Author: Karen

Taking Charge of Your Life

Do you find yourself constantly trying to appease others? That can you leave you in a situation where you are worn out and no longer living for yourself. If you continue to go down that path, you’ll have a lot of regrets later on. Thankfully, you have the ability to make positive changes that benefit your quality of life. 

 

The Homefront

A typical day for parents begins with getting children ready for daycare or school. It involves dressing, feeding, and driving all under stress. During the same timeframe, the parents are also getting dressed for work and collecting their thoughts for the job. 

That day-to-day chaos can make a sane person crazy. One way to reduce the madness and restore calm is to create a schedule. The organization is necessary to achieve order and a smooth flow of events. Picking out clothing the night before and having the bookbags, coats, and shoes ready will make the mornings uneventful. 

 

Aging Parents

Many adults with young children come face-to-face with where to put their aging parents. They currently live alone and are not able to care for themselves as they once did. Out of respect and gratitude, you may opt to have them move in. 

However, this is a huge undertaking and with children who have needs of their own and full-time jobs, this may not prove the best option. A better choice may be to sign on for private nursing care. A qualified person who works for a company can come a few days to bathe, cook and help with administering medications, taking a heavy burden from you. 

 

Your Health

Whether in your early 30s or approaching 60, maintaining your health will provide a good quality of life. Schedule an annual health checkup and if you feel off, contact your doctor and have them do a thorough physical. It’s also important to take ‘me’ time. Enjoy a day of self-pampering, and schedule a time to do the things you love. 

 

Faith in Your Abilities

Unfortunately, people stay in jobs that offer no incentive for advancement simply because they don’t have faith in their abilities. They figure they have a good-paying job and accept the terms. Taking charge of your life means that you no longer accept the status quo. If you’re not getting promoted within a certain time frame and there’s no room for advancement, you need to seek other employment. By remaining in place, you’re setting yourself back both emotionally and financially. 

 

Positive Energy

There’s something powerful about remaining positive. That is not to say that events in your life can cause you to be temporarily negative. However, when you focus on achieving goals instead of creating an endless wish list, things start to happen. Happy thoughts work the same as exercising. 

When you become energized about doing something your body releases endorphins and you instantly feel good. Being optimistic about a possible outcome enables risk. You try something instead of avoiding it because of the possible negative outcome. Reinforce your efforts by keeping a circle of friends with the same positive attitude towards life. 

 

Intuition

Your intuition comes from a lifetime of experiences. When something happens your brain recalls similar situations and causes a gut reaction. You meet someone for the first time and either instantly like or dislike them. Or, you encounter a problem and instead of reacting in a negative manner, you work your way through it calmly. Listening to your mind and body can benefit you. 

 

Prosperity

A mounting pile of bills can cause enormous amounts of stress. In order to take control of your life, you need to get your finances in order. Create a household budget and stick to it. A budget will allow you to realize your dreams of financial prosperity. You will learn how to avoid wasteful spending and establish savings for things like a home, a car, vacations, and retirement.  

You have one life to live. By taking charge of your life you’re promoting health, happiness, and financial success.

Why you should go for platinum bands for your wedding

Men these days are interested in jewelry pieces more than ever before. It is platinum, white gold, Palladium, or others; choosing a metal for the wedding or engagement ring is a significant step. Moreover, selecting the piece of metal and the style of the band plays a crucial role. It will have a critical impact on the longevity of the peace of jewelry. Most men are often fussy with their jewelry pieces. It is because of the limited options they have. Platinum bands are of a higher price undoubtedly. However, white metal is the most popular among males. Keep in mind that you pay a high amount for a more robust metal and require less maintenance.

Why are platinum bands a better alternative to others?

 In answer to this question, market surveys will be beneficial. There are countless reasons you must opt for platinum bands, as there are some fewer known reasons accompanying this piece of metal.

