Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-02-01T06:01:00

(BPT) – Love isn’t the only thing worth celebrating in February, it’s also important to celebrate our actual hearts.

This month is American Heart Month — which is aimed at raising awareness for heart health, educating about risk factors for heart disease and sharing tips on how to live a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are many ways you can celebrate American Heart Month. Here are just a few:

• Wear red to raise awareness for heart health
• Create a walking routine with friends and family
• Try new heart-healthy recipes and share with others
• Engage in stress-relieving activities like yoga, art, and meditation
• Get vaccinated for pneumococcal pneumonia if you have chronic heart disease

Pneumococcal pneumonia is a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can put you in the hospital for weeks and even be life threatening.

Our heart and lungs work closely together and that’s why it’s important to take a holistic approach.

If you have chronic heart disease, you are at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia — and getting vaccinated can help protect you.

Adults 65 or older and adults 19 or older with certain other chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes are also at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia and should consider asking their doctor or pharmacist about vaccination.

Pneumococcal pneumonia can strike at any time, in any season. Vaccination is available all year round, so now is the time to ask your doctor or pharmacist if vaccination is right for you.

Even if you’ve already had a previous pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine, your healthcare provider may recommend additional vaccination to help prevent the disease.

Kick off American Heart Month strong by asking your doctor or pharmacist about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination and visit knowpneumonia.com to learn more.

Brought to you by Pfizer.

2024-01-31T14:01:00

(BPT) – Carter’s is starting off the year with a bang, launching its first-ever Most Loved Sale. Live now, the new sale is two full weeks of deals on the brand’s bestselling, most-hearted styles. And as the #1 most trusted brand of apparel for babies and young children, Carter’s is the perfect place to stock up on all the essentials for your little ones. Ready to start shopping? We’re breaking down the must-have, must-buys here:

The Original Bodysuit™: Carter’s #1 all-time bestseller; one sold every second

As any parent knows, bodysuits are a must when it comes to babies. The more, the better. Carter’s Original Bodysuit™ is a historic favorite for a reason. With 30 million bodysuits sold and loved per year (that’s 1 sold every second!), bodysuits have become Carter’s all-time bestselling baby item, and now they’re at the lowest price of the season. You know what that means — it’s time to stock up.

Let’s talk features: Strong, long-lasting snaps that hold up after wear, wash, repeat; overlap shoulders that expand over baby’s body for easy changes (life saver!); 100% cotton that’s gentle on baby’s skin; and of course, all the fun graphics and loveable prints.

Shopper tip: Multipacks are a must. Shop 4- & 5-pack bodysuits now on sale from $2.40 per piece ($12+ for the pack). Because as any parent knows, you can never have too many.

5-Star Sleep & Play™: The do-it-all style purchased 10,259 times per day

Another baby must-have, the 5-Star Sleep & Play™ truly does it all. Known as the day-to-night, tummy time, nap time, anytime staple, this is the most practical outfit for new babies, featuring both snap and 2-way zip options, as well as fold-over cuffs for preemie and newborn sizes so you can skip the mittens. The best part? It’s now on sale from just $8 — the lowest price of the season — so be sure to add to cart (we recommend getting 5 to 8).

Most-Hearted for Toddler & Kid: The top sellers worn & loved by millions last year

Our most loved styles for toddler and kid? Simple. It’s the day-in, day-out favorites they love. It’s the top-selling graphic tees, with 9 million worn and loved last year, and 25,000 (!) sold every single day. It’s the tried-and-true leggings that 6 million children wore and loved last year. It’s the go-to colors — black, navy and knit-denim — that never go out of style. It’s the outfit sets that take the thinking out of getting dressed. And it’s the new additions like moisture-wicking BeCool™ activewear. So don’t miss out on all of this and more, because these bestsellers speak for themselves.

The styles you love. The sale you’ve been waiting for. Now through February 14 at carters.com and oshkosh.com.

2024-01-31T23:01:00

(BPT) – If only there was a way to predict the future. It would be helpful for quite a few things, especially retirement planning.

