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Four tips to help celebrate Hispanic Heritage

2023-10-05T08:01:00

(BPT) – From music, food, art and beyond — there are countless contributions that Hispanic and Latin Americans have made to the United States. Celebrating Hispanic American Heritage is just one great way to honor your roots and the people who have enriched the nation’s multicultural fabric!

New York Times bestselling cookbook author and Mexican chef Pati Jinich shares a few activities you and your family can participate in to help celebrate and learn more about Hispanic American Heritage and culture.

1. Explore Hispanic American community events

Celebrate with your community by checking local calendars to see what events are happening in your area. You may notice that there are many different Hispanic heritage festivals or parades happening—attending these events with friends or family is a great way to enjoy lively celebrations while learning more about your local Hispanic American neighbors!

2. Take traditional dance classes

Sign up for a salsa, bachata or flamenco dance class with a partner, a group of friends or a family member. If you’re unfamiliar with traditional Hispanic dancing, try looking for a beginner or intro class at a local dance studio; that way you can immerse yourself in a rich cultural experience while also having fun!

3. Support local Latin- and Hispanic-owned businesses

Purchasing from small Latin- or Hispanic-owned businesses is not only a great way to contribute to your community, but it’s also an opportunity to discover unique products and services that you might not find elsewhere. Supporting these businesses goes beyond just a simple transaction; it has a deeper socio-economic impact that can be very empowering for minority business owners.

4. Try new recipes and cook with Hispanic flavors

Vibrant flavors define Latin cuisines, and trying new recipes with these flavors will allow you to enrich your culinary repertoire and deepen your appreciation for this diverse culture. Need inspiration? Try this Roasted Salsa Verde Chilaquiles with Eggs and Pickled Onions from Eggland’s Best.

The recipe features Eggland’s Best eggs, which contain 25% less saturated fat and more than double the Vitamin B12 compared to ordinary eggs, which provides a natural energy boost and helps support a balanced diet and healthy heart.

Roasted Salsa Verde Chilaquiles with Eggs and Pickled Onions

Ingredients:

  • 12 Eggland’s Best Large Eggs
  • 12 5-inch corn tortillas
  • 1 cup red onion slivered
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds green tomatillos husked and rinsed
  • 1/4 of a large white onion, cut into large chunks
  • 1 jalapeno chile
  • 2 garlic cloves, unpeeled
  • 1 cup coarsely chopped cilantro leaves, divided
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil plus more for brushing tortillas
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 cup queso fresco or cotija or substitute with Farmer’s cheese or mild feta, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup Mexican cream

To prepare the tortilla chips:

1. Heat the oven to 325 degrees. Cut the tortillas into triangles, and place on a tray. Lightly brush with oil, sprinkle salt. Bake in the oven until crispy, about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping once in between. Let the pieces cool.

To prepare the pickled onions:

2. In a small bowl, mix the red onion with the lime juice, olive oil and salt to taste.

To prepare the roasted salsa verde:

3. Place the tomatillos, onions, garlic and chile on a baking sheet. Set under the broiler and char for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping once in between, until tomatillos are soft, juicy and all the ingredients look charred.

4. Remove from the oven. Peel the garlic cloves, stem the chile and add along with the rest of the ingredients to the blender along with 3/4 cup of the cilantro and a teaspoon of salt and puree until smooth.

5. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a saucepan set over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the sauce from the blender and cook over a medium simmer until the sauce thickens and seasons, another 5 to 6 minutes.

6. Meanwhile, set a small skillet over low heat. Once hot, add a few drops of oil. Once the oil is hot, crack the eggs two at a time into the skillet and season with salt and pepper.

7. Cover with a lid and cook until desired doneness (about 4 minutes for sunny side up eggs with runny yolks and set egg whites).

8. When the sauce is hot, quickly but carefully add the tortilla chips. Stir the tortillas into the mixture so that they are fully coated with the sauce.

9. Serve the tortillas and salsa in individual plates, with a pair of cooked sunny side up eggs on top, garnished with a bit more salsa verde, a drizzle of Mexican cream, crumbled queso fresco, pickled onions and fresh cilantro.

Let these four tips provide inspiration to help you explore and honor the dynamic spirit and enduring impact of Hispanic American culture!

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4 tips for a healthier Halloween

2023-10-04T23:01:00

(BPT) – Candy, sweets and seasonal treats — it’s officially dessert season, and you may be starting to think about how you’ll stay on track with your nutrition goals this year. While there’s nothing wrong with a little indulgence, it can be overwhelming when the kids bring home their overflowing bags of candy.

