How to Know if Breathwork is Working

How to Know if Breathwork is Working



Just like with many other mind-altering techniques, the effects of breathwork can sometimes be subtle. Some people don't realize the effect the breathwork journey has had on them; and they stop attending sessions before realizing the technique's full benefit. Successful breathers describe their experiences with words such as "lightness," "peace" and "healing." Breathwork simply involves altering one's breathing patterns for physical and emotional benefit, and breathwork practioners say it can be an effective method of stress relief. Follow these steps to find out if breathwork is working for you.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Breathwork practitioner







Learn About Breathwork




1


Know the basics. Breathwork is a psychotherapeutic technique that allows the breather to expunge repressed thoughts and memories. Through deliberate hyperventilation, the breather is able to reach a heightened state of mind.





2


Learn more about the process. Breathers work with a sitter, often in the company of other pairs. The sitter helps the breather on his or her journey by providing blankets, pillows and tissues. The entire group is then guided by a facilitator who will instruct the breathers on how to breathe or indicate actions to perform that can trigger a cathartic release, such as hitting the pillow and yelling at it.





3


Understand the goal of breathwork before you perform it. The idea behind breathwork is to return to a state of infancy by simulating the birthing process, called "rebirthing." You may be asked to disrobe and be submerged in water (to simulate amniotic fluid).





4


Complete your education online by visiting sites like the Association for Holotropic Breathwork International Web site (see Resources below).



Analyze Your Breathwork Experience




1


Surrender yourself to breathwork to ensure that it's working for you. Since the point of breathwork is to allow you a release from your repressed thoughts, open yourself to letting them go. If you don't overpower the Ego controlling those repressions, the effects of breathwork will be mitigated.





2


Know that not every journey is going to be deep. Sometimes a breather can walk away from a breathwork session and not experience a major catharsis. That doesn't mean breathwork isn't working. Look for the physical benefits such as decreased stress, a feeling of relaxation or more energy.





3


Don't worry if you fall asleep. That may be breathwork telling you that you're not ready and need to know more about yourself before you return.








Tips & Warnings










Contact a breathwork facilitator in your area for current rates since prices will range from affordable to expensive. Typical packages offered are single, multi-day, private and group sessions. Some facilitators will organize retreats.








Breathwork requires the breathers to change their breathing patterns drastically. This can cause problems for people with respiratory ailments such as asthma. Additionally, some breathwork participants experience hypoxia, which is a lack of oxygen. Lastly, there have been a few cases of temporary insanity caused by the strong images and thoughts brought about by the breathwork journey. Make sure you are mentally healthy before undergoing a session.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031534_breathwork-working.html

How to Know If Aromatherapy Is Working

How to Know If Aromatherapy Is Working



Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils--extracted from leaves, stems, roots, fruits and flowers--to supposedly remedy an array of physical and psychological maladies. Many claim these techniques have been used to treat health problems such as stress, infections, anxiety and immune deficiencies.







Things You'll Need:





Pen and notebook to log your progress







Know if Aromatherapy is Working for You




1


Purchase a notebook. This book will help you keep track of your treatment and your progress.





2


Know where you're coming from. In your notebook, describe your condition as it exists right now to the best of your ability. If you are overweight and hope to lose weight with the help of aromatherapy, for example, log your current weight to use as a baseline in your progress.





3


Learn from the past. You'll need to get an idea of what sort of progress can be expected, and in how much time. Research the cases of others who've found success with the aromatherapy technique you're using, and use their timelines as a base for your expectations.





4


Set your goals. It's important to be clear about what you want to accomplish and when. Use the examples uncovered in your research to help keep your goals realistic.





5


Log your progress. Check in regularly to see if your goals are being accomplished. This is the best way to know whether or not your aromatherapy treatment is working.





6


Fine-tune your techniques. As your therapy progresses, your notes will give you a sense of which treatments bring the best results for you. Don't be afraid to tweak your therapy to reflect this information.





7


Deepen your knowledge of aromatherapy by visiting the International Federation of Aromatherapists Web site (see Resources below). There you'll find a plethora of information about the history and uses of these ancient techniques.








