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Natural methods and attitudes to look younger

Bhok Thompson
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Natural methods and attitudes to look younger

They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure and while Franklin Roosevelt’s famous quote was meant for fire safety, the same holds true for your health and appearance. Every day we are bombarded by new cures, new ideas, new approaches to lifestyle. Should we be in the present, the here and now, or think about the future as this NY Times article points out?

The answer to looking young or youthful or full of life and vigour is probably a balance of both. On one hand being in the present and being mindful of others and other things helps us enjoy where we are and what we have. But the human essence of planning for the future, and one’s place in it, is also an important part of one’s life journey and maintaining the overall balance needed to stay healthy on the inside and out.

According to this article in the Washington Post, by the time you become 50 the way you age is about 70% up to the choices you make in diet and lifestyle and 30% up to your genetics, so there is obviously a whole lot of space and wiggle room for you to dodge looking old before your time. And you don’t need expensive lizard creams and miracle cures to make that happen. Some research shows that the more natural and simple a cream is, the better it is because it doesn’t contain preservatives or materials that might actually cause damage to your immune system.  

Quick fixer-uppers to make your body healthy, like a detox weekend might make the appearance of aging and stress look less on your body the long-run sustainable way to manage your looks and health is an overall package of diet, stress management and exercise. Botox is made from a naturally-occuring bacteria, but there are some risks with its use.

Botox treatments require the injection of botulinum toxin for improving age and hyperactivity related rhytids, also known as wrinkles. Botox has been used around the world for over 30 years, but it wasn’t used in the USA until 2002, when at that time it was approved by the FDA for widespread use.

Not smoking, avoiding sun damage and not drinking much can overall effect the way you age too, so avoid those behaviors or limit them, if possible to stay looking young.

A diet low in red meat and high in foods like fish and vegetables can slow down the aging process as well. Dark fruits like blueberries, blackberries, dark romaine lettuce and watermelon have been noted to be excellent sources of antioxidants.

Moisturizing your skin and taking care of it with natural products (see our sugar scrub post) in concert with choosing the right job and managing your stress levels with exercise (cardio and activities like yoga) can all contribute to a younger, healthier looking you.

According to the New York Times, managing your stress in the right way can make you stronger, not weaker, so ultimately looking younger has so much to do with your mind and the choices you make every single day, and less about genetics and the raw materials you were given at birth. Watch this fascinating TED talk on how you can make stress your friend.

What is the Internet of Things?

Bhok Thompson
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0
What is the Internet of Things?

internet of things, chain link fence

The Internet of Things, (IoT) is the current hot topic in technology world and one can is left to marvel why almost every industry is over-excited about it. As new-fangled as it may sound to many, IoT isn’t really a new technology but one that has been with us for quite some time. The concept is simple yet so powerful and set to storm the whole of the IT industry.

What is Internet of Things?

IoT is depicts a scenario where everything – human, device, network etc. -has an exclusive identifier and also the capability of communicating over the Internet. The idea behind it is to basically create a condition where one doesn’t have to control every piece of their equipment separately, rather have one top-level control mechanism over a compound chain of integrated procedures, over a ‘mass’ of interconnected devices which can intercommunicate with each other and also humans too.

IOT combines a number of trends, including advanced connected devices, cloud computing, Big Data, the amassed use of videos, and the increased importance of most mobile apps compared to outdated computer applications.

History of IOT

The idea of including sensors and some intelligence to basic gadgets was discussed heavily throughout the 80s and 90s, but apart from these early projects -including internet-connected vending machines – the progress was initially slow simply since this kind of technology wasn’t at that time ready.

Processors that time were relatively cheap and also power-saving enough but disposable before it became a cost-effective measure of connecting up billions and billions of devices. The implementation of RFID tags-the low-power chip which can allow wireless communication solved a huge chunk of this issue, along with an increase in availability of cellular and also wireless networking and broadband internet.

The implementation of IPv6 which, amongst other approaches, should offer enough IP addresses for all the devices out there in Top internet of things companies and the world as a whole- was also a huge and necessary step for IOT technology to scale.

How Internet of Things devices connect

IoT devices have a variety of ways to be able to connect and even share data: offices and homes can use standard Bluetooth or wi-fi systems to enable connection of these devices. Other devices may use LTE or satellite connections to enable communication. However, the other enormous number of options for connection has led some key players in the technology world to debate that the IoT communication standards should be accepted and applied on most devices just like the wi-fi technology is today.

IoT Security

Every device that is connected over the internet can be a victim of hacking, IoT systems/devices are no exception when it comes to this rule.

IT Security experts have argued that there’s not enough that is being done so as to implement high security and strict privacy measures into IoT systems at these first stages, and to even prove these claims, they have committed a number of intrusions into devices, from interconnected baby monitors to even automated lighting systems and even smart fridges, extending to city computerised systems like traffic signals.

The future of IOT

In the foreseen future, the expansion of IoT market will inescapably convey more compatible and inexpensive consumer end products which will be made available to more and more people. But, with all that said on the benefits IoT will bring, Top internet of things companies should put more interest on creation of security measures to be placed on the IOT systems and also privacy terms be laid out.

