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If you’ve reached a weight loss plateau, fix your sleep

Trying to lose weight but it’s not working? Yes, we understand your frustration. You are just zeroing into what exactly is hampering your weight loss, but all in vain. You are doing all the right workouts and you are following a strict diet. Then what’s going wrong?! It is natural and obvious to blame your workout regime or your diet. But sometimes, none of them are real issues.   While you are busy choosing between following a new work out session and changing your diet, you probably don’t give a second thought to the most crucial part of the day- sleep! And you’re not the only one; many fail to understand the importance of sleep. It is the key that boosts your reward for the diet and fitness efforts. It’s almost too easy to relate and connect the dots, considering the statistic for obesity and those who suffer from sleep deprivation. So what happens when you get less sleep? When you have had a bad night of sleep, you tend to wake up exhausted, dazed and a little grumpy. The truth is that apart from your body and brain, it is also your fat cells that respond in a similar way. When deprived of sleep, you suffer from “metabolic grogginess.” The hormones that control your fat cells may respond aggressively when you are sleep deprived. Your body’s ability to use insulin (the master storage hormone) declines drastically and eventually gets disrupted. Fat cells start removing the fatty acids and lipids from your bloodstream and prevent storage when insulin stops functioning. The fats start to circulate in your blood and pump out more insulin. The excess insulin starts storing all the fat and that too in all the wrong places. This means fat gets accumulated in tissues like your liver. This is how you tend to become fat and get diabetes.   Take your time to do the research and find more detailed advice on crafting a smart, healthy sleep regimen, from choosing a good mattress to organizing around your sleep needs (our favorite source of sleep tips, reviews and tips is TheSleepStudies.com). If you are tired, you are going to start craving for more food! Your hunger is controlled by two major hormones; leptin (produced in your fat cells) and ghrelin. If your body produces less leptin, the more likely your stomach will feel empty. And the more ghrelin your body produces, your more a subjective feeling of hunger will be simulated. This happens although you would be trying to increase the number of calories you burn. So, in turn, this increases the fat that is stored in your body. Sleep deprivation makes it impossible for you to control the leptin and ghrelin production in your body. Also, when you don’t get enough sleep, the cortisol levels rise in your body. And you already know that the loss of sleep causes your body to produce more ghrelin. A deadly combination of high ghrelin and cortisol levels shuts down those parts of your brain that make you feel full and satisfied after a meal. This means you will be hungry all the time! More injury, the more rest you need Your reflexes also take a toll when you are sleep deprived. Your judgment is impaired and you may not be responding as accurately as you should be. And this can be extremely dangerous especially if you are dealing with heavyweight items. Keep in mind that your body needs sufficient time to rest so that the cells can be regenerated and repaired. So, now you know what to change- your sleep pattern!

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How Personal Branding Online Can Help Your Job Search

Every day, you see brands, you wear brands, you use brands, and you eat and drink brands. Business branding is everywhere. You are also a brand. Personal branding is especially useful when you’re job hunting or promoting yourself for other reasons. It’s up to you to craft your personal brand so that it conveys what you want it to convey. What is a personal brand? Your personal brand is the combination of factors that create an impression of you in the minds of other people. It’s your values, strengths, personality, passions, and all the other characteristics that people see in you. You don’t need a logo, and your resume is only a part of your personal brand. You are a complete package. When you develop your personal brand, you shape it to help your best qualities stand out. You can shape it differently for different purposes to show employers and others who you are. How a personal brand can help you How many times have you had what you thought was a successful job interview, knowing that you were fully qualified for the job – and you didn’t get it? It used to be that a good resume and a suitable personality were all you needed to get the job you wanted. These days, employers look further. When they research applicants online, they may find LinkedIn profiles, Facebook profiles, articles that you wrote, questionable photos, snide remarks on Twitter that you posted, and so on. In fact, almost 80 percent of recruiters are required to look into your online reputation to see if there are any red flags. Your personal brand helps you set yourself apart from others. Chances are that your competitors have already built their personal brands, making it easier for hiring managers to make decisions about them. One of them may have been hired for your dream job. A well-developed personal brand can also help you with these endeavors: Getting job promotions Having recruiters notice you Receiving recognition in your field Developing industry connections Attracting clients Strengthening your desirable qualities Reaching your goals more easily How to develop a personal brand First, identify the elements of your personal brand. You are a brand product, and you need to know how to describe it. You need to know what skills, strengths, talents, and experience you offer, what accomplishments show what you can do for others, and what are your core values and passions are. You need to be able to explain your goals and decide what you want to people to recognize you for. The answers to those questions form the unique package that is you. Once you’ve identified these traits, you need to package and publish them. There’s a bunch of different ways to go about this. LinkedIn is a key part of your personal brand. Prospective employers and clients will look for you and expect to see you there. Spend time writing a profile that shows off your personal brand. Review and update it regularly. Take part in LinkedIn discussions. Quality contributions will make people notice you and view your LinkedIn profile. Create profiles and take part in other social media platforms as well. Keep personal posts private so that professional connections see only posts that contribute to your personal brand. Applicants who have a personal website are more likely to be hired than those who don’t have one. Use your website to draw attention to your accomplishments, and keep it updated. If you write well, consider having a blog. A blog with industry-relevant articles can go a long way to building your credibility and attracting job offers. How to use your personal brand Now it’s time to create a resume that highlights the characteristics that form your personal brand. Use it to help employers understand your unique qualities that are relevant to their needs. Today’s resumes are more than lists of past jobs and responsibilities. Start your resume with a personal statement that describes your brand and what you offer of value to employers. Have a bulleted list near the top of the first page with accomplishments that illustrate your proficiency. Hand in hand with resume writing is researching target employers. Read their job ads carefully, and shape each resume to underscore the aspects of your personal brand that can best meet their challenges. Research jobs not only on large aggregate sites but also on local job boards. If you live in New York, for example, search the ads for jobs in your field at New York Jobs. You can also post your resume online. Choose a version that will appeal to the majority of employers you’re targeting. Let recruiters and your personal contacts know that you’re looking for a new position. When they understand your personal brand, they’re better able to recognize potential job matches. Networking groups may also help you find the right connection. Continue to take part online, monitor your social media presence, and write in your blog if you have one. Hiring managers and recruiters could be searching for you online at any time. Continue to connect with more people online. Past colleagues and supervisors, college alumni, people in your networking groups, and other people in your field can be valuable connections. Help them when you can, and they’ll want to help you. Read also: How is Social Media Playing A Role In Career Building?

