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Worn out or worn down? How to tell the difference between tiredness and fatigue

2024-07-10T08:31:00

(BPT) – Have you ever felt like no amount of coffee or rest can shake off your lingering exhaustion? Do you wake up from a full night’s sleep and still find yourself dragging? If so, you might be dealing with more than just tiredness; you could be experiencing fatigue. Fatigue is not just a fleeting feeling of sleepiness — it’s a deep-seated exhaustion that can impact your daily life and point to more serious health conditions. However, these feelings are often dismissed as simply needing more sleep or seen as a normal part of a busy lifestyle. According to recent research by MD Live, an Evernorth company and leading virtual care provider, many aren’t aware of what fatigue is despite experiencing symptoms and 35% rarely think about the reasons behind their tiredness.

“While we often use words like ‘tired’ and ‘exhausted’ interchangeably, there are distinct and clinical differences between tiredness and fatigue,” explains Dr. Maggie Williams, medical director for MD Live Primary Care. “Occasional tiredness can often be managed with better sleep habits or lifestyle changes, but fatigue is a persistent exhaustion that could signal underlying health issues that should be discussed with a doctor.”

Dr. Williams shares telltale ways to determine whether you may be experiencing simple tiredness or if your symptoms might point to something more serious.

1. Scrutinize your sleep

First, look at your sleep patterns. Tiredness generally improves with a good night’s sleep or a short nap, whereas fatigue persists even after adequate rest. Try keeping a sleep diary for a week, noting when you go to bed, when you wake up, and how you feel upon waking and throughout the day. If you consistently wake up feeling unrefreshed or have difficulty staying asleep, it might indicate something more serious. Pay attention to other signs like frequent waking during the night or difficulty falling asleep despite feeling tired.

2. Track your tiredness

Consider how long and how often you feel exhausted. Tiredness is typically temporary and linked to specific activities or lack of sleep, such as staying up late to finish a project or getting a poor night’s sleep. Fatigue is long-lasting and occurs frequently, often without a clear cause. Ask yourself whether exhaustion is a constant presence in your life, lingering for weeks or months. If symptoms persist and you cannot pinpoint a specific reason, it’s more likely to be fatigue.

3. Be on the lookout for other symptoms

Fatigue often accompanies broader and more severe symptoms, such as muscle weakness, joint pain, headaches, and a lack of motivation. Mentally, fatigue can lead to prolonged mood swings, depression, anxiety, and severe cognitive impairment, making it difficult to concentrate or remember things. Keep track of any additional symptoms you experience, noting their severity and duration.

4. Gauge the impact on daily life

Reflect on how your tiredness affects your daily activities. Tiredness might cause a temporary decrease in productivity and social interactions. Fatigue has a significant and prolonged impact on your ability to perform daily tasks, work, and maintain social relationships. For example, you may find it increasingly difficult to keep up with work responsibilities, household chores, or social commitments. Evaluate how often you find yourself canceling plans, avoiding activities, or struggling to keep up with everyday demands.

5. Revamp your rest routine

To assess whether you may be dealing with fatigue, address sleep-related issues, including irregular sleep schedules, screen time before bed, and an uncomfortable sleep environment. Establish a regular and consistent sleep routine, even on the weekends. Avoid alcohol consumption, limit exposure to screens at least an hour before bedtime and create a comfortable sleep environment by ensuring your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool. If these changes don’t help, it could point to fatigue — persistent problems despite good sleep hygiene warrant further investigation.

The chronic condition connection

Fatigue is often linked to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, depression and thyroid disorders. These illnesses significantly impact the body’s ability to maintain energy levels, resulting in persistent exhaustion that can negatively affect quality of life. According to the survey, one-third of respondents with chronic diseases experienced extreme tiredness but didn’t recognize it was a symptom before their diagnosis. Identifying and managing these conditions properly can help alleviate some of the overwhelming feelings of exhaustion.

When to consult a doctor

While you might be inclined to dismiss or brush off tiredness as not a priority, persistent problems are not something you have to live with. If sleep-related issues or extreme tiredness begin to affect your everyday life, you can schedule a virtual visit with an MD Live board-certified doctor to discuss your concerns. They can help identify the root cause of your symptoms, develop an effective treatment plan and recommend in-person follow-ups if necessary.

Remember, understanding and addressing the root causes of your tiredness can pave the way for improved well-being and a more energetic life.

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Tips to help keep your teen safe behind the wheel this summer

2024-07-10T16:01:01

(BPT) – Summer season is in full swing, and that means more beach days, barbecues and road trips. But for teens, it also means a greater likelihood of being involved in a serious car accident.

