Cascia Talbert's Blog, page 59

Choosing the Best Phase Converter for Your Home Electrical Project

by Tammy Jones

Choosing the Best Phase Converters

These days, there are huge amounts of employments for phase converters; subsequently, you’ll find that realizing how to pick phase converters for your required utilization. Moreover, you’ll find that it’s optimal understanding a portion of the applications which you’d like to run, all which’ll guarantee that you can cut on costs while increasing effectiveness. In any case, this’ll guarantee that you’re ready to know which converters will be perfect for building the power.

Amongst the converters you’ll choose from include single and three-phase converters, they’re common, and they’re able to convert power depending on your usage. Hence, set aside an effort to guarantee that you can know which technologies may work best, implying that you’re ready to know what’ll help the viability of your industry. All the more along these lines, this’ll be the best methods for guaranteeing that you pick a dependable, cost-powerful converter.

Furthermore, take a look at the machines which you have available, this’ll be an ideal means of ensuring that you know the phase power which they’ll use. Furthermore, this’ll be a perfect method for thinking about the consumption, implying that you’re ready to utilize the best phase converter to cut on your costs. Rather than experiencing the costly problem of having three-phase power introduced, or revamping or purchasing new gear, you may find that it is a lot simpler and increasingly economical to purchase a phase converter.

There have been various investigations and field tests done that demonstrated that apparatus, hardware, and instruments that keep running on three-phase power have a more extended lifespan and operate substantially more successfully than the gear that operates on single-phase power. Therefore, as a customer, you’ll find that having this information will be an ideal means of ensuring that you’ll save some time and money since you’ll know which converter will be ideal. In addition, this’ll wind up being a perfect method for guaranteeing that you realize how to conduct the maintenance measures best.

Since you know a few advantages of three-phase converters, it is a great idea to have a comprehension of the types of converters and their disparities. Moreover, this’ll wind up being an ideal means of learning how to convert power from a single-phase single phase to a three-phase. How about we investigate the two, here, you’ll be able to learn about phase converters, meaning that you’ll comprehend how to choose the best and ensure that you’re satiated.

Finally, you’ll find that for three-phase converters, you’ll have several options, some which include digital phase converters and rotary phase converters. Therefore, you’ll be able to learn that both converters are built in the same manner; however, the rotary phase converter might get to be a little idler. Implying that since its inactive, it’ll have the option to build its productivity since it’ll effectively convert single phase power to three-phase.
Short Course on Reviews – What You Should Know
Finding Parallels Between Products and Life

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The article Choosing the Best Phase Converter for Your Home Electrical Project by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Doing Merchandise The Right Way

by Tammy Jones

[image error]Choosing the Best Phase Converters

These days, there are huge amounts of employments for phase converters; subsequently, you’ll find that realizing how to pick phase converters for your required utilization. Moreover, you’ll find that it’s optimal understanding a portion of the applications which you’d like to run, all which’ll guarantee that you can cut on costs while increasing effectiveness. In any case, this’ll guarantee that you’re ready to know which converters will be perfect for building the power.

Amongst the converters you’ll choose from include single and three-phase converters, they’re common, and they’re able to convert power depending on your usage. Hence, set aside an effort to guarantee that you can know which technologies may work best, implying that you’re ready to know what’ll help the viability of your industry. All the more along these lines, this’ll be the best methods for guaranteeing that you pick a dependable, cost-powerful converter.

Furthermore, take a look at the machines which you have available, this’ll be an ideal means of ensuring that you know the phase power which they’ll use. Furthermore, this’ll be a perfect method for thinking about the consumption, implying that you’re ready to utilize the best phase converter to cut on your costs. Rather than experiencing the costly problem of having three-phase power introduced, or revamping or purchasing new gear, you may find that it is a lot simpler and increasingly economical to purchase a phase converter.

There have been various investigations and field tests done that demonstrated that apparatus, hardware, and instruments that keep running on three-phase power have a more extended lifespan and operate substantially more successfully than the gear that operates on single-phase power. Therefore, as a customer, you’ll find that having this information will be an ideal means of ensuring that you’ll save some time and money since you’ll know which converter will be ideal. In addition, this’ll wind up being a perfect method for guaranteeing that you realize how to conduct the maintenance measures best.

