Tag: PiMag Waterfall®

We Can Help Curtail the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

Published on by Nikken

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch, which is twice the size of Texas, is the largest accumulation of ocean plastic in the world. The patch is bounded by an enormous gyre –the biggest of five huge, spinning circular currents in the world’s oceans that pull trash towards the center and trap it there, creating a garbage vortex.

The Ocean Cleanup initiative estimates there are about 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic in the patch that weigh an estimated 80,000 tons. The majority of the plastic found in the patch comes from the fishing industry, while between 10% and 20% of the total volume can be traced back to the 2011 Japanese tsunami.1

According to the UN Environment Program (UNEP), the world produces around 460 million tons of plastic a year, which will triple by 2060 without urgent action. Globally, only about 9% of plastic waste is recycled, and as much as 22% of all plastic waste is mismanaged and ends up as litter, with large amounts making it into the oceans.2

The Ocean Cleanup has built a huge trash-collecting system, a U-shaped barrier with a net-like skirt that hangs below the surface of the water. It moves with the current and collects faster-moving plastics as they float by, but cleanup is only part of the solution. A study published recently said that without urgent policy action, the rate at which plastics enter the oceans could increase by around 2.6 times between now and 2040.3

More than one million bottles of water are sold every minute around the world and the sindustry shows no sign of slowing down. Global sales of bottled water are expected to nearly double by 2030. Researchers analyzed data from 109 countries and found that the bottled water industry saw a 73% growth in sales from 2010 to 2020, making it one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. In 2021, global bottled water sales reached 350 billion liters and were valued at an estimated $270 billion, a figure expected to soar to $500 billion by 2030.4

Bottled water is popular throughout the world, with the US, China and Indonesia having the largest number of consumers. Countries in the Global South together represent roughly 60% of the market. A report by the UN University’s Institute for Water, Environment and Health showed that the bottled water industry generated roughly 600 billion plastic bottles and containers in 2021, resulting in 25 million tons of plastic waste, most of which was not recycled and ended in landfills.5

Fossil fuels are the raw ingredient for the vast majority of plastics, which have a heavy carbon footprint from manufacturing through to disposal. Around 85% of plastic water bottles, which can take up to 1,000 years to degrade, end up as waste in the ocean, adding to a vast swirl of plastic waste that poses a serious threat to marine life.6

The UN Environment Assembly passed a historic resolution last year to end plastic pollution and create the world’s first global plastic pollution treaty by 2024 – a legally binding agreement that would address the full life cycle of plastic, from its production and design to its disposal.

Each one of us can make it a personal goal to reduce plastic disposals every single day. The easiest way is to break the habit of single-use plastic bottles. All we have to do is make it a matter of routine to use re-usable water bottles and carry them with us. Nikken has outstanding water filters, namely the PiMag Waterfall® and PiMag® Sport Bottle. The replacement filters are recyclable, the water is refreshing and alkalized through the filtration process, and each time we drink from them, we know we are doing our part to live in harmony with nature.

Now through June 30, receive 20% off the PiMag® replacement filters for both the Sport Bottle and the Waterfall, along with the replacement filters for the PiMag MicroJet® Shower Systems and the KenkoAir Purifier®. It’s a win-win as we practice our total wellness lifestyle and help our oceans and marine sustain their survival.

1, 2, 3 https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/17/world/plastic-pollution-ocean-ecosystems-intl-climate/index.html

4, 5, 6 https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/16/world/plastic-water-bottles-un-report-climate/index.html

May is the Month to Make Our Recommitments

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May is the third and last month of the spring season in the northern hemisphere. In the United Kingdom, it’s known as the “smile month.” May is named after the Greek goddess of fertility, Maia, and the Romans called her Bona Dea. In the 1400s, the word designating the fifth month of the year changed from Maius to May.

In North America, May is known as National Recommitment Month! Its significance is as a time to reevaluate the meaningful areas of our lives and to see if we’re on the right path. Have we honored the commitments we made earlier in the year? How are we progressing with our goals for 2023? Are our relationships with family and friends where they should be?

Throughout our lives, we make goals and commitments, and before the middle of the year approaches, May is a good month to step back and assess how we are doing. No matter what the commitment—largely encompassed by any of the 5 Pillars of Wellness—healthy mind, body, family, society or finances—it’s time to take a look at where we stand.

Some practical ways to recommit are to examine our goals and see which ones are on track and which need more work or to be eliminated. If the original plan was too complicated to execute, then it’s time to simplify. If there were too many goals, it’s time to reset priorities and stick to the critical ones—our chances of success are higher when goals are realistic.

Focus. Multi-tasking is often presented as a desired skill when in reality, focusing on one goal at a time tends to produce a higher success rate. When we work on many things at once, chances are none of them will get done in a timely way. In other words, we don’t need to spread ourselves too thin. This holds true not only for work goals but also relationship goals.

