Health

Mental health is simultaneously one of the most important and one of the most difficult things to take care of in our lives. While doctors and researchers have long said that you should take your mental health as seriously as your physical health, many people find themselves neglecting the former. While it’s slowly becoming less stigmatized to talk about mental illness, there’s still a lot of work to do and it can feel incredibly overwhelming to open up to anyone about it when you’re struggling. While there are many self-care strategies, finding what works for you can take time and experimentation. If you’re not sure where to start, let’s go over some simple ways you can look after your mental health.

Why is mental health important?

There are a million reasons why taking care of your mental health is important but ultimately, it comes down to the fact that everyone deserves to have peace and wellness in their lives and access to treat medical issues that disrupt that wellness. Insurance companies and doctors are starting to catch up, but there’s still a lot of improvements to be made structurally to improve our ability to identify and treat mental illness before it becomes destructive. Your mental health may seem divorced from your physical health, but many mental illnesses manifest with physical symptoms or involve things like suicidal ideation or self-harm that can quickly spiral when untreated.

How can I take care of my mental health?

There’s a lot you can do to improve your mental health, but therapy is one of the most beneficial investments you can make. Whether you’re dealing with an existential crisis, an ongoing mental illness, or a traumatic event, having someone who can listen and offer you objective advice is incredibly valuable. Not only that, but the simple act of talking about what’s bothering you and letting it out can be beneficial in and of itself. There aren’t really downsides to reaching out and consulting with a therapist if you’re concerned about your mental health, and it’s a worthy investment even if you’re on a budget.

Consider trying to come up with a routine, especially if you’re spending a lot of time at home or working from home, that makes you feel productive without being exhausted or overextended. Try to find a hobby or two that relaxes you or a project you can invest in that is completely separate from what you do for work. It’s about keeping your mind stimulated and focused on things that are fun or beneficial, instead of letting it wander and start to go to dark or unhealthy places.

Does my environment affect my mood?

It may seem trivial, but your environment has a huge effect on your mental health. Think about the spaces where you spend the most time, especially your home. If it’s dirty, unkempt, or bleak to spend time in, it’s probably not serving you well. You can spruce up your decór, rearrange your furniture, or just deep clean everything from the floors to the windows (if you’re looking for window cleaning Durham, Labor Panes has you covered). Don’t stop at window-washing, if you’re going to bring in an outside company, you can even have them handle chores like cleaning the gutter in order to take that task off your plate. Letting difficult chores pile up is just another way that you can add unnecessary stress to your life.

Mental health can seem like an overwhelming topic and if you find yourself with symptoms of a mental illness or just want someone to talk about a situation that’s bothering you, it’s easier than ever to find a therapist without even leaving your home. The advent of teletherapy and online medicine, in addition to several chat-based apps and programs, make talk therapy accessible for everyone at a more reasonable price point than many traditional therapeutic options.

Even if you’re not interested in medical treatment, there are plenty of small things you can change about your environment or routine that can have beneficial effects. Try to shake the stigma and think of treating mental illness like putting a cast on a broken bone. The most important thing is that you don’t ignore yourself or your mental health and take concrete steps to get help if you need it.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

Being told you have cancer can be one of the scariest and worst days of your lives. But there is always hope. Just because you currently have cancer, or are in remission, does not mean that you can’t visit your loved ones or travel around the world. Regardless of whether you are currently undergoing treatment for the big C, or have completed it and put it behind you, then you can still get out there. Learning how to make yourself safe whilst traveling is the key to success.

1. Get your medical records.

Before going anywhere, you should get in touch with your doctor to obtain a physical copy of your medical record, that you can have with you, wherever you go. If you are on your trip and an emergency arises, the medical center you visit may not be able to use its computers to access your personal medical records. Therefore, it is a good idea, particularly for cancer patients, to have a physical copy at hand, to give to the doctors, nurses and clinicians in attendence. As most patients know, your medical information is protected by HIPPA and can only be released from your doctor’s office with handwritten consent. If you are not sure what specific records to bring with you, at the very least, you should bring a list of your current and past cancer treatments. It is also important to remember any EKG’s and notes your doctors may have given you at each treatment session or appointment. When heading out on a trip it is also important to give a copy of your records to a family member. This can be your ICE (in case of an emergency) contact. Most smartphones allow your ICE to be contacted even if your phone is locked. You may also be able to use telemedicine which, when used in oncology, helps patients to avoid a hospital trip or making unnecessary in-person visits to the doctors for treatments or checkups. Cancer care telemedicine is a great option, especially if you are planning a vacation. Contact your caregiver for more details.

