2025-07-01T08:01:00
(BPT) – From prevention to intervention, Our Rescue collaborates with partners and communities around the globe to provide direct services and support to people who are forced into sex trafficking and children who are exploited.
2025-07-01T12:31:00
(BPT) – When you love fishing, taking your loved ones out on the water might just be one of life’s greatest joys. There’s simply nothing better than spending uninterrupted time together, telling stories and relaxing in between bent rods and photos of the widest grins you’ve ever seen under the hot summer sun.
It’s always great to introduce your family to something you love, but it’s important to do it right.
Whether your family members are equally as obsessed as you are, or they’ve never held a rod in their lives, here are some great tips from the folks at Rapala, the legendary lure-maker, to ensure you have the most fun possible on the water together this summer.
First things first, bring snacks – Low blood sugar is a sure-fire way for light-hearted trash talk to turn vicious. Have each person pick out their favorite snack and bring it on board to keep everyone happy. Plus, it’s hot out there. Bring a sports drink or lemonade for electrolytes!
Meet everyone where they’re at, skill-wise – Spend time and patience teaching the newbies of the group so they can have fun (and be safe) on the water, whatever that means for them! If the pros wanna “pro-out,” dedicate special time for them to let their competitive flag fly. If you do this, make sure to take photos to inspire the rookies.
Incorporate everyone’s interests – Believe it or not, every angler has something different about the sport that reeled them in for the first time. Maybe your teen just likes tanning on the boat. Maybe your little one wants to be like his big brother. Maybe Mom really loves setting personal records. Maybe Dad just likes having everyone all together. Ask everyone what they are most looking forward to before the trip starts to ensure that everyone has a great time — and wants to do it again next year!
Bring a healthy mix of baits – While some anglers might be ready for a technical hard bait lure like the Rapala PXR Mavrik™ 110 or the Jigging Rap®, the little ones or rookies on the boat might prefer to start with soft plastics like the CrushCity™ Mooch Minnow™ or the Freeloader™. Designed in collaboration with the world’s number one angler, Jacob Wheeler, these soft plastics promise pros and rookies alike maximum crushability.
Let each person pick out their own gear – Sometimes, anticipation can be just as sweet as a thing itself. There’s no better way to get everyone excited for the trip ahead than to let them pick out a brand-new toy to try on the water. Whether it’s a new rod, like the Myth Spinning Rod by 13 Fishing, or a bait in a fun new color (a CrushCity Janitor™ in Ghost Morning Dawn is great for a little one in a princess phase), gifts are a great way to dial up the anticipation for a summer trip.
Create traditions – A truly great fishing trip entails a lot more than just fishing. Think of the things your family loves doing together. Maybe it’s stopping at your favorite restaurant in town, making s’mores with peanut butter cups, or watching a specific movie. Whatever it is, make it a tradition to revisit every year and create special memories that last.
Bring a scale to inspire some fun competition – A little healthy competition is a great way to engage anglers of all levels. Bring a scale, like this one from Rapala, to weigh in your catches. Keep score of everyone’s heaviest fish. Winner gets bragging rights until next year!
For new anglers, don’t do too much too fast – Don’t hand a kiddo that’s never held a fish a slimy, squirmy sunfish and expect them to have a good time. Start by holding it yourself, then let the little ones gently pet the scales until they get used to it.
Bring other activities – Coloring books and card games are a godsend for when the littles lose patience and the pros want to keep casting. Remember, the most important thing is spending time together.
Take lots of photos – The kiddos will definitely want to document their “legendary” catches, even if it’s just a little perch. If you have teens or young adults, they might want to post their wins on social media.
Do your research – Try to find a destination where catchability is high and the water is clear. Morale can run low if bites are few and far between, or if weeds run rampant.
The safer you are, the more fun you’ll have – Bring sunscreen, lifejackets, lots of water, and always have a first-aid kit on your boat. A dehydrated, burnt angler is a sad angler! Make sure you take care of your body and help others do the same. Also, a good lesson on hook and water safety is never a waste of time.
