The Gift of Wellness Technology is the Best Gift of All

What do you think of when you see the term “wellness technology”? Do apps come to mind? Meditation guidance, sleep sounds, white noise, heartbeat monitors, mood rings, step counters—gadgets galore—it seems like there’s a new one on the market every day!

Our founder started Nikken by producing Kenko Insoles. A single product that combines the wisdom of nature with magnetic technology led to the creation of many more. This year, Nikken celebrates 50 years of sharing advanced products with the world. Some notable innovations include the Kenko Sleep System, Kenko MagDuo®, KenkoTherm® wraps, the Kenko PowerChip®, Kenko PowerMini®, the Kenko Precision Set, Kenko PowerBand®, Kenko® Jewelry, the KenkoGround® and more.

As diverse as Nikken products are, they share one thing in common, just like the original insoles: They are inspired by mother nature and utilize state-of-the-art technology to produce balance, calm and relaxation, both physically and mentally. Kenko product lines fall under the categories of magnetic, ceramic reflective and grounding technologies. Each of these technologies enhance health and wellness. Every one of these Nikken products works to enhance empowered living—how often you use them is up to you, but consistency brings the best results.

Think about it: magnetic, grounding and ceramic reflective technologies are all forms of wellness technology! During a time of global turmoil, peace of mind is the one gift that everyone will welcome this season. Peace of mind will bring heightened focus, clarity, creativity and balance into a lifestyle filled with purpose and mindfulness. That is the foundation of empowered living.

A gift of wellness technology, which you can individualize to each person on your gift list, will show just how much you care. Because wellness technology can help transform daily habits, they ultimately may help your recipients live happier and healthier lives—what better way is there to show your care and consideration?

There are still a few days left to take advantage of our Black Friday specials. The more you buy, the more you save, and you may also get free ground shipping. Contact your local Nikken Consultant or call Nikken Customer Service to find out how!

Great Sleep Fuels a Fully Empowered Life

One of the 10 actions for Empowered Living is recharging your energy. Achieving this requires connecting with nature, consciously breathing in fresh air and getting restful sleep. Humans spend about a third of our lives sleeping, because it is critical to healthy living and longevity.

Here’s what happens with good quality sleep:

• The heart and blood vessels heal and repair themselves.

• Grhelin (hunger hormone) and leptin (satiety hormone) are balanced. Inadequate sleep makes ghrelin levels go up, so you feel hungrier than when you have restful sleep.

• Healthy insulin levels are supported. Insulin controls blood sugar levels, which increase when you are sleep-deficient.

• Deep sleep triggers the release of the growth hormone that helps children and teenagers develop healthy muscle mass, repair cells and tissues.

• Deep sleep supports healthy development during puberty and promotes fertility.

• Restful sleep supports the body’s immune system. Sleep deficiency can affect the body’s natural defense system against germs and illness, making it difficult to combat infections.

• Major threats to longevity are decreased. These risks include heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity and stroke.

• Good sleep supports the brain to improve learning and memory. Problem-solving, decision-making and creativity are enhanced.

Sleep deficiency can result in feelings of stress and depression; and can cause mood swings, lack of motivation and not getting along in social situations. It can also cause lack of focus, problems in learning new things, slow reactions and poor decision-making, which in turn result in making more mistakes. It’s a vicious cycle of frustration and fatigue, lack of confidence and inertia. In other words, when was the last time you felt joy when you were sleep-deprived?

Smart nutrition, clean air and water are basic necessities, but when you think about humans spending a third of our lives sleeping (or at least trying to sleep), the importance of good sleep is obvious. If you can’t sit still, watch TV, read or be a passenger in a vehicle for an hour without falling asleep, you probably need more restful sleep. It’s not about quantity as much as it is about quality.

Create your sleep sanctuary and commit to good habits that support deep sleep, so you can feel good every day and experience empowered living! With great sleep, you can choose joy!

Source: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep-deprivation/health-effects

Can Grounding Reduce Stress and Improve Sleep?

