Home Blog

Tips for Sleeping Better Naturally

sleeping woman

Maintaining good physical and mental health require regularly getting a sound, relaxing night’s sleep. Consequences of not enough sleep can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular and kidney disease, breathing, difficulties, respiratory problems and obesity. Lack of sleep also has a negative impact on memory, mood and rational thinking. Over the counter sleeping aids and prescription drugs may provide temporarily relief, but can have undesirable and even dangerous side effects. Fortunately, there are some healthy, natural alternatives for getting a good night’s rest.

Melatonin is a substance produced by the pineal gland to control circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal clock that regulates the sleeping and waking cycle. As people age, melatonin production can slow, disrupting sleep patterns and leading to insomnia. Available at health food stores, small doses of Melatonin taken as a dietary supplement can help promote sound sleep.

Tryptophan, which occurs naturally in turkey, is the substance that makes people drowsy following a big Thanksgiving Dinner. Tryptophan produces serotonin, which in turn makes melatonin, the same substance produced by the pineal gland that regulates the circadian rhythm and helps promote sleep. Tryptophan is also found in dairy products, nuts and legumes, and can be purchased as a dietary supplement at health food stores.

Chamomile has been known for centuries for its mild tranquilizing effects and sleep-inducing properties. Also known as “sleep tea”, chamomile helps relieve depression and decrease anxiety. People experiencing sleep disorders may find a cup of chamomile tea taken half an hour before bedtime can make the difference between lying awake tossing and turning for hours or getting a good night’s rest.

Valerian root is another natural substance known to promote sleep and relaxation. Found in health food stores and pharmacies, it’s an herbal sleep aid that’s been used for years to treat insomnia and anxiety. Taken before bedtime either in capsule form or brewed as a tea, valerian root promotes sound sleep by increasing the body’s gamma aminobutryic acid (GABA) level, which is a naturally occurring substance that helps relieve anxiety by relaxing the brain.

Physical exercise, according to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, can also bring relief to chronic insomnia sufferers. According to the study, as little as just 10 minutes daily spent engaged in low-intensity aerobic exercise such as walking or cycling can significantly improve relaxation and sleep quality. Exercise also helps reduce the risk of stroke, sleep apnea and various other sleep disorders.

The Right Mattress can also help improve sleep quality without resorting to potentially habit-forming medications. Replacing an old, sagging mattress with a well-constructed sleep system that gives the proper support for the sleeper’s body type, weight and preferred sleeping position often brings immediate relief from insomnia, bodily aches and pains and other sleeping problems.

As with any physical disorder, it’s always a good idea to consult with your health care provider before using sleep inducing supplements or starting an exercise routine.

Sit n Sleep Infographic - Natural Alternatives for Sleep Quality
Republished with permission from Sit n Sleep

Resources:

Mind Games: How FreeCell Solitaire Keeps Your Brain Engaged

Have you ever wondered why certain games never lose their appeal, no matter how much time passes? One such game is FreeCell Solitaire. This classic card game, with its simple rules and engaging gameplay, has been keeping minds sharp for decades.

FreeCell Solitaire is more than just a fun pastime. It’s a mind game that offers a myriad of cognitive benefits. It requires strategic thinking, attention to detail, and a bit of patience. But, how exactly does playing freecell online keep your brain engaged? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of this timeless classic.

One of the most significant benefits of playing FreeCell Solitaire is its ability to enhance your problem-solving skills. Each game presents a unique puzzle that requires you to plan several moves ahead, just like in a game of chess. It challenges you to think strategically, which can help improve your decision-making skills in real-life situations.

Moreover, FreeCell Solitaire is a great way to boost your memory. Remembering the positions of various cards and planning your moves accordingly can provide a healthy workout for your brain. According to an article on Healthline, engaging in activities that challenge the brain can help improve memory and cognitive function, especially as we age.

But, what about relaxation? Can FreeCell Solitaire help you unwind after a long day? Absolutely! The game’s rhythmic pace and familiar patterns can provide a sense of calm and focus, making it an excellent stress-reliever. As noted by the Mayo Clinic, engaging in leisure activities can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Stress relief can also occur when playing Hearts at https://worldofcardgames.com/hearts/ as an alternative.

