Month: December 2025

2025-12-18T09:05:00

(BPT) – It’s the start of another year. What do you hope to accomplish in 2026? If your goal is to improve your wellness, it’s time to consider how you can care not just for your body, but your mind as well.

According to the American Psychological Foundation, your mind and body work together as one system in a constant feedback loop. When you ignore one, you’re inadvertently hurting the other.

“Your body and mind are not separate spheres,” said Dr. Dustin DebRoy, DC, manager of education and relations at The Joint Chiropractic. “When one is affected, the other is, too. That’s why a holistic approach that targets physical and psychological health is critical to overall wellness.”

There are many ways to support your physical and psychological health, and one approach that may help bring both areas into better alignment is regular chiropractic care. Read on to discover six key ways chiropractic care may help support a healthy body, healthy mind and — ultimately — a healthy you.

Encourages proper posture to reduce strain

Improving your posture can do wonders for the health of your spine and your whole body. When you practice good posture, you can reduce the strain you feel from sitting, lifting or repetitive motions at work or home. However, when your spine is misaligned, proper posture can be difficult to achieve. The good news is that chiropractic care offers non-invasive spinal adjustment techniques that, over time, may improve your spinal alignment and — as a result — your posture.

Promotes a grounded mind and body

Physical alignment can impact and often reflect your sense of internal alignment. By aligning your body through a chiropractic adjustment, you may notice that you feel more grounded, centered and intentional. Long term, you may feel a better understanding of how your mind and body work together, so you can continue to stay grounded physically and emotionally.

Supports your musculoskeletal health to improve your occupational health

If you work in a health care, manufacturing, transportation or child care role, you’re intimately familiar with the demands these jobs put on your body. To protect your long-term occupational health and overall physical wellness, taking care of your musculoskeletal health is critical. Regular chiropractic care has the potential to help maintain musculoskeletal balance and joint health, so you can continue to adapt and perform your occupational responsibilities.

Calms the nervous system

Your autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls involuntary functions like heart rate, digestion and hormone regulation. When the sympathetic division of the ANS becomes heightened, it can be difficult for your body to shift into a state of rest and recovery, causing you to remain stuck in “fight-or-flight” mode. Chiropractic care may help alleviate physical tension and lower your stress levels, which has the potential to calm your nervous system, leading to a more restful state and improved sleep and mood.

Manages pain to improve productivity

Staying productive is difficult when you’re in pain because the discomfort distracts you from locking in. Receiving chiropractic care may help reduce the physical and mental drain caused by chronic discomfort so you can stay focused and engaged in your daily life and accomplish your goals.

Supports emotional balance, soothing irritability and stress

If you experience chronic discomfort or pain, it can wear on your emotional balance. Without a balanced emotional state, you may find that you’re quicker to irritation and frustration with yourself and those around you. Because chiropractic care may help decrease pain levels and improve movement, it’s possible to support your emotional well-being so you can move through the world with patience and clarity.

Understanding the mind-body connection and caring for both can set you on the right path to achieve your wellness goals for this year. To learn more about how chiropractic care may help improve the state of your body and mind, and find a chiropractic professional near you, visit TheJoint.com.

2025-12-18T09:37:00

(BPT) – Whether your curls are loose spirals or tight coils, perfecting your textured hair routine is key to keeping them healthy, defined and full of life. However, compared to straight hair, curly hair care often requires more time and patience.

Finding ways to save time without overhauling your routine can be tricky but never fear! With a few smart adjustments and some simple tips, you can easily streamline your process while maintaining the health and bounce of your curls.

Optimize your washday routine

You know that perfecting and executing your washday routine is a time-consuming but worthwhile effort. The right shower tools can complement your routine, speed up your shower and improve the state of your curls.

For example, instead of finger-combing your hair to remove tangles and knots, consider adding a shower attachment like the Delta^® VersaCurl™ Detangling Shower Tool. Designed to work with standard showerheads and easy to install, this handheld tool offers you a gentler, more comfortable way to detangle and thoroughly wash textured hair.

With two spray settings and three interchangeable inserts, the VersaCurl™ tool personalizes your hair washing experience to gently and quickly smooth your curls. Plus, the silicone bristles are also great for a quick scalp massage to loosen product buildup and add a moment of self-care into your routine.

Apply styling products while your hair is still wet

You can save time and make your hair care products more effective by applying styling products while your hair is still wet.

While you’re still in the shower, flip your hair upside down and use the praying hands method to apply your preferred leave-in conditioner and styling gel, mousse or custard, layering your products from lightest to heaviest. Finish by using your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to evenly distribute the product from root to tip.

