How to Stay Active in Cold Weather … And Why You Should Do It

For those who didn't grow up in extreme weather conditions, the effects can hit you much harder as an adult, especially when dealing with cold. That's a stat that's been proven time and again with cross-country moves and re-locations. We also feel extreme weather deeper as we age – another stat that's been shown with snowbirds and entire generations who are getting away as often as possible. There are, of course, those who actually like the cold weather and who go out of their way for chilly runs. 

But for the rest of the population – whether you're not as young as you use to be or have never liked the chill – winter can be a rough season for staying healthy. It's harder to exercise when freezing wind and moisture are a factor, yet the need to exercise remains. In fact, staying active in winter actually helps in a number of ways, like boosting your mood, encouraging the metabolism, and offsetting heavier meals that we crave on the worst of days. 

Staying Active in All Seasons

One way to get moving while avoiding the cold is to join a gym, which will provide a comfortable environment for exercise. However, if you can stomach it, outdoor workouts offer fresh air, a perk that helps the immune system and expands the lungs, and rougher terrain, which can advance your workout.    

Another route is to dress for the occasion. Layers are ideal, but you should also look into the type of clothing you're wearing; dry-fit and wind-blocking materials will do you the most good. 

Or, mix and match by getting outside when it's (somewhat) nice, then plan longer workouts inside when it's just too unpleasant. But no matter how you plan your winter activities, try to stay active all season long. It's a method that will do wonders for your health – and on all levels – and make it much easier for you to transition back into spring with a healthier, more fit you. 

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Customer Reviews for the Flip Pillow

The reviews are in! As one of our favorite products, theFlip Pillow helps users sleeping and lounging comfortable at all heights. Not only does it help alleviate heartburn and snoring, it helps reduce pressure on the back and neck. While adding some much needed comfort in the process.

But don’t take our word for it – see what some real Flip Pillow users have to say about their experience with this groundbreaking product!

They write:

“Very comfy! Not too much elevation, just right. And so soft!” --June 2014

“My daughter loves it so much she takes it on sleep overs.” --June 2014

“This pillow is so super soft and I could lay on it all day and night. Have not put the pillowcase on yet, but bought the navy blue and it looks nice and soft too. The pillow is excellent for laying on while watching TV in bed.” --June 2014

“I have been able to go to sleep at night since I got this pillow. I have a sleeping disorder. The last two nights I have slept until the morning and not felt tired.”

--April 2014

“Love my pillow … offers great support yet very soft. would highly recommend for readingand watching TV.” --Bonnie, March 2014

“I had the best night's sleep in many years: ten and a half hours! Thanks Contour Pillow!” --January 2014

“Love the king-size. Very versatile product. Much cheaper to buy from Contour itself than any other retailer.” --December 2013

“Soft yet firm. It's ability to change shape helps when pain or discomfort does not let me get comfortable! Worth the money!” --Debbie, December 2013

“This pillow helped reduced my chest pain by 60%.” --December 2013

“This is a repeat purchase for a traveling friend. Fibromyalgia makessleep difficult,  reading in bed impossible. This pillow helps with both. Much recommended.” –Coale, July 2013

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Why Nervous System Health Trumps All

When it comes to health concerns, there is a practically unending list of things that can go wrong … and to varying degrees. Muscles can deteriorate, bacteria can infiltrate the body, organs can lose efficiency, and that’s only the beginning. Then combine that with how parts and systems interact with one another, and there’s an entire new list of problems that can go wrong. Rather than looking to sickness and function interaction as a possible cause, however, creating a healthy nervous system can work to eliminate the latter as a viable threat.

After all, the nervous system is what allows muscles and organs to communicate with one another. Each tells another part of the body what it’s doing, or what needs to be done next, and when those communication gaps are hindered, the body itself suffers.

How to Keep All Body Functions Working

The most important part of the nervous system is the brain. Without it’s proper health, body parts wouldn’t be able to communicate properly … or at all. Their translation gaps could range from speaking with a heavy accent, to yelling near a booming speaker with non-English speaking listeners. But by adhering specifically to the brain’s health needs, you can easily make sure everyone’s on equal speaking – and listening – fields.

Start with your diet. A healthy brain needs plenty of Vitamins D and B6. Exercise and a regular fluid intake also works to flush out toxins that may bog down the brain or other parts of the body. (Combine exercise with a few glasses of water for the maximum toxin-flushing results.) Nervous systems can also flourish with an increase of protein and a decrease in fat. You can also look to doctor recommended supplements or additional vitamins shown to improve brain health.