Since you know a few advantages of three-phase converters, it is a great idea to have a comprehension of the types of converters and their disparities. Moreover, this’ll wind up being an ideal means of learning how to convert power from a single-phase single phase to a three-phase. How about we investigate the two, here, you’ll be able to learn about phase converters, meaning that you’ll comprehend how to choose the best and ensure that you’re satiated.

Finally, you’ll find that for three-phase converters, you’ll have several options, some which include digital phase converters and rotary phase converters. Therefore, you’ll be able to learn that both converters are built in the same manner; however, the rotary phase converter might get to be a little idler. Implying that since its inactive, it’ll have the option to build its productivity since it’ll effectively convert single phase power to three-phase.
Short Course on Reviews – What You Should Know
Finding Parallels Between Products and Life

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The article Doing Merchandise The Right Way by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Breathe Easy: Improving Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

by LouAnn Moss

Unfortunately, allergies are a part of spending time outdoors, and many homeowners find their breathing troubles tend to persist even when indoors. Whether it’s a stuffy nose or a persistent cough, your symptoms can keep you from doing the things you love with your family. To breathe easier and enjoy your summer to the fullest, begin your fight on allergens by improving your home’s indoor air quality.

Decrease the Amount of Clutter

While your pile of books may not seem to cause your home any problems, over time, they’ll collect dust that gets recycled through your ventilation system. Clutter scattered about your home can trap this dust, which makes it easier to trigger an allergic reaction. Even if you clean your home regularly, these nooks of dust can evade your detection and build up. Learning to let go of this clutter will eliminate the dusty parts of your home and will dramatically reduce the number of allergens floating in your vents.

Clearing these extra items also gives you more usable space within your home. This will make it more apparent when your home needs to be cleaned and you’ll reduce your allergy symptoms.

Keep Your Home Clean

Once the clutter is removed, the amount of dust in your home should decrease. It’s important, however, to keep up with the home’s regular cleanings if you want to keep it from building up again. In addition to vacuuming and dusting, this process should also include the regular washings of most fabrics in the home. Some of these items are your bedding, drapes, towels, and couch pillows.

Cleaning these fabrics is especially key when you have pets. Like dust, pet dander can get caught in the fabric around your home and release into the air when you compress it. Just like with your bedding, be sure to take some time to wash your pet’s bed and fabric toys to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Monitor the Humidity

The amount of moisture in the air can also play a role in a home’s air quality. Damp environments allow mold and dust mites to thrive and make the air in your home musty as a result. To keep them under control, it’s recommended that you regulate the humidity to fall between 30 percent and 50 percent. This range will allow enough moisture for your skin to remain healthy and keep contaminants from multiplying. Using a dehumidifier in the summer, and a humidifier in the winter, will grant you control of your home’s humidity, so long as you monitor the current percentages as you use them.

Use an Air Purifier

If you want to further improve the air quality of your home, a great way to do so is to invest in an air purifier. By placing these filters in the most used sections of the house, you’ll gain control over how many allergens get carried throughout the remainder of the home. You might want to consider placing them in areas like the living room, basement, and bedroom. These areas usually have the most traffic and will often have the most contaminants settling on the surfaces.

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The article Breathe Easy: Improving Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

The Most Affordable Sports Your Child Can Play

by LouAnn Moss

There are many reasons to get your child involved in a sport at a young age, but some parents worry that sports might be too expensive for their child to join. That is actually not the case, and here are the most affordable sports for your child that prove it.

Soccer

There is a reason why soccer is still the most popular game in the world. The sport requires little to no equipment and just a ball to play. To play soccer, all your child will need are shin guards, soccer socks, and cleats. The most expensive pieces of equipment are a pair of cleats, which you can find for as low as $15.

Basketball

Next to soccer, basketball quickly became another popular sport around the world, and all a kid needs are basketball shoes to sign up. A quality pair of basketball shoes can run for around $50, but your child could get away with just wearing regular gym shoes.

Tennis

Tennis is another cheap sport that your child can enjoy. To compete on the tennis court, all that is required are some type of gym shoe and a tennis racket. A junior tennis racket can be found for $10 at select stores. You might also want to get some tennis balls—a pack of three Wilson balls often costs less than $2.

Track

Depending on the level, your child can either wear regular running shoes or you could invest in spikes. If you decide on spikes, a pair for kids can cost around $65, but you can find running shoes for less. Chances are, your child may already have running shoes, so all you have to do is sign them up.

