15 St. Bridget Prayers

The 15 Prayers Jesus Gave to St. Bridget of Sweden

(June 14, 1303-July 23, 1373)

Have a Blessed Sunday

With Continued Gratitude

I would like to end this week's posts with more. I believe we can never have too much gratitude or thankfulness. So in keeping with yesterday's post, I'd like to thank everyone once again for their generosity, trust, confidence & support by their patronage of our stores.  It is because of the kindness and generosity of everyone who purchases items from our stores that together we are able to help others.  From children's charities to our wounded veterans.  From the poor and hungry to women who are struggling for economic independence, your purchases make donations and the support of these charities possible.  A heartfelt thank you to all!

Dress for Success San Diego

Wounded Warrior Project

St Jude Children's Research Hospital

Food for the Poor

No Kid Hungry

Operation Smile

Feeding America

Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation

Food Bank of Northwest Indiana

Humane Society of the Calumet Area

Our Stores Helping Others Through Your Generosity Support and Purchases

Jen Colleen Boutique ~ All things feminine & pretty. Benefiting Dress for Success San Diego

Joshua's Treasures ~ All things children.  Benefiting various children's charities.

Out of the Box ~ Vintage and unique finds. Benefiting Wounded Warrior Project and a variety of charities.

Thank you for your trust, confidence & support.

LEGOLAND And Vacation Fun

As the end of April draws near, I can't help but start thinking about the end of the school year and summer vacation fun!  Although it's not always easy to afford a nice vacation or even to do things locally whether a two-income family or one.  When finances allow, the planning and adventure begins. One place both my son and I have enjoyed visiting is LEGOLAND Discover Center.  It is amazing to see the imagination and creativity of the designers and creators of the LEGO sets and structures that have been constructed for visitors to look at, touch and feel.  For example, the Chicago Discovery Center, has a massive City of Chicago skyline with all of the detail possible to replicate the beautiful Chicago skyline.  

LEGOLAND Discovery Centers bring together 4D cinema shows, rides and LEGO Miniland. A great experience for the entire family.  Planning a trip to Boston, Atlanta, Westchester, Kansas City or Dallas/Ft. Worth?  I'm providing some links below for ease of viewing what each Discovery Center has to offer. 

LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are worldwide with locations in Germany, Turkey, United Kingdom, Japan, China and Canada. 

LEGOLAND Discovery Centers are family attractions designed for kids aged 3-10 with over 2 million LEGO bricks all under one roof!

The ultimate indoor LEGO playground!

Atlanta, GA

Westchester, NY

Kansas City, KS

Dallas/Ft. Forth

Boston, MA




Chicago, IL

A Budget And Staying Healthy

Although there are times when fiances get tight there are a few things we should never skimp on or cut.  Our health.  Without our health, we can't work and ultimately get into a better financial situation.

Can't afford a gym membership?  Don't let it stop you from exercise!  Being a single parent, I have to make sacrifices and cut where I can but I don't let it stop me from making an effort to stay healthy. Think outside of the box and find a way around it.  Exercise at home.  Walking, biking, running and even housework all provide the benefits of exercise with no cost!  I am an avid runner so in between my yoga and Tae Bo DVDs, I run.  I'm winning on both accounts.  I'm exercising and saving money. Want the equivalent of strength training?  Use your own body weight.  Push-ups, sit ups, knee bends all provide the benefits of building and maintaining muscle. Inexpensive exercise equipment like a jump rope or exercise ball or resistance bands can also be added to help with the building and maintaining of muscle.  

Overall, cooking at home is a money and calorie savor.  Opt to buy cheap but healthy foods. There is no reason to reach for the junk food just because you can't afford a lot when it comes to buying groceries.  Some of the healthiest foods that are quite affordable are beans, a low-calorie source of fiber and protein; peanuts, rich in fiber and heart-healthy fats; homemade cereal, that mix oats, grains, raisins and nuts bought in bulk; homemade drinks like brewed ice tea or fruit and veggie smoothies which are less expensive than prepared store-bought bottled drinks.  Buying frozen fruit and veggies which aren't as awesome as fresh but are still relatively cheap and still packed with vitamins and anti-oxidants. In searching online for "beans recipes" there are 20,900,000 results.

