December 2021 - Page 2 of 2

6 Easy Health & Fitness Habits You Can Start Before the New Year Begins

As the year comes to an end, that’s often a sign it’s time to make some amazing decisions for the year that’s ahead. The majority of people love feeling excited and self-assured as they write down their goals, intentions, and plans. However, when reality hits, things become a little different: suddenly, all those decisions about health, fitness, and a better lifestyle become less important.

This is why it’s better to start now. When you wait for a perfect moment, you also make time for excuses. So if you’ve been thinking about adopting some easy health and fitness habits, then here are some of them that you can do now, without waiting for the new year to start.

1. Start embracing mindfulness

Mindfulness is probably the healthiest habit that you could literally start now, which will benefit you if you remain persistent about it. Meditation is a wonderful habit that can teach you how to be in the present moment, which will also help reduce anxiety and stress. In case you’re a parent, then you know how stressful it can be. Mindfulness is one of those easy habits that can help you be more grateful about everything.

Additionally, regular meditation is a great way to stop taking things personally, and if there’s one thing that can help you be your better self, it’s this. The easiest way to start is through guided meditations, and when you feel ready, feel free to move on to traditional practices.

2. Move your body (without going to the gym)

Exercising and being physically active in general is one of those habits that are often put on hold. A lot of people wait for an ideal moment to start going to the gym. However, going to the gym isn’t necessary if you want to work out. Basically, all you need is a stable internet connection, some gear, and self-discipline. Besides, home workouts are a great solution if you’re a young parent who’s too busy to go to the gym.

There are many YouTube videos and other online spaces that offer amazing workouts, from yoga to more demanding exercises. Therefore, you don’t need to prepare for a special moment, you just need to feel motivated enough to exercise from the comfort of your home.

3. Focus on your mental health

Your mental health is your biggest asset that you should cherish above anything else. This is especially important if you already have a history of mental health issues, or if they run in your family. We are living in unprecedented times, which is why it’s important to remain grounded and focused on our own well-being. This is why you should never neglect your own mental wellbeing, and if you ever notice symptoms of depression and anxiety, then make sure to consult a mental health professional.

4. Eat healthy and stay hydrated

This might seem challenging, considering that the festive period is when we tend to indulge more frequently. But, with some effort, it’s possible to feel satisfied and to eat healthily. If you’re also exercising, then consuming healthy protein powder supplements will help you remain strong while feeding your body all the important nutrients. So feel free to eat anything you like, but keep in mind that your diet needs to be diverse and nourishing to keep you strong, healthy, and energized.

5. Spend more time with your loved ones

Your loved ones are another integral part of your life, so spend more time with them. If you’re a parent, then you’re already aware of the fact that kids grow up so fast. So don’t hesitate to laugh, dance, go out and have fun with them without worrying about the future. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty with paint colors or cake mix. Enjoy your life, and invite those you love to be a part of it. Being close to your loved ones will also help you appreciate your own life a little bit more.

6. Stop taking everything personally

Girl — A happy girl is outdoor and is thankful for snowing for the first time in a while

Sure, if someone’s acting offensive, it’s your right to speak up. But sometimes, there’s no need to, because not everything is aimed at you. Hence, if you want to improve your life, then it’s important to stop taking everything personally since a lot of things people say are a reflection of them and their issues. Now, mastering this skill takes time, but once you manage it, you’ll definitely feel much happier and more accomplished.

In conclusion

These are healthy habits that you can start implementing right now, especially if you’re a busy mom. A new year symbolizes new beginnings, but if you start now, you’ll start a year feeling more motivated and self-confident.

By Lucas Bergman

Feeling Bloated? Here Are a Few Things You Can do to Reduce Period Bloating

If you talk to 10 women out there, at least 7 of them will confirm that they feel bloated before and during the periods. A few of them have such severe symptoms that their fingers swell, which causes immense pain when they do physical activity. Honestly, this is caused by fluctuating hormones, and you never know how your body will react. Having said that, if you are a working woman, you cannot take 3-7 days off every month due to periods (I believe this period holiday should be granted to women worldwide). This is why you can try a few things to reduce the discomfort to an extent, as discussed below.

