Holistic Health Essentials

A holistic approach to health is a process that considers the totality of an individual’s body, mind, and spirit. It involves incorporating various complementary and alternative practices designed to support the body’s natural functions. In addition to the physical body, holistic health also considers an individual’s emotional, spiritual, social, and intellectual health. These aspects of an individual’s well-being allow them to live their lives in the best possible way.

Importance

Today, people are living longer than ever and experiencing various levels of fatigue and stress. They are additionally being exposed to a wide variety of chemicals in our environment, which can negatively affect their health.

Physical

When it comes to health, most people focus on the physical health of their bodies. This is because the body is the one that shows us the signs of optimal or poor health. These symptoms and signs are more accessible to measure and track than non-physical markers.

Emotional

Although emotional health is often overlooked, it is essential to consider its importance as it can affect our physical well-being.

Social

Studies show happy people have strong connections with their families, friends, and community. Religion is often associated with this as it can give them a sense of support and community.

Spiritual

Although many overlapping principles and practices are related to spiritual health, people don’t need to become religious. Instead, people must focus on their spiritual connection with the world around them.

Mental

The last component of a person’s overall well-being is mental health. While emotional health is mainly related to daily mood, it is also important to note that mental health is about our cognitive abilities.

We can start to recognize and address the various aspects of our overall well-being by taking a holistic approach to our bodies. This can help us identify and address the issues that affect our health.

Different Military Medals Veterans Can Earn

If you’ve ever walked by a military member wearing their dress uniform, you might have wondered what their medals and ribbons mean. There are hundreds of military decorations and awards, each with its history and significance. Although some of these are easier to identify, here are six significant awards you can easily spot.

Medal of Honor

The Medal of Honor is the highest award given to US service members. It’s also sometimes referred to as the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Since the medal was first created during the Civil War, it has only been given to those who have shown extraordinary bravery in battle. There are three different versions of the award, and all of its recipients are provided it by the president.

Distinguished Service Cross

The Medal of America is given to individuals who have shown exceptional courage and bravery in combat. The second-highest award for military service is the Distinguished Service Cross. President Woodrow Wilson established the Distinguished Service Cross in 1918 to recognize the sacrifices made by US troops during the First World War. Before the Air Force Cross was established in 1960, it was also given to members of the Army Air Forces.

Navy Cross

The Navy Cross is the second-highest award that’s given to members of the military. It’s also shown to individuals who have displayed extraordinary bravery in combat. The Navy Cross was established in 1919 to recognize the actions of those who served during the First World War. It’s given to individuals who exhibited extraordinary bravery in combat.

Air Force Cross

The Air Force Cross is a prestigious military award for service members who have distinguished themselves in combat. In 1960, the Air Force Cross was established to recognize the actions of individuals who displayed extraordinary bravery in combat. Some individuals who have received this award include George Day, a World War II veteran, and John Chapman, an airman posthumously granted the Medal of Honor.

Distinguished Flying Cross

Besides the Air Force, other military branches also have awards for service members who display extraordinary bravery in action. The Air Force’s Distinguished Flying Cross can be given to members of the Navy, Army, Air Force, and DHS for actions while flying. The Air Force Cross was established in 1926 to honor outstanding military service. Some individuals who have received this award include former President George HW Bush and Thomas Stafford, an astronaut who commanded the Apollo 10 mission.

Purple Heart Medal

The Purple Heart is often confused with other awards given by the US military due to its long history. In 1782, President George Washington established the prize as the “Badge of Military Merit.” It was initially meant to be given to soldiers who exhibited extraordinary bravery in battle. The award was initially given to enlisted soldiers and non-commissioning officers for their military service. This was a revolutionary idea since most awards were given to officers.

Home Improvement Trends of 2023

According to a survey, 59% of homeowners in the US plan on doing home improvement projects in 2020. The trend of home renovations and repairs is expected to continue to be popular.Getting a home remodeling project done can be daunting, but it can be done with the right strategy and guidance from a skilled contractor. This guide will help you find the most effective home improvement trends that are expected in 2023.

