How to Make any Workout an Ab Blaster

Yeah, you want a bikini-worthy booty, and toned upper arms wouldn’t hurt either. But the area you’re most psyched to shape up? Your tummy, of course! We’re right there with ya, which is why we’re showing you how to turn any workout into an ab blaster in three easy (really!) steps.

Step 1: Be aware of your core

The simple act of thinking about your tummy muscles, even though the workout moves you’re doing aren’t obviously all about abs, will help you realize that pretty much everything you do involves your abdominals. Just try sitting up straight as you read this and breathing deeply. Think about your abs, then think about using them to stay straighter and more still. There ya go!

Step 2: Slow it down

Taking down the tempo often turns up the intensity, especially if you’re doing strength training or body weight resistance. Move through the motions slowly and carefully, and be aware of all the muscles you’re using to execute it. Upping the intensity in this manner will often require your abs to work double-time to give ya extra stability.

Step 3: Activate those abs

When in doubt, tighten ‘em up! If you can add a crunch-type move into what you’re doing (without hurting yourself!), then try it. If not, just tighten, release and repeat. Hello, six pack!

10 Do's and Don'ts to make Him Remember you

That sweetie caught your eye, and now you’re straight smitten. But how do you make sure that you’re on his mind as much as he is on yours? Here’s how to leave him daydreaming about you for days on end.

DO smile. Studies have shown that flashing your pearly whites is infectious. The more you smile, the more you’re likely to leave him with a warm ‘n’ fuzzy memory of you.

DON’T slouch. Good posture radiates confidence. And uncross those arms, too. Closed off body language sends signals that you’re bored.

DO keep eye contact. Focus your peepers on his while chatting. Seeming distracted or spaced out while he’s opening up will have him closing out of the convo.

DON’T overlook him. Sounds simple, but if you’re not letting him get a word in or even paying attention to anything he says, he won’t make the effort to talk with you again.

DO put yourself out there. It’s hard to ignore the girl who makes the first move. Introduce yourself and strike up a convo. Better yet, invite him to join the one you’ve already started.  Who doesn’t love feeling included?

DON’T shy away. Name, grade, basic interests, sure, that’s easy enough. But let down your guard a tad, and ‘fess up a not-so-obvious fact or story about yourself. The more you let him in, the more he’ll want to know.

DO spritz yourself. Smell is the strongest tie to memories. If you know you’re going to see him, add a dash of your signature scent before you walk out the door. Just don’t go overkill on the perfume, OK?

DON’T try too hard. Bluffing your indie music knowledge? He can see right through that, babe. And those forced jokes? Unless you’re trying out for stand-up comedy, leave ‘em at the door. Guys want the genuine you.

DO leave on a high note. Friendly and cheery chats will bring him back for sure. Not so much for depressing topics or sarcastic quips. Grumpy Cat makes a great meme, not a great GF.

DON’T get clingy. Liking every Instagram pic, commenting on every Facebook status and texting him a dozen times a day? Whoa, easy now. Keep it light and breezy. Otherwise, he’ll move on and hope you’ll forget him fast.

The Science of Flirting

We all loooove love – from Romeo and Juliet to rom-coms to Taylor Swift songs.  So much so, that researchers have taken to the subject.  Sure, some of it is pure magic – like the sparks you feel for a special someone.  But there are a few key concepts about how attraction works and what draws us to others.  And once you understand them, you can use them to your advantage in getting to know that cutie you’ve had your eyes on.

Proximity

There really is something about the boy next door.  Although you wouldn’t guess it, physical proximity – or seeing someone frequently, like at school or around the neighborhood – is one of the most important factors in attraction.  Partially, we just like things that we encounter more often – whether it’s that new song on the radio 24/7 or the peeps who are your locker neighbors.  But also, seeing someone more gives you the opportunity to really get to know each other (or for them to fall head-over-heels for you!).  So if you’ve only been scoping on your crush from afar, now’s the time to break the distance!

    •    Squeeze into his routine.  Nah, you don’t need to trail him in the hallway or memorize his class sched.  But find a way to chat with your cutie on a regular basis, whether that’s after youth group or while walking between classes.

    •    Not many face-to-face opportunities?  Send a quick IM or text every now and then.  In person communication is better, but when your chances are limited, screen time works too.