1. Reduce Salt Intake:

Sodium is known to increase bloating due to water retention. Anything which has a high salt content needs to be avoided. I know when you are feeling really uncomfortable, you may feel like binging on a lot of junk. I have done it several times, but that made my condition worse. You need to take a little salt in your food and avoid excessive salt.

2. Drink More Water:

This may sound strange, but water retention can be reversed only by drinking more water. Ensure to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day which will immensely help in reducing bloating. Water intake will also keep digestive irritation in control, which is a common issue a lot of women face during their menstruation cycle.

3. Cut Back on Caffeine:

Caffeine is known to irritate the bowels if you drink it in excess. It can also dehydrate your body, which further causes water retention. This is why you should reduce caffeine intake during your periods.

4. Make Use of a Sauna Blanket:

A sauna blanket that uses infrared technology is a great way to actually reduce bloating. It has several other benefits as well, such as it aids weight loss, helps in detoxifying, relieving sore muscles, and improving blood circulation. Finding the best sauna blanket will help get rid of period discomfort to a great extent.

5. Try Yoga Poses:

I have heard people say not to skip workouts during periods, but that is not really practical. For starters, you may feel uncomfortable during a workout and also due to sweat developing rashes. This is why instead of rigorous routines, stick to Yoga stretches that will help in relieving discomfort without causing any additional issues.

6. Just Take Rest:

This is a very easy solution that actually helps in a great way. Menstruation may disrupt your sleep, which is why you should try to get all the rest you can so that your body goes back to functioning absolutely fine and you feel energetic.

These tips may work to a certain extent, but you may still feel a little bloated in the end. If you feel things are not getting better, you should consult a gynecologist who will medically advise and treat you, which will give sure shot results.

Cleaning and Repairing Your Tarp Takes Some Good Work to Follow

You have worked hard to come across the best manufacturing units when it comes to purchasing tarps. These tarps are widely used for so many reasons and choosing the best one will always be a good call to address. But, cleaning and repairing your tarp from time to time and when the need arises are important. For that, you have to understand the right norms to follow. Well, with experienced advice by your side from an internet search, going for the best response won’t be that tough to address at all.

Cleaning up your tarps:

Cleaning tarp is vital to preserving and ensuring longevity while in use. Simply hosing off or down of the covers will do the trick in cleaning the surface from grime, dirt, and anything else it will collect. You won’t take more than a few minutes to do so. It is vital to clean off standing water that might collect on horizontal surfaces.

In case the tarp gets dirty beyond hosing down, it will be done with the use of dedicated tarp protectants and cleaners.

These are mainly asked to be sprayed on the surface or just mixing it in a water solution.

The mild household soaps can widely be used as long as they are not quite harsh and will have industrial cleaning chemicals.

Some of the intense soap solutions and chemicals will harm and then compromise protective coats on some tarps.

Repairing the tarp when the need arises:

If you are able to clean and maintain your tarp in the best manner possible, you won’t have to deal with a tear or wear maximum time. But, there are some instances where your tarp might need some repairing help, especially when it turns old. So, understanding the steps on how to repair the tarp is always crucial.

The faster you are able to address the tears, holes, rips, and abrasions the better it will be for you to make the tarp complete all over again.

Two of the major ways to repair tarp damage will be tarp repair tape or tarp glue.

Glue and tape will deliver a strong bond in an extremely quick manner to provide the necessary fixes.

Be sure to store the tarps well:

One major way to maintain and then secure your tarp is by storing it properly when not in use. It helps in extending life to the next level possible. Placing the cover at a safe dry and normal temperature is important. Don’t place it somewhere which is too hot or too cold. It should be out of direct sunlight and off the grounds to keep it dry and clean.

Always be sure that your tarps remain clean and dry up completely before you store them. It can be folded pretty easily and sometimes, can be rolled up tightly. All these are based on the type of material you are using and the size of it. In the end, you will be amazed at the response waiting for you to grab!

Things to Look for When Choosing a Custom Flag Maker

So, you’ve chosen from one of the many residential flagpoles on offer and it has now been installed at the front of your property. What’s next? You need to find your flag! When it comes to choosing a custom flag maker, there are certain factors you should consider in order to ensure you’re making the best decision for your needs.

