Posts tagged with "hygiene"

Syncing Gut with Mind for Better Mood

Mood is a complex physiological experience. It is the result of the intermingling of neurochemistry, gut health, hormonal balance, and social/psychological experience. It is a moment-by-moment litmus test of how much your life is in alignment with the needs of your body, mind, and spirit.

The greater internal harmony you have, the better your mood. Conversely, the greater internal disharmony within, the worse your mood.

Mood Influencers

We tend to think external circumstances determine our mood. But in reality, our internal harmony determines how we perceive, interpret and respond to our external circumstances. There are many things that can lend to a bad mood:

Stress (day-to-day, global news, etc.);
Poor diet;
Isolation from community or family; and
Not allowing the mind to rejuvenate through meditation.

However, one of the most important aspects of mood in Ayurveda medicine is the way in which food and gut health impact mental health. Mind and gut are inseparable. The foods you eat and the strength of your digestion determine the quality of your thoughts and mind.

Modern medicine is just beginning to grasp this concept of the relationship between the gut and brain. According to Ayurveda, the gut and brain are one functional unit. The fastest way to shift mood is by changing diet, improving gut health, and shifting your microbiome.

Improve a SAD Mood

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a clinically diagnosed form of depression that begins in the fall, continues into the winter and then typically resolves in the spring and summer. It is a condition that I didn’t pay enough attention to as a general neurologist, but as an Ayurvedic practitioner I became much more attuned to the impact of the seasons on our mood. I found that the majority of us notice some shift in mood with each season, and some of us experience more severe changes that qualify as SAD.

Modern treatments for SAD include phototherapy and antidepressants. Although SAD is a modern medical diagnosis, this shift in mood due to the changes in season is a well-documented psychological phenomenon in Ayurveda, spanning back thousands of years. So, in addition to the modern therapies for SAD, we also have access to ancient Ayurvedic treatments that help to treat SAD today and prevent it in the future.

Know Your Dosha

One of the great blessings of Ayurveda is the knowledge of the doshas and how they manifest in ourselves and in the seasons; this makes life more predictable. Once we understand our seasonal susceptibilities, conditions like SAD do not have to overtake us. We can organize our seasonal routine to combat the underlying causes of SAD before they germinate. It’s like having a GPS system for our body and mind that informs us of the turns before we have to take them. Instead of feeling like we’re always behind the eight-ball, wondering why we feel tired, depressed, anxious or frustrated, we can predict what potential pitfalls each season may hold for us and avert the danger before we ever face it.

You can learn more about your dosha type with my free quiz HERE. To experience more benefits of Ayurveda start with understanding your dosha type.

Biography

Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary, MD, is a neurologist, neuroscientist and an internationally recognized expert in the ancient practice of Ayurvedic medicine. She earned her medical degree at Loma Linda University School of Medicine; completed her internship at University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and neurology residency at University of California San Diego (UCSD). Chaudhary is the author of “The Prime” (Penguin Random House, 2016) and “Sound Medicine” (Harper Collins, 2020); is a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine and is a highly sought-after speaker, researcher and adviser for Healthy Directions. She is the former director of Wellspring Health in Scripps Memorial Hospital, where she successfully combined conventional treatments with Ayurvedic practices of detoxification, diet and lifestyle management to help patients effectively manage chronic neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and migraine headaches. Her program was so successful that it is now used for a wide range of health concerns, including weight issues and chronic disease. Through her integrative approach, Chaudhary teaches her patients about the connection between mind, body and spirit, which impacts every aspect of health both physically and mentally. Learn more at www.DrKChaudhary.com.

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Article: Dr. Kulreet Chaudhary, MD – author of The Prime

Four Tips to Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

A new study finds Utah is the No. 1 healthiest state in America this holiday season followed by Massachusetts and the District of Columbia. Louisiana, Arkansas, and West Virginia are the three most unhealthy states.

The holidays are the perfect time to eat, drink, and be merry, but also a time when Americans fall off the wagon with excessive eating, drinking and stress. Overindulging can exacerbate holiday depression and cause health issues making it important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Life Extension released a study on the Healthiest States in America after comparing all 50 states and D.C. across eight health categories using the most recent data from the CDC.

Key Findings:

· Utah, the No. 1 healthiest state, was healthier than the average American in six of the eight categories: exercise, good overall health, heart disease, drinking, smoking, and eating fruits. The two categories where they fell short were reporting good mental health — 50.7 compared to 59.1 nationally — and eating vegetables.

· Louisiana, the No. 1 least healthy state, was less healthy than the national average in all eight categories. Notably nearly 20% of residents smoke compared to 14.4% nationally and only 71.6% exercise regularly compared to 76.3%.

· 10 Healthiest Places: Utah, Massachusetts, D.C., Connecticut, Maryland, Hawaii, Illinois, Colorado, New Hampshire, and New Jersey.

