Category Archives: Health

Apr7

Aspects Of Your Lifestyle That Impact Your Oral Health

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Aspects Of Your Lifestyle That Impact Your Oral Health

The three starting points for having great oral hygiene are to make sure that you brush, floss, and use mouthwash at home. However, you need to make sure that you are looking at different aspects of your lifestyle – could they be undoing all of your hard work? Here are a few things that could be having an impact on your teeth:

Stress:

The modern world can be very stressful and demanding, but if you don’t manage to get your stress levels under control then you might be waking up with headaches and jaw aches. Often these two things are a sign that you are clenching your teeth at night. So what can you do about it? First, you need to look at what you can do to reduce your stress levels. If you know that you are clenching your teeth and are unable to make sure that you are reducing your stress levels – then you need to speak to your dentist about the situation. They may be able to fit you with a mouth guard to stop the damage to your teeth.

Diet:

Do you have an ultra-sweet tooth? While some sugar isn’t too bad, if you are finding that you are snacking on sweets, candies, cakes, and other sweet treats often – you might not be brushing your teeth enough! For those who have a lot of sugar in their diet, it is beneficial for them to brush more times a day to reduce the chances of tooth decay and plaque. Sugar attacks your teeth, so being vigilant about your tooth care is a must. If possible, reduce the amount of sugar that you are eating in a day. Not only will it help your teeth but you’ll feel better in general.

There are some foods that can support good oral health too:

Cheese, milk, and other dairies

Black and green tea

Chewing gums (sugar free)

Foods with fluoride (poultry, seafood, and some cereals)

Fiber-rich vegetables and fruit

And one of the most important things is to make sure that you are drinking a lot of water too. Water helps dislodge any food particles between brushing, and that prevents plaque.

Dental appointments:

Are you regularly visiting your dentist? Many people skip going because they think they don’t need to go. But your dentist will be able to spot issues that are just starting and help you tackle them too. If you have skipped more than a few appointments and you can’t face your old dentist – register somewhere new. And, for those who have dental angst – speak to them in advance so that they know you need extra support.

Dental appointments don’t just take care of dental health with things like fillings, removal, and gum care. You might want to make some adjustments like braces, a whitening, or porcelain crowns. If your last appointment was more than six months ago, then it is time to give them a call and get checked out.

Medication:

There are some medications that can cause you to have a dry mouth – and when you have a dry mouth, you are more likely to suffer from tooth decay. There are a couple of things you can do. You can speak to your doctor to see if there are any other medications that will treat you, but that won’t dry your mouth as a side effect. Or, you can speak to your dentist and see what measures you can take to help manage the risk of tooth decay.

Rest and Sleep:

You might think that almost all of the other body processes need rest and sleep – but not teeth. And in some respects, that is right. Lack of sleep impacts your immune system, and it is the immune system that helps to prevent gum disease. So while your teeth might not seem like they will suffer if you don’t sleep enough – the truth is that it is a risk to do anything that lowers your immune system. Gum disease can cause issues elsewhere in the body, and if it is left to progress, then tooth loss and pain are common issues.

The way you sleep could also be harmful to your teeth if you are grinding or clenching. When you grind or clench your teeth while catching some Z’s, it can lead to cracked teeth, jaw pain, sensitivity, and more. It is a good idea to check out the best night guard for clenching so you can avoid these painful side effects and keep your smile beautiful.

Alcohol and Smoking:

Alcohol, depending on the type, can either be sugar-laden or dry in the mouth. If you aren’t drinking water in between drinks, then the dehydration in your mouth is the perfect place for bacteria to grow. Compounded by the fact that many people forget to brush their teeth after a night of drinking. Smoking is bad for your teeth and gums, as it restricts the blood flow to your gums causing all sorts of issues. Not to mention it stains the teeth. If you do either of these and don’t want to give them up, be extra vigilant with your oral care.

