Great Advice for Brand-New Moms

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Last week, after being pregnant for nine long months, you delivered the most beautiful baby you’ve ever seen.

First of all, major congratulations are in order here. Becoming a mommy is something to celebrate, and your precious infant will change your life in many marvelous ways.

Second, let’s talk about some tips and advice that can help you as a new mom and make the next several months not seem as out of control:

Get Sleep Whenever You Can

Growing a brand-new human being and giving birth is hard work. Now, you have an adorable infant who is probably not sleeping for extended periods and you are understandably exhausted. If a friend or relative offers to watch your baby so you can nap during the afternoon, by all means take him or her up on the offer. And when your little one naps, try to lie down at the same time and get some much-needed rest. Eventually, your bundle of joy will sleep through the night and you'll get more snooze, too. But, for now, take every opportunity you can to sleep.

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Treat Yourself to Some Fun New Clothes

Your baby has probably gotten the lion’s share of new outfits, and that’s totally understandable. But don’t forget to treat yourself to some new clothes as well. Anything from some comfortable-yet-stylish new T-shirts and capri pants to a little black dress will be a much-deserved reward and help you to feel your best, so you can, in turn, care for your family best. Even if you don’t plan on going out for a night on the town anytime soon, seeing that hot little number hanging in your closet can be a fun little pick-me-up.

Try to Get Out of the House Every Day

Taking care of a new baby is often a rewarding experience, but you might also feel like you have a touch of cabin fever. Indeed, getting out of the house once a day will do wonders for your sanity and will also get you a much-needed change of scenery. If it's a nice day outside, put your infant in his or her stroller and go for a walk around the block, or bundle him or her into the car seat and go for a drive around the neighborhood.

Moreover, you can certainly head to the drive-thru coffee shop for an iced tea and muffin, run a few quick errands, or go to the drive-up ATM to get cash to buy the next round of diapers. Your daily field trips don’t have to be major excursions by any means, but you'll likely be amazed at how refreshed you feel after seeing the sky and clouds and breathing in some fresh air.

Feel Free to Ignore Well-Meaning Advice

There's nothing like a brand-new baby to bring out the advice machines in everyone. Everyone from your mom, mother-in-law, best friends with kids, neighbors, aunts, uncles, neighbors and the nice older gal in line ahead of you at the supermarket will have plenty of well-meaning words of wisdom for you.

While you might appreciate some of the tips, you're also welcome to skip as much of it as you wish. Let your motherly instinct kick in, and if your mom says it’s okay to let your baby “cry it out” at nap-time and you'd prefer to hold your infant until he or she nods off, then, by all means, do so. Smile and thank people for their advice, and then do what feels correct to you: the one who knows her baby best.

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You’ve Got This!

Being a new mom involves feeling all sorts of emotions, oftentimes all at once. But by remembering to sleep whenever possible, get out of the house for a short period of time every day and treat yourself to some new clothes, you'll know you have what it takes to be an amazing mom. And, all this should help you navigate the first few crazy months with your newborn feeling less chaotic.

Why It Is Important To Speak Up When It Comes To Your Health

Have you ever felt like something in you is a bit off? Like you are off balance and can't quite figure out what your problem is? I went to my doctor a little over a month ago for my annual physical. I was actually 2 months off schedule since the pandemic came and knocked everything out of whack. Any time I have to go in to the doctor's office my blood pressure spikes a bit. I do check it at home regularly, and it is almost always right where it's supposed to be. The nurse always laughs and asks me if I am afraid of her, and that she doesn't bite. That usually calms me down, and my BP goes back down.

This last visit went a lot differently than normal. It was one of those very hot and muggy mornings, and I am normally the type of person who is always hot. I had to sip my ice water in the car, and put my mask on to enter the building. I went in, got registered at the front desk, and waited patiently to be called back. As soon as I saw the nurse crack open the door I felt my heart beat a bit faster, and I could feel myself trying harder to breathe. The mask doesn't make it any easier, but of course you still have to wear one.

Like with any visit, the first thing they do is check your weight and vitals. I decided to give myself a break with the weight since COVID-19 has been stressful and concerning. When the blood pressure cuff was placed around my arm, I had a bad feeling. My BP was 170/100! My heart rate was 117. I just sat there in shock as the nurse told me she would have to re-take my BP in a 5-minute time frame 3 times to get an average number between the three. Of course since it was within 5 minutes of the first check, it was still high at 155/95.

I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach and had those panicked breaths where I felt like I was gasping for air. My nerves were shot at this point. My doctor came in shortly after and was briefly updated on what was going on. We chatted about my overall well-being and how I was really feeling and I told her I was definitely better than I was in previous years dealing with extreme anxiety and depression. She figured that my elevated BP and heart rate were due to anxiety that were related to the pandemic, and the news regarding police brutality and racism. I mean, who isn't feeling a whole lot right now?

She highly recommended that I start a low-dose anti-anxiety medication to help me calm down, and hopefully that would result in my BP and heart rate regulating. I agreed. I don't know why, but I agreed. She wanted to see me back in 6 months to discuss how things end up going from taking the medication. I also had to wait for my lab results to see if anything else was wrong. Last year my cholesterol was high, and that is concerning since both of my parents were cardiac patients. I was warned of the possibility that if it was the same or higher, I would need to get on cholesterol meds right away.