Figuring out how much money you’ll need to live the life you want — for the entirety of your retirement — is one of adulthood’s biggest challenges. And managing the possibility that you won’t outlive your savings has a name: longevity risk. No matter what, proactive financial planning is necessary to give you the greatest chance for success.

As you plan and set goals for the year ahead, now is a good time to think about longevity risk and develop strategies to ensure your retirement funds last as long as you do. After all, what good is a nest egg if it runs out early? And on the flip side, what good are hard-earned savings if you don’t spend them out of fear of running out?

Better planning for better outcomes

Over the past few decades, there has been a shift from traditional pension plans, where you get a defined monetary benefit in retirement, to 401(k)s and other defined contribution retirement plans, which puts more responsibility and stress on the shoulders of individuals to contribute a large portion toward their retirement savings. Fortunately, you don’t need an MBA to know that better planning leads to better outcomes; so here are three ideas to build a retirement plan that you feel confident in and have the resiliency to follow.

Planning idea No. 1: Lifestyle is important. So is keeping options open.

If you’re like most people, you have ideas about what you want to do in retirement, like owning a second home, traveling or volunteering in your community. Your plan should have the flexibility to balance your desired lifestyle with what you can afford. To do this, trade-offs such as delaying retirement, part-time work or waiting to collect social security all may need to be on the table as you’re planning.

Planning idea No. 2: Knowledge is power

A lack of preparedness can lead to undesirable spending cuts, but you can guard against this by getting educated about available solutions.

One of the biggest steps you can take to increase your income and ensure that it will last your lifetime is waiting to claim social security. Simply delaying your claim from age 67 to 70 results in a nearly 25% increase in payments, and that larger payment will grow with cost-of-living adjustments.

Another is insured products. For many, protected savings and lifetime income options limit risk and insulate assets from the effects of market volatility — all while generating predictable income streams for fixed expenses in retirement. Such products are available from Prudential and can help improve retirement security for a lifetime. But they’re not for every person or every situation, so discuss the possibilities with a financial advisor. Which leads us to the final planning idea…

Planning idea No. 3: Don’t go it alone

If you are open to getting help, but don’t know where to start, there are many tools and resources to help you plan, with a trusted financial advisor being at the top of the list. Advisors will likely start the conversation by asking about your current financial situation and desired outcomes. If you’re clear on those outcomes, it will be easier to make choices from the range of options and strategies.

And if you’re not quite ready to meet in person with an advisor, there are online tools to help. The web-based Prudential Stages for Retirement will unlock your personalized Retirement Confidence Score and generate custom projections of your retirement income and spending over time. When you’re ready to kick things up a notch, you can connect virtually or in person with a financial advisor to help you define, refine and realize your financial goals.

Remember: There is no time like the present

As we dive into a new year, now is the ideal time to think about building a plan to reach your goals. Every day counts, so get started today and good luck on your financial planning journey — you’ve got this!

This material is being provided for informational or educational purposes only and does not take into account the investment objectives or financial situation of any client or prospective clients.

The information is not intended as investment advice and is not a recommendation about managing or investing your retirement savings. If you would like information about your particular investment needs, please contact a financial professional.

Annuities are issued by The Prudential Insurance Company of America, Newark, NJ, and its affiliates.

Prudential Stages is an umbrella marketing name for Pruco Securities LLC (sometimes referred to as “Pruco”) under the marketing name Prudential Financial Planning Services (PFPS), pursuant to a separate agreement. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Pruco, a registered investment advisor.

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2024-01-31T06:01:00

(BPT) – Agriculture is Arkansas’ top economic driver. Tourism is second. Combining these two industries to develop a meaningful visitor experience has led to a thriving agritourism sector in Arkansas.

Arkansas is known as The Natural State for its scenic beauty and abundance of natural resources that provide year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. But that description also refers to the fertile soil and advantageous climate for agriculture.

As such, Arkansas is a destination for producers of wine and spirits because they can locate breweries and distilleries near the crops used in making the product. Chefs also regularly use Arkansas-grown produce and meats to treat customers to a complete farm-to-table meal.