Here are some of the ideal characteristics to look for in a reliable custom flag maker:

1. Quality materials and construction

The quality of the materials and construction of a custom flag is key in ensuring its longevity. Look for a flag maker who uses high-quality materials and construction techniques, so you can be sure your flag will withstand wind and weather conditions.

2. Excellent customer service

A good flag maker will offer excellent customer service, from start to finish. They should be able to help you design your flag, ensure its accuracy, and answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the process. They should also provide information on how to properly care for, use, and store your flag.

3. Custom/unique flags

A good custom flag maker will offer a variety of unique options when it comes to creating your flag. Customize colors, styles, shapes, lettering, etc., so you can get the perfect flag for your project or organization.

4. Fast turnaround time

Finally, look for a custom flag maker with a fast turnaround time while still maintaining high-quality production standards! A good rule of thumb is to allow one month from start to finish for your order and be sure they offer rush services if needed (e.g: create and deliver in 2-3 weeks).

When choosing a custom flag maker, it’s important to consider the quality of their materials and construction, as well as the level of customer service they provide. You should also look for a flag maker who offers unique design options and has a fast turnaround time. By following these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect custom flag maker for your needs!

Custom flags are a great way to show off your patriotism or support for your favorite sports team. When choosing a custom flag maker, it’s important to consider the quality of their materials and construction, as well as the level of customer service they provide. Should also look for a flag maker who offers unique design options and has a fast turnaround time. By following these tips, you can be sure to find the perfect custom flag maker for your needs! Custom flags come in all shapes and sizes for any project! Custom Flag-Co Custom Flags

Custom flags are a great way to show off those team colors or those special interests. Custom Flags-Co is one of the leading companies in Custom flag making so check them out next time you want to fly those colors high! Custom Flag-Co Custom Flags

Flags offer endless possibilities when it comes to designs and color schemes. Custom Flags offers an array of styles and materials that would best suit your needs. From our popular Mesh Fiber Nylon (Polyester Outdoor) that is waterproof and fade resistant.

Custom flags are made to order, meaning that they can be designed in any way you want. You can choose the size, color, and design of your flag. There are many different types of custom flags, including country flags, company flags, and event flags. If you need a custom flag for any reason, it is important to find a reputable maker who can create a high-quality flag that meets your needs.

When looking for a custom flag maker, there are several things you should consider. The ideal maker should be able to create a flag that is made to your exact specifications. They should also be able to provide a quick turnaround time so you can get your flag as soon as possible. It is also important that the maker has a good reputation and is able to produce high-quality flags.

Here are some tips for finding a reliable custom flag maker:

Tips and tricks — On the wooden cubes is written tips and tricks

Make sure the maker can create a flag that meets your exact specifications. They should be able to design the flag according to your specific requirements, including size, color, and design.
Check to see if the maker has a good reputation. Ask around to see if anyone has experience working with this maker. Read reviews online to get an idea of what other people think about their work.
Find out how long the maker takes to turnaround orders. You don’t want to wait weeks or months for your flag, so it is important to find a maker who can turn around orders quickly.
Ask to see samples of the maker’s work. This will give you a good idea of the quality of their flags.
Make sure the maker uses high-quality materials in their flags. You don’t want your flag to fade or tear after just a few months.

Conclusion:

When choosing a custom flag maker, it is important to consider all of these factors. By choosing a reputable maker who can create a custom flag to your exact specifications, you can be sure that you will be happy with the final product.

Seven Handy Tips for Brand-New Parents

Statistics show that 12% of parents feel prepared when they have their first child. Are you ready to have your first child? How is your partner feeling about it? What things can you do to prepare yourself for this time? No two couples will navigate parenting in the same way, but there are some things that you can do to try to make the process go smoother. Keep reading to learn a few tips for new parents.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help

There is the old saying that it takes a village to raise a child. This holds true even today. Many people in your life will likely be offering their time and resources to help you adjust to this new stage in your life. While it can be tempting to decline their offers, it doesn’t hurt to take them up on it. If they want to cook you dinner, it might mean that you and your partner have more time to spend together or that you don’t have to try to make it to the grocery store before dinnertime that day. Saying, “I need help,” is not a sign of weakness — but rather, a strength in this situation.

