without aura. The aura is a symptom that usually occurs before the onset of the pain itself. It's most often a visual symptom such as the perception of bright lights followed by black "holes" in the vision.
**To be continued.
WHAT SAYS THE TABIB? 2
10 Tips to Improve Your Health at Work
(Adapted from WebMDHealth in 2004)
Avoid those snacks, take a walk during lunch, and clean that keyboard, and you're on your way to a healthier workday.
Eight hours in a chair in front of a computer, five days a week can take a toll on your body. From avoiding eye strain and tension neck syndrome to passing on those extra calories that co-workers leave invitingly on their desks, here are 10 tips that will help you stay healthy and in shape at work.
1. The snacks that your co-workers so nicely place on their desk can add a few hundred calories to your daily diet if you're not careful. And they can leave you with unwanted pounds if you help yourself day after day. If you really feel hungry have a fruit or healthy snacks instead.
2. Drinking an adequate amount of water -- eight to 10 glasses every day or 2.5 to 3 litres -- can help keep you hydrated. Many foods are also good sources of water; fruits like oranges, grapefruit, grapes, watermelon, and apples can help keep you healthy and hydrated.
3. One of the most important things you can do during the day to stay healthy and in shape is to exercise. Take a walk when going for your lunch. Or take the stairs up to your office instead of using the elevator. Or park your car farther than usual so that you have to take that walk when going home.
4. Eating a healthy lunch is an important part of a balanced diet. But eating reasonable portions is an important part of your health because after that you will be tucked to your chair for another 3 hours or so.
5. Tension neck syndrome (TNS) can occur when the neck and upper shoulders are held in a fixed, awkward position for long periods of time, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. It can happen to people in the workplace who talk on the phone for most of the day or type a lot. So, use a speakerphone, a shoulder cradle or a headset.
6. Eyestrain is another problem that can be encountered in front of a computer. It can cause headaches, difficulty focusing, and increased sensitivity to light, according to the University of California at Davis. To prevent this, distant your PC screen from your eyes about an arm away. If you find it difficult to read, then enlarge your font.
7. A healthy tip that all of us want to hear is that vacations are an important part of staying healthy at work. Go away on a long vacation to recharge your “batteries”. It helps reduces stress and get your mind off work. Stress is unhealthy as it can impair your immune system and increase the risks of illnesses like heart problems, hypertension, etc.
8. Avoid long stretches of long days. For example, when you need to have a project done, take short breaks in between. Don’t let your work affect your moods and relationships. Don’t allow yourself to burnout.
9. Your keyboard, mouse, and phone can harbor thousands of germs that are just waiting to make you sick. So get out the disinfectant. Viruses survive and remain infectious for days on hard surfaces. Infections can be easily transferred to people using the telephone.
10. Finally and most importantly – is self-awareness. Know yourself and know your limits. Know when to take short breaks and know when to go for vacations. Get some exercise to help you physically and mentally both at home and at work.
So, work and still keep healthy.
(Adapted from WebMDHealth in 2004)
Avoid those snacks, take a walk during lunch, and clean that keyboard, and you're on your way to a healthier workday.
Eight hours in a chair in front of a computer, five days a week can take a toll on your body. From avoiding eye strain and tension neck syndrome to passing on those extra calories that co-workers leave invitingly on their desks, here are 10 tips that will help you stay healthy and in shape at work.
1. The snacks that your co-workers so nicely place on their desk can add a few hundred calories to your daily diet if you're not careful. And they can leave you with unwanted pounds if you help yourself day after day. If you really feel hungry have a fruit or healthy snacks instead.
2. Drinking an adequate amount of water -- eight to 10 glasses every day or 2.5 to 3 litres -- can help keep you hydrated. Many foods are also good sources of water; fruits like oranges, grapefruit, grapes, watermelon, and apples can help keep you healthy and hydrated.
3. One of the most important things you can do during the day to stay healthy and in shape is to exercise. Take a walk when going for your lunch. Or take the stairs up to your office instead of using the elevator. Or park your car farther than usual so that you have to take that walk when going home.
4. Eating a healthy lunch is an important part of a balanced diet. But eating reasonable portions is an important part of your health because after that you will be tucked to your chair for another 3 hours or so.
5. Tension neck syndrome (TNS) can occur when the neck and upper shoulders are held in a fixed, awkward position for long periods of time, according to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. It can happen to people in the workplace who talk on the phone for most of the day or type a lot. So, use a speakerphone, a shoulder cradle or a headset.
6. Eyestrain is another problem that can be encountered in front of a computer. It can cause headaches, difficulty focusing, and increased sensitivity to light, according to the University of California at Davis. To prevent this, distant your PC screen from your eyes about an arm away. If you find it difficult to read, then enlarge your font.