One I might suggest,
 shows results for other things besides healthy recipes such as nutrition and meal planning just to name a few.  

Never skip on medication.  It is estimated that 55% of adults fail to comply with their medication regime prescribed by their doctors. Ignoring medical problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol can lead to bigger problems as we all know.  Speak to your doctor if you are having trouble paying for your medications.  It is possible a generic equivalent will work just as well and cost considerably less.  There are also pharmacy discount programs which offer significant price reductions for medication.  Doing a quick search of pharmacy discount cards over 6,510,000 results appeared many of which are free to obtain and some offer cash-back or rewards points.  Look to see which one might be right for you.

Making Positive Life Changes In Simple Ways

I have always told my son you can't control others, only yourself.  With that said, our happiness is dependent upon ourselves and the choices we make and no one or nothing else.  There will always be adversity and hurdles to overcome like today for myself for example, I'm not feeling well.  I'm feeling sluggish and rundown like I'm getting sick.  It's my choice on how I will approach my "feelings" and this day.  Sure, if I'm getting sick, I'm not going to feel at the top of my game and may need to rest some but how I choose to ultimately face what I'm feeling will make all the difference.  It's the same with any situation we are faced with.  If we constantly feel like we are hitting a brick wall, then it's up to us as individuals to adjust and move in a different direction.

Some ways we may make these adjustments are very simple and can make all the difference in the world.  Surrounding ourselves with positive people who are ultimately going to bring us up as opposed to negative people who will suck the life out of us is a crucial first step in making any positive change.  When we surround ourselves with people who lift us up, we feel empowered and strong which ultimately enables us to look at life or our current situation in a new positive light and not only gives us hope but perhaps an easier way to find a solution to whatever it is we are facing.

Sometimes we need to get out of our comfort zone and try something we normally wouldn't or do something different. Continuing to "play it safe" may keep us stuck whereas taking a chance on something may actually be a ticket to success.

Prioritize by putting God first.  The only person we should be worried about pleasing is God.  If we put Him first, everything else in our lives will fall into place.

Continue your education.  Strive to learn something new everyday.  If we aren't learning, we aren't growing.  Don't ever settle.  If you don't know something, do some research to learn about it. Keeping educated will keep us sharp and ultimately help us to make good decisions in life. Additionally, being educated may actually help someone else so it's a win-win.

Seek advice.  Sometimes the answer we need will come from someone else.  Don't be afraid to ask for help or advice.  Someone else may be able to provide a new found reality to something you may be unintentionally avoiding.  Sometimes hearing it from someone else will actually help us believe it.

Take the initiate to become a leader instead of going with the flow.  When you take a backseat you aren't learning or gaining anything of value.  When you lead, you are learning as well as building confidence which will ultimately help you in the future.

With a little effort, making positive change will ultimately lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.

Joshua's Treasures Supporting Many Children's Charities

Joshua's Treasures opened online in 2009 with all sales benefiting many children's charities.

Thank you.

Immaculate Heart of Mary

Have a blessed Sunday

Out of the Box Wounded Warrior Project and Various Charities

Out of the Box opened online in July of 2015 and offers a variety of items from vintage to modern, new to used, with a sprinkling of men's clothing and accessories.  I have a love for old, vintage and unique items and wanted to share that love offering my finds in an online setting.  In the spirit of thinking of others and never knowing how someone might be feeling or what they might be searching for, I decided to offer men's clothing and accessories when I come across something in my travels that I feel is worth sharing.  In keeping with the spirit of thinking of others and giving back, a portion of every sale offered through Out of the Box is donated to a variety of charities with an emphasis on Wounded Warrior Project to remember our dear Veterans to whom we would not enjoy the freedom we do here in America.

Out of the Box, helping those in need through our customers thoughtful purchases, kindness and generosity.  Thank you.

