How to Relieve Back Pain Through Acupuncture

How to Relieve Back Pain Through Acupuncture



Acupuncture is a healing approach based on old Chinese teachings. In this discipline, needles--about equal in diameter to a guitar string--are used to lightly puncture the skin at various parts of the body. Acupuncture theory maintains that this clears blockages, facilitating the flow of the body's natural painkillers and ultimately helping the body to heal itself. Many belive acupuncture can be used to treat a wide array of conditions, including back pain, herpes, eczema, acne, arthritis and bronchitis.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access for reviewing acupuncturists









1


Get help. Seek the care of a qualified acupuncturist. Locate local acupuncturists and learn about your state's requirements for licensing by visiting the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below).





2


Make an appointment with the acupuncturist you selected through the Acufinder Web site. Tell him or her all of your symptoms, and describe the pain as best you can (try to explain whether your pain is sharp, shooting, dull or lingering).





3


Follow your acupuncturist's treatment plan. He or she will advise you to participate in a certain number of sessions. Treatment will likely focus on the urinary bladder meridian, found behind the knee.





4


Consider self-treatment. Though it sounds daunting, it is possible to treat yourself through acupuncture. Such an approach requires proper training. Visit the Acupuncture Web site for a list of schools in your area (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Acupuncture rates vary from moderate to expensive. Costs will depend on the acupuncturist's experience and credentials, and the city in which he or she practices.








Treatment for most maladies spans no more than 10 to 15 sessions. However, in the case of chronic conditions, as many as 20 to 30 sessions may be needed.








Acupuncture is covered by many healthcare plans. It is not, however, covered by Medicare and Medicaid.








Herbs and supplements may be prescribed by your acupuncturist to support treatment. These are usually inexpensive to moderately priced--which is a good thing, since this aspect of treatment is not covered by insurance plans.








If suffering from severe symptoms such as the vomiting of blood, do not attempt to treat your condition through acupuncture. Seek the care of a physician.








Don't attempt to treat yourself through acupuncture without the proper training. Serious side effects such as infection can result if acupuncture is performed without adequate prior knowledge.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031359_relieve-back-pain.html

How to Relieve Arthritis Through Acupuncture

How to Relieve Arthritis Through Acupuncture



Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine. In this approach, thin needles are used to puncture the skin at specific points along the body, with the aim of fostering healing. These techniques have been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ringing in the ear and diarrhea. It may also be possible to relieve arthritis through acupuncture.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access for contacting acupuncturists









1


Seek qualified care. Find an acupuncturist with experience in arthritis care by visiting the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below).





2


Talk to your acupuncurist about soothing your stiff back, legs and hips. The urinary bladder meridian governs the back, legs and hips, and applying acupuncture to this point can help relieve arthritis pain in these areas. The urinary bladder meridian is located in back of the knee.





3


Ask your acupuncturist to relieve a stiff neck by using the lung meridian. The lung meridian can be found inside the arm, just above the wrist.





4


See your acupuncturist for the recommended number of sessions for the best chance of relieving arthritis.








Tips & Warnings










Acupuncture rates are usually moderate in cost, but they can be expensive. The education and experience of your therapist will play a part in the rate charged, as will the city in which he or she is based.








Acupuncture is covered by through host of insurance plans. Medicare and Medicaid do not offer coverage, however.








Herbs and supplements--inexpensive to moderate in price--may be prescribed to facilitate treatment. This area of therapy is not covered by insurance plans.








Chronic conditions like arthritis can require as many as 20 to 30 sessions for treatment.








Do not attempt to treat severe symptoms, such as profuse and persistent bleeding, through acupuncture. Seek the care of a physician.








Don't undergo acupuncture self-treatment unless your have the necessary qualifications. In unqualified hands, acupuncture can lead to serious consequences, like liver toxicity.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031363_relieve-arthritis-through.html

How to Release Spirits Through Trepanation

How to Release Spirits Through Trepanation



Trepanation is a surgical procedure in which a hole is drilled into the skull. It is the oldest known form of surgery,
dating
back to 6,500 B.C. In the middle ages, it was used to treat seizures and mental illness. Drilling a hole into the head was believed to allow bad spirits to exit. Today, it is used as a form of alternative medicine to treat seizures, migraines and depression. Some still believe that trepanation can release bad spirits to improve overall health.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Licensed medical doctor







Release Spirits and Expand Consciousness Through Trepanation




1


Understand how trepanation works. A hole is drilled into the skull to increase the volume of blood in the brain. This is thought to achieve a number of purposes, including the curing of migraines and depression, and the permanent alteration (and supposed expansion) of the patient's mental state. Some believe that this is accomplished by allowing bad or hindering spirits that are trapped inside the brain to exit through the hole in the skull.





