Saturday, March 31, 2012

Finnish Sauna Etiquette and Customs

The Finnish sauna is the capital of the world, both because it was invented there and because we live as part of the Finnish lifestyle. Think of the Finnish sauna in the same way that other cultures think of meditation, massages, baths in thermal waters or any other tradition of body and mind relaxation.

The sauna is practically the national pastime in Finland, and the per capita number of steam saunas in the nation is surprising to many visitors from other countries. According to some estimates, there are over two million saunas in Finland, with a total population of around five million. Finnish saunas are practically everywhere and are considered by most Finns as a necessity than a luxury.

In a country that is so rich in tradition sauna and lifestyle, it is inevitable that there is an accepted etiquette to sauna bathing, along with many customs that are uniquely Finnish. Let's take a closer look at what it means in real style sauna.

The process of Sauna

There is no right way to bathe in the sauna. The sauna process is varied and diverse as the people themselves, so beyond some basic guidelines is up to you to determine what process works best for you.

Shower - The first step is to take off her clothes and make a clean shower before entering the sauna. For new swimmers sometimes seems a bit 'silly - after all, are not going to get all sweaty in the sauna anyway? The purpose of the initial shower, though, is to purify your body to the ground so that the sauna is cleaner.

Sit - On entering the sauna, bathers experienced usually sit on a bench top, where the heat is more intense. It 'is perfectly acceptable, though, to select a lower bench if you prefer a lower temperature.

Soak up the heat - Once settled in, relax and let the heat saturate your body. Take even, relaxed breaths as the pores of bare skin and the sweat begins to flow. If you want to add some moisture to throw some water on the stones, but remember that the resulting steam to the air in the sauna feel even hotter. Some people like to move several times between the upper and lower benches, exploiting the temperature difference between the two levels.

The amount of time actually spent in the sauna depends on your preferences and experiences sauna. Those who are new to bathing may spend 5-10 minutes at a time, while others who are more accustomed to using the sauna can spend 20-25 minutes at a time. If at any time you feel weak, dizzy or nausea you should leave the sauna immediately.

Take a break, rinse and repeat - When you're ready for a break, step out of the sauna and cool. Many people like to take another shower, drink a bit 'of water, or otherwise update the relative cool of the dressing room. When you are ready for more heat simply step back into the sauna. You can repeat this process whenever you want, experts bathers often make three, four or more trips in the heat before leaving for the last time.

Shower and final cool down - When you are finally done with the sauna, take another shower to wash away the sweat and let cool completely. It should be cool and dry before dressing, and should follow the sauna with fluids to rehydrate yourself and maybe a meal if you are hungry.

What you need to take

In a conventional sauna, the most important thing you need to bring is time. The sauna is relaxing, and doing that good can not be rushed. Most people like to take a small towel in the sauna itself so they can stand on it and this helps to improve the hygiene of the sauna and also protects from benches that can be extremely hot. After finishing, you will probably like a soft bathrobe to wear while cooling down and some lotion to moisturize skin and prevent drying out.

Sauna Etiquette

Whether your local health club sauna or a trip to Finland for a truly authentic, there are some general rules of Finnish sauna etiquette should be followed:

• Shower first
Bench • Use a towel
• do not compete to see who can stay as long or endure the highest temperatures
• Relax, socialize, and enjoy the company of others
• Do not interpret the nude sauna as a sexual or erotic thing, because it is not

Finnish Sauna Customs

Finland has many unique sauna customs that have evolved over the centuries, the sauna as the role has become increasingly important for the Finnish way of life. In the days before hot water, the sauna was commonly used for bathing and cleansing the body. It is also often used as a place for women to give birth (it was not heated during the birth process) because it was clean and provided easy access to hot water.

families often sauna together, black clothing, all the way children are fully grown. If the sauna is located near a lake bathers may jump into the water to rinse and cool rather than doing the traditional shower. This is the case in both summer and winter, when it cut a hole in the ice to reach the cold water. If there is no lake or river at your fingertips so bathers also like to roll in the snow as a way to cool down between sessions in the sauna.

Another Finnish tradition is to take birch branches into the sauna, moisten them, and then gently whisk yourself to help open the pores even further. It may seem strange to think to yourself that strikes with birch branches, but is it really enhance and improve the whole sauna experience.

