Category: Motivation

Daily Habits Can Influence Overall Mental Well-Being

Published on by Nikken

Many factors play a part in mental health, some of which we can’t control, such as genetics, life experiences, and family history. Nonetheless, there are many things we can consciously do every day to create overall well-being.

What we think about and how we we approach our thoughts can impact everything in our lives. Our ability to handle the twists and turns of life affect our mental health, and building good habits can make a difference. Common sense dictates many of these positive behaviors, but staying consistent is both the key and the challenge to making them work.

Sleep is necessary to maintain good physical health, but it also is crucial for mental health. One study from 2021 included 273,695 adults in the United States. The researchers found that people who averaged six hours of sleep or less per night were about 2.5 times more likely to report frequent mental distress than those who averaged more than six hours of sleep.1 The researchers also found that the quality of sleep matters, as disrupted sleep can add to mental health issues. So, maintain a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and getting up at the same time daily and reap the benefits.

Another area that impacts mental health is “keeping up with the Joneses.” No matter how well you are doing, there will always be others doing better. This constant comparison with others can produce feelings of inadequacy. The advent of social media has multiplied these comparisons a hundred-fold, and psychologists report that feelings of low self-worth are an inevitable byproduct of constantly consuming information about other people’s lives. The solution is to cut back on social media. Stop scrolling on the phone, day and night, keep your phone out of reach during sleep hours, turn off notifications and only keep social apps that are absolutely necessary.2 Hit delete, delete, delete.

Staying out of the business of people we don’t know can be a relief, but staying in touch with people we do know, can be truly transformative. In other words, friends and family deserve attention and even when the effort to strengthen these relationships can be taxing, they’re worth it. These are the people who ultimately lend meaning to our lives. Instead of keeping up with the latest gossip about so-and-so, why not take the time to call mom, son, cousin, old friend, new friend, etc.? Better yet, make it a point to catch up by actually meeting for walks, tea, or a laugh-together session!

Exercise isn’t a magic bullet for physical and mental health, but it comes close. Next time you’re feeling down, go outside and move around. Walk, jog, stretch, do some head rolls—it doesn’t matter what you do as long as you do it regularly. For mental well-being, it doesn’t have to be vigorous or strenuous. In fact, it should be whatever you are comfortable with, even if it’s chair exercises. Again, be consistent—start slowly and build up stamina.

What we eat and drink also affects our state of mind. Certain foods are known as “mood-boosters.” These include berries, bananas, salmon, beans, salmon and whole grains. Staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the day can be beneficial. According to nutritionists, dehydration denies the brain and body the nutrients required to operate at optimal levels. Certain foods and drinks, including alcohol, caffeinated beverages, refined carbs and foods with added sugars, may actually increase anxiety. A nutrient-dense diet is something to stay on for a lifetime, so developing good eating habits is essential for healthy longevity.

Good habits take time to create, so start gradually and empower yourself. May is mental health awareness month, the perfect time to start or add to your daily regimen of empowered living! Develop one good habit at a time, and build on it. You may be surprised how much better you feel both mentally and physically!

1, 2 https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/habits-to-improve-mental-health

Stress Awareness: Sometimes a Hug Does the Trick

Published on by Nikken

We all experience stress at some point every day; however, if we’re aware of it, we can actually do something about it. Some of the signs that stress levels are too high include: pain or tension in the head, chest, stomach or muscles, digestive issues, fluctuating heart rate and blood pressure, poor sleep, jaw pain, appetite changes, mood swings, difficulty focusing and feeling overwhelmed.1

Exercise, healthier eating, and getting enough sleep all have health benefits. One benefit is fewer symptoms of stress. Doing things you enjoy can help balance out stressful times. Mental Health America says that laughter, as well as positive feelings from your activities or relationships, helps beat stress.2

Talking to someone you trust helps lower stress levels. Keeping it bottled up can lead to increasing stress. Simple actions like petting a dog or going for a walk outdoors can help decrease stress. This is because cortisol levels are heightened during times of stress, and lowering them has a calming effect. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone.

