tag:www.funtimesmagazine.com,2005:/categories/health-wellness?page=20Health+Wellness | FunTimes Magazine Page 20Celebrating Africa And Its Diaspora2021-07-07T11:35:21-04:00urn:uuid:c0c3b18d-8020-47be-8961-8c125c75902a2021-03-28T17:52:19-04:002021-07-07T11:35:21-04:00Mindful Living: The Secret to Growing Your Business2021-03-29 08:00:00 -0400Nina IndigoThe founder of The Wellness Business Academy, Helanah Warren, shares her secrets on how to incorporate mindful living into growing and amplifying your business. Due to COVID-19, businesses are operating digitally, which has proven to be challenging at times. Here are Helanah’s top 5 mindfulness strategies for continuing to grow a business.<br><br><ol><li><h4>Be invested.</h4>Be invested in helping your clients. Your business is where you utilize your gifts, your practice, and your skills. When you work you should be living your passion. Your clients should feel your passion. When they see the joy you have when serving them, they’re more likely to have a high sense of satisfaction, which is what you want people to feel.<br><br></li><li><h4>Tell your story!</h4>Use your attraction and be authentic. Authenticity is a strength. There is a sense of vulnerability and truth that people connect with. Why waste time trying to connect or relate to someone who is pretending? People want honesty. It draws them in because it's something they cannot buy. The power behind storytelling will never fade out. Like any other skill, it's something you practice. If you allow, it will become a core strength to your business, and help build a stronger connection with others. Share more. People want to hear.<br><br></li><li><h4>Differentiate business vs. hobby.</h4>Building a strong business is hard work. A hobby is normally just for fun. To run a successful business, you want balance and mindfulness as core principles. However, bravery, courage, authenticity, and discipline should be in practice too. When you work and live in balance it creates a blissful and fun workplace. Running a business from a mindful perspective is essential. For example, you must understand that there is a time for work and a time for play. Do not burn yourself out. You have to allow yourself time to take off, do something for yourself, or take a mental health day if needed. Do not think you have to grab every single opportunity that comes your way because someone else will take it. This is negative thinking. Be a mindful thinker.<br><br></li><li><h4>Be present.<br><br></h4>As a mindful thinker, keep it simple. When you wake up, take 5-10 minutes to sit, inhale, and exhale. Have your breath connect with your body. The core issue of stress is that you are here and want to be there. This is using the present to go back and forth between the future and the past. Do not live life blind-folded or looking for an escape. Learn to have gratitude and empathy for who you are and where you are in your life presently. Accept the past and let it die as it was. Do not worry about the future or try to control the outcome. Just handle the next step when it comes. Adapting to mindful thinking and living becomes easier as time goes on. Life is much more enjoyable and beautiful when you let go and just be. You do not have to know everything all the time.<br><br></li><li><h4>Practice gratitude and empathy.<br><br></h4><p>How you treat yourself reflects how you will treat others around you. If you are not kind to yourself and are in need of control, change this. See where life's path will take you, let it flow. Use empathy and gratitude as a strength, and don't think too hard. Remember, everybody has to start somewhere. Just get in and have fun with it. Helanah explains why and how Mindfulness and balance are essential to holistic wellness practice:</p><p> "Mindfulness and meditation are important because it brings us back to self, living in a world where we feel disconnected from our true essence. When we busy ourselves we create these distractions in our lives that become placeholders that fill up space, creating more distance between us and ourselves, our passions, purpose, and happiness. Mindfulness is a tool that helps you slow down. Recenter using tools that are free 99. Breaths and stillness balance me out to be in the now. Balance is being yourself as you are, accepting the moment, not in search of a past that is gone. Be grateful for your difficulties, your resilience, and triumph come from these dark moments.”</p><br> If you like these 5 steps, look into Helanah Warren's Wellness business strategizing. Visit <a href="http://hellohelanah.com/" target="_blank">http://hellohelanah.com/</a> for mindfulness training. Warren is highly recommended and will show you how to incorporate mindful living and thinking into growing and amplifying your business. You can also find her new self-care starter kit on her website. Additionally, she has a Vegan cookbook coming out with delicious recipes to try. The book is called, “Making Magic with Cauliflower”. In the meantime, you can go on her site and check out the “How To Go Vegan” guide too. She will also be holding plant-based cooking classes very soon. Log into her website to learn more. <br><br></li></ol><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/768559/fill/300x0/nina_20indigo.jpg?timestamp=1616968318"></div><p> Nina Indigo is a Storyteller and Digital Journalist @ FunTimes Magazine. She writes on topics for the health and wellness segment. She practices Vegetarianism, loves poetry, African/African American Literature, creative-writing, research, yoga poses and meditation.</p><span><p>In her articles, she provides her readers with organic content for people of all backgrounds and communities, she is truthful, writes to empower and inform. She helps readers make their best holistic decisions in their lives, communities and societies.</p><p>In 2021, she will obtain her BA in English Writing, with a minor in African and African American Literature Studies.</p><p>To follow up on her latest articles google Nina Indigo @ FunTimes. In her articles, her motive is to provide to her readers a how, and why holistic health is not just important, it's a necessity to our whole well-being. Her articles do not simply empower and inform, but present relevant ideas and solutions to the essential wellness topics discussed.</p></span><p><br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b3950f5d-0666-4fb4-a366-d54230f61e862021-03-25T19:35:32-04:002021-07-07T11:34:53-04:00The Power in Mindful Practices: Opinion Piece2021-03-26 09:00:00 -0400Nina IndigoI recently interviewed Susan Barr-Toman, a meditative mindful writing instructor and coach for the University of Pennsylvania’s Mindfulness Space Stress Reduction Program. Since the start of the pandemic, Barr-Toman has been conducting virtual sessions. Based on what I learned, I believe her philosophy of<span> mindfulness teaching is effective.<br><br></span><p>During her interview, Barr-Toman shared valuable insight into how she runs her sessions. She explained that she breaks her mindfulness writing session down into 3 sections. You need a quiet area, a chair, a mat, and a pen and paper for the end of the session. Once you have all of your tools you are ready to begin and drift away peacefully into a mindful meditation practice session. I recommend doing a 30 minute DIY mindful writing session in your home at least once a week. Most students utilize meditative mindful writing sessions when in a time of crisis, such as losing a job, getting divorced, suffering a loss, leaving a bad relationship, or dealing with mental distress. Ultimately, mindfulness practice helps to teach you how to approach your life differently. Use these steps for a successful meditative mindful writing session:</p><h4><br>Structure Your Breathing Method</h4><br>When starting your session, for the first 10 minutes you should be sitting in a chair or on a mat. However, Barr-Toman reccomends using a chair for best results. Practice taking deep smooth breaths in from the abdomen, then slowly releasing your breaths. You are to do nothing but breathe. The goal is to completely in the present. This is a powerful mechanism to teach in mindfulness sessions. Anyone who is used to constantly being on the go must learn to be patient with themselves and be in the moment. Remember, the c<span>oncept of mindful practice is that you live in the moment.