Archive for May, 2007

Pamper yourself and try my foot scrub ideas

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 31, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

There are different ways to make foot scrubs. Use your imagination and various products and items you have at home discover different foot scrub recipes. To soothe tired feet, get rid of odor or just pamper them try the following:

SANDY BEACH FOOT SCRUB

Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons olive oil
2 Tablespoons beach sand
3-5 drops rosemary oil

Combine and mix into a paste using a fork. Massage scrub onto feet, concentrating especially on problem areas. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.

COOL AND SOFTEN FOOT SCRUB

Ingredients:
Cool Whip
Water

Coat your feet with Cool Whip, let it set for fifteen minutes, then wash your feet clean. The nondairy dessert topping cools achy feet and the oils soften the feet.

TEA & CORN STARCH REMEDY

Ingredients:
Water
tea bags
corn starch

Boil three or four tea bags in one quart water for ten minutes, add enough cold water to make a comfortable soak. Soak your feet for twenty to thirty minutes, then dry them and apply corn starch.

The tannin in the tea is a drying agent, giving you a measure of control over foot perspiration.

SOAKING SHEA BUTTER TREAT

Ingredients:
Water
Epsom Salt
Tea Tree Oil
Pumice
Shea Butter
Lavender or Aloe spray mixture

First soak your feet in warm water, adding Epsom Salt, mix Tea Tree Oil and use a Pumice to polish away rough skin. Then massage your feet with Shea Butter and spray them with Lavender or Aloe to keep them refreshed.

OATS AND ALOE TREATMENT

Ingredients:
uncooked oatmeal
wheat bran
Aloe Vera gel

Mix together three parts uncooked oatmeal, two part wheat bran and 1/4 Aloe Vera gel. Spoon into a fine mesh cheesecloth or a knee-high nylon sock. Add to your bath. After soaking, use bag to cleanse skin.

The most important thing to remember is the miracle of using home products; Arm and Hammer Baking Soda, Cool Whip, Epsom Salt, Miracle Whip, all kinds of Oats and even cooking sprays! Here is a strange fact…..feet are ticklish because of the high concentration of nerve endings. Enjoy
Fibro Viv

Making puddings: A simple family favorite

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 29, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

Here is another article I wrote on Helium dot com.

Who doesn’t like Bread Pudding? It is simple, you can use coarse country loaf or left over baguette to make and a family favorite. Since these breads have about the same texture and they both have bland flavors when stale, they make a great custard. Try the following recipe:

1).  Cut the bread into 3/4-inch slices, then cut again into 3/4-inch cubes. These bite-size pieces soak up all and hold together to give the dessert some texture.

2).  Use the following ingredients:

* 12 slices day-old baguette, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
* 4 eggs, at room temperature
* 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
* 3/4 tsp. vanilla extract
* 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
* a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
* a small pinch of salt
* 4 cups milk
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
* confectioners’ sugar for dusting

3).  Mixing directions:

Lightly butter an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread the bread cubes in it.

Whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt until well blended in your favorite mixing bowl. Pour in the milk and whisk until combined. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. The next thing is to let it stand, pressing down on the bread occasionally, until it is evenly soaked. It takes about 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350F.

Cranberries should be scattered evenly over the surface of the soaked bread and press to submerge the fruit. Use a large shallow roasting pan to set the baking dish in. Pour very hot tap water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish.

It takes about 45 to 55 minutes to bake, check it with a knife inserted near the center comes out almost clean. Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust the top of each slice with confectioners’ sugar. This recipe serves 6 to 8 people depending on serving size.

Enjoy!

Fibro Viv


Trying to stop that feeling……that bad feeling

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 26, 2007 in My Book and My Own Experience. 0 Comments

Today I find myself falling back…falling back into that rut. I can’t seem to fight it off. Why can’t I fight this feeling?

My interest, patience and appreciation for life is getting away from me. How can I stop this feeling? I am mentally and physically exhausted. I feel as if I have used up a considerable amount of energy, both mentally and physically. Why can’t I fight this feeling?

Feeling like my mind and body constantly demand rest and sleep. There are days I can’t get enough sleep, then there are days I can not sleep. What is it? Why is it? Why can’t I fight this feeling?

Feeling completely drained of energy and vitality. This should only happen because of arduous or long-sustained effort. It isn’t as if I am working. I have not been able to work. So why do I feel this way? Why can’t I fight this feeling?

I am depleted of any strength or energy…but why? A sunken track.. ..a fixed and boring routine, that is where I am. Why can’t I stop this feeling?

