#-their metabolism and muscle shivering!!!

[poems-of-a-lover]

just saw a tiktok clip that said that every dino boy needs a shark boy. so true. whos gonna be my dino boy.

[konigsblog]

GIVE US THE HCS (Pretty please 🥺)

random, fluffy könig headcannons...

i have plenty of headcannons, but i wanna talk about his routine throughout the day...

könig is too familiar with early mornings from being in the military, to the point where he's forced to become a morning person. he wakes up before five o'clock, usually sitting beside you and caressing your soft cheeks whilst you slumber peacefully, fully relaxed.

könig can't help but chuckle at the sounds of your snoring, how you squirm occasionally when he tickles your forearm.

he's definitely into black coffee, nothing else, nothing added. and despite his bitter, black coffee, he has a huge sweet tooth that is impossible to resist !! bake him a cake and he'll demolish it before midnight...

i believe könig would be a great chef, usually fantastic at making schnitzel and other austrian dishes. he loves your surprised reaction, seeing you eat happily, giggling and wrapping your arms around his waist to grip his stomach, the fat covering the muscles.

könig probably reads the newspaper, rather than the television. i don't think he's into movies (but, for some reason gets hooked onto series’?), with a short attention span, he'd rather read something quickly. he holds the thin, off-white paper in his hands firmly, taking sips of his dark coffee, while you're still fast asleep.

i also believe könig has a slow metabolism (just a random headcannon). growing up bigger than the other kids, and having a sweet tooth led to him getting bullied relentlessly. i think he lets go of the shame and guilt eventually. könig would probably struggle with body dysmorphia, having a warped perception of himself.

könig adores avocado, and loves putting it on whatever; toast, salads, etc... he adores the taste, you may even find him eating some at random times of the day, like a mouse, holding the avocado in his large hands.

at nighttime, könig takes a long, cold shower and spends ages under the lukewarm, slightly cold water. i think he's sensitive to the heat, his skin sensitive, and his body aching when he uses the hot water.

maybe, it's better not to shower with him, he'll either be breathless and sweating, or you'll be shivering... !!

[horriblehooter]

GLORSH!

“Ahhhhhhhh…HIC! Mph…ohhhh, that’s…th-that’s a lot more than I…remember…”

The Saurian hissed softly, his serpent-like eyes looking down with a hint of anxiety, and more than a hint of personal embarrassment. Long, clawed fingers reached down and spread out, groping at the upper curve of his swollen stomach, which stretched out through the rubbery material of his costume’s abdomen. A soft whimper left the reptile, as his tail swept upwards, the snakish tail curling and lifting to press at the underside of his bloated, sagging belly. His gut sloshed and burbled in response to all the attention, and the snake bit his scaly lips, repressing another whimper as he could feel the sensitive skin seem to light up from every one of his own touches.

It didn’t help that, not so far beneath his skin, he could feel the heavy, filling mass inside squirm…he could feel fingers brush against his muscular gut walls, feel feet wiggling and almost tickling his tummy’s tough, sticky, slippery lining. He adjusted his stance to make sure he wouldn’t collapse as the weight of his own midsection swamped his body suddenly.

“N-Nara?” the Saurian whispered at last, almost timidly. “Are…um…are you…uninjured?”

The squirming intensified briefly…then a voice came from the curled-up shape inside the stomach.

“Yeah, I think so,” it answered. It was the voice of a young female, and it was…surprisingly casual, considering its owner had just been swallowed alive like a limp fish. “Doin’ good out there? Not givin’ you a bellyache, right, Hakari?”

“Not yet,” mumbled Hakari, unable to deny that the taut, stretched flesh did feel a bit uncomfortable…not helped by the knowledge that his best friend was the one kicking inside that big belly. His gut let out a deep, garbled growl, and Hakari rubbed over it with both hands to try and settle it, lest the muscles seize up and squeeze Nara more than either liked.

“Sounds like your gut likes me,” giggled Nara, as if she wasn’t inside a carnivorous shapeshifter’s digestive system.

Hakari cracked a small, feeble, worried smile.

“It’s not the only one,” he joked, but the smile soon fell. “Um…are you…sure about this?”

“Yup!” came the reply, followed by the feeling of a hand gently stroking over the stomach wall from within. “Wouldn’t have asked for it if I wasn’t.”

Hakari shivered, feeling a quiver of happiness ripple through him. His tail wiggled, flexing beneath the underside of his stomach for a moment, the tip curling up to cup his belly before twisting downard once again, the rest of the limb pushing into the overhang subtly.

“How…how long do you want to stay in there?” Hakari breathed out, feeling somewhere between pain and pleasure as he winced from a the sensation of his stomach rhythmically churning against Nara’s side.

“Eh. As long as you feel’s safe, I guess”

“Great! Then let’s get you out now-”

“Hakari. This is a trust exercise.”

“Right, and…and you trust me, don’t you? S-So there’s no need to-”

“Who said it was meant to teach me how to trust you?”

Hakari’s jaws snapped shut. His forked tongue flickered out of his mouth. Just once.

“I’m gonna be okay. I believe you. Just…lemme simmer in here-”

“Oh, please don’t use that word…”

“..Maybe for…I dunno, an hour? You’ve said your metal-ball-whatsis-”

“Metabolism.”

“Whatver…you said it’s kinda slow, soooo…an hour ain’t gonna hurt, yeah?”

Hakari squirmed.

“I…I don’t think so,” he peeped, timidly.

“Then one hour in your belly. And after you let me out, I promise I’ll give you all the rubs you could want from the outside. Sound fair?”

Hakari blushed. It was strange to see so green a face gain so much pink suddenly.

“I…suppose that sounds…amenable.”

Nara chuckled and patted the gut wall.

“Good snake,” she teased.

Hakari would have blushed more…but at that moment, his face twisted up in a grimace of discontent. He pressed on the side and the upper curve of his stomach as a soft, almost puppyish whine left him, the pressure making him turn greener in the proverbial gills than usual…then his eyes shot wide open, and his jaw rattled as it flew open. Saliva spattered everywhere, flecking off of his tongue and past his tonsils, as he let out a deep, rumbling, heavy belch.

“BUUUUURRRP!”

Hakari’s blush returned, twice as red and twice as bright, as he slapped one of his hands over his mouth in embarrassment. His gut let out a greasy, low sound that almost sounded like a sigh of relief.

“Um…ahem…p-pardon me.”

Nara just laughed, making the stomach around her wobble. Hakari gave a flustered smile at the sound.

“Good one, lizard lips!” cheered Nara from within.

“Um…actually, I’m more closely related to the subgroup ophidia than laterata or other such options…heh heh…”

“…I dunno what any of that means, but never change, Hakari. Never change.”

Hakari’s smile softened. Using his tail, he patted the side of his belly, a look of affection in his eyes.

“I don’t plan to.”

-------------------------------

An early birthday present for @belliesandburps! Starring his shapeshifting serpentine ninja Hakari, looking a bit bashful with a rare bellyful of prey...especially when that prey works up some beastly belches he has no chance of muffling. ;)

Hakari's design here is based on concept sketches I made after some back and forth with B-n-B, since he mentioned wanting to update his snek boi's design a while back. Hopefully this is still somewhat up to date.

Happy Birthday, B-n-B! Hope it's a good one, and wishing you lots of cake for you and your favorite anime bois of choice to enjoy. 🎂

Also, big thanks to @twistedtummies2 for writing up the blurb to go along with the art! Go check out his stuff, he deserves the love.

