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4 Ways to Transform Your Morning Routine for a Healthier Start

2024-02-20T09:01:00

(BPT) – The way you start your morning can significantly impact your entire day. Incorporating healthy habits into your morning routine not only sets a positive tone but also promotes overall well-being. “A healthy self-care routine in the morning can help improve your mood, mindset and energy to name a few,” explains Dr. Kimbra Runyan, who is a chiropractor in St. Charles, Illinois. “I recommend four simple, yet effective, ways to set yourself up for a successful day every morning.”

1. Drink a Full Glass of Water:

After a night of sleep, your body is naturally dehydrated. Starting your day with a full glass of water is a crucial step to rehydrate, improve circulation and kickstart various bodily functions. Hydration is essential for overall health, and it also helps flush out toxins and jumpstarts your metabolism.

2. SP Power Mix from Standard Process:

Start your day strong with a nutritious blend of 22 superfoods in SP Power Mix, from Standard Process, a leading whole food-based nutritional supplement company. It’s a convenient way to provide a whole food, plant-based blend of phytonutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, oats and algae. Incorporating SP Power Mix into your morning routine is a delicious and hassle-free way to ensure you kick off the day with optimal nutrition.

3. Breakfast Before Coffee:

A nutritious and balanced breakfast provides sustained energy throughout the morning, preventing energy crashes that can result from relying solely on caffeine. It’s important to note that cortisol levels are highest in the morning, and consuming coffee on an empty stomach continues to increase cortisol levels. Therefore, having breakfast before coffee will help to decrease cortisol and balance blood sugar levels. Incorporate a mix of protein, healthy fats and carbohydrates for a well-rounded start to your day.

4. 5 Minutes of Mobility:

Adding a short mobility routine to your morning can contribute to improved flexibility, joint health, and overall mental and physical well-being. Gentle stretches, dynamic movements or yoga flows increase circulation, reduce stiffness, increase endorphins and enhance overall mobility. This practice not only prepares your body for the day ahead but also promotes a positive mindset.

Enhancing your morning routine doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating these simple yet impactful habits, you can set the stage for a healthier, more productive day. Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. So, start tomorrow morning with a glass of water, a balanced breakfast, a quick mobility routine and a serving of SP Power Mix to transform your mornings and, ultimately, your life.

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So, you want to build a retaining wall: 6 things to know before you start

2024-02-20T19:01:00

(BPT) – When you want to enhance your outdoor living space, consider building with retaining wall units. Segmental retaining wall (SRW) units are the basic building blocks of landscaping, and you will save on design and labor costs when you do it yourself. Whether you want to level a slope, build a sitting wall or add a raised patio, it’s essential to get informed before starting your project.

1. Check local rules. “Call 8-1-1 before you dig” is essential. Do-it-yourselfers also should check with their municipalities and homeowner’s associations for building codes, permits and/or property variance rules. Some municipalities require permits for walls up to four feet tall, although engineering might not be needed for that height with most SRW systems. A retaining wall taller than four feet might require geogrid for soil reinforcement and an approved design by a professional engineer. A landscaping supply store will know local permitting and can identify plans that might require an engineer.

2. Consider where you will buy supplies. A landscaping supply store is a great place to get educated, purchase landscaping products and rent tools such as a compactor. A dedicated landscaping store can help you choose which wall system is best suited to your project, calculate the materials you will need and offer advice before, during and after installation.

“Do-it-yourself customers are the foundation of who we serve at Patio Town stores,” said David Johnson, who manages one of Patio Town’s three locations in St. Paul/Minneapolis. “We have a team that will listen to what customers are thinking of doing, and then offer solutions and options. Should customers decide a project is more than they want to do, we can refer them to our design-build division, Villa Landscapes.”

3. Learn about retaining wall systems. Some systems are easier to install, and some require specialty pieces for corners, curves and steps. The VERSA-LOK Standard retaining wall system is easy to install, and no special pieces are needed to build features. VERSA-LOK Standard is a solid unit that is renowned for ease of installation as there are no voids in the unit to fill. Splitting the unit allows you to create curves, corners, columns, multi-angled corners, freestanding walls and steps.