Napa Valley of Sake

Origami Sake in Hot Springs is putting the state on the map making Arkansas the “Napa Valley of Sake.”

The company uses a special variety of Arkansas-grown rice from the Isbell Farm in Lonoke County, Arkansas, which is located less than 100 miles from the company’s facility. The water for the sake comes directly from the underground springs of Hot Springs National Park.

In March, the company is hosting the 2024 American Craft Sake Festival in Hot Springs for the first time ever. Last year, Origami co-founder Ben Bell was named one of Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 Future Tastemakers for paving the way for sake production in North America.

The brewery is open to tourists for taste-testing and for gaining a greater appreciation for the farm-to-bottle process.

Vodka originating from the Delta dirt

When Harvey Williams committed to invest his life savings into building Delta Dirt Distillery in his hometown of Helena, Arkansas, it was truly a personal decision.

Harvey’s family has farmed in the Arkansas Delta since the 19th century when his great-grandfather was a sharecropper on the land. The main crop is sweet potatoes.

Harvey and his family went about perfecting a recipe for sweet potato-based vodka and gin. Truckloads of sweet potatoes are brought in from the Williams family farm to the distillery, then processed and bottled.

The story behind the distillery’s success is just as interesting as the making of the vodka and gin, and Harvey himself is at the distillery on most days to take you through the experience.

Microbreweries

Arkansas is the number one rice producer in the United States, with products being sent to feed people all over the world.

Lost 40 Brewing is a craft microbrewery located in the heart of downtown Little Rock and uses rice grown by Arkansas farmers to make its year-round and seasonal menu of beers. Its beers are highly decorated, having won major national and international awards from the Great American Beer Festival and the World Beer Cup competition.

Arkansas entrepreneurs are growing a thriving craft beer culture with microbreweries located throughout the state.

Arkansas’ 150-year-old wine industry

While the production of sake and vodka are new to Arkansas, wine is not.

Wine grapes have been growing in the Arkansas river valley since the 1870s, when Europeans settled there. The regional climate proved to be ideal for growing a variety of grapes including Niagara, Enchantment and Muscadine.

Some of the families that started the industry in Arkansas 150 years ago are still making wine generations later.

Farm-to-table

While our distilleries and wineries are using homegrown crops in making products, so, too, are Arkansas’ chefs. They are sourcing meat, produce and grains that are grown in The Natural State to feed their patrons.

In many Arkansas-owned restaurants all over the state, chefs are using locally sourced eggs to make breakfast, farm-fresh vegetables for the salad at lunch, and Arkansas ranch-raised beef and poultry for the evening full-course meal.

Arkansas feeds the world with our abundant crop production featuring rice, soybeans, and corn, and satisfies the discriminating taste buds of wine and spirits connoisseurs.

Come to Arkansas to see, swirl, smell, sip and savor our state’s unique products and enjoy our thriving agritourism industry.

To plan your next agritourism trip, visit https://www.arkansas.com/articles/9-farm-table-experiences-arkansas.

2024-01-31T04:01:00

(BPT) – During the pandemic, little Kennedy and her family practically lived in their backyard all day, every day. Together with her three brothers and her parents, Kennedy loved to engage in active play outdoors, like jumping on their trampoline — even putting up with the nuisance of pervasive sticker burrs throughout the lawn so she could stay outside.

Being at home meant even more to Kennedy and her family since she was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 3. While her medications and treatment sometimes prevent her from enjoying the active play she loves so much, now 6-year-old Kennedy expressed her heartfelt wish to Make-A-Wish — a total backyard makeover.

“Kennedy is obsessed with unicorns, princesses, rainbows and butterflies,” said her mother, Kendra. “She loves to play outside, jump on the trampoline, and she loves gymnastics and cheerleading!”

Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children like Kennedy with critical illnesses in the U.S. and nearly 50 countries worldwide. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 20,000 volunteers nationwide, the organization delivers hope and joy to children and families when they need it most.

