Keep Alert as We Transition to Daylight Saving Time

Published on by Nikken

Daylight Saving Time (DST) starts on March 10 in most of the United States, parts of Canada and some areas of Mexico. In the European countries that adopt DST, many will make the transition on March 31 this year. Many countries around the world have chosen not to have DST in 2019. When DST is not observed, it is called standard time, normal time or winter time.

Although changing to DST only involves an hour’s difference (losing an hour in the spring and gaining one in the fall), there can be a wide range of responses. Some of us don’t feel a difference at all, while others may experience a few days of fatigue from a change in sleep patterns due to having to reset our 24-hour natural cycle known as “circadian rhythm.”1 Internally generated, our circadian rhythm may be influenced by the environment, behavior and medications.2

In general, losing an hour in the spring is more difficult to adjust to than gaining an hour in the fall.3 It is similar to airplane travel; traveling east we lose time and may experience difficulty falling asleep at the “earlier” time. Going west, we may fall asleep easily at the “later” hour but have a difficult time waking.

If you have the foresight to plan ahead for losing that hour of sleep, you can go to bed 15 to 20 minutes earlier than usual for a few nights leading up to the time change. This may help your brain and body make the transition more smoothly.4 You can also expose yourself to sunlight as early in the morning as you can. This tells your internal clock that it’s time to get moving. If sunlight is unavailable where you live, use bright lights to simulate natural light to enhance mental and physical alertness.5

For some people, it can take as long as a week for their circadian and sleep rhythms to adjust to the time change. Regular exercise at the same time daily may help you get back on track, as well as going to bed and rising on a schedule. 6

In more extreme cases, the time change is linked to changes in health, diet and even the tendency to get into an accident. Sleep expert Chris Winter, M.D. explains, “Our bodies function on an internal schedule, from hormone release to body temperature to cognition—sleep is linked to them all. Your body receives signals from hormones, like ghrelin and leptin.”7 Dr. Winter further explains that these two hormones are related to cravings for food and feelings of being full, but are also “intimately associated with sleep, which is part of why when we’re not sleeping well, we tend to overeat.”8

Research published in 2009 showed the Monday after switching to DST saw a 5.7% jump in workplace injuries and nearly 68% more workdays lost to injuries, meaning they were more severe. 9 These conclusions were reached by analyzing U.S. Department of Labor and Mine Safety and Health Administration injury data from 1983 to 2006.

To prepare for an easy transition into DST, sleep a little earlier on the days before and wake a little earlier as well. Expose yourself to natural light (or simulated natural light) as early as possible upon waking. Eat a healthy breakfast to notify your body the day has begun.

To help block out light for better sleep, wear the Kenko PowerSleep Mask with patented DynaFlux® magnetic technology. Place the KenkoGround on top of your Kenko Naturest® Mattress Topper and sleep with some part of your skin touching it to help you stay grounded and connected to Nature even while in bed! You can practice Active Wellness 24/7!

 

1,2,3 https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/coping-with-time-changes

4, 5 https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/reason-daylight-savings-time-can-give-you-jet-lag

6 https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/daylight-saving-time-fall-back-doesnt-equal-sleep-gain-201311016836

7, 8, 9 https://www.nbcnews.com/know-your-value/feature/daylight-saving-time-4-surprising-health-effects-falling-back-ncna929546

 

 

 

Why Network Marketing?

Published on by Nikken

“Network marketing has come of age. It’s undeniable that it has become a way to entrepreneurship and independence for millions of people.” Stephen Covey (author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People)

Simply put, network marketing is “a business model in which a distributor network is needed to build the business. Usually, such businesses are also multilevel in nature in that payouts occur at more than one level.”1 The major advantage that network marketing enjoys over direct selling is the benefit of earning commissions on your downline’s sales activity. The chart below illustrates a simple network with four “downline” distributors.

Screen Shot 2019-02-21 at 2.41.49 PM

Network marketing generally appeals to those who do not want to be tied down to a nine-to-five grind. Creative thinkers and free spirits who are committed to living the lifestyle of their choice often succeed as network marketers. Counter-intuitively, shy and introverted personalities often end up as the most successful network marketers. In fact, anyone who is determined and perseveres is a potentially successful network marketer.

