How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Pain

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Neck and Shoulder Pain



According to ancient Oriental bodyworks practitioners, the root cause of neck and shoulder pain is an imbalance in the body's energy channels. In order to correct this, Oriental bodyworks therapy, which aims to re-balance the body's energy, can be very beneficial. Of the various forms of Oriental bodyworks therapy, some believe that acupressure and jin shin jyutsu can be particularly helpful for reducing and eliminating neck and shoulder pain.







Things You'll Need:





Chart of common acupressure points







Help Relieve Neck and Shoulder Pain With Acupressure




1


Begin by standing upright and keeping your feet roughly 12 inches apart.





2


Keep your back straight while extending your neck out.





3


Place your hands on either side of your neck, just below your hair line.





4


Feel for a sensitive spot in this region using your index fingers.





5


Apply firm pressure to this spot for several seconds.





6


Repeat two to three times per day to melt away any remaining tension in your neck and shoulders.





7


Get more information about acupressure and pain alleviation by visiting the Acupressure Institute Web site (see Resources below).



Use Jin Shin Jyutsu to Get Rid of Neck and Shoulder Pain




1


Start by grasping your thumb for several minutes. In jin shin jyutsu, the thumb is one of the energy pathways to the neck and shoulders. Holding your thumb for a period of time may help ease the tensions in this area.





2


Place your fingers on the back of your neck for several minutes while concentrating on the energy within your body. After you're finished, you may find that any additional tension in your neck and shoulders is gone.





3


Learn more about pain management through jin shin jyutsu by visiting the Jin Shin Jyutsu Institute Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Cut your nails before attempting to perform acupressure or jin shin jyutsu to relieve neck and shoulder pain in order to avoid cuts, scratches or pain.








Make your massages a little easier by purchasing scented massage oils. Not only will these inexpensive oils provide you with increased moisture, but they may also give you a sense of calm and well-being.








Never use jin shin jyutsu or acupressure in place of a physician's care in the event of a life-threatening emergency.








If you experience bleeding or sudden pain while engaging in jin shin jyutsu or acupressure techniques, stop the therapy immediately and consult with your doctor.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031488_oriental-bodyworks-pain.html

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Digestive Problems

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Digestive Problems



If you're suffering from chronic digestive problems, you're probably hoping there's a way to alleviate your symptoms without invasive surgery. Oriental bodyworks treatment may be a viable alternative for you. The theory behind Oriental bodyworks is that energy imbalances within the body are the root cause of a variety of common ailments, including digestive problems. To counteract this, Oriental bodyworks involves re-channeling the body's energy in order to reduce and relieve chronic physical and mental problems. Two of the most often cited Oriental bodyworks treatments that you can use to eliminate digestive problems are acupressure and jin shin jyutsu.







Things You'll Need:





List of abdominal acupressure points







Relieve Digestive Problems With Jin Shin Jyutsu




1


Hold your thumb for a period of 5 minutes. This increases energy flow to your digestive area, reducing painful or irritating symptoms of digestive problems.





2


Grasp your index finger for 5 minutes. The index finger is believed to be another energy channel for the digestive tract and stimulating it can also alleviate constipation.





3


Move to your little finger when you're experiencing problems with bloating. Holding this finger for 5 minutes can make symptoms disappear shortly afterwards.





4


Cross your arms and rest your fingertips on the insides of your knees. By holding this position for 20 minutes, your digestive problems may be eliminated.





5


Discover more about jin shin jyutsu by visiting the Jin Shin Jyutsu Institute Web site (see Resources below).



Use Acupressure to Reduce Digestive Problems




1


Start standing up straight, with your feet about 12 inches apart.





2


Pull your shirt up so your abdomen is exposed.





3


Rub your hands together quickly, until they become warm.





4


Place your hands immediately on your abdomen, just below your belly button.





5


Rub your hands over your abdomen in clockwise circles, moving from right to left.





6


Continue for 50 circles and cover your abdomen to trap in the heat.





