As we reach the end of 2020 (thank goodness), we could all use a little bit of wellness in our lives. And this year, there are plenty of Black Friday and Cyber Monday wellness deals to help us boost our self-care practices without having to max out our credit cards for the cause. We scoured the internet for the best discounted feel-good products you can treat yourself—and everyone on your gifting list—to this holiday season. Scroll through for some of the best wellness deals the Internet has to offer, and trust us: You’re guaranteed to want to *add to cart* come November 27—even in the midst of your tryptophan hangover. 1. Apple Airpods Pro, $194 ($249 value)At $50 off, this is the best deal you’ll get on these noise-cancelling, sweat-resistant earbuds all year. Shop now: Apple Airpods Pro, $194 ($249 value) 2. Barefoot DreamTreat yourself—and everyone on your gifting list—to one of Barefoot Dreams’ cozy blankets or sweatsuits. From Nov. 27 through Dec. 2, the brand is offering 25 to 30 percent off of their curated selection of throws and accessories. Shop now: Barefoot Dream Cozy Chic Throw, $176 ($235 value) 3. Birthdate Co.For a gift guaranteed to make everyone happy this holiday season, shop Birthdate Co.’s personalized astrological birth chart books and candles. From Nov. 24 through Dec. 1, books and candles will be 35 and 15 percent off, respectively. Shop now: Birthdate Book, $75 ($115 value) 4. BriogeoBriogeo is known for its natural, moisturizing hair products, all of which can be yours for 20-percent off from Nov. 23 to Nov. 30 with the code HOLIDAY. And as an extra bonus? Orders placed on Nov. 30 will receive a free travel-sized Avocado Mask and Farewell Frizz spray. Shop now: Briogeo Be Gentle Be Kind Mega Moisture Superfood Mask, $29 ($36 value) 5. DazzleDryMake at home manis a cinch with this four-step kit, which has everything you need for healthy, gorgeous nails. From Nov. 27 through Nov. 30, it can be yours for 25 percent off. Shop now: DazzleDry The System, $50 ($66 value) 6. DiptyqueNothing says “I love you” quite like Diptyque’s iconic Baies candle. From Nov. 27 through Dec. 30, the brand is offering an artfully designed, limited-edition version of the home scent, and 15 percent of sales will be donated to the World Health Organization as part of the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund. Shop Now: Limited Edition Diptyque Baies Candle, $78 7. DedcoolFragrance is one of our main forms of escapism right now, and Dedcool’s signature scents will mentally transport you far away from your quarantine bunker. On Nov. 27, receive 30 percent off site-wide, plus a free mini candle with purchases over $50. Shop now: Dedcool Ivy Blanc, $91 ($130 value) 8. DermstoreRe-up your skincare regimen at a major discount during Dermstore’s Cyber Week sales. From Nov. 24 through Nov. 30, score up to 30-percent off some of your favorite brands with the code SHARETHELOVE. Shop now: iS Clinical Pure Care Collection, $69 ($99 value) 9. Egunsi FoodsMake cooking at home easier than ever this winter with Egunsi’s ready-to-heat soups, starters, and sauces, all of which are crafted around traditional West African recipes. All products will be 20 percent off from Nov. 24 through Dec. 1. Shop now: Egunsi Food Introductory 4-Pack Bundle, $64 ($80 value) 10. KosasIt’s hard to choose a favorite product from Kosas’ makeup line, which means it’s good news that all of the brand’s offerings will be on sale between Nov. 20 and Nov. 30. You’ll get 20 percent off of any purchase over $25, 25 percent off any purchase over $50, and 30-percent off any purchase over $75. Plus, on Nov. 30, you’ll get your choice of red lip with every order. Shop now: Kosas Tinted Facial Oil Foundation, $34 ($42 value) 11. KonMariGive the gift of an organized home with 10 percent off on KonMari’s products from Nov. 27 through Nov. 30 with the code HOLIDAY2020. Shop now: KonMari Cream Canvas Hamper & Storage Bin, $74 ($82 value) 12. LaneigeYou can finally get your hands on the sleep masks your friends (and our editors) have been raving about thanks to Laneige’s Black Friday offerings, where you can score them for 30-percent off from Nov. 27 through Nov. 29 with the code MASK30. Plus, you’ll also get a free Laneige Silk Eye Mask with any purchase of more than $75. Shop now: Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask, $15 ($22 value) 13. Love DirtyThere’s never been a better time to invest in hand sanitizer, and Love Dirty (one of our favorite luxury hand sanitizer brands) is letting you do it for 15 percent off from Nov. 27 through Nov. 30. Shop now: Love Dirty 100ml Air-Free Eco Pump Dispenser, $15 ($18 value) 14. Maison MiruWhether you’re buying them for yourself or someone else, you really can’t go wrong with a set of dainty gold earrings. From Nov. 26 through Nov. 30, you’ll save $20 on this Surprise Ear Bar Trio, which will give you two surprise earrings and one surprise cuff. Shop now: Maison Miru Surprise Ear Bar Trio in Gold, $49 ($69 value) 15. NAADAMNAADAM’s already-affordable eco-friendly cashmere will be 40 percent off with the code BLACKFRI40 from Nov. 23 through Nov. 29. And on Nov. 30, much of the site’s merchandise will be offered for 75-percent off, no code necessary. Shop now: Naadam Hooded Fleece Sweatshirt, $75 ($125 value) 16. NécessaireYour winter-dry skin will thank you for taking advantage of Nécessaire’s Black Friday offerings. From Nov. 27 through Nov. 30, you’ll get a free bottle of the brand’s cult-fave Body Serum (which usually costs $45 on its own) with any purchase of $45 or more. Shop now: Nécessaire The Body