4. Mark off, measure and photograph the project area. In addition to giving details about your project to your landscaping supplier, you might need advice to determine soil conditions or stormwater requirements. For example, clay soil retains water so it may need amendment, or the wall might require drainage pipes based on soil and other factors. You can discuss the content of your soil with landscaping store staff, who can offer ideas on remediation if needed.

5. It is all about the base. The base is the most important course. Retaining wall manufacturers and landscape suppliers can offer product-specific details on how to excavate and prep the base. After excavating a trench for the base, the subsoil should be compacted before a few inches of gravel is added and compacted. Make sure the area is level before starting the base course, which should be embedded half of the block’s height at a minimum. With solid units such as VERSA-LOK, there is no need for concrete footings as the base course serves as the foundation.

6. Finishing touches to consider. After each unit is placed and leveled, fill and compact the gravel placed behind the wall. Finish off your wall with capstone units that can be secured with adhesive; be sure your adhesive has elastic properties as modular walls are flexible so they can withstand freeze-thaw cycles.

Another important point to consider is the weather! Bad weather can hinder your installation. With a little planning, know-how and a trusted landscaping store that shares advice throughout your project, you can build successfully with retaining wall units.

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Oaklawn, Hot Springs: Where Forbes Stars Align

2024-02-20T12:01:01

(BPT) – Hot Springs, Arkansas, gets its name from the natural thermal water that flows from 47 ancient hot springs down into the heart of the city each day. The unique therapeutic qualities of the springs have attracted visitors to the city for more than a century to soak in the historic bathhouses.

Today, guests are finding more modern transformative treatments at Arkansas’ first and only spa to achieve the coveted Four-Star rating in the Forbes Travel Guide — Astral Spa at Oaklawn, Hot Springs. Oaklawn also received a desirable “Recommended” rating for the 198-room Oaklawn Hotel.

Forbes Travel Guide is an independent global rating system for luxury hotels and spas. Inspectors, posing as regular guests, visit the facilities unannounced and test approximately 900 standards to determine the rankings.

Louis Cella, president of Oaklawn, says the Forbes rating is quite an achievement for the spa and hotel, which opened in 2021.

“Our hotel is one of the finest hotels anywhere. You would have to get on an airplane and fly outside of Arkansas to see another Forbes Four-Star rated spa,” Cella said. “The standards that we must meet for such a rating are extremely high. However, we look forward to pushing the envelope and looking for opportunities to refine the guest experience even further in the future.”

Astral Spa is an adults-only facility that provides visitors with a luxurious, customized experience. The spa offers all the traditional services that guests expect such as massages, facials, skincare and body treatments. What makes Astral Spa one of only 201 Forbes Four-Star rated spas in the world are the premium amenities including a state-of-the-art fitness center, dedicated men’s and women’s wet lounges and locker rooms equipped with heated loungers, needle showers, steam rooms, infrared saunas, whirlpool tubs, cold rooms and a dedicated co-ed parlor.

There is also a couple’s suite with a soaking tub and exclusive couple-friendly amenities.

Oaklawn Hotel is located adjacent to one of the country’s premiere Thoroughbred racetracks. Race fans from across the globe travel to Hot Springs to experience racing at its highest level, with the best horses, best jockeys, best trainers and best owners. The road to the Kentucky Derby begins at Oaklawn.

A stay at Oaklawn offers guests valet services, an escort to your room by our friendly bellmen, luxurious room amenities, superb room service and concierge assistance for your every need.

Oaklawn is also home to fine dining, including two 2023 OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award recipients — The OAK room & bar and The Bugler.

The OAK room & bar features an innovative menu and one of the most extensive wine lists in the region. The Bugler offers carefully curated seafood and steak options and a spacious outdoor patio where guests can dine overlooking Oaklawn’s historic racetrack.

After a morning relaxing at Astral Spa, a day at the races and dinner at one of the world-class restaurants, guests can test their gaming skills at Oaklawn’s casino. There are several gaming options available including classic slots, table games and sports betting.

As the sun sets, Oaklawn’s resort transforms into a hub of live entertainment, where the Oaklawn Event Center stage comes alive with diverse and captivating performances from some of the biggest names performing today. Whether you prefer a night of soulful melodies or the thrill of a live comedy show, Oaklawn’s entertainment offerings promise to leave you enchanted.