7


Explore more acupressure techniques and benefits at the Acupressure Institute Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Visit a certified professional trained in the art of acupressure or jin shin jyutsu, especially if you are unfamiliar with the techniques or need further guidance.








Look into inexpensive, natural massage oils to add another dimension to your therapy. Massage oils are often used in Oriental bodyworks treatments due to their healing and calming properties.








Stop all acupressure and jin shin jyutsu treatments immediately if you experience sudden or unexplained bleeding or pain and consult with your physician.








Never use acupressure or jin shin jyutsu in place of medical care in the event of a life-threatening illness or injury.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031489_oriental-bodyworks-digestive.html

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Back Pain

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Relieve Back Pain



Oriental bodyworks is the practice of balancing the body's energies to try and correct harmful elements, such as pain, stress and anxiety. There are several different types of Oriental bodyworks, all of which perform different functions. Many believe it is possible to relieve back pain by trying one of the Oriental bodyworks specialties called jin shin jyutsu. This technique is noted for helping reduce a variety of physical aliments, like back pain. You can also try simple Oriental bodyworks exercises to increase blood flow and energy throughout your body.







Eliminate Back Pain Through Oriental Bodyworks Exercises




1


Stand upright with your feet shoulder length apart. Your back should be completely straight.





2


Bend your knees slightly and look straight ahead.





3


Twist to the right, gently, until you are looking behind you. Your arms and legs should sway with the movement, but you shouldn't force them.





4


Turn to the other side and repeat.





5


Continue turning from side to side 10 to 15 times per side.





6


Repeat once per day and before rigorous exercise to relieve back pain.



Use Jin Shin Jyutsu to Avoid Future Back Pain




1


Begin by grasping your thumb for several minutes. This will eliminate any excess tension you may be carrying around your shoulders and which may be traveling down to your back.





2


Move to your index finger and hold it firmly for at least 5 minutes. The index finger is believed to be the energy channel to the back. Consistently holding your index finger can drastically relieve back pain and reduce its occurrence.





3


Continue this pattern three times per day for a period of 2 weeks. You may notice instant relief, but it may take up to 2 weeks to get results.





4


Get more information about jin shin jyutsu by visiting the Jin Shin Jyutsu Institute Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Trim your nails before performing jin shin jyutsu techniques to avoid cuts or unnecessary pain.








Before beginning Oriental bodyworks therapy, you may want to invest in some inexpensive aromatic oils to provide lubrication and a calming effect.








If you experience any sudden unexplained pain or bleeding, discontinue jin shin jyutsu techniques immediately and consult a doctor.








Don't use jin shin jyutsu therapy if you're experiencing any type of internal bleeding, fever or other serious medical emergency. Instead, call 911 right away.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031484_oriental-bodyworks-backpain.html

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Reduce Stress

How to Use Oriental Bodyworks to Reduce Stress



The practice of balancing the body's energy channels to eliminate and reduce ailments is known as Oriental bodyworks. Using hand and finger pressure along carefully chosen energy channels is said to enable Oriental bodyworks practioners to help clients resolve illnesses due to stress, anger and energy imbalances. There are serveral different styles of Oriental bodyworks techniques, but two of the more popular ones practitioners use for reducing stress are acupressure and jin shin jyutsu.







Things You'll Need:





List of acupressure points







Reduce Stress Through Accupressure




1


Measure two thumb widths down from the crease across your wrist. You should be in between the two tendons that run down your forearm.





2


Press firmly on this spot until you feel a comfortable pressure. While your hand needs to be relaxed when you're performing the technique, you can flex the muscles in your arm while trying to find the exact spot.





3


Move your thumb in a circular motion on this spot for approximately one minute.





4


Switch to the other arm and repeat the technique.





5


Use this acupressure technique two to three times a day to eliminate existing stress and prevent further stress from occurring.





6


Learn more about acupressure by visiting the Acupressure Institute Web site (see Resources below).



