Tips for Avoiding the Holiday Heartburn

Out of all the great things about the holiday, food is absolutely one of them. The side effects that come from eating these rich foods, however, not so much. With all of the cream cheeses, the candies, heavy meats (and whatever else your family craves come December), it can be rough on the digestive system. Not only in the stomach, but in your esophagus. The combination of eating heavy and eating often – sometimes there are too many fun parties to say no to – causes the body to retaliate. 

Rather than suffering through the goodies, follow these guidelines to gain relief … while still eating your favorite dishes.

Eat Lighter – We know, it can be tough not to stuff your face with Grandma's best meals, but going easy will help the digestion process later. You can always go for a second plate, just allow your body to have a break first.

Eat Healthy Too – The best-tasting foods are the worst for you. But that doesn't mean you can't sprinkle in some vegetables now and there. Healthier dishes will provide your body with nutrients, while helping to break down all the fats.

Eat Earlier … Or Go To Bed Later – It's the holidays, you're allowed to set your own schedule. Putting more time between dinner and sleeping in particular can ensure your body has had enough time to break down the latest meal. This reduces the risk of heartburn greatly.

Take a Tummy Settler – Milk (dairy or an alternative), a glass of water, home remedies, such as apple cider vinegar and honey, peppermint tea, etc., can all ease your esophagus before bed. Use these beverages to calm down your stomach acid in a natural way.

Sleep on an Incline – If it's bedtime and you can feel the heartburn on its way, use a wedge pillow to get better sleep. This will require stomach acid to essentially climb before causing pain. 

Enjoy the holiday snacks with these easy and effective heartburn killing tricks. 

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The Perfect Last-Minute Camping Gift!

It's getting down to the wire when shopping for holiday gifts. Yet chances are you still have a person or two on your list. Those folks that just can't be shopped for – or for whom you've simply been too busy to pick out the ideal gift. But fret not! Contour Living is here to save the day. With pillows and alignment accessories that can be used for all occasions, we're the ideal stop for any hard-to-satisfy loved one. 

But today we take your shopping a step further. We're catering to die-hard campers, and providing them with an all-inclusive package. One that combines all their outdoor comfort needs and rolls it up into one easy-to-buy gift.

Pick up one for every outdoorsy person in your life and stock away for gifts that are great any time of year. Including birthdays, family get-togethers, moving fits, or just because!

The Contour camping package includes:

The Double Back and Leg Cushion – This dual use pillow can be split and used in two different ways in order for you to maximize your camping space. Support the neck and lower back at the same time, use as head support and a seat cushion, and then roll up for convenient packing.

Kabooti Seat Cushion – Get rear relief when driving or sitting around the campfire. You can even choose the camo pattern cover for an added touch of personalization for your campers. 

Cloud Mattress Pad – No matter how fun camping might be, it's still difficult to get a good night's rest on the ground. Opt instead for a Cloud mattress pad for a surface that's cushioned, proven comfortable, and comes with plenty of back support. 

Combined, these items work to create a cushy camping experience. Making the whole trip more enjoyable. 

Right now, it's even on sale. Add our holiday coupon codes to get even further savings. 

Head to the Camper Comfort Package page to order today. 

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4 Holiday Gift Ideas That Will Please Even the Most Difficult of Relatives

It's that time of year when we start making our holiday gift lists. Writing down who we need to shop for, and what items we'd like to provide. Yet no matter how many people or gifts might be on our list, it seems to be easier with a guide. Tips from which you can use to help you shop, and pointers for keeping everyone on your list happy. Even those who have "everything" and who are downright hard to please.

Made the most out of your shopping efforts – with both your time and money – by sticking to these crowd favorites.

Seat Cushions

Anymore, it's normal for folks to sit through a majority of the day. Make those hours more enjoyable with a quality cushion that will add comfort, and help eliminate ongoing pains that can come from muscles that sit.  That;s why a cushion like the Kabooti makes a gift everyone would appreciate.

Pillows

If you don't understand the importance of a good pillow, it's likely because you've never had one. Help your loved ones sleep better and better every single night with a new quality pillow.

Mattress Pads

Just like pillows, the comfort level of one's bed is of huge importance. Add a lot of cushion (with a small price tag) for a gift that's sure to be appreciated.

Desk Accessories

With just a few upgrades, a desk can add functionality while eliminating pains. Consider a thoughtful present like wrist cushions or a natural keyboard that works with the body rather than against it for a unique gift that's perfect for any office worker on your list. 