A hug is a sign of affection and a way to transmit positive feelings. One study, published in the journal PLOS One, demonstrated that there are actual health benefits to hugging, including reduced blood pressure, decreased inflammation, lower risk of infection and better overall well-being.3

Just as cortisol levels increase when we are under stress, oxytocin, the feel-good hormone, is released when we receive or give a hug. Cortisol decreases during a hug. But how long does a hug have to be to have beneficial effects?

A 2021 study investigated how people reacted to both the duration of hugs and how the hugs transpired (either criss-crossed with arms or neck-waist style). The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Acta Psychologica, showing that hugs lasting five to 10 seconds were felt to be more favorable than hugs lasting only a second.4 The researchers inferred that longer hugs are more pleasant than very short ones, and criss-cross hugs are more common than neck-waist embraces.

Those who have been with Nikken for a long time may have been fortunate enough to have met our Founder Isamu Masuda. Mr. Masuda was known for his humility and affection for everyone, and often hugged people upon meeting and departing. His hugs were of the criss-cross version, and known as “heart-to-heart.” Over the years, this became known as the “Masuda Hug.” The Masuda Hug continues on everywhere there is a Nikken event or celebration. It has become a cherished part of the Nikken feel-good lifestyle.

The next time you’re aware that stress is getting to you, try to be kind to yourself. See if you can find someone to hug! You might be able to reap the benefits within 10 seconds!

1 https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-level-too-high

2 https://drexelmedicine.org/blog/overview/stress-relief-tips-for-stress-awareness-month-and-beyond/

3, 4 https://apple.news/A08s2oe2ZSVSbwbzJveGY0A

Each of Us Can Play a Part in Earth’s Planetary Health

Published on by Nikken

Planetary health is a relatively new concept that has gained traction in recent years due to the urgent need to address the health of our planet and its inhabitants. It refers to the interdependent health of both humans and the environment, recognizing that the two are inseparable and that the health of one is intricately linked to the health of the other.1

Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and population growth led to environmental degradation and climate change in this era. These factors have profound implications for human health, with climate change and extreme weather events exacerbating existing health problems. Air and water pollution as well as toxic chemicals are additional environmental factors that lead to health issues. By promoting sustainable development and protecting the planet’s health and inhabitants, we can ensure a healthy future for generations.2

Here are a few things we can do to to help Earth sustain its positive energy for the well-being of flora, fauna, humans and the planet as a whole:

•          Reduce food waste. Although there are so many on planet Earth who suffer from malnutrition and food deficit, there is an unconscionable amount of food that is wasted. To better understand how food waste occurs in your own kitchen, write down what gets thrown in the trash throughout the week, including the reason why. Did it go bad? Did you buy too much? Were you unsure of how to save it safely? Use this personal research to determine how best to reduce your waste. Perhaps you simply need to buy less, or learn better strategies for freezing or re-using leftovers.3

•          Learn how to compost. It is a great way to use food scraps such as fruit rinds or vegetable discards. The composting process converts food into stable soil carbon, rather than methane (which is what happens to food at a landfill).

•          Be mindful of how you use water. The average American household uses 98 gallons of water each day, more than other families around the globe.4 Assess your daily activities that involve water —bathing, cleaning, washing dishes, laundry, the toilet, cooking, watering the lawn —and see how you can cut down. For example, don’t let the faucet run while you’re brushing your teeth! Use a basin of water to rinse your dishes rather than running the tap on each item. Accumulate a whole load before using the dishwasher or doing laundry. Make sure you don’t have any leaky plumbing.

•          Consider solar power. It is a good choice for reducing carbon emissions. Personal rooftop solar panels are becoming less expensive and more widely used every year. And, it will likely decrease your electricity bills, if not completely wipe them out.

•          Eat less meat and more plant-based food. Forests are destroyed to make room for grazing, fertilizers produce nitrous oxide, and cows emit the greenhouse gas methane as they graze. Most climate change experts agree that reducing meat consumption is one of the most important tasks we have as a global community. In addition to being more eco-friendly, plant-rich diets may also reduce risk of some chronic diseases and add years to your life.5 Why not try a three-bean chili or a grilled portabella mushroom burger? 

