How to Shave Your Pubic Hair - A Woman's Guide

If you are reading this article, I will assume that you are a first-timer and have never taken scissors, a razor, an electric shaver or anything else to the fuzz growing between your legs. It may be in a state of complete chaos and you're wondering how things ever got so out of control...but the important thing is that you've taken that first step and decided to shave.

Before you get started, you may want to take some time to consider the various hair styles and designs you can select when it comes to taking this hair removal plunge. There is so much to cover, we've made a completely separate article about it. In the past, it has been common to just trim or pluck the bikini area, go with a basic landing strip pattern or simply shave it all off. But in the 21st century, people are taking a much more creative approach to pubic hair grooming; shaving or waxing intricate patterns into their hair and even coloring it.

Body Bath

You'll should gather everything you'll need in the bathroom (generally the best place to do this task) so you don't need to stop in the middle of the process to fetch something. I will be focusing on shaving with a personal razor (non-electric) and shaving cream for the majority of this article. I personally use the Gillette Venus Vibrance and find it leaves a very smooth shave. If you want to save a few bucks on razor blades, you don't need to buy their special Vibrance blades because they are no different than the original Venus ones aside from coloring - but don't tell Gillette I told you that!

Now it's time to get down to business. One of the first things you will want to do is trim down your pubic hair with a pair of clean scissors or an electric razor. (If you've shaved before and your pubic hair isn't very long, you can skip this first step and just start with the main event.) You want your scissors or razor to be clean so you don't cause yourself any unnecessary risks of infection. When you shave, it is likely that tiny nicks will develop (some of them so tiny you won't even see them) and if you're using scissors you were just using to prune flowers in your garden or an electric razor you used on your dog, your chances of a bacterial infection are certainly going to be elevated.

"Trim down" means what it sounds like. The goal is not to remove all your pubic hair in this step but to thin the trees back so you can get an effective shave with your razor later on. Otherwise you will end up cleaning your razor many, many times to keep the blade exposed and may end up snagging hairs which is never pleasant. You may want to do the trimming over the toilet bowl or in your shower, but you will certainly want to collect the hair you trim off somehow. If you are planning to be waxed instead of shaving, your pubic hair should be around one quarter of an inch long but no shorter than one eighth of an inch.

If you haven't done so already, why not check out your hair situation now in the mirror and see how things are going? You may find that after a trim, you have reached a pubic hair length which you are comfortable with. It's your hair and if you're not ready to go completely bare yet, there's no pressure. But if you are ready to go on, so am I.

It's now time to get wet and lather up. I prefer to shave in the shower after I've washed my hair because it gives the skin a bit of time to warm up and lets the steam of the warm shower soften the skin. You could also take a bath first but should shave at the end when you are ready to drain the water. I also usually put one leg up on the side of the bathtub or on a stool or step in the shower so I have better access to everything.

Cover your pubic hair with shaving oil, jelly or lather to form a layer of lubrication between your skin and the razor. I like to use shaving oil and jelly because I can feel the razor sliding over the skin smoothly, without leaving cuts and nicks. If you are desperate, hair conditioner can also be used but for best results I'd only use it in a real emergency.

You may also want to give some consideration to the type of shaving matter you use and what skin types it is recommended for. My favorite products are Venereous Shaving Oil and Venereous Shaving Jelly from Newf Brand. You can use them together, the jelly layered over the oil, or you can use each of them separately. Using them together just gives you an extra layer of shaving protection against nicks and leaves the skin extra moisturized. Plus neither of these products foam so you can actually see what you're shaving which is very useful.

Some gels have mint and other ingredients in them which may not be suitable for the sensitive skin in your nether regions. I have not had any adverse reactions using men's shaving gel versus women's but I generally select a product for sensitive skin. Some women's shaving gels state on the label that they are recommended to be used in the bikini zone and generally have a more feminine scent to them.

I usually cover the entire area I am going to shave at the beginning so I don't need to set the razor down constantly and fiddle with the container of shaving gel. You can always go back and add more shaving oil later, but be careful with some gels and creams because if you leave leave them on too long, you may start to notice a burning sensation on your skin. If that occurs, wash the lather off immediately and give your skin a few moments to recuperate. If you have another shaving lather, you may want to use it for the rest of the process and I would recommend not using the shaving lather which burns you again in the future for this sensitive area.

Now you're ready to put the blade to your skin. Don't be scared. If you've shaved your legs before, you know that it can take a little time before you are fully comfortable with all the contours of your body. Shaving your mound is no different and each one varies so you may find that these steps don't work perfectly for you or that a different order is a bit better. I'm just speaking from my personal shaving experience over the last 8 years.

Start with the top of your mound, use one hand to gently pull back the skin so it is tight and, with the razor in the other hand, shave down with the hair growth. I like to start on the sides near the crease of my legs and then work towards the center. After I've shaved most of my mound against the hair growth, I then shave against the growth and sometimes from side to side.

In some areas of the body, such as the armpits, hair grows in multiple directions and to get a very close shave, you need to shave in each direction of growth to get every hair at its base. But when first starting out this can increase your chances of razor burn in the end so be sure that you have plenty of lather covering your mound while doing this. Run your fingers over your mound and if it's smooth, you're ready to go on.

The lips can be a bit trickier although the outer labia should be similar to shaving your mound. Shaving against the hair growth usually gets most of the hairs although you may have to retrace your stroke one or twice to catch any strays. Try not to go over the skin too many times, though, as this also might cause irritation later on. If you feel the need to shave with the hair growth, be careful because you may end up nicking yourself which is quite uncomfortable.