7. A healthy tip that all of us want to hear is that vacations are an important part of staying healthy at work. Go away on a long vacation to recharge your “batteries”. It helps reduces stress and get your mind off work. Stress is unhealthy as it can impair your immune system and increase the risks of illnesses like heart problems, hypertension, etc.
8. Avoid long stretches of long days. For example, when you need to have a project done, take short breaks in between. Don’t let your work affect your moods and relationships. Don’t allow yourself to burnout.
9. Your keyboard, mouse, and phone can harbor thousands of germs that are just waiting to make you sick. So get out the disinfectant. Viruses survive and remain infectious for days on hard surfaces. Infections can be easily transferred to people using the telephone.
10. Finally and most importantly – is self-awareness. Know yourself and know your limits. Know when to take short breaks and know when to go for vacations. Get some exercise to help you physically and mentally both at home and at work.
So, work and still keep healthy.
TIPS FOR US-NESS 2
Tips for A Better Marriage
(Adapted from the article written by Muntaqima Abdur Rasyid in 2004)
"And among His Signs is this that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts). Verily in that are Signs for those who reflect" (30: 21).
According to the writer, these tips come from his personal experience in his marriage. He has now been married for more than 15 years and wants to share what he gathered from all those years with the readers. He got married after he converted to Islam. His rules are:
1) Be conscious of your physical appearance. No one was more conscious of this than the Prophet. His Sulmah reflects keen attention to personal hygiene and good grooming. He kept himself strong and muscular. Most likely that was the first aspect of you that attracted your mate. So don't think that simply because you are married the task is over. You can't hide a weight problem under long dresses and long veils. Your mate knows. Don’t allow your mate to get side-tracked by the likes of a 'Raquel Welch or an Arnold Schwarzenegger'. Jog, join a gym, roller skate, swim and stay in shape. InshaAllah, you will be more vibrant, more radiant, and more attractive to your mate.
2) Be aware of your role, but do not fall into role- playing. Muslim spouses sometimes experience difficulties because they are trying to do things 'by the book' without giving due consideration to the conditions prevailing in their society. For example, Muslim females are taught that their role is to be at home raising the children. But it isn’t so now. Therefore, go out and work with the blessings of your husband but know who you are even outside the house. You, too, need not worry if you don’t bear as many children as your mom did. Be realistic. Look at your household economy. Islam gives you flexibility. Don't be afraid or ashamed to use it.
3) Be a companion to your mate. Try to show enthusiasm for your spouse's interests and hobbies. It is well-known that the Prophet would run races with Aishah. By all means try to involve your mate in your interests.
4) Be active in Islamic community life. This will strengthen your commitment to Islam while providing you wish a wholesome social outlet. Encourage your spouse to engage in activities that promote Islam. Have dinners at your home for Muslims as well as non-Muslims, and don't neglect your relatives. These activities will indirectly enhance the quality of your marriage through widening your circle of activities.
5) Admit your mistakes and have a forgiving, generous attitude when your mate errs. Being in the Malay society is very difficult indeed. Be quick to admit your shortcomings and work to amend them. Be understanding when your mate does not live up to the Islamic ideal and gently try to motivate him or her in the right direction.
6) Have a sense of humour. Be able to chuckle at life's minor aggravations.
7) Be modest when around members of the opposite sex. Do not try to test your spouse's affection by feigning interest in another. This will only cause dissension and bad feelings.
8) Share household duties. This is especially important these days when women work outside the home. The Prophet always helped his wives around the house and even mended his own clothes. The Messenger of Allah said, "The most perfect of the believers in faith is the best of them in moral excellence, and the best of you are the kindest of you to their wives" (at-Tirmidhi).
9) Surprise each other with gifts. Treat her to an evening out alone, away from the children. There are no words to describe the lift this can give to a marriage.
10) Communicate your feelings to one another, good and bad. Tell him how handsome he looks. Where there is disagreement, have an open discussion. Don’t collect red stamps. Nip it in the bud.
11) Live within your means. Stay away from credit cards if you can. Don't envy the possessions of your friends, and belittle your husband because he can't provide them for you. Muslim couples will do well to stay away from ostentatious living. TheProphet did not live this way, neither should you.
12) Respect your mate's need for privacy. A quiet time to oneself, either at home or away from home, each day can make a disagreeable person agreeable.
13) Don’t share personal problems with others. There are a few exceptions to this rule, but if you must discuss personal problems, make sure it is with a person in whom you have the utmost confidence. Better still; seek for advice from an Ustaz or Ustazah.
14) Be sensitive to your mate's moods. If you want to share a personal achievement, don't do it when your spouse is “down in the dumps” Wait for the proper time.