“We’re coming up on several months of holidays and it’s so fun to celebrate with our favorite candy and treats,” says Kristin Kirkpatrick, M.S., registered dietitian and Quest endorser. “But there can be too much of a good thing, so it’s important to take some proactive steps to stay on track while also enjoying yourself.”

Kirkpatrick is dishing out her tips on how to make this year’s trick-or-treat season festive while sticking with healthy behaviors when it comes to candy and sweets.

1. Watch out for “snack-sized” portions.

A “fun-sized” or “snack-sized” piece of candy may seem harmless, but a common misconception is that this smaller candy is healthy for you, according to Kirkpatrick. However, even a snack-sized candy bar is high in sugar. And because they’re small, you may be tempted to eat several pieces, sometimes even more than a standard-sized serving. Instead, be mindful. Keep track of how many snack-sized treats you eat to ensure you’re not overindulging.

2. Opt for smart swaps.

Choosing a candy option that has more protein and isn’t packed with sugar and net carbs, such as the Quest Chocolatey Coated Peanut Candies, can allow you to stick to your nutrition goals while still enjoying a sweet treat. With 10 grams of protein and 1 gram of sugar per serving, this treat delivers the crunch, sweetness and might help “scare” away the candy cravings you might experience during Halloween. If you prefer traditional candy, choose a kind that has a little fiber (such as nut-based candy). This can help fill you up quicker, meaning you may eat less overall.

You can also stock up on healthier options for snacks and treats for your kids — and yourself. For example, you can find snack servings of popcorn, pretzels, cheddar crackers, trail mix and dried fruit.

3. Fuel up before trick-or-treating.

Before you head out the door for a night of spooky fun and candy hunting, be sure to serve your family a nutritious, balanced meal with protein and fiber. This can help your kids feel full and energized and may prevent them from overindulging on sweets later in the night.

4. Share your sweets with others.

After a long night of trick-or-treating, sit down with your kids and help them go through their stash. Have them pick out a few of their favorite candies, then talk to them about the benefits of sharing and allow them the opportunity to give to others. Ask your local food pantry or shelter to see if they are accepting Halloween candy. This can help your family make healthy choices after Halloween while also donating to a good cause.

If you’re not able to donate the treats, consider freezing it for later or using it for baking during the holiday season.

Consider these tips to make managing Halloween candy in your house a little easier this year. And for more sweet swaps, check out questnutrition.com.

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Winter home checklist: 10 ways to winterize your home and save money

2023-10-04T09:03:00

(BPT) – The freezing temperatures, ice and snow that come with the winter season will be here before you know it. Instead of waiting until a house emergency arises during the cold winter, take time in the fall to start winterization projects.

For most homeowners, winter means colder weather and rising energy bills, too. To help stick to your budget while keeping your home warm and safe this winter, Oncourse Home Solutions developed this checklist to help you get your home winter-ready before the first snowfall.

1. Seal those drafts. Drafty doors and windows allow heat to escape — making your heating bill soar. Check windows, attic, walls and crawlspaces for noticeable drafts. Then add weather stripping, insulation or caulking to problematic areas to prevent the loss of heated air.

2. Keep appliances running like a dream. Winter can put your appliances to the test, especially if they’re not properly maintained. Regularly cleaning out dust and debris from large appliances, including your refrigerator, will ensure optimal performance so you don’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns. Oncourse Home Solutions suggests homeowners have a yearly furnace ‘tune up’ maintenance appointment with a professional to ensure potential problems can be caught early and taken care of before they result in an untimely (and expensive) breakdown.

  • Pro Tip: Check with your provider, as they may offer plans designed to take care of your appliances. This can reduce your financial burden to cover repair emergencies.

3. Switch to a smart thermostat. A programmable smart Wi-Fi thermostat allows you to set different temps for different times of day, right from your phone. By lowering the temp when you’re out of the house or asleep, you can save a significant amount of energy and money.

4. Embrace natural heat. Blinds, shutters and curtains don’t just keep light out; they can help keep heat in, too. Open window treatments during the day, allowing the sun to heat your home naturally. When the sun goes down, close curtains and blinds to trap warmth inside.

5. Check ceiling fan direction. Did you know your ceiling fan can provide both cool and warm air? During the winter, set your ceiling fan blades to spin clockwise. This forces the fan to push warm air back down into your living space. That can help keep your thermostat at a reasonable setting, giving your HVAC system a much-needed break.

6. Let there be LED. Swap old incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient LED bulbs. Not only are they longer-lasting, but they also use significantly less energy. You’ll save money while illuminating your home with brighter, more sustainable light.

