Is Plastic Surgery Now the Norm?

Plastic surgery is on the rise like never before. With the influx of social media, a traditional media that is unforgiving of regular-looking bodies, and greater training of beauticians in favor of plastic surgery procedures, plastic surgery is easier to access and more normalized than ever.

 Plastic surgery is a difficult topic to talk about. While some condemn it, others believe that, as with most other body-positive issues, a person has the right to choose what to do to their body. If this is something that a person wants, they shouldn’t be shamed for it.

But looking at the statistics – at the growth in numbers of aesthetic plastic surgeries – you have to wonder if this massive change results from anything. Plus, whether the reasons behind more people flocking to plastic surgery are something we should be worried about.  

Are more people getting aesthetic plastic surgery?

This plastic surgery epidemic is felt most keenly in the US, where plastic surgery has become so popular, it has taken over first place from Asian countries. In 2020, the United States saw more plastic surgery procedures than any other country, according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons. The last survey they conducted in 2016 showed that 4.2 million plastic surgery procedures for aesthetic purposes were performed in 2016. When worldwide numbers are taken into account, the US contributes 17.9% of all plastic surgeries worldwide.

Peers, parents, and the media: what has caused this greater desire for plastic surgery?

Scientists have found that people’s opinion of their own body is influenced by three factors: peers, parents, and the media.

 Social media has been around for fifteen years or so, and in that time, our relationships with our peers and the media have altered drastically. Now, we can see our peers in the best light: at the best angle, with the best filter, edited to perfection. As a result, our conceptions of what people look like – especially when these are people we do not know in real life – are skewed massively.

 So, when we turn to our bodies, we have a completely false and unreachable standard to meet. When we fall short, how do we feel about our bodies?

 Then there’s the media, which has never been forgiving towards imperfect (or normal) bodies. The media overly criticizes imperfection, and now they have the entirety of social media to work with. They create an impossibly trap for people: you will be criticized for imperfection, but you will also be criticized for a poor editing job on an Instagram post. With this paradox made clear, what if left to make yourself immune to criticism, but plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery: confidence booster or unhealthy coping mechanism?

Many argue that plastic surgery is just a way for people to feel more confident in their bodies, just like non-judged procedures, like ear piercing or teeth whitening with a dentist  (http://www.birminghamdentalcenter.com/).

 But the spike in plastic surgeries in recent years shows that the causes behind this need for body confidence are a dark, twisted web. If we took away modern social media, would as many people feel this need for body confidence that inspires more plastic surgery?

4 Ways To Improve Your Workout

It is recommended that we do at least 25 minutes of aerobic activity three times a week, but we all work out in different ways. Many of us have switched the gym for home workouts in the past year, while others have replaced their intense workouts with daily walks and more relaxing forms of exercise such as yoga. However, when it comes to working out, there are always things we can do to improve the quality of our workouts, and these tips will help us see better results.

Workout with a plan in mind 

Whether you work out at home or in the gym, you must know what you want to achieve out of that session. This does not mean that you need to have prepared a workout plan for the session; it can be as easy as deciding what area of your body you want to focus on and what pieces of equipment can help you work them out. However, workout plans are great for keeping you on track. Pamela Reif, a German fitness influencer, has her own app, which allows users to make a workout plan consisting of her workouts, which she posts to her YouTube channel. Workout plans like this one will help keep you on track and help motivate you to complete your daily workouts.

Invest in a therapeutic tape

Often working out can leave our bodies feeling sore and achy, particularly if the workout we have just completed has been strenuous. Therapeutic tapes are cotton strips that help ease muscle pain. These are extremely useful if you have pulled a muscle or ligament and will provide you with some much-needed relief. Suppose you are unsure of where you can purchase some therapeutic tape, kt therapeutic tape for sale.The less pain you feel, the more precise your workouts will be.

Include variety

If you perform the exact same workout every day, you will soon tire of it and simply not do it. This means that you will not see the same results as you would have done if you had continued the workout and this will demotivate you. Therefore, you should try to add variety into your workouts and maybe try different pieces of equipment when you are in the gym so that you do not become bored. This could also mean not doing a workout at all, and instead getting your exercise by going for a walk or a bicycle ride. Different forms of exercise can be greatly beneficial to you and your mental health. 

Workout with a friend

Going to the gym or out for a run with a friend can make all the difference. Not only does it motivate you, but it can make the workout more fun if you have a friend there to chat with and help check that you are performing your workouts safely. However, it would help if you were careful not to let your friend distract you too much; otherwise, you might end up not working out as much as you had initially planned. Making plans to work out with a friend will make you less likely to cancel your workout, too, as you will not want to let your friend down. This means that your friend holds you accountable, and consequently, you may notice your workouts becoming more frequent. 

It’s Time To Have Some Fresh Fun!

Have you heard about the new room escape games? This is a real-life game that offers huge amounts of fun. Based on the online Japanese game, Takagism, escape rooms are basically a game based in a locked theme room. Individuals have to work together and complete a series of puzzles and tasks in order to escape the room within the time period that is given. Read on to discover why this is an activity you should definitely consider giving a go…

It is really fun! 

There is only one place to begin and this is with the fact that new room escape games are exceptionally fun. This is a type of entertainment that all people enjoy as well. It doesn’t matter what your interests or hobbies are, how old you are, what sex you are… it is likely that you will definitely enjoy the time you spend in an escape room! In fact, of all the people that have played so far, the majority have said they would play again. 

An unconventional way of celebrating a birthday, hen party or bachelor party

Are you tired of celebrating in the same old way? Have you had countless birthday meals? Do you want to do something a bit different for your bachelor or hen party? If so, you can give everyone an occasion to remember by enjoying the activities in an escape room. This is an activity everyone will be talking about for a long time to come. You can get some T-shirts designed for the occasion as well. Check out these patriotic t-shirts for sale as a good example! Head to the bar after to complete the party. 

