Activities for the Spring Time

The changes of seasons is always something to enjoy. Spring arriving offers so much you can do indoors and outdoors. So, we came up with some suggestions for you brought to you by Country Living.

Outdoor Herb Garden

There's nothing like seeing that first new growth poke out of the earth to signal that spring is on its way. But you can recreate that feeling even if the ground is still frozen by planting an indoor herb garden and watching it grow. Pot some cuttings of rosemary, basil, thyme, and other favorite herbs and put them in a kitchen window. When the ground thaws, transplant your little garden outdoors.

Spring Clean Your Closet

Say goodbye to winter with a changing-of-the-closet ceremony. Now is the perfect time to pack away heavy woolens in favor of pretty blouses, and replace those old wire hangers with cushioned or wooden ones. Organize clothing by color and then sort by type (tops, pants, dresses) within each color

Creative Organizing

Getting organized doesn't have to mean hiding everything out of sight. Here, folding chairs are transformed into art when put on display, while still remaining within easy reach. Spruce up plain or scuffed-up chairs with a fresh coat of paint. For extra oomph, choose a bright color such as Glidden's Razz Berries to highlight one, and paint the others in tonal hues to soften the overall effect.

Time With a Friend

Schedule some quality time with a friend. Take a long walk together, and don't let a little mud keep you cooped up inside. Pull on a pair of rubber Wellies (find a selection at smithandhawken .com), then puddle jump with abandon.

Lavender

Scent your home with lavender. The herb's soothing fragrance subtly perfumes the air, and its purple flowers are just plain pretty. For bundles of dried lavender and other products, try lavenderfarms.com.

Marseille Soap

Start your annual spring-cleaning ritual with a load of laundry to freshen your linens and warm-weather clothing. Consider sudsing up the old-fashioned way with Marseille soap, which is gentle on skin but powerful enough to remove tough laundry stains. Before ironing, pour some scented linen water into your iron's well or spray directly onto each item to infuse fabric with a gentle fragrance. To purchase Marseille soap and linen water, go to loccitane.com.

Read more: Ways to Celebrate Spring - Country Living

We hope this gives you some ideas to get the most out of spring. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!

Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team

Valentines Day Gifts For Men

      We know you love February for one reason. That is Valentines Day. A day that your loved one showers you with gifts and tell you how much he means to you. It is also a holiday which makes you wonder what would he like this year. So,  we found a wonderful article  from sheknows.com that will tell you what kind of gifts men truly want for  this holiday.

Leather wallet
If you are shopping for your man, one of the most appreciated gifts is a new wallet. You can get a genuine leather wallet from Fossil for only $25. It makes a perfect Valentine's Day gift.

Cologne
You can't go wrong with giving cologne on Valentine's Day. You can buy it at a local department store or shop online for deals such as this Perry Ellis three piece gift set that features cologne, a deodorant and a body shampoo.

Watch
If the man in your life is always on the run, a new watch is a very practical Valentine's Day gift. If he's the sporting type, consider getting him one of the hip, new Oakley watches. Or you can go with a classic Seiko watch.

Cigars
Cigars have become more and more popular again in recent years. Even if you don't know what type of cigar he prefers, you can order him a 5 cigar sampler grab bag for Valentine's Day.

HD television
HD technology has advanced to the point where everyone should have an HD television. If you already have one in the living room, consider purchasing your man a Flat-Panel LCD HDTV for the bedroom.

MP3 player
Music always makes a wonderful gift. Give your guy an MP3 player such as the 8GB Apple iPod touch. He will be able to listen to his favorite tunes no matter where he goes.

Personalized golf balls
The one thing golfers can never have enough of is golf balls. For Valentine's Day, surprise your boyfriend or husband with a set of personalized golf balls that will have him thinking about you even when he's out on the golf course.

Briefcase
If he has a 9-to-5 job, one of his daily essentials is likely his briefcase. For Valentine's Day, consider springing for a high-end luxury briefcase for the office.

Sports Tickets
Chances are that the man who you are shopping for likes sports. One oftentimes overlooked Valentine's Day gift is sports tickets. Buy him a pair of tickets for a local game and go enjoy it with him or encourage him to go with one of his guy friends.

