Fall Allergies Are in the Air

Do you suffer from fall allergies? Do you know what triggers are available throughout the fall? And which ones are specific to your area or lifestyle? If you're starting to feel under the weather – or even just a bit "off" every time the temperatures dip – allergies may very well be the cause. Substances like ragweed (the biggest fall trigger), pollen (which is generally more prevalent in spring), dust mites, and even certain types of fruits and vegetables – specifically melons, zucchini, etc. are all there to make you sneeze. Though the latter is far more rare, but nonetheless still an allergy trigger for many – which often goes unnoticed due to its unusual nature. 

No matter what may be the cause, however, these triggers have been known to bring on some seriously unpleasant symptoms. Such as hay fever, scratchy throats, itchy and watery eyes, couching, and noses that can't decide if they're stuffed up or running constantly. Even worse for those who enjoy sleeping with open windows – a move that lets in fresh air and helps cool the house, but also brings in microscopic particles.

It's also likely that you've taken note of fall weather patterns in your area. Some states will fluxgate greatly. Days of heat will see fewer symptoms, while cool or windy days might cause an almost severe cold. (Or at least the need to pack a box of tissues.) A pattern that often continues until a hard freeze is able to settle down triggers for months at a time – except for warmer climates, which might see allergies year-round. (Though citizens of these areas often develop immunities, too.) 

If you suffer from fall allergies, consider looking to natural or over-the-counter remedies to help keep symptoms at bay. And remember that, no matter how severe the season might seem, you're only a few months away from long-term relief. 

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Learn How You Can Earn a FREE Comfort Travel Cushion

There's not much in life that beats free. Where you can get a little something extra, but without footing that hefty bill that usually comes along with it. Because generally, getting more also means that it costs more, but not when you're dealing with free! Which is exactly the case with Contour Living's latest promotion. All you have to do is buy a Kabooti Seat Cushion and you get a Comfort Travel Cushion with it … at no additional charge!

Because we know just how important it is to be seated comfortably – for your sanity and also for your health – we've made it a package deal. But without adding a fee. Now customers can gain proper rear and back support no matter where they're seated. In the office, on the couch, in the car, and while on the go – even if flying or taking the bus. Both products are versatile, allowing users to move their seating needs along with them. With the addition of the Comfort Travel Cushion, however, that means easier travel, or the ability to maintain support, even when on the road. Because it's made for public transportation and lightweight transfers, Contour customers can pack along their cushions in a suitcase, or simply hold on as a carry-on. It's been airport tested and TSA regulated in order to make your trips easier, and as comfortable as possible. 

Whether you're ready to travel, or just need a proper seat cushion for the everyday (without traveling), this deal is a great way to go. It provides the best of both worlds, at no additional cost. A move that allows you to be ready to sit pretty at all times.

To learn more or to get started shopping today, head to our Kabooti home page now! 

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How Often Should you Be Stretching?

Stretching the muscles is a simple and satisfying say to improve health. Not only does it add strength and increase the blood and oxygen flow, as well as expanding flexibility, it makes the muscles feel good. Which, in turn, makes you feel good. It's like a mini workout that can be achieved just by reaching for your extremities. An easy movement that can be done quickly, or drawn out in order to gain more muscle attention. Because of this ease of adaptability, and due to its intense benefits, stretching has long been seen as a go-to health factor. 

But how often should you be doing it? And what muscles need the most attention? In general, it's difficult, if not impossible to "over stretch." While it's still working the muscles, it's not doing so in a strenuous manner. While you should always check with a doctor, stretching can be done on a regular basis – when you feel sore to ease pains, or to wake yourself up if feeling tired. There are even (slightly controversial) studies showing that frequency in stretching isn't important. So long as you're doing it regularly, results will be seen. Others will learn their specific bodily needs and adjust stretching habits accordingly. However, one should also stretch a few times a week – two or three sessions – in order to get the most out of their efforts. More is certainly acceptable, while less can prevent muscles from reaching their full health potential. 

