3 Natural Supplements to Improve Your Immune System

While trying to keep up with the crazy rat race we are all a part of, it's easy to become exhausted and worn out. Between keeping up with work, school, family, friends and anything else you might have on your plate, your body and defenses often get pushed to the limit. If you find yourself feeling like you're running on E and want to ward off any potential illnesses that might take over while your body feels extra weak and sensitive, try incorporating some or all of the items below into your diet however you can—via supplement or good, ole-fashioned eating.

Spirulina

Probably the least-well known of the three suggestions in this article, spirulina is actually a type of algae that is typically blue-green in color. It is rich in vitamins and nutrients such as carotenoids, zinc, beta-carotene and B complex, but can be harmful if taken from an unfamiliar brand.

Research has shown this to increase antibody production, meaning it helps support your immune system. More research is still required to verify all of the specific benefits it boasts, but it's been said to decrease diabetes and allergies. Some have complained about the taste, so it is often recommended to take Spirulina supplements that offer all the goods of the actual plant.

Echinacea

Used by Native Americans for hundreds of years, the wonders of echinacea are far and wide. Easily available in pill form at pharmacies and grocery stores, many people swear by the magic herb. Working WITH our immune system, one thing Echinacea does is increase levels of interferon in our system. This protein is known to ward off viruses that might overtake us.  Very few side effects are associated with the herb, but it is urged to deter from ingestion if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or have a disorder such as lupus, multiple sclerosis or other immune system disorders.

Garlic

Present in almost everyone's spice cabinet or kitchen, garlic has been known to stimulate production of white-blood cells, which are constantly busy fighting off infections. It has also been proven that is makes our bodies' antibody production more efficient and powerful, making us better-oiled machines. It’s believed that the sulfur the garlic contains is what holds the secret to its power. It has also been shown to ward off certain types of cancer, although the medical community is not willing to jump completely on board with that belief just yet. It has also been shown to be great for the heart, so really, if you aren't already eating garlic, you should be.

And, for those of you who are less than fond of its extra-potent flavor, many stores sell garlic supplements in easy-to-swallow pills. Whatever it takes and whatever works for you, just get more of this in your diet now—your body will thank you.

So, no matter your age or occupation, the next time you feel a little bug coming on, consider trying one of these options rather than the traditional antibiotics and meds your doctor is likely to prescribe.

Aniya Wells particularly loves reading and writing about online education, although her interests span different niches as well, including personal finance, parenting, sustainable living, and more. Accredited online degree programs are hard to find in the online morass of scams, so Aniya's ultimate goal is to help her readers figure out the maze of online education. She can be reached for questions or comments at aniyawells@gmail.com.

One Affordable Packaging Solution

3 EASY STEPS TO GET THINGS DONE

Today were are going to look at how to get things down in three easy steps.

These steps are:

SOURCE

1. Write down all the tasks you want to get done today

2. Assign a specific block of time for completing each task (like 30 minutes)

3. Select a task, start a timer, and focus on nothing else until that task is complete!

How to Use Facebook to Sell Products

How to Fit Planning a Dinner Party Into Your Busy Schedule

Dinner parties are, in theory, an opportunity to spend some time with your friends, enjoy yourself, and relax. However, throwing and hosting a dinner party isn’t always relaxing. It can be quite stressful, especially when your schedule is jam-packed with a million other things. So, how do you find the time to plan and throw a dinner party? Here are some tips to help you fit planning and preparing for a dinner party into your busy schedule:

1. Don’t wait to go shopping – Try to get all the things you need for the party the weekend before the party happens. For instance, you could take a trip to the grocery store on the Saturday or Sunday before the party, when you have some extra time. If you go to the grocery store at a certain time each week to do your regular shopping, pick up the party food then. You don’t have to make a trip to get all the necessary food on the day of the party. This will just make you feel more pressed for time. If you’re getting any supplies or decorations for the party, get these in advance as well. You might even want to order them online to save yourself a trip to a party supply or similar store.

