Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-03-31T14:31:00

(BPT) – Spring is a great time for a road trip, whether that’s a family getaway during a school break or a solo escape to take in the beauty of nature after a long, cold winter. According to Driving Route 66, April marks the start of the best times of year to experience the open road — in fact, the spring season may even bring fewer crowds and help travelers avoid intense summer heat.

When preparing for a road trip, many consider what to pack, where to stop and the playlist to accompany the drive. But what about the vehicle? According to data from Hankook Tire’s latest Gauge Index, Americans have quite a few opinions about their road trip vehicles.

Fuel efficiency is key.

According to the latest survey, when deciding which vehicle to take on a road trip, Americans consider fuel efficiency (30%), comfort or size of the vehicle (23%) and whether the vehicle is up to date on maintenance. As gas prices continue to fluctuate, driving a vehicle that makes the most of its mileage could not only add some peace of mind, but also a few extra dollars to the road trip “fun” fund.

Gas-powered vehicles still win out over EVs.

Though drivers are mindful of the fuel economy of the vehicle they choose, nearly two-thirds (63%) still prefer to take a gas-powered vehicle on a road trip over an electric or hybrid vehicle. Ease of fueling could be a factor here, as Hankook found that 23% of those who are generally not comfortable driving an EV cite concern over finding somewhere to charge the vehicle as the primary reason why.

Pro tip: If you are planning to take an electric vehicle on a long-distance road trip, map out the route before you get behind the wheel. Consider your vehicle’s typical range to ensure an adequate charge throughout your journey.

SUVs take the top spot for style.

When asked which style of vehicle they would most prefer to take on a road trip, SUVs came in first place with 48% of the vote. In fact, nearly twice as many drivers picked an SUV over the runner-up, a sedan (25%). Hankook found younger drivers, however, are more likely to branch out when it comes to body style, as 17% of Gen Z would seek out the thrill of a sports car, compared to 7% overall.

In the end, the vehicle that will make the most out of your spring road trip will be the one that offers you and your passengers the best ride — whether that is a spacious SUV with plenty of room to stash luggage and road trip snacks, or a compact, fuel-efficient sports car to experience those winding roads to the fullest. No matter which vehicle fits your needs best, remember to conduct a full maintenance check, including a quick tire test, before heading out to avoid any unexpected bumps in the road.

Did you know? If you expect to encounter rain on your spring road trip, definitely watch out for those bumps in the road. Spring is when most potholes develop, and Hankook found that nearly two-thirds (62%) of drivers say those have gotten worse in the last year!

2023-03-31T11:53:00

(BPT) – More and more homeowners are taking on the challenge of renovating their homes. According to Statista, homeowners have spent more time and money on home improvement projects over the last two years than ever before.

While you can hire someone else to renovate your home, you can do many DIY projects without any advanced home improvement skills and knowledge. Check out these four simple DIY home renovation projects that can quickly spruce up your home’s interior.

1. Update fixtures

Small but purposeful changes can make a big impact on your home’s decor. An easy and cost-effective DIY project you can do to refresh your spaces is to replace the knobs, handles and pulls on your cabinets, drawers and doors.

This design change can be as simple as picking fixtures with different metals or finishes, such as switching out silver kitchen cabinet hardware for brass or gold hues or opting for more colorful and interesting knobs and handles. If your rooms have standard white switch plate covers, consider replacing them with decorative ones.

2. Paint cabinets

Paint can do a lot to change the look of your home. Instead of taking on a large project like repainting every room or the exterior of your home, you can paint smaller furnishings like kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

Repainting cabinets is an approachable DIY home update that can generally be done in a weekend. If you want to brighten up your kitchen, choose a soft green, bright blue or rich yellow to paint your cabinets. For your bathroom cabinets, find deep reds or dark grays and blues for a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

3. Put up wallpaper

Wallpaper is a fun alternative to repainting a room. Whether you wallpaper a whole room or just one wall as an accent, you can refresh the look of your bedroom, living room, office or kitchen. There are many wallpaper options to choose from, but if you want something unique that truly expresses your personal style, consider ordering custom wallpaper.

Whether you choose an image or illustration that is special to you or a bespoke pattern, you can quickly change the look and feel of your room. To create your custom wallpaper, make sure you find a business that uses reliable large format printers, like the new Colorado M Series printers from Canon, which use a unique and robust UVgel ink set which even includes white ink for a very unique and wide wallpaper offering.

