Take this, and pray...

Why is Rx used as an abbreviation for prescription? 

When we see the Rx abbreviation on a sign or bottle – we know it has to do with medicine. So what does Rx have to do with medicine? The R part of the symbol stands for the Latin “recipere” which means “take this.” The x part of the symbol is derived from the symbol for the Roman God, Jupiter. It represents a prayer or invocation to Jupiter that the treatment would result in a cure, with divine help. So Rx really means “take this and pray.”

Do you smuggle your own snacks into the movie theater?

Most movie theaters forbid it – but a lot of people are sneaking in their own snacks...  

You’ll probably get away with it – but according to David Callahan, editor of Cheating Culture, it’s just wrong. He says, as a guest, you should obey the rules of the establishment, just like you would at any other business that serves food. 

Cinemas make about 40% of their revenue from the sale of food and drinks. There’s no doubt the markups are sky-high – but keep in mind the theater has to share ticket sale revenue with film distributors and studios. In the old days – no snacks were allowed in most carpeted, plush theaters of that era. Once TV came into the picture – the theater industry had to pull out all the stops and snacks to keep the people in their seats.

Even if you’re a good cook – you probably have some bad cooking habits.

Are you stirring your food too much while it cooks? 

A lot of us do. Eating Well Magazine has our 5 worst cooking habits:

• Overheating the oil: We pour it in and then turn our backs while it heats up. Oil that starts to smoke tastes bad and starts to break down, destroying all the good stuff. 

• Stirring too much: That can cut down on flavor and make your food mushy. Resist that temptation unless the recipe calls for it.

• Overfilling the pan: It may be faster to throw everything in there – but food can’t get crispy that way. Overfilling the pan causes your food to steam and stick. Cook larger dishes in a bigger pan or in batches.

• Digging in too fast: Sure, you’re hungry – but let your meat rest before digging in. It will be a lot juicier. 5 to 10 minutes for a smaller cut – 20 minutes for a large cut or whole bird.

• Over mixing batter: Too much mixing causes gluten to form in the flour, making your baked goods tough.

Does your pet have an original name? Let's find out..

.

Here Fluffy, fetch Fido, roll over Rover... 

Those all used to be perfectly acceptable names for a pet – but they haven’t shown up on the trendy pet name lists in quite a while. Here is this year’s list of top dog and cat names from VetStreet:

• Male dogs: Max, Buddy, Charlie, Rocky, Cooper, Bently, Bear, Duke Jack and Buster.

• Female dogs: Bella, Daisy, Lucy, Molly, Chloe, Sophie, Sadie, Lola, Maggie and Bailey.

• Male cats: Max, Oliver, Charlie, Tiger, Smokey, Jack, Milo, Simba, Tigger and Kitty.

• Female cats: Bella, Lucy, Kitty, Chloe, Sophie, Lily, Luna, Lilly, Callie and Daisy.

We have the Twilight series to thank for Bella’s name recognition. She’s been number one since 2006. Good boy Max! You’ve been top dog for 6 years in a row now.

What’s the difference between a street and a road?

There used to be a significant difference between a street and a road...  

A road would run between two distant points and generally had more traffic than a street - which would tend to be more residential. But as towns and cities grew – many roads and streets changed, while the names remained the same. Here are some general definitions to some other paved scenarios:

• An avenue is traditionally a straight road with a line of trees or shrubs along each side.

• A boulevard is usually a widened, multi-lane situation, often with a landscaped median and sidewalks on either side.

• A court is a short street that ends as a cul de sac.

• A drive can be a local access road to a small group of structures, or a meandering, rather than straight, road or highway.

• An expressway is a divided highway meant for high-speed traffic.

• A freeway is also designed for high-speed – but without intersections.

• A highway is intended for travel between destinations like cities and towns.

• A lane is a narrow road or street without a shoulder or median.

• A way is a minor street off a road in a town.

There are some new “breeds” of women on the loose!

Move over Suzy Homemaker and Soccer Mom – make room for Alpha Goddess...  

She’s one of the new “types” of women out there that advertisers are targeting. AdWeek recently identified three new feminine breeds:

• The Indie Woman is single. She’s career-driven with a healthy dose of cynicism. Her friends are a bigger influence than any man in her life – and she likes to splurge on big purchases online. She also has a weakness for designer clothes and accessories at bargain prices. 

• The Mom Achiever is married or in a relationship – and has at least one child. At age 35 to 45, she’s a high-powered career woman who contributes heavily to the household income – and might even be the primary breadwinner. Her life does not revolve around laundry and cooking – but on alone time, away from work and family. You’ll probably spot her shopping for gadgets, beauty products and some anti-aging remedies.