7. Clear around vents. If certain rooms feel cooler than others, ensure you don’t have blocked vents. Rugs, curtains and furniture can block airflow from any vent. When this happens, warm air from your heating system can’t reach your family.

8. Check your home’s exterior. Even though you may not spend as much time outdoors during winter, it’s a great time to check for damage to your home’s exterior. Look at your roof, gutters and downspouts to ensure things are in good shape. If you notice missing or damaged shingles, or any gutters or downspouts pulling away from your home, those are issues that need attention immediately. Putting off maintenance and repairs only makes it worse — and hurts your wallet.

9. Be prepared. Plan for the unexpected by keeping an emergency kit stocked with non-perishable food, blankets, flashlights, batteries, drinking water, a fire extinguisher and first aid kit. Placing shovels, salt and snow blowers in an easily accessible location can also help you quickly clear snow and ice from heavily trafficked areas like walkways and driveways.

10. Protect your pipes. Freezing pipes can cause major headaches (and leaks!) during winter. To protect homeowners from unexpected costs, home protection providers like Oncourse Home Solutions have homeowners’ backs when it comes to safeguarding their home. Their protection plans offer coverage for pipes and more, so you can rest easy knowing that unexpected damage may be taken care of without breaking the bank.

Remember, these tips are just the start of your winterizing journey. Each home is unique, so always consider partnering with home protection and service providers like Oncourse Home Solutions, formerly operated as Pivotal Home Solutions and American Home Solutions, a leading home protection provider focused on protecting homeowners from unexpected costs, and providing flexible services for home repairs, maintenance and improvement.

With the amount of stress and tasks that naturally come with homeownership, especially during the winter months when bills tend to rise, having a thoughtful partner that provides peace of mind is critical. With a little bit of effort and some smart choices, you can face winter confidently, knowing help is just a call away. Visit OncourseHome.com to learn more.

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5 fall to-dos for a successful spring deck build

2023-10-04T09:15:00

(BPT) – As temperatures turn cooler, it might seem premature to think about springtime outdoor projects, but when it comes to planning a spring deck build, now is actually the perfect time to start. The fall and winter months provide an ideal window of opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful and stress-free spring deck construction project. Here are some key steps and considerations to ensure your new deck will be ready to enjoy when the flowers start to bloom.

1. Define your vision

Every successful deck project begins with a clear vision. Spend some time this fall and winter envisioning your ideal deck. Consider its purpose — will it be a space for outdoor dining, relaxation or entertainment? Think about the deck’s size, shape and design elements. Gather inspiration from home improvement magazines, social media platforms and websites like Decks.com to help refine your vision. Then, utilize online tools, like those offered by the outdoor living experts at Trex, to bring your vision to life. Digital tools, such as their AR Visualizer and Deck Designer, can help to further define details. You can also find a wide array of ready-made deck plans online that offer ideas and inspiration.

2. Lock in labor

One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you plan to build the deck yourself or hire a professional. If you have the skills to DIY, take advantage of online resources, like Trex Academy, for expert tips and step-by-step instructions to help get the job done. If you plan to work with a contractor, fall is an excellent time to start the vetting process. Quality deck builders are often in high demand and tend to book out months in advance. Securing a contractor in fall ensures you’ll have a skilled professional ready to begin work when the weather allows in the spring.

3. Plan for permits

Deck construction often requires permits, depending on your local building codes and neighborhood associations, if applicable. Take advantage of the fall and winter months to research local building codes and obtain any necessary permits and approvals. This process can be time-consuming, so getting a head start will ensure that you don’t face any unexpected delays come spring.

4. Set your budget

Setting a budget early gives you time to make any necessary adjustments and ensures you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected costs once installation begins. Be realistic and consider all potential expenses, including labor, permits, substructure materials, decking, railing and any additional features or amenities you might want to include, such as lighting, an outdoor sound system or an under-deck drainage system. Online resources like the Trex Cost Calculator can help to ensure your vision is financially feasible. Simply answer a few questions about your space, like the material you plan to use and the deck dimensions, to determine an estimated price range for your project.

5. Research materials

The choice of materials for your deck is crucial as it directly impacts both the aesthetics and longevity of your outdoor space. Fall is an ideal time to research the range of available options. Consider factors like durability, maintenance requirements and sustainability when making your decision. Trex composite decking, for instance, is made from 95% recycled and reclaimed materials and never needs to be sealed or refinished like wood. The brand’s latest innovation, Trex Transcend Lineage, even features heat-mitigating technology that keeps the boards cooler under the sun than other composite offerings. Many above-ground decks require railing, so be sure to take that into account as well. Railing options are myriad and the costs vary widely, so planning ahead ensures you have time to make the choices that are right for your project and your budget.

