Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-03-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – Spending time together as a family in the great outdoors provides ample opportunities to create treasured memories. Out in nature, you can unwind and discover the world’s natural wonders while bonding with those you love.

Of course, a great camping trip doesn’t happen by accident. If you’ve been camping before, you know that careful planning can make or break your outdoor experience. As you plan your next camping adventure, check out these four tips that can help elevate your family vacation.

1. Create a storage system

A storage system can streamline packing and unpacking your camping items. Use clear plastic bins so you can quickly see and find what you need when you need it.

Remember to include a list of items on each bin lid so everyone in your family can help keep your gear organized. For example, store cookware, utensils, and dishes in one bin and include a list of the individual items and how many of each are in the bin. Consider meal prepping, investing in durable food containers, and organizing them in bins or coolers.

Not only does a storage system help you stay organized throughout your trip, but it also makes storing your equipment between trips easier. When you’re ready for your next outdoor adventure, simply grab your bins and go!

2. Upgrade your gear

Basic gear can do the job, but if your family goes camping often, it’s time to invest in high-quality equipment for comfort and convenience.

For example, consider purchasing larger tents with room dividers so everyone can have a little privacy during the family vacation. Many larger tents also come with a vestibule, allowing you to remove muddy boots and gear outside the tent while remaining sheltered from the elements.

Beyond tents, look into upgrading your camping chairs, sleeping cots and cooking equipment. Also, pick up a power station like the Anker SOLIX C800 Plus Portable Power Station. With just one power station, you can power up to 10 devices at once, including electric stoves, coffee makers, kettles and other camping appliances to enhance your camping experience.

3. Light it up

Once the sun sets, campgrounds can get very dark. To help you navigate at night and keep the good times rolling long after sunset, make sure to bring enough lighting! String fairy lights inside tents and popups for soft mood lighting. Grab extra stake lights from your garden and place them along the entrance to your campsite and in front of tents to help light the way during a nighttime bathroom run. Make sure to have lanterns, flashlights and headlamps on hand, too.

For more illumination, just break out the C800 power station, equipped with two water-resistant LED camping lights with three lighting modes — candle, flood and flashlight — lasting up to eight hours, ensuring peace of mind as the sun sets.

4. Embrace outdoor entertainment

Just because you’re outdoors doesn’t mean you can’t bring a little digital entertainment with you. Take photos, record videos or watch a movie under the stars so you can capture memories while you make them.

To hold your equipment, use the C800’s retractable pole, which you can turn into a hanger, tripod or selfie stick. Just attach lights, cameras, phones or a projector to the pole. Now, you won’t have to worry about the stability of your video! Enjoy the picture-perfect clarity whether you’re watching or making content during your family adventure.

Let these four tips help you elevate your family camping experience. By making your outdoor adventure more comfortable and convenient, you’re sure to make memories your family will remember fondly for years to come.

2024-03-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – While minimalist dressing isn’t an entirely new trend, the term “quiet luxury” was popularized in 2023 and inspired by a timelessly chic approach to fashion. This timeless aesthetic is all about taking a bespoke, understated approach to dressing as an antithesis to the “fast fashion” movement.

Enter the Little Planet Spring 2024 collection ­— a collection of quiet luxury essentials designed just for your little ones. Little Planet elevates your child’s wardrobe with classic basics made in the softest organic and sustainable fabrics.

Starting with pieces like organic cotton tees, 2-piece gauze sets and the signature stitch cardigan, you can create a neutral capsule wardrobe that can be paired and worn in many ways. While quiet luxury focuses on luxury items, the look can be achieved on a budget while focusing on a few elevated everyday essentials.

What Makes Little Planet ‘Quiet Luxury’

The quiet luxury movement leads with an air of elegance, timelessness and quality. All Little Planet styles are designed with sustainability in mind and crafted with organic cotton and recycled materials. With its classic styles and silhouettes and forgoing any large logos or branding, Little Planet has stayed true to its unique identity and ageless designs.