Be mindful. Mindfulness is a means to an end. It helps ensure commitments are honored by decluttering the brain. Mindfulness requires our full intention as well as freedom from self-imposed anxiety, pressure, negativity and fear. Meditation is a form of mindfulness, but even without an actual meditation practice, we can take a few minutes every day to be quiet internally and renew our commitments and intentions. Meditation and being silent helps us consciously repel self-demeaning thoughts and emotions by emptying the mind. Mindfulness is positive self-talk and an essential component of self-care.

Prioritize. This is a no-brainer, but too often, we forget to do it. Since change is constant, we need to prioritize every day. That actually is what recommitment is founded on—as priorities change, our commitments change. What is most important to do today? And then, for the week?

Be flexible. Depending on each person’s personality, flexibility may come naturally or be a goal in and of itself. Just because we have made certain commitments and want to fulfill them doesn’t mean it’s always do-able or even practical. Sometimes we just have to go with the flow and adjust accordingly. On the other hand, sometimes we do have to stick to our plans even if they go against the general consensus. Exercising good judgment in that way is also part of recommitment.

What are you recommitting to this month? Are you hydrating and making sure you are breathing in fresh air? Are you exercising daily? Have you connected with your elder family members? Did you walk the dog today? Whatever your priorities are, remember to be kind to yourself.

As you recommit to prioritizing your health, be sure to take advantage of the 20% off filters promotion that Nikken is running now through June 30, 2023. It’s a great savings and the perfect time to purchase a spare for your PiMag® Sport Bottle, PiMag MicroJet® shower systems, PiMag Waterfall® and KenkoAir Purifier®! Each filter helps decrease your carbon footprint and gets your closer to being in harmony with nature!

Embracing Spring Cleaning and Warmer Weather

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Spring is here and that usually means warmer weather, more sunshine and frequent but short showers—all helping flowers to bloom and foliage to grow. That adds up to more outdoor activities, such as hiking, running, swimming, yard work and picnics. While outdoors, we’re breathing in a mixture of pollen, clean and polluted air, and depending on the location, possibly industrial waste.

Spring is also a time of renewal and part of that is the universal embrace of spring cleaning. In fact, in many parts of Asia, spring cleaning involves not only one’s house but also the gravesites of ancestors. It’s a way to celebrate the gifts that the spring season brings to the living and remembrance and honor to those who have gone by keeping their resting places swept and clean.

The average American spends 80% of their lives indoors, where the air quality may actually be worse than the air quality outdoors! Depending on where we live, clean air and potable water can be valuable commodities rather than the norm. The rite of spring cleaning addresses indoor air pollutants and the need to hydrate more as the climate changes.

Even when outdoor air is breathable and water is potable, we run the risk of bad indoor air quality that can cause respiratory issues or other ailments. Air pollutants can range from contaminants brought in by pets, dust mites, spores, mold and mildew, or even harmful gases like carbon monoxide and radon, or volatile chemicals emitted from conventional cleaners and cooking.1

These air pollutants and allergens can cause respiratory problems and flare-ups in people who already have breathing issues. Children, people with asthma and the elderly may be especially sensitive to indoor pollution. These same people often do not stay well hydrated and other health issues can arise.This is why it’s so important to use water and air filtration units.

Nikken is committed to creating environmentally-friendly products that are in harmony with nature. They help us to breathe clean air, to live a a wellness lifestyle and to keep hydrated with alkaline water. When we’re spring cleaning, it’s the perfect time to make sure all our water and air filters are changed in a timely way!

  • The KenkoAir Purifier® exceeds the measured efficiency of capturing up to 99.95% of 0.3 micron particles in the air. It’s 35% more efficient than standard models and saves a minimum of 215 kilowatt-hours per year. Unlike typical air filters, this advanced system helps generate negative-ions similar to those found in natural environments.

Nikken recommends changing the filters every six months. Be sure to clean the reusable prefilter when the other filters are replaced. Choose Item #1444.

  • The PiMag® Sport Bottle uses state-of-the-art filtration technology that exceeds NSF standards for reducing particulates, chlorine, chloramine, taste and odor, cysts, lead, bacteria, VOCs, MTBE and more.

Nikken recommends changing the filter approximately every 40 gallons or three months of average use or up to an estimated 250 refills per filter. Choose item #13503 for the Replacement Filter Pack.

  • The PiMag Waterfall® is the eco-friendly Sport Bottle’s counterpart for the home and office. It also exceeds NSF standards as mentioned above.

Nikken recommends changing the filter every 3- 6 months or 900 liters/238 gallons, whichever comes first. Choose item 13845. Mineral stones should be changed annually. Choose item #13846.

  • The PiMag MicroJet® Shower System has also been tested according to NSF standards and been proven to effectively reduce chlorine exposure. While most chlorine-reduction systems in shower filters merely trap chlorine or add other chemicals to counteract it, the PiMag MicroJet uses a reduction/oxidation process to neutralize chlorine ions. The MicroJet injects air into the shower stream to increase the electronegative potential of the water for more effective filtration. Micro-bubbles are released through the nozzle to provide an exceptional cleansing action.

Nikken recommends changing the filter for the hand held model every 5,000 gallons or three months, based on average use. Choose Item #14661.