4 Tips to Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

1) Maintain Your Workout and Wellness Routine: Why wait for a New Year’s resolution? Stay healthy all season long by keeping your normal health and wellness routines going whether that means going to the gym, doing yoga, meditating, or taking long walks. To avoid weight gain consider taking a natural weight loss supplement and to avoid eating and drinking your emotions when stress occurs take a natural supplement to enhance your mood such as FlorAssist Mood Improve.

2) Do Not Use Travel as an Excuse: It is very easy to fall off the wagon when you are out of your normal routine. Thankfully, even when you are not near your gym, there are countless fitness apps that offer workout classes on demand with no equipment necessary. Additionally, being stuck at the airport does not mean you need to order a Cinnabon. Anticipate travel delays and pack healthy meals and snacks.

3) Be Proactive to Avoid Getting Sick: Getting rundown or sick is a common occurrence during the holiday season and can be mitigated by getting eight hours of sleep and by proactively taking vitamins and supplements. Echinacea, for example, will boost your immune system to help fight colds and infections, ashwagandha provides healthy energy when you are feeling burned out, and melatonin can help you sleep.

4) Take Time For Yourself: Attending holiday parties with friends, family or work can be stressful if you do not build in time to relax and recharge at home. Overscheduling will cause fatigue which can make you more susceptible to making unhealthy lifestyle choices. Be sure to prioritize and do not be afraid to decline certain invitations.

Putting the Pause in Menopause

Doctor Tips for Keeping your Mind Sharp and Your Mood Up

By Dr. Julianne Arena

We’ve heard lots about the changes that happen to your body during menopause – hot flashes, sleepless nights, and a true knock to your libido, to name a few. But what about what happens to your mind? Cognition and Mood is the theme for this year’s National Menopause Day because the changes to your mind and mojo are definitely affected by the physical changes in your body.

But hey, it’s not all so bad! How about the top three upsides to menopause:

No more periods
No more PMS
Sex for pure pleasure!

Looking at this life change positively helps with mindset, for sure. And – there are so many things you can do to take charge of this time in your life, especially when it comes to your mind and mood!

The Mind + Body Connection and Menopause

The truth is a neurological change does happen with menopause. Hormonal changes can affect the chemicals in the brain. You aren’t just imagining it when you find yourself “searching for words” more often than not – menopause can cause a delayed verbal memory. General forgetfulness and some cognitive decline are normal for many. (Although it does come back post-menopause!) For some women, the neurological changes occurring around this time can trigger emotional issues like depression and anxiety. The great news is there are things you can do to get through the peri, post, and menopausal years without losing your mind!

Fight menopause brain fog and improve your mood with five simple steps:

Protect the Heart – You may be surprised to learn how connected your heart and mind are. As progesterone and estrogen levels decrease with menopause, cholesterol levels can increase, upping the chances of heart disease. Postmenopausal women are at an increased risk of mental deterioration due to cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes. Focus on small but mighty steps to being heart-healthy, like moderate exercise (starting with just a 10-minute walk a day), ditching bad habits like smoking and excessive drinking, and upping your healthy foods are great places to start.

Stay Active – You already know that exercise may improve your mood, but it can also be highly beneficial for your brain. Exercise increases your neurotransmitters which pump up your endorphins – the feel-good chemicals that boost your mood. For extra endorphin boosting, invite a friend to walk with you. The friendship connection is powerful for endorphin levels too. Studies show that regular exercise changes the brain, not just cognition but also memory. (Oh, and added plus, regular exercise also boosts the libido.) And keep your mind active too. It’s the perfect time to feed your brain with stimulating hobbies to help it stay sharp – crosswords, reading, even chess!

Establish a Sleep Routine – Hormones and hot flashes significantly impact sleep. And we don’t have to tell you, but less sleep = a bad mood, especially as we age. Good sleep is also one of the primary factors for overall good health, and studies show that varied sleep schedules worsen women’s cognition skills. It’s all about routine and sticking with it. We’ve probably all heard the basics of developing a sleep schedule: setting a consistent bedtime, limiting alcohol, putting the screens away well before bed, and so on. Try finding a mantra you can say in the middle of the night to get yourself asleep quickly and shut down the nighttime worrying. Remember how we were told to “count sheep” when we were little? There is something to that. Figure out a way to keep your mind busy and the worries away, you aren’t going to solve any problems in the middle of the night, and everything looks brighter in the morning anyway! Putting sleep as a top health priority will pay off in many ways.

Get your Mojo Back – Your estrogen, progesterone and testosterone dip following menopause, leading to changes in sexual drive. In addition, less estrogen means less blood flow to the vagina, more dryness, and painful intercourse. Also, mood disorders and depression can cause low self-esteem, physical fatigue, lowered libido, and Anorgasmia, or trouble having an orgasm. Cliovana can help with these issues. The sound wave technology boosts the process of regenerating cells in the genitals, resulting in improved blood flow to the clitoris, which creates a long-term increase in women’s sexual responsiveness and intensity, helps with painful sex and lubrication, and increases orgasm frequency. It’s a quick and easy, entirely non-invasive treatment that creates a long-term increase in women’s sexual responsiveness and intensity.