[nenelonomh]

cold shower routine

why take cold showers

increased endorphins: cold showers can help relieve symptoms of depression by stimulating electrical impulses in the brain. these impulses increase alertness, clarity, and energy levels, while also releasing endorphins—those “happiness hormones” that promote feelings of well-being and optimism.

improved metabolism: exposure to cold temperatures activates brown adipose tissue (brown fat; BAT), which plays a role in adult health. BAT is a type of body fat that plays a unique role in regulating body temperature. it produces thermal heat through a process called nonshivering thermogenesis. unlike white fat, which primarily stores energy, BAT actively burns calories and stores energy in a smaller space. when BAT burns, it creates heat without causing shivering. researchers believe that BAT could be a treatment for obesity and metabolic syndromes. although cold showers alone won’t lead to significant weight loss, they may contribute to increased metabolism over time. remember - BAT and white fat are parts of our physiology that contribute to our overall health.

enhanced circulation: cold water makes your circulatory system work more efficiently. some people even notice improved skin appearance due to better circulation. athletes have long used cold water for post-workout recovery.

what about alternating hot and cold showers?

alternating hot and cold showers can be invigorating and offer several benefits. the contrast between hot and cold stimulates blood flow, which can benefit your cardiovascular system.

cold exposure may enhance immune function. additionally, alternating temperatures can wake you up and increase alertness.

start with warm water: begin your shower with warm water. this helps relax your muscles and opens up pores.

gradual temperature changes: after a few minutes of warm water, gradually switch to cold water. aim for a comfortable but brisk temperature.

repeat the cycle: alternate between warm and cold water. you can do this 2-3 times during your shower.

what about hot showers?

muscle relaxation: warm water helps relax tense muscles and can provide relief from soreness or stiffness.

improved blood flow: hot showers dilate blood vessels, promoting better circulation. this can be especially beneficial for people with cold extremities.

stress relief: the warmth of a hot shower can soothe your mind and reduce stress. it’s a great way to unwind after a long day.

sinus congestion: steam from hot showers can help clear nasal passages and ease congestion.

while hot showers have their benefits, there are a few potential downsides to consider:

dry skin: hot water can strip your skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. if you have sensitive skin, lukewarm showers might be a better choice.

hair damage: frequent hot showers can weaken hair strands and make them more prone to breakage. cooler water is gentler on your hair.

blood pressure: hot showers can temporarily raise blood pressure due to vasodilation. if you have hypertension, it’s advisable to avoid extremely hot showers.

energy consumption: hot showers consume more energy, which can impact your utility bills and the environment.

here are some tips to protect your skin during hot showers:

limit shower time: keep your showers short to prevent excessive moisture loss. prolonged exposure to hot water can dehydrate your skin.

use mild cleansers: choose gentle, moisturizing body washes or soaps. harsh cleansers can further dry out your skin.

moisturize immediately: apply good-quality moisturizer after your shower while your skin is still damp. this helps lock in moisture.

avoid scrubbing vigorously: be gentle when using a loofah or washcloth. aggressive scrubbing can damage the skin barrier. instead of rubbing your skin with a towel, pat it gently to avoid friction and irritation.

what is a cold shower routine?

a cold shower routine that combines morning cold exposure and evening warmth can be beneficial. this morning/evening routine will allow you to maximise the benefits of both hot and cold showers.

to incorporate it into your daily routine, gradually work towards a 2-5 minute cold shower. focus on your breath while under the cold water. start by allowing the cold water to hit your chest, back, and extremities first. gradually immerse your head and face in the cold water.

take a warm (not boiling!) shower before bedtime to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. maintain a relaxing routine, such as meditating or winding down, after your warm shower. ensure your bedroom is cool (around 65 degrees fahrenheit or 18 degrees celsius) for optimal sleep.

end notes

remember - both cold and warm showers have their benefits, so look to find a balance that suits your preferences and health needs. enjoy your refreshing showers!

i hope you enjoyed this post! ❤️ nene

[y-rhywbeth2]

Hey kids, want to learn about drugs in Toril?

(OK, so some of them actually have medicinal properties, if your character happens to have medical knowledge in their background.)

Local laws usually have restrictions regarding drugs. As ever, Waterdeep sets the standards for trading cities that want to market themselves as tolerant: the production and selling of drugs outside of medicine is fully illegal in the city, though it's not a crime to be found personally taking drugs. It is not technically a crime to be found in possession of drugs, however that only really applies to nobles, wealthy merchants and others of similar rank. Lower ranks will be assumed to be carrying the drugs with intent to sell, and be arrested unless they can provide evidence of their employment by a Guild of Apothecaries & Physicians, clergy or similar legitimate medical employment.

Drugs that can have fatal side effects may be treated as poisons, which can get you arrested and charged with "murder with justification" if law enforcement and/or the courts do desire. (You don't have to have actually killed anyone, tried to, or shown any inclination whatsoever for this).

The illegal drug trade works a lot as it does in reality, although unlike in reality they also have magic so portals, illusions and other "cheats" are pretty common. The grunt work of trafficking and selling is done by the lower ranking, more disposable members. Often the "runners" who deliver the contraband to the client are young children.

In Baldur's Gate I'd assume most of the drug trade and production occurs in the Undercellar and the Outer City.

-

Many substances are magical in nature and their effects can be unusual. Some came with more information than others.

Tekkil Painkiller. Ingested. Typically used by people dealing with severe chronic pain, taken by chewing leaves that release a milky substance. As well as its analgesic properties, tekkil causes lethargy which can render imbibers insensate in an overdose. Some people use it to completely numb their senses and escape reality, and the drug is moderately addictive.

Alindluth Painkiller, ingested. "Deadens all pain and prevents shock and nausea for a few minutes. No known side effects [but may cause comas in higher doses]"

Haunspeir Stimulant. Paste. Sometimes dried into pill form. Carrying a low risk of addiction it's usually used by wizards, students and such looking for a study boost, though it does cause physical harm to the body while it's in the system and seems to thin the skin, causing more damage when something breaks through (try not to get a papercut).

Tansabra Anaesthetic. Intravenous. A form of venom that places mammalian bodies into magical stasis, keeping their body temperature, oxygen levels and so forth stable as the subject's metabolic processes literally stop: blood flow and breathing ceases. (The text does not tell me what provides the venom.)

Kammarth Beige powder or jelly. An addictive and potent magical stimulant combining Underdark fungi and a rare forest root. Users start bouncing off the walls with endless energy and gain a boost to their speed and reaction times. Overdose will overload the nervous system and cause paralysis and physical damage.

Sezarad Root Ingestion. Chewing the root boosts health, healing and vitality, though it also causes minor confusion as a side effect. It carries a low risk of addiction.

"Battlewine" Or Rhul. A spicy red fluid with a bitter aftertaste. It's basically an anabolic steroid, misused it boosts muscle growth and physical performance but causes aggression. It's also addictive.

Vornduir Powder. Inhaled. Causes the user to feel warm and prevents them from registering cold. It prevents shivering and loss of mobility, however the drug does not actually raise body temperature and won't prevent hypothermia or frostbite. It also has a host of effects that occur totally randomly by individual. In some people it causes alertness and euphoria that lasts for days (during which they can't sleep). Some are totally unaffected, and some have allergic reactions. In some it causes the pain and pleasure response to temporarily switch (stabbing them with a knife would be ecstasy; a normally welcome caress is distressing). On some people it even acts as an antidote to some poisons.

Chaunsel Dermal absorption. Rubbing the drug into your skin causes it to become extremely sensitive to tactile stimuli. While I imagine it has some very predictable uses not mentioned in the text, in practical day-to-day adventuring thieves and other criminals apply it to their finger tips when working in darkness to heighten their awareness of what they're doing with their hands (if they don't have dark vision, anyway). Overdosing causes days of numbness.

"Thrallwine" Ingested. An herbal red wine, more fancifully known as Jhuild, often used by slavers: the imbiber becomes fearful and confused, and their thoughts are sluggish, making them easy to manipulate and control. It also has a steroidal effect, boosting physical strength for a time. It's not addictive.

Katakuda Brown paste. Dermal absorption. Imported from Kara-Tur (Kozakura, specifically, I think). It's traditionally used by a monastic order, and causes the skin to harden when applied, making it harder to damage and less sensitive to pain. If overused it will cause nerve damage, inflicting wracking pain and spasms.

"Dreammist" Inhaled. Properly called mordayn vapor, it's used by brewing a tea using ground leaves and inhaling the vapours. The drug is too potent to be ingested, and consuming the powder or drinking the tea will kill you. Induces visions of incredible beauty that enrapture the user and make reality unbearable in comparison. The drug is extremely addictive and slowly destroys both the mind and body (causing Wisdom and Constitution damage, respectively).