  • The color of the platinum band stays the same: The platinum band will remain the same for a long time. Keep in mind that everything that shines does not stay the same for a longer duration. However, platinum bands are an exception in this regard. Thirty years down the line, you will experience the same shine and shimmer. You may look into mensweddingbands since 2007 to grab an understanding of their evolution. It is a white metal that requires less maintenance. It remains the same in terms of color and glitter.
  • You can pass it down to future generations: Another significant piece of justification that you must contemplate is that platinum bands are known for their longevity. It is a precious metal that stands the warranty of time. It is a durable piece of metal that you can choose for your wedding band. Keep in mind that when the metal is scratched, only a little bit of metal is lost. Gold, on the other hand, results in a faster metal loss. Moreover, platinum maintains its volume and develops a smooth finish, which improves the character.
  • It protects the diamond: Some platinum bands come with a delicate diamond solitaire. The white color of the metal, which does not change over time, gives you peace of mind as you do not have to worry about color reflection. White gold and yellow gold reflect stones and enhance the appeal. The white color of the platinum enhances the overall look and brilliance of the diamond stone.
  • Platinum is safest for diamonds: Platinum provides a diamond with the safest setting It is because of the durability and strength of this metal. When you choose platinum, it ensures that the diamond will be safe. The prongs will hold onto the diamond in place with strength. Keep in mind that platinum moves with force and does not break. It is thereby an option to invest.

Platinum bands have become a popular piece of jewelry item among men. It provides you with higher quality and can give you a sense of prestige. Keep in mind that your investment in this piece of jewelry will stand the test of time.

Helping your Child Stop Thumb Sucking

Most people view thumb sucking as a harmless habit, but if it is continued for too long it can quickly go from innocent to harmful. There are real consequences that can result from thumb sucking, including that of physical, emotional, and social. With a wide variety of impacts that sucking the thumb can have on the child, it is imperative to help your child stop thumb sucking. While it may not be easy—your child will likely resist—it’s necessary to avoid complications that can affect their life into the future. Below are the reasons that you should get your child to stop the habit and how you can get the job done.

Physical Consequences

On the surface, there are physical consequences of thumb sucking. An overbite or an open bite can be the result of the habit. This is called malocclusion. When a row or both rows of the teeth become misaligned when the child closes their mouth, this can result in malocclusion that may require professional orthodontic work. In addition to an open bite, which is when both rows of the teeth are directed outwards, there are physical consequences like skin irritation and speech issues.

Moisture from the mouth can cause irritation on the thumb and even lead to infection. While risking infection is one thing, on the other hand, thumb sucking results in peeling of the skin, cracking, bleeding, and ingrown nails. It isn’t good for the skin of the child and infection can even infect the mouth.

Finally, speech issues can arise from thumb sucking. This is when the child sucks their thumb so much that they develop a lisp or have trouble pronouncing certain sounds. When a child has a speech impediment, professional speech therapy may be required to alter their way of speaking. This can also lead to emotional and social issues.

Emotional Consequences

The emotional consequences of thumb sucking can’t be ignored. When the child sucks their thumbs for an extended period, it can be difficult for them to create new coping mechanisms and ways to deal with their emotions. Since thumb sucking is a comforting habit, the child may revert to it when they should be expressing themselves or dealing with their emotions in an introspective way. Kids must form healthy habits of coping emotionally and thumb sucking doesn’t help them do that. It will not just affect their emotions, but their social relationships as well.

Social Consequences

In addition to physical and emotional consequences, there are social results of thumb sucking. One example is that the child may be made fun of and ridiculed by their peers. It can make them feel inadequate. Furthermore, the speech issues that result from thumb sucking make it difficult for them to communicate themselves. With coping through thumb sucking, the child doesn’t develop the mechanisms to be able to freely and effectively communicate how they feel. All of these reasons are why you should help your child overcome this bad habit.

How to help them Stop

There are a few different methods to help your child stop the habit of thumb sucking. One is that you can use a thumb guard. This is a product that wraps around the child’s wrist and covers the thumb with a plastic guard, preventing them from sucking it. Another way to prevent thumb sucking is to use thumb sucking nail polish, which is a product that tastes bitter. Children hate the taste of bitterness so it will stop them from wanting to suck their thumbs. Furthermore, there are also thumbsies, which work a lot like thumb guards. They are the cloth alternative that makes it so the child doesn’t get the comfort or enjoyment from thumb sucking.

With so many consequences and ways to help your child stop sucking their thumbs, there is no excuse. It isn’t easy for any parent to get their child to stop, but it is absolutely necessary when it comes to helping them develop new habits and coping mechanisms. If you really can’t get your child to stop, take them to a professional who can determine if they are developing more slowly than they should be. Whatever the solution, helping them stop is imperative to cultivating healthy habits.