The clothes that embody the minimalist dressing approach are often in neutral colors, understated and simple. Little Planet offers basics that adhere to a minimal neutral color palette. The entire collection, no matter the season, has been meaningfully designed to pair seamlessly with any style offered on the site or in stores.

What You’ll Find This Season

Family Matching Moments

Just recently, Little Planet extended its sizing options from baby and toddler to include kid sizes as well. This means that Little Planet’s most-loved styles can now be found all the way up to size 8. This size expansion creates new possibilities for family matching moments and allows for designs to be passed down from sibling to sibling as little ones grow.

Chambray Classics

Spring 2024 brings a fresh new introduction of chambray styles made with GOTS certified organic cotton. Soft and light chambray meets Little Planet’s signature silhouettes in classic shortalls, babydoll dresses, button-down shirts and of course the ever-popular bubble.

Inspired by Nature

Little Planet’s designers’ inspiration consists of styles that match back to the prehistoric animal print and dreamy vintage floral. The genius behind these designs creates endless mix-and-match potential with neutral colors and prints that pair with almost anything from Little Planet’s styles.

Meet the whole collection at SHOPLITTLEPLANET.COM | To the future with love^®

2024-03-13T07:01:01

(BPT) – The verdict is in, Punxsutawney Phil said spring is early this year — and that means it’s time to start planning for spring travel. While the goal of most trips is to relax, sometimes the cost of those trips and the planning that goes into it can be sources of stress. According to a recent Forbes Advisor Survey, nearly half of American travelers are likely to change their travel plans in 2024 due to high costs and inflation.

Vacation expenses can pile up, from airfare, hotels, car rentals and even healthcare needs, turning relaxing getaways into travel headaches. But not for AARP members, according to Steve Guilday, AARP Services Travel Director.

“The goal of a vacation is to take your mind off of your everyday stressors and AARP members have the opportunity to save critical dollars on some of the typically hefty travel expenses by utilizing their benefits,” said Guilday. “Whether traveling solo or with family and friends, AARP member benefits provide the savings you need to kick up your feet and enjoy that trip away from home.”

1. Dream Savings at Resorts

If resort life is calling you but you don’t want to break the bank, AARP members can save up to 10% off the best available rate at Hilton Hotels, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts and Choice Hotels. At Hilton, members receive late check-out until 2 p.m. when available. Add your AARP membership number to your Hilton Honors profile to ensure AARP rates surface when booking and to get instant Hilton Honors Silver status at all Hilton hotels, including Hampton by Hilton and Embassy Suites. Wyndham Rewards^® members earn points on qualified stays and receive exclusive members-only perks. From all-inclusive and beachfront getaways to road trip-ready locations, there’s a Hotel by Wyndham waiting to welcome you, including Trademark Collection^®, La Quinta^® and Wyndham Grand^®. With Choice Hotels, explore nearly 7,500 of their locations worldwide, including Country Inn & Suites, Cambria Hotels, Comfort Inn & Suites and Quality Inn.

2. Say Goodbye to Stress and Anxiety

Meditation and mindfulness have benefits that have become a core focus for people in recent years. According to FinancesOnline, approximately 200-500 million people engage in meditation worldwide, taking advantage of these mental and emotional benefits every single day. Meditation and calming your mind can also contribute to a more restful sleep. Many people have a hard time sleeping when they’re away from home, but you can get a good night’s rest and clear your mind while traveling with the click of a button by downloading Calm. AARP members receive an annual 30% off the first three years of their Calm Premium annual subscription, to help you get the relaxing sleep you need during your trip, or the night before a big departure.

Looking for another way to unwind? Wyndham Hotels & Resorts offers access to spa deals and packages at select locations across the world, including Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach in Clearwater, FL, and Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa in Tucson, AZ. Choose from blissful treatments like massages, facials, body wraps and more.