Nikken recommends changing the filter for the wall mount model every 10,000 gallons or six months, based on average use. Choose Item #13831.

Healthy Routines for Healthy Hearts

Published on by Nikken

There are many ways to help keep our hearts healthy, our circulation smooth and our blood vessels free of plaque. Certain conditions are inherited, but being aware of them can help us embrace the Active Wellness habits that counteract them. Our habits start with choices, and it depends on what we’re willing to do, give up or add to our lifestyles.

No smoking: It’s been decades since the benefits of not smoking cigarettes have been brought to light, but now, there are so many things other than cigarettes to smoke. The truth of the matter is, none of it is good for our heart or lungs—some substances can alleviate pain or quell nausea, but inhaled habitually, can cause heart and lung damage. In other words, quitting smoking means stopping the inhalation of a whole range of things—and vaping is ill-advised, too. The American Heart Association, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention jointly encourage all smokers to quit!1

Curb belly fat: Certain parts of the body have a special impact on heart health. Research in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has linked excess belly fat to higher blood pressure and unhealthy blood lip levels.2 Health practitioners advise us to try to decrease the belly fat through diet and exercise, not just from spot routines. In other words, a hundred sit-ups a day won’t get rid of belly fat, but losing some weight by eating better (or less) combined with a daily exercise routine that includes some form of cardio or aerobic activity, may do the trick.

Healthy snacks: We all know that eating right is critical for good health. When trying to eat the right foods, one of the things that is hard to do is to give up unhealthy snacking. The good news is that there are actually healthy snacks we can incorporate into our diets. One example is chips and salsa. The salsa is a delightful mix of healthy vegetables as long as we don’t oversalt it. Add in some whole or blended beans—black, white, pinto, any other choices—and the salsa gets a big boost of heart-healthy fiber. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diet rich in soluble fiber can help lower LDL (bad cholesterol).

Omega-3 fatty acids: Another source of heart-healthy food is fish, due to its omega-3 fatty acid content. Not all fish are equal, but salmon, tuna, sardines and herring, for example, contain good amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. Nutritionists recommend eating fish twice a week, with the health benefits outweighing the risks of mercury ingestion.3  If you’re a vegetarian, our Kenzen® Omega Green + DHA is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids.

Eat the color spectrum: Have you heard the saying, “eat the rainbow?” This simply means that a heart-healthy diet can be made up of naturally colorful food—green, red, yellow, orange, purple and blue—easily found in vegetables and fruits. Think of favorite fruits and vegetables and simply incorporate them into meals or eat them in between meals.

A half teaspoon of salt a day: Researchers have reported in The New England Journal of Medicine that a half teaspoon of salt is all we need per day!4 Salt is apparently one of the leading culprits of high blood pressure which in turn causes heart disease. Salt is a hidden menace found in excessive quantities in processed foods, many restaurant foods and especially fast-foods. Breaking the salt habit can be challenging, but for starters, never salt anything without tasting it first!

Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains heart-healthy flavonoids. These compounds help reduce inflammation and may lower the risk of heart disease, according to scientists in the journal Nutrients. Incorporating dark chocolate into a diet is prudent but not in copious amounts—a couple of squares is recommended.

Go Nuts: Thankfully, some fats are actually good for us! These heart-healthy fats come in the form of almonds, walnuts, pecans and even moderate amounts of peanuts. They also contain protein and fiber that act as fuel and digestive helpers. Although high in healthy fats, they’re also high-calorie so nutritionists advise eating small amounts daily.

7% fat daily: Like salt, decreasing fat intake daily to just 7% of our daily calories can help lower the risk of heart disease, according to the USDA. One way to help calculate our intake is to read the nutrition labels on the food we buy.

Eat breakfast: Although intermittent fasting is trending for weight loss, breakfast truly is an important meal of the day, if not the most important one. To build a heart-healthy meal that ends the overnight “fast,” incorporate whole grains, such as oatmeal, lean protein such as peanut butter, yogurt or low-fat dairy milk from animal or vegetable sources) and fruit, especially berries high in antioxidants and polyphenols.

Drink tea: Black or green, it’s our choice and either is healthy for the heart. In fact, drinking one to three cups of tea every day may help lower the risk of heart problems. So, have a “cuppa” and enjoy the possibility of lowering the risk of angina and heart attacks!

Fun exercises: Not everyone likes going to the gym and working out, but regular exercise is important for sustained heart health. In fact, sitting for too much of the day is now considered as bad as smoking! It’s therefore imperative to get a move on! There are many alternatives to working out. For example, dancing raises the heart rate and gets the lungs pumping. It also burns up to 200 calories or more per hour, and listening to music while dancing is an added pleasure. Walking, swimming, running/jogging, rowing, hiking and so forth, are all great alternatives to the gym and you can connect with nature at the same time.

Yoga: Another ongoing trend is the practice of yoga. Since it originated in India more than 5,000 years go, this “trend” has proven it’s here to stay. The western world had some catching up to do, but has now shown that yoga has the potential to improve heart health. By stretching virtually every part of the body (even ears, nose and mouth), yoga can help improve balance, flexibility and strength. It also helps relieve stress and helps improve sleep, all adding up to maintaining a healthy heart.