 

2. You can bring your home with you.

If you are worried about heading out to hotels and restaurants while you’re traveling, (and especially during these uncertain times of COVID-19,) then why not try renting a motorhome? Choosing to travel the open road in a motorhome is a great way to keep yourself safe since it already has most of your requirements on board. Most trailers and RVs come with a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom, so you shouldn’t have to interact with that many other people, if you prefer not to. Good Sam Extended Service Plan reviews well as an insurance policy, which is something that must also be considered when renting an RV. Their extended service plans will give you roadside assistance if at any time you find yourself needing it. This company is the oldest and largest insurance policy provider nationwide, so you can feel at ease knowing you will be safe and healthy. Not to mention the cost of renting an RV is usually way lower than what you would pay for your hotel stay. Traveling in a mobile home is particularly economical especially if you have bills piling up from your cancer treatments. If you are on a strict diet or do not have a huge appetite after the chemo, having a place to cook on board will help you feel more at ease, allowing you peace of mind to enjoy your time off. You and your family can also stop the camper wherever and whenever you want, to make sure to take in the surroundings and there is a substantial RV community that is out there to assist with all things camper-related.

3. Make sure to listen to your body.

Each patient knows what their own body can take, and you should always listen to the warning signs it tries to give you. If you start to feel worn down, then rest. If you are hungry, then eat. It is perfectly okay if you feel like canceling part of a trip, if the side effects of a treatment plan get on top of you. Sometimes, it would make more sense to skip an excursion if you are tired, and go when you are feeling more up to it. The most important thing for cancer patients is peace of mind. Canceling doesn’t have to be a permanent thing, you may even get a good deal on a future trip! The world isn’t going anywhere, just go at your own pace. However, if your body is not sounding any alarms before you set off, don’t forget to keep an ear out for any during the traveling too. Try your best to be mindful of the sun as some treatments can leave you prone to sunburn. If you stick to your well-balanced meals and keep hydrated there should be no stopping you on your adventures.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

Every day we wake to a world that is undergoing more dramatic change than most of us have ever seen, due to the effects of the coronavirus. Yes, this is a particularly harrowing time. Folks left and right are dealing with high-stress situations on a daily basis.

When considering all these different stressors, one can find themselves suddenly out of breath. It’s a whole lot! Now more than ever, we can all benefit from the tips on what to do when feeling overwhelmed.

1.) Stop and “smell” the CBD flowers

CBD quickly rose to well-deserved fame, as a result of its reputation for being a wonderful, profound, nearly THC-free way to connect with one’s inner peace. And before that mind starts racing, don’t fret about the legality of CBD flowers. If you’re someone who is worried about being able to prove that those CBD flowers are not “weed”, we recommend keeping the CBD flowers at home, just because the only way to prove they’re not “weed” is with laboratory testing.

Nobody wants to go through all that hassle. We’re not even talking about a substance here that has any kind of psychoactive component! If you’re looking for a promising lead on superior CBD/hemp products we’d definitely point to Try Plain Jane. They offer a wide variety of hemp and CBD prerolls, CBD oils, joints, vapes, and awesome accessories like grinders, stash bags, and exclusive tees.

2.) Get a plant

Plants have this strange ability to make us all feel bubbly inside. Taking care of one, however, can be difficult. Too much light is bad. Too much water is bad. Not enough moisture is bad. We’d definitely recommend looking into the ZZ plant. Legend has it that the ZZ plant is the perfect plant for any beginners and that it’s literally hard to kill. It enjoys indirect light and is the ideal houseplant.

3.) Meditate

If you have a hard time relaxing, it could be an indicator that you should try meditation. We have countless remarkable meditation apps available at our fingertips. While meditation might sound like a daunting, boring kind of task at first, it can work wonders for slowing your mind down. It’s a great option for everyone.

4.) Take a walk

As long as you’re comfortable with taking some time outside of the apartment, and your mask is ready for the adventure, a walk can work wonders for easing your stress. Often, it’s the easiest way to do just that. Getting some direct sun and enjoying the aroma of flowers is always a winner.

Yes, a walk around the neighborhood, maybe with a favorite playlist or that new podcast episode you’ve been meaning to listen to, can do a whole lot for a worried mind. If you really want to get wild with it, leaving the phone at home can be an even more powerful way to relax.