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Planning for Enjoyable Travel and a Memorable Destination Wedding

Planning for Enjoyable Travel and a Memorable Destination Wedding

Travel gives people the chance to experience new locations, cultures, and environments. Visiting places that you have not been to before and meeting diverse groups of people can be a worthwhile combination of excitement and adventure. Traveling is also a great way to take a break from your hectic schedule and spend quality time with your loved ones. It relaxes you and gives you insight into other cultures. A range of delicious cuisine and access to scenic views are among the enjoyable aspects of traveling. Planning for Travel When you go to a different place to celebrate a special occasion, embrace the opportunity and enjoy every moment. From trying new food to participating in exhilarating activities, there is a lot to do while you are away from home. Before you go anywhere it is important to make travel plans, which include determining your destination. When choosing a location, consider factors such as the weather conditions, ongoing events, and the most ideal time to visit a particular location. You also need to consider the best way to travel to your destination and your overall travel budget.  Budget for your trip and decide your exact travel dates. You will be able to finalize your arrangements when you are aware of your financial situation. When your reasons for travel are clear and you have prepared your budget you can delve further into the details of your destination. Think about your interests, the sites you want to see, nightlife and food. Men’s Wedding Bands Looking for the best men’s wedding bands is not a difficult or frustrating task. Focus on investing in a ring that suits your preference and taste as a lasting symbol of your special bond and an item that you are likely to wear throughout your life. Knowing what you and your future spouse want, picking quality designs, and being financially prepared will ensure that you get the perfect men’s wedding band. Find out more at Destination Weddings Destination weddings enable couples to solemnize and celebrate their unions at beautiful destinations of their choice. Couples have the option to get married anywhere in the world and away from home. There are numerous stunning locations to choose from around the world scenic beaches of the Caribbean to the cultural delights of Mexico. Benefits A destination wedding may be an intimate event for the couple, restricted to a few family members and friends or an elaborate affair that consists of several guests in attendance. Many couples continue to opt for intimate celebrations at special destinations rather than conventional and typically costly weddings. A destination wedding enables you to enjoy your celebration for as long as you want while you create memories with family and friends. The intimate nature of such weddings also makes them an affordable option. Couples and Guests If you want to plan this type of wedding, it is important to make sure that your guests will be able and available to attend. It is advisable to let your loved ones know in advance before you commit to a destination wedding. In situations where some relatives are unable to make it to the wedding, you can compromise by having your destination wedding and preparing a reception when you get back home. Consider your guests and their ability to attend when you choose a location for your wedding. Read also : Why Should Ladakh Be Your Next Travel Destination?  Three Amazing Travel Destinations In Africa

