Cooking outdoors over an open fire seems to add an extra deliciousness to your food. And just like your food has something extra special when cooked over a campfire, so should your camping pots and pans. Camping pots and pans need to be extra tough and versatile. Outdoor cooking is a lot harder on regular pots and pans than what they were made to withstand. Most regular cookware would not survive long if at all if used for camping. Camping is no place for cookware that needs to be babied. So what should you look for in your camping pots and pans?
1) Toughness and durability
Camping pots and pans have to be able to withstand the high heat of the open flame. Many conventional cookwares have low heat limits. Campfires do not have dials to measure the flame and to turn it down if it gets too hot. Sure, you can move it farther from the fire if the flame is too high but even low fires have been known to flare up unexpectedly. Also during camping, your pots and pans will be subject to being banged around more. Even if car or RV camping, the containers and cabinets that you hold your cookware in do more bouncing and shifting than your kitchen (I hope!). Bottom line is you want to invest in camping cookware that will survive the rigors of camping. From a financial standpoint as well as a convenience standpoint, having to replace pots and pans that warped or cracked during camping is a pain.
2) Dark or black bottoms
Dark or black bottoms absorb heat better. This helps heat your food more quickly. After a full day of camping fun, no one wants to spend a long time waiting for their food to cook. Dark or black bottoms will also help conserve fuel. Because your food is cooking faster, you will use less fuel, be it wood, camp fuel or something else . Therefore you will have to spend less money and precious space on fuel.
3) Tight fitting lids
Tight fitting lids have the same benefits as dark or black bottoms. A tight fitting lid will hold the heat in your pot or pan better. This will help heat your food more quickly and conserve fuel. Again this will end up saving you money and storage space.
4) Lids that do double duty
Some camping pots and pans have lids that double as fry pans or plates. This feature will cut down on the amount of things that you need to pack. For some modes of camping, this is a critical feature.
5) Nesting
This refers to the ability to store your pots and pans and perhaps even your lids, one inside the other. This feature is great for cutting down on necessary storage space. Even better when linked with......
6) Removable handles
Other than tough and durable, this is one of my favorite features. This is not a necessary feature but it is a great convenience feature. Trying to pack around long frying pan handles irritates me to no end. It is so much easier and saves so much space to be able to take the handles off and store them all together and then nest and store the pots and pans together. This holds true for everything from backpack camping to RV camping.
7) Rounded corners and edges
Rounded corners and edges along the bottom of your camping pots and pans will reduce hot spots in your cookware. Reduced hot spots will in turn reduce places that your food will stick and burn. This will then translate into better tasting food and easier clean-up after your meal. Double bonus!
Now that you know what features to look for in your camping pots and pans do you know where to look for them?
Visit http://www.CampingPotsandPans.com for more information about the advantages of the different types of camping cookware as well as what "features" to watch out for.
Author's name : Allan Campbell
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
9 Ways to Control the Stress in Your Life
Stress. How does it affect your life? Stress, out of control, is a warning. We all have stress in our lives and a small amount is normal. It's when stress affects the way we feel and how we live our lives, that we need to look more closely at what's happening. There are many things that can cause extreme stress - your job, family, illness or finances, to name a few. Identifying what is causing your stress is essential. You may find that your job is the source but that you're taking it out on your family (while keeping it together at work). Until you sort out the source of your stress, managing it will be difficult.
Excessive stress leaves our bodies vulnerable to many diseases such as heart disease, skin diseases such as psoriasis and cancer, as stress lowers the immune system.
Stress manifests itself in many different ways including the following:
* Irritability(are you blowing up at people for minor issues?)
* Racing heart, clammy hands (this could be a panic attack which can take over your life)
* Feeling tired all the time
* Migraines
* Indigestion
* Frequent colds
* Lack of hunger
* Tearfulness
* Insomnia
Learn to manage your stress so you can lead a happier, healthier life. A few things you can do are:
1. Exercise regularly
2. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
3. Laugh - watch funny movies, for example - laughing is one of the biggest stress relievers
4. Set limits and say no to requests that would create excessive stress in your life by being assertive, not aggressive
5. Get adequate sleep
6. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation into your life
7. Develop hobbies and interests
8. Socialize with those you care about
9. Keep life's demands in perspective
There are also supplements that are effective in relieving stress and getting a weekly massage may be a great tension reliever. However, if you are unable to control your stress, seek professional help with someone trained in stress management such as a mental health practitioner. Stress is not something to ignore as it can greatly affect your future health and well-being.