I was diagnosed with thyroid disease about 5 years ago, and have been on medication to keep it regulated since then. Lucky for me, I've had very few symptoms that affect me. The only time I really did have anything that wasn't quite right was confused as being anxiety, when in reality I was having heart palpitations. Then the light bulb popped on in my head. The deep breathing and higher heart rate wasn't feeling 100% like anxiety, but more like heart palpitations. I decided to wait for my lab results to come back so I could see what my Thyroid-Stimulation Hormone (TSH) levels were. I just had a feeling something wasn't right.

What is so strange about the whole pandemic is that my life wasn't really affected a whole lot. Being home all the time, and homeschooling my son is my normal. Aside from not being able to find certain items at the store, things have been fine on the home-front. The only time I would get worked up is when I turned on the news. The state of the nation has been pitiful to say the least. Seeing so many families affected by job loss, kids not getting adequate education, and the state of financial crisis is enough to make anyone worry. But you know what? I still chose to find the good things to focus on each day. This made getting through these crazy months a lot easier. I have been surprisingly calm despite what was going on all over the world.

Enough about that, back to the lab results. They came in the next day, and to my surprise, the doctor was super happy to see how great everything looked. My cholesterol went down by 43 points! I had no idea it could drop that much in just a year. I can't tell you how relieved I was to get this fantastic news. I decided to really read through my results to make sure everything else was where it needs to be. I improved on just about everything! One thing did stick out to me though. My TSH level was at the top of the high number. That didn't sit right with me. Although it was .04 within the range, I was still concerned.

I sent a message through the patient portal to express my concerns about the TSH levels, and asked for my medication to be adjusted. I really feel like my elevated heart rate and BP was from heart palpitations caused by my thyroid and not anxiety. She agreed to step me up to 75mg from 50mg and have my labs done again in 3 months. After taking the higher dosage for 2 weeks, the palpitations subsided and I started feeling normal again. I definitely have not felt any anxiety or sadness. I knew I wasn't depressed, and was NOT about to take a drug that would be very hard to come off of.

This is what my blood pressure and heart rate look like now. 

I am happy that I decided against the anti-anxiety meds and opted to advocate for myself. While antidepressants are necessary for many people and do help a lot, I knew I didn't need them. I used to be one of those people who thought if a doctor tells you something, it's as good as gold and you have to listen. It's not always the case. Read over your lab reports, do your own research, ask questions and follow your gut. I'm so happy that I did! I will get my labs work done in the first part of September and go from there.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this post. Continue to stay well, and wear your mask!

Here’s Why Moms Should Be More Spiritual

As a mom, it can be difficult to feel spiritual. There’s nothing relaxing about the school run, packed lunches and changing diapers. Being spiritual can feel impossible when you’ve got a house full of screaming little ones or grumpy teenagers. But it isn’t.

Being spiritual means something different to everyone, but put simply it is the act of thinking about something bigger than yourself. Some spiritual people might do yoga or speak to a psychic (see mediumchat.com for more information). There are many benefits of being spiritual, and it’s especially beneficial to moms in stressful households. Here’s why you should be more spiritual.

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Fitness
Often, busy moms struggle to stay fit. We tend to prioritize our kids’ well-being over our own. However, it’s important to keep up a regular fitness routine. Spirituality can help with this. Being spiritual means being in tune with your body and listening to its needs. Doing yoga, for example, is a great exercise to keep you fit and healthy, while also being relaxing and soothing. Regularly stretching the body and embracing the way it feels can be hugely beneficial. Spirituality is good for the body.

Finding peace
As a mom, peace can be difficult to find. Your kids are constantly asking you where stuff is, making a mess and getting into trouble. But it’s important to take time for yourself and find some peace and quiet. Spirituality forces you to do this. Meditation, for example, can be very soothing and reduces brain chatter. You need to find a quiet place where you feel relaxed. Being spiritual might also mean spending time amongst nature, which can be hugely beneficial. In general, being spiritual means eliminating stress and noise – and this is something that moms should regularly aim for.

Influencing your kids
Kids are hugely influenced by their parents. If you act in a selfish or inappropriate manner your kids will think that this is acceptable. However, by being more spiritual, you’re setting a good example for your kids. Being spiritual means thinking about others and acting selflessly. You might give to charity, support a friend or care about the environment. Don’t you want your kids to do the same? So, be more spiritual to raise caring, kind and considerate children.

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Nutrition 
Spirituality means caring about the environment and what you put into your body. Most spiritual people avoid processed food as they are full of chemicals. By embracing spirituality, you get more nutrition from food and you learn to understand what fuels your body the best. By listening to your body, you realize what it needs as opposed to what it wants, and you eat more healthily. You also stop supporting industries that are damaging to the environment.

Happiness
Moms need to feel happy, just like everyone else. But often we put our family’s needs above our own. Being spiritual can help you to feel more relaxed, healthy and energetic – and this often means you feel happier. So, embrace spirituality and prioritize your own joy.