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Summer Shades and How to Wear Them

change everywhere around us. While Fashion changes as the season changes and along with it, our wardrobe demand renewal too. Every season has its own shade of colours and as a new season comes along, we see the colour combinationse winter is more about dark and neutral colours, summer time is the time for bright and cheerful colours. No matter how many clothes we own, it is never enough. With each passing season, we need to buy a few outfits and that’s how we build our wardrobe. While purchasing clothes, remember some of them are long lasting and can be worn anytime of the year, so it makes more sense to invest money in these clothes. On the other hand, trendy clothes tend to be in fashion for one season post which they must to be discarded, so it makes sense to buy cheaper ones. As we are in the midst of summer season now, this season is looking forward to its heat, parties, vibrant atmosphere and amazing wardrobe collections. In this post, we will advise you on what colours to wear this summer season. Remember, the colours you wear symbolise your mood and what you are trying to express, so choose them with care    Black You may wonder, black in summer? But believe me! If you are heading for a party, there is nothing like black. When in doubt, you will definitely not regret wearing black. For this summer season, women can opt for a lacy black dress along with with a black or golden sling bag and gold coloured earrings. Men can wear nice black shirts for formal functions. Check the classic black polo shirt for men from Woodhouseclothing.com which can be worn at a formal function as well as for some casual outing with friends. Read also: Classic Dresses: The Little White Dress    Teal Teal, a shade of green, is a different colour as it looks refreshing and classy. A lot of accessories for women come in this colour which can be paired with multiple outfits. Pairing a teal coloured cardigan with a white tank top and white jeans will give a very casual and refreshing summer look. Men can buy teal coloured T-shirts which can be worn with shorts for a casual day at the beach.    Tan If you can think of any season to wear this colour shade, it is the summer season. Beige and tan coloured clothes are extremely popular in summer. This colour reminds us of the people who would for horse-ridings wearing tan coloured boots. Women can buy tan coloured fringe tops or flip flops whereas men can try tan shoes and boots.     Yellow Yellow is the colour for this season, especially lemon or lime yellow, which comes with a hint of green and is absolutely bright. Ladies can choose a bright yellow summer dress along with a hat. Or they can buy yellow coloured accessories like a satchel or wedges. As bright as this colour is, it is a treat to the eyes as it enhances the beauty of the person wearing it. Men can wear yellow coloured slim shirts in offices as well as for parties.    Blue Blue is an evergreen colour and many people choose to wear blue as it appears calm and cool. Pastel blue coloured dress can be worn by women for beach parties whereas men can wear light blue collared shirts in the office. A lot of accessories also come in this colour, hence mixing and matching must not be a problem for women. A blue coloured watch will look absolutely trendy with T-shirts.    Coral Coral is a shade of orange and pink that looks very lively, festive and perky. Women can wear coral coloured tops and wedges along with white bottoms and dangling earrings in office. Men, on the other hand, can buy coral coloured shirts and pair them with white bottoms.    Red Red is another bright colour which makes a person look very lively. It is the colour that indicates glamour and sensuousness and hence, women can wear red colour for date-nights since it looks really sexy. They can choose from red satin dresses or high-low cut dresses which will give a very feminine look for dates. Men, on the other hand, can choose to wear red checks shirts for formal wear or plain red shirts of some shiny material for party wear. Along with the colour of the cloth you choose to wear, fitting is an important parameter which plays a vital role. When buying online, ensure that you have read the size charts well. A tailored suit will almost always look the best of men, so when you order online, make sure that you have accurate measurements. The women apart from the colour should also take into consideration their body shape and order clothes accordingly. A dress with a beautiful colour that accentuates your curves in the right places will make you look ravishing.

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How to Travel with a Suit like a Pro

Traveling with a suit is often essential, and is even more often easier said than done. Whether you’re traveling for an important meeting, a wedding, or any other occasion that requires you to look your best, it’s important to stay at the top of your game. From basic packing tips to choosing the best travel bags and leather briefcases for men, here are a few key guidelines to help keep you and your wardrobe men pointer and ponder while traveling, wherever you’re off to. 1. Take your garment bag game to the next level Most men have had at least one experience of traveling with a garment bag, and this experience is not always positive. Traditional garment bags are often thin, flimsy, and too often susceptible to creasing or folding, especially when stowed with other items. This is a major risk when traveling on commercial airlines, where suits and other hanging items can often get crushed in communal compartments. (Bottom line: a flight attendant will never care about your suit as much as you do.) Read also: Fur Handbags Still In Style? DIY: How To Clean A Leather Handbag The contemporary traveler will do well to opt for a suit garment bag that takes the size, shape, and configuration of a simple briefcase. A well-made garment bag of this style keeps suits, slacks, and shirts smoothly positioned and terrifically compact. An added bonus is being able to stow your suit on your own terms, and these types of bags tend to fit handily into overhead storage compartments. Your best bet is a variation in a sturdy, durable material like Italian leather, but be sure to confirm that the piece is well made and from a trusted brand. (TIP: Make sure that your garment bag is lined with high quality, neutral fabric like 100% cotton or denim. This will keep clothes smelling fresh and protected from outside scents during travel.) 2. Don’t forget the accessories  When traveling with a suit, it’s typical to pack a few accessories as well. Whatever luggage you choose to transport your suit, opt for a piece that has secure, easy to use compartments for cufflinks, a carefully rolled tie or a pocket square, a pressed shirt or two to be hung with the suit itself, and ideally enough space for a pair of dress shoes. (TIP: Save space by rolling socks into one of your shoes.) 3. Plan your course of action Most journeys involve multiple modes of transportation (car, plane, taxi, etc.), and your cargo should be able to effortlessly survive them all. Map out your journey from start to finish, and have a plan for how and where your suit will be stored along the way. Opt for best carry-on luggage options that not only protect your suit but are also easy to carry. For day-of events, you may even choose to wear your suit on the plane, though this can be uncomfortable, and a consolidated, briefcase-style garment bag with a comfortable shoulder strap is still likely to be your best bet. (TIP: Take the guesswork out of the various legs of your journey by contacting your airline in advance, opting for a car service rather than a cab, and making sure that your bag fits the dimensions of a carry-on.) For those that don't want to wear their suits on the route, try booking your flight with an airport near your hotel so when you land, you are minutes away from your final lodging destination. With Hyatt hotels, you are always within a few miles of the city's major airport, meaning you can either walk to your hotel or enjoy a quick complimentary shuttle ride, speeding up the travel process and getting you where you need to be in the least amount of time. Ultimately, there are a few things in life for which skimping are simply not an option. A terrific suit is one of those things, and the luggage you use to keep your suit in top form is another. Treat your suit right, and you’ll arrive at your destination ready to look - and feel - at the absolute top of your game. Read also: 5 Essential Tips For The Traveling Photographer 6 Reasons Why Every Woman Should Travel Solo  