The modern movement of grounding or earthing began in the early 2000s when Clinton Ober began to research the effects of grounding on the body. Since then, numerous studies and research have been conducted on the efficacy of grounding, and the results have been promising.Here are some examples1:

  1. In a 2004 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers found that grounding the body during sleep can improve sleep and reduce pain and stress levels in people with chronic pain.
  2. In a 2010 study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health, researchers found that grounding the body can reduce inflammation in the body and improve blood flow.
  3. In a 2012 study published in the Journal of Inflammation Research, researchers found that earthing the body can reduce inflammation in the body and improve immune function.
  4. In a 2013 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, researchers found that grounding the body can reduce pain and improve mood in people with chronic pain.
  5. In a 2015 study published in the Journal of Inflammation Research, researchers found that grounding the body can reduce inflammation in the body and improve sleep quality.
  6. In a 2018 study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, researchers found that earthing the body can improve balance and stability in older adults.

The Earthing Institute, a pro-grounding group, says that spending time connected to the ground can improve sleep, lower inflammation, ease stress, improve blood flow, and boost physical healing, among other things.

Researchers attribute many of their positive findings to the changes in cortisol levels of those who practice grounding. Results indicate that grounding during sleep reduces night-time levels of cortisol and resynchronizes cortisol hormone secretion more in alignment with the natural 24-hour circadian rhythm profile. Furthermore, subjective reporting indicates that grounding during sleep improves sleep and reduces pain and stress.3

The only true way to see if grounding can improve sleep or reduce stress for you personally is to try it for yourself. Allow your bare skin to be exposed to the elements on a daily basis, especially the earth. Consistency is key, so give yourself a few weeks or months of grounding to see some positive results!

 

1 https://www.nestacertified.com/earthing-exercises-for-improved-mental-and-physical-health/ Studies and Research on the Efficacy of Grounding or Earthing

2 https://www.webmd.com/balance/grounding-benefits

3 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15650465/

How Much Protein, Carbs and Fiber Do You Need?

What you eat and how much of it you need depends on your caloric requirements. The number of calories that you need each day day will depend on your age, weight, height, activity level, and health goals. Carbohydrate and protein each contribute four calories per gram, while fat contributes nine calories per gram. Soluble fiber only contributes two calories per gram and insoluble fiber contributes zero calories because it passes through without being absorbed, which is one way that fiber keeps the body regular.

The minimum calorie count recommended for adults is 1,800 calories per day for sedentary women and 2,400 calories per day for sedentary men, based on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Ninth Edition.Only children and youth can eat lower calorie counts and still satisfy their nutritional needs. There is no single diet that works for everyone. There are, however, a few general ranges.

The USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans provide percent ranges for each macronutrient in the Healthy U.S.-style Pattern. For adults, the organization recommends consuming 10% to 35% of calories from protein, 45% to 65% from carbohydrates, and 20% to 35% from fat.  The guidelines also suggest consuming less than 10% of total calories from saturated fat.1

Those following a healthy vegetarian eating plan should meet the same nutrient and Dietary Guidelines standards as in the Healthy U.S.-style Pattern, so macronutrient ranges are the same. The difference between the two eating styles is the foods chosen within each food group. Someone on a vegetarian diet should try to consume 55% carbohydrate, 14% protein, and 34% fat with 3.5-ounce equivalents of protein foods, including legumes, soy products, eggs, nuts, and seeds.2

Those following a Mediterranean-Style eating plan should also meet the same nutrient standards as the Healthy U.S.-style Pattern, so the macronutrient ranges are the same. The difference between the two eating patterns is that the Mediterranean-style diet containsmore fruit and seafood and less dairy than the Healthy U.S.-style Pattern. For example, the USDA recommends 15 ounce-equivalents per week of seafood for those following a 2000-calorie-per-day Mediterranean diet, but only 8 ounce-equivalents per week of seafood for those following the Healthy U.S.-Style Pattern. The Mediterranean diet can be 52% carbohydrate, 18% protein, and 32% fat.3

Carbohydrates break down into an energy source for the body, especially the brain. They also add fiber to the diet which helps smooth digestive processes. Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass, cellular renewal and supporting the immune system.

