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A tenants guide to finding the perfect rental property 

By
Elizabeth Williams

Looking for the perfect rental property can be tricky. Finding a property that’s within your price range, that’s based in the right area, and that ticks all the boxes when it comes to things like decor and facilities is a near impossible task. Add to that the competition between you and other tenants-to-be, and what was once an exciting and enjoyable task becomes a never-ending chore. Luckily, there are some steps you can take to ensure you find the perfect rental property for you.

You’ve likely thought about the things you want from a rental property and your most desired locations, but have you thought about the things you should avoid? For instance, if you’re a single person with a small budget, a large 3-bedroom house in an affluent area is a no-go. Similarly, if you’re not a fan of noise, then renting in an area popular with students might not be your cup of tea. It’s important to fully consider all the aspects of a rental property in order to rule out certain property types and locations. This way, you can spend more time seeking out a property that you know is right for you.

Once you’ve decided on the main requirements for your rental property, you can start thinking about which of your desirable qualities are essential and which ones are less important. You might have spent weeks searching to no avail for a 2-bedroom city center apartment with a balcony and en-suite, but sometimes a bit of compromise is necessary. With demand for rental properties being so high in the UK, there are always other people with the same requirements in mind. Being more lenient with your search will open your mind up to properties you might not have considered before, but that fit your needs perfectly.

If you’re interested in renting an apartment in San Jose, California, you’ll often find that a lot of the available apartments on the market have been constructed out of old period properties. While some people prefer the history and charm of period properties, there are some things to think about if you’re on the fence between this type of property or a new-build. New builds are generally cheaper to run than period properties and have better energy efficiency. This makes new-build apartments perfect for those who want to spend as little as possible on maintenance costs so that they’re left with more to spend on rent.

Due to the popularity of new builds, more property companies are taking advantage of the appeal of these properties and introducing new developments. UK property company RW Invest, for instance, offers a variety of stylish new-build apartments, some of which even have eco-friendly features. Unlike older properties, new-builds are often less likely to encounter maintenance issues which means less time spent on repairs. If these are factors you consider important, then making sure your rental is a new-build property is a good way to narrow down your search and find your perfect new pad.

Once you’ve found a property you like the sound or look of, make sure you schedule a viewing. It’s a common occurrence for properties to look better online than they do in person, so try not to get too set on a property before seeing it in the flesh. Once you’re at the property, you can gauge your thoughts and feelings towards it and visualize whether or not you could see yourself living in the space. This is also a great time to ask any questions you might have about the listing, your tenant rights, and the next steps if you’re interested in securing the property. As soon as you’re happy with the property and have weighed up all the pros and cons, act fast and secure your dream rental!

4 Unique styles of gold earrings and gold bangles for weddings

By
Elizabeth Williams
woman

A wedding is a place where one meets her old relatives. She wants to look gorgeous and have an eye-catching look for the event. She admires every moment when people appreciate her on her look and her all wearing. Although women are the beautiful creature of God, still they do need some accessories to express her beauty to the world. If you are one of those ladies who want to know detailed designs and which kind of pair of earrings would complement your dress and your nature, for those ladies here are 4 unique designs of bangles and earrings for weddings:

1.Net surfaced gold bangles & dangling net surfaced diamond earrings:

Some women like decency and details in jewelry.  Two thin gold bangles attached on a gold net surface make a perfect gold bangle. If a lady wants to add more details, she can also select a design for bangles. Furthermore, she can put diamonds or stones on it to make it more special. There should be 2 pairs of this to make it give also a heavy look. The bangles would be of 23.79 grams in weight. Now, thinking of earrings for this bangle design, a net surfaced and diamond-shaped two to three staged earrings would complement it perfectly. Like detailed bangle, she can also put details on earring as well. For example, little diamonds or stones on the gold diamond shaped earrings.

2. Gold thick bangle & gold earrings with sonorous bells earrings:

This is another more detailed but heavier than the net surfaced gold bangles. These thick bangles can become more attractive if there would be a line of little diamonds on the bangle. This design needs only one pair of bangle as this is graceful and it does not need any other bangle on a hand. The bangles would be of 27.39 grams in weight. With this pair of graceful bangles, a lady to express her traditional taste needs a pair of sonorous bells earrings to make others attract to her or know that these are the filmy effects only created in her appearances.