The Colorado M Series printers can help users create wallpapers with rich color consistency in custom sizes and lengths in matte or gloss finish so you can revamp your home’s interior with high-quality wallcoverings.

4. Install shelving

Many houses don’t have enough space for all your possessions. You can add more space and visual interest to your home by installing shelving. Installing shelves may seem a bit intimidating, but it’s easier than you may think.

You can install a simple, rustic wood plank on metal or wood brackets and arrange books, trinkets or other small objects on them. If you need a more robust storage system, look for fixed bracket or adjustable shelving to organize heavier objects like kitchen appliances, electronics and lamps.

Changing the ambiance and design of your home doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming endeavor. Let these four DIY project ideas inspire your future renovations so you can create a space that you can truly call home.

2023-03-31T12:01:00

(BPT) – Finding motivation on a Monday can be tough. However, there’s no greater motivator to get up and moving like having your canine companion by your side to help you take on Monday — and every day of the week — like a pro. Active dogs and their humans take challenges head-on, and when you consider the ways in which you’ll both benefit from being active together, and getting the fine-tuned nutrition necessary to help keep active dogs strong and energized, there’s no limit to what you can accomplish together.

Tennis pro Venus Williams knows prioritizing her dog’s health through exercise is important to his longevity. “My dog Harry is such a huge part of my life. My dream is for him to have the longest life possible,” said Williams. “When I go to practice, he goes to practice. If I go to the gym, Harry goes to the gym.”

To help pet parents get outside and move with their four-legged friends, Williams has teamed up with Purina Pro Plan Sport to take Monday motivation to a whole new level with the “Monday Like a Pro” Challenge.

Every Monday through May 21, Venus and a group of content creators and award-winning athlete pros will issue weekly challenges for pet parents to log active minutes with their dogs. If you want to join the challenge but don’t know where to start, check out these four, fun ways to get moving with your dog.

1. Take a hike

Hiking is a great way to challenge yourself and your dog. Hikes can be more challenging than your typical walk around the block because of the varying terrain, especially if a hiking path has rolling hills. A new environment allows your dog to experience new smells, sights and sounds, which aids in their mental stimulation.

2. Go to the beach

If you live near the ocean, take your dog to the beach. The beach is a veritable playground of enriching experiences for both dogs and pet parents alike. You can jog along the shore together, play fetch in shallow water or go for a swim. Even if you don’t live near the ocean, you can do these same activities at a lake or river.

3. Play sports

If you play sports or want to get back into playing a sport, your pup can help you train. Take them to the tennis court, work on your serve and have your pooch fetch and return the ball to you. If you have a soccer ball, play keep away with your dog or set them up in a goal and try to score.

4. Work on agility

Find an agility course at a local dog park or take an agility training course. Your dog will learn how to weave through obstacles, run through tunnels and jump over bars, teaching them new tricks and obedience. Meanwhile, you’ll get a workout running alongside them on the course and issuing commands along the way.

Once you add regular exercise to your routine, ensure that both of you get the proper nutrition to fuel your workouts. “Fueling my body with optimal nutrition is one of the most important things that I focus on, not just before my matches, but also on a daily basis,” said Williams. “That’s something I want for my dog Harry as well. With Pro Plan Sport, I know he’s getting the nutrition he needs so he can stick by me on all our adventures.”

To help fuel your highly active, athletic dog, join the “Monday Like a Pro” Challenge. Every Monday through May 21, check out the weekly challenge and log your active minutes. One winner per week will be randomly selected to win a year’s supply of Pro Plan dry dog food to experience firsthand the advanced nutrition of Pro Plan Sport offering the strength and stamina to conquer any adventure.

Joining the challenge also does good for others. For every week participants collectively log 1 million minutes, Pro Plan will donate $15,000 (up to a total donation of $150,000) to Athletes for Animals. The nonprofit organization partners with professional athletes to educate the public about responsible pet ownership, promote pet adoption, raise funds and distribute grants to support best practices in animal welfare.

Sign up now to get active, give back and be entered for a chance to win excellent nutritional food for your active dog. To learn more and join the challenge, visit MondayLikeAProChallenge.com.