Swimming

Swimming is another affordable sport for your child to join. Not only is it crucial for your child to know how to swim, but it is also a great competitive sport. As far as cost is concerned, swimwear can range from trunks, shorts, or a full suit. You might also want to get your child googles. But, like gym shoes, your child might already have these items.

Softball/Baseball

While both softball and baseball will cost you more than the other sports on this list, it is still one of the most affordable options out there, especially when compared to football or hockey. A glove, cleats, and baseball pants are necessary, while a helmet and bat may be provided by the organization you sign up with.

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The article The Most Affordable Sports Your Child Can Play by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Four of the Best Day Hikes in the World

by LouAnn Moss

Going on a day hike can be an exhilarating experience that leaves you with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed connection with nature. From breathtaking scenery to once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters, you never know what you might discover out on the trail. While going on a long hike can make for an unforgettable adventure, sometimes you only have the time or energy for just one day. Whether you’re new to the lifestyle or an avid hiker, our list of some of the best day hikes in the world is sure to help you get your blood pumping.

Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Central North Island, New Zealand

Out of all the incredible day hikes across New Zealand’s breathtaking landscape, Tongariro Alpine Crossing is often considered one of the best. Located in New Zealand’s oldest national park, Tongariro National Park, the 12-mile hike takes roughly six to eight hours to complete. Highlights from the trek include stunning views of vibrant red craters, twin emerald lakes, and the iconic volcano Mount Ngauruhoe, which represented Mt. Doom in The Lord of the Rings film franchise.

Sentiero degli Dei

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Aptly named the “Path of the Gods,” this clifftop trail provides heavenly views of the turquoise sea and coastal towns below. The peaceful hike follows mountain ridges throughout the Amalfi Coast and features a relatively rocky path that includes some steep drops. Typically, hikers take around five hours to complete the seven-mile trek.

The Trolltunga Trail

Hordaland, Norway

If you’re afraid of heights, the Trolltunga Trail is not the trail for you. After hiking past beautiful fjords, lakes, and white-tipped mountains, you’ll eventually come to the cliff known as Trolltunga, which translates to “troll’s tongue.” This cliff extends out over Lake Ringedalsvatnet and features an elevation of roughly 3,609 feet. The hike is around 17.4 miles out-and-back, and it typically takes around 10 to 12 hours to complete.

Horseshoe Canyon

Utah, USA

Horseshoe Canyon in Utah takes you through the state’s famous secluded red rock canyons. As you walk through the horseshoe-shaped canyon, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of the river that runs through it, the Green River. While this scenery is truly stunning, it’s what awaits you at the end of the trail that makes the hike truly incredible and rewarding. At the bottom of the canyon, hikers will find a remarkable ancient art gallery called the Great Gallery, which features depictions of human-sized figures painted by Native Americans over 2,000 years ago. The hike is roughly 6.5 miles long, and it usually takes an average of five hours to complete.

While hiking any of these incredible trails is sure to be an unforgettable experience, doing so also comes with some risks. As such, following certain safety precautions when hiking is important. You should always pack essential hiking equipment such as safety gear and water and avoid hiking on trails that are too difficult for your experience level. By doing so, you can improve your chances of having a safe and memorable hike.

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The article Four of the Best Day Hikes in the World by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Post Natal Care

by Tammy Jones

According to the CDC, there was a total of 3,855,500 births in the United States in 2017. Despite many advancements in modern medicine, many parents are choosing to go back in time by using Ayurvedic remedies instead.

Ayurvedic treatments consider the new mom’s needs.

Many mothers have used Ayurvedic methods, which offer one of the world’s most ancient medicinal practices. Childbirth takes its toll. With this guide, you can use these tried and true practices to benefit your body’s healing.

Keep reading to learn how you can use Ayurvedic remedies as part of your own post-natal care plan.

Why You Need Postpartum Care

After childbirth, your Vata Dosha becomes disrupted.

Your Vata Dosha is responsible for movement and change throughout your life and in your body. Without it, we would never experience progress in our lives.

In our bodies, Vata is activated through:

Elimination
Muscle movement
Heartbeats
Nervous system activity
Circulation
Though processes

Childbirth is a major change, meaning your Vata increases and changes, too.

Think about the empty space your baby leaves behind in your womb after they’re born. With Ayurvedic remedies, you can offset that change.