I am weak and tired of trying to fight this feeling. I try to convince myself I feel better. I try to think about other things and people, I listen to happy music….Why can’t I stop this feeling?

I just want one day….one day, when I do not have to make an effort to ignore my pain and fatigue. Why can’t I stop this feeling?

Yes, I know and practice behavioral therapy….but why must I have to continue to fight this feeling? Why can’t I stop this feeling?

Please, no more drugs….no, I don’t want any more drugs. I want to go back, go back to that time….the time I actually did something to cause me to be tired. I worked, played, drove, sang and enjoyed life. Why can’t I go back? Why can’t I stop this feeling?

Do you understand? Have you been there? Please share your feelings….I need to know I am not alone. I am not alone. Yet I feel so alone. Alone in this body of mine. The pain and fatigue consume my body and mind, and I feel so alone.

I wrote this when I felt so alone. There are still days I feel alone, although I have my family and friends. This feeling overwhelms us because we just get tired of fighting this fatigue. If I could just have pain and no fatigue.

I have no patience for this fatigue. Why must I always rest? Why must I pace? I truly do not like that word….PACE. I guess that is the lesson I must learn…..I must learn to pace myself and my life.

I need time to think about this….I need to stop that bad feeling.

Fibro Viv


Positive Thoughts for Coping

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 26, 2007 in Coping and Stress Management. 0 Comments

Try writing down these thoughts and read them daily, or print them if you can:

1). Things are getting better.

2). I know I am making progress and I am working on my self-esteem.

3). I am learning to pace and it helps me feel better.

4). Each day I expect to feel more relaxed and I am working on ways to resolve any stress in my life.

5). I am accepting the changes in my life style and can live with them.

6). I know where to look for support and what resources are available to me.

7). Today I plan to focus on ways to help myself continue to heal.

8). I know I can fight this feeling of feeling alone because I am not alone.

9). I am sharing and seeking information on my healing process.

10). I am able to manage my mental and physical fatigue.

Those are just a few things to repeat to yourself. Keep a journal to help you remember good times and ways to feel better. You are alive, so work on making each day a better day. It starts with you accepting change and becoming aware of any negative emotions or thoughts you may be experiencing.

I pray and hope this information helps someone today. Have a great day.

Fibro Viv



Read this article on Freezing Strawberries

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 25, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

HOW TO FREEZE STRAWBERRIES

There are a variety of ways to freeze strawberries. To freeze fresh strawberries you start by rinsing the strawberries in cold water, hull and remove stems, place them in your colander to drain.  Before placing them in your container (about one half inch apart), pat them dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove excess water.  Some people like to add water or berry juice.

To sugar pack them, slice them in halves lengthwise and mix about five to six parts of strawberries with one part sugar. Wait about ten minutes for the sugar to dissolve and spoon them into your containers to freeze.

Strawberries syrup packed: Start by spooning your berries into your container(s), depending on the amount of strawberries you have to freeze. The next step is creating your mix. Mix 50 percent syrup and water into a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Let it boil for about one minute then pour the syrup over the strawberries.

Seal and label prior to freezing.

Useful Tips:

*  washing berries in ice water helps firm them up,
*  when packing, allow some room for expansion,
*  cover crushed berries with their own juice,
*  to help prevent strawberries from darkening, add ascorbic acid (vitamin C),
*  make sure you date your labels and freeze promptly.

Enjoy freezing your strawberries for later use!

If anyone has any suggestions or additions to my articles, please post your comments.

Have a pain free day!

Fibro Viv


How to keep working hands soft

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 25, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

We all use our hands to perform various tasks at home and work. Water tends to remove oils from hands, try soaking them in clear water for a few moments, then pat them dry after you have completed your task. Use brushes and cotton gloves while cleaning your home. If you do not use these tools the moisture and water content of the skin is dry and hands are not soft. You can make your own products with items you might already have handy.

Here are some tips to keep your hands soft and smooth:

* Take shorter lukewarm baths or showers, not hot and use moisturizing body and hand soap.

* Apply moisturizer after washing your hands and during the winter use heavier ointments and creams on hands.

* Try to keep from exposing hands to sunlight or at least use sunblock on your hands, not just your body.

* Soothe hands by rubbing them using baby powder.

* Try exfoliating your hands in this mixture: Use a blender to grind up one cup of Cheerios’s into fine powder then pour it into a bowl. Rub the oak cereal over your hands, then wash them in cool water followed with a cream moisturizer. You can also use Quaker Oaks.

* To keep hands exfoliated and moisturized rub extra crunchy peanut butter into hands, then wipe them clean with a paper towel. The oil moisturizes, while the peanuts exfoliate hands, elbows and knees.

