Tag Archives: pro tips

Dec6

Last Minute Gift Ideas

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Last Minute Gift Ideas

Hello!! I have to admit, I did not complete my holiday shopping as early as I usually do this year. However, I am pleased to report that I will officially be DONE once I pick up a gift card at my nail salon on Tuesday. It feels so good to have gifts for everyone in my big family out of the way and I have been working on wrapping a few gifts at a time whenever I feel like it lol. We are officially in the holiday home stretch and if you are just starting your shopping now, then: 1) You are giving ME anxiety! And 2) I am here to help with these last minute options. Let’s get to it:

Food & Drink:

You truly can never go wrong with a food and drink style gift and it is something I implement every year. For the families I work with, I always go with some type of gift basket like chocolate, popcorn, or cookie kits and they are very well received. In fact, this year, I scored a wonderful deal for customized chocolate tins from Ghirardelli that I am really excited about. Most stores offer a great array of gift baskets, wine or beer samplers, or cooking and baking kits so go for it!

Gift Cards:

SO many people say that gift cards are a thoughtless gift and I say FALSE. If you do feel that way, though, you can absolutely put some thought into gift cards! Treat your giftee to a gift card to a movie theater and a favorite restaurant. BOOM. Instant date night. Have a giftee that drives a lot (Like me!)? They will surely want some help filling their tank! Shopping for a shopaholic? Now they can go wild at their go to stores. Yes, it’s one of the most easy ways to complete your shopping. But, it will be a gift that’s truly appreciated and that’s alright in my book!

Pet Supplies:

As a bunny mom, I can honestly say that I am THRILLED whenever I get a Chewy gift card or supplies for my gremlins as a gift. If you have some proud pet parents on your list, this could be a fantastic way to go. As a bonus, it will give them some extra scratch to spend on post holiday sales! If you don’t know what kind of supplies are necessary for your giftee’s pet, just ask. It’s another added bonus because it eliminates a chore for them too.

Photo Albums:

If you’re looking for a more sentimental option, photo albums or framed pictures are perfect – especially if you are the designated picture taker in your family (Like me!). This is a gift that I give at least one of every year because it’s just so easy and it’s really thoughtful. You could do an album of your kiddos for the grandparents, framed pics of you and your bestie on a fun day out, or even canvas prints. Websites like Shutterfly are always running great promotions so this is a gift that could be completed right from your computer!

Stocking Stuffers:

There is literally no rule stating that a gift has to be big or expensive. All that matters is the thought!! Stocking stuffers are excellent if you are strapped for time, ideas, or cash. Think candles and lotion, shaving kits or hot sauce, socks, hats, bath bombs – I could go on for forever. A small item or two and a big smile on your face is really all you need and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. ❤

If you have finished your holiday shopping: Kudos! If not, I hope these ideas help!

Are you good at wrapping gifts? What are your holiday plans? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov20

Holiday Mental Health Reminder

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Holiday Mental Health Reminder

Hello!! We are SO close to Thanksgiving that I can almost taste the green bean casserole (Don’t hate on it!). And, of course, then we enter the whirlwind of the winter holiday season. While this is an incredibly joyous time, it can also be highly stressful and it’s important to put your mental health first. Let’s talk about a few ways that you can ease some of those get together jitters so you can still have the merry and brightest time ever:

Ground Rules:

Given the current political situation we are in, it’s very likely that politics will be a topic of discussion at your gathering. This can be a blessing if everyone has the same political views but a curse if not! If the attendees are all across the board on their viewpoints, it might be a good idea to set a Ground Rule of not talking about it period. Unless each guest can engage in polite conversation, then it can turn heated very quickly and that is the last thing you want during the holidays!

Take Breaks:

If your holiday gathering has you feeling overwhelmed, take a break! There’s no rules saying that you can’t and you can excuse yourself without being obvious. No one will think anything of it if you pop into another room to “make a phone call” or you could volunteer to take the family dog out for a quick jaunt. Once you have a few minutes to yourself, you can enter back into the situation feeling refreshed and better able to handle it.

