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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.

Got a curious mind? Visit our website for more lifestyle articles.

 

Break Out of the Box: 4 Fun and Exciting Ways to Challenge Yourself to New Experiences

By
Elizabeth Williams
man

Break Out: 4 Fun Ways to Challenge Yourself to New Experiences

Tired of doing the same thing day in and day out? We can help! Read on for fun and exciting ways to challenge yourself every day.

Life can quickly become a series of routines that you repeat every single day if you aren’t careful. Before you know it, five years have passed and nothing much in your life has changed. You haven’t grown or experienced anything new.

That can be a scary feeling. But when you realize that your life has become bland and repetitive, it’s time to make some changes. It’s time to start challenging yourself like by experiencing lost reality escape either by yourself or with your friends..

Not sure where to start? No worries, we’re here to help! Read on for some easy ways to challenge yourself into trying new things.

  1. Start with Small Challenges

If you’ve been doing the same routine for several years, the idea of making a big change can be terrifying. That’s why it’s important to start small. Try new things that don’t completely scare you.

You could sign up for an Escape Room with friends, go to a new restaurant, cook new types of food, etc. The possibilities are endless. The idea is to simply break away from the general routine you’ve been accustomed to over the last few years.

  1. Learn Something New That Interests You

Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn but just haven’t gotten around to it? Maybe you’ve owned a guitar for ten years but it’s been collecting dust in your spare room.

Or maybe you’ve been interested in learning a new language, or learning how to garden. What’s stopping you? You’re the only person in your way!

Stop telling yourself “someday, I’ll learn how to do this”, and start saying “today, I’ll learn how to do this”.

  1. Attend Events Alone

One of the best ways to challenge yourself and gain confidence is to start doing things alone. 

For example, if you’re interested in joining a cooking class, but have put it off because you don’t have anyone to go with—just go alone! Once you feel comfortable doing things on your own, you’ll be able to challenge yourself in a ton of new ways.

If you remain with the mindset of needing someone else to do something with, you’ll miss out on so many opportunities to challenge yourself and grow.

  1. Always Say “Yes” to New Opportunities

We’re often presented with new opportunities every day, but we’re afraid of change. It can be scary! So we just decline the opportunity.

But the fear of trying something new is preventing you from growing. It’s time to start saying yes.

This can be as simple as saying yes to going out to dinner with friends when you’d normally just stay inside and watch Netflix. It can be as big as going on a trip all by yourself. The sky’s the limit! 

Challenge Yourself with These Tips

Don’t sit back idly while your life passes before your eyes. Take action and start to challenge yourself every day. Not only will this make life more exciting, but you’ll feel more confident and even meet new friends.

Looking for more life lessons and advice? Check out our blog for more helpful articles!

5 Rules to Make The Perfect Cup of Coffee

By
Elizabeth Williams

Are dying for the perfect cup of coffee? You will want to check out these 5 rules. You will not be disappointed.

Did you know 64% of Americans drink at least one cup of coffee every single day? And 79% enjoy that cup of coffee at home. So if you’re one of the millions of Americans brewing your daily cup, you’ll want to make the best cup you possibly can.

Learn how to reap the health benefits of coffee by brewing your own perfect cup. Here are 5 rules that’ll teach you how to make the perfect cup of coffee each and every time.

  1. A Good Cup of Coffee Starts with the Beans

The most important tip we can give is to use the very best coffee beans. Make sure you buy quality beans. Choose the more expensive Arabica beans over the cheaper, harsher Robusta beans.

Also, be sure to buy it fresh. It should be harvested within the past few months and roasted within the past few days. Be sure to store your beans in an airtight container at room temperature — never store them in the refrigerator or freezer!

And, above all, make sure to grind your own beans. Quality starts to diminish almost immediately once you grind them, and it will go stale fast. Some experts even claim that they can go stale as soon as five minutes after they’re ground!

  1. Use Filtered Water

Since coffee is almost entirely water, using quality water in your cup of coffee will make a huge difference. Bottled water or filtered tap water is ideal. Using distilled or softened water is terrible, though — you need those minerals!