Whether you’re looking out for your body’s cohesiveness or are just taking steps to get healthier, the nervous system is a great place to start. Look to the above or talk with your doctor about getting brain healthier today.

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Improve Overall Health with Arch Supports

It’s no new discovery that taking care of one portion of the body radiates out onto others. Reducing neck stress gets rid of headaches, eating healthy offers better circulation, and so on. The same can be said for foot health, which has the ability to spread into all other areas of the body. Back pains can be cured, muscle tension eliminated, and all while the feet themselves are getting the care they deserve.

One such aspect of foot health is the addition of arch supports into one’s shoes. Made to provide extra comfort right where it’s needed most, arch supports are an easy, cost effective add-on to any pair of shoes. Many can even be moved from shoe to shoe so users only need a single pair.

But what do these shoe accessories have to offer?

When the arch of the foot lacks support – meaning it “steps” without hitting a shoe or floor surface – weight is displaced unevenly. Over time, this can break down the foot, causing pain, swelling, and an improper use of tendons. Because there isn’t proper alignment, the feet simply can’t walk as they were supposed to. This is especially true for those with high arches – the higher the arch, the larger portion of the foot that can’t hold weight when walking.

With the simple addition of arch supports, however, that natural weight balance is restored. Feet can again walk evenly, while weight and movement is displaced in a comfortable ratio. Considering they only cost a few dollars, it’s a smart investment toward improving foot (and overall body) health with each step you take.

Whether or not you experience regular foot or arch pains, it’s a good idea to look to this simple medical solution to prevent any future walking-based ailments.

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The Health Perks of Going Barefoot

Going without shoes – or barefoot – is usually a hit or miss trend. Either you love it, or you hate it and are sure it’s going to cause all types of sicknesses. But despite your previous allegiance, there are several benefits to be had from going without shoes. No, you still shouldn’t run down the street or venture into the porta potties without foot protection, but in safe, clean environments, you can easily improve your health just by going without shoes.

And if you’re still weary about it, start at home, then venture into the yard. Then try a friend’s house, water park, or any other (clean) public place where a lack of shoes is kosher. Before long, you’ll have developed a newfound freedom that only the shoe-less can enjoy.

What can it do for your health?

Avoiding shoes for an hour or two each day can work to improve your posture, mood, and feet placement. Without a shoe to guide and align the feet, we’re left to figure it out for ourselves. This is like hitting a “reset” button on our posture, letting the legs, back, and feet redefine what’s comfortable and supportive.

Runners are beginning to jog without foot support as well, but this is a more extreme switch. Try it if you dare (with your doctor’s approval), but a few hours around the house each day should also do the trick.

It’s also said that going barefoot can help to improve one’s mood. By connecting directly with the ground, there’s a scientific theory that says it will help reunite you with the earth. This may sound somewhat sketchy, but there is actual data showing that electrons from the ground can be absorbed by one’s body; scientists say this works to rejuvenate energy levels, which often results in a lifted spirit.

Walking outside while barefoot has also been shown to act as an antioxidant, and have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. [Peak Fitness]

Whether or not you believe in self “grounding,” going without shoes can offer a number of benefits. Test it out today to start getting the most out of your time outdoors.

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What is the BackMax and How Can it Help?

With a name like “BackMax” is pretty easy to tell this product was specifically designed for spinal health. But other than claiming the maximum amount of comfort, size, and whatever it is this product holds, the name doesn’t give justice to what it can do. Just as it promised, the BackMax offers the highest amount of functions possible. With a single product, users can relax, relieve pain, sleep, lounge, or perform any other number of sitting options.

So, what exactly is this miracle product? The BackMax Body Wedge is a large folding cushion that has the ability to mold and form into several different positions. Users simply adjust for the best setup, then sink into the wedged cushion to receive back support and relief from all angles. There’s even a BackMax Plus, which is a wider version of the original. The Plus also comes with a fleece cover for extra cleanliness and textural appeal.

How the Back Support Product Works

Folding into eight different position, the BackMax works to alleviate pain by removing excess pressure on the back. From its standard zero gravity make up to its stomach-friendly holds, the BackMax allows each user to sit or lay in a way that feels most comfortable. Best of all, it’s easy to change position without purchasing another product or pillow. Just fold and move to find your new favorite back position. Use the entire Max, or unzip and remove different sections to best support the legs, lower back, or neck.

Use the BackMax while lounging on the floor, in bed, or on the couch – its versatility allows the product to move almost anywhere.