Make Yourself Busy:

Sometimes the best way to shake off anxiety is to make yourself busy. There is always going to be the need for an extra helping hand during the holidays so be that person. Take drink orders, set the table, assist in the kitchen – you know the old saying about idle hands! Giving yourself a task to focus on could be just what you need if your mind starts to race or you’re feeling triggered.

Focus On The Positive:

There is a high probability that there is going to be someone you can’t freaking stand at the gathering. This can create a lot of tension within yourself so try not to let it fester and focus on the positives, instead. Chances are that when you start looking for the positives, there will be a lot of it! There are people you *probably* like there, the food will be banging, or maybe you will play some really fun games. The festivities are not going to last forever so you could be miserable or try to make the most of it for a few hours!

Talk It Out:

There is this preconceived notion that you are supposed to be happy AF during the holidays and that couldn’t be further from the case. Holidays can be an incredibly difficult time for people and it makes sense if you think about it. If you are feeling that holiday depression kick in, it could be really helpful to talk about it with a loved one or counselor. Then, you can create some strategies to get you through and try to take a bit of joy in the festivities too.

Whatever you are feeling during the holidays, good or bad, is okay! You’re allowed to feel anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed but with these tips I hope you can enjoy the season more fully!

What is your favorite thing about the holidays? What stresses you out during them? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah

Nov15

Transform Your Photography Hobby Into A Side Hustle

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Transform Your Photography Hobby Into A Side Hustle

Turning a photography hobby into a profitable side hustle is a rewarding journey, but it requires planning, patience, and a few smart strategies. From investing in equipment to building an online presence, there are several steps that can help hobbyists start earning from their passion. Here’s a guide to making photography not just something you love, but also a way to bring in extra income:

Invest in quality equipment:

To go from hobbyist to professional, good equipment is essential. While it’s tempting to stick with basic gear, investing in a high-quality camera, lenses, and lighting tools can significantly improve your work. Clients expect sharp, clear, and high-resolution images, and the right equipment makes that possible.

Beyond a great camera, consider investing in accessories like a tripod for stability and external flashes for better lighting in different settings. Drone photography is also becoming popular; if you’re interested, check out sites like drdrone.ca for equipment that allows you to capture stunning aerial shots. Professional tools not only enhance image quality but also make the shooting process smoother and more enjoyable.

Build a diverse portfolio:

A strong portfolio is key to attracting clients. Choose your best work across different photography styles, whether it’s portraits, landscapes, events, or products, to show potential clients what you’re capable of. It’s a good idea to include a variety of shots to demonstrate your range and versatility. Updating your portfolio regularly keeps it fresh and relevant to current trends. If you’re interested in specializing in a particular niche, such as pet photography or food photography, create a separate portfolio for that to attract specific clients.

Learn basic editing skills:

Editing can make a big difference in transforming good photos into amazing ones. Learning to use photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop helps enhance colors, correct lighting, and remove minor imperfections. These tools are essential for creating a polished final product that clients will love.

Define your photography niche:

Specializing in a specific area can help you build expertise and attract targeted clients. For example, some photographers focus on portraits, while others might specialize in events, food, or real estate photography. A niche allows you to tailor your style and skills to meet the needs of a specific audience. Selecting a niche also makes it easier to market your services, as you’ll be able to identify and connect with clients interested in that area.

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^^^ Unsplash Image

Create an online presence:

An online presence is crucial for any side hustle, especially in photography. Start by creating a website or portfolio page where potential clients can see your work, learn about your services, and contact you. A simple, clean website showcasing your best shots and providing clear contact information can make a strong first impression. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are also powerful tools for reaching a larger audience. Regularly posting your work and engaging with followers allows people to get a sense of your style and personality.

Set competitive pricing:

Setting fair, competitive prices can be challenging, but it’s essential for building a successful side hustle. Research what other photographers in your area are charging and consider factors like your skill level, equipment costs, and editing time. Starting with a lower rate can attract clients initially, but be ready to increase prices as you gain experience and build a portfolio.

