Spring is a beautiful, blossoming season for many, but it brings misery to those who suffer from seasonal allergies. Trees and flowers bloom, weeds release pollen, and fresh cut grass causes obnoxious sneezing. An estimated 40 to 60 million people experience seasonal allergies each year, or about 20% of people living in certain countries. 

When left untreated, seasonal allergy symptoms can become highly miserable, affecting daily activities. In severe instances, they can even cause asthma attacks. Treating these seasonal allergies ultimately reduces asthma-related hospitalizations and emergencies. How do you treat these allergies without medications? The good news is that there are many natural ways to treat seasonal allergies.

What Are Seasonal Allergies? 

The medical term for seasonal allergies is allergic rhinitis, or hay fever. Affecting the nasal passageways, seasonal allergies are characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells in the mucosa and submucosa. A person can suffer from hay fever any time of year, as allergies depend on a person’s triggers. Allergic rhinitis doesn’t just occur in the spring; rather, it can occur through the summer and fall. The flora in the place where you live may make symptoms worse, or cause them to go away. It is truly dependent on each person. 

In order to properly address your seasonal allergies, pay attention and recognize which things trigger symptoms. Research suggests that nearly 75% of people in the United States who suffer from seasonal allergies are allergic to ragweed. Pollen from ragweed is highest during fall, so keep that in mind. The most common symptoms one can experience as a result of seasonal allergies are: 

• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Stuffy nose
• Scratchy throat
• Exhaustion and sleep troubles
• Postnasal drip
• Sneezing
• Excess mucus production
• Asthma
• Hives
• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Mild ear infections
• Headaches
• Mood swings

Best Supplements For Allergy Symptoms

Ideally, you want to get in front of your symptoms, so experts suggest supplementing 30 to 60 days before the onset of symptoms for best results. Research indicates the phototherapy, spirulina, and butterbur show promise for treating symptoms of seasonal allergies:

• Quercetin: This flavonoid gives fruits and vegetables their rich color, but it also stops the production and release of histamine. It is possible that quercetin may interfere with certain medications, so consult your healthcare professional before starting it, especially if you take antibiotics and cyclosporine. 
• Spirulina: Just like quercetin, spirulina stops the release of histamine. In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, consuming spirulina significantly improved symptoms, including sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and nasal discharge. 
• Butterbur: Although it has been traditionally used to treat excess mucus, asthma, and bronchitis, butterbur may help reduce seasonal allergies. In one study, hay fever sufferers were given butterbur and it was found to be as effective as some allergic rhinitis medications. 
• Stinging nettle: Stinging nettle is a common homeopathic medicine exhibiting natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce the body’s production of symptom-causing histamine. Stinging nettle can have adverse interactions with certain medications, such as lithium, sedatives, and blood thinners.

Natural Treatments

There are complementary approaches that can help you feel better, but may not completely get rid of your symptoms. You can use: 

• A neti pot: Nasal irrigation is an effective way to flush out mucus and foreign invaders in the nasal passageways. You can use a neti pot once or twice daily, but make sure you use saline packets and distilled water for best results. 
• Acupuncture: This alternative remedy may help reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies without side effects. Before your allergies take over, meet with an acupuncturist to determine the best way to address your allergy symptoms. 
• Essential oils: Diffuse essential oils in a diffuser to help open up the nasal passages and lungs. Certain essential oils, such as basil, lemon, tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender work to improve circulation and relieve stress. 

Best Foods To Eat During Allergy Season

Believe it or not, the foods you eat can have an impact on the severity of your allergy symptoms. Much like the supplements we mentioned earlier, certain foods provide nutrients that support immune function and have natural antihistamine properties. Some of them are:

• Apple cider vinegar works to dissolve mucus and aid lymphatic drainage, which can reduce congestion due to allergies. Enjoy a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice in a cup of water three times per day. 
• Ginger and turmeric pack a powerful anti-inflammatory punch that may help alleviate allergy symptoms and reduce sore throat. 
• Hot and spicy foods, such as chili peppers, horseradish, and wasabi, work to thin mucus and ease nasal irrigation. 
• Both broccoli and Brussels sprouts help clear up congestion and aid natural detoxification. 
• Leafy greens, such as kale, arugula, Romaine lettuce, spinach, and chard, offer antioxidant compounds that work to nourish cells and combat allergy symptoms. 
• Pineapple contains bromelain, which is an enzyme that not only aids the digestion of protein, but also helps reduce nasal swelling. Studies suggest that bromelain may help reduce your reaction to allergens. Make sure that you eat the core, as it has the highest concentration of essential nutrients for allergy season. 
• Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, offer a lot of vitamin C, which helps encourage immune function while offering an antihistamine boost.