Advantages of Using the Best Nitric Oxide Supplement

Nitric oxide is produced naturally by human cells and it is one of the vital molecules for maintaining the appropriate functioning of blood vessels. It is a vasodilator. It eases the inner muscles of the blood vessels thereby widening it. This results in an increase in blood flow and also lowers the blood pressure significantly.   

The popularity of these supplements has shot up in recent years. It is preferred for its unparalleled ability in relaxing blood vessels and thereby increasing the blood flow. Its pills are preferred by athletes and bodybuilders as it can deliver more nutrients and oxygen to the cells. This in turn promises a significant boost in the energy levels in the body.  

These supplements are immensely popular these days. Most of these do not consist of nitric oxide. Instead, these consist of compounds that can help produce nitric oxide in the cells thereby boosting the performance and overall health of the body. 

How do they work? 

The most common nitric oxide supplements available in the market are L-citrulline and L-arginine. These are amino acids and are present in diary and meat products. However, the quantity of amino acids present in these is not sufficient to result in a dramatic improvement in any condition or for the purpose one would be consuming it for. This has increased the demand for such supplements which are available both in the form of power and as a pill.  

As per the scientists, nitric oxide widens the blood vessels in the body. This thereby boosts the flow of blood for improving the performance. Taking these supplements has a wide range of benefits. Find out more on the importance of nitric oxide here.    

Advantages

      1. Decreases muscle soreness 

Athletes and bodybuilders usually experience muscle soreness after a strenuous workout session. The soreness is usually felt during 24-72 hours after an exercise session. Taking these supplements decreases muscle soreness by boosting the production of nitric oxide in the body. This further boosts the blood flow through the active muscles and also increases nutrient delivery for compensating with muscle fatigue experienced.  

      2. Lowers blood pressure

Individuals with high blood pressure cannot synthesize nitric oxide to the max in their bodies. The force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries results in high blood pressure. 

The issues can result in kidney or disease over time. Having these effective supplements can lower blood pressure significantly. Follow this link to learn more about the heart benefits of nitric oxide supplements - https://www.webmd.com/heart/arginine-heart-benefits-and-side-effects#1   

      3. Enhances performance

Nitric oxide is a critical component involved in many cell processes. It helps in widening the blood vessels which is also referred to as vasodilation. This furthermore increases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the muscles after a workout session. This is the reason why they are immensely popular amongst bodybuilders and athletes.  

      4. Help in management of Type 2 Diabetes

Production of nitric oxide is impaired in individuals who are suffering from Type 2 diabetes. This contributes to poor health of blood vessels which in turn can result in high blood pressure and also heart and kidney diseases over time. Supplements that are rich in nitric oxide can prove to be immensely beneficial in preventing the undesirable effects of Type 2 Diabetes. 

Do they actually work? 

Several research studies have been done to study the efficacy of nitric oxide supplements. Its effect of vasodilation has been extensively studied and is immensely beneficial in increasing the blood flow in the blood vessels. This can lead to enhanced blood flow which in turn boosts the performance and recovery after a strenuous workout session.  

These supplements primarily consist of amino acids that trigger the synthesis of nitric oxide within the cells. Taking nitric oxide pills can result in a noticeable difference during recovery or in enhancing performance during strenuous activities. 

Several studies have also established that there is a significant link between nitrate levels in the body and improvements in performance. These supplements can also improve tolerance to anaerobic and aerobic exercise in people who are either moderately trained or aren’t in their best form.   

Side effects 

Any supplement when taken in an appropriate dosage can offer the best benefits to the users. Anything taken in access will not offer the results being sought. Moreover, taking excess nitric oxide supplements can alter the functions of the kidneys if you are already on a diet that is rich in nitric oxide. 

In these cases, there will be a significant reduction in the overall performance as the kidneys are under stress to process the high levels of nitrates in the body. It is best to adhere to the dosage levels prescribed by the manufacturer of the supplement that you are using.   

In summary 

People prefer using nitric oxide supplements for numerous reasons. Many of them don’t even have substantial scientific research to back such claims. For instance, apart from the above-mentioned benefits, these supplements are taken to boost weight loss, for improving lung function, improving recovery after major injury or trauma, and in healing diabetic foot ulcers. 

Several users have reported significant results after using nitric oxide supplements for additional benefits. However, a scientific study is still needed to back such claims. Overall, these supplements are indeed beneficial in boosting performance and in improving the overall health of an individual.   

Away From The Screen – Toys Your Son Will Love

We all know that tech plays an important role in our lives. For some, our entire working lives are based around it. It makes life a little easier and helps us to connect and reconnect with friends and family. Technology is great for our kids too, from lessons in coding to how to design and create a video game or even edit a video, becoming immersed in technology can help our children find future roles and careers that they’re truly passionate about.

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However, as wonderful as technology is, it can sometimes take over. With many parents struggling to coax their children outside for some fresh air, or simply entertain themselves without the help of a screen. So, if your child has a birthday coming up or you just want to spoil them, maybe you should embrace fun and entertainment away from the screen and consider the following gifts and toys for 9 year old boys.

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Board and card games

Not just for rainy days, board games can be played with family and friends when they come to visit. You’ll find traditional games like Monopoly have been adapted to complement their favorite TV shows, and games like Top Trumps are always harmlessly competitive between good friends.

