#Tips for Staying Healthy During Winter

[zerodollarmart]

Your health can suffer throughout the winter. Due to the dry winter air, you may feel dehydrated, or you may have depression due to a deficiency of vitamin D, which your body produces when you are in direct sunlight. Even worse, given how dry and chilly the air is, you can contract the flu.

[vimdrugs]

Stay Cozy and Healthy: Winter Essentials from the Pharmacy!

As the winter chill sets in, it's essential to prioritize your well-being. Your local pharmacy is a treasure trove of winter health essentials that can keep you warm and healthy throughout the cold season. Let's dive into the must-have products and winter health tips that will ensure you stay cozy and well this winter.

Winter Health Tips Pharmacy! Top 10!

According to a recent survey, a staggering 85% of individuals find themselves more susceptible to health issues during the winter months, underscoring the crucial importance of proactive winter self-care.

Bundle Up with Cozy Winter Wellness Products

As the mercury plummets, it becomes imperative to invest in a comprehensive array of cozy winter essentials. Seek out snug scarves, insulated gloves, and thermal hats to effectively combat the biting cold. At VIM Drugs, you can explore a remarkable selection of such products, ensuring both warmth and style align seamlessly.

Stock Up on Cold Season Pharmacy Supplies

Preparedness is key when it comes to common winter ailments. Maintain a well-stocked pharmacy at home, equipped with essentials such as cough syrup, throat lozenges, and nasal decongestants. These staples prove invaluable in tackling the symptoms of colds and flu effectively.

Staying Warm and Healthy in Winter

Create a haven of warmth and comfort within your home. Consider investing in high-quality space heaters or enveloping blankets. For an extensive range of heating pads and blankets, look no further than VIM Drugs, ensuring you remain snug during frosty nights.

Pharmacy Winter Self-Care Items

Indulge in pampering winter self-care with a selection of essentials. Explore moisturizers, lip balms, and hydrating masks to combat dry skin aggravated by harsh winter winds. VIM Drugs presents an array of skincare products to maintain the health and radiance of your skin.

Winter Wellness Essentials

Fortify your immune system with a regimen of winter wellness essentials. Seek out vitamin C supplements, immune-boosting teas, and multivitamins to safeguard your health through the colder months. Navigate to http://vimdrugs.com/ for a diverse selection of such products.

Cold Weather Health Pharmacy

Place your trust in the local pharmacy for solutions tailored to cold weather health. From thermometers to humidifiers, these establishments provide everything necessary to cultivate a health-conscious environment at home.

Pharmacy Winter Wellness Guide

Leverage the expertise of your pharmacy's winter wellness guide for invaluable advice on maintaining health during the colder months. VIM Drugs offers insights and product recommendations to guide you through the intricacies of the winter season.

Seasonal Wellness Pharmacy Products

Embrace seasonal wellness with pharmacy products crafted specifically for winter. Explore immune-boosting herbal supplements and other seasonal remedies designed to ward off illnesses.

Winter Health Tips Pharmacy

Stay well-informed with winter health tips from your trusted pharmacy. Regularly check their website for updates and recommendations to successfully navigate the challenges posed by the colder months.

Pharmacy Remedies for Winter Ailments

In the unfortunate event of falling ill, turn to pharmacy remedies for effective relief. VIM Drugs offers a range of over-the-counter medications and expert advice to facilitate a swift recovery.

Surge in Online Pharmacy Sales

Reflecting the growing preference for convenient and reliable healthcare solutions, online pharmacy sales have surged by an impressive 30% during the winter season. This surge underscores the increasing reliance on digital platforms for accessing healthcare products and information.

Continue Reading: https://vimdrugs.com/index.php/blog/post/stay-cozy-and-healthy-winter-essentials-from-the-pharmacy

[sabrina-kpop]

Can I request a hashira x fem reader one-shot who has the powers of winter from aespa's new Supernova but the drawback is that she gets sick and vomits blood + she has lucky girl syndrome (which means she's lucky asf)

ིྀ∘˙༺𝐵𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝐵𝐴𝑁𝐺༻˙∘ ིྀ

Thank you for this request!! I have shaken up the story a little... Reader is the youngest of the hashira and is like a little sister to all of them! (This does not include child x adult)

WARNING: this includes Vomiting, blood, cursing, mentions of child abuse and slight p3doph1lia if you feel uncomfortable with these topics please don't read

You are grateful for having the hashira as your family, They saved you when you we're weak. And treated you like human. You were experimented on by a higher rank demon, you were to become a weapon to kill hashiras and swordsmen.