Similarity 

Opposites attract?  You might be surprised.  While it’s fun to daydream about a mysterious bf totally different from you (werewolves and vampires, anyone?), in reality, it doesn’t hold up.  The best matches are those made between two peas in a pod – people with similar interests, attitudes, and personalities.  For one, it makes us feel good about ourselves to be with people who are like us (you know that awesome feeling when you totally click with someone over your fave movie?).  Another benefit?  Communication is usually easier – majorly important when you’re trying to start a relationship.

    •    Seek out activities.  Join clubs or other activities where you can meet guys.  You’re more likely to meet someone with a few things in common from the start.

    •    Find common ground.  Do a little sleuthin’ to find out a thing or two you and your crush have in common – like a love for basketball or horror movies.  It will give you something to gab about in the beginning, and may lead to natural date opportunities in the future!

Reciprocity/Mutual Liking 

We like people who like us – and show it.  It’s just that simple.  Natch, it makes us feel awesome – think about that warm-and-fuzzy feeling you get when someone does something nice for you or compliments your outfit.  But what’s more, it can have a back-and-forth affect – when someone is nice to us, we are nice back, and they in turn like us even more.  A little sugar can go a long way.

    •    Throw him a compliment.  One sure-fire way to put this principle to work is to dish out flattery.  It doesn’t have to be major – simply telling him “great job” after a big game or that you dig his new kicks will get the job done. 

    •    Smile!  If you’re feelin’ a little shy or tongue-tied, that’s okay.  Flashing a smile will do the trick of showing your crush you’re happy to see him.

Personality 

Sure, looks play a factor in attraction, like when you get lost in your crush’s baby blues or melt at his smile.  But when it comes down to it, personality is more important.  What kind of personalities do we find most attractive?  Of course, we have our different preferences.  But for the most part, we’re all drawn to people who are friendly, open, and have a sense of humor.  So perfect – you don’t have to change who you are, you just gotta let your crush see the lovely, sunny you! 

    •    Relax!  If you’re distracted by the butterflies in your stomach when trying to approach your crush, it’s easy to get too caught up to let the real you show.  If it helps, take a few deep breaths, or imagine talking to a friend to calm your nerves. 

    •    Be playful.  As you feel more comfortable chatting with guys, it will naturally be easier to let loose.  Share a funny story, tease him a little, or even just giggle at a joke of his to show your fun side. 

Tips On Getting Ready For School In Time

I don't know about you guys but it takes me FOREVER to get ready for school, here are some tips...

1. Lay out the next day's outfit the night before so you can save time in the morning by being able to quickly get dressed. You don't want to waste precious time in the morning looking for an outfit to wear.


2. Wake up early, ideally an hour to an hour and a half before you leave for school. The earlier you get up, however, the more time you will have to get ready for school.


3. Confirm that your homework is done. 



                                                        

• If homework is incomplete, work on it before school, during study hall, or even during lunch if it is due that day.
• If you find yourself with incomplete homework day after day, re-evaluate your plan for doing your homework.
• Do not cheat on your homework if it is not done.

4. Take a shower.

Wash your hair at least every other day and wash the rest of your body everyday. People will admire you if you have a pleasant smell, and they will stay away from you if you don't.

• If your hair gets tangled easily or you like your hair looking shiny, condition your hair every single time it gets wet.
• Never use a brush after taking a shower, use only a comb on wet hair

5. Apply deodorant


6. Brush your teeth. Don't ever forget to do this because brushing your teeth gives you fresh breath- and resilience against cavities!

• Remember to brush the roof of your mouth and your tongue.
• Floss your teeth at least once a day.
  • If you are rushed in the morning, hold off on the flossing until the night, so you will have the time to do a good job!
• You can chew whitening gum if you absolutely cannot brush your teeth, but try to do this as little as possible.   

                                                                         

7. Wash your face with a good facial cleanser and warm water. After your face is cleansed, apply moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type.


8.Style your hair.

• Before you do anything, comb or brush your hair out.
• Try not to use curling irons or flat irons every day-too much direct heat can ruin hair

9. Dress to impress.

• Remember that there are still ways to express your individual style if you have a uniform.
• Dress for the season- don't wear shorts and a tank top in the winter!

10. Don't worry about what others think of you. Be confident.

11. Pack your lunch, or money to buy lunch, if needed.

12. Eat a well-balanced, healthy breakfast.

• Orange juice and even grape juice is full of vitamin C.
• Not only does it give you stronger teeth and bones, milk is packed with vitamin D.
• Never skip breakfast

13. Check yourself again in the mirror before you leave for school. You don't want to arrive at school in your pajama bottoms!


