Just Say No: Healthy Eating and Peer Pressure

If you are on a diet or simply enjoying a healthy lifestyle, than you probably know that peer pressure to eat foods that are not good for you is a major part of your life. If you are worried about the food that goes into your mouth, don’t worry—there are ways to overcome peer pressure. It simply takes a little know-how to get people off your back!

Professional networking and interpersonal communications

The Roman statesman, Cicero, was born into the poverty class and actually had little chance of power unless he managed to make a place for himself among the aristocrats who controlled the city.

He succeeded brilliantly, identifying and mingling everywhere, knowing everyone and with such a vast network of connections and personal contacts.

Networking isn’t just an exchange of information; it is one of the greatest joys of a mature career. Neuro scientist, Robert Sapolskey, lived among wild baboons and found that alliance between old and young apes was an effective strategy for survival. Older males that affiliated with younger males tend to live healthier, longer lives than their peers.

Can you ask a man out on a date?

WITH civilisation and the challenges of the new centuries, a lot of things are changing. Gradually some of our esteemed cultural beliefs are being eroded and replaced by foreign ones.

Ordinarily in an average African set-up, women are supposed to be seen and not heard in virtually every aspect of life. But today a lot of things have changed, despite these changes, however, there are some things an average African woman is supposed to be silent about.

And one of such issues is sex. A majority of African women cannot express their sexuality as their spouses will see them as being too forward or wayward. In Africa, a woman can’t ask her husband for sex neither can she deny or express the way she feels to her husband.

Some people may feel this is not so, but how many men will feel comfortable if their wives told them they feel like having sex or choosing a particular sex style.

Debbie and Kay work in the same establishment. Their tables are quite close to each other. Both of them are singles and searching; and it is a common joke in the office that they are a couple.

Kay is on the shy side while Debbie is very outgoing. One day, she asked Kay out on a dinner date. He was shocked; he couldn’t give her an answer immediately. He asked Debbie to give him some time. Debbie’s request was quite strange to Kay and he stepped out of the office to inform another friend of his on the telephone.

His friend advised him to play along. While he was speaking with his friend, another colleague of theirs overheard his conversation and told Debbie about it. Of course, Debbie cancelled the date. Kay did not know why; and she became withdrawn from Kay. Although she refused to tell him why, but Debbie confided in another colleague that she felt disappointed in Kay as she had no hidden agenda about the date.

The question remains, was Debbie wrong to have asked Kay out? Would you ask a guy out on a date. Readers react:

Bukola Farunkanmi: This is a tough question, but honestly there is nothing wrong with you asking a man out on a date. It all depends on the type of relationship you share with the guy. But as a lady, you have to be careful as the guy might interpret your invitation to be something else.

Bimbola ’Laditi: I see nothing wrong with you inviting a man out on a date. He could be a client, friend or colleague. But you must define the kind of date. A majority of our men don’t know when to draw the line or how to draw the line between a relationship and platonic friendship.

Most people don’t know or they refuse to believe that a man and a woman can be only friends. The moment they see a man and a woman together they believe they must be sleeping together. So it is with some men. If a woman invites them out on an innocent date, they believe it must end up in the bed.

The other aspect is that, as a human being you must have the liberty to express your feelings and your mind. If you admire a man, there is nothing wrong with you expressing the way you feel, but our culture and environment do not permit such. If you do, the man himself will run away from you as he would feel you are the wayward type.

Kemi Eluyemi: I can’t ask a man out on a date. Why would I? This is because he would misunderstand me. Nigerian men are very funny. Even if I admire him, there is nothing wrong in waiting for him to ask me out.

If you ask him out, you are making yourself vulnerable to him and how are you sure he won’t tell all his friends? You then become an object of ridicule and he eventually will become full of himself.

Bisi Fadeyibi: A woman has every right like a man to do whatever she feels like. There is no big deal in inviting a man out on a date; but our society does not permit such.

I can do so, but that will depend on my relationship with the guy. If we are not close or we are not friends before I won’t do so. Moreso, some men assume too much of themselves. When you ask a man out, he may feel it is because he is very special and he may start to misbehave. Our society even does not permit it, so why bother?

Yinka Adeniran: Whatever action you want to take, you must put your immediate environment into consideration.

Actually, there is nothing wrong in you inviting a male friend out on a date or actually telling him you admire him; but the society will frown on it. The man himself would think otherwise about you, so why do you have to bother yourself unnecessarily?

Why eating of indigenous foods can reverse malnutrition

Increasing incidences of stunting, micronutrient deficiency (vitamin A, iron, iodine and zinc) as well as non communicable diseases like hypertension can only be solved by adequate utilisation of indigenous plant foods.

A survey of Igbo traditional food system and uses of various food items by researchers from the Department of Home Science, Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State attested to this fact. The survey, which characterised different plants that formed the traditional foods of indigenous people of Igbo land and their potentials was by Dr. E.C Okeke, Dr. H.N. Eneobong, Dr. A.O. Uzuegbunam, and Dr. A.O. Ozioko from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State in collaboration with Dr. K. Kuhnlein from McGill University, Canada.

The 2008 study was published in an edition of the Pakistan Journal of Nutrition. It documented traditional foods in terms of their availability in season and their use in eight communities selected from four states in the Eastern part of Nigeria. It reflected the fact that in different communities, foods are eaten for their traditional and medicinal values, as well as for their socio-cultural significance.

Considering the results that showed that over 21 different types of starchy roots and tubers, 21 types of nuts/ seeds. 20 types of legumes, 116 types of vegetables, 12 varieties of mushrooms and 36 varieties of fruits exist all year round, indeed, every community has sufficient food items to ensure good health, thus the need for people to be aware of their uses and health benefits to the body.

Though many are going into extinction, some varieties of yam like the three leaf yam (D. dumentorum) and the aerial yam (D. bulbifera) that the younger generation do not know or love, have lower sugar and starch contents, thus making them appropriate as part of a good diet for people with diabetes, as pointed out by the study. Also, unripe plantain, mostly taken by people with diabetes, is a rich source of iron required for building blood.

It was amazing that 116 varieties of vegetables, including mushroom, were documented in the study. For example, Indian spinach and Achara or grain millet leaf are typical of Igbos from Imo and Abia States, while bitter leaf is most popular in Anambra State. Interestingly, most are used in making soups and are said to have a variety of medicinal values. The study found that bitter leaf, apart from its use in cooking soups and other dishes, can be chewed raw after washing to treat malaria and diabetes.

Also, washed extract of fluted pumpkin, commonly called Ugu is used in treating low blood level (anaemia). Ocimum vindis, referred to locally in Igbo land as Nchuanwu or Ashigbu has a lot of medicinal value, and it is used for treating dysentery and stomach upset.

Uncommon vegetables in the Igbo land such as water leaf, that many people hardly give a second thought, when cooked with other vegetables can help in the treatment of malaria, dysentery and to boost appetite. Similarly, Awolowo weed referred to as kpugbum in Igbo, is a wild vegetable used in small quantities for soups because it relieves stomach pain and constipation. Bush marigold, referred to in Igbo as Anwiliwa ani, when cooked as a soup for eating new yam prevents worm infestation.

The root of Hogweed, referred to as Azu Igwe, Agili-ezi or ikpokpo, the respondents said can also be chewed to relieve stomach upset; for after birth pains and in combination with other vegetables for treating malaria and boosting appetite. In addition, other vegetables used in making soup for pregnant and lactating women include local onion (referred to as Obulumgbede or ifulonkpiri in Igbo) and jute plant (referred to as Ayauama or Ukpom in Igbo).

The issue of lack of access to meat, respondents in the study usually solved with the several varieties of mushroom available. Of course, eating mushroom as part of a balanced meal, can reduce cases of protein-deficiency malnutrition in the community.

Among the Igbos, different spices are used. Some spices are hot while others are very mild and flavourful. Most are recognised by communities that participated in the survey as having medicinal values and so could be used for treating such ailments as broken bones, loss of appetite and for pregnant and lactating mothers. This explained why black pepper, referred to as Uziza, Ehuru or Uda in Igbo land, a hot pepper is used for lactating mothers. Other spices used include alligator pepper, melon seed, local onion, locust beans.

Rather than resorting to snacking on junk meals, it was evident that several traditional legumes, nuts and seeds, itemised by respondents can also be eaten. For instance, the African yam, referred locally in Igbo to as Okpodudu can be roasted and eaten with palm kernel as a snack. Fortunately, African yam has many medicinal values too.

Groundnut, when boiled or roasted can be eaten as snacks with banana and popcorn. African bread fruit is also a delicacy that when roasted can be eaten with palm kernel or coconut as a snack. Even people with diabetes can have Irvinga spp, referred to as Ogbono in Igbo land as a snack, according to the Igbo respondents.

Meanwhile, in the riverside parts of Igbo land, apart from people eating coconut with corn as a snack, coconut water, said to work for oral rehydration therapy in cases of diarrhea, is refreshing and good substitute for soft drink.

Breaking kola is an important part of any Igbo ceremony and ritual. In fact it is a symbol of love, unity and welcome. Meanwhile, kola as a snack is also a good stimulant. Its close relative, bitter kola, equally helps to prevent malaria fever.

Fruits abound in the Igbo culture. Apart from the conventional fruits like mangoes and oranges, some traditional Igbo fruits grow in the wild are generally consumed as snacks based on the findings of the review. Fruits itemised include pear-avocado, Ujuju fruit, monkey apple, bush apple, bush mango, pumpkin, garden egg and pepper fruit. According to the respondents, unripe pawpaw cut into pieces and eaten with vegetables can treat malaria, just as leaves of mango tree cooked with others. Similarly, the very juicy Soup sop (Anana muricarta) fruit drives away cough and

pumpkin referred to as Anyu or Ugbogun in Igbo, that is highly rich in B-Carotene is good for eyesight.

Does drinking pap boost breast milk production?

Woman and a baby sucking thombBreast milk is essential for the upkeep of children and as a means to stimulate its production, many mothers take plenty of pap. This culture, which has been on for ages, experts say, still needs to be proved as being effective, reports Sade Oguntola.

She worked into the female ward with a big bowl of pap for her daughter-in-law that has just had a new baby. Usually, it is the culture that new mothers take pap along with their meals to increase breast milk production. It is believed that much as breast milk is all that the baby should feed on, the production of breast milk should be stimulated as quickly as possible.

Mrs. Anne Akinloye also had prepared a bowl of hot rice and vegetable stew, so that right from the start, the new mother imbibed the practice of adequate intake of food so she could be strong enough to take care of her baby.

Many things can cause a breastfeeding mother to worry about her milk supply decreasing or starting on time. This is normal. However, experts have dispelled as untrue the belief that intake of pap, a n age-long culture, stimulates milk production in nursing mothers. They submitted that this was a myth that could not be substantiated scientifically.

Experts submitted that there were no specific foods to eat that will stimulate production of breast milk, but there were things that could help with milk production, stressing that more important than what the mother ate was how her baby ate. According to them, the longer a baby nurses at the breast, the more milk that will be produced once such a baby is properly positioned, well-attached and sucking effectively.

Dr. Adenike Bello, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, said basically all that was needed to support milk production in a woman were the body hormones, which is naturally produced in the body and the baby’s constant sucking since in it was the sucking that caused the letting down reflex to make more milk come.

According to Dr. Bello, good nutrition and intake of plenty of fluid such as water are just adjuncts to milk production. She explained, “There may be a reason to look into whether the practice of taking pap actually boosts breast milk production. You may assume that it is the fluid in pap that stimulates increase in breast milk production. But, the same women that insist that pap helps to stimulate milk production do not say that water boosts breast milk production.

“By the first principle, one may say if it is just fluid in pap, water should as well have the same effect. So, there is the probably, may be, some substances in pap which had not been studied that accounted for this effect.

Meanwhile, Dr. Bello declared that pap is not harmful but useful considering the fact that the woman gets some energy and water from it. According to him, “when people ask about intake of pap to stimulate or increase breast milk production, I encourage them to drink pap. Even though, I do not know what substances is in it that will make breast milk come, when you hear things anecdotally, and you hear it enough, you find that there must be some truth in it despite scientific evidence to back it up.’