There are a couple of other things that can have an impact on your teeth, too: 3 Common Habits That Could Affect Your Oral Health | lifewithlilred. Once your not so great habits are under control, your oral health will improve drastically!

Featured Image By: Vinicius “amnx” Amano on Unsplash

Mar31

Four Tips For A Healthier Family

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Four Tips For A Healthier Family

Our health is the most important thing we have. How can you guarantee your family’s health and make your children aware of its significance? Let’s take a look at some of the ways to focus your energy:

Show Them How Important Nutrition Is:

Making water the go-to beverage in your household should be a top priority. While it’s tempting to give in to a child’s desire for juice or pop, it’s better to offer them water first. Try stressing the significance of staying hydrated and modeling good water-drinking habits for children. Also, consider what you now feed your loved ones. When you prepare meals for your family, give thought to serving a variety of nutritious foods. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, nutritious grains, nuts, and seeds. Indulge in takeaway or dining at restaurants occasionally, but don’t make it a regular habit. If your family enjoys dining out frequently, it’s important to instill solid decision-making skills in your children. Instead of letting young children get everything they want, provide them with a limited selection of options from which to choose.

Be An Active Family:

You should spend time together exploring the outdoors, learning about each other’s interests, and visiting new locations. Get your kids moving and teach them the value of fitness. Make plans for the weekend, even if it’s only to go to the park and play some soccer. Children are more likely to follow their parent’s example and lead an active lifestyle if they see it modeled at home. Take them on outdoor hikes and keep an eye out for animals and animal footprints if they have an interest in wildlife. Talking to youngsters and seeing what they’re interested in trying is a great way to get them excited about outdoor activities.

Go To Regular Check-Ups:

As an adult, you are aware of the importance of routine visits to the doctor, dentist, and eye doctor. It’s important to start sharing what you learn about health with your kids when you see the doctor, whether it’s for a problem or a routine exam. Children often express anxiety about medical visits due to their lack of knowledge and experience. If they see you visiting these places when they aren’t there, they may feel more comfortable and confident in going to such experts. Including the kids as soon as possible is the greatest option.

Even if you’re anxious, taking a proactive stance and reassuring them that they have nothing to worry about might help them develop a heightened awareness and, perhaps, a reduced level of fear. Show your kids where you’re going to appointments instead of just saying you have them. This is especially helpful for younger children who are venturing into the unknown for the first time. One poor encounter is all it takes to put them off coming again so make sure that you involve them in anything you may be having done such as same day teeth treatments.

Be A Good Example:

No one is flawless, therefore there’s no pressure to be. Nonetheless, parents can better influence their children’s behavior by leading through example rather than lecturing them. Be mindful of your words and actions. Many unhealthy parents raise unhealthy children, which in turn increases the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles. It has the potential to become a vicious cycle. It’s important to set an example for others by talking about your efforts to eat well, exercise regularly, spend time with your family, and maintain a positive mental and physical state. Provide unambiguous, truthful responses wherever possible.

Focus your energy on these four steps for a healthier family and lifestyle!

Featured Image By: Jason Briscoe on Unsplash

Mar22

The Power Of Focusing On Family Health

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The Power Of Focusing On Family Health

Health is something that affects every family. Despite the numerous advantages of consistent exercise, a healthy diet, and other lifestyle behaviors, many families find it challenging to work these habits into their daily schedules. However, by emphasizing the value of family wellness, parents can foster a culture in which their kids can start developing healthy habits at an early age, preparing them for success as adults:

The Power of Healthy Habits:

Developing healthy habits from an early age is essential for promoting a lifetime of good health. Studies have shown that children learn best through example, so it’s important for parents to lead by example and demonstrate healthy behaviors throughout the day. This includes eating nutritious meals, staying active, and getting enough sleep each night. Parents can also set aside time for family activities like going for walks or playing sports together – activities which encourage physical activity as well as quality bonding time.