2. Don’t stress about cleaning – Your house doesn’t necessarily have to be immaculate for the dinner party. If you clean regularly anyway, you shouldn’t have to devote too much time to cleaning before the party. Your party guests won’t notice if you haven’t scrubbed every inch of your kitchen and bathroom floors with a toothbrush. If you don’t have as much time as you’d like to devote to cleaning each week, and your home has become a little bit cluttered and disorganized, don’t freak out! Just spend some time the week of the party cleaning for fifteen to thirty minutes each day. It’s best to break up the work, so you don’t overwhelm yourself.

3. Encourage the party guests to bring extra food – You probably won’t be able to get out of cooking before the dinner party. However, you don’t necessarily have to do all the cooking. Potlucks are a common kind of dinner party. If you decide to throw a potluck, you can encourage all the guests to bring food with them. Even if you don’t have a potluck, you can ask a few of your close friends to bring some extra snacks and appetizers to the party to lighten your load in terms of cooking.

So, take care of shopping and cleaning in advance, and don’t be afraid to ask the party guests to share the cooking load. A dinner party shouldn’t be a source of stress in your life!

Author’s Bio: Melissa is an event planner and guest post writer on the subjects of event planning, party supply options, and Mario party supplies for kids’ parties. 

Exploring Lioness Rebirth

The idea came to me this morning that Lioness Rebirth has grown and as such the brand as many aspects that you might not be aware of. Today I just wanted to show the different sides of the brand - Lioness Rebirth.

Blogs:

Lioness Rebirth
Lioness Boutique
Free Xpressionz   (Jamaican Dancehall Music)

Facebook:
Lioness Boutique (page)
Lioness Rebirth

Twitter:
Lioness


So, i hope you will stop by any of the above mentioned sites, look around and share your thoughts.

5 Uses for the Baking Soda - D.I.Y Sundays

Ditch the Chemicals! 5 Uses for the Baking Soda Already in Your Pantry

Forget buying expensive green products! Everything offered by the top name brand green household cleaners can be found in one simple non-toxic ingredient that your grandmother has been using for years: household baking soda. 

Most of us have a box of baking soda in our pantry and we might grab it from time to time wondering if it will take out grass stains, but, other than that, the typical box of baking soda usually just sits there, only living up to about an eighth of it's full household potential. 

So, from now on, try out these uses for baking soda that will save you money, preserve the environment and have stand the test of time.

1.  Kitchen and Bathroom Cleaner

To use baking soda for cleaning counter tops, just grab the box and lightly sprinkle it onto the counter. Wet a washrag and rub the baking soda around, scrubbing areas that need more cleaning. For whiter counter tops, rub some lemons along with the baking soda.

2.  Air Freshener

Without the use of any other fragrances or ingredients, baking soda can truly freshen and deodorize some of the smelliest locations. Pour a pile of baking soda into a dish and place it in the area that needs to be deodorized.

3.  Carpet and Fabric Cleaner

You can use baking soda to clean and deodorize you carpet or garment fabrics. If you have pet odor or other unwanted smells coming from your carpet, just sprinkle it over the smelly area. Leave it until the smell goes away and then vacuum. Do the same with clothing and just shake them out when the smell has faded.

4.  Jewelry and Silverware Polisher

Make your own silver cleaner by mixing some baking soda with a little hydrogen peroxide to make a paste. Rub the paste over the metal you would like to shine or clean and wipe with a dry rag.

5. Drain Cleaner

If your drain is moving a bit slowly, wait for the sink to drain and the pour about a cup of baking soda and three cups of boiling water down the drain. You can also try baking soda and vinegar, which will bubble and clean the drain further.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Angelita Williams, who writes on the topics of online courses.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: angelita.williams7 @gmail.com.

How to Host a Successful Blog Hop- D.I.Y. Sundays

What is a Blog Hop?


Simply put,  a blog hop is when bloggers enter thier url, blog name or their name and often email address in a linky. This information comes up as a list.


