How the Wind Can Have a Negative Affect on Your Health

Depending on where you live, you might be more prone to windy days … or very rarely experience them. Either way, it's likely that you're wondering what the big deal is – either it's windy or it's not, Mother Nature's way of clearing out leaves. 

But windy days can actually affect us much deeper. Like with what it blows in with it.

Every time it's windy there are thousands of germs, allergens, and other microbes that make their way through the air. Pollens, molds, and more (even unpleasant scents) also get carried through the wind. In some ways, this can be considered a positive, by allowing your immune system to gain exposure to (and ward off) various triggers. However, if you suffer from severe allergies, this can cause an ongoing slew of symptoms. Even worse when you spend time outdoors during the changing season. Meaning that each time it's windy, you can develop cold-like reactions, allow further substances into your home, and even lower your immune system's efficiency.

In order to avoid the negative side effects of windy days, there are a few steps you can take. First of all, make sure you have a clean yard. Sure, neighbors' leaves and yard clippings can blow onto your property, but the cleaner it is outside in general, the fewer items that will be out in circulation (and adding air allergens). If you have severe allergies, remember to have someone else clean up; raking and bagging leaves puts triggers directly into your breathing space. 

Next, be careful about opening windows. Especially when it's blustery, which can let even more airborne germs into your home. And finally, gear up for some spring cleaning. The actual jump date to spring might be a few weeks off, but in our book, any nice weather qualifies. The earlier you start cleaning, the earlier you can start benefitting from an organized, wind-free home.

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Regular Sleep Can Improve Your Mental Health

Everyone has woken up groggy, in fact, we've all done it a number of times. There's no denying that on these days, you feel less than prepared to take on the world. Rather than refreshed and energized after waking, you feel tired, cranky, and essentially like you woke up on the wrong side of the bed. Sometimes, this is just an unfortunate turn of events. For whatever reason, you weren't able to sleep soundly that night, and sometimes there's nothing that can be done. 

Other times, however, you set yourself up for failure. By going to bed too late (or waking up too early), not letting your mind calm down, or not sticking to a routine, you could actually be causing un-restful sleep through your habits. Because, without enough deep, productive sleep, your body just can't function like it should. Your brain isn't as quick, causing you to be slower with reactions, speech, and even body functions. In fact, reduced sleep, over time, can cause brain damage, memory loss, and have an effect on everyday mood. Just like we need sleep after a long day, the brain needs time to rest and recharge itself. 

Think of it like a battery. It's best to charge a phone, computer, etc. on a routine – once it's low, charge it completely. Failing to do so, or charging a little here and there can lower the battery's quality. Other times, a battery can be just fine – they, like the brain, are prone to different factors. 

However, by keeping a regular charge, or sleeping on a schedule, you can do your best to combat these negative side effects. Talk with your doctor or set a regular routine in order to give the brain, and the rest of the body, as much rest as possible.  

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Can Hugs Make You Feel Younger?

Every now and then there’s a study that comes out with completely unique information. Whether it’s how to improve health, combat a certain illness, or just stats about how vitamins are affecting others, it gives us a glimpse into how we’re affected by everyday situations. But this latest release just may take the cake. Scientists are now showing results that hugs can make us feel younger. Providing what is known as the “cuddle hormone,” research shows that regular hugs can not only leave you more energized, but promote better bone and muscle health. All from just giving more hugs. 

The study was performed at the University of California, Berkeley, where it was found that the “cuddle hormone” or oxytocin helps those with muscle injuries heal more quickly. It’s a substance that the body creates and releases naturally when physical touching takes place. The study also found that oxytocin naturally decreases with age. But through regular touching – or injections of the substance – subjects were still found to heal at an increased pace whether suffering from a muscle or bone related injury.

The injections were also found to be safe, though natural versions of oxytocin appeared to have a better influence over patients. 

What the Results Mean

The research is in, folks, time to get hugging in order to feel younger. And to heal any ongoing injuries, especially those that involve the muscles or bones. It may not yet be doctor recommended, but that doesn’t mean patients can’t test out the theory for themselves. If it works, you can jumpstart your way to a speedy recovery, and if it doesn’t, all it cost you is a little up-close and personal time with those to whom you’re closest. Not exactly a con from any standpoint. 

To improve your health as well as your everyday mood, consider giving more hugs on a daily basis. 

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