The majority of new businesses are known to fail within the first 12 months.2 This can be due to massive start–up costs, lack of support and miscalculations but network marketing continues to produce success stories of people who build a business around an existing career or family needs with a minimal investment.3

What should a good network marketing company provide?

  • The opportunity to earn an income. This can be a part-time or full-time endeavor. The more products you retail, the more you earn. Best of all, it doesn’t matter what your background is in, as long as you believe in what you’re sharing.
  • Residual income. This is an ongoing source of income (also known as passive income) based on repeat sales generated not only by yourself but also by those you sponsor or recruit into your group. The larger your organization, the more potential for earning residual income.
  • Flexibility. Since you’re the boss, you dictate your hours and work site. You also get to decide whom you want to work with, as you choose the people you sponsor.
  • Amazing products. Network marketing companies are renowned for introducing state-of-the-art products in a variety of industries, especially nutrition and cosmetics. These generally end up in high demand, spawning knock-offs by many, so take care to choose a company that is a pioneer in its field, not a copycat with cheaper formulations.
  • A fulfilling life. This is huge, because unlike traditional business models that may reap financial benefits, successful network marketing depends on helping others succeed. Without helping others succeed, a network marketer is at best a good retailer or salesperson. Virtually every successful network marketer is fulfilled by having helped hundreds or even thousands of people live a better life.
  • Self-transformation. Successful network marketing requires stepping out of your comfort zone. You need to motivate and inspire others. You need to capitalize on your strengths, recognize your weaknesses and develop into a better version of yourself. Conveniently, a good network marketing company has many mentors who are more than willing to help you develop into a mentor yourself.

Nikken is a network marketing company that is celebrating 30 years in North America in April. Our Active Wellness products have helped millions of people globally to live a healthy, balanced lifestyle based on the 5 Pillars of Health®, and our exceptional Humans Being More training program sets industry standards for self-development.

1 https://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/network-marketing

2, 3 http://www.rktassell.com/why-network-marketing/

 

Start Active Wellness Early in Life for Heart’s Sake

Published on by Nikken

Many of the conditions and behaviors that put people at risk for heart disease are appearing at younger ages. Choosing to be sedentary during downtime and eating unhealthy fast food are common pitfalls.

Children who are overweight or have a family history of heart disease or of high cholesterol, high blood pressure and type 1 or type 2 diabetes run the highest risk of having heart issues.1 Genetic predisposition aside, anyone can develop heart disease, so as parents, it’s our responsibility to role model an Active Wellness lifestyle. Telling a child or teenager to eat vegetables and exercise regularly is ineffective if we personally don’t follow through with those behaviors.

By starting heart-healthy habits from childhood, kids can reduce the chance they will ever need to worry about cardiovascular disease. In terms of exercise, the American Heart Association recommends that children:

  • Three to five years old should be physically active and have plenty of opportunities to move throughout the day.2
  • Six to 17 years old should get at least 60 minutes per day of moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, mostly aerobic.3
  • Include vigorous-intensity activity on at least three days per week.4
  • Include muscle- and bone-strengthening (weight-bearing) activities on at least three days per week.5

Here are 10 tips for helping children develop heart-healthy habits:

  • Personally exercise more and find ways to be active as a family. Only one out of five adults meets the physical activity guidelines of getting 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity..6
  • Physical activity should be fun for children and adolescents. Encourage kids to try new activities in order to discover the ones they like and will pursue into adulthood. You may have a budding gymnast or yogini in the family!
  • In general, reduce time in front of the TV. Look into video games that incorporate movement, such as dance, indoor cycling or virtual sports (golf, tennis, etc.).
  • Give your kids active toys and games. Try bikes, skateboards, roller skates, scooters, jump ropes, balls and trampolines.
  • Take advantage of community facilities near you: pools, recreation centers, bike paths and parks.
  • Prepare simple meals together. Even children can help wash, chop and peel vegetables to assemble a salad. And because they helped make it, they’re more likely to eat it.
  • Experiment with spices to help cut down on salt. High sodium diets are often the cause of high blood pressure. Since we are creatures of habit, children who eat natural foods cooked with very little salt have fewer salt cravings as they grow up. Don’t assume children won’t eat beneficial flavor enhancers such as garlic, onions, mustard and vinegar.
  • Serve fruit for dessert. There’s plenty of natural sugar in fruit. Many Asian and Mediterranean diets rely on fruit for dessert. Children who grow up without eating sugary desserts tend to have this good habit carry over into adulthood.
  • Never smoke in front of your children. More than 37 million U.S. adults are current smokers, and thousands of young people start smoking each day. If you are a smoker, quitting will send a big message to your children never to start. Smoking damages the blood vessels and can cause heart disease.7
  • Do not serve sodas. Kenzen Super Ciaga® is a superior soda replacement when added to seltzer or PiMag® water.