Be Friends with your Gynecologist – Many people in the menopausal years suffer from moodiness, anxiety, and even depression. It’s not just the hormones; some people feel sad that the childbearing years are over, and other significant mid-life changes complicate it physically and emotionally. Everyone’s journey and body are different. As uncomfortable as it may be, talk to your doctor. They have the resources and the knowledge to help you get back on track.

And… a bonus #6: Embrace this time in life! With middle age comes wisdom, unique opportunities to experience travel, go deeper in relationships, discover new hobbies, and more. We are all affected differently by our changing hormones. Every one of us going through menopause can focus on staying positive and not let menopause be a stumbling block to our happiness.

Focus on what you CAN do to get your mind and body in a better place to handle the changes you can’t control. You have the power to manage menopause and not let it rule you!

Dr. Julianne Arena is a double board certified physician from Harvard and a certified Cliovana specialist who specializes in women’s health and sexual well-being.

Five Things You Didn’t Know About the Cosmetics Industry

Makeup enhances your natural beauty and can elevate your self-esteem and confidence. When you look better, you feel better most of the time. The cosmetics industry has remained a booming business throughout the ages and shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, there are more beauty products on the market today than ever before, and online shopping has opened the doors for new brands to make themselves known.

Here are some things you may not already know about the cosmetics industry. Basically, it all comes down to buyer beware.

Where It All Began
The cosmetics industry began in ancient Egypt, although the business as we know it today started in the 1920s. Egyptians considered daily regimes of cosmetic products as ceremonial and symbolic of their health. Their use of sunscreen and eyeshadow was esteemed across social classes and didn’t discriminate against gender.

Ancient Egyptians, like Cleopatra, valued cleanliness and appearance, and this became a symbol of luxury and power. Some claim Cleopatra soaked her ship’s sails in her perfume to announce her arrival. Egyptians began using breath mints, toothpaste, personal hygiene forms and makeup to improve their appearance.

Ancient Roman women began using belladonna, a toxic poison, for cosmetic purposes. These women put drops of belladonna in their eyes to dilate their pupils to make them appear larger and more appealing.

Packaging of Products
Some cosmetic conglomerates prey on people’s insecurities and falsely claim what their ingredients can do. Most consumers are willing to pay top dollar for the best products to put on their skin to make them look and feel young. Does that make it OK for the beauty industry to target customers with their propaganda? How do you differentiate what is true from false?

Luxury brands are often seen as the better option. A higher price tag and a more prominent name means cleaner ingredients and better products, right? That assumption is plagued by marketing techniques that are not always correct.

Many affordable drugstore beauty products are equally as effective as their expensive counterparts. All it takes is a little research to find items that will suit your needs.

Most manufacturing of personal care products happens in warehouses and factories with quality packaging. Some brands have independent product formulas, so others cannot match them. Typically, one factory makes items for multiple brands.

Play on Words
The cosmetics industry uses greenwashing marketing terms that are vague for ulterior motives. Every business aims to make a profit. However, some companies seek to make a quick buck from your naivety in believing their hype.

Hypoallergenic and organic are not all-encompassing — there are so many chemicals in beauty products. Unscented isn’t the same thing as fragrance-free. The industry uses fragrances to cover up the smell of chemicals in its products, so unless the label clearly states the product is free of scent, it is most likely not.

Cosmetics companies can claim products are dermatologist-approved without any legal backing. These businesses could involve one dermatologist in the trial or testing of a product and then make this statement. You cannot believe that a product is safe to use simply because it claims to get a doctor’s OK.

Marketing terms like nontoxic, clinically tested and natural are all part of a larger scheme to mislead consumers into buying their products. Do your due diligence and read labels thoroughly to know what you purchase. Don’t buy into the hype simply because of the claims. You might be surprised what you can find in some beauty products that are supposed to be safe and cruelty-free.

Anti-Aging Products
Some products can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but anti-aging merchandise cannot turn back the clock and make your skin appear younger than it is. If they had this capability, they would need drug classification and a stamp of approval from the FDA.

Companies that market and sell products claiming to reverse or prevent aging are unrealistic. These items cannot change the structure of your skin. There isn’t sufficient evidence to back any of these claims.

There are so many product ingredients that it can be overwhelming and challenging to find what works best for you. Various skin types react to chemicals differently. Your best bet would be to check with your dermatologist to see what they can recommend for you.

Sunscreen is the best preventive measure you can use to protect your skin from the effects of aging. It has anti-aging properties that are essential for your skin, regardless of how old you are. Damage from the sun can accelerate skin damage.

Anti-aging products are typically targeted at older generations who should have been using them for years already to experience any effects or see any benefits.

FDA-Approved Items
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates beauty products through the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA). However, the FDA doesn’t have to approve cosmetics that don’t have color additives before they are put on the market.

Most beauty products are not FDA-approved and contain many harmful chemicals that you slather onto your skin, falsely thinking they’re safe. On the contrary, some European countries ban cosmetic companies from using over 1,000 toxic chemicals in their products.

