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Camping is one of the best outdoor activities to partake in during the summer months. Yes, some hardcore adventurers will still camp in the winter months, but summer is an opportunity for anybody to give the activity a go. Whether it’s a fun vacation in a family-orientated campsite, a group of young people investing in a camper rental in Iceland, or a group of friends going on a multi-day hike, camping is an activity that so many people take part in once summer hits.

There are generally three types of camping: backpacking, tent camping, and RVing. While they all share some tips to beat the summer heat, each one comes with its own special considerations, as well.

General Summer Camping Tips

• Pack only light-colored clothing

There’s no way around this law of nature: Solar radiation soaks into dark-colored surfaces and reflects off light-colored surfaces. Don’t try to fight it. Instead, work with it by packing only light-colored clothes on summer camping trips. These will keep you much cooler during the day. Also, choose fabrics that breathe and release heat, such as cotton and linen. If you are wearing short sleeves or shorts, make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen.

• Drink lots of water

Hydration is the most crucial part of staying cool, safe, and healthy on camping trips. Water has a high specific heat value, which means it takes a lot of energy to change the temperature of the water. Since your body is made of about 60 percent water, keeping it properly hydrated is one of the best weapons against overheating.

• Avoid Sunburn

Pick an SPF (30+) with avobenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide. These will block both UV-A and UV-B rays. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating madly. Sun-scorched? Wear a wide-brimmed hat.

• Use bug repellent

It’s summer, so you’re probably camping by the water. And that means bugs. The basis of anyone’s anti-bug arsenal needs to be a DEET-based bug spray. One problem DEET does have is that it can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen by up to one-third. Try to apply your sunscreen at least 20 minutes before DEET to minimize its effect.

• Tarps are the ultimate multitool

The most-mentioned summer camping tip from park rangers was to pack tarps. A lot of them. Tarps aren’t just for keeping the rain off your tent or draping a picnic table; you can use tarps as sun protection, too. They keep the body from overheating and dehydrating.

Backpacking Tips

• Cots

If you buy nothing else, make it a mesh cot. Lifting your body off the ground allows air to circulate all around you. 

• Bring a satellite GPS messenger

A leisurely hike can turn dangerous quickly if you run out of water or lose your way. Every year, thousands of adventurists go missing. Some never return. GPS messengers let you share GPS coordinates, track your adventures, reach emergency responders, and check-in with family or friends — all from the push of a button.

• Campground fans are pretty great

We’ve all been there – it’s 2 a.m., the sleeping bag is far too warm, and there’s no way you’re getting back to sleep without a couple of ice packs. An easier solution? Bring a battery-powered fan that either hooks on to your tent or that you can position at your campsite. You’ll thank yourself in the long run.

Tent Camping Tips

• Set up your tent in the shade

If you can find a camping spot in the shade, take it. Letting trees absorb the sunlight, instead of your tent, will go a long way in keeping you cool. If the trees you are parked under provide ample shade from the sun at all angles you may be able to leave your tent up during the day.

• Choose a tent with lots of mesh

The fine mesh walls of a tent offer protection from biting insects, while also allowing a breeze to pass through, thus providing the best of both worlds. If you will be camping in the summer, it is advantageous to choose a tent with as much mesh as possible. 

• Make use of the breeze

The wind is nature’s air conditioning. Even if there is not a significant breeze, making use of it is a critical move in staying cool during summer camping. When you figure out which direction the wind will be blowing, face your tent door into the wind.

RV Camping Tips

• Service Your AC Before You Hit the Road

The air conditioner in your RV will help you beat the summer heat and also the humidity. Before you start it all, you have to make sure that you have had your cooling system serviced and inspected. You should have the filter replaced and inspect the unit for any signs of damage. 

• Do Not Cook During Peak Times

You may love having a fully functional kitchen, but do not use appliances in the kitchen that can heat up the space. Your range and stove will become interior heat sources, and it is best to avoid using these heat sources until nighttime. Opt to use a microwave or to cook over a fire or a grill instead to stay cool.