After your baby is born, you might experience a Vata imbalance. The signs of this imbalance are:

Insomnia
Constipation
Fear
Confusion
Depression
Dry skin
Pained joints
Psychosis
Shakiness

Your baby might experience a Vata imbalance, too. You might recognize the signs if your baby has:

Difficulty sleeping
Dry skin
Constipation
Indigestion
Colic
Trembling

You can avoid these symptoms in both you and your baby with a little Ayurvedic care. Think of it as postpartum healing. Other benefits of Ayurvedic remedies include:

A reduced chance of postpartum depression
Healthier digestion
Stronger immunity
Stronger health supply
Faster rejuvenation
Increased energy

Your health impacts your baby’s health as well. In fact, your happiness could influence your baby’s fussiness, too.

Now that you know why Ayurvedic practices are important, let’s create a care plan for you and your little one.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Mom and Baby

Try using these Ayurvedic remedies for the first 42 days after your baby is born. During this time, you can focus on healing and bonding with your baby. These practices even improve your recovery time, so you can get back to your family.

Dinacharya

Your dinacharya is your daily routine. After your baby is born, your routine is likely to change. Your attention will often shift to responding to your baby’s need.

During this time, you’re also learning how to adapt to your role as a new parent.

Make sure to take a little time for yourself. The smallest requests, such as having someone hold your baby while you take a bath, will help you balance your previous tasks with new responsibilities.

Before breastfeeding, focus on you. Try a simple, short meditation session to ground yourself. Take deep breaths, too.

During these meditations, take an inventory of your needs. Are you short on sleep or feeling achy? Try to give time to your body’s needs as well as the baby’s.

A few weeks after the baby is born, you can also take short walks with your baby.

Simple exercises and a healthy lifestyle are important to your healing process.

Again, make sure to pay attention to your body’s responses. Don’t overexert yourself.

You can also:

Sleep with an eye pillow and scarf around the head and ears
Apply Brahmi oil to the top of your head each morning
Use prana hand mudras
Avoid extreme smells, sounds, or environmental changes

These Ayurvedic treatments help you focus on your needs and the baby’s needs.

Ayurvedic Diet

Focus on nourishing food sources. For an Ayurvedic diet, these include:

Ghee
White basmati rice
Cooked vegetables
Split mung beans
A variety of grain and legumes
Dates
Organic whole milk

Make sure to sip warm water throughout the day. You need to remain hydrated to fuel your body for the day ahead.

Dry, raw, or crunchy foods are best in moderation or avoided entirely.

Instead, prioritize the grains and vegetables as the majority of your meal. These foods can support the healing process and your body’s milk production.

For a healthy Ayurvedic diet, try to avoid canned or spicey foods. You should also take care to avoid unnecessary drugs, which you could excrete through your breastmilk.

Remember, what you eat passes on to your baby.

A mixture of herbs and almond milk can help with lactation. Soak 10 almonds in a glass of water overnight. In the morning, peel and blend them.

Then, add hot milk ginger powder, saffron, cardamom, and date sugar to the mix.

Tea

A cup of steaming hot tea can give your body a boost, too.

Consider dashamula tea, which tones muscle tissue and nourishes the body. It also corrects the flow of energy to flush out urine and feces. Drink half a cup in the morning, saving the other half for the evening.

Supplements

A mix of herbs and/or minerals, churna is an important component of these Ayurvedic remedies. A few examples include:

Fennel, which supports lactation and digestion
Bhringaraj, which aids emotional release
Shatavari, which benefits the reproductive system
Ashwagandha, which supports sleep, energy levels, and reduces stress

You can add these herbs to a cup of tea or take them as supplements if needed.

Abhyanga

You can also plan a daily abhyanga or a self-oil postnatal massage.

You can perform this massage on your own or with a partner. Daily abhyanga for you and the baby will help the two of you bond. It also helps ground the newborn with nourishment and nurturing attention.

Ayurvedic Remedies for Mommy and Me

Your little bundle of joy deserves every ounce of love you can give them. With these powerful, rejuvenating Ayurvedic remedies, you can regain your strength and step into the role of motherhood stronger than ever.

Check out our directory for more helpful, healthy mom tips and resources as you navigate through motherhood.