14. Leave for school with your head up and your mind ready to learn!

Have fun at school!!! 

( I got these ideas at www.wikihow.com ) 
<3 Sammi

First Kiss 101

First kisses can be slightly nerve-wracking yet oh-so exciting! Know what to expect for your big moment, so that you can skip the worrying and go right to the wow. 

Do expect butterflies.

Whether you’re kinda anxious, super excited or you just really like your sweetie, getting butterflies in your stomach is totally normal. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy the moment.

Don’t expect pressure.

You’re first kiss should be sweet and romantic and…a kiss! Your guy shouldn’t get pushy or anticipate anything more.

Do expect a little awkwardness.

It’s no big deal to get a bit nervous, bump noses or be a little out of sync. You’ll get the feel for it with time.

Don’t expect it to be dry.

Mouths aren’t dry, so don’t be surprised if you get a little bit of saliva along with your kiss. If it feels more dog-licking-your-face than aww-inducing rom-com kiss, slow things down to minimize the slobber.

Do expect tongue.

A first kiss definitely doesn’t have to involve any sort of tongue invasion, but it’s a good idea to be prepared just in case.

Don’t expect perfection.

I’m sure you’ve seen tons of flawless first kisses in romantic movies, but this is real life! If your first kiss was a little less than wow, try it again; kissing makes perfect.

Do expect it to be special.

Despite any first-kiss jitters, your first kiss should be memorable.  Choose a sweetie who treats you great and your first kiss is sure to be special, not regrettable.

20 Ways To Chill Out When School Has Got You Down

Between schoolwork, game day and the general anxiety that comes with being a girl in the 21^st century, there’s a lot to feel stressed about. But letting all that tension building up can spell disaster for your mind and your body. Bust it with 20 easy ways to find a moment of zen in your busy sched. Om…

Before you get out of bed…consider the dreams you had the night before. Try to reconstruct them, ponder what they mean and laugh over silly things you said or did.

During your morning routine…practice mindfulness. Instead of letting your thoughts wander to everything you have to accomplish today, focus instead on the things you’re doing here and now, like the feeling of your toothbrush’s bristles against your gums or the softness of your hair as you brush it out.

In the shower…use scented body washes and hair products that calm your senses. These could be favorite scents, or something more typical, like lavender. 

At breakfast…give yourself a chance to play with your food. Cut up fruit to make faces in your cereal, use cookie cutters to shape your toast. The point is to do something that makes you smile and feel like a kid again, even if it’s just for ten minutes in the a.m.

On the bus…pull out your iPod and plug in to a special playlist. Opt for your favorite artists, songs that evoke happy memories or simply tunes that are mellow and soothing.

At your locker…keep things organized. Even when life seems to be out of your control, knowing that you have a space where Y-O-U reigns supreme will give you a measure of confidence.

During homeroom…take a moment and break down your day into manageable tasks, like taking a quiz in history or turning in last night’s homework in chem. Write this list down in your planner so you stop thinking about it, and be sure to periodically pull it out and cross off the items you’ve completed.

In the hallway…Stall freak-outs by concentrating on your breathing as you march toward class. Breathe rhythmically in time with your steps—left foot inhale, right foot pause, left foot exhale, right foot pause, and so on. Slowing down your breathing will get you back in control of your thoughts and keep your mind on something other than an upcoming exam.

In math class…give yourself a pat on the back when you get something right that you’ve been struggling with. Instead of competing with others in your class who might be having an easier time with the material, focus on breaking problems down into their essentials, and solving them. When you do, indulge in a moment of private self-congratulation before you move on to the next problem.

At lunch…eat something that you really, really like. We’re not giving you free rein to scarf down a pile of pizza and fried food. Instead, eat healthfully—you’ll feel better if you do—and treat yourself to one item that you can savor. It could be a piece of fruit you brought from home, a baggy of kettle corn or a cookie. Whatever it is, eat it last and enjoy it.

In between classes…make a detour to a bathroom and run the underside of your wrists under cool water for 30 seconds. Focusing on your pulse points will help you get anxiety under control.

During gym…use your warm-up to ward off stress. Ease into deep stretches, activating all the muscle groups you can. Breathe deeply, and you’ll feel nervous energy taking flight.

During study hall…get lost in a daydream. Let go of all of the restrictions of real life and enjoy a fantasy for 15 minutes. Imagine yourself accepting an Oscar, or going on a first date with the guy you’ve been crushing on forever.