Sleep when you can

The first year of a baby’s life usually does not mean a lot of sleep for its parents. Sleeping when you can is important. Your sleep schedule will be dictated by the baby, so napping is encouraged when there is an opportunity for it. Taking turns letting each other take a nap during the day or weekend can help with this. Depending on your feeding approach, taking turns feeding the baby at night can help you each get more uninterrupted hours of sleep each night.

Prioritize each other

While the baby is the main focus once it is born, it doesn’t mean that your relationship with your partner goes out the window. Continuing to prioritize each other by talking each morning and discussing how each of you is handling the new change in your lives can help you stay on the same page and provide for each other’s needs.

Get outside

Go for a walk. It sounds simple but new parents cannot be stuck inside the house the entire day. Exercise will be beneficial for both of you and there are strollers and swaddles that you can transport the baby in. Getting outside will help interrupt the mundane nature of caring for a newborn for hours on end.

Take time to relax

Watch your favorite TV show at night, put on a movie together, play some music. All of these things can help you wind down from some of the stresses that come with being a new parent. If you are always running around and never give yourself a chance to relax, other issues can begin to build up. If you see your partner needs a break, offer to take over so that they can relax for a while.

Talk, talk, talk

Communication is extremely important when you have a newborn. What do you need? What does the baby need? What does your partner need? You don’t want to arrive at the situation in which one person feels like they are doing it all while the other feels helpless. Constantly communicating your needs and what each of you could do to solve issues is key.

Be confident

Children — Family is the safest place for the children

There is no one way to parent a child that is any better than another. Having confidence that you will be great parents and building on this confidence through experience is key. The more repetitions that you get in with caring for the baby, calming down the baby, feeding the baby, etc will make you more comfortable with the process as a whole.

You’ve got this!

These tips are just a few of the many things that you can do when caring and preparing for a newborn. It will be a stressful time but you will develop routines with your partner that work and slowly gain control over how to parent the new addition to your family. Accepting that you are not going to know everything and being open to learning new things each day will help with this process. And, before you know it, it’ll even start to feel like second nature to you.

Benefits of Having a Swim Spa in Your House

Swimming pools and hot tubs offer many different benefits. They are a fun way to enjoy some quality time alone or with people you love and help you relax. And when combined and enhanced with spa features, these yard accessories provide specific health benefits and improvements to your well-being.

If you are looking for a way to relax after a long day or you’re recovering from surgery, it might be a good idea to jump into a swim spa. Soaking in warmish, bubbly water offers many different benefits to help you get over many physical and mental inconveniences.

Tips on maintaining pools with spa add-ons are listed below:

https://tubtopia.com/swim-spa-maintenance/

Pain Relief

Spending time in the water is an excellent way to relax sore muscles and relieve painful body parts. This activity can eliminate the pain in your back and neck. If you feel discomfort because of conditions like sciatica or scoliosis, swimming is a great way to handle pain.

When you exercise in water, it gets the blood moving and working throughout your body. It’s an excellent benefit for those suffering from arthritis. You may ask your therapist and see what they think about swim spas. The truth is that these can be of great help for painful and swollen joints.

Improved Blood Flow

Another benefit of a swimming pool with spa features is boosting blood flow. When you swim or walk outside and get some nice physical exercise, you will be healthier and happier. The same thing is with enjoying a swim spa, except you don’t have to leave your home and yard at all.

When you speed up blood circulation, your skin will be much more youthful and healthy-looking. Your muscles will also thank you as they become stronger and more flexible, especially those injured or that have been sore for a long time.

Post-Surgical Recovery

A swim spa will help relieve the pain, tension, and stress that you feel after surgery. Recovery after any surgical procedure can be challenging and lengthy, but having this accessory in your backyard can speed things up. Even therapists recommend this activity, as the beneficial effects of water on your body are well-known. See here which exercises are doable in this pool.

