Category: Wellness

Smart Mindset

Published on by Nikken

Mindfulness has been trending for years. In 2018, The Courage to Be Disliked became a best seller. By Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga, this book presents what can be perceived as a “smart mindset” with basic lessons each reader can choose to learn over time. Based on the teachings of the famous psychotherapist Alfred Adler, the lessons take place in the form of conversations between a young man and a philosopher.

Here are a few lessons from the book:
1. Happiness is a choice, not a result of external factors. We can find happiness within ourselves by taking responsibility for our own lives and decisions.

2. Understanding what our tasks are is crucial. We need to clearly separate our tasks from those that belong to others. Focus on our own tasks and avoid interfering in others. This is how we can decrease stress and conflict.

3. Adlerian psychology suggests that all problems are rooted in interpersonal relationships. Improving the quality of our relationships with others significantly enhances our mindset and mental well-being.

4. Self-acceptance leads to true self-esteem and confidence. Accept the flaws along with the strengths.

5. Rejecting comparisons with others will help us overcome any inferiority complex. Feelings of inferiority can drive us to strive for superiority, creating unhealthy behaviors that impact our relationships. This aligns closely with the self-acceptance mentioned above.

6. Live fully in the present moment. Don’t hold onto the past or worry about the future. A present mindset increases mindfulness and reduces anxiety.

7. Be brave enough to be disliked by others. Be true to yourself and make decisions based on our values, not based on receiving approval from others.

8. Setting clear cut goals can help us take positive action. Recognizing our goals can help us understand and create beneficial habits.

9. Contributing to society and feeling connected to others provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

10. Take responsibility. Acknowledge that our current circumstances are the result of our own choices and actions. We can always change and become who we want to be.

The Courage to Be Disliked is really about self-acceptance. As long as we are true to ourselves, we can like ourselves and continue evolving to become better. The lessons align closely to the Nikken Humans Being More philosophy as well as the Five Pillars of Wellness.

Smart Finances

Published on by Nikken

When you practice Smart Finances, you understand how money management works. It’s not just about earning money, but also about creating ample savings and growing your assets. In other words, if you understand how to earn money, do you know how to hold on to it and make it grow?

Smart Finances requires that you plan not only for immediate financial needs or wants, but also for the long-term. And, Smart Finances may require you to be open to alternative ways to generate additional income.

Businessman and author Paul J. Meyer first described SMART goals in his 2003 book, Attitude Is Everything: If You Want to Succeed Above and Beyond. SMART criteria are five characteristics that help make goals effective and meaningful.

• Specific: Defines what you want to accomplish, who is involved, where, when, and why.

• Measurable: Includes indicators and metrics that can track progress.

• Achievable: Ensures the goal is realistic and attainable, and that you have the necessary skills, resources, and time to accomplish it.

• Relevant: Determines if the goal aligns with broader goals and is important.

• Time-bound: Sets a deadline for accomplishing the goal.

Once you have identified your goals using the SMART criteria, the next step is to create a plan of action. Here is an example of a SMART financial goal: “I am increasing my income by $3,000 within the next six months. I can do this by obtaining a raise at my job, by getting a higher paying position, or by working more at my home-based side hustle.”

This smart financial goal is specific and is measurable by dollar amount—$3,000 within six months translates to $500 each month, which is realistic and not a “dream goal.” It is relevant, aligning with the goal of earning more money. And it is time-bound—although there are six months to achieve the goal, it is stated in a positive and present way, not as a vague or future possibility.

Post-pandemic, many people decided they liked working from home and were willing to make sacrifices to continue doing so. This may have required quitting a job, finding a permanently remote position, working in a hybrid role or committing to entrepreneurship. No matter where or how you work, it’s always prudent to live with smart finances. When you choose to join Nikken, we are here to support you every step of the way—whether it’s your side hustle or new business endeavor.

Choose Mobility

Published on by Nikken

Staying mobile and leading an active lifestyle are essential not only for longevity but for joyful living. Muscles. Joints. Bones. They are great friends. Keeping them healthy helps keep the entire body more youthful throughout a lifetime.