<br><br></span><h4><br>Begin a Solitude Meditation in Silence</h4><br>For the next 10 minutes you are observing your thoughts. Once you have control of your breathing, your mind should be exploring. You could now be feeling worried, anxious, fatigued, depressed, or stressed. If any of these emotions listed came to the surface, most likely you want to change something of the past. This is not good. You cannot control your thoughts, no one can. You only have the power to change what you perceive of them. For the final 5 minutes, open your eyes, take a look around you and where you are in this moment. Remind yourself that <span>everything is okay right here at this moment. Your mind and body are in the present. This is mindful thinking. Now that your mind and body are working together, it works. Your blocked mind becomes unblocked.<br></span><h4><br><br>Now, Start Freewriting</h4><br><p>In the last 10 minutes of the session you should write anything you feel like writing. You can write 2-3 sentences one day, and write another 2 or 3 sentences the next time. The key is to keep your mind in the present, allowing for a creative space. It’s all about exploring your creativity now that your mind is open to all thoughts and ideas. It’s about letting go. This is being present. The practice of mindfulness is a natural alternative to practice releasing any stress or anxiety. In Barr-Toman’s interview closing, she explained why and how mindfulness is essential to holistic health and wellness practices:</p><p>“Being in the now and live life as it happens, meditating every day builds awareness by anchoring your breath, building your awareness muscles. This brings awareness to other parts of your life and can be applied to bring the tools you learned through mindfulness to different elements of your lives, such as love, kindness, and compassion.”</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/811498/fill/700x0/susan_20barr-toman.jpg?timestamp=1616714806"></div><p> </p><p>You can practice this routine at home any time during your week. However, if you prefer the comfort of an instructor, Barr-Toman welcomes you. Below you can find her brief bio and contact:</p><p>Susan Barr-Toman teaches mindfulness and writing in her Mindful Writing workshops. Since 2017, she is an affiliated faculty member at the Penn Program for Mindfulness. She is the author of the award-winning novel When Love Was Clean Underwear and her work has appeared in The Washington Post, the Los Angeles Review of Books, and, most recently, in the Longleaf Review among others. Visit her at <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.susanbarrtoman.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616718048700000&usg=AOvVaw2gZfH6j6ellAULLtbuaMEM">www.susanbarrtoman.com</a>.</p><p>Facebook: <a href="http://facebook.com/susanbarrtoman" target="_blank">@susanbarrtoman </a></p><p>Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/sbarrtoman" target="_blank">@SBarrToman</a></p><p>LinkedIn: Susan Barr-Toman, link: <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-barr-toman-919740a&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616718048701000&usg=AOvVaw1SKzIkh_Tlb48KPx1Olrm-">http://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-barr-toman-919740a</a> </p><p>Starting March 1st, I'm offering Free Mindful Mondays in March at 12 noon. I will lead a meditation for 5-10 minutes and then offer a writing prompt. We'll write until 12:30 pm. Those interested can email me at susan@susanbarrtoman.com to sign up.</p><p> Upcoming events with Penn Mindfulness:</p><p>The Body Tells the Story, a 2-hour Mindful Writing workshop, Saturday, April 10 from 10 am to 12 noon. $49.</p><p>Building a Mindful Writing Practice, a 6-week Mindful Writing workshop series, Wednesday evenings, April 21 through May 26, 6-8 pm. $325.</p><p>For information on my (online for now!) Mindful Writing workshops use this link:</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://susanbarrtoman.com/workshops/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616718048702000&usg=AOvVaw2V8GK-GA4DaMfLRp_2IGdn">https://susanbarrtoman.com/workshops/</a></p><p>Also, check out Robin Hall’s information listed below…</p><div class="image-main"><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/811500/fill/700x0/robin_20hall.jpg?timestamp=1616715172"></div><p>Robin Hall, BA, is the operations manager for the mindfulness Based Stress Reduction program. In addition, she teaches the 8-week foundation course. She also specializes, develops, coordinates, and facilitates programming for the people of color initiative. Her idea is to make mindfulness practice more accessible and relevant to this audience.</p><p> Free Open Sitting for People of Color on the third Thursday of every month from 6-7 pm. Email mindfulness@uphs.upenn.edu to be added to the list.</p><p>This spring, she will lead a POC Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction foundational online program on Wednesday evenings (6-8 pm), beginning May 5 and ending June 23. There will be a 5-hour long retreat on June 13 from 10 am-3 pm. Registration will open in a few weeks.</p><p>Penn's website:<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or%2520service/mindfulness&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616718048703000&usg=AOvVaw1x0KpE_1GEDGRbmJpYG23T"> </a><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or%2520service/mindfulness&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616718048703000&usg=AOvVaw1x0KpE_1GEDGRbmJpYG23T">https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or service/mindfulness</a></p><p></p></div><div><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/768559/fill/300x0/nina_20indigo.jpg?timestamp=1616715213"></div><span><p>Nina Indigo is a Storyteller and Digital Journalist @ FunTimes Magazine. She writes on topics for the health and wellness segment. She practices Vegetarianism, loves poetry, African/African American Literature, creative-writing, research, yoga poses and meditation.</p><p>In her articles, she provides her readers with organic content for people of all backgrounds and communities, she is truthful, writes to empower and inform. She helps readers make their best holistic decisions in their lives, communities and societies.</p><p>In 2021, she will obtain her BA in English Writing, with a minor in African and African American Literature Studies.</p><p>To follow up on her latest articles google Nina Indigo @ FunTimes. In her articles, her motive is to provide to her readers a how, and why holistic health is not just important, it's a necessity to our whole well-being. Her articles do not simply empower and inform, but present relevant ideas and solutions to the essential wellness topics discussed.</p></span><p>More articles by Nina Indigo:</p><p><a href="/2021/03/07/349643/end-the-covid-madness-get-vaccinated-right-" target="_blank">End the COVID Madness: Get Vaccinated, Right!