  1. Precisely Measure Your Coffee Grounds

To create the perfect cup of coffee, try a more precise measurement of your coffee grounds. The gold standard is using 2 tablespoons per 6-ounce cup.

If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, measure your coffee grounds on a digital scale. The ideal ratio here is 60g for every 1 liter of water.

  1. Temperature Matters

The exact coffee temperature is very important. If your coffee is too hot, it’ll extract more bitter compounds than pleasant ones.

The best range is 195°F to 205°F. Because most coffee makers automatically set temperature, you’ll want to purchase one of the best coffee makers of 2019. Any one of these will make sure your cup of coffee is brewed at the perfect temperature.

  1. Keep It Clean

A clean setup prevents mineral and oil buildup. You’ll want to run vinegar or coffee equipment cleaner through your coffee maker. Do this at least once a month, and make sure to follow this up with a thorough rinse.

Be sure to clean your storage containers and grinder every few weeks also. Even paper filters can benefit from a pre-clean. Try rinsing the filter using hot water to prevent a dirty filter from ruining the flavor of your coffee.

Now Get Out There and Brew!

With these five tips, you’ll be brewing the perfect cup of coffee in no time. Interested in reading more about coffee? Check out our article on 10 curious coffee facts.

Potential health issues related to basement flooding

By
Elizabeth Williams

Flooding in your basement can be stressful and expensive to clean up and may cause damage or loss to some valuable items that are stored.

However, apart from flooding, wet conditions in the basement may pose some potential health risks to you and your family.

Indoor air pollution is believed to be responsible for more than 1 million deaths worldwide.

Studies show that more than 95 percent of households get some form of moisture and water damage in their basements each year.

From time to time you may also notice small puddles from minor leaks in the basement.  The water may become contaminated with sewage.

These situations may cause mold, mildew and other types of bacteria to build up over time.

Elderly persons, children, and pets may be most vulnerable to issues related to basement flooding.

Some of these health issues include bacterial and fungal infections, infestation from cockroaches, mice, and rats that may cause other illnesses.

Other health concerns from flooding may include cross-contamination, increases in asthma attacks, respiratory and skin problems as well as allergic reactions.

Mold

Mold build-up may cause discomfort in persons who are asthmatic or have other respiratory conditions.  Breathing in the spores can also lead to sinus issues.

Mold may contain fungi, protozoa, algae and other organisms that can grow very quickly in damp conditions.

Mold may also help reduce the air quality in your basement, by raising carbon monoxide levels which may cause breathing problems.

Persons coming in contact with mold may experience skin rash, itching, runny eyes, asthmatic symptoms or sneezing. Signs of mold include black or green deposits on basement walls or floors. 

Bacteria and may also settle onto basement walls and floors and cause nasal drip, coughing, itching throat, and ongoing allergic reactions.

Some types of mold may include: 

Aspergillus mold

Aspergillus is a type of air-borne fungus found in damp basements or even air condition units.

Exposure to the fungus may cause health issues in persons who have allergies or lung problems. 

It may also increase asthmatic symptoms and produce other forms of fungal infections like candida or Cryptococcus. 

Alternia mold

This is a type of fungus from mold living in damp areas.  It causes allergies that may relate to rhinitis or bronchial asthma. It may also cause death for persons with severe asthma.

Cladosporium mold

Cladosporium mold grows in damp areas including floors, walls, carpeting, paint, cabinets, wallpaper or air condition vents.

It may cause allergy symptoms like coughing, nasal drip and sneezing, itching throat, nose, watery eyes, and dry skin.

Exposure may also increase asthmatic conditions or sinus related issues triggered by fungus.

Severe issues can relate to shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.   

Penicillium mold

There are a number of fungi from penicillium mold that can affect the air quality in your basement.  The fungi thrive in very little moisture.

Penicillium mold can also build up in wallpaper, carpets, old furniture and mattresses stored in the basement.

Cracked basement flooring, chipboard, paint, fiberglass ducts, and boxes and crates can hold penicillium mold.

Some signs of penicillium in the basement may be bright yellow or green mold in walls or items stored in the basement.

They will pose problems for persons who develop sensitivity to the bacterial spores.

Studies also suggest that penicillium mold may be responsible for damage to the skin, kidneys, spleen, liver, brain and bone marrow.