It’s a shame that the U.S. doesn’t have the same regard for prioritizing what people use on their skin. It has to approve the food we consume, so why are skin products any different?

It doesn’t quite add up, but it is a leading reason why the cosmetic industry can use greenwashing marketing terms so freely. The ingredient labels on your beauty products are of utmost importance, and you should thoroughly read them before you purchase and use them.

On average, people apply hundreds of chemicals to their bodies daily. From shampoo to makeup to deodorant, they use many harmful things with no repercussions for the industry supplying them. Since these products don’t have to be approved by the FDA, there is no standard for holding companies accountable.

Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village

A Paradise Retreat in the Backyard of a Concrete Jungle.

Since 1961, the Canadian international luxury brand, the Four Seasons Hotel and Resort, has been the exemplar case of continual innovation for an extraordinary five-star hospitality experience. California Health & Longevity Institute, at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, sustains a 40,000 sq. ft. spa, the largest of any Four Seasons Hotel worldwide. It offers a variety of services including, massage therapy, dentistry, dermatological services, chiropractic care, concierge medical services, and Eastern & Western modalities in a stateof-the-art medical facility.

After a laborious week at the LA office, we were enthralled by the luxuriant gardens and service culture of this particular property – seven floors containing 269 soundproofed rooms with a 24hr front desk. As soon as we hopped out our Dodge Challenger SRT, we were greeted by valet and whisked past an enchanting array of crystal chandeliers throughout the hall. Across from check-in was a refined coffee bar. A perfect stir for coffee and a quick bite. Adjacent is its premiere “Lobby Lounge” restaurant which had a picturesque view of central grounds, including whimsical waterfalls.

There is an extensive spectrum of amenities and services offered as part of the Taste of Wellness package. The Life Strategies Consultation was the first activity 360 Magazine took part in. It is planned to give you a customized plot, featuring realistic strategies to overcome life’s obstacles, skills for conflict resolution and building relationships. This experience, alone, will leave you motivated to reach your best self, and will reduce unnecessary stress and conflict in your pursuits. Allowing you to move forward moving in all aspects of your life. To make sure you maintain an optimal renewal experience, the SomaDome Meditation is a must! It can be described as a personal meditation pod, designed for maximum relaxation utilizing, calming color immersion therapy. The SomaDome will release you from its cocoon at peace, invigorated and restored. It’s the purest form of a mental detox, which goes hand-and-hand with the Detox Body Wrap; which, completes the experience of liberating yourself from unwanted tension and toxins in the body. With 28 single treatment rooms (some with enclosed rainfall shower stalls and fireplaces), there’s, literally, no room for any disturbance or interference. The Detox Body Wrap comprises of a full body exfoliation, scalp and neck massage, topped off with a Nanogold Repair Eye Mask, using natural collagen that diminishes wrinkles, reduces redness and evens skin too. This deep therapeutic treatment relaxes intense muscles and turns over an undeniable glow.

After our treatments, each of us snacked on granola, apples, and sipped herbal tea while viewing the indoor cascading water fountain. Next, we took advantage of the plunge pools, sauna, steam room and mosaic hot tub. We finished the long, yet, relaxing day enjoying a walk around the 450,000 sq. ft. grounds of the hotel. Don’t you dare cheat yourself by missing out on witnessing breathtaking views of the fifteen acres of verdant landscaping.We relished in the spa lounge, walked the grounds, reflected on our experiences, and next was dinner. In the Wellness Kitchen, enjoyed a glass of vino and dinner at the “Wine Wednesday” demonstration cooking class conducted by Paulette Lambert, R.D., CDE. Each meal is inspired by the current season, of which you visit, and is paired with a balanced tasting from a local winery. It’s a great replenishing meal after a day of total relaxation (check official site for dates and times). If you have toddlers and/or teens in tow, there’s a supervised children’s club, as well as, an arcade/game room to keep them satisfied. Moreover, we all know a glass of merlot can be messy, but don’t fret because dry cleaning and laundry services are on campus and eager to serve. If you’re an overachiever that doesn’t let off on enhancing your physical strength, the gym facility contains most equipment offered at premiere fitness institutions, akin Equinox.

360 Magazine’s stay at the Four Seasons Westlake was one that we hope to experience again. Every moment was savored, reflected upon, and written about. Why? Because we felt it necessary to divvy it up and share all the finer points with you. It isn’t just a hotel; it’s a home away from home, a destination for relaxation, and inspirational practice that stimulates a new way of thinking, living and self-care. It’s a place where millennials and baby boomers can join hands and agree on, at least one thing; the level of calm and tranquil service the Four Seasons Hotel and Resort will extend to you. If you haven’t been a guest there, put it down on your bucket list for 2017 and make it happen! Other attractions in the region include the Promenade at Westlake Village, the Sherwood Lakes Club, hiking/biking trails, kayaking and a nearby drop zone for skydiving. And, if you don’t have transportation, the hotel provides a courtesy car service within a three-mile radius.

For additional information on Four Seasons Westlake Wellness platform visit HERE.