3. Great Deals for Reliable Wheels

Whether you’re looking to explore nearby local spots or traveling afar to view this year’s solar eclipse on April 8, Avis and Budget take the load of expensive car rentals off your shoulders to help you explore new destinations.

AARP members save up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% when selecting Pay Now and will receive a 3% credit to apply to rentals within 12 months. Plus, members get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability), and an additional driver at no cost.

4. Feel Good When You’re on the Go

The cost of prescriptions should be the last thing on your mind when you’re preparing for a vacation. AARP^® Prescription Discounts Provided by Optum Rx^® can help keep the costs of those prescriptions down, so you can spend your money on fun excursions or a relaxing spa day at your destination. AARP members and nonmembers can get a free prescription discount card that can be used at over 66,000 pharmacies nationwide for savings on FDA-approved medications. AARP members also receive additional benefits, like deeper discounts on medications, home delivery, coverage for dependents and more.

Before you leave for your spring trip, consider getting your hearing checked so you can enjoy your vacation to the fullest. With AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare^® Hearing, members can save an average of $2,000 per pair on prescription hearing aids and 15% on accessories — no insurance needed! Plus, receive a no-cost hearing exam and consultation with personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing care professionals. Whether your destination is tranquil nature or the middle of a bustling city, vacation is better when you can hear the world around you.

To learn more about the benefits and discounts for AARP members to help you prepare for spring travel, please visit aarp.org/save.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties. AARP receives a royalty fee for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions.

2024-03-12T09:35:00

(BPT) – Each year, industry leaders premiere their latest and greatest kitchen and bath products at the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) — North America’s largest trade show dedicated to all aspects of kitchen and bath design.

At KBIS, trends are established. This year, the standout trend is the combination of technology and sustainability.

According to smart lifestyle expert Carley Knobloch, “I never believed it was enough to be able to remotely control our appliances from our smartphones. A truly smart home solves real problems and rises up to meet you where you are to make things easier and more comfortable. It was great to see how dialed-in smart kitchen appliances have become to both of those missions, whether it be by optimizing food preservation or taking the guesswork out of creating a beautiful and healthy dinner for one’s family.”

You don’t have to be in the industry to find out which brands and products are on the cutting edge. Check out these four home appliances that can transform your life with ease, performance and efficiency.

1. Smart washer/dryer makes laundry a breeze

Bring accessibility, energy efficiency and convenience to your home with the 5.0-cubic-foot Mega Capacity Smart WashCombo™. In just under two hours, you can run a complete wash and dry cycle without transferring clothes.

As the largest capacity combo model available, the All-in-One WashCombo™ tackles heavy loads — including king-size comforters — without a special electrical hookup. Best of all, the appliance uses 60% less energy than a traditional LG vented model thanks to LG’s Inverter HeatPump™. The proprietary technology delivers quiet operation and the greatest energy efficiency of all washer/dryer combos.

2. Smart induction cooktops marry aesthetics and performance

Homeowners might be interested in the new ENERGY STAR certification for select cooking appliances. Take, for instance, smart induction cooktops like those from LG (available in 30- and 36-inch sizes) and a 36-inch model from Signature Kitchen Suite; they are the first in the industry to earn this distinction. The innovative kitchen appliances are as beautiful as they are efficient. Enjoy the stylish and professional look and feel of a ceramic induction cooktop that delivers exceptional power, precision and responsiveness for fast, efficient heating and even cooking. Plus, cleaning is simple with the SmoothTouch Glass Controls and smooth surface.

3. Transform your kitchen into a chef’s dream with a kitchen suite

Luxury brand Signature Kitchen Suite’s Transitional Series features built-in kitchen appliances spanning cooking, refrigeration and dishwasher categories for those who prefer transitional and contemporary kitchen designs. The collection of appliances features slimmer handles — a deliberate departure from conventional pro-style control knobs — and a satin stainless steel finish for an enhanced sleek aesthetic. Advanced smart technology empowers today’s forward-thinking home chefs to curate a true culinary experience.