“This is why it would be nice for it to be studied in the laboratory to really know what is really responsible for this effect. You can be certain that if pap was part of a western diet, by now, someone would have taken it to the laboratory and come up with what may be in it that causes breast milk production to be stimulated.

Dr. Bello added that just as women believe that taking pap helps stimulates breast milk, some however, resort to taking palm wine. “The same way a few women swear that a glass of palm wine would have similar effect like pap. Now, I do not advice women to go around taking palm wine because I do not know how intoxicated that palm wine would make the baby.

Everything you eat ends up been secreted into the breast milk and I do not want the baby to get drunk.

However, Dr. Bello said another practice that most women discourage is the addition of sugar to pap because of the notion that the added sugar may affect the baby that would be breastfed, causing pile or what is referred to as jedi-jedi among the Yoruba speaking community.

According to the expert, that intake of sweetened pap will affect the baby really is not true medically. “Breast milk comes from the body; the nutrients in the body are used in its production. So, if you drink garri, after its digestion, it would be stored as a form of glucose in the body. The body would take part of it already stored as glucose as well as other nutrients to make breast milk.

“So, there is nothing like, a woman that eats beans, her child would suck beans or a woman that eats rice, her baby would suck rice. The only thing is that some of whatever may be in the woman’s blood stream that was yet to be stored can enter into breast milk because there is no barrier par say. In the same vein, that does not mean that you eat garri or other foods; it would make the breast milk to be better. No, all those foods are just stored in the body and the body takes from the store and produces breast milk.

Dr. Chris Aimakhu, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist with the College of Medicine, Ibadan, corroborated the fact that there was no scientific basis for the belief that drinking pap could boost breast milk in nursing mothers. According to him, “studies have shown that increased fluid intake may be difficult for them. Drinking so much water may be difficult, but they can drink plenty of pap. Also, psychologically, they feel strong and they can breastfeed their babies

According to him, even those that normally do not enjoy taken pap go round the problem by trying various varieties of pap as well as add plenty of milk and sugar to it.

Professor Alice Nte, Director, Institute of Maternal and Child Health, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, explained that what essentially was required for boosting breast milk production was for mothers to take a little more than was required to satisfy their hunger and ensure they allowed the baby to suck as much he or she desired.

However, research shows that several factors can contribute to a decrease in milk production. Stress can negatively affect milk production and as such, the need to find ways to eliminate unnecessary chores, sit down and close your eyes for a moment or two! The simple act of relaxing will encourage letdown; and at the same time, there is nothing to distract the baby and make him stop nursing before he’s actually full.

Babies kneading the breast naturally trigger breast milk letdown. So, take the time to massage your breasts while in the shower or bath, periodically throughout the day and especially while baby is nursing.

The 6 Human Emotional Needs

I would like to share a powerful insight that I have used to help thousands of people to understand themselves, create breakthrough changes in their behaviors (e.g. stop smoking, quit other addictions, resolve internal conflicts, motivate themselves) and reconcile relationship issues.

Have you wondered why it is seems so difficult to change our habitual behaviours? The reason is because our decisions and behaviours are driven by our emotions more than by our logic. Logically, we want to stop smoking or stop overeating, and yet, we still find ourselves repeating the pattern of behaviours. Why do we do this? It is because smoking and over eating meets our emotional needs.

At the same time, we all logically want to have a great relationship with our spouse or friends. And yet, we sometimes find ourselves getting into the same patterns of arguments and conflicts. Again, this is all caused by a mismatch of emotional needs between well-intentioned parties.

To change any kind of behaviour, you must first understand that as human beings, our decisions and actions are almost ALWAYS driven by the need to meet six human (emotional) needs. This is why we sometimes do things that don't make any sense at all. We do it simply to meet these 6 human needs (by the way, this was developed by Anthony Robbins). So, what are these 6 human needs?

Human Need 1: Certainty

The first human need is the need for CERTAINTY. We all need to feel a sense of security that things will be okay. Certainty gives us peace of mind and assurance.

Although we all have the need for CERTAINTY, we use different behavioural strategies to meet this need. For example, when you feel stressed, worried, unsure and uncertain, how do you meet your need for certainty?

Some people use destructive strategies like over-eating, smoking or drinking alcohol. Don't some people do these things to relieve the stress of uncertainty and get into certainty? Others get certainty by controlling other people (becoming a control freak) or by losing their temper. In one episode of Oprah, she interviewed a woman who handled her stress of being sexually abused by creating a multiple personality disorder.

At the same time, there are useful strategies to get certainty. Some people pray/use religion to get that sense of certainty. Some people, adopt empowering beliefs like, ' I know I will get through this' or 'everything happens for a reason' or they simply have faith in themselves. Others get certainty through exercise, meditation or confiding in a friend.

So, think about this? How DO you meet your need for certainty? Is it constructive or destructive to you?

Human Need 2: Uncertainty

Now, here is the big paradox! As human beings, we have a second emotional need that is in direct conflict with our first need. We all have a need for UNCERTAINTY!

Think about it. If you had absolute 100% certainty in your life where you knew exactly what was going to happen, when it was going to happen, how it happens, before it happens every single day, how will you feel? You will feel BORED TO DEATH. This is why there are multi millionaires who have all the money and all the possessions in the world, but are depressed! Their life is so certain that they have no more challenges or surprises. No more uncertainty!

This is also why a woman/man in a perfect marriage where everything is routine and predictable will eventually get so bored, that they will unconsciously start picking a fight, having an affair or leave the marriage. There is no more excitement and stimulation that we all need emotionally.

So, how do people meet the emotional need of uncertainty (i.e. challenge/surprise/variety) in their lives? Again, some people do destructive things like having an affair, starting arguments,
picking up one-night stands, taking drugs, smoking when bored and drinking to get high (yup, smoking and drinking offer both certainty AND uncertainty).

Some of us do neutral stuff like watching a movie, playing sports, changing jobs, making new friends or partying. This gives us the stimulation and variety we all need.

Some constructive strategies would include taking on new challenges (e.g. going mountain climbing, traveling, starting a business, writing a book). So think about it, how do you meet your need for uncertainty?

Human Need 3: Significance

The third human emotional need is the need to feel significant/special/unique/important/needed. We all hunger for this need and again pursue it in different ways. Some people feel significant by attaining qualifications (e.g. MBAs, PhDs etc..), achieving success, buying lots of toys (e.g. bigger house, bigger car, country club, Rolex watch etc...) or pursuing status symbols.

Others get significance by putting other people down, dressing in a unique way or tattooing every conceivable part of their body. Again, others feel significance by having children (and making sure they excel and do them proud) or flaunting their wealth. Some people get significance by being proud of certain identities they adopt like being a Christian, a Muslim, an Army Officer, a Vegetarian etc...

Many people have asked me why I continue to work so hard to write so many books, spend hours writing posts on my BLOG and speak at so many seminars when I clearly don't really need the money anymore. The answer is that I am driven to all these things because it makes
me feel significant (useful, special, needed) and provides me the uncertainty (challenge & variety) that I crave. It also, gives me the 4th human need, connection and love and the 6th human need, contribution.

Again, think about how YOU meet the need to feel significance?

Human Need 4: Love and Connection

The 4th human need is in direct conflict with the 3rd human need of SIGNIFICANCE. Think about this. If you felt TOTALLY significant where you were so unique, so special and so different from all the people around you. Would you be happy? No! You would feel disconnected from the people around you.

One of our strongest needs as humans in the need to be accepted, to be loved and connected to the people around us. Once we become so special and unique, we will start to find ourselves losing that connection to our peers. I can tell you that I feel that way sometimes myself. At times I find it difficult to really be myself, connect with people I meet because people keep expecting me to be this perfect guru, with all the answers.

Have you ever wondered why a superstar like Britney Spears with all the fame, money and talent in the world could end up screwing up her life by engaging in destructive behaviours like drink driving, drug taking that would lead to 2 divorces, losing custody of her children and ending up in a mental institution? My guess is that although she felt total significance, she felt unloved and disconnected from everyone around her.

She probably could not be herself, always having to put up a front and feeling that all the people around her were just using her. Her need for connection and love probably drove her to mix around with the wrong company (i.e. Paris Hilton) and engaging in destructive behaviours that would get her the love/connection and sympathy she was lacking.

We all need to feel love and connection and again get it through different means. Some people get connection by getting into a relationship, getting married, making love, joining clubs, playing with their children, having pets, prayer (connection to God) or hanging out with friends.

Sometimes, people even 'try' to get love and connection by self-abuse and falling sick (studies show 90% of all illnesses are psychosomatic). This gives them the sudden outpour of sympathy and love that they yearn for. How do you get love and connection in your life?

If Your Relationship is Not Happy, Here's Why...

I have found after working with many couples that whenever a marriage breaks down, it is always because partners are not meeting each others emotional needs.

A man (or woman) often wants to leave the marriage either because he/she no longer feels significant, loved, certainty or uncertainty by his/her partner. What is a very very common scenario is that after a couple has a child, the man no longer feels the same level of significance anymore. It seems that his wife spends all the time with the kids, that he is no longer important. So what happens? He rather spend his time in the office where he feels more significant
or find a girlfriend who makes him feel special again!

So, here is a point of reflection. How well are you meeting your partner's emotional needs?

If Your Staff Are Leaving Your Company, Here's Why...

As a boss of my own company and a person who trains other companies in bringing put the best in their employees, I have found that your staff will only be happy and motivated to give their best when they feel significant (they are praised often and recognized), certainty (sense of security of their future in the company), uncertainty (their jobs gives them variety and challenge) as well as connection (they love the people they work with and have a sense of belonging).

Similarly, people leave a company not only for monetary reasons. They leave when they feel a lack of security (certainty), lack of challenge (uncertainty), lack of connection (they hate the people) or a lack of significance (unappreciated).

Reflection: if you are a boss/team leader, are you meeting your staff's/colleagues emotional needs to bring out the best in them?

If You Have An Addiction that You Cannot Change, Here's Why...

Finally, I have found that if you have a negative behaviour that you find hard to change, it is only because it is being used to meet two or more of your emotional needs. For example, if you find
yourself constantly losing your temper, it is because it gives you a sense of significance and certainty.

If you find it difficult to stop smoking, it is probably it meets your needs for certainty (relaxes and de-stresses you), uncertainty (smoke when you feel bored), connection (especially if you smoke with friends to 'fit in') and significance (makes you look 'cool'). Often, when a behaviour meets more than 2 needs, it becomes an ADDICTION.

In my patterns of excellence programs, I show people how to break limiting patterns of behaviours by first finding an alternative way to meet their needs. If you do not find a new useful alternative behaviour to replace it, you will find yourself going back to the old habit/addiction.

The Last Two Human Needs: Growth and Contribution

You are probably wondering what the last two human emotional needs are. Understand that the first four needs MUST be met by us constantly. It is what drives our daily behaviours.

However, to be truly fulfilled and happy, we need to meet the last two needs of 'growth' and 'contribution'. We need to constantly grow by learning more and challenging ourselves to become better. The moment we stop growing, we start dying emotionally.

Finally, we all need to contribute beyond ourselves, This is why people like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett make all the money in the world only to give most of it away to charity. contribution is what gives us ultimate purpose and fulfillment in life.
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This article was posted to me by my good mentor in online business, Adam Khoo. Adam is the orhtor of the most human empowerment book, SECRETES OF SELF MADE MILLIONAIRE.,
Get to meet him at http://www.SecretsOfSelf-MadeMillionaires.com

Addicted to Coffee

You Know You're Addicted to Coffee When...

-You've built a miniature city out of little plastic stirrers.

-People get dizzy just watching you.

-Instant coffee takes too long.

-You channel surf faster without a remote.

-You have a picture of your coffee mug on your coffee mug.

-You can outlast the Energizer bunny.

-You short out motion detectors.

-You don't even wait for the water to boil anymore.

-Your nervous twitch registers on the Richter scale.

-You help your dog chase its tail.

-You soak your dentures in coffee overnight.

-Your first-aid kit contains two pints of coffee with an I.V. hookup.

-You ski uphill.

-You get a speeding ticket even when you're parked.

-You answer the door before people knock.