Pranks and jokes

Do you have a budding comedian at home? Or someone who likes to play pranks on their older siblings? Prank and joke kits have always been popular and they're a great way to get your child thinking outside the box and creating plans and schemes to pull off the perfect prank! Whoopee cushions stink bombs, hand buzzers, and slime will keep your son busy for hours!

Sports

If your son is football mad, then some simple football equipment for the garden is the ideal gift. A goal where they can practice their penalties, some new football kit, training cones or even a bag to put their boots and kit in. If you're struggling for outdoor space, then consider a smaller trick ball that they can use indoors to practice some cool tricks and skills.

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Bikes

When we were kids, there was nothing better than getting on your bike and heading out. As long as you were back home in time for dinner of course! If your son doesn't have a bike, or they need a new one, then it could be the best gift ever. They can take themselves to and from school, practice cool tricks, go out riding with their friends and just enjoy a little freedom. Remember to get them the additional safety gear too!

Books

If your son much prefers reading and learning new things then topping up their bookshelf with some new reads is ideal. The latest novels from their favorite authors, encyclopedias, annuals, or other books dedicated to their favorite subject. It'll certainly keep them away from their screens for a while.

And finally, LEGOs! 

LEGO or simple building bricks have been loved for generations. When your son plays with LEGOs he’s using his creativity and cognitive skills to figure out what should go where and how to bring his ideas to life. This is a classic favorite that you surely cannot go wrong with.

Soda City Certified™ App to List All Local Companies Open During COVID-19

In the event that you live in Columbia, SC or surrounding cities, I thought I would share this with you.

Effective July 1, Soda City Certified™ (SCC), Columbia’s only mobile application that aims to help residents and visitors explore our Capitol City, will include all local companies open during COVID-19.

Open businesses in the following areas are encouraged to participate: Downtown Columbia, Forest Acres, West Columbia, Cayce, Harbison, Chapin, Northeast Columbia, Southeast Columbia, Lexington, Blythewood, Elgin, Irmo, St. Andrews, and Pontiac.

“The impact of COVID-19 has devastated all industries in the Columbia metropolitan area. By featuring restaurants, small businesses, and entrepreneurs, users will gain real-time access to businesses by encouraging everyone to shop local,” said Khali Gallman, Soda City Certified™ app creator. “Our main goal is to stimulate Columbia’s economy while practicing social distancing. Be safe and let’s stay connected.”

Since the official launch of SCC in January 2020, the app has reached 1100+ downloads and averages 5,000-8,000 social media views weekly. For more information or add your business on the app, visit www.sodacitycertified.com. Call 803.922.5310 or email sodacitycertified@gmail.com for more information.

About Soda City Certified™ Mobile App

Founded in 2019, Soda City Certified™ is a mobile application formatted for Apple iTunes and Google Play smartphones that allows users to receive incentives for frequenting Columbia, South Carolina’s most notable events, venues, restaurants, historical sites, and attractions. The app is available for free in both app stores. All rights are reserved. Visit www.sodacitycertified.com for details.

5 Simple Ways Busy Moms Can Stay Fit

Any busy mom who has to balance her work and home knows how difficult it can be to stay fit. However, that should stop anyone from staying healthy and achieving the body of their dreams. A lot of fitness professionals say that you have to make a schedule when it comes to staying fit. Where tips like following a set of rules, not eating fast food, and sticking to a healthy schedule are very helpful, a lot of them become a moot point for busy moms. That is where we step in as we have devised the perfect plan for working women so that they can stay in shape.

Rise early and Sweat it out

The most important thing that you need to do as a busy mom is to manage your time efficiently. I understand that waking up early can be very difficult to do, but if you want to get the most out of your day, you have to do it. After you have made a habit of waking up early, you can join a gym or look for reformer Pilates as it will help you stay in shape without sacrificing a lot.

Exercise with the Kids 

Another great way you can motivate yourself to exercise is to bring the kids into the loop. By including your kids in the workout, you are also motivating yourself to do exercise. To make the kids enjoy exercising, you can think of some pretty smart ways like playing games with them that involve physical activity, taking them out for a walk or for bike rides, and asking them to help you with house chores.

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Make the Most Out of Little Things 

As working moms can get quite busy juggling work and taking care of kids, they need to make everything count. Instead of using the lift, you should take the stairs so that you get the needed exercise. If your workplace is nearby, you can use the bike instead of a car as you can burn a lot of calories while going to work and coming back home. When you incorporate these little things in your life, you will see positive results in a matter of weeks.

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Eat Smart

Most of us are so busy each morning that we eat whatever we get out hands onto. Consider packing 3-4 small healthy snacks in the night so that you don’t have to prepare your lunch in the morning. Instead of relying on junk food during working hours, you can eat these healthy snacks so that you are proud of the right choices you make when hunger strikes.

Do Quick Workouts Whenever Your Get the Chance

Lastly, you should have a workout anytime you get a chance. For example, instead of crashing onto the bed when you return from work, you should do a little workout for 5-7 minutes, take a bath, and then enjoy some quality time with your kids so that you feel fresh and proud of yourself.

