Home Blog

Hype Hair & Conair Scunci Hair Accessories: Elevate Your Hairstyle Game at 950 Burlington Stores Nationwide

[ad_1]

Written By: Sabrina Peterson

Are you tired of the same old hairstyle? Do you want to add some flair and pizzazz to your locks? Look no further! Hype Hair and Conair Scunci hair accessories have joined forces to bring you an exciting range of stylish and trendy hair accessories, available at 950 Burlington stores nationwide. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or simply add a touch of elegance, these accessories are sure to elevate your hairstyle game to new heights.

The Power of Hair Accessories

Hair accessories have been a staple in the world of fashion and beauty for centuries. From elegant headbands to colorful scrunchies, these small additions can transform an ordinary hairstyle into something extraordinary. Not only do they serve a functional purpose by keeping hair in place, but they also allow individuals to express their unique style and personality.

Introducing Hype Hair & Conair Scunci Collaboration

– ADVERTISEMENT –

Hype Hair is a well-known brand in the beauty industry, offering high-quality products and inspiring hair trends for women of all backgrounds. On the other hand, Conair Scunci has been a go-to name for hair accessories, catering to various needs and tastes.

With their combined expertise and passion for hair, the collaboration between Hype Hair and Conair Scunci has resulted in an exceptional collection of hair accessories. This partnership brings together cutting-edge designs, durable materials, and the latest fashion trends to meet the diverse needs of their customers.

Discover the Collection

The Hype Hair & Conair Scunci hair accessories collection at Burlington stores is a treasure trove of fashion-forward pieces suitable for any occasion. Here are some of the standout items you can find in this exclusive collection:

1. Glamorous Headbands: Add a touch of sophistication to your look with elegant headbands adorned with pearls, rhinestones, or intricate patterns. These headbands can effortlessly elevate your hairstyle for weddings, parties, or formal events.

2. Chic Hair Clips: For a trendy and modern look, explore the variety of hair clips available in the collection. From minimalist designs to bold and eye-catching pieces, these clips can easily enhance your everyday hairstyles.

3. Versatile Scrunchies: Scrunchies are making a comeback, and for a good reason! They are gentle on your hair and can be used in numerous hairstyles, from messy buns to half-up half-down looks. With a plethora of colors and patterns, you’ll surely find the perfect scrunchie to match any outfit.

– ADVERTISEMENT –

4. Stunning Bobby Pins: Say goodbye to plain and uninspiring bobby pins. The collection offers a selection of decorative bobby pins that can add a touch of glam to your updos or simply keep your hair in place with style.

5. Fashionable Hair Ties: Upgrade your basic hair ties to trendy and chic ones. Whether you prefer sleek metal hair ties or playful printed elastics, this collection has something for every taste.

Embrace Your Unique Style

One of the most significant advantages of the Hype Hair & Conair Scunci collection is its versatility. Whether you have short hair, long locks, curly tresses, or straight strands, there’s an accessory that perfectly complements your unique style. Experiment with different combinations and hairstyles to discover new ways to express yourself through your hair.

Find Your Perfect Hair Accessory

The Hype Hair & Conair Scunci hair accessories collection is available at 950 Burlington stores nationwide, making it easily accessible to shoppers across the country. When visiting your nearest Burlington store, you’ll find a dedicated section filled with an array of hair accessories, allowing you to browse and find the perfect match for your hair and personal style.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take your hairstyles to the next level with the Hype Hair & Conair Scunci hair accessories collection. Explore the assortment at Burlington stores near you and embrace the power of hair accessories to express your unique style and make a statement with your hair.

– ADVERTISEMENT –

[ad_2]

National Cheer Up The Lonely Day

[ad_1]


July 11th is National Cheer Up the Lonely Day. This day is about making someone feel less alone by showing them your support, especially if they are grieving, depressed, or having a challenging time with a medical condition. Although the summer season is a fun time to relax and to forget about financial issues; It is also a time when some get depression, boredom, or feel empty. This emptiness can be a lack of motivation, a lack of finances, and a lack of not letting anyone know about your deep feelings. Yet, this loneliness can also arise when you are with your family and friends having an enjoyable time during their summer vacation.

Often there are no reasons for feeling lonely. But there are times when you don’t feel yourself and want to pretend that you are having a fun time. Therefore, it is good to have friends and family members that show their support. Also, when they help you feel better when you are feeling summer loneliness or loneliness during a tough time. National Cheer Up the Lonely Day is an important day to check in with your family, friends, and people you haven’t heard from in a long time.

If you know someone who feels lonely or may seem lonely, write a handwritten message on a card or a letter. Visit them and suggest playing music that will cheer them up. Another way is by bringing them a box of chocolates, coffee, or something they like to eat and share with you. Buy flowers with a funny card to make them smile. Hug them if they permit you.

Suggest watching a movie together or taking a walk outside with them. Talk to them slowly and with kindness. Do acts of kindness for them. Also, have a surprise party for them or offer to share your extra food pantry items with them. Offer to help them clean out their closet, garage, or anything that is on their cleaning list.

Spend time with them while giving them cheerful comments, telling appropriate funny jokes, or letting them express how they are feeling. The summer months can be long, and boring, and can make anyone feel lonely. Yet, checking in on your friends, family, and other relationships can make you have a stronger connection with them. You don’t need a lot of money to have a fun time with someone; Often the best fun times are when there is less money while cheering up your friend. Here are websites that have more tips about cheering for someone lonely.