Birkenstock, Kenkoh, Birki's, Tatami, Finn Comfort, Footprints, Papillio, Taos and Dansko

I'm writing again today about Kenkoh Massage Sandals because I'm stuck on finding some comfortable sandals that not only will be great for the summer but will help my constantly sore feet. I'm going to be purchasing some Kenkoh: The Original Japanese Massage Sandal in the near future and plan to follow up my posts with what I find.  So far, what I have read from the reviews, Happy Feet Plus: The Web's Biggest Selection of Birkenstock, Birki's, Tatami, Finn Comfort, Footprints, Papillio, Taos and Dansko footwear not only offers all the previously mentioned brands of shoes, it provides over 2300 customer reviews on the Kenkoh Massage Sandals.  I also really like the fact that they offer free shipping on all purchases.  The service and attention to the needs of their customers according to customer reviews I have read, makes Happy Feet Plus my new go to for footwear that could possibly alleviate my sore feet pain.

Respect

Today I witnessed many school-age children (7th & 8th grade) be very disrespectful to their teacher and those in authority.  It has bothered me all day.  What is happening to our world?

My Boutique and Dress for Success San Diego

Visiting my boutique, you find that with every purchase financial support will be provided to a charity organization that I support to the fullest. Dress for Success San Diego helps to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support which includes professional attire and development tools to help women thrive in work and life.  When I was 29, I was married to a man whom I thought would be with me until the end.  Ten years into our marriage, he decided to move on leaving me and our young son.  It has been an extremely hard road on my own.  Although I have managed to work through the pain of the loss and the still scary financial strain, I know it has made me stronger and into the person I am today.  With all my heart, I want to help women just like me who have found themselves in situations they never thought they'd be in.  When I was left on my own, I did not know about Dress for Success San Diego or any of the Dress for Success affiliates. Over the last few years, through first hearing about Dress for Success on Oprah and then on Twitter finding Dress for Success San Diego which I have come to strongly support, I have been empowered just by what I have read.  I wish I had known about Dress for Success years ago.  I know it would have made a positive difference in the struggles I faced initially and the first few years on my own. It is my goal to share with every woman I meet who has been faced with economic struggles the support and empowerment that Dress for Success San Diego as well as other Dress for Success affiliates offers.

Dress for Success San Diego is much more than just offering clothing to dress for an interview, it is about the long-term.  Providing the solutions that are necessary to break the cycle of poverty.  

Visit my boutique and shop with confidence that your dollars are going to do something good.  To support and help women who are truly in need.


Please Note:

I am an independent 3-party and do not benefit in any way by promoting Dress for Success San Diego or any Dress for Success affiliates.

Kenkoh Sandals and Sore Feet

Kenkoh sandals are considered the health shoe.  I am writing a follow up post to yesterday's to share more about what I have found.  These sandals are made with synthetic leather, natural rubber latex, Elastomer and EVA (ethylene-vinal acetate).

Kenkoh: The Original Japanese Massage Sandal works through the science of reflexology. While wearing these sandals, the nodules in the sandals stimulate reflexes similar to what a reflexologist does by using fingers and thumbs.  Reflexology works to improve nerve and blood supply by promoting the unblocking of nerve impulses which in turn relieves stress and tension and brings the body back into balance.  A recent research study from the Kyoto University School of Medicine shows that reflexology sandals work to improve circulation, reduce swelling of the lower limbs and ankles, reduce fatigue and, of course, ultimately improve mood.

Kenkoh: The Original Japanese Massage Sandal have positive customer feedback with customers noting improved health conditions from the following ailments:

• Sciatica	• Fallen arches/flat feet
• Varicose veins	• Arthritis and Joint Pain
• Diabetes	• Poor circulation
• Bunions, callouses and warts	• Stress, tension and low mood
• Insomnia	• Mortons neuroma
•Plantar fasciitis	• Tired legs and feet
•Migraines, and headaches	• Swollen ankles and legs
•Back, neck and shoulder pain	• Fluid retention
•Heel spurs	• Tiredness and low energy

Find Relief for Foot, Knee & Back Pain!

In a previous post, I wrote about feet pain and how the heel height of our shoes affects our bodies.  In my own search for foot pain relief, I came across Happy Feet Plus: The Web's Biggest Selection of Birkenstock, Birki's, Tatami, Finn Comfort, Footprints, Papillio, Taos and Dansko footwear. and wanted to share my great find!  Happy Feet Plus established in 1985 is Footwear for a Healthier You and offers free shipping on all footwear.  Revitalize and rejuvenate with Kenkoh Massage Sandals. As I sit here writing this post this evening, my legs and feet are hurting although it may be from running today, either way, they still hurt.  The thought of my feet being massaged, sounds like a little slice of Heaven right about now.  Never hearing of Kenkoh sandals until coming across this site, I find according to what I've read, they are regarded as some of the healthiest shoes on earth.  Upon further discovery it is the unique design of the shoe that not only provides great arch support but the revitalizing effect of the rubber nodules massaging the foot that makes these shoes so comfortable and a great health benefit to those suffering from Plantar Fascia.