Try CBD Treats If Your Dog Is Afraid or Nervous

When you first got your dog, you were planning for it to have a happy life filled with cuddles, playful times and a lot of smiles. For the most part, this is exactly what you managed to achieve. What happens, however, when you notice that your canine is afraid of certain things that definitely shouldn’t cause fear and fearful behavior?

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Do you get angry with the animal and start calling it weak? Do you really think that something like that is a good idea? As you can see on this page, yelling at your dog is never a good idea, because it might cause more fear, stress and even aggression. There has to be another and a more constructive way to deal with this kind of behavior.

Your next instinct might be to start cuddling with the animal and helping it calm down until the reason or its fear has disappeared. While this is definitely a better way to deal with the issue, it also has its negative sides. It serves only as a temporary solution. I’m not saying that you should just ignore your dog and refrain from petting it when it is stressed. I’m simply saying that you should find a more permanent solution.

Fortunately, there is a great long-term solution that you can use without worrying that you will cause even more harm to your canine. The solution includes a product made from cannabis, and many dog owners seem to be going crazy about it. Unlike what you might think, this product is not the equivalent of pot for your animals. It’s perfectly safe and non-psychoactive. Let’s check it out.

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CBD Treats
There is an amazing compound most usually extracted from the hemp plant, which comes from the family of cannabis. That compound is called Cannabidiol and it has been recognized by researchers and scientists as a highly beneficial substance both for humans and for animals. The recognition it gained led to the launch of many different products made from the compound.

Here’s an extensive report on what has been found about Cannabidiol: https://www.who.int/medicines/access/controlled-substances/CannabidiolCriticalReview.pdf
Apart from CBD oil and similar products, there are now also CBD treats that you can give to your pet. People seem to be loving this product because of the simplicity of administering it and because of the positive effects that it causes. Dogs cannot resist the treats you are giving them and these ones are amazingly healthy, which is a win-win situation for the animal and the owner.

Reportedly, this product is perfect for managing any pain that your animal might be feeling, as well as for reducing inflammation. In addition to that, evidence suggests that it can be of great help when it comes to epileptic seizures. Some studies even claim that CBD can be used in the treatment of cancer, because it can successfully fight bad cancer cells.

What This Has To Do With Fear?
We’ve mentioned quite a few benefits of CBD treats above, but you’re probably still waiting to hear what any of that has to do with your dog’s fear. Can this product be of any help in those situations when your canine starts trembling, hiding or attacking out of fear? That’s what you came here to learn and that’s exactly what we are going to find out now.

There is another amazing effect of Cannabidiol that I haven’t mentioned by now. As so perfectly and concisely explained by pethempcompany, CBD treats are the go-to products whenever your pet is in any kind of fear. There may be many reasons behind its fearful behavior, but CBD can resolve the issue no matter the reason in question.

These products have a rather soothing effect on our pets, which is why they can be perfect for helping the animal calm down in situations they deem stressful. By administering the right amount of CBD treats during the day, you will no longer have to deal with unexpected and uncalled for frightened episodes in your dogs. Instead, your pet will be able to stay calm and collected and it will quickly stop being afraid from other animals and humans, as well as fireworks and similar things. This will significantly improve your pet’s quality of life.

Why Get CBD Oil For Stress

Lots of people around the world experience stress for a variety of reasons. Some may find their jobs too much to handle, and others are not happy with the way things are going.
There are chances that you may be one of the people who have chronic stress. Whether it’s in the form of an outburst from your boss or the millionth time your annoying mother-in-law stresses you out, it’s time for you to have the relaxation that you need.

Know that too much stress can affect your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Some of the symptoms that may appear include headaches, loss of appetite, insomnia, chest pains, and high blood pressure. You can know more about headaches that came from tension here: https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/tension-headaches. The solution for many people is Prozac or Xanax. But why go to the extreme side of medication when you can relieve the pain from stress in a more natural way?

CBD and Cannabis

You may want to learn more about CBD or cannabidiol oil that came from the hemp plant. Although hemp is a cousin of cannabis, you need not worry as there are no psychoactive effects after taking the oil. The plant Cannabis sativa has over a hundred different strains, and cannabidiol is one of them.

The extracts of pure CBD are commonly taken in the stalks, flowers, and leaves. They are extracted using CO2 or other methods, and they are separated from the cannabis. The extracts look like little crystals at room temperature.

Does the Product Make You High?

Many people argue that instead of using CBD, they might as well smoke weed to relieve their stress. But this should not be the case. One of the most well-known compounds in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol or THC that alters the mind. Users of the oil do not get affected psychologically by hemp because the THC in CBD is non-existent and, in some, less than 0.3%. This is opposed to the more than 30% THC content that marijuana has.

Note that both THC and CBD can bind with the brain’s special receptors. The difference is that CBD can directly alter the receptors by linking into them while THC can’t do this. When you are stressed, you may feel a little fuzzy when you take the oil, but you will eventually feel less anxious. Your body will become more relaxed and comfortable. Some users were able to think of solutions to their problems while they are in a calmer state of mind.