2


Know the effects of trepanation. Some have likened it to standing on one's head. Increased flow of blood to the brain for a prolonged period of time causes a form of intoxication and altered perception. Trepanation increases the flow of blood to the brain continually. In theory, it would allow this altered state to become permanent.





3


Talk to your doctor about trepanation and its potential risks and benefits, both in treating health problems and its release of bad spirits. Find out if trepanation is right for you, and what other options might be available to you.





4


Schedule an appointment with a licensed medical doctor to have your trepanation procedure performed.





5


Learn more about the release of bad spirits and increase of blood flow through trepanation by visiting ITAG (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










The trepanation procedure can be fairly expensive.








Trepanation should only be performed by and at the advice of a licensed medical doctor.








Like most elective surgical procedures, non-essential trepanation is not covered by most health insurance companies.








Trepanation carries a high risk of brain damage and infection. Do not attempt to trepan yourself under any circumstances. This greatly increases the risks of trepanation.








If you experience infection or head trauma, consult a medical doctor or go to the hospital immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033218_release-spirits-through.html

How to Reduce Pain Through Structural Integration

How to Reduce Pain Through Structural Integration



Many people suffer from bodily discomfort related to back pain, repetitive motion injuries or advancing age. The cause for much of this discomfort is due to a stiffening and rigidity of the connective tissue called fascia which surrounds muscles and organs. Structural Integration is a body therapy technique that loosens the fascia through deep tissue manipulation, thereby giving your muscles and organs the range of movement they need which in turn can reduce pain.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access




Telephone




Structural Integration practitioner







Learn About Structural Integration




1


Learn how Structural Integration was created by Ida Rolf, Ph.D. The technique was developed in 1930 when Rolf sought to relieve her sons' disabilities, as well as her own. Rolf's body therapy technique was an amalgam of other techniques at the time. By 1960, Rolf's technique was officially called Structural Integration and subsequently nicknamed Rolfing.





2


Educated yourself on how Structural Integration treats pain. Practitioners will lengthen and open the patterns in the fascia surrounding your muscles which helps make the tissue soft and flexible and gives the muscles and joints greater movement. Rolfing restores the balance in the tissue, thereby reducing the pain associated with constricted connective tissue.





3


Discover what Structural Integration session plans entail. Typically, new patients of Structural Integration undergo a uniform first 10 sessions. The first session introduces the patient to Structural Integration and allows the practitioner to evaluate the patient's posture, movement and areas in which to reduce pain. From there, each successive weekly session builds on the last.





4


Learn more by visiting Web sites like The Guild for Structural Integration (see Resources below).



Find a Practitioner and Reduce Your Pain




1


Locate a Structural Integration practitioner by searching online. The International Association of Structural Integrators has a comprehensive listing of practitioners in the United States and abroad, complete with phone numbers and email addresses (see Resources below).





2


Make sure the practitioner you select is certified through an accredited Structural Integration school like the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration.





3


Contact your practitioner of choice and enroll in your first 10 sessions. Make sure to inform your practitioner that your goal is to reduce pain.





4


Ask the practitioner to recommend complementary therapies to treat your pain. He or she may suggest icing, heat pads, hot baths or massage as complements to Rolfing.








Tips & Warnings










Practitioner fees for 1 session are moderate. Check with practitioners in your area for current rates.








Speak to your physician before undergoing Structural Integration treatment for serious or potentially serious health issues. Additionally, Structural Integration should not be the only therapy through which you combat disease.