Sacred Heart of Jesus

Sacred Heart of Jesus

Have a blessed Sunday

An "Aha" Moment and Newly Found Money Saver!

Just a quick and simple post today.  I want to share an "aha" moment I had a few days ago.  As anyone who visits my blog can clearly see by the title I am a single mom.  I have been a single parent for a long time now and as I reflect back over the years, I realize that I see things differently than I did a year ago, five years and even ten years ago when my son's father decided to walk out.  In life we all struggle. Single and married alike; it's just that we may struggle in different ways.  One thing that has stayed constant for me is the fact that I want to be physically present for my son as much as possible and have worked many different jobs and tried many different things to be able to find that niche for me. Something I'm not only good at but also happy doing.  When we leave the corporate world for the excitement and uncertainty of entrepreneurship, one of the things that comes with it is stress.  Stress in not having a regular paycheck that is there every two weeks.  Now what I'm about to share is something that I am going "duh, why didn't I realize this before" and whoever reads this may also think the same thing.  I'm not perfect and make mistakes and am only sharing this for one simple reason.  If there is anyone who has not thought of this then maybe my sharing will help save them money.  You see, as someone who as I have said doesn't receive regular paychecks every two weeks, I've always just kind of gone along and paid my bills and gotten groceries as the money would allow. So many times, I'd go through the drive-thru at McDonald's or Subway.  Picking up something quick for right now this minute. What I realized the other day was that while it's ok to "drive-thru" once in awhile, what about the next meal or the next day?  A hamburger is one meal.  If I make the effort to go to the store and buy for example, a pizza and fresh green salad and other veggies, I've just stretched my dollar and made more than one meal for myself and my son.  Last night, I did just that.  I went to the store bought a pizza, salad, carrot sticks and canned juice.  We ate that for dinner and then this afternoon for lunch, what did we have?  Pizza and salad! The best part, I kept my money, we ate healthier eating not out of a box or bag as the case of fast food and I stretched my dollar further.  I hope this helps someone who may not have thought of this before.  I have been through many struggles over the years being a parent raising a child alone and sometimes my thoughts were scattered and stressed and so I'd do whatever worked for that moment, like driving through a drive-thru not really thinking about the next meal not to mention what we were putting in our bodies! While it has taken time to get clarity, I can say that with time, we evolve and grow and hopefully learn.

The Endless Uses of Coconut Oil ~ Health and Beauty Regimen

As I continue to research and read about the millions of uses and benefits of Coconut Oil, I honestly cannot believe how many there are, their uses and benefits. Absolutely too many to list in 1 or 2 posts.

I have been using Coconut Oil for oral hygiene for about a year and last night I decided to try it as a moisturizer on my face before bed.  Waking up this morning and feeling my face, I am amazed at how soft it feels.  It has been found to be not only a moisturizer but also a wrinkle reducer.  I read that for areas of concern around the eyes, just dab a little around the eyes to fight pre-mature aging. Leave the oil on overnight and wake up looking refreshed.  Combined with frankincense oil, it offers additional anti-aging benefits.

Using coconut oil for skin, health and beauty not only as a moisturizer and wrinkle-reducer but as a makeup remover gives the benefit of hydration around the eyes and will not sting or irritate the eyes as commercial eye make removers do.  I remember many times using a commercial eye makeup remover and then having my vision blurry for several minutes because it got into my eyes.  Certainly not good for eye health.

After a shower, try applying Coconut Oil liberally all over your body.  The oil hydrates the skin, soothes skin after shaving and also acts as a natural SPF and is a great protectant for the skin from sun damage.  Just be sure that if you are applying coconut oil to the bottom of your feet, do so outside of the tub to prevent slipping!  It is amazing how soft and smooth your skin feels when applying the oil after a shower.  This is the Coconut Oil I use.  It really is a matter of personally trying Coconut Oil to know the benefits and difference.