3. Gold bangle with attached ring & dangling chains earrings:

This one is mostly preferred for little girls, but it looks equally beautiful on ladies as well.  A thick gold bangle with a lock or something that can open it for wearing with a chain going towards fingers and attached with a ring make a lady’s hand more beautiful and occupied. More creativity can be done in this design like making more rings attached with chains, whatever the lady desires. The weight starts from 40 grams. As this occupies a little more space than other designed bangles, a dangling chains earring would compliment these.  Chains can be attached either with a diamond or geometrically shaped tops.

4. Platinum plated Gold bangles in antique Indian designs:

Platinum plated Gold bangles are expensive bangles for sure. When bangle contains antique designs, it revives the old traditions with the uniqueness of the gold plated with platinum. With these unique and elegant looking bangles is all that an aging woman desires. The weight of these bangles is 47 grams each.

Every woman is unique but the jewelry also creates an impact on her. We hope that whatever you select from these Gold earrings designs catalogue & Gold bangles designs with weight catalogue would be the incredible wearing for you.

At Home STD Test: The Rise Of Intimacy Awareness

By
Ana Miller

At-home STD test is a concept that was visualized, brought to life, and is becoming increasingly popular. And this is for good reasons.

A lot of people are starting to realize that being sexually active comes with many risks, especially if they are keeping multiple partners.

Contracting a sexually transmitted disease, otherwise known as STD, is one of the risks that come with being sexually active. Everyone stands the risk of getting an STD, especially if you’re keeping more than one partner.

While some STDs can be cured, there are others that have no cure. However, regardless of whether or not an STD can be cured, it is quite important to get tested.

This will ensure that the disease is caught in its early stage. And the patient can be treated and advised on how to keep it from spreading to others.

In their early stages, STDs start out as infections. This is the reason why some medical practitioners would refer to them as STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections).

Detecting them while they are still in the “infection” stage is very beneficial. You’ll be able to treat them and get yourself cured, if possible.

Just like every type of infection, there are ways to detect an STD infection before it becomes full-blown. The best way to detect an STD or STI is to go for testing or use an at-home STD test kit.

During an STD test, several methods are utilized to detect the infection or disease. Some of the tests usually carried out to detect STDs include vaginal discharge tests, blood tests, laparoscopy, and stool tests.

It is important to note that each STD type has its own method of detection. (1)

INTIMACY AND STDs

While sex isn’t the only cause for intimacy in a relationship, it undeniably plays a huge role in the process. Friendship, love, and sex are the three major factors of intimacy. As of 2018, STDs are actually on the rise, so this is definitely something to take seriously. 

But in this current age, sex (of any form) plays a huge role. This is why at-home STD test kits are very important. They’ll help us to realize early on if we’ve been infected or not

It is very imperative to educate ourselves as well as our loved ones on the necessary precautions to take if we find ourselves in a sexual relationship.

Besides the symptoms, having an STD affects people in different ways. While some may be affected socially, others may be affected emotionally, or psychologically.

For example, if a person tests positive for an STD, they are morally obligated to tell their sexual partners about the condition.

Doing this will ensure that the partner(s) is also tested and they are able to start their treatment early if they happen to be affected.

A person with an STD can become socially embarrassing, thereby withdrawing from friends and family. This could lead to emotional and psychological distress if the situation isn’t brought under control. (2)

SHOULD I GET AN STD TEST?

Yes, you should. If you are sexually active in any way, whether it’s oral, anal, or vaginal sex, you need to ensure that you get tested at home using Self Collect or head into your local family physician or health clinic.

Additionally, if you have found yourself in any of the situations listed below, then it’s important that you go for a clinical STD test or take an at-home STD test:

  • You are a man having sex with one or more other men
  • Your use intravenous drugs.
  • You’re starting a sexual relationship with a new partner
  • You’ve undergone forceful sexual intercourse

Getting tested for an STD test will not only allow you to know your status. It will also ensure that you get the required treatment and advice. You’ll also be provided with ways how to prevent it from spreading to other people.

Also, not every STD has a symptom. So, you may not know that you’ve been infected until it’s too late. And if you are unaware, you may unknowingly spread the disease too.

If you go for the test and the results turn out to be positive, your doctor will provide you with a treatment plan. Even if the STD is one of those that can’t be cured, he/she will provide you with a treatment plan that will suppress the effects of the disease and ensure that it isn’t transferred to other people.

HOW DO AT HOME STD TEST KITS COME INTO PLAY?

Now, you may be too shy to go to the hospital or too busy to get tested. This is why at-home STD test kits were created.