• The Alpha Goddess is over 55. She’s divorced, widowed or single and makes about $70,000 a year. A smart investor and tech savvy, she’s one of the most powerful consumers in the country. Her shopping list might include vacation packages, a luxury car, perfume and some anti-depressants. 

If you have a weird rash on your back or lap – it could be TSS!

If you have heated seats in your car – check your backside... 

You might have a skin condition called Toasted Skin Syndrome. It’s real – and doctors say most people that have it don’t even know it’s there. TSS is caused by prolonged exposure to a warm temperature. If you use your heated seats on long trips without turning them off – you’re at risk. Doctors say the lower back and butt are vulnerable to TSS. The heat isn’t hot enough to cause a burn – but it can cause enough damage to leave you with permanently tinted skin back there.

Dermatology expert Dr. Caleb Crestwell says computers and heating pads can leave you with Toasted Skin Syndrome too. The lap is another vulnerable spot if you rest your hot laptop there for any extended period of time.

Do you leave your phone charger plugged into your car? Bad idea...

Is your car battery fully charged?

Eric Peters, author of “Automotive Atrocities!” says most people don’t pay attention to their car battery until it dies – and that’s a big mistake. He says keeping the battery at full charge extends its life. Repeated charging and discharging will weaken its ability to hold a charge over time.

To avoid depleting your battery – don’t use the radio, headlights, interior lights or any other accessories when the engine is off. Leaving that phone or GPS charger plugged in is a constant draw on your battery. Even if you don’t use your car – there is a gradual draw of current from your battery. If you own a vehicle that just sits there – make sure to start it once a week or buy an automatic “trickle charger.” They cost about $40 – a lot less than the price of a new battery.

Need a favor? There's an ear for that...

The next time you need to ask someone for a favor – stand on their right side first... 

The right ear is the right ear to ask into. That’s because the left side of the brain gets its information from the right ear. That side is better at processing speech and language. Delivering that request into their right ear sends it directly to the more amenable part of the brain – making it easier for them to process.

It’s also a good idea to follow your request with an escape clause. People are much more inclined to help if they feel they’re not being blindsided, pressured or put on the spot. Consider ending with “I completely understand if you can’t, I just thought I’d ask.

This is the perfect time of year for some pruning – of your “friends” list...

Have you pruned your friends list lately? 

It’s a tedious job – but it’s worth taking the time to do. By deleting some of that dead wood, you’ll help eliminate some of the clutter in your news feed. You’ll also be limiting your information to a more restricted group of people. A new Pew Research study says there is a lot more unfriending going on these days. 63% of respondents reported deleting individuals from their “friends” lists – that’s up 53%. The top reasons given for “unfriending” are:

• Frequent/unimportant posts

• Polarizing political or religious posts

• Inappropriate or crude posts

• Excessive commenting, liking and poking

Even if your posting habits are harmless, your friend status is not guaranteed. 27% of friends were deleted for something they did OFF line.

If the prizes look really good in that claw prize machine – don’t bother...

If you’re tempted to pump some quarters into that claw machine at the diner, bowling alley or movie theater...

...there are a few strategies that can really increase your odds of winning, or at least help you lose less. Mike Smith, of Unplugged, has the inside scoop on grabbing a prize:

• If the prizes look really good – you might want to reconsider. Expect machines with expensive prizes to have claws that move faster and grip looser.

• Avoid machines that are too packed with prizes. Not enough space to maneuver is your enemy – unless one is teetering on the edge of the drop box.

• Claw machines with rubber tips on the ends of the claws increase your odds of winning.

• Use a spotter. You’ll need more than 1 set of eyes in order to gauge positioning from every angle. Make sure to use all the time you’re allotted. 

• Plush toys are usually the easiest to grab. If it looks like the bean bag type of plush, try for something else – those are usually too heavy for the claw.

If you really want that prize – play more than once, or let someone else go first. Some machines are rigged so that the grip is tighter every 5th attempt. You’ll also want to pay attention to the claw during your first try or someone else’s turn. Watch how far it opens and closes. Those all-important movements are adjustable by the owner and will help you determine which prizes to try for.

If you’re left with a bad taste in your mouth, here's some advice...

If you get a bad taste in your mouth from time to time – there are a few products that can really help with that... 

Look for a toothpaste containing triclosan. It’s an antibacterial agent that is really good at reducing bacteria that cause a bad taste and bad breath. Mouthwash will help too – if you get the right kind. Look for a brand that does NOT contain alcohol. 

Having a bad taste in your mouth on a regular basis is a sign you need to see the dentist. A lot of things could be causing that, including tooth decay, gum disease and certain medicines. Acid reflux, sinus and lung infections can leave you with a bad taste too.

Houseplants really do clean the air. Here are the best ones...