</a></p><p><a href="/2021/03/12/350355/nourish-in-the-ancient-philosophy-of-yoga" target="_blank">Nourish in the Ancient Philosophy of Yoga</a> </p></div><div><a href="/2020/10/17/331825/embracing-online-meditation-to-relieve-emotional-distress" target="_blank">Embracing Online Meditation to Relieve Emotional Distress</a><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:3354f36a-61e1-4013-a504-d5a7757dbd8a2021-03-24T09:48:50-04:002021-03-24T09:51:53-04:00Why TB Awareness is Important in Black Communities2021-03-24 09:48:50 -0400 Boitumelo Masihleho<p>Each year, World Tuberculosis (TB) Day is commemorated on March 24th to raise public awareness about the health, social, and economic consequences of TB, and to increase efforts in ending the global TB epidemic. Dr. Robert Joch announced his discovery of the TB bacterium in 1882. Today, TB remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious killers, killing nearly 4,000 and infecting 28,000 people per day.</p><p></p><p>The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-tb-day/world-tb-day-2021&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029732000&usg=AOvVaw0tt01QljptGkw9ZlVXPiOS">World Health Organization</a>’s theme for this year is ‘The Clock is Ticking’, to convey that the world is running out of time to act on the commitments to end TB made by global leaders. Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it’s more critical now than ever to end TB, as it is a respiratory disease. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported that in 2019, TB was reported in 1,753 Black people in the United States, which accounts for nearly 20% of all people reported with TB nationally. The rate of TB is eight times higher for Black people than it is for White people.</p><p></p><p>In South Africa, the country is fighting the TB epidemic alongside HIV/AIDS. The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.croiconference.org/abstract/tuberculosis-south-africa-more-concentrated-race-poverty/%23:~:text%3DBlack%2520South%2520Africans%2520had%2520the,of%2520TB%2520across%2520SES%2520categories.&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029733000&usg=AOvVaw2uhucswTVoe9G8FMv7tEFw">Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) reported</a> that between 2002 and 2014, the overall prevalence of TB declined, but Black South Africans had the highest TB prevalence. The report summarised that TB in South Africa is concentrated by race rather than poverty. “Both race and poverty predict TB risk, but Black and Colored individuals across socioeconomic classes suffer much higher rates of TB than the poorest whites or Asians/Indians,” explained the CROI.</p><p></p><p>TB is a challenging disease to diagnose, treat, and control, but it is treatable. Ending TB will require stopping transmission by quickly identifying people with active TB, and then curing them through the provision of drug treatment. Sadly, there are challenges for the Black community when it comes to prevention and treatment for TB. Treatment for TB is done over several months and often Black patients are unable to continue with the treatment due to dwindling resources. For Black people already with the disease, inadequate treatment can lead to treatment failure, relapse, ongoing transmission, and development of drug resistance.</p><p></p><p>Disparities in incidences persist despite ongoing TB control efforts. More awareness and education are necessary to break down any stigma tied to TB within the Black community. With the death rate from COVID-19 being staggeringly high among Black people in the U.S compared to Whites, it is critical to reach those populations at the highest risk for TB and to identify and implement innovative strategies to improve diagnosis and treatment.</p><p><br></p><p></p><p>Source</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cdc.gov/tb/topic/populations/healthdisparities/default.htm&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029734000&usg=AOvVaw1euaZm19R25V_kbJfWysCt">CDC</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-tb-day/world-tb-day-2021&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029735000&usg=AOvVaw2XAhYjBUDLuOyFfTvtFZu_">WHO</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.croiconference.org/abstract/tuberculosis-south-africa-more-concentrated-race-poverty/%23:~:text%3DBlack%2520South%2520Africans%2520had%2520the,of%2520TB%2520across%2520SES%2520categories.&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029735000&usg=AOvVaw1ZYZe0HCRZRTfp_xKnSG6F">CROI</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://tbfacts.org/tb-prevention/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029736000&usg=AOvVaw3femfkmukPYx7cCPTpnAut">TBFacts.org</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://theconversation.com/covid-19-is-hitting-black-and-poor-communities-the-hardest-underscoring-fault-lines-in-access-and-care-for-those-on-margins-135615&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616597029737000&usg=AOvVaw0L3KhcfC0_7mMdiMfboe_g">The Conversation</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1616593706"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br>More articles by Boitumelo Masihleho:<br></p><p><a href="/2021/03/04/349389/5-ways-to-prevent-start-of-the-year-burnout" target="_blank">5 Ways to Prevent Start-of-the-Year Burnout</a><br></p><p><a href="/2021/03/02/349240/how-menopause-affects-black-women-differently" target="_blank">How Menopause Affects Black Women Differently</a><br></p><p><a href="/2021/02/25/348325/why-black-women-are-more-likely-to-have-uterine-fibroids" target="_blank">Why Black Women Are More Likely to Have Uterine Fibroids</a><br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:a0752b65-cf21-48ec-aa52-cf6a9a5c574b2021-03-20T15:07:36-04:002021-03-20T15:07:41-04:00World Down Syndrome Day2021-03-21 08:00:00 -0400 Kassidy Garland<span><p>World Down Syndrome Day, the 21st of March, is a global awareness day that has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. The significance of this date is to represent the naturally occurring triplication or trisomy of the 21st chromosome which is the cause of Down Syndrome. World Down Syndrome Day lies in the middle of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.</p><br><p>According to Pediatricians Nationwide, 6,000 babies are born with Down Syndrome in the US each year. While investigating 18,000 people with Down Syndrome in the United States from 1983-1087, Quanhe Yang, Ph.D. detected significant racial disparity in life expectancy. They reported a life expectancy of 50 years old for White people, 25 for Black people, and just 10 years for other races.</p><br><p>Down Syndrome has long been acknowledged throughout history and science, but Dr. John Langdon Down published the first scholarly work on the subject in the 1860s. However, It wasn’t until 1959 that French physician, Jérôme Lejeune, discovered that it was a chromosomal condition. Even with a scientific and medical understanding of Down Syndrome, cultural understanding is still a problem. </p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810251/fill/700x0/down_20syndrome_20day.png?timestamp=1616267198"></div><p> </p><br><p>In recent years, some countries have proudly discussed the “eradication” of people with Down Syndrome, as if it were a disease, which it is not. Those with intellectual and developmental disabilities are often looked down upon and denied the same opportunities as others. Derogatory language like the R-word is often used to refer to people with disabilities, which is offensive and harmful.