-You haven't blinked since the last lunar eclipse

Bad Things Must Happen to You ... For Good Things to Happen!

As many of us are feeling the repercussions of one of the worst recessions in recent history, I would like to share with you my philosophy on the EQUATION OF LIFE. If you studied Math, Chemistry, Economics, Accounts or any one of these mathematical topics before,
you would understand that equations have to balance.

For every good, there must be a bad. For every positive, there must first be a negative. For light to exist, there must first be darkness. For every market boom, there must first be a crash. For you to experience happiness, you must first experience sadness. For you to experience pride and inspiration, you must first have experienced disappointment and adversity. The greater the initial failure and disappointment, the sweeter will be the pride of success.

I remember watching the show 'The Pursuit of Happiness' where it was based on the true story of Chris Gardner who went through a very difficult period of his life. His wife left him, he was broke, evicted from his home, slept in public toilets and in homeless shelter, jailed for unpaid parking tickets and went through a series of unfortunate incidents.

However, he persevered where ordinary men would have given up. Finally, when he got selected to become a stockbroker in one of the most prestigious companies on Wall Street after competing against 20 other candidates, he broke down and shed tears of intense pride and happiness.

The fighting spirit that the tough situations built within him was what gave him the drive to build a multi-million dollar stock broking firm himself. If he did not first go through those heartbreaking setbacks, he would not have become a millionaire.

For there to be God, there must be the devil (I know some religious people will want to kill me for saying this). Think about it, if not for pain, suffering and evil, will people turn to God for
salvation? It is during hard times like these that people pray and go to places of worship more.

If you watched the matrix, the 'architect' mentions that the equation has to balance for the matrix to exist. In order for Neo (the Hero) to exist, there must be his opposite (i.e. Agent Smith
who was the super bad guy).

This applies to every aspect of life. If George Bush did not screw up the US economy and damage the US's reputation so badly, Barack Obama would not have become the first African American President today. If Al Gore would have won, he would probably have done an ok job and the US would have voted in another white guy.

At the same time, if Al Gore had become the US President 8 years ago, he would not have made such a positive impact on global warming issues, won an academy award for his documentary and won the Nobel Peace Prize. Again, 'failure' led to the the birth of success.

If I did not get kicked out of Primary school (Primary 3) and get rejected from 6 secondary schools after my PSLE exams, I would never have been sent by my parents to learn about NLP. If I did not learn about NLP at the age of 13, I would not have been able to inspire thousands of students through my first book 'I Am Gifted, So Are You!' and achieve all the success that I have today. I would just have been another average Singaporean stuck in an average job.

So, how does this apply to your life? Well, instead of fearing and feeling lousy because of the bad stuff that happens in your life, get optimistic and know that there lies a great opportunity that
always goes along with it.

To your success,
Edward Freedom

PS. What do you think? Share your thoughts and comments on my blog

The Lottery Of Life!

Lots of people I meet complain that they don't have the luck to achieve the success and wealth that they want. "If only I was luckier, life would be a lot easier and I would be a lot happier",
they would say. Many people pray of the day they could draw that lucky ticket and win that million dollar lottery that would change their life.

What many people do not realize is that the fact that they are comfortably reading this blog means that they have been lucky enough to be one of the few winners of the biggest lottery of
all....the lottery of life! They were lucky enough to draw the 'right ticket' and be born where they are.

Imagine that 24 hours before you were born, God gave you a bowl of 100 tickets. You had to draw one ticket that would determine your sex, country of birth, wealth, intelligence etc.. What would have been your chance to end up where you are now?

Let;s look at the odds. If you were to take the entire earth's population and shrink it to 100 people (represented by 100 tickets), with all existing human ratios the same, it would be made
up of the following:

49 would be female, 51 would be male.
80 would live in substandard housing. 20 in acceptable housing.
67 would be unable to read. Only 33 would be literate.
1 would have a university education.
99 would not be able to attend university.
50 would be malnourished and 1 dying of starvation.
33 would be without access to a safe water supply.
16 would have access to the Internet.
17 would live in a developed country.
83 live in underdeveloped/developing countries.

If you were given the chance to turn back time and go back to 24 hours before you were born, would you choose to return your current ticket and re-draw a new ticket from the 100 again? If not, then consider how lucky you are!

To your success,
Edward Freedom

PS. What do you think? Share your thoughts and comments on my blog:

How Much Would You Sell 10 Years of Your Life For?

For some strange reason, I was taking a shower when this philosophical question popped in my head and got me really thinking. So, I decided to talk about it in this post.

How much would you sell 10 years of your life for? If someone came and offered you the chance to sell 10 years of your life, what price would you ask for it.

For example, if you asked for $1 million, you will get the cash RIGHT NOW and lose 10 years of your life. So, if you were 20 years old today, you would immediately fast forward to 30. If you were 30 today, you would immediately go to 40. So on and so forth.

What price would you ask for? Think about it. You are not allowed to say 'not for sale' or 'priceless'. You must think of a price.

When I asked most of my friends, they gave huge amounts of money.
One of my friends said, ' $10 million for 10 years of my life'. So, if we put so much value on the time of our life, are we treasuring it?

For example, for my friend, $10 million for 10 years equates to $1 million a year, which equates to $2,739 per day. This equates to $114 per hour or $1.90 per minute. Do the math for YOUR OWN answer. I bet it would be pretty high as well.

So, question is, are you living each hour as if it were WORTH $114? I am not saying that you must spend every hour making money. What I am saying is whether you are getting the very most out of the precious minutes and hours of your life?

Are you enjoying the journey of your life, allowing yourself to be happy or do you keep getting upset over small things? Are you loving the people around you and allowing them to love you back?
Are you treasuring each hour of your life and living it to the fullest or constantly procrastinating or doing things later?

Whether you like it or -- you have to SELL! If you think about it, you are forced to sell the 10 years of your life (and more), whether you like it or not.

Every day that passes in your life, you have just sold it. You are never going to get it back. Every hour that passes in your life, you are never going to get back.

When people attend my 4 day seminars, I tell them that the money they spent can always be made back. What cannot be made back is the 4 days of their life that they have exchanged for coming. So, they have to make the very best use of it.

So, before you go about living this new day, think of the price you.

To your success,
Edward Freedom

PS. What do you think? Share your thoughts and comments on my blog:

Stay Legal! Avoiding Insurance Fraud

Everyone knows that the health insurance industry is continually raising monthly premiums, and many feel this is unjust to you as the consumer. However, the health insurance industry has had to fight increasing health insurance fraud. The amount of money spent on investigating and prosecuting fraud is then passed on to policyholders. Many people do not understand what health insurance fraud entails, though. With reports estimating health insurance fraud is a $30 billion to over $100 billion industry per year; the topic should not be taken lightly. Every health insurance policyholder should understand what health insurance fraud is and its consequences. By doing so, you are more able to recognize and fight fraud.

Health insurance fraud is typically defined as intentionally deceiving, misrepresenting, or concealing information to receive benefits from the insurance company. Essentially this means that you assert that you paid for certain medical procedures or expenses out-of-pocket which you have not actually received, and you are submitting claims to the insurance company to receive reimbursement. Another example of member fraud is to conceal pre-existing conditions or to alter medical documents so that non-policyholders or ineligible members receive medical benefits under your policy. Perhaps your sister does not have insurance and needs medical attention. Having her use your name and policy to cover the expenses is health insurance fraud. While you may think that this is a small issue in comparison to your sister receiving treatment, it is actually very serious to your health insurance company and industry, and will result in fines and possible imprisonment if your are caught.

Not only policyholders commit fraud, but providers (physicians, hospitals, etc.) do as well. Since physicians and hospitals bill the insurance company for services they provide for you, they are also receiving reimbursement from the insurance company. When providers commit fraud, they may be billing the insurance company at higher rates for services rendered or they may bill for services you never received. In these cases, you will probably be asked to cooperate in the insurance company’s investigation.

Another type of health insurance fraud that has developed recently targets the policyholder more than the insurance company. Schemes have developed where fake insurance companies or agents sign unsuspecting customers for coverage at surprisingly low premium rates. They often act much like a regular insurance company for the first few months, paying for smaller medical claims like physicians visits. But once you have a more serious medical condition that needs treatment, the insurance company will disappear – along with the money you have been paying in premiums.

The rule with health insurance fraud is much like that of any other scam: if a deal seems too good to be true, just remember - it probably is. Remember to be honest in your dealings with health insurance companies and expect the same in the return from these companies, as well as your health care providers. Stay legal to avoid fines and prison and to continue receiving health insurance coverage.

Dental insurance

Say Cheese: Dental Benefits

Dental insurance is often an afterthought when obtaining health insurance for a number of reasons. Some people may simply dislike the dentist and use the lack of dental insurance as a reason to not visit the dentist; others may feel that dental insurance is not worth the added cost to their monthly health insurance premium. Still others may simply feel that their teeth are in good shape and there is little need to spend the extra money to cover a part of their body that does not currently have any problems. Nevertheless, dental insurance is important because of several benefits.

When people think of the cost of dental work or procedures, they often think of costly bills. Even simple procedures like getting your wisdom teeth removed can average in the hundreds of dollars per tooth! However, one obvious benefit to dental insurance is the coverage of simple but costly dental procedures such as getting a tooth removed. In the end, the slight increase in a monthly premium may be worth it to avoid a high dental bill. Moreover, dental insurance also helps financially if a dental emergency develops. Perhaps you are in need of a root canal or dental implants – both extremely costly procedures that you often do not anticipate. Dental insurance will most likely cover a portion, if not all of these expensive procedures.

Also, while many feel that brushing and flossing daily is all the dental care they need this is simply not true – even for young, healthy adults. Dental disease is common and can affect your body in a number of ways. For instance, some dental diseases left untreated can lead to more serious medical issues such as kidney infections or even diabetes. Most people do now know of the connection between dental diseases and other illnesses. Thus, having dental insurance that covers routine visits to the dentist, which can help uncover dental diseases early, is extremely important. Dental insurance is designed to encourage preventative care, because spotting dental diseases or dental problems early reduces the overall cost of treatment.

Dental insurance may seem like just another gimmick to get a few more dollars out of you, but it is essential for your health. Your regular health insurance plan, whether it is through your employer as a group plan or an individual plan, should offer you the option of buying dental insurance coverage, and you should consider this piece of the plan thoroughly when purchasing health insurance.

Disability Insurance

We all know how important typical health insurance is, but did you know that disability insurance is just as important? In the event that you are hurt on the job, and cannot work, disability insurance will give you peace of mind—you will still able to provide for your family. While we would like to think that we always work safely, accidents do happen and you need to be sure that you have every angle covered in the event of an accident. If you become ill or injured on the job and as a result you are unable to return to work, there are a couple of options that will replace lost income. These types of disability insurance are not going to fully replace your income because they want you to have an incentive for returning back to work once you get well.

Social Security benefits are paid to you when your disability is expected to last for at least 12 months. Most of the time this is when no gainful employment can occur and you must remain out of work for the entire duration of your leave. Employer-paid disability is required by almost every state in the United States. This type of disability insurance is deducted from your paycheck, and is there for you in the event of an accident. When you are looking at disability insurance policies, it is important to understand what they mean. While the two available policies are both for disability, they both cover a different amount of time you will be covered, and when you will start receiving your compensation.

A short-term disability policy means that you will be covered for no longer than 2 years. With this policy you may have to wait up to 14 days before you start receiving compensation. A long-term disability policy is a little different. The disability compensation will not kick in for several weeks, sometimes a couple of months. However, long-term disability will cover you for a longer period of time, and sometimes for the rest of your life.

Along with having the two different types of insurance policies, there are also two different protection features. Protection is offered to you to ensure that you are not going to be treated unfairly due to your inability to work. Non-cancelable means that for no reason other than not paying your premiums can your policy be canceled. With this type of policy you will lock in your premium and will not risk a decrease in the benefits. On the other hand, a guaranteed renewable policy means that the same benefits will be available every year. The only way that your premium will be increased is if every policyholder within the same rating class as yourself increases also.

While there are many options when choosing disability insurance as well, these are the most popular selections. It is important to discuss all available options when choosing a disability insurance policy to ensure that you know what you will receive in the event of an accident or illness. Research your options to find the best choice for you and your family.