When Gyomei found you, you were terrified by what he would do to you, but he later then convinced you that he was trust worthy and you should come with him.

When the two of you arrived at The Ubuyashiki Mansion Gyomei immediately took you to a place you later learned was called the butterfly estate. When the both of you arrived you were greeted by two women.

One was taller and had long healthy black hair with a two butterfly pins on the sides of her hair, the other was a lot shorter and had her hair up and she had black hair with purple tips and looked angry.

The two women took you to a room to do a check up once they found out you were covered with scars and syringe wounds they immediately began treating you.

That was eight years ago and now your 13 and a hashira, everything in your life is perfect. You are currently out on a mission with Giyuu, although he isn't that talkative his presence comforting.

You two were called to a nearby village were it was reported that young girls went missing during the evening.

Nonetheless you and Giyuu arrived and the both of you decide to stay in a inn to recharge do to you finding a hundred dollar bill on the ground and insisting Giyuu to take you to go shopping for hours....

"Giyuu-san!" You said looking over at the dark hair male who's currently eating sake daikon.

"Hm?" He hummed unable to speak do to his mouth being full with his favorite dish which made you giggle.

"I'm bored.. Let's play a game!" You said as Giyuu look at you. "Let's see..Think of a number! " you said happily waiting for the water hashira to let you know when he's ready. "Ok." He plainly said still eating the food.

"Hmm.. Seven! "

He then nodded, not fazed by your luck as you jump up a down, acting as if your luck wasn't the cause of you guessing ."Giyuu-san let play aga-"

BOOM

You were interrupted by a loud bang outside, you and giyuu immediately got your blades and headed out.

"Y/n protect the people in the building I'll fight! " yelled Giyuu but you couldn't help but feel angry on how protective he is of you.

"But I wanna fight! I never get too!" You barked back.

"Y/n now is not the time for argui-" Giyuu was cut off do the demon attacking which caught him off guard. You followed his order and began helping people on the side.

"You're a hashira aren't you? Oh how I just love how you guys scream in agony as I rip you limb by limb!" Said the ugly demon as he continued to attack Giyuu in which he doged and used his water breathing.

"Missed! Haha! You hashiras are so weak now a days!" The demon said as he used his blood demon art to stab Giyuu in the leg restricting his movements

"Giyuu-san!" You yelled

Suddenly the demons gaze turned to you and the little boy in your hands.

"Mmm! How I love young innocent girls!"

He said as he used his blood demon art to send blood like blades to your direction.

Without thinking you used your special ability to dodge fly high up in the air with the boy in your arms"

"What the fuck!? Are you a demon!?" The demon said as Giyuu signaled you to distract them for he can get a clean slice of on neck. You nodded forgetting the drawbacks that this plan will take.

As the demon uses his blood demon art to send sharp spikes at you you kept dodging and using your abilities to pick up stuff and try to him trying to restrict him from catching Giyuu.

The demon managed to stab your thigh as you scream and fell hugging the little boy in your arms so he wouldn't get hurt.

Giyuu took this chance to painfully jump behind the demon and slice his neck off. The demon's head fell to the floor and began to curse out Giyuu, as he simply ignored it as he watched the demon disintegrate Into thin air.

*Cough* "G-Giyuu" he immediately flashed his eyes to the sound of your raspy voice as he saw a blood bath coming from your mouth. "G-Giyuu-san take the boy a-and find his mother" you said as you vomited more blood.

In a state of shock and fear, he immediately picked you and the boy up and ran as fast as he could to the butterfly estate.

Upon arrival, Giyuu started shouting for Shinobu which is unusual for him scaring most of the butterfly girls.

Giyuu slide the door open as hard as he can which startled Shinobu. "Tomioka-san what's wrong with yo- Oh my!" An interrupted Shinobu said as she laid eyes upon your bloody limp body in Giyuu's arms.

Shinobu immediately called for backup and she took you from her arms and ran to a surgery room.

"Hey dumbass" I certain white headed man said behind the water hashira as he turned around.

"The hell happened to you? Why are you covered in blood and why the fuck you were yelling?"

Giyuu looked at the Sanemi as he plainly stated. "It's y/n she used her abilities to much to a pint where she couldn't handle it."

"Why the fuck would she do that!" Yelled the wind hashira "And why didn't you stop her!" He blamed. Giyuu looked away ignoring him as he waited patiently for Shinobu.

"She's okay, she just needs to rest for some weeks and she'll be good as new!" Said the black and purple haired girl. "Poor thing she looks so weak" said Mitsuri "Yea no shit she lost a lot of blood" said Sanemi and Iguro gave him a death stare.