Network and build client relationships:

Building strong client relationships is one of the most effective ways to grow a photography side hustle. Satisfied clients often recommend you to others, which can bring in new business without extra marketing efforts. Delivering high-quality work, meeting deadlines, and communicating clearly shows clients they can rely on you.

Manage time and finances wisely:

Managing time and finances is crucial for a successful side hustle. Since photography often requires both shooting and editing, it’s easy to underestimate how much time goes into each project. Setting a schedule for editing, responding to clients, and marketing your services helps you stay organized and meet deadlines consistently. Budgeting is also important, especially if you’re investing in equipment or software. Tracking expenses and income gives you a clear picture of profitability, and it’s helpful to set aside funds for upgrades or unexpected costs.

Keep improving and learning:

The photography industry is always evolving with new techniques, styles, and technology emerging regularly. Staying current by taking courses, reading photography blogs, or attending workshops helps you improve your skills and stay competitive. There’s always something new to learn, whether it’s advanced editing techniques, posing tips, or how to use different types of equipment.

With these tips, we hope you can create a lucrative photography side hustle!

Featured Image By: Unsplash

Nov12

Exploring Career Options In The Games Industry

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Exploring Career Options In The Games Industry

It can be a lot of hard work to get into the games industry. But with the right experience and skills, you can join thousands of talented people to create something special. Whether you have a good head for numbers, a logical brain, or are highly creative, there will be something for you:

Programming Complex Algorithms:

Video games of all kinds are put together using various disciplines. One of the main things that ties everything together is programming. If you are skilled in programming, you are a valuable asset to a video game developer. From $1 deposit online casino games to the largest AAA franchises, all video game companies need talented programmers. Mathematics and logic are the cornerstones of programming.

A Visual Artist’s Dream:

Before a game enters creation, it is detailed in a design document. Depending on the game, these can be sparse or richly detailed. Some design docs include concept art, which helps guide the artistic direction of the project. Hand-drawn art is converted to digital art, which is then finalized as 3D artwork. Any kind of artist experience can be helpful in a game development team, and if you can manage 2D and 3D, you will be a precious asset to the team.

Work in the Games Industry as a Consultant:

Some of the world’s biggest video game companies require multiple sources of input to get a game finished. Sometimes, this involves hiring a consultancy agency that can provide insights into a subject the dev team doesn’t fully understand. This has become a controversial topic within the gaming community, but you can take control of your career with such a change. But, with a 22% year-on-year opening of new studios, expert input on a range of topics is welcomed.

Project Development and Management:

A game, even a small one, requires expert project management. Some can take a year to complete, and others over ten years, such as Red Dead Redemption 2. The time scale alone requires people experienced with extensive project management, and you can be a massive help to a development team. Most studios would look for people with experience within the games industry. However, you are a suitable candidate if you have similar project experience.

Music and Audio Production:

One of the most overlooked and underrated, yet vital parts of a game is music and audio production. Game developers have access to vast libraries of sound, but these are costly and often don’t have what is required. A sound engineer makes a huge difference to a game. For example, most of the audio in the original Tomb Raider game is unique because there were no libraries that had what the team needed. An audio engineering degree can help you get there.

Programming is one of the critical skills a team needs when recruiting candidates to work in the games industry. But it isn’t all about logical skills. You could get hired as a consultant to help with a narrative or participate in art, both visual and audio, to help make the game.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Nov12

Knee Pain Relief: Breaking Myths And Uncovering Facts

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Knee Pain Relief: Breaking Myths And Uncovering Facts

Knee pain – it’s something millions deal with every day, from early morning stiffness to that frustrating ache after a long walk. And while you might be familiar with some causes, there’s a surprising amount of misinformation out there that can lead to confusion and even prevent you from finding relief. Let’s look at what’s really going on with knee pain, bust a few myths, and cover some options that could help you feel better without diving straight into surgical treatments. Ready to get to the heart of it?

Understanding Knee Pain: More Than Just Aging or “Wear and Tear”:

The knee is a complex joint, with bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage all working together. Because of its central role in daily movement whether that’s climbing stairs, exercising, or just getting up from a chair it’s naturally prone to injury and strain. However, knee pain isn’t always a result of aging or overuse; it can be due to a variety of conditions, each requiring specific approaches to manage.

