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Why young adults need to be empowered to advocate for their own healthcare choices

2024-04-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Sanofi

For many people, young adulthood is a time filled with newfound independence and responsibility. Reality begins to set in, with “adulting” tasks becoming part of everyday life, like laundry, cooking, and, perhaps most importantly, starting to take ownership of your health. These changes can set a solid foundation for the future and promote a healthy adult life, especially with the encouragement of parental figures.

Fifth-grade teacher and young adult Mary Anderson is no stranger to having to manage her own health. “I was in my fall semester of my senior year in college when I first started experiencing symptoms of a chronic autoimmune disease, such as sudden and rapid weight loss, immense fatigue, and more,” Anderson explains. “I admittedly didn’t pay close attention to what was happening at first and just chalked my symptoms up to stress. That was a mistake.”

As her symptoms persisted, Anderson decided it was time to visit her primary care physician. During that appointment, her symptoms along with a blood test revealed that she had type 1 diabetes, a condition that causes the immune system to attack healthy cells. What’s more, Anderson’s doctor shared that she was likely mere days away from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) — a serious complication of type 1 diabetes that can be life-threatening.

For young adults today, stories like these should underscore the importance of preparing for future wellness, just as you would a test in school. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help young adults embark on their lifelong health journey. There are also many tools available online, including educational resources when you visit The1Pledge.com.

Tip 1: Take ownership of your health:

It can be challenging at first to understand when (and how) to take ownership of your health. Just consider Anderson’s story: “Before my diagnosis, I didn’t pay a lot of attention to my health; once I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, however, I understood the importance of taking charge of my healthcare, which for me meant scheduling regular doctors’ appointments and monitoring my own wellness.” As a young adult, you should be empowered to become your own best health advocate, which includes the understanding of why you should not delay proactive or necessary care.

Research shows that children start becoming competent in their decision-making skills to at least contribute to their healthcare decisions as early as age 12. Early involvement in healthcare decisions — something that parental figures can empower young people to be included in — may positively impact a young person’s future health approach.

Tip 2: Schedule regular doctor visits and come prepared:

The CDC recommends regular medical checkups focused on preventative care, which can include screening tests, counseling to help you make informed health decisions, and more. When visiting the doctor, it’s critical for young adults to come to these visits armed with information about their health and family medical history. For example, if just one person in your family has type 1 diabetes, you’re up to 15x more likely to develop it too. Moreover, a history of autoimmune conditions, such as celiac disease or Hashimoto’s disease, can put you at a higher risk for type 1 diabetes. “I had no idea that my family history of type 1 diabetes increased my risk,” Anderson explains. “I’m a firm believer that knowledge is power; it would’ve been incredibly helpful to know more about my background so I could understand my risk sooner.” Knowing your risk is the first step to getting prepared for the future. To better understand your risk factors for type 1 diabetes, take Sanofi’s type 1 diabetes risk quiz at The1Pledge.com.

Tip 3: Get screened:

While type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented, it can be detected early through a diabetes-related autoantibody screening — which may give you more time to prepare and plan for the future. As Anderson noted, “I was fortunate that I caught it soon enough that it didn’t become a serious health emergency — but it was a close call. I hope that my story can encourage at least one person to go get screened because you never know what could be happening inside your body.” It’s important to talk to your doctor about screening, and determine together what options are best for you.

Sanofi does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment — information is provided for educational purposes only. Your doctor is the best source of health information. Talk to your doctor about type 1 diabetes screening or if you have any questions about your health or treatment.

Mary Anderson is a paid spokesperson for Sanofi.

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How tech advances inspire one company to upskill entire communities

2024-04-10T23:01:00

(BPT) – How can you assess the impact of a technological advancement like AI, which has raced at lightning speed across every sector of the globe? While the opportunity of AI is still evolving, some companies see its importance as going beyond the business impact — focusing on how it affects people as well.

Leading global IT services provider Cognizant is one such company. To showcase how Cognizant aims to train and upskill employees and communities around the world during the era of AI, Tobi Young, Senior Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Cognizant, answers questions about how her company strives to make a difference in today’s fast-moving tech landscape.

What does Cognizant do?

Cognizant modernizes and manages the IT systems that keep the world running. As a Fortune 250 company employing approximately 350,000 people worldwide, we help enterprises across industries digitally transform their businesses to stay on the cutting edge. We work shoulder to shoulder with our clients to ensure the infrastructure supporting their mission critical enterprise systems is future-ready.

How does Cognizant’s global reach affect its relationship with employees?