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is dubbed the “100 deadliest days of summer” due to a more than 20% surge in teen automobile fatalities, according to the National Road Safety Foundation. Every year, 2,100 teens on average are involved in fatal crashes, with 30% — or seven deaths per day — occurring in that 100-day period. Making matters worse, more than half of teen drivers involved in crashes were not wearing seatbelts.

“It’s imperative that teens understand and practice safe driving behaviors to protect themselves and others while on the road, first and foremost, but it also helps to keep the cost of insurance down for an age group that is notoriously expensive to insure,” said Kevin Quinn, Mercury Insurance’s vice president of claims. “Parents play a key role in shaping the driving habits of their teens. It’s best for parents to lead by example while behind the wheel, spend time driving with their teen, and initiate discussions about the ramifications of dangerous driving, including varying degrees of legal charges — or worse, even death.”

As more teens take to the road for the summer, Mercury Insurance has compiled some tips for parents to help keep their teens safe while behind the wheel:

  • Always insist on wearing a seatbelt: In 2019, 43% of high school students nationwide reported not always wearing a seat belt during the past month, according to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute. Buckling up is the law in nearly all 50 states, but teens are needlessly dying or getting injured. Insist that your teen always wear a seatbelt, every time they drive, and that they ensure all passengers are buckled up too.
  • Set house rules: Parents can help manage their teen’s crash risk by enforcing rules, such as banning nighttime driving and high-speed roads or controlling the keys, meaning they need to ask to use the car first. Having a “pre-drive” check-in with your teen before every trip is ideal — all predicated on the understanding that the parent has the right to revoke their teenager’s permit or license at any time if rules are not followed. You should also ensure your teen is complying with state Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws.
  • Discuss safe driving behaviors with your teen: Examples of safe driving behaviors include wearing seat belts, putting the phone away and always driving sober. This video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_HfbiM5jjE) details how you can effectively communicate with your teen about safe driving. You should also convey that you care about their safety and that house rules are not intended to be punishments, but rather safeguards.
  • Get as much practice as possible: “Most teen driver crashes are due to the lack of active visual scanning that should be used to detect and respond to hazards, going too fast for road conditions, and being distracted by something inside or outside the vehicle,” said Quinn. “As a parent, it can be difficult to hand over the keys, but a teen’s safest time behind the wheel is with you or another trusted adult closely supervising.” The more time and thought you devote to practicing safe driving, the more skills and experience your teen will take with them into independent driving.

To learn more about safe driving for teens, visit the following links:

12 Safe Driving Tips for Teens – https://www.mercuryinsurance.com/resources/drive-safe/12-safe-driving-tips-for-teenage-drivers.html

Teen and Young Driver Safety – https://www.ntsb.gov/Advocacy/safety-topics/Pages/teen-driver-safety.aspx

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Secure your student’s future with 5 college insurance must-haves

2024-07-10T09:01:00

(BPT) – Are you preparing to send your student off to college next semester? As you collaborate on a Back-To-College checklist, make sure to add insurance shopping.

If you haven’t considered any type of insurance for your college-bound student, the time to do so is now! To protect your peace of mind and their academic journey, consider the following types of insurance policies.

1. Health insurance

Whether your student gets a run-of-the-mill cold or experiences a medical emergency, you’ll want to make sure they’re covered. Per federal law, they can stay on your health insurance plan until age 26. However, your plan may not provide coverage if your student attends school out of state.

Check to make sure your health insurance provides adequate coverage. If not, you should consider a student health insurance policy. No matter which plan you choose, make sure you aren’t billed twice, as some schools automatically bill for health insurance.

2. Tuition insurance

No one wants to think about their child withdrawing from school, but it may happen, and not just because of a physical illness. According to a 2024 study, 64% of students currently enrolled in higher education considered withdrawing because of emotional stress or mental health concerns.

If your student withdraws from school, getting a tuition refund can be incredibly difficult. Most colleges only offer tuition refunds within the first few weeks of the term, and virtually none provide any refunds for housing or fees. Luckily, you can safeguard your investment in your student’s education with tuition insurance.

Tuition insurance plans can provide reimbursement for a variety of expenses, including tuition, housing and academic fees. GradGuard’s plans can provide reimbursement when a student needs to withdraw from the covered academic term due to an unforeseen, covered accident, injury or other covered reason.*

3. Travel insurance

Is your child planning to travel during the holidays or study abroad next semester? Then you’ll need to protect them with travel insurance.

Travel insurance is often overlooked but is an important form of coverage for college students. Whether your student has to cancel a trip, loses their luggage, has a medical emergency or experiences other travel-related risks, travel insurance has you covered.

4. Auto insurance

If your student plans to have a car on campus, they’re legally required to have car insurance. You could keep your child on your auto insurance family policy, but it’s wise to compare rates. In fact, there are auto insurance policies tailored to the needs of college students that could save them (and you) money.