2023-03-30T00:01:00

(BPT) – Hospitals nationwide — especially those in rural or other underserved areas where staffing is challenging — count on the skills and talents of every single member of a healthcare team to provide the best possible patient care. Crucial members of that team include Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) — who are highly skilled, well trained, and licensed to deliver anesthesia care for a wide variety of cases including surgical, obstetrical, trauma stabilization, and pain management. Due to their exceptional training and experience, CRNAs practice with a high degree of autonomy, and in some states CRNAs are the sole anesthesia providers in nearly 100% of rural hospitals. Recently, one insurance company announced that CRNAs will receive 15% less compensation than other anesthesia providers for delivering the same services. It is likely that other companies may follow that same practice.

In 2010, a provider nondiscrimination provision in the Affordable Care Act was enacted. This law prohibits health insurance companies from setting different reimbursement rates for providers who are delivering the same high-quality healthcare services. Unfortunately, there is no regulation or rule currently in place issued by the agencies that oversee its implementation so there has been no enforcement of this law.

Due to the lack of enforcement of this nondiscrimination provision, some healthcare plans are reimbursing CRNAs at lower rates than other anesthesia providers for giving the same types of services. This is especially problematic at a time when healthcare staffing is a major concern, and particularly in rural areas that have a smaller provider pool.

What are the consequences of discriminatory CRNA reimbursement?

Discriminating against fully trained, educated and qualified CRNAs delivering the same anesthesia services as other providers can lead to multiple negative impacts on the healthcare industry overall, including:

• Higher healthcare costs. Policies of unequal payment rates lead to higher cost healthcare delivery, without improving quality. Inconsistent insurance rates can pass the responsibility to facilities such as hospitals and off-site ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) to make up the difference in the reduced payments which will increase costs and reduce access for patients. This can drive harmful cost-shifting in healthcare delivery that puts patient access to care at risk, especially among the most vulnerable populations in rural and underserved areas.
• Increased staff shortages. Unchecked rate setting practices can cause CRNAs to leave an insurance network employing discriminatory reimbursement policies or to move to a different state — or even leave the healthcare field altogether, exacerbating current nationwide staffing shortages.
• Limited patient access to care. Especially in rural areas where a CRNA may have been the only option for anesthesia care, patients may have few or no options available for anesthesia care at their local hospital.
• Increased burden on hospitals. Many hospitals are being forced to make tough decisions around cutting much-needed services — such as obstetrics — due to massive financial losses, and reduced reimbursement for CRNAs will only increase these difficulties.

Promoting nondiscrimination in how healthcare providers are reimbursed allows consumers to be able to choose their anesthesia care from among highly skilled, well-trained licensed healthcare professionals such as CRNAs who perform the same services to the same high level of quality as other qualified providers.

“It’s critical to ensure that healthcare providers, including CRNAs and other nurses, are treated fairly,” says Angela Mund, DNP, CRNA and 2022-2023 president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). “A strong and enforceable provider nondiscrimination rule is vital to ensuring that everyone has access to life saving care from the provider of their choice.”

Learn more about how CRNAs help provide needed care to patients and how you can support them at AccessToCare.AANA.com.

2023-03-28T18:01:00

(BPT) – The aviation industry drives around 5% of U.S. GDP — the equivalent of $1.25 trillion in 2022. The industry creates innovative and rewarding roles for some 8 million people across the U.S. Aviation, supporting around 25,000 flights carrying 2.3 million passengers and 66,000 tons of cargo every day. As the industry bounces back from the uncertainty of the last few years, innovation is critical to addressing passenger issues, such as well-being and sustainability, as well as helping to create an improved passenger experience for the flyer.

One company spearheading this innovation is TransDigm Group. The company employs more than 14,000 staff across its portfolio of 48 operating companies located across the United States and Europe. The company has a rich heritage of innovation and manufacturing in aviation and aerospace, including critical avionics, actuation systems, parachutes specifically designed for missions to Mars, and critical passenger and cargo safety systems.

Ensuring passenger well-being

Naturally, for some passengers, there was some anxiety about stepping back onboard aircraft following the global pandemic. But the industry was swift to respond to the crisis by developing enhancements to cabin interiors, designed with passenger well-being and comfort in mind.

Many airlines are now adopting antimicrobial materials for all passenger-facing touch points in the cabin, including bulkheads, tray tables, seatbacks and flooring. New innovations, like the TITANXP surface treatment from Schneller (a TransDigm company), are enhancing disinfection routines to ensure that cabins are effectively sanitised between flights, eradicating 99.9% of all bacteria on cabin surfaces.