2025-06-30T19:15:00
(BPT) – If you’re in the midst of menopause or perimenopause, you probably already know how annoying hot flashes and night sweats — not to mention body odor — can be. Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can affect your sweat and body odor. When temperatures rise in the summer, these symptoms may feel worse, leaving you seeking any relief you can find.
The good news is that women are opening up more about their experiences including the ways they have learned to manage these and other bothersome symptoms.
“Menopause — and the years leading up to it, called perimenopause — is a completely natural part of life, and thankfully, women are finally starting to talk about it more openly,” said board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Jessica Shepherd. “The more we share our real stories, the more we can help each other figure out what actually works. Rather than tough it out in silence or brush off what you’re feeling, there’s support out there from other women who’ve been through it. Your health care provider can also be a valuable resource in managing your symptoms.”
Here are tips that can help you feel confident and in command when these symptoms show up, day or night.
1. Dress to keep cool
Make sure all your summer clothing is lightweight and made from breathable fabrics, including choices like rayon, bamboo, linen and cotton. This goes double for pajamas. Light, loose-fitting fabric that dries quickly and can wick moisture away from your body is ideal to help you cope with night sweats. Experiment to see which fabrics and styles work best for you.
2. Think layers
This tactic can help you feel comfortable when you’re in air conditioning, giving you the option to take an outer layer off when you feel a hot flash coming on. For example, wear a lightweight t-shirt or camisole, with a roomy button-down shirt or light jacket that can be removed when your body temperature is on the rise.
3. Use effective deodorant and antiperspirant
Say goodbye to your nightstand fan. The right deodorant and antiperspirant can make a big difference, night and day. You can feel cool all over by combining two products: Secret Whole Body Dry Feel Deodorant and Secret Clinical Antiperspirant. This powerful duo is designed to help keep you feeling dry, even overnight.
The new Secret Whole Body Dry Feel Deodorant is its first aluminum-free sweat control deodorant that delivers 24/7 protection anywhere you need it. As a complement, the Secret Clinical Stick provides two times the sweat protection compared to ordinary antiperspirants and can be applied to underarms to prevent wetness and odor. Its weightless, quick-drying formula leaves no residue, ensuring comfort and confidence throughout the day and night. These products are more than just an effective regimen; they’re about feeling good in your skin, no matter what.
Pro tip: Apply both products before bedtime to help tackle odor-causing bacteria for up to 10 hours of overnight dry feel, so you wake up feeling fresh.
4. Cut down on alcohol and caffeine
Both alcohol and caffeine can increase these symptoms for some people, so it’s a good idea to watch your intake — and pay attention to circumstances, foods or drinks that seem to make your symptoms worse.
“For many women, this can be a part of the journey, but not everyone experiences it the same way,” says Dr. Shepherd. “The good news is, there are supportive steps you can take to feel more like yourself, like tracking when symptoms tend to shift and choosing products that help you feel clean, confident, and cared for.”
Secret Deodorant is available at major retailers nationwide. For more information visit Secret.com.
5. Cool your bedroom
Start with an overall cooler room temperature before you hit the hay, then make sure your bed is supplied with cooling sheets and pillowcases to help with night sweats. Breathable fabrics and cooling technology can make a big difference in keeping your bedding feeling more comfortable overnight. Then, keep a bottle of cold water on your nightstand to sip as needed to cool your body down.
2025-06-30T14:01:00
(BPT) – Everyone loves a deal, but when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same thing holds true when it comes to purchasing deeply discounted stamps. Scams involving counterfeit U.S. postage are costing the U.S. Postal Service millions and could cost you too. Customers using counterfeit postage risk having their items confiscated and could face stiff penalties. That’s not all. Now scammers are targeting job seekers with work-from-home scams that use counterfeit postage to reship packages.