Larger Windows

In 2022, one of the biggest home improvement trends will be bigger-are-good windows. However, if you want to see the full effect of this design, consider adding floor-to-ceiling windows.Consider adding more oversized windows to create a more luxurious atmosphere in your home. This will allow you to enjoy natural light in your room and make it feel more spacious. Another vital home improvement trend that you should consider is the use of arched windows. This design can be combined with other features to create a unique look.

Mudrooms

The concept of mudrooms was a massive hit during the 2000s, but it has since fallen out of favor. Now, these rooms are back and are more organized. In 2022, the walls of the mudrooms will be covered in built-ins, allowing you to store various items, such as umbrellas and shoes. These rooms also feature a sink for washing up. Aside from being a must-have, a well-designed and organized mudroom will keep your home clean and on-trend.

Renewed Interest Built-Ins

Although built-ins are back in style, they are more functional than their predecessors. Consider using built-in units if you’re planning on adding a built-in cabinet to your dining room instead of a traditional buffet. You can also add a built-in shelving unit in the living room to free up more space.

You don’t have to go for boring built-ins. You can use various materials, such as wood and onlays, to create a unique look.

Retro-Futurism Designs

Although you might not have heard of retro-futurism, it’s a trend that will be prevalent in the home decor and interior design industry in the years to come. The concept of retro-futurism combines modern aesthetics and nostalgic pop art. It features a futuristic theme running through the space’s architecture, lighting, and technology. The retro-futurist home can be ideal for people passionate about science fiction and retro-futurism.

Outdoors Coming In

The pandemic taught us the importance of being close to nature. This is why many homeowners are adding natural elements to their living spaces. Aside from bringing plants inside, this also means looking for natural elements that can inspire you to create a more organic atmosphere in your home. For instance, you can use natural materials such as wood, stone, and linen to create a unique look. One of the positive effects of this trend is that it encourages people to feel more comfortable when they come home.

Add-Ons That Are Eco-Friendly

The eco-friendly trend is finally making its way into the interior design industry. It allows homeowners to use repurposed materials in their homes. To bring the eco-friendly trend into your home, consider collaborating with companies that share your values. You can then create a space that will feel good about itself.

A Guide to the Different Styles of Decks

A deck is a platform structure that can be made from either wood or composite materials, and it can be used for various outdoor activities. What differentiates them from a patio is that these structures are raised above the ground. They can feature various accessories, and there are several styles to choose from when considering building one on your property.

There are many ways to classify a deck type, such as its intended use, location, and basic structural design. In this article, discover some different types of decks and the ways that they can contribute to the overall design and feel of your home.

Detached Deck

A detached deck is structurally different from an attached one. Unlike an attached deck, this type of structure can be built anywhere in the yard. These types of platforms or floating decks are often constructed without the need for a building permit. They are a great choice for people who are looking to build their own deck without the additional expense and design requirements of an attached deck.

Attached Deck

One of the most common types of decks is a structurally anchored deck. This type of structure can be used as an extension of the home, and it can be accessed through the doors leading to the interior of the home.

This broad category can include multi-level structures with landings and stairs, as well as simple ground-level platforms. What makes a structurally anchored deck different from other types is that it’s attached to the house using a ledger board. This type of engineering ensures that the structure is strong and solid, but it also means that it’s subject to the building code requirements. When these types of structures are elevated above the ground, they must be supported by footings and posts that are in accordance with the building code. These types of decks will typically require permits and inspections.

Multi-Level Deck

A multi-level deck is typically composed of several separate structures that are connected by stairs. The terrain can dictate the need for this type of structure, as rocky, steep, and sloped areas might lead to a different design choice. Compared to standard rectangular or square decks, multi-level structures are typically more expensive due to the additional labor and materials that are required to construct them.

Wraparound Deck

Large attached decks are known as wraparound decks. These structures are typically elevated and connected to the home by running around two or more sides. They can feature various accessories, such as railings and roofing. Depending on the size and budget of your home, a traditional wraparound deck can be either spacious or narrow. If the structure is covered, you’ll need to spend a lot of money on various expenses, such as installing new roofing and installing a gutter system.