Leading the collection is the Signature Kitchen Suite 30-inch Double Wall Oven. An innovative built-in camera lets home chefs monitor their dishes in real time, take snapshots and capture shareable time-lapse videos. Also, integrating the built-in camera with artificial intelligence propels the brand’s new “Gourmet AI” food recognition technology, which identifies ingredients and effortlessly generates delectable recipe suggestions through the ThinQ App.

4. Save more with Heat Pump Water Heaters

The new Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater from LG helps homeowners save money and reduce energy usage and their carbon footprint. This energy-efficient hot water solution combines heat pump technology with LG’s advanced smart control systems, raising the bar for residential water heaters. It is a highly energy-efficient alternative to conventional water heaters, surpassing ENERGY STAR certification requirements, and is available in a variety of capacities.

With potential energy savings of up to 76% compared to conventional electric heaters, the Inverter Heat Pump Water Heater minimizes reliance on supplemental electric resistance heat. According to EnergyStar.gov, heat pump water heaters earning ENERGY STAR certification can save a household of four approximately $550 per year on electric bills compared to a standard electric water heater and more than $5,610 over the product’s lifetime.

LG and Signature Kitchen Suite jointly received 12 awards and accolades during KBIS, including recognition as a finalist in KBIS’s DesignBites. Additionally, the LG WashCombo was honored as a Best of KBIS finalist in the sustainability standout category.

To learn about these and other groundbreaking, sustainable products, visit LG.com/US and SignatureKitchenSuite.com.

2024-03-12T14:01:00

(BPT) – Each March, AmeriCorps celebrates the work of its members and volunteers through AmeriCorps Week. In 2024, there is even more reason to celebrate as AmeriCorps marks its 30th anniversary.

From rebuilding after disasters, combatting hunger, and supporting veterans and military families to helping students stay on track, assisting seniors with living independently, and advancing economic opportunity, AmeriCorps Week honors the millions who have committed to get things done for America for the past three decades.

Meet five AmeriCorps members and volunteers who are making a difference in their communities.

Dionne Johnson – Center for Community Health & Prevention in Rochester, NY

Everyone was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic — including Dionne Johnson, who lost a loved one to the virus.

“I had a family member die from COVID-19, and it really touched me,” Johnson said. “That gave me the passion and lit the fire under me to actually pursue a career in public health.”

Now, Johnson is realizing her dreams of transforming public health in her community as a Public Health AmeriCorps member. In her work, she wants to teach people in Black and brown communities how they can learn to be healthy and advocate for themselves.

Chartell Grissom – Storytime Village in Wichita, Kansas

Lead For America Hometown fellow Chartell Grissom served as an AmeriCorps member with Storytime Village in Wichita, Kan. Her service focused on implementing programming to build a love of reading among children in high-need communities.

Beyond the local impact she made, Grissom remarked that her service year and connections to her AmeriCorps peers were critical in enriching her nationwide perspective, building her leadership skills, and growing her confidence.

“As we say at Storytime Village, ‘It takes a village,’ and I am so grateful for my village,” noted Grissom.

Joanna Urive – Public Defender Agency in Anchorage, Alaska

Joanna Urive is an AmeriCorps alum who served at the Public Defender Agency in Anchorage, Alaska.

Clients of the agency often struggle with access to basic needs, and AmeriCorps members assist them with accessing substance use disorder treatment, housing, and public assistance.

Urive has gone above and beyond to support her clients and received the “Innovative Service” award at the Excellence in AmeriCorps Awards in 2023.

Iris Firgens – Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc., in Wisconsin

The Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council, Inc., recruits the community’s tribal elders to serve as AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companions to their fellow elders, promoting health, well-being, and cultural connections.

Iris Firgens, a Senior Companion from the Menominee Nation, said “I joined AmeriCorps Seniors Senior Companion Program because I think it’s very important to help elders who are alone. They need companionship and friendship — someone they know they can count on.”