</p><br><p>Resources for those with Down Syndrome and their families are limited and often unknown to those who need them. In more recent years, the advocacy of people with Down Syndrome has grown significantly thanks to the use of modern media. Many organizations have popped up all over the country to aid in the treatment and opportunities for those with developmental disabilities, including Down Syndrome. These programs include education services, employment opportunities, medical resources, and peer programs.</p><br><p>Racial disparities in the disability community are also to be acknowledged. Where low-income areas happen to have more people of color, they also have underfunded schools, and resources, making it difficult to educate those with developmental and intellectual disabilities. These racial disparities also occur in the workplace, with people of color with disabilities having higher rates of unemployment.</p><br><p>If you are looking for more information on Down Syndrome, ways to advocate for the community, or resources to help yourself, friends, or loved ones, please visit the following sites. You can also reach out to your local representatives to discuss further legal action.</p><br><p><a href="https://thearc.org/chapter/the-arc-of-philadelphia/">The Arc Of Philadelphia</a></p><p><a href="https://www.disabilityrightspa.org">Disability Rights PA</a></p><p><a href="https://www.temple.edu/instituteondisabilities/">Institute on Disabilities at Temple University</a></p><p><a href="https://www.jevshumanservices.org">JEVS Human Services</a></p><p><a href="https://www.nacdd.org/ddam1/">National Association of Councils of Developmental Disabilities</a></p><p><a href="https://www.ndss.org">National Down Syndrome Society</a></p><p><a href="https://tnsprograms.org">The Next Step Programs</a></p><p><a href="https://www.palsprograms.org">Pals Programs</a></p><p><a href="https://patf.us">Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation</a></p><p><a href="https://www.pealcenter.org">PEAL Center</a></p><br><br><br><br><br><br><br></span><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776057/fill/300x0/kassidy_20headshot.jpeg?timestamp=1616267245"></div><p> Kassidy Garland has had a great appreciation for reading and writing since she was young. She graduated from West Chester University in 2017 with a Bachelor’s Degree in English & Women and Gender Studies. With a concentration in creative writing, Kassidy has 5 years of experience writing blogs, articles, and for social media. Based out of Philadelphia, Kassidy loves to write about a number of topics and looks forward to sharing her passion with those at FunTimes Magazine. <br></p><p><br></p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:eaf09776-d28d-46a6-8442-c0612387a0e92021-03-19T23:52:10-04:002021-03-20T14:16:50-04:005 Foods That Help with Oral Hygiene2021-03-20 08:00:00 -0400Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>On March 20th, the world comes together to help bring awareness to the importance of oral health and preventing oral diseases, which affect individuals, health systems, and economies everywhere. World Oral Health Day is all about empowering people with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to secure good oral health. The theme for the next three years is to be proud of your mouth by valuing it and taking care of it.</p><br><p>Good oral health can help you live a longer, healthier life. According to the <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/en/nutrition/food-tips?utm_source=mouthhealthyorg&utm_medium=mhnutritionrotator&utm_content=food-tips">American Dental Association (ADA)</a>, healthy eating patterns and food choices can help prevent tooth decay. Learn what foods are right for your teeth and what good habits can help your oral health.</p><br><h4>Grapefruit and oranges</h4><p>While acidic foods can harm teeth, foods such as grapefruit and oranges can benefit oral health. Both grapefruit and oranges contain high levels of vitamin C, which strengthens the blood vessels and connective tissues within the mouth. It also slows the progression of gum inflammation that could otherwise lead to gum disease.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810159/fill/700x0/grapefruits.png?timestamp=1616212019"></div><p> </p><h4>Fatty fish</h4><p>Fatty fish like tuna, mackerel, salmon and trout, are an important part of good oral health as they are high in vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial for almost every system in the body and helps reduce tooth decay. Vitamin D works synergistically with vitamins A and K2 to deliver calcium to the teeth, strengthening enamel from the inside out. Fatty fish are also high in Omega-3, which supports gum health and may help prevent and reduce symptoms of gum disease.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810160/fill/700x0/salmon.png?timestamp=1616212084"></div><p> </p><h4>Dairy</h4><p>Cheese, milk, and yogurt are some of the best foods to eat for your dental health. Dairy products stimulate your body’s saliva product, which helps to wash away any bacteria in your mouth. Grass-fed dairy products, such as cheese and butter, are high in vitamin K2, a nutrient that is vital for healthy teeth. Cheese is high in calcium, which is important for maintaining bone density. Cheese is also high in phosphate content that helps balance pH levels in the mouth, which helps to preserve tooth enamel.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810161/fill/700x0/cheese.png?timestamp=1616212148"></div><p> </p><h4>Leafy green vegetables</h4><p>Leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, chard, or collard greens are full of vitamins and minerals. Leafy greens also contain folic acid, which can potentially help treat gum disease. They also contain calcium which helps build your teeth’s enamel. Enamel helps protect and strengthen your teeth. The folic acids in leafy greens may be particularly beneficial for pregnant women, as they can treat periodontal disease.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810162/fill/700x0/leafy_20green.png?timestamp=1616212190"></div><p> </p><div><h4>Cranberries and nuts</h4><p>Nuts are full of health benefits for your teeth. They are packed with tons of important elements such as calcium and phosphorus. Almonds and peanuts are great for oral health because they are a good source of calcium and protein while also being low in sugar. Cashews help to fight bacteria that lead to tooth decay, and walnuts contain everything from fiber, folic acid, iron, thiamine, magnesium, vitamin E, vitamin B6, potassium, and zinc. Cranberries are filled with nutrients and minerals, and are rich in antioxidants that reduce bacteria growth on your teeth and gums. This prevents the development of cavities and gum disease.