Visit an ER right away if you are bleeding heavily.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033179_reduce-pain-through.html

How to Do a Cleansing Diet

How to Do a Cleansing Diet



Cleansing diets involve taking herbal supplements and eating healthy foods that are thought to encourage internal cleansing. Choosing the right cleansing diet will depend upon many factors, like your general health status and your specific goals. While many people pick cleansing diets because of their potential for quick weight loss, many more are finding that periodic cleanses are effective in elevating mood, energy and feelings of well-being. Follow these steps to learn more.







Things You'll Need:





Distilled water




Computer with Internet access




Cleansing diet products







Pick the Right Cleansing Diet




1


Learn more about cleansing diets at the "every diet" Web site (see Resources below).





2


Set aside a time period during which you'll be able to do your cleansing diet with minimum interruption to your everyday life and routines. The duration of a cleansing diet can range from 24 hours for a basic colon cleanse to 3 months or longer for an effective Candida cleanse.





3


Do a mini-fast, or a cleansing diet of a shorter duration, just to see how your body responds.





4


Compare the different types of cleansing diets both for effectiveness and its cost. Prices for complete programs can range from inexpensive to fairly expensive based upon the length of the program and the materials included. You can comparison shop for cleansing diet products using shopping engines at sites like NexTag.com (see Resources below).



Do Your Cleansing Diet Effectively




1


Save time and money by preparing most of your food in advance. Many diets contain dishes like brown rice or soup that can take a long time to make.





2


Take at least 1 hot shower a day. Scrub your body with a loofah or sponge. It will help the circulation of blood and allow your body to dispel toxins much quicker. A sauna will also help to accelerate a body cleanse.





3


Drink at least 7 to 10 glasses, each 8 oz., of purified or distilled water every day. Many cleansing diets can cause irregular bowel movements or even diarrhea and can lead to dehydration.








Tips & Warnings










If you choose to purchase a commercial cleansing diet product, be sure to read the package directions carefully. Many products advise that you only stay on the program for a certain period of time or that you not exceed certain dosages.








Discuss with your doctor the potential benefits and hazards of starting a cleansing diet, specifically if you're being treated for a specific medical condition or if you're taking prescription medication. Some medications can interact negatively with some foods and supplements.








Be prepared to seek immediate medical help if you become disoriented, faint or experience heart palpitations during a cleanse.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2032955_do-cleansing-diet.html

How to Cut Sexy T-Shirts

How to Cut Sexy T-Shirts



That old, oversized t-shirt might have a wearing or two left in it before you toss it to the trash. Just let your scissors do the work.







Things You'll Need:





t-shirt



scissors









Step
1



Cut the sleeves off at the shoulder seam to make a tank top style.




Step
2



Cut t-shirt collar off. Make a v-neck if it is flattering for your body type.




Step
3



At the bottom of the t-shirt you are going to cut "ties". You can make them in the front, back, sides, both, or ALL-be creative. Just decide on the location then cut out an upside down "V". Then tie up the left over "tails" to create a form-fitting style.







Tips & Warnings









Wear over a snugger tank top or tee.








Tie ribbons, or another decoration, around the shoulder sleeve/strap to give a more narrow appearance.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2195101_cut-tshirts-sexy-style.html

How to Customize Jeans

How to Customize Jeans



If you're getting tired of wearing the same old boring jeans, spice them up! There are several different methods you can use to customize your own jeans. Let your personality, creativity and sense of style come through in your own custom creation.







Things You'll Need:





Your favorite jeans



Dremel tool and attachment or sandpaper



Iron-on designs



Rhinestones



Fabric paint









Step
1



Find a pair of jeans that fit well or buy a pair. Preferably select a designer brand but they don't have to be.




Step
2



Do some research and planning to decide what you would like your jeans to look like. Decide which methods you would like to use to custom your jeans.




Step
3



Distress the jeans, if desired. Distressing the pockets and knees will give the jeans that worn look. You can do this by using a Dremel tool with a wide sandpaper attachment and lightly going around the front and back pocket edges and the bottom of the jeans very lightly. You can also do the knees, making sure to put a block of wood, a brick or thick cardboard inside the pant leg to prevent it from going all the way through to the other side. Instead of the Dremel, you can use regular sandpaper if you'd rather, and even a cheese grater on the knees.




Step
4



Buy iron-on designs from a

craft


store and place them on the hips, pockets, cuffs, waistbands, or knees for extra color and design.