A Body Pillow

An often-underrated bedroom feature sits with the body pillow, an accessory that adds full-body support when sleeping or just looking to get comfortable. Consider adding one or several to your list for some seriously satisfied giftees. 

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Save Your Back! Halloween Costumes to Avoid

One of the holiday greats will soon be upon us, and that means candy and costumes for miles around. As well as some serious pumpkin carving. Events that, like many others, suggest a magical time of year. However, if suffering from back pain (and even if you aren't), there are certain things you should avoid. For instance, heavy lifting, sleeping on a non-supportive mattress, and so on. One more thing to add to that list – which is not considered as often – is wearing the wrong type of Halloween costume. 

As unimportant as that might sound, how you dress for All Hallows Eve can greatly affect your back health. This upcoming October 31^st (and for every showing after), remember to avoid these specific types of costumes.

Anything heavy, obviously. When possible, don't dress up as any character who has a large backpack or important gear that might weigh a little too much. The same goes for wearing anything heavy, such as a thick full-body costume or transformation of sorts. It's likely uncomfortable and won't be doing your back any favors, either.

Blinders – as in a mask that takes away your peripheral vision. Who wants to be spinning on their heels all night? Rotating your entire body is likely to strain your neck, back, as well as your eyes. Choose a costume that has a more open range of motion instead. 

Uncomfortable shoes – something about Halloween almost compels folks to wear the most painful shoes around. Whether high heels, hard platforms, wooden or plastic versions – chances are they aren't going to make your feet feel good. But beware, a lack of support or weight displacement could also take the pain further up and into the spine.  

Anything too tight – this, too, might sound arbitrary, but cutting off circulation (or slowing it down) in any portion of the body will have negative effects. Rather than suffering through pain, go up a size and enlist the help of comfort. 

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Tips for Enjoying a Safe Fourth of July

This holiday is a time to celebrate America's freedom in all its glory. Which generally means a colorful and bright display. Perhaps a barbecue or swimming in the nearest body of water. In the presence of high heat and fireworks, however, there's bound to be an accident or two. Rather than falling victim on such a beloved holiday, remember a few simple safety precautions that can help save the day.

Aside from the obvious, like not getting too close to fireworks and ensuring all fire-lighting is far enough away from buildings and crowds, there are additional safety tips that can be taken. And by planning for your specific needs, you can ensure a much more enjoyable holiday.

For instance: staying hydrated. For Fourth is generally one of the hottest holidays of the year, don't let your day end badly because you didn't pack an extra water bottle. If you are prone to heat reactions, stay near an AC or bring a fan. (And bring plenty of sunscreen!) Wading in a pool every so often can also help cool you down.

Or if you suffer from lower back pain, bring along a quality lawn chair, and be sure to stand only as your back allows. Then again, if plenty of standing is required, wear supportive shoes that can help ease your pains. 

You should also remember that a "traditional" Fourth celebration isn't required. If you'd rather enjoy some indoor time, head to the movies, or order Chinese food with your neighbor, so be it. You'll likely even get a free fireworks show with minimal traveling. 

Because it's a holiday that's all about celebrating freedom, what better day to do as you please? So long as you're safe about it and respectful of your body's needs, you can be on your way to celebrating America's birthday the best way you know how. 

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Sleeping Positions to Improve Digestion: When it’s Not Good to “Go Green”

This St. Patrick’s Day, we’re celebrating the day with as much green as possible. From outfits, to dishes, to parades, and anything else that incorporates the leprechaun’s favorite holiday. It’s safe to say it’s a day that’s greener than any other. 

But when it comes to bodily functions, greener isn’t always better. In fact, it’s far worse. No one wants to be green in the face, that is nauseous, any time of day. Especially when they’re trying to sleep. 

In order to get past whatever digestion ailment that has you on edge, look to these simple and comfortable sleeping positions. Each of which helps the body naturally improve digestion, and keeps you from going green in the face. No matter what they day may bring. 

The Right Side

When your stomach is feeling uneasy, one of the best ways to sleep is on your right side. Because of the way the intestines sit, this allows food and accompanying acids to settle and rest, rather than causing even further feelings of unease. Consider rolling over to your right the next time your stomach is upset.

On an Incline

Eat right before bed? Whether you’re experiencing acid reflux, indigestion, or know you need a little more time before you can sleep comfortably, consider an incline. This allows the body to naturally settle its contents with the help of gravity. Opt for a wedge-shaped pillow, or stack a few to gain similar results. You can even lounge in the chair until you feel properly digested. 