Group Health Insurance

Attract Employees:
Many small business owners know that in order for them to be successful they must offer an incentive to recruit employees to work for them. This can be any number of things, but most often it is the benefit of offering group health insurance. While this could be an excellent strategy for your small business to take in order to recruit new employees, there are a few things that you must know first before you dive into selecting a plan. Research group insurance policies thoroughly before choosing one for your company.

A group health insurance plan can be obtained by any small business that has as little as two employees to as many as fifty. There are two ways you can go about supplying the health insurance to your employees; this will mainly be decided by your own budget. Many small businesses that offer group health insurance help contribute towards the cost of the plan. On the other hand if an employee wants to have coverage for their families, the employer might offer to pay the employees’ premiums and have them pay the premium for their families.

Another aspect of the group health insurance plan will be deciding between managed care or fee-for-service. Managed care plans include Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), or Point of Service plan (POS).

An HMO will significantly reduce the cost that your members will have to pay for medical care as long as they use the providers specified by the HMO. A PPO will not require a referral in order for them to see a specialist. While the PPO is more flexible it will bring higher costs to the per-visit and annual deductibles. The POS plans are basically a combination of the features that you will find in an HMO and PPO. Members get to decide whether to pay a flat fee for offices in the network, or pay a deductible charge to see someone out of network. The fee-for-service plan gives the employee the power to select health care providers themselves. This means that they will have way more flexibility with where they can go for medical assistance.

Adding an appealing Group Health insurance plan to your business could potentially bring you more employees. This is just the basic information about Group Health insurance; there are many options to consider when choosing a plan. Be sure to investigate all options to create the best plan for your employees.

Do You Need A College Health Insurance Plan?

When you are finally done with your high school education, there is no doubt that you’ll be enrolling into a college. Many times when a child reaches the age of 20, they are no longer covered by their parents’ insurance and this can lead to a troubling situation if they are not working and just strictly going to college. However, many colleges offer health insurance plans. Whether one of these insurance plans are right for you or not takes a lot of deliberation.

College health insurance benefits are going to vary from campus to campus. Although many people think that they are free, this is not true. While there is usually no charge for an office visit and routine checkups, the student will have to pay for lab work and other specialist type of visits. Benefits will usually pay completely for only types of covered services at the campus health center. In the event that you have to see an outside doctor then the student’s coverage can drop up to 70% and run the risk of being required to pay a high deductible.

If you have a pre-existing condition, then you may have a problem with getting treatment at the college health center. Having a pre-existing illness or disability does not mean that you will be disqualified for obtaining a college health insurance plan, but you may not be able to get treatment for that pre-existing illness. This can lead to a number of problems if a new problem arises and is a product of a pre-existing illness.

All plans are different, so be sure you find out everything you can about your college’s plan. Be sure to check if you or your child will be covered during summer break when students are not taking classes. This is important because you don’t want to have an accident and find out that the insurance becomes inactive when they are not in class. Many colleges have coverage during summer break, but some do not.

Make sure you understand the plan. Is it an HMO, or can the member use any provider they want? This is just as important because you want to know where you can go in the event of an emergency, and there is nothing worse than finding out after the fact that you will be stuck with paying the full amount for a medical bill.

There really is no definitive answer as to whether you should or shouldn’t commit to getting college health insurance. Be sure that you understand your plan fully so that no problems can arise in the event of an emergency. While it is not free insurance, it surely will save you money in the event of an accident or illness.

Sunglasses?

Who Should Wear Sunglasses?

Ultimately, everyone should care about their vision and want to protect it. However, there are certain groups of individuals that should especially wear sunglasses. This is for their safety, and the safety of others.

Drivers are one very important group that should always have sunglasses handy. Whether you are driving your own vehicle or a bus full of people, the sun can be your enemy. Picture driving westbound down the highway at 6:00 PM, coming up over a hill and being pelted in the face with the sun's glaring rays. This temporary blinding could cause you not to see the traffic that stopped 50 feet in front of you. Accidents like this can be avoided by always having sunglasses in your vehicle.

Professional drivers have an even greater need for sunglasses than the rest of us. Because they are often driving larger vehicles such as school busses or tanker trucks, their risk is much greater. If these drivers lose control of their vehicle, it is much more difficult to gain control. Again, simply by wearing sunglasses, these drivers can help avoid tragedy.

It is very important that children be taught from an early age to wear sunglasses. By enforcing this from early childhood, you are creating habits they will carry with them. In addition to teaching them that sunglasses are always important, you are protecting very delicate eyes as well. Children, especially the very young, are constantly growing and developing in every way. Protecting their eyes with sunglasses from the start will reduce the damage they will pay for later in life.

Even babies can wear sunglasses. Besides being ridiculously cute, baby sunglasses are made for a reason. Babies are, for all intents and purposes brand new, and so are their eyes. A child begins their life by being able to focus on objects only less than ten inches from their face. A pair of baby sunglasses will keep harmful rays out of your baby's young, sensitive eyes.

Anyone who spends an uncommonly large amount of time in the sun should know the advantages of sunglasses. If you are particularly interested in water sports and spend a lot of time at the beach or on a lake, you could be at greater risk than most. Surfers, water-skiers and wake boarders can testify that a good pair of protective sunglasses will save a lifetime of hardship. The sun reflecting off of the water into your eyes can intensify the damage it could do.
Find a good pair of water sunglasses, which will wrap around your head and stay in place while you ride the waves.

Elderly individuals are another group of people to whom eye protection should be important. As age progresses, the eyesight deteriorates in even the healthiest of eyes. Older individuals should always wear sunglasses when outside in the sun. Sunglasses won't stop the vision from going south, but it may slow the process. One thing is certain, blinding sun in the eyes will speed it up the deterioration.

In case you haven't figured it out yet, ideally everyone should wear sunglasses. There are so many different designs, styles and prices that it is difficult to come up with an excuse for not wearing them. There is simply no benefit to letting your eyes absorb the harmful UVA and UVB rays the sun emits. Be smart and care about your eyes by protecting them with sunglasses whenever you're outside. You'll be glad you did.

Where to Find Good Sunglasses

Where can you find a pair of sunglasses to fit your eyewear needs? Sunglasses are absolutely everywhere! It is hard to walk into a retail store and not see a display of sunglasses. In fact, listing off the places that don't sell them might be faster. Hardware stores, emergency rooms and most car dealerships do not sell sunglasses. Now to move on to the establishments that do.

Logically, one of the best places to buy sunglasses would be a retailer specifying in them. Any mall or outlet strip center is bound to have at least one store targeting eyewear. These stores will offer a wide variety of frames, lenses, sizes and styles to suit your needs. Sunglasses at these stores can be pricey, anywhere from twenty-five to three hundred dollars. However, you often get what you pay for.

Specialized sunglass retailers will know a lot about their product and help pick out the right ones for you. Many of their glasses will offer higher percentage of UVA and UVB protection than less expensive brands. If you don't mind paying the extra money, these sunglasses will be a purchase that will last. In addition, most of these retailers include a case, cleaning cloth and other accessories along with your purchase.

Upscale designers such as Armani and Christian Dior cater to the truly fortunate crowd. Their sunglasses can be seen in fashion magazines and on red carpets all over the globe. If it's high fashion you seek, these designers and many others are truly the way to go. Most of their products can be found in department stores. However, in more upscale neighborhoods, designers may have their own storefront.

If you're not a movie star or hotel heiress, you may want to take a more low-key approach when shopping for sunglasses. Many malls have kiosks that sell designer-looking styles at a much more realistic price. There is really no shame in wearing knock-offs, even if your friends tease you for it. You can casually remind them that your sunglasses look exactly like theirs. Then let them know that, unlike them, you'll be making your car payment this month.

If you are a normal human being, you probably have a tendency to lose things. That is where the truly inexpensive sunglasses come in handy. These less expensive shades can be found at any retail chain superstore. You can also find them at your local grocery store or pharmacy. Less expensive shades may not offer the same great protection as the expensive ones, but they will usually help to filter out the UVA and UVB rays.

When shopping for sunglasses, no matter where you look, there is one important thing to remember. Choose sunglasses that fit. They should fit your face, your style, and your budget. Before you spend a week's paycheck on a pair of sunglasses, you might want to consider their use. If it is a trendy style that is bound to go out in five minutes, head to the kiosk for some knock-offs. If you are planning to wear them somewhere they'll be easily lost, like the lake or camping, opt for the much less expensive. The last thing you want to be doing is playing diving-for-sunglasses while everyone is having fun.

If you do drop some serious cash on a pair of sunglasses, learn to take care of them. Carry a case for them to be in when not being worn. Clean them only with a specialized lens cloth. Finally, keep up with them! Sunglasses do no good if you can't find them. 

Where and When to Wear Sunglasses

You may have a favorite pair of sunglasses that goes great with a certain outfit. You might also have a tendency to wear a pair of sunglasses you just got religiously...for a week. Then you never pick them up again. Sunglasses do you no good on your dresser or in the visor of your car. It is important to wear sunglasses at all the appropriate and important times.

Of course, a blanket statement is to say that all sunglasses should be worn at all times during the day. Ideally this is great, but do you know why it is more important to wear them sometimes and other times not as pertinent? There are certain high risk activities, times, and locations that warrant special sunglass consideration. If you wear sunglasses no other time, these are the most important occasions.

Summertime is the most dangerous season for your eyes. You are at least three times more likely to cause serious sun damage to your eyes in the summer than you are in the winter. This is because the sun produces three times more ultraviolet radiation in the form of UVA and UVB rays during the summer than any other season. Aside from this, there are clear and obvious reasons you would want to utilize sunglasses more in the summer than the rest of the year.

The sun is out in full force during the hot summer months, and most people like to spend their free time outside when they can. The light and heat of the midday summer sun is enough to leave anyone reaching for the SPF 45. So if you are so protective of your skin, why wouldn't you be equally concerned about your eyes? Summer is the most important time for sunglasses to be worn. Make sure you have a trusted pair of shades before hitting the beach with July.

Some medications can cause people to experience photosensitivity. This heightened sensitivity to sunlight can cause increased discomfort if sunglasses are not in place. Medications to treat psoriasis, some birth controls and even pills for skin treatment can cause photosensitivity. When this happens, you won't have to be reminded to bring the sunglasses along. The inability to open your eyes for longer than ten seconds will let you know that it is time to go shopping for shades.

Winter sports enthusiasts often forget about the importance of sunglasses. When you are sailing down the mountain with the fresh cold air in your face, it is easy to forget that the sun is alive and well here too. Although the sun may not shine as brightly or produce as much heat as other times and places, the damage it causes can be the same or worse. The white of the snow reflects the harmful rays of the sun directly into your eyes if not properly protected by sunglasses. Some people will not realize until much later that their eyes have been burned, but it is not something they will soon forget.

Water sports are another occasion in which a dependable pair of sunglasses will save much hardship. While surfing, wake boarding or water skiing, you may be aware of the sun above you. However, what may not be as prevalent is the fact that the sun is reflecting off of the water and straight into your eyes. Just as it does with snow, the sun wreaks havoc on eyes unprotected by sunglasses.

It should go without saying that sunglasses are almost always a good idea. Any daytime outdoor event is an occasion for the sun to damage your eyes if you are not wearing sunglasses. Avoid a lifetime of suffering by making the right decision now. When you're headed outside for any reason and the sun is going to be attending also, grab the sunglasses. You'll thank yourself later.

When NOT to Wear Sunglasses

As with virtually anything else in life, there is a time an place for sunglasses. Most would agree that the benefits of protective eyewear are tried and true. Still, there are times and places that your sunglasses are not appropriate. Additionally, there are also times and places that they're just not going to do you any good.

The etiquette of eyewear is not a topic that is often discussed. We would all like to think that everyone would make the right decision in deciding when to take and when to leave behind the sunglasses. Still, there are obviously those that could use a little help on the subject. For those people, and as a reference for the rest of us, compiled here are just a few of the occasions in which sunglasses should be left in the car.

Wearing sunglasses indoors anywhere is almost always not appropriate. If you have a medical condition causing sensitivitety to artificial lights, you may be excused from this rule. To everyone else that insists on wearing shades indoors, you should know something crucial. The rest of us are watching you, waiting for you to walk into a wall or trip over a chair.

