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How To Mental Health

5 Practical Ways to Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Mental health is a topic that’s been buzzing around a lot lately and for good reason. We all have our ups and downs, and our friends? Well, they’re no exception. Today, we’re diving into the deep end of the pool to explore five practical ways you can support a friend with mental health challenges. So grab a cup of tea (or coffee), kick back, and let’s get started!

Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Educate Yourself about Mental Health

One of the first steps in being a rock-solid supporter for your friend is educating yourself about mental health. Take some time to delve into the fascinating world of mental health conditions. Flip through articles, visit reputable websites, and wrap your head around the ins and outs of common disorders. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to understand what your friend is going through. So, grab your learning glasses and start exploring!

Be a Good Listener to Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Alright, let’s get real for a moment. When a friend opens up about their mental health struggles, it’s like they’re handing you their heart on a silver platter. Your job? Listen, listen, listen! It’s time to put your listening skills to good use. Tune in to what your friend says, give your full attention, and let them pour their heart out. Show them that you’re there, right by their side, through the good, the bad, and the ugly. Validate their feelings, folks. It’s all about making them feel heard and understood.

Offer Practical Support

Now, this one’s a biggie! Sometimes, when your friend experiences a rough mental health patch, even the simplest tasks can feel like climbing Mount Everest. That’s where you swoop in with your cape and offer practical support. Help them with everyday stuff, like running errands or tackling those pesky chores. Trust me, they’ll appreciate it more than you can imagine. And hey, don’t be shy to ask them directly how you can lend a helping hand. Together, you’ll navigate those choppy waters like seasoned sailors.

Encourage Professional Help to Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Alright, here’s a dose of truth serum for you. Sometimes, your friend might need extra support that you can’t provide alone. And that’s okay! Encourage them to seek professional help. Therapy, counseling, you name it. There’s no shame in reaching out for a lifeline when the waves get rough. And here’s a secret: sometimes, mentioning the idea can be a game-changer. So, grab that metaphorical megaphone and cheer them on to get the help they deserve.

Practice Self-Care

Let’s talk about something important: self-care. Supporting a friend with mental health challenges can sometimes be emotionally draining, and that’s when it becomes crucial to prioritize your well-being. You can’t pour from an empty cup, after all! So, let’s dive into the world of self-care and discover how taking care of yourself can ultimately make you a better support system for your friend.

Set Boundaries

Here’s the deal: setting boundaries is like building a sturdy fortress around your mental and emotional health. It’s about recognizing your limits and communicating them with your friend so you both feel comfortable. Understand that you can support them without sacrificing your well-being. Say “no” when you need to, take breaks, and recharge your batteries. By establishing healthy boundaries, you’ll maintain balance in your own life and be able to offer sustained support to your friend.

Seek Support for Yourself

Listen up: you’re not alone in this journey, and you must have your support system as you navigate the ups and downs of supporting your friend’s mental health. So, reach out to trusted friends, family, or even consider seeking support from a therapist or support group. When you have a safe space to express your emotions, concerns, and frustrations can give you the strength and resilience to be there for your friend.

Practice Self-Care Rituals

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of self-care. Find what sets your soul on fire, and make it a regular part of your life. Engage in activities that bring you joy and recharge your batteries because you need to take care of yourself, too. It could be anything from taking a stroll in nature, treating yourself to a bubble bath, curling up with a good book, or jamming out to your favorite tunes. Remember, self-care is not selfish—it’s necessary for your overall well-being. 

Listen to Your Inner Voice

You’ve got an internal compass, my friend, and it’s time to start trusting it. Listen to your gut instincts when it comes to supporting your friend. Trust yourself to know when to offer advice, when to listen, and when to encourage them to seek professional help. Your intuition is a powerful tool, so tune in and let it guide you on this journey.

Celebrate Your Progress

Here’s a little nugget of wisdom: celebrate the victories, no matter how small, and it can help you continue progressing. Supporting a friend with mental health challenges is an ongoing process, and it’s essential to acknowledge and celebrate the progress you both make along the way. Take a moment to reflect on the positive changes, moments of growth, and resilience you’ve shown. Give yourself a pat on the back because you deserve it.

Be There for Them to Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

Last but not least, the ultimate secret sauce to supporting a friend’s mental health is being there for them. Show them you’re a constant in their ever-changing world. Check in regularly, lend them a shoulder to cry on, donate to Love Box Fund, or share a belly laugh when the time’s right. Showing your friend patience, understanding, and an unwavering presence are some ingredients of a friendship that can weather any storm.