A successful marriage doesn't just happen. It's not simply a matter of luck or finding the right person. It takes hard work and determination. It means being selfless and making mistakes. It means having vengeance on your mind but forgiveness in your heart. But, then, its perfection is "half of faith".
Our Lord! Grant unto us wives and offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and give us (the grace) to lead righteous. Qur'an 25:74
"The whole world is an asset and the best asset is a good wife" (Muslim)
(Adapted from the article written by Muntaqima Abdur Rasyid in 2004)
"And among His Signs is this that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts). Verily in that are Signs for those who reflect" (30: 21).
According to the writer, these tips come from his personal experience in his marriage. He has now been married for more than 15 years and wants to share what he gathered from all those years with the readers. He got married after he converted to Islam. His rules are:
1) Be conscious of your physical appearance. No one was more conscious of this than the Prophet. His Sulmah reflects keen attention to personal hygiene and good grooming. He kept himself strong and muscular. Most likely that was the first aspect of you that attracted your mate. So don't think that simply because you are married the task is over. You can't hide a weight problem under long dresses and long veils. Your mate knows. Don’t allow your mate to get side-tracked by the likes of a 'Raquel Welch or an Arnold Schwarzenegger'. Jog, join a gym, roller skate, swim and stay in shape. InshaAllah, you will be more vibrant, more radiant, and more attractive to your mate.
2) Be aware of your role, but do not fall into role- playing. Muslim spouses sometimes experience difficulties because they are trying to do things 'by the book' without giving due consideration to the conditions prevailing in their society. For example, Muslim females are taught that their role is to be at home raising the children. But it isn’t so now. Therefore, go out and work with the blessings of your husband but know who you are even outside the house. You, too, need not worry if you don’t bear as many children as your mom did. Be realistic. Look at your household economy. Islam gives you flexibility. Don't be afraid or ashamed to use it.
3) Be a companion to your mate. Try to show enthusiasm for your spouse's interests and hobbies. It is well-known that the Prophet would run races with Aishah. By all means try to involve your mate in your interests.
4) Be active in Islamic community life. This will strengthen your commitment to Islam while providing you wish a wholesome social outlet. Encourage your spouse to engage in activities that promote Islam. Have dinners at your home for Muslims as well as non-Muslims, and don't neglect your relatives. These activities will indirectly enhance the quality of your marriage through widening your circle of activities.
5) Admit your mistakes and have a forgiving, generous attitude when your mate errs. Being in the Malay society is very difficult indeed. Be quick to admit your shortcomings and work to amend them. Be understanding when your mate does not live up to the Islamic ideal and gently try to motivate him or her in the right direction.
6) Have a sense of humour. Be able to chuckle at life's minor aggravations.
7) Be modest when around members of the opposite sex. Do not try to test your spouse's affection by feigning interest in another. This will only cause dissension and bad feelings.
8) Share household duties. This is especially important these days when women work outside the home. The Prophet always helped his wives around the house and even mended his own clothes. The Messenger of Allah said, "The most perfect of the believers in faith is the best of them in moral excellence, and the best of you are the kindest of you to their wives" (at-Tirmidhi).
9) Surprise each other with gifts. Treat her to an evening out alone, away from the children. There are no words to describe the lift this can give to a marriage.
10) Communicate your feelings to one another, good and bad. Tell him how handsome he looks. Where there is disagreement, have an open discussion. Don’t collect red stamps. Nip it in the bud.
11) Live within your means. Stay away from credit cards if you can. Don't envy the possessions of your friends, and belittle your husband because he can't provide them for you. Muslim couples will do well to stay away from ostentatious living. TheProphet did not live this way, neither should you.
12) Respect your mate's need for privacy. A quiet time to oneself, either at home or away from home, each day can make a disagreeable person agreeable.
13) Don’t share personal problems with others. There are a few exceptions to this rule, but if you must discuss personal problems, make sure it is with a person in whom you have the utmost confidence. Better still; seek for advice from an Ustaz or Ustazah.
14) Be sensitive to your mate's moods. If you want to share a personal achievement, don't do it when your spouse is “down in the dumps” Wait for the proper time.
A successful marriage doesn't just happen. It's not simply a matter of luck or finding the right person. It takes hard work and determination. It means being selfless and making mistakes. It means having vengeance on your mind but forgiveness in your heart. But, then, its perfection is "half of faith".
Our Lord! Grant unto us wives and offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and give us (the grace) to lead righteous. Qur'an 25:74
"The whole world is an asset and the best asset is a good wife" (Muslim)
FEATURE STORY 2
(Written on 29 February 2004)
Working Mom Vs. Stay-At-Home Mom
There was a very good article I read some days ago. It was published in the NST dated 18 February 2004. The issue was leaving jobs to be a full time mom taking care of the household and the kids. Very interesting, huh? I planned to do this one day though I know that the first person who would scream at this idea is my beloved mom. She would say things like, “I sent you to the university and this is what you decide? Being a full time housewife?” Gosh! I know it would be tough arguing with mom on this matter but I also know that one day I would do just that.