Socially, wearing your sunglasses indoors is often just plain rude. When you are trying to carry on a conversation with a person that is wearing sunglasses for no apparent reason, it can be rather distracting. While you may think that you are putting out the mystery-man vibe, you're actually just telling people you are not interested in what they have to say. If you plan to make it a habit of giving off this attitude, expect to receive the same in return.

Unless you are Corey Hart and need to "keep track of all the visions" in your eyes, sunglasses at night seem a little silly. For the same reason you should not wear sunglasses indoors, wearing them at night should be avoided as well. Again, you may think you look cool, but just about everyone else will think you're drunk or trying to cover up a black eye. Whether or not it is socially acceptable, sunglasses at night is just not a good idea.

Consider what a pair of sunglasses is meant to do for you. They are designed to shield your eyes from the violent radiation of the sun and make it more comfortable for you to see. While your efforts of protecting your eyes from the brightness of the street lights, you may be doing more harm than good. Logistically, it can be dangerous to wear dark shades at night, particularly while driving. Why inhibit your vision more than the darkness of the night already does? Find another way to tell people you're cool.

Some situations are acceptable times to wear sunglasses, but still carry rules to be considered. For example, you have been invited to a friend's house for a mid day barbeque. This is a perfectly good time to wear that great pair of sunglasses you got last week. However, if those sunglasses are completely opaque or mirrored on the outside, reconsider for something that shows off your eyes a little.

In a social gathering or setting, people will presumably strike up conversations with others they find interesting. It can be difficult to approach a new person and say hello. When that person is wearing dark, reflecting sunglasses, they may find themselves sitting alone watching everyone else mingle. For this circumstance, consider a shade of lens that protects your eyes and still allows your features to be seen. This will help you seem more approachable and less intimidating.

There are other times that you may want to wear sunglasses and social acceptability does not get in your way. You will not, however, enjoy any of the benefits of sunglass protection, as these high intensity lights are much stronger than the UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun. Any kind of welding equipment, tanning beds and eclipses all emit high intensity light for which your sunglasses are no match. Special protective eyewear is needed while working with welding equipment and while in tanning beds. Additionally, a pinhole camera is the preferred apparatus for viewing an eclipse.

When deciphering where and when to bring the sunglasses, a little common sense will go a long way.
Protect yourself from high intensity light with specialized eyewear designed for that particular activity.
Know when sunglasses are needed and when they are not. Taking a moment to consider a few factors will save you embarrassment and possibly injury later.

Weird Science of Sunglasses

Everyone loves a good pair of sunglasses. With all the benefits of sunglasses, it's hard to have an excuse not to wear them. You may even want to tell your friends about all the great things a pair of shades can do for you. You probably own one or two pair of standard issue Jackie-O's or Aviators, but wait until you find out about the strange oddities that are available in a pair of sunglasses.

Some people may take pet ownership to extreme levels. For those people, sunglasses for your dogs are just a drop in the bucket. It's difficult to picture your little ball of fur in a pair of Aviators. However, the truth is that dogs have just as many eye problems as humans do, and their eyes should be protected. Having said that, if you can get your canine to wear sunglasses-and keep them on-more power to you. You're probably the same one that buys seasonal outfits for them too.

Regis and Kelly, National Geographic and Animal Planet have all taken notice of sunglasses for dogs. They actually serve more than one purpose. Doggie sunglasses help protect your hound's eyes from the same harmful rays our sunglasses so. However, since we very rarely hang our heads out a car window, dog sunglasses have an added feature for even more protection.

Resembling goggles, these sunglasses will keep dirt, dust and other debris from flying into your little friend's eyes while flying down the highway. It seems like an insane design, but when you think about it, it makes a lot of sense. These shades for dogs help to protect your best friend the way he would protect you if he could.  

Child sized sunglasses are one thing, but baby sized are quite another. These miniature sunglasses are sure to inspire a collective "Awwwww" from anyone passing by, but are they really necessary? This idea seems silly at first, but is another that becomes more reasonable when you consider all of the factors.

Babies are the most sensitive creatures of all of us. This goes double for their eyes. A newborn's eyes are capable of seeing no more than about ten inches away from their face. Even at this distance, most things are very blurry. When the sun reflects into an already blurred perception of the world, the results can be very harmful.

Baby sunglasses are not just a cute idea, they are essential to protecting your child's eyesight. Anytime you are outside with your baby, you should utilize shades on the car seat, stroller, and in the car. A pair of tiny sunglasses adds an adorable finishing touch with extra protection. Don't forget to take a lot of pictures; you won't want to forget this!

Flip-up sunglasses are by no means a new invention. Still, the look of these glasses still deserves mention and a second look whenever you see them. For this particular weird design of sunglasses, the utility makes perfect sense while the appearance is often strange. It does make perfect sense that you would want to turn your average glasses into sunglasses, and the flip-up shades are very convenient. But when you're in a meeting with the shades popped up and what appears to be two sets of eyes looking back at the other person, don't be surprised if they stare and giggle a little.

Sunglasses, as with any other type of popular culture are going to come in normal and strange designs. However, before you dismiss those abnormal styles, consider its usefulness. Even the odd in appearance can be functional, and possibly make life a little easier.


This Season's Sunglasses

Summer is upon us, and with it comes a wave of new styles. Perhaps the most fun about summer style is finding out which sunglasses will be hot this year. The key to the hippest styles usually has nothing to do with what is brand new. Most "new" style trends are simply spins off of formerly worn, beloved fads. This summer's sunglasses will be no exception to that theory.

For men and women's sunglasses this year, bigger is definitely better. Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie have flaunted their flair for the oversized frames for the past few years, and it looks like the trend has finally taken hold. Oversized sunglasses, paying homage to the late, great Jackie O, appear to be here to stay. However, fashion gurus will warn you not to go overboard with this idea. If the sunglasses appear to be swallowing your face, you might want to take it down a notch.

Particularly in the moment of the oversized framed sunglasses, women appear to be having fun with their colors. No longer is the Jackie O a plain black frame with dark black lenses. Today's are Onassis Glasses with an attitude. Fashion icons can be seen sporting oversized frames in red, green, purple, and other bright colors. However, white frames also seem to be a favorite.

One retroactive style of sunglasses that is back again is no longer exclusive to men. While guys love this look too, Aviators are striking a feminine note this year. These sunglasses are as versatile and fun as they are functional. For the men, they can be found in dark colored or mirrored lenses, while women may favor purple or rose tints on these particular sunglasses. Rhinestones and other gems are added to the sides of the lenses for a little flare.

Another particularly popular style of the moment for men and women is the wraparound. Don't be fooled by the name. These are not your average snowboarder's goggles turned sunglasses. This year's wraparounds are being designed by some of the most celebrated designers in Hollywood, New York, Milan and everywhere in between. You will not be disappointed.

Particular varieties of wraparound sunglasses are geared toward either men or women by changing up the style, color, and size. Women are leaning toward larger styles, as with the oversized craze discussed earlier. For wraparound oversized sunglasses, stars like Beyonce have been of inspiration to designers. One favorite is a square shape, and the lenses simply continue to the arms of the sunglasses and lay over the temples. This style too has been dressed up with rhinestones for a little shine.

Men's wraparound sunglasses this season are all about sleek and simple design. Most designers have abandoned the flowing, rounded look of original wraparounds for a more box like effect. As with women's wraparounds, the lens continues to the sides of the head. Black seems to be the most popular color in these men's sunglasses, which completes the chic, classy look you want your man to have.

This summer welcomes old styles of sunglasses with new attitude. Check the red carpets and runways for the latest developments and to make sure they style you're sporting didn't go out of style yesterday, how embarrassing! Just remember that all the celebrities in the world can't dictate what looks good on you, so pick your sunglasses based on what you like, not them.

Famous Faces behind Famous Frames

Who Made Sunglasses Popular?

We know by simply looking around that sunglasses are a pop culture phenomenon. Have you ever stopped to wonder how they became this way? Humans seem to have an obsession with sunglasses as more than protection for their eyes. Sunglasses make a statement about the face they're sitting on, and can add much needed style to an ensemble. One has to wonder how sunglasses came to be what they are today.

Sunglasses have been worn and made infamous throughout the years by a variety of icons and legends. Some of these iconic names have even been given to their chosen signature style. Former First Lady and American Royalty Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis had a particular favorite style of sunglasses. This oversized look was coined as "Onassis Glasses" or "The Jackie O" and will probably never be known by any other name.

Sir Elton John has paraded his courageous fashions on stage for the past four decades. Known for his amazing way with Ivory keys, and his crazy fashion statements, Elton John has inspired stylistic insanity with his share of peculiar eyewear. He has been seen on stage wearing some of the most imaginative and artistic sunglasses the world has ever known.

However wacky the designs have been, Sir Elton John's trademark is not necessarily in the frames of the sunglasses he wore. Lenses of all different shades have been this icon's signature style. Whether yellow, blue or purple, Sir Elton seems to like the way the world looks through these colorful shades.

James Dean helped make one particular style of sunglasses popular. The 1950's movie star could often be seen wearing the style known as the Wayfarer. This simple design of sunglasses made famous by the "Rebel Without a Cause" is proof that even the most uncomplicated ideas can take off with a little bit of fame behind them.

Later, James Belushi and Dan Aykroyd put their own spin on the retro sunglasses. The Blue Brothers movie of 1980 saw the two sporting the Wayfarer style in a more modern, sleek, black look. The glasses came back in style briefly and made other appearances on the screen, such as Risky Business. No girl can forget a young Tom Cruise in underwear, a dress shirt and his Wayfarers doing a sideways sock-slide to "Old Time Rock and Roll".

Musicians are known for setting style trends, including sunglasses. In reality, the reason so many musicians began wearing sunglasses while they performed is that the stage lights can be blinding. Additionally, during the 1960's and 1970's, musicians like John Lennon, Ozzy Osbourne and Janice Joplin were said to have worn the sunglasses all the time as a way of disguising mysteriously bloodshot eyes. This theory has not been proven, so we can all assume they wore them because they looked cool.

John Lennon and Ozzy Osbourne helped bring the Teashades into popular culture. Other musicians such as Mick Jagger and Janice Joplin favored this style. This style of sunglasses is still mostly associated with former Beatle John Lennon. This is perhaps because not only were they his preferred shape for sunglasses, but his corrective lenses were this shape as well.

Movie and rock stars are not the only ones that have made sunglasses what they are today. The United States Military has had a hand in coining what is possibly the most famous sunglasses style in history. In the 1930's, Ray Ban designed sunglasses that were sold to the U.S. Military to be issued to pilots. Ladies and Gentlemen, the Aviators are born. This is quite possibly the strangest fashion trend setter yet: the United States Government!

Another example of the average Joe popularizing a fashion trend is in the case of the "cop shades" or Mirror Shades. Police officers favored this design and it quickly made its place in pop culture trivia books everywhere. A popular theory for this preference is that police officers like the intimidating vibe they gave off. It is somewhat unnerving to look into a one-way mirrored pair of sunglasses and not know the expression of the person looking back.

Many people have played a part in making sunglasses the pop culture icon they are today. You don't have to be a movie star, musician, or government official to start a fashion trend. Pick up a pair of sunglasses that looks good on you, even if they have been out of style since the Reagan Administration. Wear them with pride; you never know when it might catch on!

The Dark History of Sunglasses

Sunglasses have a dark history, but a brilliant future. The history of sunglasses can be traced back to Roman Emperor Nero who watched the gladiator competitions through polished light emerald green gems held up to his eyes.  

The invention of sunglasses was somewhere between 1268 and 1289. A visual historical recording of early sunglasses is a painting done by Tommaso da Modena in 1352. The person in the painting was wearing sunglasses. This was the first painting of a subject in sunglasses and many more were to follow as it became a fashionable symbol of distinction or honor.

Around the twelfth century and before 1430, sunglasses were worn by Judges in the Courts of China. The smoky quartz, flat-glassed panes were not used as protection from the sun. They were used to conceal any expression in their eyes to keep from giving away the outcome of their decisions. Prescription sunglasses were developed in Italy in 1430 and were later used by the Chinese Judges.  