When shopping for student auto insurance, look for plans that offer student discounts. GradGuard can help you find car insurance policies that offer good student discounts and automatically compare rates before your renewal.

5. Renters insurance

Beyond tuition, room and board and other school fees, you and your student may also invest in belongings like cell phones, laptops, clothing, bikes and other expensive items. Can you afford to replace them if they become damaged, destroyed or stolen?

Whether your student plans to live in an on-campus residence hall or in off-campus housing, make sure they’re protected with renters insurance. Not only can renters insurance cover property damage from burst pipes and other household problems, but it can also help replace expensive items.

Choose a policy like GradGuard’s College Renters Insurance. With the option for monthly or annual policies and flexible deductibles starting at $100, you can provide your student with personal liability and worldwide property coverage. Best of all, no credit score is needed and filing a claim won’t raise your premium.

Secure your student’s future and protect your peace of mind. By considering these five types of insurance plans, you can help your student focus on their education and personal growth without worrying about the potential financial loss that can come with unexpected risks.

*Terms, conditions, and exclusions (including for pre-existing conditions) apply. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Insurance benefits are underwritten by Jefferson Insurance Company. Grad Guard, a service of Next Generation Insurance Group, LLC (NGI), is the licensed agent for all insurance programs. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Non-insurance benefits/services, and claims administration, are provided by AGA Service Company.

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Help your home and your energy bill handle summer heat

2024-07-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – As summer temperatures rise, what can you do to beat the heat at home? Before lowering the thermostat setting, consider an often-overlooked approach to help your home and your energy budget stay comfortable. Keeping a home cool in the summer (and warm in the winter) is all about managing heat flow. A sufficient thickness of insulation blown into the home’s attic can help manage thermal flow from a notorious “heat trap” in many homes.

Without delving too deeply into the science, it is useful to consider how insulation helps reduce heat gain and contributes to a comfortable indoor environment. The thermodynamics of air and temperature mean that warm air continually tries to move toward a cooler location. Any disruptions in the home’s envelope — such as a window, access entry, or the intersection of roof deck and attic — present an opening for warm air to enter a cooler area.

As an example, let’s consider that a home’s attic is accessed through a door in the bedroom. On a hot, sunny day, radiant heat from outside will pass through the roof deck and enter the cooler attic space. Once inside the attic, the hot air will move toward the access door, “spilling” into cooler parts of the home. As more energy is required to maintain the temperature, other parts of the cooling system — like the air conditioner condenser — may have to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to more energy usage, potentially higher bills and wear and tear on equipment.

The attic is only one location in a home where hot air can escape. However, given the high temperatures in attics, these areas may present a higher “heat load” than many other parts of the home. Owens Corning AirCare® Professionals are trained to measure how much heat may be escaping from the attic. They can utilize tools and technologies such as thermal imaging to visually capture sources of escaping heat and can calculate the potential payback on attic interventions such as insulation or retrofitting ductwork to address holes, gaps or loose connections.

How much difference can interventions in the attic make when it comes to utility bills? Every home is unique and savings will vary, but the EPA estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs (or an average of 11% on total energy costs) by air sealing their homes and adding insulation in attics, floors over crawl spaces and basements.

Material matters

Several insulating materials are available to mitigate heat transfer in a home, and some are particularly well suited for attic applications. Owens Corning AirCare® Professionals can recommend the proper form of insulation for various spaces within the home. Fiberglass insulation relies on tiny air pockets located throughout the insulation that resist the passage of heat flow — mitigating heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Generally, the thicker the insulation, the more air pockets and the greater the insulating power. Fiberglass insulation is not combustible.

Is your home prepared to take the heat this summer? To find an AirCare® professional, visit the online locator at HVAC Contractor Locator | Insulation | Owens Corning.

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From Exhaustion to Empowerment: Hannah Corbin’s Health Journey

2024-07-09T07:01:00

(BPT) – Five years ago, in the prime of her fitness career, longtime Peloton instructor Hannah Corbin was teaching several classes a week and never running short on energy. Always having maintained a healthy lifestyle — formerly as a professional dancer, an aerial artist and now as a fitness instructor — Hannah was surprised when she began experiencing extreme exhaustion. Soon she was only able to stay awake for four hours before needing a nap, even after sleeping 10 to 12 hours the night before. Hannah’s exhaustion became so severe that she would fall asleep in odd places like the New York City subway, and for the first time, she had to start pulling back from work.

Over the next two years, Hannah visited countless doctors, only to be told her exhaustion was likely due to her physically demanding job and that her weight gain wasn’t “enough” to cause concern. Eventually, Hannah took matters into her own hands, trying different fitness regimens and eating plans, with little success. Then, following an alarming blood test result and discovery of her family’s thyroid disease history, Hannah was immediately referred to an endocrinologist. During that consultation, Hannah’s endocrinologist found her thyroid was severely under functioning and she was merely a month away from slipping into a thyroid coma.