To see Kennedy’s wish granted, Make-A-Wish partnered with Topgolf, a sports entertainment complex that features an inclusive, high-tech golf game that everyone can enjoy. Topgolf has been a national corporate partner with Make-A-Wish since 2016, helping raise more than $4 million to help grant wishes just like Kennedy’s. Year-round, Topgolf donates $1 to Make-A-Wish from the sale of each order of their injectable donut holes, and also hosts an annual fundraising campaign every April. The company also hosts wish celebrations, send-off parties, wish reveals and welcome home parties for wish kids.

Wishes do come true

The plan for Kennedy focused first on a new in-ground trampoline with a turf perimeter and twinkle lights, together with all new sod to replace the lawn full of the pesky stickers that often made outdoor playtime a challenge.

To add extra fun for Kennedy, Topgolf referred Make-A-Wish to SynLawn, which graciously donated one of their Greenmaker putting greens to the project. Make-A-Wish staff helped the Topgolf crew piece together the Greenmaker putting green (and a new set of just-her-size golf clubs from Topgolf) to help set up the backyard space for the amazing wish reveal day.

Because the wish took a while to grant due to distance and vendor availability, Topgolf invited Kennedy and her family for a day of play at Topgolf in The Colony, Texas, while they were waiting for the big day to arrive. The Topgolf team was very eager to help Kennedy and her brothers play hard and have fun.

“Topgolf pulled out all the stops to shower Kennedy with love from the moment they walked through the front door to the time they left,” said Meredith Clements, senior wish manager for Make-A-Wish North Texas.

The big day

To help Kennedy celebrate her big wish reveal day, her parents, her aunt, her cousin, both sets of grandparents and of course Kennedy’s three brothers were there, waiting for Kennedy to get home from school.

As she walked into the backyard, all the people she loves held up the letters of her name and cheered as they took in the sight of the totally transformed play space. She first cut through the Make-A-Wish banner at the entrance to the yard, then gleefully jumped on the new trampoline with her brothers and practiced her putting with her dad, Gunter.

“Finding out your child has cancer is one of the hardest things you could ever hear,” said Gunter. “When I wondered, ‘Why did she wish for a backyard makeover?’ I realized that Kennedy put a lot of thought into her wish. I feel like it’s going to be making up time for what was lost — the times she couldn’t go outside — and now she can do that anytime she wants. She can enjoy walking out of her back door to play golf, jump on the trampoline and do the things she loves.”

If you’d like to help make wishes come true for kids just like Kennedy all over the U.S., visit Wish.org — or you can plan a fun trip to a Topgolf location today to buy an order of donut holes or make a donation. Find a venue near you at Topgolf.com.

2024-01-29T23:01:00

(BPT) – Research reveals a fascinating truth: The anticipation of a vacation can boost your happiness, perhaps even as much as the vacation itself. This is why National Plan for Vacation Day, January 30, is not just a celebration of travel but the joy that comes with planning your perfect getaway. Whether you’re seeking serenity on sun-kissed beaches or cultural immersion and adventures in exotic locales, planning a stay full of memories is an integral part of the overall experience. Here are 5 tips to guide you in planning a vacation in 2024 that turns your travel dreams into a reality.

1. Define your ideal vacation

Start by envisioning what you want from your vacation and stay experience. Is it lounging on a beach with a cocktail in hand, local cultural experiences such as exploring ancient ruins, or indulging in gourmet dining? Let your passions guide your destination choice. For a hassle-free, elevated experience, consider all-inclusive resorts that cater to a variety of ages and interests, ensuring that every day of your stay is as relaxing or as adventurous as you desire.

2. Choose the right resort

The secret to an extraordinary vacation lies in where you stay, as it can make or break any trip. Families might seek resorts with kids’ clubs and activities that can keep little ones engaged and entertained, while couples might prefer quiet pools and intimate dining. Hilton All-Inclusive Resorts, for example, offer family-friendly properties and adult-only retreats with unique experiences that align with your vacation goals, such as cultural immersion programs like mezcal tastings and salsa lessons, to wellness options like yoga and meditation classes.