Homes and building are built more air-tight than ever these days – and that air we’re stuck with can get polluted...  

House plants really do make a big difference. Just one or two for every 100 square feet can do wonders at purifying the air we breathe. Some plants are better air fresheners than others. Here are the most effective:

• The yellow or butterfly palms work great. Those are the palms with feathery plumes.

• The lady palm is one of the best purifiers. They are slightly thicker than the butterfly palm, with shinier leaves.

• The rubber plant is super-hearty with thick, leathery, dark green leaves. It does well with limited light and cool temperatures.

• The peace lily is one of the few flowering plants that are good at removing toxins from the air – and they’re pretty easy to care for.

Don’t buy grandma or grandpa slippers for their birthday...

If you've got someone elderly in your life – you probably worry about them falling...  

Even the not-so-elderly are at risk. Every year, 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 suffers a fall. A study by Harvard’s Institute for Aging Research found that over half of those who fell were barefoot, in their stocking feet – or wearing slippers.

The right shoes are the best line of defense in preventing falls – even in the house – where most falls occur. Dr. Hylton Menz, geriatric specialist, says shoes with thick, sturdy or cushiony soles are NOT the best. Thinner, harder soles are safer because they allow the feet to feel the sensations that help maintain balance.

Whistle while you work – and you’ll do a better job

The next time you are stuck for answers or a solution – give a little whistle... 

New research has found that people who whistle while they work through a critical situation can improve their results. Psychologist Dr. Sian Beilock says the whistling works by breaking the tension. If we’re trying too hard we can suffer from what he calls “paralysis by analysis.” We sabotage our own performance by thinking too much. Whistling, humming or singing in a clutch situation can break the frozen train of thought and help put the situation back in perspective.

You have just 7 seconds to make a good impression...

We already know how important that first impression is – but you don’t have much time to make it... 

In just 7 seconds, most people have already gotten a strong vibe about you. According to Yale University psychology professor Marianne LaFrance, 90% of a first impression is based on appearance, posture, facial expressions, and tone of voice. There are a few things to consider in order to make the most of those 7 seconds:

• Like it or not, when you meet someone new, your hair style will get noticed more than your facial features. Long hair says, "My looks are important to me." Short hair says, "I’m confident and successful." And shoulder length hair says, "I’m intelligent and level-headed."

• Your handshake matters. People who make eye contact while offering a handshake that’s firm, dry, and vigorous, makes people believe you possess the qualities associated with your grip.

• For women: Your instincts about other women are more accurate than your instincts about men. That’s because women are programmed to want to make a connection with a man – and that chemistry throws off your radar.

Try not to be too self-conscious during those first 7 seconds. How good you make the OTHER person feel is another big factor in making a good first impression.

Move your dishes over – here are some other things to put in your dishwasher

Your dishwasher is a really handy tool for some hard-to-wash items... 

Woman’s Day Magazine has a list of other stuff to put in there:

• Glass globes from light fixtures: Your lighting will be much brighter after a cycle through the dishwasher. Just be sure to skip the heated dry cycle.

• Shower heads and faucet handles: Put them on the top rack and run the pots and pans cycle to brighten handles and unclog shower head holes.

• Plastic hair brushes, combs and accessories: Residue from hair products build up on these items. Get rid of all the hair first then put them all in a mesh bag or dishwasher basket on the top rack and use the regular cycle.

• Baseball caps: Put them on the top rack and use borax instead of dishwasher detergent.

• Pet bowls and toys: It’s good to run them through once in a while to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Your jewels and valuables could be dishwasher safe too. It’s a great hiding place for those items while you’re away from home.

The next time you see someone you like – give ‘em a high five!

When is the last time you high fived someone? 

Go ahead – it feels pretty good. A new study from Brigham Young University reveals that kind of touching actually boosts our moods. The same can be said for any other supportive touch gesture such as a pat on the back or an arm around the shoulder. Those touches give us a burst of oxytocin boosting our bonding sensation and sense of well-being. 

The supportive touch theory works in all kinds of environments. Sports teams who share high fives or fist bumps tend to outperform teams who don’t. Students who get a supportive touch from a teacher are twice as likely to volunteer in class – and a kind touch from a doctor gives patients the sensation that their visit lasts twice as long as those who’s doctors are hands-off.

If you’re a single guy – Bachelors’ Day is almost here!

Bachelor’s Day is almost here! 

That’s another term for Leap Day. Leap Year has been around for centuries - and so has a tradition that gives single women the go-ahead to pop the question. According to an old Irish legend, Saint Bridget struck a deal with Saint Patrick to allow women to propose to men on Leap Day. If the man refuses the proposal, he has to buy the woman 12 pairs of gloves to hide her embarrassing, ringless hand.