After school…give yourself time to unwind doing something you love. Set aside a half hour when you aren’t thinking about homework, tests, projects—anything that stresses you out. Dive in to a fun activity you can lose yourself in. Setting an alarm on your cell phone will ensure that you don’t go over your allotted free time.

During practice…give yourself a Little Engine That Could-style pep talk. A self-confidence boost could be all that’s separating you from the starting lineup.

At the dinner table…direct conversation toward topics you actually enjoy discussing. If you leave the convo to Mom and Dad, they might decide to drill you on your already stressful day because that’s the first thing that comes to their minds. Take the initiative to incite chatter and you might actually enjoy it. Bonus? It’ll take your mind off of that stressful day.

Two hours before bedtime…stop multi-tasking. Turn off your computer and stow your cell. Multi-tasking can create a feeling of urgency, which winds you up when you should be relaxing.

Before ya hit the hay…grab a journal and scribble down your thoughts about the day, and what’s coming up tomorrow. Writing down the events and emotions that stress you out  let’s your mind release them, so you can focus on other things.

When you turn out the lights…close your eyes and focus on relaxing your entire body, bit by bit. Start with your toes, then move up to the arch of your foot, your heel, your ankle. Continue ‘til you get to your head…or fall asleep.

Anytime…laugh it up. The act of laughing boosts your immune system and triggers the secretion of feel-good chemicals in the body. Make a funny face at yourself in the mirror, trade bad jokes with a friend or watch a sitcom.

-- Sammi <3

( thanks to www.girlslife.com for making this post possible!! )

The ABC's of Lovin Yourself

Accept yourself. If everyone popped out of the same “perfect” mold, how boring would society be?

Be confident. We’re gonna let you in on a little secret: The more you rock your bod, just the way it is, the more other people are gonna think you look amazing—and trust us, you do!

Can the complaints. When you feel that familiar whine erupting from your lips, shove it back down. New rule: No more voicing what you don’t love about you.

>> Dare to bare. No, we’re not saying you should go streaking. But do be willing to flaunt your features instead of covering them up or disguising them.

Embrace your shape. Sure, it could change, but why waste time looking forward to a what-if when you can live it up in the skin you’re in?

Flaws? What flaws? You might hate your muscular thighs, but ya couldn’t master that back handspring without ‘em.

Get active. The more you put your body to the test, the more you’ll be able to appreciate what it is capable of.

>> High five! Give yourself major kudos for the features you L-O-V-E, like your totally toned upper arms.

In with the new. Sick and tired of the way you look? A quick change, like a hair cut or a bright coral lip could give ya something fresh to smile about when ya glance in the mirror.

Jump right in. Feeling like you don’t fit in with a new group? Get busy and you’ll stop worrying about how there all blondes and you’re a brunette, or how they’re doing sprints in short shorts while you’re wishing you’d pulled on running tights.

Kick up your karma. Compliments make everyone feel better, so make it your mission to offer up one genuine compliment every single day. People will pay ‘em back in spades—makin’ you feel doubly awesome.

>> Love those around you. You know the little voice in your head that provides running commentary on the gals walking by? This one’s totally broken out today, that one’s hair looks like a rat’s nest. Boot the judgmental Jiminy Cricket outta your head and focus on applauding your fellow girl for how fab she looks (and acts).

>> Make merry. Even on your most down-in-the-dumps day, there is something for you to be cheerful about, whether it’s the great grade you got on a geography test or an afternoon loaded with sunshine after weeks of rain. Look for the silver lining, and you’ll find it.

Nix the negative. It’s easy to think you’ll never achieve your wildest dreams, but if you keep telling yourself you won’t, trust us, you’ll never get there. Borrow some positive energy from the Little Engine That Could, why don’t ya?

On the other hand… So you don’t have a six pack. So what? You do have killer shoulders thanks to swim practice. Switch up your sour thoughts and you’ll be feelin’ proud of yourself again in seconds.

Put on a happy face. Smiling is infectious, so pretty soon the babes you’re beaming at will smile right back. Cheers!

Quit the shtick. You know that scene in Mean Girls where the Plastics hold a group gab fest about what they hate most about themselves in front of a mirror? Yeah, don’t do that. Ever. If your buds strike up the negative body talk, change the subject, stat.

>> Rock out. Turn on some inspirational tunes you can let loose to. Our pick? “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera. Word!

Snack smart. The mere thought of a handful of M&Ms gets ya salivating, but if you know you’re gonna beat yourself up about a li’l indulgence later, head  yourself off at the pass with a healthy snack, like apple slices dipped in peanut butter.