Planning ahead for a spring deck build during the fall and winter months is a wise decision that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your deck construction project when the warmer weather arrives. With careful planning and attention to detail, your dream deck will soon become a reality, providing you with a beautiful and functional outdoor space to enjoy for years to come. For more outdoor living inspiration, visit Trex.com.

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Looking to pursue a career in a growing field? Why cybersecurity should top your list

2023-10-04T08:01:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re in school, just graduating, or seeking a career change, your best bet is to consider positions that are in a growing field. One great example: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs such as information security analysts who focus on cybersecurity are estimated to grow 35% between 2021 and 2031.[1]

Why is cybersecurity such a big deal? Due to fast-growing technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and quantum computing, companies large and small are understaffed and ill-equipped to handle these rapid technological changes and the security threats involved — or their current staff may be in dire need of upskilling just to keep up with this accelerated evolution.

While the U.S. government’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is marking the 20th anniversary of Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October with the theme, “It’s easy to stay safe online,” the truth about cybersecurity is much more complicated. Cybersecurity Ventures predicts damages of $8 trillion due to cybercrime globally this year alone. Organizations and businesses of all sizes continue to be victims of cybercrime, so the need to hire well-educated cybersecurity professionals with up-to-date knowledge and skills has never been greater.

“The number of unfilled roles in cybersecurity grew 350% between 2013 and 2021. At the same time, cybersecurity attacks continue to rise with over 800,000 known attacks a year. This affects day-to-day lives, our economy, and our national security,” said DeVry University’s Chief Information Security Officer, Fred Kwong. “Higher education institutions and businesses must strive to make cybersecurity education and career pathways available to everyone. Without enough talent to quickly fill these roles, companies will continue to be at risk of these attacks.”

Moreover, the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) bring new opportunities as well as challenges to the field of cybersecurity. For instance, AI’s power capabilities to make the most technologically savvy tasks easier for anyone to perform will give way to an increase in threat actors, around-the-clock breaching attempts, and more realistic, personable attack vectors. Thus, future cybersecurity professionals will need to know how to leverage tools for network monitoring and AI-powered threat detection to defend their organizations.

How can you learn the skills needed to join this field?

If pursuing a career in information technology and cybersecurity sounds exciting, here is one option to help you get started.

Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program at DeVry University

Designed to help students pursuing cybersecurity programs and preparing to pursue technology careers, the Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program offered exclusively to DeVry University and Keller students gives you the resources and support you need to prepare to stand out as a cybersecurity professional.

In this program, eligible undergraduate and graduate students can:

  • Learn about training, events, conferences and networking opportunities hosted by leading industry organizations.
  • Earn badges for completing leadership series courses and access industry-relevant content through LibGuide.
  • Have opportunities to participate on DeVry’s National Cyber League competition team and join DeVry’s National Chapter of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA).
  • Get the cybersecurity career support you need with access to job search resources and opportunities, including internships, apprenticeships and full-time positions.

Enrollment in the Scholars Program

Students who meet all the following initial eligibility criteria will be automatically enrolled in the Future Cyber Defenders Scholars Program:

  • Individual is a new, readmitted, resuming or continuing student
  • Student is enrolled in or will be enrolled in an eligible cybersecurity program
  • Student meets DeVry Admission and/or Keller Entrance requirements

Interested? Visit DeVry.edu for more information.

Leading the way with AI learning

Striving to fulfill their mission to prepare learners to thrive in a technology-driven workforce, DeVry University’s unique Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab will help transform academic potential into academic performance and advance learner ambition. DeVry is also reinforcing its commitment to helping close the opportunity gap by providing education tailored to address the needs of the AI-driven workplace, including a course in AI and machine learning (ML) which is now embedded in six degrees and two certificate programs.

“The exponential growth of AI is reshaping industries across the board, impacting the way we work, and we must empower our workforce with the skills to not just adapt but thrive,” said Chief Information Officer Chris Campbell, DeVry University. “Our goal is to equip individuals at any career stage with the knowledge and expertise to leverage AI effectively. By doing so, we create a workforce that can harness AI’s power to drive innovation and efficiency across all sectors.”

To learn more, check out DeVry’s AI Resource Center at DeVry.edu/ai-resource-center.


[1] Growth projected on a national level. Local growth will vary by location. BLS projections are not specific to DeVry University students or graduates and may include earners at all stages of their career and not just entry level.

