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Beauty on a budget

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Who says beauty needs to break the bank? Here are some fun and easy beauty tips that can positively impact your health.   

  1. Multipurpose products: Opt for skincare products with multiple benefits, like moisturizers and SPF. Not only do they save your time, but they also protect your skin from sun damage, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.   

  2. Nourish your body: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can work wonders for your skin and hair. According to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the minerals and antioxidants in fruits and vegetables help your body fight harmful substances, reduce swelling and keep the skin barrier strong.  

  3. Beauty sleep isn't a myth—it's real: Quality sleep allows your skin to repair and rejuvenate, reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.   

  4. Sweat it out, glow it up: Exercise isn't just for muscles. It's a skin-deep secret, too. Regular exercise boosts blood flow and nourishes skin, giving it a healthy glow.   

  5. Smile, your best beauty trick: A smile is your best accessory—it is simple, free and radiates positivity. Smiling enhances beauty and has numerous health benefits, like reducing stress and boosting mood. According to the National Library of Medicine, a genuine smile makes people feel good, leads to positive social outcomes and enhances learning.   

Beauty doesn't have to break the bank. These tips show that beauty is not just skin deep. It is about embracing a healthy lifestyle and feeling confident in your skin. So, the next time you think about splurging on expensive products, remember that the best beauty secret is taking care of yourself inside and out. After all, true beauty shines from within. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

beauty on a budget

Who says beauty needs to break the bank? Here are some fun and easy beauty tips that can positively impact your health.  

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Working from home and feeling stressed? Creating a work schedule can help.

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Working from home can be challenging for many reasons. There might be noise, people, children, pets and other things that make it hard to focus. It can affect your productivity and lead to a stressful environment that affects your mental health. 

 

Fortunately, there are things you can do to separate those two areas of your life and have a good work/life balance, even when you work where you live. Creating a work schedule that fits your lifestyle is a good place to start.  

 

Here are some ideas that may help:

Schedule a beginning and end to each day. 

Resist the temptation to roll out of bed and go right to work. The time you used to spend commuting could be used as a transition to start your day. Get some fresh air, exercise, do some stretching or meditate. And wrap up your day the same way. Doing this will help you turn your focus away from work. 

 

Do your best to keep your new hours consistent or predictable each day. 

After you set your schedule, try to stick with it. That will help others learn when you are available for work or at home. 

 

Let people know your office hours. 

Try adding your new work hours to your email signature. And tell others in your life when you're working. Be clear about your work schedule by making a sign with your home office hours. Post your hours so others can see them. This lets people know when you need time to focus on work. You might also tell people in your home when you have break periods and you are available for them. 

 

Build breaks into your schedule. 

A short break will help you refresh. Try scheduling 10-minute breaks throughout the day. Use the time to stretch, go for a walk or check in with family or friends. Or when you need to take a break, try going someplace where you can close a door for a few minutes of quiet time. For example, go into a bathroom or a bedroom. 

 

Plan ahead but be ready to pivot. 

When things disrupt your scheduled work time, it doesn't have to derail your day. Make a list of things that must be done right away. Move tasks that can wait to another day. 

 

Reach out for help. 

If you find yourself struggling to be productive when working from home or feeling stressed, talk with your supervisor. Many companies provide resources to help you learn how to be successful, whether you work remotely or on site. Many also offer mental health resources you may find beneficial in learning healthy ways to deal with stress.  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Working from home and feeling stressed? Creating a work schedule can help.

Working from home can be challenging for many reasons. There might be noise, people, children, pets and other things that make it hard to focus. It can affect your productivity and lead to a stressful environment that affects your mental health. 

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Sun-savvy secrets for a healthy summer vacation

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Summer vacations are a time to unwind and soak up the sun, but it is important to stay healthy while you’re having fun. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a safe and healthy summer getaway.   

  1. Hydration is key: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, as they can dehydrate you. Also, snack on water-rich fruits like watermelon, strawberries and oranges to boost hydration and satisfy your sweet tooth.   

  2. Protect your skin: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sunscreen is intended to be combined with other safety approaches, such as wearing sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight clothing, and avoid scheduling activities when the UV is high.  

  3. Stay active, stay cool: Exercise during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening. During the day, seek an indoor option, like yoga or swimming.  

  4. Healthy eating habits: Enjoy local cuisine, but aim for balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Indulge in treats in moderation to avoid feeling sluggish in the heat.   

  5. Rest and relaxation: Get enough rest to recharge your body and mind. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. According to the American Psychological Association, researchers have studied more than 200 studies about mindfulness, and they have found that mindfulness therapy is especially effective for reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation can reduce stress from traveling and promote relaxation on vacation.   