5.) Reach out to a friend

There is absolutely nothing wrong with leaning on the ones we love when the weight of the world is just digging into our shoulders, and we need the extra morale boost. Sometimes, the mere sound of a familiar voice is enough to interrupt our stressful train of unwanted thoughts.

6.) Find a book, and give it a read

We’re so deeply immersed in this technologically-infused society that we can all easily forget about the fact that we’re spending way too much time on our screens. Our eyes are probably tired of it, and our minds can certainly use a break from the overwhelming rush of media that we’re otherwise numbed to. Taking a screen break, and diving into a book that you’re genuinely excited to read is a wonderful way to slow everything down.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

While everyone wishes the United States coronavirus pandemic would have passed by now, many states are still combating rising case levels and infection rates. This makes enjoying several classic fall activities (from pumpkin carving to weekend road trips) more complicated. However, just because there are pandemic restrictions in place doesn’t mean you need to give up all of your plans entirely. Follow these tips for a fun and safe fall.

Turn your backyard into a haven for small get-togethers.

One way to prevent the spread of the virus is to avoid indoor gatherings, where enclosed spaces make it easier for infected air particles to travel. This has led to multiple restaurants and entertainment venues investing in outdoor patio seating and gathering spaces for safe socializing. You can do the same for your home.

Evaluate your backyard or outdoor space and see how you can improve it for social get-togethers. For example, you may need to clean out your firepit or invest in new patio chairs for comfortable seating. You can even look into retractable awnings to create shade during sunny days. Durable awnings will allow you to have people over while still practicing social distancing.

Check the policies of fall festivals and other gatherings.

Many of the activities and traditions around fall involve people coming together. Entire communities attend football games to watch their local students take the field, while families spend their weekends going on hayrides and exploring pumpkin patches.

If these activities are still happening this year, check the policies set out by event staff and farm owners beforehand. For example, you may need to wear a mask when you are on the grounds or there could be capacity restrictions that limit how many people can attend.

Following these guidelines can keep you safe while also making your fall activities more enjoyable. There is less of a chance of getting turned away because of capacity if you know to arrive early or buy tickets beforehand.

Create a daypack with essential outdoor items.

If you plan to spend your fall hiking through the woods and connecting with nature safely, put together a few essentials that you will always take with you when you’re out. Your pack should include a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. If you plan to camp in the woods overnight, the right natural mosquito control can make sitting outside enjoyable (and less itchy later). Additionally, your daypack might also include an extra jacket, a rain poncho, a small first-aid kit, and protein bars in case you get hungry on the trail.

It’s easy to drop your guard when the temperature cools, but you can still get sunburned and dehydrated if you aren’t careful. These other items can also ensure that you are comfortable and able to keep hiking until you reach your destination.

Start dressing in layers.

The coronavirus pandemic has complicated social gatherings and activities. This means you might need more preparation if you are going to a fall festival or event. Make sure you dress in layers with an extra jacket and light sweater over a short-sleeve shirt. You can also pack gloves and a scarf for extra warmth. This way, if it gets cold, you don’t have to huddle next to a crowd of people by a fire or stand indoors where the risk of viral spread is higher.

If you are looking for a way to treat yourself as summer turns to fall, check out the latest styles of women’s jackets to find a new outer layer that you’ll love.

Fall can be fun, even if the middle of a pandemic. With a few key preparations, you can still enjoy your favorite seasonable activities without worrying about catching this nasty virus.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

The sinuses, throat, and nose are always producing secretions called mucus. Mucus is a dense substance that prevents your airways from drying out. We all know that the air we breathe isn’t completely fresh – on the contrary, it is full of environmental pollutants, germs, pollen, etc. When these atoms come in our bodies, it can produce serious health problems if the mucus does not filter them out. It is the purpose of mucus – to get these particles out of our bodies.

Usually, you can’t notice mucus because it mixes with your saliva and is swallowed or blown from the nose. But if your body produces too much, a person may experience a postnasal drip. It means that the mucus leaks down the back of your throat. It is a common manifestation, which occurs to everyone somehow. The glands in your throat and nose produce this thick substance to fight infection and moisturize these foreign atoms that enter your body. If you want to learn more about postnasal drip, read further.

Symptoms of Postnasal Drip

Postnasal drip makes you feel like constantly clearing out your throat. It can become uncomfortable for some people because it can also produce a cough, and mostly worsen at night. Too much of this substance can lead to an irritated throat. It may also clog up the Eustachian tube, producing an ear infection, usually with earaches. This condition can affect both children and adults. When the Eustachian tube is blocked, it becomes the perfect ground for bacteria. If not treated on time, ear infections can lead to serious complications, including meningitis, hearing loss, facial nerve paralysis, etc. Postnasal drip symptoms include excessive swallowing mucus or spitting, cough, nausea, bad breath, or scratchy throat.