"Bloodfast" Tablet. Ingested A drug created by the drow - known as ziran, in dark elven - the drug causes confusion in mild doses and disassociation and out-of-body experiences in higher doses. It's extremely addictive.

[sculptorofcrimson]

to kiss a Thunder Warrior

A/N: I trackdrifted from Aphrodite’s Cell into this. Please do not bang the Thunder Warriors, this is definitely heresy and I totally do not condone it! Small drabble. P.S. I know no other Thunder Warrior. I am sorry. Relations: Ushotan/gn!reader

“So if you're looking, you will find me standing next to him

Kissing underneath the palm trees, feigning for his sin

I don't care if it's not righteous, I don't give a damn”

What does it feel like to kiss a Thunder Warrior?

Rough, unrestrained, a trace of whiskey and the acrid taste of combat-stimns. The undercurrent of blood boiling just beneath it all. Bones and muscle and all rough edges, occasionally tinged with a laugh as ragged as barbarian armor as Ushotan pulls back a chuckle still trailing from his strained voice. Hands, trailing around his thick neck, fingering the scars that were inlaid there, ignoring the way he shivers and groans as fingernails tease over the rim of his neural interfaces, the tubing old and harshly integrated in a Thunder Warrior’s frame but still functional. Barely. His scars, so close, the primarch himself purring in a ragged growl, like the hiffing of the run down engine, but still snarling against its own demise, still powerful underneath all that rot. The way his storm-grey eyes briefly slip closed as he tolerates hands tugging against his cropped hair and the occasional mischievous drag on his tabard. The Thunder Warrior still surprisingly playful as he lets himself be tugged, how he follows his darling lazily, without a care in the world, his grin somehow both brash and with that cynical jesting he was know for. The clanking of his armor. The soft hiss of the servos as he helps detach the seals, unarmoring him in silence now, without even another sharp joke from him except for his ragged voice. 

He’s almost hot to the touch. Thunder Warrior metabolism. Embracing was like hugging a furnace, meant to burn bright and short and then burn itself out. Only one heart, originally meant to be claimed - literally - at the hand of the captain-general. 

You saved him from that fate.

(It’s a good distraction, at least. A good distraction to forget what Valdor did to him. The way he held him. The way his gauntlets had felt, so cold against his neck, warmed by the fresh blood. The nightmares, the snarls, the screams. The silence of the utter violation, the treachery, the bones upon the first. The death from which no soul could recover. The snow will never spare him as long as he lives.)

There is no hint of that trauma. No hint of that sorrow, that guilt, the hollowness beneath that false bravado he wears, only the liveliness as he eagerly returns. As restrained as he was, he was still a Thunder Warrior. He couldn’t help but be rough, possessive, almost too greedy as he nips and unkindly manuveers his beloved close enough to nip surprisingly sharp bites, lips curled into a grin even when he was nearly rough enough to draw blood.

(Of course, no Thunder Warrior could call themselves sane. They lost their sanity when they were strapped upon that dissection slab so long ago.)

Almost playfully, he sometimes growls during the kisses. He’s frisky, this one. You can feel his heart rate speeding up, rising from its usual lumbering pace to a pace akin to the battle frenzies his brethren had. The way he playfully traces and teases, smug and arrogant and somehow still a glorious bastard even through all he had suffered. Rough and ragged and flamboyant, without the same frost the Astartes had. He was, after all, a man. A man that was made to die a demigod, and entombed in golden armor. 

The way he laughs as his lover pushes him down, his broad frame crashing against the bed. Thunder Warriors played, they had their games, they wrestled, tackled and grappled. Ushotan was no exception. The same rough playfulness shines through as he grasps the darling that had dragged him from the snow and the frost and easily rolls over to pin them down beneath his greater bulk, smugly stretching overhead. 

(That bastard.)

(That playful bastard.)

(It’s a wonder how he never learnt the meaning of punishment for insubordination). 

The way he sounds both like the growling roll of a mountainslide, and somehow playful like the purr of an ancient cat. How large hands cup around his lover’s neck, the Thunder Warrior not resisting as they reverse his position, chuckling slightly as he was the one pinned down this time, although his storm-blue eyes still showed a hint of smug humor. 

“Hmph. Surprise me a little less next time, will you?"

[slippinmickeys]

Prompt:

Mulder & Scully vacation Christmas/Hanukah at the Quonochontaug cabin post season 11

I got such wonderful prompts right before Christmas, and I was halfway through several of them when my kiddo ended up in the ER with the flu, and then my family and I all succumbed one by one. We’re finally at full strength, and I hope to fill each prompt you all sent at some point. Hopefully this festive one isn’t too late to enjoy.

Scully looked up at the constellations rising up above the line of the house’s roof, Orion standing just along the edge of the ridge cap, shooting his arrow into the onyx horizon. The Anishinaabe called him ‘The Wintermaker,’ and on this, the solstice, the longest night of the year, she could feel the chill he brought with him. She shivered, and pulled up the neck of her coat.

“Sorry,” Mulder apologized from below the lintel. “The lock’s pretty sticky. Hasn’t been opened in a while.”

“Wasn’t the caretaker supposed to get here before us and turn on the heat?”

“The ‘caretaker,’” Mulder said on a grunt as he pushed his shoulder into the now unlocked, water-swollen door, “is an eighteen year old kid still in high school. I think we’re lucky the place is even still standing.”

The darkened maw of the summer home stood open before them, and Scully, having only been into the house twenty years before with the whole of the Kingstown police department at her back, took a hesitant step inside.

“This is a summer town, Mulder,” she said, looking around dubiously as Mulder felt around the wall for the light switch. “Don’t they have a service you can employ?”

“‘Summer’ being the operative word,” he replied on a click, flooding the room with light. “In the dead of winter, the Quonochontaug labor pool isn’t exactly flush with candidates. I think we’ll be lucky if the trash bin isn’t full of empty Stoli bottles and dead soldiers.”

Scully made a face of distaste.

“Ah,” he said, blinking into the sudden brightness. “Actually looks pretty good in here. And I think the heat is on. Maybe I should give Logan a raise.”

Mood brightened, Mulder’s eyes rove around the room, all knotty pine paneling and 70’s decor. He reached out and ran a hand down her arm, smiling.

“Why don’t you take a seat,” he said, leading her over to an avocado green davenport. “Put up your feet. I’ll bring in the bags.”

“I’m pregnant, Mulder,” she said, rubbing a hand over the swell of her stomach. “Not incapacitated.”

He gave her a sheepish grin.

“Still,” he said, and she capitulated. It’s not like they had all that much luggage. She wasn’t comfortable flying in the third trimester, and so she eschewed her usual trip to San Diego to do Christmas with what remained of the Scully clan. Mulder had suggested spending the holiday at the house in Rhode Island and here they were, alone for a week in the dead of winter in a summer house.

“When was the last time you stayed here?” she asked, wrinkling her sensitive nose at the smell of dust, of mildew.

One suitcase on the floor at his feet, one still in his hand, Mulder closed the door behind him, his face ponderous. “Overnight?” he clarified. “I think I was nineteen?”

She imagined Mulder just before twenty, lifeguarding on the local beach by day. He’d have ropey muscles, suntanned skin—all the energy of youth, the metabolism of a racehorse. She preferred the thicker, more mature version before her, though his hairline was thinning and his knees ached at night; the version of him who lit candles for her in a church.

In the linen closet, they found flaxen pouches filled with brittle lavender tucked amongst the sheets, and they made the queen-sized bed in the back bedroom, the eiderdown quilt puffing up nicely with a few vigorous shakes.

Once settled—pajamas donned, teeth brushed, Scully found she didn’t have to move far in the bed to settle into Mulder’s side, the round of her stomach resting on his belly, her leg thrown over his. She’d barely be able to roll over without falling off, and she was pretty certain Mulder’s feet were hanging about four inches off the end.

“Your parents fit in this bed?” she asked him dubiously. “Both of them?”

He pet her hair, pressed a kiss into it. “It was a different time.”

Scully thought back to those sepia toned days and pictured the Mulder family summering here; the sliding door open to the Sound, the Eagles on the radio, cigarettes hanging out of everyone’s mouth. She saw Samantha on the beach in pigtails, Mulder reading a pulp novel in an Adirondack. There would have been Tupperware jugs of lemonade on the picnic table outside, the commodore of the yacht club dropping by for a gin and tonic.