While Cognizant is a global company, we aim to serve people locally. It feels like a hometown company because of the way we treat the people who work with us. You can’t be a company today that consumes the knowledge and energy of 350,000 people without investing in their hopes for the future of their communities. It’s vital to be involved in those communities.

What impact is AI having on your clients, your employees and their communities?

Every client wants to know you can solve their problems, and they need to know you have the technology edge to use AI. For our employees, we focus on upskilling to grow their capabilities to use new technology. But we don’t stop there. We’re also going into communities and training people on how to join the technology workforce of the future. No matter where you live, you don’t want to be left behind. You want to know what AI is, what it means, and how to use it. You want to know if you’re going to have a job tomorrow, and that your kids will have a path forward.

How is AI affecting Cognizant’s philanthropy?

Cognizant has awarded $70 million in philanthropic funds to our global communities since 2018. That investment will continue growing as we support community upskilling and training in the era of generative AI. It also reaffirms Cognizant’s commitment through our recently launched Synapse initiative to drive economic mobility by preparing one million people for the future workforce. In support of this initiative, we’re aiming to reach 300,000 people through grants, volunteerism, mentoring and education partnerships.

Through Synapse, we will continue partnering with nonprofits engaged in skilling and upskilling, from organizations teaching tech skills to girls and members of underserved communities to nonprofits helping veterans and military family members upskill for cutting-edge jobs and more. We look forward to continuing to improve lives through technology education and training.

How does Cognizant choose where to invest philanthropic dollars?

As generative AI takes off, upskilling is an increasingly crucial corporate investment — and it’s not just something companies should invest in internally. Corporations are responsible for providing this opportunity to their communities.

That’s why Cognizant focuses philanthropy on organizations that meet a few different parameters. One thing we look for is organizations that provide early access to learning and networking. Another important focus is those that create pathways for people entering or advancing careers in technology. Third, we look at organizations that inspire new ideas that push the technology industry forward in support of skilling. Through these focus areas, we work with these organizations to inspire, educate and prepare people to succeed in today’s quickly evolving workforce.

Additionally, our associates offer their time and talents to further our reach and help our communities reap the full extent of potential productivity gains from the evolving Gen AI economy. Our associates, for example, lead tech bootcamps and hackathons, conduct 1:1 mentoring and career readiness workshops, and they build tech solutions for NGOs and train NGO staff.

What would you advise other companies evaluating their corporate giving plans?

During this time of transformative change, trust is central, especially in the communities you serve. Now is the time for companies to affirm their investment in the future by “walking the walk.” We prioritize this at Cognizant. We help communities by not just investing in our own current employees, but by investing dollars in the communities of people who will make up the future workforce. Different needs must be met in different communities, so it’s key to partner with groups already on the ground to help train and upskill so individuals can get better jobs and share in something we all want — a bright future.

Learn more about Cognizant’s Synapse initiative to train one million people for the jobs of the future at Cognizant.com.

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Navigate the Sea of Financial Advice with 4 Tried-and-True Savings Tips

2024-04-10T10:33:00

(BPT) – By Holly O’Neill, President, Retail Banking

Social media has become a hub of personal finance advice, giving rise to countless trends from soft saving to loud budgeting to cash stuffing. On TikTok alone, #FinTok has amassed over 4.9 billion views. If the abundance of content is any indication of people’s curiosity around personal finance content, it’s clear consumers are eager to build healthier financial habits.

The sheer amount of content can make filtering through the noise a challenging task. This spring, welcome the beginning of a new season and take part in America Saves Week (April 8-12) by reviewing a few tried-and-true savings tips that will make you more financially savvy. Here are a few to get you started:

1. Build a budget.

Budgeting is a life skill that puts you in control of your finances. If you’ve fallen behind in some financial areas or you’re just not sure where to start, creating or reassessing your budget will never steer you wrong. A realistic budget that changes and grows as you do will help you plan, save and achieve your financial goals.

The first step is to get a handle on reviewing your monthly spending and determining where you’re overspending and ‘undersaving.’ After you get a better understanding of your cash flow, start and set a budget using the 50/30/20 rule. Begin by taking 50% of your after-tax income to cover needs, like rent and utilities; 30% to wants, like those new sneakers you’ve been eyeing; and 20% to be put into savings. If this method doesn’t fit your financial lifestyle, adjust your percentages to fit your current priorities.

2. Save toward a goal.

Saving without a purpose can feel overwhelming. Whether you want to put your kids through college, purchase a home that you can grow into, save up for retirement or check a destination off your travel bucket list — the best way to achieve any of your financial goals is by understanding your why.

Set specific savings goals with a plan for how to meet them. Break up long-term goals into short-term milestones to focus your efforts on more reachable targets, while bringing you closer to your overall goal. And don’t forget to reward yourself and celebrate your wins along the way!