Even if you didn’t inherit heart-healthy habits, start now. Nikken has nutritional supplements that may help you with Active Wellness for the rest of your life. Kenzen® Omega Green + DHA (link to shopping cart) helps provide vegan omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids while Kenzen® Bergisterol  helps support cardiovascular health and cholesterol levels within the normal range.•

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

 

1, 5, 7 https://www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/index.html

2, 3, 4. 6 https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults

Superfruit with Super Powers

Published on by Nikken

Berries truly are Mother Nature’s gifts to mankind. We’ve discussed the amazing properties of elderberries  and now you’ll see how blueberries are remarkable in their own right! Here are a few reasons why blueberries should be a part of your Active Wellness regimen:

1.  They’re low in calories but high in nutrient value. That means the blueberry is one of the most nutrient-dense berries. One cup of blueberries contain about 80+ calories and 4 grams of fiber, 24% of the RDI for Vitamin C, 36% of the RDI for Vitamin K and 24% of the RDI for manganese. Many fruit-restrictive diets allow for berries to be incorporated in moderation.1

2.  Known as “king of antioxidant foods,” the blueberry contains large amounts of flavonoids. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits.2

3. People continue to search for the fountain of youth, but aging is an inevitable part of living. Oxidative DNA damage is unavoidable and believed to occur tens of thousands of times per day in every cell of the body. It is part of the reason we age and plays a role in the development of disease. Although there’s no such thing as perennial youth, why not slow down the aging process? Because blueberries are high in antioxidants, they can help neutralize some of the free radicals that damage our DNA. In one study, 168 people drank 34 ounces (1 liter) of mixed blueberry and apple juice daily. After four weeks, oxidative DNA damage due to free radicals was reduced by 20%.3

4. Blueberries are a heart-healthy food because antioxidants are strongly linked to reduced levels of oxidized LDL,4 the bad cholesterol that helps cause heart disease. In one study a daily 2-ounce (50 gram) serving of blueberries lowered LDL oxidation by 27% in obese people.5 Another study determined that eating 2.5 ounces (75 grams) of blueberries with a main meal significantly reduced the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. 6

5. Blueberry consumption may help lower blood pressure. In an 8-week study, obese people who had a high risk of heart disease noted a 4 -6% reduction in blood pressure after consuming 2 ounces (50 grams) of blueberries per day. 7

6. Eating blueberries regularly may help maintain brain function and improve memory. Oxidative stress can accelerate brain’s aging process, negatively affecting brain function. Antioxidants in blueberries appear to benefit aging neurons, leading to improvements in cell signaling. In one study, 9 older adults with mild cognitive impairment consumed blueberry juice daily. After 12 weeks, they experienced improvements in several markers of brain function.8

7. Research suggests that the anthocyanins (the compounds that give the fruit its blue color) in blueberries may have beneficial effects on insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Blueberries provide moderate amounts of sugar compared to other fruits, with about 15 grams of sugar per cup, equivalent to a small apple or large orange. The bioactive compounds appear to outweigh any negative impact of the sugar when it comes to blood sugar control. These anti-diabetes effects appear to occur with both blueberry juice and extract. 9

8. Blueberries may help reduce muscle damage after strenuous exercise. They are believed to help lessen the damage that occurs at the molecular level, minimizing soreness and reduced muscle performance. The soreness and fatigue after exercise is due partly to local inflammation and oxidative stress to the muscle tissue. In a small study of 10 female athletes, blueberries accelerated muscle recovery after strenuous leg exercises. 10

At Nikken, there’s a wonderful way to make a shake that has a substantial amount of blueberries, because the berries are integrated into a superfruit juice concentrate. Simply incorporate a serving of Kenzen Super Ciaga® into your Kenzen Vital Balance® Meal Replacement Mix with PiMag® water. Both chocolate and vanilla KVB are delicious with Super Ciaga® mixed in—it’s like dessert in the form of a smoothie. Or, mix an ounce of Kenzen Super Ciaga with seltzer water to replace soda with a world of good.

