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Macropay Reviews the Psychology Behind Checkout Anxiety

paying with card

The most crucial part of an e-commerce website is its checkout page. This space is where consumer interest gets converted to revenue. However, this is also where buyers feel the most anxious, evidenced by the staggering 69.82% online shopping cart abandonment rate from Baymard Institute’s recent study. In this article, Macropay reviews the reasons behind checkout anxiety and how your business can help potential customers alleviate the stress of the checkout process.

Setting up an online store should create a frictionless experience for consumers – from viewing items to placing orders. Each part of the website should consider the customer’s journey every step of the way. Every aspect of the payment experience can contribute to checkout anxiety.

What is Checkout Anxiety?

The term ‘checkout anxiety’ refers to the customer’s innate fear of making an online purchase. Several practical factors can drive this stress when purchasing through an e-commerce website. Among other things, they cannot touch, see, or hold the product before buying. In addition, most people are accustomed to anchoring their decisions after carefully inspecting an item. Moreover, there is almost no human interaction when buying online. And customers are used to asking questions, getting reassurance, and considering opinions from store clerks or merchandisers. Hence, online purchases feel a bit riskier for them.

However, checkout anxiety is not an unbeatable opponent for businesses. In fact, circumventing the factors that create this anxiety can prove beneficial to the company as an added value for the customers. Therefore, it is essential for e-commerce website owners to understand the sources of checkout anxiety and solve them at that level.

Overwhelmed with Choices

One of the reasons consumers prefer online purchasing is the sheer variety of products available at their fingertips. However, according to research conducted on internet shopping anxiety, even the most variety-seeking segment experiences an overload of options. This causes confusion when selecting an item from a pool of hundreds, sometimes thousands. When they finally decide to hit the purchase button, there comes the issue of whether they made the correct purchase. This regret fuelled becomes a learned behaviour which resurfaces the next time they make a purchase. 

Luckily, businesses can take advantage of the increasing capacities of existing algorithms. Aside from limiting their page to only the most relevant products to the search query, they can also use recommendation engines to curate their customers’ journey further.

However, while having too many product choices is not the only concern fuelling checkout anxiety. The topic of cybersecurity and data safety also stirs anxiety during checkout. 

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy

It is getting harder to detect online scams. It is even more complicated if a payment gateway is compromised. Repeat customers trust certain sites but that trust is gone once they click the checkout button and realise that they have been scammed.

Payment gateway security is crucial to the survivability of businesses. It is the business’s responsibility to ensure that its paying customers are safe. This entails optimum cybersecurity and compliant data storage procedures.

Curbing checkout anxiety takes strong safety and security measures. It also does not hurt to offer a payment gateway specifically designed to make it easier for customers to pay with heightened security.

Legal compliance is also a concern business need to watch out for. The General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR is designed to “enhance individuals’ control and rights over their personal data and to simplify the regulatory environment for international business.” The failure to protect your consumers’ data does not only hold the business as noncompliant, but it also leads to mistrust — mistrust fuels checkout anxiety.

Lack of website credibility

The internet is now a second home to many. Through the years, it has become easier to spot bogus websites created to scam people out of their money. However, even legitimate e-commerce websites can fall victim to the hypervigilance of people on the internet.

Digital fraud is a very real risk with catastrophic consequences. But there are times well-meaning businesses slip up. Not paying attention to details can make a site appear like a scam.

In a 2021 study, researchers found that 90% of US consumers are concerned when sharing their personal information with new e-commerce sites. Therefore, business owners must optimize their checkout process by adding trust signals. These trust signals vary greatly depending on the nature of your business and what your clients value. Some trust signals are as simple as the logo of your payment processor which lets your customer know that their payments are safe.

Other trust signals include glowing reviews from other satisfied customers, sustainable partners, social proof, policy information, membership to credible institutions, or even a statement of guarantee.

Tedious checkout process

17% of US shoppers said they abandoned their cart after selecting the items they wanted because of the lengthy checkout process. On top of that, 18% said they do not trust the website with their credit card information. As the checkout process becomes longer, it opens a wider gap for customers to drop-off. Furthermore, the fact that the process is needlessly long diminishes the trust placed on the website.

The issue of trust is especially important for businesses to tackle head-on. Losing customers due to their checkout process could mean that they will never return to the site. After all, there are a thousand other places on the internet to make the same purchase.

Ease of access and user experience is the issue. Businesses need to use the most trusted checkout payments solution. By integrating Macropay in the checkout process, customers will experience a much faster transaction with the guaranteed safety of their data.

Macropay Review in Conclusion

Macropay can significantly increase a new website’s credibility. Tried and tested, their gateway processes millions in payments. In fact, there have been instances when an interested client would have to be waitlisted.

Battle checkout anxiety by improving the payment process for your clients. Allow your business to thrive. From advisory services to innovative payment technology, all it takes is a little help. Get in touch with Macropay’s payment experts through [email protected]

10 Exciting Ways to Spend Your Time With Kids in Chicago

Chicago

One way to make a trip to Chicago more exciting is to bring kids along. Indeed, there are numerous activities you can do in this amazing city. Consider ten family-friendly ways to spend your time with children here.

  1. Kohl Children’s Museum

Young children can take pleasure in the hands-on learning activities at Kohl Children’s Museum. Some permanent exhibits are Adventures in Art, Build It, and Cooperation Station. Kids will have the chance to use their imaginations and get creative.