Stay Stress-Free Using Jin Shin Jyutsu




1


Use your jin shin treatment as soon as you experience the first signs of stress. The longer you wait to perform the technique, the longer it will take to receive results.





2


Hold you thumb for several minutes to begin reducing the immediate effects of stress.





3


Switch to your middle finger to combat tension headaches, irritability and anger.





4


Move to your little finger when you are experiencing anxiety in addition to stress.





5


Find out more about jin shin jyutsu by checking out the Jin Shin Jyutsu Institute Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Seek out the advice and guidance of a professional trained in acupressure and/or jin shin jyutsu to assist you in your treatment, especially if you are not comfortable with performing the techniques on your own.








Although acupressure and jin shin jyutsu may be performed without external materials, you may wish to pick up some inexpensive scented oils massage oils to help provide moisture.








If you experience sharp, chronic pain while receiving acupressure or jin shin jyutsu therapy, discontinue treatment immediately and consult with a physician.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031483_oriental-bodyworks-stress.html

How to Prepare Yourself Before Meditation

How to Prepare Yourself Before Meditation



Quotidian stresses often leave our minds swimming in mazes of thought. It is important to calm your mind down and prepare yourself in body and spirit before beginning to meditate. Practicing proper "meditation hygiene" is important if you want to maximize its calming, spiritual and stress-reducing benefits. Meditation, an ancient practice that often relaxes the body while focusing the mind, is thought to be ideal by many for battling stress and stabilizing positive moods.







Things You'll Need:





Prayer book (optional)




Computer with Internet access




Dedicated space for meditation




Fresh flowers and a vase (optional)




Candles (optional)




Incense (optional)







Prepare Yourself for Meditation




1


Engage in a simple task that allows your thoughts to drift around with no particular structure. Take a shower, clean the kitchen, do some dusting or sweep the stoop. Whatever you choose to do, remember that the point is for you to begin to unwind mentally.





2


Enter the physical place you have set aside for meditation. Make sure it is clean, quiet and dark. This will aid your concentration when you begin your meditation session.





3


Light a candle or incense. Your local New Age store will have a selection of scented candles and incense helpful for meditation. Candles and incense are often used because, according to ancient Eastern tradition, the presence of the element of fire during your meditation session will aid you in concentrating more deeply.





4


Put some fresh flowers in a vase in the room where you meditate, if recommended by the specific type of meditation you practice. In such schools of thought, flowers are considered a friendly offering to the higher powers you will invoke as you meditate.





5


Pray before you meditate, if the purpose of your meditation session is religious or spiritual.





6


Read some spiritual teachings or other materials that will turn your mind towards matters of the soul before you begin to meditate. It's a good idea to spend 5 or 10 minutes just reading and absorbing the lessons of what you've read.





7


Breathe deeply before you begin. Experts recommend you draw 7 long breaths to calm your heart rate and soothe your mind before you begin your rhythmic meditation breathing.





8


Learn more about how to prepare for meditation at the Tharpa Publications Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










The costs involved with preparing yourself for meditation will be minimal, restricted solely to any peripheral accessories you might want, such as books offering prayers, instructions and mantras.








Do not use meditation as a substitute for proper medical care. If you have high blood pressure, ulcers or other stress-related symptoms--physical or mental--see a physician or consult a qualified mental health professional.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031439_prepare-yourself-before.html

How to Find Age-Appropriate Women's Suits

How to Find Age-Appropriate Women's Suits



Whether it's your first job out of college or the first big promotion, you need to upgrade your appearance. When you chose professional women's suits, you need to dress as though you've been in the business for years. A professional woman's suit needs to contain a few elements. Make certain that you have those in your next suit purchase.









Step
1



Get a suit with lining. Business suits have a lining in both jacket and skirts. The skirt lining keeps the sun from showing the outline of your thighs and others see the jacket lining frequently as you move about. Professional women's suits say quality to those that see them.




