Chocolate

Chocolate is known for its notorious reputation as a diet destroyer. However, several health and nutrition experts have claimed that eating chocolate has certain benefits. Dark chocolate, especially those made of at least 75% cacao, can actually benefit your health. Cocoa, the main ingredient of chocolate, contains small levels of caffeine and theobromine. These nutrients are actually stimulants that can help improve your concentration and reduce stress.

Cocoa mass actually contains about 15% of non-soluble and soluble dietary fiber. Eating the right kind of chocolate in moderate amounts may therefore help you keep a healthy digestive system. Plus, chocolates are also rich in anti-oxidants — substances that slow down cell deterioration and aging.

Coffee

Another surprisingly healthy treat is a regular cup of coffee. According to Harvard researchers, a regular cup of java may actually lessen your risks of developing diabetes. Although more research is needed, this finding is supported by other studies. Several studies indicate that the risk of developing Parkinson’s Disease, gallstones, cirrhosis, and colon cancer may actually be lessened through regular cups of coffee.

Wine

According to the findings of Northwestern University researchers, red wine actually contains resveratrol, a substance that is beneficial to health. As a very effective anti-oxidant, resveratrol may actually reduce your risks of developing cardiovascular disease. Because resveratrol and estrogen share similar properties, red wine can help increase levels of good cholesterol known as HDL or high-density lipoprotein.

But before you stack up on chocolate bars, red wine, and coffee, remember that moderation is the key to any healthy diet. When treating yourself with these delicious concoctions, don’t feel guilty. As a matter of fact, continue your habit of drinking your morning cup of coffee because you may actually be helping yourself by doing so.

sources:
The Nibble
WebMD
Powering Muscles
Science Daily

Vera Wang

An icon of fashion and style, Vera Wang is known for her elegant gowns brimming with sleek lines and delicately designed details. Her beautiful creations have always been included in bridal couture collections, making her a popular designer of wedding gowns worn by celebrities such as Mariah Carey and Sharon Stone.

Reem Acra

Since the launching of her bridal company in 1995, Reem Acra has been creating beautiful and elegant gowns that have caught the attention of many celebrities and well-known personalities. Reem Acra is known for her gowns made of luxurious silk and intricately embroidered beadwork.

Anne Barge

As a veteran designer, Anne Barge is popular for her bridal dresses brimming with elegant and sophisticated lines and embroidered floral patterns. Anne Barge is the perfect designer if you’re looking for a simple yet stylish look on your wedding day. Many of Anne Barge’s simple yet chic creations have been featured in numerous bridal magazines and TV shows.

Amsale

If you want a wedding gown made of rich fabrics embellished with gorgeous beadwork, then Amsale is the designer for you. Her creations are known for their organza, satin, and taffeta fabrics in ivory or white shades. Amsale’s elegant dresses are popular among clients who want an un-boring but not overly designed wedding gowns.

Monique Lhuillier

As a top wedding gown designer who created Britney Spear’s outfit as she tied the knot with ex-hubby Kevin Federline, Monique Lhuillier has certainly created a name for herself. Her modern yet romantic bridal creations are known for their dramatic skirts and rich fabrics with soft, flowing lines. Other celebrity clients include singer Pink, Natalie Imbruglia, and Emilie de Ravin.

Sources:
NY Magazine
Knot Plan
Bride Couture
USA Weekend
New York Times
About.com

If you think you and your partner may have lost the heat, it’s important to talk about it and discuss the possible reasons. Aside from medical conditions, some of the common reasons why some lose their interest on sex include fears, bad experiences, low self-confidence, and relationship problems.

Fears

It’s possible to lose interest in sex as a result of fear of getting an unwanted pregnancy or acquiring a sexually transmitted infection. One way to deal with these fears is to talk to your partner about them. Once he gets an idea on these negative thoughts and emotions, he can help you face them and conquer them.

Traumatic Experiences

Traumatic experiences related to sex during childhood can have impact on a person’s view about sex. To deal with these issues, counseling is a good suggestion.

Low Self-confidence

Low self-esteem can affect the way you view yourself as a sexual being. This can then have an effect on how you view sex as part of a relationship. If you have trouble seeing yourself naked or you’re not comfortable in your own skin, talking about these things with your partner can greatly help. Remember, being sexy is a state of mind and not a physical thing.

Relationship Problems

If you are upset or insecure about your relationship, you have to deal with these issues first in order to be comfortable in your own skin and with your partner. If outside intervention is needed, there are sex therapies and couple counseling sessions that are designed to help couples deal with these sex and relationship issues.

Source:
BBC

Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Surgeries

The decision is always up to you should you decide to undergo the knife for beauty’s sake or not. However, before you make such a crucial decision, it’s best to know first the pros and cons of each procedure. The best way to do this is to consult a certified and highly experienced cosmetic surgeon.

Pros

Plastic surgery does offer several benefits. According to a postoperative survey posted on Mayoclinic.com, those who are happy with the results of a plastic surgery procedure experience greater self-confidence, increased satisfaction in leisure activities, and an improvement in social life.

Cons

Medical risks that can be associated with plastic surgery include hypothermia, skin breakdown, numbness, excessive bleeding, and infection. To lessen your chances of experiencing these possible risks, opt for a qualified surgeon with proven credentials. Remember, a highly qualified surgeon should give you an assessment first to determine whether plastic surgery is right for you or not.

Highly influential elements such as TV shows, magazines, and movies stress the importance of beauty in today’s world. You do have the choice to make yourself look and feel better through plastic surgery but never be forced to go under the knife just to fit in. It’s better to accept who you really are, flaws and all, than to try to drastically change your physical appearance in order to be accepted. You may not have that oh-so-perfect nose but remember, you are unique in your own way.

sources:
Seattle Times
Time
Mayo Clinic

Clutch Bags

If you think that clutch bags are a guy thing, then think again. As a woman’s best friend, a trendy clutch bag with bright charming details such as beads and lots of vibrant colors can jazz up any look. Choose a clutch bag that reflects the fun side of your personality and provides ample space for your essentials.