A little research goes a long way, for example, some vegetables contain protein, so even if you are a meat eater, you don’t have to limit yourself to getting protein from animal sources. Newer research indicates that eating more plant-based protein may help reduce heart disease, since nuts and legumes are considered more heart-healthy than processed meat.4

Even though each person’s individual lifestyle will dictate how much protein, fiber and carbs to eat to feel good every day, a balanced plate is generally favored over one that eliminates an entire food group. In other words, choose to eat balanced meals that are sustainable for your activity level and lifestyle and try not to be swayed by fad diets.

No matter how you choose to eat, always hydrate daily with clean water. Don’t miss the PiMag Waterfall® sale at 20% off through August 31, 2025!

1, 2, 3 https://www.verywellfit.com/daily-diet-composition-calculator-charts-carbs-protein-fat

4 https://rightasrain.uwmedicine.org/body/food/all-about-protein

Do You Know Five Ways You Can Listen to Your Body?

Our bodies talk to us every day but sometimes we don’t listen and miss out on some important cues that can help keep us in top physical and mental shape! To make sure you are feeling good every day, be sure to spend a little time alone with yourself and really listen to what your body is telling you.

Here are five ways you can listen to your body by asking a few questions:

1.         Do you feel rested, tired or so-so? Is your body telling you to get a good night’s sleep or do you feel energetic and ready to tackle the day? Do you need to break up your busy day with a nap? Restful sleep is an important part of feeling good every day and one aspect of practicing empowered living.

2.         How are you feeling mentally and emotionally? Are you sad and depressed, anxious or stressed out? Or do you feel calm and content? Paying attention to your state of mind can help you maintain high energy levels and to avoid a slump. Sometimes all it takes is getting up and taking a walk in the fresh air to feel stable again. Deep breathing, getting up and stretching, a few minutes of quality time with yourself—these are all simple ways to maintain your mental equilibrium.

3.         What do you like to eat and is it nutritious? Are you eating regular meals? Are you snacking in between meals when your blood sugar dips? Are you actually hungry when you eat, or are you eating mindlessly out of boredom? Do you have a good cut-off time in the evening when you stop eating until tomorrow morning? Overeating and undereating can both wreak havoc with your body and your overall mood, so are you eating more or less than usual? If you are, what is your body telling you? On the other hand, mindful eating or eating the right foods at the right times of the day—based on your personal preferences and needs—can help you feel good every day.

4.         When was the last time you exercised? Do you have a daily routine to get up and do something active? Exercise doesn’t have to be a full-out strenuous workout at the gym. It can be a brisk walk with your dog or a stroll with your toddler. It can be doing a few laps in the pool or doing chair yoga, stretching out on the mat or cleaning your kitchen. Setting aside time every day to do something active can help you feel good every day. Once you start, your body will remind you every day it’s ready for some movement.

5.         Quality time with people who are important to you is key to feeling good every day. Are you spending enough time staying connected to those you care about? Do you text or call your elderly parents? Do you text or call your adult children? Never underestimate the power of talking and laughing with someone you feel close to, whether it’s a friend, mentor or family member. It does wonders to cheer you up or you can be cheering them up!

Listening to the body means cultivating a mindful awareness of what it (you!) needs at any given moment, followed by honoring that need. This intuitive practice will help you understand and make decisions based on internal cues, rather than steamrolling past your own limits. Long-term, sustainable health comes when you listen to your body, and then respond with care, action, and compassion.1

1 https://lindywell.com/listen-to-your-body-strategies/?srsltid=AfmBOorRVWB2X-ZymDQsijV9BGE7JIWRiyMBMSmQ8zRIM26bj0Y9WTDf

What is the Foundation for Vitality?

What’s the first thing you think of when it comes to vitality? What do you think provides you with that feel-good sense of being able to take on the world? Is it a healthy heart or a great set of lungs? Is it your clarity of mind?

It may be surprising to know that your digestive system plays a crucial role in how you feel! The microorganisms that live in your gut contribute to a balanced (or unbalanced) microbiome. When it’s balanced, nutrient absorption is working at optimal levels and the key to energy production. In other words, a digestive system that is breaking down food very well, is enabling the body to extract and absorb as many nutrients as possible, resulting in high energy levels.