Step
2



Choose design and color that is office appropriate. Too bright or bubble-gum colors create a little girl image. When at the office you need power colors that enhance your authority and say, "I'm rising to the top." Choose classic colors such as navy blue, black or gray. The design can be solid or a pinstripe, which always gives a nice line to the look.




Step
3



Use appropriate hemline. When buying professional women's suits use the rule of thumb and keep the hemline at knee length or longer. Make certain that your thighs don't show when you sit. Remember, you want to be known for the quality of your work.




Step
4



Choose a neckline that isn't too low. While you can wear turtlenecks, they aren't necessary. Use good judgment and make certain that no cleavage shows. The more you expose your body, regardless of your age, the more exposure you have to office rumor. Being the center of attention for cleavage detracts from your mission to get noticed for your work.




Step
5



Keep the fit comfortable and not too tight. Keep the sleeve length 5 inches from the tip of your thumb. A good fit gives crisp lines and an appearance of success.




Step
6



Accessorize your simple suits with color to brighten and diversify your wardrobe. Red is a power color and can be used effectively in jewelery, a handkerchief or even in a great

blouse


.




Step
7



Adjust the colors for the day. Pink is a great color to create warmth and friendship, as is yellow. Try blue for relaxing people and white to add crispness. Professional women's suits don't have to be stuffy and plain if you accessorize with style.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2213388_find-age-appropriate-womens-suits.html

How to Find a Sexy Prom Dress

How to Find a Sexy Prom Dress



Let's face it-prom night isn't a night for boring dresses. You want to look glamorous and you want to look sexy. This season there are tons of sexy prom dresses to choose from. Here is a guide to finding one that's perfect for you.







Things You'll Need:





Fashion magazines









Step
1



Consider your body type. The trick to finding a sexy prom dress isn't just grabbing the first low cut gown you find. It's about finding a dress that shows off your body in a flattering way. Take your body's shape into consideration and find a dress that best suits your body.




Step
2



Find inspiration. Magazines, television and the internet are packed full of prom dress ideas. Find out what prom dress types are in style this season and take note of what you like for future reference.




Step
3



Decide on "haves and "don't haves". As you do your research it helps if you decide what attributes your sexy prom dress should and shouldn't have. Do you want a strapless dress? Do you love full length skirts with a slit? How do you feel about sequins? The more you narrow down your likes and dislikes the less time you will waste trying on dresses you hate.




Step
4



Go shopping. Now that you have at least a general idea of what you're looking for take those notes with you and head for the stores. Let the sales assistant know what types of dresses you're looking for and she should be able to help you find a suitable sexy prom dress.




Step
5



Take a friend. You can't always count on a sales person to be impartial when giving advice. Instead take a trusted friend prom dress shopping with you and you'll be sure to get honest opinions on what looks best.




Step
6



Be just a little practical. Yes, being sexy isn't always as comfortable as a pair of track pants, but you don't want your dress to torture you all night either. If that strapless dress needs to be pulled up every couple of minutes it's going to be driving you nuts all night. Aim for a dress that feels as good (or close to) as it looks.







Tips & Warnings









Bring along a pair of shoes when trying on your dress. Even if it's not "the" pair you'll be wearing to the prom you should at least have shoes with a similar heel height. This ensures that any long gowns you try on at least clear the floor when walking.








Sexy is not synonymous with








ty. Sexy is about flattering your figure...not exposing it. Showing some skin is appropriate but make sure the parts that should be covered up stay covered up.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2040671_sexy-prom-dress.html

How to Find a Plus Size Prom Dress

How to Find a Plus Size Prom Dress



Prom shouldn't be a time to worry--it should be a time to get drunk and deflowered!
No, no.
I kid! I swear! In fact, I was a straight and narrow virgin as a graduating senior--and, not to be preachy, but I think you should be, too. We all have the rest of our lives to have complicated sexual relationships, but high school can be blissfully, beautifully simple. Try it.
Enough of the soapbox and on to more important things: DRESSES.
Proms and weddings--these are the two times you should have carte blanche for
beauty
. Every gown, hairpiece, product and shoe should be at your disposal. And just because our pathetic society tells young girls that a size zero is the end-all be-all of gorgeousness, it doesn't mean they have to listen. And girls? I'm a zoftig, round-bottomed, heaving-bossomed size 8, and I have to bash the guys away with a bat. So celebrate your lovely lady lumps and do it with style. It's prom! It only happens once! Ok, twice....