Essentials, $60 17. Prepare Your MindThese mood-boosting chews (which were created by Robin Williams’ son, Zak Williams!) sold out before they even hit the market, but now they’re back in stock and can be yours for 20-percent off between Nov. 16 and Nov. 30. Shop now: Prepare Your Mind Original Mood Chews, $24 ($30 value) 18. ParachuteStart 2020 off the right way with some new bedding (and a few other home upgrades, because why not?) from Parachute. The brands bedding, bath, and home essentials will all be 20 percent off from Nov. 27 through Nov. 30. Shop now: Parachute Percale Starter Bedroom Bundle, $342-$823 ($428-$1,029 value) 19. Renée RouleauWhile going to the spa might not be an option right now, bring a celeb facialist into your bathroom with Renée Rouleau’s discounted product offerings. From Nov. 26 through Nov. 30, the brand will be offering 10 percent off site-wide. Shop now: Renée Rouleau Hydraboost Rescue Cream, $68 ($75 value) 20. SaaltStock up on an entire year’s worth of period products with Saalt’s 20 percent off sale, which runs for 24 hours only on Nov. 27. And if you miss it? Don’t worry—you can still grab your menstrual cups for 15-percent off on Nov. 30. Shop now: Saalt Duo Pack, $38 ($48 value) 21. SlipSilk scrunchies, pillow cases, and eye masks make any sleep experience more luxurious, and Slip’s holiday discounts will allow you to bring them into your own bedroom without breaking the bank. From Nov. 27 through Nov. 30, the brand is offering 15 percent off of purchases over $100, 20-percent off of purchases over $200, and 25-percent off of purchases over $300. Shop now: Slip The Ultimate Beauty Sleep Collection, $145 22. TushyMake toilet paper panic shopping a thing of the past with Tushy’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. From Nov. 26 through Nov 29, receive 15 percent off of any TUSHY bidet, and from Nov. 30 to Dec. 7, receive 20 percent off site-wide. Shop now: Tushy Spa Premium Warm Water Bidet Attachment, $86 ($108 value) 23. VitacleanTurn your shower into an at-home spa with one of Vitaclean’s shower filters, which filter hard water and minerals out of your water and infuse it with good-for-hair-and-skin ingredients, like vitamin C. During their only sale of the year, you can snag a start kit for 20 percent off from Nov. 23 through Nov. 30. Shop now: Vitaclean Wall Mount Shower Kit, $80 ($100 Value)
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Like clockwork, as the temperatures fall, my hands get dry and flakey with the ice-cold winter air. And this year in particular spells disaster for my skin with the constant use of hand sanitizer thrown into the into the mix. With more than 10 million COVID-19 cases in the United States—and the rates still on the rise in 43 states—using hand sanitizer (as well as staying home, social distancing, and wearing a mask!) is crucial in keeping yourself and others safe. Germ experts say they can be really effective at killing germs when you can’t wash your hands right away, but they certainly aren’t gentle on your skin. That’s why Dove’s new Beauty Deep Moisture Moisturizing & Hand Sanitizer ($5) couldn’t have come at a better time. It comes in a variety of scents, including Lavender. Shop now: Dove Beauty Deep Moisture Moisturizing & Hand Sanitizer, $5 The newly-launched moisturizing hand sanitizer contains the virus-fighting qualities of typical hand sanitizers as it’s 99.99 percent effective against germs and bacteria. It’s also clinically proven to moisturize your skin for up to eight hours after application. “The problem with some hand sanitizers is that the amount of rubbing alcohol in the hand sanitizers is about 70 percent,” says Gretchen Frieling, MD, a dermatopathologist in the Boston area. “That’s what makes the product so effective. However, it’s the alcohol that dries out the skin. The remedy to this is a product such as what Dove has developed. It has added a moisturizing blend that doesn’t compromise the efficacy of the sanitizing components, which meets both FDA and CDC recommendations for alcohol levels.” So there you have it: A moisturizing hand sanitizer that might just leave your skin softer than before you used it. Learn about how to further protect yourself beyond hand sanitizer: Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Email Address Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/doves-new-moisturizing-hand-sanitizer-is-derm-approved-and-it-only-costs-5-the-very-thought-of-it/ People tend to have very strong opinions about what should be served on Thanksgiving. (In my family, green bean casserole is non-negotiable.) But whenever I hear anyone talk about their must-have holiday foods, I’ve noticed that very rarely will anyone name the one dish Thanksgiving is supposedly centered around: turkey. If you’re vegan or vegetarian, you certainly won’t miss the bird. But regardless of where you fall on the eating animals debate, can we all agree that the holiday meal is really more about the sides? (And pie!) All of this is to say that’s it’s absolutely, 100 percent possible to have a mouth-watering, magazine-spread worthy Thanksgiving feast that’s completely vegan. As plant-based eating has become more popular, the Internet has been flooded with vegan Thanksgiving recipes. I scoured all the options for you to share the best of the best: side dishes, high-protein entrées, stuffing, and desserts all included. No need to thank me—just save me a slice of pumpkin pie. 13 vegan Thanksgiving recipes to make this holiday1. Vegan green bean casseroleWe can’t talk about vegan Thanksgiving recipes without finding an option