To get started, you can take the America Saves Week pledge by identifying a savings goals and create a simple saving plan that works.

3. Automate your savings.

While saving money takes discipline and there are no “get rich quick” schemes, you can make things easier by automating your savings. After all, the key to building savings is to make it routine. By setting up automatic transfers, you can consistently grow your savings without even thinking about it.

Once you’ve identified your desired savings amount (see tip number one), ‘pay yourself first’ by automatically diverting a portion of your paycheck directly to savings. Consider digital tools like the Bank of America Keep the Change® program — it rounds up the price of every debit card purchase to the next dollar and automatically adds that to your savings account.

4. Embrace a learning mindset.

April is Financial Capability Month, and there’s no better time than the present to refresh your financial knowledge. Break through the noise on social media and take control of your financial well-being by getting a little bit smarter every day about budgeting and saving, paying down debt, investing and more.

A strong foundation of financial literacy means you don’t have to worry about money on a day-to-day basis and that you can pursue your goals and take advantage of opportunities — all while living within your means. Bank of America’s Better Money Habits® is a free financial education platform that provides practical, easy-to-understand knowledge about smart money habits.

Building good financial habits is a continuous process, so while you may not find your footing overnight, it’s important to celebrate small achievements along the way! Starting the spring season with a refresh and sticking to tried-and-true savings strategies will put you well on your way to financial success.

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How to clean your home and live more sustainably

2024-04-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – Do you want to live more sustainably but don’t know where to start? Leading a sustainable life doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, you can make a difference right at home. This Earth Month, celebrate by taking stock of products you use every day that may contribute to worldwide pollution: cleaning supplies.

The problem with traditional cleaning supplies

Many traditional cleaning supplies can be harmful to the planet. When cleaning supplies enter water systems with harsh chemicals, they can cause harm to animal and plant life. Cleaning products also typically come in single-use plastic containers that don’t get recycled correctly or get thrown out, adding to the 350 million metric tons of plastic produced worldwide every year.

Thankfully, many companies like Tru Earth — a Certified B Corp — are helping save the planet by offering home cleaning products that are packaged in recyclable cardboard, preventing the need for single-use and short-lived plastic jugs.

Are you ready to keep your home and the planet clean? Then check out these easy product swaps you can make to go green while cleaning your clothing, kitchen and bathroom.

1. Laundry products

From the packaging they come in to the pollution produced by transporting them, laundry products can create a lot of harmful waste. Instead of buying your regular jug of liquid detergent or softener, opt for products like Tru Earth Eco-Strips®.

Tru Earth Eco-Strips laundry detergent and fabric softeners make laundry and other household chores easier while helping reduce plastic pollution with recyclable cardboard packaging rather than large plastic jugs. The innovative strips have prevented nearly 200 million single-use plastic containers from entering landfills and oceans!

Say goodbye to washing your clothing with parabens, phosphates, dyes and chlorine. These Eco-Strips® are free from harsh chemicals other cleaning brands use and are also vegan-friendly.

Just because these ingredients are kinder to the planet doesn’t mean you have to compromise on clean clothing. The laundry detergent strips tackle stains, revealing your clothing’s vibrant colors and even restoring radiant whites. Meanwhile, the fabric softener strips reduce wrinkles and add a pleasant scent to your laundry.

Best of all, Tru Earth Eco-Strips® simplify doing laundry. No need to measure or clean up liquid detergent. One strip can easily clean one load of laundry. And, these convenient strips work in hot or cold water and all types of washing machines, including high-efficiency ones.

2. Kitchen products

The kitchen is another area in your house where you can swap traditional cleaning products for more sustainable solutions. Whether you’re cleaning your counters, dinner table or appliances, you’re likely using multi-surface cleaners that came in a plastic bottle.

Ditch the plastic and instead use Tru Earth Eco-Strips Multi-Surface Cleaner. All you need to clean the surfaces in your home is one strip, a glass spray bottle and hot water. Just like the laundry strips, the multi-surface strips are made with cleaner ingredients free from harsh chemicals.

Need to mop your kitchen floors? No problem. Just toss a strip into a bucket of hot water and soon enough, you’ll have a clean, lemon-scented floor that you can be proud of.

3. Bathroom products

The multi-surface strips aren’t limited to kitchen use. You can also use them to clean your bathroom sink and floor. However, when cleaning your toilet, opt for Tru Earth Eco-Strips Toilet Bowl Cleaner.

Toss a strip into your toilet bowl. Wait a few minutes for it to dissolve, and then stir the water with your toilet brush. The ingredients are safer for the planet and its recyclable packaging means you’re helping prevent the need for unnecessary single-use and short-lived plastic in the home.

