World of Ease

Archive for November, 2010

As the economy begins to stabilizeand some people find their financial situation improving, many are considering renovating their home. A successful renovation product will not only make the home move enjoyable, it will also increase the home’s value when the owners eventually sell it. A win-win situation for those who experienced significant drops in their property value during the 2008 real estate crash.

Investing in a steam shower may seem on the surface to be an unnecessary luxury. However, these showers have become much more affordable in recent years. A basic model can be installed for less than $2000, while most installations will cost between $2500 – $4000. The final cost will depend on the actual model chosen as well as the fixtures, stall materials, and special features ordered. Studies have indicated that home buyers are looking for bathrooms with separate stalls with multiple shower heads and features rather than for whirpool bathtubs. That means the initial investment will make the home more attractive when it’s time to sell.

There are other benefits to steam showers besides the financial investment. Relaxation and reduced stress are at the top of most lists as to why to buy a steam shower. Most companies now offer models that not only save water, but also use less electricity, making them more energy efficient which helps the environment while lowering utility bills. Steam is also a recognized therapy for everything from colds and allergies to asthma, bronchitis and circulation. Steam helps the skin, aids the immune system in eliminating toxins and fighting pathogens and can dispense aromatherapy oils to get additional benefits.

For the past few decades the idea of musician as celebrity has skyrocketed. From the days when John Lennon claimed the Beatles were as popular as Jesus to the spectacle of watching Lady GaGa fans line up in costume for any performance, the notion of performer as role model or idol has taken a firm grip in western culture.

The most innocent example of this is the fan who puts on a Beatles Costumes to go to a party. Then there are fans who form tribute bands and actually perform in character whenever they can. Singing along to a favorite performer on karoke night or when playing Guitar Hero are other examples of attempting to connect with music by assuming the identity of the original musician.

Some performers encourage this mimicry. They host look-a-like contests for their fans or schedule personal appearances with groupies who seem to be clones. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery then it stands to reason that musical performers are grateful for this type of idol worship. This may explain their willingness to appear on talk shows, release videos direct to youtube, and even why they leak information about themselves to tabloid magazines and celebrity bloggers in order to keep the attention focused on their persona.