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How Cancer Screening Led to a Diagnosis Before Symptoms

2023-10-04T06:01:01

(BPT) – At 54 years old, Valerie felt healthy and prided herself on being active. In her hometown of Flagstaff, Ariz., she could often be found exploring the outdoors, playing with her granddaughter or spending time with friends. She took a proactive approach to her health, so when she read a book that discussed breakthroughs in precision medicine, she was curious, especially when it came to new approaches to cancer screening.

Currently, there are only five recommended cancer screenings in the United States, including mammograms and colonoscopies. While early detection has been proven to significantly improve cancer survival rates and reduce the cost and complexity of cancer treatment, most cancers don’t have recommended screenings and are detected too late. Cancers without widespread screening recommendations represent 71% of all cancer diagnoses and 70% of cancer deaths in the U.S. among individuals aged 50-79.

Knowing she had some family history of cancer, Valerie wanted to know more. She researched a multi-cancer early detection test called Galleri®, which screens for a signal shared by multiple types of cancers through a single blood draw. When a cancer signal is detected, the test can predict the tissue type or organ associated with the cancer signal with high accuracy and help guide diagnostic evaluation.

Advocating for Her Health

Although she felt healthy and didn’t have any symptoms, Valerie was determined to advocate for her own health. She spoke with a few healthcare providers and worked with a physician who ordered the Galleri test.

“I received a call that there was a signal detected. My doctor quickly ordered an MRI but said he didn’t see cancer. However, the radiologist told me he had never seen a gallbladder with so many stones and that it needed to come out,” recalled Valerie.

Valerie had a successful surgery to remove her gallbladder, but there was more to her story. The day after the surgery, the pathology report came back and showed there was a 4.5-centimeter tumor in her gallbladder.

“Finding out I did have cancer allowed me to take action. We moved forward with my care plan, and I started on chemotherapy for six months,” Valerie said. “I feel like this test was made for me. I appreciate it so much. I’m going to be able to live my life because we found my gallbladder cancer so soon.”

Knowledge Empowers

Valerie is grateful she pushed to take the Galleri test, because it helped her find her cancer early and make informed decisions that were right for her. She was empowered to advocate for her own health and is now encouraging others to take an active role in their health journeys.

Valerie knows firsthand that knowledge empowers, but there’s an element of bravery required to request the test and hear the results.

“It takes courage for people to take the Galleri test, especially the first time, because there’s many kinds of cancers you could have,” she said. “Is it better not to know, or is it better to know? For me, it was better to know. That’s how I can sit here with energy and continue my life right now.”

“I just want to get the word out to as many people as possible, because this is something that has made such a difference for myself and my family,” she continued.

Learn More

The Galleri test must be prescribed by a healthcare provider and should be used in addition to recommended cancer screenings such as mammography, colonoscopy, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and/or cervical cancer screening. It is intended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older.

The Galleri test does not detect a signal for all cancers, and not all cancers can be detected in the blood. False positive and false negative results do occur.

Based on a clinical study of people ages 50 to 79, around 1% are expected to receive a Cancer Signal Detected result, which includes predicted Cancer Signal Origin(s). After diagnostic evaluation, around 40% of people are expected to have a confirmed cancer diagnosis. The overall sensitivity in Galleri study participants with gallbladder cancer was 70.6% (0% for Stage I, 33.3% for Stage II, 75.0% for Stage III and 100% for Stage IV).

Learn more at galleri.com.

Important Safety Information

The Galleri test is recommended for use in adults with an elevated risk for cancer, such as those aged 50 or older. The Galleri test does not detect all cancers and should be used in addition to routine cancer screening tests recommended by a healthcare provider. Galleri is intended to detect cancer signals and predict where in the body the cancer signal is located. Use of Galleri is not recommended in individuals who are pregnant, 21 years old or younger, or undergoing active cancer treatment.

Results should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of medical history, clinical signs and symptoms. A test result of “Cancer Signal Not Detected” does not rule out cancer. A test result of “Cancer Signal Detected” requires confirmatory diagnostic evaluation by medically established procedures (e.g., imaging) to confirm cancer.

If cancer is not confirmed with further testing, it could mean that cancer is not present or testing was insufficient to detect cancer, including due to the cancer being located in a different part of the body. False-positive (a cancer signal detected when cancer is not present) and false-negative (a cancer signal not detected when cancer is present) test results do occur. Rx only.

Laboratory/Test Information

GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is certified under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and accredited by the College of American Pathologists. The Galleri test was developed, and its performance characteristics were determined by GRAIL. The Galleri test has not been cleared or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. GRAIL’s clinical laboratory is regulated under CLIA to perform high-complexity testing. The Galleri test is intended for clinical purposes.