  1. Shedd Aquarium

At the Shedd Aquarium, families can see astounding animals such as sharks, seadragons, giant Pacific octopus, the Great Horned owl, and more. A few exhibits to love are Abbott Oceanarium, Caribbean Reef, and the Polar Play Zone. Besides this, it can be helpful to have a safe place to put your personal belongings so you don’t have to carry them around. Vertoe provides luggage storage in Chicago and across over 65 major U.S. cities. It’s secure, affordable, and hassle-free and can give you a way to forget about your problems and relax.

  1. Lincoln Park Zoo

Almost nothing can hold the attention of children better than animals. Founded in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo spans 35 acres. From the aardvark to the Chilean flamingo, your kids might want to stay all day. Some programs to consider trying out are Zoo Camps, Family Nature Days, and Campfire Nights.

  1. Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier

At a height of almost 200 feet, residents and visitors alike can appreciate The Centennial Wheel. Families can take pleasure in the 360-degree view it offers of Lake Michigan and Chicago. Riding high above the city on a Ferris wheel can be a truly memorable experience your curious kids will likely cherish forever.

  1. Chicago Children’s Theater

The Chicago Children’s Theatre provides imaginative plays for children to watch. Examples of shows are The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show and The Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party. Acting classes give kids an opportunity to explore musical theater, improv, and multimedia, among other things.

  1. Chicago Cultural Center

In 1897, the Chicago Cultural Center opened and represented Chicago at its best. Here you’ll find free family events, art exhibitions, theater events, music, and more. Further, all ages can enjoy the experiences, sounds, and sights of the Learning Lab.

  1. Chicago Botanic Garden

The Chicago Botanic Garden sits on 385 acres and displays millions of flowers and plants. Children can love taking a nature walk through the ever-changing settings. Alternatively, wait to visit in the fall to see the Night of 1,000 Jack-O’-Lanterns.

  1. LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Families who love playing with LEGO toys can stop by the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. In LEGOLAND, age doesn’t matter because LEGOS are for everyone. Have a blast exploring Miniland, or build a LEGO car and race it down a giant ramp. Or head to the LEGO 4D Cinema where different movies play every 30 minutes.

  1. Chicago Magic Lounge

If your children have never experienced a magic show, you can astound them by taking them to the Chicago Magic Lounge. You and your kids have the rare opportunity to see guest entertainers and talented magicians perform perplexing tricks before your astounded eyes.

  1. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

At the center of the Lincoln Park neighborhood, you can visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Families can witness nature-inspired art and live native animals up close. Exhibits such as Judy Istock Butterfly Haven and RiverWorks are educational and interactive. Some fun programs to consider joining are Winter & Summer Camp, Chicago Conservation Corps, or even In-School programs.

All things considered, children and adults can have the best time in Chicago. Other places you might like to visit include the Museum of Science and Industry, Maggie Daley Park, Adler Planetarium, and many others. Therefore, you’ll be able to explore the city and never become bored.

What Is Foot Reflexology, How Does It Work And How Can Do It Yourself?

If you want to feel better and ease the accumulated stress from your busy and hectic lives, you can use a specific kind of therapy, reflexology. It is a form of massage as reflexologists use their hands and apply pressure on feet, hands, or ears to ease your stress.

It is not typical care, and this Chinese foot massage cannot treat or diagnose any illness, but it can be used as a complementary treatment to some medical ones. It is an antient Asian healing practice based on the principles of connection between different body parts and reflex points of the feet.

Everyone loves a foot massage and feels better after having it. So, let’s learn why this type of massage is worth trying.

How Does Foot Reflexology Work?

Reflexology is a holistic practice that can improve the quality of your life in different ways. It is a mainstay of traditional Chinese medicine.

It has been here for centuries, and it has been practiced since 2300 B.C.

It is a zone and an alternative therapy that involves applying pressure to the feet without any oil and lotion. When applied, it improves your body’s nerve response, gives you balanced energy levels, and improves your blood circulation.

Understanding The  Foot Reflexology Chart

Can you imagine your whole body projected on your foot? This is what basically the reflexology chart is.

The left foot will stimulate the left side of your body, while the right foot will stimulate the right side.

So, how are some parts of the feet connected to your body parts?

To give an example, the bottom of your feet, from the tip to the heel, is related to your spine. The second and the third toe relate to your eyes, while the other toes are connected to your teeth, head, and sinuses.

Here is an example of a reflexology foot chart so you can see the reflexology points on your feet:

foot reflexology massage

Modern science needs more quality and thorough research to confirm how this Asian therapy works.

Some studies confirmed that it could be beneficial for reducing back pain, lowering migraine pains, and reducing stress. (1) (2)

Reflexology Benefits

But, this doesn’t mean that it is not beneficial for many uses, and one of the key benefits of this therapy include:

1. Stress and relaxation (One of the main benefits of this massage as by increasing the blood flow in your body, your stress level is decreased).

2. Pain management ( It can help you with acute and chronic pain. In one 2019 study, it was proved to be effective with children that had chronic pain and reduced it significantly.) (3)

3. Digestion ( The reflexology helps digestion by increasing the blood flow, but more research is needed to confirm this statement.)

4. Eyestrain ( Our daily activities include looking at screens all day long, and reflexology may help with relaxing the tight muscles around our eyes.)

5. Improved sleep ( After a reflexology treatment, you can easily get a good night’s sleep as it reduces the stress and relaxes your muscles.)