Oversized Shades

Oversized shades are still hot items this season. Before you grab a pair, however, make sure that it’ll complement your facial contour. Aside from adding a whimsical yet chic touch to your look, a pair of oversized shades protects your precious eyes from the sun’s glare.

Chunky Jewelry Items

Jeweled wrist bands and oversized rings are just some of the hottest accessories this season. For more flower power, opt for jewelry items brimming with nature-inspired designs and patterns. Necklaces with chunky and colorful beads can also jazz up any look so try to grab a couple of these items and watch your outfit come to life.

The Internet is a very useful tool when looking for the latest trends in fashion accessories. There are many blogs that feature photos from the latest collections of top designers of ready-to-wear items and haute couture goods. You can also print out the photos from runway shows and bring them with you as you look for inexpensive alternatives. As a matter of fact, you don’t have to spend that much on accessories. One trick is to mix expensive items with bargain finds.

The key in getting that perfect look is to look for the right accessories. Don’t go overboard since too much baubles and bangles can make you look like a fashion victim who’s gone mad on accessories. But don’t be afraid to experiment with several types of accessories. Just make sure that the accessories complement your outfit and not the other way around.

Sources:
The Budget Fashionista
I Want I Got Fashion Blog
I Want I Got Fashion Blog
I Want I Got Fashion Blog

Moisturize your Skin

The key to a younger and plump-looking complexion is a well-nourished skin. You don’t have to purchase a $500-face cream in order to get that perfect skin. One way to go about this the inexpensive way is to choose a moisturizer that can make your skin glow with life. There are many beauty stores that sell inexpensive yet effective moisturizers that can nourish your skin back to life. To start off, check out beauty counters at department stores.

Conceal Those Flaws

Want to achieve that flawless look that many celebrities are always sporting? Then dab a bit of concealer under your tear duct and your eyes to cover up any redness or puffiness. The key in applying a concealer is to blend it well. Depending on your skin type, you can choose from a variety of concealer types — liquid, powder, and stick.

Glam up the Locks

Do you ever wonder why your favorite Hollywood star doesn’t seem to have a bad hair day? To make your locks look shiny and fresh, you just need to use some haircare tools. Using hair putty is a good idea when trying to achieve that not-so-messy sexy hairdo. Plus, this hair product is available at many beauty shops without the expensive tag.

Highlight Those Collarbones

Many female celebrities love wearing tube tops and designer dresses that allow them to flaunt their lovely collar bones. You can also do this by putting on some shimmery lotion over those sexy collarbones. Just make sure to not overdo it and if you want to highlight a part of your body, try to concentrate on one part only. Too much shimmer and glitter isn’t a good way of catching everybody else’s attention.

Source:
Associated Content

Have Your Own Bank Account

Having your own bank account gives you that financial freedom wherein you don’t have to justify every expense you made. If you love monthly spa treatments and your hubby loves to collect action figures, having separate bank accounts that’s meant for personal expenses can help lessen money-related squabbles.

Two Heads are Better Than One

When it comes to family finances, teamwork is very important. You may already have established some rules on who pays the bills and who manages the bank account but it’s also important to have sit-down sessions and discuss where the money goes to. This is to ensure that each has an idea of the family’s financial picture.

Set Financial Priorities

As a couple, you and your husband should have a communal set of financial goals and priorities. This list can include college funds for the kids, life insurance, retirement funds, and future investment funds. The ordering of the priorities is always up to you and your husband. If there is a disagreement, listen to what each person has to say and create some sort of agreement as a compromise.

Protect your Financial Identity

If you have a good credit history before you got married, maintain this financial identity by keeping a couple of accounts or credit cards under your name. A good credit history is always a lifesaver when applying for that much needed car or house loan. If you or your hubby is dealing with a poor credit score, help each other out because both yours and your husband’s credit standing can affect applications for joint accounts or co-signed loans.

Working as a team is very beneficial when it comes to financial matters. If the family is experiencing some sort of financial difficulty, one can help each other figure out an effective solution.

source:
Today MSNBC

Every Little Step Counts

If you don’t have time to hit the gym, simple exercise tricks can help you change your attitude about achieving a healthier lifestyle. Walking your dog after dinner is one good way of squeezing that much needed exercise into a busy schedule. Plus, you’re also creating special moments with your loyal companion.

when picking up something on the floor, try to bend those knees and do a bit of squat. This exercise trick forces your leg muscles to work harder, toning them up a bit in the process. Think you can’t do that 30-minute jog every morning? Chop it up and do 3 10-minute walks in a day. Once you’ve incorporated these simple yet effective exercise tips into your daily schedule, you are on your way towards a healthier lifestyle.

Stick to Healthier Foods Without even Trying

If your mom has been telling you to eat those green stuff on your plate since you were a kid, it’s time to really listen to her and eat lots of veggies. One way to go about this is to start with a green salad every lunch. Instead of munching on a bag of chips during your afternoon break, pack some sliced carrots and pig on them whenever you feel the urge to eat. Aside from providing your body with essential nutrients, eating a plate of carrot sticks can help you curb those hunger pangs. These tips can help you incorporate veggies into your diet without really trying.

Remember that the main goal of these simple tips is to gradually incorporate healthy habits into your lifestyle without too much effort. A healthy lifestyle isn’t strictly about regular gym workouts and state-of-the-art gym equipment. It’s also about fun-filled activities or hobbies that can help you achieve a better you.

Source:
WebMD