Tru Earth’s critical cause is to make true lasting change that helps save the planet. Not only are the products you buy good for the planet, but they also do good. For every $25 of Tru Earth products purchased anywhere in the world, online or in-store, the company will donate laundry detergent for 1 person in need for an entire month. To date, Tru Earth has donated nearly 40 million Eco-Strips®, or loads of laundry, to people in need.

Create a healthier home and environment for you and everyone else. By making smarter choices with the household products you use, you can make a difference. To learn more about Tru Earth and its critical cause, visit Tru.Earth.

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Thinking about investing in a duplex? Think bigger.

2024-04-09T10:41:01

(BPT) – Investing in real estate can be a smart choice, but not all investments are created equal. There’s no denying rental properties are a surging market. Mortgage interest rates have risen dramatically over the past few years, high enough to price many people out of purchasing a home. It means the demand for rental properties is high. You don’t have to be an economist to see it — there’s a crane on every corner, and new apartment buildings are popping up everywhere.

For many investors, tapping into this surging market means buying duplexes, fourplexes or single-family homes. But with them comes the hassle of becoming a landlord. Fixing appliances when they break down, arranging for snow removal and yard work, dealing with tenant complaints or worse, going through the exhausting process of evicting someone when the arrangement just isn’t working. You’re suddenly the building’s maintenance technician in addition to being the owner.

Institutionally sized real estate projects like apartment buildings or condo developments don’t come with those kinds of hassles for their owners, as those responsibilities fall to property management companies. But in the past, they have been out of reach for individuals.

That’s not the case today. Investors who are thinking about getting into real estate can think bigger than a duplex. There’s an emerging investment model that gives private investors access to institutionally sized real estate projects, reaping returns and depreciation benefits without the management headaches.

Roers Companies is a national leader in real estate development, construction and property management that was founded to change the game for everyday investors. They’re on a mission to elevate multifamily housing by developing and operating market-rate, workforce, active 55+ and affordable housing in highly desired neighborhoods nationwide.

Rather than focusing on institutional equity to fund that mission, Roers Companies chooses to work with individuals.

Some quick facts about Roers Companies:

  • 17 completed projects sold since 2019 with an average hold time of 3.5 years
  • Nearly 12,000 rental units and 83 projects developed and under construction
  • $510M+ equity raised through 850+ investor partnerships
  • $2.9B in real estate since 2012

At a high level, to be considered an accredited investor, you need to meet one of the following:

  • Have a net worth over $1 million, not including their primary residence
  • Income over 200,000 (individually) or 300,000 (with spouse or partner) in each of the prior two years, and reasonably expect the same for this year

That kind of wealth criteria makes it possible for a whole tier of investors to buy into institutional-level real estate projects for the opportunity to receive high returns on that investment.

If you compare the performance of a $10,000 investment in stocks, real estate investment trust (REIT) and multifamily real estate over the course of 20 years, you can see that the growth in multifamily outperforms other asset types. Multifamily real estate investments also tend to offer less volatility than stocks or REITs.

Part of the reason for Roers Companies’ success lies in their business model. They don’t just manage properties or build them. Their internal capabilities include development, construction, leasing, property management and asset management. This vertical integration means that Roers Companies is able to achieve significant cost savings and efficiencies that companies with a single area of expertise cannot match. With a close watch on local markets, strong industry relationships, and a robust evaluation and approval protocol, their process refines and strengthens each opportunity offered to investors for consideration.

It’s an outgrowth of Co-Founder and Co-Owner Kent Roers’ recognition of what he calls “the missing middle” — everyday investors wanting access to institutionally sized real estate projects, but settling for buying houses or duplexes instead. Yes, they could buy into a REIT, but their performance is often correlated to the stock market — the highs and lows of stocks will follow for REITs. The business model Kent and his brother Brian built bridges that gap, giving private investors an opportunity for significant returns and a seat at the — much bigger — table typically reserved for large financial institutions.

Market conditions have pushed many companies out of the new-development arena in the past 18 months while Roers Companies’ private investors have made new projects possible. Because of that, their projects are under construction and will be ready to welcome residents and collect rent just in time for the institutional-reliant developers to hit reset on their projects in high-growth neighborhoods starved for supply.

The demand for rental housing shows no signs of subsiding, ensuring long-term stability and growth within the multifamily sector. This sustained demand, coupled with the anticipated cost reductions, presents a compelling opportunity for investors seeking attractive returns in the real estate market. To find out more about this unique direct-investment model, contact Roers Companies.