Bloggers then click and follow other members on the list. You should leave a comment on the person's blog and he or she will follow you back.

Joining a blog hop enables bloggers to meet fellow bloggers, increase their reader base and their blog following. It also helps bloggers to find blogs that they might not necessarily find.

How to Create a Blog Hop

A blogger can host a blog hop with anyone of the following linky. Here are two popular ones:

• Linky Tools
• InLinkz

You can sign up for free and then create your hop and cut and paste the html code in html format when you are creating post. You can then click back to compose and look at it in preview. Then you can publish your blog hop.

How to Gain Blog Hop Participants

Gaining blog hop participants is very simple- ADVERTISE. Advertising your blog hop is the key to having a successful blog hop. No, I don't mean paying to get the word out there. Here are some simple steps that have worked well for me.

• Post bulletins at the various blogging networks. This will allow fellow bloggers to know there is an event occurring at your blog. Also, it can attract new followers.

• Send a Newsletter. Inform your readers  that you will be hosting a blog hop by sending a newsletter. Depending on the response of your readers, you can send a reminder. Remember, no one likes to be spammed.

• Visit your blog friends/followers and personally invite them. I usually visit my blog friends and personally invite. I think that the fact that you take the time to do this says something about you as a blogger. 

• Use your comment list. I also scan my list of comments and go to the blog of my commenter and invite then also. If someone takes the time to comment on your blog then there is a strong possiblity that they will come back.

• Most important is to take the time to follow back. You need to engage your blog hop participants by following them back or just going to their blog and say thank you.

Remember that blog hops is not only about gaining followers and building stats. It is also a way of exploring the blogs in our community and sharing ideas.

Please stop by tomorrow for the Online Friends Blog Hop. I will be Guest Hosting.

4 Ways to Stay Productive in the Office

Your eyes and shoulders are heavy and droop.  Your attention span is thin, and your motivation even thinner.  You try to focus, but everything seems hazy.  You're listless.  We all know what it is: the 4 o'clock doldrums.  


Working in an office (or at any job or activity) can be physically, mentally, and even spiritually stifling.  When the afternoon finally rolls around, we often find ourselves watching the clock tick so slowly that it's painful instead of doing the work we know we need to do.  


It's almost impossible to fight the distraction and the malaise after sitting in front of a computer screen for eight hours straight.  We were not meant for it.  If you are having trouble staying productive and clear-minded at work all day, try some of these tricks to keep you focused, refreshed, and smiling all day.

1. Take Breaks

Numerous studies have shown that people are more productive when they split their work up into manageable time slots with breaks in between.  If you are working on several projects at once, and especially if each project requires a different skills set, try switching between projects every half hour or so, just to keep your mind challenged and engaged.  Take five minutes to drink some water, stretch your hands, and let your mind unwind.

2. Read a Book

Taking breaks is the most important part of any good productivity plan.  However, it is equally important to make sure that those breaks aren't spent simply staring into nothingness.  If you don't have multiple projects that you can work on simultaneously, take a ten minute break every hour to read a book you love.  Reading serves two purposes: first, it lets your brain change gears, which helps to keep it engaged, and second, it refreshes you by doing something you enjoy.  Plus, it gives you something to look forward to every hour, which should help keep you on task.

3. Exercise

Of course, you're in an office, so this doesn't necessarily mean breaking out the weights and pumping iron.  But you can do some quick cardio exercises, like jumping jacks in the hallway, or sprints up stairs, to get your heart rate up and the oxygen flowing back to your brain.  Your brain feeds on oxygen and oxygen is transported in the blood stream.  Exercise gets your blood flowing and will reinvigorate you, as well as give you new focus.

4. Have a Conversation

If you can coordinate your breaks with someone else, this is a great way to keep your attention in top form.  Conversation will sharpen your focus, and the interaction with another person will get ideas flowing.  Talking to others releases endorphins, which elates you and can, again, make you more productive.
Work is important, but no one is designed to do one task for eight hours uninterrupted.  Mix up your day a little, and you'll find that you're actually more productive than if you didn't take breaks.