The “feel good” neurotransmitter is serotonin, and it is vital to the connection between gut health and whole body energy, since about 95% of the body’s serotonin is produced in the gut. A healthy gut produces ample amounts of serotonin, which helps mood and sleep, two essential factors for maintaining high energy levels.1

Proteins, fats and carbohydrates are all essential for energy production. Even if you eat balanced whole foods, if your digestive system is not functioning well, these nutrients cannot be absorbed efficiently. If your body does not absorb enough nutrients, you may feel tired, lethargic or have an overall feeling of fatigue.

What you eat plays a significant role in gut health and energy levels. Professional athletes adhere to a strict diet regimen because it directly impacts their performance. The same holds true for all of us—a poor diet that is high in processed foods with added sugars and unhealthy fats will disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. By choosing whole foods rich in fiber, you can actually create a healthy and balanced gut, which in turn produces high levels of energy that help you to feel good every day.

Eating naturally colorful foods, mostly found in fruit and vegetables, helps provide a broad range of nutrients that include antioxidants. Since fiber is so important for a healthy gut, incorporate whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa and oats. Fiber will help you stay regular, another important aspect of gut health. Include lean proteins found in fish, poultry and legumes, as they will help you maintain muscle mass and energy levels.

Probiotics and prebiotics are found in fermented foods and are known to promote balance in the gut. If you like the taste of yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi or garlic and onions, you can incorporate them into your daily food regimen. You can also supplement with Golden Gut Formula, an advanced, integrated nutrient source uniquely designed to support gut health. It not only helps to balance the microbiota in the gut, it provides prebiotic support to help the probiotics work more efficiently and to deter bad bacteria from growing. Always remember to drink lots of PiMag® water to stay hydrated, knowing that water helps digestion!

Good nutrition is key to gut health, but physical activity is also important. Regular exercise helps maintain digestive health and support gut motility. You don’t have to be a high-performing athlete to achieve an improved gut: simply choose an activity you can do consistently—whether it’s walking, biking, swimming, yoga, Pilates or chair exercises—your gut will feel the difference and your overall energy levels will improve, so that you can experience vitality—the essence of feeling good every day—and the empowered living lifestyle.

1 https://greaterorlandogi.com/2025/01/13/how-digestive-health-affects-your-energy-levels/

Celebrating 25 Years of PiMag® Water Technology

PiMag® water technology is based on the discovery of Japanese scientists in the 1970s. They found that water from an isolated hillside had a remarkable effect on plant life in that area. Searching for the cause of such abundant growth, they unearthed magnetite and calcium in the hillside. Moreover, the water flowed over silicates, the same material that naturally forms crystals. This clean, naturally alkaline water contains beneficial minerals.

PiMag® water products are designed to convert tap water into spring-like naturally-sourced water that is ionized and alkaline. That means PiMag® water is in the pH range of 8.5-9.5, which helps reduce excess acidity in the body. Ionized water has antioxidant properties, which may help offset the oxidizing effect of some negative elements in the contemporary diet and polluted environment. The decreased oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) helps to slow down cellular damage. In addition, the use of magnetic technology in the PiMag® filtration process helps to improve hydration and absorption.

Multi-stage filtration in the PiMag Waterfall® helps to reduce bacteria and contaminants. The four processes are: 1. Prefiltering for sediments 2. Filtering for heavy metals 3. Adding trace minerals via the mineral stones and 4. Declustering by magnets in the tap to prevent molecular clumping, making the water more absorbable.

In a natural environment, spring water is filtered, purified and filled with minerals that are essential for maintaining optimal functions in our body. Mimicking this natural composition generates an exceptional source of the ideal water that every cell in our body needs for smart hydration. The PiMag® water systems exemplify biomimicry, from its magnetic filtration to its alkalinity and the mineral stones that are added to the PiMag Waterfall® system. Advanced ionic filtration is achieved by embedding nanoparticles of copper metal into the activated charcoal in the filter column. When harmful microbes interact with the copper metal, it triggers the production of copper ions, which are doubly charged positive ions that are effective at destroying the unwanted bacteria.