These kits are effective and very useful. They are able to run tests for quite a number of STDs including HIV, Hepatitis B, Chlamydia, Herpes, Gonorrhea, Gardnerella, Syphilis, Mycoplasma, Trichomoniasis, and Ureaplasma.

They are all linked to medical institutions so if your results come out positive, you can easily get a medical practitioner to assist you on what to do.

However, these test kits can only help you detect STDs. It is best to consult a medical professional for diagnosis, treatment, and medical advice.

What is a Thesis Statement How to Write It

By
Elizabeth Williams

It is quite common in universities and tertiary education that students are required to submit a thesis paper at the end of the year or term. Thus, the number of students who flock to online paper writing services to buy custom essay are increasing. This is because writing a research paper, research paper introduction is not easy, especially in writing the best and appropriate thesis statement to fit the entire paper.

What is a Thesis Statement?

One of the most difficult portion to write for any academic paper is the thesis statement. This is because the thesis statement is not just a random simple sentence nor is it filler paragraph. The thesis statement is meant to summarize your entire paper. It is the main point that readers close in on to entire the gist of what they are reading. Hence, it should not be written haphazardly and callously.

Why is a Thesis Statement Important?

As the main point of your paper, the thesis statement you write is very significant. Your paper’s thesis statement serves as the main establishing point where you can input the purpose of your paper. It embodies your position on an issue or topic which helps guide your readers to better understand your argument. It is also ties up all the portions of your paper and give it a central focus.

You’re thesis statement is crucial aspect that you should take time to write. This is because, when not written well, your readers might misconstrue your point and lose their grasp of understanding your paper.

Examples of a Thesis Statement

Knowing how to write a good thesis statement can be a challenging and tough job for most students, especially those who are not well-versed with writing essays. Hence, here are some thesis statement examples for research papers that you can refer to: 

Argumentative

If the aim of your paper is to present your position or claim on a certain issue or topic, then your thesis statement must present a clear and focused take on your point. It should clearly present your position and introduce the logic behind your claim well. For example:

Incorrect: Eating food that is processed is not good for your health.

Correct:People should lessen or avoid eating foods that processed because they contain preservatives that can hinder one’s health and can lead to health problems like diabetes, heart diseases, and more.                                                                                       

Analytical

If the main of your paper is not present a claim or argument but to analyze and evaluate a topic, then your statement must be present the main points of your evaluation. It must also include the conclusions that you draw from your analysis. Here is a thesis statement example:

Incorrect: Populism and nationalism has become more popular with the change in government parties.

Correct: Populism and nationalism have continuously grown popular in both U.S and European democratic parties in response to the decline of the central parties that played domineering role ever since the beginning of WWII.

Expository Thesis Statement

If your research paper aims to present and discuss the facts of a particular issue or topic, then your thesis statement should be a means to summarize the paper. It should contain the key aspects that you will discuss in your paper.

Incorrect: The U.S. government favors the military branch as seen by its greater financial support on that branch.

Correct: The U.S. government allots more financial support on its military power compared to the rest of the industrialized nations.

How to Write a Thesis Statement

Writing the thesis statement can be confusing. However, once you establish where you need begin, it will be easier and smoother in the end. Here are three simple steps you can focus on to how to write a thesis statement:

Understand the Research Question

First, before you decide on how to start your thesis statement, you need to understand your research question first.  If you don’t have one yet, then you need to formulate a question that will fit your topic. Knowing the main issue and turning it into a question will make it easier for you to write an answer in the form of your thesis statement.

Find an Answer

Next, give a tentative response to your research question. This is not your final answer yet. This will just serve as your guide on how to write your statement. If your aim is to argue, then your answer must have a clear and focused claim. If it’s analytical then it should have a clear analysis of the issue. If it is expository, then it should have a concise explanation of facts related to your chosen topic.

Provide Evidences

Once you have clearly understood your research question and provided a clear and concise response, do not forget to support it with evidence. Evidence is a crucial foundation of your thesis statement. If you do not support your claim with sound evidence then the credibility and reliability can be questioned.

Evidences will also help solidify your stance in an argument to persuade your readers. This is also true for analytical and expository statements. Evidences will give people something to refer to that will support the points in your entire paper.