By-line:
Alvina Lopez is a freelance writer and blog junkie, who blogs about accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: alvina.lopez @gmail.com. 

How to Gain More Readers Through Infographics- D.I.Y. Sundays

While a blog is famously known to consist of articles (i.e. made up of words), often times readers need a visual aid to help them digest the information—and no we’re not just talking about having a complimentary photo to make an article look more attractive. We're talking about the very popular growing inforgraphic. 

Inforgraphics tell a story in their own way by creatively and artistically displaying factoids and other interesting tidbits of information on a chart or other animated image. There are extremely eye-catching and can offer an interesting new way to post some of your content. Not to mention they do great for search engine optimization, especially if it gets popular on Twitter or Facebook and goes viral. This means you get tons of new readers.

While typically you need to have some background knowledge in graphic design to create one, there are a few websites that have made it easy for the average blogger to create his or her own infographic for free. The top 3 sites are listed below.

1.      Wordle—Like the name suggests, this infographic-making tool does some really neat things with words. Simply type a few words or even an entire body of text into the appropriate box and the site will automatically convert it to an artistic "word cloud." If you don’t like what the site has created for you, you can tweek the artwork yourself and change colors and fonts as well as themes. It's free to use but make sure you have the latest edition of Java or it won't run—if you don’t know worries, it can be easily downloaded for free. You can then directly post the infographic onto your blog or print it out for free for your records.

2.      Statsilk—This site gives users the opportunity to creatively display a set of statistics that pertain to the U.S. or the world as a whole. This is because this visualization software creates really intricate and interactive maps. Thus, if you get your hands on a set of facts or stats that deal with a certain region, state, or country why not make a map? You can literally paint a better picture for you audience instead of just using words.

3.      Creately—Lastly, this website lets bloggers create all kinds of "creative" diagrams, flowcharts, and concept maps. You may think that you'll never need to use one, but it can be a fun way to explain how something has evolved over time or use it to compare and contrast ideas. The possibilities are endless. The only downside is that the site only offers five free diagrams. Once those are used you have to pay to use its services.

While infographics surely aren't the only way to step outside of the box, they are a great way to start. Don’t forget about video blogging and podcasts too—they can make your readers really engaged. 

By-line:
This guest post is contributed by Lauren Bailey, who regularly writes for accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: blauren99 @gmail.com. 

3 Incredible Health Benefits of a Smile- Guest Post

This is the first instalment for the New Look, New Attitude Lioness Rebirth Blog Event.

A smile- whether it's achieved consciously or subconsciously, it’s seen as a symbol for  

w        warmth, happiness, and  friendliness all  around the world. While it’s understandable that        

           there may be a time where you don’t feel much like smiling, it’s important that you do-  

           smiles are  actually a powerful tool that can promote health and overall well being. 

           That said, to learn why you should never forget to smile even on your  saddest days, 

continue reading below.                   

Eliminates Moodiness

Smiling is not only a by product of being happy—it can actually help produce happiness. This is why some researchers suggest that forcing yourself to smile even when you’re moody can actually lift your spirits and make you feel better. In fact, one British study says that one single smile has the same effect as eating 2,000 chocolate bars—which means you get the added “feel-good” chemicals that chocolate provides like dopamine and endorphins without the risk of gaining weight.

Can Expand Life Span

According to another study from Wayne State University, your smile may actually also predict how long you will live. These findings were concluded after researchers examined the photos of more than 230 Major League Baseball players from the early 50s. Those that had large, “beaming” smiles lived an average of 79.9 years of age, while those with only partial smiles lived an average age of 75 years of age. Those who didn’t smile at all only lived an average of 72.9 years of age.

Boosts Immune System

Lastly, smiling can help boost your immune system because it triggers a portion of your brain that makes it believe that everything is “ok” when you are stressed, anxious, or scared. Thus a smile can stop the production of adrenaline—a stress hormone that can actually hinder your immune system.  Therefore a smile could potentially make your body stronger to fight illnesses.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Katheryn Rivas, who writes on the topics of online universities advice.  She welcomes your comments at her email Id: katherynrivas87@gmail.com.