Stress and CBD

Stress can become cumbersome and can severely impact the quality of your life. You may not feel like socializing, and the feelings may keep you from living the optimum lifestyle that you deserve. The good news is that studies have backed the positive effects of CBD to stress.

Some of the studies included people with anxiety showed that the oil significantly reduced their stress levels. The brain was able to convert the situation from a threatening state to a less anxious environment. The scans showed that there were also noted changes in several regions of the brain, usually associated with anxiety.

There’s another study done in 2014 that found out that the oil can have antidepressant side effects. Most of the studies involving this were on animals, but the results were promising. Many of the rats were able to reduce their social anxieties.

Others were able to conduct further research on cannabidiol as a treatment for many anxiety disorders. Some of the most common psychological disorders of people worldwide are OCD, PTSD, and SAD. These are all forms of illnesses that need addressing, and the people who have them were able to find relief while taking the oil.

Now, this does not mean that you need to have a disorder to take CBD oil. Note that the oil is for everyone, and even healthy people can benefit from taking a teaspoonful of this miracle oil. You can visit this page for other options and products that you can take aside from the oil. If you are feeling stressed, you can lessen your burdens by reducing anxiety levels in your brain. You can also become more active by exercising and getting plenty of sleep at night to combat stress.

There are other benefits of cannabidiol for humans. In clinical trials, an increase in mental sedation and decreased anxiety levels are noted by researchers. Higher doses can be useful for treating insomnia, social anxiety disorder, and even epilepsy.

Is the Oil Legal?

However, note that the world of hemp is still a gray area in many states. The legality of marijuana is still debatable. But the good news is that you can buy hemp without any problems. Many pharmacies offer over the counter CBD oil and other products that can benefit you. You can do your research and find out where the legit suppliers are to ensure that the product is safe.

Do You Need Invisalign? Find Out With Our Guide

Everyone looks better when they are smiling. Besides, happiness is contagious and people love to be around others that can make them feel happy with just a smile. However, people that have crooked teeth are more reluctant to smile and have a higher chance of developing gum disease and tooth decay. This is where Invisalign comes into place. It has made it a lot easier to fix teeth alignment issues. Invisalign is used by over 4 million Americans and Canadians to improve their smile. 

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So What Is Invisalign?

In the simplest of words, Invisalign is a treatment that makes use of clear plastic aligners for slowly shifting your teeth towards their correction position. The Invisalign aligners fit perfectly over your teeth as they are made of durable plastic and are molded to fit your mouth. Several sets of aligners will be provided by the dentist to straighten the teeth. They will be changed every two weeks as your smile starts to slowly straighten. Generally, the dentist will provide 18 to 30 aligners in total depending on how much shifting your teeth require.

Should You Choose Invisalign?

Invisalign is an excellent choice for patients that have mild teeth alignment issues. It corrects a wide range of issues as mentioned below.

●      Overbite

●      Open bite

●      Underbite

●      Gapped teeth

●      Cross bite

●      Over jet

●      Crowded teeth

●      Crooked teeth

The dentist would evaluate your teeth to determine if Invisalign is the right choice for you. Although Invisalign is perfect for many patients, it might not be the best decision for patients that have dental bridges, dental implants or dentures, and untreated periodontal disease.

How Does Invisalign Work?

When you first consult with the dentist, he or she would create a customized Invisalign treatment plan for you keeping your needs in mind. It will help you achieve what you desire. A 3D image of your teeth would be taken by the orthodontist to assess the underlying condition of the teeth. It will allow the orthodontist to evaluate the extent of the alignment issues. 

The dentist would create a customized treatment plan based on the data. It is during this time that you would find out how many sets of aligners will be needed. 

Typically, you will need to wear the aligners for 2 weeks before you can wear the next set. It will help your teeth slowly shift with each new set. This, your teeth will move towards the ideal position. You will need to wear the aligners for about 20 to 22 hours every day to achieve the best results.

What Are the Different Types of Invisalign?

There are many different types of Invisalign that are available. Each type of Invisalign is exclusively designed for addressing different issues and is used by a different age group. At present, Invisalign is available as below.

●       Invisalign Teen

●       Invisalign Go

●       Invisalign Lite

●       Invisalign i7

●       Invisalign Express

●       Invisalign Full

What Makes Invisalign Different From Traditional Braces?

Invisalign functions similar to traditional braces as it shifts the misaligned teeth slowly towards their ideal position. But, traditional braces have to be tightened and adjusted regularly by the dentist, whereas Invisalign aligners are simply switched for the next set.

Moreover, Invisalign and traditional braces use different materials. Traditional braces use rubber bands and metal wires. They have to be cemented on the front of the teeth to ensure correct alignment is achieved. Therefore, traditional braces are difficult to clean and visible. On the other hand, Invisalign is invisible and the aligners can be easily removed. There is no need to make any changes to your diet or oral hygiene routine when you opt for Invisalign. This makes it a better option for people that have minor alignment issues and need to wear them for a shorter period. As for traditional braces, they take about 18 months to correct severe alignment issues at most, whereas Invisalign would take about 9 to 12 months for the same results. If patients only require minor adjustments, they can achieve the desired results in just 2 months.

How Much Will Invisalign Cost You?