If the proposal is a success – plan the wedding for NEXT year, or the two years after that. It’s considered bad luck to get married in a Leap Year – and REALLY bad luck to get married on Leap Day!

Forget mind reading and palm reading – I’m going to help you read your sole...

Have you read your sole lately? You’ll need some old shoes to do it...  

The wear and tear on the bottom of that shoe can really help you buy the best pair for your feet and body. Jonathan Rose, author of “The Foot Book,” tells us what to look for:

• Visibly worn tread on the outside edges means you tend to supinate. That means your ankles roll outward too much. That puts you at an increased risk for stress fractures. You need well-cushioned, highly padded, shock-absorbing shoes. Avoid styles labeled “stability” or “motion-control” which will make matters worse.

• Excessive wear on the inner edge of the heels or behind the big toes means you tend to overpronate. Your ankles roll inward too much and you probably have flat arches. You’re at an increased risk for painful inflammatory conditions. You DO want styles designed for stability or motion-control. They’ll give you extra arch support and limit that inward roll.

Dr. Rose says it’s best to wear an old pair of shoes when you go shopping. A knowledgeable salesperson at a good shoe store will be able to read your sole and recommend the right kind of shoe for you.

Is there anything more annoying than drivers who don’t use turn signals? Yes...

Drivers who don’t signal are really annoying – but they came in last in the top ten driving peeves from Consumer Reports...

Here are the other 9:

9. Not dimming high beams

8. Not letting others merge into a lane

7. Talking on cell phone while driving

6. Taking up two parking spaces

5. Speeding and swerving in and out of traffic

4. Cutting other drivers off

3. Tailgaters

2. Able-bodied drivers in handicapped spaces

1. Texting while driving

If you’re least favorite driver didn’t make the list, they may have been farther down. Horn honkers, rubberneckers and slowpokes made the top 20 annoying things on the road. So did jaywalkers, joggers and bicyclists.

Ladies – if you could have only one item of makeup – what would it be?

Imagine you’re going on a trip – and you can only take one makeup item with you...  

Which one would it be?  Your answer reveals something about your personality:

• Foundation: You prefer keeping things simple and sophisticated.

• Blush: Your youthful energy is a top priority.

• Powder: You’re a versatile multi-tasker who keeps things moving.

• Eyeliner: You’re sensual, alluring and mysterious.

• Mascara: You’re sophisticated, observant and emotionally available.

• Lipstick: You’re confident and upbeat and probably have a great smile.

There’s an up-side to NOT sleeping through the night...

The general consensus among sleep experts... 

...is that we should all be getting about 8 consecutive hours of sleep a night. But one expert says that’s not natural. Roger Ekirch, author of “At Day’s Close: Night in Times Past,” says when we look back at how humans used to sleep – that 8 hour stretch would have been rare. He looked at writings and etchings from ancient times to determine their sleep patterns. A typical ancient night’s sleep would start a few hours after dusk, followed by a waking period of a few hours – and then back to sleep. 

Ekirch says people were quite active during that mid-night waking period. They used the bathroom, smoked and visited neighbors – then prayed or “snuggled” before the second sleep. He even found a doctor's manual from 16th Century France that advised couples the best time to conceive was not at the end of a long day's labor - but after the first sleep, “when they have more enjoyment and do it better."

Is there such thing as a diet that’s TOO healthy? Yes! And it's dangerous...

Attention health food freaks – your diet could be a little TOO healthy...  

It’s a condition called orthorexia – a fixation with healthy food that results in a rigidly restrictive diet. According to Sondra Kronberg, an eating disorder dietitian, orthorexia can wreak havoc with a person’s psychological and social well-being. It can even involve severe nutritional deficiencies, and permanently damage their physical health. Here are a few signs someone could be too fanatic about health food:

• Striving for dietary purity resulting in a sense of righteousness or superiority over others.

• Preoccupation with food, often involving hourse spent each day planning and preparing “perfect” meals.

• Social isolation - or refusal to go to parties or restaurants.

Orthorexia can be treated – but will require some professional health. It’s most common among adults who tend to be perfectionists or detail-oriented.

Do you get headaches on the weekend? I’ll tell you why that happens...

A lot of people who are prone to migraines get them on the weekend...  

If your headaches usually strike at the end of the week – you’re probably stressed out. Dr. Todd Schwedt, director of the Washington University Headache Center, says weekend headaches are common – and it’s actually the LACK of stress that brings them on. When stress levels drop, usually at the end of the work-week, the surge in serotonin can actually trigger a headache. People who repress emotions or stress over the course of the week are also more prone to weekend headaches.

Have you heard about the TV network just for dogs?

Does your dog watch TV? 