The Versatility of Shampoo - D.I.Y Sundays

Yesterday, my mom gave me the idea for today's post. She was washing and I saw her using shampoo to remove the stubborn stains from the collar of her blouse. Then it hit me, like baby oil, shampoo should have a variety of uses. So here we go.

What is Shampoo?



Shampoo is liquid preparation  that is used for the removal of oils, dirt, skin particles, dandruff, environmental pollutants and other contaminant particles that gradually build up in hair. This is done by washing the hair with the product.

The Various Uses of Shampoo

• Shampoo can be used for cleaning out combs and hair brushes. Just soak the items in a solution of shampoo and water, then scrub them completely clean.

• Shampoo can be used mixed with conditioner  instead of shaving cream. Use a ratio of 1:1 and your face, arm pits, and legs will be soft and smooth.

• Like i said before,  Shampoo can be used to as a spot cleaner and it will remove stains, as well as ring around the collar.

• A mixture of  shampoo and baking soda can be used to clean chrome on vehicles. This gives it a nice shine. Remember to rinse thoroughly before buffing it dry.

• A nice beauty tip is to fill a small bowl with shampoo and soak your fingernails and cuticles. This not only cleans, but softens.

• Shampoo can brighten your walls too. Use shampoo and a clean, damp rag to wipe your walls. Wipe the air clean and allow the area to air dry.

• Shampoo is great to clean the outside of your refrigerator and stove. It will remove greasy spots, as well as dirt and other food spills too. 

• Rub shampoo into worn areas in circles to clean and bring back the colour of your accessories. It will protect your shoes from salt stains as well.

•  Shampoo also does a great job on soap scum because it rinses clean. You can use it to buff a shine into your chrome faucets as well.

So, today make shampoo your new best friend.  Remember these suggestion have not been scientifically proven, so use your own judgement. 

Please take a few seconds to take the poll at the top of the side bar. Thank You!!!!!! 

Resource sites

http://www.essortment.com/25-uses-shampoo-59089.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shampoo

http://www.rd.com/home/how-to-use-shampoo-14-ways/

Become a Coupon Queen- D.I.Y Sundays

What are Coupons? 


 A coupon is a voucher, ticket, or document that can be exchanged for a financial discount or rebate when purchasing a product. A coupon will feature a specific savings amount or other special offer to persuade consumers to purchase specific goods or services or to purchase from specific retailers. 


 Where are coupons found?


 Coupons are often widely distributed through mail, magazines, newspapers, the Internet, directly from the retailer, and mobile devices such as cell phones. 




 Why Use Coupons? 


 This one is a no- brainer. Couponing turns your money into a rubber band. You can use less money to purchase the things you want. You get more bang for your buck. 




 Now you can become a coupon QUEEN:




 Afullcup.com 


Coupons Deals fullcup Forums: You can find sections for all the major stores including CVS, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, as well as tons of grocery stores. You can discuss deals, coupons, and even everyday life. Coupon Database: Coupons from all sources and details can be found here. Coupon Trading: Need a coupon or have a coupon you won't use. Trade the coupons you won't use for the ones you need or want. This offers pays out per each USA unique click

.


CellFire Coupons




CellFire Coupons users can add coupons right to the stores grocery savings card. Stores Cellfire currently works with: Baker's City Market Dillons Fry's Gerbes Hilander JayC King Soopers Kroger Owen's Pay Less QFC Ralphs Scott's Smith's Carrs Dominick's Genuardi's Pavilions Randall's Safeway Tom Thumb Vons ShopRite.


   




Free Coupon Alerts


Free Coupon Alerts is always updating with the latest coupons available online. They cover Printable Coupons, E-coupons and much more. Don't Miss a Coupon again with Free Coupon Alerts.