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The article Ayurvedic Remedies for Post Natal Care by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

Frugal Fun for the Summer: 7 Budget Family Vacation Ideas

by LouAnn Moss

Did you know that this summer, 100 million Americans will take a trip with their family?

You read that right!

What’s more, a Bankrate study found that these folks expect to shell out an average of $1,979 for their vacation! In fact, older millennials — those between 30 and 38 years old — plan to spend an average of $2,366.

That’s a lot of money that many others either can’t afford or would rather not use. After all, that’s already two to three times the median weekly earnings of $905 in the U.S.

The good news is, a well-planned budget family vacation can be as much fun, but for far less. You can have an ultimate family vacay without burning thousands of dollars.

Ready for one of the best yet cheap vacations this summer? Then let’s get this list of affordable holiday ideas started!

1. Don’t Pass Up on Passes

Were you aware that for only $80, you can already access more than 2,000 Federal U.S. recreation sites? Thanks to the U.S. Park Pass, you can. What’s more, it’s an annual pass that already covers the entry of up to four adults to these sites!

Since it’s an annual pass, you don’t have to wait for summer just to enjoy the national parks and reserves. You can use it with the entire fam as many times as you can in a year.

Aside from the US Park Pass, several other cities also have their own sightseeing passes. These include the Tampa, New York City, Seattle, and Chicago CityPASSes to name a few. With these passes, you can enjoy several attractions for a much lower price.

2. Hit the Road to Less-Visited Beaches

Wherever you may be in the U.S., there’s always a beach you can go to that’s not jam-packed with tourists.

For starters, we have Florida Keys’ Calusa Beach and Sandspur Beach. In Northern Oregon, there’s the Bob Straub State Park Beach. Georgia also has its Cumberland Island, while Maine has its Goose Rocks Beach.

The bottom line is, you don’t have to travel far and spend a lot to get your dose of Vitamin Sea. Plus, it’s likely you’re only a road trip away from these serene, pristine, and uncrowded beaches. So, look into the closest beach destinations and include them in your list of family road trip ideas.

3. Ditch Hotels and Opt for Airbnb Instead

In 2017, accommodation prices worldwide showed a 2% increase from three years before. In the same year, hotel room prices in the U.S. averaged $180.12 — a $2.76 increase from 2016.

With such high rates, it’s no wonder services like Airbnb are winning the loyalty of travelers. In 2015, users were able to rent an entire home through the platform for an even lower price than a single hotel room. Today, rentals like Airbnb are still the more cost-effective choice for accommodations.

Plus, if you go for a home rental, it most likely will come with an equipped kitchen. Meaning, you can eat like the locals do, or cook and feast on whatever fancy meal you want and still pay less. Moreover, you get to choose the ingredients to whip up healthier family meals.

You can then use the savings to pay for the other stuff you’ve listed for your vacation ideas and itinerary. In short, you and your family would have a bigger budget for more sights and activities!

4. Park, Picnic, and Play

Park visits are among the best summer vacation ideas as these spots offer a lot of family activities. From picnics to trails, cycling to trekking, camping to fishing, the list goes on. And if you have the US Park Pass, you can save a lot if you wish to visit several parks in one vacation.

To make the most of your park activities (and save along the way), prepare some of your family meals. Also, be sure to check the snacking market to find delish treats you and the kids can munch on say, during a trek. This way, you guys can enjoy the views and calmness of nature without rumbling stomachs.

5. Be a Tourist in Your Own City through a Staycation

Plan a staycation, and you can have a grand R&R in your own hometown or city. Since you won’t have to pay for flights or hotels, you can use what you save and even splurge a little! Get yourself and your spouse a few bottles of fancy wine and treat your kids to wherever they want to.

You can also use a staycation as an opportunity to see your city in a new light.

Say you haven’t visited the Cloudland Canyon State Park even if you live in Georgia. Or you haven’t seen the mysterious Trona Pinnacles despite being a Californian.

In that case, consider a staycation so you can finally get to do these things!

6. Rent Out Your Home and Use the Rental Payment for Your Holiday Expenses

If you really want to bring the family somewhere far, by all means, do so. To keep your budget in check though, consider temporary rental of your home. Let others rent out your home (such as through Airbnb) and let their payments cover your holiday costs!

7. Choose a Destination that’s as Close to the Outdoors as Possible

As great and exciting as a luxury vacation sounds, they’re often not the best for family bonding. Not only are they expensive, but they also have little to offer that includes all family members.