So, why not give it a shot? Playing FreeCell Solitaire online is a fun and convenient way to keep your brain engaged. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, you’ll find that this game offers a perfect blend of challenge and relaxation. And who knows? You might just discover a new favorite pastime.

Now, here’s a question for you: How has playing mind games like FreeCell Solitaire impacted your life? Feel free to share your experiences in the comments section below. After all, there’s nothing more compelling than a good game story, especially when it’s about a game as timeless and engaging as FreeCell Solitaire. 

test

3 Tell Tale Signs of Malnutrition

Some people assume that you need to be practically starving to be malnourished, but that’s not the case. A simple change in mood could indicate that you’re missing some important nutrients or vitamins. Any type of deficiency is malnutrition, and it can be difficult to tell if you’re malnourished since the symptoms can be so subtle. But, if left unchecked, they could lead to much more serious issues. Here are some common signs that you may be malnourished.

Depression

A lot of people don’t realize how much food can affect mood. Even something as simple as being slightly dehydrated can affect things like concentration and even exacerbate the symptoms of depression and anxiety in certain adults.

This is why you need to look at your diet if you’re feeling depressed. Saturated fats, for instance, have been shown to increase the chances that you develop depression while foods rich in omega-3 fats, like salmon and other varieties of fatty fish have been shown to decrease them. So, you might want to replace red meat with fish at least two times a week if you want to up your weekly intake of good fats and feel better.

You’re Feeling Sluggish

If you’re lethargic and feel like you can’t get out of bed in the morning, this is one of the clearest signs that something may be missing from your diet. Brain fog is another one. Brain fog, for instance, has been associated with a deficiency in iron, vitamin B12 vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, while fatigue is also associated with a vitamin D and iron deficiency.

This is something you need to pay extra attention to if you’re suffering from a health issue that may affect your food consumption, like dysphagia, for instance. If you’ve been eating less because you can’t get through the taste of your thickened foods and beverages, you may want to switch to a new thickener and see if it makes food more palatable. SimplyThick makes a great line of products that are recognized for their great taste, so try them if you haven’t already.

Also, try to add more protein and calories to your meals to make them more nourishing. Adding eggs to mashed potatoes, for instance, or olive oil to vegetables will instantly increase the nutrient content without adding volume or changing the texture of the food you eat.

Mood Swings

Mood swings can be the result of things happening in your life, but they can also be exacerbated by imbalances in your diet. People who are deficient in magnesium, for instance, are more prone to having mood swings and showing signs of bipolar disorder. This is why you may want to look at a magnesium supplement if you have mood issues.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it could be a good idea to look at your diet and pay closer attention to what you’re eating. You should also consider seeing a doctor so you can get to the bottom of your issues.

Kid Friendly Things to Do in Abilene TX

1. Visit the Abilene Zoo – The Abilene Zoo is a great place for kids to see and learn about animals from all over the world. There are over 1,000 animals at the zoo, including lions, tigers, and bears. The zoo also has a petting zoo, where kids can get up close and personal with some of the animals.

2. Take a dip in the Abilene Town Lake – The Abilene Town Lake is a great place to cool off during the hot Texas summers. There are two beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun, or take a swim. There are also plenty of fishing spots, so don’t forget your pole!

3. Hit the trails at Abilene State Park – Abilene State Park is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are over 30 miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a 9-mile stretch of the scenic Llano River. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for deer, armadillos, and even bobcats!

4. Learn about history at the Frontier Texas! museum – The Frontier Texas! museum is a great place for kids to learn about the state’s rich history. The museum features interactive exhibits, a replica frontier town, and even a folk art gallery.

5. Play at Play Faire Park – Play Faire Park is a great place for kids to burn off some energy. The park features a variety of playground equipment, as well as a train, carousel, and Ferris wheel. There is also a picnic area, so you can pack a lunch and make a day of it!

6. Ride the miniature train at Calderone Farms – Calderone Farms is a working farm that also happens to have a pretty cool miniature train that kids can ride. The train makes a loop around the farm, and kids will love seeing all of the animals up close.

7. Get creative at The Grace museum – The Grace museum is a great place for kids to let their imaginations run wild. The museum has a variety of hands-on exhibits, as well as a planetarium and a Children’s Museum.