A day at the Forbes Four-Star Astral Spa or a stay at the Forbes “Recommended” Oaklawn Hotel are not merely visits; they are immersions into the soul of Hot Springs, where the essence of the city’s history intertwines seamlessly with the modern allure of a world-class destination.

Indulge in the unique harmony of luxury, history and relaxation that only Oaklawn can provide. Discover a world where Forbes stars align, promising an unparalleled escape in the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas.

Must be 18 for race gambling and 21 for casino gaming. Always bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, please call 1-800-522-4700 or visit www.ncpgambling.org. Please drink responsibly. Learn more at Responsibility.org.

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Experts provide tips to avoid becoming a distracted driving statistic

2024-02-20T13:25:00

(BPT) – Multitasking has become the theme of the decade as people try to balance work, family and social obligations in a world where time seems to be shrinking while the number of things to do is expanding.

While multitasking might be a good strategy in some situations, it is potentially disastrous when you are behind the wheel of a car. Why? When you are in control of a multi-ton object going forward at freeway speeds, a little lapse in attention can have very serious consequences.

“We all understand the pressures of trying to do more in less time,” said Mercury VP, Claims, Kevin Quinn. “And in this era where connectivity feels critically important, many people don’t want to wait to field that text, look at the most recent TikTok, or return their boss’s email. But driving should take all of your attention, not just some of it.”

Quinn offers these suggestions to those who might find the temptations of distractions like social media, in-car entertainment and hunger to be difficult to resist:

  • Don’t text and drive. Texting using a smartphone keyboard requires a great deal of attention. Even using voice-to-text functions can take your attention from the road ahead. A recent Mercury Insurance survey revealed that over 1 in 4 American drivers have come dangerously close to or been involved in an accident due to texting behind the wheel.
  • Limit phone use on the road. Even hands-free phone use draws your attention from the driving task.
  • Don’t eat or drink when driving. These behaviors force driving with one hand on the steering wheel, a practice more dangerous than two-handed driving.
  • Don’t apply makeup when driving. Applying makeup necessitates looking in the mirror rather than down the road.
  • Secure personal items within the car. If something drops, don’t begin looking for it while still underway. It will still be in the car when you stop.
  • Secure pets in the car, and don’t let them wander around the cabin. Having your dog, cat or iguana on your lap might seem comforting, but that pet can become an instant distraction.
  • Set up the vehicle for driving before you get underway. Adjusting mirrors, seats, temperature and audio choices as you drive can pull your attention from the driving task for multiple seconds at a time.

Why does all this matter? Distracted driving accidents continue to be a national problem. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say nine people in the United States are killed every day in crashes that are reported to involve a distracted driver. According to DefensiveDriving.org, texting makes you eight times more likely to get into an accident. The impairments associated with using a cell phone while driving can be as damaging as those associated with driving while drunk.

Here are some sobering statistics from Mercury Insurance’s October 2023 survey of 1,000 active drivers on distracted driving behaviors:

  • 86% of active drivers think people are more distracted while driving compared to five years ago
  • 26% of active drivers have either come close or been in an accident due to texting and driving
  • 67% of active drivers do not wait until they’ve reached their destination before checking phone notifications
  • 66% of active drivers admit to using their phone while driving
  • 48% of active drivers have been distracted by their navigational system

While the problem of distracted driving is very real, there are hopeful signs on the horizon. Many auto manufacturers are now making voice-to-text and text reader systems more prevalent in the vehicles they build. Societal pressure is helping to make a dent in distracted driving, illustrated by the fact that 58% of respondents to the Mercury Insurance survey said that they are less likely to be on their phones when they have a passenger in the vehicle.

The best advice is this: When you are behind the wheel of an automobile, driving should be your only task. Everything else can wait.

For additional safety tips regarding distracted driving, visit:

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Tax Refund Checks More Important Than Ever, According To New Survey

2024-02-19T12:49:00

(BPT) – Straight Talk Wireless commissioned its second-annual survey to understand consumer sentiment around tax time and found that 60 percent of survey respondents say they are more in debt than last year and will file their taxes early.

The sooner taxpayers file, the faster they get their refund, which 61 percent say is vital to their household’s financial stability. But with consumer debt at a new high*, timing won’t be everything as the survey also showed that taxpayers continue to worry the money won’t be enough. Find out more here.