Regardless of the season, our skin gets the brunt of everything, soaking in a bath with 1/4 cup of Epsom Salts and 1/4 Coconut Oil, will help bring out the toxins in the body while the oil will help to soothe dry skin.  Add some of your favorite essential oils for aromatherapy benefits.

The Power of Gratitude

“Everyday, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can.” – Dalai Lama

There is something to be said for gratitude. It is amazing how one simple and easy positive action such as being grateful, can change so much in a person's life.  I have found that to be very true in my own life.  I have a book with blank pages that I have labeled my gratitude journal and each day, I write down things that I am grateful for before starting my day.  Sometimes the only thing I write is that I'm grateful I woke up.  After getting my coffee and going outside with my dog while it is just dawn and hearing the birds singing in the still quiet morning air, sitting there with her I can't help be feel grateful for just being able to hear.  Hearing the birds sing.  The simple act of hearing that we may sometimes take for granted until we can't do it anymore, makes me feel, well, grateful.  I give myself a few minutes in the morning air to listen to the birds, to thank God for all that He has blessed me with and to just be.  It's a great way to start the day.

Here are some other benefits that we can receive just by practicing "an attitude of gratitude"

• Gratitude makes us happier - It has been noted that a 5-minute a day gratitude journal/session can increase our long-term well-being by 10% which is the same as doubling your income. How can practicing this simple act compare?  Well gratitude improves health, relationships, personality and career.
• Gratitude makes people like us - Gratitude makes us nicer, more trusting, more social and more appreciative which in turn, helps us make more friends and deepen our already existing relationships
• Gratitude makes us healthier and keeps us away from the doctor
• Gratitude boosts our career 
• Gratitude strengthens our emotions and develops our personality
• Gratitude makes us more optimistic and also reduces materialism
• Gratitude increases spiritualism and makes us less self-centered
• Increases self-esteem
• Improves sleep
• Gratitude lets us live longer
• Increases our energy levels which makes us more likely to exercise
• Gratitude simply makes us feel good and also helps us bounce back 
• Makes our memories happier and reduces feelings of envy
• Gratitude helps us relax
• Makes us friendler
• Helps our marriages
• Makes us look good
• Helps us make friends and deepen friendships
• Gratitude makes us more effective managers
• Helps us network
• Improves decision making and increases goal achievement
• Increases productivity

This underutilized tool called gratitude, is certainly a remedy for improving life-satisfaction and happiness.

“If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, “thank you,” that would suffice.” – Meister Eckhart

Did You Know? There Are Health Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs!

As I continue to research and learn more about the many benefits of Coconut Oil use, I'm absolutely amazed  at what I'm finding.  It's amazing what we can learn just by taking the time to do so! In the days to come, I'll share more of what I've found but for today's post, I'm going to switch to the benefits I've found on the uses of coconut oil for our 4-legged friends.  Dogs too can benefit from incorporating Coconut Oil into their diet.

Supplements can be a confusing topics for pet owners.  Fish oil has always been heralded as a great "oil" supplement to add to your pet's diet; however, there are a variety of oils that our dogs can benefit from.  Each of these oils have different actions and benefits.

Most of the benefits of coconut oil come from MCT or Medium Chain Triglycerides. The lauric acid which is the main component of MCT has anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. In addition to this, MCTs are efficiently metabolized to provide an immediate source of fuel and energy ultimately enhancing athletic performance and aiding weight loss.  In dogs, the MCTs in the oil balance the thyroid helping overweight dogs lose weight and sedentary dogs feel energetic.

Coconut Oil improves any dog's skin and coat while improving digestion and reducing allergic reactions.  All good things in my opinion.