Karen Davison has studied health and nutrition extensively and works with people to help them live a healthier, longer, more energetic life. Learn more about health and nutrition at http://metabolicplan.wordpress.com
Author's name ; By Karen Davison
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Davison
Excessive stress leaves our bodies vulnerable to many diseases such as heart disease, skin diseases such as psoriasis and cancer, as stress lowers the immune system.
Stress manifests itself in many different ways including the following:
* Irritability(are you blowing up at people for minor issues?)
* Racing heart, clammy hands (this could be a panic attack which can take over your life)
* Feeling tired all the time
* Migraines
* Indigestion
* Frequent colds
* Lack of hunger
* Tearfulness
* Insomnia
Learn to manage your stress so you can lead a happier, healthier life. A few things you can do are:
1. Exercise regularly
2. Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
3. Laugh - watch funny movies, for example - laughing is one of the biggest stress relievers
4. Set limits and say no to requests that would create excessive stress in your life by being assertive, not aggressive
5. Get adequate sleep
6. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation into your life
7. Develop hobbies and interests
8. Socialize with those you care about
9. Keep life's demands in perspective
There are also supplements that are effective in relieving stress and getting a weekly massage may be a great tension reliever. However, if you are unable to control your stress, seek professional help with someone trained in stress management such as a mental health practitioner. Stress is not something to ignore as it can greatly affect your future health and well-being.
Karen Davison has studied health and nutrition extensively and works with people to help them live a healthier, longer, more energetic life. Learn more about health and nutrition at http://metabolicplan.wordpress.com
Author's name ; By Karen Davison
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Karen_Davison
Discover Six Secrets to Melt Away That Midlife Fat Bulge
No matter what body size you were as a younger person, midlife promises to pack on the pounds. One thing that's guaranteed: we change as we age!
How to get back in shape? Stay in shape?
Secret One: Whatever your workout, focus not on quantity but quality. You can go to the gym, get on a treadmill, walk for an hour at an easy pace and never loose an ounce. You need to get your heart rate up to get the most out of your workout. Your target should be between 70 - 85% of your maximum heart rate... and keep it there for 30 minutes! Example: for a 50 year old your target should be between 119-145 (70-85% of max heart rate.) A lot of cardio equipment has the target rates built into the controls. Just enter your age and weight and the machine gives you the target you should aim for.
Secret Two: If you are happy with your weight and you are at a point of maintenance you will need to eliminate 100-200 calories a day from your diet. As you age your metabolism slows down. If at 50 you still eat like a twenty-year old you will absolutely gain weight! By eliminating calorie intake by a couple hundred calories each day you will offset the slow down in metabolism and maintain your weight - and do it without dieting. (Cut out that extra glass of wine at dinner, for example, and you've just cut back!)
Secret Three: If you want to maintain muscle mass, use less weight and increase the reps for each exercise. It's far smarter to lift a 5 lb weight 60 times, then a 10 lb weight 30!
Secret Four: Focus on exercises that are better for joint health: walking, cycling or swimming are all good choices. Running and jogging are tough on your knees and ankles. Some people can run their entire lives, but most of us don't need the unnecessary bone to bone crunch that only leads to injuries.
Secret Five: Exercise to work those muscles you use everyday: especially the core muscles: abdomen and lower back so they remain strong. Keeping your core strong is essential to keep your balance and preventing injuries. Use a Bosu (half ball) when you lift weights. You strengthen your core, and your upper body at the same time.
And finally...
Secret Six: Quit smoking. This is no secret. You've heard it hundreds of times. Smoking is key to heart disease, diabetes and a host of horrible health problems. Besides, it makes you smell bad. It isn't easy for some people to quit and they will puff till their dying day, which will be sooner than later.
If you're a midlifer and you are ready to take your health and fitness seriously, try these simple secrets and you will see that boomer bulge begin to melt away.
I invite you to explore more midlife issues, from fitness and exercise, to romance and spirituality at MidLifeJourney.com (http://www.midlifejourney.com) a web blog dedicated to the exchange of ideas, opinions and resources for the boomer generation - Pat Mullaly, editor. You can reach her via email at editor@midlifejourney.com (mailto:editor@midlifejourney.com)
Author's name : P Mullaly
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
How to get back in shape? Stay in shape?