>> Tell the world. Don’t be shy to open up about what you love about yourself. You’re encouraging, affirming words will help others learn to love themselves more, too. Try starting a Tumblr devoted to gorgeous gals who don’t fit conventional ideas of beauty, or focus on songs, gifs and other things that express what you’re feeling as you try to conquer your own self doubt.

Up, up and away! Don’t let yourself get dragged down by other girls’ trash talk. Some chickies never think anything negative about themselves until they hear other hunnies doing it. So set a good example for the youngin’s—and your peers—by zipping your lips and ignoring the body bashing.

Vroom vroom! Crank up the adrenaline coursing through your system by taking a little risk—flying down a hill on your rollerblades, kicking it up a gear in spin class, leaping on the newest roller coaster. Adding a dose of excitement will make you thrilled to be livin’ the high life.

Workout remix. You’ve been doing pilates videos religiously four days a week, but still aren’t seeing results. Instead of getting disheartened, change up your workout sched to add in new moves that’ll work your muscles in different way. Cardio kick-boxing? Ballet? You bet!

X off some major to-dos, like participating in a breast cancer walk, carving a super-complicated pumpkin or making a three-course dinner for your family.

Yes you can! Repeat after us, you can conquer the world. Break your goals into baby steps and leap each hurdle at ya come to it. Wanna do 10 pull-ups this year in P.E.? Start by mastering push-ups and the plank, then trying some dips on the pull-up bar.

>> Zest for life. Couch potato-ing your way through middle school will make you feel lazy, and that’s no good for healthy self-esteem. Make a promise to yourself to do one thing each day that you feel good about, whether it’s a quick 15-minute workout or trying a new hairstyle or starting a new book or going ice skating with your buds. Live it up, lady!

--- Thanks to www.girlslife.com for this post.

Sammi

6 Ways To Get The Guts To Talk To Your Crush

1. Set the date. Circle the day exactly a week from now on your calendar so that there’s no way you can chicken out. For each day from now till then, write something positive about yourself. By the time that date comes along you’ll radiate with confidence that he can’t miss.

2. Do your homework. We’re not talking algebra here. Go ahead and do a li’l harmless creeping on his Facebook or Twitter to find out his interests and hobbies. We bet you two have something in common you can chat about. Just don’t confess that you were reading up on him, unless you want him to defriend you.

3. Know your strengths. It’s important to relax and recognize what makes you worth his while. If you’re passionate about a certain topic, why not talk to him about it and impress him with all you know?

4. …And plan ahead for your weaknesses. Tend to get tongue-tied when talking to a cute guy? Plan an emergency open-ended question in case you get stuck. “So what are your plans for the weekend,” or “What did you think of the History test?” always work without fail. 

5. Go shopping. Whether it’s the mall or your BFF’s closet, a new date outfitbrings a new ‘tude. Choose one that turns heads and drops his jaw (he’s gotta open his mouth to talk to you anyway, so you’re just one step closer).

6. Remember, it’s not the end of the world. So what if you don’t snag an invite to the movies or he doesn’t ask for your number? None of that means you did anything wrong. Most guys are just shy and you should be proud of yourself for stepping up to make the first move. If he’s not interested, move on to someone who does respond to your newfound flirting skills.

Uh-Oh Emergency Locker Kit

We've all been there: You’re running late for school, roll out of bed and have no time to even think about getting presentable. Never fear! We've got the ultimate list of products you need this year for an emergency locker stash. A quick swipe of this, a dash of that, and you’re ready to hit first period!



Perfect Pout
Moisturize your lips in a pinch and add a bit of polish. A little bit of pink lipgloss can go a long way in pulling your look together.

Eye-mazing

Got two tired peepers? Two quick coats of black mascara will make you look wide-awake and ready to go, even on Monday morning. Groan.

No sweat

Don’t sweat over an early morning when you are prepared with sweet-smelling deodorant in your locker. Head to the girl’s room to apply, then talk to your crush without fear of smelling stinky. 

Bad hair day?

Quickly style a no-nonsense pony or topknot, even on your worst hair day. Pull your hair up in a pretty band that also does double-duty as a cute bracelet!

Sweet scent

Need a splash of your fave scent? Grab a travel-size fragrance. It’s tiny enough to stash in your locker, but still provides you with your signature scent on the spot. Score!

--- Hope this helps!!!!! ( I got this idea from http://www.girlslife.com )