Lots of fun and challenging puzzles to enjoy

Your period within the locked theme room will include a whole host of varied puzzles to enjoy. Not only does this mean that you will really get the most out of your experience, but there is assured to be something everyone finds fun. 

Themed activity

A lot of people do not realise this but escape rooms are actually themed. You are not simply placed within a room and set a lot of random challenges. You will essentially be transported back to a certain period of time. You could go back to Ancient Egypt and be set in the depths of a pyramid for example. This really enhances the overall fun of the experience.

Great for team building

Another excellent advantage associated with escape rooms is that it is a great option for a team-building activity. Not only will your employees have a lot of fun with this trend, but escape rooms encourage teamwork and using your intuition and so this is an exceptional choice for any type of business. 

It is really not difficult to see why escape rooms are so popular. If you are looking for something fun and different to do, this is definitely something you should consider giving a go. From birthdays, to team building events, to hen and bachelor parties, to get-togethers… there are so many reasons and occasions to take advantage of this fun new game.

It's Time To Talk About Office Health Risks

The pandemic has made us painfully aware of some of the health risks inherent to working in office spaces. We’ve been told that germs can travel through the air and stuck to the surfaces we touch. Hand sanitizers and soap bars have now become the most popular stock items for offices in all industry sectors. Along with facial masks, they bring a sense of control and safety. However, it would be foolish to assume that germs are the only health hazard inside the office. As we prepare to return to the office and create a safe environment for all, it’s time to consider some of the most commonly overlooked dangers.

Office stress kills

The modern workplace is inflicting a dangerously high level of stress on all employees. In 2015, an analysis of 300 studies found worrying links between harmful workplace practices and mortality rates. Indeed, long working hours, lack of work/life balance, and unpredictable workload are some of the most commonly identified reasons to develop workplace anxiety, according to specialists. Conflicts between coworkers and managers can increase stress levels, yet a lot of employees need anxiety treatment supplements and therapy assistance even though they are healthy relationships with their coworkers. Businesses need to appreciate how internal decisions and processes can affect staff. 

The office diet single-handedly drives diabetic increase

What does the typical office kitchen look like? A lot of companies offer a variety of snacks and treats, which could have a negative impact on productivity and long-term health. But even if a business chooses healthy ingredients and foods, the kitchen layout can still be harmful to the team’s health. For instance, the proper cooking equipment in a small office kitchen could make it easy for employees to warm up their lunch or gain access to a fresh cup of coffee. This will reduce reliance on takeaway shops, and put people in control of their diet. 

What’s office flexibility?

Can you touch your toes? This might seem like a silly question, but sitting for a prolonged time can affect individual mobility and flexibility. Hip tightness is one of the first consequences of prolonged sitting. It might not seem like much, but gradually muscles develop tightness all across the body, from back to thighs. As a result, it’s not uncommon to develop soreness. Lack of flexibility also makes it hard to stick to a fitness routine, as it can be uncomfortable. Lack of flexibility increases fatigue syndrome and joint problems. 

Office loneliness, together but alone

It’s odd to think that even in the most numerous teams, people tend to be lonely. They are all working together, but office conflicts, power struggles, and lack of time compete together to prevent employees from building meaningful relationships. In fact, a lot of people suffer from isolation in the workplace. This can lead to depressive disorders. Unfortunately, the work culture doesn’t encourage social time inside the office. But introducing social events during working hours can help promote the idea that coworkers can rely on each other like friends. 

In conclusion, the pandemic is transforming the way we think about the workplace. It’s time to seize the opportunity to bring our offices to the next level, creating a space that supports both mental and physical health for all. 

Tips To Look After Yourself This Year

After the year we’ve had, it’s now more important than ever to look after ourselves. And with that being said, there are plenty of things that we can be doing to make sure that we’re taking priority over our own health and mental wellbeing this year. Here are some tips to look after yourself this year.

Treat Yourself

Life is all about focusing on number one but not everyone makes the time for themselves. We’re often so focused on keeping everyone else happy, that we end up neglecting our own happiness as a result. With that being said, it’s important to treat yourself every so often. The more you can treat yourself, the better it can help for your our mental wellbeing but knowing that you’re also spending money on yourself every so often. Whether you’re checking out a Blue Nile Review in order to get yourself a diamond ring or necklace, to simply getting yourself a takeout coffee, anything that’s an indulgence can be good for you. So do more of it!

Spend Time With Loved Ones

Spending time with loved ones is definitely something that we often don’t do enough and with the recent pandemic, it’s helped many of us to appreciate our loved ones even more. With that being said, try to find time to spend time with your loved ones, whether it’s family, friends, or even work colleagues. Make sure that you’re getting plenty of social activity on a regular basis because it’s certainly going to help with you feeling better in yourself.

Try to make time for others as well as giving yourself some time to yourself. It’s a fine balance but it’s something that’s definitely doable.

Try To Reduce Stress Levels

Reducing stress levels is important for your health because stress can really impact your health. If you’re not careful, it can do more damage to your health than most things in life. With that being said, try to find outlets for your stress levels. It could be that you do some exercise or pamper yourself to relieve stress. For others, it might be a glass of wine in the evening or spending a couple of hours, reading a good book. 

Find ways to relieve stress because it’s guaranteed to make you feel a lot better than you might be feeling currently.

Take Life Less Seriously

Taking life too seriously is something that many of us do at times where we feel like we need to prove ourselves to something or someone. It’s good to not stress the small stuff and to try and focus on what really matters in life. A job is just a job at the end of the day and very few people are saving the world through their job. The same goes for your personal life when trying to please other people. Try not to think about it too much and you’ll feel a lot better about it.