How big of a concern are these scams? Since October 2024, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service has already seized more than 6.3 million counterfeit stamps and have issued 138 cease-and-desist orders to individuals and businesses using counterfeit postage.
Here’s how to avoid common scams.
Hefty discounts
Have you seen online offers for United States Forever® stamps at 50% off? When you do, keep scrolling … stamps offered at such a steep discount are likely counterfeit. You may see offers on social media marketplaces, e-commerce sites via third-party vendors and other sites, often sold in bulk quantities at a significant discount — anywhere from 20% to 50% off the face value of the stamps.
Work-from-home scams
These scams often start with a job posting on social media. The job sounds so easy — you to work from home reshipping packages to their intended recipient.
Here’s how the scam works. The scammer sends items, usually purchased with stolen credit cards, and instructs the work-from-home employee to reship the package to the recipient using prepaid shipping labels they provide. Those labels are usually counterfeit and the employee has now, oftentimes unknowingly, committed a crime.
Still unsure if the business is legitimate? Contact the human resources department of the company offering work-from-home opportunities to verify the job or reach out to your state’s attorney general’s office or consumer affairs office, the Federal Trade Commission or Better Business Bureau.
Suspicious packages
What could be better than getting an unexpected package? But you didn’t order it, and it’s not from someone you know. You may get a package addressed to you with no return address or with a retailer’s name. Unfortunately, when seemingly harmless free items come from a company, they may come with a higher cost than you realize. Unsolicited merchandise can be part of a larger “brushing” scam, which is illegal in the U.S. In these scams the sender is usually an international third-party seller who found your address online, and sends you merchandise to designate you as a “verified buyer.” The retailer then writes a fake review in your name to fraudulently boost product ratings and sales numbers — which they hope results in more sales.
A new variation on brushing aims to steal your personal information — often to commit fraud or steal your identity. Called “quishing” or QR code phishing, this scam involves, packages containing cards with QR codes. The recipient is instructed to scan the code to get more information or discover who sent the gift.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service encourages you to share these tips with family and friends to avoid bogus stamps and scams. Learn more at Counterfeit Stamps — United States Postal Inspection Service, and report suspected scams at USPIS.gov/report.
2025-06-30T09:01:01
(BPT) – Now more than ever, first-time homebuyers are dialed into the interest rate environment and what it means for purchasing a house. That’s why many experts advise that buyers “marry the home and date the rate” — in other words, buy a house you love and at a price you can afford with the option of refinancing if there’s a better rate in the future.
Beyond mortgage rates, buyers also have to weigh home prices, insurance premiums, property taxes and even their own financial readiness to take on homeownership. However, not everyone can afford to wait around for the perfect scenario to buy a home.
“Whether it’s because of a new job, a major life change or seeking a new school district, we see people needing to move for all kinds of reasons,” said Ana Munoz, Senior Home Lending Advisor for Chase Home Lending. “Instead of focusing on the rates, it can be helpful for borrowers to focus on what they can control, which is their financial preparedness. If you feel ready to take on the costs of homeownership, it’s important to meet with a mortgage professional to understand your options.”
Whether you’re just starting your homebuying journey or are ready to buy this summer, the experts at Chase Home Lending offer these tips on prepping to buy a home:
Explore educational resources: Consumers planning to purchase a home, particularly first-time buyers, should start by educating themselves on the homebuying process. It’s easy to feel like you’re in over your head because you don’t know what you don’t know. Luckily, there are resources available to help boost your homebuying knowledge such as webinars, podcasts and articles, like the Chase Beginner to Buyer Podcast.
Determine when the time is right: Understand your needs and wants for homeownership, and what will best fit with your lifestyle and budget. Consider additional costs including property taxes, home maintenance and more, along with the advantages — like building home equity — to determine if it’s the right time for you to buy.
Understand the upfront costs of homeownership: Affordability is still top of mind for prospective homeowners, especially for first-time buyers. The upfront costs of homeownership, such as closing costs, a down payment and fees, may catch some buyers off guard. Online tools like an Affordability Calculator can help you determine how much you can afford.