Step
5



Customize your own design by adding rhinestones. The Bedazzler is a great tool to use, which easily snaps them on the jeans. You can create any design you want with this tool, or buy pre-made rhinestone designs that you iron on.




Step
6



Paint designs on with fabric paint. This option would be a good one for an artist type, not someone who can't draw a straight line.







Tips & Warnings









Do not use the Dremel tool, cheese grater or any sharp object to distress your jeans while you are wearing them!



http://www.ehow.com/how_2051553_customize-jeans.html

How to Customize a Sweatshirt

How to Customize a Sweatshirt



A customized sweatshirt makes a unique one-of-a-kind gift that reflects a person's personality, hobby or interests. It is also an inexpensive way to represent your

sport


team, club or other small group. There are several methods for creating a unique design on a sweatshirt. Use a combination of designs and textures to create that special sweatshirt.







Things You'll Need:





Sweatshirt



Decals



Iron



Sewing kit



Fabric paint



Dye



Wax paper or cardboard









Step
1



Decide what digital photo you want on the sweatshirt. For example, you can use a photo of kids, grandkids, family or pets.




Step
2



Choose an iron-on decal, possibly one for the front and one for the back. This is a good way to show hobbies or interests.




Step
3



Put on lettering or the logo for a team, club or school. Both can be placed wherever you want and in any direction. Be creative and use both a logo and the iron-on lettering to create family reunion, team or small group

sweatshirts


.




Step
4



Attach a patch to the front or arms of a sweatshirt. Most patches are easy to apply with an iron or by sewing them on.




Step
5



Decorate with fabric paint to create a design or write someone's name or a message on a sweatshirt. Fabric paint also creates a nice effect when used to outline images.




Step
6



Tie-dye the sweatshirt. This is a really a great way to customize a sweatshirt, as no two items come out alike.




Step
7



Apply various appliquГ©s and motifs that can be used for any occasion. Variations of an appliquГ© can be placed anywhere on the sweatshirt or on one specific area.







Tips & Warnings









Check the tag for proper washing instructions.








Place a piece of wax paper or cardboard in between the front and the back of the sweatshirt to prevent any seepage of paint or glue to the back of the sweatshirt.








Always follow manufacturer's instructions when applying designs to the sweatshirt.








Don't leave any supplies and materials unattended that could cause harm to young
children
.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2240539_customize-sweatshirt.html

How to Cultivate a Stylish Wardrobe

How to Cultivate a Stylish Wardrobe



It's easy to fall behind the times when balancing career, home and family, but no fashion-conscious woman wants to become what Oprah calls a "shlumpadinka." If you find yourself running errands in pajama bottoms or eating out in dirty jeans and

T-shirts


, it's time for a closet makeover. With some patience and careful planning, you can cultivate a stylish wardrobe and get back into the swing of things.









Step
1



Take a look in your closet. Before you start shopping for new clothes, get rid of everything you don't or shouldn't wear. As a general rule, eliminate two items of clothing for every new piece you purchase. This is a great opportunity to give to charity.




Step
2



Remember undergarments. Find properly fitted

bras


, panties and hosiery to increase daily comfort and establish a good foundation upon which to build your wardrobe.




Step
3



Start with the basics. You must have at least two pairs of nice jeans, a pair of black pants, a classic black dress, a tailored suit and several simple blouses and T-shirts. To cultivate a well-rounded collection, add some fashionable sportswear for exercising and running errands.




Step
4



Buy a few pair of nice shoes. Have at least one nice pair of heels, some sandals, a pair of tennis shoes and a pair of comfortable footwear for work. Quality, not quantity, is key.




Step
5



Purchase timeless outerwear. A well-made, classically tailored trench or leather jacket can stay in style and hold up for years. If you live in a cold climate, coats may get more use than any other component of your wardrobe, so budget accordingly.




Step
6



Accessorize to stay current. Your classic pieces will likely not go out of style, if you stay away from trends like skinny jeans. Update staple wardrobe items with stylish scarves, belts, sunglasses, jewelry and handbags.







Tips & Warnings









Certain jewelry never goes out of style. Pearls look great with T's or formals and actually gain luster over time, if worn regularly.








Buy a few trendy pieces each season, but realize that they may not have much longevity. To cultivate a stylish wardrobe without breaking the bank, spend most of your budget on practical pieces and look for sales when purchasing faddish fashions.