3. Consider timing and duration

The timing of your vacation is another key aspect to consider. Off-peak travel can provide more tranquility and booking options. Equally important is the length of your stay. Opting for a longer stay allows you to fully embrace a resort’s offerings, from leisurely enjoying extensive amenities and activities to exploring the local culture and surroundings without feeling hurried. But don’t overlook the appeal of a quick getaway to an all-inclusive resort, even in off-peak season. These resorts are adept at helping you get the most out of your hard-earned vacation time, regardless of your length of stay.

4. Seek all-in vacation experiences

Nothing says vacation like a stay that offers everything you desire, and all-inclusive resorts provide just that through a seamless and simplified experience. Hilton’s all-inclusive resorts around the globe combine gorgeous accommodations, gourmet meals, unlimited beverages, and a wide array of activities like water sports and premium entertainment. If taking in all of these experiences isn’t enough, by ensuring you’re signed up for Hilton’s award-winning guest loyalty program, Hilton Honors, you can earn Points for future stays and experiences while going all-in on your current stay.

5. Leave room for spontaneity

While planning is important, flexibility can add a layer of excitement to your vacation. For example, all-inclusive resorts offer a range of activities and excursions available on demand. You could wake up and decide to join a fitness class by the beach, partake in a cooking workshop, or embark on a last-minute snorkeling adventure. This flexibility can add an element of surprise to your vacation, making your stay even more memorable. Additionally, all-inclusive resorts often boast an array of dining venues, each offering distinct international and gourmet experiences. This variety allows you to be spontaneous with your dining choices, deciding on a whim whether to indulge in Italian delicacies one night or savor local seafood the next.

There is a whole calendar ahead of you, beckoning for new discoveries and moments that turn into cherished memories. Remember, where you stay is just as important as the destination, and with these tips as your guide, go ahead, mark your calendar, and start planning your all-inclusive all-extraordinary getaway at Hilton.com.

2024-01-29T17:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re coping with back, neck or knee pain on a regular basis, you’re not alone. According to research, one in every two Americans experience musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, which affects the bones, tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerves. The 2024 State of MSK survey of 10,000 Americans with chronic and acute pain conducted by Hinge Health shows that pain is too big a problem to ignore.

Nearly half the survey respondents say chronic pain prevents them from living life to the fullest (47%), while 27% report MSK pain has decreased their productivity at work, and 22% agree it has made them consider leaving their job.

Beyond physical symptoms, chronic pain is also associated with poor mental health. About one-third of survey respondents report feeling depressed, and nearly half report anxiety.

“We live in a nation in pain,” said Dr. Jeff Krauss, MD, chief medical officer at Hinge Health. “And many are not accessing what doctors consider the first-line treatment for MSK pain: physical therapy, education and lifestyle change.”

The survey found people with chronic pain are more likely to seek over-the-counter or prescription pain medications, despite the fact that 47% of people who do not feel in control of their pain fear side effects or complications from those treatment methods.

In some cases, the real or imagined cost of physical therapy, plus the ability to make in-person appointments, can be barriers. Fortunately, digital PT has helped overcome one barrier. In the survey, 48% of people say a digital physical therapy program would make it easier to follow their care plan, and 43% say they “need” PT care with a digital component. Digital PT stands out as the preferred initial approach for chronic MSK pain, with a 70% satisfaction rate among members.

Here is some advice from physical therapists at Hinge Health for coping with MSK pain, including moving around safely for pain management, increasing motion and boosting sleep. Note: This information is for educational purposes only, and you should always consult your healthcare provider for your unique situation.

1. Keep moving

When experiencing pain, it’s natural to want to stop moving, hoping that rest will make the pain stop. Unfortunately, staying still can lead to a downward cycle — with pain increasing and mobility decreasing.

“Movement is medicine,” said Dr. Krauss, “and many kinds of pain worsen if you rest too much. Staying active can help you work through joint stiffness and help muscles gain strength over time, which can improve your symptoms.”