To feel better prepared, borrowers can research and review homeowner and down payment assistance programs and grants they may be eligible for to address the initial costs of owning a home. A great tool to help you right from your phone or computer is Chase’s Homebuyer Assistance Finder, which helps borrowers find all the assistance they might be eligible for.
Work with trusted professionals: Before you begin your home search, consult a home lending professional. They can help you get preapproved, navigate the local homebuying market and review loan options. It can also be worthwhile to check with your bank since many offer discounted rates to eligible borrowers, so be on the lookout for your bank’s relationship pricing options.
Lock in your rate: Interest rates can rise and fall quickly. Being able to lock in an interest rate with a lender can give you assurance of how much you’ll pay in interest for your home loan. For example, Chase offers their Homebuyer Advantage with Lock and Shop, which lets you shop with confidence because you’ve locked in your interest rate.
Bonus: Common misconceptions about homeownership
There are a few misconceptions about buying a home that may be keeping some prospective buyers on the sidelines. Here, we break down what’s myth vs. fact about homebuying:
Ready to start planning for your dream home? Visit Chase.com/afford.
For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content.
Deposit products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender.
© 2025 JPMorgan Chase & Co.
2025-06-30T06:01:01
(BPT) – Did you know that up to 40% of people with Graves’ disease may also develop Thyroid Eye Disease (TED)? Although related, TED and Graves’ disease are different conditions that require different treatments. Failing to recognize and treat TED can lead to serious eye complications — including double vision, eye bulging (proptosis), chronic pain and even vision impairment.
TED can progress rapidly, and without timely intervention, inflammation (redness and swelling) and scar tissue can form around the eyes causing damage. The longer TED goes untreated, the more likely serious damage can occur.
Because TED can progress independently of thyroid hormone levels, managing Graves’ disease alone may not be enough to prevent or treat eye symptoms. That’s why it’s essential for people living with Graves’ disease to stay alert to any eye changes, seek care from a TED Specialist at the first sign of symptoms, and advocate for a proper diagnosis and care. TED Specialists are often select ophthalmologists and endocrinologists, as well as oculoplastic surgeons and neuro-ophthalmologists, with experience treating TED.
Signs and Symptoms of TED
Some common signs and symptoms of TED are:
The Impact of TED
TED can impact people beyond physical symptoms. Changes in appearance — such as eye bulging — can affect a person’s emotional well-being. Christine Gustafson, who lives with TED and is the CEO of the TED Community Organization, shared, “Even if it was only just the physical appearance, it was enough to really disrupt my life.” She described how strangers would stare and people would whisper in public, leaving her feeling alienated. “You make a choice — either you go on with your life or you withdraw. And many people withdraw,” she said, but finding support from others in the autoimmune community and understanding how to self-advocate can make a difference.
The Importance of Self-Advocacy
The road to a TED diagnosis is not always straightforward. Many people spend months — or even years — seeking answers as they navigate a range of eye symptoms often confused with allergies, dry eye or even aging, leading to delays in receiving the appropriate diagnosis and care.
LaQuilla Harris, who lives with Graves’ disease and TED, met with four doctors before finding a team that understood her needs. Now, LaQuilla advocates for others to understand their risk. “I have struggled to manage my TED symptoms because they were undetected for so long. That’s why I want to ensure that others living with a thyroid condition such as Graves’ disease understand their risk and get the proper care they need.”
Tips to Be “TEDucated”
If you or a loved one lives with Graves’ disease, knowledge about TED is power.
Visit ThyroidEyes.com to learn more about TED.
2025-06-30T07:01:01
(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi
It’s an unfortunate reality that myths and misconceptions about type 1 diabetes (T1D) are widespread today, leading to significant awareness gaps that ultimately make it harder for people to understand their own risk of developing the disease. Consider this: While many believe that T1D is a juvenile disease, it can impact anyone at any age. Others think it begins only when symptoms appear, when in fact, the disease progresses gradually in stages over time.