The Left Side

Unlike an upset stomach, the left side seems to be the way to go when preventing heartburn. (Whether it’s already struck, or you’re looking to nix its symptoms before they arrive.) These findings were proven by a number of sleep studies, all of which featured regular heartburn suffers who made the switch to left-side sleeping. 

Face-First

While sleeping with your face into the pillow might not sound like the most comfy position, it might be the best for helping with digestion. Try this tactic after a heavy meal, or when eating right before bed. It’s a great way to give the intestines a helping hand, while eliminating discomfort or stomach twists and turns throughout the night. 

To better eliminate painful sleeping patterns, especially those associated with digestion, opt for these simple solutions. They’re a proven and comfortable way to gain better sleep. 

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Tips for Sleeping Away This Holiday Season

With all the traveling and visiting that’s to be done this time of year, many of us find ourselves sleeping away from home. Whether that’s in a guest bed, on the couch, on an air mattress, or worst of all – on the floor. Maybe even a combination, depending on how much hopping around is to be done and how many houses visited. 

No matter where you rest your head this holiday season, however, there are a few simple and proven steps that can help you get a better night’s rest. Even if you are sleeping on the hard ground or on a too-worn mattress. 

To eliminate back pain, bring along an add-on item such as a leg pillow or wedge to create a better-aligned surface. Many come in portable sizes, and range in all types of specialties, depending on what type of issue ails you most. For instance, a Contour Leg Pillow to better set the spine while laying on one’s side. Or a Wedge Cushion to reduce acid reflux when only a flat pillow is within reach. 

Traveling in Better Health

There are also plenty of sitting travel options to make life easier (and less painful). Opt for a rear or back cushion that can be placed on top of your seat – whether in a car, bus, or plane. Or pack along a backrest that will keep you sitting comfy and alert through the entire traveling process. 

Best of all, each of these products can be found in foldable, or travel sizes. So as to not take up much space while still offering real-time results.

And, of course, if you’re hosting this holiday season, it doesn’t hurt to have plenty of comfort items for your guests. Mattress pads, pillows, and more can all make for a more enjoyable stay and better sleep to be had by all. 

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Medical Side Effects from Too Much Thanksgiving

If you eat too many beets, you’ll turn purple. Carrots can improve your eyesight. Bread crusts can make your hair curly. We’ve all heard these food myths and plenty more – old wives tales have a tendency to stick around, and parents are willing to say almost anything to get their kids to clean their plates. But which food-based rumors are actually true? Do any of these “tales” have any truth behind them?

Perhaps not. Though vegetables with pigment have been shown to tint the color of one’s skin, improved eyesight and curled hair have seen little scientific facts as to how they can be changed. (That is, without the help of a doctor or salon.) Other side effects, however, have been seen in full force, especially after big meals such as holiday dinners. Including the biggest holiday dinner of them all, Thanksgiving. 

When eating too much, indigestion and other digestive pains are more likely to take place. Especially with heavy foods, such as mashed potatoes, yams, stuffing, and breads. Consuming these same heavy meals late in the day has also been shown to increase existing conditions, such as acid reflux and sleep apnea. However, those who aren’t regular sufferers are also more susceptible when over eating, or eating foods close to bedtime. 

Also on the list of meal-induced conditions: cramps, headaches, stomachaches, irregular bowel movements, and difficulty sleeping. Or, afternoon fatigue, especially for the turkey lovers. Far less glamorous than the side effects our parents used to get us to eat. 

To avoid these possibly painful side effects, consider curbing your Thanksgiving appetite. It’s any easy, effective way to avoid all of the above, including whichever aliment affects you the worst. 

You can even check out this blog for tips on how to do so!

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4 Places to Avoid Falling Asleep This Thanksgiving

With a fully belly and a warm house, nothing sounds better than a nice afternoon nap. (This comes after mounting research that turkey causes sleepiness.) Whether a short catnap or lasting for hours on end, this post-dinner pick-me-up is just what eaters need to keep them going post dessert. However, before you curl up on the couch this coming Thursday, consider your other, more back-friendly options.

To avoid a backache this Thanksgiving – along with your bellyache – avoid falling asleep in these common napping locations.

4. The Recliner

Though comfy for sitting short-term, sleeping too long in this lazy-L position can cause lower back pain. Look for a sturdier lumbar placement for a power nap that doesn’t drain spinal support.