Unlike traditional disinfectants, TITANXP has been shown in tests conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to be effective on both hard and soft surfaces — enabling airlines and cabin designers to innovate the cabin interior without concerns around fabrics or finishes degrading due to exposure to harsh disinfectants.

Bathrooms on aircraft are typically small spaces with high footfall. Research has suggested that the average manual tap in a public bathroom is home to anywhere between 1,500 and 6,000 bacteria. Airlines — such as All Nippon Airways (ANA) — are kickstarting programs of investment in touchless technologies for aircraft bathrooms to help address passenger hygiene concerns.

Another TransDigm company, Adams Rite Aerospace (which won a competitive contract to design and manufacture the cockpit safety door systems following the 9/11 attacks), is a pioneer in this area. The company has built a portfolio of touchless lavatory products — from flush switches and faucets to hand dryers and liquid dispensers — to help airlines meet growing passenger demand for a more hygienic experience in airline bathrooms.

Driving the sustainable agenda

As the world focuses on growing a circular economy where environmental concerns are front of mind for all businesses, the airline industry is seeking new ways to reduce its environmental impact. Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — a jet fuel derived from non-fossil sources — is being deployed by leading commercial airlines, such as KLM, Lufthansa, Delta and American Airlines. While SAF has helped power hundreds of thousands of flights to date, airlines are continually seeking ways to further reduce fuel burn, saving cost and reducing environmental impact at the same time.

Less weight means less fuel burn, so airlines are seeking ways to implement lighter materials across the cabin, without impacting the performance or safety of the aircraft. One example is AmSafe, a TransDigm company, which has developed a new lightweight version of its seatbelt. This sheds around 50 grams from the original weight of every single seatbelt, while maintaining the integrity and performance that delivers safety in the air. Deployed across an entire fleet these kinds of reductions in onboard weight can deliver significant differences for airlines.

Blue skies ahead

Despite the disruption to air travel over recent years and its impact on airlines and passengers, the aviation industry has continued to innovate in critical areas such as customer well-being and the reduction of environmental impact. As the industry bounces back, with renewed demand for both business and leisure travel, innovation will continue to power real improvements to the passenger experience, helping to deliver highly skilled and rewarding roles for technical engineers and innovators across the globe. TransDigm’s family of companies are committed to driving this innovation, helping turbo charge the aviation industry into a brighter future.

2023-03-28T07:01:00

(BPT) – Sherri Shepherd — actress, comedian, author and award-winning broadcaster — is taking her shot at implementing new healthy habits while helping protect herself against pneumococcal pneumonia. In case you’re not familiar with it, it’s a potentially serious bacterial lung disease that can disrupt your life for weeks, and can even put you in the hospital or be life-threatening.

Q: You’ve been very vocal about your current health journey. What are some things you’re doing this year to help you stay on track?

Sherri: I’ve been prioritizing my health by finding fun ways to move my body. Sometimes it’s getting outside for a long walk, sometimes rollerblading in the park, but I’m making sure to stay active. And because I have diabetes, I’m at increased risk for pneumococcal pneumonia — just like anyone else 19 or older with other certain underlying medical conditions like asthma, COPD and chronic heart disease. So, I also got vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia, because I don’t want it to stand in my way of living my best life.

That’s why I’m partnering with Pfizer to help raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia.

Q: What do you want people to know about pneumococcal pneumonia?

Sherri: I want to help other adults with underlying medical conditions understand their risk for pneumococcal pneumonia. It’s important to me to make sure they know there are steps they can take to help protect themselves — and that goes for adults 65 or older, too, who are also at increased risk.

Q: Even if someone’s had a pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine in the past, should they still ask about pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination?

Sherri: Yes — even if you’ve been vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia in the past, your doctor or pharmacist may recommend another vaccination for additional protection. Everyone’s situation is different, so it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider who can give their professional advice.

Q: Is pneumococcal pneumonia something I can still get outside of the winter months?

Sherri: It’s a misconception that you can only get pneumococcal pneumonia in the winter or during flu season, but it can strike in any season — and vaccination is available all year round. That’s why I encourage people not to wait to ask their doctor or pharmacist about getting vaccinated.

Q: Thanks so much for the information, Sherri. Where can people find out more?

Sherri: To learn more about the disease, risks, symptoms and more, visit KnowPneumonia.com.

Sponsored by Pfizer.