When you write your statement, you must make sure to meet the three C’s: concise, contentious and coherent. Your thesis statement must be coherent where the readers can clearly see how you arrived on that conclusion. Make sure that you cover this in your thesis statement. Your thesis statement should also be contentious. Meaning, it should be supported with adequate and solid evidence and just fragments of facts that lacks backbone. Lastly, your thesis statement must be coherent. Regardless of the number of key points you will cover, they must all add up to one single whole. They must be related and interlinked to reveal a single idea.

Tips on How to Improve Your Academic Writing

By
Elizabeth Williams

As a college student, one has to come to terms with the fact that academic writing forms a great part of their school life. You will be asked to write different articles and to respond to many topics. Teachers test students’ creativity, listening skills, as well as analysis skills. Writing, however, is not something that comes naturally to all students. While some students find it easy, others struggle and take a significant amount of their time trying to work and improve their writing skills. The question how to improve writing English is one that many students ask because of the challenges and hurdles of academic writing. Learners can watch movies to improve learning it’s easier for them to do and to remember.

The first thing you need to know about academic writing is that you need to spend time working on yourself. You need to read books, practice a lot, and ask a lot of questions. Writers are people who are always learning. This means that you have always to be working on something. There are other writing tips,and they are as described below:

  • Enroll forwriting classes – as an international student, the words perfect essaycan easily scare you because of the difficulties you are experiencing with writing. It is possible to perform well in other subjects but fail miserably in writing. Additionally, it is also possible to fail in other subjects because you cannot express yourself well. It is often said that it is never too late to learn something. So, find yourself a tutor or enroll in a writing class. While this may mean you having to spend more hours studying, in the end, you will reap the fruits of your labor.
  • Start your writing exercises by developing an outline – students are always asked to start any writing endeavor by developing an outline. Many ignore this advice and then end up delivering essays that are sub-standard. As you seek to grow in your writing, do not ignore any advice that comes your way. Outlines help you develop or create a picture of what your final essay will be like. They help you plan and include what you need before you start the actual process of writing your essay. In the end, you will have a complete essay.
  • Remember towrite clearly and use proper vocabulary – you will not develop into a great writer if you fail to write clearly and avoid ambiguity. As a writer, it is crucial that you write in a manner that is understandable and that communicates your point or argument. Additionally, it is crucial that you avoid the temptation of using all the words in the English vocabulary. Use the words that you know and develop an essay that communicates to your audience.
  • Editing and writing – after developing your draft, it is always crucial that you continue doing more research and improving the paper. After developing your draft, it is crucial that you edit your work and improve Remove the mistakes you may have included and make sure your paper communicates what it needs to be. Academic writing and researchtake time,andyou should not get tired or waiver in your push to becoming a better writer. As it is often said, all the good things in life take time. Becoming a better writer is one of those things that take time. So, create time and edit your work before you submit your paper.
  • Understand your audience – understanding your audience needs to happen before you start writing your paper. Your audience helps you decide the level of vocabulary to use in your paper as well as the approach you will take. While in school, the obvious audience is the professor or instructor. However, making this assumption is a mistake. The audience of your essay must always be guided by the prompt of an essay. So, read the essay prompt and know who you are writing for. Remember that research is a key part of academic writing. Therefore, take time and do your research as you accumulate content that will help you write your essay. For example, you may have an assignment that focuses on a current event. Academic writing onreal-world topics is something you need to expect,but research and a good understanding of a matter at hand can help you deliver a great
  • Use online resources to proofread your paper – there are numerous resources online that can help you proofread your paper. Some of these resources are free while others ask for some subscription fee. If you wish to grow as a writer, you need to make use of these resources. These will help you discover your weak pointsthus help you grow as a writer.

In conclusion, the academic writing tips discussed above should help you get started on the road to being a good writer. As it has been said earlier in this article, avoid the habit of ignoring things. To grow in any aspect of life, you have to listen to the counsel of those who seem to know more than you do.

Keys to a Happy and Healthy Life

By
Elizabeth Williams

Life is what you make of it. You have but one life to live so it’s in your best interest to make the most of it. Engaging in bad habits like doing drugs can lead to a reckless lifestyle that’s hard to recover from. Thankfully, you are in control of your life and the decisions you make.

Eliminate Bad Habits

Everyone has something that they do or partake in that is preventing them from achieving their goals. For some it’s overspending, buying items without giving any thought to how much they spend resulting in high amounts of debt.

For others, it’s a potentially life-threatening addiction to drugs or alcohol that can alter their personality and cause them to do things, that if in the right state of mind, they would not. The good news is that anyone can get help. There are facilities all over the country such as men’s and women’s rehab centers that specialize in treating not only the addiction but also the underlining cause.