If your pain is due to an accident or physical trauma, or if you’re concerned about increasing pain as you move, see your healthcare provider. Ask about in-person or digital PT options for guidance on how to move safely as part of your pain management plan.

2. Move and stretch gently

Motion can help relieve stiffness and reduce pain over time, with physical therapists recommending an approach to movement that gradually increases your strength and range of motion.

• Back pain: Stretching is helpful, but avoid awkward twisting, bending or motions that lead to over-tensing back muscles.
• Neck pain/stiffness: Take breaks from holding one position too long, such as sitting at your computer. Set a timer to occasionally adjust your position, gently stretch your neck or roll your shoulders.
• Knee pain: Strengthen muscles that protect your knee, especially your quads (the front of your thighs), with exercises like stepping up to and down from a low platform.

A physical therapist can help you learn specific exercises and stretches to support areas of your body causing you chronic pain. Beyond reducing pain, PT can also help treat other conditions, such as strengthening the pelvic floor to address bladder issues.

3. Boost sleep

Pain makes it hard to get a restful night’s sleep, and poor sleep can increase sensitivity to pain — leading to another downward spiral. The survey found over half of people (53%) who have experienced pain in the past 12 months say it affects their sleep, and 26% have been diagnosed with a sleep disorder. Here are tips to try:

• Change your pillow: To improve sleep, especially with neck pain, swap out your pillow. Your ideal pillow depends on the issues you’re having and your preferred sleep position. Try different kinds for several nights to find what works for you.
• Practice good sleep hygiene: Keep your room cool and dark, and make sure to go to sleep and wake at the same time each day.
• Relaxation techniques: Meditation, breathing exercises or warm baths can help you relax before bedtime.

“Making an effort to improve your sleep is an important step in treating pain,” said Dr. Krauss. “While there are many easy and effective ways to do this on your own, sometimes it’s necessary to work with a professional who can offer proven techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for insomnia.”

Learn more about digital physical therapy at HingeHealth.com.

2024-01-29T11:05:00

(BPT) – For many, the new year is an opportunity to commit to making smarter eating decisions, both for health reasons, and for the sake of the planet. Popular resolutions often include reducing sugar intake and even testing out a vegan lifestyle. Making and maintaining these changes, however, is easier said than done, especially when it comes to adjusting your diet.

Not all sweets are created equal

Luckily, if you’re looking to eat less sugar, you don’t need to give up chocolate. In fact, the type of chocolate you choose can make a world of difference! For example, dark chocolate is a wonderful option because it’s naturally lower in sugar, full of antioxidants and higher in polyphenols, so enjoying a square or two alongside your mid-morning cup of coffee or as a post-lunch treat won’t derail your resolutions.

With more than 40 irresistible dark chocolate options, and flavors to satisfy any palate, Chocolove is your one-stop shop for confections to help you maintain better habits, while still indulging your chocolate cravings.

Chocolove uses only top-quality cocoa beans and takes great care through the roasting and grinding process to avoid the need to add excess sugar to dilute the bitterness that can come from lesser-quality beans. This is why even their highest cocoa content bars taste smooth and delicious.

Here are just some of the flavors you can enjoy:

88% Extreme Dark Chocolate: Chocolove’s strongest premium Belgian dark chocolate, with 88% cocoa content. This intense chocolate has subtle nuances of fruit notes from a variety of cocoa origins, all balanced in a smooth high cocoa butter content.

Almonds & Sea Salt in 55% Dark Chocolate: Dark semisweet Belgian chocolate with 55% cocoa content combines with tantalizingly crunchy almonds and sea salt crystals.

70% Strong Dark Chocolate: A bittersweet Belgian dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content, this bar is crafted to deliver an exceptionally smooth experience that melts into a pleasant cocoa finish.

65% Rich Dark Chocolate: A smooth, bittersweet Belgian dark chocolate with 65% cocoa content, offering slightly sweet and fruity flavor notes that melt effortlessly in your mouth.