Jets inside these pools simulate the currents in open waters, allowing you to swim or exercise in place. These waves lift you and allow easier drifts. It’s like you move without moving for real. That can help to speed up the healing process and make you ready to get back to normal life faster. Just in case, make sure that you have someone available to help you with entering and going out.

Stress and Tension Relief

One of the main benefits of jumping into the swim spa is stress reduction. There is nothing like taking a swim or a long walk after being under lots of pressure. If you can take some time out and relax, you will find that it makes you feel much better. But if you have no time to visit a spa or hike in the mountains, you can get a swim spa in your backyard and enjoy it after having a hard day.

A swim spa is a great place to get exercise and relax at the same time. Just imagine taking e a nice hot bath while listening to the soothing sound of a running water stream. Spending some time in this pool can help you reduce the stress levels in your life. You will find that after a nice soak in the swim spa pool, you will feel so much better. It also improves sleep, almost like a warm bath before bedtime.

Weight Loss

Swimming pool — A kid is swimming in the house swimming pool

It’s generally known that swimming is an activity that involves and activates the whole body. That makes water an ideal workout environment for those who want to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Just fifteen minutes per day will give excellent results in this endeavor.

While you are in the water, you are much lighter than outside. That allows you to perform the exercises more easily. At the same time, the water provides low-impact resistance, which makes your workout session more effective. If you have injuries, water training in a small swim spa will ease stiffness and provide effortless movements with no pain.

Even if you haven’t been too active so far, exercising in the pool with additional features like wave jets will make your workout more bearable and fun. After a while, you will notice the effects of using the swim spa. Your body will be toned, and your muscles strengthened and sculpted.

Jets of warm water all over your body are excellent therapy for many discomforts you deal with every day. When you start experiencing all the benefits of a swim spa regularly, the quality of your life will be much better. You can enjoy this accessory all year round; just do some research and find the best pool for yourself.

Life After Breast Cancer: Steps to a Healthier You

In the United States, one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lifetime. The reality affects many people and has a wide-ranging impact on their lives. It can take time to recover from this experience.

However, it is possible to find ways to live a healthier life after a breast cancer diagnosis. Here are some helpful insights you should take if you want to start living your best life after being diagnosed with breast cancer:

1. Find support

Find support from a community of people who have been through a similar experience. You can find online communities, attend support groups or join social networks for breast cancer.

Such communities bring together survivors and those with breast cancer diagnoses to talk about the struggles and triumphs you are going through. Through such conversation, you will realize that you have similar experiences. There is no need to go through this process alone because many others will empathize with you and show you the support you need.

By finding a community of people who have been through a similar situation, you can work together to encourage each other when the going gets tough. Also, the community will be there to celebrate the successes along the way.

2. Breast reconstruction

Many breast cancer survivors opt for nipple reconstruction surgery and other cosmetic procedures. There are many reasons women may want to go through with this surgery after being diagnosed. It can help them feel more comfortable in their skin, boost their self-esteem and give them a sense of empowerment over the body previously affected by cancer.

The decision on whether or not to undergo cosmetic surgery is personal. Therefore, there is a need to schedule a consultation with your doctor and a plastic surgeon. If you choose to go through breast reconstruction, different surgeries will provide the results you want. The physician will discuss the various options available.

3. Take care of yourself

Young woman — A young woman with breast act is placed in shadow

After a breast cancer diagnosis, you may feel that your life is no longer in your control. Take some time for yourself to rest and relax so you can recharge the batteries.

It would help if you also took care of yourself by eating healthy foods, staying active, and taking any medications prescribed by the doctor. A healthy diet incorporates eating grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Experts recommend avoiding processed meat, red meat, and other potentially carcinogenic foods as they may trigger a breast cancer relapse.

Taking good care of your body will allow you to get back into a positive mindset and keep up your energy levels. It is also important that you find the right doctor who can provide care, support, and advice on starting living after breast cancer diagnosis in an optimal way.

4. Practice stress management techniques

Stress is one of the feelings that can be heightened after a serious diagnosis like breast cancer. You may also feel alone and isolated in your experience, making it harder to manage stress levels.