Photos by Spacecrafting

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Rethinking teacher absenteeism: How to be more proactive and prepared

2024-04-09T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Nicola Soares, president, Kelly Education

Chronic absenteeism has become a pervasive issue across multiple employment sectors driven by several factors, including personal and family health challenges, stress and burnout. This problem is notable in the education sector, where consistent, strong educator-student relationships are crucial.

The 2023 Kelly Global Re:work Report revealed that nearly one-third (28%) of surveyed talent was ready to leave their jobs within a year, highlighting a mismatch between workforce expectations and organizational realities that may worsen absenteeism. This holds particularly true in the education sector — a field predominantly staffed by women, who often shoulder additional caregiving responsibilities for children or the elderly. Educators are increasingly taking time off to prioritize their personal responsibilities as well as their health and well-being. Such dynamics raise absenteeism risks and mark a pivotal moment for educational workforce stability.

A Heritage Foundation report illuminates the significant learning loss affecting students due to chronic teacher absenteeism, which impacts academic and nonacademic student development. This trend paints a troubling picture of the cascading effects of teacher absenteeism, highlighting the need for strategic, proactive measures to address this growing concern and safeguard the future of education.

For school administrators, it is challenging to find positive ways to address frequent absences, but adopting proactive strategies from the business sector can help mitigate absenteeism, underscoring the need for adaptability and preparedness in maintaining educational excellence amidst challenges.

Provide a culture of support

In an urgent call to combat the educator shortage, it is essential to highlight the critical role of a supportive work environment. Research across sectors underscores that employees, including teachers, are more engaged and consistently present when they feel valued by their organizations. Embracing a “whole educator” approach, akin to the holistic “whole child” perspective in education, schools should consider implementing comprehensive wellness programs, providing mental health resources and creating a more inclusive community that fosters a sense of belonging and participation in decision-making. Such measures bolster educator well-being and enhance the overall educational climate, leading to improved student outcomes.

Foster open communication

Open communication between school administrators and educators is critical in addressing the root causes of absenteeism. Encouraging educators to voice their concerns and challenges allows school leaders to identify patterns and implement targeted interventions. Regular check-ins and feedback sessions further nurture a sense of community and commitment. Moreover, adopting a supportive stance towards staff members’ personal hurdles, coupled with facilitating more compassionate and effective solutions, cultivates an environment of trust, effectively reducing stress and burnout. Such flexibility is vital, especially in today’s job market, where flex time is increasingly becoming standard. Employees should have access to both passive and proactive channels of feedback and communication.

Be prepared for absences

Even in the most positive, supportive workplaces, absences will happen. The Re:work Report underscores that resilience in businesses — and by extension, educational institutions — often hinges on the strategic employment of contingent workers to introduce much-needed flexibility.

Schools can tap into a vast pipeline of qualified substitute teachers, paraeducators, tutors and therapists by forming partnerships with specialized staffing providers such as Kelly Education. This eases the administrative strain of managing and recruiting specialized personnel and ensures the continuity of high-quality education. This approach addresses the immediate challenges posed by teacher absenteeism and contributes to a broader solution, emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative efforts between the education and private sectors to navigate the current educator shortage crisis more effectively.

Encourage continuous education and upskilling

The key to retaining and attracting talent is the investment in continuous professional development, which offers educators opportunities such as online training, collaborative projects and mentorship programs. These initiatives enhance educators’ skills and boost their job satisfaction and commitment, which is crucial in combating absenteeism and ensuring a dedicated workforce. Moreover, integrating stress management and resilience training prepares educators for how to handle professional pressures more effectively.

In an era where Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries globally, lies another example of a lesson education leaders can learn from the business sector. By training educators to master AI tools, we can dramatically alleviate administrative tasks, thereby unlocking opportunities for deeper, more meaningful educational interactions. This approach does not only streamline operations but also fosters the adoption of innovative teaching techniques that significantly enhance student learning outcomes. This strategic focus on upskilling underscores the urgent need for a modernized professional development framework that aligns with the evolving demands of the education sector.

The challenge of teacher absenteeism is significant, but not insurmountable. It is paramount to recognize and value educators by creating an environment that respects their needs and addresses their challenges. Through such concerted efforts, we can build a more robust and adaptive educational workforce equipped to offer high-quality, uninterrupted learning experiences. In doing so, we not only safeguard our children’s futures, but also affirm our collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers and innovators.

Learn more about ways to make school administrators’ days easier at https://www.kellyeducation.com/youreasyday.