Fed regularly to pets, the benefits multiply ~

SKIN CONDITIONS

• Clears up skin conditions such as eczema and flea allergies, contact dermatitis and itchy skin
• Reduces allergic reactions and improves skin health
• Makes coats become sleek and glossy and deodorizes doggy odor
• Prevents and treats fungal infections, including candida
• Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing
• Applied topically, promotes the healing of cuts, wounds, hot spots, dry skin and hair, bites and stings

DIGESTION

• Improves digestion and nutrient absorption
• Aids healing of digestive disorders
• Reduces or eliminates bad breath in dogs (humans)
• Aids in elimination of hairballs and coughing 

IMMUNE SYSTEM ~ METABOLIC FUNCTION ~ BONE HEALTH

• Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease
• Regulates and balances insulin and promotes normal thyroid function
• Helps prevent or control diabetes
• Helps reduce weight, increases energy
• Aids in arthritis or ligament problems

Why not give Coconut Oil a try and introduce it to your dog?  It offers many benefits for your dog.

I tried it with my dog while writing this post and it appears she's hooked!  I couldn't get the spoon away from her!

Resource: http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/

1,001 Uses for Coconut Oil

Endless.  Describes the uses for coconut oil.  It can be used in the kitchen as an ingredient, as part of your beauty regime or as a cleaning aid.  Interestingly, coconut oil is somewhat of a miracle when it comes to health.

Being that coconut oil is a saturated fat, it is said that it can prevent cancer.  Saturated fat is less likely than unsaturated fat to form cancer-causing chemicals when ingested.  It has also shown to reduce the effects of chemotherapy.  In a 2013 study, researchers found that lauric acid (a medium-chained fatty acid) which makes up about 50% of coconut oil, killed over 93% of colon cancer cells.  Now this is not to say that it is a cancer-fighting agent, but it shows potential.

Virgin Coconut oil has proven to be much help with inflammatory-related issues such as sunburns, insect bites and eczema; among others.  A study done in 2014 showed coconut oil helpful in reducing the inflammatory affects of arthritis.  Since coconut oil contains anti-oxidants and being all-natural, they do not contain the annoying side effects of prescription drugs.

Ever notice someone's beautiful skin?  How their skin seems to glow?  Some people swear by coconut oil as a beauty regime.  Simply place the coconut oil jar in a bowl of warm water and once it loosens, just scoop some out and rub it on your skin.  Not only will your skin be more soft, it will assist as an acne-fighting agent as well as a treatment for it.  The oil contains Vitamin E along with many healing and anti-inflammatory properties which makes it versatile in its many uses.  Coconut oil prevents acne by moisturizing the skin, unclogging pores, balancing hormones and killing acne-causing infections.  Coconut also helps to reduce the affects of acne scars by its anti-inflammatory properties.  It certainly is a winner in the fight against acne since it is a lot cheaper than most prescription drugs that treat acne or those found in the drug store.  Not to mention there are no harsh chemicals which obviously makes it a lot safer.  I certainly wish I would have known about coconut oil when I was a teenager growing up dealing with acne and doctor's appointment and prescription medicine that would burn my face if I applied too much; leaving it red and flaky and certainly 100 times worse in appearance than the dumb pimple! Teenagers go through enough, then to deal with acne which can sometimes be severe can really be troubling.

How about sleep?  Can't sleep?  There is no need to turn to sleeping pills.  Doctors now recommend coconut oil to help with insomnia since it keeps your blood sugar and hormones balanced.  It also aids in digestion and reduces anxiety.  The oil can be rubbed on your wrists and temples or it can be ingested to help you get a good night's rest.

Coconut oil also helps in the prevention of osteoporosis.  Free radicals play a big role in the progression of this disease and since virgin coconut oil is full of antioxidants, it's easy for it to combat the free radicals.  End result, prevention of bone loss and maintenance of bone structure.

There have been many claims that coconut oil helps to improve the memory of Alzheimer's patients, whose brains lack the ability to use glucose as an energy source.  The explanation is the medium-chain fatty acids that are abundant in the oil.  These acids are used by our body to create an alternative energy supply for the brain.   The fact that the oil increases mental awareness indicates that not only Alzheimer's patients can benefit from the use of coconut oil, but everyone can!

Another amazing benefit is what it does for out teeth, mouth and breath.  Put a teaspoon in your mouth and use it as mouthwash before brushing your teeth in the morning.  When we first wake up, our mouths are full of germs from being closed all night.  It is most beneficial to use coconut oil first thing in the morning before eating or drinking.  I personally use a teaspoon in the morning when I get up.  It has been recommended to let it dissolve in your mouth and swish it around for 10-15 minutes then spit, rinse and follow up with brushing your teeth.  It acts as a natural teeth whitener as well as kills the germs that can cause bad breath.  It is amazing to feel your teeth with your tongue after using coconut oil as a mouth wash.  They actually feel smoother!  Another benefit of this, because it is being done for 10-15 at a time it has been said that it helps with TMJ pain because of the action, movement and duration.  I suffer from TMJ and when I read the benefits of just these few reasons for using coconut oil, I was hooked. 