* Keep Cort-aid handy in your kitchen or bathroom sink and each time you wash your hands, rub a small dab of this cream into your hands.

* Soften your hands by applying corn starch just like lotion.

* Aloe is an excellent moisturizer, take advantage of this plant.

* Coat your hands with Vaseline Petroleum Jelly, slip them inside two zip lock bags, wait about 10-15 minutes, then wash hands with warm water.

* Before going to bed, apply Vaseline Petroleum Jelly into your hands and wear cotton gloves.

* Fill your sink with warm water, add a couple of drops of lemon juice, a bit of olive oil and liquid hand soap. Rub your hands together in the water and let them soak for a few minutes. This little recipe makes them nice and smooth.

Do you want to make your own soft skin lotion? You will need the following ingredients; one cup dried chamomile, four tablespoons honey, one cup milk and eight teaspoons wheat germ. Steep chamomile in milk for a few hours. Strain it, keeping the liquid, add honey and wheat germ to the mixture and blend well. Place in a bottle or container and refrigerate any unused portions. This particular mixture keeps for about a week and can be used for your body and hands.

To keep your hands soft, you must keep them moisturized and use other tools to clean your home. Take advantage of the tips I noted above and enjoy. You can also find many fine hand products in the retail market.

Enjoy my articles on Helium.com. Check them out.

Have a pain free day!

Fibro Viv

I am still writing….Ways to Save Water at Home

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 25, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

WAYS TO SAVE WATER AT HOME

Start by inspecting your toilet for leaks. A leaky flapper or not utilizing a low flush toilet increases water use. Older toilets can also leak near the pipes. You can easily tell if your toilet continues to sound like water is flowing, there is a problem. Check your shower heads, if necessary replace them with water saving shower heads. Do you have family members that shower too long? Inform your family how long showers can increase the cost of your bill. Brushing your teeth or shaving does not require water running during the whole process.

Check all faucets for drips. Sometimes bathtub faucets continue to drip if not turned off completely. Check under the cabinet sinks in the kitchen, bathroom and anywhere outside your home faucets are located. Also check your washing machine, ice maker, anywhere water is used. Do you wash dishes manually? Limit the amount of time you rinse the dishes, some people leave the water running while washing and rinses dishes. This is wasteful, use your spray device to rinse. If your sink does not have one, consider buying one. Also washing vegetables while the water is running can increase your water consumption. Try using a bowl filled with clean water or fill your kitchen sink with the least amount of water necessary to wash vegetables. While you are at it, limit the use of your garbage disposal which requires rinsing.

Swimming pools, water sprinkler systems also affect your water consumption. Swimming pools have an automatic fill valve that can get stuck in an open position and if the pool has cracks, you are using more water. If you have a water sprinkler, review when and how often it is used. Is it necessary to water that often?

Do you wash your own car? Consider using a car wash instead of your water hose. You end up using running water for long periods of time while cleaning your car. I have seen people actually wash their sidewalks with their garden hose. Sweep it, don’t run water down the driveway.

Many individuals do not realize how much water is wasted on a daily basis while just completing everyday tasks. Reviewing your monthly water bill can help you understand where there might be ways to control the cost. You must also educate your family and establish guidelines.

I hope and pray this helps someone today.

Fibro Viv

How about making your own pudding

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 25, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

Who doesn’t like Bread Pudding? It is simple, you can use coarse country loaf or left over baguette to make this family favorite. Since these breads have about the same texture and they both have bland flavors when stale, they make a great custard. Try the following recipe:

1). Cut the bread into 3/4-inch slices, then cut again into 3/4-inch cubes. These bite-size pieces soak up all other ingredients and hold together to give the dessert some texture.

2). Use the following ingredients:

* 12 slices day-old baguette, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
* 4 eggs, at room temperature
* 1/2 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
* 3/4 tsp. vanilla extract
* 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
* a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
* a small pinch of salt
* 4 cups milk
* 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
* confectioners’ sugar for dusting

3). Mixing directions:

Lightly butter an 8-inch square baking dish. Spread the bread cubes in it.

Whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt until well blended in your favorite mixing bowl. Pour in the milk and whisk until combined. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes. The next thing is to let it stand, pressing down on the bread occasionally, until it is evenly soaked. It takes about 20 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 350F.

Cranberries should be scattered evenly over the surface of the soaked bread and press to submerge the fruit. Use a large shallow roasting pan to set the baking dish in. Pour very hot tap water into the roasting pan to come halfway up the sides of the baking dish.