Tips & Warnings










Measuring your progress with aromatherapy won't carve a hole in your finances. All you'll need is a budget-priced notebook and a pen.








Be decisive if your treatment doesn't seem to be working. If you've set reasonable goals and timelines and your treatment hasn't lived up to them, don't be afraid to either radically alter your treatment approach or abandon the treatment entirely.








If you are suffering from severe symptoms such as profuse and prolonged bleeding, do not attempt to treat your condition with aromatherapy. When faced with life-threatening conditions such as these, it is best to seek the aid of a physician.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031453_aromatherapy-working.html

How to Increase Your Energy Through Breathwork

How to Increase Your Energy Through Breathwork



There's so much to do in a day that it's often hard to find the energy to get everything done. Sometimes, even sleep doesn't restore our energy. The solution may be right under your nose. Some believe that breathing properly and guided breathing exercises can increase your energy both physically and mentally, relieving symptoms like stress or even insomnia. Follow these steps to increase your energy through breathwork.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Breathwork facilitator







Understand Proper Breathing




1


Realize that most of us don't breathe correctly and thus bear a higher level of stress. Since the lungs are not proportioned evenly throughout, the top half of the lungs exchange oxygen less efficiently than the bottom half. If you don't breathe deeply, you're not maximizing your oxygen intake.





2


Know that when you breathe shallowly with your chest and receive less oxygen, your heart pumps faster, which increases both your blood pressure and your stress level. You'll deplete energy levels managing that stress.





3


Be comforted knowing that when you simply increase your oxygen intake, your heart rate slows, your blood pressure drops and your stress levels decline. You'll find that your energy reserves increase and the tension in your muscles fades away.





4


Practice proper breathing techniques. Inhale through your nose, pause and exhale through your mouth, focusing on the core muscles of your abdomen. Try to pull these muscles toward your spine during the exhale.





5


Read more about proper breathing at The Happy Guy Web site (see Resources below).



Increase Positive Energy and Decrease Negative Energy




1


Be aware that breathwork can be enhanced by complementary strategies that reduce negative energy and increase positive energy. Consider adding yoga or Pilates to your daily routine, since both of these disciplines focus on proper breathing techniques as well as muscle tone and definition.





2


Know that breathwork attempts to remove the negative energy inside us through a process called rebirthing, which simulates the birthing process. In doing so, the negative energy is released as a baby would release it and allows you to increase your positive energy.





3


Find more information about breathwork and rebirthing at the Association for Holotropic Breathwork International Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Breathwork classes can come with fees ranging from the affordable to the expensive. Many facilitators offer different packages, including private and group sessions, single-day sessions and weekend retreat sessions. Ask your local practitioner for his or her current rates.








Breathwork usually consists of drastically altering breathing patterns to achieve heightened states. If you have breathing problems such as asthma, consult your physician before enrolling in classes. Additionally, be aware that breathwork participants are prone to hypoxia (not enough oxygen) and rare cases of insanity. These should both be treated by a qualified physician or emergency room technician.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031531_increase-energy-through.html

How to Harmonize Your Body Through Chinese Medicine

How to Harmonize Your Body Through Chinese Medicine



A core principle of traditional Chinese medicine is that the human body, in its perfect state, is completely harmonized. Chinese medicine practitioners believe that chronic pain, illnesses like the flu and medical conditions such as allergies and high blood pressure are caused by an imbalance in that harmony. Chinese medical practices, particularly acupuncture and herbal treatments, aim to harmonize the body by restoring that natural balance. Follow these steps to find out how you can harmonize yours.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access









1


Understand the Taoist principles of Yin and Yang which underlie the theory behind Chinese medicine. Knowledge of these principles will assist your understanding of how traditional Chinese medicine can work to harmonize your body.





2


Know where your body's primary energy centers are. In Chinese medicine, the Meridian system is used to systematize the flow of energy. You'll use them to harmonize your body by ensuring the proper flow of energy.