Looking after yourself this year is certainly something that should be done actively so use these tips to help yourself this year.

Modifying The Home For Someone With Physical Disability

Whether it’s someone you’re inviting to your own home or you’re taking on the responsibility as someone’s caregiver to help them in their own, people with special needs may be able to benefit from a range of adaptations to the home. Here, we’re going to look at a few and how they can suit people with varying levels of ability.

Accessing the needs of the individual

The first thing you should arrange is a sit-down with your loved one’s doctor and them to talk about the range of their physical abilities, any mobility or chronic pain issues to accommodate, as well as what they would most like to be able to do more independently. That way, you can get an idea of what changes to prioritize first.

Getting the funding

Making adjustments to your home can be costly. Depending on where you live, you may be able to apply for financial assistance to help bear the brunt of those costs. Take a look to see if there are any disability grants for home improvements that are accessible to you. Successful application for these relies on not just location, either, but also the scale of the needs of the individual and costs of the adaptations.

Improving access to the home

Most important for those with any disabilities that limit their ability to move is making the home both easier to get into and to move around in. For instance, not only might this include a wider front door and wheelchair ramps for access into the home. You should also think about changing the interior doors from ones that swing open to those that slide open to make them easier to use, as well. For any stairs, you should also naturally consider things like lifts.

Modifying the bathroom

One of the most important rooms to adapt is the bathroom, for a range of reasons. It has a higher chance of slips, trips, and falls, and it is also where your loved one might appreciate the most privacy. To that end, you should look for items like grab rails that can allow them to use this part of the home more independently.

Making things easier to use

For any parts of the home that the individual may need to operate, you should consider how much energy or effort it takes to operate normally and see if there are better alternatives. For instance, there are specialized bathroom faucets for those who might normally find them hard to use.

Adopting visual aids

Some disabilities may make it difficult for the individual to see or navigate parts of the home. This includes not only visual impairments but also special needs such as dementia. For instance, creating a dementia-friendly home might include labeling items such as storage furniture around the home, and avoiding any patterns that can be potentially disorienting. 

Which of the choices above you should use in the home should largely depend on the specific abilities of the individual. Hopefully, this has at least given you some direction to start investigating in, however.

How the COVID-19 Pandemic is Impacting Access to Healthcare

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused mass disruption. Each aspect of everyday life has been impacted by the Coronavirus situation, from interpersonal relationships to work-life and job security. 

The healthcare system is under mass pressure right now. The finite medical resources available are being stretched to their limits as healthcare staff battle against the full-force of a global pandemic. However, this unprecedented situation has consequences that extend beyond the symptoms of the virus, and global citizens face even more significant challenges than the Coronavirus itself. The impact of the pandemic and the resulting stay at home orders have taken a substantial toll on the mental health of people across the world. This is mainly due to the loneliness and isolation caused by quarantine. The mental health implications of life during the pandemic should not be underestimated. But, diminished mental wellbeing is not the only additional health issue that has resulted from the pandemic. One growing problem that has arisen during the Coronavirus crisis is that access to healthcare has also been negatively impacted. 

Reduction in patients accessing healthcare

Even during the beginning of the pandemic, there was a significant drop in the number of adults accessing healthcare. The CDC states that in the week 24 - 30 June 2020, four in ten adults in the US avoided seeking medical care as they were concerned about COVID-19. While worries about contracting the virus may be understandable, they could contribute to a far more severe issue. The majority of the adults that avoided seeking medical care were those with disabilities and those with two or more underlying conditions. While the chance of developing severe COVID-19 symptoms (should they contract it) may be higher in some people within these groups, there is also an increased risk of their existing conditions deteriorating further due to a lack of necessary medical care. Failing to monitor existing health conditions is a significant concern and could have a severe impact not only on the patient’s current health but also on their long-term prognosis.

According to the American Journal for Managed Care (AJMC), hospital admission rates for acute conditions dropped during 2020 compared to the previous year’s admission rates. This demonstrates that patients may be avoiding medical attention even for acute conditions.

Ensuring that non-COVID-19 patients seek medical attention

The Coronavirus remains a real threat to public health. But, it is also essential to mitigate the long-term damage. No one knows the future costs if patients continue to avoid accessing healthcare when it is needed. 

Continuation of care throughout the pandemic is vital to prevent long-term effects on public health. Making it easier for patients to access the care they need is crucial as reducing availability will create another barrier for patients to overcome. Treatment centers such as Enterhealth Outpatient services continue to be contactable day and night and providing telehealth appointments. Offering convenient access to care, such as virtual consultations, is an excellent way to help patients continue accessing the treatment they need both now and in the future. 

Tips for Caring for Your Vehicle

A car can often be taken for granted. Without a second thought, one gets into the car, starts it, and drives off to their desired location. And, it's done over and over again. As long as the car can travel, that is all that matters to most individuals. What if a problem with the vehicle suddenly occurs? Take the time in caring for your car to do more than just drive. Be safe on your travels by caring for your car in with these easy tips.

Car Washing

Whether your car is new or not so new, please keep it clean inside and out with a wash. Car detailing the inside can rid of stains and make the seats smell like new. Not only does this increase great hygiene for the driver and passengers, but it will get you feeling great about a clean interior. As for the exterior of the car, keep the paint looking fresh. Nice soap and wax spread over can give it the protective barrier it needs against the weather. The sun can give damage to the car over time, making the paint bubble and fade. Keep your car looking its best as much as you can.

Scheduled Maintenance

Every car needs to be running great and meet the standards of the road. It's typical to get your car maintenance and checked every five thousand miles. Make sure all your lights, wipers, pedals, and windows are working. Don't forget to check your tire traction as well. Traction is what keeps you safe on slippery roads. Check everything off the car to see if any part of the vehicle needs to be replaced. Be prepared for any weather when you hit the road. Another thing, check your smog and perform oil changes to keep your car up to date. Maintenance is a huge thing to schedule to keep your vehicle running great and against lawful protocols. 