I have always dreamt of being a homemaker. But not the kind of homemaker that many people assume it as. I want to be a home maker who does something beneficial. Maybe not so much of the money but something that would contribute to the household. I want to write seriously. I want my writings to be published, read and remembered by the readers, friends and family. But can we really make a living through writing here in Malaysia? Hmmm…why don’t you tell me?
If you get a grab of the article that I mentioned earlier (Office Hours: Tough call for working mums by Kamsiah Mustapha), you will notice that somewhere in the article was stated that if we decide to be a stay-at-home mom, then all that we struggled for during our study years at the university would go to a waste. Our parents’ sacrifices would just fritter away. Is that so? Do we look at it that way?
Let us ponder on this for a while. Just say that one day our daughter decides to stay home and take care of her kids and home. What will our reactions be? What will we do to her? Will we torture her and create miseries for the decision that she make? Do you think it is fair for us to do that? Well, here is what I think. And I believe that what I verbalize here might not be agreeable to many but this is my sincere opinion. Sending our children to school and providing them with the best education is a definite responsibility of parents. It is not only what is demanded and understood by the society but most importantly what is called “amanah” from Allah the Almighty.
As parents, of course, we always pray for the best for our children, especially being mothers. We would always ensure that they get all the best things the world can offer them. We work hard, day in day out. We keep striving for more just so that we can be better providers. But is it for us (still) to decide whether or not our daughter wants to be a homemaker one day? Why not we look at it this way instead? She will be staying home and devote herself to her family. As a wife, inshaallah, she will gain more “pahala” as she becomes more “solehah” and has more time for her husband. As a mother, she will be a more “mithali” mom and ensures that her children are nurtured in the best way possible. As our daughter, she will appreciate us even more because we gave her the opportunity to be what she is at that time. Isn’t that worthwhile enough?
On the other hand, I am not underestimating working moms as I am one too now. I salute them especially those with more kids and without maids to assist them when they get back home every evening. How can they do that? They cope beautifully. They amaze me. I manage to cope too so far but I am not sure whether I will still do when this little one comes out in May. The issue now is not whether stay-at-home moms make better moms or not, but the point is personal preferences. As a woman, a wife and a mother, I prefer to be at home where I can take care of my kids myself. Where I only have myself to blame when things don’t work out the way they should.
So, pray for me. Let the day comes earlier then planned.
Working Mom Vs. Stay-At-Home Mom
There was a very good article I read some days ago. It was published in the NST dated 18 February 2004. The issue was leaving jobs to be a full time mom taking care of the household and the kids. Very interesting, huh? I planned to do this one day though I know that the first person who would scream at this idea is my beloved mom. She would say things like, “I sent you to the university and this is what you decide? Being a full time housewife?” Gosh! I know it would be tough arguing with mom on this matter but I also know that one day I would do just that.
I have always dreamt of being a homemaker. But not the kind of homemaker that many people assume it as. I want to be a home maker who does something beneficial. Maybe not so much of the money but something that would contribute to the household. I want to write seriously. I want my writings to be published, read and remembered by the readers, friends and family. But can we really make a living through writing here in Malaysia? Hmmm…why don’t you tell me?
If you get a grab of the article that I mentioned earlier (Office Hours: Tough call for working mums by Kamsiah Mustapha), you will notice that somewhere in the article was stated that if we decide to be a stay-at-home mom, then all that we struggled for during our study years at the university would go to a waste. Our parents’ sacrifices would just fritter away. Is that so? Do we look at it that way?
Let us ponder on this for a while. Just say that one day our daughter decides to stay home and take care of her kids and home. What will our reactions be? What will we do to her? Will we torture her and create miseries for the decision that she make? Do you think it is fair for us to do that? Well, here is what I think. And I believe that what I verbalize here might not be agreeable to many but this is my sincere opinion. Sending our children to school and providing them with the best education is a definite responsibility of parents. It is not only what is demanded and understood by the society but most importantly what is called “amanah” from Allah the Almighty.
As parents, of course, we always pray for the best for our children, especially being mothers. We would always ensure that they get all the best things the world can offer them. We work hard, day in day out. We keep striving for more just so that we can be better providers. But is it for us (still) to decide whether or not our daughter wants to be a homemaker one day? Why not we look at it this way instead? She will be staying home and devote herself to her family. As a wife, inshaallah, she will gain more “pahala” as she becomes more “solehah” and has more time for her husband. As a mother, she will be a more “mithali” mom and ensures that her children are nurtured in the best way possible. As our daughter, she will appreciate us even more because we gave her the opportunity to be what she is at that time. Isn’t that worthwhile enough?