Lingerie
Although the lingerie isn't technically for him, he'll undoubtedly appreciate the gift - to say the least. Spice up your love life with a satin and lace teddy or a garter belt and stockings.

Well, now you know what he wants for Valentines Day and there are links you can use if you want to buy online.If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!

Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team

Effective Ways to Empower Yourself

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     It is a new year and possibly a new you. With the beginning of every new year we make resolutions to become better. A resolution many women make is to be more empowered in their life. We have found real useful ways to do that through Karen Keller Ph.D Clinical Psychologist. Here is what she found.

When you feel empowered you can accomplish anything you desire.

Empowerment for women doesn't mean you have to burn your bra or spit at the end of the bar. It doesn't mean you need to be aggressive or stare down the nearest competitor with vigor.

But there are a few things you can do to set yourself on the road to empowerment.

1. Value relationships where you are an equal. This applies to both personal and professional relationships especially as women owned businesses where you are respected and valued as a person for what you believe and the ideas you bring to the table.

2. Own your voice. Be assertive with your opinions. Expect that others will listen. This doesn't mean to interrupt, only if you need to, but rather it's about getting your message across with clarity and meaning.

3. Identify words and language that support you, as well as men. Use words that show strength, willingness, and appreciation. Speak in a language that commands respect, honesty and openness.

4. Refrain from succumbing to the naughty jokes or innuendos at work. Once you participate in such banter your reputation suffers. You won't be taken seriously when you take on an issue.

5. Focus on what is beneath appearances. Compliment someone on who they are not what they look like or how they dress. "You really communicated your idea well in that meeting" goes a lot further than, "Gee, you looked good in there."

6. Talk about instances of improper treatment of women. Let people know you are aware of how you appreciate being treated with a certain standard.

7. Learn how to ask and negotiate. Be fair. Ask when you have earned it, not for any other reason. Be prepared to state your case and negotiate what will create a win-win situation.

8. Be confident in planning your career. Visualize your advancement, who you want as a mentor, or continuing education that will keep you in the loop for a promotion.

9. Be a risk taker. This will help you develop self-reliance in making decisions and solving problems.

10. Know and take care of your money. There's nothing like have a rock solid healthy relationship with your money. If you support your money, it will support you.

These are only a few of the ways women can begin to empower themselves in a world where they sometimes get passed over or go unnoticed. Empowerment for women means equality and recognition for the different gifts women bring to the table. You play a major role in setting the bar for how men and other women treat you, acknowledge your women power and support you. 

These important ideas can definitely lead to more empowerment in your life. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!

Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team

Top Gifts for Men

Shopping. The word brings happiness and stress to your mind. You know what to get your girlfriends , mom and other people. However, you may draw a blank on what to get men for that special holiday gift.Askmen.com has useful gifts to all different kinds of men that are in your life.

1. Sports / Concert Tickets
For whom? 

For any man who's single, divorced, dating, young or old, enjoys sports, and loves to watch his favorite team live. Or, if you're not the sporting type, maybe she can excite you with sports ticket.

2. A fine single malt
For whom?
Only a true lover of whiskey.will appreciate this, but if that's what you are, this is a dream If she really knows how to make you happy, she'll buy you a high-quality rocks glass to sip this out of. Bruichladdich is an affordable single malt that features all the flavor elements that make this spirit exceptional.

3. A great iPod dock
For whom? 

This is for more serious couples who have taken at least a couple of trips together. Playing music off your computer is fine at home, but what happens when all your friends rent a cabin in the woods for a long weekend and you want to bring some tunes along? A small but powerful set of iPod speakers are essential for a man who loves music but also loves to travel.

4. A classic blazer
For whom? 

This is for a couple who have been together for a while but don't necessarily live together. You can wear a blazer with anything, but do you have one that's sufficiently versatile? A classic, timeless piece you'll have for the rest of your life? Probably not.

5. A phone upgrade
For whom? 

This is for any guy who's had his phone just a little too long. Maybe you've stopped caring about the constant parade of new versions of your phone, but trust us -- shiny new gadgets never disappoint. All she needs to do is go down to your wireless provider and pick up the latest hardware to go along with your plan. She can even have all your contacts imported for you.