To shave inside your labia, use your free hand to gently roll the lips open and carefully pull the razor up along the edge of your lip and around the upper ridge to get those little hairs which will really agitate your partner during oral sex if they are missed.

At this stage, you are more or less finished. You may want to reach back and give your anus a quick once over just to be thorough. This is where a second set of hands would come in very handy. In fact, you may want someone to assist you during this entire process but try not to get too carried away or you may end up with a lot more cuts than you expected.

Once you get out of the shower or the tub, you may want to use a moisturizer such as Venereous Mountain Mist to help prevent irritated skin and razor burn. Try to avoid excessively touching the area for a few hours as that may also cause irritated skin.

If you decide you love the feeling of your smoothly shaved mound, maintaining this style is simple. You will probably only want to shave every few days at first until your skin gets used to this constant new attention. If you do decide to start shaving daily right from the start, your skin may be more sensitive and irritated for the first few days that you continue this process. But as it adjusts, any discomfort and elevated levels of irritation usually subside.

Although shaving can be a bit tricky and it does take a bit of getting used to, most women love the results - and so do their partners! If you're doing this just for someone else, don't forget to let them know that you did go to some trouble and would really appreciate if they went out of their way to clear the forest too (if they aren't already)!

How to Shave Your Pubic Hair - A Woman's Guide

http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/

How to Remove Whiteheads

Before you try to remove whiteheads on your own, it's important for you to realize what they are. Many people think that since it looks like a pimple, they can just use normal acne medication and the problem will go away. This is simply not the case with whiteheads.

First lets look at what exactly is happening within the skin that causes a whitehead. Every pore on your body creates oil, called sebum. Sebum lubricates and moisturizes your skin to keep it healthy. Problems begin to present themselves whenever the pore that the sebum is released from becomes blocked. If the pore remains open then the sebum will oxidize and turn black. However, if the pore closes up, the bacteria will begin to grow and leave the remains white, which is where the term whitehead originates. While this may look like a normal pimple, it is definitely not the same.

Body Bath

To begin clearing up whiteheads it should be mentioned that you never squeeze or try to remove them by pressure without the proper tools. If you squeeze and pick you will only break the skin and leave it open for infection and potentially leave a scar. The best way to remove whiteheads from your face is with a comedone remover. Comedone is just another name for the blockage of pores.

This tool is made of stainless steel and has an interesting loop design which helps remove the whitehead without damaging the skin. Using this device couldn't be simpler. You would use this tool immediately after steaming the face with a hot washcloth or after a hot bath. This is to insure that you can easily remove whitehead material. Once the whitehead breaks the top layer of the skin, press the loop end over the whitehead and the trapped material will be dislodged. Once this process is complete, be sure to clean your face again with warm water to ensure that everything has been removed from the pore.

If you find it difficult to remove whiteheads then you may consider using a cream or gel designed to treat blackheads. Many of the medications available for the treatment of blackheads will also be effective for clearing up whiteheads. Most of these medicines include retinoid, which will slow the growth of the white head before it becomes too big of a problem.

Depending on your face type, you may be given either a retinoid cream or lotion that will moisturize the skin and loosen the blockage. If you choose this route for clearing up whiteheads, it is important that you speak with a dermatologist to determine which type of treatment is best for you.

If home treatment isn't the way you'd prefer to go, then please talk to your dermatologist. There are procedures to remove whiteheads that only a licensed dermatologist can do, and sometimes these methods are the best.

How to Remove Whiteheads

http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/ http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/

Itchy Scalp, Natural Scalp Treatments: Using A Natural Home Remedy For Itchy Scalp Conditions

Yes it can be extremely annoying and embarrassing having a scalp condition like dandruff, eczema, scalp infections or a nasty itchy red rash on your scalp.

If you are suffering from:

Body Bath

itchy scalp, sore scalp or do you have a flaky dry scalp with redness and rashes that drive you crazy?

scalp picking - do you constantly find yourself picking at & scratching?

oily scalp and limp hair leaving you feeling less than your best

embarrassing dandruff falling on your clothes

or even a fungal infection of your scalp...that can lead to lesions or scalp sores.

Hair falling out & patches on your scalp

Your instinct might be to pick up a product from the store shelf or your doctor. Most of these scalp treatments that promise relief from dry scalp conditions sound very attractive until you start reading the fine print.

Sodium Laureth/Lauryl Sulphate (SLS)? What's that? Why do you have to call a Poison Control Center if you accidentally swallow shampoo? And what are those warning labels on the back all about? What does it do to your head if it's that toxic?

Stop! What you must know is that several chemicals, especially SLS, strip the natural oils from the skin and even corrode it, along with your eye membranes. Have you also noticed that your hair has been thinning? Well hair follicle damage is another little known but very common symptom of these chemicals.

Actually, most commercial shampoos & scalp treatments are designed to meet people's "sensory" expectations...offering instant gratification and the illusion that they are doing their job. So therein lies the problem. For example adding silicone to conditioner induces an artificial shine but in truth can create problems long term including sensitivities.

Most people expect a shampoo to:

Foam up nicely

Smell good

Take all the so-called "nasty" oiliness out of their hair

Make their hair feel squeaky-clean

And that's a reasonable ask - think about it...if your shampoo didn't foam up, smell good, or leave your hair feeling squeaky-clean, would you trust it? Well, here's the thing: 90% of commercial shampoos achieve the foaming effect using the equivalent of engine degreasers to strip off not only dirt and grime but also valuable natural oils that your scalp needs.