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/810163/fill/700x0/nuts.png?timestamp=1616212237"></div><p> </p><p>Source</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/health-news/foods-for-great-oral-health-5-to-eat-and-5-to-avoid&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616215548920000&usg=AOvVaw1sSjXmq4FrjB5QngNzD47q">Healthline</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/nutrition-and-oral-health/healthy-foods-list-seven-best-foods-for-your-teeth&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616215548920000&usg=AOvVaw19oOKLVa1UB0NA3fPN5TlV">Colgate</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.worldoralhealthday.org/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616215548920000&usg=AOvVaw2qt17w3TiDpof0XSW2j6nY">World Oral Health Day</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.smylique.com/blog/5-foods-that-benefit-your-oral-health&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616215548921000&usg=AOvVaw1L_8GRwT43uyWBAZteTPSy">Smylique</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1616212281"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:b19db906-a814-427d-bdb1-506ba442f09a2021-03-17T16:42:22-04:002021-03-17T16:42:26-04:00Postpartum Depression: Black Mothers Suffering in Silence 2021-03-18 08:00:00 -0400Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Giving birth is never easy, but the postpartum depression (PPD) experience can be even more difficult. Although there's still a stigma around the mental health issue, more and more women have been opening up about their struggle with postpartum depression. Celebrities like Serena Williams, Cardi B, Chrissy Tiegen, and Meghan Markle have shared their experiences with PPD in an effort to break the taboo in the Black community. </p><br><p>Postpartum depression or PPD is a condition in which the new parent may experience persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, low energy, anxiety, irritability, and poor sleep or appetite. PPD affects breastfeeding initiation and duration and can lead to poor maternal and infant bonding.</p><br><p>According to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/wr/mm6606a1.htm">a 2017 study done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)</a>, PPD affects over 11% of women in the United States, or 1 in 9 women. The study also found that PPD is often underdiagnosed and untreated, with nearly 60% of women with depressive symptoms not receiving a clinical diagnosis, and 50% of women with a diagnosis not receiving any treatment. However, the condition does not affect all women equally.</p><br><p>Women of color are at a higher risk of experiencing PPD than White women, and unfortunately are less likely to receive the care they need. A study published in the journal Psychiatric Services found significant racial-ethnic differences in depression-related mental health care after delivery. The study found that 9% of White women initiated postpartum mental health care compared to only 4% of Black women. The study also showed that among those who initiated treatment, Blacks and Latinas were less likely than Whites to receive follow-up treatment.</p><br></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/809776/fill/700x0/postpartum_202.jpg?timestamp=1616013682"></div><p> </p><p>A professor in the Departments of Population Health Sciences, Obstetrics, and Gynecology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Tiffany Green <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/postpartum-depression-in-women-of-color-more-work-needs-to-be-done%233&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222679000&usg=AOvVaw2w4mKCM5rbyc39Csbh_rZk">said in an interview</a> that the reasons why women of color are more likely to experience postpartum depression are complex.</p><p>“Black mothers experience higher rates of postpartum suicidal ideation relative to White women. Many of these racial and ethnic disparities persist after controlling for maternal educational attainment, income, marital status, and other measures of socioeconomic status,” Green explained.</p><p></p><p>One factor causing these disparities may be exposure to stress. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31384659/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222679000&usg=AOvVaw0KmWHQg0IIJZCSD3klQXK_">A 2019 study</a> found that Black, Latina, and Native American mothers are more likely to be exposed to clusters of serious stressors, including divorce, homelessness, and intimate partner violence. Maternal health experts said that some Black women choose to struggle on their own rather than seek care and risk having their families torn apart by child welfare services.</p><p></p><p>A <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/21/nyregion/foster-care-nyc-jane-crow.html&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222680000&usg=AOvVaw26MINBbO0j5YSI3Q5pj-Dg">New York Times article</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubpdfs/racial_disproportionality.pdf&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222680000&usg=AOvVaw3AEqNx9CS7OnxaZx_OuckM">some studies done at a national level</a> reported that child welfare workers deem Black mothers unfit at a higher rate than they do White mothers, even when controlling for factors like education and poverty. “There’s a lack of trust of medical practitioners within the Black mom community nationwide,” explained Shivonne Odom, founder of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.akomacounselingconcepts.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222680000&usg=AOvVaw1l_Gwj_b5p2pD3l1C2ZRCZ">Akoma Counseling Concepts, LLC</a>, in Maryland, which specializes in maternal mental health counseling for mothers with perinatal disorders.</p><p></p><p>The cultural stigma surrounding PPD in the Black community is leading Black mothers to suffer in silence. “Some believe that if you go to therapy you have to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital or will be required to take addictive prescription medications,” said Odom. Despite this, there is a growing number of organizations ready to change the attitude of the Black community towards PPD. <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://maternitycarecoalition.org/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222681000&usg=AOvVaw1Z-LqCAzFelvf7TIofZt7K">Maternity Care Coalition</a> assists families throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania. The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.postpartum.net/professionals/perinatal-mental-health-alliance-for-people-of-color/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222681000&usg=AOvVaw3VW1wSglCaqZNXtZiZr1mO">Perinatal Mental Health Alliance for People of Color</a> provides education, resources, and support for individuals, families, and communities of color around perinatal mental health and wellness. Postpartum Support International offers a free helpline that moms can call 24 hours a day. Acknowledgment, respect, and support will help Black women overcome the challenges of PPD and allow them to seek treatment before it is too late.</p><p><br></p><p></p><p>Source</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://khn.org/news/black-mothers-get-less-treatment-for-postpartum-depression-than-other-moms/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222682000&usg=AOvVaw3UrcAyKYA3a7rxVv-pL1na">KHN</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/postpartum-depression-in-women-of-color-more-work-needs-to-be-done%231&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222682000&usg=AOvVaw0sxHdb6wzFI1c5qxurn2QT">Medical News Today</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/11/29/760231688/black-mothers-get-less-treatment-for-their-postpartum-depression&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222682000&usg=AOvVaw2qcBl2-5s-PZmjfElUKrGa">NPR</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.parents.com/baby/health/postpartum-depression/black-moms-are-suffering-from-postpartum-depression-in-silence-and-that-needs-to-change/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222683000&usg=AOvVaw1R8MKYhdQnYbqPIkgUXl0H">Parents</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://cafemom.com/entertainment/220291-celebrities-who-had-postpartum-depression&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1616017222683000&usg=AOvVaw3ZQqk66xA25CxKKqt3D10L">Cafe Mom</a></p><div><br></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:0214d4a2-c379-4937-9835-ae064d3ec7be2021-03-16T10:54:58-04:002021-03-16T10:56:25-04:00The Health Benefits of Sea Moss - And The Black-Owned Brands to Get It From2021-03-17 08:00:00 -0400Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>Sea moss is a spiny sea vegetable that is primarily harvested for use in health supplements and as a thickening ingredient in commercial foods. Celebrities like Erykah Badu, Ashley Blaine Featherson, and Tabitha Brown have all sung the praises of this superfood.