6. Espresso Machine
For Whom? 

We wouldn't expect this from new girlfriends -- typically this kind of outlay will be made if the two of you are living together, so at least she'll be able to enjoy the fruits of the gift too. But for those of you who think this isn't worth it, you're wrong. Freshly made espresso at home is one of life's true pleasures, one we'll never do without again now that we have machines of our own. She can get a great professional grade at-home model

7. Cologne
For Whom? 

Smelling good is a good idea no matter what stage of the relationship you're in. Cologne is just as appreciated on the first Christmas together as it is on the fiftieth. The gift of a great scent is a good sign that she wants to turn you into an irresistible man and rip off your clothes because she can't resist inhaling your sexual scent. That, or you just smell bad.

8. DVD Collection
For Whom?

For guys who enjoy watching movies that teach good famiglia values, from the comfort of their own home. Entire seasons of Game of Thrones, The Wire, The Sopranos or Entourage would all make a guy like this happy.

9. Bathrobe
For Whom?
The bathrobe is a great gift idea for those of you who love to walk around the house and relax on a Sunday morning in total luxury. Don't you want to be draped in total luxury just before she disrobes you to give you that well-deserved massage?

10. High-quality leather goods
For Whom?
A woman is usually not too sure how much to spend on a man she just met. This is an ideal gift to receive if you've just started dating.Every man hates a wallet that won't stay closed or that's too bulky in a back pocket. The ideal wallet is of high-quality leather that ages beautifully.

This list is ideal to go by so you can find gifts he really wants this holiday season. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!
Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team

Relaxation Techniques for Women

Women are always busy. They are needed by everybody.This creates allot of responsibility which can create stress. It is very important to find ways to relax. Livestrong.com website has some real simple ways to relax.

Deep Breathing

Deep breathing oxygenates your blood, enhances brain functioning and induces relaxation. Lie on your back if possible, or sit comfortably. Take a moment to relax your body and release muscular tension. Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose for about 10 seconds. Use your diaphragm to fill your lungs as completely as you can. Hold your breath for a few seconds, and then exhale through your mouth. Slowly expel as much air as you can, emptying your lungs completely. As you exhale, imagine you are blowing out your anxiety and tension. Wait a few seconds, and then repeat the process as long as you need. Often, just a few deep breaths can calm you.

Progressive Relaxation

You can learn this technique and provide yourself mental instructions, or record yourself, slowly and calmly giving the instructions, and then play the tape when you want to relax. Lie on your back, with your hands and arms to your side. Close your eyes. Feel your feet. Notice any tension in your feet, and release it. Notice how your feet feel heavier. Scan for any more tension in your feet and release it. Once you have released all tension from your feet, move your attention to your ankles and calves. Feel their weight, notice any tension, and then release it. Relax every muscle in your ankles and calves. Sense the steady force of gravity as your calves sink toward the bed or surface below you. Slowly and methodically, direct your attention up your body in the same manner. Move from your calves, to your knees, thighs, buttock, and then to your abdomen and chest. As you focus on your chest, notice your breathing. With each breath, release more tension as you exhale. Allow your breathing to slow as you feel your chest and abdomen get heavier and heavier. Feel your weight, as you are pulled deeper into your mattress. Once you have completely relaxed your chest and abdomen, direct your attention to your fingers, hands, arms, shoulders, head and skull, mouth and jaw, face and cheeks, and then finally your eyes. Once you have progressed up your entire body, mentally scan your body again. Search for any remaining tension and release it.

Guided Imagery

With this technique you imagine yourself in a peaceful setting. Lie on your back or sit comfortably with your eyes closed. Take a few deep breaths. Imagine yourself standing on an escalator that is taking you downward. As you glide down further and further you find yourself entering a favorite, peaceful setting. It may be a favorite vacation spot, a beach, a childhood summer home on a lake, the top of a mountain, or any place that you find relaxing and peaceful. Imagine looking around as the escalator finally places you at the start of a path. Imagine the sounds, scents and sensations of the location. Hear the waves lapping on the shore, feel the warmth of the sun, and the gentle touch of a fragrant breeze. Image yourself following the path until you find a place where you can lay and soak in the sensations of relaxing in your favorite spot. While you lay in your special spot, feel calmness and peaceful enjoyment move over you. Imagine yourself slowly drifting off into a deep sleep. When you are ready to return, savor a few more moments of your escape, and then slowly open your eyes. Return to this spot whenever you need to relax or escape.