These misconceptions extend to a root cause of the disease. T1D is not simply caused by a lack of insulin; it’s a result of the autoimmune response in which the body mistakenly attacks its own healthy beta cells. The destruction of beta cells is central to the development of Stage 3 T1D, which is why understanding beta-cell function is foundational to understanding the progression of T1D. Below, explore why beta cells are such a critical piece of the T1D progression puzzle.
The role of beta cells
Located in the pancreas, beta cells are responsible for insulin production, insulin storage, and the regulated release of insulin. Beta cells work to create glucose homeostasis (i.e., keeping blood glucose levels within a healthy range) and precisely respond to changes in the body’s metabolic status due to food intake and other factors. In T1D, an autoimmune-mediated response – likely initiated by a complex interplay of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers – targets and destroys these insulin-producing beta cells.
Ongoing, underlying beta-cell destruction is a critical marker of progressive autoimmune T1D. This progression is what defines the stages of T1D. Beta cell destruction can begin as early as four to six years before clinical symptoms appear. In Stage 2 T1D, more damaged beta cells release autoantigens which causes T1D autoantibodies to develop in the blood in response to the autoimmune attack. T1D screening through a blood test can detect these autoantibodies early, potentially identifying T1D in its early stages – before symptoms even emerge.
As we continue to learn more about the unique role of beta cells in T1D, education around beta-cell function becomes critical. That’s where “Professor Beta T1D” comes in.
Meet Professor Beta T1D
To help demystify the science behind T1D and build a better understanding of beta-cell function, Sanofi created Professor Beta T1D – an animated, educational digital avatar dedicated to making beta-cell science more accessible and digestible. Professor Beta T1D’s goal is to highlight the unique impact of beta cells in T1D.
Professor Beta T1D is bringing his expertise to HCPs through social channels like X, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Professor Beta T1D is a healthy beta cell living his best life, seeking to keep calm and carry on in the face of T1D.
As an ambassador for the clusters of other beta cells, Professor Beta T1D is highly knowledgeable, but also frustrated, fighting to be heard before it’s too late. As a strong believer that there’s a “beta way to look at T1D,” there are two things Professor Beta T1D wants others to know about beta-cell function:
Insights into how beta cells influence T1D are key to understanding disease progression and may help inform the development of novel disease management approaches. Learn more about beta-cell function on www.betawayt1d.com.
Sanofi does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment – information is provided for educational purposes only. Patients are directed to their doctor if they have any questions about their health or disease management.
2025-06-30T09:01:01
(BPT) – ‘Za summer? More than 2 in 5 Gen Zers and Millennials (43%; 32% overall) are skipping traditional barbecues in favor of ordering pizza on Fourth of July — driven by the rising costs of hosting summer celebrations, according to new Empower research.
Key takeaways:
Sizzling costs are cooling cookouts
Nearly 7 in 10 Americans (68%) say the cost of hosting cookouts and barbecues has noticeably increased this year, and half have felt the squeeze at the grocery store when buying ingredients for the grill (49%). More than 4 in 10 say they’ve delayed buying a new grill to save money (43%).
Inflation and rising grocery costs are top of mind, as 49% of Americans admit their summer celebration plans — including Fourth of July — have been directly impacted. And for 34%, the best way to save is to skip the party altogether.
Stars, stripes and spending
Some Americans are ready to celebrate big this Independence Day: nearly 4 in 10 (38%) say they’ll spend more this year than last on Fourth of July festivities — and it’s not just on fireworks. Biggest spending categories include:
Celebrate smarter, not harder
Nearly two-thirds (65%) are focused on enjoying the moment, even if it means cutting back elsewhere. Though almost half (47%) aren’t worried about the costs of celebrating, 65% say they are prioritizing saving money.