Buy to suit your lifestyle. If you haven't worn a formal dress in years, you may not want to spend a fortune on cocktail dresses.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2240538_cultivate-stylish-wardrobe.html

How to Cross Dress to Look Feminine

How to Cross Dress to Look Feminine



When one is a transgendered male it can sometimes be difficult to cross dress and look feminine. This takes a lot of time and practice. There are several things you can do to make yourself appear feminine. Follow these steps to learn how to cross dress effectively.









Step
1



Wear several pairs of stockings to cover leg hair. Try two pairs of white stockings covered with a pair of pantyhose. This will create a nude appearance without the leg hair showing through. You could also use leg makeup and a single pair of pantyhose if desired.




Step
2



Use silicone hip pads to create an hourglass figure. Apply a triangular shaped pad over the male private area then put on a girdle. This will create a streamlined appearance when you dress.




Step
3



Stuff a bra with water balloons filled with approximately 4 to 6 ounces of water, depending upon the breast size you desire to have. This looks a lot more realistic then stuffing with clothing or tissue. You can also buy breast forms from stores that cater to the cross dressing community such as The BreastForm Store.




Step
4



Put on a corset to create curves and achieve a feminine shape when you dress. This also helps to flatten the stomach and pull in the lower part of the ribs.




Step
5



Dress in dark colors to appear smaller. Wear long sleeves unless you're planning on shaving or waxing your arms.




Step
6



Slip on a pair of feminine high heels. These add the exact touch of femininity necessary to cross dress and look the part. Practice walking in them before going out.







Tips & Warnings









Keep the dress to a moderate length so it doesn't show your garter belt if you're wearing one.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2081204_cross-dress-look-feminine.html

How to Crochet a Bikini

How to Crochet a Bikini



Crochet has always made for a popular style of garment. Like its sister stitching craft, knitting, crochet is particularly fashionable at present. It seems as though everyone wants the homey handmade, yet sexy, look of a crocheted swimsuit. Learning to crochet a bikini makes for a fun and potentially profitable pastime.







Things You'll Need:





Yarn



3-mm crochet hook



Wool needle







Learn to Crochet a Bikini




Step
1



Familiarize yourself with the crochet pattern before you begin. Pick a pattern that is simple and quick if you are not very experienced in crochet.




Step
2



Choose your yarn and hook(s) according to your directions.




Step
3



Adjust your crochet pattern for the correct size for your suit. Instructions are often given for a medium-sized suit, with directives to increase by a certain number of stitches for a size larger or decrease by a certain number for a smaller suit.


Crochet the Bottom of a Bikini




Step
1



Try this simple pattern for the bottom front of a medium bathing suit. Use a 3.5-mm crochet hook. Chain 10. Double-crochet in the second stitch until the end of the row.




Step
2



Chain one and turn. Double-crochet to the row's end. Repeat for eight rows.




Step
3



Increase by one chain in first stitch and then double-crochet to row's end.




Step
4



Chain one and then double-crochet to the end for three more rows. Then, repeat the row where you increase by one.




Step
5



Chain one and double-crochet to the end for three more rows.




Step
6



Repeat another row where you increase by one.




Step
7



Chain two and double-crochet to the end of the row.




Step
8



Chain two and increase in the second stitch. Double-crochet the rest of the row, and increase in last stitch.




Step
9



Chain two and double-crochet the rest of the row. Repeat the final two rows until you have 40 stitches. Fasten off your yarn.


Make the Bottom Back of the Bikini




Step
1



Create the bottom back for this suit. Chain 10. Double-crochet in the second chain through to the row's end.




Step
2



Stitch two rows by double-crocheting each stitch until the row ends.




Step
3



Chain two, turn and do two double crochets in every stitch on the row to give you 18 stitches.




Step
4



Chain two and double-crochet to the row's end.




Step
5



Chain two, do two double crochets in next stitch and then double-crochet to the row's end. Repeat this last row until you have 44 stitches. Fasten off your yarn.


Create the Top of Your Bikini




Step
1



Make the top of your bikini. You will be making two identical pieces to be joined later. Chain 32. Double-crochet in second stitch and keep going until you reach the end of the row.