She sighed. It was indeed a different time. Nowadays, puddles didn’t freeze in December and Fox was the only Mulder left.

She rubbed her stomach gently. Maybe not the last.

He shifted his arm until it was more comfortably under her neck and sighed into the crown of her head.

“I thought we could go get you a Christmas tree tomorrow,” he said. “There’s a farm nearby where you can cut your own.”

The idea sounded eye-wateringly quaint.

“We don’t have ornaments,” she pointed out, picturing a plain green tree taking up a corner of the small living room. She wasn’t really fighting the concept, merely tempering his expectations.

“We can get lights at the drugstore. We’ll make popcorn strings or something,” he mumbled. “I’m sure there’s some fishing line in the garage.”

The corner of the living room took on a cheerful air in Scully’s imagination, a small tree with bright white lights, a jaunty fire popping under the mantle. The smell of fresh pine would do wonders for the stale air.

“Sounds nice,” she smiled.

Mulder gave her a happy squeeze.

“I’ll get up early and pick up groceries,” he said with rising enthusiasm. “Hot cocoa and eggnog. Maybe some sparkling grape juice for you and the little one for New Years?”

It was sweet how hard he was trying.

“We may need something other than beverages,” she said pragmatically.

“Pancake mix,” he went on, his exuberance not waning in the least. “Or oh, how about those cinnamon rolls in a can?”

“Perfect,” she said, chuckling. Her eyes were getting scratchy with fatigue.

Mulder sighed happily, squeezed her again, probably assembling a grocery list in his head.

Silence settled over them and Scully could hear the surf crashing into the shore, the wind buffeting the eaves. The sounds were cold, but her thoughts were warm, and as her body drifted toward sleep, she pictured Mulder holding up a small child to put a listing star on the top of a tree, Mulder walking a toddler through the dune grasses, pudgy fingers gently clasped in the bowls of his hands. She imagined filling this old house with happier memories than it had seen in years.

“Hey Mulder,” she said, her voice slurry with lassitude.

“Mm?” he hummed.

“Get real champagne for New Years,” she said, wanting to toast this second chance. “We can handle half a glass.”

[talon-dragonbeast]

i have been feeling more enderman than dragon this past few days, and thanks to that ive been able to collect more information about my species! i want to list it somewhere because there is A Lot. ill share it under the cut :]

of course, not every enderman will feel like i do, or could even have a completely different experience from mine! (i know there arent many enderman on this site and even less that talk about it as extensively as i do, but just in case)

all of these were gathered from a combination of noemata, phantom limbs, instincts and a bit of meditation! none of these are made up, everything i list is true for my experience /gen

so, endermankin things, in no particular order!

endermen are a solitary species, but not territorial. we just ignore eachother, maybe share information and news between individuals from time to time but its not frequent

this can also vary between regions: in the End there is more sense of community, and in the Overworld seeing another enderman is so rare that encounters are appreciated and even enjoyed

in the warped forest, where im from, we are more individualistic. we care for our young communally, but when the enderman reaches maturity they are on their own. sounds cold, but we actually prefer this! we are very introverted :D

endermen have a language! it's a combination of vocalisations, chirps and what i can only describe as vwoops. we can also produce a terrifying static noise when threatened, if its strong enough it can paralyse a human being with fear. our written language is known by humans as the enchanting table language, which we all learn at some point in our lives.

endermen are nomadic! we do have areas that we like to frequent, but we dont enjoy staying in the same place. we love to wander!

as we all know endermen are able to teleport between places, but we're also able to teleport between dimensions! we like to return to our place of birth from time to time, but we love to explore the different dimensions!

im an enderman from the warped forest, that is a region in the Nether dimension. it's the only Nether biome where enderman can spawn! also its just so pretty: it has cyan nylium and red soil, there are giant cyan fungus and there is shiny shroomlight and glowstone!

endermen are very weird mammals. we are poikilothermic (or cold-blooded, in simple words), which means we dont produce body heat and cant control our temperature via sweating or shivering. our ideal environment is the End, because the temperature there always stays in a comfortable room temperature (which is a bit cold to most humans lol), but we are able to survive in the warped forests because theyre the coldest biome of the Nether. our body temperature is very low because we have very slow metabolisms.

food: obviously, endermen native to the End will only eat the chorus fruit, which is very sweet and has all the nutrients the enderman needs. but we can also eat a variety of things, depending on the dimension one stays.

in the warped forest well usually eat fungus and meat, and in the Overworld well just eat whatever! we arent able to drink water because it burns us, but we get all our hydration from food.

endermen eat their food whole, without chewing. if it fits in our mouth (even if we have to unhinge our jaws like a snake), in it goes, but if it doesn't we tear it in pieces with our mouth or claws. we can survive a few days without eating because digestion takes forever.

our skin isnt covered with fur nor scales, but is strong. we dont have many facial muscles because we dont use them for communication, so we can be pretty expressionless. in addition to this, the skin of the face is harder in some parts like the mouth, where our lips form two fangs that we use to tear food apart.

the only weakness of an enderman is eye contact and water. we don't need to be worried about being hit because well just teleport away, but eye contact will lock us in place so it feels incredibly vulnerable to an enderman (also it hurts like hell and we are not able to think properly while it is maintained so yeah. dont.). water is dangerous to us because while it just makes our skin itch at first, it WILL start to hurt if we keep touching it.

our limbs are very very long, both arms and legs. our figure is slim and kind of bony, with little body fat (low metabolism + no body heat = not a lot of need for storing up energy). we are extremely flexible.

our hands are huge and padded, and we have long fingers that end in some pretty sick claws. this is because we need to be able to pick and hold blocks for our mental wellbeing, so to do that comfortably we evolved to have big hands. and also to defend ourselves i guess (but the Blocks are more important)

more anatomy! endermen have big ears and glowing purple eyes, with oval irises and no pupil. we have pretty good hearing and sight (though we dont see the same colours that humans do), but we are very sensitive to light so thats why we dont appear during the day. we dont move our ears a lot (again, no facial muscles), only enough to locate where the sounds come from.

we have tails, these are actually very movable, almost prehensile! they are long and thin, ending with a tuft of hair. we use them for balance (being digitigrade and bipedal means it would be very difficult to not fall over without it!) and for communication! they can even be used to hold things (though its not often, as it doesnt have a huge grip strength)

humans think we dont have emotions, but thats because they arent looking at our tails. we sway them from side to side to signal we are content, a still tail or coiled around ones leg means the enderman is anxious! we like to hold our tails for comfort, and play with them when we are bored.

uhh thats all i think! i will edit the list from time to time to stay up to date with new discoveries. feel free to make questions in the comments or in asks! i love to talk about enderman biology (as you can probably tell lol) so dont be shy. for those that have stayed until the end of this gigantic post, have a chorus fruit as a reward :]

[webwanderer]

WIP Ivantill fic?!

I tried to cook something Ivantill related, headcanon story post Round 6. Based on my and other fans theories. I just wrote this part but I plan to expand it way more. I just wanted to have a feedback before going on with the fic🙏

(I know this is lacking context so far, pls spare me)

TW: indirect SA mention, slight gore description.

Till's POV

As sudden as a bolt from the blue, I felt a shiver run down my spine. Something cold as ice breezed over my nape and a sharp tingle roared along my nerves, paralysing me there where I was sitting. Still as a statue, I held my breath. Or better, my lungs refused to inflate, my ribs acting as a cage for my squirming meat. I could feel my flesh melt to putty. The muscles of my  thigh were melting off of my femur, and all I could do was sit there and witness my body liquefy. Terror set in as I felt a large palm envelope my forearm. A visceral scream filled my mind. That hand was burning a deep mark on my skin. I was suddenly drowning in a white blaze that was hungrily devouring me whole. The flames were dancing around me and I could not breathe, the air lit on fire the last parts of my body that weren't already inflamed. 

There was no way out of that hell.