Conclusion: Support a Friend with Mental Health Challenges

And there you have it – five practical ways to show your friend some love when they’re facing mental health challenges. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Mental health is something we all grapple with in one way or another. So, be that beacon of light for your friend. Educate yourself, listen with all your heart, and offer a helping hand.

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How To Life Safety

Lets Drive: 7 Top Tips For Staying Safe On The Road

Staying Safe On The Road

Whether you drive professionally or avoid public transport during your commute, it’s crucial to make an effort to stay safe on the road. After all, there are over 2 million car accidents a year in the US, and taking the right safety precautions can help to protect yourself, your passengers, and other motorists. 

Staying Safe On The Road
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With that in mind, here are some top tips to stay safe on the road! 

Stay alert behind the wheel

Many accidents occur because of distracted driving. You’ll notice potential hazards quicker than if you weren’t fully alert and focused. One of the easiest ways to protect yourself and others is to remain alert when behind the wheel. For example, you should get enough sleep and take regular breaks during long journeys. You may also want to mute your phone so you aren’t distracted by phone calls or other notifications. 

Know what to do when things go wrong

Another way to protect yourself behind the wheel is by preparing for instances when things could go wrong. For example, if you get in a collision, you should:

  • Get yourself to a safe place (away from oncoming traffic)
  • Call the relevant authorities 
  • Check yourself and others for signs of injuries 
  • Take photographs of the incident 
  • Swap insurance and contact details with other parties involved 

If you are in an accident, regardless of whether or not you are at fault, you should also contact a car accident lawyer. They can help you put your best foot forward during legal proceedings. It helps ensure your interests are protected – especially if you are seeking out a settlement. 

Take care of your car is Key to Staying Safe On The Road

Taking good care of your car can also help avoid accidents and breakdowns. Conduct a quick inspection of your vehicle at least once a month, watching for potential maintenance issues. For example, you should always check your tire pressure before heading out.

If you’ve noticed any warning signs that your car needs some TLC, drop it off at a local garage for repairs. While you may be worried about the costs associated with this, it’s illegal to travel in a car that is not roadworthy. It also means that you should look into buying a new car, if necessary. 

Give yourself plenty of time to get from A to B

According to the CDC, speeding accounts for more than 30 car accidents per day. While you may be rushing to get to your destination, you should obey all traffic laws. Not only is this important from a safety perspective, but you could also land yourself in significant legal and financial trouble.

To combat this issue, you should give yourself time to get from A to B instead of leaving at the last minute. Leaving at the last minute could encourage you to speed – especially if you’re running late.

Familiarize yourself with the route ahead of time

If you’re driving in an unfamiliar area, or heading out on a road trip, taking some time to familiarize yourself with the route you’re taking ahead of time can also help you to stay safe on the road. It will offer a better understanding of what to expect and what kind of roads or traffic you may encounter. Beyond this, it also means you’ll feel more confident about arriving at your destination safely and on time.

Avoid driving in bad weather to help with Staying Safe On The Road

Adverse weather conditions, including snow, sleet, and rain, can also impact your roadside experience. For example, heavy rain can make the roads slippery and reduce your visibility behind the wheel. It makes you much more likely to be involved in an accident when driving during a storm or heavy rainfall.

Pay close attention to the weather and weather reports before getting behind the wheel. While you may be desperate to reach your destination, it’s not worth risking your safety.

Be aware of potential hazards

You learn about the many kinds of roadside hazards when studying for your driving test. However, you can get overconfident as you grow more experienced as a driver. It often means that you may be less observant or aware of the potential hazards around you. When focusing on staying safe on the road, you should ensure that you’re always keeping an eye out for hazards.

Potential hazards that you may encounter when you drive include:

  • Other motorists 
  • Pedestrians 
  • Cyclists/Motorcyclists
  • Adverse weather conditions
  • Road obstructions 
  • Roadworks 
  • Crossing patrols 
  • Narrow/winding roads 
  • Sharp bends 
  • Animals
  • Slow-moving vehicles 
  • Traffic

Final thoughts for Staying Safe On The Road

While accidents can occur through no fault of your own, making a real effort to stay safe on the road reduces the chances of being involved in a roadside incident. These tips can help keep yourself and others safe and avoid doing lasting or expensive damage to your vehicle.

