Stephanie Linus Daily

Category: Lifestyle

  • Stephanie’s Poll: Who Should Make The First Call?

    Imagine this scenario:

    A beautiful lady meets a handsome man somewhere. They have a great conversation and the chemistry in between them even at that first meeting is undeniable. They both have a good and comfortable time in each other’s company and feel their first meeting is the start of a wonderful union.

    After spending about an hour together, they reluctantly part ways, but not before exchanging numbers. Now note, emphasis on ‘exchange’. Lady has guy’s number and guy has lady’s number.

    One day, two days, four days, one week, two weeks pass after their meeting and… no phone call. Lady has been waiting patiently by her phone, with her heart in her mouth every time her phone rings, hoping its him. But he never calls….

    If you were the lady, would you call him? In such a situation, who should make the first call?

  • 10 Bad Habits That Drain Your Energy

    Sometimes, we feel physically or emotionally drained. This stops us from achieving our dreams and might be the cause of some habits we practice often. Such habits could be physical, mental, emotional…

    Here are 10 things you need to stop doing if you want to boost your energy:

    1. Letting pain from the past devastate the present: Don’t give up on today because of the way things looked yesterday. Every day is a new day to try again.
    2. Skipping breakfast: Many people skip breakfast in an attempt to control their weight. However, doing so may undermine your entire day. After fasting all night, your body needs calories and nutrients to produce energy.
    3. Continuous complaining: Not only does complaining sap energy from you and everyone around you, it also doesn’t work.
    4. Lack of adequate sleep: I know some people believe that less sleep gives them more time in the day, but this is not actually true. Lack of sleep means you won’t function very well when sleep deprived.
    5. Skipping exercise: Regular exercise boosts strength and endurance, helps make your cardiovascular system run more efficiently, and delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. So next time you’re tempted to crash on the couch, at least go for a brisk walk—you won’t regret it.
    6. You don’t drink enough water: Dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume, which makes the blood thicker. This requires your heart to pump less efficiently, reducing the speed at which oxygen and nutrients reach your muscles and organs. This makes you very weak and tired.
    7. You’re not consuming enough iron: Boost your iron intake to reduce your risk of anemia and general body weakness. Foods rich in iron include beef, beans, eggs, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, and peanut butter, and pair them with foods high in vitamin C (vitamin C improves iron absorption when eaten together).
    8. Sacrificing too much for others: Don’t sacrifice yourself too much, because if you do, there will be very little left that you can give to anyone, even those you love dearly.
    9. You have too much on your plate: One of most common reasons that people feel drained and exhausted is that they have too much to do and too little time. Many people take on more than they can handle. Learn to say no and create a little gap in your day. If you want more energy you need time for yourself too.
    10. Eating too much junk food: Processed foods are convenient if you live a busy life, but they’re actually working against you. Foods loaded with sugar and simple carbs like the ones you’ll find in a fast food center works to increase your blood sugar. Constant blood sugar spikes followed by sharp drops cause fatigue over the course of the day.

    It’s the start of a brand new week, SL Fabz. Stay active by keeping away from bad habits that drain your energy.

    Have a great week.

  • It’s All About Marriage Proposals!

    I just heard that yesterday – March 20, 2015 – was the National Proposal Day. I didn’t even know a day like that existed!

    It was created by a guy named John Michael O’Loughlin to dedicate a day for men to propose marriage. He invented the holiday after his cousin’s boyfriend wouldn’t pop the question after years of dating. Learning from his cousin’s experience, he thought of this day to urge lovers to take the plunge.

    One of the most unforgettable moments in someone’s life is when a person receives a marriage proposal from someone she loves. For those who have received one already, it is a moment to remember with fondness. For those who haven’t, it is a hopeful dream.

    So, in the spirit of the National Proposal Day, let’s talk about marriage proposals. Those who are engaged or married, recount how it all went down. And for those who aren’t, what is your dream proposal?

    I can’t wait to read your stories 🙂

  • Get Rid Of Stretch Marks Using Home Remedies

    Many people see stretch marks as a sign of obesity. But I actually have to dispute that because I’ve seen stretch marks on slim people.

    Stretch marks occur as a result of the elasticity of the skin when you gain weight real quick, especially during puberty or pregnancy stage.

    When stretch marks are too much and in very visible parts of the body, they can make one really uncomfortable. But to get rid of them, you really don’t have to spend so much. Natural methods are cheap and safe.

    Here are a few:

    1. Aloe Vera.
    This is the most effective homeopathic remedy for curing, not only stretch marks, but other skin related problems. Aloe Vera is known for its healing and regenerating properties. You can apply it directly on stretch mark one time a day or make a paste by mixing  the Aloe Vera gel with olive oil. Then, use warm water to rinse the skin.