Usually, a postnasal drip shouldn’t last longer than ten days. However, if it gets worse or if the mucus turns its color to green or yellow, it means that you should see a doctor. The chances are that you may have an infection or a deviated septum. Sometimes, a postnasal drip doesn’t require medical care because it can go away on its own. But don’t hesitate to see a doctor if the symptoms don’t go away after several weeks. In fact, you shouldn’t even wait that long to take action against postnasal drip. It may be normal to have mucus in your throat, but you shouldn’t let it affect your daily life events. Losing your voice, a persistent cough, hoarse voice, burning feeling in your neck, or itchy throat isn’t supposed to be considered normal, even in the cold season.

Causes of Postnasal Drip

There is a wide variety of causes of postnasal drip. Your body may not clear the thick substance as usual or quickly, which makes it build up. Some common causes may include chronic conditions, such as dust, dander, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux disease, a deviated septum, or certain medications. Postnasal drip may also be temporary and caused by sinusitis, seasonal allergies, hormone variations, or a cold. There’s also a chance that you may react to spicy foods, dairy products, external substances stuck in your nose, or pet allergies.

Postnasal drip is usually identified, depending on your symptoms. A physical examination will be needed if you have any of the symptoms above. Also, headaches, chills, and fever are associated with postnasal drip. If you spit blood while coughing, you may have a serious infection or an illness that may require additional evaluation. Allergy testing may also be needed to help identify the cause. Other causes include pregnancy, cold temperatures, dry air, viral infections, and weather changes.

Remedies for Postnasal Drip

Let’s assume that your condition isn’t that bad, so that you can do some home treatments. There are many home remedies for post nasal drip. Some of them may have an immediate effect, while others can work after several days. For example, saline nasal sprays are the most common and effective for moistening your sinuses and reduce postnasal drip symptoms. Can your sleeping position influence your health? Yes, you can do something about how you sleep, especially when you have a postnasal drip. One of the effective ways to help fight postnasal drip is by sustaining your head of your bed. It will help you fight back against postnasal drip.

If you’ve ever had a cold that just won’t go away, and realize that your symptoms are getting worse when going to bed, you may want to do something about your sleeping position. So, to prop up the bed, you can try using some books or small boxes under your pillows. Sleep with your face up, so that your mucus drains down your throat, and stimulate mouth breathing. If you are a side-sleeper, you may want to pick one that’s comfortable to you, as this can clear up your throat best. Hopefully, these tips will help you manage your postnasal drip better. Also, make sure you stay hydrated throughout the day so that you can prevent postnasal drip. Drink lots of liquids, including warm teas, eat chicken soup, as these can prevent dehydration. It also can moisten your nasal passages, making you feel a lot more comfortable.

How to prevent Postnasal Drip

Some of the best ways to prevent postnasal drip is to identify your allergies, and reduce exposure as much as possible. Keep your home clean, and by that, ensure that it’s dust-free all the time. Wash your pillow covers and mattresses as often as possible to avoid contact with dust mites. Also, your heating system must be checked to see if the air filters are clogged – it might be a reason why you have difficulty breathing in your own home. These are some of the many tips you can follow to learn how to prevent postnasal drip.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, contact your doctor to avoid worsen your condition. Postnasal drip can be treated, but neglecting it can lead to serious health issues.

Getting the news that you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease can be devastating, but all hope is not lost. Medical advancements and clinical trials continue to happen frequently as the search for a cure continues. These experimental therapies may help to give you or your loved one an optimistic outlook, which can be vital for anyone with a chronic illness.

One new therapy that is emerging is cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), which is a psychotherapy that has been used in the past to help manage depression, anxiety disorder, PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other symptoms of mental illness. Learn more about CBT therapy and how it could potentially benefit people with Alzheimer’s disease.

What Is Cognitive Behavior Therapy?

CBT therapy was developed in the 1960s and can be used as a short-term solution for certain issues or long-term solution if needed. It is a structured approach that helps patients develop different behaviors or patterns so that they can adapt more easily in situations. It is often used to alleviate responses that come from living with symptoms of mental illness and may be recommended by a psychologist, neuropsychologist or another behavioral specialist.