8. cheer on the local team at a Abilene Bombers game – The Abilene Bombers are the city’s minor league baseball team, and they’re always a blast to watch. The Bombers play their home games at Crutcher Scott Field, and tickets are very reasonable.

9. bowl a few frames at Town & Country Lanes – Town & Country Lanes is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening bowling with the family. The bowling alley also has an arcade, so there’s something for everyone.

10. catch a movie at the Paramount Theatre – The Paramount Theatre is a historic movie theatre that shows both new releases and classic films. The theatre also hosts special events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for showtimes and tickets.

Kid-Friendly Things to Do at Folly Beach

Kids at the beach

Folly Beach is a great place for families to enjoy the outdoors and the beach. There are plenty of kid friendly things to do, such as building sandcastles, swimming, fishing, and exploring the nearby tidal creek. Families can also enjoy a picnic on the beach or in one of the many parks.

1. Visit the Charleston Tea Plantation

The Charleston Tea Plantation is the only tea plantation in North America, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and production of tea. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation, taste different kinds of tea, and buy tea to take home.

2. Stroll along the Folly Beach Pier

The Folly Beach Pier is a great place to take a walk, relax, and take in the views of the ocean and the nearby coastline. The pier is also a popular spot for fishing, and you might even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two.

3. Go for a swim at Folly Beach County Park

Folly Beach County Park is a great place to enjoy the beach without the crowds. The park has a wide, sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing.

4. Visit the Charleston Museum

The Charleston Museum is the oldest museum in the United States, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of the city and the state of South Carolina. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, and you can even take a tour of a historic house.

5. Take a carriage ride through Charleston

A carriage ride through Charleston is a great way to see the city and learn about its history. Your carriage driver will point out important landmarks and tell you stories about the city.

6. Visit Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is a National Monument that commemorates the start of the Civil War. The fort is located on an island in Charleston Harbor, and you can take a ferry to the island to tour the fort and learn about its history.

7. Take a walking tour of Charleston

There are a number of different walking tours available in Charleston, and they’re a great way to see the city and learn about its history and culture. Many of the tours are led by local historians, and you’ll learn a lot about the city’s past.

8. Shop at the Charleston Farmers Market

The Charleston Farmers Market is a great place to buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products. The market is open every Saturday, and it’s a great place to find gifts for friends and family.

9. See a play at the Dock Street Theatre

The Dock Street Theatre is the oldest theatre in the United States, and it’s a great place to see a play or musical. The theatre is located in the historic district of Charleston, and it’s a great place to learn about the city’s history.

10. Visit the Angel Oak Tree

The Angel Oak Tree is a live oak tree that’s over 500 years old, and it’s one of the most popular attractions in Charleston. The tree is located on Johns Island, and you can take a ferry to the island to see the tree up close.

Frequently Asked Questions about Folly Beach

1. What is there to do on Folly Beach?

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on Folly Beach! Surfers can hit the waves, sunbathers can relax on the sand, and there are also fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding opportunities. For those looking for a little more adventure, there is also the Folly Beach County Park, which features a playground, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

2. Where is Folly Beach located?

Folly Beach is located in Charleston County, South Carolina. It is situated on a barrier island off the coast of Charleston, and is accessible via the Folly Beach County Park Bridge.

3. What is the history of Folly Beach?

Folly Beach has a long and rich history. It was first settled by Native Americans, and later became a popular seaside resort destination in the 18th and 19th centuries. The island was also the site of a major Civil War battle, and was heavily damaged by Hurricane Hugo in 1989.

4. What is the weather like on Folly Beach?

The weather on Folly Beach is pleasant and mild for most of the year. The average temperature in the summer is in the low 80s, and in the winter it is in the mid 60s. However, the island can be subject to hurricanes and tropical storms, so it is important to be prepared for severe weather if you are planning a visit.

5. What is the best time to visit Folly Beach?

The best time to visit Folly Beach depends on what you are looking for. Surfers and sunbathers will enjoy the summer months, while those looking to avoid the crowds may prefer to visit in the spring or fall.

How to Stay Fit when Life Gets in the Way

How to Stay Fit when Life Gets in the Way

If you want to stay fit but feel as though life just keeps getting in the way, then you are not alone. So many people are in the same situation that you are, but there are things that you can do to try and make things easier on yourself. This guide will help you to stay committed to the results you want to achieve.

