Tips for Overcoming Insomnia
December 27, 2012 By
Having trouble falling asleep? Our stressful lives and constant screen-time can wreak havoc on our bodies' natural rhythms. Fortunately, there are simple ways to counteract these stresses in order to get a full night's sleep. Here are some tips:
Exercise
One of the most effective ways of combatting sleeplessness is to tire yourself out. Increasing the amount of exercise you get each day can work wonders in helping you feel sleepy when it's time for bed.
Turn Off the Screen
The light from screens like televisions, computers, iPads, and smartphones can disrupt our bodies' natural cycles. Turn these gadgets off a few hours before bed in order to give your body time to prepare for dreamland.
Reduce or Eliminate Caffeine
Regardless of when in the day you consume caffeine, it can have an effect on your ability to sleep at night. Try to drink more decaf coffee or switch to decaffeinated sodas. Herbal teas are a great substitute that won't have you tossing and turning in bed all night.
Take a Warm Bath
The soothing heat of a warm bath will relax and calm your whole body down. Sitting in a bath before bedtime will get you ready for the comfort of your bed and help lull you to sleep.
Be Consistent
Your body will have an easier time going to sleep if you make yourself go to bed at the same time every evening. This consistency will give your body a chance to develop a regular pattern. With wild fluctuations in when you go to bed, it doesn't have a chance of knowing when it should and shouldn't be tired.
Useful iPad Apps
December 20, 2012 By
Today, we're getting more and more iPad apps that are better than just scaled-up iPhone programs. Apple developers are now crafting software that truly takes advantage of Apple’s much-loved tablet, making use of the multi-touch features and other tools. Below are a few totally cool apps for your endless enjoyment.
Adobe Ideas
There are countless drawing apps for iPad, but Ideas is one of the most exciting. This program offers a wide array of tools for sketching and allows you to export your work in Photoshop or Illustrator format for further refining on your desktop.
iThoughts HD
This is a brainstorming and organizational app that uses the increased screen space to help you free associate and link concepts together in new and interesting ways. Having trouble conceptualizing this app? It's similar to a virtual bulletin board with an infinite canvas.
Star Walk
Using the top-notch reality features and the iPad’s new camera, this super cool app lets you point your device at the sky and identify constellations and stars. It also enables you to track passing satellites.
Touch Mouse
Did you know that your iPad can sync up with your computer to act as a wireless mouse or keyboard? This app allows you to interact with your files from anywhere in the house. In addition, it works great with a projector for delivering slideshows and other presentations.
iDisplay
Use the unique screen and resolution of your iPad with your computer, iPhone, or other device. This program turns your tablet into a wireless monitor that you can sync with a wide variety of Apple devices to give you a display that you can move with you.
Healthy Snacks on the Go
December 13, 2012 By
Snacking is often the downfall of even the most well-intentioned dieters. The problem is that most snack foods are heavily processed and aren't good for your health. But with a little forethought and preparation, you can always be ready with snacks that are tasty and good for you, too! Here are five suggestions:
1. Nuts. Nuts pack tons of protein and nutrients in a perfectly portable form. They are rich in good fats and also offer a little protein boost. Some of the best nuts for your health are walnuts, pecans, and almonds. Eat them roasted with just a tiny dash of salt if you like, or experiment with other spices. Watch your portion sizes! A small handful, approximately 1/4 cup, is the recommended serving.
2. Rice cakes. Rice cakes are crunchy and large enough to make you feel like you’re eating something substantial but are very low in calories. Top with a thin smear of peanut butter for a little extra flavor and protein.
3. Cucumber slices. A small Tupperware full of cucumber slices, dashed with a little bit of salt and lemon zest, can keep fresh for a long time and really refresh your palate! For variety, mix in other veggies like carrot sticks or bell peppers.
4. Dried fruit. Fruit in general is a great snack, and many dried fruits are good for you. Avoid sugary items like pineapple and mango and stick to dried apricots and other stone fruits, which lose less of their nutritional value when dehydrated. Again, watch your portion sizes and opt for no more than a 200 calorie serving.
5. String cheese. Individually wrapped string cheese is a great way to follow portion control and can stay fresh outside of the refrigerator for many hours. The mix of protein and calcium that will help you get through your hunger.