3. The Kitchen Table

When full, sometimes it’s just too difficult to stand up and move to a cozier location. Whether slouching in your dinner chair or bent over on the table, this position could cause serious repercussions to your mid-back, neck, and circulation. For the sake of staying pain-free, move to a new area before letting the turkey settle.

2. A Sagging Couch

When visiting Grandma or Great Aunt Nell, the draw to that classic family couch can grow strong. However, a sinking center means no support and little cushion for the areas that need it most. While these retro couches can be great for checking the latest football scores, try and stay awake and seated upright.

1. The Floor

The floor can be a truly awful place to take a snooze – after all it’s hard, unforgiving, and offers zero cushioning. Though stretching out may feel great after a big meal, look for the help of a leg, neck, or lower back pillow to help ease the blow of the hardened floor.

This Thanksgiving, a nap may be a well-earned necessity. However, remember to opt for comfortable, supportive locations to keep your spine in prime working order.

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5 Monsters That Could Have Used Back Support Products

With Halloween just around the corner, monsters and other Halloween-themed items are in full force. Cereals are launching spooky versions of their breakfast foods, kids are preparing their costumes, and classic movies are making their way onto the TV. And other than their ability to scare viewers with their folklore, each of these shows seems to have a main theme in common: their characters look alarmingly uncomfortable.

Whether they had a permanent crick in the neck or just needed a better mattress, we bring you our list of top five monsters that needed a spinal support upgrade.

5. Dracula

For someone who sleeps in an un-cushioned coffin each day, Dracula was surprisingly upbeat. Think how chipper he could have been with a mattress pad, or at the very least, a neck pillow to help keep his fangs in place.

4. Frankenstein’s Monster

With metal parts throughout his body, Frankenstein’s Monster likely had headaches galore. A head-shaping pillow (a large one), would have easily helped relieve pressure while he got a good night of rest. Other tall monsters, such as Lurch and Herman Munster, might have suffered from similar issues.

3. Cousin Itt

Cousin Itt, Gomez Addams’s relative, was probably one of the hottest sleepers in history. Covered in hair from head to toe, cooling pillows and mattress pads would have done wonders for his ability to rest, even in the warmest of environments. The same goes for Michael J. Fox and other werewolves.

2. Uncle Fester

Who would sleep on a bed of nails when a plush, comfortable mattress was available? It’s likely he would have opted for a back support model, had they been available back in the day.

1. Voldermort

All that flying can be hard on the spine, causing it to twist and turn in odd directions. Unless he had a great wizard bone adjuster, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named could have done wonders with a pillow-top mattress. Not to mention a seat cushion for his long Death Eater meetings.

Who are your favorite monsters? What product would have helped their health?

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New Holiday Coupons

Shop now and take advantage of these exclusive savings:
· Take $5 off $50 or more orders - enter coupon SHOPNOW during checkout.
· Take $15 off orders of $100 or more! - enter coupon SHOPNOW2 during checkout
Hurry, these coupons expire 12/10/07!

Shop Contour Living Now!

Shop now and beat the Rush for the holidays! Choose from these wonderful gift ideas, or browse our online store for a huge selection of support pillows, better sleep aids and products to support and improve your back.
Holds any position for perfect comfort and support
Support and align your lower body at night
Stretch your spine for a healthier back

New European Anti-SnoreSupport Pillow
Soothe back muscles with calming massage and fantastic support

Foot and leg massage also supports lower body at night

Transform your mattress into an adjustable bed
Re-align your spine to its natural position
Inversion therapy best known back pain relief method

Please pass this savings opportunity on to your friends. We're happy to provide uniquely designed products for your comfort and support. Try our foam support pillows including the super popular Twist Pillow, or our innovative Mattress Genie adjustable wedge. Maybe you need a better head support pillow for improved sleep quality, or a new mattress pad for improved mattress comfort. If you need a quality product for back support or better quality rest, chances are we have a solution in our store.

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Latest Coupons for Contour Living

Greetings Contour Living and Back to Health subscribers. Welcome back from the Holiday vacation. Take advantage of these savings for Cyber-Monday and beyond.

Take $5 off $50 or more orders - enter coupon TURKEY during checkout.

Take $15 off orders of $100 or more! - enter coupon TURKEYLEG during checkout

Hurry, these coupons expire 11/30/07!

Shop Contour Living Now! http://www.contourliving.com

Shop now and beat the Rush for the holidays! Choose from these wonderful gift ideas, or browse our online store for a huge selection of support pillows, better sleep aids and products to support and improve your back.

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