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Five Important Wedding Catering Considerations for Event Planning

Planning for your wedding event is not easy, as there are a lot of considerations that must go into catering selections for your wedding day and not everything revolves around in the type of foods you have. These are five important wedding catering considerations for planning your event. 1. Caterer’s recommendation When you have already selected the best catering service provider for your wedding event, know what their recommendations and suggestions are. Well, if you have decided on the types of foods you’re going to serve before selecting a caterer, there may be limited cuisines that what you expect. But, if the caterers you hired have sufficient experiences about the catering service, they will easily know the best picks to suggest. Read also: Give Amazing Look Using Balloon Centerpieces In Wedding 2. Budget Sad to say, planning for a wedding event is extremely expensive. That’s why before they decided to hire a professional wedding catering service provider you should have enough budget. You need to make sure that everything is well budgeted to prevent any trouble while planning for your big event. 3. Variety & desire The couple should have input into their wedding menu. Take note it’s your special day and you’re the most important persons at the event. When searching for wedding caterers in Birmingham, couples will find a variety of skilled chefs ready to turn their special day into a gastronomic feast.  Make sure that the foods are something that you will truly enjoy. In any big gatherings, varying tastes of the foods are allowed for diversification. Some planners and organizes of a wedding usually ask expected guests if what they prefer based on the limited choices. Doing this can help a lot to prevent wasting foods during the event. Also, if your caterer is well-known for other specialties that are based on successful recipes, that could be a great addition. Anything that is little unusual like unique dessert can add enjoyment and excitement for everyone. 4. Timing & location This is another important factor to consider when planning for your wedding event. Planning for your wedding event is all about making choices. Timing and location are very important determining factors for your big day. Some couples prefer a beach wedding while others prefer a church wedding. Seasons and locations play a big part when it comes to foods and menus that expect by your guests. Although sometimes you don’t follow the standard, things just work well once you do. 5. Taste test Food tasting is also very important to consider during the preparation of your wedding event. Wedding caterers will always provide you samples and pictures of their menus. Don’t be satisfied with the pictures alone. Make sure that you taste the foods that will be served during your event. Also, be more attentive when it comes to the presentation of the foods. This can help you to know exactly how the foods will be presented, helping you to suggest additional things for improvement. A good wedding catering service provider shouldn’t take any exception to dry run. It’s also for their protection. Considering these five factors while planning for your wedding catering event is very important. These are all significant to make your wedding event great and successful. Read also:  Save Money Buying Engagement Rings And Wedding Bands Using These Ingenious Tips

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A Guide To Ear Wax Removal From Camden Opticians