for green bean casserole. By switching out the canned cream of mushroom soup typically used in green bean casserole for a homemade version, this Thanksgiving meal fave is not only veganized but also much lower in sodium. The vegan cream of mushroom soup is made with almond milk, chickpea flour, mushrooms, and a few key spices; it’s just as thick and flavorful as you want it to be. And of course this recipe doesn’t skimp out on crispy carmelized onions either. Get the recipe: Vegan green bean casserole 2. Thanksgiving spiral tartThis next-level take on traditional mashed potatoes is as rich in nutrients as it is color. The base consists of mashed cauliflower or potatoes (both will work) and eggplant, carrots, cabbage, and greens are used to form the spirals. You can still top it all off with vegan gravy, too. Get the recipe: Thanksgiving spiral tart 3. Quinoa stuffed acorn squash with pipian rojoMade with pumpkin seeds, roasted tomato, dried pasilla, arbol, and ancho chiles, the savory heat of a pipian rojo sauce pairs perfectly with acorn squash, which is slightly sweet when cooked. Besides, have you ever seen a quinoa dish look this good? Get the recipe: Quinoa stuffed acorn squash with pipian rojo 4. Teriyaki glazed sweet potatoesSweet potatoes are a tried-and-true Thanksgiving fave, but if you’re looking for something a bit more creative than just serving them mashed, try glazing them with a tangy teriyaki and sriracha sauce. Adding green onion and sesame seeds tones down the sweetness just enough. Get the recipe: Teriyaki glazed sweet potatoes 5. Sweet potato dinner rollsAnother creative way to cook with sweet potatoes this Thanksgiving is to use them as the “dough” for dinner rolls—a sweeter, more nutrient-rich take on bread-based rolls. They’re perfect for dipping in gravy or mashed potatoes. In this recipe, the tubers are blended with spelt flour (you can also use whole wheat). You only need six ingredients total to whip them up. Get the recipe: Sweet potato dinner rolls 6. Homemade cranberry sauceEven though canned cranberry sauce is vegan, it’s often high in sugar and high-fructose corn syrup, which can give it an artificial candied feel. Want to make your own? This recipe uses fresh or frozen cranberries, orange juice, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon for a more robust and complex flavor profile. Get the recipe: Homemade cranberry sauce 7. Vegan Thanksgiving roastIf you want to prepare an entree to replace the traditional turkey, this roast will do just the trick. Unlike most turkey substitutes which are made with tofu, cannellini beans are the central ingredient in this roast. Paired with roasted veggies and a tomato-based sauce, it’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Get the recipe: Vegan Thanksgiving roast 8. Vegan meatballs and mushroom gravyIf you’re looking for more surprising vegan Thanksgiving recipes, we suggest these “meatballs” and gravy as a turkey replacement. Made with lentils and flaxseed, these plant-based meatballs are also full of fiber and protein. The ingredients list may look intimidating, but it really only takes 15 minutes of prep work to bring this entree together. Get the recipe: Vegan meatballs and mushroom gravy 9. Vegan stuffingEven if you don’t have a bird to stuff, you can still make an epic Thanksgiving stuffing. Follow this recipe for a classic bread-based version, which also includes plenty of vegetables and spices. The key is to cooking the bread until it’s slightly crispy. That way, it won’t taste mushy but will still soak up the vegetable stock. Get the recipe: Vegan stuffing 10. Creamed pearl onionsTraditionally made with butter and heavy cream, this vegan take on creamed pearl onions uses coconut milk instead. The smart sub adds the rich and creaminess of heavy cream and won’t overpower the flavor of the onions. Get the recipe: Creamed pearl onions 11. Pumpkin pieWhat would Thanksgiving be without pumpkin pie? What makes this recipe a cut above the rest is that it blends together pureed pumpkin with mashed butternut squash for a more complex flavor profile. Nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon add sweetness while soy milk makes it silky smooth. Get the recipe: Pumpkin pie 12. Sweet potato pecan pieWant to serve up a dessert that isn’t pumpkin pie? Sweet potato pecan is another seasonal win. Just be sure to use coconut cream and not coconut milk; otherwise, it won’t firm up enough. Get the recipe: Sweet potato pecan pie 13. Chai spice pear pieFor a Thanksgiving pie that’s a little more unexpected, try this chai spice pear pie. It still has all the warming spices everyone craves in a Thanksgiving dessert (like ginger, cinnamon, allspice, cardamom, nutmeg and cloves), but instead of pairing them with pumpkin, they’re used with pears instead. Enjoy it with coffee, tea, or apple cider, and end your holiday meal on a sweet note. Get more holiday cooking inspo in Well+Good’s Cook With Us Facebook group. Share your favorite recipes, be inspired by others’ favorites, and join in on the monthly challenges that will encourage you to get cooking more in the new year. Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Email Address Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/13-vegan-thanksgiving-recipes-that-prove-its-more-than-just-turkey-day-the-very-thought-of-it/ Before investing in a pair of good hiking boots, my weekend jaunts through the forest left me with ridiculously sore feet. Regular sneakers do little to stop you from slipping on loose rocks, leaves, and wet or icy spots anywhere a trail wasn’t perfectly flat. It’s safe to say hiking boots are a game-changer. Outdoor Voices and Merrell just launched an eco-friendly option that belongs on the feet of every trailblazer. The Merrell + Outdoor Voices Moab 2 Mid Eco ($140) has all the qualities you want in a hiking boot. They come in two new colors (Lava and Limestone), and they’re durable, waterproof, and use eco-friendly materials. There’s recycled content in the laces, footbeds, and midsoles, recycled polyester in the mesh and webbing, and wool in the tongue. And my favorite part: The foam midsole is made with 10 percent algae biomass, which restores the environment when it’s harvested, transforming green water into clean water during the process. Aside from the top-notch quality that’ll allow you to wear them for years, they’re also great for beginners. You don’t need to break them in like most options you’ll find; they’re comfortable straight out of the box. They also have the Merrell Air Cushion in the heel, which absorbs shock and adds stability—something my sometimes-clumsy self appreciates. If you want to try the hiking boot for yourself, shop the two new options below. Shop the new Merrell and Outdoor Voices hiking boots1. Moab 2 Mid Eco Waterproof in Lava, $140The red and orange hues of this hiking boot will have you feeling fierce as you take on the trails. Shop now: Moab 2 Mid Eco Waterproof in Lava, $140 2. Moab 2 Mid Eco Waterproof in Limestone, $140If you’re more into neutrals, grab this pair that brightens up the tan base with a pop of color. Shop now: Moab 2 Mid Eco Waterproof in Limestone, $140 Do these foot mobility stretches before a big hike: Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Email Address Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/our-two-favorite-outdoor-brands-have-teamed-up-for-a-new-eco-friendly-hiking-boot-the-very-thought-of-it/ Every morning since quarantine, I’ve woken up earlier than necessary to do my makeup. Sometimes it’s a full face; other days, it’s just a swipe of lip gloss and concealer for Zoom. But I absolutely always apply glitter. Schelacking my eyes with sparkles to look like disco balls makes it increasingly more difficult to cry…because ya know, #2020. My penchant for sparkly lids isn’t unique, there are legit benefits between makeup and mental health. Throughout history, civilizations have used cosmetics for everything from enhancing beauty, to participating in religious rituals, to promoting good health (hello sunscreen!). Today, in a world of raging wildfires, a pandemic infecting the planet, and political unrest, the act of putting on makeup continues to take on a more prominent role: a DIY mental health boost. According to statistics, during times of crisis or economic unrest, consumers continue to spend money on small luxuries, like lipstick. Leonard Lauder (son of Estee Lauder) even coined the term, ‘Lipstick Index’, in response to the rise in lipstick sales after 9/11 and the 2008 economic recession. During the most difficult times, people crave luxuries that are within their means to provide some normalcy and light, according to Lauder. While the ‘Lipstick Index’ doesn’t quite apply to the COVID-19 pandemic since our M.A.C Ruby Woo smiles are hidden behind face masks, the general concept remains true. Makeup is mentally healing. Since February 2020, social chatter about makeup has gone up 187 percent, and the month of May saw social posts about “playing with cosmetics to uplift mood” rise nearly 3 percent overall. Having struggled with clinical depression and acute anxiety for over a decade, with extreme flare-ups over the past seven months of quarantine, my makeup routine has provided an easy pick-me-up. It’s something to look forward to each morning, and to me, a bit of sparkle does more than coat my lids. While it obviously isn’t going to conquer my depression, doing my makeup does boost my mood and provide me with some sense of empowerment, control, routine, and respite. According to Mike Dow, PsyD, a renowned psychotherapist and New York Times best-selling author, this notion is scientifically backed. “When people feel out of control or are experiencing unpredictability, they do better when they can focus their energy on things within their control,” he says. With a CDC study reporting that nearly 41 percent of 5,470 respondents experienced an adverse “mental or behavioral health condition” as a result of COVID-19, this unpredictability is at an all time high. Much like making your bed or brushing your teeth, putting on makeup in the morning can help create a much-needed semblance of regularity, plus sunset-speckled shadow are fun, compared to brushing your teeth or washing your face. “Engaging with [one’s] self has powerful effects in the brain…Any sort of touch can help to release oxytocin, a preventative tonic against stress,” he says. And though we’re living in a time when makeup isn’t necessarily a necessity, as Dr. Dow notes, “the harder self-care feels, the more we need it.” And for me, the time is now. Shop now: Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow ($24)Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadow ($24) Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Email Address Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/why-glitter-eyeshadow-is-the-mood-booster-that-we-all-need-right-now-the-very-thought-of-it/ One of the softest ways, literally speaking, to introduce kink and sensation play into your relationship is with a feather. It opens sexual exploration opportunities and surfaces questions, like, “Is this teasing technique going to get me truly erotically