•          Reduce, Reuse & Recycle: Reduce your usage of waste-producing items, such as single-use plastic bottles. Reuse whenever possible to minimize purchases. Recycle to lower your carbon footprint.

The World Health Organization (WHO) introduced planetary health as one of the core terms in its “Health Promotion Glossary of Terms 2021″.6 When we recognize the interdependence between Earth’s natural ecosystems and human health, we can all commit to doing our part to sustaining Earth’s vital energies!

Celebrate Earth Day on April 22nd and treat yourself and your loved ones to fresh air with the KenkoAir Purifier® at 20% off the regular price! To breathe is to live and to breathe KenkoAir is to live healthy!

1, 2,6 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11107315/

3, 4, 5 https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/10-things-you-can-do-planetary-health

Breathe Easier: How Air Ionizers Can Be Beneficial

Published on by Nikken

We often don’t think about the air we breathe, but it can be filled with allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold—often invisible to the eye but affecting our health. These particles can be particularly troublesome for people with allergies or asthma. But there’s good news: air ionizers can help reduce allergens in the air, creating a healthier home.

An air ionizer works by releasing negatively charged ions into the air. These ions attach to positively charged particles, causing them to clump together and become heavy enough to settle out of the air or more easily captured by filters.

Why Should You Consider Using an Air Ionizer?

If you’re struggling with allergy symptoms or just want cleaner air in your home, an air ionizer could make a big difference. Here’s how:

  1. Reduces Allergens
    Air ionizers help reduce the presence of common allergens like pollen, pet dander, and dust from the air, which can help ease allergy symptoms and make breathing easier.
  2. Better Sleep Quality
    An air ionizer can help remove airborne allergens that could disrupt your rest, promoting a more restful sleep.
  3. Creates a Healthier Environment
    Even if you don’t suffer from allergies, cleaner air improves the overall atmosphere in your home, making it fresher and more comfortable for everyone.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Air Ionizer

To ensure you’re getting the most benefit from your air ionizer:

  • Place it strategically in a central area where the air circulates throughout the room.
  • Clean your home regularly to prevent allergens from settling back into the air.
  • Maintain the ionizer by following the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning and maintenance.

Empower Your Environment with Cleaner Air

Air ionizers are a simple yet effective way to help improve your indoor air quality. By reducing allergens and pollutants in the air, they help you create a healthier, more comfortable living space, allowing you to breathe easier and feel your best. To further enhance your air quality, combine an air ionizer with an air purifier!

Sources:

  1. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. “Air Purifiers and Their Effectiveness.” www.aaaai.org.
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Indoor Air Quality.” www.cdc.gov.

About the Author

Stephanie Rosado is a journalist and marketing professional with a global perspective. She studied journalism abroad at DMJX in Denmark and Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia, and earned her degree from San Francisco State University. With over five years of experience in marketing, Stephanie specializes in social media strategy and creative writing, blending storytelling and strategy to connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Gut Health Matters: Supporting Your Gut Barrier for Overall Wellness

Published on by Nikken

An Educational Look at Gut Permeability and Why It’s Worth Your Attention

Imagine pouring a glass of water from your tap and seeing it cloudy with debris. Would you drink it? Most of us wouldn’t. Instead, many rely on advanced water filtration systems to purify and enhance the quality of what we consume.

Now, think of your gut barrier as a filtration system for your body. It plays a key role in supporting digestion and overall wellness by selectively allowing nutrients to pass into your bloodstream while helping regulate exposure to other particles. Some researchers suggest that when this system is under stress, it may become more permeable—an area of growing scientific interest. While the term “leaky gut” is sometimes used to describe this phenomenon, it is not a recognized medical condition. Instead, ongoing research is exploring how gut permeability may be influenced by lifestyle factors and how maintaining gut health may contribute to overall well-being.

Just as you wouldn’t compromise on clean water, supporting your gut barrier could be a proactive step toward feeling your best.

What Influences Gut Barrier Health?