Jarring, but finally an answer. Hannah was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease — an autoimmune condition and the most common form of hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid disorder. Hannah’s thyroid was producing very low levels of thyroid hormone, causing her energy and metabolism to slow down.

An Eye-Catching Surprise

Many people don’t know living with a thyroid condition may also put you at a higher risk of developing other conditions, like Thyroid Eye Disease (TED), a separate but related autoimmune condition that requires separate care.

Symptoms of TED can vary and include:

  • Eye bulging, double vision, eye pain, redness, and even vision loss in some cases.

TED can also have a profound effect on people’s emotional well-being and ability to partake in daily activities like reading, driving and working.

While everyone with a thyroid condition is at risk, that risk increases if you live with Graves’ disease — which is the most common form of hyperthyroidism. In fact, up to 50% of people with Graves’ disease may develop TED and women are also 5x more likely to develop TED than men.

“Now that I know my risks for TED, I’m watching my eyes closely, so I don’t take any chances,” Hannah said. “Like I always say, treat your body like it belongs to someone you love.”

Taking “Autoimmune” to “Auto-Amazing”

With Hashimoto’s under control, Hannah was able to resume her busy, energetic routine. But today, five years since her diagnosis, she’s keeping her eyes on something new.

“At first, I felt my body had let me down, but I decided to flip the script and to reframe ‘autoimmune’ as ‘auto-amazing,’ in my own mind,” Hannah said. “Now, I choose to focus on all the things my body CAN do.”

Today, five years after her diagnosis, Hannah feels more like herself. When she’s not coaching, leading Peloton enthusiasts through high energy workouts or working out for fun, she’s encouraging others with autoimmune conditions to keep finding their strength to press forward, despite their diagnosis. Amid several new projects, Hannah’s also sharing what she’s learned through her own health journey to help others.

Finding the Right Care Team

If you have a thyroid condition like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease and notice any changes in your eyes — like eye bulging, eye pain or double vision — schedule an eye exam with a TED Eye Specialist. Not all eye doctors have experience diagnosing and managing TED. That’s why it’s important to see an oculoplastic surgeon or neuro-ophthalmologist. To learn more about TED and to find a TED Eye Specialist near you, visit TEDAwareness.com.

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Ready to elevate your summer snacks and recipes? This tasty kiwi variety will surprise you

2024-07-09T08:05:00

(BPT) – Just when you thought you knew all the fruits in the produce section, you’re in for a delightful treat. One kiwi variety may have slipped under your radar, but it’s about to become your next obsession: Zespri™ SunGold™ Kiwi.

It took 10 years of passion and care to perfect this much sweeter, less fuzzy gold variety of kiwi, but it will take you 10 seconds to fall in love with it. Ideal for summer snacking, and in both sweet and savory recipes, this naturally sweet and juicy fruit will be your new favorite snack — just cut and scoop with a spoon to taste the obsession!

Zespri growers take a bold approach to growing kiwis, obsessing over them with passion and care to produce the highest quality fruit. Zespri is 100% owned by past and current growers and only does kiwifruit, focusing on producing the best-tasting fruit, rather than just the biggest fruit or yield. Best yet, they’re bursting with nutrients your body needs.

A nutrient-packed summer snack

How can something that tastes this good pack so much nutrition in one complete package? SunGold Kiwis are bursting with nutrients, providing over 20 vitamins and minerals1 including vitamin C, fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin E and antioxidants.

They’re also known as one of the most nutritionally dense fruits.2 In fact, you’ll get 100% of your daily vitamin C needs in just one fruit, boasting the highest vitamin C content among commonly eaten fruit3 with a nutritious, refreshing burst of unexpected sweetness.

Fun fact: You can even eat the skin, which is smooth and less fuzzy compared to green kiwi varieties. Eating the skin adds 50% more fiber, which is already 2 grams per serving (2 kiwifruit).4

Make summer sweeter

SunGold Kiwis make the perfect easy-to-eat snack for summer travel (think beach days, road trips and more). Simply cut in half and scoop with a spoon when you’re ready to eat, or just bite right in! You can slice them to enjoy on top of a breakfast bowl, add a pop of sweetness to a salad or level up your toast toppings. They’re also fantastic blended in smoothies or juices, or even diced up in fresh salsa for a sweet and salty snack.

Join the summer sorbet craze to refresh your palate

Get on board the social media sorbet trend with this easy-to-make, tangy-sweet and refreshing recipe to help keep you cool on those hot summer days.

