How to Learn About Apothecary History

How to Learn About Apothecary History



Nearly every civilization has used herbs and plants as medicines to treat everything from infertility to pain to infection. Throughout the majority of the last millennium, apothecaries acted as pharmacists, midwives, medical experts and surgeons all rolled into one. The history of the apothecary gives us insight into what life was like before work was highly specialized and medicine closely regulated. Follow these steps to learn more about apothecary history.







Things You'll Need:





Library card




Computer with Internet access







Learn About the History of Apothecary




1


Be a detective. To learn about the history of apothecaries, you need to be able to search the Internet thoroughly, with an eye for detail. The "Worshipful Society of Apothecaries of London" Web site will give you a glimpse of some apothecary history (see Resources below).





2


Research the history of the pharmacy, the history of herbal medicine and the history of monasteries, which often grew herbs in "physic gardens." Nearly every civilization has used herbs and plants as medicines, treating everything from infertility to pain to infection. These histories will help broaden and deepen your understanding of apothecary's place in history.





3


Consider the etymology of the word "apothecary," which comes from the Latin "apotheca" and even earlier from the Greek "apothГ©kГ©." Originally, it meant a "storehouse for spices, wines and herbs." Later, it came to mean a person who stocked and sold all kinds of herbs for medicine, cosmetics and other uses.





4


Curl up with a good book. You'll learn a lot by reading Joan Lane's "A Social History of Medicine: Health, Healing and Disease in England, 1750-1950" (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Learning about the history of the apothecary costs next to nothing. Of course, if you choose to buy an out-of-print book, it can be expensive. But taking out materials from the library and learning online are both free. Purchasing a new or used book online is generally inexpensive.








Visit an ER right away if you're having difficulty breathing.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. If you decide to try apothecary, keep your doctor informed about the treatment you undertake.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033060_learn-apothecary-history.html

How to Know If You Need Physical Therapy

How to Know If You Need Physical Therapy



Typically, people seek physical therapy to help with lingering pain from an injury or surgery. Some people use physical therapy to enhance their overall performance or to improve their endurance and ability. Follow these steps to see if physical therapy can help your overall health.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Relieve Pain Using Physical Therapy




1


Make an appointment to see a physical therapist if you experience pain and limited mobility as a result of surgery. Rather than treat your pain symptomatically with medication, you may need to work out your issues with a supervised course of treatment.





2


Learn methods of physical therapy that you can do in your own home. Supplementing sessions in the therapist's office will allow faster recovery and decreased pain. At-home treatment should only be done if your type of injury can withstand accelerated treatment.





3


Develop a routine of stretching to reduce pain. Patients who don't prepare their bodies with appropriate stretching may experience increased pain and injury.





4


Know that treatments like ultrasound, massage and inversion are procedures you may need to use as a part of your total physical therapy program to alleviate pain.





5


Learn more about physical therapy techniques at the "American Physical Therapy Association" Web site (see Resources below).



Benefit From the Effects of Physical Therapy




1


Improve your athletic performance by working on key components of endurance using physical therapy. Training with a therapist on a treadmill, for example, may be one way to increase athletic stamina.





2


Prepare to have an increased sense of well-being after using physical therapy. Patients suffering from depression as a result of injury or inhibited mobility often find their therapy helps gain a positive perspective on the situation.





3


Approach physical therapy as a way to strengthen and condition the body for a lifetime. Precautionary methods like ergonomics and proper lifting techniques can be educational and important to limit future injury.





4


Consider increasing your power, coordination and balance. Plyometrics, a physical therapy, multi-directional exercise program, may be a helpful means to do that.








Tips & Warnings










Consult your primary physician before beginning treatment after an injury.








Know when to stop pushing your limit to prevent avoidable injury.