Make your HaHas Loud: This is such a great to-do to incorporate into an Active Wellness lifestyle. Laughing out loud may be good for the heart, according to the American Health Association. Laughing out loud has been found to lower stress hormones, decrease inflammation on arteries and raise levels of high-density lipoprotein (HLD or good cholesterol).

Gum and tooth health: Cleveland Clinic researchers have found that bacteria that can cause gum disease also may raise the risk of heart disease. Findings to date are mixed, but there’s only good that come of keeping teeth and gums healthy. Brush and floss every day if you don’t already, and see the results.

Get enough sleep: When we don’t get enough sleep, the heart is significantly impacted.5 It’s no surprise that the entire body needs its rest, but the heart works 24/7 and really needs to rest!

Remember, Kenzen® Nutrition is here to help fill in the gaps of anyone’s diet! From now until March 23, 2023, each purchase of a PiMag Waterfall® will be accompanied by a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Immunity; each purchase of a KenkoAir Purifier® will have a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Clarity; and each purchase of a Kenko Sleep Pack will contain a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Joint.

1, 2 3, 4 https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-heart-tips#know-your-numbers

5 https://www.scripps.org/news_items/5146-5-heart-healthy-habits

Stress and the Mighty Trio: Immunity, Mental Clarity and Mobility

Published on by Nikken

Stress is the body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat. When you sense danger—whether it’s real or imagined—the body’s defenses kick into high gear in a rapid, automatic process known as the “fight-or-flight” reaction or the “stress response.”1

When working properly, the stress response protects us and allows us to stay focused and alert. For example, to avoid a car accident, we might slam on the brakes as our stress response. In this way, stress is a positive part of our lives.

Too much stress, however, can cause major damage to our bodies and minds—not only to health, but also to mood, productivity, relationships and overall quality of life. Stress can definitely put a damper on the pursuit of an Active Wellness lifestyle.

The varying levels of stress can be likened to a spectrum. At one end is “eustress,” the manageable levels of stress that help tackle challenges at work, school, or in relationships. Eustress does not necessarily feel comfortable, but it is useful and can help us succeed.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is “distress.” This is the type of stress that is destructive—it disrupts sleep and creates undesired tension, mood disorders and a negative outlook. Distress can occur when we are too busy at work, owe money, are grieving or suffering any type of painful loss.

Our personalities and perspectives on how we work, compete or play can affect whether stress takes the form of eustress or distress. For example, if there is a looming deadline and it worries or overwhelms us, we are going to experience distress. If that same deadline creates a sense of excitement about the ensuing outcome, we would experience eustress. We therefore are somewhat in control of the stress we live with, but we cannot foresee the future or the unknown.

When we get stressed out frequently, the body exists in a heightened state of anxiety most of the time. That can lead to serious health problems, since chronic stress disrupts nearly every system in the body and its functions. It can suppress the immune system, upset the digestive and reproductive systems, increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, and speed up the aging process. It can even rewire the brain, leaving us more vulnerable to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems.2

Chronic stress occurs because stress is sneaky. It can creep up on us and we get so used to feeling stressed out that we don’t even notice its ill effects until they manifest in disturbing ways. That’s why it’s important to be aware of the symptoms that chronic stress can cause.

The three main areas that stress impacts are immunity, mental clarity and mobility. We need a strong immune system to fight disease, but stress weakens the body’s defenses. Stress can reduce the number of natural killer cells or lymphocytes in the body, which are needed to fight viruses, according to the American Psychological Association. It makes us catch colds or the flu more easily, for example.

Chronic stress can produce higher-than-normal levels of the hormone cortisol. This can hamper the body’s anti-inflammatory response and cause continual infections, according to recent immunology research studies.3

Issues with mental clarity include memory problems, inability to concentrate, poor judgment, persistent anxiety, runaway thoughts, constant worrying, moodiness, irritability and depression.

Mobility is affected when stress causes pain, tightness, soreness or spasms in the muscles. According to the American Psychological Association, muscles tense up during stress. When the stress is gone, the muscles then relax and release the built-up tension.

Other physical symptoms include skin breakouts, irregular heartbeats, fluctuating weight, trouble sleeping, indigestion and other digestive issues. If inflammation is persistent and widespread, it can contribute to chronic diseases, including the buildup of plaque on the arterial walls. This is just one of the many factors at play in the complex relationship between stress and the heart.  Stress is related to heart rhythm abnormalities, high blood pressure, stroke and asthma. Lung conditions include shortness of breath and rapid breathing.

Knowing our stress triggers can help us deal with them more effectively. Here are a few ways to cope with stress:

Exercise: Regular exercise is known to improve moods and relieve stress. Rhythmic exercises such as walking, running, swimming, and dancing are particularly effective, especially when focusing attention on the physical sensations of each movement.