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Working out is many things: exhilarating, fun, challenging, and it provides a long list of health benefits. What is not so enjoyable is the post-workout soreness that you experience after an intense workout session. Perhaps you joined a Pilates studio or you recently started hiking more seriously. If so, then you are familiar with the pain that can permeate your limbs the next day, but as unpleasant as the pain may be, sore muscles are quite normal after working out. 

The official term for this post-workout muscle pain is “delayed onset muscle soreness.” You can typically start to experience this pain a few hours after you finish your workout. That is especially true if you don’t exercise regularly, or if you haven’t done so in a long time. Trying a new workout routine, circuit, or even a new move can cause post-exercise muscle soreness. 

How To Alleviate This Pain

One of the easiest ways to help ease the pain is by using a foam roller, which is a cylindrical device made of foam. Depending on the type of foam roller, it can be softer or harder. Some of them vibrate to add a percussive massage element, while others are extra firm and textured, which enhances the intensity. These rollers help loosen tight muscles, getting rid of knots and reducing muscle soreness in the process. 

You can roll any area of the body that experiences pain or discomfort. The different lengths, shapes, and densities make the recovery fully customizable to your needs. Good foam rollers can be expensive because cheaper materials will dent or lose firmness over time. Invest in a quality foam roller to experience the following benefits. 

Localized Pain Relief

By using foam rollers or massage guns, you can target specific portions of a tight muscle. Doing so can provide near instantaneous relief, even if the area is extremely sore or tender. If you have experienced localized pain relief in an area due to stretching, you can expect a bigger benefit from foam rolling instead. The foam roller not only works to stretch the muscle, but also targets the sore area of the muscle belly. As long as you apply the proper amount of pressure and avoid a direct pressure point on bony structures, you can experience relief. 

Improved Passive Range Of Motion

Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release that can help improve flexibility and muscle recovery. Since foam rolling loosens the muscle fibers, you can expect a direct improvement in flexibility following your session. By foam rolling, you can improve localized range of motion by 10-15% temporarily. That is more important for people who regularly engage in activities that require a large range of motion. That said, it is equally beneficial for people who need help maintaining day-to-day activities. 

Improved Mobility 

There is a difference between flexibility and mobility. Although the two are related, they are not the same. Improving passive range of motion through flexibility training has a direct affect on your ability to move through larger ranges of motion (mobility). Foam rolling directly improves mobility as a result of improving passive range of motion. 

Increased Blood Flow

One study reported a 75% increase in total blood flow to an area directly after foam rolling. Not only does improved blood flow enhance recovery of the affected tissues, but it also helps prepare the body for movement or activity. This can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness when applied post workout or after a strenuous activity. 

Accelerated Recovery From Strenuous Activity

By improving blood flow to the area and reducing inflammation, foam rolling can help muscles recover more quickly after engaging in strenuous activity. Foam rolling is also relaxing, and the enjoyability of a recovery tool is extremely crucial, as it makes you want to do it more often. Various studies confirm that foam rolling after strenuous activity increases anti-inflammatory proteins and reduces pro-inflammatory proteins. That results in less inflammation and aids recovery.

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Statins are prescription drugs that people take to lower their levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Health experts refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad” because of the fact that it builds up inside the arteries, making it harder for blood to move through them. Statins work by interfering when the liver produces cholesterol. They also help to lower triglycerides and may even increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. Unlike LDL, HDL brings cholesterol to the liver, which gets it out of the body. 

Before getting on statins, some people want to see if they can lower LDL cholesterol with lifestyle changes. We encourage that decision and although diet and exercise may not lower cholesterol for everyone, a lot of people can benefit from healthier habits, some of which we detail in this article. If your cholesterol levels are already in normal range, you can help maintain them with the Dherbs Cholesterol Formula. To help lower cholesterol before statins, consider the following tips. 