Think of your gut barrier as a tightly woven mesh, composed of specialized cells that regulate what enters the bloodstream. When functioning optimally, this barrier allows properly digested nutrients to be absorbed while maintaining balance in the digestive system. However, certain lifestyle factors may challenge this balance, according to some studies:

•Diets high in processed foods or unhealthy fats

•Ongoing stress or poor sleep quality

•Frequent use of antibiotics or certain medications

•High intake of alcohol or sugar

Some research suggests that these factors may affect proteins (such as Claudin-3 and Zonulin-1) that help maintain the gut lining’s integrity, potentially leading to increased permeability. While more studies are needed, maintaining a balanced diet and adopting healthy lifestyle habits may support gut function and digestive wellness.

Signs Your Gut Might Need Support

Gut health plays a vital role in overall well-being, but subtle signs of imbalance can sometimes go unnoticed. Consider the following:

Do you experience occasional bloating or digestive discomfort? Do you sometimes feel fatigued or experience brain fog? Are you finding it challenging to maintain energy levels and a balanced metabolism?

If you answered yes to any of these, your gut may benefit from extra care. While maintaining gut health through diet, lifestyle, and possibly supplements may help, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Final Thoughts: Caring for Your Gut Like You Care for Your Water

Would you knowingly drink unfiltered, contaminated water? Probably not. Similarly, prioritizing gut health may contribute to overall wellness, as it plays a vital role in nutrient absorption and digestion.

While research continues to explore gut permeability and its broader implications, one thing remains clear—a balanced diet, stress management, and mindful lifestyle choices can all contribute to gut health.

Explore ways to support your gut health today—because just as you wouldn’t compromise on clean drinking water, nurturing your gut barrier is a step toward feeling your best.

Suggested Further Reading: · Groschwitz KR, Hogan SP (July 2009). “Intestinal barrier function: molecular regulation and disease pathogenesis”. The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. 124 (1): 3–20, quiz 21–2.

· Bischoff SC, Barbara G, Buurman W, Ockhuizen T, Schulzke JD, Serino M, Tilg H, Watson A, Wells JM (Nov 18, 2014). “Intestinal permeability–a new target for disease prevention and therapy”. BMC Gastroenterology (Review). 14: 189. · Canakis, Andrew; Haroon, Mustafa; Weber, H. Christian (2020). “Irritable bowel syndrome and gut microbiota”. Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes & Obesity. 27: 28–35.

· Tsung-Ru Wu et al., 2019. Gut commensal Parabacteroides goldsteinii plays a predominant role in the anti-obesity effects of polysaccharides isolated from Hirsutella sinensis. Gut, 68(2):248-262

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The information provided does not constitute medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

About the Author:

Dr. Rob is a nutrition and fitness expert with a PhD from The Ohio State University. He has led innovation in dietary supplements and functional foods for top wellness brands and now serves as Chief Science Officer for TCI BIOTECH US & Americas. An author of four books and over 100 research papers, he works globally with athletes and health professionals to optimize performance and well-being.

How Does Water Affect Gut Health?

Published on by Nikken

The gut microbiome, comprising trillions of microorganisms, plays a crucial role in overall health—not just in digestion but also in immune function and mental well-being. Research suggests that integrating sufficient water intake as part of a balanced diet may contribute to shaping a healthy gut microbiome.1

The gut is responsible for intestinal secretions and movements as well as waste removal. One of the basic functions of water in the gut is to lubricate the digestive tract. If you drew a map of the digestive process, the path would start from the mouth, where saliva starts the breakdown of food. Once swallowed, the food particles move from the esophagus to the stomach and down to the intestines.

A properly hydrated system would ensure the food particles have a smooth journey. Without enough hydration, the food particles would not be digested efficiently and the nutrients would not get absorbed into the bloodstream. Poor digestion can result in dietary deficiencies and any variety of stomach issues.

Drinking water with meals can help with overall digestion, but staying hydrated throughout the day is also important. How much hydration is necessary depends on each person’s particular physiology as well as living environment. People living in hot climates where a lot of sweating occurs may need more hydration than those living in cooler zones. By the same token, people who exercise strenuously and perspire more, will need more hydration than those less active.