Your body talks to you every day, and if you listen with care, you will make the right choices to stay mobile. On days where mobility can be challenging, the instinct is to do nothing. If doing nothing results in restoring energy levels, then you are listening to your body and making the right choice. If doing nothing continues for days on end and you don’t feel any better, perhaps it’s time to force yourself out of inertia.

The neck, shoulders, hips and knees—areas that tend to lose elasticity and flexibility with age—are supported by the spine, so maintaining good posture is important. In recent years, chair yoga has become popular, because it helps even those who are not ideally mobile, stretch and build up core strength, so that eventually, they can resume a more active exercise regimen.

There are certain foods that support healthy joints and bones. Eating a well-balanced diet focused on key nutrients is the right choice in supporting healthy joints and bones.

•          Calcium is not a mineral that the body manufactures naturally, so it has to be obtained through food. It’s a key mineral for maintaining strong bones. Found abundantly in dairy products, vegans can choose kale, bok choy, broccoli, soy, seeds and almonds, figs, and more. On average, the absorption rate of calcium in dairy is around 30%, kale and boy choy 50%, and broccoli 60%.1

•          Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium. Sunshine is the most natural source, but supplementation may be a better guarantee of having the recommended 600 international units per day.2 Some natural food sources of vitamin D include egg yolks, tuna, sardines, salmon and other fish, mushrooms that have been exposed to sunlight, fortified orange juice and fortified soy milk.

•          Magnesium is stored in the bones and plays a role in activating vitamin D. Seeds such as chia and pumpkin are great sources of magnesium, as are nuts such as almonds and cashews. Add a healthy amount of green leafy vegetables to your daily diet for a good dose of magnesium.

•          Collagen is found in the connective tissue of animals. As the most abundant protein in the human body, it’s found in skin, muscles, bone and tendons. Meat eaters get collagen through their diets, but vegetarians and vegans may look to foods high in vitamin C to boost production—such as beans, oranges, red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and whole grains.3

•          Omega-3s can help protect the joints. The National Institute of Health recommends this healthy fatty acid because it is believed to help lower inflammation in the body. Found in fish and other seafood, flax seeds are a good vegan option.

Make smart choices for your strength and mobility. Keep moving and eating right. Make sure to stay hydrated, especially when sweating a lot during the summer months. Kenzen® Nutrition can help you fill in dietary gaps with “smart mobility” supplements such as Kenzen® Joint, Kenzen® Omega Green + DHA, Kenzen® Calcium Complex and Kenzen BDZ® (together in the Bone Health Pack) and Nikken Pink Collagen Complex.

1 https://www.vegancanada.org/news/article/2020/01/23/misleading-calcium-recommendation.html?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyo60BhBiEiwAHmVLJanPRBNfbLZxWjWoAX4B6_7fkagD60WwFHEeCWbcyVoHCQ_d7iUTUxoC8d4QAvD_BwE

2 https://www.runnersworld.com/nutrition-weight-loss/a28510495/foods-for-joint-health/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=mgu_ga_rnw_md_pmx_hybd_org_us_18447042893&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyo60BhBiEiwAHmVLJalkhrFPaPTwJCH8-IflR0zb3kApCa5Op184QWgUJ2p8wbQMBUVWAxoCA2YQAvD_BwE

3 https://www.webmd.com/beauty/vegan-collagen-what-to-know

Hydrate Wisely, not Randomly

Published on by Nikken

According to research published in the journal Current Biology, the human body uses 30% to 50% less water per day than our closest animal cousins. In other words, among primates, humans evolved to be the low-flow model. Lead author Herman Pontzer, associate professor of evolutionary anthropology at Duke University explains, “An ancient shift in our body’s ability to conserve water may have enabled our hunter-gatherer ancestors to venture farther from streams and watering holes in search of food. Even just being able to go a little bit longer without water would have been a big advantage as early humans started making a living in dry, savannah landscapes.”1

To maintain hydration within a healthy range, the human body, like other animal bodies, is likened to a bathtub. Water coming in has to equal water going out. For example, when water is lost through sweating, the body signals us to drink. When we drink more than the body needs, the kidneys get rid of the surplus.

