Etiquette Boss: Table manners

Dining Don’ts: We are often instructed about what eating habits constitute gracious dining. Today, I will list a few no-no’s around the dining table.

It is improper to encircle a plate with one arm while eating with the other hand. Teens are especially prone to doing so if they are bored or texting and eating simultaneously.

Do not push back your plate as a signal that you are finished eating. Leave the plate in its position, and arrange your knife and fork in the 4:20 position.

Do not hold a piece of toast, cake, or any other food in one hand while drinking with the other. It is considered poor etiquette to open your mouth while eating; and this is the only way to eat and drink at the same time. In addition to the practice being bad for health, it indicates a rush to consume the meal. One should complete eating the solid before taking a sip of the liquid.

Do not wipe off the tableware in a restaurant or ask for a glass of water in which to soak them. If tableware has water stains, quietly ask for a replacement.

Do not leave a spoon in a cup. Take it out after stirring and place in the saucer or plate under the cup. An exception to this rule is the absence of a plate under the cup or glass.

It is improper to gesticulate with your silverware while eating. If you need to use your hands while speaking, place the fork or knife on the plate before doing so.

BEAUTY TIPS: From Around The World

Salt rubs are said to be the secret to the glow of Parisian women. One cup of sea salt mixed with half cup of peppermint tea is mixed until it becomes a paste. Dampen the skin and massage in circular motions before rinsing.

In Spain, brunettes mix half a cup of cranberry juice with half a cup of seltzer and use it as the final rinse after shampooing. It is said to give dramatic highlights to dark hair.

In India, women maintain their thick, glossy hair by massaging warm coconut oil into the scalp. It is said to prevent thinning and falling hair.

Phillipa Morrish is the president of Etiquette Training International.