Creating a Healthy Environment in the Home:

Parents should work to establish a healthy environment in the home in addition to focusing on their own habits. This includes providing wholesome meals and snacks for the family as well as making sure that there are always healthy choices accessible. Parents can also set limits on screen time and encourage activities like reading or playing board games instead. Having a regular bedtime routine, including winding down before bed, is also important for helping children get enough quality sleep each night.

Benefits of Raising a Health-Conscious Family:

Raising a health-conscious family has numerous benefits for both parents and children. Start by setting clear expectations about healthy habits, such as regular physical activity, eating nutritious meals, and getting enough sleep each night. It will be simpler to remain motivated and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine when everyone in the family is on the same page. Regularly discussing the importance of health with your children can also help them understand why these choices are beneficial in the long run.

Keeping Up With Medical Check-Ups and Exams:

It’s also important for parents to ensure that their children are up-to-date with all necessary medical check-ups and exams, such as hearing tests. Hearing loss can be a common issue in children, so it’s important to catch any hearing problems as early as possible. If hearing aids are needed, getting them fitted promptly is essential for reducing the risk of developing speech or language delays due to hearing loss. Having hearing aids fitted when recommended will ensure that your child can hear properly and participate fully in school and other activities.

By making family health and wellness a priority in the home, parents can help create an environment of healthy habits that will last well into adulthood. From leading by example to incorporating preventive care into your routine, there are many ways parents can promote overall well-being in their household. By taking these steps now, families have the opportunity to create a lifetime of good health for themselves.

Featured Image By: Terje Sollie

Mar21

Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

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Reduce Chicken Skin With These Tips

Chicken skin, or keratosis pilaris, can cause redness and bumps on the skin. It is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is generally caused by an overproduction of keratin, the protein responsible for forming our skin’s texture and protection. Fortunately, several treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of chicken skin and keep it from returning:

Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers:

To control chicken skin, it’s essential to use gentle cleansers and moisturizers when dealing with it. Strong soaps can irritate the sensitive bumps on the surface of the skin. Cleansers with lactic acid can help reduce redness, improve hydration, and create a smoother texture. Once your face or body has been cleansed, a moisturizer should be used to keep the affected area soft and prevent itching. When choosing a product, look for something that contains hydrating ingredients like glycerin or shea butter, as they can lock in moisture without clogging pores.

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Exfoliate regularly:

Exfoliating regularly is the best way to keep your skin looking smooth and healthy. Be sure to use a gentle exfoliant suited for sensitive skin. Exfoliation helps shed away dead cells on the surface of the skin, revealing brighter, healthier skin and allowing moisturizers to be absorbed more easily. Start slow, taking time with each section of the affected area by softly massaging it with an exfoliator in circular motions with lukewarm water. Regular exfoliation helps prevent chicken skin from occurring while also providing some relief from existing lesions in less severe cases.

Apply topical retinoid creams:

Correctly applying topical retinoid creams when dealing with chicken skin is one of the most effective treatments for this condition. Dermatologists may recommend topical retinoid creams containing an active ingredient called tretinoin. Not only does this help exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores, but it also helps to reduce inflammation caused by keratosis pilaris. When applying topical retinoid creams, it is essential to follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully to avoid potential side effects like skin irritation or dryness. Additionally, applying sunscreen when exposed to direct sunlight is recommended to prevent further damage.

Get help from an expert:

An expert dermatologist can be invaluable when treating Keratosis Pilaris (commonly referred to as Chicken Skin). Dermatologists can assist in managing this condition by prescribing topical creams or lotions. Also, they may suggest over-the-counter products and give personalized advice on skincare routines to keep skin moist as dryness can exacerbate keratosis pilaris symptoms. Dermatologists may also provide in-office treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy to lessen the appearance of bumps. While medication can help manage symptoms effectively, there’s no permanent solution for keratosis pilaris; ongoing care may be necessary.