One of the biggest misconceptions? That knee pain is simply inevitable with age, and nothing can be done about it. While it’s true that age can bring about certain types of pain, such as arthritis knee pain, that doesn’t mean you have to live with discomfort. There are knee pain relief options available to you. With the right knowledge and treatment plan, it’s possible to stay active and enjoy daily life without constant pain:

Myth-Busting Common Knee Pain Misconceptions:

Misunderstanding knee pain can lead to unnecessary discomfort or even make the issue worse. Let’s break down some common myths that might be holding you back from proper relief.

Myth #1 – Resting Always Helps: While rest is essential for healing after an acute injury, too much rest can actually weaken muscles around the knee, which can lead to further instability and pain. For many, gentle exercises like stretching, swimming, or cycling can actually be beneficial.

Myth #2 – Surgery is the Only Option for Serious Knee Pain: A lot of people think that when knee pain gets intense, surgery is inevitable. But this isn’t always the case! There are non-surgical options that can effectively reduce pain and inflammation, allowing you to avoid or delay surgery. Treatments like physical therapy, targeted exercise, and even newer techniques like genicular artery embolization for arthritis knee pain offers non-invasive options for those looking to relieve pain without going under the knife.

If you are experiencing knee pain, simply enter a search for “orthopedic jacksonville fl” (or your local area) and schedule an appointment with a well reviewed practitioner. Be honest at your appointment if you want to avoid surgery so that your doctor can set you up on the best path of success sans surgical intervention. Keep in mind that surgery might be inevitable for more severe issues. However, regular visits to an orthopedist as soon as you notice pain can help prevent this.

Myth #3 – Pain Always Means Damage: Believe it or not, pain doesn’t always mean there’s a structural problem with the knee. Sometimes, knee pain can result from muscle imbalances, poor posture, or even issues in other parts of the body, like the hips or feet. This is why targeted assessments and treatments are crucial; they can help identify the real source of the pain, even if it’s not directly in the knee itself.

Exploring Non-Surgical Relief Options:

If you’re dealing with knee pain, you might be relieved to know that there are plenty of non-surgical treatment options to consider. While these won’t be a perfect solution for everyone, they can offer relief, improve mobility, and delay the need for surgery in many cases. Here are a few popular options to think about:

Physical Therapy: Guided by a professional, physical therapy strengthens the muscles around the knee, improves flexibility, and can restore range of motion. This process builds up the knee’s stability and can reduce pain significantly over time.

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE): For those experiencing arthritis knee pain, GAE is an innovative non-surgical option. It works by reducing inflammation in the knee’s blood vessels, offering relief from pain without the invasiveness of surgery. GAE might be an effective route for people with arthritis knee pain who want to avoid or delay surgical intervention.

Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories can provide short-term relief. Always consult a healthcare professional for recommendations that fit your needs, especially if you’re dealing with ongoing pain or other health conditions.

Injections: In certain cases, doctors might recommend injections, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation in the knee joint. Another option could be hyaluronic acid injections, which aim to lubricate the joint, providing smoother movement and less pain.

Adopting Long-Term Strategies for Knee Health:

Maintaining knee health is about creating good habits that keep your joints in the best shape possible. Here are some practical steps to help protect and support your knees for the long term:

Stay Active: Regular movement keeps the muscles around your knees strong and flexible. Aim for exercises that don’t put too much strain on the joints, like swimming, cycling, or walking on flat surfaces.

Wear Supportive Shoes: Footwear plays a big role in knee health. Choose shoes that provide the right support, and consider orthotics if you have issues with foot alignment.

Warm Up Properly: Before any physical activity, take a few minutes to warm up. Simple stretches and gentle movements can prevent injury by preparing your muscles and joints for activity.

Practice Good Posture: Avoid slumping or sitting for too long. Good posture can relieve pressure on the knees and help prevent future pain.

Knee pain doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of life. With the right knowledge, tools, and techniques, you can manage and even prevent many common knee issues!

Oct23

Are You Getting The Most Out Of Your Skin Care?