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3 ways business executives can benefit from yoga and meditation

2023-10-03T18:01:00

(BPT) – The business world can be a stressful place. When working as a business executive, you can feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of being a leader in a world that requires relentless multitasking and decision-making. Inevitably, you’ll feel burnt out.

While you may not be able to eliminate all the responsibilities and stressors in your life, you can incorporate mindfulness practices to help you better manage your thoughts and emotions. For example, practicing yoga and meditation can help you find moments of calm and clarity even on the most hectic workday. Check out these three benefits of yoga and meditation that can help business executives thrive and become better leaders.

1. Reduce stress

Stress is an ever-present co-worker for many executives. Between deadlines, managing teams and making important decisions, you can feel like you’re in a constant state of tension. Integrating yoga and meditation practices into your routine can help you reduce stress. Even just a few minutes a day can make a huge difference.

According to the American Psychological Association, researchers have found that mindfulness meditation changes a person’s brain and biology to improve mental and physical health. Whether you practice breathing exercises, yoga or a guided session, mindfulness meditation can help you reduce and manage stress at home and in the office.

2. Improve focus

Yoga and meditation are a great way to improve your focus. By focusing on your breath and the task at hand, whether it’s a yoga position or a meditative mantra, you can clear your mind. Without the mental clutter, you can see the big picture clearly, allowing you to make strategic decisions that benefit your team.

This improved focus isn’t just a result of relieving stress and settling your mind. It can actually change the way your brain works. According to University Health News, researchers have found that yoga can greatly affect neural patterns in the brain, improving your ability to concentrate and focus. The next time you find yourself stuck on a problem or unable to concentrate on a project or proposal, take a few minutes to do a quick yoga flow or five-minute meditation.

3. Enhance leadership skills

To be an effective and inspiring leader, it takes more than smarts. Great business executives and managers must also have high emotional intelligence (EI), that is, the ability to monitor your own and others’ feelings and emotions and use that information to guide your decisions.

While some people are naturally gifted with EI, you can build this skill and improve your leadership skills through mindfulness practices. According to a study published in the IIMB Management Review Journal, practicing yoga and yogic meditation can enhance someone’s EI and improve managerial performance. Add yoga and meditation to your managerial toolbox and see how improving your EI changes your managerial style and positively impacts your projects and team members.

Start or deepen your practice to thrive

These are just three of the many benefits of yoga and meditation. By investing in your mental and emotional health through yoga and meditation, you can become a more effective business leader while balancing your work and personal life.

Whether you’re new to yoga and meditation or want to deepen your practice, check out the teachings of practitioners like Keiko Aikawa’s Himalayan Siddha Meditation workshop.

Aikawa is known as the “Yogmata,” a supreme Himalayan saint who has reached the final stage of yoga and meditation called “samadhi” (equivalent to nirvana in Buddhism). She is the first female saint in history to reach samadhi.

Her books “108 Teachings,” “Empty Your Mind and Achieve Your Dreams,” and “The Road to Enlightenment” are great resources for developing and deepening your yoga and meditation practices. You can also attend her upcoming workshop in New York and learn her teachings and breathwork firsthand. To learn more, visit yogmata.net/en_darshan.

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One man’s transformative journey losing 100-plus pounds

2023-10-03T14:37:00

(BPT) – Life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and for Brad Roberts, Chief Operating Officer of LifeMD, one such twist was his unexpected weight gain after the loss of his father. However, his story is one of determination, resilience and ultimately, transformation.

Roberts, still fit from his athletic college days and now a dedicated father of four, found solace in food during his late 30s after his father passed away. “My father was my best friend,” said Roberts. “When I lost him, I started avoiding my life and internalized my sadness through eating.” His weight spiraled, leading to a loss of confidence and a dramatic change in lifestyle.

Roberts decided to make a change when he realized the impact his weight was having on his family — his greatest priority. He was missing from family photos due to a self-consciousness about his appearance, and friends and family were noticing his weight gain. He realized he wasn’t setting the healthy example he wanted for his children.

Roberts decided to participate in a weight management program. Using LifeMD’s strong affiliated clinical network, combined with GLP-1s, a class of medications used for weight loss and diabetes management, Roberts embarked on the weight loss journey that has since transformed his life.

In his first month, Roberts lost 24 pounds. As he continued, his weight loss accelerated, and by June, he was down 60 pounds. As of this writing, Roberts has lost a total of 125 pounds, taken 12 inches off his waist, and decreased his Body Mass Index (BMI) from 41 to 28. While greatly exceeding the 15% average annual weight loss results of most GLP-1 users, Roberts attributes his incredible results to both GLP-1 medication and lifestyle changes, with the combination of the two creating an upward spiral of momentum.