Firgens was recognized as Volunteer of the Year – Northeast Wisconsin at the Governor’s Service Awards.

Demetrius Bonafide – National Immigrant Justice Center in Chicago

AmeriCorps members help the National Immigrant Justice Center build capacity, streamline processes, and engage thousands of volunteers so that more people can receive immigration legal services.

AmeriCorps VISTA member Demetrius Bonafide shared, “I joined AmeriCorps because public service opportunities provide a unique experience to address poverty within underserved communities and build capacity-based solutions. My most memorable moment during service was witnessing testimonial victories by immigrant clients at celebrations.”

AmeriCorps Week is a time to recognize and thank members and volunteers like these and the more than 200,000 other Americans who serve with AmeriCorps each year and leave their communities better than they found them. For more information about AmeriCorps’s programs and to find ways to get involved, visit AmeriCorps.gov.

2024-03-11T13:11:00

(BPT) – Gerber Childrenswear’s biggest sale of the year is back — and bigger than ever. The spring Semi-Annual Sale of 2024 is well loved by parents for deep discounts and includes some of the lowest prices of the year on everything for baby and toddler.

Looking to stock up on favorites, bigger sizes and new spring faves? There are deals for every little one in your life:

The Original Onesies^® Brand Bodysuits

Designed for ease and movement, parents everywhere love the original Onesies^® brand bodysuits from Gerber Childrenswear. With so many styles, patterns and silhouettes available, it’s the perfect time to stock up on bodysuits to take you through the seasons ahead. Choose from sleeveless to long-sleeve and everyday solids to the trendiest prints. During the sale, shoppers can score Onesies^® brand bodysuits for just $2 each.

Super Cozy Sleep ‘N Plays

Ask any parent what their go-to outfit is for little ones and the sounds of Sleep ‘N Plays will ring loudly. They’re the ultimate loungewear, specifically designed to keep baby comfy all day (or night) while they do the things they love. Scoop up multipacks in a variety of colors and prints during the sale as low as $5 each.

Buttery Soft Viscose Sets for All-Day Play

For parents who love the soft feel and all-day comfort of viscose apparel but not the high price that comes with it, you’re going to want to jump on this deal — Our Softest Edit is available for its lowest price ever, starting at $8 and up. Made predominantly from eucalyptus and blended with Spandex, the collection of pajamas, rompers and dresses has a variety of solids and prints to choose from. It’s the perfect collection for busy babies and active toddlers.

Fun Toys for Early Learning

Whether you have a basket to fill, a new baby in your life or a spring birthday coming up, Gerber’s line of soft toys are the perfect gift. Including super snuggly security blankets and more stimulating options, these soft toys are a steal at $5 each.

Gerber Childrenswear is your one-stop shop for baby and toddler essentials that won’t break the bank. Stock up on your favorite styles now through March 17.

2024-03-11T11:27:00

(BPT) – Did you know nearly 8 in 10 Americans are trying to improve their sleep this year? In a recent survey, nearly half ranked this goal as their number one priority. If getting better sleep is at the top of your list to improve your health, you may want to review habits which could be preventing you from getting a full night of deep, restorative sleep. This is even more crucial when your schedule changes, such as during spring break or when you have to move clocks forward for daylight saving time.

A survey conducted by One Poll on behalf of Herbalife examined sleep habits of 5,000 Americans, split evenly by state, to reveal who’s getting the best sleep, how many hours per night they’re sleeping, plus typical habits around this often-overlooked aspect of health and well-being.

Discoveries from the survey include the fact that respondents in California appear to get the best sleep, South Carolina coming in second and New York coming in third, with Maryland and New Jersey tied at fourth place. However, while experts recommend adults sleep for 7-9 hours per night, respondents in California report getting just over 6 1/2 hours of sleep per night.