BackMax’s Benefits

With the BackMax, users can:

• Watch TV, read, nap, or sit and relax
• Elevate legs for circulation
• Reduce pressure or strains along the entire spine
• Easily lay on one’s stomach
• Eliminate gravity for relaxed, pain-free back relief
• Recover from knee or hip surgery without adding excessive weight or stress to the injured area.

Made of supportive foam, the wedge is able to uphold the body without wearing or sinking in the process. You can even wash its plush cover for an extra clean section each time you use it.

From back pain, to surgery relief, to a comfortable place to relax, the BackMax (and its Plus counterpart) offers a unique, proven way to cradle the back. Consider this one-of-a-kind product for all your back health needs.

Ready to see more, head to the BackMax page at Contour Living.

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Benefits of the Contour Leg Pillow

Necks, heads, and feet are often home to a soft, fluffy pillow. Whether sleeping, traveling, or just looking for some extra support, these pillows come ready-made and with all types of materials in tow. You can even choose different colors or levels of softness, so you’re sure to have the perfect comfort level in any location.

But what about the legs? With all of these specialized pillows, few seem to remember that legs need just as much support as the other guys. After all, they’re the gateway to back support; leg pillows can provide some much needed pain relief, as well as making for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

It’s time to stop overlook the leg pillow and see just what it has to offer.

How it Works

The Contour Leg Pillow is naturally shaped to fit the curve of your legs. With its rounded mold and ability to form to each individual’s unique body shape, the pillow acts as a customized sleeping tool. Simply place it between your upper or lower legs to achieve leg, back, knee, and hip support throughout the night. You can even use it while watching TV or sitting at a desk for added comfort. And since it’s made with memory foam, the more you use it, the better it will fit your specific mold.

The Contour Leg Pillow is ideal for anyone who has backpains, regularly sleeps on their side, or is just looking for a little extrasleeping support. All ages can take comfort in knowing that their bodies have gained a little extra overnight support. Thanks to its shaped design and ability to mold, the Contour Leg Pillow is great for virtually any shape and size.

With the Contour Leg Pillow you can:

·      Reduce back pressure

·      Increase leg and back comfort levels, as well as the hips and knees

·      Comfortably sleep on your side or back

·      Achieve natural alignment

·      Help alleviate sore muscles and pain

·      Create a one-of-a-kind, customized fitting pillow

The pillow also comes with a removable pillowcase, so you can be sure to keep it clean at all times. And for hot sleepers, there’s even a “cool” leg pillow to pull body heat and cool while providing the same legsupporting results.

For support without the fuss, remember that legs need a pillow too. To learn more or order yours today, head to our products page.

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Top 5 Body Support Products

Having the proper support for the body is essential; not having the proper support can cause pain and injury to the body. Take a look at these top 5 products for body support.

1.  BackMaxBody Wedge Cushion Sets: A 3 piece multi-functional wedge system that provides the user with complete back and body support. The wedge can be configured in multiple ways to suit the needs of the user. Each cushion can be used individually simply by unzipping each piece. BackMax Body Wedge is available in the standard model or plus model.
2.  MattressGenie: An adjustable bed wedge that will transform any bed with the touch of a button. This wedge is good for people who have allergies, Gerd, acid reflux or any other sleeping condition. The wedge can raise the mattress up to 26 inches and can lift up to 1000 pounds. It can be used while sleeping, watching T.V., reading and eating breakfast in bed.
3. BedLounge: Is an adjustable reading pillow that provides back and body support. The reading pillow supports the head, shoulders, neck, upper and lower back. The pillow can be adjusted and easily carried with one hand. This product can also conform to the body and has a fully adjustable headrest. The headrest can be raised or lowered and can be moved forward 90 degrees. This will cradle the neck and head. It has a side pocket that you can use for storage.
4. Fleece BackWedge: A full-size wedge that combines ergonomic design with high quality foam, velour cover and an internal message unit. The wedge is contoured to match the natural curve of the body. The massage is delivered to the complete torso area, from the shoulders and neck to the lumbar area. The wedge flips, so it can be used in an upright seated position. It measures 27” x 14” on the soft side and is 20” wide.
5. KneezUpLeg Wedge: An under the knee cushion designed for support and positioning of the knees. The wedge aids in circulation and can be used after an injury or surgery. The KneezeUp can help reduce pressure on the lower back; it does this by allowing the lumbar curve to flatten out. The knees are elevated to a 30 degree angle, which allows the joints and muscles to relax. It helps increase the blood flow to the lower extremities. The KneezUp cover is machine washable and the wedge itself is constructed of medical grade foam and covered with soft velour cover.

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