Make human contact: In this day and age of electronic devices, we often spend more time with screens than with people. The simple act of talking face-to-face with another human can trigger hormones that relieve stress. Even a brief exchange of kind words or a friendly look from another human being can help calm and soothe the nervous system.

Use the senses: Sight, sound, taste, smell, touch. The key is to find the sensory input that works best for each individual. Does listening to an uplifting song produce calmness? Is the scent of a favorite flower soothing? Research has shown that the act of petting a dog or cat not only comforts the animal, but also the human.  Everyone responds to sensory input a little differently, so finding the best use of any of the five senses can be a fun experiment.

Relax. Some people are good at letting go of stress at the end of the day and can relax. Others need to consciously practice the art of relaxation. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing activate the body’s relaxation response, a state of restfulness that is the polar opposite of the stress response. When practiced regularly, these activities can help reduce everyday stress levels and boost feelings of joy and serenity. They also may increase the ability to stay calm and collected under pressure.

Eat healthy food. “You are what you eat” doesn’t need to be taken literally, but it holds truth. Food can improve or worsen moods and affect how we cope with life’s stressors. Eating a diet full of processed and convenience food, refined carbohydrates, and sugary snacks can worsen symptoms of stress, while a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, high-quality protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, can help us cope with life’s ups and downs.

Get enough sleep. Feeling tired can magnify stress. Getting restful sleep can be tricky because chronic stress can disrupt sleep. Making the sleep environment as comfortable as possible and adhering to a sleep cycle that allows for 6-8 hours can be helpful.

The pursuit of Active Wellness includes finding adequate ways to cope with stress. At Nikken, we have three nutritionals that may help in the “mighty trio”: Kenzen® Immunity, Clarity and Joint. From now until March 23, 2023, each purchase of a PiMag Waterfall® will be accompanied by a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Immunity; each purchase of a KenkoAir Purifier® will have a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Clarity; and each purchase of a Kenko Sleep Pack will contain a bonus bottle of Kenzen® Joint.

1, 2  https://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-symptoms-signs-and-causes

3, 4  https://health.umms.org/2020/11/10/stress-immune-system/

Imagine Breathing in Refreshing Forest Air

Published on by Nikken

The smell of nature in the air is so sweet! Did you know that this enticing smell is not only a sensory pleasure but actually an aspect of preventive health in Japanese medicine? Called Shinrin-Yoku, its literal translation is “forest bathing.” Though any kind of nature can enhance our health and happiness, there’s something special about being in a forest.

The Japanese Society of Forest Medicine, headed by Dr. Qing Li, promotes research on the therapeutic effects of forests on human health and educates people on the practice of forest bathing, which involves slowly walking through a forest, taking in the atmosphere through all your senses and enjoying the benefits.1 In 1982, Japan launched a national program to encourage forest bathing and by 2004, a formal study of the link between forests and human health had begun in Iiyama, a place known for its lush, green forests. Now, more than 2.5 million people walk those forest trails as a way to ease stress and enhance health.2

After years of study, Dr. Qing Li has found that spending time in a forest can help reduce stress, anxiety, depression and anger! The result is a boost to the immune system, improved cardiovascular and metabolic health and an increase in the feeling of overall well-being.3

In the western world, exercise is the primary solution for promoting cardiovascular, metabolic and mental health. When you are walking through a forest and inhaling that natural air, you’re not only getting moderate exercise but also hanging out with trees, which turns out to be an important part of preventive health. Dr. Qing Li discovered this when he was a stressed-out student and went on a week of forest camping. He returned feeling restored both physically and mentally, so much so that it inspired him to research forests and their benefits on human well-being.

Those of us who don’t have easy access to a forest and forest bathing, can have the next best thing. Since indoor air quality is often worse than outdoor air, how soothing would it be to have forest-like air in doors? How much would we benefit from breathing natural forest-like air in our own homes?

Say hello to the KenkoAir Purifier®. Its middle name is HEPA 13 and it can filter air particles so small that they’re not visible to the naked eye. Due to negative-ion technology, you receive filtered air that simulates what’s found in nature—nature as in forests and lakes. In other words, you’re getting as close to forest bathing as you can without actually hanging out with the trees.

In keeping with the Nikken pledge to be in harmony with nature, the KenkoAir Purifier operates ozone-free so it’s non-toxic. It has a reusable pre-filter which can be washed and the other filters can be replaced easily every six months. You breathe cleaner air and decrease your carbon footprint at the same time—a win-win situation you can enjoy year-round, as long as you remember to replace the filters on time. If you live somewhere that has especially dense air quality, replace the filters more often. Every time you see the red light is on, you’ll know your KenkoAir Purifier is cranking so your air gets cleaner.

Lately, even the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) is recommending the use of a HEPA air filter in homes. Don’t wait for visible signs of bad air to show up in your home. Mold, mildew, musty odors, dust and dander can all be addressed with good filtration. You don’t have to wait long to feel and smell the benefits from the KenkoAir Purifier.

From now through September 15, take advantage of our state-of-the-art filtration systems: all filters are 20% off. These are Active Wellness filters for the KenkoAir Purifier®, PiMag Waterfall®, PiMag® Sport Bottle and PiMag MicroJet® Showers (both hand held and wall mount models) and PiMag® mineral stones.