Things You'll Need:





computer



internet skills



style!









Step
1



You already know you could wander around the mall, aimlessly checking the anchor stores' thousands of squished dresses for something bigger than a 6, but I think we both know the potential of finding something you adore, in addition to being the perfect size, is unlikely. So....




Step
2



Online! Online shopping will be your best friend for this process. Hopefully you've given yourself enough time to order, receieve, try on, hate, and send back.




Step
3



If your parents are awesome enough to be ok with this, buy a few dresses at a time on line (be sure to check the return policies!) so that you have all the options in front of you at the same time--this way you can compare and contrast immediately!




Step
4



Check out www.jacron.com They have dresses categorized by size, type, even color! And there's something there for funky, black-loving girls and sweetie-pie princesses alike.




Step
5



For my straight pouffy gal-pals, you can find some adorable dresses on www.greatformalz.com




Step
6



And if you're all glam, all the time, I really like www.sydneyscloset.com They have chic and sophisticated gowns which are expertly tailored--but a bit pricier than the others.







Tips & Warnings









The most important feature of almost any piece of clothing is the fit. If you find something you totally adore and its a little too big here, or a little too tight there, invest in a tailor--finding the perfect fit can also be a curvy girl's best friend!








When doing your hair, please heed this advice: NO MORE TENDRILS! I know we all want to look chic and different on prom night, and tendrils are different all right. But not in a good way. I suggest looking on line and finding beautiful chignons worn by classic sirens like Sophia Loren or Grace Kelly. If you emmulate something classic, you WILL be different--in a good way. And, as an added bonus, when you look back on your prom pics with your kids one day, you won't cringe and shudder. How do I know? I recently whipped out my photo boxes and came upon my very own prom-hair and it was worse than tendril-town. It was a full blown curled-to-the-max mid nineties 'do. And it was a don't.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2041465_plus-size-prom-dress.html

How to Find a New Year's Eve Dress that Dazzles

How to Find a New Year's Eve Dress that Dazzles



For many, New Year's Eve is all about getting that kiss at midnight. But even if that isn't your goal you still want to look great and grab a lot of attention, so finding the perfect party dress is critical.







Things You'll Need:





Magazines



Internet



A party or function to attend on New Year's Eve









Step
1



Look through fashion or women's magazines to get a sense of what the holiday trends are.




Step
2



Cut out any dresses that you like.




Step
3



Look online to see if any nearby retailers are carrying these dresses and, if so, how much they are.




Step
4



Go to the mall or another shopping center and observe the storefront windows. Look for something that's a bit festive: maybe a black dress with a gold or silver accent or a gem-colored dress that would go perfectly with a bag you already own or a plain black dress with a pair of really nice gold heels.




Step
5



Try on a few dresses that engage in the latest trends but still look flattering on you.




Step
6



Pick an ensemble that is fun, flirty and flattering.







Tips & Warnings









Many people can overdo trends during the holiday season. So keep it simple and stick to one brightly colored accent, either the bag, shoes or dress--not all three'








Try to find something trendy but original. Remember that other guests are likely to be shopping at the same store you are and may wind up with the same outfit if you pick an ensemble out of a popular store window.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2153280_years-eve-dress-that-dazzles.html

How to Find a Modest Prom Dress

How to Find a Modest Prom Dress



You can be beautiful at your prom without feeling like you're showing too much skin. Companies are starting to recognize the need for modest dresses, as more and more styles become inappropriately revealing. With so many dresses that are strapless, low cut or backless, it can be time consuming to find a modest one. Follow these tips and you'll be able to find the perfect prom dress.