Applying styling products to wet hair maximizes hydration and promotes superior curl formation. The high-water content allows the product to distribute evenly and effectively lock in moisture before frizz can set in.

Protect your curls at night with silk

You’ve probably heard that you should use a silk pillowcase or bonnet, but do you know why?

Unlike cotton and other rougher fibers, silk is smooth, preventing friction when you toss and turn at night. Because of its smooth texture, silk reduces frizz, tangles and breakage while keeping your curls hydrated and preserving your style, so you can spend less time styling your hair the next day!

Pro tip: Silk hair accessories can help protect your curls during the day, too! Try styling your hair with silk scrunchies and headscarves for a fun and protective addition to your hair routine.

Caring for your curls doesn’t have to take all day. Using these simple tips, you can still give your hair the attention it deserves and save time. With upgrading your hair washday routines with the VersaCurl™ tool, a first-of-its-kind innovation designed to streamline what’s often the most time-consuming part of curl care, you can spend less time in the bathroom and more time embracing your gorgeous curls.

2025-12-17T23:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is a time of celebration. Balancing work and family time can be challenging, especially when you work from home. When children are on holiday break, many parents experience a sense of guilt when work commitments pull them away from moments they’d rather be sharing with their loved ones.

But with the right strategies, you can stay productive, protect your well-being and make the most of every moment with your loved ones. These strategies from Bright Horizons will help you stay organized, reduce stress and create meaningful memories.

1. Setting boundaries

One of the most important tips for balancing work and family is setting boundaries, not just for yourself, but for your entire family. Open communication with your partner, children or other family members before the holiday break begins can help reinforce existing boundaries and introduce new ones that support everyone’s needs. To help you stay productive while keeping family time meaningful, you can try to:

• Share your meeting schedules so your family knows when you’re unavailable.
• Agree on acceptable noise levels during working hours to minimize distractions.
• Create activity boxes filled with games, books or crafts your children can enjoy independently while they are waiting for you to become available.
• Use educational apps, online classes, or virtual playdates to keep your children engaged
• Establish visual cues like a “do not disturb” sign or wear headphones to signal that you shouldn’t be disturbed

2. Master time management and planning

Planning ahead is key to a smooth holiday break. Whether it’s mapping out work deadlines or fitting in family activities, having a clear overview helps reduce last-minute stress and sets realistic expectations for everyone at home.

You can also use shared family calendars or planners to help your family understand when you’re working and when you’re free. A schedule not only helps with balancing work and family but it also helps your family feel more involved and respected in the process.

3. Create a routine

Routines provide structure and predictability, which are especially important during school breaks. Update your daily routine to reflect changes in your work and family schedules.

• Identify consistent parts of your day (meetings, meals, etc.).
• Add family activities and dedicated time for connection.
• Block out time for yourself to recharge.

4. Make the most of your lunch break

Your lunch breaks can be a valuable opportunity to recharge and connect with your family, especially during the holiday break when your schedules may feel more hectic than usual. Whether you choose to spend that time alone or with your children, carving out even a small fraction of your day can help restore energy and reduce stress.

Ideas for meaningful breaks:

• Step outside for a quick lunch with family.
• Play a short board game or read together.
• Use reading time to boost your child’s vocabulary and imagination.

5. Involve your children

Including your children in your daily routine will also help them feel more connected and reduce interruptions while you’re working from home during this holiday break. You can:

• Encourage independence and self-help skills by letting your child help set up work and play areas.
• Give your child ownership over parts of their day, such as choosing their own activities or snacks.
• Create a visual schedule together outlining their day with playtime, screen time, snacks and quiet activities.

When children know what to expect, they’re more likely to respect your boundaries, leading to fewer distractions.

6. Be flexible

During a long holiday break, even the most carefully planned days can take unexpected turns. Flexibility is key.

Try to:

• Embrace a mindset that allows for change, helping you stay calm and focused when things don’t go as planned.
• Let go of the pressure to be productive all the time to ease stress and avoid burnout.
• Focus on progress and presence rather than perfection — being there for your family while still moving forward with work is already a big win.
• Practice grace and adaptability to make school breaks more enjoyable for everyone.

Balancing work and family during the holiday break takes a lot of planning, creativity and flexibility, but it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By setting boundaries, managing your time and creating routines, you can stay organized and present with your family. Make the most of small breaks, involve your children and remain flexible to reduce stress and enjoy the season.

Visit www.brighthorizons.com for more information.

2025-12-17T13:11:00

(BPT) – Deciding what gift to give a child for holidays, birthdays, graduations and other gift-giving occasions can be challenging. Traditional gifts like computers, phones, gift cards and clothing may be appreciated in the moment, but they don’t have the potential to appreciate in value over time. This year, instead of giving a traditional gift, consider starting or contributing to a student’s 529 college savings plan account to help save for future education.