Times Are Tough, But Together They’re Going to Get Better

One of the unfortunate impacts of our shared experiences in 2020 and beyond is a growing economic uncertainty. More and more families have to tighten their belts and adapt to a new standard in the way they live their lives. 

Even though things have become problematic, they’re not impossible. In fact, if you can just take a moment, focus on all that you have available to yourself and your family, and find a perspective of gratitude, there’s a lot to be optimistic about in your life. 

Leadership is a skill that requires taking the objectives needed for everyone’s success and making those the foundations for your operations. 

Effective leadership is learning the art of listening and using that input to refine your team members’ foundational keys. 

Understanding that many of your team members may be experiencing different levels of anxiety and stress, whether economic concerns, food uncertainty, or adapting to all the changes that our current situation requires, is crucial for effective leadership. 

Model The Behaviors You’d Like To See

Leaders aren’t just in the workplace. Leadership at home is just as crucial, if not more, than it may be at work. Setting the tone as it were, establishing positive habits, and continuing to move forward in life are all traits that you can model for your family.

One of the specific areas you can model positive behaviors in the home and workplace is taking control of your health and wellness.

Making substantial changes in what you eat, how much you consume, and getting regular exercise will establish healthy behaviors that you can show and others can model after. 

Keto Diet Basics

One of the more popular formats for improving health right now is the Keto diet. The keto diet is shorthand for a ketogenic process that focuses on the body burning fat over carbohydrates and is a popular trend for weight loss. 

A keto diet works because it focuses on getting the body to produce ketones that make fuel by having the liver release and burn stored fats. 

Intermittent Fasting Basics

Another new dietary trend is intermittent fasting. The intermittent fasting process doesn’t specify what to eat, preferably the best times to eat, with a fast of 16-hours for a day or a full 24-hours on a twice-a-week schedule. 

The Truth About Resolutions

You can model good behaviors at home and work, create an exercise schedule and personal time for meditation or reflection. 

The goal should not be to make a significant change in your health all at once. Studies show that resolutions have a high failure rate because making a behavioral change is too broad and too extreme. 

Regardless of what you’re trying to change, as a leader, whether it’s as an employer or parent, effective leadership requires you to set a course of action, give your team members tools to succeed, becoming a better communicator, and modeling the behavior you want others to adopt. 

And if parenthood is a struggle for you right now, there are alternative ways to be acting as a parent. Whether it’s adopting or fostering children, there are alternative options for people who would like to parent but may need assistance. If you need to look for alternative ways to become a parent, seeking adoption services and foster care agencies are a good option. 

Whether you are one of the many struggling right now or can help others out, how you model your behavior helps educate others in your sphere of influence to learn what is expected and acceptable behavior. 

Lead By Example

Leaders set an example both in their words but, more importantly, in their actions. Making a behavioral change is a clue to others that you’re able to seek out and act upon personal improvement and helps those team members adopt the same self-improvement philosophy. 

It’s easy for leaders to lose sight of what matters, they are busy, have to examine the short and long-term objectives, and focus on personal concerns. 

By focusing your attention outward, elevating others to succeed is a process that requires a leader to set up the steps needed for success, show how it benefits those in your influence, and make lasting positive changes in your own life is a great way to lead by example. 

The saying, “everyone is going through with something you don’t see, be kind,” has never proven to be more accurate than it has lately. Whether you’re the leader of a big organization or your family, being kind to each other is advice we can all use in our lives.

Improving Your Quality of Life

While there are no guarantees in life, there are things you can do to promote health, happiness, and a bright financial future. Listed below are a few tips for achieving a better quality of life. 

Advancing Your Career

Living paycheck to paycheck can cause an enormous amount of stress. You remain at a job that offers no room for advancement, limiting your ability to increase your earnings. For instance, if you work in construction, taking online classes to earn a master’s in construction management will put you in a position to improve your earnings. 

Learning to Save Money

Some people have a knack for saving money. They work hard and live a frugal lifestyle, reaping the benefits of their smart money management. Others develop reckless spending habits that prevent them from financial independence. Learning how to save money will allow you to achieve set goals. If an unexpected expense comes along, you’ll have the funds to cover it. Budgeting your money provides a means to save for the things you need and the things you want.