Your health is your wealth, so make smart choices to ensure a vacation that is both relaxing and memorable. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or exploring new sites, remember these tips for a summer escape that is as healthy as it is happy. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Sun-savvy secrets for a healthy summer vacation

Summer vacations are a time to unwind and soak up the sun, but it is important to stay healthy while you’re having fun. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a safe and healthy summer getaway.   

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Protect your hearing while maintaining the lawn

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

What does your summer sound like? The splish-splash from the swimming pool. Children’s laughter at the park. Singing birds as you enjoy a morning coffee.  

However, not all summer sounds benefit your health, especially when it comes to lawn care.  

Yes, you heard that right. 

According to the Hearing Loss Association of America, hearing loss is the third most prevalent physical condition in older adults. Forty-eight million Americans have hearing loss, while another 28 million could benefit from hearing aids.  

Proactive protection is the best way to prevent hearing damage. Sound is measured in decibels (dB). The higher the decibel reading, the louder the sound. According to the American Academy of Audiology, steady exposure to sounds louder than 85 dB can be harmful. When loud noises strike small hair cells inside the ear, they become damaged, says the National Council on Aging. Once those hair cells are destroyed, they can't be restored. 

 

Decibel level comparisons: 

  • A quiet library is 40 dB. 

  • Typical conversation chatter measures 60 dB. 

  • An alarm clock rings at 80 dB.  

  • A car horn blows at 110 dB. 

  • Jet takeoffs propel at 120 dB. 

  • Gunshots fire at 140 dB. 

Lawn mowers average 90 dB of loudness, the same level as power tools. Gas-powered string trimmers and leaf blowers can produce similar amounts. Even if we use a tool for a few minutes, hearing damage can still occur. Prolonged exposure to unsafe sounds can lead to permanent harm.  

 

Invest in your hearing 

While plenty of money can be spent on the fanciest new zero-turn mower and lawn treatments, don’t forget to fund your hearing protection.  

Several brands of protective headphones are available, ranging from traditional earmuffs to Bluetooth-connected sets that connect to your phone. It’s essential to research the best headphones for you, based on purpose and Noise Reduction Ratings, often labeled as NRR to indicate the level of protection provided. Many sets range from $20 to $120. 

Wearing earplugs in addition to headphones can also increase protection when using larger commercial mowing equipment. 

Consult your doctor about being tested if you think you could benefit from a hearing exam. Signs of hearing loss can include difficulty hearing crickets chirping, doorbells or someone talking in group conversations. Testing is available to people of all ages.  

So, if you want to keep up with the Joneses with your picture-perfect yard, be sure your hearing is protected so you can still catch all the neighborhood gossip. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Protect Your Hearing While Maintaining The Lawn

If you want to keep up with the Joneses with your picture-perfect yard, be sure your hearing is protected so you can still catch all the neighborhood gossip. 

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Is the hype behind Pilates a stretch?

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Pilates is a series of exercises that can be done from the comfort of your own home or at a Pilates studio. Pilates promotes mobility and strength of all the major muscle groups in the body in a balanced fashion while also having a key focus on the deep core muscles.  

 

Everyone can benefit from Pilates, but people recovering from an injury who want to ease back into exercise and post rehab patients are specific groups of people that the Hospital for Special Surgery highlights.  

 

According to Better Health Channel, the benefits of Pilates includes: 

  • Improved flexibility  

  • Increased muscle strength and tone 

  • Balanced muscular strength on both sides of your body  

  • Enhanced muscular control of your back and limbs 

  • Improved stabilization of your spine 

  • Improved posture  

  • Rehabilitation or prevention of injuries related to muscle imbalances  

  • Improved physical coordination and balance  

  • Relaxation of your shoulders, neck and upper back  

  • Safe rehabilitation of joint and spinal injuries 

  • Prevention of musculoskeletal injuries (Lower-back, rotator cuff, etc.) 

  • Increased lung capacity and circulation through deep breathing 

  • Improved concentration  

  • Increased body awareness 

  • Stress management and relaxation  

 

There are different ways to perform Pilates, such as on a mat using your body weight or on a machine called a reformer. The reformer uses springs for resistance and assistance to achieve balanced muscle engagement.  

 

If you want to start Pilates at home, many instructional videos are available. If you want to try a class at a studio, make sure that you start at a beginner level class. If you are unsure about the class, you can arrive early and talk to the instructor to see what the class would entail and if you are comfortable doing the exercises.  

 

If you are looking for more information on exercise, check out the links below:  

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Is the hype behind Pilates a stretch?