Ways to make money for students

Bhok Thompson
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0
Ways to make money for students

eat smart study better

If you were a student back in 90’s, you could have worked part time at cafeterias and diners to earn some money. There wasn’t much work to find and all updates you got was through college boards or weekend classifieds. Now, it is simply a matter of clicks before you are looking at hundreds of part-time jobs to search through and apply for but many of them might still be far away from your college or it might not be paying so well. One thing has remained static over the years; a student’s budget is always a tight one and some extra amount of money is always appreciated. Here are a few tips for students to earn some decent amount of money:

  1. Become a TA– Being one of the oldest, it is still one of most sought-after on-campus jobs; not only does it pay well, but provides plenty of perks like waiving off a part of fee for foreign students. Students prefer it because they get to learn first-hand from the professor and the workplace is nearby as well. There are also a few other on-campus jobs such as a tour-guide, campus tutor, or a library assistant. You can find vacancies posted on the college notice board or ask the employment office for such updates.
  2. Connect with apps like Uber and Lyft– If you own a car or motorcycle, you can connect with Uber and work part-time to earn a proper amount; you will have to pay for the gas though. Uber confirms that more than half of its drivers work lesser than 10 hours per week; that is lesser than what most part-time jobs demand. Looking on an even brighter side, you always get to meet new people and explore places.
  3. Internships– These are a great source of getting some money and adding valuable experience to your CV. Though most of the internships are full-time, many companies allow to work part-time as well; you can find internships on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Internships for any postings that allow you to work part-time. A number of internships make your CV attractive to the recruiters and also open you up to different avenues.
  4. Social Media Entrepreneur– You will find many individuals across all social media platforms who went out there doing what they were good at, and earning money and a name for themselves. If you have passion to live for, you can write or speak about it in posts. If you have a talent that amazes your friends, you can go make a video and see how people like it. People with a quirky sense of humor have tried making memes and they did gain popularity and money through advertising later. You can use your ideas and innovative thinking to create viral memes that may take over your niche community and attract a loyal following. All in all, it will take intense work and hours from your side to maintain a level of standard and to grow.
  5. Be a Writer– There are tons of websites online that allow you to write and earn money, but the amount of money depends on how good you actually are. Upwork is the most popular for freelancers to create a profile and let the companies choose them for work based on their credentials and the rate per hour.
  6. Various odd Jobs– Babysitting is one of the most common part-time jobs to take up but mostly, females are preferred for this one. There are also various odd jobs you can take up to earn some money; examples being- walking a dog, buying groceries for another, standing in queues for another, mystery shopper , and delivering food for a restaurant. Go on Cragislist and you will find plenty of odd jobs available to work that will get you quick money.
  7. Some students learn the stock market, some invest in Bitcoin, others turn to several types of brokers to help them earn cash.

Looking for the best locksmith Leeds has to offer? Read this

Bhok Thompson
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0
Looking for the best locksmith Leeds has to offer? Read this

Paris love locks, locksmiths

For any business to remain afloat, a lot of things need to be in check before embarking on this journey. Looking into our customers’ needs should be given priority if the business is willing to remain relevant in the marketplace. You need technicians who work around the clock. Those who are just a call away.

Go for the top-notch qualifications that stand out from the rest. Want to know how to go about this with ease? Locksmith Leeds services should cater for all your needs concerning locks, security systems, and keys.

Lost your keys and can’t get access to your home or office?

Nothing can be more frustrating like having no access to your home or office just because you’ve lost your keys. The first thing that gets into the mind is, what if a burglar gets them, gains access and gets away with things that you value most.

If the hope of getting back your lost keys gets to zero a call away to locksmith Leeds should solve this frustration in the shortest time possible. The technicians should be professional and highly trusted. What does professionalism have to do with this? Good locksmiths will help you gain access to your home or office without damaging the doors and advise you on how to effectively get a lock change.

How safe is your home?

It is every homeowner’s desire to live in a secure home. If you are moving into a newly acquired house, the best favor you can offer yourself is getting a locksmith to access it to see if there are any loopholes which could allow entrance to burglars and unwanted visitors who pop in unexpectedly.

Trained technicians should thoroughly check to see if the doors and windows are strong enough. Setting up of security alarms is also prudent as this will alert your neighbors if there is anything unusual happening when you’re not around.

Does locksmith Leeds cater for local, small businesses?

Small businesses are a backbone to the economy, and they are not an exception in acquiring security needs. After a free site visit, customers should be advised on how to upgrade.

Security should always come first and living in a place which is secure should be everybody’s desire. Get a firm that is in operation 24/7 and has trained personnel on the phones to respond to every need or query that may arise unexpectedly.

Test for longevity. Use locksmiths who have built their trust for many years. This way you can always rely on their excellent services.

Cost is a factor you can’t ignore. See who offers the best prices and gives discounts to nurses, students, armed forces, and OAPs.

It may be prudent to first call different locksmith Leeds services. This will enable you to ask important questions and go for the one who best meets your needs.

Remember that security should always be a priority. Getting the right person may require some effort, but it is all worth it.

Simple Ways to Choose a Plumber

Bhok Thompson
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0
Simple Ways to Choose a Plumber

Choose Plumbers in Chingford smart toilet

Everyone needs to deal with the simple things in life, even treehuggers, and even treehuggers that might buy the $14,000 smart toilet pictured above or a low water use toilet that flushes only half full. When in an emergency, you don’t have the time to probe a plumbing company (does an eco plumbing company exist?) for credentials or carry out in-depth research on new plumber’s certifications and accreditations. In fact, that’s the last thing you want to be doing in an emergency.

But if you know what you are looking for, the experience of finding a reliable plumbing expert is easy, fast, and time-saving. What are the necessary steps to making informed decisions?