2023-03-28T07:31:00

(BPT) – For women who want to embark on the journey to improve their overall health, it can be confusing to know where to start. From finding the right supplements that suit your body’s specific needs, to eating the right food, the learning process can feel far from easy. But a simple habit that can be added into any routine to prioritize your health and wellness exists: Taking a probiotic each day.

A woman’s microbiome includes trillions of good and bad bacteria that play an important role in your health, including gut and vaginal health. When this balance of good and bad bacteria is off, you may feel symptoms of occasional bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort. But taking Align Women’s Dual Action, a daily probiotic capsule, helps support gut health and vaginal health.*

In addition to soothing digestive upsets*, here are three reasons why taking Align Women’s Dual Action daily should be a new healthy habit you add into your routine.

1. You do not get enough probiotics from the foods you eat

Many people believe that they get enough probiotics from foods they’re eating, but not all fermented food contains probiotics. And even if they do, you may need to eat a LOT to get the amount of probiotics needed to provide health benefits. Regardless of the fermented foods you choose to eat, adding a daily probiotic, such as Align Women’s Dual Action, into your routine can provide your body with the helpful bacteria you need to support your gut and vaginal health.*

2. Some probiotics can support balance in both gut and feminine health

Taking a supplement like Align Women’s Dual Action Probiotic can help support gut and feminine health.* It helps soothe occasional digestive upsets like bloating, gas and abdominal discomfort* by adding a unique strain of good bacteria to your gut. Plus, it contains women’s probiotics and botanical chaste tree to help promote vaginal and monthly mood balance.*

Align Women’s Dual Action contains Align’s flagship strain, Bifidobacterium 35624™, which does not require refrigeration, making it perfect for on-the-go use. One capsule daily is all you need to help support gut health.* Align Women’s Dual Action also includes two additional probiotic strains shown to help promote vaginal health.*

Taking care of your health begins with small steps. Align Probiotic has launched the #HealthyGutTeamUp, to encourage users to add Align Women’s Dual Action Probiotic and another healthy habit like walking, meditating, journaling, or any other habit to prioritize their overall health.

Join the #HealthyGutTeamUp so you can learn more about probiotics and feel the difference adding two small everyday healthy habits can make for your health.

3. Providing your gut and feminine health with the right probiotic takes time

Like any healthy habit, seeing and feeling changes take time. In this case, your gut needs time to adjust to the new and good bacteria Align’s Women’s Dual Action Probiotic is providing so it’s important to take it daily for at least a month to see how good a healthy gut can feel.*

There are many reasons why your results may vary when taking probiotics, but a significant factor is choosing a probiotic with a well-studied strain. Pick a doctor-recommended brand and stick with it for at least a month before deciding if it’s right for you. For example, Align’s probiotic strain has been studied for over 20 years and is the #1 recommended probiotic brand by doctors and gastroenterologists.‡

‡Among doctors and gastroenterologists who recommended a brand of probiotic in a ProVoice 2022 survey.

2023-03-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Along with the change in seasons comes the desire to start anew, with a fresh, clean slate. But before you deep clean, you need to declutter. While decluttering can seem daunting, a few smart organizing strategies can help you feel a lot less stressed as you tackle your tasks. Set aside a weekend for each area, so you’ll have plenty of time for breaks.

Where should you start? It doesn’t really matter — the key is to get started.

1. Get your docs in a row

While many documents can be stored and accessed digitally, having paper copies of important documents can save you hassle in the future while providing peace of mind. How do you know what’s important? Here are some examples:

• Tax records and receipts (keep seven years)
• Pay stubs and bank statements (keep one year)
• Home purchase, sale or improvement documents (keep at least six years after selling)
• Medical records and bills (keep at least a year after payment in case of disputes)
• Warranties and receipts (keep as long as you own the item)
• Birth and death certificates
• Social Security cards
• ID cards, passports and green cards
• Marriage and business licenses
• Insurance policies (keep even if the insurer provides access to a digital copy)
• Wills, living wills and powers of attorney
• Loan documents

Keep them in a small fireproof safe for an extra layer of protection. When you need to print documents, the Mopria Print Service app makes the printing process easier, as it enhances the print functionality on any Android phone or tablet. With this app, you can connect and print to any Mopria certified printer without additional set-up. If your Android device is not yet able to print, you can easily download the app from Google Play.