</p><br><p>It is scientifically known as Chondrus crispus, and grows in waters along the rocky Atlantic coasts, primarily between North America and Europe. Sea moss grows in a number of colors, such as various shades of green, yellow, purple, red, brown, and black. The most popular one is red due to growing in warmer water.</p><br><p>Some of the main potential benefits of using sea moss may include:</p><ul><li><p>Support thyroid health</p></li><li><p>Improve blood sugar management</p></li><li><p>Promote heart health</p></li><li><p>Support weight loss</p></li><li><p>Healing for damaged and irritated skin</p></li></ul><br><p>When sea moss is ingested, made into a gelatin-like consistency, and added to foods like your morning smoothie, it can soothe the respiratory tract and digestive tract. Sea moss is also prebiotic, which is a type of dietary fiber that's essentially fertilizer for probiotics (healthy bacteria in your gut), and thus helps further support digestion. </p><br><p>Dr. Joshua Zeichner, the director of cosmetic and clinical research in the department of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, <a href="https://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/irish-sea-moss-benefits-carrageen">said in an interview</a> that sea moss provides antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This means it can help with issues like acne and aging skin.</p><p>“Sea moss also contains vitamins and minerals like magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin K, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help to hydrate and promote healthy skin cell function,” said Zeichner.</p><br><p>Sea moss is high in immune-boosting nutrients like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. It may also support the immune system and help you fight off cold and flu symptoms. “It’s high in iodine, which helps the thyroid run properly and make thyroid hormones, which then regulates metabolism, and encourages bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy,” said Spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Robin Foroutan, </p><br><h4><a href="https://www.evemilanny.com/products/irish-seamoss?_pos=2&_sid=5110533b7&_ss=r">Eve Milan NY</a></h4><p>Esthetician and owner of Eve Milan NY, Eden Gilliam, recommends consuming sea moss internally daily for clearer skin. Their golden and purple Irish sea moss is wildcrafted from Grenada, and a portion of the sales from their sea moss is donated to the children’s orphanage there.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn0.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/809479/fill/700x0/sea_20moss_201.png?timestamp=1615906242"></div><h4> </h4><h4><br><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.bdegummy.com/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615909599918000&usg=AOvVaw2PPjdIaJDbgA5IgyAQ_gxg">BDE Gummy</a></h4></span><p>BDE Gummy is the first sea moss supplement started by a husband and wife duo, Doug and Lorisa Leigh Depte. BDE Gummy has pledged to support Ocean Conservancy through monthly donations to help restore the ocean's ecosystem and health. In addition to sea moss, the supplement is also powered with organic superfoods: beetroot, lion’s mane mushroom, pumpkin seeds, maca root, Panax ginseng, pear, and wildcrafted sea moss.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/809480/fill/700x0/BDE_20gummy.jpg?timestamp=1615906312"></div><h4> <br><br><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.shopmossmanseamoss.com/shop&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615909599919000&usg=AOvVaw0tE9yB21kiU9boSS6dgyA8">Mossman</a></h4><p>Mossman sells a variety of sea moss in different forms, including sea moss gel, sea moss smoothies, raw sea moss, sea moss capsules, and sea moss gummies. Their website gives a detailed guide on how to use which sea moss products for the best benefits.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/809481/fill/700x0/moss_20man.jpg?timestamp=1615906378"></div><p> </p><p>Source</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/seamoss&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615909599920000&usg=AOvVaw1fir12hCyLESK5I45tgfKG">Healthline</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/diet-tips/irish-sea-moss-benefits-carrageen&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615909599920000&usg=AOvVaw0kJoxH2y-vnYVtbQ6pwCwj">Shape</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/health-benefits-of-sea-moss-and-black-owned-brands/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615909599920000&usg=AOvVaw1dbp5jFeUCS91xCzh7V7Z1">Essence</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1615906465"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><br><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:2735750f-12b7-43a4-920b-dd78481c70862021-03-12T23:52:26-05:002021-03-12T23:53:03-05:005 Black-Owned Sunscreen Brands to Get for Summer2021-03-13 08:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<p>The saying is “Black doesn’t crack”, but that doesn’t mean you need to skimp out on wearing SPF. There is a belief that Black people being highly melanated naturally protects their skin from the sun and its harmful UV rays. However, that isn’t necessarily the case.</p><p></p><p>“An African American person has melanin (a natural skin protectant) that blocks UV light up to SPF 13,” said dermatologist Dr. Sheel Desai Solomon in <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/black-skin-sunscreen-cancer_l_5d540570e4b0cfeed1a68cea&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263296000&usg=AOvVaw04N_5lPiSOwQllJSmQpn8z">an interview</a>. “This isn’t as strong as the sunscreen (SPF 30 is recommended) which is created for skin protection. Yes, sunscreen is needed.”</p><p></p><p>We picked five Black-owned sunscreen brands that offer all the protection from UV rays, great skincare benefits, and avoid leaving you with a white cast or purple tinge to your skin.</p><p><br></p><p></p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://elevenbyvenuswilliams.com/products/unrivaled-sun-serum-spf-35&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263297000&usg=AOvVaw189NbYO7xy5SjsncPyZ6tv">EleVen by Venus Williams Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35</a></h4><p>Founded by Venus Williams, former World No. 1, and seven-time Grand Slam singles champion tennis player, created EleVen to give women quality activewear that allowed them to feel great and perform better. EleVen’s Unrivaled Sun Serum SPF 35 is a transparent, SPF-spiked serum that dries into a velvety finish. EleVen also has their On-The-Defense Sunscreen that’s non-chalky and semi-matte.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808911/fill/700x0/suncreens_20eleven.png?timestamp=1615610797"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.blackgirlsunscreen.com/product/black-girl-sunscreen-spf-30/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263298000&usg=AOvVaw1da1_ep0Svwk4rGfZrzE45">Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30</a></h4><p>Founder Shontay Lundy thought it was time to create a natural non-white residue sunscreen brand for women of color. "Thanks to our melanin, we do have some natural protection from the sun's harmful rays. But make no mistake, we are all susceptible to the damage caused by the sun," she told <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.businessinsider.com/meet-shontay-lundy-founder-of-black-girl-sunscreen-2020-9?IR%3DT%23:~:text%3DShontay%2520Lundy%2520is%2520the%2520founder,white%2520cast%2520on%2520their%2520skin.