That said, some of the best family vacation spots are areas that afford easy access to the outdoors. For instance, you can rent out a lake cabin so your family can enjoy a private (or semi-private) natural pool. You can also book with a budget-friendly eco-lodge to reconnect with nature.

One of the best things about active vacations is that they’re great for group activities. You can always choose to go camping, cycling, hiking, rafting, or even take part in team sports. All these are activities that can give you the most time to bond with the family.

Take that Much-Needed Budget Family Vacation Now

There you have it, the many ways you can go on an awesome budget family vacation. Remember: Holidaying doesn’t have to be pricey, so long as you plan for it ahead of time.

So, as early as now, have a sit-down with your kids so you can ask for their travel opinions too. The sooner you come up with an itinerary, the sooner everyone can have a memorable summer!

Ready for more life pro tips on anything family-related? Then be sure to bookmark our site’s Family section!

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The article Frugal Fun for the Summer: 7 Budget Family Vacation Ideas by LouAnn Moss appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

I’m Drinking That?! 5 Common Water Contaminants and How to Avoid Them

by Tiffany Pratt

Environmental Protection Agency rules require public notification of situations that could pose a health risk. Some cases mean issuing notices within 24 hours but others allow 30 days or even up to one year.

Do you want to take a chance on waiting a month or up to a year to find out about problems with your drinking water? Let’s look at five of the most common contaminants in drinking water and what you can do about them.

1. Nitrates

Nitrates are chemicals found in fertilizers, manure, and liquid waste from septic tanks and plumbing systems. They tend to be more common in rural areas, where these sources are often found.

The nitrogen in fertilizers can combine with the groundwater to form these nitrates, which can leach into the drinking water. They can be dangerous in high enough concentrations, particularly to infants.

2. Arsenic

Arsenic is a metallic substance found naturally in small amounts. If drinking water contains higher levels than would naturally occur, it can lead to a variety of health problems including digestive issues, numbness in your extremities, and it is linked to some forms of skin cancer.

The most common source of arsenic contamination is manufacturing industries that generate arsenic. It doesn’t change the look or smell of water so to identify higher-than-normal levels of arsenic; you need to have the water tested.

3. Bacteria, Viruses, and Other Microorganisms

All water contains a certain amount of bacteria and other microorganisms. They’re not all harmful, but some can cause more serious issues, such as E. Coli and Legionella Pneumophilia.

These can be particularly harmful to children and the elderly. A good whole house water filter will be able to remove these harmful microorganisms from your water.

4. Aluminum

Aluminum is one of the most common elements in our soil and water, but it can cause problems in high enough concentrations. When human-made sources of aluminum increase the levels beyond what water would normally contain, there are several serious threats to your health.

Aluminum has recently been linked to some forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. It can also cause damage to the nervous system, kidney disease, and anemia.

5. Fluoride

Fluoride is a unique form of water contamination. It is added to our drinking water intentionally and has been since the 1940s. It was thought to help reduce the effects of tooth decay.

Recent evidence shows the opposite, however. It is now thought that it is damaging to the tooth enamel as well as causing discoloration of the teeth. High enough levels can also weaken bones.

What You Can Do About Water Contaminants

You’ve got a couple of choices for getting rid of the contaminants in your drinking water. The first is to buy your water from a source that either removes the contaminants or gets the water from a natural source that doesn’t have them in the first place.

The second option is to use filtration to get rid of as many of the contaminants as possible. A good water filter will let you continue to drink the water piped into your home, only without the unwanted ingredients.

Check back often for more helpful posts like this one.

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Introducing Your Children to Nature: The Top Tips for Hiking With Kids

by Cascia Talbert

Of all the outdoor activities you can do with your kids, hiking is one of the best options to consider. Hiking has become much more popular over the last few years and there are tons of trails out there that are perfect for young children and novice hikers.

Of course, even when you’re hiking a beginner-friendly trail, it’s still important to take precautions and make sure everyone is prepared for what nature has to offer.

If you’ve never hiked with kids before and want to make sure you have everything you need, keep reading. Listed below are some helpful tips that will make hiking with kids easier and more enjoyable (for them and for you).

Benefits of Hiking with Kids

There are lots of reasons to take your kids on more hiking trips. Some of the greatest benefits of hiking with kids include the following:

It’s a great form of exercise
It helps to build self-confidence
It teaches them to appreciate nature
It allows everyone to unplug

This last benefit is especially important. These days, the average kid spends more than eight hours per day looking at screens!