Business travelers going to Finland should be prepared for business contacts, even those who hardly know to extend an invitation to sauna. The idea of sitting naked in a sauna with almost unknown can be a little 'intimidating, but rest assured it is a normal part of Finnish culture. In fact, if you were to reject the invitation could be seen by some as a bit 'of an insult.

One of the biggest surprises that await many new sauna bathers, however, is the woman washing whose task is to soap, scrub and wash the bodies of swimmers. Not all Finnish saunas still use a woman washing machine, but it is not a common practice today.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Guidelines for Quick Holiday Tipping Etiquette

Many of us want to show our gratitude to those people special service in our life time holiday by tipping etiquette. However, trying to understand what we should tip is sometimes disconcerting. Nobody wants to be a miser, but during tilting can put a dent in our budget. Then there is the attempt to understand who we should tip.

According to Peter Post, director of the Emily Post Institute and author of Essential manners for couples, "You tip the people who perform services for you throughout the year, who are there for you when you need them and whom you have a relationship with value. "

Tipping Etiquette experts generally agree that cash is the best way to give thanks during the holidays. However, you need not break the bank to show your generosity. "Forget what you should do. Do what you can, and do it in the nicest way you possibly can," advises Post.

To make the rollover budget planning easier, here is a quick reversal of short break:

Child Care

Babysitter - evenings and pay a small gift from child
Au Pair - 1 weeks pay or a gift and a small gift from child
Nanny - one week to pay one month and small gift from child
Daycare Provider - $ 20 - $ 70 each and a small gift from child
Child's Teacher - Gift (gift but school is giving the first control policy)
Coaches / tutors / teachers of music / dance instructors, etc. - A small gift from child

HOME / CAR CARE

Housekeeper - pagan 1 week or more (depending on length of service)
Trash Collectors / snow plow drivers - $ 15 - $ 20 each
Parking attendants - $ 10 - $ 35 each, or until mid-month parking bill for the group if they regularly provide extra service
Gardener - tip $ 20 - $ 50 (your gardener in the fall, where the latest work is a fall cleaning)

Apartment Service

Goalkeepers - $ 25 - $ 100 each (those that provide service for the most part you should get more than those who can barely see it)
Superintendent / Caretaker - tip $ 50 - $ 300 (if there is no concierge and the service was very good, tip less if you tip throughout the year)
Porters / Labor - $ 10 - $ 50 each
Lift Operators - $ 15 - $ 40 each

PERSONAL CARE

Hairdresser - Cost of a haircut (or $ 20 - $ 100), even a small gift, if you are a regular
Manicure - Cost of one session (or 10 USD Gift - $ 50) and small
Personal Trainer - Cost of one session (or pay $ 01.25 per week)
Massage Therapist - Cost of one session (or $ 50 - $ 100)

PET CARE

Dog groomer - ¼ or ½ the cost of a seat and small gift
Dog Walker / Sitter - Cost 1-2 weeks of pay (a small gift optional)

Delivery Services

U.S. Mail Carrier - Gifts under $ 20
UPS - Gifts $ 15 or under
FedEx - gift with a value up to $ 25 (no cash)
Paper Carrier - $ 15 - $ 25 for daily delivery ($ 5 - $ 15 for weekend delivery)

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Tips for proper Kissing Etiquette!

Many cultures have customary kissing labels. The French for instance kiss twice when they greet someone. Once on each cheek. The Dutch kiss three times, and in sunny California they touch cheek to his cheek and say "mwouah. Even as children we learn the importance of a kiss. A kiss can awaken a sleeping beauty, or turn a frog into a handsome prince. Then there's the kiss of Romance. Can be passionate, inviting, or may mark the end.

There are a lot of pressure that the first kiss. Many think that a good kisser equals a good lover. Others feel a kiss should have chemistry. O sparks will fly or fade. But most people would all agree that the first kiss should be gentle, fairly quick and temporary. If you're wondering how best to address your first kiss just follow the guidance of the person you are kissing. Most people kiss the way they want to be kissed. Hard or soft, slow or fast, exploratory or ... well, you get the idea.