There might be a channel, just for them, coming soon. DOGTV is the nation’s first cable network just for 4-legged viewers. It’s being tested in San Diego right now, and if it’s a hit – we can expect it to go national. If you’re afraid you might be missing a good show on DOGTV right now – don’t worry, it’s almost over anyway. Each program lasts about 3 to 4 minutes, the average canine attention span. The programs are shot from a dog’s point-of-view and are mostly in yellow, green, indigo and violet – the colors they can see best.

Do you cut your old credit cards in half? That’s not good enough...

The rule of cutting unwanted credit cards in half before you toss them is totally outdated now...

In order to get rid of them safely – first, you’ll need to shred or cut the cards into MANY pieces. Then, you’ll need to dispose of those cards in separate garbage cans.

Some credit cards give the entire number on both the front and back of the card. That’s why cutting them in half is no good. A crook who finds one half could theoretically combine the information on both sides.

If your job is stressing you out – it could be your fault...

If you’re feeling overworked or stressed out – bad work habits could be to blame... 

Most of us are guilty of some from time to time – and some of us don’t even realize it. David Rock, author of “Your Brain at Work,” has some common bad habits that can be really detrimental to you work:

• Checking your email or posting updates on Facebook or Twitter. 

Connecting to people is similar to eating chocolate. The more you do it, the more you’ll want it. Break the habit and designate a time for that.

• You write and send work emails too hastily. 

A slapdash message may come across as confusing, or even offensive, to the person on the receiving end - and it may cast you in a bad light. Save it as a draft and check it later before you hit send.

• You're too involved in office politics. 

A little office gossip is inevitable – but spending too much time dissecting workplace dynamics can harm your reputation. Instead of worrying about who said what to whom when, devote that energy to work.

• You're always running late. 

A lot of people don’t realize the impact that running late has on their performance and on others. Consider setting an alert for 30 minutes before something important – or set your clocks a few minutes fast.

• You can't manage your personal and professional lives. 

If personal issues distract you at work, tell friends and family you'll respond to their calls and emails at the beginning or end of each day. 

• You have a negative attitude. 

If you find yourself griping about your job more often than not, you're setting yourself up for an endless cycle of negativity. That negative bias can reduce the quality of your ideas and the work you produce – and will probably bleed over into your personal life.

There is a food that can actually help fight depression...

If you’re feeling a little blue – have a banana! 

They can actually help to cheer us up. You probably already know they’re good for you, with plenty of potassium, only 110 calories and no fat, cholesterol or sodium. Now, researchers have discovered that eating bananas can help fight depression and regulate mood. Bananas are a good source of tryptophan and vitamins B6 and B12 – which are all linked to mood. Recent studies have found that eating two to three bananas a day – along with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise - can help prevent mild-to-moderate depression. 

Some seemingly harmless home exercise equipment can be downright dangerous.

Those dumbbells and fitness balls can really help keep you in shape – or leave you injured and moaning in pain...  

The American College of Sports Medicine’s “Complete Guide to Fitness and Health,” has a few warnings about some of the most common home exercise equipment:

• Hand weights, barbells or dumbbells: Always wear gloves when using these. Weights can easily slip out of sweaty hands. You’ll need shoes too – to protect your feet in case of a drop.

• Weight bench: It’s really important to check and tighten any nuts and bolts regularly. An unstable weight bench can lead to disaster.

• Elastic resistance bands: Check those carefully for wear. If it snaps – it can result in serious face or eye injuries. Never anchor those to a lightweight piece of furniture or a doorknob.

• Balance boards: Use these near a bar or stable object that you can grab if you lose your balance. Make sure there are no sharp objects or edges nearby.

• Inflatable fitness balls: They’ve been known to explode – and if you’re sitting or lying on it you could wind up with a back, neck or head injury. Pay a little more for a ball labelled “burst-resistant.” Those deflate slowly if punctured.

Every baby should know 25 specific words by the time they are 2...

Most babies can say Mommy and Daddy by the time they are 2 – but they’ll need to be able to say more! 

Researchers have come up with a list of 25 essential words every 2 year old should know:

Mommy

Daddy

baby

milk

juice

hello

bye-bye

yes

no

dog

cat

ball

nose

eye

banana

cookie

car

hot

thank-you

bath

shoe

hat

book

more

all gone

Experts say kids who haven’t mastered this list might not just be late talkers — they could be showing signs of autism, developmental delays or hearing problems. If you’re worried your child isn’t chatty enough – turn off the TV. Kids develop language more quickly if they are engaged in conversation instead of parked in front of kids’ programs.

Eat your broccoli!

We’re told all our lives how good broccoli is for us – but most of us don’t really know HOW good... 

