Did you know that we Americans, on average, spend roughly 90 percent of our lives indoors? Between commuting to and from our jobs, spending likely over eight hours a day working, and going about our normal daily business, we see nature more on our TVs than we do in real life, missing out on the health benefits of being outdoors. Not only is that a depressing statistic, but there are real health benefits of being outdoors that we’re missing out on when we’re confined to our homes and office buildings. Research suggests just 120 minutes (that’s two hours) per week is associated with good health ..read more

What if there was a way to decrease stress, ease anxiety, improve sleep and boost your mood — and you could do it anywhere, at any time? How about also helping to relieve COPD and blood pressure problems? Interested? You’re in luck, because this already exists. It’s time to introduce breathwork and breathing exercises into your daily routine. What Is a Breathing Exercise? Breathing exercises and techniques sound a little funny at first: After all, don’t we all know how to breathe? Using specific breathing techniques and breath control, however, means that you’re mindful about the way you ..read more

In a world where stress levels are rising, exposure to natural sunlight outdoors is diminishing and technology is leading to constant demands for everybody’s attention, it’s no surprise that so many people struggle to get enough sleep and suffer with sleep deprivation. What does it mean to be “sleep deprived”? What are some of the negative effects of sleep deprivation? The broad definition of sleep deprivation is “a condition that occurs if you don’t get enough sleep.” The amount of sleep that qualifies as “enough” differs depending on whom you ask, but it usually falls between about seven to ..read more

Have you ever experienced jet lag or struggled to adjust to a new work schedule? These challenges stem from disruptions to your circadian rhythm — aka circadian timing system — your body’s natural 24-hour internal clock. This complex system regulates various functions, from sleep patterns to hormone release, influencing your overall health and well-being. In our fast-paced world, where sleep often takes a back seat to productivity and entertainment, understanding the importance of circadian rhythm is crucial. This natural, internal process regulates our sleep-wake cycle and influences various ..read more

Ever hit snooze one too many times, scramble out the door and feel like you’re playing catch-up all day? A well-crafted morning routine can be your secret weapon for starting your day feeling energized, focused and ready to tackle anything. In today’s fast-paced world, establishing a solid morning routine can be the difference between a chaotic day and a productive one. Whether you’re a night owl trying to embrace the early hours or an early riser looking to optimize your mornings further, crafting a morning routine tailored to your needs can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. In t ..read more

Ah, the dreaded weight loss plateau. You’ve been diligently counting calories, hitting the gym and the scale just…won’t budge. A weight loss plateau is a period where your body stops losing weight, even though you’re still following your diet and exercise regimen diligently. It’s a frustrating experience that can leave you feeling demotivated and questioning your efforts. Striving for weight loss can be an arduous journey, filled with ups and downs. One common obstacle many individuals encounter along the way is that dreaded weight loss plateau. This phenomenon occurs when your weight loss st ..read more

In the bustling world we live in, finding moments of solace and connection is increasingly precious. Enter “fika,” the Swedish tradition that’s not just about grabbing a coffee, but a cultural institution centered around relaxation, socializing and indulging in life’s simple pleasures. Forget the ordinary coffee break. Fika (pronounced fee-kah) is a Swedish tradition that elevates the simple act of grabbing a cup of joe into an art form. It’s more than just caffeine — it’s a social ritual, a moment of mindfulness and a cornerstone of Swedish culture. So let’s explore the essence of fika, its ..read more

In the symphony of our biology, rhythms play the role of the conductor, orchestrating the intricate dance of our bodily functions. Among these rhythms lies the enigmatic yet crucial beat known as the infradian rhythm. There is plenty of information out there on the circadian rhythm, the 24-hour cycle that regulates sleep and wakeful, but you may not be familiar with infradian rhythms. These are the body’s lesser-known biological cycles that operate on a much grander scale, lasting longer than a day. Keep reading to delve into the depths of this fascinating biological phenomenon, exploring its ..read more

Most people have experienced pelvic pain at some point in their lives. It can be a symptom of constipation or PMS, and it may only occur once in a while. But for some, it is a chronic condition that hinders their ability to do common activities like walking, lifting objects, going to the bathroom or having sex. According to research published in Pain Physician, the worldwide prevalence of pelvic pain ranges between 5.7 and 26.6 percent. Although pelvic floor pain is a common complaint among women with gynecologic conditions, it can also be a problem for men who are struggling with digest ..read more

When was the last time you walked barefoot in the sand, grass or in a forest? For most people, this doesn’t happen very often, but we’re now learning there might be more of a reason for you to start making these types of activities a priority. A movement known as “grounding” or “earthing” is sweeping the holistic health scene. What is earthing? Walking barefoot outside, with the soles of your feet free to directly connect with the surface of the earth, is the main activity that’s a part of the earthing or grounding practice. While it might sound strange at first — ditching your shoes and digg ..read more