6. An overall sense of well–being and clearing your body from the accumulated toxins.

In addition to this, it can:

  • Fight cancer
  • Resolve sinus issues
  • Improve fertility
  • Improve immune system
  • Help you with back problems
  • Fight colds and bacterial infections
  • Correct hormonal imbalances
  • Release arthritis pain
  • Treat nerve problems and numbness from cancer drugs (peripheral neuropathy)

Difference Between Reflexology And The Foot Massage

Reflexology is done mainly on the feet and involves small muscle movements compared to the common massage that can be done on every part of the body and involves large muscle movements.

Reflexology derives from antient Asian cultures. This massage stimulates the complex pathways that wind throughout the body and doesn’t simply interact with the feet’ soft tissues. The reflexologist applies different techniques to treat reflex points that connect feet to different body parts like organs, bones, or body systems. There are numerous reflex points on the feet that can be stimulated to induce healing and lead to balance in the whole body.

This massage has more health benefits compared to the ordinary foot massage that is limited to the feet only.

Foot massage is used for sore and tense feet to relieve the pain, and it is used for stimulating and improving circulation. When your blood flow is improved, it will reduce the tension and promotes healing. You can do a foot massage by yourself or ask someone to do it for you.

A simple foot massage will be kneading stiff or sore areas of your feet with the help of your hands and knuckles. At the same time, you can spread the toes apart to stretch the muscles.

4 Reasons Why Reflexology Can Be Painful

There could be several reasons why your foot hurts while you are having a massage. In fact, there are around 200.000 nerve endings on your feet, so if you haven’t had any foot massage before, it might cause you some weird sensations.

Here is the list of the main reasons why you experienced pain during the foot massage:

1. Because your feet have never been massaged before

Most people have probably had a rare chance of having a foot massage, so pain and discomfort might be part of your first ever foot massage, but do not worry, with time and as you continue to get more massages, the pain is lower, and it will eventually go away.

2. Maybe you have some health issues

If you experience some pain during reflexology, it might be that something else is going on in your body or something is wrong with that particular part of the body. This may indicate that you should pay a visit to your family doctor and do some tests to see if you are in good shape.

In Chinese Reflexology, when some painful point is found, the therapist focuses on it, while in the Western world, is completely different, and the therapist tries to ease the movements and the massage to ease the pain.

3. Your masseuse is applying too much pressure

There are, unfortunately, many poorly trained therapists, and if you end up with this type of therapist, you may feel pain, so it is very important to find the right therapist and try out as many therapists as you can and see what works best for you.

4. Because some congested reflex areas are treated

Reflexology doesn’t resemble a foot massage, and you will usually feel the pain when some congested reflex areas are massaged, but the soreness will go away in a few sessions.

In the end, if the pain is intolerable, it is not wrong to ask the therapist to stop the massage.

How Can You Practice Reflexology By Yourself?

As mentioned above, reflexology is a treatment that takes into account all aspects of a person and has no known side effects, except for some mild ones.

How does it work?

Your hands and feet provide a map of your body’s organs, and just a small gentle pressure may give indirect access to areas in need.

Besides many health benefits stated above, reflexology may also act as a preventive measure to keep your body balanced. This traditional Chinese foot massage creates equilibrium within yourself since it believes that all diseases are caused by some sort of imbalance or vital energy, known in Chinese medicine as QI.

Although it is recommended to see a professional reflexologist for better results and safety or book a reflexologist near you, you can do some easy reflexology techniques at home by yourself to ease pains such as:

  • back-aches
  • headaches
  • general stress and tension

For some step-to-step guide on foot reflexology, you can consult a trained reflexologist or try to practice applying pressure on some reflex points on your feet by yourself and use your hands and thumbs to gently work the area for several minutes.

We offer you a few examples of different pain relief massage techniques that you can practice at home.

 Menstrual cramps 

 If you have menstrual cramps and painful periods, you can use Reflexology to ease the pain. You should try it with mild pressure on both sides of your heels, where the uterus and ovary reflexes are situated.

Stress relief and headaches

There are some specific points on your feet that can ease stress tensions, so to relax this important part of your brain, make some gentle pressure over the tips of your toes and right inside your foot. To ease a headache, try squeezing your big toes and if it is caused by your sinuses, try some pressure on the other toes as well.

Teething pains

If your baby is having some teething problems, gently pressure the web of their hands between the thumb and forefinger to soothe the teething pains.

Stomach aches

If you have some stomach aches, you need to massage your left foot as this is the place where all the reflexology pressure points related to this body part are situated. In this case, you can apply some gentle pressure to the outside of the arch of your foot, next to the heel.

Note: Avoid these pressure points when pregnant, as they might stimulate the uterus.

How Reflexology Can Help Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is usually experienced as stabbing heel pain and stiffness when you walk out of bed early in the morning.

It can cause mild discomfort or sometimes debilitating pain and affects around 2 million Americans each year. It is caused by inflammation of one thin ligament that runs across the bottom of your foot. This ligament is the foot’s arch that supports your leg while you walk. It can found usually in runners, and you may have a risk of getting it if you are overweight, menopausal, pregnant, or wear shoes with inadequate support. 

Reflexology may be beneficial as it can relieve some pain, and it can use pressure points techniques to release tensions in the feet. 

Reflexology is a better and healthier remedy than Plantar fasciitis surgery. Similar to another massage, this therapy doesn’t give an instant cure, but with regular reflexology sessions, you can achieve an improvement and you will experience gradual pain relief on a daily basis.

When your legs are soaked in warm salt soak, the reflexologist will start the massage by losing up the tight bands of the fascia, stretching the ligaments, and breaking up the crystals in your legs to reduce the inflammation and ease the pain.

Reflexology Side Effects

If you are pregnant, you should inform your therapist because some pressure points may induce contractions.