Stay focused and alert behind the wheel and adhere to all safety regulations. These regulations include wearing a seatbelt, obeying speed regulations, and stopping at red lights. While this may seem obvious, you’d be surprised how many drivers do not follow these guidelines.

Simply put, the more focused you are on staying safe, the safer the roads will become. It should give you greater peace of mind whenever you get behind the wheel.

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For the Home Home

Clear Signs Your Home Might Need A Deep Clean

Signs Your Needs A Deep Clean

A deep clean is needed every once in a while. Once a month or once every couple of months, make sure your home is ticking over just fine. However, things can slip sometimes, and it can be hard to keep up with a cleaning routine when you’ve got so many other things to do. Watching for the signs your home needs a deep clean will help you choose efforts with the most effectiveness, and you won’t waste any time trying to keep your home tidy. 

***This post contains affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra, but I may receive a small commission.***

Signs Your Needs A Deep Clean
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You’re Sneezing Quite a Bit

Sneezing around the house more often these days? It probably isn’t a summer cold you’ve picked up. No, instead, it might be your allergies! You’ll want to get the duster and polish out when it happens. You might also need a ladder to reach the highest surfaces in your home. There’s a good chance a buildup has occurred without you realizing it. Before you get even more sniffly, you’ll want to clean up in the target areas!

There are a Few Unbudging Stains

Some stains are more persistent than others. When you notice these, it’s time to get the hardest scrubbing brush you can. Then, take at least 20 minutes to attack the stain. Get inside cupboards and appliances (the washing machine can get super dirty with all that limescale buildup), and target stains on the walls and floors with a similar method. The sooner you get it shifted, the better your perception of the space will be. 

Some Pests Can Be Attracted By Waste

Rats and other rodents or pests like a clean home. However, some bugs and other smaller critters like waste, especially the organic kind. From ants to spiders to silverfish, it’s best to call in a pest control service when you notice the problem spiraling. The first step is tackling the accumulation of garbage, usually in outside areas like the bins or in the yard. Then, call someone in to ensure there are no unwelcome visitors. 

Signs Your Home Needs A Deep Clean – Mold Easily Turns Up in Wet Rooms

When you don’t take time to clean between tiles and other grouting in your wet rooms, mold can grow overnight. It can cause a big problem when you walk in in the morning. You don’t want to breathe in mold spores of any kind. So get your old toothbrush out, make up a mold solution, and get right in there to remove the stains. Just spraying it won’t quite do here – you’ll need to use some elbow grease! 

Recap: Signs Your Home Needs A Deep Clean

These signs can help you recognize if your home needs a deep clean. If so, don’t worry! You can clean it easily with these tips.

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Beauty Health Healthy Living

4 Helpful Ways To Restore Your Health And Beauty This Year

Restore Your Health And Beauty

Health and beauty go hand-in-hand, and it isn’t easy to look your best when you don’t feel healthy. Whether you’re recovering from an illness, trying to rejuvenate your skin, or boosting your overall physical and mental well-being, you can take many steps to reclaim your health and youthful radiance. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Here are four simple things you can do to restore your health and beauty this year. 

***This post contains affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra, but I may receive a small commission.***

1. Create a daily beauty routine

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Start and end your day with a good beauty routine. If it’s your first time, keep things simple with a three-step routine – cleanse, moisturize, and apply a gentle sunscreen. Of course, you can modify this by adding essential beauty products, depending on your skin type or health needs. For example, if you struggle with acne issues, your beauty routine may include something for spot treatment. Applying sunscreen will offer skin protection against the sun’s harsh UV rays. Consistent care and protection are essential for achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin.

Check out this sunscreen that also contains PABA-free and DEET-free bug repellant: Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze® SPF 30 Lotion

2. Don’t forget about dental health to Restore Your Health And Beauty

It’s worth noting that oral health has a strong relationship with skincare. Bacteria from your mouth can enter your bloodstream and cause inflammation, infection, and other diseases. These will appear unsightly on your skin, such as facial rashes, skin breakouts, and even psoriasis due to inflammation. It’s possible to detect if a skin problem has roots in your oral health (or lack of it), but you’ll need the help of dentists to be sure. Of course, your dentist can provide the necessary treatment if your dental health adversely impacts your skin health. 