Resources for Female Veterans

Veterans can be faced with numerous challenges upon ending their years of service to their countries. Some of these challenges differ depending on what they experienced, where they are relocating to, and even their gender. Female veterans might experience challenges to a different degree upon returning home. Discover some of the resources available to female veterans below.

GRACE AFTER FIRE

Through its programs, Grace After Fire provides support and resources to female veterans who are returning from active duty. They are able to re-engage with their families and communities in a more supported way through the help of this organization.

NATIONAL WOMEN VETERANS UNITED (ILLINOIS)

NWVU’s goal is to provide female veterans with the necessary information and resources to make informed decisions regarding their VA benefits. It also aims to help them avoid experiencing homelessness and provide them with the necessary resources to secure a safe and secure shelter. To ensure that the services provided to female veterans are adequate, NWVU advocates for better delivery of these services in various federal, state, and local government agencies. It also monitors the distribution of housing vouchers.

SERVICE WOMEN’S ACTION NETWORK

Through its various programs and initiatives, the Service Women’s Action Network (SWAN) has been able to help female veterans and servicewomen of all eras improve their access to various benefits and opportunities. It also educates policymakers about the issues that affect them.

FATIGUES TO FABULOUS

The national campaign “F2F” was created to support female veterans and those who serve in the military. It aims to help raise awareness about the various issues that female service members face when they return home. It was supported by three non-profit organizations: The Society for Women’s Health Research, Grace After Fire, and Business and Professional Women’s Foundation.

The goal of the campaign is to help women successfully transition into civilian life and navigate the healthcare system. Through its partners, F2F has been able to provide various job training skills such as resume writing and interviewing techniques.

For decades, returning home has presented women with a variety of services and forms. The challenges they face can range from housing to employment. The campaign F2F was created to honor the mothers, wives, sisters, aunts, and other relatives who have served in the military.

ACADEMY WOMEN

Academy Women is a non-profit organization that provides programs and resources to female officers from the various officer development programs in the US. The organization brings together former and current female military officers, cadets, and midshipmen who are committed to its mission. Through a global network, they hope to provide their members with the necessary resources and support to succeed in their careers and communities.

Yuka: An App That Helps You Determine Whether Foods Are Actually Healthy

It’s important to know what foods are healthy and unhealthy, but many of us don’t always know which is which. First, it’s important to define what is “healthy” – does it mean an entire meal with the most nutritious greens or just a few bites of high-end chocolate?

With so many different types of food out there, it can be tough to determine what is “healthy.” Enter Yuka. Yuka is an app that helps you determine whether foods are good for you or not – just upload the barcode of the item in question, and it will let you know if they’re healthy or not!

What Is Yuka?

Yuka is a free app that you can use while shopping in the grocery store. Product labels can be misleading. Some might claim to be a healthy alternative to this-that-and-the-other, but oftentimes their claims are simply not true.

With Yuka, if you’re not sure whether a product in your grocery store is nutritious, just scan the barcode of the item in question, and Yuka will give you a quick and easy-to-understand analysis of that product’s nutritional value.

How Does it Work?

Yuka uses its massive archive of product information to locate item specifics when you scan the barcode. From there, it presents you with its product rating using a simple color-coding system. This grading system is based on three things: nutritional value, additives, and organic components.

Along with rating food products, using Yuka can also make you aware of things such as endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, allergens, and other irritants found in various personal care products.

Every product gets a grade ranging from excellent to good, to mediocre, to poor. The app even takes things a step further by recommending similar products with a higher grade if the one you’ve scanned scored poorly.

Not everyone has the time or energy to research and determine which products are healthy, so Yuka made the process of comparing easy and free, opening the door to a healthier future for everyone.

4 Tips For Remodeling Your Kitchen

If you’re thinking of remodeling your kitchen, it’s important that you think it out so you can prepare properly and not have any regrets later. After all, the kitchen is a central part of your home and having a kitchen that you’re unhappy with is a surefire way to make you hate cooking and doing anything else you might have to do in there. You’ll want to consider the size, the appliances, the cabinet and counter space and so much more. Here are a few tips to help you remodel your kitchen successfully.