Step
1



Find a dress or bridal shop. Look in the phone book or ask older students where they went to buy their prom dress.




Step
2



Consider shopping online. Even brides are getting their dresses through websites now. There are companies that advertise modest prom dresses.




Step
3



Set a price limit before you even get to the store. It will help you stick to your budget without breaking the bank.




Step
4



Decide what kind of dress you'd like to wear. Look through the racks for dresses that offer more coverage. You may opt for a dress with a shrug or one with cap sleeves. Look for varying lengths, too, like tea-length or those with a small train.




Step
5



Try on as many dresses as you need to until you find the right one. Since you'll want to avoid form-fitting dress, opt for A-line instead. It flares out at the waist and is the most flattering kind of dress on most body types.




Step
6



Show your parents,
date
or friends if you want a second opinion. Buy it once you're sure it's the one.




Step
7



Schedule alterations a few weeks before the prom, if needed. Allow ample time to get them done.







Tips & Warnings









If you're ordering on-line, do it extra early. You want to get it in time for alterations, just in case.








Check the company's exchange or return policy.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2146543_find-modest-prom-dress.html

How to find a low-cost wedding dress

How to find a low-cost wedding dress




Weddings
can be expensive things in the best of times. Here's one way to reduce over-all costs, or to start on your way toward a budget wedding.







Things You'll Need:





Time and Patience. Both are needed to find a lower cost dress that suits your occasion.



An Internet Connection.



Your Dress Measurements.









Step
1



Obtain your dress measurements and determine which style of dress would best suit your body shape. This is essential for finding a dress in any of the ways open to the modern shopper.

One good way to do this is to be fitted properly at a shop specializing in formal wear. The expert staff can find your correct measurements. It is also an opportunity to consult with someone regarding what style would most flatter your body shape and try on potential dresses. Don't be afraid of price tags when trying dresses on, you're under no obligation to buy simply because you've consulted with the staff. That being said, you may also find a bargain basement deal on a style they only have a few sizes left for, or one that is being discontinued.

A "real" dress shop is always worth a first look for these reasons, and to get a feel for your tastes, available styles and relative pricing.




Step
2



Department stores, bargain basements and thrift stores are all worth a look. The odds of finding something suitably modern at a thrift store is low, but the savings makes it worth looking in a few to see if anything strikes your fancy. Department stores and bargain basements contain a slightly higher possibility of finding a suitable dress in the formal wear or prom sections.




Step
3



Check the internet. This is a good second step because it is easy to compare prices of many shops (and types of shops) fairly quickly, and without the sometimes overbearing presence of sales staff.

Wholesale and bargain sites are a good place to look. You may find a dress that is for a formal occasion (but not necessarily a wedding) that will suit the type of event you are planning on having, or find a discount wedding dress.

Ebay is another resource. Some people are seeking to get rid of a dress they've only worn once, or a dress they didn't have a chance to wear at all. Some middlemen and wholesellers sell directly from auction sites at a fraction of the cost of a brick-and-mortar store.

Specialty, novelty or custom sites are also a good resource. A custom-made period replica can be the thing you're looking for to make the day unique and special, and is often a fraction of the cost of regular sites.







Tips & Warnings









It's often easier to choose a dress first, then to choose the style of other things (decorations, other outfits for the big day). Base these choices on the tone set by the dress.








Always purchase your dress to fit the biggest aspect of your figure first. If the rest of portions are too large because you bought the dress to fit fuller hips, it can be taken in. If the dress fits perfectly in the breasts and midsection, but is too tight in the hips, the dress will be difficult, if not impossible to take out.








If you find a dress you like in a store for a price you're not willing to pay, feel free to ask for a discount, or try to find out if there will be an upcoming sale. It never hurts to try.








Internet purchases, especially from places such as Ebay are notoriously buyer-beware. Pay close attention to sizing and the conditions of purchase.