2. Make meals a breeze

When was the last time you cleaned out your cabinets or refrigerator? Go through your kitchen to find items that are past their expiration date. Devise an organization system for your spices that makes sense for you — do you prefer to alphabetize, or would you rather group spices by categories like savory and sweet, or type of cuisine? What matters is that your system helps you find what you’re looking for. List any spices or herbs that need replacing after your purge.

Need to organize handwritten family recipes you’ve saved over the years? Use your phone to scan them using the Mopria Scan app, then print them later from your device. Then you can create your own recipe binder to store neatly on a kitchen shelf.

3. Clear out your bathrooms

To make it easier to do a deep cleaning of your bathrooms, first clear out any items cluttering up your shelves, vanity or closets. Safely dispose of expired medicines and toss old makeup and any other products you don’t use. Ratty towels? Cut up to use as rags. Surprise — you suddenly have a lot more space, making it easier to keep clean.

4. Refresh your sanctuary

If sorting through all your clothes seems overwhelming, try this — for three weeks, choose only items from one side of your drawer or closet, in order. If you find yourself always skipping certain items, what does that reveal? Maybe they don’t fit well, or aren’t comfortable. Don’t wear it? Donate it (if it’s still in good condition) or throw it out. Your closet and drawers will suddenly have a lot more breathing room.

Then launder all your bedding, including the mattress pad and comforter or duvet. You’ll love the fresh feeling after everything’s been cleaned.

5. Organize your time

If you find it difficult to keep track of your own appointments and obligations as well as those of your family members, try using a wall calendar for everyone in the household, posted in a prominent place. You could print a calendar from your mobile device, then post it on the fridge or other accessible spot. Supply different colored markers for each family member to use, so your calendar will be color-coded, making it even easier to understand at a glance.

Using these tips, you’ll find that your home is much more organized, and you’ll feel refreshed and confident as you head into the spring and summer seasons.

2023-03-28T09:31:00

(BPT) – For today’s consumers, buying environmentally friendly products is a critical consideration for everyday essentials. In fact, a recent survey covered by Forbes found that consumers, especially younger shoppers, are driving the sustainability market and are willing to spend more on products that reduce environmental impact. Additional research has found that consumers also want to buy from brands that align with their values, especially when it comes to sustainable practices.

However, finding brands that truly do good with their product while supporting people and the environment can be challenging. One way consumers can ensure they’re buying from eco-friendly brands is by buying from B Corporations.

What are B Corporations?

Certified B Corporations (B Corps) are companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. Companies that wish to become B Corp certified must undergo a rigorous assessment and recertify every three years. In this way, these companies must demonstrate a mindset of continuous improvement and a commitment to B Corp standards.

Why shop B Corps?

Buying from a B Corp means you can feel confident about the product you’re buying, knowing they care and are creating real change. B Corps are not only dedicated to environmental performance but are also mission driven. Consumers can rest easy knowing they’re buying products from a company committed to making business a force for good.

Support B Corp brands

March is National B Corp Month, the perfect time and reminder to buy from B Corps whose missions focus on helping people and the planet. One company you can support while stocking up on everyday essentials is Tom’s of Maine.

A leader in natural personal care products, Tom’s of Maine is dedicated to advancing sustainable business practices by making products with naturally sourced and derived ingredients. As part of being a B Corp, the company commits 10% of its annual profits to nonprofit organizations aligned with its mission to create a healthy future for all people.

If you want to support Tom’s of Maine and the causes they donate to, check out these three products:

1. Aluminum-free natural deodorant

Tom’s of Maine Complete Protection Natural Deodorant provides the complete 24-hour odor and wetness protection you need, keeping you fresh and feeling dry all day. You don’t have to choose between picking a natural deodorant and having wetness protection. Complete Protection is available in two new scents, Rose and Vanilla and Sandalwood and Vanilla, along with several other varieties that meet your scent preferences.

2. Anti-plaque and whitening toothpaste

Fluoride-Free Anti-plaque and Whitening Natural Toothpaste can help you have a brighter, whiter smile. It uses naturally derived ingredients to help prevent tartar buildup and remove surface stains. Plus, the natural peppermint flavor delivers a fresh mouthfeel that will make you look forward to brushing. Best of all, the tube is recyclable*. Just squeeze out as much of the product as possible before replacing the cap and tossing it into the recycling bin.