Easy Ways to Cheer Up the Lonely and Combat Loneliness-Work Smart, Live Smart:

Easy Ways To Cheer Up The Lonely and Combat Loneliness – Work Smart. To install Livesmart. (www.worksmartlivesmart.com)

24 Ways to Cheer Someone Up-Declutter the Mind:

24 Ways to Cheer Someone Up – Declutter The Mind


* Font and artwork made in Photo Collage Editor Maker

[ad_2]

8 Astonishingly Healthy Ways To Soothe Yourself – You Must Get Healthy

[ad_1]

Imagine you had a rough day at work and you come home feeling stressed and anxious. You want to unwind and relax, but you’re not sure how to do it in a healthy way. You could reach for a drink or snack, but you know that’s not going to make you feel better in the long run. What you need are some healthy ways to soothe yourself.

We all experience times of stress, sadness, and other difficult emotions. When this happens, self-soothing is essential to help restore balance and well-being.

In this post, we’ll explore healthy ways to self-soothe and provide helpful tips to ensure that you take care of yourself in a beneficial way. You will find out a variety of techniques and strategies that you can use to calm your mind and body, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote relaxation.

8 Healthy Ways to Soothe Yourself

Here are seven healthy ways to self-soothe that you can incorporate into your weekly schedule.

1. Exercise with friends or loved ones

When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, it can be helpful to get your body moving. Exercise is one of the healthy ways to self soothe and release pent-up energy.

You don’t have to spend hours at the gym or run a marathon to reap the benefits of exercise, either. Even a short walk around the block or a few minutes of stretching can make a difference.

But sometimes, exercising alone can feel isolating or even daunting. That’s why connecting with friends or loved ones during physical activity can be even more beneficial.

Consider going for a hike, joining a fitness class, or even taking a yoga class with a friend. This way, you’re not only getting the physical benefits of exercise but also the social benefits of connecting with others.

Studies have shown that social support can help reduce stress and anxiety. Being around people you trust and care about can help you feel more grounded, and sharing your experiences can give you a fresh perspective.

2. Get outside in nature

Nature has a calming effect on our minds and bodies. It’s important to take the time to step outside and take in the natural beauty around us. Whether it’s a walk in the park or a hike in the mountains, being in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety.

The sound of birds singing, the feel of the sun on our skin, and the fresh air can be very soothing. Studies have shown that spending time in nature can improve our mood, immune system, and cognitive functioning.

So, take a break from the screen and immerse yourself in the natural world. Go for a walk, have a picnic, or simply sit and admire the scenery. You will feel more refreshed and self-soothing.

3. Listen to calming music

Another major way to self soothe is to listen to calming music. Music has a powerful effect on our emotions. Listening to calming music can help us relax and reduce stress.

Create a playlist of your favorite soothing songs, or try listening to instrumental music. Studies have shown that slow, instrumental music can lower blood pressure and decrease anxiety.

Experiment with different types of music to find what works best for you. Classical, natural sounds or even white noise can be helpful for some people.

4. Engage in a hobby

Sometimes when you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, taking a step back and engaging in an activity that you truly enjoy can be helpful. Whether it’s knitting, painting, or playing an instrument, engaging in a hobby can be a great way to calm your mind and focus on something positive.

5. Read a book

Reading is another great way to self soothe. Reading can transport you to another world and help you forget your worries. It’s a way to escape from reality for a little bit and just relax.

6. Practice meditation or mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness are powerful techniques to help you find inner peace and soothe your mind and body. Meditation is a practice that involves focusing your attention on a single point, such as your breath or a mantra while letting your thoughts and emotions pass by without judgment.

On the other hand, mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment without distraction or judgment.

Both techniques can help you reduce stress and anxiety, increase self-awareness and improve your overall well-being. If you’re new to meditation or mindfulness, start with a few minutes each day and gradually increase your practice.

You can practice meditation or mindfulness in various ways, such as sitting or lying in a quiet place, attending a meditation class, or using a meditation app. One popular technique is guided meditation, where a teacher or app guides you through the practice and helps you focus on your breath or other sensations in your body.

7. Take a relaxing bath

One of the simplest and most effective ways to self-soothe is by taking a warm and relaxing bath. A nice soak can help ease physical tension and stress, soothe sore muscles, and provide a calming sensation to the mind and body.

Here are a few tips to enhance your bath experience:

  • Create a soothing atmosphere: Light some candles, dim the lights, and put on some soft music to create a peaceful environment.
  • Add some Epsom salt: Epsom salt is known for its soothing properties and can help reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, and detoxify the body. Add a cup or two to your bathwater.
  • Use aromatherapy oils: Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang can help calm the mind and body. Add a few drops to your bathwater or use a diffuser to release the scents into the air.
  • Stay in the moment: Focus on the sensation of the warm water, the scents, and the sounds around you. Take deep breaths and allow yourself to relax and unwind.

8. Journaling

Journaling is an effective way to process emotions and thoughts, both positive and negative. Whenever you write down your thoughts and feelings, you can gain clarity and perspective on your experiences, which can help you identify patterns, triggers, and solutions to your problems.

It can also help you release tension and reduce stress, which is why it is often recommended as a tool for anxiety and depression.

Furthermore, journaling can serve as a record of your personal growth and progress, which can be motivating and inspiring. Overall, journaling is a valuable tool for self-reflection and self-care, which is why it should be included in any list of healthy ways to self soothe.

Conclusion

Self-soothing is an important skill to have in your mental and emotional toolkit. If you learn and practice the healthy ways to self soothe, you can reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation and mental clarity, and improve your overall well-being.

Nevertheless, not all these steps will work for you. Experiment carefully and choose the one that works best for you. Remember that creating a “me” time to self soothe is important.

[ad_2]

Faces All Around: Understanding Pareidolia and How It Works

[ad_1]

What is something that is common at all those supposedly haunted places?

All of them are dark, noisy, and have a lot of ambiguous stimuli. These are picture-perfect for the occurrence of a process termed pareidolia.