We hope this helps you in finding ways to relax.If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!

Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team 

Effective Exercises for Women

        

              No Pain No Gain! We have heard this numerous times when we are completing our workout and wonder if these exercises are really helping. You want to do exercises that work in multiple ways and cut out unecessary routines.Well, fitbie at msn.com has done a wonderful job in describing  effective exercises that work in many different directions.

             The secret to shaving time off your workout without sacrificing results: doing dynamic combo moves that target at least two muscle groups (think quads and biceps) in each rep, says Paul Katami, group fitness manager at Equinox fitness club in West Hollywood, California, who created this routine. "They are great time-savers and also challenge your stabilizer muscles, which help improve core strength and balance."

            While you can use a dumbbell for these moves, a kettlebell's weight isn't evenly distributed, so your muscles have to work harder to steady the bell with each lift or swing.

            Three or four times a week, do two sets of this circuit with an eight-to 10-pound kettlebell. Complete the prescribed reps of each exercise, moving from one to the next with little or no rest.

Swing with Leg Raise

                                                   step 1                           step 2                (Sets 2 / Reps 15)

1. Start in a half squat, holding the kettlebell between your knees, arms straight and chest up.
2. Swing the weight overhead, arms straight, and raise your right leg straight out to the side. Return to start and repeat with the left leg. That's one rep. 

Lateral Lunge with Biceps Curl

                                  Step 1                                Step 2                          (Sets 2/ Reps15)

1. Hold the bell in your right hand, step to the left, and lower into a side lunge.
2. Curl the weight up toward your left shoulder.Reverse the move to return to standing.That's one rep.

           

Squat to Rotational Press

                                                   Step 1                                Step 2              (Sets 2 /Reps 10)

1. Hold the bell at your chest and lower into a squat, chest up and back flat.
2. As you stand, rotate your feet and torso to the left, pressing the weight over your left shoulder. Return to standing and repeat, rotating to the right side. That's one rep.     

        We hope this helps you to do more effective exercises while you are on your health journey. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank you for visiting!

Joseph A Jones & The Welllife Team 

Healthy Foods Women Should Eat

   

    Women have specific dietary needs that need to be met daily.It is important they know which foods to focus on eating everyday to stay healthy. A recent article by HealthGuide.org goes on in  great detail to explain which foods women need to focus on including all age groups.

    Good nutrition starts with the basics: a well-rounded diet consisting of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean sources of protein.These kinds of foods provide women with plenty of energy, the means for lifelong weight control, and the key ingredients for looking and feeling great at any age.

 

Top diet and nutrition tips for women 

• Focus on whole, plant-based foods. Fill most of your plate with fruits and leafy green vegetables. Also include a variety of whole grains, beans, and legumes to give you filling fiber and keep you going throughout the day. Try to find minimally-processed or locally-grown foods whenever possible and make these foods the mainstay of your diet.
•  Bone up on calcium. Women are at a greater risk than men of developing osteoporosis, so it’s important to get plenty of calcium to support your bone health. While dairy products are high in calcium, their animal fat and protein can accelerate bone loss. So also consider plant-based sources of calcium like beans, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens.
• Don’t eat too much protein. Protein is an essential part of any healthy diet, but eating too much animal-based protein—such as the levels recommended in many low-carb, high-protein diets—is particularly dangerous for women. Eating lots of protein causes calcium loss. Over time, this could lead to a decrease in bone density and osteoporosis.
• Make sure you get enough iron. Many women don’t get enough iron in their diet. On top of that, women lose a lot of this important mineral during menstruation. Boost your intake by eating iron-rich foods such as lean red meat, dark poultry, lentils, spinach, almonds, and iron-fortified cereals.
• Cut back on alcohol and caffeine. Women who have more than two alcoholic drinks a day are at higher risk of osteoporosis. Caffeine consumption interferes with hormone levels and also increases the loss of calcium. Try to limit alcohol consumption to one glass a day and caffeine to one cup a day.
  
  
  If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thank You for Visiting !
Joseph A. Jones  & The WellLife Team