Importance of choosing a professional plumber

It’s a given: Professional plumbers employ the use of valued tools. They invest in a wide array of ideal tools to help grow their profession. Well-equipped plumbers are not only able to complete plumbing jobs in a timely fashion, but can also make installations and repairs fast and easy.

Browsing through the Best Plumbing Companies around you can give you a clearer sense of which professionals maintain the right tools for efficient work. This approach helps you identify teams that prioritize preparedness and consistent service quality.

They are also well-informed on matters plumbing. They diagnose problems before they worsen thanks to their extensive knowledge. Much of this knowledge is mastered over time from years of experience, taking courses that cover aspects of plumbing, and passing exams to improve their hands-on skills. One way I find a good plumber to help me is to look through my Facebook friends. When my parents had an emergency I needed to find someone I could trust, and that someone I went to highschool with. But what if you don’t have a Joe Rizzi like I do from highschool?

Skilled plumbers show a willingness to offer better practices, maintain safety procedures, and stay up-to-date on new plumbing codes. Often, they guarantee 100% customer satisfaction and protect you against losses through getting insured and obtaining a license. So ask for this.

Does the plumbing company you intend to hire have a good reputation? How well-known are they? It is safer to choose a plumber that’s renowned and self-respected in their field than one who’s not.

Run a simple Google-search on them to find out if who they claim to be is true. Find review websites with customer’s who’ve previously used their services. Go through their feedbacks one at a time. If many of the feedbacks and reviews are negative, it’s a clear indicator your plumber is not fit for the job.

Check out their customer support as well. A plumbing company that offers support to their customers is more likely to claim accountability if anything goes wrong especially on a finished project. They either give customers refunds or fix the problem, again. If a plumbing company doesn’t have customer support on their website, it is time to look out for the next plumber in line.

How Crypto Currencies Have Changed Online Trading

Bhok Thompson
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0
How Crypto Currencies Have Changed Online Trading

Blockchain, cryptocurrency

As crypto currencies grabbed the attention of the trading community approximately 12-months ago, many in the markets were not ready for this new asset class. To trade most crypto currencies, investors needed a wallet that would allow them to physically exchange their dollars or euros for bitcoin or ether. Many crypto’s like ripple were not available to investors in specific countries in their sovereign currency. This meant they needed to swap their sovereign currency for a crypto currency, and then swap one crypto currency for another, doing a cross crypto currency trade. Today, the market has advanced significantly with many companies like iFOREX focusing on trading the cryptocurrency market.

Trading Crypto Currencies Using CFDs

Many reputable brokers are now offering investing in crypto currencies through contracts for differences. Instead of physically purchasing a crypto currency and holding it in a wallet, you can use a contract for difference to track the movements of a cryptocurrency. A contract for difference is a security that tracks the movements of another underlying security. For example, a CFD on bitcoin will track every bitcoin price change. The benefits of a CFD is that it is a leveraged product that only requires that you be responsible for the difference between where you purchased the CFD and where you sell the CFD.

What is Leverage?

When you trade using a CFD, your broker will offer you leverage. This requires a margin account where you use borrowed capital to purchase a CFD. The borrowed capital is embedded in the CFD, and allows you to use only a portion of the value of a product to purchase a CFD. For example, a CFD that has leverage of 10 to 1, will allow you to post only $500 for a product that has value of $5,000. So, if bitcoin is trading at $5,000 you will only need to post $500 to purchase a CFD on bitcoin. There are significant benefits to using CFDs to purchase crypto currencies. The most enticing is your return on capital.

For example, if you sell bitcoin and the price declines from $5,000 to $4,500, the return you will receive if you use cash is 10% ($500 gain divided by the $5,000 you posted to make the trade). If you use a CFD instead, the returns will be 10-times that number. If you post $500 with leverage of 10 to 1, your return will be 100% ($500 divided by $500).

Summary

The crypto currency market has changed significantly over the past 12-months. When crypto currencies made headlines a year ago, there were very few ways for investors to trade the crypto market. Now, online trading is advanced allowing traders to use several different methods including the use of crypto trading bots such as Bitcoin Lifestyle to monitor the market for opportunities to make profit for it’s users. Many forex brokers have introduced crypto currency trading using CFDs, which allows investors to chart the movements of crypto prices using the tools they use to trade sovereign currencies. 1-year ago it was difficult to perform technical analysis on cryptocurrency. Today, the online market has changed allowing investors full access to crypto currency investing.

How CBD Can Help You

Bhok Thompson
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0
How CBD Can Help You

It seems like everyone these days is really taking advantage of everything that CBD products have to offer. Of course, there is still a lot of information that is unknown about the substance and this leads to a lot of speculation. You have probably heard some people say that CBD is dangerous and you have probably heard some people say that it isn’t even legal. Well, the truth of the matter is that CBD products are legal and they can go a lot for you.

What Is CBD?

The first thing you need to know about CBD is that it is just one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. A cannabinoid is basically just a compound. THC is also present in the cannabis plant, but it is the actual psychoactive substance that produces effects of euphoria. Here’s where the confusing part comes in. Legal CBD products are not derived from the cannabis plant. They are derived from the hemp plant, which contains little to no THC. The CBD compounds are the compounds that really hold all the medicinal properties.

Provides Pain Relief

CBD oil and CBD products have the ability to provide pain relief. Within the human body, there is a system that is known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS system is responsible for regulating a variety of different functions. These functions can include anything for sleep to appetite, pain and even immune system response. This system creates neurotransmitters that bind to certain cannabinoid receptors and recent studies show that CBD can reduce chronic pain by interacting with these neurotransmitters. There have been several human and animal traits involving the use of CBD to treat pain and they all showed positive results.