Fill Up Gas Tank

Don't forget to fill up your gas tank. This is a task that can often be forgotten about or at the very least be put aside for later. Once your gas level lights up for being close to empty or is close to hitting the empty level, it is best not to wait. Don't waste another minute without getting fuels and lubricants. Keep in mind of much money and how often your tank needs to be filled. To make it easier for yourself, set a day every week to put fuel in your car. Never get stuck on the road unprepared in the future again.

With just a few tips to get your car running smoothly and looking good, you will be a proud vehicle owner. Get in your car with peace of mind knowing your vehicle is on scheduled maintenance. Put on your seatbelt and have a safe journey. To be safer in your car, consider getting car insurance to have you and the other party safe if an accident shall happen. 

Reflecting During the First Quarter

January has gone by fast. Very fast. To think we are already on our way to February in the new year can drive you to panic a bit. You may have resolutions you haven’t started yet and even got a bad start in the new year. No worries, this is the time to reflect and plan for the rest of the year. Here are some tips on how you can reflect and reset for the rest of the first quarter of 2021.

Firstly, take the time to write out all of the pros and cons of your first three weeks of January. What were some accomplishments (no matter how big or small) and what were some things you wished you could change. Use those items to help you pivot whatever problems you have for the rest of the first quarter. If you interviewed for a job but didn’t get it, list the reasons why you think you didn’t get the position and work on those challenges. Maybe even reach back out and talk with the company as a follow up to better understand where you may or may not have gone wrong. It’s always a good time to reflect but using this time to do it will only help enhance the rest of your year.

This is also a great time to plan out the rest of the first quarter. Try to list out five goals that you can accomplish by the end of March. They don’t have to be too big, just something that can help you stay motivated. It can be reaching out to a friend you haven’t heard from in awhile or completing an art project that you wanted to complete. Planning out a few things you want to accomplish and get done is another way to feel motivated for the rest of the year. Of course, you don’t want to add pressure on yourself. It’s ok to also just want to live life and go with the flow as well. As long as you take the time out to know what you want out of this year and reflect on what has happened so far, you will be ok. 

Age of Aquarius: What's to Come in 2021

Photo Credit | Elle

2020 has been a chaotic year. From the outbreak of COVID-19 to seeing one of the biggest civil rights movements happening with Black Lives Matter due to the deaths of Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Walter Wallace Jr.  and countless other innocent black lives, we have all been through alot. With so much darkness in the world right now it may be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. One may not be able to see that this year of turbulence was a way to birth a new era for us. With change comes disruption of the old to make space for the new. 

On December 21, the Age of the Aquarius will come into play and set a new way of life that has been so different then what we have been living for so long. According to Bustle, the “great conjunction” will take place which will be Jupiter and Saturn aligning with the sign of Aquarius which has not happened in nearly 400 years. Many astrologers believe this will be the beginning of a new age. Aquarius being an air sign represents what is to come in the year of 2021. Air signs represent intellect and new ideas. It's all about the innovation of thought, technology and our everyday lives. The revolution of mankind and how we come together as a tribe will be an importance. It will no longer be the ways of one for all but rather all for one. The focus will be collective, well-being and growth, growth of community and growth of self. 

Photo Credit | Midnight & Indigo

So, with the age of a new era coming to us this month, here are some ways to incorporate this for your own life. Be progressive in your thinking, think outside of the box and you may come up with some amazing ideas for yourself or even your business. Start building your tribe and community that you want to make long lasting bonds with. Not just be for self but for the world around you. Move away from over consumption and materialism just to be a part of the pack. If it's not a need, think about being more conscious in the things you purchase or consume. Lastly, don’t be afraid of the change. It may be uncomfortable but it will all be for the best and soon we will all see the light at the end of the tunnel. 

2 Bourbon Cocktails for This Holiday Season

Listen…I need a drink.  Between the holidays, working from home, and living, I need a drink --and I need one now.  I prefer bourbon, herbs, and fruit for cocktails.  These two drinks are just the thing to help mellow out your week.  I used Basil Hayden Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.  It’s smooth as hell with a clean finish.

Pear Julep

3 oz Bourbon Whiskey

2 oz Pear Nectar

3 Tbsp Honey simple syrup

Mint Leaves

Crushed ice

1.)    Place the mint and honey syrup into a glass and muddle.  When you’re muddling, you want to make sure to bruise the leaves, but you’re not trying to make a pulp.

2.)    Pour the crushed ice over the mixture. Then, add the bourbon and pear nectar.

3.)    Using the stem of the mint leaf, or a spoon, GENTLY swirl the julep until the glass becomes frosty on the outside. (about 20 seconds).

Bourbon Stomper

2 oz Bourbon Whiskey

2 oz Wegmans Black and Blue “Stomp” juice (contains: Blueberry, Apple, and Black Currant Juice)

1 oz Ginger Ale

1 pinched Sweet Basil leaf

Ice

1.)    In a cocktail shaker, mix the bourbon and juice. Pour into a glass.

2.)    Pour in ginger ale

3.)    Pinch the basil. Pinch the hell out of it. Place it on stop of your drink to float as you sip.

I loved trying this drink because of the sweet basil finish.  It is a very refreshing drink to enjoy this winter season at home.

3 Signs You Aren't Taking Care Of Yourself

It is no secret that it has been a challenging year. With so many different things to think about - from losing out on work to ensuring you can pay the bills, you've likely put self-care on the back burner. Unfortunately, this happens all too often, even without the extra stress that 2020 has brought along. 

As a result, you must develop healthy habits to take care of yourself. Remember, if you don't look after yourself - you can't look after others.