Consider The Portfolio Diet

The Portfolio Diet is a plant-based eating plan that emphasizes foods that are naturally rich in fiber and healthy fats. Conceived some 20 years ago, the diet has a proven ability to lower LDL cholesterol, but none of the trials proving this lasted more than six months. For this reason, more long-term studies are necessary. When followed consistently, though, research suggests that the Portfolio Diet may lower LDL cholesterol by up to 30%, an effect comparable to a first-generation statin for some people. 

Move Your Body Every Day

Exercise is a powerful and easily accessible tool that may help lower cholesterol levels naturally. Ideally, engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, in addition to two days of strength training. Physical activity helps to elevate HDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and reduce visceral fat, which is metabolically active fat stored around internal organs that contributes to cardiovascular risk. People who lose between 5% to 10% of body weight can significantly improve cholesterol levels. 

Prioritize Fiber

Fiber is an often overlooked nutrient, with many people not getting enough every day. In fact, more than 90% of women and 97% of men do meet the recommended daily fiber intake. Not all fiber works the same regarding cholesterol, though. Soluble fiber exhibits the strongest LDL-lowering effect. It forms a gel-like substance in the gut, binding to cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract and escorting it out to prevent reabsorption. Great sources of soluble fiber include:

• Apples
• Barley
• Beans
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseed
• Lentils
• Oats
• Psyllium husk

Build Your Plate Around Whole Plant-Based Foods

If you want to lower cholesterol levels in a meaningful way, eat more whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains. All of these foods contain plant sterols, which are natural compounds that resemble cholesterol, which helps block the body’s absorption of it in the digestive tract. The sterols in vegetable oils, seeds, nuts, whole grains, vegetables, and certain fortified foods can all help lower cholesterol. In fact, getting two grams of plant sterols daily can lower LDL cholesterol by up to 12%. 

Reduce Intake Of Refined Carbs And Added Sugars

Health experts always suggest people to steer clear of saturated and trans fats if they are concerned about LDL cholesterol. Avoiding these types of fats can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Refined carbs and added sugars are just as dangerous, as they can raise triglycerides and increase cardiovascular risk. Sugary drinks, white bread, packaged pastries, and ultra-processed snacks contribute to insulin resistance, which affects cholesterol levels. It is better to consume whole grains and limit your consumption of added sugars to help improve triglycerides and HDL cholesterol levels. 

Some Natural Supplements May Help

Before you decide to take supplements to help naturally lower cholesterol levels, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Some products can come with side effects or may interact with other medications or supplements that you already take. Certain supplements, though, have some proven ability to lower cholesterol. For example, psyllium supplements can lower LDL cholesterol by about 7%. Omega-3 supplements can also help reduce triglycerides, but they don’t significantly lower LDL levels.

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Where is the fountain of youth? Is it hiding at the bottom of your salad bowl? Perhaps it is within your spirulina wellness shot or at the end of a good night’s sleep. People think that genetics primarily influence life expectancy, but the reality is that genes play a much smaller role than people think. As it turns out, environmental factors like diet and lifestyle habits play bigger roles. In this article, we cover various habits to form right now to help you live a longer life. 

Stay Physically Active

The more you move now, the better your chances are of maintaining that mobility into your older age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity every week. You can also do some strength training a couple days a week to maintain muscle mass. Regular exercise may help you achieve:

• Weight loss
• Improved mood
• Reduced risk of developing chronic health conditions

Prioritize What Makes You Happy

Happiness does not get enough attention when it comes to your health. How happy you feel can make a big difference on your mental health, physical health, and longevity. A 2023 study found that happiness was significantly associated with living longer. Study authors suggested that happiness alone will not add years to your life. It can help, so long as you couple it with other factors that contribute to optimal mental and physical health. Make sure to set aside time to do things that bring you joy, be it drawing, reading, bowling, calling people, or playing video games. You can also keep a gratitude journal to help increase levels of happiness and optimism. 

Nurture Your Social Circle

Research suggests that a healthy social network can contribute to a longer life and better health. A strong social circle may also help you react in a less negative way to stress, which may explain its effect on longevity. Offering your support to others may increase your happiness and sense of purpose. Always remember to both accept care from friends and family and offer it in return whenever you can. 