    2. White Sugar
    Natural white sugar is one of the best natural remedies to get rid of stretch marks. You can use the sugar to exfoliate your skin. Take a tablespoon of sugar. Add some drops of almond oil and lemon juice in it. Stir it well and apply directly on the stretch marks. Rub it for 8-10 minutes and then, take a shower. Do this repeatedly for one month until the stretch marks fade away.

    3. Lemon Juice
    The alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and vitamin C in lemons can efficienty remove the dead skin and make your stretch marks disappear fast.  Slice up lemon and rub it over stretch marks in a circular motion for 10 minutes. Then clean it with warm water. You can also create a mixture of lemon juice and cucumber juice and apply this mixture on stretch mark.

    4. Potato Juice
    Potato juice contains vitamins and minerals that foster growth and restoration of skin cells. Cut thick slices of a medium-sized potato. Take one of the potato slices and rub gently on the stretch marks for a few minutes. When the juice gets dried, wash the affected area with lukewarm water.

    5. Egg Whites
    Egg whites are full of proteins and amino acid. They are likewise rich in collagen and vitamin A and along these lines can treat scars or blazes excessively effected. Separate egg whites of two eggs and whip them. Clean affected stretch marks with fresh water and apply a layer of whipped egg whites. Let them dry and wash it with cold water. After, use olive oil as moisturizer. Use this method daily for at least two weeks.

    6. Cocoa Butter & Shea Butter
    Cocoa butter is best known for enhancing the blood circulation and anti-ageing properties and anti-wrinkling properties. While Shea butter melts on your skin at body temperature and so can be ingested fast. Mix these two with a little Vitamin E oil which is a compelling antioxidant that will penetrate through the layers of your skin and help its natural wound mending procedure while removing the scars on it. Store in a cool place. The cream will become strong again once it chills off. Apply this twice daily.

    Remember, whatever remedy you choose to use, you have to be consistent with it over some weeks for best results.

    SL Fabz, do you know of any other methods of getting rid of stretch marks through natural remedies?

  • 10 Beauty Tools Every Woman Should Have

    Every woman, and I don’t just mean the makeup pros, should have some basic tools that would make her look her best always.

    Here are 10 essential things I think every woman should have:
    red lipstick
    1. Red Lipstick: Just like your signature scent, every girl needs the perfect shade of red lipstick for her skin colour or dress. It brings out that glam in your look, everytime.

    brow comb
    2. Brow & Lash Comb: You don’t want to go around having a set of occasionally unruly brows. The brow brush is so convenient to tame and brush your eyebrows and the comb is great to comb out any clumps in your mascara or to comb your lashes into place.

    blow dryer
    3. Blow Dryer or Hair Dryer: Whether its to dry your wet hair or to set your curls in place, a blow dryer can produce sleek, polished hair styles for almost any hair texture. It is especially great for home use and a quick fix when you need one.

    brushes
    4. Makeup Brushes: Having the right makeup with poor tools for apply them on is a recipe for disaster. It is worth the investment to purchase a high-quality set of makeup brushes. A basic makeup brush kit includes a narrow brush for eyeliner, broad brushes for eye shadow and blush and a brush with an angled tip for your lips.

    beauty sponge
    5. Beauty Sponge: If what you need is a smooth finish and even application of your make up, then the Beauty Sponge also known as the Beauty Blender is just perfect for you. The teardrop shape of the sponge also makes it easy to really get into the nooks and crannies and get uniform coverage. It’s not very commonly used but I recommend them if you have never tried it.

    tweezers
    6. Tweezers: You never know when you need to do a little grooming and plucking on your brows. Tweezers always come in handy to help set your false lashes on your lash line and, of course, keep stray, unwanted hairs away.

    face wipes
    7. Face Wipes: Sleeping in your makeup is absolutely terrible for your skin’s health and appearance, so before you drift off to sleep, you can quickly take off your makeup with a moist face wipe.

    curling iron
    8. Curling Iron or Flat Iron: Whether you want a sleek straight look or a wavy curly look, this electric tool will make set you on the right path. This is great for both your real hair and hair extensions.

    cotton swabs
    9. Cotton Swabs: The best way to remove makeup from your delicate eye area is with cotton balls soaked in makeup remover. They can also be used to clean up accidents with eye makeup, to apply skin care products you don’t want to contaminate or to clean up nail polish that’s gone astray. I always have cotton swabs and cotton balls in my makeup purse just in case.

    bobby pins
    10. Bobby Pins: Bobby pins are a beauty accessory that’s been around for ages and are still very useful to this day. Whether you want to put your updo in place or you’re in a hurry and you really need your hair to look good, this could come in handy. It’s great for both short and long hair too.