If you want them to spend less time staring at a screen, you need to provide them with a fun and rewarding alternative, and hiking is the perfect solution.

Tips for Hiking with Kids

Okay, you’re convinced that it’s a good idea to take your kids out on a hike once in a while. You might also be feeling overwhelmed at the idea of trying to manage your kids out in the woods, though.

There are lots of ways you can make hiking more accessible to yourself and your kids. Here are some tips that will help you out:

Choose Kid-Friendly Hikes

These days, it’s easy to do some research online and choose hikes that are most suitable to your kids. Look at ratings for different hikes and find out which ones other hikers have deemed kid-friendly.

You may also want to look for hikes that end with something fun for your kids to look forward to like a waterfall or a rock formation. Have something to see at the end of the trail can help to keep them engaged and eager to keep pressing forward.

Set Realistic Expectations

It’s best to set the bar low when you’re hiking with kids.

They might not be able to walk as far as you, or they might not have a lot of interest in the sites you see along the way or the final destination. Go in with realistic expectations and be willing to turn around altogether if the situation calls for it.

It might be frustrating, especially if you have to drive a long way to get to the trailhead. As long as you all got out and spent some time in nature, though, you can consider it a win.

Plan Lots of Stops

Look at the trail carefully before you head out on your hike. While you’re examining the trail, make plans to stop at regular intervals. This will give everyone a chance to rest, get some water, eat a snack, and enjoy the view.

Don’t worry about completing the hike by a specific time. If you give everyone plenty of opportunities to enjoy the journey, they’ll be more likely to want to go back for more hikes in the future.

Bring Snacks and Water

Make sure you have plenty of snacks for your kids to enjoy while on the hike. Bring lots of water, too. Even for short hikes, it helps to have adequate sustenance (and, let’s face it, you might need to bribe your kids at some point to encourage them to keep going).

Play Games

There are lots of games you can play to keep your kids engaged while on the hike. “I Spy” is a classic that helps kids focus on nature and pay attention to their surroundings. Storytelling games are often a hit, too.

Pack a First Aid Kit

Always bring a first aid kit, no matter how short or simple your hike is supposed to be.

You never know when your child (or you) is going to get a cut or a scraped knee. If you have a first aid kit, you can easily take care of the issue and get them back on their feet in no time at all.

Use a Carrier for Small Children

Consider bringing a backpack carrier for small children.

Even if they insist that they can walk the whole way on their own, you never know when they’re going to give up and demand to be carried.

A backpack carrier will make things much more comfortable for you and help you keep pressing forward on your hike.

Invest in the Right Gear

It’s a good idea to learn more about the hiking gear kids and adults ought to have with them on the trail, too.

Even if you’re not planning on doing any long hikes, it still pays to be prepared. Invest in a good hiking backpack (and consider buying your kids their own backpacks, too) as well as some sturdy hiking shoes that will provide everyone with plenty of traction.

It might seem silly to spend a lot of money on gear when you’re hiking very simple trails.

Remember, though, that safety should be your number one priority. You’re also making an investment for the future when you and your kids will be able to handle more difficult trails.

Start Hiking Today

If you want your kids to get active and enjoy the great outdoors more often, taking them on hikes is one of the best things you can do.

Keep these tips for hiking with kids in mind so you help everyone to stay safe and have a great time while out on the trail.

Do you want to learn more about hiking and other kid-friendly outdoor activities? If so, be sure to visit some of our other family life-related blogs today.

You’ll find all kinds of inspiration here for new ways to help your kids stay healthy and active.

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The article Introducing Your Children to Nature: The Top Tips for Hiking With Kids by Cascia Talbert appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.

7 Amazing Benefits of Quartz Kitchen Countertops

by Tammy Jones

Kitchen remodeling can have a significant impact on the total resale value of your house. If you’re looking for one room to update that will help you get more money when you’re ready to put your house on the market, the kitchen is definitely the one to use.

Even if you can only update a few aspects of your kitchen, such as the countertops, you can still make it a much more modern and inviting space, one that potential buyers will love.

When it comes to updating your kitchen countertops, there are tons of materials you can choose from. One of the best, though, is quartz.