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Are You Getting The Most Out Of Your Skin Care?

The use of the right skincare products is vital for the long-term health of your skin. But how do you know whether they are actually working? It’s important to be aware of how well your skin is able to absorb the things that you’re putting on it. Today, we’re going to look at some of the tips that can improve the absorptive qualities of your skin, and why it matters so much:

Ensure Your Skin Is Clean:

One of the most important steps in making sure your skincare products are effective is starting with clean skin. Cleansing your face removes dirt, oil, and impurities that can create a barrier between your skin and the products you apply. When your skin is clean, it can better absorb active ingredients like serums, moisturizers, or toners. A mild cleanser tailored to your skin type should be used both morning and night to ensure that your skin is fresh and ready for the next step in your routine. This simple step sets the stage for the rest of your skincare products to penetrate effectively and work as intended.

Exfoliation Is Key:

Exfoliating regularly is another key factor so that your skincare products can perform their best. Dead skin cells can build up on the surface of your face, blocking the absorption of serums and moisturizers. By exfoliating, whether through physical exfoliants like scrubs or chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs, you remove this layer of dead skin, allowing your products to sink in deeply and work more efficiently. It’s important to choose an exfoliant that suits your skin’s sensitivity and to use it consistently but not excessively, as over-exfoliating can cause irritation.

Improve Your Skin’s Texture:

Improving your skin’s texture can also help maximize the benefits of your skincare products. Expert skin treatments like micro-needling, which involves creating tiny punctures in the skin can stimulate collagen production and improve the absorption of products by enhancing their penetration. This procedure not only helps with skin texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines and pores, but it also ensures that serums and moisturizers can be more effective. Micro-needling is a professional treatment, but at-home tools like derma rollers can offer similar benefits when used correctly.

Use the Right Amount:

Remember that more product isn’t always better. Using too much of a product, such as moisturizer, can lead to an undesirable greasy film on your skin, which may prevent your other products from being absorbed properly. Following the recommended amount for each product, whether it’s a pea-sized drop of serum or a dime-sized amount of moisturizer, allows your skin to get just the right amount of hydration or treatment without being overwhelmed. Finding the right balance is key to achieving the best results.

With the tips above, you can make sure that your skin is able to effectively absorb the products that you’re putting on it!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Oct22

The Best Ways To Add Value To Your Home

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The Best Ways To Add Value To Your Home

There are many reasons why you may be looking to add value to your home. For example, you may be considering moving house and selling your property or simply feeling like your home is looking a little worse for wear. Fortunately, there are many steps that you can take to add value to your home, like the following:

Turn your garage into a functional space:

Turning your garage into a functional space is a great way to add value to your home. It could be the perfect spot for a man cave, home gym, or as a smart setup for extra storage. There are many different ways in which you can complete this task, but it’s best to start from the ground up. For example, you could wipe away years of wear and tear and improve the overall look of your garage floor by applying epoxy garage coating.

Deal with necessary maintenance:

One of the easiest ways in which you can add value to your home is by resolving any maintenance issues you are facing, no matter how minor. While these problems may start out small, they can quickly become costly to deal with and cause significant damage to your home. There are plenty of guides online that will talk you through the basic home maintenance tasks, such as fixing a leaking tap or pipe or that one stair that always creaks when you stand on it. However, it’s also important that you know when a certain task falls beyond your skills as a DIY-er so that you can call in experts for help.

Upgrade your kitchen:

Adding value to your home often means that you’re able to sell your property quicker when it hits the market. As such, when it comes to adding value, you should be mindful of what buyers are looking for – with an excellent kitchen often being at the top of the list. It’s estimated that a new kitchen can add 5-10% to the value of your home! Now is the perfect time to revamp and redesign your kitchen. When doing so, think carefully about the kind of aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Do you want a clean, modern kitchen full of the latest gadgets or do you want something a little more cozy and retro? If your kitchen is already relatively new, you may want to consider upgrading other key areas of your home, such as the bathroom.