We generally think of exposure to toxins in water by drinking from impure sources; however, we also absorb contaminants through the pores of our skin. Each time we bathe or shower, our skin is absorbing both the cleansing parts of water as well as the impurities. The PiMag® Shower Filter addresses this by helping to reduce chlorine exposure, odors, iron oxide, dirt and sediments. The shower filter contains copper and zinc to neutralize chlorine—when free chlorine comes in contact with the filtration media, it is changed into water-soluble chloride, which is not only harmless but also helps prevent drying out of hair and skin.

PiMag® water technology is designed for smart hydration. In addition, PiMag® water systems are made with recyclable and biodegradable materials to help reduce plastic waste. Plastic takes 400 years to degrade and about eight million metric tons ends up in the oceans each year!1 Due to the pandemic years, more single-use packaging was used than ever, adding to the plastic waste.2

PiMag® water technology is a great way to obtain smart hydration and smart cleansing, but it is also a helpful way to help decrease plastic waste on planet Earth. Nikken proudly celebrates 25 years of PiMag® water technology!

1 https://www.dw.com/en/there-are-83-billion-tons-of-plastic-in-the-world/a-39765670

2 https://www.forbes.com/sites/larrylight/2021/01/04/2021-the-year-of-the-package/?sh=2198c4654cd1

The Water-Gut Connection

Water is critical for the smooth operations of various bodily functions. These functions include temperature regulation, the transport and distribution of nutrients and the elimination of waste and toxins. Water is also one of the primary ingredients for healthy digestion. In other words, hydration and efficient digestion make perfect partners.

Water is required for digestion, acting as a lubricant that facilitates the movement of food along the digestive tract. From the moment food enters the mouth, saliva, which is primarily water, begins to break down complex carbohydrates. As the food travels through the digestive system, it needs adequate water to maintain the right consistency for smooth movement. In the stomach, water combines with stomach acids to help break down proteins and aid in the digestive process. Water helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements.In a nutshell, the digestive processes that require water include the following2:

• Saliva production—Saliva is primarily water and contains enzymes that begin the digestion of carbohydrates in the mouth.

• Gastric juices—Water is the main component of the gastric juices that in the stomach that help break down food.

• Enzyme function–Many digestive enzymes require a watery environment to efficiently break down food.

Proper hydration is essential for optimal nutrient absorption in the digestive system, since water moves the nutrients from the digestive tract into the bloodstream. When well hydrated, the body can efficiently absorb vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.3

Digestive disorders occur when the body is dehydrated. This is because when the body doesn’t have enough water, it takes whatever water is available for critical functions such as maintaining blood pressure and supporting vital organs.4 When this happens, the digestive system may not receive enough water, leading to constipation and other discomforts.

To keep your gut healthy, remember to drink water throughout the day. The more active you are, the more water you will need to stay adequately hydrated. Caffeine and alcohol act as diuretics, so be mindful of fluid loss and dehydration and increase the volume of water you drink to help compensate. Since many fruits and vegetables are full of water, incorporate them into your daily regimen and obtain not only the benefits of hydration but also essential vitamins and minerals. Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges and berries are examples of produce abundant in water and vitamins.

Some simple daily habits for healthy digestion are:

• Starting your day with a glass of water. This helps kickstart your metabolism and the digestive system first thing in the morning,
• Drink water consistently throughout the day. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty, because by then you are probably already somewhat dehydrated. Keep a water bottle with you as a reminder to drink!

• Drink water before, during and after exercise. Physical activity of any sort can lead to fluid loss, and staying hydrated helps support your muscles and digestive system.

Remember, for the entire month of this July, you receive 20% off select filter replacements. That includes filters for our PiMag Waterfall® that helps you hydrate with alkaline water inspired by nature.

1 https://bgapc.com/hydration-and-digestion-gut-health/

2, 3, 4 https://patialaheart.com/blog/the-link-between-dehydration-and-digestion-how-water-affects-your-gut-health/

Why is PiMag® Water Better for Hydration?