Throughout his weight loss journey, Roberts faced challenges, like the fear of injecting a medication and the frustration of not seeing immediate results. The real-time, actionable direction by LifeMD affiliated providers was pivotal. For example, at the start of his journey, Roberts was hitting a weight loss plateau, so he reached out to his care team. In talking about his eating habits, it quickly became apparent he needed to fuel his body to avoid a metabolic slowdown. Opting for protein shakes, grilled chicken, and apples while ensuring appropriate caloric intake, he was down six pounds before the end of the week.

Losing weight wasn’t just about improving physical health for Roberts; it was also about rebuilding his confidence and his relationships. He wanted to be an active, present father who participated in family photos, coached his kids’ sports teams, and attended important events without feeling self-conscious.

Roberts’ transformation has been so profound he’s inspired his family and close friends to join the program. His journey demonstrates that with the right support, medication, and determination, significant weight loss is within reach for many Americans.

Roberts’ story is one of overcoming personal adversity, re-establishing self-confidence, and reclaiming the joys of life. It’s about living the life you’ve imagined for yourself and your family. “For the first time in five years, I am standing next to my children in photos and I feel confident, I feel the difference,” said Roberts. “Making a change is possible with the right team, the right medication and the right support behind you.” It’s a story that proves that it’s never too late to make a change for the better.

If you are interested in learning more about LifeMD’s weight management program and how it can help transform your life, please visit: LifeMD.com.

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Sustainability is more than recycling: The importance of understanding product lifecycle

2023-10-03T09:01:00

(BPT) – Looking for sustainable packaging when shopping is an important step for reducing your environmental footprint. For many people, this means seeking packaging that is recyclable. While that’s an important element of sustainable packaging, it’s only one part.

You can make a bigger impact and support the well-being of the earth, as well as the people and communities involved in producing products, by understanding a product’s full lifecycle. So, what else should you consider when comparing packaging?

1. Material sourcing

Beyond what materials are used, it’s important to ask where the materials come from and how they are sourced. How can you know material sourcing is done responsibly? Some brands go through extensive evaluations to be certified by reputable third-party organizations. Here are a couple of labels you can look for and feel confident the packaging you are purchasing is responsibly sourced:

Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) label: FSC® is an independent, non-governmental forest certification standard. When you purchase FSC®-labeled products, you’re helping forests and the people that rely on them thrive by supporting zero deforestation, fair wage and work environment, community rights and protection of plant and animal species.

Bonsucro Chain of Custody label: The Bonsucro Chain of Custody Standard relates to the supply of sugarcane, including all stages from feedstock production up to consumption. This certification provides assurance that sustainability claims can be tracked along the supply chain, including responsible sourcing and ethical trading of sugarcane, which can be used to produce a plant-based plastic material in place of traditional fossil-fuel based plastics.

2. Renewable, plant-based materials

Renewable plant-based materials are better for the environment because they can be replenished over time and enable a move away from fossil fuel–based materials. Plus, you can feel good that renewable resources are natural resources, which will replenish the portion depleted through consumption. Examples of renewable materials you are likely to see on a store shelf include:

Paper from responsibly managed forests: All Tetra Pak® cartons use paperboard from trees sourced from FSC®-certified forests and other controlled sources. On average, a Tetra Pak carton consists of 70% paperboard, a renewable plant-based material.

Plastics made from plant-based materials: Plant-based plastics look and perform the exact same as their fossil fuel–based alternative. Look for the Bonsucro logo, which demonstrates responsible sugarcane management.

3. Protection of the product

Good packaging helps protect the product, which is particularly important for foods and beverages. This helps ensure you don’t get sick and helps reduce food waste. Globally, food waste is responsible for 8% of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

When shopping, look for packaging that helps to extend shelf life without a negative impact on nutrition. For example, foods and drinks in shelf-stable cartons from Tetra Pak are treated using UHT (ultra heat treatment). When combined with the company’s shelf-stable packaging, products ranging from dairy milk to chicken broth are safe and delicious for long periods of time without the need for additives, preservatives or refrigeration before opening.

Bonus: In addition to minimizing food waste, shelf-stable packaging does not require refrigeration. This minimizes energy consumption that would otherwise be used to support a refrigerated distribution chain.

4. Recyclability

Once a package has fulfilled its purpose, what happens at the end of life? Ideally, it can be recycled. When shopping, look for a recycling logo on the package.