Some people have also reported some mild side effects as:

  • Emotional sensitivity
  • Mild headaches
  • Sore feet

How to Study for the NASM Exam: A Complete Guide

personal training

Out of all the personal training certifications, you decided that NASM-CPT is the one for you. It has many specializations, so you’ll be able to land any type of fitness coaching job.

However, due to the material’s complexity, you find it hard to study for the exam. Don’t let the frustration get to you. Instead, follow our guide below to help you study the material efficiently.

1. Schedule Your Exam

It may seem counterproductive, but scheduling the exam first is a great way to enhance your studying sessions. Instead of studying for what seems like an eternity, you’ll have a clear timetable in front of you.

As a result, you’ll have to create a studying schedule and hold yourself accountable. Furthermore, it can help enhance how well you retain information since you’ve planned reviews for each section accordingly.

2. Get your CPR/AED Certification Before the Exam

Having an updated CPR/AED certification is one of the prerequisites needed before becoming a full-fledged personal trainer. So it’s in your best interest to get it before you take your exam to avoid delays afterward.

You can still take the test without it. But you’ll need to ensure you submit your certification before a one-year time frame, or you’ll have to resit the exam.

3. Use Study Guides

The NASM study guide is an effective resource to help you prepare for the certification exam. It breaks the content down into different sections outlining the material you’ll see on the test.

Furthermore, It’ll help increase your studying efficiency because you won’t have to worry about studying irrelevant information. Oh, and did we mention it’s free? 

team

4. Get Help From Flashcards

Your brain is like a sponge; because it absorbs so much, studying the complex concepts can get overwhelming. There are many definitions and exercise science components that you’ll need to know.

At some point, you’ll probably wonder why you decided to torture yourself with this certification process. But you can mitigate some stress with the help of flashcards.

Flashcards have always been a helpful memorization technique because they efficiently work the information into your brain. Furthermore, it gives your brain a rest because instead of looking at pages of text, you have a stack of flashcards with the most relevant information.

As you start reviewing your flashcards, you may feel like they’re not working. Don’t worry; your brain is getting used to the new study method. Repetition is vital when using flashcards, so the more you review, the better chance you’ll have at remembering the information.

5. Progression and Regression Are Essential

When you become a NASM-CPT, it’ll be your job to create a fitness plan aligned with your client’s goals. However, sometimes things don’t always go as planned, which can be either good or bad.

Your client may be progressing faster than expected, so you may need to tweak their program. But if you feel like they can’t keep up with what you’ve created, you’ll need to scale back their regiment, so there’s no discomfort.

6. Take Practice Tests

With the amount of material, you’ll be covering, forgetting something is inevitable. But that’s why you have practice tests.

These exams have material that resembles the actual exam. By taking them a few times, you’ll be able to figure out where your weaknesses are. 

As a result, you can put more energy into studying those sections. Then you can retake the practice exam to see if your efforts have paid off.

Once you get a score to your liking, you’ll have confidence in your abilities and know that you can pass the real exam. (1)

7. Mnemonic Phrases Can Help

You’ve probably used mnemonics from time to time without evening knowing it. Here’s one that will jog your memory:

“Thirty days has September, April, June, and November. All the rest have 31..”

No one really knows hows it ends, but do you remember that rhyme? It was an easy way to remember the number of days in certain months. That’s what mnemonics are—phrases that can help you remember important information.

Exercise science is filled with many complex topics, and using mnemonics can make it easier to process that information. You can use a rhyme (like above), create a song, or use acronyms.

These Tips Can Help You Study for the NASM Exam

The NASM exam is challenging, but studying doesn’t have to be. If you follow these suggestions and prepare accordingly, you should be just fine.

Take your time preparing beforehand and when you sit for the exam, trust your instincts. You’ve put in a decent amount of effort to get to this point.

There’s no reason to overthink anything. Attack the exam with enthusiasm, get your certification, and land the personal training job of your dreams. (2)

Independent Contractor Jobs – What to Expect and Include in Your Job Description

freelancer

A job as an independent contractor entails the same basic requirements as an employee but with more personal freedom and control. You may not be eligible for healthcare, retirement savings, and other perks. This article will teach you what to expect and what you should include in your job description.

Detailed job description

The first step in hiring a competent and experienced driver is to create a description for independent contractor jobs. A job description for an independent contractor should clearly state what the position entails. This will assist the contractor in attracting the right talent and weeding out those who are unqualified for the job. A well-written job description will simplify the process and ensure the success of your project. The job description can be customized to meet your specific needs, and it is available for free download. It will also assist you in obtaining the best possible matches. Just ensure that you include your company name and logo so that your new hire knows exactly what they’re getting themselves into. If you follow these guidelines, you will have an independent contractor job description to attract the best candidates.

Requirements

When applying for an Independent Contractor position, carefully read the job description. Many employers require independent contractors to meet certain requirements to avoid potential legal issues. One of these requirements is that the work is precise. To ensure the quality of the work, the company should have the proper tools and training. It should also have a policy stating whether or not it pays overtime. You should also ensure that you will be compensated based on your services and not be required to work on a set schedule. Also, to be considered for an Independent Contractor position, you should meet fundamental qualifications or requirements, such as having your business license, marketing experience, and marketing skill. You may also take a business bookkeeping or recordkeeping course and create a basic website. (1)

Compensation

While an independent contractor performs services under a contract, they do not have the same rights and responsibilities as an employee. Independent contractors do not have benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. They must pay their own Social Security taxes and are not eligible for employee benefits. They are also not covered by worker’s compensation. However, there are some ways to make money as an independent contractor.