Positive Energy

Things will happen throughout your life, some good some unpleasant. Viewing the glass as half full instead of half empty will let you work through any misfortunes. Remaining positive calms the mind and gives you the skills to tackle difficult problems. Surrounding yourself with those who think positive is also beneficial. 

Stop Procrastinating

Procrastinating brings about unnecessary stress and can lead to many missed opportunities. By putting things off you’re only extending your to-do list. This can cause overwhelming feelings of anxiety, exhaustion, and lower self-esteem. You may miss job-related deadlines that prevent a promotion or lose the faith of a loved one. If your procrastination results from too many promises made without the time to keep them, learn how to say no when you cannot commit.

Plenty of Rest

If you get up early each day and stay up late each night, you might be burning the candle at both ends. A lack of sleep can have a negative impact on your health and your emotions. You wake in a fog that never leaves. You have reduced focus and patience, and mood swings. When you drive, you’re endangering yourself and others on the road. You may also put yourself at risk for diabetes, high blood pressure, and weight gain. 

If you have trouble falling asleep, eliminate caffeine and sugar a few hours prior to bedtime and try taking a hot relaxing bath with sleep-inducing fragrances like camomile or lavender. 

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Even a few extra pounds can cause emotional and physical problems. The good news is you can get your weight under control. Eating a well-balanced diet and limiting your intake of salt, sugar, and saturated fats is necessary. Along with eating healthy foods, regular exercise for 30 to 40 minutes, 3 to 4 times weekly will keep your body strong on the inside and outside.  

Take a Break

Life can be hectic, especially when you work full time and are raising children. It’s important that you take a timeout to relax and unwind. Meditation and yoga are two excellent ways to relax the body and calm the mind. You’ll feel refreshed and ready to tackle whatever else life tosses your way. 

Eliminate Bad Habits

Everyone has a few bad habits. However, annoying someone by leaving dirty clothes scattered throughout the home is not harmful to your health. Bad habits such as smoking, excessive drinking, and doing drugs can take a toll on your overall health and possibly lead to an early demise. Make the choice to kick any of these bad habits as soon as possible. 

No one knows for certain how long they will remain on this Earth. However, you can improve your chances of sustaining a good quality of life while you’re here.

Five Must-Have Bags for the Jetsetter

Having the right bag is everything. For avid travelers, a well-chosen vehicle for your must-haves (and then some) can make or break any occasion on a trip. Add to your must-haves these five bags, and you’ll find yourself both chic and prepared. 

 

The Crossbody

For the moments you need to feel freer than a Costco sample. Relieve both your hands and your arm muscles by carrying the bare-minimum that can hang lackadaisically on your person: phone, ID, and credit cards. A crossbody carries all these plus one or two others: a tube of lipstick or sunglasses, for instance. They’re also highly secure and lessen the likelihood of getting pickpocketed. 

 

The Briefcase

For the masculine piece to protect your most professional assets, and for the executive, the writer, the coffee shop telecommuter. Briefcases are simple, straightforward, no-nonse, but not without a style of their own. Nothing says professional and poised like a great leather home for your precious laptop and briefings. Briefcases, by the way, needn’t be men-only (but while we’re at it, a great men’s gift idea is a stylish, modern briefcase among one of these business bags for men).

 

The Backpack

For the bookworm, the writer, the heftier-essentials carrier. If you’re spending an entire day walking, backpacks can carry a book and a laptop (hey, it’s tough not to leave the house with both!), something to eat or drink, and other essentials. With a backpack, your hands remain free, of course, but you’re still prepared to bring shopping bags home with ease or to carry your lunch leftovers from the restaurant back to the hotel. Good backpacks should be built for daily (if not daily) use: choose one with sturdy fabric, like leather or canvas, tight stitching, and strong zippers. And as cute as drawstring-opening backpacks may look on top, beware of their tendency to sometimes spill out its contents.

 

Traveler’s tip: for extra security, place items in your backpack’s inside pockets-not the outside ones-to avoid getting pickpocketed. 

 

The Carry-On

For the fabulous and carefree weekenders, and the strategic and minimal packers. The standard size for airline carry-on bags is 14 by 22 inches. Pack anywhere from a weekend trip to a week-long excursion (yes, it is possible with a carry-on!), and enjoy the satisfaction of carting around your entire life simply, in a wheeled suitcase.  

 

Traveler’s tip: To achieve the minimal packing job, lay out everything you think you need, halve it, then halve it again. It may sound crazy, but you really do need less than you think.