*The total household debt of $17.3 trillion entering 2024 is a new high for the U.S. The largest increase in any category was credit card debt, which swelled by 16.6% between Q3 2022 and Q3 2023, the most recent term for which federal data was available.

Survey methodology: This random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 general population Americans was commissioned by Straight Talk Wireless between January 16 and January 21, 2024. It was conducted by market research company OnePoll.

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What Nobody Tells You About Recovering from Breast Cancer

2024-02-19T08:01:00

(BPT) – Pain. Fatigue. Scars. Depression. These are side effects we often hear about and associate with life-saving mastectomy surgeries. But did you know that total or partial chest numbness is a common and often permanent side effect, as well?

“I remember taking my newborn daughter into my arms and putting her on my chest — but I couldn’t feel her skin. I didn’t know that she was there unless I looked at her,” says Jane, a breast cancer survivor who underwent a double mastectomy.

During a mastectomy, the nerves that supply sensation to the breasts are cut so that the breast tissue can be removed. For some people, this results in total or partial loss of feeling in their chest.

This can leave some without the ability to feel touch, pressure, or temperature on their chest. Imagine not being able to feel the full embrace of a hug or your child’s head resting on your chest. Moreover, imagine having no awareness that you’re experiencing a wardrobe malfunction or being burned by a curling iron. Not being able to feel roughly 10% of your body is not only a safety concern, but it can also be very disorienting —physically and psychologically.

Post-mastectomy chest numbness and the after-effects come as a surprise for many people. Even if loss of sensation was mentioned or covered in the paperwork leading up to surgery, many still feel like they were ill-informed about what to expect after mastectomy and the impact it may have on their daily lives.

Numbness greatly affects quality of life for many women and is a source of ongoing grief about what was lost, a constant reminder of the trauma they experienced, and a barrier to fully recovering physically, psychologically and emotionally.

Our connection to loved ones often starts with the chest. “It’s part of what we present to the world. It’s our heart space, for women in particular,” says Dr. Carla Marie Manly, a licensed clinical psychologist in Santa Rosa, Calif. “Skin-to-skin contact in the first hour after birth. Breastfeeding. Hugs. The chest is a life-long source of comfort, love, nourishment, and connection. Imagine that connection being severed by numbness following mastectomy.”

“Physical touch and sensation are two senses that help us navigate life. So total chest numbness may result in physical, psychosocial, intimacy, and self-esteem issues,” says Dr. Kristen Casey, a licensed clinical psychologist in Kansas City, Mo. “Numbness has a significant impact on quality of life for a number of people I’ve counseled. For women, breasts often signify an extra layer of safety that protects them and their heart and lungs. And for those experiencing numbness, that protection can feel non-existent. It’s almost like there’s a blank part of them — one missing puzzle piece they can’t find. And that’s really difficult.”

“Feeling whole and connected to oneself has many layers to it. And because our bodies are our home, if we cannot feel a part of our own body, we can feel disconnected from ourselves as individuals,” adds Dr. Manly. “When we don’t feel fully connected to ourselves, that can affect how we relate with others. If we feel less confident, broken, or disoriented, we may be hesitant to let people in. When a woman feels good about herself, she will show up more magnificently in the world.”

The good news is that numbness following mastectomy doesn’t have to be permanent. During breast reconstruction or some revision procedures, surgeons can reconnect the nerves that were previously cut using a nerve allograft to potentially restore sensation.

With advancements in surgical techniques and technology, it’s possible for women to not only look — but also feel — like themselves again after breast cancer. But more people need to be aware of post-mastectomy numbness and be educated on options to potentially restore feeling.

So, tell your family members, friends, coworkers and neighbors: breast cancer may take your breasts, but it doesn’t have to take away your power to feel a hug.

Learn about Resensation®, a surgical technique designed to restore sensation, at Resensation.com.

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Save on LG WashCombo and other appliances this Presidents Day

2024-02-16T15:47:00

(BPT) – Do you want to save money and electricity while modernizing your home? This Presidents Day, you can do both by taking advantage of LG’s deals now through Feb. 28.