Whether you're a life long stretcher or are looking to get into the practice, there's plenty to consider. However, so long as you're on board with stretching, healthcare professionals and laymen alike agree that it's a step in the right direction. 

Start stretching today (and a few times a week) in order to start benefitting from this simplistic, yet extremely effective, method. 

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Nutrition Fads and How They Affect Trendy Consumers

There's no denying that foods can become more popular over time. With news reports, common demand, and in whatever ways restaurants have adjusted their cooking, some foods are just consumed more often than others. Then something else comes along and becomes equally popular for a certain amount of time. But if you're an informed consumer, one who listens to the media and is always out to try new recipes, chances are you try these fads. You might even jump in head first. But are all of them healthy? And what is following suit doing for your health?

In current trends, chances are they're simply adding nutrition. Items like kale, avocado, quinoa, and more have all made heavy waves in pop culture. However, it was not long ago that it was all about going carb-free, a method that allowed eaters to lose weight, for as long as they didn't eat carbs. Others argued that folks took the diet to an extreme and actually cut out healthy carbs, too. 

Condiments have long since been advertising as fat free, replacing traditional milk or sugar fats with outside ingredients to lower calorie counts. Though lately they've been adjusting labels from "fat free" to "all-natural" in order to accommodate eating trends.

Processed foods and drinks are even getting in on the action too. Likely as a marketing ploy, companies come out with limited releases that raise hype. Think Crystal Pepsi (1992-1993), Doritos and their mystery flavors, Lays' new recipes that must be voted on, and likely tens of flavors of Mountain Dew. Obviously these products are less healthy all on their own, but such adjustments often cause consumers to purchase far more than normal. Due to the urgency that comes from a limited time release. 

In any eating fad, however, it's up to the individual to ensure they're getting the proper amount of nutrition. Whether that means going to a medical professional (or a dietician), or intently reading labels, it's a method to ensuring your body is getting everything it needs. Trendy or otherwise. 

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The Times are Changing: Virtual Doctors

Generally, when we think of going to the doctor, we think of actually going to see the doctor. Where you book an appointment, wait in a common room, and then have vitals taken and stored in a chart. Not just seeing a medical professional arbitrarily – by chance or through technology. But with the help of some innovative websites, that's exactly what's taking place. You can now see the doctor virtually – by talking with he or she online. Users can schedule an appointment, talk out their symptoms, and even obtain a prescription. All without leaving the comfort of your own home.

Obviously there are certain tests that can't be done over the computer. But for those who might be severely contagious or need to discuss something specific, they can do so online. Or if you need to discuss pains or how your body has changed through aches and located tightness. Sometimes, these discussions can be done right then and there. Other times, by booking an appointment when it's most convenient. 

These virtual interactions are making "visits" more efficient and more affordable. Most platforms take insurance, while those who don't charge less than a traditional appointment. While some even give patients the choice to have it covered or pay out of pocket. 

Is it always the best option? Most likely not. But for those with high-speed Internet and a high-speed schedule, it's nice to know that options exist. Especially those that are more budget friendly. 

The next time you're sick, suffering muscle or back pains, or just need a medical opinion, consider going online instead. It's a quick way to talk to an actual person, but without footing the headaches that usually comes with it. 

Talk to your doctor or search online for this up-and-coming medical alternative. 

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Customer Reviews: Contour Ortho-Fiber Pillow

The comments are in! We've tallied them, organized each mention, and decided upon our most useful feedback. And compiled it so you can help make an informed choice as a consumer. Whether you're looking for comfort, back and neck support, or all of the above, we've got you covered. 

Here's what our customers – first-timers and repeat shoppers – have had to say about this top-selling item, the Contour Ortho-Fiber Pillow. Spoiler: it's a Contour favorite; it's not just the customers getting in on this comfy pillow action!

"I bought this pillow five years ago for my husband, his chiropractor recommended it." 