Secret One: Whatever your workout, focus not on quantity but quality. You can go to the gym, get on a treadmill, walk for an hour at an easy pace and never loose an ounce. You need to get your heart rate up to get the most out of your workout. Your target should be between 70 - 85% of your maximum heart rate... and keep it there for 30 minutes! Example: for a 50 year old your target should be between 119-145 (70-85% of max heart rate.) A lot of cardio equipment has the target rates built into the controls. Just enter your age and weight and the machine gives you the target you should aim for.
Secret Two: If you are happy with your weight and you are at a point of maintenance you will need to eliminate 100-200 calories a day from your diet. As you age your metabolism slows down. If at 50 you still eat like a twenty-year old you will absolutely gain weight! By eliminating calorie intake by a couple hundred calories each day you will offset the slow down in metabolism and maintain your weight - and do it without dieting. (Cut out that extra glass of wine at dinner, for example, and you've just cut back!)
Secret Three: If you want to maintain muscle mass, use less weight and increase the reps for each exercise. It's far smarter to lift a 5 lb weight 60 times, then a 10 lb weight 30!
Secret Four: Focus on exercises that are better for joint health: walking, cycling or swimming are all good choices. Running and jogging are tough on your knees and ankles. Some people can run their entire lives, but most of us don't need the unnecessary bone to bone crunch that only leads to injuries.
Secret Five: Exercise to work those muscles you use everyday: especially the core muscles: abdomen and lower back so they remain strong. Keeping your core strong is essential to keep your balance and preventing injuries. Use a Bosu (half ball) when you lift weights. You strengthen your core, and your upper body at the same time.
And finally...
Secret Six: Quit smoking. This is no secret. You've heard it hundreds of times. Smoking is key to heart disease, diabetes and a host of horrible health problems. Besides, it makes you smell bad. It isn't easy for some people to quit and they will puff till their dying day, which will be sooner than later.
If you're a midlifer and you are ready to take your health and fitness seriously, try these simple secrets and you will see that boomer bulge begin to melt away.
I invite you to explore more midlife issues, from fitness and exercise, to romance and spirituality at MidLifeJourney.com (http://www.midlifejourney.com) a web blog dedicated to the exchange of ideas, opinions and resources for the boomer generation - Pat Mullaly, editor. You can reach her via email at editor@midlifejourney.com (mailto:editor@midlifejourney.com)
Author's name : P Mullaly
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/
The Luxury of Spas
Locate a patch of trees and expect to find water underneath as well. Just like plants, man can survive for many weeks without solid food as long as he has water to drink. Traditionally water is considered the source of all life. What magical powers water possess?
Immerse yourself in water and relieve the ills of the flesh. Known as hydrotherapy, this has been one of the most effective forms of medicine since the ancient times. Submersion in water allows tired tissues to relax and recover stamina. A warm bath stimulates circulation, luring blood to the body's extremities to soothe, calm, and sedate.
On the other hand, cold water inhibits the circulation to the skin, redirecting blood to the vital organs in order to restore, energize, and build resistance to diseases. Bathing in a warm tub relaxes tense muscles, turning the mind inward and instilling that sense of peace as stress drifts away.
A spas bath is an extraordinary treatment when mineral-rich sea water or fresh spring water is used. For this reason, many of the sought-after spas in the world are located on coastal areas or adjacent to natural mineral springs. Coastal spas pump in sea water for thalassic therapy - Greek for "sea treatment". The water is heated since it is believed that doing so increases the adoption of minerals.
Mineral water spas divert water gushing from its underground source into pipes connected to the treatment rooms. In a certain area, the quality of spring water may vary, some waters sparkling with natural carbonation, which increases circulation and flushes impurities out of the skin. According to those who bathe in such therapeutic waters, the bathe stimulates as well as relaxes the mind and draw out toxins from the body. These processes are intended to cool inflammation and makes muscles more supple. The water leaves the skin soft, velvety, and well-hydrated.
Right in your homes, create an ambiance that promotes rejuvenation. Turn off overhead lights, and use several candles instead. Play some lush, relaxing music. Diffuse the air and mix the spa water with some aromatic oils of aromatherapy. Decorate the rooms with flowers.