Helps With Depression And Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are two serious conditions that millions of people are living with every day. These mental health disorders can have a negative effect on the overall health of any individual. In fact, it has been reported that depression is the largest contributor to disability in the world. What’s makes these conditions even worse is that the benzodiazepines that are used to combat the symptoms are dangerous and addictive. CBD has shown great promise when it comes to combating anxiety and depression symptoms. It does this by stimulating the brain receptors that are responsible for producing serotonin and it also attaches to neurotransmitters that regulate mood and social behavior.

Combating High Pressure

High blood pressure is a serious condition that can lead to even more serious conditions like strokes, heart attacks or metabolic syndrome. Well, CBD has been proven effective when it comes to supporting the heart and circulatory system. It has also been shown to reduce blood pressure. A study conducted with ten male patients showed that one dose of 600 milligrams of CBD oils was enough to lower blood pressure. The test also involved putting the men through stressful situations and it showed that after administering the CBD the men were able to maintain a low blood pressure, even during the stressful situation.

How To Protect Your Loved Ones From Nursing Home Abuse

Bhok Thompson
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0
How To Protect Your Loved Ones From Nursing Home Abuse

Nursing homes have a reputation that is questionable. Fortunately, there are facilities that provide quality care, but the high number of neglect claims overshadows their reputation. With that said, if you need help taking care of your loved one around the clock, skilled nursing facilities are going to be one of your few options. But, how do you protect them from becoming a victim of abuse?

Visit Frequently

A resident who has very few visitors is at a higher risk of abuse than a resident who has frequent visitors. Making your presence known throughout the day and evening is a great way to let the nursing home staff that you mean business. Also, during your visits take the time to question your loved one about the care they are receiving.

Face-To-Face Meetings With Staff

Surely, you want to keep up with your family member’s progress. Even though some people are under the impression that nursing homes are the last place the elderly will visit before they die, this is genuinely not true. Skilled nursing homes offer temporary and permanent care to people of all ages. For example, someone recovering from a fractured hip can move into a nursing home until they are independent again.

Request face-to-face meetings with the staff, supervisors and Director of Nursing at least twice a week. Let them know that you are very concerned about your loved one and your expectations. This will send out a warning that you will be monitoring their activity and your loved one’s progress around the clock.

Know Your Rights

If you are legally authorized to act on your loved one’s behalf, you will need to know your rights. Not only will you have the right to file a claim against the nursing if you have proof that your loved one is being abused, but also you have the right to sue them. Knowing your rights, so you can be fully prepared to take action if necessary.

Use Cameras

Do you suspect that your loved one is being abused when you’re nowhere near the nursing home? If so, you need to find out as quickly as possible. The good news is that there are plenty of things you can do. First and foremost, you’ll want to make sure that you’re using cameras. You can find cameras that can be hidden discreetly around your loved one’s room. They may upload to the Cloud automatically or the videos might be stored to an SD card. Either way, hidden cameras are going to provide you with a definite answer. If you have your suspicions, you should most definitely use cameras to find out the truth as quickly as possible.

Hire A Lawyer

If you suspect that you’re dealing with a case of nursing neglect, you should not hesitate to hire one of the best nursing neglect attorneys. They’ll prove to be immensely helpful in your fight against the nursing home. They’ll help you obtain crucial information. And, in the event that neglect has occurred, they’ll be able to help you sue and get the money that is rightfully yours!

7 days Israel itinerary for the Hiking Family

Green Prophet Guest
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7 days Israel itinerary for the Hiking Family

The most striking feature of Israel’s landscape is its variety. This tiny area has a dramatic desert in the South and the green Galilee mountains in the North. Two areas that are so different, but you can drive from one to the other in less than 3 hours.

Israelis love their country and love to walk its trails. The countryside is crisscrossed with an impressive network of clearly waymarked and maintained trails, covering the entire country. The combination of the pleasant weather outside the summer months, terrain that is not too rough and the solid infrastructure makes the county a great destination for hiking loving families.

DAY 1

A great place to start is the “Yehudiya Forest Nature Reserve” (GPS 32.941606, 35.701637) in the Golan Heights. The Golan is a flat high plateau that drops steeply towards the sea of Galilee and the Hula valley. The soil is mostly basalt rocks originated from ancient volcanic activity. The result is a series of gorges with waterfalls, pools and water that flow all year round. Yehudia Nation park includes the 3 biggest and most attractive streams of the Golan heights. The Yehudiya, Meshushim and Zavitan streams. There is a large selection of trails to pick from ranging from very short up to 10 Km long. The reserve includes some of the best trails and some of the most beautiful pools in the Golan Heights.

DAY 2

Just about 1/2-hour drive south-west and we arrive at the Sea of Galilee. The lake marks the border between the Golan Height rising from its east coast and the Galilee mountains rising from the west. One of the classic hikes in northern Israel is to hike from the lake to the summit of Mount Arbel. Mount Arbel’s height is only 180 meters but is one of the most famous mountains in Israel. It rises very steeply, 380 meters from the Sea of Galilee and is considered by many the best view-point around the lake. From the summit, there is an amazing vista that includes most of the Galilee mountains, the Golan Heights and famous landmarks like Tiberias, Safed and the Horns of Hattin. The trail head is near the village of Hamam at (GPS 32.827706, 35.492245). It’s an 8 Km moderate circular trail. Besides the great view from the summit the route will bring you to the Arbel cliff fortress and the ruins of a 4th century synagogue.