As an independent contractor, you are responsible for your operating expenses and the quality of your work. Independent contractor pay is typically based on a flat rate and does not include benefits. In other words, independent contractors are not employees, and they do not expect to be compensated for their efforts. As a result, independent contractors frequently have more freedom than employees. Furthermore, they can work on their own time and at their own pace, and they may be able to delegate some tasks to others.

Independent contractor jobs examples

There are numerous examples of independent contractor jobs available. A freelance writer can work as an independent contractor, whereas a real estate agent can work for a company and earn commissions on sales. An independent contractor can do almost any type of work as long as it meets the government’s definition of independent contractor work. An interior designer, for example, can work on a project for an architecture firm while assisting the client with any aspect of the construction process.

Many people in the arts and crafts industry fall into this category. Because they do not have a regular jobs, they are in charge of the work’s creative aspects. A building, for example, might hire an artist to paint a mural, which would be an independent contractor job. An artist may also be an independent contractor if they are not on the regular payroll of a company. Whether they are paid or not, the job is theirs to do, and they can make as much money as they want.

Unique Mother’s Day Gift Ideas For Moms That Love Gardening

gift for mother's day

It is common for children to be in a dilemma when Mother’s Day looms. Most of you may struggle to develop unique gift ideas for this wondrous occasion to celebrate your mom. Well, if your mom is passionate about gardening, there are a few ideas that we have up our sleeves to help make Mother’s Day bright, leafy, and fresh for your incredible mom!

It’s always a good idea to offer your mother a present that she will readily use in the present and the future. Therefore, a gift of her specific interests and passions calls for the perfect celebration. We have some of the most creative gift ideas for all those wonderful gardening-loving moms. (1)

Gardening Gift Options For Mother’s Day

Since we don’t wish you to ever run out of ideas, we have an extensive list of gardening gifts that you can give your mom. These will allow her to practice her love for gardening while enjoying the emotional association with the fact that it was given to her by her most beloved. Therefore, here are a bunch of ideas that you can go for on the upcoming Mother’s Day:

1. Gift Her A Beautiful Meyer Lemon Tree

If you’re unaware of what a Meyer Lemon Tree looks like, here’s a short description. These trees consist of dense-skinned fruits that are a beautiful mixture of mandarin orange and lemon. These fruits aren’t only a wonderful tickle to your taste buds and look beautiful sprawled across their green plant of origin.

This is one of the best gifts because this hybrid fruit is not grown for commercial purposes. Therefore, you’d grow it yourself for your mom to offer her the opportunity of tasting the exceptional sweet-tangy fruit while enjoying the aesthetic pleasure that comes with its leafy and lemon-like appearance.

2. Bird-Shaped Globes For Plant Watering

These are some of the most delicate-looking and classy glass globes, making for the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. These globes will not only appeal to you due to their wonderful appearance but will also have a major functional advantage of keeping your plants watered throughout. Moreover, it is also handy for when your mom is out of town.

3. Floral Design Gardening Gloves

Let’s face it, anything with a floral print adds oomph and lures you in with its vibrant look. Therefore, why not mix the beauty of a floral print with the functional benefit of gardening gloves to make the perfect Mother’s Day gift? Gloves are essential contributors to keeping your hands clean from the soil and mud that your mom is bound to get into if she is into gardening.

4. A Canvas Garden Apron

If your Mother is a gardening lover, we assure you that she will appreciate an apron due to its multiple benefits. A garden apron will come in handy when she’s on the field, scraping through the soil, watering the plants, and doing other tasks to provide her plants with adequate care. This apron will include multiple pockets to keep all the tools required to cater to her plants, such as a garden fork, a spintiller cultivator, and a garden tool sharpener. These aprons also come in handy if you need a pocket to keep your gardening gloves (or, should I say, floral design gardening gloves?)

5. Gardener’s Tool Seat

Among the handy instruments that add to the convenience of the gardening experience, one of the best ones is a gardener’s tool seat. This is perfect for giving your mom a semi-break as she thoroughly tends to her plants. Moreover, this seat has various compartments where she can keep her gardening tools. This seat will serve the purpose of relaxing and gardening simultaneously. What could be better than a chance to sit, garden, and organize through one simple gift?

6. White And Blue Ceramic Plant Markers

One of the most creative and fashionable gifts for a plant-loving mother would be a classy plant marker made of ceramic and colored blue and white. This combination of colors makes for the perfect appearance and will also help your mom keep track of what goes on within your garden.

7. Pollinator Garden Push-Ups

This gift will act as a knight in shining armor for a gardening enthusiast. This will save your mom from the struggle of attracting butterflies, hummingbirds, or bees to your garden or yard. These pollinator push-ups will have all of these taking up major space in your garden in the blink of an eye. Therefore, your Mother can benefit from instant pollination in her garden in the most convenient way.

8. A Water Generating Planter

Gardening gifts have opened up a completely new dimension through water-generating planters. These are aesthetically appealing and have a major functional benefit as it takes condensation from the air and transforms it into water for your mom’s plants. Therefore, she can relax happily, knowing that her plants will never be subject to underwatering.

Conclusion

Therefore, if your mother is passionate about gardening, these creative gift ideas come with the guarantee of a beautiful smile on her face on Mother’s Day. Offer her the long-term functional benefits of these gift ideas while appealing to her aesthetic sense by offering her one of these thoughtful gardening gifts. (2)

Which Fish Can You Eat While Pregnant?

fish to avoid while pregnancy

Pregnancy nutrition can be very confusing and you always want what is best for your baby, so you probably always put some fruits in your cereals and consume a lot of vegetables. In addition, you may eat protein and dairy food, and probably you have a few healthy snacks in between.