On the other hand, I am not underestimating working moms as I am one too now. I salute them especially those with more kids and without maids to assist them when they get back home every evening. How can they do that? They cope beautifully. They amaze me. I manage to cope too so far but I am not sure whether I will still do when this little one comes out in May. The issue now is not whether stay-at-home moms make better moms or not, but the point is personal preferences. As a woman, a wife and a mother, I prefer to be at home where I can take care of my kids myself. Where I only have myself to blame when things don’t work out the way they should.
So, pray for me. Let the day comes earlier then planned.
LEARN A WORD A DAY
tsuris (TSOOR-is) noun, also, tsouris
Trouble; aggravation; woe.
[From Yiddish tsures, plural of tsure (trouble), from Hebrew sara (trouble).]
"Given the family's tsuris and tantrums, the wandering spirit and the collision of time and all those loose ends, things don't really get more dramatic than Saul's ineffectual slap in the face."
Alvin Klein; Zigzagging Through a Cover-Up; The New York Times; Oct 26, 2003.
"If not for a little scheduling tsuris, we might have seen the ultimate New York comedy": Woody Allen directing Barbra Streisand. Spotlight Allen directing Streisand? There's a Laugh; The Toronto Star (Canada); Jul 2, 1999.
Trouble; aggravation; woe.
[From Yiddish tsures, plural of tsure (trouble), from Hebrew sara (trouble).]
"Given the family's tsuris and tantrums, the wandering spirit and the collision of time and all those loose ends, things don't really get more dramatic than Saul's ineffectual slap in the face."
Alvin Klein; Zigzagging Through a Cover-Up; The New York Times; Oct 26, 2003.
"If not for a little scheduling tsuris, we might have seen the ultimate New York comedy": Woody Allen directing Barbra Streisand. Spotlight Allen directing Streisand? There's a Laugh; The Toronto Star (Canada); Jul 2, 1999.
ABOUT OUR KIDS
When Kids Get Headaches
(Adapted from a children advice website in 2004)
Life can be a pretty big headache these days - and that applies to your kids, too. Children's headaches are probably underreported, yet you've certainly heard your child complaining about having one. For you, the big question is when to be concerned about your child's headaches. How do you know when the problem is more than worry about an upcoming test or a fight with a friend? What kinds of headaches do children suffer from, and how should they be treated?
When Should You Be Concerned?
Frequency and apparent cause are factors you can use to determine if your child's headaches are reason for concern. Most of the time, you can identify the cause of your child's headache, such as staying up too late, playing in the sun too long or bumping his head. Unexplained or recurring headaches over a short period of time, however, should be brought to the attention of your child's doctor. But how short is a "short" period of time?
"If your 6-year-old is complaining of significant, unexplained headaches once a month or more often over several months’ time, I think it would be reasonable to have that child seen by a doctor," says Dr. Hammond, a neurologist. "That frequency in an adolescent who may be under stress at school would not be as worrisome."
Another factor to consider is whether or not there are other symptoms along with the headaches. "Is the child perfectly well between the headaches?" Dr. Hammond asks. "If not, that's cause for concern." In addition, symptoms associated with the headaches themselves can be a flag. Other than simple nausea, which he says is not uncommon with headaches, Dr. Hammond suggests parents look for:
(Adapted from a children advice website in 2004)
Life can be a pretty big headache these days - and that applies to your kids, too. Children's headaches are probably underreported, yet you've certainly heard your child complaining about having one. For you, the big question is when to be concerned about your child's headaches. How do you know when the problem is more than worry about an upcoming test or a fight with a friend? What kinds of headaches do children suffer from, and how should they be treated?
When Should You Be Concerned?
Frequency and apparent cause are factors you can use to determine if your child's headaches are reason for concern. Most of the time, you can identify the cause of your child's headache, such as staying up too late, playing in the sun too long or bumping his head. Unexplained or recurring headaches over a short period of time, however, should be brought to the attention of your child's doctor. But how short is a "short" period of time?
"If your 6-year-old is complaining of significant, unexplained headaches once a month or more often over several months’ time, I think it would be reasonable to have that child seen by a doctor," says Dr. Hammond, a neurologist. "That frequency in an adolescent who may be under stress at school would not be as worrisome."