Yes --your scalp needs natural oils. Without them, your body has no natural defence - those oils are there for a reason! Your scalp needs to maintain a natural PH balance that if disturbed - can develop into a dry, itchy irritated scalp. The good news is that there are many natural remedies you can use with moisturising oils and natural powerful alternatives to heal & reverse any scalp problem by restoring balance safely. You can easily repair follicle and damage - even boost hair growth and use your own home remedy for scalp cell regeneration. There are also the artificial aromas that are added - its alarming the huge percentage of people who are mildly to severely averse or allergic to artificial scents - resulting in itchy scalp, skin rashes etc and we don't even know it.

So what non toxic itchy scalp treatments and natural remedies can help? Well there are many non toxic shampoos which are nourishing and conditioning while still giving you're the "foam effect", they smell devine with the addition of the natural oils they contain. So you do have a choice and it does NOT have to cost you more - in fact most of them are less - you just have to know what to look for.

So lets have a look at natural oils for treating your scalp...

Here are some of my favorite natural oils you can use for hair & scalp treatments.

Zinc Pyrithione: Wonderful stuff for dandruff & itchy scalp conditions. First synthesized in the 1930's, this is the most widely used active ingredient from a natural source. It's used to treat dandruff, seborrheic dermatitus, psoriasis, eczema and numerous other skin and scalp disorders. It has strong anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

Jojoba: Is excellent as a scalp moisturiser and helps to rebalance sebum.

Tea Tree: Oily hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands, enlivens the scalp and brings the cells & follicles to attention

Basil: Oily hair ... promotes growth

Chamomile: Fine to normal hair ... gives golden highlights

Clary sage: All types of hair ... dandruff treatment

Lavender: Normal hair ... Scalp treatment for itchiness, dandruff, and even lice!

Lemon: Oily hair ... Gives golden highlights; treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Myrrh: Dry hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Patchouli: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment

Peppermint: Dry hair ... Promotes hair growth

Rose: Fine hair ... Soothes scalp

Unrefined Virgin Coconut Oil: Itchy Scalp, Dry Scalp Excellent for itchy scalp, dry scalp and dandruff

Rosemary: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment; promotes hair growth

Tea tree: Oily hair ... Treatment for dry scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands

Ylang-ylang: Oily hair ... Dandruff treatment

Neem: ... a wonder oil from India. Neem is amazing for all of the wonderful "stuff" it does. It's also derived from a type of tree bark. Neem is an effective fungicide and insecticide (great for head lice when used with geranium, rosemary, lavender and eucalyptus oils). In clinical studies Neem extracts and oil were found to be as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis with none of the usual side effects accompanying the use of Neem as there was with Coal tar and cortisone. Neem extracts and oil removes redness and itching when applied directly to your scalp...and it's a great skin conditioner. Best of all its excellent for relieving itching fast.

The best part of knowing that there are alternatives is that you can have mix these into super powerful blends like a super moisture boosting home remedy for dry scalp, or soothing itchy scalp treatments. Dry itchy scalp can be dealt with fast and permanently without spending a ton on traditional scalp med products.

Here's just one easy remedy you can make today:

Home remedy for dry itchy scalp Take ¼ c oatmeal and soak in water for 20 mins. Mix well and then strain the liquid adding it to a cup. Add 5 drops lavender oil (or lavender stalks steeped in ¼ cup hot water. Add 5 drops rosemary (or rosemary stalks steeped in ¼ cup hot water. Allow to cool until tepid.

Mix the liquids together and dab on your scalp...leave in for 10 mins to soothe the itch. This a good temporary soother for itching. Chamomile tea is also soothing!

There are hundreds of ideas that are excellent scalp treatments from dandruff to scalp infections like scalp sores & psoriasis. These remedies combined with the knowledge of what causes itchy scalp and other scalp conditions will enable you to be free from itching, dryness and allow you to grow fabulously thick, shiny beautiful hair also.....so have fun experimenting and "luxuriating" by giving your hair a treat using the many natural gifts from nature that are right under our noses! There are also many natural shampoos that so not use these ingredients and do wonders for your hair such as Akin shampoo, and Thursday Plantation which is fantastic as an effective anti-dandruff shampoo.

I have included a few more remedies and uses for oils below. There are many many more in "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies " and a list of shampoos that are not toxic. They are nourishing & repairing for your scalp & hair.

SOOTHING & HEALING ANTIFLAMMATORY REMEDY: Apply a mixture of 1 teaspoon of Neem oil (antifungal & antiitching) 1 teaspoon Teatree or Manuka (also antifungal) which much stronger than teatree, one teaspoon of Rosemary oil and one teaspoon of Lavender oil together in 3 tablespoons of carrier oils such as Olive or Almond oil (Wheatgerm and Macadamia carrier oils closely match your natural sebum) and apply to your scalp daily.

Alternatively add the oils together minus the olive/almond oil to one cup if water in spray bottle and shake vigorously then spray on your roots. If you can get a teaspoon of hemp oil add that to the mix as well.

GARDEN REMEDY: Go to your garden and get 3 sprigs of Rosemary, and chop up and add to 3 tea bags of Chamomile tea. Boil gently, let cool, strain and rinse your hair with this liquid for a calming antiflammatory effect.

As with all remedies please patch test first and use at your own risk. And but only non toxic shampoos without ingredients that cause your head to react, flake itch and burn....plus more remedies in "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies "

Heres a little about the oils above which can be mixed to create various formulas to treat different conditions and add condition to your hair found in my eBook "Beautiful Hair & Healthy Scalp Secrets & Remedies ".