Typical symptoms of penicillium infection may include coughing, anemia, fever, skin lesions, weight loss, sneezing, and itching.

Other organisms living in penicillium mold include:

Verrucosum may cause severe liver damage or cancer.

Verrucosidin

Penitrem which can grow on food items stored in the basement.

Citreoviridin

Citrinin, and

Patulin is another organism which may kill mice and rats.

Cockroach infestation

Roaches living in a damp basement may also pose a few health problems.

They can spread parasites and bacterial infections including salmonella to humans.

Studies also show a strong link between cockroach infestation and asthma attacks.

Symptoms of roach infestation may include redness and itching skin.  Cockroaches may also transmit an infection called Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a form of bacteria which grows in water and damp conditions.

Exposure to the infection may produce symptoms skin rashes, ear infections, and soft tissue damage, and lung and blood problems.

Other symptoms may include chills, joint pain, urinary tract infections, red, sore eyes, and coughing and congestion. 

Rat and mice infestation

Rats and mice infestation in your basement can expose your family and even pets to a number of diseases.

Rats urinate and leave droppings on every surface they pass over. These particles can get into the air you breathe or you may touch them and pass the disease to another person.

Rats may also transfer diseases through ticks, fleas, and mites that may bite you and make you ill.

Some diseases from mice and rats include leptospirosis, Hantavirus, Lyme disease, plague, typhus, salmonella, tick fever, and other viruses.

Dust Mites

Dust mites grow in water and may also cause health issues if you’re exposed to them.

Symptoms of dust mites may include itchy, watery eyes, and sneezing and nasal congestion.

Cross-contamination

Flooding in the basement may also cause items that are exposed to sewage water to spread illness and disease.

It’s a good idea to discard all items including utensils and any food stuff stored in the basement that come in contact with flood waters.

Stepping into water that may contain raw sewage can also pose health risks. Make sure to wear high boots to help reduce bacteria and fungus getting into skin through your feet.

Conclusion

Basement flooding affects many households around the world every year.  Apart from damage to property, it may cause mold, mildew and other organisms to grow and reduce air quality.

Damp, wet areas are the ideal places for bug infestation, and the build-up of bacteria and viruses that may compromise your family’s health.   

Mold, mildew, dust mites, bacteria, fungus and dust mites can cause allergic reactions, and increase asthma attacks. 

Flooding in the basement can be reduced by using a sump pump. A sump pump will help draw water out quickly and keep your basement dry, and free from mold and mildew.

What diseases do mice carry?

By
Elizabeth Williams

Mice may be small in size, but they can expose you to some fairly big health risks from more than two dozen diseases.

Numerous studies reveal that thousands of people around the world get sick, and many die from related illnesses.

Mice spread diseases in a number of ways. You can get sick from being in contact with mice droppings, urine or saliva.

These particles can be on food items, countertops, cabinets, and other surfaces around the house. They can also come from contaminated water, pet food, and garden beds.

Mice may also transfer diseases if they bite you, or they may infest ticks, mites, and fleas that may also bite you.

You may also get mice-related diseases from person to person infection or from breathing in bacteria from mice droppings.

Some of the diseases mice carry include:

Tick fever

Babesiosis

Salmonella

Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCMV)

Lyme disease

Leptospirosis

Powassan Virus

Haverhill Fever

Hemorrhagic Fever

Murine Typhus

Cutaneous Leishmaniosis

Lassa fever

Plague

Tularemia

Sylvatic Typhus

Typhus fever is a type of bacterial disease that may be spread through ticks, lice, and fleas.

Sylvatic typhus is a type of typhus fever that can pass from sick ice to lice and mites.

With any form of typhus, may experience coughing, fever, muscle aches, headaches, inflammation of the brain, or swollen lymph nodes.

Murine Typhus

You can get Murine typhus through infected fleas.  If you get the disease, you may experience skin rashes, vomiting, headache, and weakness.

Powassan Virus

This is a little known, but potentially fatal disease from mice. Some symptoms of the disease may include problems talking, vomiting, reduced muscle coordination, fever, headaches, seizures, and brain damage.