Ear wax may not be the most pleasant of subjects up for discussion but the fact is that it performs a very necessary purpose in keeping our ears clean and germ-free, as well as preventing water or foreign bodies from entering the ear canal. Normally, the ear does a perfectly good job of self-cleaning but some people are more prone to excessive buildup of earwax which can lead to problems if not treated. These can range from the simple but irritating blocked ears to more serious problems like earache. Here, Camden Opticians provide us with a guide to ear wax removal for those thinking they may need it. Causes Of Ear Wax Build-up This common irritation can be a result of: Producing very hard or dry ear wax, especially in elderly people Constant use of implements like cotton buds to try to ‘remove’ the wax – this only serves to push the wax further into the ear canal Bony growths in the outer ear canal or having narrow or hairy ear canals Persistent use of a hearing aid or earphones Problems With Ear Wax Build-up Excessive ear wax can cause various symptoms some of which can require urgent treatment by a GP. You know you have an ear wax build-up if you have any of the following symptoms: Earache or more severe and persistent pain Itchiness A feeling of fullness in the ear Infection – evidenced by pain and a feeling of wetness and the production of pus; there is often a bad odour associated with this Tinnitus – loud rushing or ringing noises in the ear that won’t go away Dizziness Hearing loss There are several products on the market that promise to soften and assist in the irrigation of ear wax but these are seldom successful and can, in some cases, make the problem much worse. Hearing loss arising from infection is the most serious issue associated with a build-up of ear wax and this is why, if you think your ears are blocked, it is imperative that you see a professional for ear wax removal in London who can help using the very latest painless and safest Micro Suction technique. They can also offer advice on how to properly care for your ears to prevent any further recurrence of the problem. You should never attempt to remove ear wax yourself as you run the risk of pushing it further down the ear canal and causing damage to this delicate structure. The Effect Of Ear Wax On General Health Excessive ear wax may seem to be a trivial problem but for some people it can severely impact on their health. A buildup of wax in the ear, apart from giving you a feeling of fullness which can be irritating in itself, can cause you to feel dizzy and nauseous and can even lead to you losing your balance – a condition called vertigo. Repeated infection resulting from ear wax impaction can lead to permanent damage of the inner ear structures. The consequences from this can be seen in permanent and debilitating hearing loss which in turn can affect all areas of your life. Imagine feeling ‘left out’ of conversations at work or in social situations because you cannot hear them properly. Imagine also having to suffer repeated pain because of infection. Read also: The Relationship Between Oral Health And General Health Benefits Of Professional Ear Wax Removal There are, as we said earlier, dangers involved in attempting to remove ear wax by yourself. Not only can you not remove it at all but push it further in, you could actually remove too much and risk leaving the ear exposed to external bodies. Having the procedure done by a professional who has the knowledge and expertise to do this safely will in the long run be beneficial for your health and well-being. Read also: E-Cigarettes: How They Effect On Your Oral Health

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Proven Ways to Grow Hair Faster and Stronger

Long hair is perhaps the first thing that catches everyone’s attention, and eventually, defines your personality, and growing long hair requires proper care and nurture. Numerous people usually ignore the fact that growing hair faster can take a long time followed by adequate look after of hair. There are several ways by which one can naturally augment the growth and strength of hair. Here we’ll discuss some efficient ways by which one can grow stronger hair faster and without any side-effects. A Gentle Massage with Coconut Milk Coconut milk is one the finest things that significantly augments the growth of hair and eventually makes them stronger and shinier. According to statistics, people who use coconut milk on a regular basis have longer and stronger hair. You need to mix a little lemon juice, and few drops of lavender oil to make a rich hair supplement. You can apply the mixture on your scalp and leave it for 5 minutes, and then wash your hair. For best results, it is recommended that you wash your hair with the best shampoo for hair growth, which is available in the market to avoid any side effects. Nurture with Egg Protein As we all are familiar with the amount of protein available in the eggs, applying a homemade egg mask can be quite helpful in complementing hair growth. The protein helps in hair growth and augments the growth of new hair. You can easily make an egg mask at your home by following a simple procedure. Take an egg, and precisely separate the egg white and put it in a bowl. You can now add a teaspoon of olive oil and mix well till it becomes thick. Apply the paste on your hair and leave it for 20 to 30 minutes and then rinse with cold water by using a little amount of shampoo. Take a Healthy Diet Numerous people focus on the outer beauty of the hair by applying numerous hair care products that can eventually damage the hair and leave them dry and dull. One must consume a healthy protein-rich diet that can easily provide proper nurture to the roots of the hair. You must add eggs, milk, and other protein-rich food items that enhance the overall hair growth. Furthermore, there are certain products available in the market that significantly covers protein deficiency in the body. You can consult a dermatologist regarding the consumption of these products. Read also: Top 5 Foods For Healthier And Thicker Hair Use Natural Hair Care Products The market is flooded with the best hair growth products that can be quite useful in improving your hair growth and strengthening your hair. You can use medicated shampoos and conditioners that can easily cover the essential protein needs of your hair and eventually give you stronger and longer hair in a short time. Apart from this, there are other medications available in the market that is proven to be fruitful in reducing hair fall and increasing their length. Conclusion Caring and maintaining hair are essential things to get stronger and thicker hair. You can try the tips mentioned above that are helpful in growing hair quickly. Read also: Top 7 Superfoods For Healthy Skin And Hair From Flint To Lasers – The Evolving Techniques Of Hair Removal  

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Free Summer Activities For Kids In North Wales