charged?” and “How many ostriches have to be plucked for my pleasure?” Well, rest assured that the plusOne Vibrating Feather Tickler ($30) delivers an electrified, electronic version of feather play…with no birds harmed in the process. The Vibrating Feather Tickler is a brand-new baby pink stimulator made from 100 percent body-safe silicone. It features a rigid stem and a pliable feathery tip with a pointed (but not pointy) end that’s able to bend to your every whim. It has five settings and is completely waterproof (important for making bath time extra fun). Most uniquely, it’s a sex toy that isn’t genital-focused, so to speak; while you can certainly use the Vibrating Feather Ticker that way, it’s really perfect for giving your other erogenous zones some TLC. By delaying the instant gratification of going straight to your genital region, you might have a more fireworks-worthy sexual experience. The toy allows you to take your time moving through the sexual response cycle, which can lead to easier penetration, heightened orgasms, and just a lovelier experience overall. And that applies whether you use the Feather Tickler as a couple’s play thing, as a warm-up tool during solo sex, or in any other iteration. Shop Now: plusOne Vibrating Feather Tickler, $30 “Stimulating erogenous zones other than the genitals while solo can mean that all acts following can be more enjoyable,” says sexologist Sadie Allison, PhD, sexologist and co-founder of GoLove CBD lubricant. “If you’re aiming for penetration with fingers or with a toy, you’ll be more lubricated and typically more comfortable if you’re able to arouse yourself through stimulating other areas first. This is also a wonderful way to get to know your body and understand where you like to be touched, so that if you are with a partner, you’re able to ask more easily for what you want.” What the vibrating feather tickler feels like in actionEven though the Vibrating Feather Tickler is super-gentle, it doesn’t lack a potent buzz. I’ve found that its feathery touch can provide for an almost giddy sensation when it comes to clitoral stimulation. “Tickler” really is such an accurate name. What I found really special about this toy, though, is its thin design that gets into under-appreciated creases of the body. There’s something to be said for stimulation that traces, for example, the line where your thigh and your pelvic V meet. It can also delicately circle underneath your breasts, or even between them. And if you’ve never paid attention to how sensitive your ears are, uh, go out and find out immediately. The Feather Tickler is a perfect way to find those sweet spots and more. In fact, Dr. Allison points out the crease of your arm as a hidden erogenous zone, and when I put her tip to the test, I experienced pleasure giggles galore. All of this being true, I do need to mention that I did not reach orgasm from using this device. That’s not because it’s impossible, though. Rather, I kept choosing to delay it because the toy offers such a soft touch, and I wanted to finish off with something stronger. And to be clear, I consider this to be a pro, not a con of the toy. I have so many vibrators that can give me an easy orgasm; what I don’t have are enough toys that tease, excite, delight, and attend to all the parts of me that don’t get enough attention. Ultimately, the Vibrating Feather Tickler is a perfect addition to your sex life if you want to add some play with a capital P to your sex play. It’s an un-intimidating when it comes to introducing a sex toy into your relationship, and if you’re looking to explore some new depths of pleasure on your own, the Vibrating Feather Tickler will get you there…and have you giggling all the way. Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Email Address Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/this-vibrating-feather-sex-toy-will-tickle-every-part-of-you-with-pleasure-the-very-thought-of-it/ Let me tell you a joke. An overweight woman walks into her doctor’s office and says, “doctor, it hurts when I bend my arm.” The doctor says, “well… lose some weight.” Unfortunately, that’s the reality for some overweight and obese people seeking medical treatment, including me. I remember the first time I realized my medical provider was more interested in my weight than my actual health. I was 23 years old, living on my own in NYC, and it was one of the first times—if not the first—I had made my own doctor’s appointment. In spite of my begging and pleading, my medical provider at the time completely dismissed my symptoms of persistent mental fog, memory loss, and depression. Instead of helping me, my doctor “prescribed” weight loss via vigorous exercise, because “exercise releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy!” (Yep, they quoted Elle Woods, the character from Legally Blonde, at me). It wasn’t until almost a decade later, at the age of 29, that I was properly diagnosed with adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a mental health disorder that affects every part of my life. I suffered for years with the belief that everything I was feeling was a side effect of my weight, not realizing that I had an underlying problem that my medical provider failed to identify. And I am not the only one. Medical Bias Is Hurting Overweight PatientsMultiple studies have shown that due to medical practitioners implicit biases against fat bodies, overweight patients may receive worse care than our straight-size counterparts; and it can lead to deadly consequences. Some experts argue that when overweight patients present symptoms