The cost of college has risen substantially over the past 20 years. According to the College Board Trends in College Pricing, the cost of a four-year undergraduate education — which includes tuition, room and board — increased by 68% at private colleges and universities between 1994 and 2024. For public colleges and universities, the cost increased by 78% during the same period.¹

Given the rise in college costs, it’s no surprise that 79% of parents would welcome a contribution to their child’s college savings account in lieu of traditional gifts, according to Fidelity’s 2025 College Gifting Study.

Beyond the monetary value, there are other benefits of gifting to a college savings plan account. Below are just a few of the many reasons why a 529 plan may be one of the best gifts you can give a child of any age in 2026.

1. It teaches financial values

Opening or contributing money to a college savings account can be a great opportunity to teach your child or teen financial literacy. Start by showing them the account and discussing how much you and other family members can contribute toward their college costs. For those with older children who are working part-time, encourage them to contribute part of their paycheck to their college savings account, so they can feel ownership over their plan.

2. It’s easy to give

In many cases, setting up a 529 savings plan account is simple and can be done online. For example, when you visit the Fidelity website, you can choose a plan, select the investments and set up automatic fund payments. On your plan page, you can make it easy for other family members to contribute, too.

Grandparents are especially keen to contribute to their grandchildren’s education. According to Fidelity’s study, 35% of grandparents have contributed to a savings account for a child’s education instead of a traditional gift. However, for those who haven’t contributed, many said they want to but don’t know how.

If you have a 529 plan account managed by Fidelity, you can make it simple for anyone who wants to contribute to your student’s savings plan to do so year-round by creating a gifting dashboard. Visit your gifting dashboard or set one up here, then find the option for sharing a link to your personalized college gifting page. Anyone with the link can click the “Give a gift” button and make a gift to the savings plan using their checking account.

3. They’re flexible

One of the benefits of a 529 college savings plan is that a student can use it for more than just traditional college tuition. In fact, they can use it not just for college, but to pay for vocational and trade school expenses.

Some 529 qualified education expenses include:

• College tuition and fees
• Room and board
• Books and supplies
• Technology
• Special needs expenses
• K-12 qualified expenses up to $10,000 ($20,000 in 2026)

What’s more, under certain conditions, you can transfer tax- and penalty-free up to a lifetime limit of $35,000 in a 529 to a Roth IRA opened by the 529 beneficiary, which offers some flexibility in the event the student doesn’t use all the funds.²

4. It’s a gift that means a lot today and more tomorrow

When you give or contribute to a college savings plan, you’re demonstrating your own investment in a child’s educational future. Starting an account early is recommended, but don’t be deterred by feeling like you’re too late.

Any earnings grow federal income tax–deferred, plus they’ll get tax-free withdrawals for qualified education expenses. It’s a meaningful gift, and even a little today can grow to be more tomorrow.

Bonus: Contributing to a 529 savings account can be a gift for you, too! If you want to contribute to a friend or family member’s 529 plan, individual contributions up to $19,000 annually and up to $38,000 per married couple, are not subject to the federal gift tax, and some states may even offer tax incentives for contributions by state residents.

To learn more about how to gift to a 529 plan account, visit Fidelity.com/529-Plans/College-Gifting.

1. The College Board Trends in College Pricing 2024; Table CP-2 https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing

2. Beginning January 2024, the Secure 2.0 Act of 2022 (the “Act”) provides that you may transfer assets from your 529 account to a Roth IRA established for the Designated Beneficiary of a 529 account under the following conditions: (i) the 529 account must be maintained for the Designated Beneficiary for at least 15 years, (ii) the transfer amount must come from contributions made to the 529 account at least five years prior to the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer date, (iii) the Roth IRA must be established in the name of the Designated Beneficiary of the 529 account, (iv) the amount transferred to a Roth IRA is limited to the annual Roth IRA contribution limit, and (v) the aggregate amount transferred from a 529 account to a Roth IRA may not exceed $35,000 per individual. It is your responsibility to maintain adequate records and documentation on your accounts to ensure you comply with the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements set forth in the Internal Revenue Code. The Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) has not issued guidance on the 529-to-Roth IRA transfer provision in the Act but is anticipated to do so in the future. Based on forthcoming guidance, it may be necessary to change or modify some 529-to-Roth IRA transfer requirements. Please consult a financial or tax professional regarding your specific circumstances before making any investment decision.

