Get Through The Flu

How to arm yourself in the battle against chills, coughs and body aches:

Gulp some garlic. The bulb is thought to have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties that can help alleviate flu symptoms (onions and cayenne pepper can also do the trick).

Feel-better berries. Elderberry may shorten flu time by up to 50%---add some extract to a cup of warm water or take capsules according to the instructions on the label.

Chill out. Many types of heating systems dry out air in confined spaces. creating an ideal environment for viruses to spread. crack open the windows for a few hours to help air circulate, or try a humidifier.

Don't let the bed bugs bite. to prevent the virus from breeding, wash bed linens in hot water every few days when you're sick.

Stay Healthy This Summer

Whether you're hitting the beach or hanging out in your backyard, you'll probably spend tons of time outside this summer. And while wearing a hat and sunscreen can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays, there's more you'll need to do to feel good all summer long.

Listen Up!---If you're a swimmer, you're bound to get water in your ears. If there is no sign of infection, such as pain, gently wash out the water with isopropyl alcohol. If this doesn't work, see a doctor.

Look Out!---Even short-term exposure to the sun can burn your corneas, which can lead to a painful condition called photokeratitis. Long-term exposure may increase your risk of developing cataracts. You need a good pair of sunglasses that absorb UV light. Each lens must cover your entire eye.

Bug Off!----With diseases such as dengue, it's important to prevent mosquito bites. Insect repellent should be applied regularly to exposed skin.

Drink Up!---Not much dehydrates you more than time in the sun. Drink water continously all day.

Turn Your Room Into A SPA

Save your cash and make your bedroom a place of Zen!!!

Fill a pitcher with water, ice and cucumber slices. The refreshing drink, offered at many top spas, is said to improve your complexion.

Pop in a relaxation CD. The sounds send you to the anxiety-taming alpha brain state.

Scent the air with a sweet aroma. The hibiscus-scented oil acts like stress-relieving incense.

Tell Your Friends To Butt Out

Being around smokers isn't just bad for your lungs, but for your heart, too. A recent study found that nonsmoking women who are exposed to secondhand smoke (from the end of a lit cigarette) have a 15 percent greater risk of dying from heart disease than nonsmokers who are not exposed to passive smoke.