Another factor to consider is whether or not there are other symptoms along with the headaches. "Is the child perfectly well between the headaches?" Dr. Hammond asks. "If not, that's cause for concern." In addition, symptoms associated with the headaches themselves can be a flag. Other than simple nausea, which he says is not uncommon with headaches, Dr. Hammond suggests parents look for:
- decreased level of alertness
- visual changes
- tingling sensations
- weakness
- fever or other signs of infections
**To be continued.
WHAT SAYS THE TABIB?
Women Top Health Threats
(Adapted from a health website in 2004)
Do you know what threatens your life most, my womenfolk? Below are the causes of death among women starting from the most common.
1) Heart disease
The good news is that heart disease is one of the most preventable health conditions. You have the power to reduce some of the risks:
· Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
· Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and grain products
· Exercise regularly
· Control other health conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol
If you are at special risk of heart disease, your doctor may suggest a low daily dose of aspirin.
2) Cancer
The kinds of cancer that kill most women are lung cancer, breast cancer, pelvic cancer and colorectal cancer. At least 1/3 of all cancer deaths are related to nutrition and other controllable lifestyle factors. Do all you can to reduce your risks:
· Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
· Exercise regularly
· Eat a healthy diet
· Avoid excessive sun exposure
· Limit alcohol
· Have regular preventive health screenings
· Know your family medical history
3) Stroke
Smoking and uncontrolled high blood pressure are important risk factors for stroke. Although stroke is highly preventable, certain risk factors such as family history, age, sex and race cannot be controlled. Even if you’re at increased risk of stroke, you can still take steps to prevent it:
· Don’t smoke
· Control your blood pressure
· Lower your cholesterol
· Limit your saturated fats intake
· Exercise regularly
4) Diabetes
A group of diseases that affect the way your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Advanced diabetes can cause blindness, kidney disease and severe nerve damage. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease and suffer from stroke.
The most common diabetes is type 2 and usually develops after the age of 40. But this can be prevented by following these steps:
· Maintain a healthy weight
· Eat a healthy diet
· Exercise regularly
· Get your fasting blood sugar level tested regularly
So, ladies, lets take good care of ourselves for the sake of a better life.
(Adapted from a health website in 2004)
Do you know what threatens your life most, my womenfolk? Below are the causes of death among women starting from the most common.
1) Heart disease
The good news is that heart disease is one of the most preventable health conditions. You have the power to reduce some of the risks:
· Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
· Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables and grain products
· Exercise regularly
· Control other health conditions that may put a strain on your heart, such as blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol
If you are at special risk of heart disease, your doctor may suggest a low daily dose of aspirin.
2) Cancer
The kinds of cancer that kill most women are lung cancer, breast cancer, pelvic cancer and colorectal cancer. At least 1/3 of all cancer deaths are related to nutrition and other controllable lifestyle factors. Do all you can to reduce your risks:
· Don’t smoke or chew tobacco
· Exercise regularly
· Eat a healthy diet
· Avoid excessive sun exposure
· Limit alcohol
· Have regular preventive health screenings
· Know your family medical history
3) Stroke
Smoking and uncontrolled high blood pressure are important risk factors for stroke. Although stroke is highly preventable, certain risk factors such as family history, age, sex and race cannot be controlled. Even if you’re at increased risk of stroke, you can still take steps to prevent it:
· Don’t smoke
· Control your blood pressure
· Lower your cholesterol
· Limit your saturated fats intake
· Exercise regularly
4) Diabetes
A group of diseases that affect the way your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Advanced diabetes can cause blindness, kidney disease and severe nerve damage. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to have heart disease and suffer from stroke.
The most common diabetes is type 2 and usually develops after the age of 40. But this can be prevented by following these steps:
· Maintain a healthy weight
· Eat a healthy diet
· Exercise regularly
· Get your fasting blood sugar level tested regularly
So, ladies, lets take good care of ourselves for the sake of a better life.
TIPS FOR US-NESS
(Adapted from a relationship advice website in 2004)
8 Ways to Control An Argument
Let’s face it no one is perfect. No matter how hard you try, or how loving and respectful of a couple you are, you are bound to get into a disagreement once in a while. The next time you feel an argument starting to form keep in mind these 8 ways to handle an argument.
Give your partner enough space to voice his or her concern.
I am sure you hate it when people interrupt you. Give your partner the same respect, even if you don’t agree.
Make an extra effort to really understand what your partner is trying to say.
It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking you know what they are saying, when in fact you may not have a clue. If your partner feels like you understand, it is easier to end the argument.
Don’t say something you will regret later.
Always consider your relationship like a glass. Take care in choosing the right words when in a heated situation.
Don’t bring in past woes.
The past is the past. Let it stay there. If keep on dwelling on the past, you’ll never find a solution for today. People make mistakes. Give your partner a chance to recover and support and encourage them when they make the right choices.