Test Out An Island Before Installing One

Kitchen islands can be a great idea if you’re looking to add more counter and storage space. However, it can limit the number of people who work in the kitchen and make for a chaotic environment. Before you commit to a kitchen island, try making one out of cardboard or plywood and living with it for a couple of days. Make sure that you can open the refrigerator and stove doors. This will help you decide if it’s worth installing one, and if you’ll want to look for alternatives instead.

Leave Space For Future Appliances

If you’re planning on getting new cabinets but aren’t currently planning to replace appliances like your fridge or microwave, you may want to consider leaving enough space for a wider model later down the road. A great way to leave extra space without it looking empty is by installing either side panels or filler strips. You can also install shelving between the panels, or even install top cabinets. Be sure you order these panels and strips with your cabinets in order to everything matches properly as well.

Don’t Do New Counters Until You’ve Installed The Cabinets

Before you start the process of installing new counters, make sure that you have all of the base cabinets installed and measured. This will allow you to determine the dimensions of the new countertop. If the rows of cabinets have out-of-square walls, you might want to place a carpenter’s square over the end section to help prevent a gap between the wall and the countertop.

Beware of Floor Gaps

If you’re planning on keeping the old floor and adding new cabinets, you might have to deal with gaps between the two. If the new cabinets don’t fit the existing cabinet footprint, you’ll have to deal with gaps. Make sure that the total width of the new ones matches the width of the old ones. If you have any gaps that are less than 3/4 of an inch, you can hide them using molding.

This article was originally published on ChuckSchmalzried.com

5 Great Books On Holistic Health To Read This Year

Reading is one of the best ways to learn more about a subject and get many different perspectives on the subject. This is especially true for holistic health, a subject that seems to be handled differently from person to person. If you’re looking to learn more about how to approach your own holistic health, reading a few books can be a good place to start. Here are a few great books on holistic health to check out in 2022.

The Mind/Body Toolkit – Kim D’Eramo, DO

Dr. Kim D’Eramo is a physician who has become a mind/body expert and offers a variety of tools and strategies to help individuals improve their mental and physical health. This book is a must-have for anyone who is struggling with health issues that they’re not sure how to approach anymore. Her book has a positive and relatable message that can help you get started on your holistic health journey.

The Mindbody Prescription – John E. Sarno, MD

Written by Dr. John E. Sarno, The Mindbody Prescription is a great book that will help you get started on your journey toward a more holistic health style. Due to the increasing number of people suffering from pain disorders, both doctors and their patients are failing to recognize that the underlying cause of these conditions could be related to emotional or mental health causes. Dr. Sarno’s book is meant to provide insight into ways we can recover from these types of pain disorders without the use of surgery or drugs.

The Science Behind Tapping – Peta Stapleton, Ph.D.

Peta Stapleton, who is a researcher of the Emotional Freedom Technique, provides a great overview of the history and research behind the practice of tapping in her book, “The Science Behind Tapping”. She also explains how it can be used to treat various health conditions. This is a must-have for anyone who is looking for an easy read that will teach them more about EFT using both research and evidence.

Impossible Cure – Amy L. Lansky, Ph.D.

In “Impossible Cure”, Amy Lansky provides plenty of fascinating information about the history and philosophy of the practice of homeopathy. She talks about her son’s experience with autism and how he was cured using the therapy. The book also features plenty of testimonials from people who have used homeopathic remedies in order to recover from a multitude of health issues. Check this one out if you’re looking to get a new perspective on holistic health.

The Modern Herbal Dispensatory – Thomas Easley, Steven Horne

The Modern Herbal Dispensatory is a great book that will help you learn how to make various types of herbal products at home. This complete guide will teach you everything you need to know to make effective and natural home remedies. It’s the perfect resource for anyone who is interested in learning more about herbal medicine while expanding skills at the same time.