Eat A Balanced Diet

These days, there are diets that offer support to the brain, heart, joints, gut, and overall health. Generally speaking, dietitians encourage people to increase their intake of plant foods, as they may decrease the risk of diseases and promote overall health. Many studies link a plant-based diet to a lower risk of premature death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and more. Focus on consuming a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. 

Avoid Smoking

It shouldn’t even have to be said, and yet it does. Nicotine is highly accessible and addictive, especially when you consider the popularity of flavored vapes, nicotine pouches, and traditional cigarettes. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, being responsible for about 90% of cases. It also increases the risk of stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and other cancers. Smoking damages nearly every organ in the body, affecting everything from lung function to reproductive health. Quit smoking, if you do smoke, to help reduce your risk of life-threatening disease. It’s never too late to quit. 

Try To Avoid Chronic Stress And Anxiety

It’s almost a guarantee that you will encounter some stress, and perhaps some anxiety, at some point in life. A 2024 review found that chronic stress and anxiety can increase the risk of developing conditions like heart disease. The review also found that men are more likely to experience chronic stress and anxiety compared to women. If you regularly experience stress or anxiety and find that it interferes with your everyday life, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They may help you establish a treatment plan to help reduce stressors for ultimate relief. 

Longevity may ultimately see out of your control, but a lot of healthy habits may help you thrive well into your old age. Following a plant-based diet, quitting smoking, reducing stress, exercising regularly, and even getting enough sleep can help you live a long and healthy life.

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With each passing year, scientists gain more insight to how people can better improve sleep quality. For example, there are many risks associated with indoor air pollution, including effects on sleep and blood pressure. Is using an air purifier overnight the solution hiding in plain sight? Perhaps, but how does running an air purifier nightly affect these aspects of your health? We aim to uncover that in this article. 

How Using An Air Purifier May Affect Sleep

It is possible that sleeping with an air purifier nightly may improve sleep quality and duration. Most of the existing research has focused on air pollution’s effects on sleep apnea. Scientists explain that indoor air pollution can trigger upper respiratory irritation and edema (swelling of body parts). In more recent studies, researchers looked at connections between indoor air quality and sleep in a general sense. The results have been consistent, suggesting that cleaner air quality in the bedroom can improve overall sleep quality. 

A 2023 study found that people who slept with a HEPA air filter, which can remove 99.97% of dust, mold, pollen, and bacteria from the air, slept longer. The subjects also spent more time in bed compared to those who did not use a HEPA air filter. Another report from 2023 found that increasing air flow in the bedroom reduced carbon dioxide concentrations and levels of particulate matter. Basically, particulate matter is a mixture of solid and liquid particles that form microscopic, and potentially dangerous, droplets suspended in the air. 

Researchers attribute air pollution’s effects on sleep to its ability to cause nasal and throat inflammation. It may also trigger oxidative stress, which is a condition that causes tissue and cell damage. 

Air Purifiers Improve Air Quality

An air purifier works to reduce airborne pollutants that lead to poor sleep, among other health issues. They trap or neutralize substances or gasses in the air, and the type of purifier you have may trap these particles or gasses using a specialized filter, ultraviolet light, or electrical charge. Different types of air purifiers address specific indoor pollutants. Indoor air pollutants can come from a variety of sources, but are generally separated into particulate matter or gaseous pollutants. Reducing these pollutants can ultimately help you breathe better, which may lead to better sleep.  

Could A Nightly Air Purifier Affect Blood Pressure?

Regular exposure to air pollution can impair blood vessel function and cause inflammation. It can even raise blood pressure and, over time, increase the risk of adverse cardiac events. Several studies indicate that using an air purifier at night improves blood pressure levels. That is especially true for people living in areas with heavier pollution, for example, high-traffic areas, poorly ventilated spaces, or places prone to wildfires or smog. 

A 2021 meta-analysis examined studies measuring the systolic blood pressure of people living in higher-pollution areas before and after using an air purifier. Researchers monitored people for periods ranging from a week to several weeks. The average result was that using an indoor air purifier significantly reduced blood pressure. 

Another paper from 2024 found that using an indoor air purifier in the primary activity room for one year was linked to a significant drop in diastolic blood pressure in older adults. Researchers note that filtering systems, such as air purifiers, reduce exposure to outdoor and indoor sources of pollution. That ultimately reduces the development or worsening of cardio metabolic disorders, including high blood pressure.