Until, I felt a hand wrap around my chin and a velvet thumb gently rubbing my cheek. I opened my eyes and looked up. There I saw some dark iris gazing down at me. For a moment, the scorching fire vanished, the noise made by the cries in my head calmed down, and I could finally breathe again. 

There, I realized how soft his hands could feel. 

Ivan sat next to me.

«Are you ok?» He asked me.

I looked at my arm: there was nothing but fair skin. Despite not seeing any trace, I could still feel the weight of forceful fingers engulfing my frame. At that moment I stood there lifeless, frail, thin as an ink stained piece of paper abandoned by a taunted poet who lost his inspiration. I didn't know what to do with myself.

I hesitated.

«Cheer up, Till.»

Ivan's POV

It had been a few hours and Till disappeared from the cafeteria of the Base without mutterings a word. I was sitting at one of the many metallic tables, staring mindlessly at my empty mug. I was brought back to reality when a warm hand touched my shoulder and I felt a presence sitting next to me. At the corner of my eye I was able to catch a glimpse of shiny pink locks and a pair of glossy emerald eyes. I tuned to face Mizi.

«I think he's in his room. He must still be metabolizing everything that happened. It will be hard, but I'm sure he'll manage to go back to his hot-headed self.» she said with half a smile.

Even though her eyes wanted to scream the opposite.

I nodded slightly and laid my attention back on the lonely cup.

It didn't matter that Mizi and I were on good terms, the silence created between us two started to fit uncomfortably tight on me.

«Er-um… Ivan, I was thinking that maybe» I listened attentively, despite still looking at the mug, «you could go and check on him?» she rushed the last part of the sentence. 

I understood her, though. This situation must have been really awkward. Still I wonder how could I look so calm. The reality was that, earlier, as I was staring at that stupid cup, my emotions were stirring messily inside of me. Blood and words and thoughts all mixed together to create an anxious mingle that was corroding me from within. Was it because I was worried about Till? Why did he run away to his room like that? Or maybe it's what happened in our round? Why did I do it? How could I do it?

I was meant to die. I was meant to die and save Till. Touch him, fake an aggression, be disqualified, lose. But I've never been strong enough. When it came to him, I could never control myself. And so I kissed him. I fucking kissed him. And I hated it. I hated myself. I forced him to kiss me. I forced the ungovernable spirit I adored to follow an order. How fucking egoist,  hypocritical. Perhaps I'm actually no different from Them. I'm just a sack of scum. I had promised myself to never show this side of me. My love should have stayed a secret. Among the exhausting demands of our owners, the relentless routines and the abuse, my love is now one of the many burdens that Till has to carry. I'm one of the deadweight that saddles him. I went too far.

I was about to explode, when Mizi arrived and woke me up from my brooding.

«I can go and check on him» I answered back. 

I didn't let my emotions transpire. I  wanted to spare Mizi, at least. She already lost Sua, she didn't need my emotional baggage as well.

I got up and left the Cafeteria. I was directed towards the dorms, towards his room, when suddenly I heard a distant humming. I walked fast and reached the end of the corridor, on my right the way to our dormitory, on the left the provenance of that faint melody. I followed my hearing. A few steps and I saw a small bench in front of me. A shady figure sitting on it, not facing me. I slowly approached the shadow, entranced by its voice like an eager seaman bewitched by a siren. Once the sound became intelligible, I immediately recognized the boy in front of me. Till was sitting alone, looking out one of the windows of the Base and humming some song.

Apparently he was too immersed in his song and didn't hear me.

Without thinking, I stretched out my hand to touch the back of his neck.

He jumped under my touch, freezing on his seat. With my palm I reached under his chin and held his face. With that action I hoped to show him that I was no harm. My figure was towering over him from behind, when he turned his face upwards to meet mine.

There, I realized how soft his gaze could feel. 

Pale as a ghost but cheeks lit red, eyes puffy and melancholy frowned brows. He was staring at me as he just witnessed death. 

I sat down next to him. I asked him if he was okay. He didn’t look okay. I briefly recalled something.

「«Do you have anything to say to your next opponent?»」

«Cheer up, Till.»

A.N. Tbh I'm very proud of this and could go on a 1h rant explaining my writing choices but I'll refrain from doing that (for now). Anyway, I wanna hear your opinions to see if some of yall would be interested in a full fic🙏

Also tell me if the way events are told is digestible enough. Like, I tried not to write a boring linear story but give it a little spice, but idk maybe I went a bit overboard with it lol.

[mikoshubofchaos]

Thermogenesis in Birds Jose ´ Eduardo P. W. Bicudo, 1,2 Cla ´udia R. Vianna, 1 and Jose ´ Guilherme Chaui-Berlinck 1 Receiûed October 26, 2000 The article discusses the importance of avian skeletal muscle as a source for heat generation by means of both shivering and non-shivering. Non-shivering thermogenesis in birds is still a polemic issue. Recent evidence at the molecularcellular level indicates, however, that this type of heat generation may also exist among birds. The involvement of the sarcoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase in non-shivering thermogenesis is discussed in-depth. KEY WORDS: Thermogenesis; birds; skeletal muscle; shivering; non-shivering; calcium ATPase. INTRODUCTION The aim of this review is to put together the recent advances in different fields such as molecular and cell biology, and determine how their integration into whole organism biology can provide a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying thermogenesis, particularly in the avian group. Birds and mammals share a lizard- like common ancestry, and the evolution of homeothermy from ectothermic diapsid and synapsid ancestors, respectively, is presumed to have occurred independently, approximately 310 million years ago (Kumar and Hedges, 1998). How organisms respond or adapt to environmental change is one of the central paradigms of com- parative physiology (Schmidt-Nielsen, 1972; Prosser, 1986). Both mammals and birds are found in different environments, from tropical to polar regions and from deep sea (mostly mammals) to high altitudes (mostly birds). Both are able to control body temperature at high constant levels when compared to most other vertebrates. Birds, however, maintain body temperatures of a few degrees Celsius higher than mammals, and small birds may have somewhat higher body temperatures than large birds (McNab, 1966). In mammals, however, there is no clear relationship between body size and body temperature (Morrison and Ryser, 1952). High body temperatures are maintained at the expense of high metabolic rates and indeed birds and mammals have, in general, higher metabolic rates than other 1 Departamento de Fisiologia, The evolution of endothermy in mammals and birds is also related to the evidence that they possess leakier membranes (not seen in ecothermic ver- tebrates) (Else and Hulbert, 1987), which in turn constitute a source of additional heat production. Although this general principle seems to apply to both mammals and birds, they are quite different in many aspects in regards to their thermoregula- tory features. SHIVERING VS. NON-SHIVERING THERMOGENESIS Regulatory thermogenesis in mammals has been the subject of intense investi- gation for many decades, but the physiological responses and adjustments of birds to cold stress has received, in comparison, much less attention; ‘‘this, despite the extraordinary thermoregulatory abilities of small birds and in particular the model system they represent for skeletal muscle-based thermogenesis’’ (Block, 1994). Many small birds winter in high latitudes and face cold temperatures that require elevations in thermographic capacities on seasonal time scales. The thermogenic capabilities of birds of the avian subfamily Cardueline (goldfinches, house finches, redpolls) are impressive and in many cases exceed the abilities of mammals. Goldfinches, for example, can maintain a metabolic rate of five times the standard metabolic rate for 6–8 hr at ambient temperatures of -70°C in winter (Dawson and Carey, 1976). The same birds in the springtime will become hypothermic after only a few minutes of exposure to cold (Dawson and Carey, 1976). This occurs without any change in the aerobic capacity of the skeletal muscles, which are probably the major thermogenic tissues in birds (Carey et al., 1978; Marsh and Dawson, 1982). Flight muscles, particularly the pectoralis and the supracoracoideus, of birds reflect an intense metabolic demand with morphological and functional character- istics that facilitate uptake and utilization of oxygen and energy substrates.

[sparkbeast20]

To be real with you, the first one would be probably Mammon, like...yeah Satan would be on the 2nd place.

When it comes to obey me, Mammon was actualy my first UR card I got from single roll, same with nightbringer...like the first SSR card so yeah, I guess I'm stuck with him in both of those games XD

Plus like...I can't get over the booty love of MammonWHB! Since I had very very fast metabolism as a kid I couldn't get any freaking mass.

