The tendency is normally to start chattering to fill up awkward silences, but the next time you're faced with a long pause in a conversation, try to internally count to 5 and remind yourself that it's okay if there is a lull in conversationchances are, it'll only last for 15 seconds or so and then you'll move on. You can introduce a new topic of conversation if you want to, or you could just ride out the silence and see if anyone else has something to talk about. If the silence goes on for a while, it's okay to excuse yourself to go to the restroom or to refresh your drink. The pause actually gives you a natural time to break away if you want to. Use conversations with others as a chance to learn and have fun. If someone says something you don't agree with, try to learn more about why they think that way. And it's okay to say you don't agree, just try to be amiable and remember that the point of a discussion isn't to change someone's mind about somethingit's to get to know the person better. However, if someone says something that is disrespectful or hostile, it's okay to end the conversation. You should avoid judging others and always aim to respect different points of view, but if the person is making you uncomfortable, try to draw someone else into the conversation with you or make an excuse to walk away. For example, if someone is complaining about a situation, consider that perhaps they haven't been able to talk about their feelings yet (everyone needs to vent sometimes), or if someone makes a comment you think is weird, try to remember that everyone is a little weird and you've probably said some odd things in conversation when you were nervous, too. For example, if you're at a party and someone reveals a little too much information about their recent bout of the flu, remember that they may be nervous and chatting more to try and keep the conversation moving. Try to gloss over the situation and not point out that their overshare was weird by finding something you can relate to. For example, you could say something like, "Oh, I think my friend had the flu around the same time. What's your favorite movie to watch when you're sick?" This keeps the conversation moving in a positive direction. In general, try to focus conversations in a positive, forward-thinking way, and be respectful of others, even if you think they're a little weird. It's definitely okay to talk about difficult things, but if you're conversing with someone new or who you don't know well yet, try to focus on talking about things that excite you or that you're passionate about. Avoid over-sharing personal information with new acquaintances. If you want to talk about the intimate details of your relationship or something you're struggling with personally, try to do that with a trusted, close friend instead. Ending a conversation can be the hardest part of interacting with another person. Try practicing a few statements at home so you can pull them out when you need to. Try some of these different endings: "It was so nice getting to talk with you. I need to say hi to a few more people tonight still, but I hope you have a great rest of your evening." "I need to start heading out, but I really enjoyed getting to know more about you. Could we exchange numbers and talk more again later?" "Thanks so much for talking with me tonight. I'm going to go stop at the restroom and say hi to a few other people, but hopefully I'll see you around again soon!"

Summary: Learn to be comfortable with pauses and silence. Discuss rather than debate to foster a positive atmosphere. Give the benefit of the doubt if someone makes a negative comment. Stick to positive topics to keep the conversation from devolving. Exit a conversation gracefully.

When armpit sweat is unavoidable, underarm shields are a great way to keep it hidden and protect your clothing. These are absorbent pads that you wear under your arms to absorb excess sweat and prevent clothing stains; many also offer some kind of odor control. Called alternately "dress shields," "underarm shields," "underarm pads," "armpit guards," etc., there are dozens of styles available. Some affix directly to your clothing or skin, while others are held in place with discreet straps. Both disposable and washable options are available. Underarm shields are available at many online retailers. You can also find them frequently in men's clothing stores, and the lingerie section of many women's clothing retailers. You can even make your own underarm shields at home! Certain fabrics, namely silk, polyester, rayon, and nylon, don't breathe well and are more likely to cause sweating. Better choices include cotton, linen, and even wool. If you know your armpits are going to sweat, dress in such a way that you can disguise it. Wear an undershirt under your clothing, or dress in layers to prevent sweat stains from becoming visible. For instance, a sweater vest worn over a shirt does an excellent job of hiding sweat stains. A hoodie or light jacket worn over a tank top or camisole can also help conceal armpit sweat. Sweat stains are usually more visible on light-colored clothing, so avoid light colored blouses if you are prone to sweating. There are a number of "sweat-proof" undergarments for both men and women that use different methods for wicking sweat away, or preventing it from reaching the visible layers of your clothes. There are also an increasing number of sweat-resistant fabrics on the market that use technology to keep sweat from building up and causing embarrassing stains. Ask your local clothing retailer, or do an online search for "sweat-proof" or "sweat-resistant" clothing.

Summary: Wear underarm shields under your clothing. Avoid fabrics that don't breathe well. Dress to hide armpit sweat. Look for high tech sweat-proof or sweat-resistant clothing.

There's a common myth that if you've had chickenpox once, you can never get it again. Unfortunately, because VZV stays in your body the rest of your life, this simply isn't true though once you've had chickenpox, the virus usually returns as shingles. Even children can develop shingles if they're exposed to the virus. Most people only get shingles once, but it is possible to develop an outbreak of shingles multiple times throughout your life. The Shingles virus is not sexually transmitted or spread through sneezing or coughing. Rather, it is transmitted by touching the shingles blisters or fluid from the blisters. If you have been around someone in the blister-phase of the infection, you should wash your hands thoroughly; avoid touching anyone else's rash. A person is not contagious before the blisters appear or once the blisters have crusted over completely. Keeping the blisters covered lowers the risk of transmitting the virus. If you have never had chickenpox and come in contact with someone with shingles, you can get VZV but you'll get chickenpox, not shingles. (However, you can then get shingles later in life.) Most cases of shingles occur in adults over the age of 60. You are also at higher risk of getting shingles if you have a weakened immune system. This may be due to: Cancer treatment with chemotherapy or radiation Lymphoma or leukemia Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) Taking immunosuppressive medications like steroids or drugs given after an organ transplant If you are 60 years old or over, you should get the shingles vaccine to reduce your risk of contracting the disease. Being unvaccinated after age 60 is a risk-factor for most people. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns about whether the shingles vaccine is right for you.
Summary: Realize that anyone who has had chickenpox can get shingles. Recall whether you've been exposed to VZV. Recognize if you're high risk for infection. Talk to your doctor about getting the shingles vaccine, if you are over 60.