3


Learn about Zang Fu organ theory, which relates the function of each of your body's organs to either Yin or Yang. Using this knowledge to your advantage will help you harmonize your body.





4


Find listings of Chinese medicine practitioners through the Worldwide Health Center's online registry (see Resources below). Working with an experienced professional may help you better harmonize your body. You can also speak with a specialist to help better your understanding of this ancient discipline.





5


Consult an acupuncture specialist, explain your symptoms and undergo treatment. Acupuncture activates the body's own natural healing properties, allowing you to reset your harmonic balance.





6


Meditate. Using proper meditation techniques will restore you to a state of wakeful tranquility and will facilitate proper physical healing.





7


Exercise. Traditionalists swear by it, particularly the
martial arts
, to restore your body's equilibrium.





8


Use
Chinese herbs
. Taking the proper herbal supplements may be the only step you need to take and may prevent future recurrences of your symptoms. Check with a Chinese medicine practitioner to see what specific conditions can be treated through the use of herbs.





9


Go on a diet. Specific food combinations and, in particular, the use of herb combinations, are used extensively in Chinese medicine to promote a return to proper body chemistry. Learn more by conferring with a Chinese herbologist.





10


Refrain from consuming alcohol, tobacco and/or drugs as much as possible while you're trying to harmonize your body through Chinese medicine.





11


Ask for help. The proprietor of your local health food store will be able to suggest treatments for basic conditions, such as fatigue or insomnia. A qualified practitioner of Chinese medicine will skillfully direct the treatment of more serious maladies.








Tips & Warnings










Consult a qualified practitioner of Chinese medicine before implementing any changes in your diet or lifestyle. Costs involved with such appointments are generally affordable.








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








If you experience any acute pain, numbness or "tingling"' in your extremities, visit a doctor or ER immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031539_harmonize-body-through.html

How to Give an Oriental Bodyworks Massage

How to Give an Oriental Bodyworks Massage



Oriental bodyworks is based on ancient Asian medicinal theories that claim the cause of most physical and mental disturbances is imbalanced energy levels. To correct this imbalance, Oriental bodyworks practitioners believe massage therapy, through deep-tissue or pressure point massage, is essential. Massage therapy involves identifying the pressure points in the body which are tied to specific ailments--like digestive problems, fatigue and back ache--and stimulating these areas to provide more energy and blood flow through the body.







Things You'll Need:





Glass of water




Soap and water




Firm massage mat or table




Carefully planned therapy strategy







Prepare to Give an Oriental Bodyworks Massage




1


Meet with your patient before the first session to discuss specific ailments and to formulate a strategy for treatment.





2


Clean up your work area before your patient arrives to ensure the proper atmosphere for treatment. Since the success of Oriental bodyworks therapy relies heavily on atmosphere and relaxation, it's important to maintain a proper environment.





3


Decide the first treatment before your patient arrives. This will ensure a smoother session and will help you keep within your time limits.





4


Wash your hands thoroughly and make sure your nails are appropriately trimmed before starting.





5


Have your patient lie down flat on a firm body massage mat.





6


Proceed with the massage by identifying the appropriate pressure points associated with the disorder.





7


Begin with light pressure, especially if this is your patient's first session.





8


Increase pressure over the course of the massage to speed up the balancing of energy levels.





9


Give your patient a large glass of water after the massage to replenish bodily fluids and facilitate energy travel.





10


Follow up with your patient in a few days to determine whether the massage was successful or not. At this time, you may want to re-evaluate your current strategy or develop a sound plan for the next meeting.








Tips & Warnings










Invest in a moderately-priced massage table to make your massages more comfortable and to give your practice an air of professionalism.








If at any point during the massage your patient begins experiencing sudden pain, loss of vision, bleeding or difficulty breathing, stop immediately and call 911.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031487_oriental-bodyworks-massage.html

How to Dress to Minimize Fat Thighs

How to Dress to Minimize Fat Thighs



Many women are unhappy with the way their thighs look. Even skinny women seem to think their thighs are too fat. Since this is perceived as a problem area for most women, it's important to know how to dress to minimize fat thighs. The right clothing can help to camouflage the appearance of those dreaded thunder thighs.