Regardless of where they live, over half of respondents (55%) can’t remember the last time they had a “perfect night” of sleep, and 78% can’t recall when they last had a “perfect week” of sleep. While “perfect” sleep might be unattainable, less than half (48%) said yes when asked whether they know how to get a good night’s sleep — and 66% of respondents admit that within two hours before bed, they watch TV or scroll through their phone for extended periods of time, which are not recommended as activities conducive to good sleep.

“Getting good quality sleep is essential for everyone,” said John Heiss, Ph.D., and vice president of Global Product Innovation, Herbalife. “Sleep supports important functions including metabolism and brain health and can have an impact on conditions including heart disease, obesity and depression.”

How to get better sleep every night

To help you sleep longer and more deeply, try incorporating these habits into your daily routine.

Don’t overeat near bedtime: Eating lighter, low-fat meals at dinner eases digestion, and healthy carbohydrates (think whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes) help stimulate production of brain chemicals that can help you relax and get to sleep. Experts also advise limiting food intake within three hours of bedtime.

Lessen caffeine and alcohol intake: Both caffeine and alcohol can disrupt your normal sleep patterns. You may be able to fall asleep, but it could be harder to stay asleep, preventing you from reaching the deepest and most restful stage of sleep.

Boost exercise: Evidence suggests getting at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity during each day can help improve your sleep quality.

Keep a regular schedule: Experts also recommend going to sleep and waking the same time each day, even on weekends and holidays. This creates a predictable sleep rhythm your body will begin to anticipate. You can prepare for changes in your routine, including when you must “spring forward” your clock, by gradually adjusting your schedule.

Try stress-reduction techniques: Extensive research on the benefits of relaxation techniques like meditation, breathing exercises and reading show they can all help reduce stress. These practices can help reduce insomnia if you do them regularly, especially before bedtime.

Develop a bedtime routine: To help prepare for sleep, dim house lights in the evening and follow a digital detox rule of no computers or digital devices at least one hour before bedtime — including TV watching.

“Blue light from TVs, phones and other digital devices can impair the quality of your sleep. Even if you can fall asleep, the quality of sleep is reduced, and your brain biology is disrupted,” said Heiss. “Blue light can disrupt your circadian rhythm, which controls mood, organ function and metabolism. Blue light may also be the culprit if you’re experiencing food cravings.”

Which of these recommended steps are Americans currently following?

• Making bedtime and/or morning routine more consistent — 44%
• Taking time away from screens before bed — 39%
• Eating less in the evening/before bed — 30%
• Making time for quiet hobbies before bed (reading, yoga, etc.) — 30%
• Changing diet — 23%

Changing your habits during the day, and especially right before bed, could make all the difference when it comes to getting a good night’s sleep.

Find more tips to help you follow a healthy and active lifestyle and support better sleep hygiene at Herbalife.com or to connect with an Herbalife independent distributor, call +1 866-866-4744.

2024-03-11T08:01:00

(BPT) – If your small business doesn’t have an online presence, you’re getting in the way of your own success. According to a new survey by small business services platform GoDaddy, 89% of consumers say it is important for a small business to have a website, yet nearly a quarter of small businesses (24%) don’t.

Maybe you’ve considered building a website or creating social media accounts for your small business, but lack the time or experience to do so. It’s not surprising. Venture Forward, a small business research initiative, surveyed 6,000 entrepreneurs in the U.S. and U.K. and found that 42% of them cite difficulty marketing their businesses as a top challenge.

Artificial intelligence, however, is changing the game for small businesses. Emerging generative AI tools can instantly and inexpensively provide customized help to small businesses. GoDaddy survey respondents indicated they believe AI can save them more than $4,000 and 300 hours of work per year.

Here’s how generative AI can help you create, build and grow your business’s online presence, even with limited tech skills and tight time constraints.

1. Create your brand

Whether starting a business from scratch or taking your brick-and-mortar business online, you’ll need some help creating your digital identity. For example, you may have a business name but no clue how to turn that into a memorable domain name. AI can help you get started on that journey instantly.