By the 1600's people began to realize the benefits of prescription glasses as helping the elderly to see better and the motto "A Blessing to the Aged" came into being in 1629. It was the motto of an English eyeglasses manufacturer, Spectacle Makers Company.

In the mid 18th Century, James Ayscough developed blue and green corrective lenses which began the use of sunglasses for correcting optical impairments.

The development of glasses and sunglasses continued through the years. Problems in keeping eyeglasses on the face or propped on the nose led to experiments. Glasses frames had been made from leather, bones and metal and were propped on the nose. Sidepieces began as silk strips of ribbon that looped around the ears. Instead of loops, the Chinese added ceramic weights to the ends of the ribbons. Solid sidepieces were finally invented by Edward Scarlett in 1730. Benjamen Franklin's invention of bifocal lenses followed in 1780.

By the 20th Century, sunglasses were used to protect the eyes from the sun. In 1929 Sam Foster began selling his protective sunglasses at Woolworth stores on the boardwalk at the beaches in Atlantic City and New Jersey. His Foster Grants were the first mass-produced sunglasses and they began the trend of sunglasses for fashion.

In the 1930's the Army Air Corps asked Bausch & Lomb to develop sunglasses that would efficiently reduce high-altitude sun glare for pilots. Bausch & Lomb came up with sunglasses that had a dark green tint that absorbed light through the yellow spectrum.  

Edward H. Land had invented the Polaroid filter and by 1936 he was using it in the making of sunglasses and soon, sunglasses became "cool." Movies stars began wearing sunglasses as a statement and to hide behind. Aviator glasses became popular with the movie stars and the general public in 1937 after Ray Ban developed the anti-glare sunglasses using polarization. The longer lens was created to give more protection to pilots' eyes from the light reflecting off their control panels.

By the 1970's Hollywood stars and fashion designers made a huge impact on the sunglasses market. Clothing designers and stars put their names on glasses and sunglasses and everyone had to have them.  

In 2007, stars are still hiding behind their oversized designer sunglasses, making fashion statements and protecting their eyes from the harmful effects of the Ultra Violet (UV) rays of the sun. With modern technology and improvements, sunglasses continue to evolve. We have gone from holding green gems up to our eyes to watch Gladiator sports to Oakley's 2004 sunglasses with digital audio players built in. What's next?

Sunglasses are "Hot!"

When it comes to fashion, sunglasses are "hot!" What can be hotter than George Clooney as Danny Ocean wearing designer sunglasses in the Oceans movies? Paris Hilton or the Olsen twins can be seen, just about anywhere in Hollywood, day or night, wearing the latest in designer sunglasses. When they walk the red carpet and they are asked, "What are you wearing?" they might lower their sunglasses down on their noses and peer over the rims and drop designer names like Vera Wang, Dior, Valentino, Gucci and Armani.

As an attention-getting accessory or fashion statement, designer or custom sunglasses are nothing new. Trendsetters like Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Elton John sported designer and custom sunglasses as part of their "look" or star status. Some have worn sunglasses to hide behind, cover their drug-affected eyes, or make a statement. Pictures of Elvis Presley reveal that he had sunglasses custom-made for him with his initials or the letters TCB (Taking Care of Business) built right into the nose bridge.  

Stars like Sophia Loren, Donald Trump, and Britney Spears have their own name brand sunglasses on the market while others may be wearing Marc Jacobs or Armani sunglasses for a classy look or Baby Phat for punk style. The mood for the day might be for the blast-to-the-past 1950's look of Fossil sunglasses.

The same clothing designer may also be the designer of the sunglasses that you choose to accessorize your brand-name clothing. For instance, the smart Tommy dresser can add to the look of a Tommy Hilfiger clothing ensemble with Tommy Hilfiger sunglasses. For casual wear, Kate Spade sunglasses might do nicely. Carrera is known for a sporty look. For a sensual mood, Valentino frames that have smooth round edges and Swarovsky crystals might just put you (or whoever is looking at you) in the mood.

Designer sunglasses, if you can afford them, are a status symbol showing everyone that you have the cash (or credit card) to buy them. However, in order to be fashionable in sunglasses, you do not have to give up quality. Sunglasses, not being just fashionable accessories, are used to protect your eyes from damage caused by the sun's UV (ultra-violet) rays. Designer prescription sunglasses can improve vision, and reduce eyestrain, just like ordinary glasses.

Name-brand and designer sunglasses can be polarized to reduce the glare of the sunlight reflecting off surfaces like the highway, cars, water or snow. Polarized sunglasses work by blocking off the horizontal light reflections and only let in vertical light reflections. The polarization of designer sunglasses makes them fashionable in other areas of lifestyle like golfing, boating, biking, swimming, fishing and aircraft flying.

Marketers of designer sunglasses aim toward children who enjoy the same hot styles and brand-names as their parents and their idols. Children's designer sunglasses can also be polarized. Sunglasses should be part of children's daily wear as they play outside and engage in outdoor sports and activities. Sunglasses can prevent them from the long-term affects of sun damage to their eyes.

Sunglasses in any shade, shape or size, by any name may be a "hot" fashion item for trend-setting stars, men, women and children, but the importance of protecting the eyes from damage far outweighs the importance of looking cool.  

Sunglasses and Technology

You are probably fairly familiar with the basic science behind sunglasses. They filter out harmful light rays and protect your eyes from intense light. However, the technology behind sunglasses and creating new designs may have a few more tricks up its sleeves. Even in 2007, sunglasses are reaching new heights of science and creativity.

If you are a corrective lens wearer, you will love this feature for sunglasses. No one likes having to change out glasses every time they move from indoors to outdoors. Additionally, you have to worry about losing your sunglasses while you wear your prescriptions, or vice versa.  

Photo Chromic lenses are typical prescription strength glasses while you are inside. However, when you step outside into the light, they morph into sunglasses. The technology of the Photo Chromic lens is as sensitive to light as your eyes are. Unlike your eyes, however, these sunglasses will adjust in accordance with the magnitude of light to provide the necessary protection.

Sunglasses with lenses that transform automatically from clear to dark may not be particularly brand new information to everyone. They have been on the market for several years, and have now been revolutionized yet again. New sunglasses currently in development will change not only from clear to dark but also to shades of yellow, green and purple. 

Not only will the transition occur much faster with these sunglasses, but they will offer many more options as well. They will be able to improve visual contrast, as well as brightening low-light conditions. Unlike traditional color changing lenses, these sunglasses will be controllable by the wearer. A small dial on the arm can take you through a spectrum of shades and tints.

The lens material will be made from a plastic can change its color and transparency when the sunglasses receive an electrical charge. The lens contains a gel-like solution in between the layers that helps transport charged particles. A watch battery delivers the charge. When the electricity is transmitted, the molecules change from transparent to a variety of shades and tints in seconds or less and your glasses become your sunglasses!

Visual effects are not the only advances made for sunglasses in recent years. Many product developers are beginning to see the need to further integrate technology and communication into everyday life. For this reason, you can now purchase sunglasses that are also your mobile phone. Since the advent of the headset, it is a common need for one that does not get in the way of your sunglasses. This new phone turned eyewear is an obvious solution to the problem.

Another extremely popular tech toy today is the MP3 player. Long gone are the days of the Walkman or even the Discman. The computer age has taken over all facets of our existence, including the music we listen to. Few individuals today are without an MP3 player. Heaven forbid we are caught anywhere without ever song we own to keep us company!

Following the desperate need we have to be surrounded by our music, sunglasses have been developed to accommodate us. Sunglasses with built-in speakers can be plugged into your MP3 player in the same way your ear buds could. If this is not hi-tech enough for you, pick up a pair of sunglasses that actually ARE the MP3 player. Simply download your tunes onto your sunglasses and take off down the road.

Science is constantly changing and developing exciting new inventions. Twenty years ago you never would have believed someone if they told you that you may be listening to music on your sunglasses. New developments are happening all the time, so don't be left behind. Pay attention to see what they come up with next.

Same Sunglasses, Different Reasons

Everyone should be familiar with the primary reason sunglasses are worn. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun, warding off long term effects of the sun's damage. However, what are some other reasons to wear sunglasses. Everyone has their own reasons, aside from the protection benefits, for wearing sunglasses.

Sunglasses, especially darker ones, help to create an air of mystery surrounding their owners. It is often difficult to carry on a conversation with a person wearing opaque shades. This mysterious, often intimidating look is a favorite for investigators, poker players, and police officers. When someone cannot see your eyes, it is difficult for them to tell what you are thinking.

Sunglasses are a fashion statement all their own. They are often the first thing that a person sees when they look at you. The shades you wear make a statement about you, so choose wisely. The sunglasses you pick out could mean the difference between telling the world that you are a fashion force to be reckoned with, or someone whose mom still picks out his clothes.

On a more somber note is a situation most of us ourselves in. Sooner or later, everyone loses someone in their life and there is a funeral to attend. Vanity should not be your first priority in this case, but there are certain measures you can take to help grieve with a little dignity. A carefully selected, tasteful pair of dark sunglasses will help mask the red and puffy eyes you may experience while crying. Remember when deciding which pair to wear for this particular occasion that elegance and taste are extremely important.

Whether it is allergy season or you pulled an all-nighter studying for finals, you don't have to cry to achieve the red, puffy-eyed look. Let's face it, everyone has stayed out a little too late the night before and awakened the next morning to see Frankenstein starring back at them in the mirror. Sunglasses come in handy for these reasons as well. They may be a telltale sign of a one-too-many night if you wear them in the office, so this would not be recommended. However, the sudden sensitivity to light you may feel when you step into the day for the first time can be cushioned with a good pair of sunglasses.

Athletes often find themselves playing their particular sport outside on a hot, sunny day. Unfortunately, there are no allowances in the rules for a baseball player that misses a fly ball because the sun blinded him. To help with athletic performance, certain sunglasses are made specifically for athletes. An aerodynamic design and wraparound shape hug the face and ensure the player sees every ball coming his way. The important detail for these sunglasses is size. They have to fit perfectly; otherwise they'll fall off while running, if too big, or cut off circulation in your face if they're too small.

One use for sunglasses has only recently been discovered. The next time you are flying overseas and want to avoid the taxing effects of jet lag, try putting a pair of sunglasses. Scientists have recently discovered that sunglasses help fool the body through the use of light. Your biological clock (which-as it turns out-is a real thing) consists of about 20,000 nerve cells that respond differently to light and dark. By wearing sunglasses for certain amounts of time during a long trip, you can lessen the effects of jet lag.

You see that there are many reasons to wear sunglasses. These reasons should not, however, overshadow the primary benefit. Sunglasses are protection for your eyes. They will help ensure you keep seeing the world the way it was intended. That is the best reason of all to pick up a pair today.

Retro Sunglasses, the Way to Go

When it comes to sunglasses, is retro the way to go? You are probably seeing a lot of different designs of shades these days, are they new? Truthfully, there are really no new designs, just redesigns of a formerly popular style. In the fashion world, retro designs are everywhere--and sunglasses are no exception.

One design that has poked its head back into the fashion world is well known all over. Onassis Glasses, or the Jackie-O design sunglasses were popularized by the former First Lady Kennedy. After becoming Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, she flaunted this oversized style of sunglasses all over the globe. The style was so closely associated with her, that it has shared her name since the late seventies.

After fading from the public eye, the Onassis Glasses lay dormant for about thirty years. However, poised for a comeback, these sunglasses have begun making waves on red carpets and runways all over. The women credited for bringing back the infamous sunglasses are Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton. Since then, Jackie-O's have been seen on the faces of famous women and trendy-but-average Janes everywhere.

Another retro design of sunglasses that has made big waves recently is the cleverly named Aviators. Originally designed in the 1930's for military pilots, Aviators were hot on fashionable faces in the 1960's and 1980's. True to their every-twenty-year trend, Aviators are back with avengance and have been favorites for men, and women, with style. It is particularly true that this style of sunglasses has caught on with the younger "MTV Crowd" more than with adults. Johnny Knoxville has adapted Aviators as his signature style.

Some styles of sunglasses have briefly shown themselves in fashion, only to never be heard from again. This is not necessarily a bad thing. There are those sunglasses the human race still feels a little silly about. However, let's not speak too soon. These sunglasses could be waiting in the wings for their triumphant return.