 




 Free Flys - Free Coupons and Free Samples Two words- free samples. Who doesn't love free samples?




   




 RedPlum.com 


Use RedPlum.com you can Print Free Grocery Coupons! RedPlum.com provides free online printable coupons to users




.
   




 Sunday Coupon Preview


 Sunday Coupon Preview helps you to save more on your weekly grocery trips by giving you a preview of coupons coming out in the next Sunday's paper.




   




Please take a few seconds to take the poll at the top of the side bar. This will enable us to provide you with information that you want.  THANK YOU!!!



Resource Site: 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coupon 
http://retail.about.com/od/glossary/g/coupon.htm

Managing Stress - DIY Sundays

We need some amount of stress in our daily lives to motivate us. However, being too stress can be detrimental to our health.  Some of the physical symptoms of stress includes: headaches, upset stomach, elevated blood pressure, chest pain and problems sleeping. 

If you can’t change the stressor, change yourself. You can adapt to stressful situations and regain your sense of control by changing your expectations and attitude.

Here are some stress management strategies: 

• Reframe problems. 

Try to view stressful situations from a more positive perspective. Rather than fuming about a traffic jam, look at it as an opportunity to pause and regroup, listen to your favorite radio station, or enjoy some alone time.

• Look at the big picture. 

Take perspective of the stressful situation. Ask yourself how important it will be in the long run. Will it matter in a month? A year? Is it really worth getting upset over? If the answer is no, focus your time and energy elsewhere.

• Adjust your standards. 

Perfectionism is a major source of avoidable stress. Stop setting yourself up for failure by demanding perfection. Set reasonable standards for yourself and others, and learn to be okay with “good enough.”

• Focus on the positive.

When stress is getting you down, take a moment to reflect on all the things you appreciate in your life, including your own positive qualities and gifts. This simple strategy can help you keep things in perspective.

Resource Site: 

http://www.webmd.com

Ways to Save Money in the New Year

The New Year has come and Christmas has gone.  All the parties are over; the decorations are coming down.  What to do now? For some of us,  we find that the New Year is seeing us with a lot less money than last year. It is a matter of fact that the world's economy is  causing all the watch the pennies.  We often hear about budgeting but budgeting can take you only so far. I applaud those persons who can consistently stick to their budget. But for most of us, budgeting is a never ending battle between common sense and human desires. For others, there is just not enough money to budget with.  Therefore, I wanted to focus on some lifestyle choices we can make to help us save money.

Swap Babysitting with Neighbours and Friends


I love this idea. Instead of paying someone to babysit. You can swap babysitting with neighbours and friends. This way you are sure your child is secure while your out. You can take turns to baby sit.

Review Your Selection of Clothes

It is a common trend to hear persons say they have anything to wear. For some, this might be true ;but for others it is far from it. I suggest you go through your closet and review your clothing collection. After doing so, you will have an idea of the pieces of clothing you own. Also, you are able to mix and match pieces that can be used to create new outfits. 


Start a Backyard Garden



Not everyone has a green thumb. However, if you do; this is a great way to exercise and save money. You can grew your own herbs, tomatoes, lettuce and the list goes on. You can even get the kids to help.


Prepare Meals at Home

This is said so often that we should all know this at by heart. However, there are persons like me; who (for one reason or another) find it difficult to scheduled the time to prepare meals at home. 

Solutions:
pre-season meats on the weekend
find easy meal ideas
cook in bulk, package and refrigerate for use at a later date. 

Consolidate your student loans

This was very helpful for me. I was able to cut my student loan payments buy consolidating my student loans. This can be applied to other loans as well. There is no use burning your head in the sand go in and meet with your lending agency.

Use the Library


When was the last time you went to the library? Using the library is a cheaper alternative to buying books and magazines. It might seem like a drop in the bucket but every penny adds up.


Do It Yourself


There are so many things that we pay to get done that we can do ourselves. It is just crazy when you think about it. There are also so many things that we can make for example: beauty treatments, jams, cleaners, etc.