Even if you only have an inkling of an idea, a solution like GoDaddy Airo™ can recommend catchy domain names with just a quick description of your business. This may seem like a small step, but once you have a domain that resonates with your vision, all you have to do is register it, and your small business has officially gone digital.

2. Build your online presence

Now that you’re online, it’s time to build your business’s presence. Plenty of platforms offer to do the heavy lifting when it comes to building a website. However, you’ll still need to design graphics and draft content to populate your site, taking more time away from running your business. Plus, that work doesn’t come naturally to everyone.

Instead of contracting with someone to develop your website, AI can be your web creator. AI solutions go as far as generating a fully built website with imagery and content to help you engage current and potential customers. From creating logos to professional email accounts to auto-generated product descriptions, there’s a lot you can do with AI — even register your business as an LLC.

3. Grow your customer base

Once you’ve established your website, it’s time to turn your attention to growing your business by capturing new customers. In the modern world, that means expanding the places your business shows up online.

This is not a one-and-done task. It takes continuous — weekly if not daily — attention.

Instead of taking on these tasks yourself, use AI to build email campaigns, a social media calendar and low-cost ads to draw traffic to your website. These simple activities are essential to the longevity of your business.

Are you ready to let AI work for you? GoDaddy Airo™ makes leveraging the power of AI easy for anyone wanting to start a business or take their existing one to the next level. Visit GoDaddy.com/ai to see everything generative AI can do for you.

2024-03-07T12:00:00

(BPT) – Tax season can be a stressful and challenging time for many Americans. In fact, according to the second-annual “Straight Talk Wireless™ Tax Stress Index,” 1 in 5 people want to throw their phone due to frustration over taxes.

That’s not all Straight Talk uncovered. Below are three key findings from Straight Talk’s annual survey that shed light on American attitudes about taxes and their refunds.

1. Shrinking Refunds

A common fear among tax filers in 2024 is the possibility of smaller returns. 49 percent are worried their tax refund this year won’t be as high as last year.

While no one likes receiving less money than expected, a smaller refund could make life harder for some. The survey found that 60 percent of Americans are in more debt than last year and many of them are counting on their refunds to secure financial stability – 34 percent plan to use their refund to pay off debt.

2. Financial Management

Aside from debt, many Americans have earmarked their refunds for other financial goals. According to the survey, 37 percent plan to save their refund and 34 percent will use it for household expenses.

“Finances remain top of mind for tax filers,” said Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, personal finance expert and bestselling author of the new book Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience. “Inflation anxiety and rising debt continue to plague Americans. It’s not surprising that instead of paying for a vacation or buying luxury items, people are using their refunds as part of their financial management strategy.”

3. Upgrades

While extravagant spending may not be in the cards, many tax filers do plan to spend their refunds on practical expenses. Nearly half, about 44 percent of Americans, say they plan to upgrade their phone using their tax refund.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your phone, tax season may be your best bet. Not only will you have extra cash, but you’re also likely to find deals. For example, with Straight Talk, you’ll find great deals on service plans with a wide selection of smartphones at affordable prices. Right now, Straight Talk is offering a Samsung Galaxy A14 5G for free with the purchase of the Extended Silver Unlimited plan.* To learn more, visit StraightTalk.com or a Walmart store near you.

With prepaid, no-contract plans, you can embrace benefits like flexibility and savings all year long – but especially during tax season.

*Offer valid through 6/9/24 while supplies last. At participating stores. Must purchase a Straight Talk Extended Silver Unlimited Plan to qualify (90-Day, 180-Day or Annual Plan). In-Store activation required at Walmart. Limit of two phones per customer. Taxes and fees apply. ©2024 TRACFONE.

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.

2024-03-07T07:15:00

(BPT) – Spring is just around the corner, bringing with it blooming flowers, greener grass and, unfortunately, the return of seasonal allergies for more than 81 million people. But you don’t have to spend the sunny season suffering from stuffy noses, scratchy throats or sneezing fits — oh my! Incorporating healthy foods into your diet is a simple but effective way to naturally support the immune system and provide relief from annoying allergy symptoms all season long.