There is one other thing most people would agree. That is proper kissing preparation. As described in my book "The Ultimate Online Dating Handbook" you must prepare before any kiss is attempted. Follow these steps for a blissful first (or anytime) kiss.

- Always, always brush your teeth first. Use mouthwash to breath even fresher.
- If you're out, make chewing gum or mints with you to freshen your breath.
- If your lips are dry apply a little gloss.
- Ladies, if you wear heavy layered lipstick, take it down one layer to two.
- Boys few quick strokes with the razor will work wonders on that stubble.
- The guys with beards or mustaches you want to check the days left overs in the hair.

Once you've decided to take the plunge and kiss that beautiful creature beside you, remember that a kiss poorly executed can be the kiss of death. So be aware of these kissing no-nos.

- Never lung at your date.
- Never approach with a gaping mouth open.
- Do not stick out your tongue.
- Do not aim immediately for tonsils dates.
- Keep control of your saliva. The date should not need a towel when you're done.

But gently explore, and pace yourself. Slow and easy does it.

Do you know what the number one complaint of kissing is? Smoking! We regret that smoking is just the way it is. People who have kissed someone who just smoked describe it as tasting like an ashtray are cleaning with their language. Ugh! If you smoke, quit! ;-) No really, if you smoke, make sure you brush your teeth and use mouthwash. If you are out make sure you have gum, mints or even a small toothbrush and paste with you.

Good luck!
Marie Clare
Relations Consultant & Author

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Basic Camera Mobile Etiquettes You Must Know

The demand for mobile phones is increasing day by day, the demand for camera phones also no exception. The introduction of camera phones has caused a rapid increase in sales of these phones all over the world. Along with the widely accepted demand for camera phones has also created some controversy due to misuse of camera mobile. There is no problem to have fun with your mobile camera, but you have to do to make sure that does not exceed the limits.

The following article sheds light on some of the labels that everyone should follow when using camera phones.

Respect others privacy

That is the fundamental thing that must be taken into account by a person with a camera mobile. It is not advisable to take pictures of others without their consent. This will be considered a serious crime. So it is better to avoid trouble in the privacy of others.

Never use camera phones in places prohibited

The use of camera phones is prohibited in some places. Use of telephones should be avoided in those prohibited zones. Similarly, only the use of mobile cameras in some areas, in areas where its best to ask the authorities regarding the extent of restriction.

Keep away from mass mailing

In the past, affected the habit of circulating pictures of other people without their permission has increased at an alarming rate. Taking pictures, morphing on your PC and the spread is highly recommended. This will be treated as a serious offense and will result in severe punishment in many countries.

Turn off the camera lens when not in use

Always try to close the lens of the camera phone when not in use. This helps a lot to avoid problems. This must be followed, because there are people who might have offended even if a room is focused on them.

Just use common sense

Always use your brain to realize that not everyone wants to receive MMS messages just for the simple reason that most networks will charge the customer to download MMS messages.

Turn off the camera flash where applicable

Its better to turn off the camera's flash wherever applicable. For example if you are taking pictures in a zoo the flash light can be distracting.

By following the simple instructions above is possible for everyone to keep out the basic mistakes that can occur when using mobile cameras. So have fun with your camera phone, but within certain limits.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Cellphone Etiquette For The Clueless

There are few people in this world who have type thanks to the inherently social character in a Jane Austen novel. Some might argue the children of the "information revolution" lack social propriety altogether. Despite rumors that label is dead, many of us can exercise some 'good courtesy to our neighbors. After all etiquette exists simply to make the whole society caper a little 'less confrontational. The introduction of wireless communication has taken social interaction to an unprecedented level. Mobile technology allows people to communicate regardless of time or place, giving rise to a series of problems of contemporary etiquette. The first of these problems is the consideration for the sensibilities of those that our physical presence when we take a call. And 'rude, for example, conduct a phone conversation while engaged in a carnal act? The contemporary socialite must also extend courtesy to the absent caller. And 'offensive, and to conduct a phone conversation with the toilet? This article offers guidance to the bewildered and brutish.