Have you ever looked up at the sky and seen a cloud that looked just like a face or animal? Or maybe you looked at a photograph and noticed a face that wasn’t there? Or have you ever listened to a voice note and heard something that wasn’t said at all?

This phenomenon of seeing faces and perceiving random noises is pareidolia. It is the construction of familiar patterns in random stimuli around you. While it is generally associated with visual patterns, the term is also used when referring to other sensory patterns like sound. In the case of sound patterns, it is called auditory pareidolia.

It is easy to discard pareidolia as some sort of funny optical illusion or, even worse, a psychotic delusion. However, a growing body of research says that pareidolia is the key to understanding how the human mind works to process our external surroundings.

On that note, let’s dive deeper into pareidolia and understand how the phenomenon works.

Why Does Pareidolia Occur?

To put it simply, there is nothing wrong with seeing faces in clouds or toasts. It is just a by-product of our extremely evolved and dynamic perception system. Our skills in this particular department are so strong that even high-quality supercomputers would struggle to match them.

Now there are three main neurological reasons why we create patterns out of random stimuli. Let’s take a look.

1. Parallel Processing

You see, unlike computers, human brains are programmed to carry out massive parallel processes. This makes our brains the perfect field for churning out patterns and making associations while navigating through large amounts of data.

2. Human Perception

The second reason for pareidolia to occur is human perception. Our perception is an active constructive phenomenon. A chunk of this process is taking a picture of our surroundings and then quickly stifling through the catalogs in our memory to find the most suitable match for it. So when a blob looks like a horse, your brain automatically matches it to a horse and additionally adds more details to make it seem even more like a horse.

Expectations play a pretty huge role in this process. So when a person tells you, “Do you see a beast in the clouds? That’s its tail,” this image pops into your head. Now that your brain has found a set pattern, it starts constructing that image.

In the same way, if someone tells you that if you listen to a particular song backwards, you will hear something different, then most probably you will.

Evolutionary Perspective

Do you know that our affinity for seeing faces comes from a neurological region in the brain? The fusiform face area is a part of the brain’s visual association cortex. This area specifically works on remembering and recognizing faces.

Evolution has favored this particular ability in humans because we are a social species. Our ancestors who easily identified between friends and enemies or saw the face of the lion in the grass had better chances of survival. Since humans were periodically hunter-gatherers, such a survival instinct was necessary.

Read more: 7 Unusual Psychological Disorders You Probably Didn’t Know About

Is Pareidolia A Mental Disorder?

Pareidolia was once considered a symptom of psychosis. While it is now considered a part of regular human experiences, studies have indicated that a higher tendency for pareidolia might be a sign of a significant mental or neurological disorder.

As per research published on Frontiers, pareidolia is associated with the following conditions:

  • schizophrenia,
  • bipolar disorder, and
  • dementia.

Read more: Best Online Therapy Platforms – 6 Easy-To-Use And Affordable Sites

Conclusion:

If you have ever seen faces in clouds and toasts or heard something that doesn’t exist, you have experienced the phenomenon of pareidolia. Pareidolia is associated with the neurological functioning of the human brain and can be explained through evolution. While it is part of the human experience, the process is also associated with certain mental disorders.

Just like pareidolia, there are countless other brain processes and disorders unknown to most of us. Do you know that there is a condition that leaves humans blind in the mind? Yes! It is called aphantasia. To learn more about it, click here.

To continue learning about mental health daily, subscribe to Your Mental Health Pal.

[ad_2]

What is a Gonorrhea rash? – Better2Know Blog

[ad_1]

No one likes getting rashes – they’re irritating and unpleasant.

Most rashes are completely harmless – the result of chafing, dry skin, or a benign allergic reaction. However, other rashes can indicate something far more serious.

One of the more serious causes of a rash is Gonorrhea.

In this post, we will discuss Gonorrhea, what a Gonorrhea rash can look like, and provide a list of other STIs that can cause rashes.

What is a rash?

A rash is an area of ​​irritated or swollen skin that can be red, itchy, and painful. Rashes can occur anywhere on the body and are usually caused by contact with something irritating, such as plant life, an allergen (eg, to food or medication), an infection (eg, bacterial or viral), or even stress.

In some cases, rashes may also indicate a more serious health condition, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or lupus. It is important to seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your rash, as different types of rashes require different treatments in order to heal properly and reduce discomfort for the patient.

What is Gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, It can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, eyes, and throat.

Gonorrhea is spread through sexual contact with an infected person and often doesn’t show any symptoms, making it difficult to detect. However, if symptoms do appear, they can include pain during urination, increased vaginal discharge, and discharge from the penis.

What is a Gonorrhea rash?

If left untreated, Gonorrhea can lead to a body-wide infection known as disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which can cause a rash as one of its symptoms. DGI occurs in around 3% of people with Gonorrhea.

A Gonorrhea rash can present with several different kinds of lesions or spots, including:

  • Petechiae: Tiny red spots that appear when bleeding occurs under the skin.
  • Macules: Flat spots on the skin that differ in color from the surrounding area.
  • Papules: Raised, firm spots that can appear in various sizes and colors.
  • Pustules: Small, inflamed bumps filled with pus resembling a pimple.
  • Vesicles: Small blisters filled with fluid that are often itchy.
  • Bullae: Larger blisters are filled with fluid that can extend deeper into the skin.

What other STIs cause a rash?

It is important to note that Gonorrhea is not the only STI that can cause rashes.

H.I.V.

At some stage, individuals with an HIV infection commonly experience a rash, either during the acute or chronic stages. A rash may be the only symptom of the infection for some individuals. HIV can cause various types of rashes to appear.

An HIV infection weakens your immune system by attacking your CD4 lymphocyte cells, which are vital in the fight against infections. This increases your vulnerability to other infections that could potentially result in a rash.