For each individual in the study, the researchers calculated water intake via food and drink on the one hand, and water lost via sweat, urine and the GI tract, on the other hand. When the researchers tallied the inputs and outputs, they found that the average person processes about 12 cups of water each day. Without enough water, our physical and cognitive functions decline. Without any, we die within a matter of days. In this way, humans are more dependent on water than many other mammals are.2

Exactly how much water is healthy differs between populations and even from person to person. Currently there are two different recommendations for water intake, which includes water from food. The first, from the U.S. National Academy of Medicine, recommends 15.6 cups of water a day for men and 8.4 cups for women, while advising pregnant and lactating women to increase their intake by about 1.5 to 3 cups, respectively. The second, from the European Food Safety Authority, recommends 10.5 cups for men and 8.4 cups a day for women, with the same increases for pregnant and lactating women. Men need more water than women do because their bodies are larger and have more muscle on average.3

Regardless of how much water you drink, choose wisely. Depending on where you live, the tap water may or may not be potable. Even potable tap water has tested out to contain minute amounts of contaminants, and nano-plastics are a global issue.

To make it easier and more affordable to drink safely, why not take advantage of the PiMag Waterfall® and the PiMag® Sport Bottle? They not only help filter out contaminants but also emulate the most hydrating type of water: spring water. PiMag® water declusters the water molecules, making them smaller and more easily absorbed. The PiMag Waterfall® also is environmentally-friendly as it’s made of biodegradable materials and the PiMag® Sport Bottle helps reduce single use plastic bottles to decrease landfill waste. You’ll stay hydrated and feel good about doing your part for the environment.

Ditch single use plastic bottles, drink more absorbable and hydrating PiMag® water and share your knowledge of smart hydration with everyone!

1 today.duke.edu/2021/03/humans-evolved-be-water-saving-ape#:~:text=That%20water%20needs%20to%20be,than%20our%20closest%20animal%20cousins.

2, 3  https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/human-evolution-led-to-an-extreme-thirst-for-water/#:~:text=Without%20enough%20water%2C%20our%20physical,adapted%20to%20quench%20that%20thirst

Water is Life

Published on by Nikken

Growing populations, irrigated agriculture, energy production, manufacturing and livestock needs have increased demand for water over the years. Since 1960, demand has more than doubled and around the world, demand now exceeds what is available.1

Water stress refers to a situation where the water resources in a region or country are insufficient for its needs. Water stress also refers specifically to plants that suffer from a lack of moisture. Whether for plants or people, water is life, and the lack of it threatens health, economic growth and food security.

According to data from Aqueduct, 31% of global GDP (gross domestic product) will be exposed to high water stress by 2050. Just four countries—India, Mexico, Egypt and Turkey—account for more than half of the exposed GDP in 2050.  A country facing extreme water stress is using at least 80% of its available supply, while high water stress refers to 40% withdrawal of its supply.2

Humans are more dependent on water than many other mammals. Without enough water, physical and cognitive functions decline. Without any water, humans die within days. Water can be sourced from food, and depending on culture and region, people ingest varying amounts of water from their food. For example, in the U.S., about 20% of the water people take in comes from food, while adult Japanese obtain half of their water from foods eaten. In northern Kenya, people drink little water but consume a great deal of milk, which is 87% milk, and they chew on water-laden roots.3

In areas where there is a scarce supply of clean water, eating instead of drinking more water helps decrease exposure to harmful bacteria. Fruit such as papaya, and whatever grows locally, can help hydrate while preventing gastrointestinal issues. In places like the Amazon and other similar populations, dietary traditions have developed to incorporate low-alcohol, fermented beverages, which can be essential sources of hydration. Fermentation happens to kill bacteria.

Obtaining enough water is one of humanity’s oldest challenges, and now it has become a global crisis. Aquifers around the world are being depleted  and the need to diversify water sources is critical. Nations that have invested in desalination and water recycling have been the most successful in addressing water scarcity. For example, 70% of Israel’s potable water is from desalination and 90% of its wastewater is recycled!4 Israel also uses drip and micro drip irrigation, which is more efficient than traditional flood irrigation. In South Africa, where water stress has reached critical levels, Cape Town lessened reservoir losses by removing invasive, water-hungry plants and replacing them with drought-resistant species.