CBT guides patients to speak more about their thoughts so that their therapist can help guide them through their emotions. For example, negative thoughts associated with depression or seasonal affective disorder are reframed in a way that casts them in a more positive light. This helps the patient to work toward having a more positive outlook, or at least being able to rework their internal speech so that they aren’t dragging themselves down. It may also help in creating behavior change, encouraging new behavior patterns and more.

Each patient is different and so is each condition, thus the recommended length of CBT will vary based on each patient and their therapist’s recommendations.

Can CBT Therapy Help Alzheimer’s Patients?

Many older adults with Alzheimer’s often exhibit symptoms similar to other mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, irritability, and more as they wrestle with the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease. While cognitive behavioral therapy is no cure for the disease, it may benefit those suffering from mild Alzheimer’s to use some CBT practices so they can work on reframing any negative thoughts that may come along with a diagnosis.

A 2015 randomized controlled trial from the U.S. National Institute of Health found that CBT therapy could have benefits for not only the patient but for their caregiver as well. Working to change those negative thoughts into something more manageable can make it easier to deal with the other circumstances surrounding an Alzheimer’s diagnosis. It can also potentially remove some stress off of the caregiver so that they do not have to hear continuous negative thoughts from their loved one.

Alzheimers specialists near you may be able to provide specific recommendations for you or for your loved one. Every case is unique and each patient has varying needs and may need a different form of treatment in order to improve their quality of life. The specialist may also be able to recommend support groups that can supplement CBT therapy for you. Group therapy might be effective at helping patients talk through what they are thinking or feeling. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these sessions may move to an online setting.

New treatments and experimental ideas come about frequently as many in the medical world try to solve the occurrence of Alzheimer’s disease. Until a cure is found, these treatments may be a good idea for those suffering from mild symptoms of the disease. A neurologist or other specialist can guide you and your family toward the best treatment plan for you.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

As far as addiction is concerned, it can be difficult, if not impossible to determine if you have a problem. If you have an addiction, it certainly does not feel like it. More exactly, the illness goes undetected. Only a health professional can identify the red flags and help you get better. Completing a rehabilitation program is of paramount importance. If you have just started your road to recovery, there are a couple of things that you need to keep in mind. In what follows, we will present the essential facts about addiction recovery.

Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/greyscale-photography-of-woman-wearing-long-sleeved-top-736843/

There is no cure for addiction

Selecting a top addiction treatment facility is not a decision to arrive at lightly. Most importantly, it should not be restricted to a particular place. For instance, you can seek help at an addiction treatment Los Angeles center, which can provide effective treatment. Going to an addiction treatment facility is not a cure, so as to say. The place will provide the necessary tools to speed up recovery, but, ultimately, it depends on you whether you get better or not. Addiction cannot be cured, which translates into the fact that it requires lifelong treatment. You are a recovering addict – in other words, you remain sober and in recovery.

Sobriety is not the same thing as recovery

Many people confuse sobriety with recovery, in spite of the fact that there is a striking difference between the two. Someone who is sober is someone who does not consume alcoholic beverages or takes drugs, whether it is days, weeks, or months. Someone who is recovering from addiction is someone who is free from cravings. They are capable of understanding what led to their drinking or drug abuse. What is more, recovering addicts make changes in their patterns, behaviors, and lifestyle. Sobriety and recovery are closely linked. To be more precise, you cannot achieve recovery without achieving sobriety first.

Relapse is not a necessary part of addiction recovery

It is commonly believed that relapse is a normal part of the recovery. While it does happen, it is not something desirable. Not everyone who seeks lifelong treatment for addiction relapses. If you happen to give into temptation and consume alcoholic beverages or drugs, that does not mean that you are a failure. It just means that you need to be more careful next time. You have more than one shot to get it right, but, still, you must be careful.

It is necessary to do one change at a time

Recovering from addiction implies making a great many changes, which can turn out to be overwhelming. The key to a successful transition is making one change at a time. It is not necessary to change everything all at once. You can begin, for example, by quitting smoking. Smoking is simply another form of addiction, which is why it is not encouraged. People who have been in treatment for alcohol-related issues are at an increased risk of dying from tobacco-induced illnesses. If you want to change your life for the better, change one habit at a time. Do not run into trouble by trying to change too much.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category

Some states have been facing the lockdown for what it seems like forever now. And while some rules seem to loosen up slightly, with the promise of more relaxation and safety on the horizon, it makes sense to feel a little bit of cabin fever.