Syphilis

The initial stage of Syphilis can lead to the development of sores (known as chancres), mainly around the genitals, vagina, anus, or rectum. In the secondary stage, a rash may appear on the body, typically on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet. The rash may appear rough and red or reddish-brown.

The rash may manifest in different ways, such as small blotches or scales all over the body resembling a prickly heat rash, severe cold acne, moist warts in the groin area, white patches in the mouth, or pustules.

Herpes

If you have herpes, you may develop fluid-filled blisters around your genitals (Genital Herpes) or mouth (Oral Herpes) that appear wet. These blisters can burst and leave a sore, but the skin will eventually heal. You might feel itching or burning at the site of infection shortly before an outbreak.

Scabies

Scabies is a skin infestation caused by tiny mites called Sarcoptes scabiei, These mites burrow into the skin and lay eggs. The main signs of the infection are severe itching and a rash that resembles acne or pimples, with small pink bumps, blisters, or scales. The rash can be limited to one area or spread over the entire body.

Scabies is a type of infection that can spread through prolonged skin-to-skin contact such as hugging or holding hands. Sexual contact is not required to contract Scabies.

Zika virus

The Zika virus is mainly spread by mosquitoes in certain areas around the world, including the Americas, Caribbean, Africa, and Asia. However, it can also be transmitted through sexual contact.

Some people with the virus may not experience any symptoms, but those who do may develop a rash. The rash is typically very itchy and consists of flat blotches and raised reddish bumps. It usually appears between 3 to 12 days after the initial infection and may spread to various parts of the body, including the face, arms, legs, palms of the hand, and soles of the feet.

final thoughts

If you suspect that you may have an STI, it’s important to get tested.

At Better2Know, we offer a wide range of STI tests for anyone who thinks they may have an STI. Call the number above to speak to one of our Sexual Health Advisors, who can help you find the right test and clinic for you.




[ad_2]

Smoking and heart disease – It’s time to quit! – Cecelia Health

[ad_1]

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Many people do not realize that smoking not only affects your lungs and can cause lung disease and lung cancer but smoking also harms nearly every organ in the body, including the heart and blood vessels. Smoking is a major factor for heart disease and if you smoke, there are many benefits to quitting which will help protect your heart.

How is your heart affected by smoking?

Tobacco smoke impacts the heart and blood vessels in many ways. Cigarettes are filled with harmful chemicals, like carbon monoxide and nicotine, all of which contribute to the dangerous effects of smoking. Carbon monoxide is a toxic gas you inhale when you smoke, and it, along with the other chemicals breathed in when you smoke, damages your heart and blood vessels. Once in your lungs, the carbon monoxide and chemicals are transferred to your bloodstream, where they decrease the amount of oxygen that is carried in the red blood cells. Both the chemicals and carbon monoxide also contribute to the deposits of plaque buildup in your arteries. When plaque, a sticky substance, builds up inside your arteries, a common condition called atherosclerosis develops. This buildup of plaque causes your arteries to narrow. The narrowing of the arteries reduces the supply of oxygen-rich blood to vital organs in the body. The buildup of plaque and decreased oxygen in your blood can lead to a heart attack. Along with these findings, it is also known that cigarettes contain one of the most dangerous chemicals, nicotine. Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical which can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate while also decreasing the flow of blood to the heart and contributing to the narrowing of the arteries. Smoking also puts you at risk for blood clots as it damages the lining of the blood vessels, which can cause clots to form. Combining smoking with other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obesity, increases your risk of a heart attack or stroke. Studies show that cigarette smokers are 2 to 4 times more likely to get heart disease than a non-smoker and smokers double their risk of having a stroke. There are many other ways smoking affects your body and is bad for you, but this alone should be enough to make you want to quit!

What happens to your heart once we quit?

According to the American Heart Association and the US surgeon general, these are a few ways your body, particularly your heart, starts to recover when you quit smoking, some of which occur almost immediately:

  • In the first 20 minutes: your blood pressure and heart rate recover from the nicotine-induced spikes.
  • After 12 hours: the carbon monoxide levels in your blood return to normal.
  • After two weeks: your circulation and lung function begin to improve.
  • After one year: your risk of coronary heart disease is reduced by 50 percent.
  • After 15 years: your risk of coronary heart disease is the same as a non-smoker’s.

Let’s get started with breaking the smoking habit!

Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your overall health. It is not easy, but it will be worth it! Nicotine is highly addictive, so it is important to be prepared and to enlist support. Think about your reasons for quitting and what will motivate you to quit for good. Have a support person or people with you on your journey. Some things that are motivating factors to quit could be: protecting your family from secondhand smoke, wanting to breathe better and to exercise without coughing, wanting to improve your cholesterol levels and improve your heart health, or wanting to lower your risk of lung cancer. Once you make the commitment to quit, look at what will work best for you. Some people will choose to do it on their own by cutting back or stopping completely and immediately. It can be very difficult to quit “cold turkey” as smoking is an addiction, and when your brain is hooked on nicotine you may go through withdrawals when stopping it entirely. It is ok if you need to get additional support to help you quit for good. The good thing is there are many options for smoking cessation which include: nicotine replacement therapy, classes, apps, hypnosis, medication, and counseling.

Choose your method of quitting.