Take advantage of our special on chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance® at 33% discount—Get 3 for the price of 2! 

Do You Eat Plant-Based Protein to Help Sustain Planet Earth?

Published on by Nikken

How many of you eat veggie burgers? Have you discovered the versatility of tofu? Are you trying to eat a “plantcentric” diet? Are you aware of your carbon footprint?

Food’s carbon footprint, or foodprint, is the greenhouse gas emissions produced by growing, rearing, farming, processing, transporting, storing, cooking and disposing of the food you eat. Transport, housing and food have the three largest carbon footprints. Food produces about eight tons of emissions per households or about 17% of the total. Worldwide, new reports suggest that livestock agriculture produces around half of all man-made emissions.1

Meat, cheese and eggs have the highest carbon footprint. Fruit, vegetables, beans and nuts have much lower carbon footprints. If you move towards a mainly vegetarian diet, you can have a large impact on your personal carbon footprint.2 It can help reduce pollution, preserve the environment and slow global warming. Many of these changes may also save you money, improve your health and even keep you fit!

Consumer knowledge about carbon footprints, sustainable products and maintaining an Active Wellness lifestyle has contributed to the explosive growth of the market for plant-based protein. With carbohydrates and fats, there is ongoing debate about their pros and cons. With protein, the general perception is that not only is it necessary for maintaining health but it can also improve overall well-being. This generally held belief adds to the growing popularity of plant-based proteins.

From children to seniors, the entire range of ages is joining body builders in recognizing the importance of eating enough protein but many do not want to eat meat. According to “The Protein Report: Meat Alternatives” that was published in January 2017, roughly 66 percent of U.S. consumers believe meat alternatives are healthier than meat.3 And it’s the younger generation that is leading the way: according to the February 2016 report entitled “Food Formulation and Ingredient Trends: Plant Proteins” from Packaged Facts, millennials are the top age group cutting down on meat consumption, primarily due to social consciousness about health, the environment and animal welfare.4

Plant-based proteins find their way into beverages as well as food in the form of snacks, nutritional supplements and meat replacements. Protein powders that used to be consumed largely by athletes have now made their way into the mainstream diet. Pea protein is found in 80% of plant protein powders because it has been found to deliver high marks both in taste and nutrition. 5

Since 2013, Kenzen® Vital Balance Meal Replacement Mix has been a trendsetter with its formula of high-protein, plant-based organic pea powder. Easily made into a shake or smoothie when combined with PiMag® water, plant-based milk or dairy milk, KVB in more recent years has taken quality to an even higher level by producing an improved version sweetened with zero-calorie monkfruit, KVB also helps planet Earth by using organic ingredients. Organic farming methods have a much lower impact on the environment than conventional methods, because it requires natural methods for soil fertilization, weed prevention and pest control. Organic ingredients cannot be genetically-modified or irradiated, processes which are not proven to be safe for the food chain.

Take advantage of our special on chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance® at 33% discount—Get 3 for the price of 2!

 

1, 2  http://www.greeneatz.com/foods-carbon-footprint.html

3, 4, 5 https://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/functional-foodsbeverages/plant-based-protein-market-deep-dive

The Perfect Valentine is From Your Heart

Published on by Nikken

February 14 is Valentine’s Day in North America and many other countries around the world. It’s a day of romance and proclamations of love. Approximately 150 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged every year, making it the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas.1

Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, although written declarations didn’t appear until after 1400. The oldest known valentine that still exists today was a poem by the Duke of Orleans to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. It’s now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.2

Here are some interesting ways various countries celebrate Valentine’s Day:

  • In the Philippines, it’s a day for mass weddings where hundreds and even thousands get married in union. These huge events are sometimes sponsored by the government as a public service.3
  • Bulgarians celebrate St. Trijon Zarezan day on February 14. Known as Winemakers Day, couples toast their love with a glass or two of wine from local vineyards.4
  • In both Japan and South Korea, women give men gifts on Valentine’s Day. Men return the gesture on White Day, giving women gifts that are white as a sign of pure love.5
  • Marriage proposals take place quite often between February 12 and 14 in the “village of love” in St. Valentin, France. The village decks their houses in roses and covers trees with love note.6
  • In Ghana, February 14 is National Chocolate Day. As one of the world’s largest cocoa producing countries, the day is meant to boost tourism with chocolate themed menus, exhibitions and talks.7
  • North Americans often give jewelry, flowers and chocolate to their loved ones on Valentine’s Day.

Look no further for the perfect Valentine that comes from your heart. Nikken has created the unique Kenko Heart Set and Valentine’s Day is the ideal time to declare your love! The pendant and earrings can be worn with jeans as well as with an elegant gown . The pendant is stainless steel on one side and gold-plated on the other. Symbolizing the Heart of Nikken, the pendant is engineered with an 800-gauss neodymium magnet. The Kenko Heart earrings are gold-plated and feature 600-gauss neodymium magnets.

The pendant fits perfectly with either the stainless steel or gold-plated Perfect Link II necklace,  which features 800-gauss neodymium magnets throughout their 18-inch lengths. Nickel-free and non-corrosive, these finely crafted necklaces are polished to a glossy finish and look perfect both day and night, with casual or formal wear.

1, 2 https://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day-2

 

3, 4, 5, 6, 7 https://www.scoopwhoop.com/How-Countries-Celebrate-Valentines-Day/#.9nii56exv

 

Creating Good Habits for Health, Longevity and Happiness

Published on by Nikken

The successful pursuit of Active Wellness revolves around the creation of good lifestyle habits, which goes hand-in-hand with self-development. Active Wellness encompasses mind, body and spirit and according to an article in Medical News1, Japanese people—and Japanese women, especially—have a wonderful system resulting in good health, longevity and happiness. As it happens, many Nikken products are based on the Japanese approach to health and prosperity. Here’s how:

  1. Japanese people drink a lot of green tea, commonly believed to be one of the healthiest beverages and renowned for its antioxidants, nutrients and many other benefits. Green tea leaves contain bioactive compounds and phytonutrients, such as flavonoids and catechins. Green tea also contains caffeine and the amino acid L–theanine, two compounds that are believed to help improve brain function. Kenzen Ten4® Energy Drink Mix  is made with superior-quality organic matcha green tea powder.
  2. Japanese people eat fermented foods, an ancient practice with plenty of health benefits. A popular food in Japan is natto, made by fermenting soybeans. Fermentation is a process that preserves food while creating beneficial enzymes, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics. Kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, tempeh, pickles and miso soup are all examples of fermented consumables. Fermented foods add good bacteria to the gut, helping digestion. Kenzen Clarity  is formulated with an organic fermented blend that helps support mental focus and sharpness.*
  3. Walking is a meditative practice in Japan. It’s a way people discover different parts of the country and become surrounded by nature. Instead of walking specifically to get somewhere, a walking meditation involves thinking about each step, focusing on the movement of the feet and how the body shifts when going forward. For those who find it impossible to sit still and empty the mind in meditation, walking as a practice could be a good way to focus and de-stress. Walking mindfully with Kenko mStrides® takes your meditative practice to another level!
  4. Many Japanese practice martial arts, such as Aikido and Karate. Both emphasize a natural way of self-defense that aims to promote self-confidence and self-respect as well as the combined disciplines of the body and mind. Martial arts provide a total body workout that makes use of every muscle, thereby helping to improve stamina, flexibility, endurance and strength.
  5. Japanese begin soaking in hot spring baths as youngsters. Known as balneotherapy, bathing in hot springs is believed to boost circulation, reduce stress and promote restful sleep. The heat helps relax tense muscles and hydrate the skin.
  6. Japanese exhibit an intense respect for nature. Children are taught to live in harmony with nature and to respect it. Going into the wilderness on days off is a common way for city dwellers to decompress from hard work. Even though Japanese women work some of the longest hours in the world, they somehow live the longest, and frequent trips back to nature help them stay grounded. For those who can’t access nature regularly, why not try the KenkoGround  as a way to reconnect even when indoors?
  7. Japanese women attend group activities regularly throughout their lives and into old age. The byproduct of this fun habit is not only having many friends but also keeping the brain functioning. Since a lack of social activity is correlated to mental aging, Japanese have a great system for keeping their minds intact. In fact, group activities even extend to exercising together. Not surprisingly, women make up the majority of network marketers, comfortable in conducting and participating regularly in groups with mentors and new “students.”
  8. The Japanese attitude towards work results in high productivity. Although work is just as stressful as anywhere else in the world, the prevalent attitude is that no matter how difficult the job is, it has a larger purpose and is worthy of the struggle. Each hardworking individual is contributing to the greater good, and this belief produces an inclusive feeling of belonging. This is an evolved way of thinking, which comes with self-development started early in life. Nikken leaders who qualify for Team Kaizen embody this positive attitude.
  9. Being conscious of what makes you happy and feeling fulfilled is another aspect of self-development. Japanese are taught as children to be in touch with their feelings and to identify what is called “ikigai”— “iki” means life and “gai” means worth. It connotes what brings joy into each life—any variety of work, family, friends or hobbies.