Four Seasons Westlake on Instagram.

Four Seasons on TikTok.

Article: Vaughn Lowery + Kevin Lamont Robertson

Eleven Unique Ways to Get Fit This Summer

Once the weather starts to warm up, everyone is eager to get back outside. The extra daylight is the perfect motivator to take a walk or swim down at the beach. However, that means trails and lakes can start to get pretty crowded. If you’re looking for a relaxing place to exercise, finding a different way to move your body this season might interest you.

Do you need some new ideas for outdoor activities? Here are eleven unique ways to start your fitness journey this summer!

The Importance of Fitness

At all ages, getting outside and exercising is essential. Throughout your life, a good fitness routine will help lessen your chances of:

Diabetes
Cancer
Heart disease
Mood and sleep disorders

Your body will start to reduce muscle mass around age 30. Aches and pains might also begin to be more noticeable by 50. Before this happens, forming a solid exercise routine will be beneficial. It can mitigate the impacts of muscle loss and strengthen your bones. If you need a new way to get fit, this summer is the perfect time to find new activities to keep you moving.

Fitness can also be a very social activity. Whether you get a group of friends to join or make new ones at a class, getting together to exercise can be motivational and connecting. You could take large group, small group or one-on-one lessons. Whichever you choose, having someone else there to help you may help you feel more confident.

Exercise is excellent for your mental health as well. Researchers found that physical activity could be an additional solution to depression. For those looking to see improvements along with medication, getting outside and moving may be great advice. However, if you want to decrease your prescription, always speak with your practitioner first. They will most likely want to see how exercise affects your mental health over a while before they make any changes to your treatment regimen.

Summer Exercise Tips

There are plenty of fun ways to be active inside and outside during summer. Here are some summer exercise ideas for those beginning exercise routines and fitness experts!

Surfing

Surfing is a great way to see the ocean and get fit. Whether renting your first board or catching your 500th wave, surfing engages your body and encourages balance. It’s a full-body workout, giving you plenty of benefits. It may have a learning curve for those starting out, but let yourself take the time to experience it. Taking up a new practice could also positively affect your mental and physical health.

Bicycling

There are multiple ways to bike, so you can choose based on your experience level and preference. You could take different paths or find a beautiful route through town. Maybe you’re interested in training for a race or marathon. There’s also mountain biking, which can provide you with some gorgeous views while performing high-intensity exercise. Along with protective gear, cycling is phenomenal for your health.

Gardening

Gardening can be a fantastic exercise and mindfulness practice. As you’re working with the soil, take note of how everything feels and the sounds around you. Feeling at peace with nature and yourself can center you and help you relax. Additionally, shoveling, planting and harvesting your garden’s products can be a perfect workout. Pay attention to how you’re lifting and how much. Doing so will prevent strain, so you can keep getting out to your garden.

Practicing Yoga

Indoors or outdoors, all you need is a blanket to sit on. You could even forego that if the ground is comfortable enough. Some may prefer to practice in their home, where they can minimize extra noise. Others could find focusing outdoors helps them manage their busy lives more peacefully. However you practice, yoga is a wonderful experience for the body and mind. This summer, give it a try if you need a new way to increase your flexibility and muscle strength.

Creating a Boot Camp With Friends

Maybe you’ve seen a boot camp in your local park or gym. While trying something new is always good, you may have been slightly intimidated by its intensity. Instead of abandoning the idea entirely, create one with some friends. Being surrounded by people you know can help you feel more relaxed. If you need something less harsh, you can customize your workouts to the group. Making your own boot camp could be a great physical and bonding activity.

Jumping Rope

Bring things back to your childhood days with some jump rope. You could keep your workout to a regular jump rope routine, or find a more intensive video or written plan. If you want to truly throw it back, you and some friends could pick up double dutch again. While it might seem childish to you, jumping rope is an excellent cardio exercise that can also improve balance and bone health as you practice.

Cleaning the House

A two-in-one chore — exercising and tidying your house. Could your spring cleaning use a summer refresh? See it as an opportunity to get in some physical activity. Vacuuming, dusting and washing can all be awesome workouts that involve your whole body. Find ways to make these jobs more complete, such as:

Switching arms so both get some activity
Taking time to stretch between tasks
Lightly jogging while moving about the house

Get your body and your house in shape by combining cleaning and exercise.

Kayaking

Take your family, friends, or just yourself out to the lake and rent a kayak. Along with the lovely sights, you’ll quickly see how this could be your new favorite workout. Using the oars to steer and push yourself along the water requires a lot of work from your arms. In addition, turning your upper body to get the proper position will do plenty for your core. Try out boating along the water in a kayak this summer to get in some vigorous physical activity.

Finding a Trail

It could be any kind of trail. You might choose to go hiking, running or walking on a path outside. Trails can be as relaxing or intense as you want. It may be nice to bring some friends or go by yourself to experience nature. You could even take your cat or dog on a leash to provide an arm workout. Remember to stay hydrated, and check in with your body and others — especially if you’re going alone.