&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263298000&usg=AOvVaw0iPaVSooi63u6i5nBTchfm">Business Insider</a>. Black Girl Sunscreen is known for being a sunscreen for women of color. Lundy created the brand specifically so everyone could have a sunscreen that caters to their skin tones' needs. The Black Girl Sunscreen's Broad Spectrum SPF 30 is a dream for women of darker complexions because it is a lightweight vegan formula that leaves behind no white cast.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808912/fill/700x0/black_20girl_20sunscreen.png?timestamp=1615610871"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.unsuncosmetics.com/collections/shop/products/everyday-mineral-tinted-face-sunscreen&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263299000&usg=AOvVaw37DZmQMk_WMKR75_IwoNYC">Unsun Cosmetics Everyday Mineral Tinted Face Sunscreen</a></h4><p>Unsun Cosmetics products contain only natural ingredients like vitamin E, coconut oil, shea butter, and a variety of fruit extracts, so your melanin stays moisturized and protected. Founder Katonya Breaux established Unsun in 2016 due to frustration by the lack of options within the world of clean sunscreen products for women of color. Unsun’s Minted Tinted Face Sunscreen with SPF 30 not only protects the skin from UV rays, but has lightweight, blendable coverage.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808913/fill/700x0/unsun_20sunsceen.png?timestamp=1615610919"></div><p><br></p><h4> <br><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.boldenusa.com/products/spf-30-brightening-moisturizer&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263300000&usg=AOvVaw1HurqFsIo3zPRzIx-Zd2aM">Bolden Brightening Moisturizer SPF 30</a></h4><p>Founded by Chinelo Chidozie and Ndidi Obidoa, Bolden works to create innovative products with premium ingredients for Black women. “As a brand built by black women, we exist to embolden women like us to confidently embrace their natural beauty,” said Chidozie and Obidoa on their website. “Through expertly-crafted, responsibly-sourced, and tailor-made beauty experiences, we’ll deliver on this commitment - making beauty products that really work well for women of color.” Their Brightening Moisturizer has SPF 30 and uses vitamin C to hydrate, brighten, and correct discoloration.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808914/fill/700x0/bolden_20brightening.png?timestamp=1615610984"></div><p> </p><h4><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.mybutterbar.com/products/melan-in-skin-nourishing-lotion-spf-15?variant%3D34735058753&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263301000&usg=AOvVaw1BrAaODJtVYlUjXCKv0YK0">My Butter Bar – Melan-in Skin Nourishing with “MPF”</a></h4><p>Kimberly-Chloe Wilson, founder and CEO of The Butter Bar Skincare, started her skincare company in 2014 as a side stream of income, and it quickly transformed into an in-demand business. “The Butter Bar really just started out as an ingredient obsession! I had very sensitive, acne-prone skin, and I just wanted great smelling body products and facial care that actually worked!” said Wilson on the website. My Butter Bar’s Melan-in Skin Nourishing lotion offers this additional factor (they call it MPF — melanin protection factor) without chemical agents. This 4-in-1 moisturizer promises to add a glow and instant vitamin boost to your body care regime with a 100% plant-based serum that offers moisture, anti-aging, UV protection, and skin evening benefits.</p><p><br></p><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808915/fill/700x0/melan-in_20lotion.png?timestamp=1615611072"></div><p> Source</p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/g35490539/black-owned-sunscreen-brands/&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263302000&usg=AOvVaw14l3pbgjOApTB05uSHavY9">Cosmopolitan</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://travelnoire.com/5-black-owned-sunscreen-brands-this-summer&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263302000&usg=AOvVaw1gc67cKx87Ni_u84JtP52U">Travel Noire</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.allure.com/gallery/best-black-owned-skin-care-brands&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263303000&usg=AOvVaw3xOvhXq1-4nuQuw7NN6BAl">Allure</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.essence.com/lifestyle/travel/3-black-owned-sunscreens-you-need-to-travel-with-this-memorial-day-weekend/%23425714&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263303000&usg=AOvVaw0d0M1jyQpHTtwdpEyu_qpk">Essence</a></p><p><a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/black-skin-sunscreen-cancer_l_5d540570e4b0cfeed1a68cea&sa=D&source=editors&ust=1615614263303000&usg=AOvVaw20uOSsyZVXcd_5rkQZ6Csu">Huffpost</a></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn2.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1615611112"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:8d8a337f-c07c-4427-88a5-4cfc085a4ec02021-03-11T14:31:30-05:002021-07-07T11:33:31-04:00Nourish in the Ancient Philosophy of Yoga2021-03-12 08:00:00 -0500Nina Indigo<span><p>Yoga Instructor Allison Donley started a yoga program to relieve her colleagues' tension from sitting all day. Since the pandemic began, she has now been online and independently conducting virtual sessions. I went to her 12:00pm Saturday session and can say firsthand that it is effective.</p><p><br></p><div><div class="image-main">During the session, Donley shared the basics of Vinyasa Yoga. All that is needed is a quiet area with an open space and a yoga mat. Donley then guided the participants as we dissolved from the observable world into peaceful serenity. Try doing this 15-minute yoga pose routine at home, 3 times a week, to relieve the mind of anxiety, tension, and stress. Use these essentials for a successful yoga session:</div><h4><br></h4><h4>Master the Breathing Technique for Stronger Results from Your Yoga Session</h4></div><br><div>Begin your session by standing tall and straight on your mat. Keep your chest open and forward, with your shoulders back, your left hand on abdominal, and your right hand over your heart. Then practice breathing in through your nose, slowly relaxing your navel, and deeply exhale. This is called a cleansing breath. It loosens up tight muscles. It is normal to feel tense, tight, or anxious in the beginning. Keep your spine, torso, and chest aligned together. Breathing easy, start your yoga pose session.<br><br><br><br><h4>Select a Yoga Pose that Easily Blends with the Breathing Technique</h4></div></span><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808690/fill/700x0/yoga_20pose.jpg?timestamp=1615490698"></div><p> </p><p>Once you have reached a steady flow breathing technique, incorporate it into the poses. The key is to keep a strong position and have your spine aligned in a way that keeps your body in all directions. It allows you to breathe better too. A great extension pose to use is the bridge pose. To do it, extend both arms and palms on the yoga mat flat, and then press your feet and arms into your yoga mat. Then, exhale and lift your hips from the floor toward the ceiling. Next, bring your tailbone toward your pubic bone, and lift your buttocks off the mat. At this time, your body should be in the shape of a bridge. While holding bridge position, practice inhaling breaths. Another option for a basic pose is the locust extension which allows for the opening of the chest. You lie on your belly, arms alongside your torso, palms up, head resting on your mat, turn your toes inward, and gently rotate your thighs upward from the mat to firm your buttocks. Then lift your head, torso, arms, and legs from your yoga mat. During the middle of your session, you should feel a state of consciousness, indicating you have reached a state of awareness. Do not focus hard on the form of your posture. Yoga poses are about maintaining balance and being consistent in your breathing. This way, it teaches you to control your breathing into more expansive breaths, while you fade into tranquility.