Active Wellness and self-development are the ideal ways to achieve the 5 Pillars of Health®. Learn how to become a Human Being More with HBM Silver Training!

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

1 https://medical-news.org/10-reasons-japanese-women-stay-slim-dont-look-old/2321/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=Ads&utm_campaign=10-reasons-japanese-women-stay-slim-and-dont-look-old

 

Reaching Diamond with Persistence and Faith

Published on by Nikken

In November of 2018, Dr. John and Annette Jackson became the newest Diamond Consultants. They have been with Nikken for 18 years and it took “15 short years” to go from Platinum to Diamond. They tell the story of their Nikken journey with enthusiasm and unwavering faith.

“Since day one the goal was to reach Diamond. Why? We wanted to prove that anyone can be successful with Nikken. We were so grateful to Nikken for transforming our lives with the Active Wellness lifestyle that our focus was laser-sharp on sharing the products and opportunity. We worked with the conviction that failure was absolutely never an option.

“When strong leaders started appearing on our team, we could see their actions and goals. We then knew that reaching Diamond was only a matter of time. We increased our activities and rode the momentum. We chose November as the month to advance to Diamond and made many more contacts to ensure we would meet the requirements. By the end of the month, we celebrated with three new Platinum Consultants, one Gold Consultant and five new Silver Consultants. It was truly collaborative teamwork.”

For the Jacksons, consistency, persistence and faith throughout the years proved to be key in their leadership quest for Diamond. Their daily activities have largely remained the same and include prayer, making phone calls, following up with contacts, and constantly looking for prospects while being prepared to share Nikken anywhere.

“We changed our business-building methods about three years ago when Nikken shifted the emphasis to retailing. We love this approach because we believe it is beneficial for Nikken globally. We remain in constant communication with our team members in both North and Latin America by providing pertinent information and counseling, answering questions, conducting ABCs and always being available.”

Steadfast in their business-building approach, the Jacksons have now set their goals even higher. “We will continue with our same routine. We have never swayed in our passion and belief in Nikken products, our company and the necessity of sharing. With effort and prayer, we intend to reach the rank of Royal Diamond much faster than it took us to become Diamond Consultants!”

Congratulations to Dr. John and Annette Jackson from all of us at Nikken!

New Year Healthier You

Published on by Nikken

As we begin 2019, making a commitment to improve overall health is crucial to an Active Wellness lifestyle. For each of us, that commitment is personal; however, the rule of thumb is to eat healthy foods and move our bodies more often. Resolutions need to be do-able and realistic in order for us to stick them. Here are 10 practical ways to help make 2019 a healthier year.