Savvy strategies in play:
Debt, deals and decision fatigue
The balancing act between celebration and budgeting is real: More than 1 in 5 (22%) are even willing to go into debt to enjoy a full-blown holiday bash — rising to 36% among Millennials.
Most Americans (68%) are working to strike the right balance between having fun and staying frugal: 55% say they typically set a budget for holiday celebrations. Overall, close to 4 in 10 are skipping most celebrations this year due to cost (39%).
*ABOUT THE STUDY
Empower’s “July 4th Spending” study is based on online survey responses from 2,200 Americans ages 18+ fielded by a third-party panel provider from June 21 – 23, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.
RO4618412-0625
2025-06-30T11:01:03
(BPT) – The Mexican Caribbean is known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand beaches, and there are even more experiences within its 12 regions that are just as memorable as its shores. If you’re planning a trip to the Mexican Caribbean, consider these seven activities to do that will take you beyond the beach.
1. Dive into cenotes and lagoons
Have you ever swum in a cenote? Cenotes are natural wells that the Mayans believed were secret portals to the underworld. You can explore the magical waters for yourself by visiting the Cenotes Route of Puerto Morelos. Cenotes can also be found throughout the Mexican Caribbean region, so take your pick!
The Mexican Caribbean is also home to freshwater lagoons. If you’re in Bacalar, make sure to see the beauty of the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Or, in Maya Ka’an, float through the tranquil Muyil canals of the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest protected area in the Mexican Caribbean.
2. Learn about the Mayan culture
While all destinations in the Mexican Caribbean are rooted in Mayan culture, they have their own unique individuality. Visitors can immerse themselves in the long-standing culture at one of the 19 renowned archeological sites.
In fact, Ichkabal — an archeological site near Bacalar — is the latest site open to the public and also happens to be one of the oldest known Mayan cities. Further south of Bacalar is Chetumal, the capital city which boasts close proximity to some of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the south of the state, making it an excellent base for exploring the ancient Mayan world.
For an immersive cultural experience, stay in the Maya Ka’an region, where you can visit the local Mayan communities that preserve their ancestral traditions and customs, such as making the huipil, a traditional garment.
3. Savor unique culinary experiences
Visitors are invited to witness the exquisite culinary experiences and globally-inspired innovations offered by renowned chefs all around the Mexican Caribbean. For example, you can try regional specialties like lionfish in Cozumel and lobster pizza in Holbox.
No matter where you go, there are plenty of options for formal dining, casual options, food stalls and more. Before you book your ticket, take a look at the recently unveiled 2025 Mexico Michelin Guide to find Michelin-recommended and Bib Gourmand restaurants throughout the Mexican Caribbean.
4. Explore natural parks and museums
Explore the beauty of the Mexican Caribbean’s natural parks like Punta Sur in Isla Mujeres, which boasts some of the best sunrises in Mexico due to its location as the country’s eastern most point. In Tulum, afternoons can be spent at the recently opened Jaguar Park, ideal for strolling and discovering some of the region’s incredible flora and fauna.
For the museum lovers in your group, explore the rich Mayan history and heritage at the Mayan Museum of Cancun. You can also stop and admire the pieces at Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA) in Isla Mujeres, an innovative underwater museum designed to teach visitors about the region and counteract the effects of climate change on the oceans and reefs.
5. Feel rejuvenated with wellness destinations
For those seeking some TLC, Riviera Maya is a renowned wellness destination where you can experience peace and tranquility at a variety of resorts. Take your pick from state-of-the-art wellness facilities, yoga and massage on the sand, and temazcal — traditional Mayan sweat lodges used in ancient spiritual healing rituals.
6. From boutiques to international brands
There’s no shortage of shopping options throughout the Mexican Caribbean. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, luxury boutiques or artisanal wares, you can find shopping experiences that suit your preferences in all 12 regions.