Go green:

Another option that can add value to your home is by making it more sustainable, such as by switching to a renewable energy provider, investing in double-glazed windows, or installing solar panels. While these upgrades can be costly, you’ll likely find that they help you save money in the long-run by lowering your energy bills. This will also make your home much more attractive to potential buyers, especially as society becomes more and more environmentally conscious each year. In fact, many buyers are on the lookout for eco-friendly properties for this very reason.

Investing in meaningful upgrades to your home will result in a boost in property value when it comes time to sell. Pick out a project and see how you can transform your space!

Featured Image By: Brian Babb on Unsplash

Oct22

Moving House: What To Do Before Settling In

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Moving House: What To Do Before Settling In

Moving into a new home is exciting, but it also can be stressful, to say the least. Between unpacking boxes and figuring out where everything goes, it can feel like there is a whole mountain of tasks ahead before you can truly allow yourself to settle in. But the thing is, moving doesn’t have to be so overwhelming! If you approach it with a little bit of creativity and some smart planning, that new house will feel like home right away:

Create A Home Setup Plan Before You Move In:

Just imagine for a second that you are standing in your new living room, boxes surround you on each side and you have no idea where to put anything. All of this stress can be avoided by planning ahead! Measure your new space, sketch out where your furniture will fit, and imagine the flow of each room. It is all about putting together a puzzle, but without the missing pieces. When you walk in on moving day and know exactly where everything belongs, it will feel like you’re already home.

Schedule Pest Control Before Unpacking:

There’s something no one tells you and that is that before you even start unpacking, call in pest control. It is one of the best things you can do. The last thing you want after moving all your stuff is to find out you’ve got unwanted roommates. With the house still empty, it’s the perfect time for a thorough inspection. You’ll prevent any issues down the road and can settle in knowing there won’t be any critters creeping around. It’s a simple step, but it makes a world of difference.

Check Your House’s Electromagnetic Profile:

Now, this one’s for the detail-oriented or anyone who’s big on creating a clean and calming space. Have you ever thought about the invisible energy around your home? Walking around with a simple EMF (electromagnetic field) reader can help you spot areas where electronics and wiring might create high energy levels. Why does this matter? Well, too much EMF exposure, especially where you sleep or work, can make some people feel off. It is an easy way to create a more peaceful environment by relocating electronics or even considering shielding devices in high-EMF zones.

Invite Positive Energy With A House Blessing Or Ritual:

Moving is more than just a physical shift, it is an emotional and energetic one, too. Whether you’re into traditional rituals or just want to start fresh in a new home, a house blessing can help bring some good vibes into your new space. Have you ever heard of smudging with sage, or just burning some incense? It works on a principle wherein residual negative energy is cleared out and replaced with as much positive energy as possible. You could also use plants like lavender or rosemary to invite calmness. The aim is to start from scratch so that this new house may feel more like your home.

This is a new beginning of one whole big chapter in your life, so don’t forget to take a moment to pause, take a big breath, and enjoy the process. And before you know it, your new house will feel like the perfect place to call home sweet home.

Featured Image By: Pexels

Oct17

4 Strategies For Dealing With Chronic Pain

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4 Strategies For Dealing With Chronic Pain

Chronic pain can be debilitating to live with on a daily basis. According to the National Health Interview Survey, a comprehensive study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 21% of adults in 2021 experienced daily pain, while a more recent study for 2023 found higher numbers of chronic pain cases at 52.4 per 1,000 persons per year. Chronic pain can stem from a multitude of conditions, each with its unique challenges. From arthritis and fibromyalgia to cancer, injuries, and many more, these conditions inflict the body, causing persistent discomfort and disruption to daily life.

Chronic pain often persists despite medications, necessitating a shift in lifestyle to accommodate fluctuating pain levels, energy, and capabilities. This adaptation empowers sufferers to take control of their condition and live their lives to the fullest, even on challenging days. This post is going to look at some ways that you can help ease chronic pain levels to reduce the impact it can have on your life:

Move:

The last thing you probably want to do when you’re in pain is move. However, being sedentary can make pain levels worse and cause a whole heap of issues for your body. It’s important to look at the type of movement you can do within your capabilities and incorporate as much or as little as you can each day. Movement for chronic pain can be simple stretches from bed as much as you can manage. It can be taking a short walk or even walking in place at home. For some people, it can be more intense movement like Pilates and yoga that helps build strength and keep the body moving. Find what works for you without making the pain worse, and move your body as much as possible.

