Q: Joints become weakened and painful when they are inflamed, so adding foods that are known to be anti-inflammatory to your diet may help keep your knees strong. Fish, flax seeds, olive oil, avocados, and whole fruits and vegetables are said to have anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin E is believed to hinder enzymes that break down the cartilage in the joints. Spinach, broccoli, peanuts, mango, and kiwi are excellent sources of vitamin E. Bone health is also important for knee strength, so take measures to prevent osteoporosis. Cow milk, yogurt, soy, cheese, and goat milk are good sources are calcium. Leafy greens are also beneficial. If you experience a lot of knee pain doing certain activities, chances are you aren't strengthening your knees by continuing. Try lower impact exercises for a while to give your knees a rest. After a few months of focusing on leg muscle strength and flexibility, you may find you're able to do your favorite activities without pain.
A: Add anti-inflammatory foods to your diet. Make sure you get enough vitamin E. Eat more calcium. Stop doing activities that hurt.

Q: Assemble all the pieces as directed according to your pattern's instructions. Pin the pieces in place to prevent them from moving around as you sew. You could also loosely baste (temporary stitches intended to be removed) the pieces together to accomplish the same result. If your seams are trued, meaning that they match properly, you might be able to match up the top edges and guide the machine as you form seams without using pins or basting. Using a very small straight stitch, stitch your pieces together in order of the pattern. Start from top to bottom and go very slowly down the fabric, making sure the fabric doesn't shift or bunch. When you are finished, you should have two halves of your corset. Make sure when sewing pieces together that you are sewing the right pieces together. It could help to number the pieces on the back with a piece of white chalk. Once all the seams have been stitched, you should press them open toward the back. They should lie flat when done. Trim off excess fabric if necessary to prevent bunching. Note that you could also press the seams open as you go along. You won't be sewing your corset together past this point, you'll be using the busks and grommet area to attach it together, so you'll want all of the edges of your corset to have a nice clean seam. Make sure not to sew the top and bottom of your corset, as this will be sewn with binding. Cut two pieces of waist tape for the two halves of your corset, with no stretch. Lay the waist tape across the line of most tension in your corset (you can figure this out by pulling your corset to find the tension). Sew the waist tape to the seam allowance on the back of your corset, basting it in place along the line of the tape. Waist tape can be twill tape, a sturdy ribbon, or tailor's tape of 5/8 inch or 7/8 inch width. To find the measurements for your waist tape, use your desired waist measurement, add two inches and then divide by two, cutting the two pieces to equal the final measurement. When sewing your waist tape, make sure it lines up on both halves of your corset by lining up your corset on one side.
A: Pin your pieces together. Sew the pieces together. Press each seam open. Sew sides of the fabric to prevent ragged edges. Stitch the waist tape in place.

Q: Simply moving around throughout the day can greatly reduce your stress level. If you don't exercise regularly, begin an exercise program. This can help you better manage your emotions and may eliminate some stress in your life. Pick an activity you enjoy, as you'll be more likely to stick to it. For example, if you enjoy long and aimless walks, try to walk a few miles a day after work. Ease into any new routine. You will have to start small, especially if you haven't exercised regularly in awhile. It's a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise program, especially if you have a chronic heart condition. Poor sleep can worsen existing stress. Make a commitment to getting a solid block of sleep each night. You may find yourself feeling less stressed throughout the day. Stick to a sleep schedule. This will help your body's natural circadian rhythm. You'll feel tired at bedtime and energized in the morning. Even on weekends, try to wake up and fall asleep at the same time each day. Choose a relaxing bedtime ritual that you engage in away from bright lights. For example, read a book or do a crossword puzzle. Bright lights from electronic screens can make it difficult to sleep, so put these away when you start getting ready for bed. Make sure your bedroom is sleep friendly. Block out any unwanted noise and keep the temperature between 60 and 67F (15.6 and 19.4C). You may have to get a fan or air conditioner. If you're very busy especially, you may not actually make time for yourself to relax. Many people see fun and relaxation as self-indulgent. For your emotional wellbeing, however, relaxing should be a priority. You probably have more time than you think you do. Find a chore or obligation you could cut down on. For example, maybe you don't need to do the dishes immediately after dinner. Let them sit in the sink overnight, and take that time to do something you enjoy. You can read a book, watch a movie, go for a walk, or call a friend. Do anything that helps you unwind. It's important to incorporate fun and levity into your day-to-day life. If you're not eating healthy, this can affect your mood. Try to cut out things like sugar and processed food and replace them with whole wheats, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. Try to eat three meals a day. Never skip breakfast, as this can set the tone for a stressful day. If you're in a rush, at least grab a banana or a cup of yogurt on your way out the door. Eliminate things like tobacco, caffeine, and alcohol. These can all raise your stress level.
A:
Exercise. Improve your sleep. Make time to relax. Change your diet.