Lowering cholesterol and risk of cardiovascular disease is also a proven benefit of using coconut oil because it raises HDL while reducing the harmful effects of LDL.  The LDL which clogs the arteries connected to the heart is thereby lowered allowing the blood to flow to and from the heart reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Weight loss! The same study that showed the positive effects of using coconut oil and cholesterol also showed it can reduce BMI and waist circumference simply by ingesting it.  No exercise or extreme diets needed.  It also increases fat-burning by increasing energy expenditure.  Obviously, there are many health benefits to physical activity as opposed to a sedentary state but just imagine, coupling the use of coconut oil with exercise!

Without Monday We Can't Get to Friday

Nobody likes Monday.  The dread of dragging yourself out of bed, rushing around getting yourself and your kids ready.  Oh the dread!  With some minor adjustments it is possible to "get through the 'Mondays'"

If you are dreading Monday morning is it possible that you are not happy in your work?  Maybe it's the job?  Maybe it's the people?  Maybe a little of both?  Take some time to really think about what it is about your job or the thought of Monday that brings you down.  Finding the issue can help to relieve so much stress!  Write down the things that are really bothering you.  This practice can be applied to any situation.  It's much easier to "see" the things that are truly troubling you when you are able to see it right there in black & white.  You are then more equipped to make the necessary changes to better your situation and ultimately be happier which leads to not dreading Mondays.

How about your workload?  If you simply dread Monday because of the workload you are expected to carry, it may be time to speak to your boss?  If you are a student, maybe it's time to drop a class?  If you are a stay-at-home parent maybe you can schedule more time for yourself by picking a once-a-week daycare?  I personally did this when my son was a toddler.  Two days a week for a few hours he went to a pre-school/daycare program.  It was a win-win because not only was I able to have some time to "regroup" but he was able to interact and play with other children something he didn't get at home being an only child.  This coupled with the things he learned while at the daycare were priceless.

Are you being challenged enough?  If you are doing the same thing over and over, day in and day out, maybe it has become routine where you have actually become bored.  To get over this hurdle, ask you boss for some more challenging work.  Not only will your boss be impressed, but you will find your work more rewarding.  If you are a student, consider taking a class that is outside of your major or area of study.  Stay-at-home parents might consider taking a class at a local community college or online or starting a book club with friends.

Taking a look at your relationships can also help to make improvements in your life.  If you are having an issue with a co-worker, ask yourself what the real problem is.  Perhaps it's time to speak with your co-worker or boss to help work through your concerns.

These of course are just merely suggestions on how you might beat the dreaded Monday blues. Sometimes however the dread has nothing really to do with work or what you might be facing in the week to come but what happened over the weekend.  Maybe your relationships are stalling or making you unhappy and that unhappiness is spilling over to Monday.  Take some time to reflect on the weekend and talk to the people you care about to ensure that you are both OK.

What Type of Runner Are You? Prevent Injuries by Wearing the Right Shoes for Your Running Style

Most running shoes feel comfortable when you are simply standing in them; however, the real test comes several miles into a run.  Despite our attraction to a certain brand, style or color, the ideal shoe has more to do with running style and the shape of the foot than what is stitched on the side of it.  In general a pair of running shoes should be used for only 400-500 miles of running or 3-4 months for regular runners.  Check the midsoles and outsoles of your shoes and if they are compressed or worn, it just may be time for a new pair.  In choosing a shoe consider the category they fall into or what type of running you do.  

Road-running shoes are just what the name indicates they are for pavement and occasional runs onto packed surfaces with some slight irregularities.  The shoes are light and flexible and are made to withstand repetitive strides on hard even surfaces while they cushion and stabilize the feet.

Trail-running shoes are designed for "off road" with rocky muddy terrain with tree roots and other obstacles.  They are made with aggressive tread for solid traction and offer stability, support and underfoot protection.

