Should You Crack Your Own Neck?

Bone popping is a common habit. People will press in their knuckles, crane their back, and even pull on their own necks in order to feel that oh-so-satisfying cracking sound. Not to mention the feeling of relief that comes with it, releasing pent-up joint pressure, and providing immediate endorphins that are said to reduce pains and increase relaxation. It's also why so many are popping their own joints. 

But it is a practice that's safe?

Depends where you're popping. There's a reason physical therapists and chiropractors go to school for years – they learn about how the body is put together, how it works, and where bones should sit. Then with this training in tow, they set out to help others stay aligned. One of the most dangerous areas is the neck, where the spine is narrowed, and where a wrong move can seriously injure a patient, or send aches and pains down into their back. Possibly even worse.

Should we be attempting to do the same on our own? Probably not. It's one thing when joints give and pop when prompted only by your movements. But it's another to pull and press until a sound is heard. In fact, it's actually a dangerous way to strain muscles in a very sensitive area. 

Instead, it's best to stick with a professional and let them put your bones where they need to be. Steps like sleeping on an alignment pillow, regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help with neck health. And better yet, each of these can be done on your own. When paired, they can help eliminate the need to "crack" your neck all on their own. Or, visit your medical professional to keep everything in check, then ask their advice for making their handy work last. 

These simple steps, when combined, can help increase neck and spine health for the long-term, and eliminate pains.  

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Can a Knee Pillow Help Back Pain?

For years folks have been talking about using knee pillows to help with all types of back issues. That, even though the support isn't directly located on the painful area (the lower back), a pillow can bring on all levels of relief. The reasoning behind this claim, however, is solid, no matter how unrelated the actual treatment might sound. Here's why:

When we experience lower back pain, it's often caused by a secondary issue – a part of the body that's acting up and putting strain elsewhere. Likely hips, knees, etc. that's moving pressure up into the back. Nerves can be touchy and send pain signals, or sciatic areas can be making up for other areas that are failing to do their intended job. But no matter the cause, lower backs are one of the most common areas to experience pain. It's a center hub for functions, and takes a brunt of our daily tasks, even when that means we're sleeping.

However, by providing better alignment and reducing those same pressure points, back pain can be eliminated all on its own. Like with a knee pillow that's designed to keep the spine steady, reduce gravity on the hips, and promote blood and oxygen circulation. The pillow can also keep pressure from setting in on the lower back, which can cause pain round-the-clock, not just while lying down. 

Whether or not your knees and their alignment are the culprit, using a knee pillow will allow you to obtain better spine health through virtually any sleeping position. In fact, regular back pain patients often feel immediate relief when sleeping with this type of pillow. 

To learn more about how a knee pillow can help eliminate back pains, or to start shopping today, 

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The Dangers of Too-Dry Air

In the summer, humidity is one of our biggest complaints. It's hot, it's sticky, it makes the temperature feel 10+ degrees warmer than it actually is. Then come winter, we have the absolute opposite problem: the air is dry as can be. It makes it colder, our skin flaky and unprotected, and when it's cold enough, it downright hurts to breathe. Of course, on either end there is an easy fix for the inside of your home. And in winter that means running a humidifier or boiling a pot of water on the stove – keep one simmering slowly all day long for maximum effects. (That is, when you're close enough to keep an eye out.)

But is adding humidity really necessary? What exactly are the dangers of a house that's too dry? And why do we need a humidifier – homemade or otherwise – anyway?

When Your Home is Too Dry:

There's an abundance of static electricity. This makes sweaters and long hair annoying, whether on a human or your fur-baby rolling on the carpet. However, it can also mean giving out shocks every time you touch a light switch or anything metal. Small ones won't do much harm, but the bigger the shock, the harsher it's felt. (And more dangerous they can become.) 

Other symptoms play their toll directly on the body, like dry and itchy skin, watery or burning eyes, sinuses and throats that are irritated or in pain, which in turn, can make you more susceptible to germs and colds. Flu viruses can also live longer in low humidity, increasing your chance at being exposed. Finally, the nose can feel congested simply from being too dry. All of these symptoms can make you achy and feeling sick all on their own, whether or not you're actually sick. 

To avoid some serious health side effects, consider running your humidifier all winter long, or whenever moisture levels are low. It's an easy, affordable, and natural way to help feel your best, even through the height of cold season. 

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Foam or Fiber Pillow? Which is Better?

What type of pillow should you buy? Foam or fiber? Fiber or foam? It's the age-old question that seems to come up time and again. Or rather, it's one that comes up each time you browse or consider getting a new pillow. Some models are made from memory foams, others come from fiber blends. Each of which come with a different shape and feel, varied comfort levels, as well as specialties. But which offers which? And what's the difference between the pillows and their make-ups?

Foam Pillows

A foam pillow has the benefit of a rigid structure, once molded or cut, the pillow maintains it's shape and offers consistency each night. That shape can really help position your head, neck and shoulders properly.    Factors like the over all shape and height of the pillow become a dependable  support your body will appreciate.  Different types of foams are used to create soft or harder surfaces, light or full support, and different densities.  Different foams can be combined into layers to create special qualities.  Memory foam is very common and produces a softer, cushier foam which molds to your body.

Foam pillows are great for cervical and therapeutic pillows. They are also considered to be more supportive as they cradle the head, no matter how one moves throughout the night. Depending on the foam, certain compositions will ward off molds or other allergens too, an option that's ideal for those who are susceptible to triggers.