Zespri Sungold Kiwifruit simple sorbet in a bowl next to ingredients

Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit Simple Sorbet

Ingredients
10 Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit (about 1 1/2 cups when chopped)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon coconut oil

Directions
1. Cut Zespri SunGold Kiwifruit in half, scoop out the inside, and add to blender.
2. Add remaining ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
3. Pour mixture into a loaf pan. Place in the freezer for at least 2 hours to freeze.
4. When ready to eat, scoop sorbet using an ice cream scoop.

Visit Zespri.com/en-US/recipes for more kiwi recipe inspo!

Display of SunGold Kiwifruit

How to ripen and store SunGold Kiwifruit

To check if your kiwis are ready, hold one in the palm of your hand and squeeze gently — it should yield to slight pressure. Not ripe yet? No problem. Simply leave the fruit out at room temperature to ripen. You can speed up the process by putting kiwifruit in a paper bag with a banana or apple, as the ethylene gas emitted by these fruits accelerates ripening. Once the kiwifruit is ripe, you can store it in the fridge.

These golden kiwis make the perfect healthy and sweet summer snack that adults and kids alike will love. You and your family are bound to enjoy this refreshing summer fruit, no matter how you choose to eat it!

Taste the obsession

This summer, you can learn about Zespri growers’ obsession with growing the best-tasting kiwis and taste the obsession yourself, as the iconic SunGold Kiwi is back in season and available at retailers nationwide.

Visit Zespri.com and follow on Instagram, Facebook or TikTok to learn more.

[1] FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service website. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168211/nutrients. Updated March 2019. Accessed June 17, 2024.

[2] Richardson DP, Ansell J, Drummond LN. The nutritional and health attributes of kiwifruit: a review. Eur J Nutr. 2018;57(8):2659-2676. doi:10.1007/s00394-018-1627-z

[3] Raw Fruits Poster. FDA website. https://www.fda.gov/food/food-labeling-nutrition/raw-fruits-poster-text-version-accessible-version. Updated December 13, 2017. Accessed June 17, 2024.

[4] Can I Eat the Skin of Kiwifruit? https://www.zespri.com/en-US/blogdetail/can-i-eat-the-skin-of-kiwifruit. Accessed June 26, 2024.

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8 ways to travel mindfully in Atlantic Canada

2024-07-08T07:01:00

(BPT) – If your image of the perfect vacation involves slowing down and appreciating the moment, Atlantic Canada is your ideal destination. This latest travel trend — seeking respite from today’s busy lifestyles — expresses a yearning for peace and calm that’s hard to find.

Fortunately, inspiring locales throughout New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island provide experiences that are just right for your mindful getaway. Each of these four provinces offers a unique and stunning array of natural landscapes — ranging from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to lush forests, awe-inspiring fjords, beautiful waterfalls and amazing rock formations. The salty sea air and gorgeous scenery everywhere you look compels you to stop, take a deep breath and truly take in your surroundings.

The rich history of the people and wildlife that have called this region home also reveals an astounding ability to become one with the natural environment. Each province offers opportunities for mindfulness that draw on these unique landscapes and sensory experiences you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Here are just a handful of the many ways you can learn to slow down and embrace the moment in Atlantic Canada.

1. Have a whale of a time in New Brunswick

Whale watching on the Bay of Fundy is an incredibly memorable, humbling experience that makes your heart speed up and your mind and body slow down — and takes your breath away. Getting up close and personal to these gentle giants puts everything else into perspective.

The bay is home to several species of whales, including the rare North Atlantic Right Whale. Make sure to schedule your trip around whale-watching season, from late May until early October.

People walking on a muddy beach surrounded by craggy rock formations topped with trees

2. Feel the gravitational pull of the earth and moon at Hopewell Rocks

Looking for an awe-inspiring experience? The Bay of Fundy has the highest tides in the world and the best place to experience this natural phenomenon is Hopewell Rocks, where the water level can have a differential of 50 feet from low to high tide — equal to a five-story building. The amount of water entering the bay during one tide change is enough to fill the Grand Canyon, twice.

You can walk the ocean floor at low tide and view the famous Flowerpot Rocks, sea cliffs and amazing rock formations. Then venture out for a guided sea kayaking tour at high tide in the same area you walked a few hours earlier. This unique place helps you slow down and appreciate the power and magic of natural forces.

Find these and other amazing adventures at TourismNewBrunswick.ca.

Detail of hands holding an Indigenous medicine wheel

3. Explore ancient wisdom in Newfoundland and Labrador

Imagine gathering around the fire to discover Indigenous Mi’kmaq wisdom like the medicine wheel, an ancient holistic healing practice that can guide you to a better understanding of yourself and the world around you.