We spoke with Registered Dietitian Kelly Springer about her five favorite staple foods with natural allergy-busting and wellness-boosting properties to prevent hay fever and high pollen counts from interfering with your life. To buzz with vitality all spring, consider stocking your pantry with the following:

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is a premium, nutrient-rich food produced from special Manuka bushes in New Zealand and considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. An authentic Manuka honey, like this raw Manuka honey from Wedderspoon, is chock full of enzymes, amino acids, B vitamins, C vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are great for keeping your immune system in top shape.

Manuka honey is a pantry staple all year long, and some of the tastiest and easiest ways to incorporate it into meals include adding to smoothies, drizzling on toast with nut butter, adding it to an acai or yogurt bowl with granola, or right off the teaspoon for a daily boost. For pesky symptoms related to allergy season, however, Wedderspoon’s Throat Drops are my go-to for quick, natural relief. They are so tasty and feature naturally-occurring wellness ingredients — like organic Manuka honey, echinacea and bee propolis — to soothe sore throats and quiet coughs. Even better, they come in a variety of flavors including my personal favorite, lemon, and you can now also find them at your local Costco. I find myself adding them to my cart every time I do a grocery stop so I never run out.

Bee Propolis

Bee products have been used in therapeutic remedies since ancient times but have been growing in popularity due to their multitasking superfood properties. Another of my most-reached-for products for allergy symptom relief is bee propolis — a natural resinous substance that honey bees collect from the different parts of plants, buds, and exudates. Like Manuka honey, bee propolis is one of nature’s most potent defenders against germs and free radicals in the body as it is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids. Propolis can hinder histamine release — and the watery eyes and stuffy noses that come with it — and help bolster cell health against oxidative damage and chronic inflammation. I love that Wedderspoon’s lemon-flavored drops have both Manuka honey and bee propolis for a truly holistic approach to combating allergy season.

Herbal Teas

I can’t say enough about herbal teas for seasonal allergy relief. They’re a soothing and simple way to keep symptoms at bay — and a warm cup of tea pairs perfectly with the previously mentioned Manuka honey for an even more powerful homeopathic remedy. I’m never without green or chamomile tea in the spring, both of which are natural antihistamines containing powerful antioxidants that have been shown to be able to block histamine production and reduce inflammation related to seasonal allergies. The calming effect of chamomile tea is also great for helping get a better night’s rest if hay fever symptoms make it impossible to fall and stay asleep.

Turmeric

Turmeric is such a unique spice. Not only does it bring a world of flavor to many dishes, it’s also loaded with numerous health benefits and therapeutic qualities, including serving as a defense against seasonal allergies. Turmeric is made up of a compound called curcumin, which is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial and has been shown to effectively block and reduce allergy-causing congestion and other bothersome rhinitis symptoms. It’s super easy to incorporate into your allergy-busting routine as you can use it to spice up your meals — it’s a flavorful seasoning when roasting veggies — or you can take it in pill form.

Apples

Everyone knows the old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. The same can be said for allergies. Apples are a powerhouse fruit containing fiber, vitamin C and quercetin, all of which play a key role in remedying symptoms associated with hay fever. Fiber acts like a prebiotic that nourishes gut flora to maintain a healthy balance while vitamin C helps strengthen the immune response to lessen the severity of symptoms when allergy triggers enter the body. Quercetin is an antioxidant flavonoid which acts like a natural antihistamine to decrease inflammation. Because of this, apples are a must for surviving allergy season.

With allergy season fast approaching, it’s never too early to start stocking up on foods with wellness properties so you can eat to nourish your body, strengthen immunity and reduce responses to allergy triggers, regardless of what the forecast may hold. This year, try a holistic approach to allergy season so you can enjoy the May flowers that April showers bring.