Playing a Sport

There are plenty of team and solo sports to choose from when beginning your exercise regimen. You can find soccer, basketball, softball or tennis teams depending on your experience. Different leagues will accommodate different levels of skill. If you’re looking for solo sports, you could pick up dancing, swimming or roller skating to get your physical activity in. This all depends on your comfort level, so decide if you’d prefer to play a sport with others or by yourself. Whatever you pick, you’ll be doing yourself a favor.

Going Rock Climbing

This is another fantastic indoor and outdoor activity. Going to your local rock-climbing wall is a terrific way to get started. Those helping you climb can give you tips on the best ways to get the most out of your climb. Once you’ve had a lot of practice, you could start learning how to climb out in the wilderness. This could blossom into a fulfilling group or even solo activity. If you’re looking for new ways to get outside, rock climbing might become your new passion.

Five Habits To Adopt For a Healthy Lifestyle

We all wish for good health and long life, but they come at a price. Many deteriorations of health are being recorded due to bad habits. Therefore, knowing your well-being is a priority to us, we have identified 5 basic habits you can adopt to improve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Exercise and weigh yourself daily

Truthfully, it’s a busy world and we can’t help but lose sight of little things like performing a 10 to 30 minutes exercise daily. However, as “playful” as it may look, daily exercise is one of the simple health habits worth adopting into your life as its benefits can’t be overemphasized. Majorly, exercising your body makes you detoxify yourself by sweating, helps you get fit, gives your body a good balance, corrects bad postures, and achieves weight loss. The great thing is that you can achieve all this without buying those large and costly regular gym equipment. You can go out for a run or use your body weight.

Likewise, it is important to keep your weight from creeping up on you. For this, you can always set a weekly weight loss goal and examine yourself against it. It has been advised that in order to get accurate outcomes, you should weigh yourself at the same time every week.

Eat healthily and take enough water

Nothing kills more steadily like junk foods, hence, the habit of taking the appropriate diet daily is the beginning of a healthy lifestyle. It has been recommended that you should start your day with a healthy breakfast by taking something high in fiber and including protein to keep you full. It is believed that if you eat a good breakfast, it is a small healthy habit with a big impact. This is because it helps to eliminate ulcers, avoid headaches, and reduce your risk of diabetes.

Furthermore, you can improve your healthy eating habit by introducing more creative food item combinations. You can incorporate more green and reddish lettuces to add more nutrients, flavor, and water to your diet. Not only that, we can’t overlook the importance of water to your health, therefore, drinking a lot of water early in the morning and throughout the day is mandatory. Taking enough water helps keep your temperature normal, lubricates your joints, and safeguards your spinal cord.

Reduce alcohol, Soda and resist smoking

For those who don’t know, moderation in everything is one of the basic principles to ensure a healthy lifestyle. There are about six reasons to take a break from alcohol, therefore, a reduction in the consumption of alcohol and soda can go a long way to keep you healthy. As it has been discovered, frequent intake of alcohol increases your desire for high-calorie foods and puts you at risk for weight gain. Although a reduction in the intake of alcohol and soda can’t be achieved easily, it requires some discipline and gradual adaptation. You can achieve this by taking carbonated water, unflavoured tea, coffee, or fruit-fused plain water in lieu of alcohol and soda.

Have fun and stay happy

It is generally believed that happy people have more healthy lives and live much longer. Any time you are elated and you laugh or smile, you basically relieve your body of the stress and bothersome thoughts. This consequently saves you from the ravaging high blood pressure and incidental ailments like stroke. Therefore, you can partake in games or sports you love in order to get some fun and excitement. For example, for sports and gambling enthusiasts, you can always make moderate stakes and enjoy the excitement at online betting sites. Watching your favorite sport is an ideal way to unwind. With the help of review sites, you can be certain that you are in good hands and can easily search for the finest welcome bonuses, comprehensive reviews, and how-to instructions written by professionals to help gamers play with ease.

Get enough sleep daily

Being a workaholic and skipping your sleep is like working against yourself. Yes, you can skip your sleep to gather all the money but your health might deteriorate in return. Consequently, as it has been severally advised, you should at least get a solid 7 to 8 hours of sleep daily to stay healthy. Getting enough sleep restores and rejuvenates your body after each day’s activities.

What You Should Know Before Getting Clear Aligners

You would have probably heard of clear aligners by now as it is fast becoming one of the most popular dental treatments. Brands like Invisalign might just be catching the attention of people now but clear aligners have been around for a long time and their technology is constantly improving every year. In this article, we will share some things that you should know if you are considering investing in clear aligners for your teeth!

Aligning your teeth can improve your oral health

Some studies have shown that if your teeth are better aligned, you’ll be less likely to get gum disease or cavities. This could be attributed to misaligned teeth being harder to clean as some areas of the mouth might be inaccessible when your teeth aren’t as aligned. Some dentists might even incorporate clear aligners into your periodontal care so as to prevent gum disease. With Invisalign, you not only straighten your teeth but it is incredibly easy to clean as no food gets stuck between your teeth and no plaque gets built up on your teeth either.