Through storytelling, you’ll learn about indigenous experiences and enjoy a tasting of fire-roasted bannock. In this Indigenous Medicine Wheel and Fire Circle Experience, you’ll explore ancient wisdom of the Mi’kmaq culture, learning how these teachings offer a holistic approach to well-being and discovering what life is like for indigenous peoples in Newfoundland and Labrador.

A group of people doing yoga in a boggy valley

4. Let the power of nature transform you

Seeking a genuinely transformational experience? A seven-day nature retreat through Transform Gros Morne may be perfect for you. Nestled in the heart of Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park is a magical place unlike any other you have experienced. The geological mountainous wonder of the Tablelands reveals the Earth’s mantle, thrust to the surface through tectonic upheaval. Once you take a deep breath of the pristine salty air and hear the crash of the waves, you’ll begin to feel a sense of peace.

To discover a deeper connection with yourself, nature and others, you’ll immerse yourself in the power of nature to find new ways of seeing the world and yourself, creating powerful, lasting and impactful change in your life. You will see nature as vital to your health and well-being.

Discover many more magical experiences at NewfoundlandLabrador.com.

Two people land surfing on a quiet beach

5. Revive your inner child in Nova Scotia

Yearning for the carefree days of childhood? Experience eco-friendly fun through Tidekite ReWIND Adventures in Nova Scotia, where you can be a free spirit, play, learn and create. Activities include:

  • ReWIND Adventures: The only land sailing experience in Canada with Blokarts, where the power of the wind guides you across the beach.
  • ZenAct: Experience an act of Zen via sand art, racing against the tide. This great outdoor activity for all ages inspires you to appreciate the moment.
  • Tide walk: Stroll along the beautiful coast for a guided walk during low tide to explore and listen to the sounds of nature.
  • Kite flying: Learn about kite history and global designs, then fly a kite from the largest collection of kites in Nova Scotia, including 140-foot kites, plus kites with diverse images, shapes and sizes.
Family digging for clams on Clam Harbour beach.

6. Dig up some fun

You can dig up your next adventure as you learn about the rich heritage of clam digging in Nova Scotia with a Clam Harbour Clam Digging Adventure. You’ll accompany a fourth-generation professional clam digger to dig your own clams, then return to Memory Lane Heritage Village to cook up a “feed” of clams, along with a tasty traditional lumber camp meal.

Explore all the fun possibilities at NovaScotia.com.

Backpackers walk a paved path along the ocean, holding hands, pointing at rock formations in the water

7. Walk your way to mindfulness on Prince Edward Island

Make the most of each present moment on this magical island by hiking or cycling your way around The Island Walk route along the ocean, much of the Confederation Trail, red dirt roads and quiet secondary roads throughout Prince Edward Island. The serene landscape will inspire meditative or invigorating long-distance walking adventures that you can experience at your own pace.

Because The Island Walk is not technically difficult, it offers options for everyone. You can complete the entire route, or tackle it in sections just right for you.

A Mongolian yurt with an ornate door and a chimney next to a jacuzzi

8. Immerse yourself in nature

Need a true change of pace? Experience the ultimate glamping adventure at Nature Space Resort, where luxury meets nature in authentic, cozy Mongolian yurts. Unwind as you enjoy the unique ambiance, plush beds, inviting seating areas and all the essentials for a relaxing stay. Nestled amidst the picturesque coastal landscape of Prince Edward Island’s North Shore, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind experience combining the comfort of modern amenities with the breathtaking beauty of natural surroundings.

You can further immerse yourself in nature through guided kayak tours showcasing the rich ecosystems and breathtaking scenery of the island, as well as hands-on learning experiences and unique culinary delights featuring the island’s fresh seafood.

Find your perfect getaway at TourismPEI.com.

Inspired to enjoy your next trip mindfully? Explore all the possibilities for your Atlantic Canada vacation at VisitAtlanticCanadaNow.com.

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Auto insurance 101 for new grads: Simple steps to get started

2024-07-03T16:01:03

(BPT) – Graduation is an exciting time, but it also means new responsibilities. If you’ve been on your parents’ auto insurance and now need your own, don’t worry! These simple steps from Mercury Insurance will help you get the coverage you need.

“Graduates are stepping into a world filled with opportunities and uncertainties,” says Kevin Quinn, VP, Auto Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Understanding your insurance needs is a crucial step in protecting your future.”

Simple steps for shopping for auto insurance:

1. Review your current coverage

Talk to your parents and their insurance agent to understand what coverage you currently have. This will give you a good starting point.

“Knowing what coverage you’ve had under your parents’ policy helps you understand what protections you might need going forward,” explains Quinn.

2. Decide on your coverage

Learn about the different types of coverage:

  • Liability: Covers damage you cause to others.
  • Collision: Covers damage to your car from accidents.
  • Comprehensive: Covers non-accident damage (like theft or weather).

Understanding the different types of coverage ensures you choose the right protection for your situation.