Wherever you live, drink wisely. Don’t keep the tap running. Avoid waste. Be safe, filter your tap water with the PiMag Waterfall® and PiMag® Sport Bottle.

1, 2 https://www.wri.org/insights/highest-water-stressed-countries

3, 4 https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/0424–kinard-mexico-city-run-out-of-water/

Natural vs. Synthetic: You Decide

Published on by Nikken

In our daily lives, we interact with an extensive array of materials, each with its unique characteristics and applications. Whether it’s the clothes we wear, the buildings we live in, or the devices we use, the materials around us can be broadly categorized into two primary groups: natural vs synthetic.1

Examples of natural materials, which are derived from the environment, include wood, stone, silk, leather and cotton. These materials are found in nature and not man-made.

Synthetic materials are derived largely from human intelligence and creativity, mainly after the industrial revolution through the wide use of increasingly sophisticated technology. Plastics, composites, and artificial polymers are just a few examples of these engineered marvels.2

Are natural materials better than synthetic ones?

Here are some of the advantages of natural materials:

•           They are generally considered more environmentally-friendly than their synthetic counterparts, because they tend to be renewable and biodegradable, which reduces their footprint.

•           They are often more compatible with the human body. For example, natural fibers in clothing, organic materials in devices, and natural ingredients in skin care are less likely to cause allergic reactions—this is known as being biocompatible.

•           They vary in quality, texture and appearance due to natural variances found in nature. This makes them somewhat unique and exclusive, adding aesthetic value.

Here are some of the advantages of synthetic materials:

•           They are created in laboratories and factories, which are environments that are more easily controlled than nature.

•           They can be manufactured to be consistent and uniform in size, shape, appearance, etc. This consistency helps meet the precise requirements of different industries. Examples include plastics, nylon, polyester and many polymers.

•           They may be more durable than natural materials. With man-made specifications in mind, they can be manufactured to be more long-lasting and easier to mass-produce, rendering them more cost-effective than sourcing natural alternatives.

Both natural and synthetic materials have their own pros and cons. Your choice depends on the specific usage and your requirements for cost, durability, functionality, sustainability and eco-friendliness.

Nikken is inspired by nature, and our researchers and product developers try to incorporate as many sustainable, natural and organic materials as possible. We also embrace science and formulate using state-of-the-art technologies and facilities.

1, 2 https://europlas.com.vn/en-US/blog-1/natural-vs-synthetic-materials-what-are-the-differences

Warm Weather Skin Care

Published on by Nikken

As you move into spring and soon, summer weather, you might notice some subtle or blatant changes to your skin. For people in general, cold weather requires more intense moisturization while low temperatures requires a bit less. Warm weather opens up the pores and produces more oil, so you may benefit from some adjustments to your skin care regimen.

The three main actions to keep in mind for warmer weather are exfoliate, cleanse and hydrate.

•            Exfoliation helps to get rid of the dead skin cells that otherwise accumulate on the skin and dull your complexion.

•          Cleansing should be with a gentle cleanser, not one that is abrasive or stringent.

•          Hydrate with a light, non-greasy moisturizer. Even if you tend towards oily skin, not using a moisturizer because the weather is warm or hot, can dry out your skin, especially since you will tend to perspire more during spring and summer.

One particular type of skin care product that is beneficial to virtually every skin type in the warmer months is the hydrating serum. Serums tend to have a lighter texture than actual moisturizers and work especially well when used in tandem. You’ll receive the benefits of improved water levels in the skin, which help to increase the appearance of radiance. And, serums can provide this assistance without giving you an oily, greasy feeling. Most dermatologist will recommend using serums and moisturizers formulated with hyaluronic acid, because it is an ingredient that binds and locks in moisture to prevent dehydration in the skin.

Another recommended ingredient is glycerin, as it is known as an emollient that can soften skin and draw moisture to the dermal surface, which has the effect of filling in wrinkles.