1, 2, 3 https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/why_forest_bathing_is_good_for_your_health

Water is the Best Drink for Children

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Water is life, and all plants and animals require water to live. As part of the animal kingdom, humans are the only ones who do not drink water and mother’s milk exclusively for survival. This complicates human survival, because along with milk, plain water is the best choice for children; yet contemporary lifestyles commonly allow for juices, sugary sodas and artificially flavored beverages.

Water has zero calories, keeps joints, bones and teeth healthy, helps the blood circulate and can help children maintain a healthy weight into adulthood. A well hydrated child tends to have better mood, memory and attention span as well as concentration and focus.1

Just as water is best, here are some other guidelines for children:

• No sugar-sweetened beverages for children younger than two years of age. Limit them for older children as much as possible. This includes sports and energy drinks, juice cocktails, sodas, lemonade, and sweetened water. These drinks add “empty calories” to the diet, can be filling and leave kids less hungry for the nutritious foods they really need. Sometimes sodas and energy drinks contain caffeine, which may overstimulate many children.

• Even 100% juice should be strictly limited. While juice may contain some vitamins, these drinks are high in sugar and calories and low in the healthy fiber found in whole fruit. Because of its sweet taste, once children are offered juice, it can be difficult to get them to drink plain water. Keep these amounts in mind:2

•Children less than a year should not drink any juice at all.

            •Children one to three years of age should have no more than four oz per day.

            •For older children, juice is only recommended if whole fruits are not available. Children ages four to six years: no more than four to six oz per day, and for children ages seven to 18, no more than eight oz per day.

• Avoid artificially-sweetened drinks. Health risks for children from artificial sweeteners are not well understood, so it is safest to avoid these drinks. Instead, make water readily available to encourage healthy drinking and establish Active Wellness habits.

• Milk may be beneficial, whether animal-sourced or plant-sourced. However, flavored milk can be much higher in sugars. Even though children still get the benefits of the calcium and vitamins found in flavored milk, the added sugars may create a preference for sweet flavors, which can make it difficult to have success when offering regular milk.

Children are at a greater risk of dehydration than adults because in relation to their size, they have a larger proportion of skin that is exposed to heat.3  Also, children don’t always recognize when they’re thirsty, and if they’re not encouraged and reminded with water, may forget to drink and rehydrate.

We can help children create healthy habits by being good role models and drinking plenty of filtered water. We also can teach them respect for the environment and to carry a re-usable water bottle to avoid single-use plastics. Children are like sponges and learn quickly, so we can start them off right with clean, alkalizing PiMag® water.

Tap into the power of hydration with our four Water Packs, available through the end of April! Each pack has two state-of-the-art PiMag® products. You get one at the regular price and the second at 50% off! You have your choice of two PiMag MicroJet® Wall Mount Shower Systems or two PiMag MicroJet® Handheld Shower Systems, both of which help neutralize chemicals, two PiMag® Sport Bottles of 100% recyclable biogreen materials, or two PiMag Waterfalls® that can help reduce bacteria by 99.99%.

1, 2 https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Choose-Water-for-Healthy-Hydration.aspx#:~:text=It%20good%20for%20the%20body,sports%20drinks%2C%20sodas%20and%20juice.

3 https://healthy-kids.com.au/parents/children-hydration/

Hydration and Moisturization: We Need Both for Healthy Skin

Published on by Nikken

The word “hydration” is connected to water. Hydrating the skin therefore means increasing its water content. Hydrated skin is smooth, glowing and has an even tone. When skin is dehydrated, it can appear flaky, dull and dry. However, people often tend to confuse dehydrated skin with dry skin. Although used synonymously, there is an underlying difference between the two. Dehydrated skin lacks water, whereas dry skin lacks a fair amount of sebum, which is the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands present in the skin. Dry skin can also be the result of certain medications or disorders.1

How can we tell the difference between dry skin and dehydrated skin? The two have notably different indicators. Dry skin may present as itchy, red, flaky and irritated, while dehydrated skin may show up as dull, wrinkly, lined, puffiness and shadows around the eyes, dry mouth and increased sensitivity.2

There are ways to hydrate the skin but there are also ways to moisturize it. Hydration and moisturization actually involve two separate processes. Hydration of the skin occurs when we add water to it. It temporarily fills skin cells to give it a fuller feel. It’s temporary because skin releases water when there is nothing to help retain it—the most obvious way is through perspiration but exposure to wind, sun and other elements expedite the discharge of water.

Drinking a lot of water, in and of itself, cannot help hydrate skin unless you are actually dehydrated. Those who stay hydrated cannot drink copious amounts to help improve skin’s texture or radiance. Skin is actually the last part of the body that water reaches, as it flows to all the other organs first. However, drinking ample amounts of water does help rid the body and skin of toxins.

Moisturization is a necessary partner for hydration, because it involves adding ingredients into the skin to help prevent water loss. When moisture is retained by the skin, it enables skin’s natural ability to renew and repair to occur, improving texture and overall skin health.