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6 tips to take your spring DIY projects from weeds to blooms

2024-04-08T12:13:00

(BPT) – The spring is a great time of year to start tackling the DIY projects you’ve been putting off all winter. If you plan to roll up your sleeves this season, you’re part of a growing trend. DIY projects top many spring to-do lists this year and outdoor projects are a big priority for individuals across the nation. Home improvement leader Lowe’s has found that 34% of customers plan to take on projects related to outdoor living, from adding plants, flowers and seasonal décor to updating their patio furniture. Additionally, 40% say they plan to focus their time and efforts on their home’s exterior — including maintenance and lawn repair.

And now, DIY projects just got even easier thanks to DoorDash’s new partnership with Lowe’s. With over 1,700 Lowe’s stores available nationwide directly on the DoorDash app, you can now shop your favorite Lowe’s items from the comfort of your own home! This means less time running errands and more time making your dream home a reality.

Seasoned DIYers know that whether it’s freshening up your patio with a coat of paint, planting new blooms, or landscaping the backyard, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do the project. Most have learned from experience that a little planning at the outset can save you time and money in the long run.

Here are six tips from DoorDash and Lowe’s for making your outdoor DIY projects go smoothly.

Make a plan and prioritize. Before you start tilling up the yard and pulling out the weeds, sit down and create a detailed plan for the project. This should include a list of what projects you want to tackle, the tools and materials you need to get the job done, a realistic assessment of whether you can do it yourself or if you’ll need a pro, and roughly how long it’s going to take from start to finish.

Remember the little things. How much household disruption is the project going to cause? Do you need to send the dog to daycare while you dig up the lawn? Have you called the city about hidden power lines? Will you have to turn off the water, and if so, have you filled a gallon jug or two to get you by? Little things like this can derail a project if you don’t anticipate them beforehand.

Set a budget. It can be very easy to accidentally exceed the scope of the project — and the cost — if you’re not careful. First you’re simply sprucing up the garden, but a few bags of mulch and a pile of pavers later, you’re creating a whole new patio complete with a brand new outdoor furniture set. Avoid this landslide by deciding how much you can comfortably spend on the project, and stick to that number. Be sure to take advantage of promotions and deals whenever you can to help you stretch your budget. Lowe’s offers a lineup of great spring products at an outstanding value! From now through April 14, customers can get $20 off their first order of $45+ from Lowe’s with code LOWES20 on DoorDash.* Plus, DoorDash users can enjoy even more savings, with Lowe’s biggest annual SpringFest deals available nationwide, now through May 1, helping customers save on all the essentials needed to tackle spring — from power tools and lawn care to appliances and décor.

Keep the DoorDash app open. DIYers, rejoice! DoorDash’s newest partnership means the end of running to Lowe’s in the middle of the project when you inevitably find you forgot a crucial piece of the puzzle. Get everything from tools to garden supplies, to paint and much more delivered through DoorDash directly to your doorstep in an hour on average** — thanks to everyone’s favorite on-demand delivery platform. And, all participating Lowe’s stores will also be available on DashPass, DoorDash’s membership program that offers members a $0 delivery fee and reduced service fee on eligible orders from thousands of restaurants, grocery and convenience stores nationwide.***

Break it down into tasks. You know what they say, a long journey starts with a single step. This also applies to DIY projects. An enormous undertaking can feel overwhelming, but a series of smaller tasks? That’s doable. The best part? You can now schedule the delivery of all your essentials so that they’re at your doorstep before you start your project!

Ask for help. Bit off more than you can chew? Don’t have the expertise to do the job right? Circle back and get the help you need, whether it’s the handy guy down the street, or a licensed professional.

Follow these tips and your DIY projects will go quickly and smoothly, leaving you with more time to enjoy your spruced-up nest this spring and beyond.

For more information on the latest news and promotions, visit DoorDash.com and Lowes.com.

*Offer valid through 04/14/24 on your first order placed at participating Lowes locations. Valid only on orders with a minimum subtotal of $45, excluding fees and taxes. Maximum value of discount is $20. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Use promo code LOWES20 to redeem. See full terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/.

**Based on average delivery time. Delivery times may vary and are not guaranteed.

***DashPass benefits apply only to eligible orders that meet the minimum subtotal requirement listed on DoorDash for each participating merchant. Other fees (including service fee), taxes, and gratuity still apply. After signing up for DashPass, you will be charged the then-current renewal price (plus applicable taxes) automatically on a recurring basis until you cancel. DashPass terms (including how to cancel) here.

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New clinical egg study reveals egg-cellent results

2024-04-08T07:37:00

(BPT) – Americans are increasingly aware of the impact of cholesterol on heart health and overall well-being, but it’s not always easy to know which foods will truly have a positive effect. To add to the confusion, it can feel like research is always revealing something new, so it can be difficult to keep up.