What happens when the body doesn’t have a sufficient amount of water? The body will automatically use whatever water it has for critical functions, such as supporting the vital organs that maintain blood pressure and respiration. The digestive system is then left “dry” and discomforts such as constipation and stomach aches can occur.

Being dehydrated can cause an imbalance of electrolytes, which in turn can slow down the muscle contractions in the digestive tract that help push food particles through the system—causing bloating and other discomforts.

The general guideline for adequate hydration is about eight to 10 cups of water per day, which equates to approximately 64-80 ounces or 1.9-2.4 liters. This includes food rich in water content, not just plain water.2

Drink water—to your health!

1, 2 https://www.austingastro.com/2024/05/17/hydration-and-digestion-why-water-is-essential-for-a-healthy-gut/

Conserving Water is Everyone’s Responsibility

Published on by Nikken

The amount of fresh water on planet Earth is static but the world population is increasing, which means more and more living creatures have to share the clean water that currently exists. Since water is a basic necessity of life and only one percent of Earth’s supply can be used for drinking, washing and growing plants, everyone has a responsibility to conserve fresh water for future generations. In fact, it is estimated that 2.5 billion people do not have access to clean water, putting their lives at grave risk.1

Those of us who live in areas with easy access to potable water can do our part to conserve water. Here are just a few tips:

•          Reuse “gray” water. Gray water is what goes down the drain. For example, rather than rinsing fruit and vegetables under the faucet while it runs, put the produce in a basin and cover it with just enough water to wash it. Once done, pour the water on house or garden plants.

•          Water used for cooking pasta or noodles can be drained into a bin, cooled and poured over plants.

•          Rainwater can be caught in containers and reused on landscaping

•          Have a basin in the shower or tub to collect cold water while you wait for it to heat up.

•          Brushing your teeth with the tap running? Don’t. In fact, don’t let the faucet run when it’s not necessary. Each minute the faucet is on can waste up to two gallons of water.2 Make sure the water is off while you brush, shave, wash your face and hands, then turn it back on when you’re ready to rinse.

•          Did you know you can waste nearly five gallons of water daily when you have a leaky faucet? That’s based on a single drop per second.3 Leaky faucets can also damage your home. A timely repair can save a lot of money.

•          Have you seen the ads that ask you to use the dishwasher to save water? It’s actually true that you can save water by using the dishwasher, but only if you do a full load. So, make sure to fill your dishwasher to capacity before starting the load.

•          Doing dishes the old-fashioned way can also save water. All you need is a double sink or two bins, one for soapy water and the other with clean water to rinse off. Remember not to keep the faucet running while you’re dishwashing.

•          According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save as much as 3,400 gallons of water each year by only doing full loads of laundry versus half loads. And, if you purchase a water-efficient washing machine, it reduces the water needed according to the load, so you automatically conserve.4

•          Pool owners, be aware! The U.S. Department of Energy cites evaporation as the largest source of water loss. As the air temperature and wind speed reach the pool’s surface, the water evaporates more quickly. Investing in a pool cover can reduce the amount of water needed to refill your pool by 30 to 50 percent!5

World Water Day is March 22—this is the perfect time of year to assess your personal habits when it comes to using water.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5  https://streamlabswater.com/blogs/streamlab-blog/7-ways-to-conserve-water-at-home?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAtYy9BhBcEiwANWQQLxoVVyzD5CsU337s9OgVIv_465MWmpScQZBqRggpOVsRVdd9VypCgxoC8yIQAvD_BwE

Are You Hydrated?

Published on by Nikken

Did you know that the 60% of the human body’s overall weight is from water?1 That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to stay hydrated in order to function well. Even the act of breathing throughout the day causes the body to lose water bit by bit. When fully active and perspiring, such as during strenuous exercise, the body loses a lot more water and needs to be continually replenished to keep the overall system in balance with adequate electrolytes.