529 distributions for qualified education expenses are generally federal income tax free. 529 assets may be used to pay for (i) qualified higher education expenses, (ii) qualified expenses for registered apprenticeship programs, (iii) up to $10,000 per taxable year per beneficiary for tuition expenses ($20,000 for expenses beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) in connection with enrollment at a public, private, and religious elementary and secondary educational institution. Although such assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 qualified withdrawal ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) limit will be aggregated on a per beneficiary basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum ($20,000 beginning in taxable years after December 31, 2025) among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, (iv) amounts paid as principal or interest on any qualified education loan of a 529 plan designated beneficiary or a sibling of the designated beneficiary. The amount treated as a qualified expense is subject to a lifetime limit of $10,000 per individual. Although the assets may come from multiple 529 accounts, the $10,000 withdrawal limit for qualified educational loans payments will be aggregated on a per individual basis. The IRS has not provided guidance to date on the methodology of allocating the $10,000 annual maximum among withdrawals from different 529 accounts, and (v) tuition, fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for the enrollment or attendance in a recognized postsecondary credential program as defined under Section 529 of the Code and identified by the Secretary of the Treasury as being such a reputable program. Any earnings on distributions not used for qualified higher educational expenses or that exceed distribution limits may be taxed as ordinary income and may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Some states do not conform with federal tax law. Please check with your home state to determine if it recognizes the expanded 529 benefits afforded under federal tax law, including distributions for elementary and secondary education expenses, apprenticeship programs, postsecondary credentialing programs, and student loan repayments. You may want to consult with a tax professional before investing or making distributions.

Fidelity does not provide legal or tax advice. The information herein is general and educational in nature and should not be considered legal or tax advice. Tax laws and regulations are complex and subject to change, which can materially impact investment results. Fidelity cannot guarantee that the information herein is accurate, complete, or timely. Fidelity makes no warranties with regard to such information or results obtained by its use, and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or any tax position taken in reliance on, such information. Consult an attorney or tax professional regarding your specific situation.

Views expressed are as of the date indicated and may change based on market and other conditions. Unless otherwise noted, the opinions provided are those of the speaker or author, as applicable, and not necessarily those of Fidelity Investments.

Recently enacted legislation made a number of changes to the rules regarding defined contribution, defined benefit, and/or individual retirement plans and 529 plans. Information herein may refer to or be based on certain rules in effect prior to this legislation and current rules may differ. As always, before making any decisions about your retirement planning or withdrawals, you should consult with your personal tax advisor.

Units of the portfolios are municipal securities and may be subject to market volatility and fluctuation.

Please carefully consider the plan’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses before investing. For this and other information on any 529 college savings plan managed by Fidelity, contact Fidelity for a free Fact Kit, or view one online. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.

Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC, Member NYSE, SIPC, 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917

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2025-12-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – There’s a chill in the air, the calendar flips to the colder months and suddenly you might be feeling joint pain. The cold air can mean stiff joints and reduced mobility for many — including your dog (or dogs).

Joint issues can occur when cartilage in the joints is worn away faster than it can be replaced. Because cartilage acts as a cushion to protect the bones, when it wears away, joints become swollen and painful. As dogs get older, cartilage will begin to degenerate, but joint problems can affect young dogs, too. Certain large-breed dogs are more prone to joint issues, including retrievers, German shepherds and Rottweilers, but even tiny breeds can have joint discomfort. Excess weight can also add stress on joints and cartilage, which may lead to or worsen joint and mobility issues.

Although joint and mobility issues are not curable, treatment and symptom management can help reduce discomfort.

“Because pets can’t express their pain with words, you may worry — and even feel guilty — that you’ll miss the warning signs of their mobility challenges, or not know what steps to take to support them,” said Lane Wallett, DVM, Ph.D., field training manager at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “The most important thing you can do for your dog’s health is to watch their behavior, be alert for changes, and always consult your veterinarian if you notice signs they’re feeling uncomfortable.”

Here are tips for recognizing your dog’s joint discomfort, and what you can do to improve their well-being, especially during the cold winter months. Always discuss treatment options and at-home comfort enhancement techniques with your veterinarian.

Notice signs of joint pain

If your dog has difficulty getting up and walking after resting, perhaps groaning when they get up or lie down, this could be due to joint discomfort. If they seem reluctant to do activities that were formerly easy, like going up and down stairs, jumping up on beds or couches or getting in and out of cars, pain could be the culprit. Some dogs may chew or lick areas of their leg that are causing discomfort. A dog may even whimper, growl or snap when touched in affected areas.

Any changes in how your dog walks and runs, if they tire easily or seem less interested in playing, can signal hidden pain. Visit your veterinarian if you notice these changes, as they could also be signs of pain caused by joint issues or other underlying conditions.

Add warmth

A heated blanket or dog bed can be soothing for a dog with mobility issues, especially during the winter. Heat works by increasing blood flow and relaxing the muscles, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. This increased circulation can also help ease joint stiffness for any animal with joint pain.