Avoid harsh products:

To correctly manage chicken skin and avoid flare-ups, it is essential to steer clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and irritating fabrics like wool. Harsh soaps can strip away vital oils that protect the skin and keep its natural pH balance intact. Fragrances are particularly troublesome because they often contain ingredients that cause redness and itching. Additionally, fabrics such as wool can be highly irritating when they come in contact with the skin. Sticking with softer or more cotton materials is best to ensure optimal comfort levels. Taking these small steps can significantly reduce symptoms of chicken skin and provide increased relief from uncomfortable conditions associated with this condition.

Use aloe vera gel:

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for treating various skin irritations, including chicken skin. It has anti-inflammatory and otherwise cooling properties which are deeply soothing for dry, sensitive skin. The gel derived from the aloe vera plant should be applied directly to affected areas of the skin and gently massaged in. This will work to reduce both redness and irritation that can often accompany chicken skin.

Using aloe vera regularly is an essential step towards effective and lasting management of this condition because it works as an antioxidant, protecting against oxidative stress, which can cause further damage to already sensitive skin. Allowing aloe vera gel to rest on the surface of the skin at least once per day can lead to reduced itchiness, improved texture, and fewer outbreaks over time.

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Drink plenty of water daily:

Proper hydration of the skin is essential to restoring its natural balance when dealing with chicken skin. While moisturizing creams and treatments can help improve dry, itchy, and bumpy patches associated with chicken skin, drinking plenty of water daily is integral for internal and external healthy skin. When your body receives a consistent supply of water it helps detoxify the skin, delivers oxygen to all cells allowing them to regenerate efficiently, and regulates the body’s temperature – all of which are key for healing chicken skin. Be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to avoid further dehydration of the skin.

These are just a few ways that you can manage and treat chicken skin. With the right combination of treatments, it is possible to control this condition and prevent flare-ups!

Mar18

A Trip To The Periodontist

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A Trip To The Periodontist

Hello! At the beginning of 2019, I had my wisdom teeth removed and got gum grafting done. Unfortunately, what should have been a pretty routine surgery went horribly wrong and I was limited to a liquid diet for over a month. I still shudder at the sight of Ensure! After this mishap, I refused to go to any type of dentist because I was scared and my oral hygiene deeply suffered from it. This went on for over a year until I finally agreed to make an appointment with the periodontist who my mom recommended and promised was really nice. She was right!

Since 2020, I have gone to my periodontist several times for regular cleanings and deep gum cleanings to repair the damage that had been done. I tried my best to go along with their recommendations, but ended up falling short of expectations every appointment. It was very disappointing, to say the least. During my last appointment this past October, I had to get X-rays taken of my teeth to prep for my next deep cleaning. The process was long and uncomfortable and after that appointment, I threw my hands in the air and said “screw it”. Then, I went to the store and bought floss picks for the very first time in my adult life.

After that fateful appointment, I flossed morning and night like my life depended on it. I was so sick and tired of lackluster results and knew that some of the fault was my own at this point. At first, the flossing hurt like a mother and don’t even get me started on using Listerine afterwards because that was about a bitch too lol. However, it did get easier and less painful as time went on. I just didn’t know if it was enough to finally get the stamp of approval from my periodontist.

This past Wednesday, I had an early morning appointment to get a deep gum cleaning and I was nervous AF. Not for the cleaning itself because it’s not that bad, but for what would be found when my gums were examined. I informed my periodontist that I started flossing and he took a look at what was going on before prepping for the cleaning. Within ten seconds, he told me that they weren’t going to do anything and that I could go home. You could have knocked me over with a feather!!

Thanks to the new step in my oral hygiene routine, the pockets around my teeth started to shrink and went down over two sizes. This was the first time in FOUR years that I had not just good results, but excellent and I was beyond thrilled. The entire team at the office was so proud of me and, damnit, I was too. I couldn’t stop smiling all morning because of my GREAT SUCCESS and the fact that the smile I was flashing was a healthy one.