Water is a basic nutrient of the human body and critical to human life, yet between 65-75% of us are typically dehydrated, because it’s often overlooked and also because the thirst mechanism can be suppressed or misinterpreted.

Dehydration occurs when our body loses more water than is taken in. It can also affect our body’s mineral salt or electrolyte balance. We lose approximately 68 to 101 fluid ounces (two to three liters) of water a day through every day basic functions such as breathing, perspiring and eliminating waste. 

The human body is composed of about 66 percent water. Our bones are composed of 22 percent water, muscles are 76 percent and blood is 83 percent. Lungs are 90 percent, and our brains are actually 95 percent water. Is it any wonder that water and hydration play such a critical role in a total wellness lifestyle?

Smart Hydration is the practice of enhancing the quality of water to improve mineral absorption, while maintaining optimal pH levels and overall well-being. Our bodies function best when properly hydrated. Inspired by the need to hydrate wherever we are and the desire to help decrease single-use plastic waste, PiMag® water is like naturally alkaline spring water.

PiMag water is based on a discovery in the 1970s by Japanese scientists. Water from an isolated hillside was having a remarkable effect on the growth of local plant life. They studied the environment and found magnetite and calcium in the hillside. Also, the water flowed over silicates, which naturally formed crystals. Replicating the Earth’s magnetic field in natural surroundings where spring water is found, PiMag® water not only purifies but also contains neodymium magnets, the strongest in the family of rare earth magnets.

PiMag water products are designed to convert tap water into spring-like naturally-sourced water that is ionized and alkaline. PiMag watertechnology uses a multi-stage filtration system based on natural materials to purify water by helping to reduce bacteria and contaminants without chemicals.

Spring water is rich in magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium and other trace minerals. In the PiMag Waterfall®, the addition of mineral stones imbued with copper ions, replicates what is found in natural spring water. Magnetic technology and ceramic elements help improve hydration and absorption. And, PiMag technology is incorporated into our shower systems to help remove chlorine and other contaminants.

Drinking PiMag® water not only helps us to maintain good hydration and therefore, overall well-being, it also helps planet Earth—when we drink filtered water from a PiMag Waterfall®, we decrease and hopefully can eliminate our reliance on single-use plastic-bottled water.

Now through the end of the month, get select PiMag® replacement filters at 20% off! Drink to your health and the health of our planet!

Source: https://www.sagora.com/making-mental-health-a-priority-hydration/

Make Water Your Drink of Choice and Feel Good Every Day

When it comes to beverages, there are a lot of choices available. Some choices have plenty of sugars, saturated fat, sodium, artificial color and flavorings—none of which is beneficial, and much of it with unwanted calories.

Water, on the other hand, is the perfect drink of choice! It quenches thirst efficiently, has no empty calories and is crucial for maintaining health. Physically, water helps to keep body temperature regulated, to lubricate and cushion the joints, to protect the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues and to process waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movements.1

With the exception of breastmilk for newborns, water is the best drink for children and continues to be the best drink through adulthood and into old age. In fact, keeping the elderly hydrated with water is one of the keys to healthy longevity.

Eating nutritious food and drinking water come naturally to the entire animal kingdom, with the exception of humans, as we have the technology to create “unnatural” foods and beverages. To help get back to healthy roots—such as those of our non-technological ancestors—and to choose water more often, here are a few tips:2

  • Drink water that is hot or cold, depending on your preference.
  • Drink water with meals.
  • Ask for water with your food when eating out.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle when you are out.
  • Try a fruit and herb infused water or carbonated water.
  • Hydrate with water during and after physical activity or playing sports.
  • Keep a pitcher of water in the fridge or on the table for easy access.

When you choose water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages, you are helping with weight management. Substituting water for just one 20-ounce sugar-sweetened soda will save 240 calories.

Drink water and feel good every day, not just physically but in knowing you made the right choice! Role model it for the kids—remember it’s healthier to eat a piece of fruit than to drink juice. Drink water and eat the fruit for a win-win! It’s all part of empowered living. 

1 https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/make_water_your_beverage_of_choice

2 https://food-guide.canada.ca/en/healthy-eating-recommendations/make-water-your-drink-of-choice/