Step
1



Buy pants with a wide leg that don't accentuate the difference in size between your calves and your thighs. The pants should flow straight down, forming a column from your hips. A slim pant leg brings attention to fat thighs because they look so much larger than the calves.




Step
2



Wear special body-slimming underwear to help smooth out and shape your thighs. This underwear minimizes the appearance of cellulite, and shrinks the butt and thigh areas as well. Even though your thighs look smaller, still refrain from wearing tight pants with this underwear. People can see the bulge of fat where the underwear ends.




Step
3



Call attention to your upper half instead of your fat thighs by wearing flirty shirts. A sexy pair of earrings or a beautiful necklace draws attention away from your thighs as well.




Step
4



Sport dark-colored pants when possible. Dark colors are naturally slimming so they make your thighs appear smaller. Not only do they minimize fat thighs, but black pants virtually go with any color top, making it easier to mix and match your wardrobe.







Tips & Warnings









Don't wear jeans that have whiskers or fading around the thighs. This calls attention to the area that you're trying to avoid.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2089193_dress-minimize-fat-thighs.html

How to Dress to Minimize Big Hips

How to Dress to Minimize Big Hips



If you have big hips, there are many ways that you can dress to minimize that feature of your body. Don't get upset or frustrated with your hip size, instead learn to use your clothes to create an optical illusion to minimize your big hips.









Step
1



Wear the right size clothes. Often women that have big hips hide under baggy, loose fitting clothes.




Step
2



Select pants that do not have any pleats and are fitted to just below the waist. They should have wide legs and no side pockets.




Step
3



Avoid buying pants that have anything on the back, such as detailing or ornamentation.




Step
4



Choose skirts and dresses in dark colors that are an A-line style to make your hips look smaller.




Step
5



Distract the attention from your hips by wearing a dress that has a tighter top and a looser bottom. A design on the top part of the dress will draw the eye to that area.




Step
6



Opt for coats with wider bottoms to minimize your big hips. A coat with lapels and a big collar will keep the attention on the upper portion of your body.




Step
7



Make hips appear smaller with hip huggers and low rise jeans. Boot cut, flared leg or wide leg jeans help proportion your figure.







Tips & Warnings









The color black creates a slimming look because it creates a negative space.








Horizontal stripes make your hips appear wider, whereas clothing with vertical lines is more slenderizing.








Never wear a pleated skirt, as it will draw attention to your hips.








Avoid wearing clothing with pockets. Remove them or have them sewn closed.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2154049_dress-minimize-big-hips.html

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Stomach

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Stomach



Fashions may change, but the look best suited to your body type will always allow you to dress with confidence. A few simple fashion tricks can minimize your tummy bulge and make fretting over your midsection a thing of the past.







Things You'll Need:





Cashmere Shawl



Hair Accessories



Women's Casual Tops



Women's Dress Coats



Women's Dress Shirts



Women's Dress Sweater



Diamond Earrings



Diamond Necklaces









Step
1



Concentrate on using clothes to direct attention away from your stomach and toward your upper body and legs. Accessorize your neckline or choose tops with patterns or embroidery above the breasts.




Step
2



Choose pants that have a narrow or tapered leg. Flat front, side and back zips will complement your figure, while pockets, pleats and tight pants will only draw attention to your mid section. Leggings and stirrup pants are great, provided they are not too tight.




Step
3



Select full skirts that do not gather at the waist. Straight or slim skirts will narrow the silhouette of your lower body, creating the illusion that your overall line is slimmer.




Step
4



Wear tunic-style tops and sweaters; they're flattering, yet spacious. Select square shape jackets, as they are roomy and cover the stomach.




Step
5



Look for generous sheath dresses that create a column line from your shoulders to your lower leg. This style gives the illusion that your shape is more linear.




Step
6



Avoid any clothing combination that defines your waist, including any belted or drawstring looks.