Know that physical therapy isn't a proper treatment for life-threatening emergencies. If you have severe vomiting or abdominal pain, go to the emergency room immediately.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033119_need-physical-therapy.html

How to Know If the Alexander Technique Is Working

How to Know If the Alexander Technique Is Working



Commonly used for everything from pain relief and stress reduction to improved movement and posture, the Alexander Technique is a method for achieving body balance and general well being. Teachers of the technique help their students to unlearn bad habits developed over time, replacing them with heightened self awareness and natural grace.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Take Alexander Technique Lessons




1


Visit the American Society for the Alexander Technique Web site (see Resources below).





2


Locate the "Find A Teacher" link and use your mouse to click on it.





3


Select a state from the drop-down box or click on the "International Teachers" link.





4


Browse through the list of teachers in your area and choose one.





5


Attend at least a few Alexander Technique lessons.





6


Learn more about the Alexander Technique and ways to determine if it's working by purchasing the 'The Alexander Technique'
DVD
by Jane Kosminsky and Deborah Caplan. You can find it on the Amazon Web site (see Resources below).



Evaluate Whether or Not the Alexander Technique is Working




1


Start slowly and gradually build your level of self awareness.





2


Determine whether or not your movements feel less labored.





3


Notice whether or not you are able to breathe easier.





4


Consider your state of mind and whether or not you feel more at ease.





5


Know that the Alexander Technique is a skill that may take time to master.





6


Stand in front of a full length mirror and compare the way you move now with your movements before you learned the Alexander Technique.





7


Ask your teacher to help you evaluate your progress.








Tips & Warnings










Be sure to let your teacher know if you have low blood pressure, anemia or any condition that could cause you to lose your balance.








If you decide to teach yourself the Alexander Technique, you may wish to have a single class with a teacher to give you confidence as you learn on your own. However, most agree that it is most effective to take at least a few one-on-one lessons to ensure it's working properly.








Alexander Technique lessons are generally moderately priced, while self study can be done for free or at budget level prices.








Know that the Alexander Technique is not a medical treatment. If you have a serious medical condition, such as scoliosis or arthritis, seek the help of a physician.








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



http://www.ehow.com/how_2031394_alexander-technique-working.html

How to Know If Physical Therapy Is Working

How to Know If Physical Therapy Is Working



Physical therapy aims to treat both the problem and the pain. Evaluating your treatment to know if your physical therapy is working may only be reasonable after 4 weeks of consistent sessions. There are numerous benefits to physical therapy, like decreased stress and fatigue as well as improved quality of life. Treatment sessions are generally inexpensive to moderate in price. Physical therapy can also uncover ailments in early stages to help with rapid detection and management. Follow these steps to learn how to assess your physical therapy treatment.







Things You'll Need:





Computer with Internet access







Reassess Outcomes to Know if Physical Therapy is Working




1


Gauge your level and range of motion. If before starting treatment you had very limited or no range of motion, this will be an easy way to see progress. Every improvement should be recognized to keep you motivated to continue therapy.





2


Consider your ability to return to work an indication that therapy is working. Once the doctor releases you to work, you know your injury is improving.





3


Understand that the strengthening process of physical therapy is actually helping to prevent future injuries, too.





4


Search the "Physical Therapy Association" Web site for common misconceptions of physical therapy (see Resources below).



Keep Record of Physical Progress




1


Document your injury from the first day, if possible. Your ability to remember pain and changes in pain over the course of treatment will help you see how the physical therapy is working.





2


Create a chart showing the progress of your mobility on a daily basis. It will be much easier to see the results after therapy has been completed if you can look at it on paper.





3


Ask your therapist's perspective on your level of progress. Often, if no progress is being made the therapist can suggest alternative treatments to relieve pain.



Reap the Benefits of Physical Therapy




1


Enjoy restful sleep as a result of physical therapy. Pain and injury will rob you of a good night sleep although you may not always realize it. Begin therapy and see how it starts to affect other areas of wellness.