Read on to learn about some of the greatest benefits that come from investing in quartz kitchen countertops.

What are Quartz Kitchen Countertops?

Quartz is one of the most durable minerals on earth. Quartz countertops are made from quartz crystals that were naturally mined and then ground into dust.

That dust is often combined with pigments and polyester resins to bind everything together and give the countertop color. Everything is fused under extreme heat and pressure until a solid slab is formed.

Quartz countertops come in a wide range of colors and styles. Some even have materials like recycled glass or metal mixed in to create a unique look.

Why Should You Choose Them?

There are lots of reasons why you might want to choose quartz kitchen countertops over another style of countertop. The following are some of the main benefits that come with choosing them:

1. Low Maintenance

Many homeowners are choosing quartz countertops over granite these days because quartz is so low-maintenance.

Quartz never has to be sealed or re-sealed the way other materials do. All you have to do to keep it clean and looking nice is wipe it down each day with soap and water.

There’s no need to invest in harsh chemical cleaners, either. In fact, that can damage the surface of your countertop.

2. More Hygienic

In addition to being easier to clean, quartz is also a more hygienic material overall. Quartz countertops are non-porous.

This means that bacteria, mold, and mildew (all of which can cause stains and contribute to lingering odors) can’t penetrate the surface of the counter.

With quartz, you’ll get to enjoy peace of mind knowing that your countertop is always clean.

3. Durability

Quartz is more durable than granite and many other countertop materials.

Quartz countertops are engineered to resist scratches and other forms of damage, so you can rest easy knowing your countertop will look as good as new for years to come.

Many manufacturers even offer a warranty of quartz countertops for anywhere from 15-25 years.

4. Great Value

Quartz countertops may cost more than a lot of other countertop options.

At the same time, though, they also hold their value better than these other styles. If you’re looking for the countertop update that will give you the greatest return on your investment, quartz is definitely the way to go.

Even if you’re not planning on selling your home for a while, your quartz countertop will still help to increase the total resale value of your home and make it more enticing to buyers.

5. More Appearance Control

With quartz, you get to enjoy more control over the finished product, too.

With other countertops, such as granite, you have to take what you get. Your granite slab may have imperfections like fissures or color imbalances that don’t appeal to you. That’s not the case with quartz, though.

Quartz allows you to have control over color consistency and uniformity, so it’s great for those who have a very specific vision for their kitchen.

6. Design-Friendly

It’s easier to cut quartz to fit a specific kitchen design, too. Designers can bend and shape it to fit around sinks and other elements of your kitchen. You can even use quartz in other areas of your kitchen and have it cut into standard tile sizes.

7. Modern Look

If you want your kitchen to have a more modern feel to it, you can’t go wrong with a quartz countertop.

Quartz is definitely one of the trendiest materials on the market today, and a quartz countertop will give your whole home a more modern edge that helps you attract new young buyers.

Choosing the Right Quartz Countertops

There are lots of reasons why you may want to use quartz countertops in your kitchen. Before you start shopping, though, it’s a good idea to learn more about what makes a good quartz countertop.

Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Set a Budget First

It’s best to set a budget before you begin shopping. That way, you’ll know how much money you have to work with before you fall in love with a countertop that’s way outside of your price range.

Dare to Compare

Be sure to compare countertops from several different designers before you make a decision. Look at lots of samples and get quotes from a few people. This will help you ensure you’re choosing the best style for your kitchen and get the best price possible.

Consider Color

When you’re looking at different countertops, pay close attention to the color options available to you. Remember that, in addition to the color of the countertop, you can also choose different tones to visit your vision in a more exact way.

Inspect the Finish and Edges

There are lots of different finish options, too. You can choose a glossy look for a more modern kitchen or a brushed finish for a more natural and rustic look.

You’ll have to choose between beveled edges and rounded edges (or decide if you want to use both) as well.

Need More Kitchen Renovation Advice?

Are you convinced that quartz kitchen countertops are the right choice for you and your home? If so, be sure to keep this information in mind so you can find the best ones to fit in your kitchen.

Do you need more help planning your kitchen updates? Are you looking for design and decor inspiration?

Whatever you need, we’ve got lots of resources available to you on our website. Check out some of our Home and Garden blogs today to learn more.

 

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The article 7 Amazing Benefits of Quartz Kitchen Countertops by Tammy Jones appeared first on Healthy Moms Magazine.