Make the Most of Every Day

Each day that you awake is a blessing. Even if things don’t always go as you plan, take it in stride. People who are happier tend to live longer because they focus on what’s good around them versus the bad. Negativity can cripple you and cause you to miss living. Instead, embrace each day by getting up early, eating healthy foods and doing things you and your family enjoy, together.

Remain Active

During your school years, you had gym class as part of the curriculum. However, many people don’t do any physical activity once they graduate high school or college. Remaining active not only improves your health but also your body and your mind. Getting ample exercise daily through a long walk or a high-impact workout keeps the mind sharp and focused, which transfers over to the job and increases your patience when it comes to your children. In simple terms, when you feel good you are at peace, a sense of calm comes over you and you can handle most anything that comes along.

Family Vacations

Vacations offer a wonderful way to strengthen the family bond. Since you have no pending deadlines or other distractions, you can relax and unwind and enjoy the time together. It’s also a fantastic way to experience new places and carry cherished memories with you forever. Make it a point to take a few vacations or weekend getaways with your family each year.

Rest

Don’t underestimate the benefits of getting enough sleep. Your body requires rest to remain at 100 percent. When you lose sleep or don’t get enough rest, even for a few days, you feel tired, unfocused and cranky. You can also put yourself at risk for getting more colds, due to a compromised immune system and even diseases like cancer and type 2 diabetes. When you aren’t alert you may have trouble functioning on the job or driving behind the wheel.

Sustaining a happy and healthy life is easier than you can imagine. By making a few changes to your current lifestyle and incorporating positive thinking, exercise, rest and quality family time, you will feel good in both your body and your mind.

4 Thrilling Hobbies to Try

By
Elizabeth Williams

Having a hobby is an important part of maintaining emotional wellbeing, and studies suggest that hobbies of all kinds can reduce stress, improve mood, and help participants have a more positive outlook on life. They also improve social connection. Active hobbies, particularly those that involve a small to moderate risk, can improve cardiovascular health and boost levels of overall fitness by developing muscle strength. These types of hobbies frequently involve strategizing, so they can help to keep the mind sharp, too. If you’re looking for an engaging hobby that involves an element of slight risk, consider trying some of the options outlined below.

  1. Ride a Motorcycle

For many people, riding a motorcycle is a lot more fun than being in a car. Motorcycles allow the riders to get around town in an enjoyable way, and they can even make the commuting process shorter and more pleasant since motorcycles can sometimes avoid areas of traffic congestion. Motorcycles can also be used off-road for sports, and this can be especially thrilling for participants. Joining a motorcycle club could be a beneficial way to meet other riders and discover new riding opportunities. To reduce the risk of a motorcycle accident, always wear a helmet, appropriate clothing, and recommended safety gear while riding, and make sure to obey the rules of the road. In the event you are seriously hurt due to another driver’s negligence, contact a motorcycle accident attorney right away to begin the process of getting compensation.

  1. Try Caving

Caving allows participants to access areas that most people never get to see, and it provides many opportunities to discover the pristine beauty of nature. In terms of caving safety, experts recommend that individuals always go caving in a group, never alone. Ideally, a group of four to six people is recommended. The top safety risks involved with caving include falling, being struck by falling objects, hypothermia, and getting lost. To minimize these risks, always wear proper footwear and obtain training on how to use vertical equipment. Make sure to maintain three points of contact while moving over uneven surfaces, and always wear a helmet. In addition, dress warmly to reduce the risk of hypothermia. Establish an emergency plan, and make sure that family members and friends know your whereabouts.

  1. Go Mountain Climbing

Mountain climbing can be an especially exhilarating hobby. From being out in nature to taking in spectacular views at the summit, people of all ages enjoy this sport. As with caving, mountain climbing is best done in groups, and an emergency plan should always be put in place. Proper gear, including stable footwear, ropes, harnesses, vertical climbing equipment, and helmets may all be needed depending on the particular terrain of the mountain. Supplies like survival bars, water, and a compass or other navigational aid are also important. Individuals who are preparing for mountain climbing normally train first at an indoor rock climbing facility to build up their strength and stamina. Before setting out on a climb, always check the weather forecast and make sure you know the locations of any shelters that are available along your route.

