Slip the earbuds in your ears and play some music. When they begin acting up, pay attention to where the issue seems to be coming from. If they're only cutting out on one side, it most likely means there's a short in that earbud. If you're not hearing any sound at all, the split may be near the jack, or the short metal prong that plugs into your device. If you have another pair of earbuds lying around, try plugging them in to make sure it's not the headphone jack on the device that's the issue. For example, if neither set of earbuds work when plugged into your iPhone, you may need to fix the headphone jack on your iPhone instead of the earbuds. Bend, straighten, and adjust the cord around the damaged site. As you do, you might hear music again as the severed ends of the wires brush against one another. When you get the cord into a position that allows the earbuds to function correctly, hold it steady. Twist the cord slowly so you can stop it as soon as you get it in a working position. In less common instances, the broken wires will be closer to the center of the cord. Be sure to test the entire length of the cord to find out where the disconnect is. While keeping pressure on the cord with one hand, use your free hand to wrap a stiff piece of electrical or duct tape around the section where the short is. The tape will compress the sheath around the wires, keeping them in contact with one another. As long as you don't remove the tape, you should be able to continue using your earbuds. If possible, bend the cord over on itself at the site of the short and tape it together at the kink. This will prevent it from moving around as much. Taping your earbuds may get them working again, but it's only a temporary fix. If you keep experiencing technical difficulties, you may need to invest in a new set or make some manual repairs. Fortunately, earbuds tend to be fairly inexpensive these days. You can buy a brand new pair of earbuds for as little as $10-20 at most electronics stores and online retailers. If your earbuds are under warranty, it may also be possible to send them back to the manufacturer in exchange for a functioning set or refund. A quick peek at the user's manual or product receipt for your earbuds should tell you whether or not they're under warranty.

Summary: Identify the problem area. Twist the cord until the earbuds begin working. Tape the cord to hold it in place. Consider purchasing a replacement pair of earbuds.

Mantra meditation comes from the Hindu tradition and involves the meditative repetition of a single word or phrase. This is the "mantra." The purpose of the mantra is to give you a focus of attention, like breathing in the Vipassana and Anapanasati techniques. First thing, choose your mantra. You might pick any word or one that inspires you. Simple is better! Some ancient mantras are "Om," "Om Mani Padne Hum," "Ham-sah," or "Namo Amitabah." Modern mantras might be "peace," "love," or "one." Picking a non-English mantra might actually help, because you will have fewer connections to it. It will not distract you from your meditation. Obviously, there is no right time or place to do your mediation. The choice is a personal one. However, some people find that mantra mediation has its best results if done first thing in the morning, after working, or during your low point in the afternoon at around 4 o'clock. As for places, make sure to have a quiet spot where you won't be disturbed. For instance, try your bedroom, your backyard, or a quiet park, woodlot, or beach. The key is to minimize distractions. The quieter and fewer people, the better. You don't have to sit cross-legged or in the lotus position for mantra meditation. Find someplace comfy to sit upright. If you'd like, support your back with a cushion or the wall or even sit in a chair. Lying down is not recommended for this type of meditation you can easily fall asleep. Close your eyes and sit still for a half a minute or so. Get accustomed to your environment and draw in several deep breaths. After a few deep breaths, resume your normal breathing and start to chant your mantra. Some people are comfortable doing this aloud. Otherwise, repeat the word silently in your head without moving your tongue or lips. Don't force things. The repetition of the mantra should be relaxed and gentle. You also don't need to worry about coordinating the mantra with your breath. Let both come as naturally as you can. Some people find it helps to imagine that the mantra is being whispered in their ear, rather than coming from their own mind. Stay fixed on the mantra and don't try to empty your mind. When your attention wanders, just bring it back to the mantra and your breathing. Don't worry if this happens it's normal. What's more important is that you realize when you start to wander and refocus. Try to repeat your mantra for 5 minutes at a time to start. Gradually, you should be able to go for up to 20 to 30 minutes, several times per week. Other people alternatively aim for a certain number of repetitions, traditionally 108 or 1008. Some people use cellphone alarms as timers, while others sit with a clock in view. It really doesn't matter. Do whatever works best for you. When you wind down, stop saying the mantra and sit silently for a few more minutes to relax. Let yourself slowly re-enter your normal activities. Otherwise, you may feel groggy like you've gotten up from a nap.
Summary: Choose a mantra. Pick a good time and location. Sit down and close your eyes. Chant your mantra. Start slowly and work your way to longer sessions.