Lyme disease

Lyme disease is transmitted through ticks that feed on infected mice.  Symptoms of the disease can include arthritis, stiffness in the neck, and loss of memory, skin rashes, headaches, and nerve pain.

Severe symptoms may also include heart palpitations and damage to the spine and brain.

Rat Bite Fever

You can get this type of virus or bacteria from mice scratches or bites. The potentially fatal infection may cause headaches, swelling, vomiting, enlarged lymph nodes, skin rashes, and fever.

Haverhill Fever

It’s a form of a rat-bite fever that’s passed from rat-infested food and water.  Some symptoms of the fever are vomiting and sore throat.

Babesiosis

The disease may be passed to humans by parasites in ticks found on rats and mice.

Mild symptoms may result in jaundice, flu-like feelings and anemia.  Severe symptoms of Babesiosis may help weaken the immune system and expose you to other illnesses.

Leishmaniosis

It is spread from mice via infected sandflies carrying the virus.  With the disease, persons may experience swollen lymph nodes and skin sores around the bite areas. 

Salmonella

You can get salmonella from contaminated food that’s been bitten by mice. 

Salmonella may cause belly cramps, fever or diarrhea. 

Tick Fever

Tick fever is another disease that can spread from mice through ticks carrying the virus.

With the disease, you may get flu-type symptoms like muscle pains, fever, headaches, tiredness, and chills.

Other symptoms may include rash, vomiting, on and off fever and sore throat.

La Crosse Encephalitis

The disease may cause seizures and other brain-related issues. Other symptoms may include tiredness, fever, vomiting, headaches, and nausea.

It is transmitted from mice through a virus to infected mosquitos.

Tularemia

Tularemia can be transmitted through bites from rats to infested ticks or deer flies.

You may also contract the disease from touching an infected dead mouse or inhaling the bacteria spores.

If you inhale the Tularemia bacteria, you may find it hard to breathe, get chest pains or cough a lot.

If you get a bite from an infected tick, you may experience swollen lymph nodes or ulcers in areas where you get the bite.

Hantavirus

Dust particles around mice droppings may help spread Hantavirus disease.  Symptoms of Hantavirus may include headaches, fever, tiredness, and muscle pains.

If the disease persists, infected persons may experience respiratory problems that may be fatal.

Lassa fever

The disease is spread through infected food, water, and mice droppings.  It can also be spread from one human to another. 

It may start with flu-type symptoms such as headaches, fever, and weakness.

Severe symptoms of Lassa fever may cause complications including vomiting, breathing problems, tremors, hemorrhaging in the gums, eyes, and nose, and swelling in the face.

The Plague

The plague is one of the more traditional diseases passed to humans from fleas that feed on infected mice.

The symptoms include chills, fever, weakness, headaches, and enlarged lymph nodes.

You may also die if the symptoms persist or are not treated early.

Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis (LCMV)

The disease affects lots of people around the world. You can contract it through mice droppings containing the virus.

While you may experience flu-like symptoms with the disease, you can also develop brain problems.

Others may experience vomiting, headaches, weakness, vomiting, and fever.

Scrub Typhus

The disease travels from rats to mite to humans. Symptoms are fever, coughing, muscle aches, enlarged lymph nodes, and headaches.

Scrub Typhus may be fatal if left untreated for about 20 to 60 percent of persons who contract the disease.

Leptospirosis

Leptospirosis is also called Weil’s disease and commonly affects millions worldwide.

Persons may contract leptospirosis from food or water contaminated by mice urine.

You may also contract leptospirosis from handling contaminated pet food or household cupboards where mice may touch.

Symptoms of leptospirosis may resemble the flu or dengue fever and are often misdiagnosed.

Severe problems may include high fever, meningitis, and liver or kidney problems. The disease may cause death if left untreated.

Conclusion

Rats are prevalent in many countries around the world. They leave feces, urine and saliva on every surface they touch. 

These particles are responsible for more than two dozen diseases, some of which can be fatal if left untreated.

Diseases from mice may cause lots of discomforts, including high fever, flu-like symptoms, and more serious complications like brain, spine, liver and kidney problems or even death.

One way to control the mice population is through rat traps. They help reduce the incidence of rats running around and infecting your house.

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