Adjust their activity

If your dog is having joint and mobility issues, you may want to alter their daily activities to ensure they’re still getting exercise without overdoing it. Encourage your dog to do activities like gentle walking or swimming. Low-impact exercise keeps joints moving and helps maintain a healthier weight, without risking joint damage.

Dogs having difficulty with stairs or jumping up may benefit from ramps or steps to avoid pain or injury.

Nutritional support

The food your dog eats can play an important role in their overall health and well-being. Balanced nutrition is an essential part of an active, healthy lifestyle. You should always consult your veterinarian and ask them to recommend the ideal food for your dog’s joint and overall health.

“Just as the food you eat impacts your wellness, nutrition plays a vital role when it comes to pets’ joint health and overall mobility,” Wallett said.

For dogs with weight and joint concerns, Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians developed Hill’s Prescription Diet Metabolic Weight + j/d, clinical nutrition specially formulated to support weight loss, weight maintenance and joint health. Metabolic Weight + j/d is clinically proven nutrition to help dogs naturally lose weight by activating their metabolism and improving mobility in as little as 21 days.

Metabolic Weight + j/d contains omega-3 fatty acids to promote joint health, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate (the building blocks of cartilage), vitamins C and E (clinically proven antioxidants to support a healthy immune system) and L-carnitine, which helps build lean muscle.

Ask your veterinarian about Hill’s Prescription Diet j/d nutrition and learn more about joint health in dogs at HillsPet.com.

2025-12-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – Navigating the challenges of cancer treatment and emerging as a survivor is a triumph worth celebrating. Yet, what often catches people off guard is how the journey toward healing and wellness frequently extends long after the cancer is defeated.

For gynecologic cancer survivors, restoring a sense of well-being can take time. Caroline Dabney, who survived an ovarian germ cell tumor as a 14-year-old, knows this firsthand. Even years later, as an adult, she found herself struggling to make her own health and wellness a priority.

Dabney was encouraged by a friend to join a joint program between the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Hollings Cancer Center and the MUSC Wellness Center, specifically designed for gynecologic cancer survivors. The program, known as Fierce Foundations Fit Club, is a holistic health program that empowers women to prioritize their health. There she found connection, camaraderie and intentional time to focus on herself.

Exercise and therapy programs for gynecologic cancer survivors

Many gynecologic cancer survivors struggle with mental and physical wellness after their treatments are complete. They can feel tired, experience brain fog, have digestive issues, struggle with physical limitations and, generally, just not feel like themselves.

Observing a great need for a program tailored to these women, Hollings Cancer Center women’s health nurse practitioner Montana Woods worked with Cindi Day, Clinical Exercise Program coordinator at the MUSC Wellness Center. Together, they launched Fierce Foundations Fit Club.

Fierce Foundations Fit Club is a 10-week program that includes up to 12 gynecologic cancer survivors. The structured program focuses on many aspects of wellness, including improving pelvic floor strength, balance, cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, bone health, body composition and symptoms of fatigue.

Because it is tailored to women who’ve gone through gynecologic cancer and demanding treatments that accompany it, the program offers a personalized approach and a built-in community that supports both physical recovery and emotional well-being.

Customized exercise programs for gynecologic cancer survivors

Fierce Foundations exercises focus on strengthening the deep core to help women to regain their confidence and vitality in their daily lives. Just as important as physical exercise are the holistic wellness components like nutritional counseling, therapeutic gardening, breathwork clinics and group discussions.

“Women struggle with self-care,” said Day. “They are often their own caretakers and caretakers for those around them. This can make them reluctant to make their own care a priority, even during a cancer recovery. With the Fierce Foundations program, the goal is for them to feel stronger and more confident to advocate for what they need.”

This message resonated with Dabney, a busy mom of two. “I was silently weeping in our first yoga class as I realized it’s been eight years since I focused on myself in any meaningful way,” she said.

The other women in the class echoed the same sentiment. “We all were shelving our overall health for various reasons, whether that was because life was getting in the way, or because there was a looming sense of fragility post-treatment, or because depression had sunk in, or because finding where to restart is often harder than doing nothing at all,” Dabney explained. “Personally, I joined because deep down I knew I needed a reset, and the intention of Fierce Foundations legitimized my need to reclaim personal time and my health.”

Dabney’s journey mirrors what Day hopes every survivor will embrace — a return to themselves, one intentional step at a time.

“You’re a survivor, and you need to take care of yourself,” she said. “Talk to your provider about how you’re feeling. Find a fitness routine that ignites you. Advocate for yourself and make self-care a non-negotiable.”