The cost of an Invisalign treatment is based on a few factors such as the number of aligners required. Since most insurance companies do not distinguish between Invisalign and most orthodontic treatments such as braces, if you have a plan that covers orthodontic treatments, it should also cover Invisalign. Moreover, you can always consult with a dentist to know your options. 

3 Situations in Which You Need a Family Lawyer

There are so many branches of law, and it can be confusing to know when you need a certain type of attorney. There are family attorneys that deal with legal situations related to divorce, custody arrangements, child support and alimony payments and even adoption. There may be times in your life that you find you need these services, and it is important that you know when it is recommended to seek out the expertise of a family lawyer.

Photo by Emma Bauso from Pexels

1. Making Child Custody Arrangements

Family lawyers like Cordell & Cordell law professionals can help you finalize child custody arrangements after a divorce. Divorce can be a messy process, and it is important to have a third-party who can help determine what is best in regard to the child's living arrangements. When you have these matters settled by a legal professional, there are clear guidelines for you and your co-parent to follow. This can help ensure that everyone is putting the child's needs first instead of their own.

2. Adopting a Child

Adopting a child can be a wonderful way to grow your family, but it does take a lengthy legal process to see this through. Family lawyers can make sure that you are doing the adoption process properly so that everything is legal and final.

3. Receiving Due Child Support

If you are divorced from your spouse and have children by them, you may be entitled to child support payments. However, if your ex-partner is not keeping up with the payments, you can contact a family lawyer to help you fight the case. Your legal team can help you receive back payments in some cases, which are often needed to properly care for your child.

If you find yourself in any of these situations, contacting a group of family attorneys like Cordell & Cordell can help you make the right move in your journey.

DIY Home Ideas for Summer 2020

It’s time to get your house in order and ready to enjoy the summer weather. Skip the long construction projects and take advantage of some easy DIY ideas to upgrade your home this summer. 

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The Garage 

The summer is a great time to reinvent areas of your house. What better place to begin than with your garage? Besides a home for your car, your garage is an excellent spot for storage, an enclosed terrace, and even an extra room for entertaining. To help you take advantage of this space, install your own DIY garage screen door, add a few planters and perhaps even a DIY bar. With a screen door in your garage, you can enjoy the summer in the shade, and without the bugs. These doors are relatively easy to install and allow you to open up a whole new room for the season. 

The Sun Room 

When the summer hits, finding the perfect spot to read and relax is always a priority. No matter the space you have, you can create your summer oasis at home. Start by looking at the area and thinking about how you want to utilize it. If you are looking to create a place to relax during the day, you may want to line the area with lush plants and rich colors. For those looking for an evening hangout, a DIY fire-pit creates the ultimate hangout spot to unwind with friends after a hot summer day. Whatever you decide to do, be sure to add some lights so day or night your oasis is ready for you.

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The Restroom 

You may not think about your bathroom in the summer, but whether you are rinsing from a day in the pool or after working in the hot sun, you end up spending more time than you realize in your bathroom. This summer, take the time to invest in creating a sanctuary for you to relax from the heat of the day. To help you get on some of the summer's hottest trends, consider adding bold colors and patterns to give your bathroom a fresh look. Don't forget to add plenty of storage space, so everything you need is available without ever having to leave the room.

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The Kitchen 

During the summer, your menu changes to match the season. As you steer away from hot hearty dishes, you want your kitchen to reflect this switch in dining. Follow some DIY kitchen ideas to help you get the room ready to prepare the best meals possible. Before you get started with any big changes, take the time to update your storage and organization. Then, think about the small touches you can add to brighten up the room. Whether adding a splash of color as a backdrop or accessorizing the counter, there are tons of unique ideas you can do to make it summer-ready. 

No matter how you update your house, make sure it reflects your personality. Keep in mind where you will spend the most time, and enjoy your home this summer.

Ways To Get Your Child Interested in Reading

When you were a kid, if you loved reading you probably don't remember how you discovered it. All you knew is you lost yourself in books for hours at a time. Now that you're a parent, you'd like your kids to develop good reading habits, too. Here are four different ways you can pique their interest starting now.

Read With Them

If you're not spending time actually reading with your child, they might not pick it up on their own. Set up a time each day for reading a good book together. Storytime is usually before bed, so make it a nightly routine. Your child will be excited about continuing the tale or starting a new one. Kids love to use their imagination when it comes to stories, so ask them plenty of questions.

Get Them a Personalized Book

One way to really get your little one's attention for reading is by giving them their very own adventure such as a personalized birthday book for child reading levels. In this story, they star as the main character and family members have roles, too. Not only is their very own storybook fun to receive, they'll ask to read it over and over. Remember to let a child read aloud as they're learning. It can help them to expand their vocabulary quickly.

Use Reading As a Reward

Reading is one activity that you can safely use as a reward for a job well done. Remember, reading is knowledge so more storytime is never a bad thing. If your child sees reading as a reward, the more they'll look forward to it. Reading in exchange for good behavior, or doing a chore, is much more beneficial than buying them another toy or handing out a sugary treat.