Although flossing was a better late than never situation for me, don’t be like me lol. I was absolutely traumatized from my surgery gone wrong and it made me stubborn. Had I done what I needed to do in the first place, my oral hygiene would have been in a good place years ago. Listen to your healthcare professionals because I promise you they know what they’re talking about and the small changes to your routines can really help!

Do you have a fear of the doctor or dentist? What helped you overcome it? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Feb17

5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

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5 Simple Methods To Properly Manage A Chronic Illness

It can be challenging to properly manage a chronic illness at first. But it is possible to live a healthy and fulfilling life by taking proper care of it. Here is how you can help yourself out with these simple tips:

Pay Attention to Your Medication:

When you first get sick, it can be strange to have to take so many medications. People with epilepsy and diabetes have to follow their doctors’ orders very carefully. Otherwise, you can experience severe consequences. An online pharmacy like The Canadian Drug Store is a godsend if you can’t move around much, live in a remote area, or can’t get out for other reasons. You can easily order what you need and have it brought right to your door.

Listen to Your Doctor:

If you have a chronic illness, your doctor may suggest medications, therapies, or changes to your way of life to help you deal with it. In many cases, it’s important to carefully follow their advice and take your medicines as they say. And if you have questions or worries about your treatment plan, don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor or nurse about them. You’ll never be turned away if you ask about it.

Educate Yourself:

It can be very helpful to learn as much as you can about a condition you have. It can help you understand why your doctor wants you to make changes and cut down on the 25% of hospital stays that happen every year because people don’t do what they’re told. You can easily find reliable sources online. Or make positive changes with support from groups.

Keep a Journal of Activities:

Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes can be beneficial. You can then give this information to your doctor, who can use it to make any necessary changes to your treatment plan. The easiest way to do this is to write down your symptoms every day in a notebook or an app. Write down how bad each symptom is and if there are any things, like foods or activities, that make it worse.

Look After Yourself:

This is probably something you’ve heard a thousand times. But living a healthy life can help you deal with the symptoms of a long-term illness. This means eating a healthy, balanced diet, working out regularly, and getting enough sleep. All of these are good ways to deal with stress. Also, it’s always good to avoid bad habits like smoking and drinking too much alcohol. You may also need to stay away from foods or activities that make your symptoms worse or start them.

It can be challenging physically and emotionally to properly manage a chronic illness. Use the tips above to make things a little easier on yourself!

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Jan17

Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions With These Solutions

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Achieve Your New Year’s Resolutions With These Solutions

Are you making a New Year’s resolution for a more healthy lifestyle? If so, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, many of these resolutions often fail due to a lack of planning and support. Even when you make the conscious choice to live healthier by implementing simple steps, such as switching your food choices or being more active, these decisions can be tricky to maintain in the long term. In reality, most of us end up unknowingly self-sabotaging because we lack support. Here’s what to do about that and where to find the support you need this year:

Creating a support system:

Creating a support system is key to successfully turning your healthy resolutions into reality. No matter how much we plan and prepare, there will be times when we simply lack the motivation to make healthy choices. This is why having a support system is so important: It helps provide encouragement and accountability to keep us on track. Having a supportive group of friends, family members, or colleagues will give you a group to share in your success and push you to keep improving.

Picking the right insurance:

Having the right insurance coverage is an important part of any health plan. Whether you are trying to make healthy lifestyle changes or just need financial protection, having the right insurance can make a huge difference:

Medical Insurance: Medical insurance is a great way to get access to preventative care like physicals, screenings, and vaccinations. It can also provide financial protection for medical emergencies, helping to ensure that you receive the care you need without breaking the bank. As not all policies are made equal, you want to research the best option for you.

Life Insurance: Life insurance is a way to provide financial security for your loved ones in the event of your death. It can provide funds to pay off debts and provide financial support to those who depend on you. More importantly, it’s part of a long-term health plan involving your family. Unsure about the right policy for you? It’s worth reading about it, starting with these National Life Group reviews for guidance.