The point in life I'm now I have achieved my preferable shape and weight! Took me lots of years to get to the point of not shivering after 10 mins in the olimpic size swimming pool.

So to have someone who will apriclate me in the way that I never was cause of me being "a board" my whole life is a darn amazing XD

I did spill a little bit too much of personal stuff here so yeah

Plus knowing my gacha luck Satan will come very darn soon after Mammon

Also kind of can't say no to Mammon male muscle bubbah...like really 🥹

True! And thanks for sharing this!

WHB!Mammon would treat you like royalty with how his attitude and lifestyle is.

I'm conflict both Leviathan and Beelzebub (Thanks to my mutuals I became an Beelzebub apologies XD)

I vibe with Leviathan more, plus a man in a suit is a win for me!

Though I have a soft spot for Satan, since I love chaotic characters and he would be that.

Beelzebub at this point loyalty since I keep defending him XD

Man I going to have a hard time choosing when the time has come 🥲

[openintegrative]

Homeostasis: The Key to Optimal Health and Functioning

Homeostasis helps the body stay balanced for good health.

Systems adjust constantly to changes in the environment.

Disruptions in homeostasis can cause illness or dysfunction.

Hormones and the nervous system maintain internal stability.

Healthy habits like proper sleep and nutrition support homeostasis.

Introduction

Homeostasis refers to the body’s ability to maintain stable internal conditions despite outside changes. This balance is necessary for cells, tissues, and organs to work efficiently.

Whether it’s adjusting to external temperatures or regulating blood sugar, homeostasis allows the body to function optimally.

How Homeostasis Works

Internal Balance

The body continuously monitors its internal environment to stay within healthy ranges.

This involves various systems working together to control things like;

Temperature

pH levels

Hydration

Feedback Loops

Homeostasis operates through feedback loops. Negative feedback loops, the most common type, act to correct deviations from normal conditions.

For example, if blood sugar rises too high after eating, insulin is released to bring it back to a normal level.

Positive feedback loops, on the other hand, amplify changes, such as in childbirth, where hormone levels increase to intensify contractions.

Examples of Homeostasis in the Body

Temperature Regulation

The human body has mechanisms to keep temperature within a narrow range. When the body becomes too warm, it responds by sweating, which cools the skin as the sweat evaporates.

If the body becomes too cold, shivering generates heat through muscle movement, and blood vessels constrict to reduce heat loss.

Blood Sugar Control

Maintaining a stable blood sugar level is another important aspect of homeostasis. After eating, insulin helps cells absorb glucose from the bloodstream, lowering blood sugar levels.

When blood sugar is too low, glucagon triggers the liver to release stored glucose, keeping energy levels steady.

Fluid Balance

Water levels in the body are regulated by the kidneys, which adjust urine concentration to maintain proper hydration.

Electrolytes like sodium and potassium also help keep fluids balanced, ensuring cells can carry out their functions properly.

Factors That Disrupt Homeostasis

Stress

Chronic stress can overwhelm the body’s regulatory systems, leading to imbalances.

The release of stress hormones like cortisol disrupts normal processes, affecting everything from digestion to immune function.

Prolonged stress weakens the body’s ability to maintain internal stability.

Diet and Nutrition

Poor eating habits, whether through overeating, undereating, or consuming too many processed foods, can throw off homeostasis.

For example, high sugar intake can cause constant blood sugar spikes, putting stress on the body’s ability to regulate glucose. Nutritional imbalances can impair bodily functions over time.

Lack of Sleep

Sleep is essential for the body to recover and maintain balance. Without enough rest, hormone levels, immune function, and blood pressure regulation are all negatively impacted.

Consistent sleep deprivation makes it harder for the body to restore equilibrium.

Supporting Homeostasis for Optimal Health

Diet and Nutrition

Consuming nutrient-rich foods, such as grass-fed meats, pasture-raised eggs, and wild-caught seafood, helps support the body’s regulatory systems.

These foods provide high-quality proteins, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins that are vital for maintaining balance.

Avoiding processed foods and sugars can prevent disruptions in energy and metabolic stability.

Exercise

Regular physical activity helps keep systems like metabolism and circulation functioning well.

Exercise supports cardiovascular health, regulates blood sugar, and improves the body’s overall efficiency.

It also boosts the body’s ability to respond to stress and recover from physical strain.

Stress Management

Managing stress through techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness reduces its negative impact on the body.

These practices help lower stress hormone levels, keeping the nervous system in check and promoting overall balance.

Adequate Sleep

Getting 7-9 hours of sleep each night is important for maintaining balance across various bodily functions. Sleep allows the body to restore energy, repair tissues, and regulate hormones.

Without proper rest, the body struggles to maintain homeostasis, leading to fatigue and decreased resilience to stress.

Conclusion

Homeostasis is at the core of maintaining good health and well-being. It ensures that the body’s internal environment remains stable, even when external conditions fluctuate. Supporting homeostasis involves simple, yet effective lifestyle choices, such as eating nutrient-dense foods, staying active, managing stress, and prioritizing sleep. These habits help the body stay balanced and perform at its best.

FAQs

What is homeostasis?

Homeostasis is the process that keeps the body’s internal environment stable, allowing it to function properly.

How does the body regulate temperature?

The body uses mechanisms like sweating, shivering, and adjusting blood flow to maintain a stable temperature.

What happens when homeostasis is disrupted?

Disruptions can lead to health problems like dehydration, diabetes, or heat stroke, depending on the system affected.

What role do hormones play in homeostasis?

Hormones help regulate important functions like blood sugar levels, stress response, and fluid balance to maintain stability.

How can I help support homeostasis?

Eating nutrient-dense animal foods, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep are key ways to help your body stay balanced.

Research

Alberts, B., Bray, D., Hopkin, K., Johnson, A.D., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Walter, P. (2014). Essential Cell Biology. Garland Science. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4244961/

Alberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J., Raff, M., Roberts, K., Walter, P. (2014). Molecular Biology of the Cell. Garland Science.

Bernard, C. (1865). Introduction à l'étude de la médecine expérimentale. J.B. Bailliere et Fils.

Boron, W.F., Boulpaep, E.L. (2005). Medical Physiology: A Cellular and Molecular Approach. Saunders.

Cannon, W.B. (1932). The Wisdom of the Body. The Norton Library.

Davies, K. J. (2016). Adaptive homeostasis. Molecular Aspects of Medicine, 49, 1-7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mam.2016.04.007

Guyton, A.C., Hall, J.E. (2000). Hall JE. Review of Medical Physiology. Saunders.

Guyton, A.C., Hall, J.E. (2006). Textbook of Medical Physiology. Saunders.

Lobo, B., Johnson, S., Liu, K., Buttar, H., Geyer, S. (2013). Medical Physiology: Principles for Clinical Medicine. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Lodish, H., Berk, A., Zipursky, S.L., Matsudaira, P., Baltimore, D., Darnell, J. (2016). Molecular Cell Biology. W.H. Freeman and Company.

Meldrum, B.S. (2000). The central role of homeostasis in physiological regulation. Endeavour, 24(2), 63-68.

Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2015). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman and Company.

Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2008). Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman and Company.

Nelson, D.L., Cox, M.M. (2017). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman and Company.

Reece, J.B., Taylor, M.R., Simon, E.J., Dickey, J.L., Hogan, K.A. (2014). Campbell Biology: Concepts & Connections. Pearson.

Reece, J.B., Urry, L.A., Cain, M.L., Wasserman, S.A., Minorsky, P.V., Jackson, R.B. (2011). Campbell Biology. Benjamin Cummings.

Sherwood, L. (2012). Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems. Cengage Learning.

Silverthorn, D.U. (2012). Human Physiology: An Integrated Approach. Pearson Education, Inc.

Spero, R. (1971). Homeostasis: The Philosophy of Ecology. The American Naturalist, 105(945), 611-622.

Sterling, P., Laughlin, S. (2003). Principles of Neural Design. MIT Press.

Walter, F., Weir, L., Strickberger, M. (2014). Molecular Biology: Concepts and Connections. W.H. Freeman and Company.