Many packages are considered widely recyclable and can be placed in your curbside bin. Keep in mind, though, some packages are not yet recyclable everywhere, so you may see a recycling logo with additional qualifications such as: Recyclable where facilities exist, or, with specific instructions on where to return the item to be recycled.

To prevent litter, reattach caps or push straws into a package before you place them in the recycling bin.

5. Carbon impact

In addition to understanding a product’s lifecycle, some package changes can reduce the overall carbon footprint. For example, the carbon emissions of a package with renewable, plant-based plastics are less than the same package with plastic made from traditional fossil fuel–based materials.

Check the packaging or a brand’s website for information about the carbon footprint of the package. For example, Carbon Trust™ offers a “Reducing CO2 Packaging” certification for brands to include on-pack that demonstrates a move toward a package with a lower carbon impact.

Understanding a product’s lifecycle can help you make more informed shopping decisions. Learn more at Tetrapak.com/en-us/Sustainability.

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Cotton farmers across globe commit to sustainable cotton production

2023-10-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Consumer demand for sustainable cotton is at an all-time high. But for farmers, sustainability isn’t just a word on a clothing tag. It’s a dedication that begins before a single seed is planted.

When weather, pest and disease pressure close in on a cotton crop, ready to steal yield and profits, how do farmers across the globe meet this ever-increasing demand for sustainable cotton?

This question, and the conversations it spurred, were at the forefront of ‘United for the Biggest Job on Earth,’ an event hosted by BASF Agricultural Solutions at the United Nations headquarters on September 12.

“We’re here today because BASF is committed to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and there is no greater person to help us address those challenges than our farmers,” said Ray Daniels, BASF Seed Sustainability Manager.

The two-hour event was led by Daniels and Jessica Monserrate, Head of Sustainability for BASF. Five cotton farmers from Greece and five cotton farmers from the U.S. (three from Texas and two from Mississippi) shared with BASF leadership from North America and Europe, as well as national textile and agriculture media, on the many on-farm sustainable practices they are currently enacting, what they need from industry stakeholders and their hope for the future.

“Most people aren’t aware of the effort farmers like us are putting into sustainable agriculture practices, and we want to continue to share our story and gain their support,” said Randy Smith, Texas cotton farmer.

Randy’s wife Pat adds, “We raise our families here. We want to protect the land for generations to come.”

Farming for the future

All 10 cotton farmers are part of the U.S. e3® Sustainable Cotton program or the European Certified FiberMax® program. Both provide field-level traceability for cotton, as well as a way for farmers to track and measure the environmental and social impacts of their cotton production.

Sustainability isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Texas cotton farmers Richard Gaona and Jon Watley discussed how cover crops might work in a field in one part of the state, and not in another.

“Our operations can be as unique as the land we steward,” said Gaona. “Having a partner to help us find the right solutions and enact the right sustainability practices is important.”

Helping do the Biggest Job on Earth

Having a true partnership with farmers is one of the main priorities of the e3 Sustainable Cotton program, which supports farmers advancing the preservation of natural resources, the viability and vitality of cotton farming communities and the production of high-quality, sustainable cotton. It’s important that farmers have the tools to successfully adopt and accelerate sustainable practices on-farm, as well as meet the needs of brands and retailers who are expected to demonstrate transparency to their consumers.

The e3 Sustainable Cotton program provides brands and retailers in fashion and textile industries access to sustainably produced FiberMax and Stoneville® cotton, with measured, validated and reported sustainability metrics that they, and their consumers, can trust.

In 2022, more than 250 farmers enrolled in the e3 Sustainable Cotton program and made positive impacts in sustainable cotton production.

  • 79% of e3 Sustainable Cotton farmers used reduced tillage practices, minimizing soil turnover to maintain nutrients and keeping a farmers’ No. 1 asset healthy. Not only does reduced tillage keep soil from moving, but it also requires fewer machinery trips through fields, reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
  • 69% incorporated practices that build carbon through their production system, including practices like crop rotation, reduced tillage and cover crops to improve soil quality. By storing carbon in the soil, it limits carbon loss to our atmosphere, reducing climate impacts from cotton production.

Farmers provide the fuel, feed, food and fiber for our world and are an essential component to the global economy. With that responsibility comes a heightened need to make sure their voices are heard, and their industry is understood for all consumers.

“Our ag systems will have to undergo an accelerated transformation to provide for our growing population, all the while ensuring we’re mitigating impact to our environment,” said Monserrate. “It’s the Biggest Job on Earth and BASF will be by their side.”

Always read and follow label directions.

E3, FiberMax and Stoneville are registered trademarks of BASF.

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