Alternative Treatments:

Alternative treatments for chronic pain can be beneficial in helping when traditional medicines cannot. Acupuncture, using an acupressure mat, or visiting a chiropractor can provide some relief. Using products like CBD or THCA pre-rolls can assist in relaxing the body and help to soothe pain. Other treatments that can be beneficial for chronic pain include massages, cupping, meditation, and even biofeedback. It’s essential to use these strategies as part of your overall plan for dealing with your pain levels.

Go Easy On Yourself:

One factor that can make chronic pain worse is forcing yourself to be “normal” when you’re in constant pain, and if you’re trying to live your life as if you’re not in pain, the likelihood is, you will only make things worse and more painful for yourself. Instead of forcing yourself to do more, do less. Make adjustments for your capabilities, find workarounds, and cut yourself some slack. By accepting your condition and health status and working with it, not against, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Therapy:

Getting therapy for your chronic pain can be an excellent tool for helping you to move forward and cope with the stress of being in pain on a near-constant basis. That’s not to say the pain is in your head, but more that the mental toll of being in pain can be a lot to deal with, and many people experience depressive thoughts as they can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. If beginning therapy is the step you want to take to improve your chronic pain, start by browsing websites like https://onebodyldn.com/physiotherapy-london (or similar clinics in your local area). Opt for a location with lots of good reviews and patients who expressed success in their testimonials. Therapy can help you to find coping strategies and methods for living your life while navigating complex pain.

We hope these ideas provide relief and lift your spirits!

Featured Image By: Pexels

Oct17

Ice, Ice Baby

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Ice, Ice Baby

Howdy!! There is always something crazy happening in my apartment community, good old Timber Top. Most notably, we had a building on fire, a carbon monoxide leak, a literal dumpster fire, people falling through stairs, and a recent collapse of a road that we use to enter and exit the property. Needless to say, there is never a dull moment. And, as of late, these moments are cold AF. We will not have heat in our apartments until the end of October and I have been freezing my nads off thanks to a plummet in temperatures. Johnny and I have had to take the heat situation into our own hands with the following:

Space Heaters:

I’ll be perfectly honest with you, I freaking hate using space heaters because they make me nervous. Why? Oh, just because of years of my parents peppering me with proper space heater techniques. IE: Don’t use them because you will burn your house down lol. In this case, it is a necessary evil so whenever we are home, the heater stays on with constant supervision. Thankfully, we have a pretty nifty space heater that we got a few winters ago when our heat was out and it does an okay job of at least getting our drafty first floor warmed up.

Board Up:

One unfortunate thing about our apartment is that there are gaps in the front door that invite cold air in all day. Not anymore! Before either of us leave the apartment, we place a towel around the bottom gap and before we go to bed we tack a blanket above the door. And, of course, we put all of our curtains down too to hold some heat in. I really don’t like covering up the window by the bunny hutch, but desperate times and it at least helps a little.

Bundle Up:

When I am at home, I would much rather be in lighter lounge wear. Like I said, though, desperate times. I have taken to wearing my heaviest sweatshirt and sweatpants with leggings and a sweater underneath. I also have been sporting a beanie all day every day. When the mornings are especially frigid, I’ll even bring my comforter down and wrap myself in it while I work. Effective? Yes. Makes me SO tired? Every time lol.

Hot Beverages:

My hot beverage limit normally peaks at two cups of coffee every morning. Now, Johnny and I will have a cup of decaf tea or two in the evenings simply to drink and hold something warm. Does it do much of anything? The jury is out but the sentiment is nice – there is something so comforting about holding a steaming mug of tea!!

Please send warm thoughts my way because brrrrrrr. In the meantime, I will be manifesting the beach!

What is your favorite way to warm up? What is something that comforts you? I want to hear from all of you, so leave me a comment and let’s chat! Much love. -Sarah