 

The Week-Plus Suitcase

For the traveler that likes her options-no matter where she finds herself. This is really where investment is key. When we’re talking about the shell. out. extra. I’m talking sturdy wheels that can withstand the weight of a larger bag, scratch-resistant exterior, outside and inside pockets, shoe and garment bags, design-savvy internal compartments, and a solid warranty. Quality wheels on a quality bag bear repeating. No one wants to drag a heavy suitcase through cobblestone streets in an unfamiliar area because the wheels on your now-stuffed suitcase weren’t up for the job. 

 

Traveler’s tip: Get real fancy with it by finding a bag that can charge your cell phone. Hello, twenty-first century. 

 

Bottom line: whatever your errand or occasion, there’s a bag for that. Choose wisely, and keep the features important to you in mind. Consider design and practicality-is this something you’re comfortable and confident carrying wherever you go? If so, then click “Buy” and travel in style!

Making Your Dream House a Reality

Whether you are looking to start a family, retire, or simply update your home, building your dream house is something that takes planning to pull off. From getting a design that you like, budgeting for construction and the interior, there’s a lot that building your dream house requires. Also, don’t forget to find some garden care tips and tricks to circle up everything nicely. 

Four main steps go into making your dream house a reality. First, you need to make a plan and get it on paper. 

A good contractor can utilize an architect from their in-house talent, or you can contract out with one to design the plans. Finding the right contractor with a track record of working on the types of designs and elements in your designs is the next step. 

Coordinating with an interior designer to make your living space inspirational should be used in every phase of the overall designing process, and we’ll discuss these points at length below. 

Making a Plan

Making a plan for your remodel or build is crucial. We mean by making a plan, how does the exterior construction enhance the interior decor, the room’s planned usage, and what is your budget for the project? 

By getting a plan together, you can next look for the best options to design and build your project. Some contractors offer in-house architecture and interior design teams, while with others, you may need to subcontract out each of these types of roles. 

If you choose a contractor and separate architectural and design teams, be sure to include them in initial discussions of your drafts to save time and money. If you can get every team member on the same page, you will have fewer hiccups down the road that could slow the process down or create costly overruns. 

Finding a Contractor to Build

The most crucial phase of your planning comes down to choosing the right type of contractor for your job. Sure, all contractors claim they can build what you want, though it may not be their specialty. Some contractors focus on small home construction, others work in a commercial building, while others still specialize in one aspect of home remodels such as kitchens or bathrooms. 

Interview a variety of contractors and have them give you an initial bid of their services so that you can compare. As you review all the proposals, check out what previous customers have to say about their work and their service through online reviews and social media to give you more data to evaluate whether they are a good fit for your job or not. 

By taking the time to review past customers’ reviews of their services and deciding if you want an all-in-one shop that includes other design team elements, you are better educated in your decision-making. If you plan to subcontract out those tasks is essential. You don’t waste your time or theirs and find yourself paying more than needed. 

In addition to the above, there are five simple questions you should ask every contractor before you hire them. 

  1. Ask about similar past projects and recommendations
  2. Ask about licensing and insurance
  3. What are the timeframe estimate and cost
  4. Who are the people coming to the home every day
  5. What process is there if changes need to occur

When you discuss the project with the builder and design team, ask them if they think they can keep the structure intact or need to take it to the studs. You may be ok having a home without walls for a little while, or you may not, so understanding the work to be done and the timeline for it is vital. 

One of the subtleties in remodeling is updating your insulation and wiring. You may need some attic insulation replacement to be done during the project as lousy insulation can be home to pests and vermin, as well as cause costly repairs and replacements down the road. 

Interior Design 

As you are in the process of making your dream home a reality, having a plan for the interior is just as important as the exterior curb appeal. A good interior design team will help you create the right tone and feel for each room, enhancing the environment and enjoyment of the time spent in those spaces. 

Once you have a plan in place, a team ready to design and build your dream home, and estimates of time and money needed, you can set a budget for the project, select a team, and sit back and get your dream house ready. 

Looking and Feeling Good

If you are in your thirties, you might notice that your body is beginning to show visible signs of aging. Fortunately, you don’t have to look or feel your age. Listed below are a few tips to keep you looking and feeling good.