Sizing on formal clothing is almost always at least two sizes different (smaller) than sizing on every-day clothing in retail stores. Go by inch sizes and not by clothing sizes.








When in doubt, buy bigger. It's much easier to have something taken in than to try to diet off several inches with the added stress of a pending wedding.








Have fun! Be open minded enough to not keep searching for the 'perfect' dress for the 'perfect' wedding. A perfect anything costs a lot of money. As with most bargain hunts, the thrill is in the chase!



http://www.ehow.com/how_2097612_lowcost-wedding-dress.html

How to Find a Hot Prom Dress

How to Find a Hot Prom Dress



The perfect prom dress is an important decision. There's so much to consider, whether you want to be glamorous, like everyone else, a standout or anything within imagination. Above all, you'll want to be true to yourself. Do you want some tips to find a hot prom dress? Read on...









Step
1



Decide what kind of dress you would like. Something classic? Modern? The current fashion? Something period?




Step
2



Look for the current fashions for prom dresses by going to dress stores in the area. Wedding boutique stores may also have prom dresses, but you can also find them in regular clothing stores or a big box store.




Step
3



Check Goodwill or the
Salvation
Army


stores if you're looking for something unusual. There you can find prom dresses from past years or even fancy gowns that could "wow." What is also attractive is that these gowns will cost a fraction of the cost than in boutique stores.




Step
4



Explore consignment shops. There you can not only find dresses from a few years ago, but gowns from different eras, like the '50s, '40s, and '30s and more.




Step
5



Visit your fabric store if you're handy with a needle or even if you're not. You can find patterns for gowns in a wide variety of styles. When you go this route, you can create the gown of your choice since you can decide the style, the fabric, everything. If you can't sew the dress yourself, you can hire someone else sew it for you. The great benefit of going this route is not only do you end up with hot prom gown, you have a gown that's made exactly for you.




Step
6



Create your own hot prom by designing your own. You can research the perfect gown by looking in costume history books or by going to sites online. Then, if you wish, you can alter the design of the dress to suit you and make it out of the fabric of your choice.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2127034_find-hot-prom-dress.html

How to Find a Great Fitting Bra!

How to Find a Great Fitting Bra!



85% of women wear the wrong sized bra! What is the most common mistake? It is wearing a band size too big and a cup size too small. This leads to slipping straps, droopy breasts and poor posture. You can fix this with a little effort and patience!







Things You'll Need:





white tee shirt



measuring tape



bras to try on



a friend to help you measure and give you encouragement









Step
1



First, with the help of a friend and while wearing a bra and tee shirt, measure right under your breasts. This measuring tape should be snug under your breasts in the front and just below your shoulder blades in the back.




Step
2



Second, without moving the tape measure in the back, move the tape up in the front to across the top of the breast tissue and get a loose measurement. The difference between the two measurements should be 4 inches. If it is not, it is probably because the bra you are wearing does not fit properly so just know that you are not getting a true measure.




Step
3



Still leaving the tape measure across the shoulder blades in the back, move the tape in the front so that it is across the breast tissue at the nipples.







Tips & Warnings









The 1st number should be your band size as long as it is a true measure. The difference between the 1st and 3rd number is your cup size. So if the 1st number is 40 and the 3rd number is 45, then your measurement is 40E. That is a good estimate, a great place to start. Now start trying on bras. The strap should be snug and your breasts should not be spilling over the top. Any extra tissue should be under your armpits and your back should not have backfat. The straps should be adjusted so that the band fits across the back just below the shoulder blades.








Failure to wear a properly fitted bra will most likely lead to headlights, mountain tops, uni-








s, back fat muffin tops and slipping straps. All joking aside, it also leads to poor posture and neck and back strain! If you can't find a good fit, go online to www.essentialbodywear.com and search for a rep in your area! She has received great training as a fitter and has access to a full range of sizes and styles from 32A to 44G!



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