Cross-training shoes are designed for both the gym/Crossfit workouts and any kind of balance activity where having more contact is preferred over a thick platform.

Checking the wear pattern on the bottom of your shoes will determine the mechanics of how you run.

Showing a wear pattern which is central to the ball of the foot and a small portion of the heel, pronation which is the natural inward roll of the foot following the heel striking the ground.  Basic pronation is a normal trait of neutral, biomechanically efficient runners which helps absorb impact relieving pressure on knees and joints.

Wear patterns along the inside edge of your shoe or overpronation is an exaggerated form of the foot's natural inward roll. This is a common trait that affects the majority of runners leaving them at risk for knee injuries and are in need of stability or motion control shoes.

The opposite of overprontation is supination which is marked with wear along the outside edge of the shoe.  It is the outward rolling of the foot that results in insufficient impact reduction at landing.  Very few runners supinate, but those who do, need plenty of cushioning and flexibility.

What High Heels Really Do to the Body

Although high heels make a woman appear sexy, they can lead to a laundry list of health problems. Women have approximately 4 times as many foot issues as men and it's no wonder; as nearly 49% of women wear high heels even though they say they hurt their feet.  Pointy-toed shoes lead to calluses, hammertoes, bunions, plantar fasciitis, neuroma which is a tingling, burning or numbness in the foot. While this is certainly enough, the problems can and often do travel up the legs which can lead to muscle spasms and pain from a tightened and shortened Achilles tendon.  Heels can also throw your entire body out of alignment.  Your feet are your foundation for your entire body and when you walk in heels, it changes your center of balance. When you slip on a pair of high heels your toes slide forward into the shoe which causes increased weight on the balls of your feet and ultimately tilts your pelvis forward.  To compensate for this change, you naturally lean backwards and increase the arch in your lower back which puts a strain on your lumbar spine, hips and knees.  Thus, the higher the heels, the greater the strain.

Of course, for a lot of women it's hard to avoid heels altogether.  So what can we do to minimize the damage for the sake of fashion?  Wear lower heels.  Stick with heels that are 3" or less. Anything higher will change the biomechanics of how you walk putting stress on your back and hips.  Steer clear of the skinny stiletto.  A thicker heel can help with stability and support and spread the load more evenly.  Thinking of your posture, you should be wearing the heels and not the other way around, where the heels are wearing you.  Be conscious of how your body is positioned and counter the tilt of your pelvis by standing more neutrally.  Your shoulders should be back, your chest out and your knees soft.  Additionally, resist the urge to push forward onto the balls of your feet by distributing the weight evenly between the balls and heels of your feet.  Another way to relieve some of the pressure would be to consider purchasing a shoe with a different type of slant such as a wedge.

Something else to consider would be to "tease your heel height" throughout the week to give each part of your foot a break.  So for example, if you wear 3" heels one day, switch to 2" the next day and then the following day try a flat.  Something I used to do when I worked in Chicago and commuted to work was to wear tennis shoes to and from the office and bring my "work shoes/heels" in my travel bag.  It sure saved my feet when walking those long Chicago blocks.

The type and amount of cushioning inside a shoe acts as a sort of shock absorber which lessens the impact when your foot hits the pavement ultimately reducing knee strain.

Although heels can affect your feet, hips and back, you can implement a few simple moves that will help prevent pain.  One way is to "work your hips".  The more flexible your hips are the easier it will be for your body to tolerate the stress that heels inflict.  To keep your hips limber, it is suggested doing 5 minutes of hip flexor stretches both before and after putting on heels.

Rolling a golf ball under the ball, arch and heel of the foot for 5 minutes in the morning and evening massages the feet and keeps them flexible and it feels good too!

Writing the alphabet to both strengthen your ankles and improve range of motion.  Using the big toe, trace the alphabet in cursive in the air, moving only the foot and ankle.

Placing about 20 binder clips on the floor, use your toes to pick up one at a time and then drop them into a cup.  This will stretch the bottoms of your feet.

As a runner and someone who has in the last several months started experiencing regular pain in my feet, I can certainly relate to anyone who also suffers from foot pain.  I love to wear heels, but rarely do anymore and find that my feet really thank me for it.

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