But, can pregnant mothers eat fish during pregnancy, with the latest concerns about the high fish mercury level in some fish and the received mixed results from the research that mercury might affect a baby’s brain and the nervous system?

Well, of all the food dilemmas you might have while pregnant, fish may be the most challenging one. On one side, this food contains nutrients that may be essential for the development of the fetus, while on the other, it may not be safe as it contains damaging polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury.

So, let’s see which fish is beneficial and which should be avoided during pregnancy so you can maximize the many benefits of the fish for you and your baby.

Why Fish is Healthy for the Baby And Pregnant Mothers?

Omega 3 – DHA fatty acids

Fish is rich in nutrients and vitamins and in healthy oil called Omega 3 – DHA. When you include it in your diet, it is a very good way to get all the needed protein and healthy fats that are very healthy for the brain and eyes of your baby. (1)

During the last trimester, the nervous system and the baby’s brain are rapidly developed, and this requires about 65 mg/day of DHA. Some studies have shown that it can be beneficial for a baby’s early development. 

This high demand for Omega 3 fatty acids continues to the age of 2. 

At the same time, Omega 3 fatty acids nourish the brain of the expectant mothers and prevent depression. 

It can also lower the risk of premature delivery, as shown in some studies. (2) 

Protein 

Another thing that is needed to build the baby’s skin, hair, bones, and muscles is protein. In addition, pregnant mothers also need 25 gr of protein daily to support their babies. 

Fish, peanut butter, eggs, beans, and dairy are good protein sources. 

Iron 

Iron is great for building up the immune system and helps bring oxygen from the mother’s bloodstream to the baby. Some seafood like crab, shrimp, clam, and oysters are rich in iron and are safe to be eaten during pregnancy. 

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and can lower the risk of getting high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Some fish are high in vitamin D, such as shrimp, salmon, and canned tuna. Other food supplements rich in vitamin D are milk and orange juice. 

The revised advice from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is for the pregnant women to eat a variety of cooked fish 2 to 3 times per week or up to 12 ounces (340 grams) of a variety of seafood lower in mercury. (3

What Fish Is Safe To Eat While Pregnant?

While pregnant, you can eat fish low in mercury and high in Omega 3 fatty acids such as follows:

  • Pacific mackerel
  • Herring
  • Salmon
  • Anchovies
  • Freshwater trout
  • Sardines
  • Catfish
  •  Tilapia 
  • Canned light tuna 
  • Cod

When pregnant, you should enjoy eating fish and all types, frozen, fresh, and canned. Canned tuna is one of the most affordable, and it has a mild and sweet flavor. 

What  Fish To Avoid While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding And It Is High In Mercury?

Mercury is a mineral that can be found in nature, and it is also released into the environment through human activities. Fish and other animals are exposed to it in rivers, lakes, and oceans.

Mercury can pass from a mother to a child through the placenta when you are pregnant. It can also pass in smaller amounts through breast milk if you breastfeed a baby. Mercury can affect a baby’s brain and cognitive development. 

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid these 7 types of fish. They are all high in mercury:

  1. Tilefish from the Gulf of Mexico
  2. Shark
  3. Swordfish
  4. Orange roughy
  5. Bigeye tuna
  6. Marlin
  7. King mackerel

In addition, never use a microwave for cooking fish and do not eat raw fish when pregnant, even sushi. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have lower immunity than normal and are more prone to infections, so make sure that your seafood is fully cooked. 

Is It Safe To Consume Shrimps During Pregnancy?

If you are pregnant and you are a seafood lover, you may be wondering if it is ok if you eat shrimp, and we have some good news for you! The answer is Yes! 

Well–cooked shrimp is not just safe, but it is an excellent and nutritious food option to be taken during pregnancy, provided it is not part of your daily meal. They should be consumed in small doses at about 340 g a week.  

Shrimps are high in protein, and it is low in mercury content, so it is perfectly safe during pregnancy. It is rich in vitamins B2 and B12, which are very important for overall health when pregnant. They are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids that are beneficial for a baby’s development. 

They are rich in iron, so in 100 g, you will get 1.8 gm of iron, which is significant for the baby’s development and you as a mother. It can reduce anemia in pregnancy which also helps premature birth and brings oxygen and blood supply to the baby. 

But, during pregnancy, you should refrain from eating raw shellfish and ensure yourself that all the seafood you take is fully cooked. When raw or not fully cooked, they may contain listeria that can cause bacterial infection and premature birth or miscarriage. 

It is also necessary to keep them fresh and cold and you shouldn’t consume anything that has been out of the refrigeration for more than an hour. It is also important to consult your health provider for any questions you might have about the safety of the shrimps or any other food during pregnancy. 

Eating Salmon During Pregnancy

Salmon fish may be a good choice as it is high in DHA or omega-3 fatty acids, which are very important for the neurodevelopment of the baby and may also reduce preterm delivery. Some studies have found that it can also decrease the risk of induced hypertension during pregnancy. 

Salmon has the least amount of mercury compared to other fish, but still, it should be consumed in moderation, and stay away from it if you are allergic. If you develop some kind of reaction, go to the doctor immediately. 

To be safe during the pregnancy, salmon must be fully cooked, and it should be noted that raw and smoked salmon can lead to listeria infection during pregnancy and should be avoided.