• Make a Checklist

As stated in Everything You Need to Know About RV Camping, make a checklist. There a lot more things to remember to check and do with an RV than a tent or backpack. “With every RV comes a list of precautions and steps to take before you are ready to hit the road. Forgetting even the smallest of tasks can put you, your RV, and others on the road with you in danger.”

Beating the heat is all about buying the right accessories, packing the right clothing, the right food, and being strategic with your activities during your trip. Create memories and stay cool in the process during this summer’s RV camping trip. Enjoy your time lounging in your RV and being active outdoors and keep these tips in mind before you hit the road. Stay hydrated, stay covered, and alternate your time indoors and outdoors during the peak heat of the day.

Increasingly, today’s seniors are choosing to continue living in their own homes or communities and enjoying more active lifestyles than ever before. Medical alert systems offer immediate access to assistance in the event of falls or other medical emergencies, and they’re quickly gaining popularity with independent seniors and their loved ones, thanks to the enhanced safety and peace of mind they provide.

The wide array of medical alert systems on the market can make choosing one a confusing and overwhelming task. To compare the available systems accurately and make an informed choice as to which one is best for you, it’s important to know how medical alert systems work.

Although each provider offers its own range of devices, features, options and service plans, medical alert systems all work towards the same goal — to get help where it’s needed fast. Seniors press a button to contact their medical alert provider’s call center, where trained operators are available 24/7 to respond and send immediate assistance. While this simple explanation tells you what medical alert systems do, it doesn’t tell you much about the various components that interact seamlessly to connect seniors with support.

How do medical alert systems work? The process is simple:

1. A person experiences an emergency.
2. He or she pushes the help button on the pendant (worn at all times, even in the shower).
3. An operator answers the call (through the base unit or mobile device) and asks if the person needs help.
4. The operator assesses the situation and contacts local emergency responders, emergency contacts and family.
5. The operator stays on the line until help arrives.
6. If immediate medical attention is not required, the user can ask the operator to contact a family member, caretaker or emergency contact, such as a neighbor.  
7. If the operator can’t hear the user, he or she will assume the user is unconscious or unable to respond and will contact local emergency responders.

Consider the following facts from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention:

• More than 1 in 4 people over 65 will suffer a fall.
• 2.8 million seniors are treated for fall injuries each year.
• 1 in 5 falls results in broken bones or a traumatic head injury.
• Over 95 percent of hip fractures are caused by falls.

With those statistics in mind, you should think of a medical alert system as a safety net. Medical emergencies rarely occur in convenient locations near phones or people. Medical alert systems simply extend the range of convenience, allowing you to call for help regardless of where the emergency occurs.

In turn, this safety net can help seniors live independently or “age in place.” According to AARP, 87 percent of seniors want to stay in their homes as long as possible. Independence is one of the most important factors in a senior’s quality of life, and a medical alert system facilitates this by providing the peace of mind to both adult children and seniors.

All medical alerts come with a help button, but there are often optional features and add-ons you can add to your system for increased safety and convenience. Some of these options include:

Fall Detection

Some devices offer automatic fall detection as an additional service. While it can’t prevent a fall, a medical alert system with fall detection can summon help automatically when you can’t press the button. This is an essential feature for many users and caregivers.

Location Tracking

If you or your loved one is active and likes to go for walks or take trips to the store, having a medical alert with GPS tracking is indispensable. Some systems even let caregivers check to see where the user is in real-time on demand. This provides peace of mind knowing that they can easily be located if there is an emergency.

Many studies over the years have shown a link between social isolation and loneliness and an increase in mortality rates. This is particularly true when it comes to loneliness in the elderly, with AARP claiming a 26 percent increased risk of death due to subjective feelings of loneliness. With 51 percent of the senior population aged 75 and older living alone, loneliness and social isolation are serious concerns.