Neem Oil: Derived from a type of tree bark it is an effective fungicide and insecticide (great for head lice when used with geranium, rosemary, lavender and eucalyptus oils). It has a very strong odor which can overpower other fragrances but its effectiveness is proven:

In clinical studies Neem extracts and oil were found to be as effective as coal tar and cortisone in treating psoriasis with none of the usual side effects accompanying the use of Neem as there was with Coal tar and cortisone.

When applied to the skin, Neem extracts and oil removes redness and itching while improving the condition of the skin while being treated. In the case of eczema clinical studies demonstrate that even the application of weaker Neem leaf extracts effectively cured acute conditions of eczema with the fresh cold pressed oil with its high concentration of active ingredients.

Neem effectively kills the bacteria that cause Acne and studies prove that Neem will reduce inflammation caused by acne and other bacterial infections.

Its also good for other skin conditions such as Dry Skin, Wrinkles, Dandruff, Itchy Scalp, Skin Ulcers and Warts which can be effectively remedied with soaps and other products containing Neem oil.

Lavender Oil: Lavender is known for its calming properties both emotional and physical. There are different varieties of lavender and certain ones are favored more than others for medicinal treatments. Lavender is effective to soothe itching from skin and sore scalp inflammations such as burning red itchy scalp, and dandruff to insect bites as well as having a powerful calming effect to treat scalp itching and irritated scalp as well as relax you and help you nod off to sleep.

In one study of 86 people with alopecia areata (a disease of unknown cause characterized by significant hair loss, generally in patches), those who massaged their scalps with lavender and other essential oils daily for 7 months experienced significant hair re-growth compared to those who massaged their scalps without the essential oils. It is not entirely clear from this study whether lavender (or a combination of lavender and other essential oils) was responsible for the beneficial effects. Scalp massage is also highly beneficial to stimulate follicles and blood supply to the skin's surface.

Aromatherapists also use lavender as a tonic in inhalation therapy to treat headaches, nervous disorders, and exhaustion. Herbalists treat skin ailments, such as fungal infections (like candidiasis), dandruff, eczema of the scalp, wounds, scalp acne, with lavender oil. It is also used externally in a healing bath for circulatory disorders and as a rub for rheumatic ailments (conditions affecting the muscles and joints).

Tea Tree Oil: One of the strongest known natural antiseptics. Also has punative skin penetrating capacity as an anti-inflamatory, anti-bacterial, germicide and fungicide. The scientific name for it is Melaleuca Alternifolia.

Rosemary Oil: Rosemary oil has a pronounced action on the brain and the central nervous system and is wonderful for clearing the mind and mental awareness, while having excellent brain stimulant properties, as well as improving memory.

It helps with headaches, migraines, neuralgia, mental fatigue and nervous exhaustion and the antiseptic action of rosemary oil is especially suitable for intestinal infections and diarrhea, easing colitis, dyspepsia, flatulence, hepatic disorders and jaundice and relieving pain associated with itchy flaky scalp, rheumatism, arthritis, muscular pain and gout. It also helps for arteriosclerosis, palpitations, poor circulation and varicose veins.

The diuretic properties of rosemary oil are useful with reducing water retention during menstruation, and also with obesity and cellulite.

On the respiratory system, it is effective for asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, sinus and whooping cough. Because of its astringent action, it is also effective for countering sagging skin. Its stimulating action benefits scalp disorders and encourages hair growth.

On the skin, it helps to ease congestion, puffiness and swelling and can also be used for acne, dry inflamed scalp, dermatitis and eczema, but a very popular use of this oil is the use in hair care products, as it has a pronounced positive effect on the health of the hair and scalp. It increases the circulation to the scalpand is therefore also effective for promoting hair growth after having conditions such as dandruff or scalp sores causing hair loss, scalp itching and scratching.

Rosemary oil is effective for mental fatigue, circulation problems, pain relief for the muscular system, decongests the respiratory tract and is a skin and hair booster.

Itchy Scalp, Natural Scalp Treatments: Using A Natural Home Remedy For Itchy Scalp Conditions

http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/ http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/

Bathtub Faucet Repair Tips and Techniques

Did you know that you can fix a leaking shower faucet and save hundreds of gallons of water a year? Most people just think of a dripping faucet as an annoyance and don't realize how much precious water is being wasted one drop at a time. The good news is that almost anyone with a few basic hand tools can learn how to fix most dripping faucets.

Let's start with the basics. Faucets have one primary purpose, to allow the water in your pipes to be used in a controlled manner. This means that they have to open to allow water out of the pipes and close to keep water in the pipes. Not rocket science, right? The closing part is what we want to concentrate on here.

Body Bath

There Are Two Basic Faucet Designs

Faucets drip when they fail to completely trap the water in the pipes. Most faucets use one of two basic methods to stop the water flow. Some, primarily older designs, use rubber or neoprene washers which tighten against a "seat" and block the flow of water. Drips from these faucets are addressed by replacing the washers and/or seats. We'll talk about how to do that in a minute. Most other faucet designs involve some sort of cartridge. Some people call these "washerless" faucets. Repairing newer style water faucets like these usually involves replacing the cartridge(s).