DAY 3

We are heading now 2 hours west towards the Mediterranean coast to Dor-Habonim nature reserve. GPS (32.642601, 34.924917). The 5 Kilometers strip that connects Moshav Habonim and Kibbutz Dor, is regarded by many people as the most beautiful coastal area in Israel. Additionally, it is very diverse. In this short distance it is possible to see marvelous small coves, an archeological site, an old ship wreck and the “Blue Cave”. There are several easy and flat trails to choose from between and 2 and 8 Km.

DAY 4

We continue our journey to Jerusalem (About 1.5 hours’ drive). Jerusalem is an amazing city for any tourist. It has something for everyone: History, Archeology, Arts, architecture, Night life, shopping and much more. But the fact that Jerusalem is also a great Hiking Hub comes as a big surprise to most people. While hiking is by no means the reason for visiting this great city, for a nature lover, to mix a day of hiking in between the city many attractions can be a great way to Spice-Up his visit. Less than 30 minutes’ drive east you will arrive to Wadi Qelt (Prat Stream) GPS (31.831305, 35.306738), Which is one of the most popular and rewarding hikes around Jerusalem. Wadi Qelt is a stream runs from the northwestern slopes of the Judaean Desert just outside Jerusalem and down to the city of Jericho. It’s one of the biggest and only sources of running water in the Judean Desert. The area has a long human history. While hiking you will pass ancient aqueducts and old monasteries. The deep canyon is full of springs, poos and waterfalls. A real oasis!! There are many variations for all hiking levels ranging from 3-20 km.

DAY 5

150 Km south and we arrive to the Negev desert. The Negev desert is the largest geographical area in Israel and offers a huge variety of hiking options. One of the best areas is the Zin valley at the Foot of Midreshet Ben-Gurion. GPS (30.850787, 34.778326). There are two very popular circuits. The tougher, 17 Km long, visits the magical desert spring of Ein Akev and the summit of “Hod Akev”, one of the most rewarding view points in the Negev. The easier but also beautiful option is Ein Avdat spring. There are several variations to choose from between 3-10 km.

DAY 6

Less than half an hour drive south, we arrive to Mitspe Ramon GPS (30.613430, 34.803775), situated on the edge of the Ramon Crater (Makhtesh). “Makhtesh” is a unique crater-like formation created by erosion. There are only 7 such craters in the world, all of them located in the Land of Israel (5) and the Sinai desert (2). Any hiker visiting Israel should include at least one of them in his itinerary. Ramon Crater is the largest Makhtesh in the world. Over 40 km long, 10 km wide and about 400 m deep. There are dozens of hiking trails in and around the crater to keep any hiker busy for a few days.

DAY 7

Two hours’ drive further south and we reach the touristic city of Eilat. The city is full of tourist attractions and restaurants, but it is also a great hiking hub. Within a short drive from the city you can find amazing desert hiking options. What makes the Eilat Mountains range unique is the contrast of colors. The sand and rocks change sharply between Black, Yellow and Red and in the horizon, you have in view the Edom reddish mountains and the deep Blue of the Red sea. Also here, there are countless options for all levels. Starting from the classic and easy “Red Canyon” (GPS 29.669201, 34.870346) hike up to tough deep desert tracks.

Visit “Israel by Foot” website for more Detailed descriptions and Hiking maps.

Tips to Become Greener at Home

Bhok Thompson
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0
Tips to Become Greener at Home

Pete Davis

 These days, many of us have more of an interest in the environment. With the pollution and damage that has already been done, many of us want to do our bit for the green cause. There are many changes and steps you can take at home in order to do your bit, and this is a great way of helping the environment no matter what your situation or circumstances. In fact, some of the steps you take will not only help the environment but will also save you money.

People go online for all sorts of reasons these days from finding the best workers compensation lawyers in Perth through to doing the weekly shopping. Many also go online to get more information about how to make changes that will help them to be more eco-friendly. There are many resources and tools that you can access and there are even eco-friendly products you can purchase online.

Some Methods to Become Greener

There are various simple methods that you can use in order to become greener at home. One of the ways in which you can do this is to ensure you do not leave things on standby. This is something that many people are guilty of doing on a day to day basis but you have to remember that even when on standby, your appliances still use up energy. This is not only bad for the environment but will also add to your energy bills. The same goes for leaving lights on in rooms that you are not using, which many people also do. Make sure you always turn your lights off if you want to save energy and cut your bills.

Another thing you should consider is to get insulation for doors and windows. It is amazing just how quickly heat can escape through cracks and gaps in the doors and windows, and this can leave your home feeling uncomfortable and will cost you more to heat it. You can purchase insulation products at very affordable prices online, which means you can make a big difference to the heat levels in your home as well as helping the environment.

Water wastage is another way in which we often harm the environment as well as paying out more money than we need to. Many people don’t realize how much water they waste by doing things such as leaving taps dripping, running baths instead of showers, leaving the tap running while they brush their teeth, and other bad habits. Making sure you are mindful about your water usage can help the environment and will also help you to reduce your water bills and keep your outgoings down.

These are just some of the ways in which you can reduce your carbon footprint and do your bit for the environment. While you may think that your contribution might not make a huge difference, if everyone makes the same sort of effort we can make a serious and much needed difference to the planet.

 

 

 

How to design eco wedding card?