LG is committed to providing energy-efficient solutions that are stylish and dependable for a cleaner, greener home. From thoughtful appliance features to groundbreaking technology, the company considers your wallet and the planet every step of the way. Check out these Presidents Day deals on top-rated kitchen and laundry appliances that will make your life easier and help you go green.

Keep your wardrobe fresh with an LG washer/dryer

Laundry has never been easier, thanks to LG’s washer/dryer units! The ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances use ventless inverter HeatPump™ technology, so you can enjoy quiet operation, greater energy efficiency and advanced fabric care.

Take back your time by bringing home an LG WashCombo All-in-One, now $1,000 off. The innovative 2-in-1 appliance washes and dries laundry in under two hours. Once you push start, you can go about your day without pausing a project or show to flip laundry. Built-in AI takes the guesswork out of fabric care, automatically detecting fabric texture and load size and selecting the right wash motions, temperatures and dry motions level.

If you want separate washer and dryer appliances in a single-unit design, consider LG WashTower and save $900. The front-load washer and dryer takes up half the space of a traditional washer and dryer setup. With the saved space, you can add a sink, folding table or organizational storage to reinvent how you do laundry. Plus, unlike conventional stacked pairs, LG’s exclusive Center Control® panel is easy to reach.

Control and monitor both appliances via the ThinQ® app. In the app, you’ll discover ThinQ Care™, which sends usage, maintenance and diagnostic alerts straight to your phone to keep your appliances running smoothly. Meanwhile, ThinQ® UP updates your appliances’ software, adding new features without additional purchases.

Test your culinary skills with LG cooking appliances

Are you ready to take your cooking to the next level? Impress friends and family by cooking delicious meals on an LG Smart Induction cooking appliance. The energy-efficient induction technology transfers heat directly to your cookware instead of the cooktop surface for fast heating, quick and even cooking and precise temperature control.

This Presidents Day, check out LG’s LSIL6334FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range with ProBake Convection® and Air Fry. As the first EnergyStar-certified cooking model in the U.S., you can quickly and confidently prepare meals using energy-efficient induction. Also, the LG ProBake Convection® oven automatically selects the lower speed for delicate baking or the higher speed for air frying and roasting.

Want even more convenience and cooking options? Look no further than LG’s LSIL6336FE Smart Induction Slide-in Range, now $500 off. You can turn out perfect batches of cookies, air fry hot wings and air sous vide meat, fish and vegetables. Also, the InstaView® Window lets you keep track of your creations without interrupting the cooking process. Just knock twice, take a peek and rest easy.

Like its laundry counterparts, the cooktop and oven are compatible with the ThinQ app, so you can control, maintain and check your kitchen appliances from anywhere.

Bundle and save even more!

You can save up to $500 this Presidents Day when you bundle two or more eligible LG appliances. Some kitchen appliances may even qualify for a $100 instant saving per item on up to four products on installation and/or haul away.

Make this Presidents Day one to remember with savings on top-tier home appliances that offer convenience and energy efficiency. To find more Presidents Day deals, visit LG.com/US/Promotions.

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Easy, delicious seafood options for Lent — and every day

2024-02-16T07:05:00

(BPT) – Whether you’re looking to expand your protein options during Lent or want to try new twists on your seafood favorites, Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood offers plenty of easy-to-prepare, delicious frozen options that your whole family is sure to enjoy. Look for products from Morey’s for convenient and affordable ways to satisfy your inner “seafoodie” this season and all year long.

Embrace the latest flavor craze: Sweet chili

Did you know almost half of consumers (46%) say they love or like the flavor of sweet chili and, according to Datassential, 42% say that sweet chili is their most preferred Asian-style sauce? Morey’s has found a perfect pairing with Tilapia Sweet Chili, a restaurant-quality entree that features ASC-certified tilapia, frozen at the peak of freshness, along with that beloved sweet and spicy sauce.

To take this new product one step further, try this recipe that highlights Morey’s Tilapia Sweet Chili by combining it with fresh veggies and your favorite Asian-style noodles.

