Healthy Living
Healthy Living: Living Green
We’ve all heard that it’s up to us to help slow down the impact of climate change. We know that our resources are diminishing and it is our responsibility to save them. But that’s not always easy.
Why is adding a little more ‘green’ to our lives so important? Well, did you know…
- Only 3% of the water on our planet is fresh water – and most of it is not accessible because it is frozen in the polar ice caps?
- The average North American household uses 53 gallons of water a day – but some people living in water-depleted countries survive on only 4 gallons a day?
- Since 1960, the amount of packaging in land fills has increased 80% – this means that because we are throwing away more garbage, we are taking up more living space and putting wildlife at risk?
By working together we can change statistics such as these, by using less water, consuming less electricity, and disposing of less waste. Looking for some ideas on how to make a change in our planet? Try these:
Every Drop Counts
- You can save up to 2 gallons of water by turning off the tap when brushing your teeth
- You can save about 20 gallons of water by taking a 7-minute-or-less shower instead of a bath. Turning off the water while you lather can help with this!
- Using cold-water detergent in a full load of laundry saves electricity on heating water- and waiting until you have a full load can save two times as much water as half-loads
- You can save 2 litres of water for each litre you drink, by drinking filtered tap water instead of bottled water – it takes 3 litres of water to produce 1 litre of bottled water
Burnin’ Up?
- You can save electricity by turning the lights off when you step out of a room
- Opening up all of the blinds in your house during day time should provide enough sunlight for your daily activities without having to turn any lights on
- You can save energy by unplugging electronics when they aren’t being used
- You can save 60% of power used to run a computer just by turning off the screen
Waste Not
- You can save up to 1000 plastic bags by using 1 canvas bag each time you go grocery shopping
- You can purchase items with less packaging when shopping – which means you will throw away much less later. Do you really need bananas wrapped in plastic?
- You can save 300 plastic bottles by using one pitcher of filtered water from your tap
- Bringing reusable containers instead of throwaway bags to school or work can save the amount of garbage you produce daily
Giving ourselves the opportunity to learn about climate change, and take part in simple steps to make a difference, is an amazing way to become an active member of our community and our world. If you want some more ideas on how to “live green”, check out some of these trusted organizations:
- Green Living: greenlivingonline.com
- World Wildlife Foundation: earthhour.org
- David Suzuki Foundation: davidsuzuki.org
Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.
Healthy Living: The Benefits of Sun
Exposure to sun is natural for humans; we cannot survive without sun exposure, and it has many health benefits which can make a big difference in life expectancy, good calcium levels, and mood. However, as we often hear, exposure to too much sun can have negative consequences as well. Check out what you need to know about the sun:
Sunny-Side Up
Exposure to sun shine has been linked to a mass of health benefits, because sunlight triggers the production of Vitamin D in your body. Vitamin D protects your body from a number of diseases, aids the development of your immune system, stimulates calcium production and increased bone density, and acts as a natural anti-depressant – leading to a stronger, healthier body and a happier mind.
Taking Care
Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to sun burn, which has the ability to result in skin damage and cancers such as melanoma. About 90% of cases of skin cancer are a result of too much sun. Generally, negative effects from sun exposure are not made obvious for months or years after the damage has taken place. Other negative effects of sun include premature aging of the skin, and damaging effects to your immune system.
Protect Your Skin
You can prevent the negative effects that over-exposure to the sun can have on your skin by taking the following precautions:
- Pick the right sun screen:
- Wear sun block of at least Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 15; the higher the SPF level, the increased length of time redness appears on skin
- Use a “broad spectrum” sun screen with staying power (waterproof)
- If possible, use a sun screen which shows where you applied – so you don’t miss anything
- Make healthy choices
- Avoid sun exposure between 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM in the summer
- Stay in the shade as much as possible
- Wear a hat and sun glasses
- Drink lots of water
Ultimately, exposure to the sun is a part of a healthy lifestyle – but too much exposure to the sun – just like too much of any other good thing – can harm us. So, enjoy your natural health supply outlet from the sky, but protect yourself and take precautions to reap the most benefits possible.
Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.
Healthy Living: The Benefits of Tea
The Story Behind Tea
Legend has it that tea began with an accidental discovery by Chinese Emperor Shennong in 2737 BC. During a long traveling expedition, the Emperor and his army rested for some water – to ensure the cleanliness of the water, the Emperor ordered it boiled. During the boiling of the water, a leaf fell from a tea bush into the water, turning it into a brownish colour. Without noticing, the drink was served to the Emperor – finding it refreshing and delicious, tea was born.
The Benefits of Tea
Tea is a beneficial relaxant which can work to hydrate your body, has anti-oxidizing effects, helps control blood pressure – with Green or Oolong Tea having the effect of reducing high blood pressure risk by up to 50% – and protects individuals from developing the neurological disorder Parkinson’s disease. On the emotional level, researchers have discovered that tea is soothing and relaxing, especially therapeutic in stressful circumstances.
Types of Tea
Varieties of tea have widened as different infusions and combinations have developed to fit personal tastes. Green tea, black tea, white tea and countless herbal teas are enjoyed by millions worldwide, each with different benefits for the human body.
Enjoying Your Tea
Just as with any other hot beverage, give your tea time to cool off; seven to ten minutes of cooling time will allow you to enjoy the taste and the emotional benefits of a relaxing cup of tea.
You, Tea, & YLC!
Sometimes we have a cup of tea as a positive way to relax and de-stress. However, sometimes a cup of tea is not enough – it’s always good to know that you have a place to turn and someone to talk to. Your Life Counts is here for you – if you ever need to talk, just e-mail us.
Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.
We believe that your life counts, and you are a person worth waiting for. Your physical, emotional and mental health is irreplaceable and we want to encourage you to make the decision that you feel is best. There is no sex safer than no sex, and you deserve to have the best.
Remember that you are important. Your life counts, and you can make a difference in this world. If you ever need to talk about this or anything else, feel free to get in touch with us. We’re here for you.