Some downsides of foam pillows -

• Because of their structure, most cannot be bent or "squished" like a traditional fiber pillow
• All foam will break down over time and slowly lose their support.   Most manufacturers recommend replacing a foam pillow each year to maintain maximum support.
• Some foams may contain a chemical like smell that usually dissipates within a few hours of exposure to the air

Fiber Pillows

One of the biggest perks to fiber pillows is that of flexibility. They're found fairly inexpensively, and can be used to customize the perfect pillow; fiber pillows can also be mashed and folded so that they match user comfort levels. They're often a softer material, creating a more gentle sleeping space

However, fiber pillows also come with their share of cons. When purchasing a fiber pillow, ensure it's one of high quality so it won't wear down or host an array of allergens. Simply put, these types of pillows offer more head depth when sleeping, but without the proper materials, can become flat or lumpy even a few months into use.

When choosing the right pillow, look to all of the above and more for an informative decision. And check back in for even more stats on buying the right pillow! 

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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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New Product: Kabooti Ice!

Great news for Kabooti lovers and the entire Contour Living community, we have a new product, the Kabooti Ice Therapeutic Seat Cushion! Still hosting all of our favorite Kabooti support options, customers can now receive cooling relief every time they sit down. Whether suffering from aches and pains or are recovering from surgery, this cool-pack option helps alleviate layers of discomfort. 

Best of all, it comes in the same product you've grown to know and love; the Kabooti Seat Cushion has long-since been a Contour best seller. With its supportive foam and coccyx cut out, it's the perfect combination to encourage posture while providing rear relief. The Kabooti is also great for long-term sitting whether at the office, in the car, or while seated at home. 

Its latest addition now brings an icepack directly to the coccyx cutout, reducing pressure and creating a blast of cold to some of your most sensitive pains. Perfect for those suffering from hemorrhoids, post-partum discomfort, testicular pain, perineal wounds, as well as post-surgery recovery. Or, if you have regular lower back or coccyx aches, Kabooti Ice can continue to reduce pressure, only now with added soothing abilities. 

Use the new Kabooti to stick to doctor-recommend icing schedules. Or, remove the cold pack and use your seat cushion as normal. With this versatile product, you're bound to find multiple pain relief efforts. And, because it comes with an ergonomic design and discreet look, only you know it's a specialty model! Use it whenever you need cooling comfort, or simply sit pretty (and supported) on your classic Kabooti for everyday support. 

To learn more about Kabooti Ice and how it can help your personal needs – from medical condition(s), to wanted comfort – check out our product page. Start shopping today and experience the Kabooti difference – now with ice! 

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New Year, New Pillowcase

Can you remember the last time you upgraded to a new pillowcase? If the answer is yes, was it within the last six months? And if the answer is no, it's definitely time for an upgrade. With the start of a new year brings on a perfect time to buy new – a date that will be easy to remember, and a great way to step into 2016. With a fresh and clean sleeping surface that allows you to recharge for your upcoming days. Better sleep will mean a perkier mood, more productive days, and a positive outlook on life. 

So why not upgrade your pillowcase today?

Best of all, they're on sale! For a limited time, you can purchase a new pillowcase for 50% off at Contour Living. Offer good for bed pillowcases, CPAP pillows, and flip pillow covers. Get one to test out the material, or upgrade your entire house's sleeping fleet for a fresh way to enter into the New Year. 

Everyone in your household can benefit from these material adjustments! 

Benefits of New Pillowcases

While they, like sheets, can be laundered regularly, pillowcases have a tendency to wear out. Washing machines and dryers will only further this process. Allergies can also cling to older materials, or have the likelihood to be present. The older your pillowcase, the more likely it is to fade or change shape, too. By starting with a fresh model, you can ensure your case is fitted properly. You can also experience smoother, softer textures to lie upon every night.

Are you ready to upgrade and save with your latest pillowcase? Shop Contour Living's website for access to all our favorite models. And to check out which versions will best fit your pillow. Use coupon code COVERME at checkout to experience the savings! 

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Contour's Pillow vs. a Regular Pillow – What's the Difference?

Let's face it, there are a ton of pillows out there – those that come in all shapes and sizes. All levels of firm-ness, and virtually any type of customization one could want. If there's an idea for it, it's likely there's a corresponding pillow that's made that idea a reality. But what are the real differences in each of these pillows? 

First, let's look at composition. Like with any product, low-cost items will be made with lower-cost goods; pillows offer a similar scenario. The hard part comes in dealing with items of higher value. Rather than just looking at price, see what each pillow is made from, and how that material might add sleeping perks. Is it hypoallergenic? Those with severe side effects will benefit from pillows that don't breed triggers. Is the pillow made from foam that won't wear? Will it continue to support night after night? Does it offer a single type of foam? Or multiple layers? 

Contour Living pillows are made with durable memory foam, and many pillows come with layers that are made to cradle and support for the long haul. 

Next, consider shape. Most pillows offer a static rectangle setup that can be fluffed and molded at your convenience. And, so long as it's made of supportive fillings (check the above), this can be a spine/neck-healthy way to go. Other pillows come in a form that's best designed for alignment. Be sure to read about your model, no matter what shape it's in, before purchasing. 

Additional factors, such as warranties, product guarantees, as well as company policies, return shipping (if applicable), and customer service should also be taken into consideration when comparing pillows. Before you buy, you want to make sure you'll be taken care of, and won't be left high and dry once your product comes in. 

In fact, that's why so many customers shop Contour Living time and again, great service that is now mirrored with our 90-day Comfort Guarantee policy. Love it or return it on qualifying items, no questions asked. 

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