Bhok Thompson
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1
How to design eco wedding card?

eco friendly gift cards

Creating and sending out eco-friendly wedding cards is a great way to contribute to saving the planet as a couple. If your plan is to use eco-friendly stationery throughout your event and planning, there are many ways of achieving this. By the way, if you would prefer the responses and wedding wishes of friends and family to be eco-friendly as well, it would be as easy as fitting it all into your wedding prep. Below are several ways of staying green even while celebrating.

How to make card. craft items and tools for handmade invitation cart. Diy concept, mock up greetings card

Below are several ways of staying green even while celebrating.

  • Recycled Paper Wedding Invitations

For an environmentally friendly and sustainable option, you might want to consider recycled paper for your wedding invitations. From the moment you begin shopping for wedding invitations, you can be mindful of the type of paper you get. Quite a number of wedding invitation websites are tagged as eco-friendly businesses, and use recycled paper in the production of their invites.

You could take a step further by ensuring the printer uses earth-based inks like soy-based or vegetable oil, which are much better than the usual petroleum-based ones. However, as long as the company uses environmentally saving practices, this should not be a problem. A shop like Paper Snaps on Etsy, which personally oversees the making of their wedding invitations without outsourcing, might be open to special requests such as these.

A paper butterfly, cut out of a watercolor toned texture with a handwritten text, on a small recycled paper envelope, shot from above on a light blue wooden board; a template for an invitation design
  • Alternative Fiber Papers

In making your eco-friendly, couture wedding invitations, you could also consider using papers of alternative fiber. Order invitations made from non-tree products like bamboo, hemp, coffee bean, and cotton fibers. There’s a lot of information available on these alternative fibers and how they can be a great contribution to your wedding and the environment. With these kinds of paper, you can order your invites online or even create them yourself at home; which could be fun if you’re on a tight budget and have ample time.

If you go the extra mile to buy flower seed paper or plantable tags, after the wedding your guests could plant the paper in their garden. When the flower or herb grow, your wedding and your love will be remembered for a long time to come.

  • Recycle Yourself

Have you considered making DIY invitations at home with recyclable material around the house? There are lots of ideas on Pinterest and other websites online on transforming these materials into special handmade invitations. Envelope-free invitations to be made from recycled ribbon, old paper doilies, and many other creative options abound.

  • Digital Invitations

Taking advantage of the internet age, you could consider completely paper-free invitations. Using Mail Chimp or any other newsletter creator out there you are more comfortable with, you can easily customize and send out your invitations and announcements. Mail Chimp, in particular, is free for making invitations, newsletters, and announcements as long as they are sent to less than 2,000 guests. Sounds nifty, right? Also, creating these fancy online invites isn’t as difficult as you might think. Mail Chimp has numerous templates, which you can tweak to your heart’s content and set to be sent out automatically on the date you choose.

There are quite a number of options available to the couple determined to use eco-friendly wedding cards. After deciding on perhaps one of the options above, the follow up afterward could be just as green and sustainable. You could post updates like reminders and follow up messages on a social media page or a wedding website with alerts to your guests. Creating such websites, landing pages or Facebook pages these days is quite easy and even a fun activity for a couple. The website could even be integrated online with the registry service for the wedding, to make everything flow seamlessly and be managed easily.

Another great follow up option is to include a website link or email address on your invitation which will allow your guests RSVP electronically and save paper. This will go a long way in reducing your carbon footprint and continue your environment saving practices. You could also spread the word further and encourage your guests to find and buy you eco-friendly gifts as well.

If you enjoy engagement and wedding stories, make sure to check out the following: 

Nanotechnology – A Leap Forward in the Filtration Industry

Bhok Thompson
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1
Nanotechnology – A Leap Forward in the Filtration Industry

 

Essential to all live elements on Earth, water plays a quintessential role in human civilization as well. For a healthy life, a safe drinking water supply is required. Woefully, one of the major issues in our modern times is that waterborne diseases are creating larger numbers of deaths each year, and their spreading is accelerated.

Over the years, researchers and scientists have been looking into new ways to simplify water treatment and raise its efficiency so that it is available to our homes to fix this oppressing problem. Although there are plenty of advancements up to this point, there is still a long way to go until the global water crisis is resolved.

One of the branches where researchers are putting immense developmental efforts in nanotechnology as it can play a pivotal role in resolving water quality related issues. Devices which incorporate nano-materials are indeed already available yet new options must be explored for the needs of human development to be tended to.

What is nanotechnology?

  • Definition: It implies the use of techniques and applications which involve particles that are only a few hundreds of nanoparticles in diameter, these particles boasting unique surface and physicochemical properties which make them applicable for various uses.

The nature of this constantly developing technological branch makes it important for study as it could provide a fix for global scale problems we currently face. Departments like energy, medicine, and agriculture can greatly benefit, and even the worldwide water supply can be finally safe for use and consumption, something that seems far from accomplishment at the moment.

How purification undergoes

Research has employed the use of nano-membranes to soften hard water and remove contaminants of a physical, chemical, and biological nature. Microbiological filtration is one department where the technology shines as the elimination of parasites, cysts, viruses, and bacteria as small as 15 nm is possible, so chances of ingesting a health-threatening microorganism are dramatically decreased. The nano-filters feature membranes with nano-sized pores, so evidently a more thorough clearing of contaminants is due.

What makes nanoparticles reliable for water treatment:

  • A wider contact surface area is offered so that purification efficiency is enhanced;
  • Easier chemical and biological reactions;
  • They help change materials at a nano level when it comes to their electrical, chemical, biological, physical, or optical properties;
  • Particles are increased in strength, durability, and stability due to the higher volume and area.