If you have sensitive skin that becomes more irritated with the warm weather, try to stay with skin care that is fragrance-free or naturally-fragranced. Artificial fragrances are chemically-sourced, and the fewer chemicals your sensitive has to contend with, the calmer it will be.

Although the body naturally produces more collagen in the warmer months, one precaution to take is to decrease your risk of sun damage. Wearing sunscreen is helpful but exposure to sunlight tends to lower your collagen levels. If you are under natural sunlight a lot during spring and summer, taking a collagen supplement may help you maintain your collagen levels.

These are the last couple of days to benefit from our 20% off sale on True Elements® Marine Organic Skin Care. Not only do we have a a gentle cleanser with Velvet Cleansing Cream, but we also have a Radiance Face Scrub to help get rid of dead skin cells without a harsh exfoliant. And, Youth Activ Face Serum, Revitalizing Face Serum and Moisturizing Face Cream all contain glycerin and hyaluronic acid, so your skin can stay hydrated and full.

If you feel a dip in your collagen levels or simply want to maintain consistency in your year-round regimen, our nature-inspired Pink Collagen Complex is a deliciously simple way to supplement your way to a younger-feeling, younger-looking you!

Show Mom Your Love

Published on by Nikken

Mother-child relationships can be complicated but virtually all moms appreciate being shown some loving care. According to Philippa Perry, psychotherapist and author of The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read, the mother-child relationship “always matters and can always be improved.”1 She gives a few tips on how to make the relationship better:

•          Accept mom for who she is. You can’t change her; in fact, you can’t really change anyone else but yourself. When you change yourself, the other person will change also. Being kind to and accepting of your mother may well improve your relationship.

•          Find out about your mom’s childhood, how she was brought up, and what was impressed upon her. That will help you understand where she’s coming from when she seems judgmental, bossy or just plain annoying. Remember that what appears to be the control freak in her also comes from caring and concern.

•          Look in the mirror. What annoys you most about mom may be a deep part of yourself. When you recognize that your mom in yourself, even the parts of her you don’t enjoy too much, you will be more compassionate and empathetic towards her, and she will feel it.

•          Have real conversations with your mom. Don’t assume she is living a ho-hum life. Find out what she is thinking in the here and now—what is she thinking about, what are her fears, what are her hopes, how is she truly doing. The answers may open up a treasure trove.

•          Spend alone time with her. There is no gift greater than the gift of time, especially when spent sharing a mutual interest or joy. Too often, adult “children” appear to spend time with their parents when they become ill. Make it a habit to spend time with them when they are healthy and able to enjoy your company.

•          Find out what she is interested in at her current stage of life and plan to join her in pursuing them. It can be as basic as doing crossword puzzles or as elaborate as traveling to different countries. There may be things mom wants to do but can’t do alone and your companionship would be immeasurably valuable.

•          Say thank you in as many ways as you can. Be grateful for your mother. Don’t wait for Mother’s Day, although you might want to celebrate her in a big way on the special day!

For the whole month of May, Nikken is honoring mothers with gifts inspired by the wisdom of Mother Earth! Help mom de-stress with the KenkoGround® and Kenko Precision Set at 40% off! True Elements® Marine Organic Skin Care as well as Kenko Jewelry are 20% off. Show the mothers in your life how much you appreciate and love them!

1 https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2020/mar/21/mother-dearest-20-ways-to-love-your-mum

Mothers are Super Heroes

Published on by Nikken

A mother in different stages of motherhood is a caregiver who cooks and feeds, washes and bathes, does financial planning and budgeting, chauffeurs and gives driving lessons, nurses sick bodies and teen angst, plays the role of plumber and electrician, researches preschools and childcare, helps with homework, mends ouchies and broken hearts, manages multiple schedules, delegates chores, teaches morals and values, gives advice and much more. This juggling act performed by at-home moms as well as moms with outside professions, can take a toll on the physical and mental well-being of “super” mom.