doctors may not take them seriously, and the patients’ actual issues can go undiagnosed. In one study of over 300 autopsy reports, those who were overweight were 1.65 times more likely than others to have significant undiagnosed medical conditions, including serious conditions like endocarditis (an infection of the heart) or lung carcinoma (a cancer that begins in the lungs). Meaning that while other patients might be given life-saving tests and care such as CT scans and MRIs, overweight patients with the same symptoms might just be told to go home and lose weight. “Yes, there is a weight bias in the medical community,” says Priscila Rodrigues Armijo, MD, Assistant Professor and Researcher at the University of Nebraska. Dr. Rodrigues Armijo has been conducting research on how environment and the total life of an overweight and obese patient should be a deciding factor in the treatment they receive from their health-care provider. “The bias exists in not only how the [medical provider] sees the patient, but how they even interact with the patient, which is a problem,” says Dr. Rodrigues Armijo. Fat Patients Fear Going to the Doctor, to Our DetrimentI didn’t realize it at the time, but the lack of diagnosis was the least of my issues with my then-doctor. Their not-so-subtle distaste for me and my fat body continued to bother me long after I had stopped being a patient there. In fact, for a long time I wouldn’t even go to the doctor. I was so convinced that every ache and pain I experienced was because of my weight and if I “just lost weight” then any health problem I had would magically disappear. Anti-fat stigmas and body shaming do more than misdiagnose, they stop fat patients from even seeking medical treatment. In fact, according to research from the American Psychological Association, these anti-fat stigmas may be causing patients more health issues. Fat shaming and negative anti-fat attitudes from medical providers can actually cause psychological stress in patients and turn them away from visiting the doctor. Additionally, further studies indicate that doctors aren’t even necessarily interested in their fat patients. A 2013 study shows that when it comes to overweight and obese patients, doctors are less likely to try and build a rapport. They also show less empathy, concern, and understanding for overweight patients. After my encounter with that particular doctor, I didn’t return to a doctor’s office until almost four years later, when even after losing 60+ pounds I was hobbling around with a mysterious ankle injury. Every doctor I had ever went to told me that losing weight was the key to optimal health; that if I just wasn’t fat, my ailments would magically go away. Turns out while exercising to lose weight, I suffered from an inflamed Achilles tendon. No amount of weight loss would have helped me get over that injury and I still suffer from the painful condition to this day. A Stigma that Starts Long Before Patients Come Into the Picture“I think the problem starts even when they [doctors] are medical students,” says Dr. Rodrigues Armijo. “They are taught how to treat the disease, but not empathy and not culture.” The research agrees with her: In a 2014 study of over 4,000 first-year medical students, 67 percent exhibited explicit fat bias, and 71 percent exhibited implicit bias. It seems that across disciplines, future doctors’ fat biases are fixed before they even don their white coat. And while Dr. Rodrigues Armijo feels that more of the medical community is waking up and starting to take anti-fat biases more seriously, there are still no industry standard courses or workshops for medical students that address fat biases. One way Dr. Armijo sees students becoming more aware of their own bias is through assessments and overall better education around soft skills, such as bedside manners and communications. “We [medical programs] are starting to focus more on soft skills for medical students,” she says. “How can we assess and better see what our students are lacking? Such as empathy. That’s the first step in helping to remove weight bias.” Fat Patients and How to AdvocateRather than wait another 10 to 20 years for the next batch of more empathetic doctors to emerge, I decided to take my health into my own hands. I started searching for a doctor who didn’t see fat as inherently bad. I looked at sites like Healthgrades (basically a site of report cards for medical providers) and went as far as to interview doctors on the phone. Eventually, I found a medical provider who takes my concerns seriously, and gives me the treatment I know I deserve. Dr. Rodriges Armijo urges others in the same predicament to research their doctors, be open to honest and helpful conversations around weight and health, and don’t be afraid to just “go to the doctor.” Hopefully, as we become a more tolerant society, fat stigma won’t even exist anymore. Until then, fat people will need to keep advocating for ourselves. If you’re unhappy with the treatment you’ve received, speak up and demand that you receive the same standard of care, no matter your size. Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/medicine-has-a-problem-with-fat-phobia-and-it-stops-people-from-getting-the-care-they-deserve-the-very-thought-of-it/ Having an intense week? Here’s why chocolate for stress relief is actually effective. “Chocolate reduces stress” seems a little like one of those things you tell yourself so that this year doesn’t seem like a total serotonin-sucking nightmare. (Like my mantra, “wine doesn’t count during election week.”) However, in chocolate’s case, it is actually true. In this episode of Well+Good’s YouTube series You Versus Food, registered dietitian Tracy Lockwood Beckerman breaks down what, exactly, makes chocolate an effective stress-fighter. “Dark chocolate may be helpful in relieving anxiety due to its antioxidants, flavanols, and, of course, taste,” Beckerman says. “Antioxidants present in dark chocolate can reduce stress by lowering levels of cortisol, as well as fight-or-flight hormones known as catecholamines.” Go for dark chocolate, which has higher amounts of cocoa in it and thus greater amounts of those beneficial antioxidants. (Plus, it’s lower in sugar compared to milk chocolate, and sugar in excess can contribute to inflammation and anxiety-provoking blood sugar crashes.) You can also try cacao, which is made from unroasted, cold-pressed cocoa beans and thus retains lots of nutrients, including stress-fighting magnesium and mood-boosting alkaloids. When buying, look for brands like Moodygirl ($26 for three bars), Sol Cacao ($7 per bar), and Hu Kitchen ($6 per bar), all of which make dark chocolate bars with minimal, high-quality ingredients. Since 2020 has replaced essentially every nanogram of any happiness hormones with cortisol, I am extremely here for the knowledge that chocolate for stress relief is actually backed by science. But it isn’t the only food that can help reduce stress. So if, like me, your stress levels are so high that all of your targeted ads on social media are for weighted blankets and natural sleep aids, check out the full video to see the other stress-fighting foods Beckerman recommends. Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/youre-not-imagining-it-chocolate-really-does-reduce-stress-the-very-thought-of-it/ Hey, you doing okay out there? It’s cool if the answer is an all-caps bolded NO. This year has forced many of us to restructure our lives, limit our social contact, and get on TikTok. So if you feel pushed past your limit as we enter the final chapter of 2020, you might want to learn the best coping mechanism for your zodiac sign. Are you feeling tongue-tied, Gemini? Find your voice within the pages of a book. Lamenting a lack of control, Virgo? Think of what’s ahead instead of what was canceled from your impeccably time-blocked Google Cal. By repurposing our cosmic gifts in a way that suits lockdown life, we can use our zodiac sign to help cope with challenging times. Below, transformational astrologer Corina Crysler shares a coping mechanism for your zodiac sign to help you through this exhausting home stretch. Below, find the top coping mechanism for your zodiac sign, according to an astrologer.AriesAries gets super impatient when the things feel stagnant, which has been a real 2020 theme. See: Being quarantined, an endless-feeling and tense election season, and a series of planetary retrogrades that have made action feel near impossible. Crysler’s top coping mechanism for an anxious Aries to adopt? MOVE! “Put on an in-home workout class to release some of that cardinal fire building up,” she says. “Drink lots of water.” TaurusAs a textbook bull, nothing makes me feel better than embracing my Earth sign roots and eating croissants in the park. If you’re also a Taurus with Mount Olympus-high stress levels, spending time with the autumn leaves can be especially, um, grounding. “Get out into nature to rest,” says Crysler. “Pick a place that has some trees, pack a picnic, clear your mind, and breathe.” GeminiAs master wordsmiths who can talk through any issue with intellect and speed, Gemini has a constant urge to communicate. But if you’re feeling speechless over just how stressful this year has been, Crysler suggests you try journaling instead. “Get all of your thoughts swirling around your head on paper to process and release them,” Crysler says. “This will help reduce some of that built-up anxiety.” CancerOh, Cancer. You’re so good with taking care of others, but you don’t make enough time to nurture yourself. So the next time you’re feeling crabby, take a minute to sit down and breeeeeathe as a coping mechanism. “If your emotions are running high due to stress, try an online breathwork class to stimulate the vagus nerve, and create a feeling of calmness,” Crysler says. LeoLions are among those having the roughest time in quarantine: They’ve been denied the ability to shine at parties, and the warmth of their social circle. Self-soothe by making art that’ll really bring people together. “Find a creative project that you can dive into to channel some of your ideas and escape some of the loneliness you may be feeling,” Crysler says. VirgoFor Virgo, feeling out of control is the worst. But there’s nothing like a pandemic to mess with your sense of structure. So, the best coping mechanism for your zodiac sign is to just burn the book and start fresh. “Create 2021 goals for yourself with tangible action items to achieve them,” Crysler says. “Look to the future instead of staying in the past. LibraLibra, you’ve tried to be so diplomatic during the pandemic, trying to please everyone in your network and keep the peace. But now’s your moment to start setting up some healthy boundaries. “Say no to the things you don’t want to do,” says Crysler. “Carve out some time for yourself to rejuvenate your energy. You can’t be everything for everyone.” ScorpioHonestly, Scorpio handles darkness pretty well, so maybe you haven’t been rocked too hard as you wait for high tensions to blow over. But if you’re looking for a release, you can indulge in our new favorite method of self care: self pleasure. “Invest in some new toys and