Learn to Compromise
You’ll find yourself in fewer arguments when you learn to do this. If you don’t like something then try to find the middle ground. This also applies the other way. Be willing to come up with alternatives if your partner doesn’t like it as well.
Realize that no matter what you say, you both may not agree with the issue at hand.
Sometimes it is best to let yourself agree to disagree – you’ll show your partner that not only you respect their opinion, but respect their individuality as well. You don’t know, maybe later they might change their mind.
Make a commitment to talk about the situation until it is handled.
Nothing is unsolvable when you working together to truly find a peaceful resolution.
Make your relationship with your partner your first concern when you are in the middle of a disagreement.
This does not mean bend over backwards or compromise your integrity. Just keep in mind that the person you are arguing with is your best friend, lover and soul mate. If you both keep that at the forefront of your mind in an argument, it will keep what matters most away from cruel words or intent – your heart!
Finally, I leave you one thought from preventing arguments. Let your partner know exactly when something upsets you. I’ve found that many people tend not to speak up when something bothers them, thinking that it is trivial to mention them. Then, your partner won’t know what you are upset about and thinks t hat you are plain over acting. If you find yourself in this situation, deal with each thing as it happens. Don’t let things build up until you explode.
8 Ways to Control An Argument
Let’s face it no one is perfect. No matter how hard you try, or how loving and respectful of a couple you are, you are bound to get into a disagreement once in a while. The next time you feel an argument starting to form keep in mind these 8 ways to handle an argument.
Give your partner enough space to voice his or her concern.
I am sure you hate it when people interrupt you. Give your partner the same respect, even if you don’t agree.
Make an extra effort to really understand what your partner is trying to say.
It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking you know what they are saying, when in fact you may not have a clue. If your partner feels like you understand, it is easier to end the argument.
Don’t say something you will regret later.
Always consider your relationship like a glass. Take care in choosing the right words when in a heated situation.
Don’t bring in past woes.
The past is the past. Let it stay there. If keep on dwelling on the past, you’ll never find a solution for today. People make mistakes. Give your partner a chance to recover and support and encourage them when they make the right choices.
Learn to Compromise
You’ll find yourself in fewer arguments when you learn to do this. If you don’t like something then try to find the middle ground. This also applies the other way. Be willing to come up with alternatives if your partner doesn’t like it as well.
Realize that no matter what you say, you both may not agree with the issue at hand.
Sometimes it is best to let yourself agree to disagree – you’ll show your partner that not only you respect their opinion, but respect their individuality as well. You don’t know, maybe later they might change their mind.
Make a commitment to talk about the situation until it is handled.
Nothing is unsolvable when you working together to truly find a peaceful resolution.
Make your relationship with your partner your first concern when you are in the middle of a disagreement.
This does not mean bend over backwards or compromise your integrity. Just keep in mind that the person you are arguing with is your best friend, lover and soul mate. If you both keep that at the forefront of your mind in an argument, it will keep what matters most away from cruel words or intent – your heart!
Finally, I leave you one thought from preventing arguments. Let your partner know exactly when something upsets you. I’ve found that many people tend not to speak up when something bothers them, thinking that it is trivial to mention them. Then, your partner won’t know what you are upset about and thinks t hat you are plain over acting. If you find yourself in this situation, deal with each thing as it happens. Don’t let things build up until you explode.
FEATURE STORY
How Does It Feel Being 26-week Pregnant?
(Written on 14 February 2004)
This is my second pregnancy and the experience is just as beautiful as my first. What else could I ask for? I have been waiting for this pregnancy for more than 3 years now. When I just had Yadiy, my first child, my hubby and I planned to have the second one once Yadiy turned 2. It looks like we are 2 years behind time, now. I guessed there is a blessing in disguise here. Maybe then Yadiy was a little too naive to understand his roles as an elder brother. Maybe then he was too young to not be pampered any longer.
The cutest part is whenever he was asked whether he wanted a sister or a brother, Yadiy always insisted that it is a baby boy that I am carrying right now. Well, I don’t even know. The doctor doesn’t know either. I scanned twice already for the sex but came to no avail. Both times, the little one in me showed his bottom off! But Yadiy hasn’t moved an inch. He is almost sure that he is going to get a baby brother. Funny, eh, kids of today.
To be frank, I, too, wished for another son. My maternal instinct tells me that it is a boy I am having. I went through many websites and completed many surveys and questionnaires about the sex of a baby. And all gave the same exact answer. Boy! I pray now and then to Allah the Almighty that I will have another son, inshaallah.
Right now my baby is fairly active. I can feel its hiccups every now and then. Sometimes it stretches – maybe loosening its muscles, tired of being in the same position for way too long. I can feel sudden bulges on my tummy especially when I am relaxing, with nothing to do. I still visit the ladies’ frequently. For one reason is my being pregnant and another because I consume at least 2.5 liters of plain water a day. One major concern is catching gestational diabetes. So, I personally believe that by drinking a lot might prevent my getting diagnosed with it.