With that in mind, here are three signs you aren't taking care of yourself.

You're always tired

It's okay to feel tired from time to time, especially if you're reaching the end of a long week. However, if you are exhausted continuously - it is a clear sign that you aren't taking care of yourself properly. When you are tired, you are less productive, irritable and can even make yourself sick. Therefore, you must begin to prioritize rest and relaxation over being always on the go.

Here are some things you can do to combat fatigue. 

• Go to bed earlier.

• Turn off your phone an hour before you sleep, giving you time to wind down. 

• Avoid caffeine in the evenings, helping you drift into sleep.

• Don't overexert yourself. 

• Consult with a doctor to find out if you have an iron deficiency. 

• Meditate 

• Take part in some light exercise that can improve your energy levels

You're often sick

Getting sick is often unavoidable - and we all have a terrible cold now and then. However, if you find that you are always sick - be that coughing or sneezing - you need to try and find ways to boost your immune system and better protect yourself from illness. Here's how!

• Get enough rest, as this can weaken your immune system.

• Exercise regularly, at least three times a week.

• Prioritise self-care, don't let stress consume you

• Follow a healthy, balanced diet  healthy, balanced diet that can boost your immunity 

• Cut down on unhealthy snacks and alcohol 

• Take vitamin supplements when necessary

You don't seek help when you need it. 

Many of us chose to avoid our problem for as long as possible. Say you have fallen over at work and hurt your wrist. You may shrug off the initial pain and hope for it to go away over time, ignoring the fact that you could have sustained a severe injury. This avoidance is a clear sign that you aren't taking good care of yourself, and you should always ensure you seek help or additional treatment after an injury such as this. Then, if you want to make a claim, you can get in touch with professional injury lawyers, such as Prince Law Firm, who can use the medical evidence and records to support your claim. 

Though many of us are quick to ignore physical injuries, emotional pain is disregarded even quicker. However, if you are bottling up feelings of anxiety, depression or stress, they will only build up over time. You cannot merely box them away and forget about them - they'll find a way out. Therefore, you must reach out when you need help - whether you talk to a friend or a professional - it will make a huge difference.

The Introduction To Holistic Healing You've Been Looking For

What are your thoughts on holistic medicine? If you’re looking to live a little more natural, and seek to take an all round view on dealing with any illnesses or injuries, it’s certainly going to be an interesting concept for you. But maybe you’ve been left a little confused on the details, because there’s so much information out there and you’re just not sure where to start. 

Maybe you’ve been considering using holistic healing because you’ve been turned away by traditional medicine. Maybe you’ve been curious about holistic healing because of your low moods or self esteem. No matter what brought you to consult a guide like this, here’s what you need to know to get started on your holistic healing journey.

How Holistic Healing Works

By its very name, holistic healing takes a person and considers them as a whole, in order to improve their health and treat any ailments they have. It’s all about balance, and trying to achieve this in life, in order to keep a person healthy in the long term. Via this method, an optimal form of health can be reached. 

Holistically, the body is a system, and it all works in tandem. Because of this, if one part of the body isn’t working properly, the whole system is going to go down too. Let’s say you have some negative thoughts that inform your behavior - this could affect your health in a variety of areas simply because one link in the chain has gotten weaker. 

In all, holistic healing believes every single person out there has the power to heal themselves. However, if help is needed, people can be there, and focusing on the root cause of a condition is always going to be better than simply addressing and swiping away the symptoms. 

The Types of Treatments

There are many types of treatments in the world of holistic healing; they can be both alternative and traditional in the way they’re administered and how they work. Indeed, most of the healing powers of holistic treatment have been around for thousands of years, and as a result, have been thoroughly tried and tested. Let’s go through a couple of the main examples: 

Functional Medicine takes a scientific approach to the world of holistic healing. If someone has sought treatment via typical doctors and had no success, using Functional Medicine could be a great next step. Taking biological results, and the patient’s history, a diagnosis is attempted by considering the person’s root issues and what they may lead to. Of course, this is very simplistic, but you can do more in depth research here. 

Then, you also have Crystal Healing, which a lot of people swear by. Depending on the kind of crystals you want to invest in, you’re going to bring home different energetic properties that can be used to promote a similar kind of energy in your own life. 

But before you can use them, you have to program your chosen crystals first of all, in order to infuse them with the kind of healing energy you need. Then place them around your house. Indeed, even EMF shielding stones and crystals exist out there - using these to soak up the negative waves in your house that could otherwise cause damage is a very viable solution to modern problems often caused by the tech we keep in our homes. 

What You Should Do Next

So, now you know what holistic healing is at its basic level, what do you do next? If you’re interested in how holistic healing might actually help you, it’s key to seek help from a licensed practitioner. All kinds of holistic practitioners, otherwise known as ‘therapists’ can work in a variety of areas, so it doesn’t matter what your issue may be. You have a lot of options to reach out to here. 

Of course, if you do a bit more research, and you’re confident in your skills, there are some treatments you can administer yourself, such as the crystal healing mentioned above, or even a bit of acupuncture. Maybe pay a visit to a holistic therapist first, or take a course in order to learn the basic ropes, and see how you like the world of holistic healing. After all, you’re here to take healing powers into your own hands. 

Holistic healing is something a lot of people don’t understand. But if you’re curious about this world of alternative healing, this is a very good place to start. 

3 Changes You Can Make To Your Home Before 2021

2021 is fast approaching. As a result, the world seems to be breathing a collective sigh of relief as we can finally say goodbye to 2020 and start anew. However, you don't have to wait until January to start making changes - in fact, it's often better to get a head start on them. This is particularly true when it comes to making changes in your home. Here are three things you can do THIS MONTH that will have a significant change on not only your home but how you feel!