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Some of you are familiar with goji berries as antioxidant superstars, understanding their role in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Others only know goji berries to be toppings for acai bowls. These small, oval berries are similar in size to raisins, only they are bright red in color and have a slight tart taste with a subtle, herbal note. 

What Are Goji Berries?

Most commonly sold dried, goji berries can also be found in juices, powders, or teas. They have a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in remedies for eyesight, circulation, and liver protection. Recent research indicates that they have valuable compounds and nutrients that enhance or aid immune function. A five-tablespoon serving of dried goji berries exhibits the following nutritional profile:

• Calories: 98
• Fat: 0.1 gram (g)
• Protein: 4 g
• Sugar: 12.8 g
• Carbs: 21.6 g
• Vitamin C: 15% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 250% of the DV
• Iron: 11% of the DV
• Calcium: 10% of the DV
• Potassium: 24% of the DV
• Zinc: 18% of the DV

What makes goji berries special is that they are great sources of iron, fiber, and vitamins A and C. Iron is involved with the transportation of oxygen and the production of healthy red blood cells. Vitamins A and C play integral roles in immune function, acting as antioxidants in the body. They may also help reduce inflammation and encourage collagen production.

How Goji Berries Support Immune Function

Goji berries contain zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, vitaminC, and polyphenols, all of which work to neutralize free radicals that may damage immune cells. They also work to protect white blood cells so they can function optimally. Research indicates that goji berries contain unique polysaccharides that stimulate immune cells. In fact, one of the most studied compounds in goji berries is Lyceum barbarum polysaccharides (LPBs). The research indicates that LPBs may enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity and support T-cell and b-cell function, both of which are essential to adaptive immunity. They may also activate macrophages, which are cells that engulf pathogens. 

Enhancing immune function does not just mean supplying the body with antioxidants and vitamin C. A strong immune system is about balance, just like gut health. The compounds in goji berries work to regulate inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, goji berries provide key micronutrients for immune cell production. Zinc is essential for cell development and signaling, iron supports oxygen delivery, and selenium works to regulate immune responses. These nutrients may also support immune resilience, helping to counter stress-related immune suppression. 

What Goji Berries Don’t Do

This is an important reality check, especially after listing the benefits of goji berries. They cannot cure or prevent infections. Goji berries are not replacements for sleep or proper nutrition. The benefits are supportive and cumulative, not immediate or dramatic. They are little immune system maintenance workers and should not be viewed as energy medications. 

Homemade Goji Berry Syrup

Ingredients:

• 3.5 cups filtered water
• 2/3 cup dried goji berries
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder
• 1 lemon, halved
• 2 tablespoons ginger root, peeled and grated
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 1 cup raw honey
• 1 drop each: ginger essential oil and lemon essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the water into a medium saucepan and add the goji berries, turmeric, lemon halves, ginger, and cinnamon sticks. 
• Bring the liquid to a boil and the cover, reducing the heat to simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. 
• Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for 10 minutes. Pour the liquid through a strainer into a glass bowl. Get rid of the cinnamon sticks, lemon halves, and ginger. Pour the strained liquid into a blender, add the honey, and blend for 10 seconds.
• Pour the syrup into a pint-sized mason jar or glass bottle of some kind, add the essential oils, and screw on the top. Store in the fridge and take daily for immune-boosting benefits. 
• Serving size is one teaspoon for kids and one tablespoon for adults.

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During the winter months, you tend to spend more time indoors. The drier indoor air can increase the likelihood of catching a cold, especially if an infected person is in the home. Colds happen this time of year, but there are several things you can do to help keep you and your family as healthy as possible. This article highlights five crucial tips to keep your home clean and germ-free throughout the winter. 

Manage Humidity Levels

If you have the heat on, the air is automatically drier. The humidity level in the home may also affect your risk of contracting a virus. In fact, a 2021 study found that moderate humidity levels between 40-60% may reduce the risk of viral transmission and make certain viruses less likely to survive in the air. Very dry indoor conditions may also worsen allergy symptoms, while excessive humidity can promote other allergens, such as mold. The goal is to find that sweet spot, which tends to be below 60% humidity. Typically, a thermostat can detect a home’s humidity level. And if your home’s humidity level drops below 30%, you may want to invest in a humidifier when colder weather arrives. 