Pilates promotes mobility and strength of all the major muscle groups in the body in a balanced fashion while also having a key focus on the deep core muscles.

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The dos and don’ts of breaking habits

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Want to know the scientific reason we develop habits? Habits – good or bad – save our brains energy. Add in a dose of dopamine, a natural feel good chemical created by your body, when the habit is enjoyable, and the brain keeps coming back for more.  

Since our brains constantly search for ways to save energy and keep us safe and happy, developing habits come easily, too easily sometimes. That’s why, without conscious effort, what was once an occasional choice can become imprinted into an automatic routine. It also explains how an occasional bowl of ice cream after dinner can transform into a nightly ritual before we even realize it, according to an article on the News in Health website. No wonder neuroscientists continue researching how habit development relates to more serious addictions. 

Good news: Breaking basic bad habits is possible. To interrupt brain-based routines and break bad habits once and for all, adhere to these dos and don’ts.

Do:

  • Practice self-control in small increments, building up strength and discipline like muscle development, according to News in Health. 

  • Visualize a healthier habit or saying no to the current habit, according to News in Health.  

  • Pay attention to what triggers the bad habit. What feelings and thoughts arrive right beforehand? Identifying such thoughts and feelings can help the person mindfully choose a different behavior in response, according to an article on Positive Psychology News.  

  • Make it next to impossible to engage in the bad habit. For example, don’t buy the ice cream. This interrupts the routine and forces the brain to think twice, according to News in Health. 

Don’t:

  • Go back. Avoid the environment that triggers the bad habit, according to News in Health. For example, if someone breaking a coffee habit always goes to the same coffee shop in the morning, visiting a different location can make it easier to order tea. 

  • Don’t go cold turkey, instead make a habit swap. Choose a new, healthier habit to replace the old, unhealthy habit. For example, according to a study on JAMA Network, nail biters can try rubbing their fingers together instead. 

  • Ignore information. Research the long-term effects of a pesky bad habit and the long-term impact of the replacement good habit. Knowledge means power and motivation. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

The dos and don’ts of breaking habits

To interrupt brain-based routines and break bad habits once and for all, adhere to these dos and don’ts.

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Sun safety myths: debunked

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Ah, summer. As the sun shines brighter and the days get warmer, it’s essential to keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. However, there are several misconceptions about sun safety that can lead to ineffective protection. Let’s debunk some common myths.  

 

Myth 1: “You only need sunscreen on sunny days.”  

UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so you need sunscreen even on overcast days. Apply sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 every day, regardless of the weather.  

 

Myth 2: “A base tan protects you from sunburn.”  

Any change in your skin color indicates skin damage. There is no such thing as a safe tan. Embrace your natural skin tone and protect it with sunscreen.  
 

Myth 3: “Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen.”  

Melanin is the dark brown to black pigment in hair and skin. Even with more melanin, your skin needs protection from UV rays. According to the Cancer Council, skin darkens to protect itself because the UV rays are damaging living cells. Even if you tan easily, you are still at risk for negative sun exposure effects.  

 

Myth 4: “You don’t need to reapply water-resistant sunscreen.”  

Water-resistant does not mean waterproof. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating for sun-kissed skin, not sunburned. 

 

Myth 5: “Higher SPF means you can stay in the sun longer.”  

SPF indicates the level of protection against UV rays, not the amount of time you can spend in the sun. Regardless of SPF, reapply sunscreen regularly and seek shade when possible.  

 

Sun safety tips:  

  • Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating. According to the Mayo Clinic, broad-spectrum products offer protection against UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks only 97% of UVB rays. No sunscreen blocks 100% of rays.  

  • Wear sun-protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.  

  • Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

  • Stay hydrated and enjoy the sun safely.  

 

By busting these sun safety myths and following these tips, you can shine bright all summer long, knowing you’re protecting your skin like a pro.  

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Sun Safety

There are several misconceptions about sun safety that can lead to ineffective protection. Let’s debunk some common myths. 

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Could your dental health hold the key to heart wellness?

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

When maintaining heart health, most think of diet, exercise and avoiding smoking. However, did you know dental health might also be crucial in keeping your heart in tip-top shape? Emerging research suggests a surprising connection between oral hygiene and cardiovascular health.   

 

The mouth-heart connection   

The relationship between dental health and heart wellness revolves around inflammation. Gum disease, or periodontitis, is a chronic inflammatory condition caused by bacteria in the mouth. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is a severe bacterium that damages the soft tissue around the teeth. When your gums are inflamed, harmful bacteria can enter your bloodstream, triggering inflammation throughout your body, including your arteries. This systemic inflammation is a significant risk factor for heart disease.   