Water temperature is critical for an effective hydrotherapy treatment. For a relaxing bath, the temperature should be at 35degreesC for 10 to 15 minutes; sore muscles at 38degressC of five to 10 minutes. For an invigorating bath; five minutes at 18-24degreesC. You can use a kitchen thermometer to determine the water temperature.
If you prefer extremely hot baths, stay in the water no longer than five minutes. Hot water dries and tightens the skin and can leave you feeling "wiped out". The Chinese believe that staying in hot water too long is unhealthy and drains your chi.
After bathing, splash yourself with cool water to tone and invigorate your skin. Cold water also closes the pores of the skin so you don't get sick.
Massage is also an excellent compliment while you're still in the tub. Natural sea sponges or loofah rolled down your back and shoulders stimulate and exfoliate the skin. A pumice stone can be used to remove foot calluses.
Plain water cleans very well. Don't sit in a tub of soapy water. Doing so dries and irritates skin.
Ron Siojo at http://ronthoughts.wordpress.com, I am not a pro but my experienced and realizations will speak as i submit my articles. Identity crisis is the root and basics of all problems anyone can name, it is the ESSENCE of life. As one goes on, one will realized now its POSITION - we are all the dominated beings, we are not the One Who Dominate, and we are all as dominated ones we are the eternal care givers, the eternal followers ans servants of the Supreme Being. These are my "thoughts", "ronthoughts".
Author's name : Ron Siojo
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Siojo
Immerse yourself in water and relieve the ills of the flesh. Known as hydrotherapy, this has been one of the most effective forms of medicine since the ancient times. Submersion in water allows tired tissues to relax and recover stamina. A warm bath stimulates circulation, luring blood to the body's extremities to soothe, calm, and sedate.
On the other hand, cold water inhibits the circulation to the skin, redirecting blood to the vital organs in order to restore, energize, and build resistance to diseases. Bathing in a warm tub relaxes tense muscles, turning the mind inward and instilling that sense of peace as stress drifts away.
A spas bath is an extraordinary treatment when mineral-rich sea water or fresh spring water is used. For this reason, many of the sought-after spas in the world are located on coastal areas or adjacent to natural mineral springs. Coastal spas pump in sea water for thalassic therapy - Greek for "sea treatment". The water is heated since it is believed that doing so increases the adoption of minerals.
Mineral water spas divert water gushing from its underground source into pipes connected to the treatment rooms. In a certain area, the quality of spring water may vary, some waters sparkling with natural carbonation, which increases circulation and flushes impurities out of the skin. According to those who bathe in such therapeutic waters, the bathe stimulates as well as relaxes the mind and draw out toxins from the body. These processes are intended to cool inflammation and makes muscles more supple. The water leaves the skin soft, velvety, and well-hydrated.
Right in your homes, create an ambiance that promotes rejuvenation. Turn off overhead lights, and use several candles instead. Play some lush, relaxing music. Diffuse the air and mix the spa water with some aromatic oils of aromatherapy. Decorate the rooms with flowers.
Water temperature is critical for an effective hydrotherapy treatment. For a relaxing bath, the temperature should be at 35degreesC for 10 to 15 minutes; sore muscles at 38degressC of five to 10 minutes. For an invigorating bath; five minutes at 18-24degreesC. You can use a kitchen thermometer to determine the water temperature.
If you prefer extremely hot baths, stay in the water no longer than five minutes. Hot water dries and tightens the skin and can leave you feeling "wiped out". The Chinese believe that staying in hot water too long is unhealthy and drains your chi.
After bathing, splash yourself with cool water to tone and invigorate your skin. Cold water also closes the pores of the skin so you don't get sick.
Massage is also an excellent compliment while you're still in the tub. Natural sea sponges or loofah rolled down your back and shoulders stimulate and exfoliate the skin. A pumice stone can be used to remove foot calluses.
Plain water cleans very well. Don't sit in a tub of soapy water. Doing so dries and irritates skin.
Ron Siojo at http://ronthoughts.wordpress.com, I am not a pro but my experienced and realizations will speak as i submit my articles. Identity crisis is the root and basics of all problems anyone can name, it is the ESSENCE of life. As one goes on, one will realized now its POSITION - we are all the dominated beings, we are not the One Who Dominate, and we are all as dominated ones we are the eternal care givers, the eternal followers ans servants of the Supreme Being. These are my "thoughts", "ronthoughts".
Author's name : Ron Siojo
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Siojo
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)