A deep clean

When we are busy, we often settle for 'light' home cleaning - this means we wash our dishes and brush the floors, but we often don't set aside the time to do a full clean. However, you'd be surprised about how different your home will look once you commit to one. Here are some things you should do: 

• Brush and sweep floors

• Organize your cupboards - throw away what you don't use

• Remove clutter from surfaces

• Reorganize your belongings 

• Clean windows (interior and exterior)

• Clean skirting boards

• Clean your bathroom until it shines

• Put curtains in the washing machine 

• Clean your attic/basement

When you are doing a deep clean, you will also be able to check your home for any signs of damage, giving you insight onto any renovations you may need to do in the future. If you are planning any major renovations - ensure you know everything there is to know before your home. 

For example, if built before the 1980s, your pipes may be lined with asbestos - and you must proceed with caution. Asbestos exposure can lead to extreme sickness - and it is crucial you take care of yourself and those around you. If you get sick as a result of asbestos, ensure you contact mesothelioma attorneys who can help you receive compensation. 

Stick on wallpaper

You've probably spent more time in your home this year than ever before. As a result, you've likely got fed up with looking at the same four walls over and over again. Introduce some change into your home with vibrant, stick on wallpaper. As it can easily be peeled on and off, you aren't committing to a long term change - and can even choose seasonal patterns. There is a wide range of fantastic patterns on offer - not only can they add a splash of color to an otherwise dull room, but they also make an excellent background for selfies!

You can also use wallpaper to line your wardrobes and bookshelves for a sophisticated and unique finish.

Change your lighting 

Lighting can really change the way a room looks; therefore, getting some new lights can make a real difference to your home. If you want to maximize your space, opt for bright, white lighting that mimics natural light - this will make it look as though a room is bigger than it is. However, if you want a room to feel warm and cosy, opt for lights that are more golden in color.

Business Guide To Vacuums

An ultra-high vacuum gauge is an extremely important component for any vacuum, as it will measure the pressure of the vacuum chamber. However, if you have taken a quick look on the Internet, you will no doubt have noticed that there are many different UHV vacuum gauges to choose from. This can make it very difficult if you are making this type of purchase for the first time. What are the differences between each gauge? How do you decide which one is right for your vacuum? Don’t worry, as we have all of the answers you require below.

The Different UHV Gauges Available 

Over the past 100 years or so, we have seen the development of a number of new high vacuum gauges . However, it has not always been this way. In fact, for roughly 350 years, starting from 1644, the Torricelli tube was the only instrument that had the ability to measure the pressure of a vacuum. This early barometer was based on an air column’s gravitational force counterbalanced against a pressure divergence in two volumes, separated by liquid mercury. 

Today, we have a number of different options to choose from when businesses are looking for an ultra-high vacuum gauge. The McLeod gauge was long one of the most popular and accurate, yet it is no longer available on the commercial market because of the hazard presented by mercury. Aside from this, there are piston gauges, mechanical gauges, and direct gauges with electrical output. You then have indirect measuring vacuum gauges, which include the likes of thermal conductivity gauges, spinning rotor gauges, and ionisation gauges, which are ideal for fine vacuums. 

In the past, there have also been a number of optical methods used, although these attempts did not have any lasting impact. Today, two of the most popular gauges are undoubtedly the Pirani gauge and the ion gauge. As mentioned, the latter is particularly beneficial in ultra-high vacuum chambers. And, for those who are unaware, the Pirani gauge is a form of thermal conductivity gauge, which operates via the detection of the cooling impact of residual gas molecules on a heated filament. You can also delve deeper into the other components, for example, you can use a rotary sliding vane compressor as a compressor or vacuum pump, and you have gauge controllers and feed-throughs too. 

What To Consider When Choosing A High Vacuum Gauge

Now you know about the different options you have at your disposal when selecting a high vacuum gauge, so we are going to take a look at how you can narrow down your search to choose the best one. The first thing you need to consider is the type of pressure range you are looking for. Most people may say ‘the entire range’, but this will be extremely expensive, and so you should really think about the process that is being measured and what you are actually going to need. For example, a cold cathode Pirani combination may be ideal if the process is not a dirty one. Atmosphere plays a considerable role. You must also consider what accuracy level is vital to you, with a percentage typically being used to express absolute vacuum sensory accuracy. If you need to control and regulate, as well as measuring the pressure, this will mean you need a gauge with more capability than a standard measurement component. Aside from this, consider what kind of power you need and what form factor you are looking for. It is also important to make sure you purchase your gauge and air compressor from a reputable manufacturer, and never simply choose the cheapest you can find.

How Waste Affects Our Lives

How much waste do you throw out day by day? It’s probably quite a lot, isn’t it? Especially if you’ve got more than one or two people living with you! And it’s because of this seemingly unstoppable tide of waste that we’ve all started to think a lot more about the climate around us. 

More and more people are looking to live a zero waste lifestyle, simply because of how much damage household waste can do to both ourselves and the environment around us. And because of this fact, it’s a good idea to delve a little more into the details; why is waste such a dangerous concept? And if left unchecked, how would it change our lives? 

Contaminates Our Air

Some waste we chuck out puts gases and all other kinds of particles into the air. Even just leaving the trash for longer than a day causes it to smell worse than anything else in the house, so just imagine what’s really whirling around your head! 

Plus, the more waste we have, the worse the local pollution is going to be - it leads to mismanagement, and if you’ve got a lot of other responsibilities on your plate, you’re probably going to forget to take that bag of junk out to be taken away. 

So, there could be some toxic substances lingering in the air; rotting food, for example, can release a lot of methane, which is one of the worst greenhouse gases currently affecting our climate. 

Contaminates Our Water

Water pollution is rampant; runoff from fields, sewage, oil, and of course, plastic. About 12.7 million tonnes of plastic is dumped into water around the world every year, mostly into oceans, which harms both marine and ground animal life. However, taking pollution out of the water is not a lost cause, and you can easily give up plastic in your own household too. 