3. Anticavity toothpaste

Whole Care Natural Fluoride Toothpaste offers many solutions in one. Using this toothpaste, you can fight cavities, promote remineralization, whiten teeth, prevent tartar buildup, freshen breath and strengthen enamel every time you brush. The refreshing spearmint flavor will leave you feeling fresh and clean. Just like the anti-plaque and whitening toothpaste, the tube is easily recyclable.

This month and every month, support companies that are committed to social and environmental change. To learn more about how Tom’s of Maine shares its time and profits to support healthy communities, visit TomsOfMaine.com. And check out Tom’s latest Goodness Report, which outlines how the brand’s commitment to the planet, people and health intersects with its mission to create a healthy future for all people.

*Your community may not yet accept tubes for recycling. Check locally. Learn more at tomsofmaine.com/recyclable-tube.

2023-03-28T08:01:00

(BPT) – Fluctuating interest rates and an ever-changing housing market have inspired many homeowners to reimagine their space, favoring renovation over relocation. Upgrades not only make a home more attractive — they also often bring innovative, low-maintenance solutions, making your most familiar surroundings feel beautiful and comfortable.

With an endless supply of home improvement shows and picturesque inspiration on social media, it can be tricky knowing where to start. That’s why we’ve come up with four simple ways to make your home design dreams come true — while adding lasting value to your property.

1. Look for beautiful, durable surfaces

We all know kitchens and bathrooms can make or break the first impression. These spaces are the heart of the home, where we gather, work and play every day. So, these rooms need surfaces that are beautiful and strong. Let’s be honest — it’s more inspiring to cook when you don’t have to worry about stains and scratches. That’s why fresh, lasting countertops, flooring, backsplashes and even cabinet cladding are renovation must-haves.

For a transformation that’s timeless, consider Cosentino’s new Silestone Ethereal line. These marble-inspired colorways can elevate surfaces in any space, but they’re durable enough for everyday use — making them perfect for bath or kitchen applications. Manufactured with HybriQ Technology, this sustainable product composition uses 99% recycled water and 100% renewable electric energy.

The eco-friendly, stylish collection comes in six unique color selections — two of which are available exclusively at Home Depot:

• Ethereal Indigo: Striking navy veins on a white canvas bring color and dimension for a modern take on marble.
• Ethereal Cloud: White cloud-like patterns on a gray backdrop make this sleek countertop the perfect neutral tone for any kitchen.

2. Build your outdoor space to last

When it comes to the outdoors, you want materials that can withstand the elements — like Dekton. This carbon-neutral product has an ultra-durable surface made of raw materials including quartz, glass and porcelain. The low water absorbing surface is resistant to UV rays, scratches, stains and thermal shock, so it’s ideal for flooring, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens and more. Three new color designs are now available at Home Depot, making it easy to customize your space, whether you prefer Dekton Laos, a smooth matte finish perfect for industrial-inspired rooms; Dekton Rem, which combines marble-inspired neutrals with gold; or Dekton Soke, a colorway with rich, textured grays that work well in any space.

3. Use lighting to make your space shine

Home lighting is a powerful, often-overlooked design element, which can help show off your other decorative finishes, like surfacing or furniture. Luckily, today’s options give homeowners myriad choices to make any room stand out, from fixtures to lightbulbs. Well-placed recessed lighting is always a functional option, but many contemporary designers recommend creating focal points with bold, sculptural pendant lights. You can also try playing with materials that include natural textures, glass or mixed metals, especially in settings like a sunroom or reading nook. Whether you’re going for a traditional look or a mid-century modern feel, thoughtful lighting that accompanies your style is well worth the time and effort.

4. Find photo-worthy finishes

Don’t forget the finishing touch! While it may seem like a small upgrade, details like faucet or door knob finishes have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your home. Simply put, finishes elevate functional elements to stunning accents. Don’t hide handles and faucets — instead, use matte black, brushed metal or even gold to complement or contrast those design features. And don’t be afraid to mix and match styles based on each room’s cabinetry, countertops or wall color. It’s the perfect way to add personal touches to each space.

No matter where you start, you can bring your home to the next level. From installing new surfacing for countertops or vanities to perfect fixtures, there are plenty of creative ways to enhance your home and create lasting value. By choosing high-quality, durable features, you’re not just building a more beautiful home — you’re creating a more effortless and enjoyable lifestyle, now and for the future.

For more design inspiration that elevates your space, visit Cosentino.com.