Step
2



Chain two and double-crochet to the end for the next two rows.




Step
3



Skip two stitches and then double-crochet in each stitch until the row ends. Repeat this for the next five rows.




Step
4



Skip two stitches and double-crochet to end. Repeat this row until 16 stitches are left.




Step
5



Skip one stitch, double-crochet for seven stitches, skip another stitch and double-crochet for seven more stitches.




Step
6



Turn, skip one stitch and double-crochet to the end of the row.




Step
7



Continue to decrease the same way by skipping the middle stitch until only two remain.




Step
8



Slip-stitch and continue on this last stitch by chaining 100 stitches to make the neck tie. Fasten off and cut the yarn.


Assemble the Pieces of Your Bikini




Step
1



Chain 200. Fasten off the yarn.




Step
2



Take a large wool needle and thread the lower edge of your two top sections to create back ties.




Step
3



Chain 75 for ties at the top four corners. Fasten off the yarn and double-crochet around all the edges.







Tips & Warnings









Check your hook's gauge before you crochet your bathing suit to make sure it is measuring accurately to your directions.








Do not attempt to crochet a bikini until you have mastered the basics of crochet and have made many simpler pieces.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2228126_crochet-bikini.html

How to Creatively Wear Brooches

How to Creatively Wear Brooches



Brooches are beautiful accessories, but can make an outfit seemed dated if they are worn in the traditional way. Here are a few ways to make use of a brooch without looking like your great grandma







Things You'll Need:





brooch



imagination









Step
1



Use a brooch as a hairpin. Make a bun or french twist extra glamourous by pinning a brooch in your hair. This usually looks best in the back of your hair, but use your judgement depending on the style. You made need bobby pins as brooches are decorative but aren't great at holding hair in place




Step
2



Use it to fit a sweater or shirt. Have a cardigan or similar garment that is just a bit to big? In the back of it, about wear it hits your waist, pull the extra matieral together and fasten it with a brooch. You'll have a better fitting garment and a fancy new detail in the back. This really spices up an outfit




Step
3



Pin a brooch on an evening bag. This looks best on a clutch or other small evening bag. Use a brooch that matches a color or detail in your dress, it will really help tie the bag into the look.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2112190_creatively-wear-brooches.html

How to create your own custom perfume line

How to create your own custom perfume line



It's not as difficult as you think to create your own custom perfume line. Just follow these steps for marketing success and get help with manufacturing and the world is your oyster.









Step
1



One of the best ways to market a Private Label fragrance is to add it to your existing business. If you already run a website, a clothing store, a gift shop, or any other retail business, you can add a fragrance line easily. Generally speaking a Private Label fragrance will be one of your higher profit items. Markups are typically 150-200%. Expect to make about $20 per bottle, minimum.




Step
2



If you don't own a retail store or retail website, there are still plenty of opportunities. One of your best opportunities is to approach locally owned or smaller chain stores in your area. Then offer them your fragrance on a commission basis. Therefore, they pay nothing up front and have nothing to risk. Then when the fragrance sells you collect 50%-70% of the price depending on the deal you have worked out. In our experience, this is an excellent method to get your fragrance in stores. Once it starts selling you also have more leverage for better terms.




Step
3



A grassroots and effective way to start your line is to sell to family and friends. You will be able to sell it face to face this way while allowing them to sample the product before purchasing. Then, they will tell their friends about it, and you will be spreading the word over time. If everyone that buys your fragrance tells two other people about it, soon you'll have a huge customer base. The key here is to make sure your customers are happy.




Step
4



I'm sure you've heard of Avon right? How they work is to have representatives that organize "parties" that sell Avon products. You can borrow this idea for your fragrance line. Invite friends, acquaintances, and family to your home or office for a fragrance party. You'll be surprised how much fun everyone has, and how much perfume and cologne you sell. Once again, they will tell others, and the word will spread. You can also add representatives to your line so that they can throw their own parties. Simply offer them a fairly generous portion of the revenue (40-50%) and you should have no problem growing a network.




Step
5



Another method is to create a website. The key here is to think of a niche product, target audience, or way to market it. For instance, there is definitely a market for pet fragrance. Other target audiences could be teenagers, the gay and lesbian community, or senior citizens. Any part of the market that is under served by the large companies is a very good target for a Private Label fragrance website.