Tips & Warnings









Designs or details around the cuff of your pants will draw an admirer's attention down your leg and away from your stomach.



http://www.ehow.com/how_9636_dress-minimize-large.html

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Chest

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Chest



Many women with small breasts wish that they had a bigger bust. But the women who have those sought-after large breasts know they're not always the best things to have. When people often talk to your chest instead of your face, it's important to know how to dress to minimize large breasts.









Step
1



Wear dark colors such as black or navy blue. Light colors bring attention to large breasts, while dark colors help to camouflage them. Patterns and stripes naturally call attention to the chest area, so stay away from them as well. Choose a v-neck instead of round because it visually divides your chest, making your breasts look smaller.




Step
2



Dress in loose fitting tops to minimize large breasts. Tight tops stretch around the breasts, causing people to look at that area. This goes for jackets as well. It's best to wear a cropped jacket or double breasted blazer to minimize the bust line.




Step
3



Use accessories to draw attention away from your large breasts. By sporting some sexy earrings or a pretty anklet, people may look at those instead of your chest.




Step
4



Buy a supportive, seamless bra. These bras work wonders for your wardrobe by minimizing the bust line. Avoid using
sports
bras unless you're exercising because squeezing into something too tight can cause back problems and unnecessary pain.







Tips & Warnings









Don't wear spandex or anything that stretches around the chest area. Spandex and big breasts don't mix.








While it's good to wear loose fitting tops, avoid wearing something that's too large. This only makes breasts look bigger.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2089192_dress-minimize-large-chest.html

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Bottom

How to Dress to Minimize a Large Bottom



Fashion is fun and can also be very functional when you take your figure into consideration. A few fashion tips can help you dress to diminish an ample bottom.







Things You'll Need:





Women's Casual Tops



Women's Causal Pants



Women's Dress Coats



Women's Dress Pants



Women's Dress Sweater



dresses and skirts









Step
1



Wear wide-leg pants. Steer clear of back pockets or any detailing around the buttocks. Avoid styles that cup your cheeks; opt instead for styles that hang full from the middle of the bottom. Front pleats and pockets will help balance your silhouette.




Step
2



Choose full or A-line skirts that hang loosely from the body.




Step
3



Pair a short jacket with a long skirt and a long jacket with a shorter skirt.




Step
4



Select jackets that are slightly fitted and taper gently. Boxy styles may accentuate the size of your bottom.




Step
5



Wear "empire" dresses for evening. Avoid clingy bias-cut styles, as they are unflattering to your body type.




Step
6



Bring the focus of your admirers' eyes to your upper body. Wear brightly colored or patterned tops, and consider accessories around the neckline.




Step
7



Remember that dark colors slim your figure. Consider navy, dark brown, charcoal and black as base colors.




Step
8



Flaunt well-toned legs. This will draw attention where you'd prefer to have it.


http://www.ehow.com/how_9634_dress-minimize-large.html

How to Dress to Meet Your Boyfriend's Parents

How to Dress to Meet Your Boyfriend's Parents



First impressions are important, so make the right one with these clothing ideas.







Things You'll Need:





Flat-front Pants



Knee-length Skirts



Mary Janes



Mules



Scoop-neck Sweaters



Sheath Dresses



Makeup Kits



Jewelry









Step
1



Find out where the first meeting will occur. Will it be in a formal or casual setting?




Step
2



Keep your makeup very light.




Step
3



Zip up a black sheath dress for a more formal occasion. Top it off with a cardigan, either tied around your shoulders or pulled on.




Step
4



Slip on a plain black or gray wool skirt with a cashmere cropped, scoop-neck sweater for a meeting in a relaxed atmosphere.




Step
5



Pair flat-front trousers with a funnel-neck sweater.




Step
6



Wear a simple wool dress with black mules for easy chic. Or opt for a V-neck sweater with an A-line skirt.




Step
7



Button up a twinset with a knee-length skirt and flat Mary Janes.







Tips & Warnings









These outfits can be dressed up or down, depending on your choice of jewelry and accessories.








Pick colors that flatter your skin tone to appear more radiant.








Keep your hair off your face to appear more welcoming.