Wasserman, D.H., Lickley, H.L., Veldhuis, J.D. (2004). Principles of Animal Physiology. Prentice Hall.

Widmaier, E.P., Raff, H., Strang, K.T. (2005). Vander's Human Physiology: The Mechanisms of Body Function. McGraw-Hill Education

[primerecovery]

Boost Your Recovery with Cold Plunge Therapy: Local Spots to Try

In the realm of wellness practices, cold plunge therapy has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing recovery, reducing inflammation, and improving overall health. The practice of immersing oneself in cold water is not only invigorating but also offers numerous benefits that can aid athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone looking to boost their recovery. This article explores the advantages of cold plunge therapy and provides insights on where to find local spots to experience this refreshing practice.

What is Cold Plunge Therapy?

Cold plunge therapy, also known as cold water immersion or ice bathing, involves submerging the body in cold water, typically at temperatures ranging from 50°F to 59°F (10°C to 15°C). This practice can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes, depending on individual tolerance and experience. Cold plunge therapy is often used after intense workouts or as part of a recovery routine.

Benefits of Cold Plunge Therapy

Understanding the benefits of cold plunge therapy can help you appreciate why it's become a popular recovery method:

1. Reduced Muscle Soreness

Cold plunge therapy is highly effective in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after intense physical activity. The cold water helps constrict blood vessels, reducing inflammation and minimizing muscle damage.

2. Enhanced Recovery

By promoting blood circulation, cold plunges speed up the removal of metabolic waste products from the muscles. After exiting the cold water, blood vessels dilate, allowing for increased nutrient-rich blood flow to the affected areas, which accelerates recovery.

3. Improved Immune Function

Regular exposure to cold water has been shown to boost the immune system. Cold plunge therapy can increase the production of white blood cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses.

4. Increased Metabolism

Cold exposure forces the body to work harder to maintain its core temperature, which can lead to increased calorie burning. This process, known as non-shivering thermogenesis, may support weight management and metabolic health.

5. Enhanced Mood and Mental Clarity

Cold water immersion stimulates the release of endorphins and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters associated with improved mood and mental clarity. Many users report a sense of euphoria and heightened alertness following a cold plunge.

6. Stress Relief

Cold plunge therapy can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. The initial shock of cold water can help individuals develop resilience to stress.

7. Better Sleep Quality

Many people find that cold plunges help improve sleep quality. The relaxation response induced by cold exposure can prepare the body for restful sleep.

How to Prepare for a Cold Plunge

1. Start Gradually

If you’re new to cold plunges, begin with shorter exposure times and slightly warmer water. Gradually work your way down to colder temperatures and longer durations as your body adapts.

2. Breathe Deeply

Focus on your breathing during the plunge. Deep, controlled breaths can help you manage the initial shock of cold water and maintain calmness.

3. Set a Time Limit

Determine how long you plan to stay in the cold water. For beginners, 30 seconds to 1 minute is a good starting point. As you gain experience, you can incrementally increase this time.

4. Warm Up Afterward

After your cold plunge, take time to warm up your body. This can be done with warm clothing, a hot shower, or a warm drink to help restore your body temperature.

Where to Find Cold Plunge Therapy Near You

Finding a place to experience cold plunge therapy can be straightforward. Here are some common types of locations that may offer this service:

1. Local Gyms and Fitness Centers

Many gyms and fitness centers now include cold plunge pools as part of their recovery amenities. Check with your local facilities to see if they offer this option. Some may also have ice baths or cold therapy rooms.

2. Spas and Wellness Centers

Spas that focus on holistic wellness often incorporate cold plunge therapy into their treatment offerings. Look for wellness centers that provide a serene environment for relaxation and recovery.

3. Chiropractic Clinics

Chiropractic clinics frequently offer cold plunge therapy as a complementary treatment to spinal adjustments. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from injuries or experiencing chronic pain.

4. Community Pools and Recreation Centers

Some community pools and recreation centers may have designated cold plunge areas or ice baths available for public use. Check with local facilities to see what options are available.

5. Specialized Cold Therapy Facilities

In some areas, dedicated cold therapy facilities have emerged, offering a range of cold exposure options, including plunge pools and cryotherapy. Search online to find specialized centers near you.

6. Natural Bodies of Water

For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, consider seeking out natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, or ocean beaches. Cold water immersion can be found in these settings, especially during the cooler months.

7. Mobile Services

Some wellness practitioners offer mobile cold plunge services, where they bring the cold therapy experience to your home or a designated location. This can be a convenient option for those who prefer a private setting.

Safety Considerations

1. Consult a Healthcare Provider

Before starting cold plunge therapy, especially if you have underlying health conditions, consult with a healthcare provider. Cold exposure can be intense, and it’s essential to ensure it’s safe for you.

2. Listen to Your Body

Pay attention to how your body responds to cold exposure. If you experience dizziness, intense shivering, or any discomfort, exit the water immediately.

3. Avoid Cold Plunges if Unwell

If you feel unwell or have a fever, it’s best to avoid cold plunges until you recover. Similarly, individuals with certain cardiovascular conditions should exercise caution.

Conclusion

Cold plunge therapy offers an array of health benefits, from reducing muscle soreness and enhancing recovery to boosting immune function and improving mood. As this practice continues to gain popularity, finding local spots to experience cold plunge therapy has become more accessible.

Whether you choose to visit a gym, spa, or natural body of water, incorporating cold plunges into your wellness routine can be a refreshing and invigorating experience. By understanding the benefits and preparing adequately, you can make the most of this powerful recovery tool. Embrace the chill and discover how cold plunge therapy can elevate your health and well-being.

[amarkumar123]

Understanding Normal Human Body Temperature: What You Need to Know

What is Considered Normal Body Temperature?

For many years, 98.6°F (37°C) has been accepted as the standard human body normal temperature . This figure was established in the 19th century by German physician Carl Reinhold August Wunderlich. However, modern studies have shown that normal body temperature can vary among individuals and even throughout the day.

Typical Range of Normal Body Temperature:

Adults: 97°F (36.1°C) to 99°F (37.2°C)

Children: 97.9°F (36.6°C) to 100.4°F (38°C)

Infants: 97.9°F (36.6°C) to 99.5°F (37.5°C)

It's essential to recognize that "normal" can differ based on age, activity level, and other factors. Slight fluctuations are generally not a cause for concern unless accompanied by other symptoms.

Factors Influencing Body Temperature

Several factors can cause natural variations in body temperature:

1. Time of Day

Circadian Rhythm: Body temperature typically lowers during the early morning hours and rises in the late afternoon and evening.

2. Age

Infants and Children: Tend to have slightly higher body temperatures due to more active metabolisms.

Elderly Individuals: May have lower body temperatures, making it harder to detect fevers.

3. Physical Activity

Exercise: Increases body temperature as muscles produce heat.

Rest: Leads to a decrease in body temperature.

4. Hormonal Changes

Menstrual Cycle: Women may experience a rise in body temperature during ovulation.

Thyroid Function: Hypothyroidism can lower body temperature, while hyperthyroidism can raise it.

5. Environmental Factors

Weather Conditions: Exposure to hot or cold environments can affect body temperature.

Clothing: Insufficient or excessive clothing can lead to temperature fluctuations.

6. Food and Beverage Intake

Hot Meals and Drinks: Can temporarily raise body temperature.

Alcohol Consumption: May cause temporary changes in temperature regulation.

Different Methods of Measuring Body Temperature

Accurate measurement of body temperature is crucial for monitoring health. Various methods are available, each with its pros and cons.

1. Oral Thermometry

How It's Done: Placing a digital thermometer under the tongue.

Pros: Convenient and widely used.

Cons: Not suitable for young children or individuals unable to keep the mouth closed.

2. Rectal Thermometry

How It's Done: Inserting a thermometer into the rectum.

Pros: Provides very accurate readings, ideal for infants.

Cons: Invasive and may cause discomfort.

3. Axillary (Armpit) Thermometry

How It's Done: Placing a thermometer under the armpit.

Pros: Non-invasive and easy to use.

Cons: Less accurate; readings may be lower than core body temperature.