Retaining the moisture in the skin is a complex science, but dermatologists generally agree that hyaluronic acid, glycerin, urea, ceramides and antioxidant vitamins A, C and E are among the most beneficial ingredients to add into creams and serums.3 These ingredients come in many variations and may be known by other “INCI”(International Nomenclature Cosmetic Ingredient) names; for example, tocopherol, sodium hyaluronate, ascorbic acid, lipids from oils and seaweeds and so forth.

The True Elements® Marine Organic Skincare range takes moisturization to a high level with its emphasis on sustainably farmed seaweeds that contain naturally-occurring antioxidants, beneficial acids, salts and oils. You can feel secure knowing that all True Elements® skincare products are COSMOS Organic certified by EcoCert, pH balanced and naturally fragranced. The range does not contain parabens, phenoxyethanol, PEGs, phthalates, EDTA, GMO ingredients or synthetic coloring.

Combining hydration, by drinking enough PiMag water, and moisturization, by using True Elements® Marine Organic skincare, is a bona fide way to maintain high energy levels and vibrant-looking skin. Tap into the power of hydration the entire month of March with our four Water Packs! Each pack has two state-of-the-art PiMag® products. You get one at the regular price and the second at 50% off! You have your choice of two PiMag MicroJet® Wall Mount Shower Systems or two PiMag MicroJet® Handheld Shower Systems, both of which help neutralize chemicals, two PiMag® Sport Bottles of 100% recyclable biogreen materials, or two PiMag Waterfalls® that can help reduce bacteria by 99.99%.

1,2,3,4 https://skinkraft.com/blogs/articles/how-to-hydrate-your-skin

Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible

Published on by Nikken

World Water Day is celebrated globally once a year to consciously recognize the importance of providing affordable, lasting access to safe water. It became a United Nations observance day in 1993 to focus attention on the global water crisis. Now World Water Day takes place on March 22 annually.

The theme of World Water Day for 2022 is “Groundwater: Making the Invisible Visible.” World Water Day draws attention to water scarcity globally and every year, the theme is based on an important aspect of water. Groundwater is important around the world because it is the most abundant source of freshwater on earth.1 It is water that is located beneath the earth’s surface in the pores and crevices of rocks and soil. These layers of soil, sand, rock and gravel that contain usable quantities of groundwater are called aquifers.

Groundwater is invisible, but its impact is visible everywhere. Out of sight, under our feet, groundwater is a hidden treasure that enriches our lives. In the driest parts of the world, it may be the only water people have. Almost all of the freshwater in the world is groundwater, supporting drinking water supplies, sanitation systems, farming, industry and ecosystems. In many places, human activities over-use and pollute groundwater. In other places, we simply do not know how much water is down there, which means we could be failing to harness a potentially vital water resource.2

Accounting for about 97% of non-frozen fresh water on earth, groundwater is an important natural resource that contributes to human development. Approximately 50% of the world’s population drinks ground water daily, and it is critical for sustaining rural populations that are located away from surface water and infrastructure with manmade plumbing.3

Groundwater is a vital resource that provides almost half of all drinking water worldwide, about 40% of water for irrigated agriculture and about one third of water required for industry. Despite these impressive facts and figures, invisible groundwater is out of sight and out of mind for most people. Human activities, including population and economic growth, as well as climate variability, are rapidly increasing the pressure on groundwater resources. Serious depletion and pollution problems are reported for many parts of the world.4

There are now 468 identified aquifer systems identified, underlying almost every nation, increased from 366 in 2015. Groundwater does not stop flowing at political borders and huge resources are stored in what are known as “transboundary aquifers.” 40% of the world’s available water is transboundary. The identification, mapping, assessment and development of control mechanisms for transboundary aquifers (TBAs) are important tasks for ensuring the sustainability of these resources and peaceful cooperation between countries.5

The assessment of global groundwater resources is one of the core activities of The International Groundwater Resources Assessment Centre. (IGRAC) is a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) center that works under the auspices of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and is supported by the Government of The Netherlands. IGRAC facilitates and promotes global sharing of information and knowledge. about groundwater. IGRAC addresses the major issue of groundwater being overused in many areas, where more water is extracted from aquifers than is recharged by rain and snow. In addition, groundwater pollution is a particular problem that can take decades or even centuries to recover from. 

Exploring, protecting and sustainably using groundwater will be central to surviving and adapting to climate change and meeting the needs of a growing population. The 2022 World Water Day spotlights groundwater as an invisible yet valuable resource, and strives to enhance knowledge exchange and collaboration to increase awareness of the importance of taking care of our groundwater.

Water is Life and Nikken is doing its part to help people access clean water for Active Wellness—not only for drinking, but also for bathing. For the entire month of March, we are focusing on the Power of Hydration and offering four Water Packs. Each pack has two state-of-the-art PiMag® products. You get one at the regular price and the second at 50% off! You have your choice of two PiMag MicroJet® Wall Mount Shower Systems or two PiMag MicroJet® Handheld Shower Systems, both of which help neutralize chemicals, two PiMag® Sport Bottles of 100% recyclable biogreen materials, or two PiMag® Waterfalls that can help reduce bacteria by 99.99%.