3. Check state requirements

Every state has different auto insurance laws. Look up the minimum requirements for your state or ask an agent to explain them.

4. Get quotes

Contact multiple insurance companies to get quotes. Compare prices and coverage options to find the best deal.

Shopping around is essential. Different companies offer various rates and discounts, so take the time to compare. You can obtain a quote from Mercury at Mercury Insurance Quote.

Make sure to ask about discounts. You might get a lower rate for:

  • Good driving record
  • Completing driver education courses
  • Bundling with other insurance policies

Many insurers offer discounts for safe driving, good grades or combining policies. Be sure to ask about these potential savings.

5. Review and choose

Look over the quotes and coverage options. Choose the policy that best fits your needs and budget. Select a policy that provides adequate coverage without stretching your budget too thin.

6. Set up your policy

Once you’ve chosen a policy, work with the insurance company to set it up. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions.

Setting up your policy correctly is crucial. Ensure you understand all the details to avoid surprises later on.

Always have the right auto insurance to protect yourself. Mercury Insurance has a great team of agents ready to make this process seamless and easy for you. Contact an agent if you have any questions.

For more information, visit Mercury Insurance’s website or contact your local Mercury agent today.

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5 tips to take the stress out of moving to college

2024-07-02T12:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Office Depot OfficeMax

Heading off to college is a major life milestone and an exciting first step toward adulthood. But as anyone who has already started this college process can attest to, a lot goes into preparing for that move. In addition to shopping for standard school supplies like backpacks, laptops and more, there’s also a new dorm room or apartment to outfit. Plus, there’s the added emotional stress of leaving home and starting a new journey, not to mention parents adjusting to an empty nest. Without some upfront planning, this important transitional period can dissolve into a stressful, hectic rush.

But, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some tips for taking the stress out of prepping for the big move.

Tip 1: Create a budget

Tuition and housing expenses are only the beginning. There are books, meals, school supplies, transportation costs, and of course, all of the new supplies needed for the dorm like twin XL bedding, storage, and more. It’s important to take all of these into account, set a budget that works for you, and agree to stick to it. One way to get more bang for your buck is to consider enrolling in free loyalty or rewards programs to take advantage of special promotions, instant pricing discounts and more. With a free Office Depot® OfficeMax® Rewards Program membership, for example, customers earn 2% back in rewards in store and online on supplies, furniture, technology and more.

Tip 2: Make a college checklist

Preparing well in advance puts you ahead of the game so that you don’t get caught in a last-minute scramble. Creating a clear checklist with everything you need will help guide your shopping process. Not sure what to add to your list? Office Depot OfficeMax has you covered. Browse their College Supplies section online for a huge selection of backpacks, tech, supplies, and more to get you ready for college. Plus, Office Depot OfficeMax has partnered with Dormify, the college experts, this back to school season to expand their dorm decor selection to make sure incoming college students can find everything they need (and want) for their college dorms in one place.

Tip 3: Know what to bring and what to leave at home

When making your list for dorm supplies, check with your college or dorm management to find out what items will be available to you and what you’re allowed — or not allowed — to bring. Do you need to bring your own desk? What about extras like a microwave or mini fridge? What’s the policy about TVs in your dorm room? By getting these questions answered before you shop, you can stick to your list so that you’re only buying what you need and stay on budget.

Tip 4: Make it a fun, bonding experience

This isn’t just any old shopping trip! Turn college shopping into a bonding experience for parents and college-bound students to do together! Parents can handle the essentials like computers, backpacks, tech supplies, and books. Incoming college students can be in charge of customizing their dorm room and personalizing their new space to feel like home. Select Office Depot OfficeMax stores now have stylish Dormify bedding, furniture, and decor that is specifically designed for small spaces like dorm rooms or off campus apartments. Browse an expanded product assortment on officedepot.com or find a store near you. From essentials like twin XL bedding and shower totes (trust us, you’ll need one for your new bathroom) to trending decor and smart storage solutions, you can find everything you need to create a comfortable and productive space. Planning and shopping together as you prepare for this next chapter is the perfect way to bond, create memories, and feel excited (not stressed!) about what’s next.

Tip 5: Find ways to simplify your move

Whether you’re going across the country or across town, moving into college is always a hassle, but now there are few hacks to make it easier. Instead of packing your car to the brim for a long drive or sorting through hectic shipping logistics, buy your items from Office Depot OfficeMax and have them shipped directly to the Office Depot store closest to your college campus where you can easily pick everything up on move-in day. Plus, if you forget anything on your initial order, you can take advantage of Office Depot’s 20-minute in-store and curbside pick-up and same day-delivery services.