Invisalign is designed for the adult lifestyle

You might think that you are too old to be getting braces. However, Invisalign was originally made to match up to what adults would consider when wanting to get their teeth aligned. The Invisalign was designed to help in the correction of minor tooth movement or relapse if, for instance, someone who wore braces once did not keep up with their orthodontic retainer. The Invisalign is also discreet and thus, if you are working in a professional setting and do not want people to be able to see that you are undergoing comprehensive orthodontic therapy, Invisalign is the way to go. No one would notice you are wearing Invisalign till they are up close.

There are also clear aligners made for teens

While Invisalign was originally designed with adults in mind, teenagers also can get their hands on clear aligners. Keeping up with having to remove your Invisalign might be difficult, but there are some teens who are responsible enough to properly maintain their Invisalign. There are features available to help with this process for younger users such as built-in wear indicators that remind users that it’s time to change their aligners out. There is also built-in replacement protection that can come in handy if you accidentally lose your Invisalign. While Invisalign is one of the most popular options for clear aligners there are plenty of others available which can rival the very popular and well known clear aligner company. For more information, consider this resource from a website called ClearAlignerHub dedicated to alternatives to Invisalign.

They are really convenient

Braces are not only visible, but they can also be discomforting and incredibly irritating when food gets stuck in them for long periods. With Invisalign, you do not have to worry about that happening and you do not even have to alter your diet as you would have to do with braces. All you have to do is remove your clear aligner during meals and pop them back in when you are done. When it comes to cleaning up your teeth, you can floss as per usual and brush your aligners as you would do to your teeth. Clear aligners are also smooth meaning that there are no wires and metals that irritate your lips or cheeks. In the rare instances that you do feel irritated by your Invisalign, you can always remove them for a while. Just make sure to keep them off for at least 22 hours a day. You can also say goodbye to getting orthodontic wax as you would not be suffering from poxy wires and broken brace brackets.

How long do you need to wear your aligners?

As mentioned, Invisalign technology is improving every year. As it progresses, the average time for treatment has significantly reduced as well. Your treatment time will be dependent on how much alignment your teeth require but you can always consult a dentist to get a rough estimate of how long your treatment would take. You can expect to wear your aligners for about a year. There are also instances where your treatment might be way shorter. For instance, if you only require your front row teeth to be straightened, 3 to 6 months could do the trick.

You’ll have fewer and shorter appointments as compared to people who choose braces

Patients who wear braces, need to make frequent trips to the dentist to get their braces gradually tightened. In contrast, your entire Invisalign process is already mapped out from the start. All you need to do is to make sure to change your aligners to the next one as your dentist would have already directed you to do. You will have to make a trip to the dentist once in a while just to make sure that everything is going smoothly. You will not have to deal with getting bands for braces or getting your brackets removed. Your dentist is really only going to check on the progress and all you need to do is pick up the next few sets of aligners you will be needing for weeks to come.

You can whiten your teeth at the same time

Your clear aligner could also act as a whitening tray. All you need to do is place a whitening gel on the inside of each space to brighten your smile at the same time. This makes sense as your aligner is made for your teeth and is snuggly fitted for each of your teeth. Remember to get a professional-grade whitening gel to prevent any mishaps! Check with the dentist if your whitening gel is compatible with your aligners.

These days aligners can solve just about any problem

In the past, aligners could only solve certain teeth alignment issues. However, with time clear alignment has advanced far enough that even misaligned bites can be corrected with Invisalign. If you were told about a decade ago that you could not qualify for clear aligners, we recommend going to get your teeth checked again as most likely aligners can be used due to the progress in technology.

While this article might give you a better idea about the benefits of clear aligners like Invisalign, it is best to book a consultation with a dentist to see what options are available for you. If you need, do get second opinions as well. There are heaps of benefits when it comes to aligners, all you need to do is make sure you are on track and you’ll have a bright and straight set of teeth in no time.

Everything You Need To Know About Whether Women Can Use Men’s Shampoo

Most people have been there, you’re enjoying a nice hot shower and want to wash your hair. That’s when you realize you have no shampoo left. If you’re lucky you have two options.

Use the man’s shampoo in the shower
Get out of the shower and check your cupboards for another bottle of shampoo

Let’s face it, number two is never an appealing option!

Fortunately, the simple answer to whether women can use men’s shampoo is yes. Let’s take a look at why this is the case.

Top Note

Before you start delving into men’s and women’s shampoos, it is important to remember that products are designed for specific types of hair. It’s important to choose a product designed for your hair type and one that has natural ingredients. If you’re still looking for the best possible shampoo then try one from the Kerastase shampoo range. You’ll be impressed.

The Difference between Women’s & Men’s Shampoos

The main difference is obvious as soon as you open the bottle, the aroma will hit you. All cultures have products for men that smell differently from those made for women. In general, women’s shampoos have a more floral smell while men’s are more masculine, perhaps earthy smelling.

What is interesting is that the aroma may be different but the product is basically the same.