A leader in the field

MUSC is an academic medical center and home to a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center, a distinction awarded to institutions that demonstrate excellence in transdisciplinary research to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

The goal of Fierce Foundations is to empower gynecologic cancer survivors to thrive and live their best lives. As a unique national role model, the program is offered at no cost to participants and also provides a framework for other medical organizations seeking to support cancer survivors. This innovative partnership between MUSC’s Hollings Cancer Center and Wellness Center is one of the first of its kind in the country, and many programs now look to MUSC for guidance as they develop their own survivorship initiatives.

Dabney said it’s a luxury to have a program like Fierce Foundations available at no cost to patients.

“Most people living in or near South Carolina know that MUSC leads the charge in cancer treatment and research here in the South. What people may not realize, as I did not, is that MUSC is a national leader regarding innovation in that space. Where else does this exist, where, for free, you are receiving this intense amount of almost one-on-one care? It’s a huge benefit.”

To learn more about the Fierce Foundations program and how holistic wellness and exercise can help gynecologic cancer survivors, visit HollingsCancerCenter.musc.edu.

2025-12-17T08:01:00

(BPT) – The holidays can be a whirlwind of decorations, festive gatherings and to-do lists, but while you’re rushing from one celebration to the next, your pet is also experiencing the season in their own way. Changes in routine, travel, unfamiliar visitors, loud noises and more can leave even the calmest pets feeling overwhelmed.

“As pet parents, changes and disruptions during the holiday season can leave us feeling guilty,” says Dr. Rebecca Tremble, Veterinarian and Director of Professional Partnerships and Strategy at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. “You can help your pet stay safe, supported and included amidst the busy holiday season. A few simple steps can go a long way in making this time of year more enjoyable for both of you.”

Whether you’re hosting, traveling or simply have a busier schedule, Dr. Tremble offers the following tips to help keep your furry family members happy and healthy during the festive months.

1. Make sure your pet has a private, safe space

Holiday gatherings can be stressful for pets. Platters of food and treats and lots of unfamiliar people and noises can be especially overwhelming. No matter where you are — home or traveling — make sure they have a place they can retreat to when they need a break. For example, you can put your dog’s bed or crate in a quiet area away from the festivities to give them their own space.

2. Try to keep your pet’s regular routine

Do your best not to deviate from your pet’s normal schedule. Dogs especially thrive on routines, so if you’re traveling with your dog, remember to pack any supplies you might need for their activities and care, including food and medicine, bowls, toys, crate and bed. You can also attempt to keep walks, potty breaks and playtimes consistent no matter where you are.

3. Keep their nutrition consistent

When you’re traveling, away from your pets, or their typical schedule is disrupted, it can be normal to feel a bit of guilt. Throughout your holiday plans, do your best to keep track of any extra treats or snacks your pets might be getting outside of their normal foods. Consistent diet can help pets feel more at ease amidst a disrupted schedule. Veterinarians are the best source of information and care when it comes to your pet. Their guidance can help you choose the right food for your pet. When considering trusted options, ask your vet about Hill’s Science Diet — the No. 1 U.S. veterinarian recommended brand.

4. Keep them mentally and physically active

There are plenty of fun ways to incorporate your pets in the holiday festivities in a way that keeps them occupied. For example, take your pup on a walk around the neighborhood to look at lights or decorations. Invite your friends or family to take part in your cat’s favorite games. This will give you the opportunity to spend quality time with your pets while keeping them mentally and physically stimulated, which can help them relieve stress.

5. Designate someone on pet duty

Whether you’re with your pet or leaving them in the care of others while traveling, be sure to nominate one or two people you trust to keep an eye on them. At a large gathering, it can be easy for pets to get into mischief if everyone assumes someone else is watching them. With a designated dog or cat watcher, you can ensure your pet is safe and content. This person can help the pets take a break from the action when needed, prevent them from getting loose near open doors, and keep an eye on them around tempting food or decorations.

As joyful as the holiday season can be, disruptions can leave your pet feeling uncertain. Follow these tips and plan ahead to help you both best navigate this time of year.

For more insights on pet wellness during the holiday season and beyond, visit HillsPet.com/science-diet.

2025-12-16T23:01:00

(BPT) – With the holidays right around the corner, gift giving offers a powerful way to show care and encouragement to college students working toward completing their degree. A gift that fuels their academic progress and personal growth is a simple gesture that can turn into a lasting investment in the learner’s future.

Whether they are full-time or part-time learners, students are often managing multiple responsibilities on top of their studies, including work and family. Check out these thoughtful gift ideas that will help keep them on track and support their pursuit of higher education.