Revamp Your Entryway

Do you have a shelf with a bowl of miscellaneous things right by the front door? Perhaps you have a small desk with a drawer of random mail, keys, and other things. Maybe your children toss their jackets and shoes wherever they want. Don’t clutter your entryway, as that is a germ trap. Consider the following tips to help declutter and clean your entryway:

• Create a designated spot for outdoor footwear, such as a shoe rack, and coats/jackets, such as a coat rack. 
• Remove your shoes when you enter the home. That helps prevent dirt and anything else from entering the home.
• Install a light fixture (even if it is a small lamp) to ensure proper lighting in the entryway. Making it well-lit will make it easier to spot dirty surfaces. 
• Organize your cleaning supplies, such as disinfectant spray and wipes, especially in the entryway. You can keep them on a shelf or in a nearby closet or basket. 

Establish A Disinfecting Routine

There is a difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting. Here is a quick break down of what each term means:

• Cleaning is the process of scrubbing a surface with soap and water. It helps remove most but not all, dirt and germs from a surface. 
• Sanitizing involves using a sanitizing spray or diluted bleach solution to reduce the germs on a given surface. You clean and sanitize items and surfaces that come in contact with the mouth, such as toys and food-contact surfaces. Always clean a surface before you sanitize it. 
• Disinfecting is the process of using a stronger bleach solution or chemical cleaner to help get almost all germs off a surface or object. It can be beneficial to clean a surface before disinfecting it. 

Before you start sanitizing and disinfecting, identify your home’s most high-touch surfaces. Doorknobs, countertops, appliance handles, and light switches are great places to start. Take extricate cleaning and disinfecting these surfaces. Keeping a list of things you need to clean can help make tasks more manageable, while alleviating the overwhelming feeling that comes with cleaning. 

Wash Bedding Regularly 

The body naturally sheds sweat and skin cells throughout the day and night. All of that gunk can ultimately build up on soft surfaces around the home, such as your sofa, pillows, blankets, and bedsheets. Aim to change and wash your sheets weekly to help prevent the buildup of bacteria-causing dirt and grime. If you have eczema, or another skin condition, you may want to change and wash sheets twice weekly. Maximize your washing efforts by:

• Using hot water when washing sheets and bedding.
• Getting a second or third set of sheets to make swapping them out easier. 
• Using a high-heat dryer setting to dry your sheets, depending on care instructions.

Check And Change HVAC Filters Frequently

If you have a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system in your home, you have to regularly change the filters to keep the air in your home clean. The frequency at which you need to change filters depends on their thickness. Typically, the filter will tell you how long it lasts. Thicker filters usually last longer and trap more allergens than thinner filters. Some thermostats will remind you to change your filter based on usage. Don’t have an HVAC system? Consider investing in a portable air purifier to help improve indoor air quality. 

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We are going to let you in on a little secret: you do not need a gym membership to be physically active. There are multi-joint movements, such as squats and deadlifts, that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously. In fitness, these are known as compound exercises, which help burn fat and build muscle more efficiently. You can do these exercises with weight, or you can use your bodyweight. 

Bodyweight moves are quite versatile and you can do them almost anywhere. Do them in your hotel room on vacation, in a small apartment, or in your living room. Bodyweight compound exercises are also accessible and efficient, working as many muscles as possible in each move. 

Before we detail the following compound exercises, we want to let you know that this is not a workout routine or plan. You probably should not do all of these exercises in one routine. It would be better to choose two or three moves that target your upper body and another two to three that target your lower body. If you really want to get after it, you can do more than that, but start slow and build intensity from there. 

Reverse Lunge With Knee Drive

Get ready to activate your glutes, quads, and core with this compound exercise! Begin by standing up from your feet hip-distance apart. Take a controlled lunge, or large step, back with your left foot. As you lunge back with your left foot, drive your left arm in front of you (almost as if taking a running stride) to help maintain balance. Bend your right knee until your right thigh is parallel to the floor and your left knee is nearly touching the floor. From this position, Engage your right glute and quads to drive up and continue past the starting position to bring your left knee up as high as it will go. That is one rep. Complete a total of reps per side. You can rest for a minute or two between sets if you want to do multiple sets.