 

Restoring Firm, Healthy Skin

 

In your teens and twenties, your face looks full and firm. That’s due to an abundance of collagen and elastin. Once you enter your thirties they begin to break down causing the face to thin and lose the cheek fullness as part of the aging process. Thankfully, maintaining skin firmness is possible. Collagen supplements, exfoliating, daily moisturizer and the use of a restorative complex are a few beneficial remedies. 

 

A Healthy Diet

 

Eating a well-balanced diet consisting of things like fresh fruits and vegetables, protein, fish, nuts, and omega-3s will make you feel good. Fast-food products contain high amounts of saturated fats and salt. They can raise your blood pressure and have a negative impact on your overall health. When you eat good foods it’s easy to maintain healthy body weight and lean muscle mass. Your mind remains sharp helping improve focus and memory. You also sustain high levels of energy and your body is better able to grow and repair itself.

 

Exercise

 

Along with a healthy diet, exercise is critical to preserving muscle and keeping internal organs functioning properly. Exercising for at least 30 to 40 minutes, 3 to 4 times weekly will improve your overall health. You’ll burn additional calories to help shed extra pounds and look and feel fit. Regular exercise also increases energy, promotes restful nights and stabilizes mood. Additionally, exercise can thwart some diseases and chronic health conditions and improve the appearance of skin.   

 

Plenty of Rest

 

In a fast-paced world, many people don’t get the proper amount of sleep. Unfortunately, a lack of sleep can lead to poor health and an older-looking appearance. You acquire dark circles under your eyes, wrinkles sooner, and a slough. Without proper rest your body doesn’t have time to recharge, leaving you vulnerable to health problems. You will wake up and feel foggy then remain tired and unfocused throughout the day. You may have trouble recalling events of the previous day and have mood swings. If you have trouble falling asleep take a hot bath with lit sleep-inducing scents such as chamomile and lavender. Turn off all electronics at least an hour prior to bed and avoid consuming caffeinated products several hours before retiring.

 

Relieving Stress

 

Too much on your plate can cause an abundance of stress. Unfortunately, too much stress can become taxing on the mind and the body. Stress over time can cause serious health-related issues. The good news is there are several ways to reduce stress. An intense physical workout releases endorphins that make you feel fantastic. Meditation is also beneficial for reducing stress, allowing the mind to lose many thoughts and achieve calmness. 

 

Make Time for You

 

Many moms feel guilty taking time for themselves. However, having no downtime or time set aside to do the things you enjoy, you will over time develop resentment aimed unfortunately at your loved ones. You matter as much as any member of your family. By taking time for yourself, you become a better person for your family. Visit a spa and experience self-pampering. Read a good book or find a hobby that you enjoy. 

 

Become Organized

 

Wasting valuable time trying to find things on a daily basis can cause stress overload. Becoming organized will help free up time and make life easier. Hang a rack for coats and outdoor accessories. Clean out closets in the kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom so that everything you need is quickly accessible. Create spots for things like your keys, purse, and bills, and eliminate the clutter. 

 

If you want to look and feel better there are ways to achieve it.

Your Guide to Buying and Drinking Truly Sustainable Wine

With climate change concerns echoing worldwide, consumers are paying closer attention to the products they buy and consume. Prioritization of sustainable practices has never been as crucial to the public as it is today. Worldwide organizations and leaders provide rewards and certifications to distinguished vineyards and wine-makers leading the environmental charge.

If you want to support these businesses, you’ll want to follow this guide to buy and drink truly sustainable wines.

1. Learn the Differences Between Products

Many people mistakenly use sustainability, biodynamic and organic as interchangeable terms. Your first step is to learn the differences between these descriptions because they aren’t always the same. Sustainability comes in many shapes in sizes, and while sustainable wines can be organic and biodynamic, it doesn’t mean all organic and biodynamic wines are sustainable. Sustainable vineyards may promote biodiversity, recycle rainwater, use recyclable materials and renewable resources and take other eco-friendly steps unique to their location.

In comparison, organic vineyards do not need to have any of these sustainable practices in place. They need to avoid using pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and ensure that their grapes and conversion materials are certified organic. While organic standards may have environmental benefits, it does not mean these products are eco-friendly or sustainable.

Biodynamics is a holistic farming practice with standards set by the Demeter Association. Vineyards must plant and harvest at certain times and follow unique rules which correspond to astrological occurrences. In some ways, it’s similar to organic farming because it shuns synthetic pesticides and herbicides.