    Ladies, which of these tools do you not have or don’t think is necessary? What is your most important beauty tool?

  • How To Make Cucumber Juice

    Remember I once told you that I learn a lot from you in the comment section of this blog? Yes, I do!

    Some days ago, when I put up a post on the 5 Healthy Reasons Why You Should Eat Cucumbers, a reader mentioned that she makes cucumber juice. Now, this is something I’ve never done before so I did some research and found the recipe.

    Cucumbers are naturally high in vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium. Sometimes, you might have lots of them and won’t want them to get spoilt. One way to use up those extra cucumbers is in homemade cucumber juice, which you can use for mixed drinks or sauces or consume on its own. Many people add cucumber juice to their diets to improve the quality of their skin, nails, and hair, and when consumed regularly, the drink can help treat high blood pressure and kidney stones.

    So, join me and let’s learn how to make some cucumber juice. I got this from Wikihow:

    1. Peel your cucumbers. The skin of a cucumber is coated in a protective wax. While you can eat this coating without much problem, the wax will distort the texture of cucumber juice. You can accomplish this task by using either a potato peeler or a sharp knife with a smooth blade.
    1. Peel your cucumbers. The skin of a cucumber is coated in a protective wax. While you can eat this coating without much problem, the wax will distort the texture of cucumber juice. You can accomplish this task by using either a potato peeler or a sharp knife with a smooth blade.
    2. Slice off the ends of your cucumbers using a sharp knife. The bottom and top stem are hard, inedible parts that you should not attempt to turn into juice.
    2. Slice off the ends of your cucumbers using a sharp knife. The bottom and top stem are hard, inedible parts that you should not attempt to turn into juice.
    3. Chop the cucumbers into large chunks. The pieces can be up to 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) in height, width, and depth. Smaller pieces will also work, but you should avoid using pieces that are much bigger than that.
    3. Chop the cucumbers into large chunks. The pieces can be up to 1 inch (2.54 centimeters) in height, width, and depth. Smaller pieces will also work, but you should avoid using pieces that are much bigger than that.
    4. Place the cucumber chunks into a food processor or blender. You should leave a couple of inches in between the top cucumber pieces and the rim of the machine. Do not fill the food processor to the top.
    4. Place the cucumber chunks into a food processor or blender. You should leave a couple of inches in between the top cucumber pieces and the rim of the machine. Do not fill the food processor to the top.
    5. Blend the cucumber pieces on a medium or high speed. Run the machine for approximately two minutes. The mixture should be pulpy, but it does not need to be smooth.
    5. Blend the cucumber pieces on a medium or high speed. Run the machine for approximately two minutes. The mixture should be pulpy, but it does not need to be smooth.
    6. Place a mesh strainer over a large bowl. The strainer should be small enough to fit inside the mouth of the bowl, but if possible, you should use a strainer with a wide enough rim to rest on top of the brim of the bowl. By resting the strainer on top of the bowl, you free up both hands.
    6. Place a mesh strainer over a large bowl. The strainer should be small enough to fit inside the mouth of the bowl, but if possible, you should use a strainer with a wide enough rim to rest on top of the brim of the bowl. By resting the strainer on top of the bowl, you free up both hands.
    7. Place cheesecloth inside the strainer. The cloth will allow you to strain out more pulp. You can also line the strainer with coffee filters to create the same effect.
    7. Place cheesecloth inside the strainer. The cloth will allow you to strain out more pulp. You can also line the strainer with coffee filters to create the same effect.
    8. Slowly pour the blended cucumbers through the strainer. Pour as much of the cucumber puree into the strainer as possible without causing the puree to overflow.
    8. Slowly pour the blended cucumbers through the strainer. Pour as much of the cucumber puree into the strainer as possible without causing the puree to overflow.
    9. Stir the puree with a rubber spatula or metal spoon, occasionally pressing down into the cheesecloth or mesh. By stirring the cucumbers, you encourage the juice to seep out and flow through the strainers, into the bowl. Continue stirring and pressing until no more juice comes out.
    9. Stir the puree with a rubber spatula or metal spoon, occasionally pressing down into the cheesecloth or mesh. By stirring the cucumbers, you encourage the juice to seep out and flow through the strainers, into the bowl. Continue stirring and pressing until no more juice comes out.
    10. Pour the cucumber juice into glasses, chill, and serve. You can also store fresh cucumber juice in a sealed container inside the refrigerator for one week.
    10. Pour the cucumber juice into glasses, chill, and serve. You can also store fresh cucumber juice in a sealed container inside the refrigerator for one week.