Work out your Reason Why

Your reasons for working out are truly fundamental to your business. Some evidence has suggested that younger people tend to go to the gym if they want to improve their appearance. Older people however tend to do it more for health reasons or even stress reduction. Of course, if you want to make sure that you are successful, then you have to work out your reason for working out, instead of just trying to work out in general. If you are finding it hard to exercise because you don’t have time, then this also needs to change. If you have any limitations, removing them is the best way to ensure success. If you have mild or indeed severe back pain when you work out, then it would be wise for you to visit a chiropractor in Libertyville IL clinic to obtain suitable treatment to relieve the issue.

Get off to a Slow Start

At the beginning of the year, you may find that you have a lot of motivation to get started with fitness. You may promise yourself that you are going to change your diet and that you are also going to stop drinking too. That being said, sometimes you may be going too intensive with your workout. You need to start out with nice slow jogs or even fast walks. If you can do this with two or even three days’ rest, then this will help you to get through the first month with some degree of consistency. As always, consistency is key to success.

You Don’t have to Love It

It is helpful for you to try and avoid making yourself do things that you hate. You should not feel as though you have to enjoy exercise, a lot of people who stick with it simply say that they feel better when they have done it. Elements like this can be enjoyable, rather than the exercise itself. For a lot of people, going to the gym isn’t fun, but it is important that you try and find enjoyment in the little things where possible. If you can do this, then you will soon find that you are able to experience more success with the gym.

Get a Good Support Network

Lack of individual motivation is only a small part of the big picture. Parenting, money, and general demands are all stumbling blocks, and they can impact your physical activity. If you can try and make sure that you have a lot of support around you, then you will certainly find it a lot easier to maintain your figure. Take the time to make sure that your whole family is on-board with supporting you, and also make sure that you explain to them how important it is for you to achieve success.

Balancing Out Your Lifestyle as a Physician

Doctor's lifestyle

One of the most challenging parts of being a physician is trying to balance things out. Most people tackle such careers knowing that it’s not going to be a walk in the park, but not many people realize just how challenging it can get. Physicians typically don’t have much time for themselves, which can cause all sorts of problems for those who resign themselves to a stressful lifestyle.

It turns into an ironic situation where physicians can help others with health issues, but not themselves. Fortunately, it’s not a situation you ever have to resign yourself to. When it comes to living life as a medical professional, here are a few ways you can balance things out.

  1. Consider your career options

Surprisingly enough, life as a physician isn’t something that has to be set in stone. Just because a career in medicine is known to be stressful and hectic doesn’t mean every direction will lead you down the same path. For example, locum tenens work involves taking assignments in various medical facilities to fill in specific roles. You’re not expected to do much outside of those responsibilities, which means you’ll have more time for yourself, especially if you get the help of reliable medical recruitment companies.

You’d be surprised how many new physicians go for locum tenens, as it looks good on a resume while simultaneously being an easier time for people to gain experience. That said, it’s not for everyone, especially those that might not be ready to travel around to tackle assignments.

  1. Keeping up with family and friends

One of the reasons why some physicians end up feeling overworked and even depressed is the fact that they end up being isolated due to their work schedules. Many people tend to turtle up and focus entirely on their career, letting relationships with family and friends drift by in the process.

If you want to balance your lifestyle, a top tip is to ensure you keep in touch with the people you love, as they’re the ones you’ll need the most when you’re not feeling too motivated to keep going. The more you spend time with your loved ones, the easier it gets to handle the responsibilities of being a physician.

  1. Learning to schedule everything

Last but certainly not least, it doesn’t sound enjoyable to have to schedule every little thing, but you’d be surprised how easily you can manage your time if you plan even the things you do for fun. For example, going out with friends can seem like too much of a hassle if it’s out of the blue, but if you schedule it a week in advance, it’ll be much easier to handle. Learning to schedule various aspects of your life and not just work responsibilities can help you balance things out.

Conclusion

Trying to maintain a career in medicine can be tough, but it’s by no means impossible to balance. You can experience a fulfilling career without having to compromise your physical and mental health in the process. As stated above, locum tenens offers an opportunity that might just be up your alley.

3 Reasons to Keep a Family First Aid Kit

In every household in the UK, there should be a well-stocked first aid kit. Accidents and emergencies can strike when you least expect them, and knowing you have the essentials on hand will mean you can provide instant care and treat wounds and injuries. In some cases, it can be the difference between life and death.