Going off to college is a monumental time of transition for a student and their parents. In addition to everything needed for success at school, emotions are swirling. Planning ahead, setting a budget, creating a checklist, and making pick-up and shipping as convenient as possible will help reduce stress and make move-in day a breeze so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating this achievement together.

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Freelance Like a Pro: Insider Tips from Millionaire Freelancers on Fiverr

2024-07-02T08:01:00

(BPT) – As freelancers, we are at a major impasse within the larger future of work conversation. Freelancing has been booming around the world, with millions of professionals opting for the flexibility and autonomy it offers while businesses are relying more on freelancers to fill skill gaps in a pinch. According to 2023 research conducted by Harvard Business Review Analytic Services and Fiverr Business Solutions, freelancers make up over 20% of an organization’s output and will account for half of the United States workforce by 2027 per Statista.

Freelancing, despite its growing popularity and the allure of flexibility and independence, can be daunting. Navigating this increasingly competitive landscape requires more than just skill in your trade. It also takes a strategic approach to stand out and succeed.

Drawing from the insights and experiences of top freelancers who have just received Fiverr’s inaugural Breakthrough Achievement Recognition for surpassing $1 million in earnings on the platform, here are the secrets they’re unveiling to help you build a solid foundation, excelling in client management and sustaining long-term success in the freelance ecosystem to freelance like a pro.

Emphasize and Foster Client Relations

Beau Vallis, Grammy Nominated Mix Engineer:

Fiverr isn’t just a platform, it’s a gateway to showcasing your talents to a global audience. As you navigate its vibrant community, you quickly realize the power of connection. Each interaction fuels your passion, making every workday a thrilling adventure. Fiverr empowers you to dictate your schedule and be the master of your destiny.

Amidst the sea of talent, one factor reigns supreme: exceptional customer service. In a realm bustling with like-minded individuals, your swiftness, clarity of communication and client care become your distinguishing marks. I thrive on forging genuine bonds with every client, proud to now have thousands of friends here on the platform.

Whether actively engaged in a gig or simply conversing, I find myself chatting with many of them throughout my day. Fiverr transcends mere transactions — it’s a boundless world brimming with opportunities. Fiverr is the future. Fiverr is limitless.

Consistency is Key, Don’t Be Afraid to Build Gradually

Ada Mazurek, Designer:

Don’t worry if the big projects don’t roll in immediately. Start with smaller gigs to gain confidence and build your portfolio. Over time, as you gather more reviews and experience, bigger opportunities will naturally come your way. Stick with it, even when it feels slow! Regular updates to your gigs and consistently great work will help you stand out and maintain a steady flow of clients.

Quick and clear communication can make all the difference. Respond to inquiries and requests as promptly as possible. Being responsible with your project timelines and deliverables builds trust and can lead to repeat customers. Even though you might never meet your clients face-to-face, every interaction is an opportunity to build a lasting business relationship. Treat each client with respect and kindness, and they’ll likely return the favor with loyalty and recommendations.

Fiverr handles a lot of the administrative overhead, allowing you to focus on what you love doing. Use this to your advantage to hone your skills and experiment with new services that can enhance your offerings. Use the opportunity to continually develop your skills. The feedback you receive is invaluable for your professional growth, so take it seriously and use it to refine your approach.

Remember, every successful freelancer on Fiverr started exactly where you are now. With dedication and these strategies in mind, you’re well on your way to creating a thriving freelance career.

Constantly Evolve Your Skills and Grow Your Portfolio As You Go

Victoria Carroll, Professional Voice Actor:

Devote time to perfecting your skills and try to identify what makes your service unique. Fiverr is an incredible platform in that once you’ve established your offering, clients are able to come to you. It’s an incredible way to gain exposure for your business. Always be proactive, quick and kind when working with clients. You get what you put into it — if you devote yourself fully to becoming a freelancer on Fiverr, you’ll see wonderful returns.

Nancy Chauhan, Professional Graphic Designer:

For new or up-and-coming Fiverr freelancers, my advice would be to focus on building a strong portfolio that showcases your skills and expertise clearly. Be proactive in promoting your services, providing exceptional customer service, and delivering high-quality work consistently. Take advantage of Fiverr’s learning resources and community forums to continuously improve your skills and stay updated on industry trends. Finally, be patient and persistent, as success on Fiverr often takes time and dedication.

Ultimately, freelancing offers both an exciting and rewarding career path for all, but also requires strategy and dedication to truly succeed. By evolving your skills, persevering through challenges and maintaining a strong connection with your clients you can build a strong foundation for your online freelancing ventures and transform your independent work journey.

Working for yourself doesn’t just change your life; it can change the world. By leveraging these top tips, you can create a meaningful impact in your industry and beyond. Because as you embrace the freedom and possibilities that freelancing offers, you’ll find that your journey is not just a new career — but a path to creating the life that you want to live.