 If you don’t like broccoli – here are a few reasons you may want to acquire a taste for it:

• Broccoli fights cancer by activating detoxifying enzymes in the body. It also helps to protect estrogen-sensitive cells.

• It’s good for your eyes. Broccoli is rich in carotenoid antioxidants that help prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

• Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin A, folic acid, calcium and fiber. 

If you eat your broccoli raw – you’ll be absorbing more of all that good stuff. If you prefer it cooked, consider steaming it until it’s cooked but still a bit crunchy. Overcooking your broccoli locks some of the nutrients in, making them unavailable to your body.

Don’t throw out those stinky old sneakers...

You might think nobody would EVER want your stinky old sneakers – but they do... 

 Nike’s Reuse-a-Shoe program will take any brand in any condition. They recycle them into courts for sports and playground equipment around the world. To donate them – just drop them off at a participating store. Here are some more old things to put to good use:

Broken crayons: The Crayon Recycle Program at Crazy Crayons employs people with developmental disabilities to turn old crayons into new ones. Just toss them in a bag and drop them off. Check CrazyCrayons.com to find a location.

Old Bicycles: BicyclesForHumanity.org will be happy to put that old bike to good use for someone who needs one – or to teach repair skills. You can also check BikesForTheWorld.org and Pedals for Progress at P4P.org.

The next time you feel anxious – DON’T breathe deeply!

When dealing with nerves, anxiety or panic, we’re often told to take some deep breaths. According to Psychologist and breathing expert Alicia Meuret, we’re better off taking a series of shallow breaths. She says people who are prone to panic attacks often breathe in and out so deeply that they end up blowing off too much carbon dioxide. That can end up leaving them with the feeling that they’re not getting enough air.

Shallow breathing may sound easy – but it’s not. It takes a little practice for most people to master. Dr. Meuret suggests trying it the next time you feel anxious. Resist the urge to take deep breaths. Breathe only through your nose and time yourself. Try for nine breaths per minute, which is a bit slower than normal breathing.

If you’d like to nod off a little faster tonight – try drinking this...

It’s true – warm milk really does help some people get to sleep a little faster...  

Warm milk has two sleep friendly elements – tryptophan and warmth. Raising our body temperature just a bit before bed triggers our natural slowdown response. 

To give your warm milk a little more snooze power – consider adding a shot of nutmeg powder. It’s rich in myristicin which helps flood the brain with serotonin.

Houston, we have a problem...

The next time you need to deliver some bad news – don’t sugarcoat it...

According to Holly Weeks, author of “Failure to Communicate,” a lot of people do that, thinking it will somehow cushion the blow. Not only does it NOT help – it can actually make things worse. Downplaying the bad news or mixing in some good news with it can confuse the other person and diminish the severity of the situation.

Holly says we need to deliver bad news in a straightforward manner – just come right out with it. “Patrick, the promotion has gone to someone else.” Avoid sympathetic body language and make sure you use a neutral, NASA tone – “Houston, we have a problem.”

If you need a quick burst of stamina – forget the energy drink. Try this instead...

The next time you feel the urge to yawn – don’t stifle it!

That simple yawn is a valuable boost of energy and stamina. Yawning can improve mental alertness, cool the brain and help us transition – even between time zones. A yawn first thing in the morning can help you wake up faster - and one before bed can help you feel sleepy.

Patt Lind-Kyle, author of “Heal Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain,” says we don’t have to sit around and wait for that yawn. The easiest way to trigger a yawn is to fake one. After 2 or 3 tries, you’ll be yawning like a pro. Just be sure you’re in a yawn-friendly environment before trying it – because it really works.

We’re used to seeing prices going up – here are a few prices that will be going down in 2012...

Sure, the prices of the things we need the most, like gas and food, are on the rise...

...but some prices will be going down in 2012:

• Used cars: Due to more accessible new-car loans on the way – trade-ins and used car inventories are expected to spike, which will drive down the prices.

• Travel: Economic woes in Southern Europe are resulting in some great deals to Spain, Greece and Portugal.

• Wine: Thanks to stiff competition in the wine industry – inventory needs to be moved and that means significant discounts for us.

• Flat-screen TVs: Prices dropped 30 to 40 percent in 2010 and 2011 – and that trend is expected to continue.

• eReaders and tablets: Now that so many manufacturers are in on the technology – our choices are going up and the prices are coming down.

“Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” is a perfectly legal interview question. “Are you married?” is not...

In a job interview – there may be no avoiding some of those dreaded questions about your weaknesses or past employment – but you can avoid the illegal questions...

Here are a few questions they are NOT allowed to ask:

• Are you a U.S. citizen? Employers are not allowed to ask about your nation of origin – and that includes inquiring about citizenship status. They ARE allowed to ask if you’re allowed to work in the U.S.