OVER-Oversized sunglasses are one fashion faux-pa most of us would rather not make. The design is a retro tribute to the late Lady O when they are slightly oversized and conservative. However, when the sunglasses appear to be attempting to take over your face, you may have crossed the line into ridiculous. Save the supersized look for clowns and put this design back in the vault.

Another design that some hope will never return carries a soft spot in the hearts of many women. The Wayfarer sunglasses were first made popular by Hollywood's bad boy, James Dean. After his death, these sunglasses were worn for a time, before slowly falling by the wayside to make room for the newer styles.

However, the Wayfarer was gone but not forgotten. The sunglasses made a double comeback on the faces of James Belushi and Dan Aykroyd, better known in the eighties as the Blues Brothers. The sunglasses with a clean black, square design were a perfect complement to their all black suits, hats and ties.  

Wayfarers made one more comeback in 1983 when a sock and underwear clad young man slid into the living room and into our hearts. Before Tom Cruise was the controversial figure he is today, he was a hot high school graduate just trying to get into a good college. The Wayfarers sunglasses haven't been much on the fashion scene since then, but we've never forgotten.

It's hard to tell what may come next in the world of fashion sunglasses. If you really want to keep up with it, just check the fashion magazines in early spring and see what new old styles are unfolding. You may have seen them all before, but these retro sunglasses are bound to have a new and exciting twist.

Primary Benefits of Sunglasses

There are many reasons to wear sunglasses, and everyone has one of their own. Whether it is to mask a hangover, create mystery or escape the paparazzi, sunglasses are a part of everyday life. However, often the true benefits of this popular accessory are lost when fashion or other purposes take over. It may not be your only reason, but your best reason for sunglasses should be to protect your eyes.

Science has come a long way in correcting vision gone bad. Corneal transplants help a blind person see again. Laser treatment can restore your eyesight to 20/20 or better in mere minutes. Even with all this technology, wouldn't it be easier to take care of your eyes from the start? By simply wearing good sunglasses, you will reduce your need for these scientific breakthroughs later in life.

The sun creates ultraviolet light rays which contribute to the heat it produces. These rays, called UVA and UVB can cause irreparable damage to your retina and corneas. If you've ever watched an eclipse, you know you had to do so through a pinhole in a shoebox. This is because staring directly to the sun can cause great damage to your eyes. Unfortunately, many people are unknowingly allowing their eyes to suffer the same fate by simply choosing not to wear sunglasses.

Such disorders as cataracts, macular degeneration, and even skin cancer around the eyes can be signs of sun damage and can be prevented in part by the use of sunglasses. Cataracts are an eye condition that involves clouding of the lens behind the Iris and Pupil. Although no one truly knows what causes cataracts, studies have shown links between this condition and increased exposure to ultraviolet light. Though we do not know 100% that this is the cause, it has been determined that people who habitually wear sunglasses have seen a decreased incidence of this eye disorder.

Macular degeneration causes those who suffer from it to have difficulty seeing in detail. Often even faces are hard for these people to distinguish. This disease, like cataracts, is most prevalent in elderly patients. However, also like cataracts, prolonged exposure to sunlight without the protection of sunglasses has been included as a probable cause. Individuals who practice care in selecting sunglasses with 99%-100% UV protection stand a greater chance at avoiding this fate.

Think about the last time that you spent all day in the sun and were really badly sunburned. You probably took cold baths and slathered yourself in Aloe Vera. It is a painful condition to be in when this happens to your skin. Now, imagine what that same sunlight that gave you second degree burns on your skin is doing to your eyes when you choose not to protect them with proper sunglasses. That alone should be motivation to hit the sunglass kiosk at the mall.

You don't often think of sunglasses as something that will protect your skin. In reality, a good pair of sunglasses can save your face in more ways than one. Increased exposure to sunlight can cause skin cancer and will attach the most sensitive areas first. How much more sensitive can you get then the skin around your eyes. Sunglasses can reduce the risk of skin cancer in the eyelids and areas around your eyes.

Another benefit your skin will enjoy from a good pair of sunglasses is a decreased appearance of lines around the eyes. Simply logic tells us that distorting the face in certain ways on a regular basis can cause premature wrinkles and increase the signs of aging. When you do not wear sunglasses, you tend to squint, as your eyes are uncomfortable being opened under bright light. Sunglasses can actually help reduce the appearance of crow's feet by allowing your facial muscles to remain relaxed.

Your eyes are one of your most valued features. Can you imagine waking up tomorrow and not being able to see? Many people are born blind and would give anything for the eyes you take for granted every day. A good pair of sunglasses will protect you against a world of eye disorders and pain. If you don't protect this valuable possession, before you know it, it could be gone.

How to Shop for Sunglasses

When choosing the sunglasses that best fit you, three factors should be considered. First and foremost, sunglasses are used to protect your eyes. A pair of sunglasses that offer no protection can actually be more harm than good. Secondly, your sunglasses should feel comfortable. Finally, you want to look good in your shades, so pick a pair with some consideration of style.

Sunglasses can be made of many different varieties of materials. These materials also carry with them different levels of protection. As you sift through the masses, remember that protection is the reason you are wearing sunglasses. Find out about the level of UV ray protection they offer and avoid those that cannot provide 99-100% protection from UVA and UVB radiation.

Dark sunglasses do less for your eyes than you think. A darker tint makes it more comfortable for you to see in the bright sun. However, if those dark glasses fail in offering the protection you need from harmful rays, they may be causing more harm than good. Dark shaded sunglasses make it easier for you to open your eyes, allowing UVA and UVB rays greater access to your eyes to cause more damage. If forced to choose, you are better off with a pair of sunglasses with UVA protection and a light gray tint than in dark lenses with no UVA protection.

There are also additional measures you can take with your sunglasses to help protect your baby blues (Or your greens, browns and grays. They're all equally important!) Many sunglasses have a wrap-around design that widens around the temples and appears to wrap around your head. This design blocks the sun from the sides of your face, offering greater protection than smaller framed glasses. If your precious eyesight is not enough to convince you to be choosey about your sunglasses, consider one more thing. When you squint your eyes, you are causing your forehead and sides of your face to wrinkle. No one wants crow's feat before their time.

After protection, comfort is the next most important part of picking out your eyewear. Consider the tint of the lens. For very bright settings where the sun has surfaces to reflect off of, polarized lenses may be helpful. Polarized sunglasses reduce the glare caused by the sun hitting the water, snow or other surface. Even though you may be blocking out the harmful UVA and UVB rays, you're not going to care much if you can't see anything.

When you try on sunglasses, pay attention to how they feel on your face. Does the nosepiece rest firmly on the bridge of your nose without sliding? Is the frame a good fit for your face and rests gently over your ears? This is a helpful checklist when sunglass shopping. If the sunglasses are going to cause you discomfort, you'll be more likely to take them off. If that's the case, why have them in the first place?

Although it should never be your number one consideration, fashion should be a factor in the selection of your sunglasses. It is not absolutely necessary that you wear the designs you see celebrities sporting at all times. Those shades may be easier to find than others, but they're not the only ones out there. Pick frames that flatter the shape of your face and complement your style.

A good rule of thumb is to choose a frame shape that is the opposite of your facial shape. A round face goes well with a pair of oval or square sunglasses. The worst shape for the round face is a pair of round frames. Likewise, an thinner or longer face looks great with a pair of round frame sunglasses, but not so much with a square set of frames. Oval shaped faces have their pick of shapes, they are the most versatile. "Lucky!"

Just be smart when shopping for sunglasses. Remember what you're buying them for, and pick styles that complement you. When you choose sunglasses based on these three factors your eyes will thank you. They'll be protected, stylish, happy, and you will be too.

How Do Sunglasses Work?

You've been told your entire life that sunglasses are important. You know that they protect your eyes, block out the sun's ray and prolong good vision. But have you ever wondered how these miracle shades do all of that? Of course not, but you should learn. Sunglasses basically do four things for you, aside from completing a killer outfit. It is important to know what these things are and how they are done to ensure your sunglasses are doing their job.

As you probably already know, sunglasses provide protection from ultraviolet rays in sunlight. UV rays can cause serious damage to the corneas, and a good pair will shield 100% of these rays. A protective coating on the outside of sunglasses acts as a kind of filter. While it allows light through, it helps to filter out the radioactive light waves that can lead to so many dangers to your eyes.

Possibly the most prevalent purpose sunglasses serve is to provide protection from intense light. Intense sunlight can cause you to squint, a natural reaction to too much light entering the eyes. If squinting does not provide enough protection, damage to the cornea can occur next. This is especially common when outside in the snow without your sunglasses. The white of the snow reflects and magnifies the intensity of the light.

The tinting of your sunglasses will help determine the amount of light your eyes will be exposed to. As there are different types of light, all the colors of the rainbow, different shades of lenses will protect in their own ways. Gray and almost black tinted lenses will offer the greatest amount of protection from intense lights while avoiding distortion of most colors that you see.

Another quality sunglasses carry is something we are all most likely thankful for. They can provide protection from glare. Water and other shiny looking surfaces can produce a glare. These glares can block out other objects, like a car turning out of a parking lot just ahead of you. Good sunglasses can completely eliminate this kind of glare using polarization.

Light waves vibrate just like sound waves do. When a group of light waves come together but are traveling in different directions, a glare occurs. When you are blinded by a glare off of the water or another vehicle's windshield, what you are seeing is a traffic jam of light waves. Polarization filters built into sunglasses are made up of molecules that realign the light waves with each other and eliminate the glare.

As noted before, Sunglasses can eliminate specific frequencies of light. Certain light frequencies can cause blurred vision, while other frequencies enhance contrast between colors. Choosing the right color for your sunglasses lets them work better in specific situations.

Yellow, gold, amber and brown tinted sunglasses are especially good for blocking out blue light. Blue light is the color of light in the spectrum that scatters and causes blurred perception. While the yellow shades can make the rest of the world look a different color, you will see most clearly and detailed through them.

Green tinted sunglasses are better for filtering some blue light and reducing the occurrence of glares. They also offer the highest contrast and greatest visual sharpness of any other colored lens. For this reason, green sunglasses are very popular. Rose colored shades and purple tints offer the best contrast of objects against a green or blue background and make great sunglasses for hunting or water skiing. 

Now that you know how sunglasses work you can be a responsible consumer. Know what to look for when choosing your sunglasses. It is not a bad idea to have more than one pair around for different reasons. This is especially true if you spend a lot of time outdoors on a variety of activities. Be responsible about your eyes and learn to protect your vision while it's still yours to protect!

How Sunglasses Are Made

Sunglasses are trendy fashion accessories that make you look and feel cool, but have you ever wondered how those cool shades are made? Sunglasses come in many styles, shapes, colors and brands. There are polarized, prescription, clip-on, flexible, men's, women's, unisex, children's, designer, and custom-made sunglasses. There are police, pilot and rescue sunglasses, biker, skier and other sports sunglasses. There are even sunglasses with built-in audio digital players. How are all these different sunglasses made? 

Sunglasses have various types of lenses. Glass lenses have better visual quality and are more scratch-resistant than plastic ones. Photo chromic lenses darken in reaction to light. Glass photo chromic lenses are more efficient in the reduction of Ultra Violet light rays. Gradient Lenses are darker on top and gradually become lighter toward the bottom.  
Materials used for tinting polarized lenses are generally brown or gray. Any color tint can be used for high index, Trivex, and polycarbonate.  

Different color lenses give different levels of protection from the UV rays of the sun. For example, amber and brown do a better job of absorbing the UV light. Treatment of clear lenses with anti-reflective coatings will protect the eyes from UV radiation. The best level of protection from UV rays is 100 per cent. The anti-reflective coating has an additional benefit of helping to protect the lenses from some surface scratches.  

Before tinting, lenses need to properly fit in the selected previously manufactured frame; therefore, the lens needs to be ground to fit the frame's size and shape. Also, the lens has to be ground according to the prescription in order to solve refractive errors in the customer's vision. Myopic vision is one example of an eye problem that would require a prescription for sunglasses. Other sunglasses prescriptions could be for bifocals, progressive bifocals and trifocals which would require a larger size lens to accommodate the lens progression.