Loneliness in seniors can bring about a 29% increase in heart disease risk, a 32% increase in stroke risk, a 20% increase in cognitive decline risk over a 12-year period, and a 45% increase in mortality rates. Isolation among seniors is extremely common, especially for those who live at home rather than a senior living community. Even though this loneliness happens easily for seniors, there are many ways to reduce it or prevent it from happening altogether according to LifeStation.

Medical alert systems are beginning to offer help with the issue of isolation and loneliness as well as safety. As one blog post notes, “Today’s medical alert providers are aware of this issue and are increasingly offering services aimed to address the challenge. …[A] weekly well check that provides proactive calls that provide a friendly voice, conduct a critical needs assessment, and deliver resources to stay safe and healthy while improving physical and emotional well-being.” Other services include a concierge type service that, “facilitates contact to an expanded call list that includes meal delivery, pharmacy, and transportation resources – all from the same medical alert equipment used in an emergency.”

Social isolation and loneliness are public health issues that affect more than one-third of adults, with seniors most at risk for depression, substance abuse, and suicide triggered by feelings of isolation. Health risks associated with loneliness and social isolation are comparable to the dangers of smoking and obesity, increasing mortality risk by up to 30%. Given the links between loneliness and health status, there is a need for increased awareness among both the public and healthcare providers that loneliness is a condition that, like chronic pain, can afflict almost anyone

The challenge of social isolation and loneliness among seniors is only going to increase as more people retire. The elderly population in the U.S. in growing every year as Baby Boomers age. By using existing and advancing medical alert technology, both physical and mental health can be protected.

The process of purchasing a home can be extremely stressful. Lenders are going to go through your finances and pull credit reports. Buying a home with your spouse tends to be a bit easier if they have consistent income and a decent credit score. The renovation of a first home purchased together is quite popular as a couple might not have the budget for a turnkey home. Managing this as a couple can be very tough as many couples start their lives out together in debt due to the wedding. The following are tips to manage the purchase and renovation of the home as newlyweds.

Create a Checklist of Features You Need in a Home

Couples are going to disagree about certain features no matter how similar their tastes in homes are. There could be a desire for a pool by one spouse while the other doesn’t want the upkeep and costs a pool create to keep it maintained appropriately. There are going to be compromises and this is a part of any marriage so keep this in mind. You might think one home is great only to find out major features that you both wanted are missing. This will help narrow down the home search which is essential in areas with thousands of homes for sale.

Once You Have Purchased Select Contractors Carefully

Once you have purchased a home that needs some work you need to start picking contractors out for each project that you want complete. Contractors differ in quality and price so keep this in mind. You want to get multiple estimates for the same project as even with the same materials these can differ drastically. You want to make sure that the contractor is licensed and insured in order to limit your personal liability. Take a look at online reviews and pictures of previous projects in order to see the quality of work.

Refinishing Certain Areas

Gutting an entire home only to put in new flooring, sinks, and everything in between will be expensive. There could be a few areas of the home that do not need a renovation but rather some attention. Looking into bathtub refinishing can be wise as the rest of the bathroom can also be refinished. This doesn’t require a plumber which can cost a premium amount hourly unlike a complete bathroom renovation. Floors and counters can also be refinished to give that area of the home a newer look.

Understand Disagreements will Happen

You want to avoid putting yourselves in a terrible financial situation by renovating the home but then lacking funds to pay the mortgage or keep up your current quality of life. Disagreements are going to happen but these tend to happen far more often when there are financial problems. Consider taking on one major project at a time so they can be budgeted and saved for. You do not want to put these on a credit card as this can lead to the renovations costing far more over the course of time.  

The feeling of finishing the renovations on your first home together is one that you both will never forget. Take the time to get started creating your home purchase checklist today!

Just like fiber is an important component of the human diet, it is also important for dogs. When added to a dog’s diet, fiber can produce benefits by aiding with digestion, helping manage weight and keeping blood sugar levels under control.

If you feel your dog isn’t getting enough fiber, you may be wondering, how can I add more fiber to my dog’s diet? Well, read on to find out.