 

How poor dental health affects the heart:

1. Inflammation and arterial plaque: Inflammation from gum disease can contribute to the buildup of arterial plaque, leading to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). This can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

2. Bacterial spread: Oral bacteria can travel through the bloodstream and attach to damaged areas of the heart, leading to infections such as endocarditis. This condition can seriously damage heart valves and other heart structures. According to Harvard Health, the bacteria that infect the gums also travel to blood vessels elsewhere in the body, where they cause blood vessel inflammation and damage.  

3. Increased risk factors: Studies have shown that individuals with poor oral health are more likely to suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol – all of which are risk factors for heart disease.   

 

Maintaining oral health for a healthy heart:   

4. Regular dental checkups: Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups to detect and treat gum disease early. Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing complications.   

5. Good oral hygiene involves Brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily and using mouthwash to keep harmful bacteria at bay. These practices can significantly reduce the risk of gum disease and inflammation.   

6. Healthy lifestyle choices: Eat a balanced diet, avoid tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption. These healthy habits benefit your oral health and contribute to overall health wellness.   

 

Your mouth is more connected to your heart than you might think. By prioritizing dental health, you can reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. So, next time you brush and floss, remember that you're caring for your smile and taking steps towards a healthier heart. Make oral hygiene a crucial part of your overall health regimen and enjoy the benefits of a healthier heart and a brighter smile. 

 

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Could your dental health hold the key to heart wellness?

Did you know dental health might also be crucial in keeping your heart in tip-top shape? Emerging research suggests a surprising connection between oral hygiene and cardiovascular health.   

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Pack-a-day doesn’t keep the doctors away

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Smoking has been a topic of interest in healthcare for a long time. We always hear certain phrases that go along with smoking and the negative health affects you could live with. At Genesis, we want you to stay healthy by stopping or avoiding smoking to prevent negative health effects and contact your doctor early if you notice any symptoms from smoking so you can be helped right away.  

If you meet any of the qualifications below then you are recommended to get a lung screening, it is free through insurance:  

  • Have a 20 pack-a-year or more history.  

    • A pack-year is smoking an average of one pack of cigarettes per day for one year. For example, a person could have a 20 pack-year history by smoking one pack a day for 20 years or two packs a day for 10 years. 

  • Smoke now or have quit within the past 15 years. 

  • Are between 50 and 80 years old. 

  • Have no signs or symptoms of lung cancer. 

“Studies over the last 15 years using early detection screening such as spiral CT have been shown to increase your chances of surviving lung cancer by 16% to 20%.” says the Lung Cancer Foundation of America. If you notice lung cancer symptoms (listed below), you should also contact your doctor.  

The American Cancer Society states the most common lung cancer symptoms are:  

  • A cough that does not go away or gets worse 

  • Coughing up blood or rust-colored spit or phlegm 

  • Chest pain that is often worse with deep breathing, coughing or laughing 

  • Hoarseness 

  • Loss of appetite 

  • Unexplained weight loss 

  • Shortness of breath 

  • Feeling tired or weak 

  • Reoccurring infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia  

  • New onset of wheezing 

We want to catch lung cancer as early as possible, which is why we recommend getting a screening before there are symptoms present.  

Check out these additional resources for more information on lung screenings:  

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Pack-a-day doesn't keep the doctors away

We always hear certain phrases that go along with smoking and the negative health affects you could live with.

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Solutions to everyday stress

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Let’s face it, everyone has something they are stressed about. It controls our lives, and sometimes we can take it out on others. The simple solution would be to solve the problem, but what if it can’t be solved or it is reoccurring? This is where everyday solutions come into play. These solutions are easy to do and when we incorporate them into our lives, we might not notice at first, but they will eventually make a huge difference.  

Harvard Health Publishing recommends that everyone sleeps at least seven hours per day, eats a predominantly plant-based diet, exercises regularly, meditates, and stays socially connected. These solutions should help reduce everyday stress and allow you to take on life’s fast-paced changes.  

Harvard Health also recommends solutions for on-the-spot relief. 

These solutions include:  

  • Doing a relaxation exercise 

  • Stretch your muscles 

  • Take a mindfulness break 

  • Take a brisk walk 

  • Use laughter 

  • Reducing loud noises in your environment  

  • Playing smooth music  

  • Counter negative thoughts 

  • Use positive self-talk  

  • Ask if it’s worth it 

  • Reach out for help 

Some of these solutions seem easier than others, and it is a matter of personal preference on what you use to help yourself. 

If you need additional suggestions to help with stress, check out some of our previous blogs: 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Solutions to everyday stress

These solutions should help reduce everyday stress and allow you to take on life’s fast-paced changes.  

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