Eggs, for example, have often received negative press related to cholesterol. However, new clinical research by a leading academic medical center showed eating fortified eggs, like Eggland’s Best eggs, did not negatively affect cholesterol levels. Additional findings suggest that eating 12 Eggland’s Best eggs a week can be part of a healthy diet, even for more high-risk individuals.

Research also suggested that consuming Eggland’s Best eggs could potentially reduce levels of “bad cholesterol” (LDL cholesterol) in older individuals and those with diabetes, and may help increase levels of “good cholesterol” (HDL cholesterol) in older individuals. The consumption of Eggland’s Best eggs may also increase Vitamin B12 levels, helping to support a healthier lifestyle.

Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner said this clinical study helps clarify the confusion regarding the nutrition of eggs and can help people feel more confident about including fortified eggs as part of a healthy diet, even for people who are at high risk for heart disease. Dawn also shared additional tips for people who may be looking to lower their cholesterol levels:

1. Eat more fiber: Fiber-rich foods are key for a healthy heart and lipid levels. Fiber-rich foods include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds.

2. Swap your fats: Switch to more heart-smart fats to add flavor such as olive oil, nuts, seeds, avocado and fish. Strive to decrease foods higher in saturated fat like butter, cheese, fatty meats and fried foods.

3. Choose eggs wisely: Not all eggs are created equal. Eggland’s Best eggs have more than double the omega-3s and Vitamin B12, 25% less saturated fat, 10 times more Vitamin E, and six times more Vitamin D compared to ordinary eggs.

Jackson Blatner shares her favorite recipe for a delicious toast that contains healthy fats and wholesome ingredients like salmon, avocado and Eggland’s Best eggs:

Salmon and Avocado Toast

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Servings: 2 avocado toasts

Ingredients:
2 Eggland’s Best eggs, large
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 slices whole grain bread, toasted
1/2 avocado
1 cup raw spinach or arugula
2 ounces smoked salmon
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil, crack in Eggland’s Best eggs, and cook until eggs are over-medium.

2. Top each piece of whole grain toast with equal amounts of (in this order): sliced avocado, spinach, salmon, and top with a cooked Eggland’s Best egg and sprinkle of pepper.

Allergy Info: no added sugar (can be gluten-free if gluten-free bread is used)

To learn more about this study from a Leading Academic Medical Center, visit EgglandsBest.com/EggStudy.

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Mindfulness tips to support early learners’ development now

2024-04-08T07:03:00

(BPT) – While mindfulness once felt like a wellness trend, it’s become a way of life for adults hoping to maintain healthier routines, be intentional in their work and handle daily stresses efficiently. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware of your thoughts and feelings in a moment without judging them or negatively reacting.

But what about kids? Even at an early age, stress can lead to harmful brain development, potentially shrinking brain capacity, locking in fight, flight or freeze responses and escalating mental health disorders. A stressed brain is blocked, frustrated, over-reactive and anxious. The CDC recently published a policy report on youth mental health, which listed daily mindfulness practices as the #2 strategy to drive improvement. Mindfulness and self-regulation can impact a child’s ability to learn, and these skills are crucial for growth inside and outside the classroom. The CDC recommended K-12 classrooms practice mindfulness more regularly, but even early childhood education centers can attest to the positive impact of adopting this mindset.

Bright Horizons, a leading global provider of high-quality early education and child care, is naturally integrating mindfulness into the daily routines of early learners at hundreds of its child care centers. Utilizing Inner Explorer, a platform designed to support mental health and well-being, Bright Horizons centers implement this daily mindfulness program to help its children learn critical skills like self-awareness, self-regulation and empathy.

“Young children don’t know how to recognize and manage their emotions. They use coping tools available to them until they learn new strategies. Emotional recognition and regulation skills can and should be taught, just like any other set of skills. One of the most valuable strategies we can teach them is mindfulness,” said Bright Horizons Chief Academic Officer Rachel Robertson. “Mindfulness is paying attention on purpose, and we know it can play a crucial role in helping young children manage their emotions and actions. But, it requires intentional support from teachers and parents to develop it. Beginning mindfulness practices at an earlier age also boosts important cognitive skills. It has a significant impact on executive function, creating habits that carry into adulthood and nurturing several skills identified as essential for future success.”

Want to integrate more mindfulness practices into a child’s daily routine? Robertson has several tips and techniques parents and teachers can use:

  • The STOP Strategy: Stop, pause and focus. Take a deep breath. Observe what’s going on around you and inside yourself. Proceed.
  • Gratitude Moments: Spend a few moments each day sharing what you are grateful for.
  • Nature’s Symphony: Close your eyes and identify as many sounds as possible, from birds chirping to leaves rustling or cars nearby.
  • Starfish Breathing: Take five breaths as you trace your hand, one finger at a time.
  • Mindful Walk: Pick one sense like sight and notice how many different colors you can see.
  • Shake the Sillies Out: Pretend you’re a statue, take a deep breath and shake the energy out!