How Can I Add More Fiber to My Dog’s Diet?

The best way to get fiber in your dog’s diet is by giving them the right foods. Not only do you want to give them food that’s high in fiber, you want to make sure your dog is getting fiber from high quality ingredients and not unhealthy fillers. For instance, many dog foods contain 5% crude fiber, which really is not adequate for a healthy dog.

When considering fiber sources for your dog, whole fruits and vegetables are the best option. Here are some things you can add to your dog’s food to make sure he or she is getting enough of these ingredients.

• Canned Pumpkin Pulp: Small dogs will need 1 tbsp. per feeding while larger dog’s will need ¼ cup.
• Steamed Green Vegetables: Prepare a handful and add it to your dog’s meal for the ultimate in digestive health.
• Sweet Potatoes: Mash up some sweet potatoes and add 1-3 tbsp. to your dog’s meal.
• Whole Grain: Bran flakes, cooked oats or millet are some examples of whole grains that can be added to your dog’s meal. Drop in a spoonful to increase fiber content.
• OTC Fiber Additives: Metamucil and other OTC fiber additives can also be effective for improving your dog’s digestion. Add ½ tsp. for small dogs or 2 tbsp. for larger dogs. Add water to blend.

Other Digestive Supplements for Dogs

Fiber is a great way to improve your dog’s health and encourage regular bowel movements. However, there are other supplements that can also be beneficial.

Vital Planet is a company that specializes in all natural pet supplements. They make a variety of products that can improve your dog’s digestive health. These include the following.

Firm Stool for Dogs Powder: This powder has 10 strains of probiotics that support normal GI health and function. It provides a firm stool to prevent occasional diarrhea making for an easy clean up. It is non-GMO, gluten free and contains no artificial ingredients.

Digest Dog Daily Enzyme Powder: This enzyme blend supports the digestion of protein, fat and carbohydrates. Its powder form makes it easy to sprinkle on your dog’s food. It is grain, gluten and soy free, non-GMO and it has a beef flavor your dog will love.

If you are wondering, how can I add more fiber to my dog’s diet, adding the grains and vegetables listed above should help improve your furry friend’s digestive health significantly. What do you like to give your dog to keep him healthy and regular?  

When people are frequently asked about where they would like to live, if money was no object, then the vast majority would choose to live beside the sea. There’s just something about the ocean that draws us to it, and if we get any free time at all during the week or on the weekends, we immediately head for the ocean to relax, and to breathe in all of that fresh air. As humans, we love to be in and around the water, and even though there are a lot of things living in there, that could bite and sting us, it still doesn’t seem to put us off.

Coastal living.

People who love to live near the ocean appear to lead a much healthier lifestyle, and statistics suggest, that living by the sea could provide great benefits for our mental and physical health. Even spending the day on a boat party in Sydney can provide you with the short-term benefits just mentioned, and being on, in, or by the sea, offers all of us a chance to relax, and to de-stress, and this is just what the doctor ordered. There is something very relaxing about sailing on the ocean, or lying down on a sandy beach, on a hot sunny day, and if we could afford it, many of us would try to make a permanent move to find a property beside the ocean.

Many health benefits.

Living beside the ocean is good for you, and these are not just opinions, but are backed up by scientific evidence. The following are just some of the many benefits for your mind and body, when living right beside the sea.

• A better night’s sleep – Living by, or visiting the ocean, supplies you with cleaner and fresher air that you need for a great night’s sleep. The ions found in the sea air, allow your body to absorb more oxygen, and also increases the body’s hormones that induce happiness. The sea air allows you to become more relaxed, which improves your mood and helps you to sleep better.

• Improved mental health – Living by the ocean contributes to a better feeling within yourself, and statistics tell us that people who live by the sea, suffer from less depression and anxiety, than their city counterparts. Data tells us, that people living near the sea, experience less mental issues, than people who live further inland. In a nutshell, the closer you live to the ocean, the better your health.