3. Cultivate inner beauty

You’ve probably heard many people say that true beauty emanates from within. It is true because nurturing your inner self is just as crucial as caring for your external appearance. There are several things you can do to cultivate your inner beauty. For example, minor things like kindness, looking up, eating well, being grateful, and moving mindfully, can make a difference. Beyond these, you should also indulge in activities that bring you joy and build or maintain positive relationships. Reading, journaling, and creative hobbies will also boost your mental health. Remember to embrace your uniqueness and surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people who encourage personal growth and self-love. 

4. Add more laughter to your life to Restore Your Health And Beauty

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Another common saying you’ve probably heard is laughter is the best medicine. Again, this is true and even scientifically proven. Studies show that laughter strengthens the immune system. It diminishes pain, boosts mood, and protects the body from the damaging effects of stress. It also increases infection-fighting antibodies, which helps to improve your resistance to diseases. Your skin is also more prone to breakouts and other conditions when stressed, moody, or angry. So, make it a point to add more laughter to your life if you want to restore your health and beauty this year.

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Health Healthy Living

4 Ways to Get Back in Shape After Having a Baby

Get Back in Shape

The first few weeks and months of the postpartum period are both incredibly rewarding and challenging. Amidst the journey of motherhood, it’s common to forget about your own well-being and self-care. However, as time goes on, you may start to notice the physical changes that pregnancy and childbirth have brought about. The desire to regain your pre-pregnancy shape and confidence in your own skin becomes stronger. Apparently, you are not alone because almost all women want to get back in shape.

But don’t worry; there are practical steps you can take to gradually get back in shape after having a baby. In this blog post, we will explore these steps to help you on your postpartum fitness journey.  

So, let’s dive in! 

Get Back in Shape

Prioritizing Nutrition  

Prioritizing nutrition and healthy eating is the key to getting back in shape after having a baby. It’s important that you consume nutrient-dense foods that provide your body with the necessary vitamins and minerals it needs to recover and regain strength.  

Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats in your meals. It is essential to get a mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats from each meal to keep you feeling satisfied. Also, it’s advisable to avoid processed and sugary foods that can contribute to weight gain 

Explore Cosmetic Treatment Options 

After having a baby, it’s natural for women to experience concerns such as loose skin, stretch marks, and stubborn pockets of fat.  

Fortunately, there are non-invasive cosmetic treatments available that can help address these specific areas of concern. Body contouring procedures such as tummy tuck surgery and Brachioplasty can tighten the skin, reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and sculpt the body.  

However, it’s important to note that proper consultation is essential before considering any treatment. In fact, the patients who got tummy tuck in Indianapolis with Dr. Stanley Harper mention that the experts advise waiting for at least 3 months before getting a contouring procedure. Also, they do not recommend these options to females who have plans for future pregnancies.  

Implement Exercise Routine to Get Back in Shape

Exercise is one of the best things you can do to gain your pre-pregnancy shape back. But your body has been through a lot; therefore, before indulging in any workout, ask your doctor.  

If they recommend, you can start with gentle exercises and gradually increase the intensity. Begin by adding a 10-minute walk to your everyday routine. In addition to it, consider pelvic floor exercises that help in strengthening and supporting the pelvic area.  

Alternatively, if you prefer not to exercise alone and are seeking a supportive environment, consider joining local mommy fitness groups or classes. These cater specifically to postpartum mothers and are a great way to connect with like-minded individuals while working on your fitness goals.  

Moreover, with knowledgeable instructors, you can be assured that the exercises will be safe and appropriate for your body. 

Recap: Get Back in Shape

Every woman’s postpartum journey is different. Therefore, it’s essential to listen to your body, be kind to yourself, and do what works best for you.  

Remember, the most important thing is not to be too harsh on yourself and embrace the beautiful transformation that motherhood brings. 

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Dental Health Healthy Living

4 Dental Habits for Your Best Smile at Any Age 

Best Smile

Do you know that many people suffer from dental issues simply because they don’t follow good hygiene habits? It’s true! But don’t worry; it’s never too late to start caring for your teeth.  

We’re here with a list of dental habits that you can begin at any age to improve your teeth health and get that beautiful smile you’ve always wanted.  

Whether a child, teenager, adult or senior, these habits will work wonders for oral well-being. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to a healthier smile! 

Best Smile
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1. Brushing Techniques and Frequency  

Brushing your teeth is the superstar of oral hygiene! But do you do it the right way? Well, let’s find out!  