Air Squat

An air squat, or bodyweight squat, is a great way to engage your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and calves. Basically, it is a great lower-body exercise. Stand up straight with your feet slightly wider than your shoulders. Keep your feet parallel and turn your toes outward just a little. Bend your knees, sinking your hips back as if to sit down in a chair. Keep your weight back in your heels until you enter a low squat. Drive through your heels, engaging your glutes to return to the starting position. Complete three sets of 10 squats. 

Band-Assisted Pull-Up

For this exercise, you will need a pull-up bar and a resistance band. Secure a large resistance band around a pull-up bar. A band with more resistance will provide more assistance/momentum to pull yourself up. Stand on a stable object and step safely into the resistance band after grabbing the pull-up bar. With a neutral spine, engage your core and back to pull yourself up. The band will provide you with momentum to lift up. Lower down carefully to complete one rep. Complete a total of three sets of eight to 10 reps. 

Burpee

Doesn’t everyone love a good burpee? It’s a full-body exercise that helps to enhance both muscle and cardiovascular strength. Stand up straight and lower down into a crouching squat. Place your hands on the floor and jump your feet back to enter a high plank position. Complete one basic push-up (if you have the strength) before jumping your feet outside your hands to enter a low squat. Drive through your heels, engaging your glutes to explode into a jump, raising your arms overhead in the process. Land with bent knees for a softer landing. Since burpees are challenging, begin with three sets of four to six reps, and you can increase the number of reps per set as you see fit.

Basic Push-Up

Begin in a high plank position with your hands directly under your shoulders and back flat. Square your hips and engage your core to maintain stability. Take a deep breath in and bend your elbows as you exhale, lowering your chest to the ground. Once your shoulders are in line with your elbows, engage your chest and shoulders to push back up to the starting position. If that is too difficult, do this exercise with your knees on the floor. Complete three sets of eight to 10 reps. 

Single-Leg Bridge

Lie flat on your back, bend your knees, and place your feet flat on the ground about six inches or so from your buttocks. Place your arms flat on the ground for stability as you raise your right leg toward the ceiling. Press your left heel into the floor and engage your glutes to lift your pelvis off the ground, maintaining a stiff bridge position with your body. Slowly lower yourself back down to the ground to complete one rep. Complete a total of three sets of 10 reps per side. If the single-leg bridge is too difficult, keep both feet on the floor to do a regular bridge.

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Think about how often your yoga mat touches the floor, especially if that floor is in a public yoga studio. Now think about all of the sweat, oils, and bacteria that accumulate on the mat during your yoga session. It’s safe to say that your yoga mat needs to be cleaned regularly, but does that happen? We are not here to judge; rather, we are here to provide a natural cleaner that helps remove all of that dirt and grime. 

What Is A DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner?

Think of this as a general cleaning spray, only without all of the harsh chemicals. This homemade solution contains vinegar or witch hazel, and essential oils, all of which help to remove sweat, germs, dirt, and oils from your yoga mat. That helps make your mat not only cleaner, but wonderfully scented. 

Using a DIY yoga mat cleaner also helps save you money and reduces waste. Not to mention, it gives you control over what touches your skin. Plus, making your own cleaner can feel both rewarding and creative, almost as if crafting your own wellness ritual. Keeping your yoga mat clean can help avoid skin irritation, in addition to the following benefits: 

• Helping prevent breakouts and skin rashes
• Removing odors caused by sweat
• Keeping the yoga mat free of bacteria and germs
• Extending the yoga mat’s life
• Enhancing the overall yoga experience 

Why Use Vinegar?

Vinegar is a staple household ingredient that is highly useful when it comes to cleaning certain items and surfaces. Regarding cleaning, vinegar’s most useful asset is its acidity. It is mild enough not to damage fabrics and surfaces, while being strong enough to get rid of stubborn stains and deposits. It can have a pH as low as 2.2 to 10 times as acidic as the average soft drink. 

One of the advantages of vinegar is that it exhibits antimicrobial activity. Some highly evolved bacteria can survive in acidic environments, but most find it difficult to thrive and replicate in these conditions. According to research, cleaning with vinegar can kill a range of pathogens, including E. coli. It has also proven to be an effective cleaning agent for dentures or a disinfectant for fruits and vegetables. 

What About Witch Hazel?