As people age, their hydration needs change. For example, the elderly are more apt to become dehydrated.2 This is in part due to changes in body composition. Older people tend to eat and drink less. The mechanism that tells the body “I am thirsty” is slower to kick in, leading to a higher risk of dehydration. Since people require sodium and potassium levels to be in balance to keep the body’s cells working optimally, drinking enough water before feeling critically thirsty is key to staying hydrated.

Healthy hydration helps you maintain overall health by:

•          Helping to regulate body temperature.

•          Keeping joints lubricated for smooth movement.

•          Transporting nutrients.

•          Supporting digestion.

•          Removing waste from the body.

•          Promoting cognitive function.

•          Improving memory and mood.

•          Preventing urinary tract infections.

•          Supporting renal functions.

•          Reinforcing blood circulation for cardiovascular health.

•          Preventing low blood pressure and dizziness.

Staying hydrated is essential to good health, but how do you know whether you’re drinking enough water for your personal needs? The fastest way to take measure of your state of hydration is to check the color of your urine. If it’s pale yellow or even clear, you’re doing well. If it’s dark yellow or a dark honey color, you’re either dehydrated or need to hydrate soon. Other signs of dehydration include confusion, crankiness, anxiety, muscle cramps, fatigue or weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, lips and eyes, chills, flushed or dry skin, loss of coordination, headache, difficulty urinating, and lacking the ability to focus or concentrate.3

Staying hydrated is easier than having to drink water non-stop. Many nutritious fruit and vegetables are composed of high-water content, so when you eat them, you’re hydrating. These include vegetables such as cucumbers, lettuce, celery and radishes. High-water content fruit include watermelon, tomatoes, berries, assorted citrus (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, pomelos, etc.), and all types of melons (honeydew, casaba, cantaloupe, canary, crenshaw, hami and more). In fact, you can obtain about 20% of your daily fluid intake from food rather than beverages.

Not all beverages are equal, and water is ideal for hydration. Beverages such as coffee, tea and soda are being studied to determine whether they contribute to excessive urine output. So far, researchers have found that drinking them in moderation is not harmful but once you get to six cups or more, the dehydrating effects become noticeable.

Because caffeine and alcohol tend to increase urine output, energy drinks, beer, wine and other liquors are all known to increase the risk of dehydration. Taurine, a compound with diuretic effects, is commonly added to energy drinks. 4

Drinking water consistently throughout the day can help you stay hydrated. Drinking alkaline PiMag® water will help you reduce acidity and increase absorption. The PiMag Waterfall® is now imbued with copper particles in the filtration column as well as in the mineral stones, which turn into ions that effectively combat microbes and other contaminants upon contact. You can taste the PiMag® difference!

1, 2, 3 https://www.kendal-crosslands.org/blog/the-importance-of-hydration/gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAtYy9BhBcEiwANWQQL1TODUw

4 https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dehydrating-drinks#bottom-line

How Do You Manage Your Stress?

Published on by Nikken

How Do You Manage Your Stress?

Stress has become the reason people cite for just about every negative occurrence in contemporary lifestyles. In reality, some stress is necessary for people to function productively. Getting rid of stress often involves doing good work in a timely way, obtaining positive results and moving on. Nonetheless, too much stress is proven to be detrimental to your health, so how do you manage when it seems overwhelming?

Everyone is different, so each person copes with stress in diverse ways, but pinpointing your triggers is essential—if you don’t know what makes you stressed out, you won’t be able to avoid or conquer it! Ask yourself, what makes you nervous, anxious, queasy or upset? Make a list, write it down, study it and be honest with yourself. Take baby steps in your daily life to overcome those feelings and see how your stress levels lessen.

Here are a few ways to help minimize the effects of stress in your life:

•          Don’t use not having enough time to relax as an excuse. Make the time to de-stress from work, family duties, self-imposed criticisms and whatever triggers your anxiety. Making time can simply be small breaks throughout the day, as even 15 minutes of emptying your mind, deep breathing, stretching or a brief walk can do wonders to lower stress levels.