The COVID19 pandemic has slammed into the routines and lives of everyone we know. Even those with a less active and ordinary lifestyle are moving about a little less, out of necessity. But what about the extroverts among us? Fortunately for those who typically spend all their weekends outside, isolation and social distancing is more than a simple nightmare.

Fortunately, there are ways to keep your body and mind occupied and healthy during this period. Some routines, small habits, and activities that, when you choose to stick with them, will make your inside life more bearable.

 Video games 

For gamers around the state, lockdown might seem like an excellent opportunity to sharpen those skills in pretty much every waking moment. However, given the latest pandemic advancements, it seems like increasingly more people are turning to video gaming to cope with the lockdown.

Also, it has been suggested that in order to combat isolation and procrastination, playing video games online can be a way for people to socialize with family friends while having fun at the same time.

Since March, some of the world’s biggest online games have seen a considerable rise– games such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive sees an increase of nearly 360.000 players during March, while battle arena games like Dota got 120.000 new players. Digital games exist for a reason, and they can be used to replace equivalent activities that aren’t possible during the pandemic.

Watching sports 

Contrary to what you might have heard, sport watching isn’t an activity that only beer-drinking couch-potatoes can enjoy. In fact, numerous new researches show that being a sports fan may actually promote your social-emotional and physical health. For instance, studies have found that sports fans are less likely to be lonely and have greater self-esteem than non-sports fans.

And as European football returns in empty stadiums without its boisterous supporters, it does not mean sports betting and watching cannot be done safely from the comfort of your couch.

At-home yoga is the best yoga 

Lockdown isn’t a good reason to forego your old stretch routine. In fact, now you are going to need it more than ever.

Working out from home has turned out to be more enjoyable and easier than we thought it would. Why? That’s thanks to all the equipment free inspiration we’ve had delved through- and there is one type of working out that is not so easy to replicate at home. Unlike other strength training, in which you can rely on exercises to develop a workout that suits you, yoga is an ancient practice with well-determined postures, breathwork, and flows. You can choose from millions of classes online or YouTube subscriptions to find your perfect yoga time, teacher, and intensity.

Learn to Cook 

Nothing compares with a home-cooked meal that’s more satisfying, flavourful, and cheaper than your late dinner out. Yet dining at home comes up with even more vital advantages. For instance, cooking at home gives you more control over the ingredients you use. You’ve got control over the fat, salt intake, portion size, and other elements that contribute to your breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Additionally, to its benefits, home cooking provides enough enjoyment, especially when the experience is shared.

Cooking with a friend, family member, or partner is a great way to relieve stress as you can create something new, laugh, and make enjoyable memories, all of which can promote wellbeing during the lockdown.

Join a virtual book group 

Time to read is another advantage of the lockdown. Not only that, but virtual book groups are booming as they adapt to our increasingly rich online lives.

Because they take full advantage of technology, virtual book clubs host online meetings, interactive author talks, ongoing discussions over social media, and multiple chat groups.

Virtual book clubs have to offer something for everyone, regardless of their social strata, age, and nationality. They deeply plunge into a single genre and others that aim to be as varied in their reading material as possible. While some groups have members reading as they wish, others send weekly reminders with page goals. What’s more, is that most of them are entirely free, and there’s no limit on how many members can join.

Why should I join a virtual book club? Given the numerous benefits of reading and the data we have on the growing pandemic of loneliness, it makes a lot of sense as to why joining a book club might help you.

Adding the accountability to help you achieve your reading goal, there are also cultural privileges that clearly indicate book clubs tend to draw great value on growth, intellectual challenge, good conversation, and exposure to new ideas and literary experiences. The next time you finish your book, you can either keep those ideas for you or just type out your takeaways and provoke your friends with discussions.

Connect with far-away friends 

Just because you’re not in the same coffee shop or living room doesn’t mean you can’t have a deep friendship. The lockdown provides an opportunity to connect with those we love but live far away. With that in mind, if you’re distancing yourself physically from others, it doesn’t matter whether they are in France, Milan, or Greece. The more we try to reach across the world and show we care for one another, the more likely we are to defeat a terrible virus called nationalism.

Keeping yourself busy during lockdown should not feel like a responsibility. What’s more, many of these ideas won’t involve spilling large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere. Practicing mindfulness health, yoga, and entertaining yourself with games, reading, and sports to virtually escape from all the pressure is a healthy response to today’s uncertainty.