Free Summer Activities For Kids In North Wales

Full of activities to keep the whole family amused, and especially the kids, Wales is a fantastic holiday destination with hotels, guesthouses, B&B's, caravan parks in North Wales and cozy self-catering cottages scattered across its 4,000 square miles. From farms to beaches, mountains to canals there is something to interest even the most iPad addicted kid. And fear not for your wallet – there's plenty to do that won't cost a penny! Read also: North Wales is literally surrounded with beautiful beaches, many of which have Blue Flag status.  Try Porth Dafarch on Anglesey for an open expanse of sand, clean water to swim in and rock pools to explore.  Or head to Moelfre where you can visit the famous RNLI Seawatch station. For the full ice-cream-and-donkeys beach day out head to Llandudno. The west shore, facing Conwy, is somewhat quieter if you want to avoid the money-grabbing attractions of the North bay pier. To explore the town further try following White Rabbit footprints on the Alice in Wonderland trail and discover who the real Alice was (she lived there in the 1860s) For something a little more unusual head to Porthor on the Llyn Peninsula and walk on the Whistling Beach – so-called because of the noise the sand makes as you walk across it.  Country Parks Tŷ Mawr country park lies in the Vale of Llangollen and offers plenty of walks, including the famous Pontcysyllte aqueduct. You can walk the 300m across the 18 arches, 38m up in the sky – if you dare! There is a visitors center, BMX track, Trim Trail and play area at the park. Loggerheads near Mold in Denbighshire has a wealth of industrial heritage dating from it's past as a lead mining settlement. You can visit the restored watermill, or follow the Discovery Trail to find out more. Read also: Five Of The UAE’s Gardens And Parks Castles Wales is well known for its castles, both those built by the Welsh, and by the invading English. The best-preserved, such as Harlech and Conwy have entrance fees (although you can walk around the walls of Conwy for free). If you are prepared to go off the beaten track a little you can visit Dolbarden Castle with its huge tower still protecting Llanberis or Castell-y-Bere above Llanfihangel-y-pennant.  Look out for the little engines of the Talyllyn railway puffing up the valley. Thomas the Tank Engine fans may even be able to spot twins of Skarleoy, Rheneas, Duncan, Peter Sam or Sir Handel if they're lucky! Swimming Yes, you can go swimming for free! Of course, the sea is free, and many beaches boast RNLI lifeguards, but if you prefer your water bright blue and not salty seek out the Blue Lagoon near Fairbourne. The Fairy Glen near Betws-y-Coed also offers a few deep pools and paddling opportunities – plus you might see fairies! National Slate Museum Wales was once synonymous with slate and you can visit the free National Slate Museum in Llanberis to find out how it was mined, machined and where it ended up. Open daily with a variety of exhibits and demonstrations of slate splitting. MOSTYN Showcasing the best of Welsh Art, MOSTYN has six ever-changing displays. Entrance to the exhibitions is free and the visitor team can provide Art Explorer sheets to help you make the most of your visit. Teddy Bear Picnic Train Rides On the 5th  and 6th of August, the Miniature Railway in Rhyl will be offering free train rides to children – but only if accompanied by a teddy (and, sadly, a fare-paying adult)! There will also be face painting, competitions, and other family activities. With so much to do and plenty of great places to stay, North Wales is a veritable paradise for kids - and budget-friendly for adults too! Read also: 7 Travel Tips To Feed Your Wanderlust In Europe Three Amazing Travel Destinations In Africa

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From Flint to Lasers – The Evolving Techniques of Hair Removal