Talk to your doctor about quitting and decide if you will need medicines to help you with your process. You may choose to cut back on your own or use nicotine replacement therapy or prescription medications. Many people start by cutting down on the number of cigarettes they smoke each day. For example, if you smoke 20 cigarettes per day, gradually cut down to 10 for a few days, then 5 and so on until you are smoke free. Another method is to only smoke part of the cigarette, reducing the amount until you stop smoking completely. Count how many puffs you normally take from each cigarette, then reduce the amount every few days. Some people may choose not to quit this way and there is the option of nicotine replacements. Nicotine replacement therapy can help prevent withdrawal symptoms like headache, mood swings and low energy. Nicotine replacements can be bought over the counter and come in the form of lozenges, patches or gum. It is important to read the directions on these products as over time you will decrease your dosage to help lower your addiction to nicotine. There are also prescription medications that your doctor can prescribe which help decrease your urge to smoke and can help you quit. It is also important to also create healthy lifestyle

habits to replace your urge to smoke. Most people smoke to relax so think of other things that you can do such as going for a walk, listening to music, eating a healthy snack, connecting with nonsmoking friends to enjoy a new hobby, enjoying a cup of coffee or tea, and remembering to lean on your support person when needed.

Whichever method you choose, just remember there are plenty of resources available to get you started.

Many states have smoking cessation programs. The North American Quitline Consortium has each state listed and provides information on what is available in your state. Many states have free online programs, free phone counseling, email support, additional resources and may provide nicotine replacements.

You can find your state at this website and find the support programs available to you: NAQC Quitline Map (naquitline.org)

There are also national programs and quit help lines which can be found on the CDC website: Smoking and Tobacco Use | CDC

Making the commitment to quit can get you one step closer to being a healthier version of yourself.

[ad_2]

Social health and its importance to us and our workplace – In Equilibrium

[ad_1]

An easy visual image of the importance of the 4 pillars of health wellbeing is to imagine a hut on four stilts built over water. Each stilt representing one of the 4 pillars – physical health, mental health, financial health, and social health. If one of those stilts is damaged there is an impact on the other three, and therefore to the hut as a whole. A more up to date image may be to include a 5th Stilt as many feel there should be a pillar within human health wellbeing for nutritional health.

Before the pandemic it was the pillar of social health which we found most difficult to articulate, measure, and provide persuasive arguments for even doing so in the workplace. During what we may now refer to asnormal times‘, social health was a topic which could really go unnoticed, at least at work. A topic with a perception that it was relevant to a minority. Perhaps of greater significance to the older age groups of the population. The social health levels of the majority of those of working age being considered reasonable.

As we now know, Covid changed a lot including depleting most people’s levels of social health. This highlighted to so many its importance and the valuable part it plays in our overall health wellbeing. Something we perhaps took for granted and may have found impossible to imagine before experiencing life during a global pandemic.

Social health – what is it?

Social health is that aspect of our wellbeing which comes from our connections with others. It includes our ability to form close, secure relationships with those in our family, workplace, or community. It encompasses nurturing our relationships and treating people with respect and kindness.

Benefits of good social health

For the individual – can lead to positivity and social confidence, as well as boosting self-esteem. Those with a good social network around them may feel less stressed and be more productive, creative, and resilient. An individual with good social health is more likely to appreciate time on their own rather than feel alone. It is interlinked with the other pillars of our overall well-being. For example, poor mental health could lead to anxiety issues which may reduce someone’s social health by them not feeling up to interacting with others. If physical health and/or financial health are poor, are we going to be able to enjoy or be in the right mental place for social interaction with family, colleagues or friends?

For an organization – Workplaces where employees enjoy good social health tend to be more productive, motivated and creative with a freer flow of ideas, better communication and greater respect. This tends to result in associated positive benefits for the bottom line. This pillar of wellbeing’s value is gaining momentum in the workplace after reports that poor social health has been considered as worrying as smoking daily cigarettes, obesity or having a mainly sedentary lifestyle.

Creating social health opportunities at work

Whichever side of the line you fall regarding the benefits of remote working brought on by the pandemic, most people discovered that a, if not the, major pitfall was their reduced connections with colleagues that may have previously been taken for granted.

Getting to know each other as people rather than simply employees can allow colleagues to discover they have an interest in common. This can build their social network by fostering authentic relationships at work. We can all appreciate that everyone’s social health requirements are personal and should not be forced. However, the time and effort committed by an organization to ensuring opportunities are available will benefit those individuals who choose to engage and contribute to a positive and creative working culture.

Some suggestions for reigniting social connections at work:

  • Find reasons to get together to celebrate
    eg anniversaries of service, achieving a goal, or in certain situations commiserate if something hasn’t gone well despite the positive efforts of colleagues or teams.
  • Arrange a team building activity periodically to bring people together to share skills perhaps not seen in the workplace.
    There was an inspiring story of a colleague teaching others to knit a square so everyone could contribute to the making of a patchwork blanket for a seriously ill colleague.
  • Include check-ins at the start of team meetings which may potentially highlight aspects of other’s wellbeing and a forum to encourage social support.
  • Offer events which may appeal to many across the organization as a good way to get people from different teams or departments mixing and developing positive relationships company wide.

Many organizations include one of our wellbeing at work courses as part of an away day event …



[ad_2]

8 Plants To Give You A Little Pep In Your Step – You Must Get Healthy

[ad_1]

If you’re like most people, you are familiar with mornings when you can’t seem to get going. The cause could be almost anything, such as pressure at work, difficult situations at home, or staying up too late. Whatever it is, a lack of energy may prevent you from enjoying activities and hurt your quality of life.

While your lack of energy should be addressed, the result is often the same. You might feel tired all the time and want to sneak away to sleep. Fortunately, this problem may be easy to fix, at least temporarily.

Many plants contain organic compounds that may provide a variety of benefits. Some botanicals, like the following eight herbs and extracts, may offer temporary feelings of energy that might help put the pep back in your step.

1. Mint Tea

Mint tea may include ingredients from up to 23 species in the Lamiaceae family, including spearmint and peppermint.

Widely available in most grocery stores, mint teas contain menthol and a rich blend of flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. Menthol may increase mental alertness and reduce fatigue.