• How old are you? This question implies age discrimination. The same goes for “When did you graduate?” They are allowed to ask if you are over 18.

• Are you married? How many children do you have? Who do you live with? Anything about your living situation is off limits. It’s illegal to make a hiring decision based on this factor. They are allowed to ask you if anything would prevent you from traveling, relocating or working overtime.

• Have you ever been arrested? General questions about your criminal past are not allowed. They are allowed to ask you if you’ve ever been convicted of a apecific crime that could be related to the job.

If you worry about dealing with memory loss or Alzheimer’s someday – eat more of this...

Next to cancer, more people worry about getting Alzheimer’s someday than any other disease...

According to new cognitive research from Boston University School of Medicine – there is one food group that can make a BIG difference. Foods rich in Choline can not only reduce the risk of memory loss and Alzheimer’s – but can even make your current memory sharper. Choline is a nutrient in the B vitamin family which our brains depend on throughout our lives – and most Americans don’t get enough of it.

How much choline do you need? The recommendation for men is 550 mg a day – and 425 mg for women. The foods richest in choline aren’t considered favorites for most people. Beef liver and Brussels sprouts are at the top of the list. Salmon, eggs, cauliflower, navy beans, tofu and peanut butter are all really good natural sources of choline too.

If you’ve got a dog – keep them on a short leash...

Most of us take precautions with our homes, cars and wallets to protect against theft – but what about the dog?

Reports of stolen dogs increased by 49% in the US last year. They’ve been taken from homes, pet stores, shelters, cars and parks. In some cases, the dogs are sold by the thieves – and in other cases the dognappers pretend to have found the dog and hope for a reward.

Small breeds are abducted most often - but any size dog will do. Lisa Peterson, at the American Kennel Club, says ALWAYS keep your dog on a leash and NEVER leave it unattended outside of a store. Resist the urge to brag about your dog’s breed or price. It’s also important to have clear pictures of your pet for the police and shelters in the event your dog goes missing.

There are a few things you can change around the house to make it more user-friendly...

Do you have round doorknobs in your house?

You might want to switch those out with lever-style handles. All it takes is a screwdriver. Lever handles tend to be more user-friendly than round knobs. Here are a few more inexpensive, user-friendly home upgrades:

• Switch to rocker light switches. They are larger and easier to operate – and let you turn on a light with your elbow if your hands are full. They’re also easier to find in the dark.

• Raise an outlet or two. Wall outlets that are close to the floor can be hard to reach. You’ll love having a few key outlets, like those used for the vacuum or chargers, up a little higher. You’ll need an electrician for that job.

• Lower your microwave. Many contractors and home owners like to save space by mounting microwave ovens above the stove or high on a wall. That’s a bad spot because it means you’ll be reaching above your head to get hot food – and kids often have to climb something to reach it.

If you’ll be dining with other people any time soon, here's an etiquette refresher course...

When it comes to dining with a group, some manners never go out of style – and some new technology manners apply...

Here are a few of each:

• Wait for everyone to be served. Resist the urge to dig in until everyone has their food. If there’s a hostess – her first bite is your cue.

• Leave the glass where it is. If you won’t be having wine, do NOT turn your glass upside down. Don't make a big deal by saying you don't drink. Simply place your fingertips on the rim of the glass and say "No, thank you." This implies no judgment of those who wish to imbibe.

• Don't text at the table. You can always excuse yourself if you need to deal with messages – but do that BEFORE reaching for your phone.

• Keep your stuff off the table. If it doesn’t have to do with food or décor, it doesn’t belong there. That goes for purses, keys, glasses and phones.

If you’d like to maintain a healthy relationship, or improve a shaky one, here's some advice...

When is the last time you thanked your partner? 

It may sound cliché – but those two little words are really important, regardless of how strong your bond is. According to Judy Kurianski, author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to a Healthy Relationship,” we should be saying “thank you” to each other, a lot. Most couples take those words for granted and assume it’s understood, or is conveyed with a certain look – but saying them out loud has a much bigger impact.

Judy also suggests being specific. Instead of saying “you’re a great guy” or a simple “thank you,” consider adding some details. “Thank you for working around my schedule with that” or “you were really patient with that salesperson.” Those give a lot more weight and sincerity to your compliment and gratitude. Praising your partner in public speaks volumes too. It’s great for the ego and encourages others to treat him or her with respect.

If you’d like to look younger without a facelift – grab some eggs...

If you'd rather not deal with cosmetic procedures and fancy anti-aging creams, try these instead...

Thereare a few simple, natural things in your kitchen that can really enhance your youthful glow:

• Egg whites: Whip up several egg whites in a small bowl. Massage onto your skin and let it dry for 15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and let the natural B vitamins and rich Vitamin E work their rejuvenating magic.