  1. Eat more citrus. An article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition1 found that people who eat foods high in vitamin C are more successful at staving off the effects of premature aging of the skin.
  2. Eat more vegetables. They contain lots of fiber, vitamins and minerals and low in calories. They’re the key to maintaining health and a comfortable weight.
  3. Cut down on sugar intake and don’t use artificial sweeteners.
  4. Expand your palate. Just because something sounds distasteful doesn’t mean it actually is. Things like kale, bitter melon and pomegranate may be acquired tastes but if you like them, you’re adding to your arsenal of healthy foods—all of which helps in weight management.
  5. Learn to cook. It is not only healthier because you can choose exactly which ingredients to use but also helps save money. One Reddit user cut his food budget from $900 to $150 a month by cooking more and ordering food delivery less.2
  6. Vow to exercise daily, as consistency is key. To challenge yourself, each week increase the intensity of whatever you choose to do a little bit.
  7. Spend less screen time (cell phones, tablets, TV, etc.) and more time making actual contact with living beings. For example, have tea time with friends, take an exercise class, walk the dog, etc.
  8. Wear shoes that are supportive and comfortable. When feet are uncomfortable, the whole body suffers. Feet carry us where we need to go, so be kind to them and we have a better chance that they’ll work throughout our lives.
  9. Be helpful. Whether we volunteer our time or donate to worthy causes, helping others is a win-win. We end up with a better self-image, which in turn creates an overall sense of well-being.
  10. Take the stairs wherever you can. That doesn’t mean climbing a high-rise, but three or four stories is a good way to add to a short walk in a building. During inclement weather, consciously using the stairs is a great way to do a mini-workout.

To help you achieve your healthy eating resolution, we’re offering a special on chocolate Kenzen Vital Balance®—Get 3 for the price of 2! (Excludes Autoship orders.)

1 https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/wellness/advice/g985/achievable-new-year-resolutions/?slide=29

2 https://www.marketwatch.com/story/4-new-years-resolutions-that-will-save-you-money-in-2019-2019-01-01

New Year Message for 2019 from the CEO

Published on by Nikken

As I reflect on our 43rd year, there was much to be thankful for in the Nikken Family. Worldwide, last year thousands of people embraced the Nikken concept of Active Wellness. Living a Life in Balance by creating a Wellness Home defines our purpose or mission to humanity.

For the new year, Nikken will have much to offer to leverage our mission.

First, regarding personnel, I am very excited to announce new Nikken Corporate Executive and Sales Teams.

  • Luis Kasuga has accepted the position of President of Nikken Global. In this role, he will take the lead in developing and executing the Nikken sales and marketing strategy. I am confident he will have a significant impact on your business.
  • The new Managing Director for Latin America is Gustavo Gomez. Recently he celebrated his 15th anniversary with Nikken and is well known to everyone. Given his prior role as Sales Director for Latin America, this new position is a natural transition for Gustavo. His insights into network marketing have had a significant impact on aligning Company and Field Leaders’ goals.
  • Jeff Isom in his new role will be Chancellor of Nikken University. In this position, he will focus on providing global training for Nikken. Returning to his roots, Jeff will travel extensively to bring you Humans Being More Silver Training (HBMST), a unique approach to self-development and network marketing training.
  • Jennifer Figueroa will assume the responsibilities for Latin American sales. Jennifer possesses excellent people skills with a mind for business—a rare combination. In her prior role as General Manager for Mexico, Guatemala and El Salvador, she was instrumental in helping to create the tremendous success our Consultants have been enjoying there.
  • North America once again has a National Sales Director: Ruben Yescas. He has more than 20 years of business experience, including 10 years in network marketing. His goal has always been to help consultants grow a profitable business.
  • Marisa Gonzalez will be returning to the Sales Dept. She has been with Nikken for 18 years, and during this time she has built a stellar reputation for providing service to the field.

In other matters, in April, Nikken will commemorate 30 years in the USA. It has been and continues to be a most rewarding experience. There is no substitute for Humans Being More.

By the beginning of the 2nd quarter, North America will have a new shopping cart. It will be user friendly, sleek and hip! This shopping cart is just one example of our renewed commitment to our e-commerce platform. Refinements and new functionality will be added to our web presence as needs are identified.

There will be an increased emphasis on digital marketing as a medium to increase awareness of the Nikken Brand and what it represents.

Exciting new products will be launched in 2019. Europe and Latin America will experience the phenomenal benefits of the KenkoGround™, which was previewed at the Toronto Summit this past October. The testimonials we have read have truly been incredible.

Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank you for being part of the Nikken Family, and I want to wish all of you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!

Kurt H. Fulle

CEO and Chairman