Dark chocolate can also mean vegan-friendly

If you’re resolving to incorporate more vegan products into your diet this year, many of Chocolove’s dark chocolate options are also vegan-friendly, like the new Coconut Bites in Dark Chocolate! These individually wrapped bites are the perfect combination of rich dark chocolate and organic coconut goodness that will delight your taste buds and transport you to a tropical island.

Other vegan-friendly chocolate options include:

Hawaiian Sea Salt in 72% Dark Chocolate: A strong, bittersweet Belgian dark chocolate with 72% cocoa content that combines with Hawaiian Alaea red sea salt to highlight the chocolate’s sweetness and enhance its overall flavor, while also providing a delicate, soothing complement to the chocolate.

Raspberries in 55% Dark Chocolate: Tangy raspberry pieces are enveloped in Belgian dark chocolate with 55% cocoa content for a harmonious pairing that bursts with tart fruit flavor.

Ginger Crystallized in 65% Dark Chocolate: Soft sugar-coated chunks of hot-spicy ginger are balanced with a smooth, rich Belgian dark chocolate with 65% cocoa content for a delightfully stimulating taste experience.

Get creative with dark chocolate

If you enjoy smoothie bowls as part of your wellness routine, try out this recipe that combines some of the most popular superfoods with the chocolate you love to help kickstart your morning.

Super Food Antioxidant Smoothie Bowl

Ingredients
1/4 cup frozen blueberries
1/4 cup frozen blackberries
1/4 cup frozen raspberries
1/4 cup frozen acai berries or acai puree
1 cup pomegranate juice
1 banana
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1–2 servings (3-6 squares) Chocolove 77% Extra Strong Dark Chocolate
Slivered almonds, extra chia and extra berries for texture

Directions
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries with juice, banana and chia seeds. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour mixture into a small bowl.
3. Chop 1–2 servings (3-6 squares) of antioxidant-rich Chocolove 77% Extra Strong Dark Chocolate and layer on top of smoothie mixture.
4. Layer extra chia seeds, slivered almonds and extra berries onto smoothie. Enjoy!

With any of these Chocolove bars and bites, you can feel good about what you’re eating because they are Non GMO Project Verified, made with traceable cocoa beans and Rainforest Alliance Certified, meaning the chocolate is sourced using methods that support social, economic and environmental sustainability.

Chocolove is sold at major retailers nationwide — including Whole Foods Market, Safeway, Kroger, Walmart and Sprouts — plus a variety of independent natural retailers, Amazon and at Chocolove.com.

2024-01-29T07:01:00

(BPT) – As a parent or caregiver, your child’s safety is always a priority. Nearly two out of five parents of school-aged children in the U.S. say they fear for their child’s safety, according to an EdWeek Research Center Survey. With school security concerns becoming increasingly prevalent, it’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with your kids about this sensitive topic. But where do you start?

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or confused about how to address school safety topics with your kids. That’s why LenelS2, the global leader in advanced physical security solutions, has developed On The Safe Side, a program to provide caregivers with the tools they need to have these difficult conversations.

Dr. Regine Muradian, clinical psychologist and children’s author, helped develop On The Safe Side resources to inform these important discussions. She shares her expert guidance to help any parent or caregiver have productive, age-appropriate conversations:

1. Understand it’s not a one-and-done conversation

Whether through social media, news outlets or overheard conversations, information is readily available, even for young children. Proactively taking time to talk will help avoid the spread of misinformation and can provide your child with a sense of calmness and security in the event of an emergency. The key is to keep an open dialogue with your children so they always feel they have a safe haven.

2. Get on the same page by getting informed

Understand the school’s safety measures and protocol for emergencies yourself. School security challenges are complicated and unique to each school’s specific needs. Some LenelS2 capabilities worth asking your school about include immediate lockdown response, visitor management, perimeter and entrance safeguards, and mobile security programs for when administrators are away from their desks.

3. The hardest part of the conversation is always the start

You may have trouble finding the right wording or may feel anxious about broaching conversations around difficult topics. The most ideal time to discuss feelings and assess emotions is after the school conducts a drill. Here are some examples of prompts that you can use:

• What did you learn during today’s security drill? How did it make you feel?
• Do you have any questions about the security drill?
• I am here if you need to talk when you are ready.