It takes about 45 to 55 minutes to bake, check it by inserting a knife near the center, if it comes out almost clean, it is ready. Serve warm or at room temperature. Dust the top of each slice with confectioners’ sugar. This recipe serves 6 to 8 people depending on serving size.

Enjoy!

Fibro Viv

Try focusing on different things……..Best Beauty Tips

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 25, 2007 in Articles Off Subject. 0 Comments

My skin type happens to be combination skin type. I recommend using a Sea Mineral Cleanser. It is gentle, oil-free lotion that dissolves make-up. You get great hydration and skin protection from sea mineral cleansers. You should always use a toner because it improves moisture absorption and make sure you use an alcohol-free toner. Try utilizing a light-diffusing SPF lotion with no less than SPF 15. It helps firm, tone and reinforce facial contours.

My solutions are based on research and trying out different sample products. Set-up a daily regime to enhance your results for achieving your ideal skin. Results vary from occasional to daily or weekly use of products and your priorities. Here are some tips:

* Cleanse your skin daily,
* Use toner daily,
* Moisturize your skin daily,
* Use antioxidant serum as required,
* Use a mist daily and take one with you for use during your day,
* Use a Sea Mineral Mud Mask twice a week to deep cleanse your skin,
* Once a month microdermabrasion,
* If you have dark spots and discoloration, use a brightening spot corrector daily,
* Try minimal use of make-up or use mineral based make-up products,
* If you use make-up, cleanse with a water-activated make-up remover.

Taking the time to take at least 5-10 minutes on your skin will result in pores appearing visibly smaller and less likely to clog. The microdermabrasion will improve skin clarity and texture. The use of antioxidant serums help halt premature aging by repairing and protecting skin from environmental aggressions. Using a daily mist instantly hydrates your skin and you can find small bottles to carry in your purse. Unfortunately, I had a few dark spots and discoloration, hence the skin lightening treatment spot corrector helped my skin.

By treating your skin with hydrating ingredients from your cleanser to your moisturizer, it is possible to help guard against the signs of aging. Water is important to keep the skin at an optimal level and prevents dehydration. Taking care of your skin will help prevent fine lines and wrinkles and restore its natural balance.

I pray and hope this article and opinion helps someone today

Fibro Viv

Cognitive Behavior Therapy..Is it for You?

Published by
Fibro Viv
at May 22, 2007 in How to Help Yourself. 0 Comments

Cognitive behavior therapy is basically used to help people understand their emotions and thoughts.  Patients are asked to keep a journal or notebook handy so they can write down their symptoms and note down what is happening, their thoughts and emotional process at that point in time.  The process enables a patient to identify any negative thoughts or emotions they may be experiencing when they are in pain.  This type of therapy teaches patients how to control their thoughts, and change the process to something positive. Negative emotions affects their body and learning to notice their stress related thoughts, patterns, and reactions will enable a patient to control their thought process.

This type of therapy is utilized on individuals that have a chronic disorder or those who have to deal with some type of disability the rest of their lives.  Some people forget or tend to ignore any positive experiences they lived in the past and believe it will never happen again.  Some times without even realizing they are their own enemy, per say.  They tend to overgeneralize their diagnosis and see themselves suffering the rest of their lives.  If they experience any time of the day, week or month without pain, they do not focus on that.  Instead, their thought process is still focusing on the negative.

There are people that suddenly get chronically ill or are diagnosed with a disorder that requires them to change their lifestyle. This is a very difficult time in their life, not only are they suddenly ill, they are now required to accept change. This change is sometimes viewed negatively.  Some patients tend to set higher expectations on themselves, which only leads to failure.  Others just expect to be able to handle tasks, be it physical or mental, as usual. The frustration leads to negative thoughts and emotions instead of working on the healing process.  Changes in their lifestyle, expectations and accepting help from others is not always pleasant and can feel degrading.

Cognitive behavior therapy enables an individual to think rationally, defuse anger and stops them from placing the blame on themselves.  People personalize everything by trying to understand what caused their illness or disorder.  Attitude has a lot to do with emotions and how the body processes these emotions.  There are many different types of treatments included with this type of therapy.  Patients are encouraged to utilize these other treatments.  They may include yoga, biofeedback, relaxation tapes, meditation and
sometimes hypnosis.

The entire process enables patients to become aware of their surrounding, thought process and enables them change them into positive affirmations and reactions.  It takes many sessions with the therapist in order to understand the process and change their mindset.  The other treatments mentioned above should be mandated while undergoing Cognitive Behavior Therapy.

Please consider the option of utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy if you are experiencing thoughts and emotions that lead you to blame yourself for your illness.

I hope and pray this information has helped someone today.

Fibro Viv