•          Talk to someone you feel close to. Talk to a new acquaintance. Talk to your dog or cat! The key is to create and feel a connection. Even talking to yourself can be helpful, but make sure to keep it upbeat. Too often people judge themselves too harshly. In a nutshell, don’t be a recluse.

•          Quit smoking or vaping—tobacco or anything else. It does more harm to your body than you feel on a daily basis, and by the time you actually feel the detrimental effects, you could have done irreversible damage. Try chewing gum or keeping your hands busy with worry-beads.

•          Drink alcohol only sparingly. It’s estimated that, on average, one alcohol-impaired-driving death occurred every 39 minutes in 2022.1 The Centers for Disease Control consider two drinks or fewer for men and one drink or fewer for women per day to be “moderate.”2

•          Do you have expired medications/prescriptions? Resist the temptation to take them. Also, do not take medications prescribed to friends and family members. Take the time to ask your physician if you feel the need for any kind of medication, and stay true to regular appointments with physicians and screenings/tests.

•          Get enough sleep. Going to bed on a consistent schedule and waking at the same time daily is believed to help you sleep better. Having a comfortable sleep environment is crucial, so try the Kenko Sleep System with magnetic and ceramic reflective technologies. Take advantage of 30% off the Kenko Naturest® Fit mattress topper and Kenko Naturest® Cozy Throw today and tomorrow!

•          Eat healthy food that is nutrient-dense—all kinds of colorful fruits and veggies, lean proteins and beneficial fats. If you feel a lack in any area, be sure to supplement with Kenzen® nutritional supplements.

Stress is largely about your state of mind, so remind yourself to focus on the abundance in your life rather than what is lacking. Cultivate a positive attitude, and spread a little sunshine to those around you. Their pleasure will have the effect of easing your stress!

1, 2 https://www.cdc.gov/drink-less-be-your-best/drinking-less-matters/index.html

Clean Air for a Better Life

Published on by Nikken

“To breathe is to live.” That is one of the basic facts of life; however, not all air is the same. Did you know that air pollution is the largest external threat to human health worldwide? That means air pollution kills more people than tobacco and shortens average life expectancy by 2.2. years. It’s also the second leading cause of death in young children, with malnutrition being the first.1

Breathing is the process of “gas exchange.” When you inhale, air enters your lungs and oxygen moves to your bloodstream. When you exhale, carbon dioxide, otherwise known as waste gas, moves from the blood to the lungs to be expelled.2 What you breathe in makes a big difference to your health. Invisible particles in the air can penetrate the cells and organs of your body—not only the lungs but also the heart, bloodstream and brain. Air pollution is a major risk factor, and the World Health Organization estimates that 99% of people globally breathe air that exceeds their guideline limits for pollutants.3

Exposure to air pollutants, cigarette smoke and microplastics can damage the airways. Whereas clean air supplies the necessary oxygen to the lungs and is transported throughout the entire body, constantly breathing in polluted air can have dire consequences. Bad air not only causes a host of physical ailments but also poses major threats to the global economy. Simply put, people call out sick from work with respiratory issues more often than virtually any other complaint. The World Bank estimates that the health damage caused by air pollution costs $8.1 trillion a year, equivalent to 6.1% of global GDP, or 1.2 billion lost work days.4

Although you may not be in control of the outdoor air that you breathe, some countries are taking air pollution seriously and implementing healthy measures. For example, China has adopted a range of clean air measures since 2014. Researchers contend these changes have cut their air pollution in half, and attribute the regaining of two years of average life expectancy and a dramatic reduction in stillbirths in recent years to the improved air quality.5

Nikken has contributed to the betterment of indoor air for years with the HEPA 13 multi-stage filtration system known as the KenkoAir Purifier®. Simply replace the filters every six months and keep the reusable pre-filter/mesh filter clean. It makes sense to have them wherever you live, especially if you have babies or the elderly living with you, as they are most susceptible to the negative effects of polluted air.

1, 3, 4, 5 https://www.cleanairfund.org/theme/facts-and-stats/

2 https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/lungs#:~:text=When%20you%20inhale%20(breathe%20in,exchange%2C%20is%20essential%20to%20life.