My next visit to the practitioner will be on 27 February 2004. I will then be 28-week pregnant, inshaallah. I really hope that this time around I will be able to see what the sex of my baby is. Maybe the baby thinks it is fun to play hide and seek with me but this time I will tell him, “I want to know whether you are a girl or boy. I need to do some shopping, you know?”
(Written on 14 February 2004)
This is my second pregnancy and the experience is just as beautiful as my first. What else could I ask for? I have been waiting for this pregnancy for more than 3 years now. When I just had Yadiy, my first child, my hubby and I planned to have the second one once Yadiy turned 2. It looks like we are 2 years behind time, now. I guessed there is a blessing in disguise here. Maybe then Yadiy was a little too naive to understand his roles as an elder brother. Maybe then he was too young to not be pampered any longer.
The cutest part is whenever he was asked whether he wanted a sister or a brother, Yadiy always insisted that it is a baby boy that I am carrying right now. Well, I don’t even know. The doctor doesn’t know either. I scanned twice already for the sex but came to no avail. Both times, the little one in me showed his bottom off! But Yadiy hasn’t moved an inch. He is almost sure that he is going to get a baby brother. Funny, eh, kids of today.
To be frank, I, too, wished for another son. My maternal instinct tells me that it is a boy I am having. I went through many websites and completed many surveys and questionnaires about the sex of a baby. And all gave the same exact answer. Boy! I pray now and then to Allah the Almighty that I will have another son, inshaallah.
Right now my baby is fairly active. I can feel its hiccups every now and then. Sometimes it stretches – maybe loosening its muscles, tired of being in the same position for way too long. I can feel sudden bulges on my tummy especially when I am relaxing, with nothing to do. I still visit the ladies’ frequently. For one reason is my being pregnant and another because I consume at least 2.5 liters of plain water a day. One major concern is catching gestational diabetes. So, I personally believe that by drinking a lot might prevent my getting diagnosed with it.
My next visit to the practitioner will be on 27 February 2004. I will then be 28-week pregnant, inshaallah. I really hope that this time around I will be able to see what the sex of my baby is. Maybe the baby thinks it is fun to play hide and seek with me but this time I will tell him, “I want to know whether you are a girl or boy. I need to do some shopping, you know?”
ACHTUNG!!!
Hi peops!
I have stopped blogging for a while. So, whatever you read here are taken from the archive of my previously automatically deleted blog at blog-city.com.
HAPPY READING!!!
I have stopped blogging for a while. So, whatever you read here are taken from the archive of my previously automatically deleted blog at blog-city.com.
HAPPY READING!!!
FEEDER ENTRY
Today is Good...
I could not explain how I feel today. I just want everyone to know that I feel great. Why? You really want to know. Don't get jealous now, allright? Ermmm...I am feeling great because tomorrow my family and I are going on a short holiday trip to Jakarta-Punchak-Bandung. Wow...
I have never been to Punchak or Bandung but I have been to Jakarta. I wouldn't say that it was a very nice experience. Just fair. Maybe because I was four months pregnant then with my third one. So, the walking, travelling, sightseeing really got into me. Damn taxing it was. But now, I am looking forward to a better experience. Especially there is a number of us going including my dear cousin, Farah, and my dearest mom-in-law.
Our flight is at 0700 hours from Kuala Lumpur and arriving Jakarta at 0800 local time. Then, we will head straight for Bandung without further adieu. I have heard wonderful things about Bandung soooooo, I am really excited and looking forward for a great holiday with my beloved family.
Will write more about the trip once I get home safely, inshaallah.
'Til the next time.
I could not explain how I feel today. I just want everyone to know that I feel great. Why? You really want to know. Don't get jealous now, allright? Ermmm...I am feeling great because tomorrow my family and I are going on a short holiday trip to Jakarta-Punchak-Bandung. Wow...
I have never been to Punchak or Bandung but I have been to Jakarta. I wouldn't say that it was a very nice experience. Just fair. Maybe because I was four months pregnant then with my third one. So, the walking, travelling, sightseeing really got into me. Damn taxing it was. But now, I am looking forward to a better experience. Especially there is a number of us going including my dear cousin, Farah, and my dearest mom-in-law.
Our flight is at 0700 hours from Kuala Lumpur and arriving Jakarta at 0800 local time. Then, we will head straight for Bandung without further adieu. I have heard wonderful things about Bandung soooooo, I am really excited and looking forward for a great holiday with my beloved family.
Will write more about the trip once I get home safely, inshaallah.
'Til the next time.
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