If you are struggling with sleepless nights, chances are that your bedroom is keeping you awake. Unwinding before bed and consuming the right foods can positively impact sleep quality, but it’s not enough. If you want to wake up every morning feeling refreshed, take the time and effort to create a sleep-friendly bedroom. You’ll want it to be a sanctuary for restful sleep. The bedroom shouldn’t be noisy, cluttered, or too bright. It should help you reach the peak of slumber and stay there for as long as possible. If you optimize your bedroom, your dreams will become much easier. Given the fact that you spend about a third of your life sleeping, do not waste any more time and do something.

Give yourself an advantage with a bedroom design that relaxes your mind and body. Keep on reading to find out what it takes to prepare your bedroom for the perfect night’s sleep. The good news, it’s not that complicated.

Choose mattresses, pillows, and sheets that are comfortable 

Replacing the old mattress is a good place to start. A comfy mattress will offer a restful sleep that decreases stress levels. If it’s comfortable and supportive, you won’t wake up achy or stiff. An adjustable air bed is the answer to your sleeping problems. You can adjust the firmness when you sleep on your back and make it softer when you sleep on your side. Sleep Number beds tend to be popular among consumers. If you’re just starting your research, a Sleep Number bed comparison can come in handy. You do not want to make a decision on the fly. Everyone who shops on the Internet compares products before making a decision on buying.

Get a body pillow for when your partner is away. It’s great at combating restless slumbers. Also, get a roll for behind your neck and a wedge for behind your back. After a couple of days, you’ll find it impossible to sleep without them. As for the sheets, you shouldn’t be wrapped in a scratchy material/fabric that makes you feel uncomfortable. Even if you’re not what is called a sheet snob, be picky when shopping for new bedding. Don’t purchase anything that doesn’t feel soft to the touch. Soft mattresses are best for those who have a tendency to sleep on the side because they better align the spine. Nevertheless, if the mattress is too soft, the body will sink and this will lead to back pain.

Ditch all electronics 

You shouldn’t have a TV in your bedroom and you should certainly not use your cellphone before going to bed. Electronic devices delay the body’s internal clock and suppress the sleep-inducing hormone – melatonin, in other words. This is due to the blue light emitted by these gadgets. Your smart devices will rob you of your sleep. Studies have demonstrated that exposing a person to blue light suppresses the body’s release of melatonin, that is, the hormone that regulates sleep. TVs, tablets, laptops, and smartphones interfere with sleep.

Resist the temptation of checking your email or signing into your social media accounts before going to sleep. These apparently harmless habits affect your sleep and your brain’s health. Design your bedroom so that the TV is no longer the central point, even if this requires a little bit of rearranging. When you are all tucked into bed, you should be ready to catch some Z’s. Consider putting a curfew on electronics. More exactly, set a time past which using electronics is unacceptable. The outcome is that you will not be grumpy the next day.

Brighten up the interior and reinvigorate the space 

The color of the bedroom can take a toll on your mood and disposition. But what does it matter since the lights are out? If you don’t have a calming and relaxing environment during the day, you’ll not be able to fall asleep in the morning. If the bedroom walls are starting to look a little drab, it’s time to make a change. Budget-friendly wall art can help spruce up the walls and reinvigorate the space. If you’re not into that sort of thing, repaint the room in yellow or soft blue. Bring in the colors of the sun or the sky.

Use mirrors to get more natural light into the bedroom. A mirror will help spread the small amount of light coming in through the window. It can even bounce energy through the room. According to feng shui experts, it’s best to hang the mirror on the wall opposite your bedroom. If it bothers you that the mirror reflects your bed, simply change the spot.

Lower the temperature, will you?

If you have tried all the solutions mentioned earlier, the bedroom temperature is the reason why you are not getting quality sleep. How hot or how cold you feel directly impacts interferes with your ability to get a good night’s rest. The temperature of the bedroom for adults should be between 60 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, attention needs to be paid to the fact that everyone has different optimal temperatures for sleeping, which translates into the fact that you have to experiment until you find a temperature you are okay with. It will be almost impossible to find out the exact measure without a thermometer.

There are all sorts of apps you can use to measure ambient temperature. You can optimize your health in real-time. Speaking of which, invest in a smartphone-controlled thermometer. Smart technology is already here and it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. You can control the bedroom temperature from work and view energy usage through your smartphone. The bedroom will not become uncomfortably hot or cold, so it is highly unlikely that you will wake up in the middle of the night. If you are still having trouble falling asleep, maybe you have been drinking too much coffee. While caffeine is not as bad as other go-to substances, it does lead to poor sleep.