Washers And Seats

Older faucet designs often use washers to block the water and keep it in the pipes. Tightening the handle compresses the washer against a "seat" and seals the opening, thus stopping the water flow. If you need to do a bathtub faucet repair on a three handle wall faucet you probably have this type. You will also run into this style if you need to fix a leaking shower faucet hat has two handles. Many sink and lavatory faucets also use washers. One way to tell whether or not your faucets use washers is to see if the handle gets harder to turn as you turn it off. If turning it really tight stops the drip, this probably, but not always, means that you have washers. If you do have a dripping faucet that has washers, the basic repair process is very similar whether you need to know how to repair a shower faucet,repair a leaking tub faucet or fix a dripping sink faucet. There is, however, one important difference.

Bathtub Faucet Repair

The one critical thing to remember when fixing a leaky bathtub faucet is that you will have to turn the water off to the entire house before removing any parts other than the outer trim pieces. If you're not sure which pieces are trim, just turn the water off first just in case. Once you have turned off the main water to the house you can begin taking things apart. There are lots of different brands and designs of faucets out there and they all come apart a little differently, so you will have to sort of feel your way through.

Removing The Trim

The first step is to remove the handles. This is usually done by removing a cap to expose the handle screw and then removing the screw. Next, remove the handle. This may require a little finesse, as the handles sometimes get stuck in place. One trick is to place the handles of a pair of channel lock pliers behind the valve handle, one on each side, and tap evenly on the handle to nudge it loose. If this doesn't work you can buy a special tool to remove handles but these tools are sometimes hard to find and usually a little patience is all you need to do the trick.

After he handles are off, there is usually some sort of sleeve over the stem itself. This typically has to come off too. Once again, there are many different configurations. One popular design uses threaded plastic tubes to connect the trim sleeve with the valve. Other types have the sleeve threaded directly onto the valve. You will have to figure this step out before you can proceed. If you can determine what brand valve you have there is a good chance of finding instructions on-line.

Now For The Root Of The Problem

OK, so you have removed both the handles and any remaining trim sleeve from the valve. Now you are ready to get to the root of the problem, your valve stem. The washer is almost always at the other end of the valve stem from the handle. Usually the stem is threaded into the valve body and you will just need to unscrew it to remove it. Here's a tip. Stick the handle back on for a second and open the valve half way. This relieves pressure on the stem and makes it easier to unscrew. Now you just need to make sure you are loosening the correct nut.

Lots of valves have a packing nut around the stem. It is usually a little smaller and just in front of the actual connection with the valve body. The packing nut's purpose is to squeeze some special packing material around the stem to prevent water from leaking around the stem when the valve is in use. Loosening the packing nut won't help you, you need to get your wrench on the actual connection to the valve body. By the way, a deep socket is often the only tool that will work to remove the valve stem.

Removing The Valve Stem

The easiest way to make sure you have the correct nut is to see if there is a gap opening up between the nut and the valve body as you loosen the nut. The valve stem itself will also usually turn when you have the right one. If you have loosened the packing nut by mistake, don't worry, you will adjust it before you are finished anyway. Go ahead and remove both stems and keep up with which one is which, it matters on many valves.

After you have the stems out you should be able to find the washer on the "inside" end. If it is nicked, torn or brittle it is likely the cause of your drip. Even if it looks brand new, go ahead and replace it. You've already come this far. You can get replacement washers at almost any hardware store. Sometimes you may want to replace the whole stem, especially if the handle end is stripped out. It's best to just take the stem with you to the store and see if you can match it up. Most Do It Yourself stores have replacement stems for many popular brands. If your valve has a center diverter valve to switch the waterfrom the tub spout to the shower head the same process applies. Many times it is easier to replace the diverter stem than to repair it. This really depends on the design of the stem.

How Are Your Seats?

One more thing to check is the seats. These are the part of the valve body that the washer tightens up against to stop the water flow. If you can get your finger inside the valve, feel of the seats and see if they feel rough. If so, it would be best to replace them if you can get them out. The inside of the seats, which is where the water flows through when the valve is open, usually have either a hex or square recess. Special seat wrenches are used to remove the seats. You can usually get these wrenches at the same place you get the other parts and they're not expensive. You just stick the wrench through the seat and unscrew it. The replacement seats screw back in the same way, just put a little pipe dope on the threads before you install it.

Put It All Back Together

Once you've figured out what needs to be replaced and have done that, you just need to put everything back together. If your valve has packing nuts don't put the trim back on until you have turned the water back on. Once the water is on, go ahead and stick the handle on for a second and open the valve. Make sure no water is leaking around the stem. If it is leaking, with the handle opened half way, snug down the packing nut until the leak stops. Easy does it. If you get it too tight the handle will be hard to turn. Now finish installing the trim pieces and you are done.

Repairing Newer Style Water Faucets

If you have a newer, "washerless" type valve the repair process is similar, but usually easier. Many of these type valves use a self contained cartridge. If the valve starts to drip, just replace the cartridge and you're done. You still need to turn the water off and remove the handles and trim. The cartridge is usually held in place by a retaining nut on the valve body or, in the case of most Moen valves, by a retaining clip. Simply remove the cartridge and put another one in it's place. If your hot and cold are backwards when you finish, turn the water back off, pull the cartridge back out, turn it over 180 degrees and re-install it.

Delta Style Valves

One other common design that is considered "washerless" was made famous by Delta and copied by several other makers. It uses little "cup" seals that fit over springs recessed in the back of the valve body. The springs press these "seals" against the cartridge and regulate the flow through little tapered openings in the cartridge. If you have one of these and it's dripping, changing these springs and seals will usually correct it. Here's a tip. Once you have the cartridge out of the way, insert a phillips screwdriver into the seal and pop both the seal and spring out. Stick the new ones on the end of the screwdriver to help guide them into place. This is especially helpful if you don't have long slender fingers.