Steer clear of clothing that's too tight, short or revealing.



http://www.ehow.com/how_9763_dress-meet-boyfriends.html

How to dress to look slimmer without dieting

How to dress to look slimmer without dieting



Need to lose that elusive 10lbs but can't seem to find a diet that works? Rather than deny yourself the odd chocolate or potato chip, make your clothes work for you. By making the right fashion decisions, you may never have to diet again!







Things You'll Need:





Good undergarments



Great accessories



An understanding of your body shape









Step
1



Great undergarments can go a long way in giving you a firmer and smoother appearance. It doesn't pay to be frugal when purchasing body slimmers, slips and bras. Chosen wisely, they will disguise any lumps or pouches and make you feel more attractive in your chosen garments.




Step
2



High heels may not be the most comfortable choice for footwear, but they do make legs appear longer and add length to your body.




Step
3



Wear colours that look great on you. Not sure which do? Colour experts are on hand to offer advice, but why not save money and ask a trusted friend. Go through your wardrobe with her and hold up various garments to have her choose which are best.




Step
4



Unifying your colour palette helps create length as well. Using one colour avoids your body seeming fragmented or blocky.




Step
5



If you're a typical pear shape, avoid anything too tight on your bottom half. Knee-length A-line skirts are perfect as they draw attention from the bum and thighs. Pant waistlines should fall just below the natural waist for a good fit. Boot-cut or straight leg trousers are most flattering, in a dark shade. Avoid detailing around the hip area such as embroidery.




Step
6



For pears, on your top half, look for fitted tops, preferably open collar that will divert attention to your face. Jackets and blazers should hit anywhere but the hips to prevent making them appear bigger.




Step
7



Apple-shaped or top heavy women are best looking for tops that skim the body. If you've been blessed with nice cleavage, you can show them off with a sexy camisole.




Step
8



Apples can disguise their top-heaviness by choosing an A-line skirt as it will give you the appearance of a nipped in waist. Shorter skirts can draw attention to your legs while diverting it from your top-half. Trousers without pleats are a must. Avoid pencil skirts or skinny jeans as they will emphasise your tummy.




Step
9



An oversized handbag can work wonders as it makes you appear smaller. Ensure your handbag's length isn't level with a problem area, such as the hips. The shape of the handbag can compliment your figure. For those with rounder shapes, choose a square bag.




Step
10



When looking for items, try to put fashion trends to the back of your mind. At the end of the day, if they don't flatter your figure, they aren't worthy of being in your wardrobe. Look for items which flatter you...not the fashionistas!


http://www.ehow.com/how_2116559_dress-look-slimmer-dieting.html

How to Dress to Look Skinnier

How to Dress to Look Skinnier



Have you ever met people who look much thinner then they actually are? It may or may not be their body shape. There are a few tricks you can use to make yourself look thinner. You don't have to have a perfect body to look great in certain outfits if you know how to manipulate appearance through dress.







Things You'll Need:





Dark clothing









Step
1



Wear dark colors. Lighter colors have a tendency to show off a person's flaws. Choose dark colors to hide some of those flaws and make you look skinnier.




Step
2



Show more of your neck to look thinner. If your neck looks longer it will make you look skinnier. Wear V-neck shirts or low-cut blouses to help make you appear thinner.




Step
3



Avoid the horizontal. Horizontal stripes make you look wider. Wearing clothing with horizontal stripes can actually make you look bigger than you are. Wear clothing with vertical stripes or no stripes at all.




Step
4



Change your proportions. Or at least look like you did. Wear low-rise pants to make your trunk appear longer and less bulky.




Step
5



Keep your hair out of your face. If you have long hair you should wear it up to make you look skinnier. If you don't like to wear your hair up, try curls.




Step
6



Wear accessories near the features you want to accentuate to draw attention from problem areas.







Tips & Warnings









Wear clothes that fit. If you wear clothes that are too bulky or too tight it will make you look bigger.








Dress with confidence. Confidence goes a long way when you want to look good.








Avoid pleated pants and skirts. Flat fronted pants will make you appear skinnier.