 The grinder that is used to grind the lenses to the specifications of the prescription is called an edger. There is a constant source of water running over the lens while it is being ground in order to reduce the heat caused by friction on the glass. The friction heat can cause glass to crack or break. Water also makes the grinding easier and smoother on the edge and prevents scratching of the surface from dry glass grit.

When the grinding is completed and the lenses are cleaned, tint is added to the lens by dipping the lens in a tint solution which is absorbed into the lens. The longer it is dipped, the darker the tint. The lenses are thoroughly rinsed and dried then are fit into the sunglasses frame and the frame is secured tightly around the lens by tightening the screws on the frame. Sunglasses frames are mass-produced from products like plastic, nylon, carbon fiber and metal.

The process of making sunglasses has come a long way from when Roman Emperor Nero held polished light emerald glass gems up to his eyes and Chinese attached ceramic weights to the ends of ribbons draped over the ears in order to keep on their cool sunglasses.

Historical Overview of Sunglasses

Sunglasses can be found around every corner you turn today. You can find them in grocery stores for a few dollars or in specialty stores for a few hundred dollars. Sunglasses come in so many different shapes, designs and colors that there is a pair out there for everyone. But the market for sunglasses has not always been this way.  

Sunglasses have been in use for centuries and have evolved over time into what they are today. They were not always the fashion icon they are today. Similarly, they were not always used for the same reason they are today either.

Surprisingly, the first form of what we have as sunglasses today were not originally developed to shield eyes from the sun or help poor vision. In Ancient China, sunglasses were developed out of smoky panes of quartz glass. Judges wore these prehistoric ray bans as a way of keeping their expressions to themselves. Little did they know that poker players centuries later would adopt this same principle use of the eyewear.

Ancient Rome can also take part of the credit for today's sunglasses. The Emporer Nero, while watching gladiator fights enjoyed doing so through polished gems. It is possible that the Emporer saw the benefits of distorting the sun's beams as a way of seeing more clearly. It is also possible that he enjoyed these early sunglasses because he thought the gladiators looked better in different colors. For whatever reason, sunglasses still today are available in any lens color you can imagine.

During the eighteenth century, the design of the sunglasses were altered by an inventor seeking to use color as a vision correctioin.
He was convinced that blue and green tints helped the eye see better when vision was poor.
He had no reason to consider the advantages of shielding the eyes from the sun, as no one knew what a UVA ray was at the time.
It was not common knowledge during this time that the sun could be harmful and cause future vision problems.

Sunglasses were finally introduced in the United States in the early twentieth century, around 1930. These innovative eye pieces were marketed on the boardwalks of Atlantic City and promised to protect the wearer's eyes from the harmful sun. It was in this same decade that polarization of the lenses was developed as well. The inventor of the famed Polaroid camera integrated his Polaroid filter into the makeup of the sunglasses' lenses. This technology, which is still used today, was the greatest step of its time toward the protection of the eyes from the sun.

Since the 1930's, sunglasses have steadily become a favorite accessory for everyone from the true fashion icon down to the style novice. Sunglasses have been implemented as a way of showing off one's style, sophistication, and social status. Individuals have made their own styles famous and timeless.  

The most famous of all the sunglasses style icons is unarguably the late Jacqueline Lee Bouvier Kennedy Onassis, or simply "Jackie O.". The oversized sunglasses of the same name were a token symbol of the former First Lady and American Icon. Around the year 2000, Jackie's signature style was made popular again for young women by another style icon, Nicole Richie.

Sunglasses have come a long way over the centuries. They have evolved in uses, styles, popularity and technology. With sunglasses what they are today and their importance in popular culture, it is difficult to imagine where and in what form they will turn up next. Keep your eyes open-and your sunglasses handy-to find out!

Designer Sunglasses

When it comes to fashion, designer sunglasses are "hot!" Paris Hilton or the Olsen twins can be seen, just about anywhere in Hollywood, day or night, wearing the latest in designer sunglasses. When they walk the red carpet and they are asked, "What are you wearing?" they might lower their sunglasses down on their noses and peer over the rims and drop designer names like Vera Wang, Dior, Valentino, Gucci and Armani.

Stars like Donald Trump and Britney Spears have their own name brand sunglasses on the market while others may be wearing Marc Jacobs or Armani sunglasses for a classy look or Baby Phat for punk style. The mood for the day might be for the retro 1950's look of Fossil sunglasses.

Your favorite clothing designer may also be the designer of the sunglasses that you choose to accessorize your brand-name clothing. For instance, the smart Tommy dresser can add to the look of a Tommy Hilfiger clothing ensemble with Tommy Hilfiger sunglasses. For casual wear, Kate Spade sunglasses might do nicely. Carrera is known for a sporty look. For a sensual mood, Valentino frames that have smooth round edges and Swarovsky crystals might just put you (or whoever is looking at you) in the mood.

Trendy, cool-looking name-brand or designer sunglasses, if you can afford them, are a status symbol showing everyone that you have the cash (or credit card) to buy them. However, in order to be fashionable in sunglasses, you do not have to give up quality. Sunglasses, not being just fashionable accessories, are used to protect your eyes from damage caused by the sun's UV (ultra-violet) rays. Designer prescription sunglasses can improve vision, and reduce eyestrain, just like ordinary glasses.

Quality designer sunglasses can be polarized to reduce the glare of the sunlight reflecting off surfaces like the highway, cars, water or snow. Polarized sunglasses work by blocking off the horizontal light reflections and only let in vertical light reflections. The polarization of designer sunglasses makes them fashionable in other areas of lifestyle like golfing, boating, biking, swimming, fishing and aircraft flying.

Marketers of designer sunglasses target children who enjoy the same hot styles and brand-names as their parents and their idols. Sunglasses for children have Disney and cartoon characters in many colors, shapes and styles. Children's designer sunglasses can also be polarized to block the harmful UV radiation. Sunglasses should be part of children's daily wear as they play outside and engage in outdoor sports and activities. Sunglasses can prevent them from the long-term affects of sun damage to their eyes.

When most people grab a pair of sunglasses, they are only thinking about shading their eyes or looking cool. Sunglasses in any shade, shape or size, by any name may be a "hot" fashion accessory for trend-setting stars, men, women and children, but the importance of protecting the eyes from damage far outweighs the importance of looking cool. The next time you head out in the sunshine, be sure to grab your designer polarized sunglasses and give some thought to the fact that you and your sunglasses are protecting your eyes and your eye sight. Seeing is cool.

The Creation of Popular Sunglasses: The Mirrorshades

It seems like every time you see a movie or TV show where police officers are involved, they seem to be wearing large sunglasses with mirrors on the outside. What are these shades and how did they come to be what they are today? The truth is that Mirrorshades, as the sunglasses are called, are often associated with law enforcement and government officials for a valid reason.

Mirrorshades are sunglasses with a reflective optical coating on the outside of the lenses to make them appear like small mirrors. The mirror coating can decrease anywhere from 10%-60% of the light that passes through and makes contact with your eyes. Mirrorshades are great sunglasses for anyone that spends much of their time outdoors, possibly even on a motorcycle or in a car for eight or more hours per day.

However, Mirrorshades serve a greater purpose than simply shielding the eye. These sunglasses prevent another person from making eye contact with the wearer. The mirrors are created so that an onlooker will only meet his own reflection when attempting to gaze into the eyes behind a pair of Mirrorshades.

It is for this reason that Mirrorshades have become popular sunglasses for officers of law enforcement and military. Their popularity with police officers in the United States has earned them the nickname "cop shades". Much like an interrogation room, a suspect is unnerved by looking into a window and being unable to see who or what is looking back at him. It is also for this reason that Mirrorshades are often favored by competitive poker players.

Mirrorshades are available in several different designs. The sunglasses most frequently worn by police and military are Aviators. This style received its name around the 1940's and 1950's when they were popular sunglasses for military pilots. In the 1930's, Ray Ban created this design and sold it to the United States Military. The military issued the sunglasses to their pilots to protect them while they flew. From there a fixture among sunglass styles was created.

Another particularly popular style of Mirrorshades is called the Wraparound. This style of sunglasses consists of either one or two smooth, semi-circular lenses that cover the eyes and resemble the shape of protective goggles. Wraparound sunglasses are quite popular in the world of extreme sports. They are often particularly associated with snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding.

The Mirrorshades are created with a coating on the outside of the lenses of the sunglasses. The coating can range from a very simple form made up of a single layer of very thin film all the way to a thicker, more reflective form. The thinner layer of film can be very likely to scratch with minimal pressure, and is sensitive to salt water. These sunglasses should be treated with the utmost care.

The more modern reflective coatings on Mirrorshades usually have several layers making them more durable and less likely to become scratched. While these sunglasses may be more expensive, you often get what you pay for when purchasing sunglasses. Choose wisely and educate yourself on sunglasses before deciding which ones to buy. Mirrorshades will prove beneficial to your eyes and your style.

All About Sunglasses

Any time of year, sunglasses should be a part of your daily heath-consciousness routine. Sunglasses are not just for summers on the beach anymore or just for looking cool and mysterious. Designer sunglasses are no longer just for wealthy movie stars. Sunglasses are crucial in protecting your eyes from the permanent damaging effects of Ultra Violet radiation.

Sunglasses in some form have been around for a very long time. Roman Emperor Nero made sunglasses by watching gladiator competitions through polished light emerald green gems held up to his eyes. The true invention of sunglasses was somewhere between 1268 and 1289.  

Before 1430, smoky quartz, flat-paned sunglasses were worn by Judges in the Courts of China to conceal any expression in their eyes. Prescription sunglasses were developed in Italy in 1430 and were later used by the Chinese Judges. In the mid 18th Century, James Ayscough developed blue and green corrective lenses, beginning the use of sunglasses for correcting optical impairments.  

Until 1730 when Edward Scarlett invented hardened sidepieces, there were problems in keeping eyeglasses propped on the nose. Glasses frames had been made from leather, bones and metal and sidepieces began as silk strips of ribbon that looped around the ears. Instead of loops, the Chinese added ceramic weights to the ends of the ribbons. Benjamen Franklin's invention of bifocal lenses followed in 1780.  

By the 20th Century, sunglasses were used to protect the eyes from the sun. In 1929 Sam Foster's "Foster Grants" were the first mass-produced sunglasses and they began the trend of sunglasses for fashion.

In the 1930's the Army Air Corps asked Bausch & Lomb to develop sunglasses that would efficiently reduce high-altitude sun glare for pilots and they came up with dark green tinted sunglasses that absorbed light through the yellow spectrum.  

Edward H. Land had invented the Polaroid filter and by 1936 he used it in making sunglasses and soon, sunglasses became "cool." Movies stars began wearing sunglasses to hide behind and for fashion. Aviator glasses became popular with the movie stars and the general public in 1937 after Ray Ban developed the anti-glare sunglasses using polarization. The longer lens was created to give more protection to pilots' eyes from light reflecting off their control panels.

By the 1970's Hollywood stars and fashion designers made a huge impact on the sunglasses market. Clothing designers and stars put their names on glasses and sunglasses and everyone had to have them. In 2007, stars are still hiding behind their oversized designer sunglasses, making fashion statements and protecting their eyes from the harmful effects of the Ultra Violet radiation.  
Today's trendy designer sunglasses are a status symbol; however, in order to be fashionable in sunglasses, you do not have to give up quality. Quality designer sunglasses can be polarized to reduce the glare of sunlight reflecting off surfaces like the highway, cars, water or snow. Polarized sunglasses work by blocking off horizontal light reflections and only let in vertical light reflections. The polarization of designer sunglasses makes them fashionable in other areas of lifestyle like golfing, boating, biking, swimming, fishing and aircraft flying.

Marketers of designer sunglasses target children who choose the same hot styles and brand-names as their parents and their idols. Sunglasses for children have Disney and cartoon characters in many colors, shapes and styles. Children's designer sunglasses can also be polarized to block the harmful UV radiation.  

With modern technology and improvements, the making of sunglasses continues to evolve. We have gone from holding green gems up to our eyes to Oakley's 2004 sunglasses with digital audio players built in..