Flavonoids are antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory qualities and other benefits. Mint teas also contain rosmarinic acid, which may have antiviral and antibacterial properties. These properties make mint a popular ingredient in many DIYs. detox recipes.

Ginseng

Ginseng root

Several species of ginseng grow in Asia and North America. These include Korean, Chinese, and American ginseng. All are members of the Panax genus.

Ginseng contains ginsenosides, an organic compound that may have a range of benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may help boost energy by increasing levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) inbody. ATP is a storehouse of organic energy needed for metabolic processes. By increasing the level of ATP, you may experience a corresponding boost in energy.

You can buy this botanical in liquid, tea, and powder form.

Rhodiola

rhodiola rosea grows natively in parts of North Asia and was traditionally used by indigenous peoples for a variety of benefits, including increased cardiovascular health.

Rhodiola may reduce the destructive effects of age-related conditions and may increase oxygen levels in the blood. More oxygen in the blood may help increase alertness and boost energy levels.

you can find Rhodiola online or in stores that carry botanical products.

4. Kratom

Kratom is an herb that is popular in Southeast Asia. It comes from the Mitragyna Speciosa tree, which is native to that region. Kratom is used socially and in traditional medicine in some cultures.

Kratom contains alkaloids that may affect the sympathetic nervous system, which controls a number of responses and processes in the human body. This effect may lie at the heart of kratom’s effects.

Kratom can be soothing, and it can be energizing. These effects depend on the type of kratom used, the amount, and the individual user.

The three main kinds of kratom—red, white, and green strains—have similar but slightly different effects. Green and white strains may hold the most energy-boosting potential, with red being a more soothing strain, but much depends on the individual user.

You can buy kratom in stores specializing in quality botanicals and from online retailers.

5. Black Seed Oil

black seed oil

This botanical is an extract of black cumin, or Nigella Sativaa plant native to the Middle East.

Black seed oil may have several beneficial properties. It contains many phytochemicals, like thymol and thymoquinone, among others. These compounds may have anti-cancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Black seed oil also contains oleic acid and other fatty acids that may help your body metabolize nutrients better, leading to a temporary energy boost.

You can purchase it online or in select natural food stores.

Maca

Maca is a botanical extract made from the roots of the Lepidium meyenii plant, a plant native to the mountainous regions of the Andes. This South American herb contains unique compounds, including appropriately named macaenes and macamides. These organic compounds can be classified as fatty acids and may be responsible for maca root’s properties.

Maca may have many beneficial effects. It may increase circulation and raise the level of oxygen in the blood. Both of these effects may provide a temporary boost in energy.

You may find maca root online or in specialty botanical stores.

7. Guarana

Guarana comes from Paullinia Cupana, a plant native to the Amazon River region. Indigenous peoples of this tropical climate employ guarana for a variety of benefits. It contains a high level of caffeine and other active ingredients, including theophylline and theobromine.

People who cannot tolerate coffee or tea due to compounds other than caffeine may benefit from the energy-boosting qualities of guarana. Guarana may have additional benefits, too, including anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.

Many commercial energy drinks blend guarana with other substances. You can purchase guarana extract online and at stores specializing in nutritional substances and imported botanicals.

8. Catuaba

Catuaba is an extract that comes from the bark of several different Amazon trees. The two most common trees are Trichilia Catigua and Erythroxylum Vaccinifolium,

The active ingredients in catuaba include alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, plus yohimbine. These alkaloids, including catuabine A and B, may work the same as caffeine. Flavonoids and tannins may provide anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial protection and more. Yohimbine may increase blood circulation, particularly in the genitals, help with weight loss, and increase mental clarity. These combined effects may result in a temporary energy boost.

Catuaba can be ordered online or in stores that carry imported botanicals.

Use Nature Wisely

If you lack the energy needed to participate in regular activities, consider trying these botanicals. Use them carefully and treat them with respect. Follow all directions on product packages and avoid combining different botanicals. By understanding how these products work and using common sense, you may safely add them to your life and use the power of nature to put some pep back in your step.

AUTHOR’S BIO:

Tess DiNapoli is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist who writes for Kratora. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness, but also enjoys covering the fashion industry and the world of fitness.

[ad_2]

Kohlrabi Fritters with Herb Yogurt Sauce

[ad_1]

Ready in 30 minutes or less, these kohlrabi fritters are perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Packed with grated veggies like kohlrabi, zucchini, and carrot, these crispy fritters are topped off with a lemony herb yogurt sauce.stack of four kohlrabi fritters on speckled plate with herb yogurt sauce drizzled over top

Why I Love This Recipe

Fritters are a great way to use up veggies that are almost on their way out.

You can grate almost any veggie combination, mix it with some spices, egg, and flour and fry those babies up like there’s no tomorrow. Easy peasy.

Fritters also transform the veggies. Full disclosure, I’m not the biggest zucchini fan. I know, veggie blasphemy.

But I’ve discovered that if I grate zucchini and throw it into fritters or tacos or sauce, I totally dig it. Problem solved.

If there’s a veggie that you’re not over the moon for, try grating it into a fritter and see what you think!

I love that this recipe is totally customizable – you’ll aim for about 1.5 lbs of veggies (not including the onion) or 7.5 cups grated veggies (before squeezing out the water), use two eggs and 1/2 cup flour. Add your spices and/or herbs of choice and voila! You’ve got your fritter batter.

If you have a CSA (community supported agriculture) box this summer or frequent your local farmer’s market, you’ll definitely want to try these fritters!

Ingredients You’ll Need

graphic of ingredients for kohlrabi fritters on marble surface with black text overlay Notes on Ingredients

Kohlrabi: looks and tastes like a turnip but it’s a little sweeter and milder in flavor. Kohlrabi hails from the brassica family, which is known for its chronic-disease fighting antioxidants. It’s an excellent source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C (contains more vitamin C than orange juice!) and is a good source of fiber.