Delta, and a few imitators, also have a faucet design that uses a ball instead of a cartridge. This is not as common in tub or shower valves but there are plenty of them out there. The springs and seals are the same but there are lots more o-rings an parts to deal with. The good news is that these parts are readily available. While it's a little more complicated than learning how to repair a Moen kitchen faucet, which is a piece of cake, it is still easier than working with most washer type faucets.

These Techniques Work In The Kitchen Too

Armed with the knowledge you've gained in this article you now not only know how to repair a shower faucet and to repair a leaking tub faucet, but you can apply these skills to many other faucets as well. After fixing a leaky bathtub faucet, stopping a dripping outside hose faucet will be a breeze. The techniques that you will use to complete a "washerless" bathtub faucet repair can be used when repairing newer style water faucets of all kinds. Whether you have an old dripping tub faucet or a newer kitchen faucet that just won't quite shut off you can now fix it. So put these new skills to use, roll up your sleeves and stop that drip!

Copyright 2008 Bryan Stevens

Bathtub Faucet Repair Tips and Techniques

http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/ http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/

Spiritual Healing - 7 Modern Ways of Anointing the Body With Essential Oils For Healing

Are you looking for spiritual health? Here is a unique way that many have found helpful: anointing yourself with essential oils on a daily basis. Using essential oils will help to open you to the possibility of receiving God's favor-God's healing grace in your life. This kind of anointing is more than just putting oils into your bath water and allowing the aroma to release your negativity and open you to unconditional love. It is more than diffusing an essential oil into the room to create a sacred healing environment. And it is more than burning incense to lift up your spirit to the high places. Sacred fragrances are an honoring of the gift of God present in your daily life. God has blessed the earth with all kinds of plants for your use. When you take the very essence of the plants, the essential oils, and breathe them, rub them on your body or take them within, you are accepting the gift of blessing from God. It is through this kind of anointing that  is a reminder that God has placed a mark upon your heart.

Today those on a spiritual path recognize the healing properties of oil and create their own spiritual rituals for themselves and their families, anointing their bodies with these healing substances.  

Body Bath

Some Modern Ways of Anointing

Anoint the energy centers like the brow or throat or heart as you call upon God to bless yourself or someone else with health and well-being. Some wonderful fragrances include balsam, neroli, frankincense or blends like Joy, Harmony and Abundance. Anoint and clear your meditation space and your healing space with oils. Any of the tree oils are good for this but especially balsam, sandalwood, and frankincense. Also blends like Awaken, Inspiration and Grounding. For massage therapists, incorporate the use of essential oils in massaging the body. Relaxing oils would be helpful like lavender, Roman Chamomile or blends like Peace and Calming. Anoint the linens, table and room before a healing session begins. One word of caution--make sure you are not using an oil that stains. Anoint the client's body, blessing and respecting the sacredness of the person. I particularly like to use blends here. Harmony, Valor, Joy or White Angelica. Diffuse a healing oil to cleanse and anoint the client's aura. Use light fragrances like lemon, orange, grapefruit, or bergamot. Anoint bath water. Are you in need of relaxation ro energy? Lavender, Roman Chamomile, or neroli might be just what you need. If its energyzing that you need, go for pine, rosemary, or juniper.

Spiritual Healing - 7 Modern Ways of Anointing the Body With Essential Oils For Healing

http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/ http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/

Seven Problems That Mars Causes and Five Steps to Get Rid of These

It is quite likely that in any horoscope one or more planets will be placed in houses where they do not give favorable results. The degree of the adverse results will depend upon the strength of a planet and the houses owned by it. In this article we shall take a look at Mars and discuss appropriate remedial measures.

Mars

Body Bath

In Vedic astrology Mars is a remarkable planet in as much as that it is the only planet that never really becomes 'Neech' (Loses his capacity to give beneficial results). This may sound strange because we know that Cancer happens to be the sign where Mars becomes Neech at 28 degrees. However when in Cancer, Mars is fourth from his Mool Trikon Rashi (primary sign) Aries and ninth from his other Rashi Scorpio. This is peculiar to Mars alone and doesn't happen with any other planet. It is for this reason that for Cancer Lagna (ascendant) Mars remains a Yoga Karak (very beneficial planet) even when he is placed in Lagna in a Neech state.

Astrologically Mars is called Bhumi Putra in Sanskrit. This was a mystery to most people until modern science came up with the theory that Mars indeed broke off from earth when it collided with another heavenly body and the matter hived off into space became the genesis of Moon and Mars.

Significations of Mars

Mars signifies younger brother, blood, red color, base and rotten things, military activities, commerce, air journeys, cloth weaving and public speaking. Intellectually he is the significator of logical and deductive thinking. Mars also signifies real estate in the form of buildings. (Undeveloped land comes under Saturn). He also represents independence, persistence and youthful age.

Mars is masculine and malefic and rules over fire places, boilers, furnaces, urinary system, enemies, wounds, organizing capacity, executive ability, leadership over laborers and police department.

Materials governed by him are copper, metals, mines, minerals and ores, gold fields, coral, weapons, lands and tobacco.

Diseases caused by Mars are rupture of veins and arteries, diseases of the bone marrow, hemorrhage, abortions, menstrual disorders, gonorrhea, rheumatism, cuts, burns and muscle atrophy all come under Mars.