• Rich in minerals – Seawater is known to contain many rich minerals like potassium, sulphur and magnesium, which are very good for the skin and have anti-inflammatory properties. It is especially good for skin issues like dermatitis and psoriasis.

If you’re not lucky enough to live beside the ocean, then whenever possible, you should make every effort to get to the seaside as much as possible. There are numerous boat trips in the Sydney area, that allow you to get out there on the ocean, and thus experience all of the above health benefits.

False eyelashes contribute to making your eyes pop. There is no easy way to look gorgeous and more awake then putting on a pair of falsies. False lashes are an alternative which women usually wear to give their lashes a fuller, more defined look. False eyelashes are a must accessory for people in the theatre a d entertainment industry. 

Types of False Eyelashes

False eyelashes are the first choice for women with short lashes or with not so full lashes, even adding a mascara. With the advancement in technology, false eyelashes are now available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles.

Individuals

With individual lashes, you can become your makeup artist. These lashes are an excellent option for women who want subtle, fuller natural lashes or want some definition in some parts of the lash line. They come in sets of 30 to 60 of different sizes. Individuals are the most versatile lash type and can create a natural-looking way of adding volume and length to certain parts of your lashes. They disappear into your lashes, making them look perfectly natural.

Clusters

Clusters are also known as flares or accents. The little bands on clusters make them easier to pop on if you’re in a hurry, neither they lift on the corners like strip lashes. They can be strategically applied to create multiple looks. If you want to create the same look as with strip lashes but the option of more workable and customizable pieces, then clusters are for you.

Strips

Strip lashes are a horizontal band of faux wisps that are worn across your upper lash line. Strips can instantly add volume and drama to your eyes. They are available in a wide variety of lengths and prices. Mostly used lashes are made from synthetic fibers, mink, or silk.

Magnetic

Magnetic lashes are going fully mainstream now as they are comparatively easy to handle than all the other types. They have tiny magnets attached to them, which makes the application smooth and more comfortable. They are available in different shapes. Magnetic lashes are reusable too.

Fantasy

Fantasy lashes are brash peacocks of the lash world. There is nothing subtle about these lashes. If you want more than just a simple dramatic look for occasions like Halloween or New Year or any other event where you can wear dramatic lashes, you should try these.

How Are False Eyelashes Growing in Popularity?

You have seen celebrities flaunting false eyelashes in fashion, but now these lashes have become a must-have everyday accessory than a unique occasion adornment. With increasing demand, the market for false eyelashes is booming lately. You can comfortably wear these falsies even alone, depending on the style or event, of course. With false eyelashes, you don’t have to match it with your skin type, skin undertone, and complexion.

YouTube also played a very instrumental role in making the use of false eyelashes accessible. Many YouTubers use and promote certain lash brands in their videos. 

Celebrities like Kylie Jenner also promote certain lash brands, making them popular. She has a lot of following, and people usually blindly follow celebrities. So, now the use of false eyelashes is quite trending.  False eyelashes are not new to this world, but their utilization is becoming quite popular. It’s one of those things you can wear without makeup and still look amazing.

Benefits of Using False Eyelashes

Using false eyelashes is the option for increasing the length and volume od your lashes temporarily. False eyelashes have certain benefits too.

• They can enhance your appearance
• False eyelashes are versatile
• They save a lot of time
• They are low maintenance

False eyelashes can make or break your day depending on their type,  application, and quality. False eyelashes accentuate your natural lashes and are an excellent alternative for women with short or sparse lashes. If you want a dramatic look for evening or night, put false eyelashes and rock them proudly!

Part of the joy of having a dog is being able to share your life with it. People travel with their pets and take them to family gatherings. Heck, many pet owners celebrate their dogs’ birthdays. Therefore, it doesn’t sound too crazy that people want to train their canine companions to go on a bike ride, and more specifically, that they want to train their dogs to ride in a basket of men or womens hybrid bikes. Thankfully, the training process is straightforward, and you can be riding with your best animal friend in about two weeks with consistent practice.