I hate having to go through the painful waxing sessions for hair removal! There! I’ve expressed the sentiment that millions of women like me across the world feel every now and then when they look at themselves in the mirror after a shower. My significant other refuses to shave on weekends unless he has a formal event he has to go to. Watching him lounge around the house unconcerned about the two-day stubble, I’ve often wondered how social paradigms developed to the point where having a hairless face and skin became essential. I mean if nature didn’t intend us to have hair, we would have long eliminated the gene that gave us hair in the first place. Makes sense? So, here I was, complaining and mumbling under my breath as I went through my phone looking for the number of my salon. (If I want to look anywhere near presentable in a swimsuit, I would have to schedule an appointment.) Suddenly, it struck me. Who was this historical personality who invented hair removal anyway? I decided to get to the bottom of the issue. It was time to find out if hair removal is really an essential of fashion or plain, good old hygiene. So, I set about doing a bit of research into the issue. Hair Removal Has Been Around Since 30,000 BC (There go my hopes of ushering in a social revolution where hairy faces and bodies were completely acceptable.) As Livestrong says, people as far back as 30,000 BC used the sharp edge of flint to scrape off the hair from their scalps, faces, and bodies. At the time, it WAS a question of hygiene. No hair meant no lice, mites, and other infestations. I dug around a little more to find that everyone (including women) living in the warmer climates would shave off their scalp hair too. Then came a time in the Middle Ages when going hairless (bald?!) was the height of fashion. (I think I am quite happy I don’t live in those times.) The elite would remove all their hair (in the nether regions too) as a sign of quality. Think Romans and their statues and paintings of entirely hairless people. And, the court of Queen Elizabeth I where women removed their eyebrows and the hair on the front of their heads to show off high foreheads. (Phew!)  Hair Removal Techniques Haven’t Evolved All That Much In fact, removing hair in those times was a lot more painful. My research showed that people mainly used tweezing to get rid of the fuzz. They’d use seashells as tweezers or pumice stones and metal blades to scrape hair. Egyptian women are credited with the art of threading. They were the first to use twisted strands to pluck hair in 60 BC. Apparently, they also invented sugaring which is very much like modern-day waxing. And, yes, hair removal creams were also used. Only, women used a solution of quicklime and arsenic to burn off the unwanted hair. (It’s scary to think about what that did to their skins.) Getting Back to the 21st Century Having grudgingly conceded that I would have to get that waxing session, after all, the next step was to explore my options. I mean, doesn’t science and technology have an answer to the problem of unwanted fuzz? (and, a painless one, too!) Look around and you’ll find that there IS one solution that the ancients didn’t have. It’s called removing hair with the help of lasers. But, the question still remains. Does laser hair removal hurt more than waxing? (Remember? We’re still stuck on the issue of pain here!) So, It’s Back to the Internet! I decided that it’s time to look for a more permanent solution (Given that I’m going to have to do this all through my life!). And, if lasers promised clean skin for good, it was worth a shot. Here’s everything I found out about the procedure. Some of the information is from the expert aestheticians who can perform the treatment on you and some other comes from hapless people like me. (If you’re looking for some authoritative details, check out the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory website.) Medscape says that laser hair removal came to be first used in the year 1998 when some guys, Dierickx, and associates first released a paper after conducting 2-year research on the technique. Since then, you can find a whole range of equipment that can help you with unwanted hair. Lasering is a solution that’s perfect for women with darker-colored hair. The deeper pigmentation seems to absorb the heat and directs it to the root. The heat effectively burns the root so that it cannot go back. In a fraction of a second! You’ll probably need about 6 to 8 sessions spaced at intervals of about 6 weeks each. Weigh that against a lifetime of waxing sessions and the cost in terms of dollars (and, the pain!) and you’ll find that lasering is much more economical. You won’t have to worry about ingrown hair with layering. The levels of pain depend on your tolerance and the thickness of the hair. To some extent, the area under treatment is also a factor. So, if you’re working the more delicate sections, it could hurt a little more. Many users have talked about feeling a rubber band twanging against the skin. You can prepare for the session by taking painkillers in advance and using topical numbing creams. Applying ice afterward also helps. Avoid caffeine on the day of the procedure and time it far out from your appointment with Aunt Flo. You’ll save on some of the sensitivity. You can expect that the treated area will look pink for a few days and since the hair will be falling out, you may have to exfoliate thoroughly. Some women have also talked about noticing a singed hair odor. Laser treatments can be of two different wavelengths and doctors choose the appropriate one according to the color and texture of your hair and skin. As you go through the sessions, your aestheticians may work out a combination for you. Avoid trimming the hair before your session for a week or so and the treatment will be much more effective. Lasering doesn’t take a lot of time. You can get the session done during your lunch break. Lasering is great for both and women. You’ll be wearing protective eyeglasses all through the session so you needn’t worry about any potential harmful effects. There you go - the results of my digging around for the perfect solution for unwanted fuzz. Come to think of it, humans have come quite a long way in their quest for the perfect hair removal solution. From flint and cuts and nicks to the permanent option of lasers! (Who knows, over the next few hundred centuries, we might just mutate into humans without the need for lasers too. Um, they aren’t entirely painless, you know!)  To know more: 6 Stunning Long Hairstyles For Oval Faces

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A Brief Guide On Applications of Spray Dryers