1. It is a truth universally acknowledged that cell phones must be switched off in the theater. There is absolutely no excuse. Violators should be tarred and feathered. Obviously, this also applies to the cinema, the symphony and spoken word and performance art. Rock concerts and hip-hop shows are generally considered exempt, however, a player with his fingers in his ears shouting "Eh? eh? eh?" in his cell is a terrible show.

2. When driving a car, use a hands-free device or resist answering incoming calls. Not only is it dangerous to talk and drive, is illegal in many countries. Be careful not to incite Road Rage on other motorists. Moreover, chatting vacuously on your cell while mounting the footpath will pique pedestrians.

3. Making loud phone conversations on public transport should be avoided at all costs. To believe that other commuters would be interested in your conversation is narcissistic at best, to subject travelers to confabulation is a gift. Moreover, as we say intelligent bloggers, there's a special circle of hell reserved for those who, when purchasing a new phone, cycle through Every tone available on the bus or train on the way home.

4. When in the company of others, or take or make phone calls. Nothing is more annoying than being scorned by a friend that frequent cell phone conversations take precedence over live tete-a-tete. Receive an incoming call in an interview or business meeting is a faux-pas that is to be avoided at all costs.

To observe basic cell phone etiquette is neither difficult nor inconvenient. Technology such as cell phones create many possibilities for the advancement of society, society is based on the mutual relationship between them. Always refer to the fundamental principle of good manners: treat others as you yourself wish to be treated. As for holding a cell phone conversation in the bathroom ... ignorance is bliss.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Practical Interview Etiquette

OK, very few of us as the interview process. Unfortunately, you've got to face the music once in a while. Keep these few nuggets in mind when going on your next interview or if you want to recommend a colleague:

Be very, very honest - if an interviewer to all senses, is evasive in answering questions or are looking for fudge their way through questions, you're doomed.

Recognize that the interviewer is looking at both your knowledge and your thought process on how you should deal with problems - for example, if you get a question "How do you build a skyscraper of 150 floors, just take a deep breath and begins to talk through how you should do. Saying things like "Impossible" shows a lack of initiative and creativity and will negatively impact the perception of the interviewer you.

Do not lose your temper - the interviewer may be deliberately trying to make you lose your balance and see how easily you can frustrate. Staying the course and do not allow the interviewer to get under the skin. Responding to questions, thoughtful, laced with emotion.

Passion Show - interviewers want to see how much enthusiasm and energy that you want to bring to work. Be passionate about the work, the company and the products the company sells. Arriving with the emotion of cheese will not leave the interviewer with a comfortable feel you are going to attack the problems.

Be punctual, dress nice and smell good - These are very easy to control and can only help in making the impression. Make sure your clothing is in style, conservative, and it fits properly. Wearing a dress of the 80 that button around the midsection may not be the best attention-getter.

If you really want to take a job from a few minutes to get in the right mood to put your best foot forward. If you're not going to put your best into it, do not waste the interviewer, or your time.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Learn to say thank you

Yes, you may feel a great deal to win the lottery. Cash, houses, travel - these are wonderful, but not enough by themselves. You need the right mood to enjoy life. You need the attitude of gratitude.

Be grateful

Life is better when you feel blessed when you can look around and say "Thank you, God." Religious or not, when you see life as a wonderful gift, your experience is richer than any amount of money can offer. Imagine going through life as if I were a child, and every morning is Christmas.

And 'tempting to think gratitude comes from having what you want. See yourself thanking if I had the money, a loving family, and maybe a beach house. Yet you know there are ungrateful, unhappy people with these things, and poor people grateful for what little they have. Where does this feeling come from?

Creating Gratitude

Gratitude comes from how you look at things. It 's the natural feeling that comes from truly appreciate people and things in your life. It 'something that can be learned.

First, you must stop and smell roses. You can not be grateful for something that you do not notice or enjoy. Roses really smell great, among others.

So, you need to make this valuable tool for the life of roses and a dress. No need to ignore the ugliness of the world, but you usually see beautiful things.

Start writing down every thing that happens to you, and all the things you like. Do this until you start automatically seeing the good things in life. If you've ever bought a white car, and started seeing white cars all over, you know how awareness can change the perception of reality. To see all wonderful things, train yourself to look for them.

When you have the habit of "counting your blessings" gratitude, and much richer experience of life is the natural result.