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Nothing can compare to sleeping on a bad mattress. You wake up feeling achy, which can zap the energy and positivity out of your day. The mattress forces you to sleep in an unnatural position that twists and strains your back. Is your mattress keeping you awake? The time has come to buy a new one. A new mattress is a significant purchase in terms of comfortable and peaceful sleep, meaning that you shouldn’t take it lightly. After doing a little bit of research, you will see that there are a handful of mattresses for sale. As a shopper, it’s easy to get lost in the buzzwords used by manufacturers and retailers. Some sell identical big-name mattresses under different names, which makes things even more complicated.

If you don’t want your mattress buying to transform into a nightmare, consider these tips. It helps to be armed with knowledge when you’re in the market for a new mattress.

Read consumer mattress reviews, especially when buying online 

You need to get a good idea of the options that are currently available. Thanks to the Internet, you have access to everything and making a decision has never been more difficult. If you’re afraid that you’ll make the wrong choice, start reading mattress reviews. More than 90% of shoppers use online reviews as part of their search. The Internet is full of places where consumers can evaluate products based on their impressions and feedback from others. Since you can’t test the mattress, you might as well find out what others have to say about it. You’ll know if the bedding is legit or not. Don’t assume that you’ll be happy with the mattress.

Get a good idea about the product you are about to buy. Buying a new mattress can be expensive enough, so it is essential to get things right from the beginning. The question now is: How many reviews are enough? Well, shoppers generally read between 1 and 6 reviews before committing to a decision. If you are going to read online reviews, go beyond the seller’s website. Search the entire Web. If there are enough positive reviews or star ratings for a particular mattress, you’ll feel better knowing the mattress is a good fit for you. If you don’t do your research, you’ll be dealing with sleepless nights and early morning awakenings.

Measure the dimensions of the mattress 

Before heading out to the mattress store, it’s recommended to measure the dimensions of your mattress. It’s easier if you use a tape to measure the size of the bedding, as well as box spring in inches. Measure the height, length, and width. You’ll get the most precise measurements if there isn’t anything on the mattress. Remove any blankets, sheets, pillows, and so on. Write down the dimensions of your mattress so you don’t forget them. Keep in mind that a comfortable bedroom needs to have at least 3 feet of space on the two sides of the mattress. If you change the size, you’ll need a brand-new frame and a new headboard.

Buying a new mattress can turn out to be a nightmare if you are confused when it comes down to the size of the bed. Every mattress size has a singular measurement that manufacturers have agreed upon as the standard. However, attention needs to be paid to the fact that, sometimes, the products do not measure exactly what they should. Your new mattress could be one inch shorter or longer than the standard size. Maybe so, but this does not affect the performance of the mattress. Most importantly, you will be able to fit the mattress in the bed frame.

Ask about returns and trial periods 

If the mattress you’ve just bought is faulty or damaged, you should return it right away. You have the right to return it for a refund. If you haven’t removed the law tag, you’re all right. You shouldn’t end up with a mattress that’s unsupportive, uncomfortable, or unfit for the purpose. As a rule, you have a 30-day trial period, in which you can return the product without saying why. If you’re buying the mattress online, you might be lucky to get a 100-day trial period or more. Ask, to be on the safe side. You don’t want to have any surprises. Needless to say, convenience comes at a price. If you want a good mattress, you’ll have to dig deep into your pockets.

Some stores will offer an exchange or credit. So, if you are not happy with your purchase, you can get something acceptable. Make sure the mattress is in perfect condition and has its original packaging. It is important to read the terms and conditions before heading off to the mattress shop. Check out the rules and guidelines that shoppers agree to follow. If you bought the mattress online, simply send the goods back within 14 days. You should get a refund right away. With bespoke items, things get complicated in the sense that you will struggle to get your money back. And you may be required to pay for the delivery.

Take your time and don’t act on impulse, even if it’s just a mattress. If you do not already have a budget, make one and stick to it. It will not take more than 10 minutes of your time. You can give yourself permission to spend a lot of cash, but do not exaggerate. Do not spend money just for the sake of it. If you are not sure whether or not to buy a product, wait a day or two before finalizing the purchase. You will think more clearly when your head is cold. The wrong mattress won’t offer you adequate support, not to say that it can ruin your sleep. Do your due diligence and avoid sleepless nights.

Generally speaking, brands have value. Look for a good quality product that gives you peace of mind. If the mattress is good, it will provide support and comfort. You will not even dream about asking for your money back.

To read more on topics like this, check out the Health category