It’s no wonder moms suffer from burnout. The feeling of mental, emotional and physical exhaustion—especially losing that sense of self from having to play so many roles—is sometimes called “depleted mother syndrome.” Dads can also experience burnout, but it is more common among moms. Even though contemporary dads have really stepped up to the plate , in general, moms still shoulder a disproportionate amount of parenting responsibilities.1

While women are socialized to be nurturing, caring, and extremely giving to others, they are often not taught that they ought to be on the list of people receiving care as well.2 To help keep stress from becoming overwhelming, moms need to cut themselves some slack:

•          Get rid of “mom guilt.” Society imposes expectations on moms that are often unrealistic. Moms need to practice TLC on themselves, to strive for okay, not perfection. The kids will also benefit from this approach.

•          Recognize that “it takes a village to raise a child.” Realize that needing help is the norm. Moms need to ask their partner, relatives, friends and anyone else who can be supportive.

•          Take time out for self-care. This is hard for many people, but especially mothers who are conditioned to give time to everyone in the family but herself. Even if it’s only time to take a soak in the tub, an hour at the gym or Pilates class, an afternoon nap, every bit of self-time is helpful in fighting stress.

•          Moms spend a lot of time planning for their children’s future. These days, deciding between the right preschool and homeschooling can be tantamount to applying to an Ivy League college or becoming an entrepreneur. Given these pressures, it’s important for moms to live in the present and enjoy the small daily occurrences that make motherhood a blessing and joy.

•          Accept and embrace your individual style of mothering. Each mom has to decide what works best with her child(ren). Just because breastfeeding works for some moms doesn’t mean it’s for all moms. Just as there are countless books on sleep-training, there are just as many on the benefits of co-sleeping.

For the whole month of May, Nikken is honoring mothers with gifts inspired by the wisdom of Mother Earth! Grounding products such as KenkoGround® and Kenko Precision Set—ideal for helping lessen stress—are 40% off! And, True Elements® Marine Organic Skin Care as well as Kenko Jewelry are 20% off. Show the mothers in your life how much you appreciate all the sacrifices they made and continue to make!

1 https://www.caron.org/addiction-101/substance-abuse/mom-burnout-substance-abuse-what-you-need-to-know#:~:text=Mom%20burnout%20sometimes%20called%20depleted,resources%20for%20coping%20with%20it.

2 https://rcchicago.org/motherhood-stress/

Ease Your Stress at Work

Published on by Nikken

The so-called “9 to 5” grind can get you down, whether you’re a worker bee or a manager. Some stressors for employees include low salaries, workloads that are too heavy, lack of growth or advancement opportunities, limited or no managerial support and the feeling of having no control. On the other hand, being a boss can be overwhelming with endless meetings, hard-to-make decisions, budgetary concerns, disgruntled workers and decreased earnings.

So, what’s a body to do when there’s too much stress at work? Be self-aware. Listen to what your body is telling you as it reacts to stress. Once you identify the stressors, be proactive so those stressors do not chronically bother you. Here are some possible stress-busters:

•          Write it down. Make this recording of your experience as detailed as possible. Who or what was the source of the stress? How did you feel? Where were you? How did you react? Was the issue resolved to your satisfaction? If it occurs again, would you behave differently? Writing it down helps clarify what actually happened. It also helps you have closure and to put it in the past so you can move forward.

•          If the tension is caused by a person, talk it out when calmer and even if you don’t achieve the ideal response, you will feel better having given it your best effort.

•          Exercise regularly. The reason health experts are constantly encouraging exercise, exercise, exercise, is because it works. Exercise helps you relax, sleep better and have a calmer mindset.

•          Get grounded. Many therapists recommend the 5-4-3-2-1 technique because it engages all five senses. List things around you, working backward from 5. You could start by listing five things you see, then four things you hear, three you can smell, two you can touch or feel, then one you can taste.1 Connect to nature on a regular basis.

•          Breathe! Be mindful of your breath and inhale slowly, hold, then exhale slowly. Try this right in the middle of a stressful situation, and you might be happily surprised at how quickly it works to calm you down.

•          Don’t take work stress home with you. Give yourself boundaries and permission to relax and recover from daily work stress.

From now until May 31, you can get the KenkoGround® earthing mat and the Kenko Precision Set at 40% off. They may help you bust your stress!

1 https://www.tcimedicine.com/post/managing-stress-with-grounding-techniques