Zucchini: slightly sweet and mild in flavor. Excellent source of vitamin C and B6.

carrots: adds a pop of color to the fritters. You can grate them with a box grater or using a food processor.

onions: adds aromatic flavor

Parsley: brightens flavor and adds balance

eggs: helps to bind the ingredients

flour: thickens the fritters and contributes to crispiness

garlic powder: also adds a punch of flavor

salt and pepper: essential flavor enhancers

Equipment You’ll Need (affiliate links – if you make a purchase I receive a small commission)

cast iron pan

How to make Kohlrabi Fritters

graphic how to make kohlrabi fritters with sauce step by step

  1. Combine the veggies. Add grated kohlrabi, zucchini, carrots and onion to cheese cloth and wring out any excess water. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add spices and binding ingredients. Mix in the egg, flour, garlic powder, parsley, salt and pepper.
  3. Form and grill fritters. Add olive oil to a cast iron skillet (or a regular frying pan is OK) over medium-low heat. Drop fritters into the pan and flatten out with a spatula. Cook until golden-brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  4. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel to absorb some oil.
  5. Serve fritters! Serve hot (while they’re nice and crispy!) with herb yogurt sauce.

Expert Tips

  1. It’s so important to make sure you’re wringing out all the excess water and moisture out of the veggies, otherwise you’ll end up with fritters that brown quickly and are undercooked in the middle. To help with this, you can salt your veggies in a colander and let them sit for 10 minutes before wringing them out with a cheese cloth. I also found that using a citrus squeezer helped to wring out a lot of excess water.
  2. For a huge time saver, use a food processor. with a grater attachment to grate your veggies instead of using a hand grater.
  3. To customize the fritters based on whatever veggies you have on hand, use this formula: 1.5 lbs (or 7.5 cups grated) veggies + 2 eggs + 1/2 cup flour + spices and herbs of choice!

Recipe FAQs

How do you get fritters to stick together?

Get the skillet hot. A hot skillet will start cooking the fritters as soon as they hit the pan. This helps create that crispy texture which gives the fritters a satisfying taste while helping to hold them together. You’ll also need to use a binder like eggs + flour.

Why are my fritters falling apart?

If your fritters are falling apart, it’s likely because the batter didn’t have enough binding ingredients or the fritters are sticking to the skillet because you needed more oil.

The most common reason is that there was too much moisture in the veggies – make sure you thoroughly dry out the veggies by wringing them out in a cheese cloth before preparing the batter so the binding agents can hold the fritters together.

If you don’t have a cheese cloth, add veggies to a strainer and sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes and then wring out excess liquid with hands.

What are the different ways to eat kohlrabi?

There’s a lot you can do in the kitchen with kohlrabi! Thinly slice and eat it raw with a yogurt dip, shred it into a slaw or salad, roast it in the oven, sauté it (you can sauté the leaves too!), puree it into a soup, or shred it into fritters!

Is kohlrabi good for your gut?

Kohlrabi is packed with nutrients that are linked to various health benefits. It’s rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber which help support digestive processes and maintain healthy gut bacteria. two plates of kohlrabi fritters with side of herb yogurt sauce with parsley on top

Storage and Preparation

Zucchini kohlrabi carrot fritter leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, add fritters to a pan over medium-low heat and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. To reheat from frozen, let them defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipes That Pair Well

Caprese Pasta Salad with Pesto

Summer Peach Corn Salad

Roasted Potato Salad with Egg and Herb Vinaigrette

6 Ingredient Corn and Tomato Salad

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Salmon

stack of four kohlrabi fritters on speckled plate with herb yogurt sauce and parsley on topFor more veggie inspiration, check out my other recipes below!

Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer)

Air Fryer Zucchini Chips

Grilled Summer Vegetables with Romesco Sauce

Instant Pot Asparagus

Vegan Chickpea Burgers

If you like this recipe, please be sure to comment and give it a 5 star rating below, If you make it, share it on Instagram and tag me @karalydonrd and I’ll re-share it with my followers! If you want to save this recipe for later, be sure to pin it on Pinterest!

Don’t ever miss a recipe! Sign up to receive my monthly newsletter with a round-up of recipes from the previous month and get my FREE guide when you sign up, Rediscover the Joy in Eating: 5 Simple Steps to Stop Stressing Over Food + Enjoy Every Bite

This recipe was retested, reshot and revamped to bring you the most delicious (and most beautiful) dish! The original post was published in August 2016.

prints

watch clock iconCutlery cutlery iconflags flag iconfolders folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconFacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Description

Ready in 30 minutes or less, these kohlrabi fritters are perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. Packed with grated veggies like kohlrabi, zucchini, and carrot, these crispy fritters are topped off with a lemony herb yogurt sauce.


For the Fritters:

  • 2 medium kohlrabi (about 14 ounces), leaves removed, peeled and grated
  • 1 small-medium or 1/2 large zucchini (about 6,8 ounces), grated
  • 2 medium or 3 small carrots (about 5 ouncespeeled and grated
  • ½ cup diced onions
  • ½ cup chopped parsley
  • 2 eggs, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided

For the Yogurt Sauce:

  • 1 cup plain greek yogurt
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt


For the Fritters:

  1. Combine kohlrabi, zucchini, carrots, and onion in a cheese cloth* and wring out any excess water. Transfer to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add parsley, eggs, flour, garlic powder, salt and pepper and mix to coat evenly.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to cast iron skillet (or a regular sauté pan) over medium-low heat. Once oil is hot enough, drop 1/4 cup of fritter batter into the pan and flatten out with a spatula. Depending on the size of your skillet, cook a few fritters at a time, leaving space in-between. Cook fritters until golden-brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
  4. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel to absorb some oil.
  5. Serve fritters hot and crispy with herb yogurt sauce.