Indeed, many companies out there make use of an OWS System, to refine wastewater into water that can be released into sewers and other non-usable water supplies. It’s much better to put it back out there, with as few chemicals and toxic substances in it as possible, than just releasing it as is. And being able to implement such a system isn’t hard either, as more and more companies are taking up the mantle. 

Contaminates Our Soil

And finally, waste amounts lead to contamination of the earth around us as well, namely, the soil in our gardens and under our houses. Soil gets the worst of waste contamination, simply because it absorbs everything, and it’s everywhere! 

Now, maybe you find it hard to get your vegetable garden going during the spring? It could be because the soil is damaged. Dealing with contaminated soil can be done via flushing it, burning, or using bugs such as worms. 

So, waste affects our lives in many ways. Make sure you’re aware of how it can ruin these three essential parts of the earth around us.

Halloween Night and the Terrors of 2020

It’s late October. The autumnal breeze carries the annual promise of a candy-filled end to the month. Halloween once again beckons, the allure of trick-or-treating and partying settling into the bones of our homes. This is not the year to go out though. COVID-19 has ravaged global health security, and the pandemic continues on within America. The struggle against the disease has been ongoing, with numbers struggling to stabilize.

Halloween is centered around seeing, meeting, and greeting people; thus, it is not a holiday to celebrate during a time where we are dependent on isolation. Going out on Halloween not only endangers you but those around you as well, and it is likely that we will see a spike in cases should people decide to not stay at home with their loved ones.

By not social distancing on Halloween, you also endanger all the voters partaking in Election Day. This year, the date falls three days after Halloween. Should many people contract COVID-19 and head to the polls, there will likely be a new boom of infections and deaths. Right now, on the cusp of a vital political moment, we need to ensure the health of the country so that the polls are not harmed. With so much at stake, it is important to make sure that we do our part as citizens and make sure that all feel safe enough to go out and vote.

Photo Credits: The Daily Meal & News10

Report: Nicolette Schneiderman

Meet Jerri Reid Of Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer Conversation

Jerri Reid in Jerri Reid New York SS21

At the rise of Covid-19 many of us first questioned the timeline of fashion week and would we see the regular calendar continue - the question weighed over many of us for months! It was refreshing to see design houses and designers across the globe take advantage of the uncertainty and plow into production mode - thus my interest in Jerri Reid New York - The Black Designer based in Brooklyn New York wow’d instagram with his latest collection paying homage to the Black Is King film which debuted earlier this year in July. I was taken aback at quick of a turn round the young designer produced and released his well crafted designs reflecting some of the films most memorable moments.

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Noah L : Male feminine energy is seen often through androgynous fashion and art, now heterosexual men are being praised for it, what are your thoughts ? 

Jerri Reid: I think it is showing a level of bravery, to be acceptable in their peers' sight. If Quavo from the MIGOS decided to make a nod to Camron wearing all pink, then ALL men would wear it. It sucks that Queer Black Men are truly the tastemakers of fashion and not often credited, but that's a systemic issue of hate within the community. I went to the march in D.C. this past month and not one mention to trans lives happened. We (LGBTQIA+) STILL don't exist in black spaces. 

Noah L: As a black designer - what does it mean for you to receive recognition for your efforts to create original and lasting pieces? 

Jerri Reid: It means EVERYTHING to receive recognition for not just my craftsmanship, but my efforts to thrive. It's really about setting intentions with all you do. If you are only doing things simply because, then what is your purpose? My life and career as an artist is purpose-driven and is also a return to love. Love of self, love of culture, love of life, love of art, love of spirituality, love of family and friends, love of growth, love of opportunity, and love of the Most High. This is what propels me to use my gifts to teach the youth of our community the values of sewing for the past 4 years. 

Noah L: Would you consider COVID an opportunity to have thrived ? 

COVID-19 came about but it didn't stop my resilience to be innovative in a time like this. I didn't want to create a bunch of masks in an oversaturated peak-time market, but I did want to present fashion. The virtual presentation i did on instagram in July really opened the minds of people I wasn’t aware I could reach. People were messaging me with positivity to keep progressing. Most importantly, they were happy with the injection of culture and blackness. When i saw BLACK IS KING, I knew it was an opportunity for the world to see the star that I am, In more ways than one. Days before it dropped, a snippet of the ALREADY video was released. The wednesday prior to its official release (7/29) I RAN to the fabric store to get all I could to interpret the still shots. I shot and edited everything on my own that saturday (8/1) and released it sunday (8/2). I was shocked at myself because the push i gave myself validated that I can do whatever I want and meet deadlines for my growing brand. It was seen by Zerina Akers, Jerome Lamaar, Shatta Wale, and many more who took part in the marking of Black Is King.

 Queen Bey has seen it also. This was validation for myself to keep going and know that validation is within always. 

Noah L: Your recent collection felt like a praise to power and glamor for the black community and almost a push to be seen - would you consider your designs activism?

Jerri Reid: WOW - I didn't think this recent collection embodied a sense of activism. I can see where activism can come into play, it being being pro-black, pro-afro caribbean, pro-afrolatino, and pro-queer. Humbly, I just wanted to be unapologetically myself at all costs. Someone said to me that what I've done is the first of its existence. A designer has not done a virtual presentation of themself in their designed garments EVER. I did get a bit teary-eyed when hearing it. The thing is, we are nothing short of powerful, glamorous, and black. when I hear it, my reaction is "so what else is new?" (laughter)

Thank you so much for this opportunity for telling my truth. I appreciate this platform for providing spaces for black queers. continue to be amazing!