Tilapia Asian Noodle Bowl

This noodle bowl is packed with savory flavors thanks to ingredients like fresh ginger, sesame, cilantro, and the sweet and spicy marinade featuring notes of honey, soy, peppers and garlic. Snap peas, bell peppers, cabbage and green onions add pops of color and freshness when tossed with flaky Tilapia Sweet Chili and deliciously springy udon noodles. The veggie- and flavor-packed dish makes an easy weeknight dinner, plus you can enjoy leftovers — warm or cold — for lunch!

Prep time: 15 minutes; Cook time 15–20 minutes; Serves 2

Ingredients

1 package Morey’s Tilapia Sweet Chili, prepared according to package directions
6 ounces cooked udon noodles or other favorite Asian-style noodle
2 tablespoons coconut, avocado or olive oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup snap peas, sliced in half lengthwise
1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons water
1 cup red cabbage, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 green onions, sliced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Lime wedges

Instructions

Cook fish: Prepare Tilapia Sweet Chili fillets according to package directions.

Prepare vegetables: While the tilapia is cooking, heat oil in saute pan over medium heat. Add minced ginger and garlic and cook 1 minute. Add snap peas and bell peppers and cook 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce. Remove vegetables and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons water, 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce and red cabbage, cooking until red cabbage is wilted, then remove cabbage and set aside.

To serve: Add remaining 2/3 cup sweet chili sauce, soy sauce and cooked noodles to pan. Toss to coat and heat through until noodles start to caramelize. Divide noodles on two plates, arrange cooked tilapia on top and add vegetables on the side. Garnish with green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds, squeeze of lime and extra sweet chili sauce.

Dive into a lemony fresh fan favorite

If salmon is one of your favorite varieties of fish, you’ll love Morey’s Wild Salmon Lemon Herb, which is full of fresh flavors that are just perfect for spring. This chef-inspired wild salmon dish is prepared in a citrus-style marinade that is sure to wake up your taste buds. It’s so easy to prepare that you’ll gladly — and quickly — put it together in your own kitchen rather than going out to eat, any night of the week.

Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood offers a variety of better-for-you, premium seafood options that are easy to prepare and bold in flavor, including fillets paired with chef-inspired marinades and more. Their responsibly sourced, premium-quality seafood is the perfect way to create a five-star dinner at home for all your family and friends this Lent — and all year long.

You can find these and other products at retailers near you, and at Moreys.com.

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5 tips to help your student thrive this year

2024-02-15T07:01:01

(BPT) – Do you remember how challenging school could be? As a parent, it’s easy to forget that studying and homework aren’t always easy. Your child needs your support and guidance to help stay on task with studies and achieve at the highest level.

Don’t know where to start? Check out these top five tips to help support your student’s educational journey so they can thrive academically this year.

1. Get organized

Messy and cluttered school supplies are a recipe for frustration. Encourage your student to keep notes and handouts organized to quickly and easily locate what is needed for any assignment. Encourage your student to pick out notebooks, folders and binders in favorite colors and designs. Let your student label or decorate front covers and assign a subject to each.

Take organization to the next level with a digital tool like the Five Star® Study App. Using the app and Five Star compatible notebooks, folders and academic planners, your student can scan handwritten notes and handouts to access study materials anytime, anywhere!

Once digitized, your student can add, revise and arrange notes as needed, organizing materials into digital folders that correspond with physical notebook colors. The free app provides your child with the best of physical and digital studying and even turns notes and handouts into digital flashcards.

2. Create a consistent study routine

It may sound simple, but establishing a consistent study routine can go a long way to help your student succeed in school. Creating a routine develops time management and prioritization skills for tasks and projects.

Guide your student to set a time each day for homework and studying, for example right after school, before or after dinner or extracurriculars. If a certain time isn’t working, suggest a change to find a time and rhythm that works best.

No matter what time of day they choose, consistency is the most important aspect of a study routine. After a couple of weeks, the study routine will become a habit that provides consistency and stability so your child can focus on tasks with minimal distractions.

3. Set realistic goals

A large project or study packet can be overwhelming and discouraging for anyone, let alone a young scholar. Expecting to finish a large assignment or study for a big test in one sitting can seem daunting and cause undue anxiety.

Help your child avoid panic and stress by helping set realistic and achievable study goals. Demonstrate how to break down big assignments into smaller tasks, and even create a task list to check off as each one is completed.