Mars is a Kshatriya (Warrior) by caste, is of Masculine sex and rules over southern Direction.(it is for this reason that in Vastu Shastra (Hindu architecture) all heat producing implements like HVAC and kitchen are best sited in the south or southwest direction.)

Weakness of Mars

Under certain circumstances Mars loses his power to give favorable results. This can happen when Mars is combust or very close to Sun. In this state, Mars is said to be set. The Sanskrit term for this is Ast.

When conjunct with his arch enemies Saturn and Rahu, Mars tends to give bad results. A similar thing happens when he is placed in 6, 8 and 12 houses.

Whatever the reason, weakness of Mars will create problems in all areas represented by him to some extent. Increasing affliction being responsible for increasing distress.

Individual cases

Mars represents violence and blood spilling. When Mars is intimately connected to Ascendant and Ascendant lord, he makes one very violent. Moon represents mind, and Moon-Mars combination makes one mentally cruel. The fourth house and fourth lord also represent mind. If all factors or a majority of them occur in a chart, the person is definitely cruel and violent and will not hesitate to take a life to further his objectives.

For Aries ascendant, Mars becomes the Lagna and the eighth Lord. Both are houses of longevity. If such a Mars is associated with Rahu and Saturn, the life span suffers. The remedy will involve wearing a blood red Coral in a silver ring on the ring finger of the right hand and propitiation of the Rahu and Saturn through Mantra, Stotra fasting and donation.

For Aries ascendant, If Mars is placed in the fourth house, he generates the possibility of chest disease and loss of money. Happiness also takes a hit. Coral set in a silver ring helps.

For Scorpio ascendant, if Moon occupies it, Mars becomes a confirmed representative of blood because Moon herself represents blood. If Mars is then influenced by Rahu and Saturn, it is certain that blood and its flow will be adversely affected. A person with this combination can suffer from leukemia and similar diseases. If Mars is placed in the eighth house, there may be danger to life. The remedy will involve a red colored coral set in a silver ring and worn on the ring finger of right hand. This will take care of the weakness of Mars. The complications caused by Rahu and Saturn can be removed by mantra, fasting and donation.

Mars and disease

If Mars as Lagna Lord is placed in 6,8 or 12 houses, is influenced by Rahu and Saturn, and is not influenced by a benefic planet like Jupiter, full Moon or well associate Mercury, then there exists a strong possibility for muscle atrophy. The remedy as always is a coral ring.

Mars and children

If Mars and/or Ketu aspect the fifth house as well as the fifth lord and significator for sons, Jupiter also comes under this influence, there is usually a problem connected to children. Either they are not there or their life is threatened. It must be remembered that Mars in the fifth house in Aries or Scorpio is not an insurance against what is mentioned above. Mars in the fifth house does not give favorable results. The remedy in this case would be to strengthen the fifth lord by wearing the gemstone connected to him. Mars in this case needs to be pacified through mantra, Stotra, fasting and donation.

If Aries or Scorpio Mars is in the fifth house, and Jupiter is afflicted, it will not be advisable to wear a Topaz to strengthen Jupiter. In such a case Mantra, fasting and donation will be needed for Jupiter also.

There is one positive result of the influence of Mars on the fifth house. Mars is the significator of constructive thought and deductive thinking. Fifth house amongst other things, is the house of ability to give sound advice. The combined result of the two makes one a successful consultant.

Mars marriage - Manglik, Mangal or Kuja Dosh

The seventh house deals with male-female relationships, and in the Indian context, with marriage. For a marriage to be successful; the seventh house and its lord should be strong. Significators for marriage - Jupiter for females and Venus for males should also be strong. Any weakness in any one of four factors will reduce Marital happiness

Mars as we all know is a potent Marak (killer) and kills quickly. There is no lingering death where Mars is involved. If the four factors mentioned above come under the influence of Mars it is quite likely that marriage will be cut short due to sudden death of one of the partners.

Mangal Dosh is a flaw which occurs when Mars occupies 1,4,7,8, 12 in a horoscope. Some astrologers also include second house in this list.

Mars aspects the fourth, seventh and eighth house from where he is placed. When placed in Lagna, he aspects the seventh through his seventh aspect. Fourth house Mars harms the seventh house through his fourth aspect. In the seventh house the damage is done by the very placement of Mars. The eighth house aspect falls on the second house. Mars when placed in the eighth house aspects the second house which is the house of longevity of the life partner and shortens his/her life span. In the case of twelfth house the eighth house aspect falls on the seventh house.

When Mars falls in any one of the houses mentioned above, one needs to be very careful in matching charts of two people. Any carelessness can cost the couple dearly.

Exceptions and exemptions to Mangal Dosh

If the seventh lord and the significator for seventh house (either Jupiter or Venus) are strong, Mangal Dosh loses its sting.

If Mars is placed in the second house in his own house - Aries or Scorpio - then too the Dosh is cancelled as Mars actually strengthens the house of marriage. Association and aspect of Saturn weakens Mars and cancels Manglik Dosh. Another factor that cancels this Dosh is an extremely high matching of charts in the Asht Koot system (eight fold compatibility), the seventh lord however should be strong.

What one should not do in the case of Manglik Dosh

One must never wear a Coral under any circumstance. This will reinforce Mars and actually increase the extent of the problem. The remedy lies in propitiation of Mars through Mantra, fasting and donation and reinforcing the seventh house lord through the appropriate gemstone.