2. Review the Label

Reviewing a wine bottle’s label will give you a better understanding of its certifications and rankings. Many non-profit organizations around the world promote and certify sustainable wines.

Examples of such organizations and certifications include:

  • Environmental Management Systems (EMS)
  • Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW)
  • Lodi Rules
  • SIP Certified
  • Live Certified

3. Compare Your Options

Besides looking at the labels for certifications, you can review a wine’s rating. The wine rating system is out of 100 and seeks to standardize tasting information and consumption. To keep it simple, you can think of it like receiving a grade in school — the closer it is to 100, the better critiques scored during their tasting.

Tasters rank based on:

  • Appearance
  • Aroma
  • Flavors
  • Finish

You should use these ratings as a guide, but not like the law. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, so you may love a product that only ranks in the mid-80s. Similarly, some newer bottles may not have a ranking which means they’ll be a mystery until you test them yourself.

4. Make a List

Balance is at the root of sustainability. While it’s beneficial to choose sustainable items, it’s also important to practice caution when buying without a plan. Making a list can help you buy according to your needs. You can record how many bottles you want and how frequently you drink them. This is especially beneficial if you intend to purchase sustainable wines which are also organic. Typically organic wines do not age well compared to other types and have a relatively short expiration period once opened.

Cheers to Sustainability

Using this guide, you can feel confident while shopping for sustainable wine. If you’re hoping to learn more information about the wine-making process, you can always contact a vineyard representative for more details. For those who want a less thought-consuming routine, you may want to invest in a sustainable subscription service with a company that researches on your behalf.

Better Ways to Brew Your Morning Coffee

We all know coffee gets brewed; you place the coffee grounds in a traditional cone or bowl, pour water into a coffee machine, and get hot coffee. There are many other ways to get coffee in the morning, and a lot of them are better than the traditional method.

 

A Better Drip Method

The Chemex coffee brewing method was invented in 1941, and it’s an excellent alternative to standard drip coffee. To start with, it uses a special type of filter that’s about 30% heavier than standard paper filters. Second, it uses a special flask that doubles as its own carafe. It leads to a cleaner, sweeter coffee that doesn’t carry the typical acidic overtones.

 

The French Press

Invented in 1929, this is the ideal brewing method for many coffee aficionados. It uses a plunger press pot that lets the coffee steep in hot water and then strains the water out. This lets the natural antioxidants, essential oils, and caffeine pass through more preserved than other methods would allow. This gives you a pure, clean, and robust cup of coffee that you’ll look forward to every morning.

 

The Siphon Pot

This unique coffee pot uses a vacuum to make your coffee. The pot is either placed atop a butane burner or, with newer pots, its own electric heating element. Coffee is placed in the pot’s upper vessel while the water’s steam pressure pushes it up into the top through a small hose. When the heat is removed, gravity pulls all the water down in the lower vessel, which leaves a mellow coffee that’s perfect for people who aren’t fans of traditional bitter flavors. These pots are expensive and hard to clean, but they can also impress your friends.

 

Cold Brew Coffee

It can take up to 10 hours to brew this coffee, but it’s worth the overnight wait. You can use a cold brew coffee maker or even make your own using a glass jar. All it involves is slowly dripping cold filtered water through the coffee. The resulting drink is strong and intense without being bitter or acidic. On top of that, cold-brewed coffee is more eco-friendly and can last for up to two weeks.

 

The Moka Method

The classic Italian Moka pot is a divisive tool among coffee fans, as deeply hated as it is deeply loved. The pot is divided into three sections. The lowest section contains the water that’s boiled on a stovetop. The resulting steam pressure drives the water upward into the middle chamber where the coffee sits. Finally, the finished coffee goes up into the top section. This is primarily for espresso lovers, but anyone who loves a strong and bitter cup can enjoy it. The main downside is that this doesn’t work on electric stovetops, just gas.

 

The Phin Dripper

This Vietnamese method is designed for people who only need one cup and uses a technique similar to the French press. Its style is also suited for those who love iced coffee. The coffee’s placed in a reusable metal filter that’s slid into the Phin. All you have to do is pour your hot or cold water and wait a few minutes. It’s not as strong as espresso, but it has a refined taste similar to a French press.