  1. Consider Skydiving

Skydiving is perhaps the most adventurous hobby on our list. One of the most popular forms of skydiving is tandem skydiving, in which a student and an instructor are attached to the same parachute. Skydiving is safest when done at a skydiving facility that is affiliated with the United States Parachute Association Group Member Dropzone. These facilities must meet strict safety standards, and they provide every student with safety briefings and proper equipment prior to the dive. To make your skydive as safe as possible, choose a skydiving center that has been open for several years, and check the safety record of the facility prior to booking. Look for an experienced instructor, too. If it is your first skydive, consider doing a tandem skydive instead of a solo one. Always make sure that the parachute you are using is no more than three years old and that it has been inspected by staff. In particular, ensure that the parachute has an automatic activation device that will deploy the parachute even if the diver cannot do so manually.

The adventurous hobbies above will help you create special memories that will last a lifetime. Most of all, when trying the hobbies on this list, remember to have fun and enjoy yourself!

Creative Hobbies You Can Start with Your Smartphone

By
Elizabeth Williams
Smartphone

People have been using their smartphones to conduct business for several years now. The technology continues to improve and this makes it easier to get work done on your device. For those who remember to take time to play, read on for fun ideas and hobbies you can enjoy with your smartphone.

If you have a knack for picking just the right subject or angle of an object, you may enjoy taking photos with your brand new Galaxy S10. Outdoor nature shots taken during hiking, boating, or other adventurous excursions can be great reminders of good times. Just make sure to pick from the many Samsung Galaxy S10 cases available before getting started. Otherwise, you run the risk of damaging your device in pursuit of a fantastic shot.

Filters and applications available for smartphones have made it even easier to manipulate photos, videos, and other items you have stored. You can personalize any of these items to be saved or shared with friends on social media. Photo editing is literally a snap or a swipe today. Even amateurs can produce top quality photos and videos with little or no training.

Users can add personal notes or comments to viewers for photos or videos. Photojournalists have even resorted to using their smartphones to get the right shot at the right moment. Your phone is generally in your hand or at least very close by, so don’t underestimate the abilities it contains. Take some of the stress out of your busy day and enjoy yourself. Taking photos with your Galaxy S10 can help you see things from a different perspective. What you do with that perspective is up to you. But, you owe it to yourself to at least explore the endless creative and inspirational possibilities of your smartphone.

Another great stride available for smartphone users is the music editing and music sharing software. Phones are closely integrated now, not only with each other but also with other devices. Does your friend have a hip playlist that you want to copy? Just tap phones to copy to your device. Want to record that great beat you’re hearing right now at this random hole in the wall restaurant? Or do you want to share the great sounds of the steel band you’re enjoying on vacation? Well, now you can! And you can upload it for duplication, later manipulation, or just to incorporate into your own fun music activities.

You can even record your own sound bytes or create a track that will run over your previous recordings or your video shoots. Turn these into modern day serenades or fun gifts for family and friends. There is literally never a dull moment when it comes to experimenting with your smartphone. If you cannot think of something yourself, you have internet access where the whole world wide web can chime in and make recommendations or give you fun and unique ideas.

Essentially, whatever hobby or pastime you enjoy can be enhanced on your smartphone. If playing games is your thing, you have access to a plethora of sites, including online casinos in some locations. If you prefer to stick to photography, make the best of it by experimenting with some new subject matter or try using various filters on the same shot. The results may surprise you. The most important thing is to occupy yourself and have fun!

Do Massages Have Real Health Benefits?

By
Elizabeth Williams

Stress, depression and anxiety are extremely prevalent in modern-day society. In fact, the National Institute of Mental Health claims that more than a quarter of all Americans suffer from some form of diagnosable mental disorder. According to their 2016 study, at least one out of every five adult citizens in the U.S. now lives with mental illness.

The topic of mental health is rather fascinating. Here are 5 facts about mental illness that everyone should know:

  1. More than 40 million Americans suffer from an anxiety disorder.
  2. Nearly 21 million Americans report having chronic and/or manic depression.
  3. Mental illness affects people of all ages, sexes, religions and nationalities, plus it cares not about social status or financial wellbeing.
  4. Although there are some genetic components often responsible for its development, mental illness is not always an inherited trait.
  5. Contrary to popular belief, mental illness can sometimes be treated without invasive procedures or prescription medications.

With mental illness so common in this country, it’s no wonder why ambitious pharmaceutical companies are constantly introducing new medications in their clever marketing campaigns. However effective some medications may be, many prescription drugs for mental illness can be dangerous, unpredictable and are laden with dozens of potential hazards. Between the short-term and long-term side effects (some of which can be permanent) and the extreme withdrawal symptoms, mental illness meds can do more harm than good.