Comparison with conventional systems

Up to this point, efforts have indeed been fruitful as a multi-functional water filtration membrane has been developed, a system which uses titanium dioxide nanotechnology as opposed to the traditional polymer-based membranes that were used until then.

Unlike traditional filtration means, nano-filters require less pressure to pass the water across their surfaces, which in turn enhances their efficiency. Cleaning is made easier as well as the large surface areas that nano-filters cover can be maintained properly through back-flushing.

Traditional purification systems do have their own set of advantages and present high potential towards clearing contaminants from water, yet they are not able to reduce impurities of a nanoscopic size. This is a considerable flaw as there exist plenty of bacteria and other nano-sized contaminants which lurk in the water, contaminants that bypass these classic-style systems.

  • The ideal would be to integrate nanotechnology and its potential in systems we already use, enhancing their effectiveness while potentially even reducing operational costs. The best whole house water filters have already witnessed a change for the better as there are systems available which integrate the use of nano-filtration to reduce high percentage of nitrates, nitrites, organic compounds, and salts from water.

Risks and implications

Developments have raised many eyebrows as it has been shown that various types of nano-materials have a high potential of toxicity, some even potentially leading to fire and dust explosion hazards. However, risks associated with nano-materials are not the same when we talk about bulk versions due to the larger surface area to volume ratio. Up to this point, purification based on this specific technology has not led to human health or environmental concerns, but this doesn’t mean that any risks and implications must be ruled out yet.

  • The team that pushes the technology’s development acknowledges this aspect and promises that further research into the biological interactions of the particles will be carried out to ensure safety on all levels.

Eat Prebiotic Foods To Keep Your Probiotics Healthy

Miriam Kresh
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Eat Prebiotic Foods To Keep Your Probiotics Healthy

prebiotic food

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Folk wisdom produced this proverb a long time ago. Our canny ancestors didn’t conduct laboratory experiments with rats, but they knew that people who ate an apple every day stayed healthier. The proverb would hold true even if changed to “an onion a day” or “whole grains every day.” But until fairly recently, we weren’t certain why eating these foods keeps us healthy.

We’re more than familiar with the vitamin and mineral contents of everyday foods. A quick online search brings up dozens of studies on fresh foods and nutrition. We’re also fairly well informed about the health benefits of eating probiotic foods every day, like kefir and sauerkraut. But as science delves further back into the interactions between food and our bodies, a fairly new discovery has gained a name: prebiotics.

What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? For starters, prebiotics are indigestible. They’re all fibers of one kind or another. They pass through the digestive system without change, until they stop in the colon. There, probiotic bacteria break them down to ferment and devolve into short-chain fatty acids. The bacteria then feed on this fermented prebiotic matter. The result: stronger, more effective probiotics in the gut, which in turn strengthens immunities, supports gut and heart health, prevents cancer and even relieves symptoms of depression and anxiety. As beneficial bacteria grow stronger and increase, they overcome bad bacteria in the gut. Interesting that even bacteria need nourishment, right? Then again, anything that lives must eat.

Let’s see which foods deliver lots of prebiotic fibers. First, fruit, and especially, apples and bananas. Studies done on rats conclude that the pectin found in apples helps increase beneficial bacteria. Harmful bacteria is then overcome and dies out. Bananas’ high levels of inulin, a prebiotic fiber, make the fruit another healthy choice as a snack or dessert. Coconut flesh and flour are said to be rich in prebiotic fibers.

Foods from the allium family are often cited: onions, leeks, and garlic. They don’t have to be eaten raw like fruit. A fragrant onion soup warms the body and provides plenty of prebiotic material. Crush a garlic clove and stir it into salad dressing. Delicious and double-healthy, as garlic’s antimicrobial properties weaken bad bacteria while its prebiotic fibers nourish the good. Or if raw garlic is just not your thing, try our savory roasted garlic soup.

Many vegetables get those prebiotics into your system. Jerusalem artichoke is often cited, but it’s not always in season, and not to everyone’s taste. Carrots, corn, peas, radishes, and yams are easy to find and easy to eat. Leafy greens, especially dandelion greens, are especially rich in prebiotics.

dandelions prebiotic food

Cabbage, beets, bell peppers and artichokes figure on the prebiotic list as well. Legumes, whole wheat and whole grains such oats and barley, seeds and nuts, quinoa, and – guess what – dark chocolate, are known to nurture good bacteria.

The less cooked, the higher the prebiotic content of these foods. So rather than relying on a 70% cacao content chocolate bar, put a tablespoon of fair-trade cacao powder in your smoothie.

prebiotic chocolate smoothie

Eat stir-fried or lightly steamed vegetables rather than boiled or fried.

What about prebiotic supplements? Research hasn’t yet proved that commercial supplements are sufficient to build healthy bacteria. While it’s more convenient to pop a couple of capsules, eating a variety of living plant foods is a far more reliable way to get those prebiotics. Tastier, too.

There is a caveat with regard to prebiotics. They may disturb the digestion of people with irritable bowel syndrome or Chrone’s disease. The catch is that a diet entirely without prebiotic foods reduces the number and quality of friendly gut bacteria. To solve that problem, some nutritionists suggest eliminating prebiotic foods entirely, then slowly reintroducing them to the diet.

Photos: apple by Jarmoluk via Pixabay; chocolate smoothie by stevepb via Pixabay; dandelions by auntmasako via Pixabay.