For the Yogurt Sauce:

  1. Mix yogurt, lemon zest, parsley, oil, and salt until combined. Serve alongside fritters.

Notes

  1. To save time, shred vegetables in a food processor, using the grater attachment, instead of hand grating them.
  2. If you don’t have a cheese cloth, add veggies to a strainer and sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10 minutes and then wring out excess liquid with hands.
  3. I found that using a citrus squeezer helped me wring out more liquid than using my hands did!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Category: side
  • Method: cast iron
  • Cuisine: Plant based

Keywords: kohlrabi fritters, kohlrabi recipe, kohlrabi veggie fritters, kohlrabi zucchini fritters



[ad_2]

The Power of Partnership: Riane Eisler’s Gifts to the World Are Needed Now More Than Ever – MenAlive

[ad_1]

Recently I had the great good fortune to interview my long-time friend and colleague Dr. Rianne Eisler. We covered a wide range of topics about the power of partnership both in our personal and professional lives and the work that her Center for Partnership Systems has been doing over the years.

Today I want to tell you about the new Power of Partnership (POP) podcast series that just launched on June 27, 2023 where Dr. Eisler described her partnership-domination scale and four cornerstones to transform how we think of our past, present, and the possibilities for our future.

The POP Podcast highlights ways people are helping build a world that values ​​caring, nature, and shared prosperity by applying the Partnership ethos, Dr. Riane Eisler’s ground-breaking alternative to the Domination Systems which are at the root of our most pressing challenges.

My colleagues Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly-Hunt will be featured on the podcast on July 11, 2023 sharing their work on “Safe Conversations: From Conflict to Connection.” I am scheduled to be on the podcast on August 8, 2023. My topic is “Healing Men and Leaving Behind Male Violence.”

The Center for Partnership Systems was started in 1987 by Riane Eisler and David Loye as a response to their groundbreaking book, The Chalice and the Blade, which had just been published. In The Chalice and the BladeDr. Eisler describes her research of re-examining human history from a gender-holistic perspective and the Cultural Transformation theory she developed that is based on her findings.

In the chalice, dr. Eisler writes that this theory proposes that underlying the great diversity of human culture are two basic models of society.

“The first, which I call the dominant model, is what is popularly termed either patriarchy or matriarchy–the ranking of one half of humanity over the other. The second, in which social relations are primarily based on the principle of connecting rather than ranking, may best be described as the partnership models. In this model—beginning with the most fundamental difference in our species, between male and female—diversity is not equated with either inferiority or superiority.”

The mission of the Center is to catalyze movement towards Partnership in all aspects of our lives and at all levels of society through research, education, grassroots empowerment, policy initiatives, and resources.

I met Riane shortly after the publication of The Chalice and the Blade in 1987. My first book, Inside Out: Becoming My Own Man was published in 1983 and we met in San Francisco to talk about her work and mine. At a time when many women, including a number of feminist scholars, were viewing men and patriarchy as the cause of our problems, Riane’s scholarship and experience offered a much different narrative; one that recognized the importance of men’s and women’s issues as being core aspects of the partnership-domination dynamic.

Riane’s support of men was courageous and transformative. Her words, which I still quote often, are even more important now:

“For millennia men have fought wars and the Blade has been a male symbol. But this does not mean men are inevitably violent and warlike…The underlying problem is not men as a sex. The root of the problem lies in a social system in which the power of the Blade is idealized–in which both men and women are taught to equate true masculinity with violence and dominance and to see men who do not conform to this ideal as ‘too soft’ or ‘effeminate.’” (The Chalice and the Blade, p. xviii.,

Riane has continued to expand and refine these basic tenets through her subsequent research and writing culminating with her book with Douglas P. Fry, Nurturing Our Humanity: How Domination and Partnership Shape Our Brains, Lives, and Future. I have also deepened these ideas through my own research and sixteen books since inside out culminating with my most recent book to be released later this year, Long Live Men! The Moonshot Mission to Heal Men, Close the Lifespan Gap, and Offer Hope to Humanity.

No one must remind us that we are living in challenging times. In Nurturing Our Humanity Riane and Douglas describe humanity’s dream for a better world and the realities we are facing today:

“For millennia, humans have imagined a peaceful and just world. Sometimes we only imagined this world in an afterlife. But over the last centuries, many of us have imagined it right here on Earth. Not a utopia, not a perfect world. But a world where peace is more than just an interval between wars, where dire poverty, brutal oppression, insensitivity, cruelty, and despair are no longer ‘just the way things are.’

“Now there is a new urgency to our wish for a more human world. Every day we are bombarded by news of barbaric human rights abuses, terrorist attacks, proliferation of nuclear weapons, and a drift back to strongman rule. The destruction of our natural environment continues at an accelerating pace, endangering our global life-support systems. New technologies, from artificial intelligence to biological engineering, could have catastrophic results if guided by cultural values ​​of greed, megalomania, and disregard for human rights.”

These may be the truest words I’ve ever spoken. “Riane Eisler’s gifts to the world are needed now more than ever.”

You can listen to POP podcast episodes wherever you get your podcasts, or to see a full library of episodes and links, go to the Center for Partnership Systems at https://centerforpartnership.org/the-power-of-partnership-podcast/ .

To learn about the POP podcasts and speakers go to Center for Partnership System at https://centerforpartnership.org/the-power-of-partnership-podcast/.

Visit the Center for Partnership Systems at https://centerforpartnership.org/.

You can subscribe to my free weekly newsletter with the latest information about gender-specific healthcare at https://menalive.com/email-newsletter/.

[ad_2]