Eating just two to three portions of cooked salmon per week is completely safe for you and your baby, and you are protected from excessive mercury exposure and getting all the nutritional benefits from it. 

Monitor Mercury Intake

When you are pregnant is very important for you to monitor your mercury intake because high mercury content in your diet may cause hearing and vision problems for your baby and lead to brain damage. 

All fish have some mercury content, but some should be avoided due to their high content of this metal that occurs in natural fish habitats. 

Sleeper Feather Trim Pajamas – a Luxury Way to Wear Pajamas

Luxury pajama

We all know about Sleeper for its pajamas, dresses, loungewear sets, and many more stylish items. This brand has been providing a unique and fresh women’s style for 8 years and continues to show its best. You simply need to surf social media to see that the company is truly on the crest of a modern fashion wave and advanced trends. With the birth of the Sleeper brand, it has become clear that customers have never ceased appreciating simple yet cool items. The company is particularly known worldwide for its pajamas, as we have mentioned before. Many women have developed a fondness for delicate hues because of Sleeper brand. If you are bored with your pajamas or just want to try something new and luxurious – state of the art line of Sleeper feather trim pajamas will be our response! The vast majority of ladies praised Sleeper feather trim pajamas outfits, which are truly exceptional. Here we have a business that has evolved from a pajama manufacturer to a prominent casual clothing manufacturer. That’s probably the key to understanding why Sleeper knows so much about how to make an item of clothes as pleasant as possible to wear. And that is why women adore Sleeper’s outfits so much.

Pajama sets for women: there is something for everyone

Someone may think that pajamas are not needed in women’s wardrobes, but we completely disagree with that kind of thought. Pajamas are designed to make you feel as comfortable as possible. That type of outfit is quite useful. Not only you can sleep in it. A pajama is the most comfortable clothes for the morning routine or some light waking up exercises. Or, when you are in a particularly relaxed mood, you can just stay in pajamas all day long. The Sleeper’s pajama sets are a garment perfect for having fun. Sleeper’s stock features various pajama sets for women among which there are such ones as:

  1. Party pajamas
  2. Sizeless pajamas
  3. Linen sets with shorts
  4. Linen sets with pants

The designers try to make clothes that customers will identify as comfortable and pleasant. There might be numerous occasions on which a woman could wear Sleeper looks. The sets are made to give the customers the special feeling as if the garment were a part of their body. It’s possible because of the lightweight materials such as linen used in the process of modeling. The party pajama set designs look lovely and catch the respect of others. Models from the Sleeper party pajama line have easily detachable feathers lighting the mood and providing feel-good and life-balance vibes. Certainly, these clothes can be described as high-quality ones as they are made from the best biodegradable materials. Considering this, Sleeper clothing is pleasant to wear and safe even for sensitive types of skin.

Party in pajamas!

During the COVID-19 pandemic and all those quarantines, we have learned a new way of having fun – having family parties and even Zoom parties. Meanwhile, people still want to wear comfortable and light clothes even when it’s just a little slumber party with the closest ones, don’t they? And what could be more comfortable than wearing pajamas? Almost nothing. It would be a great idea for one of those parties. A pajama party is great fun and the perfect way to make some brilliant memories with your friends or relatives. So, the first and basic thing you need is pajamas. Sleeper’s pajama sets will exceed any expectations. Not only are they comfortable, but they’re also elegant and stylish like a feather PJ set, for instance. Be sure, they would look good even at a cocktail party due to their elegance and uniqueness. 

silk pajama

Feel more comfiness in Sleeper sizeless pajamas

Sizeless pajamas are another multipurpose clothing option. They are super fit to wear at home, and for parties too! Be sure that the color range is wide, so you can find some options you would really appreciate. High fashion enthusiasts will enjoy trying out Sleeper linen set with shorts or pants. The brand loves linen for its quality and biodegradability. So, by buying a Sleeper linen garment the customer can be assured of receiving a set made from the best quality natural fabric. The garments are an excellent chance to try something brand new for you and feel even better and better every time you wear them! (1)

Bridal pajamas 

Amaze your guests with something brand new. Sleeper’s bridal pajamas are undoubtedly a piece of art. Choose your comfiness and unrepeatable look instead of classic wedding dresses. Bridal pajama is a new way of wedding ceremony fashion. They are light and bright – all you need if your ceremony takes place in a warm season of the year. They are also stylish, elegant, and unique. Moreover, they allow you to feel special. You can also wear pajamas on your honeymoon trip. It would remind you about the wedding – one of the most important days of life and a fabulous celebration. (2)

How to Turn Your Kratom Business Side Hustle Into a 6-Figure Business?

kratom tea

Every entrepreneur needs to figure out how to make money with their business. Making money should not be limited to a few hundred now and then, but your target should be a six-figure revenue, which should be consistent. Kratom business is versatile, but it’s never easy to get started as the best kratom business necessitates extensive study and practical advice to steer clear of several mysteries that Kratom entails. Below are some points for getting started in the kratom industry.

Kratom

Understand The Legal Status Of Kratom

Knowing the legal status of kratom in your location is essential before you start making solid arrangements to establish a Kratom business. You must be aware of the legal dos and don’ts of the industry before even considering investing in Kratom. You should know the three most important legal aspects of a Kratom business as mentioned below:

  1. You may have to include legal disclaimers everywhere you sell kratom.
  2. You have to follow lawful methods of product distribution.
  3. You have to follow labeling regulations according to the state where you plan to sell your products.