2


Improve quality of life at any age. Many people suffering from joint and muscle pain feel symptoms of depression, which results in an unhealthy self image or distorted view of their situation. Alleviating the pain may help to bring relief to psychological conditions presented by the injury.








Tips & Warnings










Set realistic expectations. No doctor or therapist will be able to heal your condition with the first treatment.








Don't try to treat medical emergencies with physical therapy. Call 911 or go to the hospital if you feel increased pressure in your chest.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2033126_physical-therapy-working.html

How to Improve Posture With the Alexander Technique

How to Improve Posture With the Alexander Technique



The Alexander technique allows people to change the way they move while performing everyday activities. The Alexander technique can be used by anyone to improve the way they perform everyday tasks. It can relieve repetitive strain injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome or backaches and stiff shoulders that are common in people who work on computers. Athletes, musicians, dancers, actors, and other people who use their bodies to perform often find the Alexander technique helpful.









1


Forget what you have been told about posture. For years, we've been told to stand or sit up straight, but we've never been shown how to do it. Actually, when you stand or sit up straight, you often tighten the muscles in your neck and shoulder area. The Alexander technique is about relaxing those muscles and moving more effortlessly.





2


Find a teacher of the Alexander technique. There are between 3,000 and 4,000 teachers in the world. You can find a teacher in your area at the Alexander technique website (see Resources below).





3


Receive verbal commands and hands-on direction to improve your posture while sitting, breathing, talking and walking. Your instructor will focus on activities that you perform every day. If you live near New York City, you can attend a free demonstration at the American Center for the Alexander technique.





4


Watch
children
move when they are playing. Their posture most closely resembles the Alexander Technique. Children move effortlessly and don't tense their muscles like adults do. If adults can learn how to do this, they can move more easily and effortlessly, too.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2124095_improve-posture-alexander-technique.html

How to Wear a Bustier

How to Wear a Bustier



A bustier is a very versatile garment. Traditionally an undergarment for women, a bustier is a very feminine piece of lingerie. It is often used as a tool for sex appeal, whether it's meant to be seen or not.









Step
1



Understand what a bustier is fundamentally supposed to do. It will not completely fix a flawed figure; it simply pushes up the breasts and offers support while smoothing out the stomach line. Bustiers usually end at the waist, but can be found to end just under the bust or at the hips.




Step
2



Get the right size bustier to alleviate discomfort. Have a professional take measurements at a lingerie store. Try on the bustier before purchasing it.




Step
3



Wear a bustier as an undergarment to smooth your stomach line under a dress and provide support under a strapless gown.




Step
4



Pair a decorative bustier with a pair of jeans or a short skirt as outerwear for a sexy look. Add either a funky necklace or flashy

earrings


for a night out on the town.




Step
5



Layer something on top of a bustier for modesty. A shrug, wrap or cardigan will provide more coverage while still hinting about what's underneath.




Step
6



Wear a bustier as lingerie. Choose a pleasing color and fabric, but most of all, make sure it's comfortable.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2045029_wear-bustier.html

How to Wear a Bubble Skirt

How to Wear a Bubble Skirt



A bubble skirt, a skirt with a poof on the bottom, can either look cute and hip or totally unfashionable, depending on how you wear it. It's a fashion that has everyone talking. There are differing opinions regarding the ability of anyone to wear a bubble skirt and to look appropriate. However, you can follow these simple steps and wear a bubble skirt without worrying.









Step
1



Search for a bubble skirt that has a wide waist band and is made out of fabric that lays flatteringly without looking droopy. A wide waist band keeps your butt from looking frumpy while still allowing the skirt to keep the fun style of a bubble skirt. Make sure the fabric isn't too thick and has plenty of pleats in order for it to lay in the most flattering way.




Step
2



Keep the style of your bubble skirt simple. A simple black skirt is always a classic, and you can wear it for dressier occasions or for more casual ones.