Using a tool like the Five Star Study App, your child can set reminders for different tasks, tackle them at a steady pace, and meet deadlines, building a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, this practice fosters a growth mindset and builds perseverance.

4. Encourage handwritten notes

Typing notes may be more convenient, but handwritten notes can give your child an academic edge. Many research studies suggest that writing on paper improves recall and allows notetakers to better understand complicated concepts.

You don’t have to sacrifice the power of paper for the convenience of digital. Your student can have the best of both worlds, thanks to the Five Star brand. Students can scan handwritten notes from compatible Five Star school supplies into the study app. To learn more about the Five Star Study App, visit FiveStarBuiltStrong.com.

5. Take regular breaks

Nonstop studying can quickly lead to burnout and less productivity. During study sessions, invite your child to take a break. Take a walk together, do some quick stretches, or simply ask them to step away from the study area and go outside to get some fresh air. When returning to study, your student will feel refreshed and ready to tackle the remaining assignments.

Every child is different, so collaborate with your students to find the best strategies that fit their learning style. However your child decides to study, your support is the most important tool in their arsenal. Using these five tips and fostering a positive attitude toward learning, you can help set up your child for academic success in 2024.

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Did you know heart palpitations can tell the story of your heart? Sometimes these flutters can be a sign of changes to your heart health

2024-02-13T14:49:00

(BPT) – Read on to learn the power of heart rhythms to tell your heart health story …

Heart rhythms can tell a story with the power to help change a life.

You may have heard of heart palpitations because they are common[1], accounting for 16% of visits to primary care physicians and are the second leading cause of visits to cardiologists[2]. Often perceived as mere inconveniences, heart palpitations can be important cues from our bodies. While they are sometimes caused by temporary stressors, they may also signify deeper health concerns like arrhythmias that require medical attention.

An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat where your heart may beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly. One study shows that up to 5% of the general population — or 16 million people[3] — experience arrhythmias. Some arrhythmias, if not treated, can damage the heart, brain or other organs.[4] Other arrhythmias may even lead to an increased risk of stroke or death.[5] And for the person experiencing one, arrhythmias can feel scary.

Causes and Risk Factors

How can you do better by your heart? First and foremost, you can reduce risk factors for arrhythmias. Risk factors that may affect an individual’s risk of arrhythmia include heart disease, high blood pressure, high alcohol use, obesity and family history.[6] Arrhythmias and related conditions are more common in those over 60 years of age,[7] and can be particularly dangerous if undetected.

And, for early detection, it is worthwhile talking with your healthcare provider as there are advancements in heart monitoring technologies that offer lightweight, wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) patches that seamlessly integrate into your daily life and record important heart rhythms and help tell your individualized story of cardiac health.

Types of Arrhythmias

In general, heart arrhythmias are grouped by the speed of the heart rate. For example, tachycardia is a fast heartbeat, while bradycardia is a slow heartbeat[8].

Atrial fibrillation, or Afib, is a common arrhythmia, with an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm (tachycardia). There are 5-8 million people with Afib in the U.S., with up to 1.5 million adults living with Afib who don’t even know they have it.[9] In fact, Afib causes one out of seven strokes[10], and 160,000 deaths per year.[11]

Early Detection is Vital

Being proactive about your heart health is critical. And that includes early detection and treatment of arrhythmias to reduce the burden of cardiac disease.[12]

While arrhythmias are treatable, your path may depend on the specific type of arrhythmia. Evaluating your unique treatment journey requires a diagnosis from a doctor.

A Path Forward

The path to getting a diagnosis and understanding your specific arrhythmia hasn’t always been easy. Not so long ago, finding out if you had an arrhythmia required a hospital or clinic visit to get an ECG. But as arrhythmia symptoms often come and go, and an ECG can capture the exact time your heartbeat is irregular. An in-clinic ECG scan sometimes meant that getting a diagnosis required repeat ECGs or the condition was missed altogether.

Today, while doctors still widely use Holter monitors to detect arrhythmias — wired, clunky devices introduced in the 1960s that are worn for only 24 to 48 hours — clinical studies have shown that longer ECG recording periods are more effective[13] because some people could go days or weeks without an episode. In fact, three out of four patients who use a Holter monitor do not get a diagnosis on the first test.[14]

Nowadays, even a smartwatch can tell you that you might have atrial fibrillation, by tracking your pulse to see if it becomes irregular, though the accuracy is not always perfect. If you have any symptoms or get a smartwatch alert, take heed — but know that you will likely still need an ECG to get a diagnosis from your doctor.