There are many ways you can practice managing stress. These include yoga, meditation, taking supplements such as sleep gummies, or writing in a journal when you need some time to yourself. Stress management techniques will help you cope with your emotions and make better decisions about living after a breast cancer diagnosis.

5. Live your passions and embrace life

After a breast cancer diagnosis, you may feel like your life is over and that there is no point in continuing. You can start living again by doing things that make you happy, such as spending time with family and friends or creating art that allows you to express emotions and feelings.

It would be best if you also did fun activities to have positive experiences during this time in your life. It is also important to embrace life and live it fully. It would help if you tried new things and traveled the world.

6. Making life-changing choices

Most breast cancer survivors find a new meaning in life. You may decide to engage in some philanthropic work or become more spiritual.

By living a healthy, happy, and fulfilling lifestyle after a breast cancer diagnosis, you will be able to find the strength within yourself that makes it possible to take back control of what matters most in your life.

Holiday Chaos Tricks for Dogs

The holidays are upon us, complete with all the parties and fanfare we expect while celebrating this time of year. We often get so caught up in the moments of holiday cheer that we forget our furry friends may not be having the same joyful reaction to the season’s activities. While we ooh and aah at the explosive fireworks as we ring in the New Year, many dogs are cowering in corners, shaking uncontrollably, panting, running in circles, unable to find solace in any soothing stroking of their fur we offer. The holidays are replete with unfamiliar sounds, an abundance of strangers, changes to routine, and overindulging. That applies to both humans and our beloved dogs. But there are some tricks to help lessen your dog’s anxiety during these exciting times.

The Triggers

We can anticipate two holidays as being especially noise-laden: the 4th of July and New Year’s Eve. It’s not even dark yet, and the fireworks have begun. You know it’s going to be a long night for everyone, but especially for your dog. The best trick is to drive away. Pack up the car with snacks, a blanket or two, and your dog(s). The easiest way to avoid anxiety is to go in the opposite direction. Most dogs enjoy a good car ride. Being in the car mutes the outside world and gives him a calm, stress-free environment. German shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Collies are the breeds most likely to be sound sensitive. Paying particular attention to their behaviors will help to anticipate their reactions.

Holiday parties can also create a lot of stress for your dog. The craziness surrounding party preparation can leave little time for the usual walks or attention your dog requires. Add to that the sudden addition of strangers coming and going. This can be incredibly confusing. Find a bedroom or other room in your home that is familiar and comfortable for your dog. Make sure you can keep the door closed or locked from the outside. Ideally, you don’t want someone accidentally walking into that room either. If the party is noisy, consider playing some music for your dog. It will help to drown out the sounds and potentially make him less anxious. Music, in general, can be soothing during these unusually loud times by buffering the noise.

A natural alternative to lessening holiday-related anxiety in your dog is the use of CBD products like CBD calming chews for dogs. They contain a naturally calming formula that helps dogs to relax. Anxiety is reduced, and panicked, scared behavior becomes less as well. And because calming chews are just like treats, dogs will not balk at them like other medicines.

For extreme cases of anxiety, talking to your veterinarian is the best course of action. Fear-related anxiety can be anticipated and treated in advance. Knowing the triggers that cause your dog’s anxiety will allow you to seek the best treatment from your vet. Medications need not be long-term and can provide the needed soothing to get through a rough night.

A sad repercussion of the holiday celebrations is the large number of pets that run away from home. Rescue shelters and the Humane Society see increases during this time, especially the 4th of July because animals flee their homes with homeowners often away during these celebratory hours. Regardless of the time of year or celebration, dogs should have clear identification and ideally have a chip for a quick return to their owners, who are likely devastated at their dog missing.

‘Tis the Season

Holiday spirit — A person is holding sprinklers in the hands at open night

Fortunately, holidays are not everyday occurrences. With good foresight and planning, alleviating adverse reactions to triggers can be anticipated. And, of course, the last thing you ever want to do is get mad at your dog. He’s having a hard enough time as it is. Ultimately, stay calm and recognize what he is going through. The fireworks and parties will soon be over, and his everyday life will once again be just that. Dogs are man’s best friends for a reason. If we can do a little in return to make it less stressful for them during loud, chaotic times, that is the least we can do.