1. Purchase a school bookstore gift card

From textbooks and course supplies to campus merchandise and everyday essentials, the school bookstore — often available online — is a hub for student needs. A gift card provides the flexibility for learners to choose exactly what supports their academic journey, whether it’s required reading, study tools or even a sweatshirt that shows school pride. This practical gift ensures your student has access to the resources they need while giving them the freedom to pick what matters most.

2. Give them a planner/journal

Staying organized is essential for college success, which is why a well-designed planner or journal can help students manage deadlines, set goals and reflect on their progress. Beyond keeping track of tasks, it can also serve as a creative outlet for jotting down ideas or practicing mindfulness. This thoughtful gift will empower your learner to stay focused, balanced and motivated throughout the semester.

3. Gift them a Sophia Learning subscription

Is your learner looking for a flexible, self-paced option to help them knock out some college-level courses that may transfer toward their degree? If so, giving them a Sophia Learning subscription may be the right gift this holiday season. Sophia offers more than 70 courses that learners can take on their own schedule, at their own pace. The courses are designed to transfer to 100+ partner colleges, and Sophia transcripts have been reviewed at nearly 3,000 other colleges and universities. Before trying out Sophia, learners should talk to the academic advising team at their school to determine if Sophia courses will transfer toward their program.

4. Pay for a meal delivery service

Finding time to cook or eat well can be a real challenge for college students juggling competing deadlines. As a solution, consider paying for a meal delivery service that provides convenient, nutritious options that save time and reduce stress. This option helps your learner stay fueled and focused, giving them one less thing to worry about on their busiest days.

5. Buy them an e-reader

Between heavy textbooks, assigned readings and the occasional leisure novel, college students power through countless pages. An e-reader offers a lightweight and portable way to access course materials, research papers and personal reading all in one device. With features like adjustable lighting, long battery life and built-in dictionaries, this gift makes studying more convenient and enjoyable without the distractions of social media and email apps.

6. Surprise them with a portable power bank/charger

A student’s phone can be their lifeline for academic success as they juggle assignments and communication with professors and other students. To keep them powered through even the busiest days, consider gifting a portable power bank/charger. This tool ensures they can recharge on the go and stay connected, no matter how long their schedule runs.

The holiday season is a time for giving, and gifts that support higher education can play a key role in helping students to learn new skills. With the gift ideas shared above, you can support learners in advancing their studies and gaining momentum toward their career goals as they enter the new year.

2025-12-16T11:01:04

(BPT) – For kids with critical illnesses, having a cherished wish fulfilled makes a huge difference in their lives. Children and families facing heartbreaking experiences, including difficult medical diagnoses, hospital stays and more, receive a welcome lift to their spirits and moments of shared joy thanks to the efforts of many volunteers, staff and corporate partners that help Make-A-Wish bring wishes to life.

Celebrating a remarkable milestone this year is Dave & Buster’s, which has reached an outstanding $20 million in fundraising for Make-A-Wish since they first became a partner in 2012 — helping to grant over 1,700 wishes to children battling critical illnesses.

In 2012, Dave & Buster’s hosted its first national customer donation campaign, pledging to raise $120,000. Their result far surpassed their pledge, raising nearly $500,000 that first year. By 2015, Dave & Buster’s had become a Wish Champion partner, reaching $1 million plus raised annually, and the company has continued to raise that amount and more every year.

“Witnessing Dave & Buster’s reach the $20 million milestone is an incredible achievement and a true testament to the power of the partnership,” said Leslie Motter, President & CEO, Make-A-Wish America. “We couldn’t bring joy into the lives of wish kids and their families without the help of great corporate partners like Dave & Buster’s. This partnership highlights the incredible power of community to turn wishes into reality for so many children.”

Memorable moments at Dave & Buster’s

Beyond their epic fundraising efforts on behalf of children with critical illnesses, Dave & Buster’s has also become an integral part of Make-A-Wish by hosting hundreds — if not thousands — of wish parties.

The company has enjoyed hosting Make-A-Wish events, including fulfilling celebrity meet-and-greet wishes at many of their venues. Popular YouTuber and actor Guava Juice, also known as Roi Fabito, shared his favorite arcade hacks and played games with Wish Kid Jude. And Ryan Kaji, child star of the “Ryan’s World” YouTube Channel, helped fulfill several children’s wishes to meet him and play together for a day of fun at Dave & Buster’s.

For the past 13 years, Dave & Buster’s has been a big part of numerous wish experiences such as welcome receptions and special watch parties for major sporting events, plus many all-important wish reveal parties, where Make-A-Wish volunteers get to share the big news with wish kids and their families that their wish is being granted.