You should hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gums. Then, use gentle, circular motions to clean each tooth’s outer and inner surfaces, chewing surfaces and the tongue too! 

Brushing should be done at least twice a day, morning and night, for good dental health. It helps remove plaque, prevent cavities, freshens your breath, and promotes healthy gums.  

2. Flossing and Interdental Cleaning for Your Best Smile at Any Age 

Flossing and interdental cleaning may sound like a chore, but trust us; it’s a game-changer for your teeth! You see, brushing alone can’t reach all those tight spaces between your teeth; hence, flossing to the rescue.   

It helps remove stubborn debris and plaque, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. There are various types of floss available, such as traditional string floss, floss picks, and water flossers.  

You can experiment and find what works best for flossing in your routine or may also take dentist advice on the same. So, don’t wait any longer! Make flossing a daily habit for optimal teeth health.  

3. Limiting Sugary Foods and Drinks  

Sugary foods and drinks are like a playground for those pesky dental problems. You see, the bacteria in your mouth just love to feast on sugar. These bacteria produce acids that attack your teeth and may cause issues. It can lead to cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and even enamel erosion.  

That’s why it’s essential to limit sugary goodies. Cutting back on sugary snacks, sodas, and juices can be a huge favor for your teeth. It will help prevent dental issues and keep your overall health in check.  

Also, regardless of your age, limit your sugar intake and witness the changes. You should also educate children about the harms of sugary foods and drinks and encourage them to swap those treats for some tooth-friendly alternatives. 

4. Regular Dental Visits 

Regular dental visits are super important for keeping your teeth in tip-top shape! When you schedule check-ups with your dentist, you get lots of benefits.  

First, your dentist will carefully check your teeth, gums, and mouth to catch any problems early. That means they can fix things quickly and prevent them from getting worse. Plus, they’ll give your teeth a deep cleaning, removing yucky plaque and tartar that can cause cavities and tooth decay. 

These visits are also a chance to learn cool tips for taking care of your smile. So, add it to your routine now!  

Recap: Get Your Best Smile

So there you have it, the secrets to a lifelong healthy smile! Remember, it’s never too late to start caring for your teeth. From brushing and flossing to regular dental visits and healthy habits, each small action greatly impacts your smile. So let’s begin this journey together and enjoy the confidence and happiness of a beautiful, healthy smile. Keep shining! 

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For the Home Home Parenting

Don’t Ignore These 4 Hidden Dangers Around Your Home

Hidden Dangers Around Your Home

Many people assume the home is a safe space, but there are many hidden dangers around your home. It is reassuring, particularly if you have children, but it’s not always the case. Knowing some dangers to manage or eliminate around your home can make a difference. 

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***This post contains affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra, but I may receive a small commission.***

Hard Or Slippery Floors

Slips and falls are probably one of the most common accidents around the home. It can happen to someone of any age, so ensure your floor is safe. Floor safety is especially important if you have little ones who love running around and playing.

You can do this by putting down some rugs to soften the blow and make it less slippery. Or, you might want to consider replacing hardwood floors with softer options. If you don’t like carpet, laminate floors always have more give. 

Hidden Dangers Around Your Home and In The Walls

You could also find that dangers lurk in the walls of your home. For instance, you could have asbestos in your home because it was used for insulation as late as the eighties. However, experts found a significant link between asbestos and certain rare types of cancer. If it’s in your walls, you must get it removed professionally. Companies like G3 Environmental can check any property if you are worried that asbestos might be hidden inside your home.

Pests

You should also be aware of the issue that pests can cause around your property. Sometimes, they can be harmless and may only be a nuisance or eyesore. However, other pests (especially if you have little ones) can be harmful. You might also find that certain pests bite (like the dreaded bed bug) and leave you with nasty welts.

Some pests are hard to get out of your home, especially if you opt for a DIY solution. It’s best to call professionals to handle the situation and ensure these pests don’t return. 

Water Woes 

Finally, you might want to consider whether water issues could cause problems in your home. It’s common for tap water to contain many chemicals that are not friendly and could be harmful to your health. 

If you worry about the danger here, consider using a water filter. Using a water filter is the best way to remove harmful chemicals and ensure with near absolute certainty that the water in your home is safe to drink. Bottled water is another option, but it presents other complications and isn’t environmentally friendly. 