Do not wear anything shiny near areas you are trying to hide.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2034292_dress-look-skinnier.html

How to Dress to Look Older

How to Dress to Look Older



Is your wardrobe full of cheap and trendy stuff? Are you always alternating between various looks and are not consistent with one? Do you have a nose ring, belly piercing and multiple holes in your ears? If you answered, "Yes, to any of the above, read on to develop a more adult version of your self.







Things You'll Need:





Long Skirts



Men's Dress Shirts



Men's Dress Shoes



Men's Dress Sweater



Mens' Dress Pants



Sports Coat



Women's Dress Coats



Women's Dress Shirts



Women's Dress Shoes









Step
1



Make a jump from junior departments and stores to more contemporary, grown-up clothes. On your next shopping trip, pass up Contempo and Wet Seal, for instance, and head for Club Monaco, where you can still get the trends in a more adult version.




Step
2



Buy better quality. Junior brands provide the item of the minute without quality in mind. Brands that are not focused on the junior market are likely to be higher-quality, more expensive and a lot more elegant.




Step
3



Avoid wearing the most extreme versions of a trend. Put away the extravagantly wide cargo pants and high platforms in favor of modified versions. If you want a piercing, keep it low key by only getting one, preferably in a place that can be hidden.




Step
4



Consider wearing only one trendy item per outfit. Platform shoes are very popular and so are animal prints, but wearing cheetah-print platform boots is too extreme. Opt for solid boots with a thinner heel and a small item in an animal print, such as a top or scarf.




Step
5



Be consistent, but leave room in your wardrobe for a few surprises and seasonal changes.







Tips & Warnings









Try not to lose your sense of humor in your effort to look older. You can still wear the wacky bird necklace you found at the flea market or the plastic bead necklace a friend made you. Keep the touches that give you individuality.



http://www.ehow.com/how_16537_dress-look-older.html

How to Dress to Hide Fat Calves

How to Dress to Hide Fat Calves



Are your calves a bit thicker than you'd like? As you might expect, this can be a problem for women who are overweight, but surprisingly it can affect thinner women also. Women who are athletic often develop the muscles in their calves which cause them to appear thick relative to the rest of their leg. While some women like having strong, solid calves, others want to play them down and give the illusion of longer, thinner legs. This is particularly true if your calves are composed of more fat than they are muscle. Fortunately, fat calves can be downplayed by using some clever fashion tricks.









Step
1



Choose the right pants.

Wearing full length pants are an excellent way to hide thick calves. The best style for the thick calved lady is a full length pant that flares below the knee. Avoid wearing tight pants that taper towards the ankle as the material may cling to the calves, enhancing their size. You'll also want to avoid
Capri
pants


and pants that are cropped below the knee since this will call attention to the calves and shorten leg length.




Step
2



Choose the Right Skirt.

Although you may be tempted to hide your calves in pants most of the time, you can still look dynamite in a skirt even if your calves are not your best feature. The key is to select an A-line skirt that flares towards the knee which gives the illusion of thinner calves. You'll want to avoid a clingy skirt that tapers and stops at mid calf. Anything that clings to the leg above the calves will enhance their size. A long, full skirt can be particularly attractive on thick calved women since the material covers plump calves.




Step
3



Choose the Right Shoes.

When you select a shoe, choose one that balances thick calves. You'll want to avoid stiletto heels and heels with ankle straps which will draw the eye to your thick calves. You'll also want to stay away from flat heeled shoes such as ballet flats which can make your legs appear shorter and calves thicker. Open toed shoes with a solid heel tend to be flattering as well as boots that stop just below the knee. Avoid wearing boots that stop at mid calf or below. Knee length boots can be a godsend for women with heavier calves who want to wear skirts. Pair them with a skirt that flairs toward the hemline for maximum calf slimming effect.




Step
4



Go Monochromatic.

If you have thick calves, you can reduce their appearance and elongate your legs by wearing dark, monochromatic colors. Opt for dark brown or black hose paired with skirts, pants, and shoes that match. This will also give the illusion of thinness even if you don't happen to be at ideal body weight.


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