4. Strike a balance between being informative, transparent and calm

When you speak to your children about safety protocols and drills, it’s important to approach the topic calmly but with a sense of urgency. Go over any steps you learned yourself and ensure this conversation with your children is ongoing. Reiterate that while a school safety plan may require practice, there is a low probability of actually needing to use it.

5. Reassure and empower them to ask questions

To help minimize any fear and anxiety your kids might have, encourage them to ask school personnel and administrators where the school exits are located and any questions they may have about security drills.

It’s important to remind children that the adults at their school — teachers, principals, guidance counselors — are there to protect them and keep them safe. Work with your child to find their “trusted adults” at school so they have someone to turn to if they feel unsafe or want someone to talk to. With this in mind, you will still always be your child’s go-to in a time of crisis. Ensure that your child knows how to best reach you or another family member during an emergency.

By addressing their concerns, teaching them essential safety measures and maintaining a supportive environment, you can empower your children to navigate through school with confidence and security.

For additional resources and more information about On The Safe Side, visit LenelS2.com/OnTheSafeSide.

Please note, the material provided is for informational purposes only, is general in nature, and is not intended to and should not be relied upon or construed as professional, medical or legal advice. Individuals and entities using or referencing the materials are encouraged to consult a professional regarding any specific circumstance. LenelS2 expressly disclaims all responsibility and shall have no liability for any damages, injuries of any kind or any liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information set forth in these materials.

2024-01-26T14:01:00

(BPT) – Living healthily remains a primary concern for many today, with homeowners looking to make home improvements with an emphasis on the health benefits of living in an environmentally friendly space.

“When it comes to home improvement, eco-friendly choices can be budget-friendly,” said Bonnie Lee, Vice President of Property Claims at Mercury Insurance. “Healthy home choices, especially for large renovations, can bring your homeowner cost down and save you money on insurance too.”

The journey to a healthier home begins by identifying areas needing regular maintenance and determining which environmentally friendly products can replace current ones. Here’s a roundup of beneficial and feasible home enhancements:

Breathe easier with clean air

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. The air filters in your home’s heating and cooling equipment weed out contaminants like dust and pet dander; however, a dirty filter hampers their efficiency. Regularly cleaning or changing these filters, especially HEPA filters that cost as little as $30, can ensure clean air.

A costless preventive measure is to maintain the proper functioning of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home. Fires and carbon monoxide poisoning are more likely during winter when homes are typically heated, making detector maintenance an important step.

Ensuring safe water

Water filters offer a health-centric and budget-conscious upgrade to homes. Filter pitchers start from as low as $20, and there are more upscale alternatives available like under-sink, countertop or faucet-mounted systems.

Water leak detection devices present another home improvement avenue. These systems alert homeowners when a leak is detected and can automatically shut off the water system if a significant issue exists. Mercury Insurance offers a related discount to eligible homes equipped with these devices.

Environmentally friendly and effective household supplies

Attentions have shifted due to concerns over the composition of traditional cleaning products, paints, flooring and construction materials. Many homeowners now prefer environmentally friendly alternatives. Look for biodegradable products based on renewable resources. When painting the walls of your home, look for volatile organic compounds (VOC)-free options or those that are Green Seal or GreenGuard certified.

When it comes to appliances, aim for LEED-certified or STAR-rated products for lower energy usage and eligibility for an insurance discount for green homeowners. For flooring, consider alternatives like unfinished hardwood, stone or concrete, and carpets made from natural fibers. Look for non-toxic adhesives to further limit chemical exposure.

For building materials like drywall and insulation, opt for GreenGuard-certified products to avoid hazardous chemicals.

Adopting routine maintenance and home improvements can foster a healthier living environment and offer financial rewards. For instance, Mercury Insurance provides a 5% green home insurance discount to homeowners with a certification from either the U.S. Green Building Council LEED or the National Association of Home Builders Green Building Guidelines (NAHB).