    Simple, isn’t it? Remember, if you don’t have a food processor, you can use a blender. There is also the option of mixing it with honey for a sweetened taste but I tend to prefer this one.

    Would you try this soon?

  • Be Enthusiastic

    Enthusiasm is the sparkle in your eyes, the swing in your gait, the grip of your hand, the irresistible surge of will and energy to execute your ideas.

    Sometimes, we act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us really happy is something to be enthusiastic about.

    Be enthusiastic about everything, life itself truly is a miracle.

    When you look at even the most mundane task with enthusiasm, you’ll increase your joy, get through it with ease and have more energy for everything else.

    Joy, happiness and enthusiasm are choices. Would you rather be miserable or would you prefer to live an awesome life?

  • 5 Helpful Tips For A Successful First Day At Work

    I know someone who will be resuming a new job today and when I called to wish him good luck, he asked me for some tips on getting through this day.

    I shared a few tips with him and thought it would be nice to bring them here too.

    The first day at a new job comes with its own kind of nervousness, no matter how qualified you are for the post. But most importantly, it is an important day for making the right impression.

    1. Arrive Early & Leave Late
    Being on time to work is expected. Arriving a bit earlier than your co-workers is recommended if you want to make a strong impression. To help get you to work on time, know your route and how long it will take you to get to the office. Also be sure to be one of the last people to leave on that first day. You’ll be able to get a better feel for the office culture.

    2. Have A Positive Attitude
    In all situations, nothing works better than having and expressing a positive attitude. Let your enthusiasm for being part of the team and the organization show to everyone you interact with. And always leave non-work problems at home.

    3. Dress The Part
    This might be just a case of checking what the dress code is, if there is one. You certainly want to be well presented as it’ll give you a confidence boost and help you impress all the new colleagues you’re going to be meeting. You’re representing yourself, your team and your new company, so be smart about it.

    4. Ask for help
    It’s tempting to want to prove your competence the first days on the job. But no matter how skilled and knowledgeable you are, you won’t have all the answers. Rather than complete a job incorrectly, ask your co-workers and colleagues for help when you need it. No one expects you to know everything, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

    5. Set Long Term Goals
    If you suddenly find yourself without work on that first day, don’t start updating your Facebook page. Actively seek out something helpful to do, either for your boss or your co-workers. You might even get a lunch invitation or make new friends out of it.

    To anyone starting a new job today or anytime soon, I wish you the very best!

    SL Fabz, do you have any tips to add to this?

  • Help Me Pick A Dress

    It’s a bright sunny day and I’m in the mood for wearing something floral and breezy.

    I have this white pair of sandals and I’m fond of wearing them often with leggings. But I’d like to change thing up a bit and pair it with a dress.

    So, do you think this Carrie printed boat neck dress will do:

    printed dress 1

    Or the Mahaut sleeveless striped tank top & Eleta striped asymmetric maxi skirt

    Dress 2

    I love both dresses but I can’t seem to pick one. Which should I go for?

    Photo Credit: Bergdorfgoodman.com

  • 5 Healthy Reasons Why You Should Eat Cucumbers

    Whether you add cucumber slices to your salad, toss them in your smoothie or take them as a snack, cucumbers help keep you full without ruining your diet.

    But not only are they satisfying, they are also great for your body. Here are some impressive health benefits of cucumbers:

    Cucumber Rehydrates The Body
    If you are too busy to drink enough water, eat the cool cucumber, which is 90 percent water. It will cheerfully compensate your water loss.

    Freshen Your Breath
    Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid your mouth of odor-causing bacteria. According to the principles of Ayurveda, eating cucumbers may also help to release excess heat in your stomach, which is said to be a primary cause of bad breath

    Fight Cancers
    Cucumber are known to contain lariciresinol, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol. These three lignans have a strong history of research in connection with reduced risk of several cancer types, including breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer and prostate cancer.

    Packed with Vitamins
    Cucumbers are rich in most essential vitamins that the body needs. They contain vitamin A, vitamin B and vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and gives the body more energy and a youthful glow.

    Good For Diabetics
    Patients of diabetes can enjoy cucumber while also reaping its health benefits. Cucumber contains a hormone needed by the cells of the pancreas for producing insulin.

    Protect Your Brain
    Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play an important role in brain health. In addition to improving your memory and protecting your nerve cells from age-related decline, fisetin has been found to prevent progressive memory and learning impairments in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.

    Good For Weight Watchers
    Cucumbers are low in calories and high in water, making them ideal for those who want to lose a few pounds. They are also high in fiber that aids digestion and can be a cure for constipation.

    Do you know of any other health benefits of eating cucumber? Do you eat cucumber often?