explore new heights of your sensuality,” Crysler says. “Channel your sexual energy to create your desired transformation.” SagittariusSag’s biggest pain point all year has been that they’re simply stuck. That wanderlust is not being satiated with travel being on the fritz. But you can at least feed your curiosity as you sit still. “Find new ways to stimulate your mind,” Crysler says. “Possibly read that book that has been sitting on your shelf for a while that you have been meaning to get to, or invest in an online course that sounds super interesting.” CapricornCapricorn has big boss energy, and you’ve steadily led people through this time, shouldering the burdens and keeping everything moving. You also may be burnt out from doing that for, like, nine months. So try to relax! “Loosen up the need to control everything by delegating some of your workload out to capable people you trust,” says Crysler. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help.” AquariusWith so many people suffering right now, Aquarius has also been hard at work. Your humanitarian heart has been thrown into so many causes that you might feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or even cynical at this point. Remember that in order to help others, you need to allow yourself some rest—only then can you restructure. “Stay focused on what is in front of you, and take one step at a time,” Crysler says. “Try to meditate and get centered with your own energy. Be discerning in what isn’t yours, and let it go.” PiscesPisces has been picking up on everyone’s frantic energy and just wants to get back into a state of flow and ease. Regulate yourself with a water sign ritual that speaks to your love of all things melodic. “Take a long warm salt water bath, turn the lights out and put on the music that elevates your soul,” says Crysler. Oh hi! You look like someone who loves free workouts, discounts for cult-fave wellness brands, and exclusive Well+Good content. Sign up for Well+, our online community of wellness insiders, and unlock your rewards instantly. Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/its-been-a-time-have-you-tried-the-best-coping-mechanism-for-your-zodiac-sign-the-very-thought-of-it/ Scientific Reports 2020 October 29 [Link] Sabrina Borchert, Pia-Maria Suckrau, Robert F H Walter, Michael Wessolly, Elena Mairinger, Julia Steinborn, Balazs Hegedus, Thomas Hager, Thomas Herold, Wilfried E E Eberhardt, Jeremias Wohlschlaeger, Clemens Aigner, Agnes Bankfalvi, Kurt Werner Schmid, Fabian D Mairinger AbstractMalignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare, but aggressive tumor with dismal prognosis. Platinum-based chemotherapy is regularly used as part of multimodality therapy. The expression of metallothioneins (MT) has been identified as a reason for cisplatin resistance, which often leads to early therapy failure or relapse. Thus, knockdown of MT expression may improve response to cisplatin treatment. The MT gene- and protein expression of the MPM-cell lines MSTO-211H, NCI-H2052 and NCI-H2452 and the human fibroblast cell line MRC-5, as well as their sensitivity to cisplatin treatment have been evaluated. Knockdown of MT1A, 1B and 2A expression was induced by RNA interference. MT expression was measured using quantitative real-time PCR. An in vitro Assay based on enzyme activity was used to detect cell viability, necrosis and apoptosis before and after incubation with cisplatin. MT2A gene expression could be detected in all MPM cell lines, showing the highest expression in NCI-H2452 and NCI-H2052, whereas gene expression levels of MT1A and MT1B were low or absent. The immunohistochemically protein expression of MT-I/II reflect MT2A gene expression levels. Especially for MSTO-211H cell presenting low initial MT2A levels, a strong induction of MT2A expression could be observed during cisplatin treatment, indicating a cell line-specific and platin-dependent adaption mechanism. Additionally, a MT2A-dependent cellular evasion of apoptosis during cisplatin could be observed, leading to three different MT based phenotypes. MSTO-211H cells showed lower apoptosis rates at an increased expression level of MT2A after cisplatin treatment (from sixfold to fourfold). NCI-H2052 cells showed no changes in MT2A expression, while apoptosis rate is the highest (8-12-fold). NCI-H2452 cells showed neither changes in alteration rate of MT2A expression nor changes in apoptosis rates, indicating an MT2A-independent resistance mechanism. Knockdown of MT2A expression levels resulted in significantly induced apoptotic rates during cisplatin treatment with strongest induction of apoptosis in each of the MPM cell lines, but in different markedness. A therapeutic meaningful effect of MT2A knockdown and subsequent cisplatin treatment could be observed in MSTO-211H cells. The present study showed MT2A to be part of the underlying mechanism of cisplatin resistance in MPM. Especially in MSTO-211H cells we could demonstrate major effects by knockdown of MT2A expression, verifying our hypothesis of an MT driven resistance mechanism. We could prove the inhibition of MT2A as a powerful tool to boost response rates to cisplatin-based therapy in vitro. These data carry the potential to enhance the clinical outcome and management of MPM in the future. The post Impact of metallothionein-knockdown on cisplatin resistance in malignant pleural mesothelioma appeared first on Mesothelioma Line. Read More At: via WordPress https://healthlegal.wordpress.com/2020/11/13/impact-of-metallothionein-knockdown-on-cisplatin-resistance-in-malignant-pleural-mesothelioma/ |