Yet another medicine cabinet hero! Witch hazel is typically for beauty applications, but it can be a powerful addition to your natural cleaning arsenal. Witch hazel is typically used as an astringent to help clean minor cuts or soothe bug bites. The astringent and antibacterial properties make it a fantastic cleaning agent. It is great for light cleaning tasks, especially when you want to avoid harsh chemicals. 

Not only can witch hazel improve your at-home cleaning game, but it can also help neutralize odors. Just keep in mind that witch hazel is not an approved disinfectant by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You should not rely on witch hazel to eliminate viruses or bacteria; rather, use it as a complementary cleaner for light tasks. 

DIY Yoga Mat Cleaner

Ingredients:

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar or witch hazel (whichever you prefer)
• 10 drops tea tree oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil

Instructions:

• Pour the distilled water into a spray bottle and then add the vinegar or witch hazel. 
• Drop in the essential oils and then screw on the top. Shake gently before each use to thoroughly mix up the ingredients. 
• To use, lightly spray on your yoga mat and wipe with a soft cloth.

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The post 4-Ingredient Natural Yoga Mat Cleaner appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

As you get ready to settle in for winter and the holidays, you may wonder how to take advantage of essential oils. Perhaps you want to use a diffuser that you received as a gift, or maybe you want to make your own beauty products. Whatever the case, you can use many essential oils that evoke the essence of the holidays. It could be a smell that you remember from your childhood, or an aroma that inspires productivity. Maybe you just want to create a warm, welcoming vibe in your home! We have you covered with winter’s top essential oils in this article. 

Peppermint Essential Oil

Could you enjoy the holidays without the aroma or flavor of peppermint? It is an unmistakable, fresh and minty smell that is perfect for short winter days because it inspires productivity and energy. Peppermint essential oil can also help to ease headaches and stomach troubles, both of which are common during the holidays. Some studies indicate that inhaling peppermint essential oil aroma may boost respiratory health. 

Frankincense Essential Oil

As the story goes, baby Jesus received frankincense and myrrh essential oils. Frankincense oil has been a symbolic gift throughout history, being offered to deities. Used topically, it may help protect and nourish skin cells and reduce arthritic joint pain. The aroma may help stimulate the immune system, reduce anxiety, and promote grounding. 

Pine Essential Oil

Pine essential oil has a woody, herbaceous aroma that instantly reminds you of the holidays. It smells just like a Christmas tree! Inhaling the aroma may help clear the airways, invigorate your spirit, and soothe sore muscles (when applied topically with a carrier oil). You can also blend pine essential oil with other woodsy oils, such as cedarwood essential oil, to create some beautiful holiday scents. 

Cinnamon Essential Oil

Do you buy those cinnamon-scented pine cones that are available in so many stores during the holidays? No need to buy those if you have cinnamon essential oil in the house! It is a warming spice that is a known immune booster and inflammation reducer. Just be careful if you decide to apply it topically, as it can be a dermal irritant in large amounts. Proper dilution is key with this oil, and most other essential oils. It also blends easily with a lot of the essential oils in this article. 

Black Spruce Essential Oil

There is nothing stopping you from making your home smell like a woody, piney, and somewhat balsamic holiday oasis. It is a great essential oil for promoting respiratory wellness, balance, and total relaxation, all of which are essential during winter months. 

Christmas Spirit Essential Oil

Is this the definitive scent of the holidays? We’ll leave that for you to decide. It is a holiday essential oil blend of orange, cinnamon, and spruce essential oil. It warms the soul and is perfect for diffusers. It’s a timeless blend that exemplifies the holidays, so much so that you will fa la la love it. 

Clove Essential Oil

Offering a rich, spicy fragrance, clove essential oil is synonymous with holiday baking and warm beverages. The scent can evoke feelings of togetherness and nostalgia, making it a great essential oil for the holiday season. Combine clove essential oil with cinnamon or orange to create a delightful holiday blend of your own. Studies show that clove essential oil may promote stability and enhance immune function.

Myrrh Essential Oil

Find emotional balance and relaxation when you inhale the soothing scent of myrrh essential oil. It has been known to exhibit calming effects and has the potential to enhance meditation. Myrrh essential oil pairs beautifully with frankincense essential oil, and that combination may enhance your holiday reflection or mindfulness.

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