1. Introducing the Dog to the Basket

The first thing you will need to do to train your pooch is getting them used to bike baskets for cruisers. Make sure you have a basket big enough for your dog to sit comfortably. When starting, you will not attach the basket to the bike. You want to get your dog used to sitting and lying in the basket. Once the animal is used to it, you can begin carrying them around the house.

2. Connect the Basket to Bike

After a few days of carrying the dog around, you can attach the basket to bikes for women or men, and place the dog inside. You want to guard the animal, so they don’t fall or jump out and hurt themselves. If you are worried about the potential for injury, you can purchase a harness to secure your pup. You should practice this exercise for a couple of days.

3. Walk the Bike

When you are confident your dog is comfortable with the basket, you can begin walking the bike, but only short distances. You want the animal to get used to the feel of the bike’s movement and the sound of changing and moving gears. You can practice this exercise a couple of times per day to try to speed up the training process.

4. Go on a Slow Ride

When your favorite pooch seems comfortable sitting in the basket while you walk the bike, try moving onto to riding the bike. Do not go into a full-blown ride. You want to pedal slowly and talk with your animal to keep them calm. Again, trips need to remain short in the early stages of training to avoid traumatizing or injury your pet.

5. Introducing Distance and Terrain

In the last days of training, you can add distance and various terrains to your furry pal. Increase your riding speed and go over slight bumps, so your dog can get used to the feel of the unique elements of riding. Eventually, you can take your dog on a regular ride, without hesitating or questioning whether they are ready.

Dogs are fantastic creatures, and they are resilient to change. Training your favorite canine to ride in a basket on the front or back of your bicycle primarily depends on your commitment to the training. Talk to a bike supplies retailer to make sure you have everything you need before starting the training process.

A cocktail that’s good for you? It doesn’t seem likely. And while we are not advocating the consumption of alcohol as a way to improve your health, if you are looking for a drink that’s as healthy as possible, ginger liquor would have to be in the running.

Ginger liquor is a drink that’s main ingredients include ginger and brandy. Ginger has long been used as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory. It has been shown to improve digestion and some studies have provided evidence that it may help to fight cancer.

If this is enough to make ginger liquor your drink of choice, here is a ginger liquor recipe that is simply divine

Ginger Liquor Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz ginger root
• 1 vanilla bean
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 orange
• 1 ½ cups brandy

Directions:

Peel ginger and cut into thin slices. Split vanilla bean in half lengthwise.

Bring ginger, vanilla, sugar and water to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer until ginger is soft, about 20 minutes. Let syrup cool.

Zest orange and place zest in a sealable glass container along with the syrup and brandy. Seal and shake. Let the mixture steep for one day.

Remove vanilla bean and let mixture steep for one more day.

Strain mixture through a coffee filter into your bottle or jar for storage. Let sit for one more day to allow flavors to mellow.

Serve as desired. Liquor does not have to be chilled.

Other Ways to Get Ginger in Your Diet

Of course, drinking an alcoholic beverage may not be the ideal way to get more ginger in your diet, especially if you want to consume it every day. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives.

For instance, crystallized ginger is a delicious way to enjoy this spice. You can buy crystallized ginger in a store or you can make it yourself. It can then be added to stir fries, salads and sweet treats.

You can also take ginger in supplemental form. If you chose to go this route, here are some brands that are recommended.

Gaia Herbs: Gaia Herbs provides homeopathic products that contain herbs the company grows themselves. Their herbs are then tested in their own state of the art lab to ensure they provide the very best in purity and potency. Their certified organic Ginger Root is just one of the many Gaia products that can help boost wellness.

Solaray: Solaray was founded in 1973 and has since expanded to become a leader in the natural health industry. Their product line includes quality herbs, vitamins, minerals and specialty products. Their ginger root capsules are highly recommended for their ability to boost immunity and improve digestion.

If you want to get more ginger in your life, this ginger liquor recipe can be a fun way to do it. Follow up with the right diet and quality supplements to experience optimal health. How will you be incorporating ginger in your daily routine?