A first aid kid is essential for both minor and severe accidents. To prevent further injuries and infections, here are several reasons why you should keep a family first aid kit, helping to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Quickly Treat Injuries

In a medical emergency, a first aid kit lets you handle the situation as quickly as possible. In a serious event, a delay of just 60 seconds can result in irreconcilable damage. First aid kits provide instant and basic care for all kinds of medical injuries, such as cuts and burns. As you will have everything you need in one place, you won’t waste any valuable time trying to find a particular item. Instead, you can quickly reach for what you need and provide instant care for a loved one.

Less Risk of Complications

If you don’t have a family first aid kit and a medical emergency occurs, you may have to use whatever is in your reach to treat the injury. Unfortunately, this can do more harm than good. Having a well-equipped first aid kit will mean you have the correct products in place to stop further complications from happening.

Peace of Mind

Ultimately, having a well-stocked family first aid kit will provide you and your loved ones with peace of mind. When an injury occurs, instead of panicking and not knowing what to do, you’ll be able to retrieve what you need and tend to your loved one in a matter of seconds. Make sure you regularly replenish your first aid kit and let the household know where it’s situated.

What to Buy

There are all sorts of products that you should purchase for your family first aid kit. These include hand sanitiser, compression wraps, medical tape, and disposable masks. Many of these items can be bought from medical-supermarket.com. Other essentials you can buy include plasters in different shapes and sizes, safety pins, disposable sterile gloves, and scissors. To ensure you have everything you need, it’s wise to create a checklist beforehand. This means you can go down the list and check whether it’s in the kit. The last thing you want is for a medical emergency to strike to find you haven’t got what you need. While it may seem like a hassle purchasing so many items, you cannot put a price on the health and safety of your loved ones.

No matter how careful you are, if you have young children running riot around the home, they’re more likely to encounter an injury. Should disaster strike, you’ll want to know you have the supplies needed to treat wounds and keep everyone safe. If you haven’t got a first-aid kit already at home, now is the time to take action.

Staying Healthy While Truck Driving

When you are in a job such as truck driving, you are inevitably going to find yourself in a sitting position for much of the day. This is obviously not as healthy as when you are in more active job roles. Therefore, you need to do everything that you can to ensure that you look after your health in the best possible manner. There are a few techniques that you can use, however. Keep reading to find out more.

Choose Your Jobs Wisely

You can start off by choosing the right job role in the first place. If you are looking on a permanent basis, you can select a company based on their overall reputation and how well they are known for looking after their drivers. If you are looking for jobs on a contracted or a less permanent basis, you can search through hundreds of loads on a truck loads site. This way, you are able to know exactly how long you are going to be out on the road and how tough the conditions will be.

Eat and Drink Right

When you are out on the open road, it is extremely likely that you will be tempted to stop at the common fast food outlets along the way. Instead of doing this, you should make a special effort to eat right. This often means that you should make some snacks to keep you going beforehand. Many supermarkets also have a healthier section nowadays that you should be drawn to. Also, it is always going to be worth having a bottle of water that you can keep drinking from whenever and wherever possible.

Wear Sunscreen

Another common issue that you can be exposed to when you are driving is getting sunburnt. This is often something that truckers forget about, but when you get burnt, this can result in all sorts of other health problems arising in the near or long-term future. With this in mind, it is certainly worth making sure that you lather yourself up in sunscreen to offer the highest level of protection possible.

Exercise When Possible

Whenever you are able to stop, it is certainly worth taking the opportunity to do some exercise. Instead of sitting down again, a stroll around is going to help you out significantly. When you finish up for the day, it is certainly worth having a clear exercise routine that you are able to follow. This can help you out in a big way when it comes to staying healthy.

Get Plenty of Rest

Another major issue that can occur when you are out on the open road is that you simply do not manage to get enough rest and relaxation. Not only is this important for your overall sense of health and wellbeing, but it can also make a difference when it comes to ensuring that you are safe when you are driving. You need to be taking frequent breaks, ideally every couple of hours and then getting 6-8 hours of sleep every night (or day, if you prefer driving at night).

All of these tips and tricks combined help you out significantly in being able to stay healthy while trucking.