1,3 https://www.un-igrac.org/resource/transboundary-aquifers-world-map-2021

2  https://www.worldwaterday.org/

4,5 https://www.un-igrac.org/news/groundwater-making-invisible-visible-theme-world-water-day-2022

Stay Fluid to Prevent Dehydration

Published on by Nikken

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than is taken in. It is often accompanied by disturbances in the body’s mineral salt or electrolyte balance – especially in the concentrations of sodium and potassium.1

The body typically loses about two to three liters (68 to 101 fluid ounces) of water daily through breathing, perspiring and the dual processes of eliminating liquid and solid waste. This water loss needs to be replaced on a daily basis. If water is lost from the bloodstream, the body can compensate somewhat by shifting water from cells into the blood vessels, but this is a short-term solution.

As the body loses water, it’s also losing minerals, especially sodium and potassium. This may lead to dehydration. Depending on the ratio of water to electrolyte loss, dehydration can be classified as isotonic, hypertonic or hypotonic. Isotonic dehydration takes place when both water and sodium (salt) are lost in equal amounts. Hypertonic dehydration occurs when more water is lost than sodium, and hypotonic dehydration is the opposite with more sodium lost than water.

According to the European Hydration Institute, about 20-30% of our fluid intake comes from food with 70-80% from beverages of all types, not just plain water.2 Having a variety of beverages actually helps people drink up to 50% more liquids than if only water was available.3 The International Life Sciences Institute recognizes the importance of variety in maintaining hydration, especially for children and the elderly, two groups most vulnerable to dehydration.

Recovering from dehydration can be done at home as long as it’s not severe. A loss of 1% of body weight can generally be replaced within 24 hours. Mild dehydration is characterized by thirst, headache, dizziness and/or fatigue. Loss of 4% of body weight may result in lack of concentration, irritability, sleepiness and increases in body temperature and in respiratory rates. Loss of 10% of body weight can be fatal as it affects cardiovascular function.4

We can be mildly or moderately dehydrated without knowing it. According to medical doctors, 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated.5 This may be due to drinking beverages that are diuretic rather than hydrating. Alcohol and coffee are examples of beverages that cause the body to flush out water.

No matter the cause, there are ways to prevent dehydration or recover from mild cases in the comfort of our own homes. Here are some home remedies with high water content and nutritive values:6

• Bananas contain 70-79% water and are high in water and potassium content. They can help to replenish potassium levels in the body as well as help prevent dehydration.

• Barley Water is. a popular beverage in hot climates not only because it helps to fight heat stroke and in maintaining the fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. Barley grains contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, which helps to restore minerals and water that are lost when dehydrated.

• Buttermilk is one of the widely used home remedies for dehydration, since it is high in water content and packed with nutrients like magnesium. It acts as a natural probiotic which aids in dealing with diarrhea and indigestion, which could be the reason for dehydration.

• Lemon water acts as one of the best home remedies for dehydration as it not only ups your water intake and helps you to stay hydrated but also prevents dehydration. When you add a bit of salt and sugar to lemon water, it helps replenish the lost salts in the body as well as to increase vitamin and mineral levels to restore your fluid and electrolyte balance.

• Orange juice contains Vitamin C, which flushes the toxins from the body. High in water content, it also contains electrolytes such as sodium and potassium to help replenish the nutrient levels in the body. The natural sugar in orange juice provides an instant energy boost to help deal with dehydration.

• Rice water is one of the conventional health drinks used popularly throughout Asia to fight summer heat, heat stroke, diarrhea, and dehydration. Rice is loaded with B-complex vitamins which can help deal with nutrient loss. As rice water contains salt, it also provides minerals such as chloride and sodium, helping to restore the lost nutrients in the body.

• Coconut water is loaded with potassium, calcium, and amino acids. It is naturally rich in electrolytes, which helps ward off fatigue and raises energy levels. It’s a healthy alternative to sports drinks that are high in added sugars. Many athletes consume this beverage before and after training. Sipping organic coconut water throughout the day is a pleasant way to remain hydrated or to recover from dehydration.

Tap into the Power of Hydration with Nikken the entire month of March! We are offering four Water Packs, each with two state-of-the-art PiMag® products. You get one at the regular price and the second at 50% off! You have your choice of two PiMag MicroJet® Wall Mount Shower Systems or two PiMag MicroJet® Handheld Shower Systems, both of which help neutralize chemicals, two PiMag® Sport Bottles of 100% recyclable biogreen materials, or two PiMag® Waterfalls that can help reduce bacteria by 99.99%.

1, 2, 3, 4  https://www.europeanhydrationinstitute.org/consequences_of_dehydration/

5 https://www.medicaldaily.com/75-americans-may-suffer-chronic-dehydration-according-doctors-247393

6 https://www.1mg.com/articles/top-7-home-remedies-for-dehydration