Recap: Hidden Dangers Around Your Home

We hope this helps you understand some of the hidden dangers around your home and how you can fix them. Don’t wait until something happens when you could prepare your home now.

Do you have anything to add to this? Leave a comment and let us know.

Categories
Finances

3 Best Saving Pot Ideas to Help You Reach Your Goals

saving pot

Almost everyone has some debt they are working towards paying off – and most of the time, that is great. We feel good about getting ourselves out of debt. However, learning methods to avoid debt in the future is essential, and a saving pot can help.

Think about why you ended up in debt in the first place. For some people, it is borrowing money for a car, getting a car fixed, and other things that you’d consider as an emergency.

Saving Pot
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A small savings pot can be the saving grace that stops you from heading further into debt. But are there other reasons? 

How do I know what to save? 

The great thing about saving is that it isn’t a one size fits all situation. Instead, your saving journey will be unique to you. You can borrow tips and tricks from elsewhere and personalize them to fit your goals.

Creating the saving pot that you might need, for example: 

  • House renovations
  • Emergency fund
  • Travel / Holiday pot
  • New car/car repairs

Alternatively, you might want to consider things like short-term and long-term goals. The short-term could be a vacation or fixing the car, while the long-term could be a house deposit.

It is important to remember that you don’t need to add a specific, set amount in there, but it is a good idea to set some goals as to how much you want to save and when. 

Christmas 

Christmas is an out-of-pocket expense, which means somewhere in December, you take a financial hit – and then spend January and February (and beyond) trying to recover. Instead, you can create a saving pot and add a few dollars weekly or monthly. The idea is that this fund can take a lot of the big hit out of the cost of Christmas.

Determine how much money you usually spend on Christmas, and divide it by the number of weeks or months until the big day. Then, you’ll know how much to set aside in your savings pot throughout the year.

Household 

What would you do if your washing machine stopped working right now? What if the crack in the wall was a much bigger issue? 

A savings pot is helpful for everything from new door handles to affordable plumbing. A household fund will mean that when repairs and replacements arise, instead of having to use credit cards or wait until the item poses a risk – you can replace it and repair it ASAP. 

Fun 

When it comes to saving funds, fun is not a dirty word. Most saving experts will tell you to have a saving pot or some free cash for yourself. Even when you are paying off high debts or don’t have much to save – you should be able to live your life happily and enjoy what you have. Create a pot for the things that you like.

Recap: Saving Pot

Saving is a personal endeavor, so take a realistic look at what you can and cannot do – and the reasons behind it. Saving pots create a safety net when things aren’t going swimmingly.

Here are some extra tips for saving: Smart Money Moves: Managing Finances in Your 30s and 40s.

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For the Home Health Healthy Living Home

Cleaner Air, Healthier Home: 4 Top Tips To Improve Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is a topic that’s not talked about enough. We spend a lot of our time indoors breathing air, but how clean and healthy is the air we breathe?

Outdoor air quality can fluctuate – and we’re aware of this. Most of us know that pollution can make some air dirtier than others. However, have you ever stopped to consider the air in your home? It’s probably not harmful, per se, but it can trigger or cause underlying health problems.

In this guide, you’ll see some easy tips to improve indoor air quality in your home. As a result, you can breathe easily knowing that the air is clean and not a detriment to your health. 

*this post may contain affiliate links*

Indoor Air Quality
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Clean your home regularly

Regular cleaning improves the air quality by removing dust particles and other airborne allergens that linger when uncleaned. If people in your house sneeze frequently or wake up with stuffy noses, there are probably too many allergens in the air.

Make an effort to clean your home at least once a week. It doesn’t need to be a deep clean, but ensure you vacuum all surfaces and wipe away dust to prevent it from accumulating. Try to get a deep clean at least three or four times a year. Deep cleaning is where you get deep into the crevices and tackle areas that maybe get less attention during regular cleaning.

Do this yourself, or consider professional cleaning services if you don’t have enough time or lack the tools for deep cleaning. Either way, cleaning your home will clean and purify the air. 

Utilize an HVAC system

An HVAC system is one of the best things you can buy for your home. Many houses are built with them, especially in hot or cold parts of the country. They heat your home during the winter and cool it in the summer.

However, HVAC systems can also cycle and ventilate your home. It essentially uses the air conditioning part to take air from inside your home, blow it outside, and then transport fresh air back in. Air passes through a filtration system that blocks out pollutants, allergens, and anything else potentially dangerous. 