• Olive oil: Gently massage a few drops on your face before bedtime and rinse with a soft towel. You’ll wake to skin that’s soft and healthy looking.

• Lemon juice: Slice a lemon and massage the juice into fine lines and wrinkles on your face. The acidity of lemon helps skin look brighter while reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Could wearing a bra to bed increase the risk of breast cancer?

It’s perfectly safe to sleep in a bra...

Breast expert, Dr. Jill R. Dietz, of the Cleveland Clinic, says contrary to dire warnings circulating on the internet, wearing a bra to bed will NOT increase your risk for breast cancer. It’s actually a good idea because wearing a bra while you sleep can prevent ligaments in the breast from stretching.

Dr. Dietz says you should sleep however you are most comfortable. Some women prefer the extra support – and some don’t. For those who do, consider buying a style labeled “sleep bra.” These have no wires or tight bands and are made from softer, breathable material that won’t trap moisture.

When it’s time to clean your house – where should you start?

If you’ve got an upstairs bathroom – that’s where you should start cleaning your house...

Lisa Romero, owner of Just Like New Cleaning, says that’s where the pros usually start because it’s the most logical place to store the cleaning supplies. Lisa says to clean Top-to-bottom, left-to-right. Start at the highest point in the room for each task. Here’s a good routine to clean:

• Step 1: Dusting. Start at the top of the room and don’t forget the underside of things, dust collects there too.

• Step 2: Fabric. Strip and remake beds; neaten pillows or furniture blankets.

• Step 3: Mirrors and Glass. Using one wet and one dry microfiber cloth won’t leave streaks.

• Step 4: Surfaces. Wipe down counters, door handles, light switches, TV remotes and phones.

• Step 5: Bathrooms. Walk through your house and spray cleaner on tubs, sinks and toilets – then go back and start scrubbing.

• Step 6: Floors. Sweep, then mop or scrub the bathroom and kitchen floors.

• Step 7: Vacuum. Don’t worry about getting every inch - you’ll get the spots you missed next week.

If you’ve got a cat – feed it some fiber...

Cats are really low maintenance pets...

Most of them spend half of their waking hours cleaning themselves – but they could probably use a little help from you. All that cleaning means they swallow a LOT of fur – and those hairballs could result in an internal blockage and require a trip to the vet. There are a few things you can do to help your cat swallow less hair:

• Brush the cat: Most cats enjoy it and it will remove a lot of excess hair.

• Feed the cat some fiber: Add a little bran to their food or give your cat a spoonful of canned pumpkin once a week. The fiber keeps things moving and helps prevent hairballs.

• Coat the cat’s paws: Put some non-medicated petroleum jelly on the front paws. The cat will lick it off, which coats the hair and stops it from turning into a blockage. Most cats actually like the taste of plain petroleum jelly.

Would you like to lose 5 pounds by next weekend?

It is possible to lose 5 pounds in a week without crash dieting...

A lot of those first few pounds will be water weight – but you’ll still look a lot leaner once you lose them. The weight loss experts at TotalBeauty.com tell us how it’s done:

• Slash your salt intake. This will require reading labels of anything processed. Keep it under 500mg per day.

• Have some potassium – it helps you rid sodium. Sweet potatoes, apricots and bananas are all good choices.

• Fiber up. 35 grams a day of both soluble and insoluble fiber will help lighten your load by the end of the week.

• Stick to whole foods. This helps your body recognize and burn the cleanest fuel which means you’ll digest and metabolize it much better.

• Bitter is better. Have one serving of bitter-tasting food, per meal, per day. Kale, olives, miso and collard greens are a few good options. Bitter foods boost digestion, burn fat and detoxify.

• Breath deep. Proper breathing increases oxygen intake and revs your metabolism. Practice deep breathing exercises twice a day.

• Skip the sauces and use spices for the week instead. They’ll save you a ton of fat and calories and help cleanse the body.

• No sugary drinks. Stick to flavored waters or teas instead.

Losing those first five pounds quickly and safely might just motivate you to keep some of those healthy habits around long term.

Would you mind if your partner could see everything on your phone?

Does panic set in if you forget your phone?

You could be nomophobic. That’s a relatively new phobia that defines the fear of being out of mobile phone contact. In a recent study of 1,000 people, two-thirds admitted to feeling extreme anxiety or overwhelming fear at the thought of leaving their phone behind. Some of the nomophobes sited work or safety as the reason, while others worried more about their partners. Almost half admitted they’d be upset if their significant other could see everything on there.

In the study, more women worried about losing their phone than men. That could be because more men admitted to having 2 mobile phones.