Step
3



Think about the length of the bubble skirt as you shop. A skirt just below the knee or just above the knee is the best bet for a bubble skirt to fit and flow well. If your knees are knobby or if you have larger legs, wear a bubble skirt that's slightly below the knee.




Step
4



Pair a bubble skirt with a simple top or with a cropped jacket in cooler temperatures. Wear a chunky shoe to coordinate with your bubble skirt as well. A ribbed, white turtleneck looks nice under a cropped jacket and a three-quarter-length white sweater work well with a black bubble skirt. Also, keep your accessories to a minimum and keep them simple.







Tips & Warnings









Try on the bubble skirt before you buy it. No matter how cute it might look on the mannequin, it's your body that has to wear it and look good in it.








Wear leggings under your bubble skirt to finish off your look.



http://www.ehow.com/how_2157103_wear-bubble-skirt.html

How to Wear a Bikini Confidently

How to Wear a Bikini Confidently



For some women, there are few things as terrifying as wearing a bikini in public. In the bright sunlight, every stretch mark and dimple seem to take center stage. But if everyone around you is clad in a two piece, you might want to take the plunge and join the crowd. You will look fabulous, provided you feel good about yourself and wear that bikini confidently.









Step
1



Make sure the bikini you're wearing is flattering. Go to a swimwear boutique to get fitted for exactly the right size. Even though bikinis are made from very little fabric, control-top panels and underwire bras can conceal figure flaws.




Step
2



Bring a cover-up like a sarong or a tunic to keep on if you feel insecure when you're in public. Even just having it in your bag can give you some confidence--you know you can put it on if anxiety should set in.




Step
3



Look around at the other bodies on the beach or at the pool. Unless you're good friends with the cast of "Baywatch," chances are they have figure flaws just like you. Stretch marks and cellulite are a part of life for some women, along with belly bulges and saddlebag thighs. Take solace in knowing you're not alone.




Step
4



Notice that no one else is probably looking at your body. For all of your anxiety over whether your bikini bottom makes your hips look wide, people at the beach or around the pool are busy socializing, eating, drinking and worrying about their own hips. They're not thinking about yours.




Step
5



Enjoy a frozen cocktail. A sweet drink with one of those paper umbrellas in it might be just the thing to get you to relax and stop thinking about your bikini.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2105971_wear-bikini-confidently.html

How to Wear a Belt With Confidence

How to Wear a Belt With Confidence



There are a lot of ways to wear a belt and look good at the same time. Belts are a great way to accessorize. They add flare to an old outfit and many new wide belts are designed to be worn over dresses and skirts. Gone are the days of wearing a belt to keep your pants up! Here are a few suggestions on how to wear belts and look great.







Things You'll Need:





Assorted belts



Wardrobe









Step
1



One type of belt, the hip-slung belts can be worn ultra-low with lower-rise jeans. They are designed to be worn as the name suggests on the hip, so this type of belt also works well at breaking up a dress. This is a very trendy look and it will make you feel young and fresh. Recently celebrities seen wearing a hip-slung belt include Kate Moss and Kirsten Dunst.




Step
2



Ribbon belts at the waist can add a feminine touch to any look. They are also a great way to add color to a monochromatic look. The ribbon belts are a favorite of preppy dressers who pair the belts with khaki pants and sweaters.




Step
3



Chain-link belts can be worn to minimize the attention drawn to your hips. They can be typically found in both silver and gold. Higher end chain belts are usually decorated with different types of jewels. These belts are worn right over the waist, designed to synch a long shirt or dress to define the waist area.




Step
4



The newest trend in belts is the wide-metal or leather belt. These belts are usually much bolder than the other types of belts. Many celebrities such as Ashley Oslen, Britney Spears and Jessica Alba are photographed wearing wide belts over dresses or paired with pants and a blazer. Wide belts are designed to define the belts loops and be worn over an outfit.


http://www.ehow.com/how_2194302_wear-belt-confidencewear-belt-confidence.html