Taurus Ascendant and Mars

For Taurus Ascendant Mars becomes neutral as he owns the twelfth and seventh houses and gives the results only of the seventh house. Mars loses his malefic nature by virtue of the ownership of a Kendra. If therefore Mars happens to be weak, it is perfectly fine to wear a coral set in silver ring to strengthen marital prospects and health of the partner.

Mars and brother in law

Mars represents younger brother. In the case of Leo Ascendant Mars becomes the ninth lord which happens to be the third house from seventh, and represents wife's younger brother. If Mars is well placed and associated with planets friendly to him like Sun and Jupiter, brother in law becomes instrumental in bringing financial gains. This is even otherwise appropriate as Mars becomes Yoga Karak planet for Leo Ascendant. This is true for women also.

Remedies for Mars

Daily chanting of Rudra Sookt removes complications generated by Mars.

Another certain remedy is daily recital of Hanuman Chalisa and Ram Stuti.

Bhairav Mantra given below is also very helpful.

OM HREEM BATUKAYE AAPDU DHHARNAYE KURU KURU BATUKAYE HREEM OM

I mentioned earlier that Mars's aspect on the fifth house does not allow easy conception and delivery. To get over this problem one must get hold of Shri Surya Uvaach and do the following.

If despite being no problems with the reproductive system, a pregnancy fails to occur, the woman desiring conception should wait for her menstruation period to end, and on that day at the time of sunset, after a shower wear clean clothes. She should hold a tumbler (preferably copper) of water in her hands and chant the Shri Surya Uvaach Stotra seven times while facing the setting Sun. She should then drink that energized water. A pregnancy will occur after a while. This process should continue even after pregnancy and childbirth for a year. This puts a shield around the mother and child that saves them from all harm.

Remedy for Manglik Dosh

If the affliction to the seventh house, its lord and Jupiter in a girl's horoscope is severe, one can safely assume that the marriage is heading towards widowhood. In such cases it is advised that the girl be first married to Lord Vishnu or to Varun. This is a real marriage and is conducted with complete Vedic rituals. A pitcher of water represents Varun the God of water. This removes the obstacles caused by Mars and leads to marital happiness.

Mangal Chandika Stotra

Mangal Chandika Dhyan, Mantra and Stuti are mentioned in Bramhavaivarta Puran, under Narayan Naradiya. If a girl has Manglik Dosh in her chart, she should chant the Dhyan Mantra and then offer red flowers and two fruits to the Goddess.

Follow by chanting this mantra 108 times.

OM HREEM SHREEM KLEEM SARVPUJYE DEVI MANGALCHANDIKE HUM HUM PHAT SWAHA

After this is done the main Stuti should be chanted. The complete chant is available in the form of a booklet and can be had from most bookstores near major temples.

Mars can be pacified by adding red sandal wood to the bath water or by adding leaves and/or fruit of Bel tree.

Metal

Copper

Gemstone

Blood red Coral or white Coral

Donation

Copper pot, wheat, Masoor Dal, red flowers and Ghee.

Day of fasting

Tuesday

To a western mind most of the things mentioned above may appear strange and unbelievable. This is because it is completely immersed in the material aspect of this world and firmly believes that, what can not be felt does not exist.

This mindset fails to comprehend that our eyes respond to a very small spectrum of total energy that bathes this universe. Every planet has an energy signature which is unique to it. These radiations though subtle have a deep and long lasting impact on our body. This world is not what it appears to be.

The proof of the pudding as the saying goes, lies in its eating. Astrology exists, remedies exist and they have a very sound and logical underpinning. Any one who has a hard time believing that should experience a reading from an expert astrologer. That should do the trick.

Seven Problems That Mars Causes and Five Steps to Get Rid of These

http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/ http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/

10 Simple Ways To Increase Sperm Volume

If you think that you are infertile and you are not able to make your woman pregnant then there are some simple ways to increase your sperm count and gain your fertility. These ways are safe and effective and do not have any side effects.

The following are some of the 10 simple ways of increasing sperm count:

Body Bath

1. Stop masturbating and have sex instead: There should be a gap of three days between two consecutive ejaculations. If you ejaculate more, there are chances of reduction in your sperm count. So, focus more on having sex with your partner than masturbating yourself.

2. Reduce the habit of smoking and consumption of alcohol: Smoking and consumption of alcohol excessively affects a lot in sperm production. So, it is better to avoid these bad habits.

3. Strong PC muscles: Exercising your PC muscles regularly helps you in shooting further than you never expected.

4. Eating good food: Having nutritious foods which are low in fat helps in increasing your count.

5. Heating your testicles is not a good idea: Stop heating your testicles, wearing tight underpants and taking hot bath. It is better to wear loose undies and keep your testicles cool as it helps in producing more sperm.

6. Say no to excess Weight: Excess weight causes testosterone imbalance which eventually affects your sperm count.

7. Body relaxation: Relaxing your body and mind keep your stress level in control by practicing Yoga and Meditation technique.And this helps in increasing count.

8. Improving blood circulation: Improving your blood circulation by massaging with herbal oils sooths your nerves and helps you in increasing your sperm count.

9. Herbal and natural supplements: Try herbal and natural supplements. This helps a lot in improving your sperm production.

10. Love making: Have sex early in the morning as this is the period where the testosterone level will be high.

These are some of the simple ways to improve your sperm count. These simple ways will help you boost up your confidence while having sex with your women. Try these methods and reap the best out of these easy yet effective methods.

10 Simple Ways To Increase Sperm Volume

http://loosegemstonesjewelry.blogspot.com/ http://buyfitness.blogspot.com/