In other words, the ingredients are designed for certain types of hair, they are the same regardless of which sex shampoo you have. It’s simply the aroma that makes a difference.

Marketing Plays A Part

By itself, this may not be enough to convince you to purchase a women’s shampoo over a man’s. However, manufacturers are very clever and use marketing to ensure you know which is which

This helps to increase the amount of shampoo sold which is good for business.

The Bottle

A key part of the marketing is showing adverts that depict men using a certain product and women using another. All the adverts express the same sentiment as the packaging. Namely, male things are used to sell male shampoo.

In marketing terms, a male shampoo is more likely to reflect a car, a famous spy, or something else that men perceive as masculine. Failing this, they are likely to be plain and simple.

Women’s products are more likely to be floral and softer to look at and hold. The design of the bottle is often more natural, even holistic.

Aromas Chosen

Men are generally associated with musky and earthy smells, while women have more floral smells. Products are deliberately marketed differently with the various scents to ensure that men feel more masculine and women more feminine.

Yet, the two products are effectively identical, you simply need to read the ingredients and the differences will be minor. In fact, the differences are likely to revolve around the aroma and nothing else.

Consider this next time you look at the available products, although you’re still likely to choose your favourite natural women’s shampoo. At least you know you can borrow your man’s when you need to.

Makeup Tips for Black Women

Get the right foundation color

Probably the biggest one out of the lot! Finding the correct color foundation is tricky, maybe not as problematic as it was 10 or so years ago. However, it can still be difficult especially if you are new to makeup – and if you are, you are in luck as UK Black Girl Makeup is a beauty trend to help you on this journey. The first thing to remember is that no one has perfect skin and that you should embrace the skin you are in, blemishes, pimples, wrinkles, and all! The foundation helps you here and there are a few magic tricks, like using a yellow-based foundation! Foundation can smooth out any of those kinks you are self-conscious about. However, it’s truly magical when you find the foundation that matches your skin tone. You can use a foundation shade finder to help you pick out the shade you need, or you can head to the drug store and check with any of the ladies at the makeup counter to help you.

Although remember, the ideal is to apply products with light textures that maintain a good level of hydration without making the skin feel heavy. A good option is the MAC Matchmaster SPF15 Foundation makeup base. This has intelligent pigments that have the ability to adapt to the different skin tones that the client may have.

Use the correct brush

Using the correct brush is an essential part since it serves to give light to this type of face. But there are some useful ways in which to use makeup brushes. Let’s look at how to apply makeup using a foundation brush. For black women or ladies with darker skin, try this. When applying your foundation, whether liquid or powder, apply it across your face in broad strokes. The next step is to start at the center of your face working outwards. After this, buff the product into your skin in circular motions using the foundation brush. After this, you need to buff your product until it blends evenly across your face and looks natural or to your desire. If done correctly, your foundation will be smooth and last all day.

Build some layers

All of us want the all-day coverage, and some days our skin just does not have the natural glow we are used to. But there are ways to get that look you want. Now, building layers will allow for greater coverage and do this in a few ways. If you are after light coverage, you need to apply a lighter amount of product and go over your face with your brush a maximum of two times. For a fuller coverage look, opt for applying more product and go over your face with your brush several times and work the product into your skin in layers. Here is a pro tip from makeup artists: Apply primer before applying your foundation if you are after an all-day look. It’s also great for oil control.

Use concealer

If you didn’t know, concealer is the makeup type you use to cover up any dark spots, blemishes or pimples, or breakouts. It is particularly wonderful for darker tones, so try to find one that complements your skin. Apply concealer to all areas you wish to cover, paying particular attention to the T-zone. Another trick for ladies with darker skin is to use concealer to highlight some of your features. Here you can apply it below your eyes, above the cheekbones, and on your chin. This way, you are using your concealer as a form of highlighting.

Spice it up

When using bronzer and blush, especially if you have dark skin, you might end up with a completely weird makeup look if you are not careful. Now, you can use bronzer and blush, but you need to use them correctly. Since these are makeup basics, they are also easy to apply. So, you need to dust some bronzer on the side of your face, the hollow sections of your cheeks, and then on your nose as well. Then apply some blush on the apple of your cheeks. Once you smile, you will see your work of art! Get it, girl!

Go for the perfect pout

In the past, lipstick colors didn’t favor black women, but over time the different lipstick shades started to include other colors that work for darker women. Today, black women can find a range of lipsticks that work so well, and we couldn’t be happier. The advice here is to test out different shades to find the ones you know will work with your skin tone. This year there are so many makeup trends that are going to look great on every black woman out there!

Cheats – wildcard:

Putting a bronze or peach color is always a success on dark skin.

2. For a fresh and beautiful look, draw a line with cream eye pencil on the inner part of the lower eyelid, so they will look more rested and larger. Then apply magnetic lashes.

3. If you prefer to wear a more basic makeup, it would be to prepare the skin by applying a light base and make a colored eyeliner (for example purple or blue), these colors serve to highlight the look.