4. Tympanic (Ear) Thermometry

How It's Done: Using an infrared thermometer to measure temperature inside the ear canal.

Pros: Quick and relatively accurate.

Cons: Can be affected by earwax or improper placement.

5. Temporal Artery (Forehead) Thermometry

How It's Done: Scanning the forehead with an infrared thermometer.

Pros: Non-invasive and fast.

Cons: May be influenced by sweat or external temperatures.

Tips for Accurate Measurement:

Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

Ensure the thermometer is clean and functional.

Avoid eating, drinking, or exercising immediately before measurement.

Understanding Fever

Fever

A fever is generally defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C). It is often a natural response to infection as the body attempts to create an environment less suitable for pathogens.

Common Causes of Fever:

Infections (bacterial or viral)

Heat exhaustion

Certain medications

Immunizations

Inflammatory conditions

Symptoms Associated with Fever:

Sweating

Chills and shivering

Headache

Muscle aches

Dehydration

Weakness

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Body Temperature

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help regulate body temperature.

Dress Appropriately: Wear suitable clothing according to weather conditions.

Balanced Diet: Consume nutritious foods to support metabolic functions.

Regular Exercise: Maintain an active lifestyle to promote efficient temperature regulation.

Adequate Rest: Ensure sufficient sleep to support overall health.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Limit exposure to excessively hot or cold environments.

[anabananawl]

I’ve lost the will to care about my health- here’s a list of things I’m doing to lose weight in 2024 (with pros and cons from research and person experience):

1. Caffeine (Long Black, and if you need laxative and are lactose intolerant: milk but no sugar). Caffeine is know for its stimulation on the nervous system. It sends direct signals to fat cells and breaks it down. Drinking with added syrups or sugars may cause you to gain weight. But, it does taste better with it. It can raise blood pressure, and therefore you need to consider pre-existing conditions. For example: I have POTS, and I’m not supposed to drink large amounts of caffeine or do too much strenuous activity, but I don’t drink it every day.

2. Cold compresses on areas you want to lose fat. Shivering is known to help induce weight loss- as it releases the hormone irisin from muscles and the hormone FGF21 from brown fat stores. It also can increase metabolism as it increases oxidation of both fat and carbohydrates. I usually add wearing loose clothing or shorts and turn on the aircon. Swimming in cold water may help too!! But, obviously don’t do it too much in one go as you may be prone to hypothermia or other conditions like colds.

3. Walking and online workouts. Like I said before, I can’t do too much strenuous activity as it makes me faint or puts my heart rate at an uncomfortable level- but, walking a lot helps me since it doesn’t need to be too hard. You can find online workouts that help target areas of unwanted fat (and you can usually do it from your bed)! It can be uncomfortable, so don’t overwork yourself.

4. N1cot1n3 products. I’m not promoting this to younger audiences (or any audience really)- but, it’s not my business on your age and what you do. This substance helps reduce appetite and therefore food intake. It is also said to increase resting metabolic rate and number of calories the body burns at rest. However, it isn’t good for your lungs, gums, or any other body parts. And, most products within this substance range have a small amount of calories themselves. Some people find that it clears up their skin, others find it doesn’t, and so on, so forth. However, OD is possible, especially in the beginning (throwing up, fainting, and other horrible things), but once I got over that, it’s been amazing (but very addictive).

5. Of course, the most well known way to lose weight is indulging in a calorie deficit. This can get to the point of being severe and would be bad for you (as you probably know)- and unless ending up in the hospital from not eating enough is on your 2024 bucket list, you have to do this in moderation (not super fun, I can tell you that). You can find inspiration pics on Tumblr, TikTok or Pinterest for calorie deficit diets (and I’m more than happy to post some on here as well), but use this one safely if you can. Or hide your symptoms if able- that is a personal choice.

6. This one goes hand in hand with 5. but, cutting out unnecessary fat, salt and sugar. Again, you can find inspiration for these types of meals online, but do it safely. Don’t do what Emily did on Devil Wears Prada, and only eat a cube of cheese when feeling faint- that may actually have you in the hospital being force fed. Following diet and healthy lifestyle videos (some are toxic, so beware) may help with motivation. I’m happy to try and find some for you and put it in comments. But, doing this can also help with skin, hair, and overall health. If you’ve seen people online who go a week without unnecessary sugar, you know what I’m talking about.

7. Okay, this one may be controversial (more than the others), but go off weight gaining medication. Of course, some people physically cannot go off those medications, and that’s okay- but if you have the choice, then go for it. Talk to a G.P about your concerns, and hopefully they can help you out. Again, this may be difficult, but it doesn’t hurt to try. I have been put on multiple medications in the past that made me gain mass amounts of weight, and they told me to just go on a diet and exercise (which of course didn’t work because the medication was so strong). I’m lucky enough to be at an age (no longer considered to be under “Gillick competence” in the medical world) and position in my life where I have the freedom to refuse those medications, but I understand that you may not. I’m not saying you should go off those medications without guidance, but I found that at one point, it was my only option as it had other side effects that threatened my life (and G.P wouldn’t let me go off).

All of these may be hard to accomplish due to money, living, and age restrictions. Practicing self control, and being more assertive (if able) with others can make a big difference. Of course, some families may not allow this, maybe due to cultural (or other) reasons, but as long as you’re safe (I don’t have much concern for myself anymore, but that’s personal preference), and able to live without a hospital. If you have other ideas, then let me know, but this is personal preference and what I found helps me. Good luck on your journey! You’re beautiful/handsome, and I wish you the very best.

[qocsuing]

The Science of Weight Loss: Beyond Fads and Quick Fixes

The Science of Weight Loss: Beyond Fads and Quick Fixes In a world where Instagram influencers flaunt their toned bodies and diet trends change faster than the seasons, the quest for weight loss remains a constant. Amidst this cacophony, let’s step back and explore the science behind shedding those stubborn pounds.To get more news about 3x slimming power, you can visit herbal-hall.com official website.

Metabolism: The Engine Room At the heart of weight management lies metabolism—the intricate dance of chemical reactions that occur within our cells. Here’s what you need to know:

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): Imagine your body at rest, performing essential functions like breathing and maintaining body temperature. BMR represents the energy expended during this state. Factors like age, gender, and muscle mass influence your BMR. Thermogenesis: Ever wondered why some people seem to burn calories effortlessly? Thermogenesis is the answer. It’s the heat production resulting from digestion, physical activity, and even shivering in the cold. Certain foods, like spicy peppers, can temporarily boost thermogenesis. Calories In, Calories Out Weight loss boils down to a simple equation: calories in vs. calories out. Let’s break it down:

Caloric Intake: What you eat matters. A surplus of calories leads to weight gain, while a deficit results in weight loss. But quality matters too. Nutrient-dense foods keep you satiated and nourished. Physical Activity: Exercise isn’t just about burning calories; it also revs up your metabolism. Cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and even daily walks contribute to the calorie-burning process. The Role of Macronutrients Carbohydrates: Often vilified, carbs are essential. Opt for complex carbs (whole grains, legumes) over refined ones (sugary treats). They provide sustained energy and prevent cravings. Proteins: These building blocks repair tissues, boost metabolism, and keep you full. Include lean meats, fish, tofu, and legumes in your diet. Fats: Yes, fats are crucial too. Healthy fats (avocado, nuts, olive oil) support brain function and hormone production. The Myth of Spot Reduction Crunches won’t magically melt belly fat, and thigh exercises won’t solely trim your legs. Spot reduction is a myth. Instead, focus on overall fat loss through consistent exercise and a balanced diet.

Mindful Eating and Portion Control Slow Down: Savor each bite. Mindful eating helps you recognize hunger cues and prevents overeating. Portion Sizes: Use smaller plates. Your brain perceives a full plate as a satisfying meal. The Long Game Quick fixes may promise rapid results, but sustainable weight loss requires patience and persistence. Crash diets harm your metabolism, and extreme workouts lead to burnout. Aim for gradual changes and celebrate small victories.

In summary, weight loss isn’t about magic pills or secret formulas. It’s about understanding your body, making informed choices, and embracing a lifestyle that nourishes both your physical and mental well-being.