For more from Jerri Reid visit JerriReid.com or Instagram at @JerriReid

Kelvin Osaze - The Model Pushing Past Black Normatives In The Name Of Art

Earlier this month I had the opportunity to chat it up with Kelvin via instagram - It made sense to me to use our line of communication to break from all the maneuvering of this pandemic, and try to simply process and identify hope and opportunity in what has come of 2020 … For most, that notion seems empty or bleak, but I’ve learned since following Kelvin and a few others on instagram, the chance to grow is often found in our position of opposition.

Kelvin Osaze Shot By Christopher Marrs - Agency Chase Model Management

Here’s a snapshot of my conversation with @kelvin.osaze …

Noah: How has life been during COVID?

Kelvin: Life during COVID has been life altering. It at first was shocking and depressing from losing my job and watching New York become this ghost town. But as months past, I started to take more ownership of my life and searched for the silver lining in all the uncertainty. Being creative and having my small team with me is what kept me going and truly saved what could of been a year of loss. Now I’m finding a newness with myself and I am open to growth.

Noah: As a model and creative - paint a picture for our audience, what is life like as a black ,gay, male model?

Kelvin: As a black gay model, life for me is “life for me” if that makes sense. Life is what I make it. I moved to New York at the age of 18, so I had to grow up pretty quick. I found myself around various creatives who happen to be apart of the LGBT community. Being surrounded by so many vibrant and bold people allowed me to become a more confident version of myself. It always surprises me when people are taken back by how I choose to express myself in my art. Some may say its too risqué , too flamboyant , and outlandish. I just see it as me being my authentic self. Being a black gay creative for me feels liberating but at the same time there’s pressure. Pressure in needing to express yourself to a white society, that you are enough; what feels like having to explain my existence. having to explain why who I am and the art I produce is more than a hyper sexual view, but just what it is, art - expression, my expression. There’s pressure in having to break down toxic masculinity in the black heterosexual community. And pressure in lifting other black queers to being more loving and accepting of one another. This pressure is not a burden it’s just more so a responsibility that I have taken as a model. So it’s not only visuals that I am concerned with , I am also concerned with the social construct around intersectionality and cultural barriers that often limit those who look like me, talk like me, walk like me, or who simply identify differently.

Noah: How would you define androgynous fashion?

Kelvin: Androgynous fashion is breaking gender norms and roles. Understanding that you can’t have masculine energy without feminine energy. Being unafraid to rock opposites, rocking a long skirt with a full beard. Or having soft feminine features and rocking a suit . Its simple - this particular ask, for me, is the infusion of what simply feels good. I could wear grow a full beard, and I love it - but still love the feeling of a silk blouse or form feel of a good leather boot. Androgyny is the power of choice, the liberation from conformity

Noah: There’s been a increase in celebration of men embracing feminine fashion, What are your thoughts on this?

Kelvin: I love it! However I think we still have work to do, especially in the black heterosexual community . We shouldn’t wait for celebrities to give us permission in embracing feminine fashion. That’s part of the issue, many people have not invested enough time in asking themselves what feels good to them. And how do they want to express themselves.

Noah: How is it working with heterosexual men who has a more dated outlook toward gay men?

Kelvin: It’s laughable and sad at the same time. Google is a click way, and people are nearby. I just say do your research and also use people as a resource. Having these dated ideas of a sexuality is lame. Sexuality does not determine someone’s personality.

Noah: How are you impacting or contributing to the industry of fashion and its influence on evrey day lives?

Kelvin: I feel that I am impacting the industry by being my authentic self. It’s so weird because I see myself as a model but really I see myself as an artist. With being an artist I have been able to show more sides of me, I think people feel that in my work or at least can see that. I also think that I am impacting the industry as someone who has been called an “underdog”. Good people love to see an underdog win, and I think that encourages others to never give up and to seek more of themselves and to reach places that they may have never thought they could reach .

Noah: Through your lenses, what does the fashion industry look like post COVID?

Kelvin: Less involvement with agencies, and models will have to be more in control of their careers. I do feel that the models who stayed active and inspired during COVID will be stronger in there approach to the art . I hope COVID births more models who exercise more creative direction in their work. It’s amazing to tell someone else’s story ,but it’s even more amazing to tell your own. What does fashion do for history and culture? Fashion has and will continue to shape culture. I don’t care what anyone says about that. A lot of fashion from the past is coming back today with a bit of a twist. Fashion shows our evolution in the world. Fashion is that powerful!

For more from Kelvin Osaze, you can find him on instagram at @kelvin.osaze

Snack Time Charcuterie for Kids

Hello charcuterie lovers!

September is in full swing, and I am happy to share that our charcuterie of the month is here! It’s back to school time for many, so I figured I’d make a board for snack time. Because, honestly who doesn’t love snacks?

Let’s get into it!

The Breakdown:

Image and board by Kaitlin Gallagher0

Our stars of the show this go around include the Uncrustables, pretzels/carrots with hummus, and our Oreos. It was an absolute must to have Uncrustables featured in this board because these sandwiches are a kid’s go-to. The hummus and sides were the perfect healthy option for kid’s to have a good balance. Yes, it’s all about balance even on charcuterie boards! I included the Oreos as part of our “main stager’s” because it’s right where the eye goes when glancing at the board. I love the symmetry these little cookies offered, so I had to give some props where it was due.

Our fruits include apples, grapes, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. I went a little overboard with the fruits because no kid likes to eat their veggies, at least I don’t. 

Oh, and we have fruit snacks…duh!

Our crunchy sides include Cheez-It’s, chocolate bunnies, granola bites, Goldfish, and letter cookies. The ultimate snack board had to show off the most popular munchies, right?

I didn’t follow the standard 3 rule because this board was way too fun to listen to rules. So, when you make yours have fun with it too! See you in October! 

Report: Kaitlin Gallagher

Images: Kaitlin Gallagher