Fortunately, there are a variety of all-natural remedies that can treat or cure some mental and/or mood disorders without drugs. More serious mental illness may require a combination of treatments options. One of the most effective drug-free remedies just so happens to be a relaxing and beneficial pastime enjoyed by people all over the world: massage therapy. 

What Is Massage Therapy?

Targeted massage therapy is much different than the casual rub-down you may receive from a loved one. Professionally administered massage uses a variety of techniques and pressures to stimulate blood flow, release serotonin and dopamine, balance hormones and alleviate pain. Professionals incorporate reflexology and subluxation to provide instant pain relief and boost a patient’s mood.

The Top 3 Health Benefits of Massage

The country’s mental health epidemic keeps growing, but the safety of prescription medications and the efficacy of psychotherapy is often questioned. Those two trends account for the primary reason why so many people are turning to alternative medicine and non-traditional treatment options for relief and mental health management.

The powerful and proven perks of massage, especially when administered by a licensed chiropractor or physical therapist, are substantial regardless of a person’s physical or mental condition. The best documented health benefits of chiropractic massage include the following three which, oddly enough, have a curious mind-body connection that one can’t help but notice:

  1. It Improves Body Functionality

A stiff and sore body won’t usually function as well as a relaxed and limber one. As the best-known benefit, massage not only feels terrific but it also helps your body move better. Decreased range of motion, muscle tightness, joint pain, they can all be treated with the right kind of massage. Interestingly, targeted massage is shown to aid in digestion and hormone balancing as well.

Because of that, a good massage can get rid of headache pain, reduce the frequency of mood swings, help with constipation or diarrhea, eliminate nausea, induce drowsiness and produce the general feeling of wellness. Experts at our Anchorage’s Better Health Chiropractic clinic typically recommend getting a chiropractic massage or adjustment at least once a month for optimal results, however, patients are urged to remember that all cases are different.

  1. It Can Treat Anxiety and Depression

According to RMT (registered massage therapist), Heidi Ezzat, massage therapy is commonly used as a gentle yet effective tool to relieve anxiety, boost mood and treat the symptoms of depression which typically include things like:

  • Headache or migraine
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle aches, cramps and spasms
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Bad posture
  • High blood pressure

Targeted massage treatments have the innate ability to soothe tired muscles while de-stressing the mind and body. The induced state of calm allows a person to use their coping skills more efficiently, even and especially if that person participates in routine psychotherapy or counseling sessions.

  1. It Helps with Insomnia and Circadian Rhythms

Did you know that sleep deprivation or oversleeping can contribute to stress, anxiety and depression? Your circadian rhythms and the quality of your sleep are both more important to mental health than you may realize. Insomnia is a common problem that in an of itself is not dangerous, but left unchecked it can cause serious health problems. Fortunately, massage improves a person’s sleep quality significantly, especially in the first few hours following a session.

Therapeutic massage is so effective, in fact, that it’s often used for chemotherapy patients who suffer from the various side effects of their treatment. According to a 2009 publication in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, targeted chiropractic massage had countless positive effects on the breast cancer patients it was administered on. Additionally, those patients later reported a better mood and quality of life overall.

5 Tips to Help You Get the Most Out of Your Massage

Understanding and appreciating the benefits of massage is one thing; using therapeutic massage to your advantage is another. The key to getting the most out of your massage is to follow these 5 simple rules:

  1. Know What to Expect

Laying down on a massage table without knowing what to expect can make you tense, and that extra tension may make it difficult for the therapist to work out any kinks or induce relaxation. Talk to your physical therapist or chiropractor about the procedures and techniques he/she will likely use.

  1. Expect the Unexpected

Although you may be given the rundown on what kinds of procedures to expect, no therapist or chiropractor can tell you how the massage is going to feel. Keep in mind that you should expect some mild discomfort at first, especially if your muscles are extremely tight or you have joint pain. However, experienced massage therapists will know to gentle push the boundaries and improve your range of motion and flexibility.

  1. Trust the Therapist

As mentioned, registered massage therapists and licensed chiropractors know how to manipulate the body and work its various muscle groups to stimulate blood flow, relieve pain and encourage relaxation. Although it’s perfect acceptable to modify the parameters of your massage at any time, try to trust the therapist to do his/her job.