The possibilities of mindful activities for you and early learners are endless, and the benefits of more intentional practice cannot be denied. To learn more about Bright Horizons, visit brighthorizons.com.

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Upgrade your self-care ritual: 5 expert tips for a refreshing ‘everything shower’

2024-04-05T07:01:00

(BPT) – Your shower can be more than just a way to get clean, and the viral “everything shower” trend proved just how easy it is to build a head-to-toe self-care routine that provides physical, mental and emotional benefits.

Researchers have studied the effects of showering and discovered the science behind its rejuvenating powers. Hot showers can signal your brain to release oxytocin, a feel-good hormone that helps reduce stress and anxiety. The heat from a shower also relaxes your muscles, clears your nasal passages and clears your pores of dirt and oil.

Beyond science, showers are a rare opportunity to take a break from your busy schedule to focus on your well-being. Are you ready to elevate your shower into a self-care ritual? Inspired by National Self-Care Day, Waterpik™ showers partnered with New York City Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, and Dr. Karen Litzy, PT, DPT, to help curate these five tips to transform your shower into a relaxing and refreshing experience.

1. Ditch your phone

Your self-care shower begins before you even step inside the bathroom. Leave your phone in your office, living room or bedroom to disconnect from the world and minimize distraction. This simple act helps you focus on yourself and your well-being, away from the stresses and responsibilities of your life. As you step into your bathroom, embrace a peaceful moment of solitude.

2. Create a relaxing ambiance

Harsh or bright lighting is counterproductive to relaxation. Set the mood by lowering the lights in your bathroom and lighting candles. Candles, whether scented or unscented, create a soft, glowing ambiance that can calm your racing thoughts and put your mind at ease.

Enhance your shower experience by playing soothing music. Play nature sounds like a tropical rain or burbling brook, instrumental music, singing bowls or whatever sounds you associate with calmness and tranquility. Guided meditations are also a fantastic choice for promoting mindfulness so you can stay present in this moment of self-care and gratitude.

3. Pamper your scalp and hair

Don’t rush through your hair care routine. Use your shower time to pamper your hair and scalp. In addition to letting a hair mask or deep conditioner nourish your locks, give your scalp a little attention with a gentle scrub and massage.

Scalp and hair care is effortless with the right tools. Consider getting the Waterpik™ HairWand Pulse spa system for a luxurious way to care for your hair and body right at home. The Waterpik HairWand Pulse spa system provides fast, effective rinsing. The pulsating comb shape spray of the Waterpik HairWand shower head delivers a relaxing scalp massage that reaches down to your roots and can help relax you, remove visible flakes, and leave your scalp feeling clean. New York City Dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, says, “Clogged pores and scalp flakes are two of the most common complaints dermatologists get from patients. Proper showering is important for skin health, both to remove soiling that builds up on the skin as well as shampoos and body washes. Your shower head is more important than you may realize, as it provides the action for effective rinsing.”

4. Massage your muscles

Take advantage of the muscle-soothing power of a hot shower and give yourself a massage. If you haven’t already, invest in a shower head with massage settings to unwind your muscles and release tension.

Dr. Karen Litzy, PT, DPT, recommends choosing the Waterpik™ PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower head. “It is neither economical nor realistic to have a massage every time you have achy muscles. Although not quite the same as a hands-on massage, the Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower head is the perfect alternative. With the handheld shower head feature, you can focus the massaging water stream directly over the muscles that need it most. It is an inexpensive way to get the benefits of water massage without the price tag of going to the spa.” The Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage has two times the massage force* and is clinically shown to help soothe muscle tension, increase flexibility and promote restful sleep. The Waterpik shower head provides therapeutic benefits that transform your daily shower into a restorative wellness experience.

5. Enjoy the post-shower glow

Rushing to get dried and dressed after your shower defeats the purpose of your relaxing routine. Take your time after your shower to towel off, moisturize your skin and dry your hair. Bask in the glow of your self-care practice and carry the calm and peace of your shower into the rest of your day.

Self-care isn’t just about spoiling yourself. It’s essential for maintaining your well-being. Using these five simple tips, you can elevate your basic shower into a luxurious self-care ritual.

*Waterpik PowerPulse Therapeutic Massage shower heads have two times the massage force compared to Waterpik non-PowerPulse massage shower heads.