<br></p><p><br></p><h4>Time to End Your Alluring, Empathetic Vinyasa Yoga Session<br></h4><br><div><span>After you have successfully reached the end of the session, take a moment to sit on your mat while released from your pose in a pretzel style position. As you are in the seated position, elongate your spine, put your hands on your knees, and keep palms upward with your thumb and pointer finger together. Your eyes should remain shut as you fall into a state of divine. As you sit and let your thoughts go, observe the power in the natural breath of your body. Put both hands together once by the head, once at the heart, and then reach forward and drop your hands gently to the floor. You have then sealed your session. To keep strong results, check in with your thinking, your level of compassion, empathy, and humility, as Vinyasa Yoga is a part of an ancient system of self-care. In Saturday’s session close, Donley explains why and how Vinyasa Yoga is essential to holistic health and wellness practices:<br><br></span><span><br><b>“Vinyasa means to place in a special way. Using your body and breathing to stay fit it’s an ancient system of self-care that helps you to calm the fluctuations of the mind,” she said.<br></b></span><br><br><div class="image-main"><img alt="" src="//cdn3.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/808691/fill/700x0/meditate.jpg?timestamp=1615490913"></div><p> </p><p>You can practice this routine at home any time. If you prefer the comfort of instruction, simply google “Yoga with Adrienne”. You will find free online video instruction for 15-minute virtual sessions. She is a recommended alternative source.<br></p><p><br></p><p> </p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/768559/fill/300x0/nina_20indigo.jpg?timestamp=1615490982"></div><p> Nina Indigo is a Storyteller and Digital Journalist @ FunTimes Magazine. She writes on topics for the health and wellness segment. She practices Vegetarianism, loves poetry, African/African American Literature, creative-writing, research, yoga poses and meditation.</p><span><p>In her articles, she provides her readers with organic content for people of all backgrounds and communities, she is truthful, writes to empower and inform. She helps readers make their best holistic decisions in their lives, communities and societies.</p><p>In 2021, she will obtain her BA in English Writing, with a minor in African and African American Literature Studies.</p><p>To follow up on her latest articles google Nina Indigo @ FunTimes. In her articles, her motive is to provide to her readers a how, and why holistic health is not just important, it's a necessity to our whole well-being. Her articles do not simply empower and inform, but present relevant ideas and solutions to the essential wellness topics discussed.</p><div><br></div></span><br><h2><br></h2></div><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>urn:uuid:05f9167a-4a65-4c04-b229-ea634ce24a132021-03-02T17:14:49-05:002021-03-03T17:15:01-05:005 Ways to Prevent Start-of-the-Year Burnout2021-03-04 08:00:00 -0500Boitumelo Masihleho<span><p>2020 was difficult for millions across the globe as the world dealt with the COVID-19 pandemic.</p><p>With countries lifting lockdown restrictions, and people returning to the office gradually, while still having to continue to fight the spread of the coronavirus, it can be easy for many to feel burnout just as 2021 has started.</p><br><p><b>Unplug</b></p><p>We’re always connected and online through our phones, laptops, tablets, etc. We even find ourselves on our devices after work, when we’re meant to be relaxing and recharging. Unplugging for a couple hours means more time to focus on the things you enjoy.</p><br><p><b>Exercise! Exercise! Exercise!</b></p><p>It’s a well-known fact that exercise is a good way to relieve stress. Regular exercise reduces levels of stress, improves self-confidence, prevents cognitive decline, increases productivity, and improves memory. Also, exercising with colleagues as a fitness challenge is not only a good way to prevent burnout, but a great team-building activity. </p><br><p><b>Sleep is King</b></p><p>Taking some time to have a power nap may feel counterproductive when you have a lot on your to-do list, but catching some Zs can actually help you be more productive. <a href="https://www.webmd.com/balance/features/the-secret-and-surprising-power-of-naps">Experts have found that a power nap</a> lasting only 10-26 minutes can actually improve productivity. Some experts suggest having a cup of coffee before you take a power nap. It takes 20-30 minutes for the caffeine to kick in, so by the time you wake up you will be feeling refreshed and ready to go.</p><br><p><b>Schedule regular social activities</b></p><p>Despite the pandemic, we can still socialize with our loved ones while taking proper safety precautions. Whether it’s communicating through face-to-face video apps like Houseparty or Clubhouse, or meeting outside in a park, while keeping socially distant, it’s important to spend time with people outside of work. The point of this exercise is to expand your social horizon and crush the feeling that you’re stuck doing the same thing every day.</p><br><p><b>Reach Out for Help</b></p><p>Asking for help isn’t easy, but to prevent burnout for your and or your loved one’s well-being, seeking support from a professional is necessary. Health care providers are very aware of how the pandemic has affected mental health across the globe and there are now virtual help services available. </p><br><p>Source</p><p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/tips-for-identifying-and-preventing-burnout">Healthline</a></p><p><a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/5-healthy-ways-to-prevent-end-of-year-burn-out_n_59de863be4b0eb18af06034b">HuffPost</a></p><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleystahl/2018/07/26/5-ways-to-avoid-burnout-at-work/?sh=740bb7f190a8">Forbes</a></p><p><a href="https://www.lifespan.org/lifespan-living/7-ways-prevent-work-home-burnout">Lifespan</a></p><div><br><br><br><br><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><div class="image-medium image-align-left"><img alt="" src="//cdn1.locable.com/uploads/resource/file/776121/fill/300x0/boitumelo.jpg?timestamp=1614723341"></div><p> Boitumelo Masihleho is a South African digital content creator. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Rhodes University in Journalism and Media Studies and Politics and International Studies. </p><p></p><p>She's an experienced multimedia journalist who is committed to writing balanced, informative and interesting stories on a number of topics. Boitumelo has her own <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/BoitumeloM" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">YouTube channel </a>where she shares her love for affordable beauty and lifestyle content. </p></div></span><hr /><p><small>Original article published at <a href="www.funtimesmagazine.com">FunTimes Magazine</a></small></p>