As a result, your home is left with fresh air cycling through! You don’t need to keep your HVAC unit on all day, but it is good to use it for an hour or so just as an air purification tactic. Be sure to change the filters regularly as well – look at them once a month/every two months, and swap them out if they look excessively dirty.

Ventilate your home every day for better Indoor Air Quality

Nothing beats the classic idea of opening some windows for fresh air. Throw your windows wide open every single day to allow fresh air in and stale air out. A poorly ventilated home will have awful air quality – and you can immediately tell the difference. 

When you open the windows and let the air circulate for a few hours, your house smells and feels much better. The air almost feels thinner and easier for you to breathe in. Any particles or bad things floating and lingering have now left. Many homeowners stop doing this during winter because it’s cold, so air quality reduces drastically. When the temperature drops, stay in the habit of opening windows for a bit.

Furthermore, proper ventilation keeps the air humidity levels low. You don’t want an overly humid home because it leads to dampness and mold growth. Consequently, mold spores can trigger allergy symptoms and be possibly dangerous for anyone with asthma. Again, keep your windows open – particularly in rooms that get humid. For example, always keep a window ajar in the bathroom when someone’s showering. Likewise, use extractor fans here and in the kitchen to further remove moisture and decrease humidity. 

And if you’re living in an area where radon is a concern, proper ventilation is key, though in some cases, full radon mitigation systems may be necessary to safely reduce levels of this naturally occurring gas. Sure, it’s not really ideal, but it really can’t be stressed enough how dangerous radon gas is.

Get some houseplants

House plants aren’t just great at making your home look pretty. Some added greenery goes a long way to improving air quality. When you think about it, this makes so much sense! Plants need carbon dioxide to thrive and produce oxygen for us to breathe. House plants will increase oxygen levels, making the air much healthier and more breathable.

The magic doesn’t stop there! Researchers have looked into this theory, and studies show it’s more than a wild idea. Some recent research from a university in the United Kingdom shows that house plants can reduce air pollution in the home. The study looked at a few species – the Peace Lily and Corn Plant – discovering that they reduced nitrogen dioxide levels by up to 20%. Nitrogen dioxide is a common pollutant linked to damaging your respiratory system and causing breathing problems. 

You don’t need to turn your house into a forest, but a few plants in some rooms will work wonders for the overall air quality. It’s worth looking into – as a bonus, plants make your rooms look much nicer. 

Recap: Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is super important as you spend lots of time indoors breathing the air around you. Bad air quality can be unhealthy and lead to various health concerns. Improving indoor air quality is beneficial, and there are many ways to do it. Ventilating your home is a big one, along with using HVAC systems for air filtration. Keep your home nice and clean to prevent dust build-up, while adding in a few house plants can remove pollutants and leave you with cleaner, fresher air!

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How To Work

4 Easy Ways To Be A Valuable Employee

Be A Valuable Employee

If you want to ensure that you hold on to your job and impress your managers and colleagues, you need to consider what you can do to be the most valuable employee you can be. There are many ways of approaching this, and it’s essential to ensure you are aware of them. 

Be Punctual to Be A Valuable Employee

Make sure that you are always punctual to get to your job and to start work. As long as you are, it will make a difference in how you can approach things. It also means that you are much more likely to be appreciated and respected by your employer. Be punctual and see what a difference that makes, even if you have to rearrange your morning routine.

Be A Valuable Employee
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Think About Your Appearance to Be A Valuable Employee

Another thing you should do is consider your appearance and whether it is appropriate for the workplace. Be mindful of the kind of work you do and the people involved. Every job has different rules, and it’s about being presentable and not giving off the wrong impression. Things have modernized in this area a lot these days, so things like cartilage piercing earrings are now much more acceptable than they used to be, and even tattoos. But you still should think carefully about this stuff.

Work On Your Attitude

The general attitude that you bring to work is something that can be hugely important. You’ll notice a difference in how people treat you, and people will appreciate your approach to work. So if you are attending to the job with a positive attitude, people will feel it, and it might even affect others positively. Research shows that it will also help you feel good about yourself.

Be A Valuable Employee
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Work Hard

Of course, what matters most when you are trying to prove yourself as a valuable employee is simply working hard. If you work hard, it will influence what people think of you and how they approach you. So ensure you do this as best as possible to help you have a positive workplace experience.