For example, if you’re in Playa del Carmen, stop by Quinta Avenida, the heart of the region’s shopping scene. This must-visit street is lined with shops and art galleries where you’ll find international brands and local boutiques, and be sure to visit the nearby Artisanal Market for handmade crafts and local souvenirs. In Tulum, eco-chic fashions and art can be found within the destination’s many boutiques. In Grand Costa Maya, Mahahual’s boardwalk offers a relaxed atmosphere with restaurants and small local stops.
7. Get into golf
Golf fans rejoice! Enjoy an unforgettable golf experience in Costa Mujeres, which boasts Playa Mujeres Golf Club to get a swing in.
If you want to hit the links yourself, head to Playa del Carmen and visit El Camaleón Golf Course. This unique golfing experience blends challenging gameplay with the breathtaking beauty of its surroundings.
Are you ready to explore the Mexican Caribbean?
No matter which of its 12 distinct destinations you visit, you’ll find that the Mexican Caribbean and its people have so much to offer beyond the surf and sand. For more information, visit mexicancaribbean.travel or follow on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.
2025-06-30T07:53:00
(BPT) – Summer brings fun in the sun and is often accompanied by packed schedules filled with travel, family gatherings and long days outdoors, making it easy to let wellness habits slip.
However, prioritizing self-care can make a big difference in how you feel and function so you can fully enjoy everything on your sunshine-filled schedule all season long. To help you out, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers the following pro tips.
1. Refresh your space
When life feels chaotic, a cluttered space can make it worse. But you don’t have to overhaul everything. Start small! Pick one spot each week to tidy, like your car, work bag or fridge.
As part of the refresh, Blatner suggests adding something small to your daily spaces that sparks joy. It could be color, music or a meaningful item that reminds you to take care of yourself, even during the busiest days.
2. Unplug
It can be easy to mindlessly scroll on your phone or other devices. You don’t have to give up your electronics, but setting digital boundaries can help reduce your screen time. Schedule time in your day for screen-free outdoor time to reduce stress and soak up mood-boosting vitamin D.
3. Eat what makes you feel good
Focus on eating foods that taste good and make you feel nourished and happy. Blatner recommends keeping a feel-good fridge zone with pre-chopped veggies, hard-boiled eggs for grab-and-go protein, antioxidant-packed snacks like seasonal berries and infused water jars with herbs and citrus.
4. Make movement fun
Does the thought of hitting the gym or going on a run fill you with dread? Don’t force yourself to do an exercise you don’t enjoy. Instead of traditional workouts, embrace playful movement outdoors like paddleboarding, bike riding, beach volleyball or even dance classes to keep fitness fun and consistent.
5. Make a sweet, protein-packed snack
Satisfy your sweet tooth with a homemade treat made from high-quality ingredients like Blatner’s recipe for Protein Cookie Bites. They’re a deliciously crave-worthy yet nourishing snack to tackle those sweet cravings throughout your day.
These protein bites are made with Eggland’s Best eggs, so you can savor every bite knowing that these eggs contain 10 times more Vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs. This powerful antioxidant helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which is especially helpful during the hotter months when sun exposure increases.
EB eggs also have six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs, which supports bone health, immune function and mood regulation.
Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 24
Ingredients
· 2 Eggland’s Best Eggs, large
· 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
· 4 tablespoons maple syrup
· 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
· 1/2 cup rolled oats
· 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips
· 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Preparation
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk Eggland’s Best eggs and stir in peanut butter and maple syrup.
3. Add in protein powder and oats and stir until fully mixed. Then, fold in chocolate chips.
4. Scoop the batter into 24 mounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet and top each with a pinch of salt.
5. Bake about 8 minutes or until bottoms are golden. Let cool for 15 minutes and enjoy.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, in the fridge for up to seven days, or freeze for up to three months.
To find other recipes like this one, visit EgglandsBest.com.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself no matter how busy the summer gets! Using these five pro tips, you’ll be able to prioritize self-care, even with a packed schedule.