  1. Heed Any Aftercare Advice

There’s a lot more to getting a massage than simply laying on a table while a therapist rubs on your muscles. He or she will most likely offer you a list of aftercare instructions that are designed to help you self-soothe in between sessions. Take heed of that advice and each massage will become more therapeutic.

  1. Do It Regularly

While your habits and behaviors in between sessions is important, what matters most is that you get a massage as often as possible. Long lapses between appointments with your therapist or chiropractor create a barrier between you and the many benefits of massage. Try to schedule a 30-minute massage at least once every 30-45 days for best results.

AUTHOR BIO: Dr. Wells

Dr. Brent Wells, D.C. founded Better Health Chiropractic & Physical Rehab in Alaska in 1998 and has been a chiropractor for over 20 years. His practice has treated thousands of patients from different health problems using various services designed to help give you long-lasting relief.

Dr. Wells is also the author of over 700 online health articles that have been featured on sites such as Dr. Axe and Lifehack. He is a proud member of the American Chiropractic Association and the American Academy of Spine Physicians. And he continues his education to remain active and updated in all studies related to neurology, physical rehab, biomechanics, spine conditions, brain injury trauma, and more.

AUTHORITY SOURCES:
https://elementsmassage.com/blog/the-role-of-massage-in-treating-mental-health-conditions
https://www.alive.com/health/massage-therapy-for-mental-wellness/
https://thethreeseas.com.au/can-you-treat-mental-illness-without-medication/
https://www.organicfacts.net/massage.html
https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-sleep-disorder#1
http://ezinearticles.com/?Massage-For-Digestive-Disorders&id=1932258
https://mentalhealthdaily.com/2015/06/29/the-most-dangerous-psychiatric-drugs-highest-risk-medications/

6 Healthy Habits That Can Help You Learn How to Keep Your House Clean

By
Elizabeth Williams

Living in a tidy home isn’t as obvious as it might seem. Here are some tips on how to keep your house clean!

Piles of mail on every flat surface. Crumbs on the couch. Sticky countertops. If this sounds like your house, you probably don’t enjoy coming home the way you should.

If you’re sick of the mess and wondering how to keep your house clean, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together six easy habits you can develop to keep your house feeling like home.

  1. Take Care of Messes Early

Keep an eye out around the house for things that need cleaning. Take care of them early, before they require a lot more effort to clean up.

For example, as soon as you notice your driveway or outside windows are looking grimy, use a service like the Window Agency to pressure clean them. Taking care of tough messes early keeps your cleaning to-do list from getting out of hand.

  1. Minimize Clutter

The more stuff you have, the harder it is to keep your house clean. Changing your habits when it comes to your clutter will help you maintain a happier, cleaner home.

  1. Get rid of everything you haven’t needed or used in over a year.
  2. Make designated spaces for the things you do keep. Everything should go in its spot.
  3. In the future, think more carefully about the stuff you purchase. Do you really need it, want it, or see yourself using it consistently?

Once you get into the habit of organizing what you do need and tossing everything you don’t, keeping your house tidy won’t be as big of a chore.

  1. Create a Dishwasher Routine

Run your dishwasher right before bed. Put away the dishes first thing in the morning. This routine will help you avoid the pile-up of dirty dishes in your sink.

There’s an added bonus to running the dishwasher at night. You save money on energy since power companies charge more for using electricity during peak hours.

  1. Keep Your Cleaning Tools Close

Imagine if every time you dropped crumbs on the kitchen, you had to go to the garage to get the broom. Or if every time you spilled something in the guest bathroom, you had to go to the master bedroom for the cleaning spray. That would be chaos.

By keeping a few important cleaning tools in every important room of the house, you make it easier to maintain a clean home. It’s a simple fix that will motivate you to clean up little messes as soon as they happen.

  1. Make Your Bed

Start off every day by making your bed. It’ll immediately make your bedroom look larger and less cluttered.

Plus, every night, you’ll get to enjoy coming home to a welcoming bed.

  1. Take Off Your Shoes

Take your shoes off at the door. Otherwise, you’ll bring in dirt and germs from the streets. Studies show that after just two weeks of being worn, your shoes can carry almost half a million bacteria, including E. Coli.

This is an easy trick that’ll keep you from undoing the cleaning habits you’re trying to develop.

How to Keep Your House Clean in the Long Run

If you’re overwhelmed with questions about how to keep your house clean, the answer is simple. Develop small habits to clean a little bit every day. That way, when you eventually perform a deep clean of your home, you won’t have as much work to do.

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