Step
6



For the more ambitious, you may want to approach companies about licensing their name and attaching it to your fragrance lines. Perhaps you have a great idea for a fragrance for the African American market. What you may want to do is approach a clothing company, record company, or famous/noteworthy individuals that cater to the African American community to license their name and logo. The same could be said for any market, from alternative
sports
to classical music. It's not easy to work out these deals, but if you can, you have instant branding and name recognition.




Step
7



Last but not least, you can try for the nationwide stores. Anywhere from Macy's, to Wal-Mart, to Walgreens, and everything in between. While this can bring the highest revenue, we do caution you that without a history of sales, it will be very difficult for you to convince them to carry your fragrance. Now if you have a friend, family member, or business associate in an important position working for a major chain, you may have a shot. For everyone else it's best to start with the other methods, and then later expand into this market.







Tips & Warnings









Now that you know how to market your line, it's time to have it made. I suggest, www.scentcrafters.com, they are experts on custom perfume and cologne. Here you can pick the scents that go in your fragrance, the bottle, your name to be printed on the bottle, and the color. Then they do all the work!



http://www.ehow.com/how_2112837_own-custom-perfume-line.html

How to Create Frosty Holiday Nails

How to Create Frosty Holiday Nails



Nothing says winter and the holiday season like snow, right? Why not decorate yourself by using
nail
polish


to create a fun, festive and wintery look. This frosty touch works great for winter parties and holiday celebrations, or just as daily winter nail coloring.









Step
1



Start out with clean, manicured nails and choose your base color. The options are endless. While a traditional snowy frosty look will begin with a solid white base or a light pink, you can mix and match all you want. Start with a dark red to create a frosted red look. Really, almost all colors work for the base. Even black!




Step
2



Once you have your base color selected, find the frosty overcoat. You can find a frosty, semi-transparent, pearly-white shade at the drug store or in a professional
beauty
supply store. Look for colors and lines that emphasize "frosty", "pearly" and jewel-themed colors. Because this coat is pearly and transparent, you need a base coat to add your desired hue to your frosty nails.




Step
3



Apply your base coat. Depending on the thickness of the polish and color, you should apply two coats of your base color.




Step
4



Apply your translucent pearl coat over the base. Start thin to assess how it applies and how you will best achieve your frosty look. Some prefer a very frosty look, requiring two coats of pearly polish. For a less frosty look, use only one thin layer to give your nails a sheer, pearled appearance.




Step
5



Apply a strengthening and shining top coat. This is a clear coat that seals in your looks, helps your polish last longer and protects your nails. Some top coats also help nails dry more quickly. Don't miss this important step if you want to give your look lasting power.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2167655_frosty-holiday-nails.html

How to Create Curves With a Pencil Skirt

How to Create Curves With a Pencil Skirt



Pencil skirts have long been a staple of women's wardrobes, and their narrow cut and shaping can create curves for just about any body type. These straight-cut skirts are also appropriate for almost any scenario and can be dressed up or down for any event to which you want to bring a little extra sexiness.









Step
1



Take your time to find the perfect skirt for your body. To create curves, you must buy a pencil skirt that fits you perfectly but isn't too tight to walk. Visit your favorite mall and try on a wide variety of pencil skirts. Walk around the store in each skirt to see if you can move comfortably.




Step
2



Choose quality not quantity. One or two pencil skirts in basic black or navy are all you need. Buy the best skirts you can afford and plan to enjoy this timeless fashion forever.




Step
3



Buy good underwear. Pencil skirts are figure-hugging skirts that show off all your beautiful curves. If you have more curves than you are comfortable displaying, start by investing in slimming lingerie. Otherwise, make sure that you buy lingerie that will not show panty lines under your skirt.




Step
4



Don the highest heels that you are comfortable wearing to best emphasize all of the sexy curves that you have created with your pencil skirt. Not only will high heels add sexy length to your legs, but they will make it easier to swing your hips, further highlighting the curves of your pencil skirt.







Tips & Warnings









Avoid pencil skirts that have pockets, belt loops or front pleats. These embellishments create too much bulk and take away from the sleek curves that you want.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2157102_create-curves-pencil-skirt.html