 If you’re unfamiliar with the spray drying process, you might be wondering what it’s used for and how exactly it works. Plus, you’ll learn about some applications you’re probably already using. How does a spray dryer work? A slurry is a mixture of liquid solution and other solid materials. Companies like Elan Technology use a spray dryer to produce dry, granular powders from this mixture. This is achieved by applying the spray dryer, which uses hot air coming from a rotating wheel or nozzle to rapidly dry the slurry. Why is it used? In simple terms, a spray dryer is used to turn a liquid into a powder. There is a multitude of applications for spray drying that stretch across many different industries. One application that you’ve definitely seen, heard of, and likely even used before is powdered milk products. Milk is 80% to 90% water,  which means spray drying is an effective way to reduce its bulk down and make it last longer on the shelf. Using spray drying for milk products allows milk to be taken to areas where it would otherwise be unreachable.  Spray drying is also used to make whey protein supplements and countless other products, along with instant coffee and corn starch. Outside of the food industry, it is used in the manufacturing of soap products, detergents, fertilizer, resins, and mineral ores and clays. Is it like dehydrating? Spray drying is similar to the traditional dehydration process (usually used for solid foods) in that it applies hot air in order to remove the water from a substance. The liquid is rapidly dried out, producing a fine powder that will later likely return to a liquid when the end-user adds backwater (like with powdered milk). How old is the process? Spray drying is nothing new. And although still very prevalent today, the concept of it has remained unchanged for decades.  It is a patented process and is traceable back to 1872. Samuel Percy is considered to be the inventor as he was the first to describe the process. However, it was 50 years before the process was fine-tuned and finally began being used in commercial manufacturing. While it sounds simple, it does take a bit of science to get the perfect temperature to produce a usable end powder. A certain amount of moisture has to be removed, or the powder will be clumpy due to some water being left over. Spray drying is a very useful technique that is in place in countless industries. Without it, people would not be able to enjoy powdered milk, instant coffee, or many kinds of detergent—like the most common dishwasher and clothing detergent products. Samuel may have been the first to invent the process, but thousands of companies use it today. While the machines have been upgraded to work faster and produce more product, the basic concept has remained the same, and thanks to 50 years prior to fine-tuning, it always will. 

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Fat Burners

5 Best Stimulant-Free Fat Burners

Every year, millions of people start off with a resolution to lose weight and achieve the body that they have always dreamed of. However, by mid-year, a lot of people have already gone back to their usual less-than-healthy routine. With summer approaching though, some people start scrambling to get their body ready for the beach, and so they try fat burner supplements to complement their diet and exercise. It’s not easy to find one that works, and it’s even more difficult to find one that is free of side effects. There are two types of fat burners that you can choose from depending on their effects on your nervous system. The stimulant fat burners contain ingredients that can affect your heart rate and stimulate the nervous system. The non-stimulant fat burners do not have any effect on the nervous system and are usually free of those types of side effects. Read also: 5 Common Weightlifting Mistakes Women Should Avoid Many stimulant fat burners are reported to have negative effects on its users. This type of fat burners typically contains caffeine in large amounts. This ingredient can cause insomnia and anxiety when consumed in excess. Many popular fat burners also contain ephedrine, which is potentially dangerous in large amounts and can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Another side effect is the increased levels of cortisol that can eventually result in anxiety disorders and chronic stress. This is why non-stimulant fat burners can be a better option compared to stimulant based ones. To give you an overview of the benefits of non-stimulant fat burners, take a look at the ingredients usually found in them: Carnitine Carnitine is an amino acid that is usually called L-carnitine or acetyl l-carnitine. The body produces carnitine with the use of lysine and methionine to help in transferring fatty acids to the mitochondria. These fatty acids like triglycerides will undergo the process of oxidation to produce energy. It can also help in storing less fat and burning more calories. Some foods such as animal foods contain this amino acid but supplements have higher amounts of carnitine more beneficial for weight loss. Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) is a natural fatty acid derived from omega-6 fatty acids and linoleic acid. It is commonly found in dairy products as well as meat. But the supplemental CLA is created from safflower or sunflower oil. Due to the presence of linoleic acid, CLA is an essential ingredient when it comes to suppressing the appetite, decreasing body fat mass, and preventing fat production. Sesamin Sesamin is also called lignin. It is a compound that is mostly found in sesame seed. Oats, flax, and other grain-based products are also good sources of sesamin. Lignin reduces fat storage by increasing the activities related to the metabolism of fat. It is also a known ingredient in many antioxidant supplements. Apart from that, it is also an estrogen receptor modulator that men can consume to maintain higher levels of testosterone. Seaweeds Seaweed may be one of the last things that you will think of when it comes to fat loss. It is not only an ingredient to the food that you eat such as sushi. The carotenoid siphonaxanthin is a xanthophyll present in green algae that can reduce fat. It controls adipogenesis, the process of cell differentiation. This stops fat development in tissues and can reduce appetite. Exogenous Ketones Exogenous Ketone is a nutritional supplement that contains ketones. This main ingredient is a compound that is naturally created by the body to produce energy for the mitochondria from fats. Ketones have a small molecular structure that is considered to be a more efficient fuel than glucose. Aside from fat reduction, some of its other benefits include lower heart rate, oxygen consumption and increased levels of cardiovascular endurance. Your choice in the type of fat burner you should use depends on your needs and preferences. You must look at the benefits and downsides of both types. Picking the wrong supplement could cause more problems than expected. Since the non-stimulant fat burners have more advantages than disadvantages for those who are sensitive to caffeine or those with anxiety disorders, it is recommended that you choose these if you have such problems. There is an effective fat burner for everyone! Read also: Tips To Lose Weight Naturally How To Lose Your Weight With Venus Factor 6 Imbalances In Body Hampering Weight Loss Efforts

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