"This pillow is just the right size! Fits my head perfectly and cradles the neck – no 'getting used to' period needed! Seriously so comfortable!" 

"Haven't slept through the whole night forever. I do now."  

"This pillow gives great support to the neck while sleeping. No matter whether I'm on my side or back, I feel supported to ease neck pain and keep my spine in alignment. Welcome replacement for my older model that I've used for a number of years." 

"It would take me forever to go to sleep, then never a restful sleep. Now 10 minutes and I'm asleep and for all night. Great product!"

"I have trouble sleeping so I was looking for a pillow that would help me breathe and not snore. I use the strips on my nose and elevate myself but my chin would drop down and obstruct my breathing. This pillow does just what I hoped. Thanks."

"Love it. I was looking for one for a long time – to replace the one I had." 

"Pillow was comfortable right away. Supports your head and neck and I wake up in the morning less sore. Thanks so much!"

"This is the second Contour Pillow I've owned, loved the first one, had it about two years. Firmness wore out. I will definitely buy another one when this one loses firmness." 

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Simple Ways to Put Yourself in a Better Mood

Between work and everyday life, it's fairly normal to feel stressed. Perhaps anxious and tired from everything that's to be accomplished during waking hours. Work completed, bills paid, and hopefully finding some time for some enjoyment along the way. However, when you're in the thick of it, waiting until said enjoyment to be had, we're not thinking about the light at the end of the tunnel. We're thinking about blowing a hole in that tunnel so there's light right then and there. 

It's a thought process that adds to stress and continues to bog you down. With only a few adjustments, however, you can work toward a happier you – even when you're slated to be the most stressed. 

In order to feel more relaxed and happier throughout stressful situations consider:

• Resting more – Studies prove that after a good night's rest, you're able to feel perkier all on your own. No matter what stress the day might bring.
  
• Opening the windows – Another wonder of the world comes in the form of vitamin D. If you don't have time to get outside, let the fresh light shine in … it can do wonders for your self-help.
  
• Eating something healthy – Fruits, veggies, grains, even non-fattening proteins can all give your body a mood boost. In a similar light, avoid eating anything sugary, especially on an empty stomach.
  
• Smiling – Do it! If you're without time, read a joke online or recall a personal anecdote. Smile and laughter is contagious, even if you're forcing it at first.
  
• Hydrating – Flushing the body with water, lots of it, can ensure a body that's not holding onto toxins that can affect your mood. Drink up and look forward to a day that's somewhat water logged, but free from substances that bring you down. 

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Clean Eating for Your Health

As one of the latest additions in the healthy living trend, food gurus and the general public alike has invested in "clean" eating. A dietary practice where one tracks where their food came from and what was put in it, vs. establishing a traditional "diet." So far, thousands have jumped on board, joining support groups and subscribing to newsletters that recommend recipes and shopping lists. 

But even though this practice is relatively new, it doesn't take a genius to figure out it's pro-body. Rather than previous meal trends, such as no-carb, points systems, cereal twice-a-day, or meal replacement shakes (depending on what's in them), clean eating doesn't necessarily limit how much one can eat. It simply limits what they can eat. Rather than filling oneself with toxins or chemicals that can't be pronounced (have you read a food label lately), it's filling it with pure nutrients. Items that were fresh grown or farmed, and have a "clean" path to your kitchen. 

It's a regimen that's ideal for those with allergies, or who have been having recent health problems and can't pinpoint the cause. For instance, skin rashes, digestive pains, or even a chance in mood. As well as being a healthy way to ingest more vitamins without necessarily choosing more calories.

Sold? Ready to consider a "clean" menu for your household? Consider talking with a professional, such as your doctor or a nutritionist, especially if dealing with health issues. Together, you can work toward a smart plan to get your body healthy, and with a reduced amount of symptoms. Ideally, with as little side effects as possible – except for all of the good ones. Like an increase in energy and a toned, more efficient body. 

Get started to begin enjoying these benefits (and plenty of others) today. 

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