Seeking specialist support:

Why do everything alone when you can find guidance from experts? Hiring a personal trainer will help you reach your health and fitness goals this year. Personal trainers offer personalized support and guidance to help keep you motivated and on track with your fitness journey. They provide custom advice and support and can also help you create a fitness program tailored to your individual needs and abilities. A personal trainer is also like your own personal cheerleader. They provide encouragement and love sharing in your success.

Going to the gym and hiring a trainer is a big step and it can be a nerve wracking process, especially if this is something you haven’t done before. If you are feeling wary about going into a gym, personal trainers like Andy Griffiths PT also operate online. This can be an amazing first introduction to working out with a trainer from the comfort of your home. When you are ready to tackle the gym, you can do so with confidence.

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A nutritionist can also be a big help in achieving a healthier lifestyle. Even if you think you already know what a healthy diet looks like, seeing a nutritionist can provide insights on how to add variety and make sure you’re getting the proper nutrients for your specific needs.

Don’t let your New Year’s resolutions die out this January. Seize the opportunity to go further and give yourself a chance for success!

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Jan16

Live Healthier With These Steps

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Live Healthier With These Steps

When life gets busy, we don’t always take care of ourselves as well as we should. If this sounds like you, it’s time to start taking care of your body and health fully and completely. In this post, we’ll talk about some things that you can do to start taking better care of your health today:

Eat Healthy Foods:

You shouldn’t eat well and avoid certain foods just to look good in new clothes. Instead, you should eat well to stay healthy. You could start by eating more fruit and vegetables. Eat more things that give you energy and make you feel better. Bananas, fatty fish, sweet potatoes, nuts, and yogurt are all foods that can give you energy and make you more alert and productive during the day. Food can also make you feel more or less stressed. When you’re hungry, you’re more likely to get angry and annoyed easily.

Take Care Of Your Teeth:

It’s important to take care of your teeth. To make sure they stay healthy, you need to take the right steps every day. At least twice a day, use fluoride toothpaste to clean your teeth and get rid of germs and plaque. Plaque can also build up between your teeth, so be sure to floss daily. Try using mouthwash because it can cut down on the amount of acid in your mouth and clean places that are hard to reach with a toothbrush. You should go to the dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and to catch any dental problems early.

Get More Active:

If you have a lot going on, it can be hard to find the time to work out. You don’t have to find time to go to the gym; you just need to find an exercise that works for you and fits into your schedule. You could go for a walk during lunch break to get more steps. If the only time you can exercise is in the morning, then you should get up a little bit earlier. Then it’s out of the way, and you don’t have to worry about it late at night after work when you might not want to go for a run. If you are going out in cold weather you should think about taking some women’s thermal socks to keep your feet warm and dry.

Be More Mindful:

We’re so busy with our lives that we often forget to live in the moment. Stopping for a few seconds throughout the day will give you time to breathe and help you think more clearly. Mindfulness practice makes you feel free and is good for your health. It can help you feel better and less stressed. When you wake up, when you eat, and even when you work out, you can be more aware.

By making a few changes to your daily habits, you will start to see improvements in all parts of your life when you are feeling better and healthier!

Featured Image By: Jill Wellington

Jan3

Habits That Boost Your Mood & Health

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Habits That Boost Your Mood & Health

Life can be very busy and chaotic at times and may not always go as planned. All of this can begin to negatively impact your attitude and health as time goes on. Avoid negative consequences by choosing to take good care of yourself and being more mindful of your behaviors and lifestyle. Focus on what’s in your control and live healthily for the best outcome. These are some simple habits to incorporate into your day that will boost your mood and health and make those crazy days easier to manage:

Exercise Daily:

It’s in your best interest to fit in daily exercise if you want to feel happier and boost your health. Move more and get your heart rate going so you can get fit and have more natural energy. It’s a great way to reduce your stress and you’ll feel more motivated to tackle your to-do list after a rewarding workout.