$50 million in funds for renewable energy in developing nations

Green Prophet Guest
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1
$50 million in funds for renewable energy in developing nations

morocco, desert, wind energy, renewable energy, clean tech, Tarfaya wind farm, 300MW wind, GDF Suez, Nareva Holding, Morocco's wind wagon

Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) and The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) are inviting applications for more than US$50 million in funding through the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility. The ADFD-financed initiative is available to government-guaranteed renewable energy projects in developing countries that seek to increase energy access, improve livelihoods and advance sustainable development.

egyptian solar energy for residential consumers

ADFD has committed US$350 million (AED1.285 billion) in concessionary loans over seven annual funding cycles to renewable energy projects recommended by IRENA. The facility welcomes proposals for projects – especially those submitted by ministries, public utility entities and rural electrification agencies – that are able to obtain a government guarantee for the ADFD loan.

“Renewable energy can have a powerful impact on the livelihoods of people across the globe,” said IRENA Director-General Adnan Z. Amin. “It is the most cost-competitive option to expand access to energy and improve socioeconomic welfare while creating jobs and empowering local communities. Now in its seventh funding cycle, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility has a proven track record of driving positive change through renewable energy deployment, supporting developing countries to benefit from the energy transformation.”

For his part, His Excellency Mohammed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said: “Since its launch in 2012, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility has continued to deliver on the UAE’s promise to introduce renewable energy solutions in developing countries as a sustainable and long-term alternative to conventional energy sources. Advancing the renewable energy sector helps achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, as well as create jobs and stimulate economic growth. We are proud of the milestones this facility has marked, and look forward to receiving cutting-edge and impactful applications for the seventh and final funding cycle.”

The world’s largest solar energy dish in Sde Boker, Israel

In the first five cycles, the IRENA/ADFD Project Facility allocated US$214 million to 21 renewable energy projects across the globe, covering up to 50 per cent of the project costs. The efforts will bring more than 100 megawatts of renewable energy capacity online, improving the lives of over a million people through energy access. Spanning Asia, Africa, Latin America and Small Island Developing States, the projects encompass the complete spectrum of renewable energy sources – wind, solar, hydro, geothermal and biomass – and technologies. To fulfil its commitment to contributing a total of US$350 million towards sustainable development, ADFD will allocate all outstanding funds by the seventh and final cycle.

The projects selected for the sixth funding cycle will be announced in January 2019 – soon! Summary applications for the seventh cycle will be accepted until 17:00 GST on 14 February 2019.

For more information, please visit www.irena.org/adfd

Ibogaine and Holistic Addiction Treatment

Bhok Thompson
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0
Ibogaine and Holistic Addiction Treatment

Drug addiction treatment can be a long journey. When you have access to quality treatment, you can begin to heal. Different types of holistic treatments are preferred by different people. You may need to try a few different ones to find the one that works for you. Sometimes this is a combination of things.

Holistic options may also supplement traditional treatments when desired. Ibogaine is an alternative treatment that has become popular in many countries. Many addicts now travel far from their own home to a place where ibogaine is legal. When you are ready to commit to a treatment plan it is pertinent to research all of your options.

Making the Commitment

There are many difficult aspects to addiction treatment. The first major milestone is making a decision to get help. Many people procrastinate on this. They may keep telling themselves that they can get help tomorrow. For many, this continues for years. Whatever treatment plan you choose, you must be fully committed to fighting daily for your health. Withdrawals are also a difficult portion of the treatment process. Some addicts want to quit during this initial stage. The sweats, vomiting, and insomnia can become severe. It is easier to stay committed when you find the right treatment and have a good support group.

Holistic Options

There are many natural things you can do to get control of your addiction. Take the time to try a few different ones. You may find that an overall healthy lifestyle helps immensely. Meditation and yoga can be used to keep your body and mind relaxed. Meditation helps you to focus and clear your mind. Yoga helps you focus on your breathing and stretching your body. As you advance, you can also build strength. It may sound simple, however, a sincere effort to exercise and eat right can completely change the way you feel on a daily basis. Rigorous exercise signals the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain. This can relieve some of the anxiety and depression that may go along with your addiction. Good nutrition helps your body heal after years of drug use.

Alternative Treatment

Many people prefer to look at all options when it comes to overcoming their addiction. There are some alternative treatments that are becoming popular, even in the western world. Ibogaine treatment clinics can be found in several countries. These include, South America, Mexico, and Canada. Ibogaine is illegal in many countries, including the United States of America where is it labelled a schedule 1 drug. Ibogaine is popular because it is known to alleviate the discomfort associated with withdrawals. It also helps patients gain self-awareness so that therapists can treat the underlying cause of the addiction. Learn more about Ibogaine by conducting thorough research.

The ancient practice of acupuncture is widely available around the world. Strategically placed needles are thought to correct the flow of energy throughout the body. This practice is traditionally Chinese and goes back many centuries. It is commonly used for pain relief in the modern world. Addicts may use this to help with painful withdrawals, anxiety and withdrawals.

Pedang acupuncture, tiger in israel

Addiction treatment is a personal decision. You must find the right mixture of treatments that helps you the most. For most addicts, this is a combination of tactics. It is wise to begin at a treatment center so you are surrounded by professionals. You can often visit these beforehand or check them out online. Holistic treatments are often good for many health ailments. You can incorporate several different things into your treatment routine. Yoga, nutrition, and massage can help your body stay healthy and help you relax.

 

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