Set an Example

If you want your kids to be truly interested in the world of books, make sure you set a good example. Kids follow their parent's leads and by reading yourself, you'll demonstrate that reading is a lifelong love. Visit book stores often and keep plenty of books at home with your favorite ones in an important place where they can be treasured and admired.

Start Them Early

Reading can benefit your child in many ways, including expanding their vocabulary and letting them use their imagination. By starting as early as possible, you'll be setting them up for an activity they'll enjoy for the rest of their lives.

Delicious Mashed Sweet Potatoes Side Dish Recipe

Are you a fan of sweet potatoes? They have been a family favorite in my home for decades. My husband and kids love the classic Southern style candied yams, while I prefer a them baked or as a mashed sweet potato side dish. One of our favorite steakhouses makes a delectable sweet potato casserole. While I do love it, the topping adds so much extra sugar that can be a bit too much.

I have experimented with sweet potatoes and finally came up with the winning combination that makes for a delicious side dish. I like serving mashed sweet potatoes with pretty much any protein and some steamed or sauteed veggies. I used to bake the sweet potatoes in the oven, but it takes way too long and heats my kitchen up a lot, especially during the warmer months. Now I use my electric pressure cooker which takes about one third of the time to bake them to perfection.

The first step is choosing sweet potatoes that are very close to the same size and thickness. This ensures that they will all cook through properly. Trust me, I've used different sizes before and it was a disaster! I recommend going with smaller, slimmer potatoes if they are available. It might all be in my head, but I find them to have a smoother texture and a sweeter taste.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes Side Dish Recipe

Ingredients: 

4 small to medium size sweet potatoes

3 tbsp salted butter

1/4 cup light brown sugar

1/8-1/4 cup maple syrup

pinch of salt

Preparation: 

Rinse off sweet potatoes with cold water and dry with paper towels. Pierce whole sweet potatoes with a fork in multiple places. Pour 1 1/4 cup water in the bottom of your pressure cooker. Place rack on the bottom. Place whole sweet potatoes on rack as evenly as you can. Set pressure cooker on low setting for 14 minutes. I use a Cuisinart 6-qt pressure cooker, so you might have to check your instruction manual for the brand you have. 

Let sweet potatoes sit for 5 minutes when the cooking process ends, then release the remaining pressure. Place potatoes on a plate and carefully remove the skin and place in a large bowl. Mash the sweet potatoes and add the butter, brown sugar, maple syrup and salt. Give it a taste to see if you need to add any additional brown sugar or syrup if needed. 

Transfer sweet potatoes to a oven-proof baking dish. Add several tiny pieces of butter on top of potatoes (optional) and microwave for 5 minutes or bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. Serve with your favorite fish, chicken or beef dish. Enjoy! 

This sweet potato dish is so creamy and delicious! You can make it as sweet as you like. If you aren't a fan of maple syrup, you can omit it and add a little bit of cinnamon and some vanilla extract. 

Our favorite main dishes we enjoy pairing with these mashed sweet potatoes are meatloaf, salmon, air fried chicken thighs and ribeye steaks. We also love to serve it at holiday dinners along with this mac and cheese recipe. 

If you are a sweet potato lover, you will definitely enjoy this recipe. If you decide to give it a try, drop me a line and let me know what you thought of it. Thank you so much for stopping by today! 

Give Dad A Tasty Gift From Gourmet Gift Baskets This Father's Day

Father's Day is rapidly approaching, and it's not too late to have the perfect gift delivered in time for the special men in our lives. For years we have used Gourmet Gift Baskets to send our beloved friends and family delicious treats and snacks as gifts for different occasions. Seriously, I think food gifts are the best thing to receive. Once you know what types of snacks the recipient likes, it's a breeze to pick out the perfect gift.

Most dads would agree that meat and cheese are their favorite food groups. The Gourmet Meat & Cheese Sampler Deluxe is definitely a winner. It comes with 2 types of Summer sausage, 4 different cheeses, 2 boxes of crackers/flatbread, and a jar of sun-dried tomatoes. This makes a perfect evening snack to have while Dad catches up on his favorite TV series on Netflix. 

The Summer sausage paired with any of the cheeses on top of a cracker is SO good! This is a gift that Dad might not be willing to share.

Another fantastic gift is for beer lovers. The Beer Expert Trio is sure to put a smile on Dad's face. It comes packed neatly complete with 3 large cans of beer, and tasty snacks that pair wonderfully. You can tell by the way each gourmet gift basket is packaged that it is done with care. Each package comes with its own card that is attached inside the outer shipping label. This makes gifting even easier since you don't have to worry about sending a card.

Again, crackers topped with Summer sausage and cheese is the ultimate dad snack. It's even better with a cold beer to wash it down. Father's Day weekend is going to be great!

Gourmet Gift Baskets offers so many choices that are sure to please any dad in your life. They have everything from savory bites, wine, beer, sweets of all kinds, fruit, and so much more. There's something for every taste and budget. Some gifts even have FREE shipping. If you sign up for their email list, you will receive 10% off your first purchase. 

We highly recommend Gourmet Gift Baskets as a gift for Father's Day, birthdays, thank yous, get well soon, anniversaries, and even just because! The person receiving it will feel extra special and loved.

Are you a fan of food gifts?