This article was originally published on ChuckSchmalzried.org

Great TED Talks That Veterans Should Check Out

Veterans consist of some of the greatest men and women in our country, with each giving a portion of their lives in order to protect the United States. Some see active duty, others don’t, and regardless of this, veterans often struggle to transition back to civilian life. They might have a hard time finding a job, or perhaps they were injured during their service and are struggling with that. Others struggle with mental health problems. The treatment of veterans is something we’re constantly looking at and trying to solve, and there have been some great TED Talks that also discuss problems facing veterans. Let’s take a look.

A New Mission For Veterans: Disaster Relief – Jake Wood

According to a survey, over 90% of US veterans want to continue serving their country once they’re discharged. At the same time, natural disasters constantly affect the world and change people’s lives. In response to this, Jake Wood, the CEO of the nonprofit organization Team Rubicon, talks about how veterans can help with the response to disasters. He also talked about the importance of having a sense of community and self-worth, something many veterans tend to seek once returning to civilian life.

Deaf In The Military – Keith Nolan

For Keith Nolan, the goal of becoming a US military member was always at the top of his list. Unfortunately, due to being deaf, he was automatically disqualified from the military. In this talk, he talks about his experiences finding ways to fight for his country when his country wouldn’t let him. His experience includes two years of ROTC, becoming a teacher and guiding other like-minded students, and founding the Maryland School for the Dead Cadet Corps.

The Military Case For Sharing Knowledge – Stanley McChrystal

During his time leading the US military’s efforts against al Qaeda in 2003, General Stanley McChrystal was able to rely on information and secrets to make his decisions. However, after the unconventional battle that he was involved in, he started to believe that the culture of keeping classified information was counterproductive. In his talk, McChrystal discussed the importance of actively sharing knowledge.

How To Talk To Veterans About War – Wes Moore

When Wes Moore joined the US Army, he initially did it in order to pay for college. However, his experience became so important to him that he decided to write his book “The Other Wes Moore.” In this talk, he discusses the shock of returning home from Afghanistan and how it affected him. He also talks about the importance of asking other veterans to share their stories.

This article was originally published on ChuckSchmalzried.net

Tips For Installing A Hardwood Floor

It’s hard to deny the appeal of a freshly installed hardwood floor. They look sleek, they’re easy to clean, and they feel great to walk around on. Installing your hardwood floor is rather simple as well, even without any prior experience! A few useful tips can go a long way though, and that’s what we’re here to discuss. Here are a few tips to help you install your new hardwood floor.

Consider Your Installation Methods

There are three main types of hardwood floor installation methods: nail-down, click-lock, and glue-down. The former is commonly used for its permanence and is the most common type of hardwood floor installation. If your home’s floor is made of wood, you must first create a wood subfloor, which can be done with either plywood or a combination of both. The process of nail-down hardwood floor installation is very cost-effective. Glue-down involves securing hardwood to the surface of the subfloor, which is done using a strong adhesive. The glue-down method with a cement subfloor as well.

Read The Directions

Before you start the process of installing your new hardwood floor, make sure that the manufacturer has issued clear and consistent installation instructions. While this may seem obvious, you’d be surprised how many people completely skip the directions! Not following the included directions can bring up some rather large headaches. Some warranties, for instance, are dependent on following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Take A Look At The Subfloor

Before you start the hardwood floor installation process, make sure that your home’s subfloor is level. This will allow you to install the floor without any variations. If the level is only minor, you can sand down the raised spots and fill in the low ones.

Be Sure To Acclimate The Wood

The amount of moisture that’s in the air can cause the wood to expand or contract, which can lead to a gap in the floor in the winter and a crack in the summer. To prevent this, put lay the hardwood flooring out in the room it will be installed in for about a week before actually installing it. Make sure that the room’s temperature is set to whatever you typically have it at. Ideally, the room should stay at 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Be aware that even with proper acclimation, there’s a chance the wood will still expand and contract. This is why it’s wise to leave about a quarter-inch around the perimeter of your installation. Don’t worry, your baseboard and molding should hide this.

This article was originally published on ChuckSchmalzried.com