INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Whether it's violin, basketball, or teaching yourself how to speak Klingon, everybody has a time during the day when they're at their peak. When do you feel the most awake, energized, and capable of taking over the world? That's when you should be practicing your violin. This is different for everyone. It could be right when you wake up, in the middle of the day, or even at midnight. It could last 2 hours or it could last 25 minutes. When is it easiest for you to practice? Clear your schedule for that time. You need a practice space that's away from distractions. No TV, phone, or friends or family members barging in and out. And if the acoustics are good, that's a plus, too. It should be a place you feel comfortable practicing in as well. Ideally, it's open and uncluttered and a space where you feel like you can actually get things done in. What's more, it shouldn't be somewhere that bothers others, either. In order to even get started, you'll need your music, a pencil and paper, and your music stand for starters. Did we mention your violin? That, too. What else helps you get going? For some it's a certain chair or a recording device. You'll be in there for a few hours most likely, so it's best to come prepared. In addition to taking care of the things you actually need, take care of the things that just make it easier, too. A bottle of water, a comfortable pair of pants, a snack, whatever. Feeling good will make your practice time more productive and make it easier to concentrate. Being ready and raring to go is part of the battle for productive practicing. If you're not in the mood, you're practice time is going to be dull and, well, a waste. But if you feel good physically, practice will just come that much easier.

SUMMARY: Find your prime practice time. Pick a good, quiet location. Bring everything you'll need with you. Get yourself comfortable, too.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: The quickest way to remove phlegm and other unwanted substances from the throat is simple over-the-counter medication that can be purchased at most drug stores and supermarkets.  OTC medications labeled as "expectorants" are designed to clear mucus and phlegm from the throat and chest. These include brand names like Mucinex or generic medications like guaifenesin.  Always check the side effects of any new medications you're taking. Many expectorants cause drowsiness and sometimes medication labels might even advise you not operate a motor vehicle while taking the medication.  You should always consult your physician when taking any new medications, even over the counter meds, to make sure they're safe for you given your medical history and any current medication you're taking.  If over the counter medications do not help, see your physician. If she thinks it's necessary, she may refer you to an Ears, Nose, and Throat Specialist to help find you a prescription medication to clear out your throat. Salt water, or saline solution, can effectively clean out the throat for a short period of time by preventing nasal drip, reducing stuffiness, and removing mucus from the nose. You can buy sterile saline solution from the drug store or make your own at home.  Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda and half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of distilled water at room temperature. If you have to use tap water, boil it first to sterilize it and then let it cool down.  Dissolve the baking soda and salt into the water.  You will need some kind of rubber syringe. You can use an ear syringe or a medical syringe with no needle. Squirt the solution into your nose and let it run into the back of your throat. Spit it out into the sink.  Do not be concerned if you accidentally swallow some of the solution. It will not hurt you.  This should help clear your nasal pathways, which will reduce the buildup of phlegm in your throat. Repeat as symptoms persist.  Make sure to keep the syringe sterile by washing it with soap and water after using it. Replace your saline solution every few days. Honey and lemon both have antibacterial properties that can help soothe the throat and remove phlegm, mucus, and other bacteria.  Combine honey and lemon juice in equal properties and mix thoroughly.  You can take a spoonful of the mixture pure, but many people find the taste too sweet. If that's the case, adding it to your tea, coffee, or even just to a cup of hot water can help it go down easier.  Don't give honey to children under 1 year old. It can contain botulism spores that can cause a serious infection in infants. Eucalyptus oil can be applied externally to relieve congestion, which may help clear up the throat.  You can buy eucalyptus oil from most drug stores, supermarkets, and health food shops. Remember, it's only for applying to the skin and should never be taken orally. Always dilute eucalyptus oil in a carrier oil first, such as coconut oil, olive oil, or canola oil.  You can gently massage eucalyptus oil into your chest to and neck and leave on for a few hours to relieve congestion. This may result in your throat clearing up.

SUMMARY:
Try over the counter medications. Use a saline solution to clear your nasal passages. Try a honey and lemon mixture. Use eucalyptus oil.