The good news is that modern ECG monitors can be worn at home and continuously record your heart’s electrical signal for longer than 24 to 48 hours if your doctor prescribes it. iRhythm has been creating these types of ECG monitors since 2008 and has recently launched its next generation monitoring device, the Zio monitor. The device is a discreet adhesive patch and a sensor the size of a quarter, weighing less than a pencil[15], with no clunky wires and no need to change batteries during the wear period.

Recordings from these Zio ECG monitoring devices continuously record your heart for up to 14 days — capturing up to 1.5 million heart beats[16] — and can help doctors accurately diagnose heart arrhythmias.

“Palpitations, skipped beats, and other heart-rhythm symptoms can be a nuisance and affect quality of life. However, sometimes they tell a greater story and may signal a more serious condition like atrial fibrillation, which can cause stroke and heart failure,” said Mintu Turakhia, MD, MAS, a cardiologist and the chief medical and scientific officer at iRhythm. “Because these rhythms can be treated and complications prevented, early detection is key. The good news is there are heart monitoring technologies that can help get to a diagnosis quickly — or give you peace of mind.”

In a world where our health is paramount, understanding and responding to our heart’s rhythms is a powerful step toward longevity and well-being. So, listen to your heart, embrace the technological strides in cardiac monitoring, and take proactive steps towards heart health. Your heart’s story is worth knowing, and with the right tools and care, you can help ensure it’s a long and healthy one.

Newer heart monitoring technology is helping in the shift to more preventative and proactive treatment and care, providing an effective way to diagnose arrhythmias and protect your health. If you or your loved one has symptoms of arrhythmias, talk to your physician or care team to learn more if heart monitoring is right for you and the best option for your situation.

[1] Raviele A, Giada F, Bergfeldt L, et al. Management of patients with palpitations: a position paper from the European Heart Rhythm Association. Europace. 2011;13(7):920-934.

[2] Wexler, et al. Palpitations: Evaluation in the Primary Care Setting. Am Fam Physician, 2017.

[3] Desai et al. Arrhythmias. StatPearls [Internet], 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558923/ [accessed October 2022]

[4] What is an arrhythmia? National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, 2022. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/arrhythmias Accessed November 18, 2022

[5] Ataklte et al. Meta-analysis of ventricular premature complexes and their relation to cardiac mortality in general populations. The American Journal of Cardiology, 2013.

Lin et al. Long-Term Outcome of Non-Sustained Ventricular Tachycardia in Structurally Normal Hearts. PLOS ONE, 2016.

Wolf et al. Atrial fibrillation as an independent risk factor for stroke: the Framingham Study. Stroke, 1991.

[6] Arrhythmias: causes and triggers. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI), 2022

[7] Mirza, M. et al,. Mechanisms of arrhythmias and conduction disorders in older adults. Clin Geriatr Med., 2012

[8] https://www.heart.org/-/media/Files/Health-Topics/Answers-by-Heart/What-is-Arrhythmia.pdf

[9] Turakhia MP, et al., Contemporary prevalence estimates of undiagnosed and diagnosed atrial fibrillation in the United States. Clin Cardiol, 2023.

[10] Heart Rhythm Society. (2019). Complications from Atrial Fibrillation.

[11] Atrial Fibrillation. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/atrial_fibrillation.htm [accessed September 2023]

[12] Rilig et al. Early Rhythm Control in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and High Comorbidity Burden. Circulation, 2022.

[13] Reynolds et al. Comparative effectiveness of ambulatory monitors for arrhythmia diagnosis: A retrospective analysis of Medicare beneficiaries managed with ambulatory cardiac monitors between 2017 and 2019. Accepted for ACC.23 presentation, presented at New Orleans, LA.

[14] Tsang, et al., Benefits of monitoring patients with mobile cardiac telemetry (MCT) compared with the Event or Holter monitors. Medical Devices: Evidence and Research, 2013.

[15] 10g

[16] Data on file. iRhythm Technologies, 2019.