Creative fundraising efforts

To continue generating enthusiasm and raising awareness for Make-A-Wish, Dave & Buster’s has spearheaded a wide variety of creative fundraising approaches over the past 13 years, including:

• Customer donation campaigns
• Charity Benefits Unlimited silent auctions
• Menu items triggering a donation
• Local chapter/regional fundraising
• Employee donations/payroll deductions
• Donation of food and beverage (F&B) and Power cards in support of wish-granting initiatives

New opportunities to participate

Adding to this years-long partnership, Dave & Buster’s will be launching new fundraising opportunities this year to help raise even more funds for Make-A-Wish in about 150 locations across the United States, plus two locations in Canada.

For example, Dave & Buster’s has a new featured item, the Strawberry Shortcake, with $1 from every order donated to Make-A-Wish. You can also test your skills at throwback arcade games where proceeds are donated to Make-A-Wish. These popular “throwback” games like Pac-Man and Donkey Kong accept a cash donation to begin play, with 100% of that donation going to Make-A-Wish.

Learn more about how Dave & Buster’s continues to help fulfilling wishes for kids, and how you can participate, at Wish.org/dave-and-busters.

2025-12-16T08:01:00

(BPT) – When hosting, there are plenty of responsibilities and tasks needed to make your guests feel welcome and comfortable. From creating a cozy atmosphere with lighting, music, throw pillows and blankets, to having delicious snacks and drinks ready to serve, there’s much to do! You might already consider yourself an expert, but there’s one detail you may have missed that is essential for modern hosting: guest-friendly tech features.

Whether you’re having friends over for a Friday night dinner, throwing a weekend football watch party or hosting loved ones overnight, offering tech amenities makes for a smoother experience for you and your guests. Here are a few simple shortcuts that allow your guests to stay connected and give you the freedom to focus on more important hosting duties.

Make it simple for guests to connect

A common question you’ve probably heard from visitors is “What’s your Wi-Fi password?” When you’re hosting multiple people, having to explain the Wi-Fi connection again and again can be tiring and keep you from enjoying your own get-together.

Eliminate the need for guests to come to you for internet questions by printing a sign with your Wi-Fi network’s name and password. Post this sign in an obvious place, like near the TV or entryway console. Check to see if your internet provider offers an app with a simple QR code that you can print and guests can scan, so they don’t have to spend time typing passwords.

Switch to faster internet

Imagine this: You’re hosting a slumber party for your kids. Instead of relaxing with your favorite movie or show while the kids play video games in the other room, you’re hit with the dreaded loading icon. Moments later, the kids start moaning about buffering and lag.

Slow internet doesn’t just interrupt your movie — it can derail the whole hosting experience. That’s where a fiber-optic connection steps in. Fiber brings a dedicated connection straight to your home, delivering internet that stays strong even during the busiest hours. It’s a small upgrade that makes hosting — sleepovers, holidays, game nights, all of it — run a whole lot smoother.

When your home internet is fast and reliable, hosting becomes so much easier — and that’s exactly what T-Mobile Fiber is built for. With super-fast speeds, T-Mobile Fiber keeps streaming, gaming and working from home seamless, even when your house is full of guests. You can choose from three plans designed for how you live, each with unlimited data to keep every device running smoothly. Every plan comes with a 5-year price guarantee (exclusions like taxes and fees apply) that keeps your monthly rate steady, and every plan comes with T-Mobile Tuesdays, offering weekly perks like exclusive deals on gas, dining, entertainment and more. To check availability in your area and learn more, visit Fiber.T-Mobile.com.

Create a charging station

Whether you’re hosting guests for the evening or overnight, it’s important to have a dedicated space where they can charge their devices. You can easily create a charging station with just a few items: a small basket, a power strip surge protector with built-in USBs and a few charging cords.

Set the basket on a visible, easily accessible surface, perhaps under the Wi-Fi sign. Connect the surge protector and lay it behind the basket. Leave the charging cables in the basket, so guests can pick out which one works for their device. Once they plug their device in, they can leave their phone or tablet in the basket. Not only does this offer a safe and convenient place for guests to charge their phones, but it also encourages them to put their tech away and take time to connect with you and other visitors.

Pro tip: Make sure to offer USB-C and lightning cables, so no matter which device your guests use, they’ll have what they need to charge their devices.

Have screen wipes and sprays on hand

Smears, streaks and crumbs inevitably make their way from a person’s hand onto their phone. To help guests keep their devices clean, provide cleaning supplies so they can wipe down their tech in between drinks, apps and dinner.

Near your charging basket, place a tray with microfiber cloths, pre-moistened 70% isopropyl alcohol wipes and cotton swabs. These simple items create an easily accessible self-service tech hygiene station and show guests that you care.

A modern host needs modern solutions to common tech needs. Using these tips, you can take your hosting from good to great and make your visitors feel welcome and connected. Happy hosting!