Therefore, if Kratom is legal in your state, you won’t face any trouble advertising it publicly. However, if kratom is banned for medicinal or recreational use in your state, advocating it publicly can have inevitable consequences. 

Gather Important Resources:

It is nearly impossible to start a kratom business if you don’t have reliable suppliers and sources. You must know how and where to contact reputable sources.

  1. Collect all information about Maeng Da Kratom, including the store where you can get it in bulk at wholesale prices.
  2. Several options centered around this suggestion include producing different kratom goods from kratom powder and partnering with a reliable kratom powder manufacturer. To begin with, approach a well-established kratom firm and agree on the terms and conditions of your partnership.
  3. Growing Kratom is a time-consuming process, and you have to consider numerous variables for it. Climate and geographical location are important variables that influence the overall kratom production. It is always better to choose a reliable kratom retailer or distributor.

Where to buy kratom

Contact Kratom suppliers who are viable and close the deal before you start manufacturing products using kratom powder.

Think About Marketing Strategy For Your Company:

Another critical milestone will be hiring top marketing professionals to promote your kratom products. Marketing experts know how to offer and demonstrate your business in the best possible way. Consider website SEO to achieve a high search engine ranking. You can check how your competitors are performing and consider the marketing strategies that are helping them to rank on the first page of SERPs. (1)

Develop A Backup Strategy:

The kratom industry will not be straightforward without bumps. There will be several setbacks that will require your immediate attention to get things back on track.

  1. Make sure you have a flexible backup plan as Kratom laws are not always consistent and may change for various reasons.
  2. Make sure that your plans are always compliant with kratom rules and regulations. Careful planning might be difficult and time-consuming.
  3. Hire a lawyer on standby and discuss legal expenses and what it takes to adhere to protocols that may arise.

Wrapping Up!

These suggestions will assist you in launching your Kratom business and growing it to new heights. Make sure you choose only a reliable Kratom supplier who offers powdered kratom at wholesale rates. (2)

How to Deal With Anxiety as an Introvert

introverts

Introverts love their alone time, but what happens when anxiety interrupts solitude? Anxiety is an isolating experience as it causes you to withdraw from social situations. It also leaves you feeling inadequate. Introverts already have a challenge opening up or sharing their thoughts, making it tougher to cope when anxiety steps in.

anxiety

Managing anxiety for an introvert is about understanding the triggers and finding healthy coping mechanisms. Here are tips on how to deal with anxiety as an introvert:

Try to Relax

Relaxing can be challenging for anxious introverts, but it’s essential to find ways to relax and de-stress. One way to do this is to make time for yourself every day. Dedicate at least 30 minutes to an hour to do something you enjoy. It can be anything from reading, walking, listening to music, or writing in a journal. An anxiety ring also helps you to relax.

Alternatively, try out Delta 8 carts. It will give you a relaxing effect and make it easier to cope with anxiety. Reach out for your Delta 8 cartridge whenever anxiety kicks in and take a few puffs. It will help you sail through the anxious episode.

Talk to Someone

Talking to someone can help you understand your anxiety better and find ways to cope. Reach out to a therapist, counselor, friend, or family member. Understandably, it’s one of the most challenging things to do, but opening up will help you feel better.

When you talk to someone, be as honest as possible about your feelings. This way, they can help you better. If you don’t have the confidence to meet physically, try chatting, texting, or calling instead.

Find a Support Group

Support groups provide a safe space for people to share their experiences and connect with others who understand what they’re going through. It’s an invaluable resource for introverts who are struggling with anxiety.

Support groups provide a sense of community and can help you feel less alone. Start by enrolling online, where you can share your feelings without worrying about face-to-face interactions. It will give you the confidence to try out local groups later on.

Keep a Journal

Writing is a therapeutic way to deal with anxiety. It can help you make sense of your thoughts and feelings. Write down what’s causing the stress and how it makes you feel. Writing can also help you track your progress and see how far you’ve come.

Aim to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences every day. If you’re struggling to get started, try prompts or lists. For example, write down ten things that make you anxious or five things that make you happy.

Exercise and Meditation

Meditation helps you focus on the present, calming your mind. It’s a great way to de-stress and relax. Start by finding a comfortable position, and then close your eyes and focus on your breath. Try guided meditation if you find it challenging to meditate independently.

Exercise boosts your mood and eases anxiety. It releases endorphins, which have mood-enhancing effects. It can also help you sleep better, which is vital for managing stress. Start by doing light exercises at home, such as yoga or stretching.

Once you’re comfortable, try out different workouts at the gym. Outdoor exercises, such as walking and jogging, enable you to appreciate the beauty of nature, reducing stress levels.

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is crucial for managing anxiety. You’re more likely to feel anxious and stressed when you’re tired. Make sure to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep every night. Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization if you have trouble sleeping. You can also use a noise machine to block distractions, helping you to sleep better.

Identify Your Triggers

Anxiety is triggered by anything, from work stress to relationship problems. Identify your triggers to find ways to avoid them. Once you know what sets off the anxiety, take steps to prevent them.

For example, if you get anxious when around large crowds, try to avoid going to crowded places, or take time to prepare yourself emotionally and psychologically. If work stress is the trigger, take some time off or speak to your boss about your concerns. Resolving issues that trigger anxiety will help you feel better.

Isolation Makes it Hard to Cope With Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal emotion that everyone feels at some point. Introverts find it more challenging to deal with anxiety because they tend to internalize their feelings. This can lead to isolation making it challenging to cope. However, it’s still possible to get solutions to anxiety as an introvert by following the tips above. Go ahead and try them.