Maintain A Clean & Orderly Home:

Boost your mood and health by maintaining a clean and orderly home. Declutter and get on a regular cleaning schedule to get rid of dust and dirt. Go a step further and invest in natural and eco-friendly household cleaning products such as L’AVANT Collective, which are non-toxic and will get the job done right and well.

Slow Down & Recharge:

Be present and live more mindfully. Slow down and avoid rushing around and multitasking all of the time. Make sure you take breaks and set aside time to rest and recharge so you don’t experience burnout. Ask for help when you need it and make a priority list of to-dos so that your daily schedule becomes more manageable.

Eat Wisely:

Sugar and saturated fat can slow you down and cause you to gain weight. Instead, get in the habit of eating clean and make smart choices. Be picky about what you put in your body during mealtime and for snacks. Consider cooking for yourself at home so you have more control over the ingredients and your portion sizes. You’ll feel much happier and healthier when you are taking good care of your body and mind by making wise food choices.

Reflect & Give Thanks:

Practicing gratitude will go a long way in helping you to feel more at peace. Reflect and give thanks daily and regularly so that you can focus on the positives and your blessings instead of what’s lacking or missing in your life. Consider volunteering your time, as well, which is an effective way to demonstrate kindness. Helping others will put a smile on someone else’s face but also on your own. Be thankful for what you do have and work toward being a more generous and giving person, which will make you feel more content in the long run.

Add one or many of these habits into your daily life to start a positive change on your mood and health. A New Year’s resolution, perhaps?!

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Dec12

A Short Guide To Winter Wellness

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A Short Guide To Winter Wellness

Winter wellness is an important way to maintain your health and mental sanity throughout the festive season. Most people wait until the New Year before making positive lifestyle changes, but why wait? Maintain a healthy weight, look after your skin, and support your immune system throughout the winter, and you can create a holiday to remember. Read on for some more simple ideas:

Practice Mindfulness:

Mindfulness is a simple and effective route to wellness and happiness. In the winter, you might be lacking some wellness due to the changing light conditions and the lower temperatures; you might feel claustrophobic in the house or flat and you might find that you are putting on weight. There are many easy to practice mindfulness techniques for well being. Some of them involve bringing your attention to the breath, while others have you paying attention to your body. For a quick start to your mindfulness practice, try the three-minute meditation to access joy in the present moment.  

Eat Plenty of Fish:

Gaining weight in the winter is normal because the body stores fat naturally when the temperatures plummet. However, since you are unlikely to be stranded somewhere in the wild, the extra weight can be uncomfortable and unhelpful for the season. Eating plenty of fish can reduce your weight and improve your winter health. Fish contains high levels of protein that helps to burn fat-based calories; fish also contains many of the core amino acids the body needs to function. Find the best wild caught fish for tasty winter meals.

Limit Screen Time:

What you expose your mind to or think about shortly before going to sleep at night can influence the quality of your sleep and your well being in the winter. Chances are you will feel more tired during the day because of the light and temperature changes, so support better sleep at night. Avoid using a digital screen up to an hour before going to bed; this will prevent the blue-screen glare from affecting your sleep quality. Instead, try to read a wholesome book or listen to some soothing beats to relax your brain and promote deep nourishing sleep.

Self Care Strategies:

Self care strategies are especially important during the winter months. Make time for warm baths, skin care routines, and meditation sessions to maintain healthy chemical balances in the brain and support a better quality of life in the winter. If you have a range of self care routines, that’s a great start, but don’t be afraid to experiment with less familiar ones. Anything from taking a short walk every day to taking a ten minute doodle or dance break to get through the afternoon slump all can help!

The dreary, frigid days of winter make it easy to want to stay in bed until spring. Unfortunately, we can’t hibernate so use the tips above to keep you energized and healthy all winter long!

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