The hashira's decided to visit you after they found out about your conditions, checking up on you everyday as Shinobu gave you medicine.

When you finally came to you were needed by nine familiar faces.

Mitsuri and Rengoku gifted young a whole bunch of food.

Uzui gifted you some nice jewelry.

Iguro gifted you a pair of new socks.

Sanemi asked if you were feeling well time to time.

Shinobu gave you some butterfly clips and some poison to help you during battle.

Gyomei sent you a whole bunch of prayers.

Muichiro gifted some of his origami.

And lastly Giyuu gave you an apology for not protecting you. You said that I didn't matter and that your safe and should leave it in the pass. But Giyuu swore from now on he would protect in anyway possible.

You're grateful for having this family and hope to make more memories with them.

[winterr77]

ੈ✩ Habits for your academic life

Below are some habits and rules to keep in mind throughout your studies and some tips that will elevate your learning experiences.

☆ Setting boundaries and learning to say no

It is always easy to say yes and join every social event that one is invited to, however its crucial to consider your own personal life and the consequences of your decisions. Hanging out with friends is a needed event as a social creature, however it's better to exercise caution and know when to say "no" to focus on your own goals and dreams. Don't get pulled into the pace of others and focus on finding a routine and schedule that works for your own benefit.

☆ Being comfortable with your own company

You will find in uni that there are lots of times that you will spend alone, and maybe feel a little anxious that you're the only person who isn't constantly in the company of someone everyday like you maybe were in high school. However, realise that even the time to yourself is a time of value, and treasure those moments to focus and work on your own goals. It is easier to get lost and lose sight of your ambitions when with others who don't have the same aspirations as yourself. Use your own time to sit down and work out what you want to achieve and quietly put in the effort to win.

☆ Never being scared to ask questions

It can be quite daunting to ask questions in lectures, so I prefer to ask my questions during times that aren't forced into a short time interval, such as tutorials, office hours, and other forms of learning support that your university/college provides. This way there is no rush to answer my questions and take my time in working through concepts and ideas. Ask questions based on your own conclusions, questions that challenge current rules and perspectives. Think deeper into your lessons and seek to make use of every bit of information.

☆ Being curious

This is very much related to the point above, that being that personal interest really aids with the brains memory retention. The more things you approach with an enthusiastic attitude, the easier it is for your brain to remember and categorise. Having curiosity, even if it is forced, gives a great advantage where you seek to interconnect the information you learn with other data, and grow more networks of neurons that allows your brain to stay healthy and active.

☆ Initiating contact

Struggling with a theory or assignment? Great, it shows that you are actively trying to understand a concept and working your brain muscles. Now the best way to comprehend or complete what you are struggling with is to access support materials. Still difficult? Reach out. Your teachers, professors, tutors are all there for your benefit. Use them intelligently and squeeze every drop of assistance and support from them while they are still available to you.

☆Watching educational content to aid your studies

You can never lose from learning a bit more every day. However make sure to fact check and find your information from trusted and quality sources. In general, it's always a win to be educated in various topics from health, sciences, arts, humanities and more to gain a better understanding of ourselves, our world, and humanity.

For example, I watched a ted talk today, and here is my conclusions from my notes:

ੈ✩TedX: Why Reading Matters by Rita Carter

Summary:

☆Your brain needs a workout as much as your body. And reading fiction seems to be one of the best workouts you can get. (I recommend quality fiction, with that being classic literature because it genuinely exercises your mind with its intricate language techniques and diverse vocabulary)

☆Not only is it good for you, but it's also good for society as a whole because the brain is like a muscle: the more you force yourself through books to take other people's perspectives, to sympathise, to empathise with other people, the more empathetic a society we will have.

ੈ✩‧₊˚

good luck lovelies

~winter

ଘ(੭ˊᵕˋ)੭* ੈ✩‧₊˚

[mishhty]

Calathea ornata

Information:

Common Name: Pinstripe plant, pinstripe calathea  Botanical Name: Goeppertia ornata (formerly Calathea ornata)  Family: Marantaceae Calathea ornata, also known as the pinstripe plant, is a tropical houseplant and is considered one of the most elegant types of calatheas. It's known for its wide, pointed dark green leaves marked with sets of thin stripes in creamy white or pink. The pinstripe plant grows best in bright, indirect light, moist soil, temperatures between 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and high humidity.

Tips to Care and Maintain Calathea ornata:

Give this plant adequate bright light to thrive.

Water the plant regularly so the soil stays lightly moist but not soggy.

Use a peat-based potting soil

Fertilize monthly throughout the growing season.

Light: Give your Calathea ornata medium to bright indirect light. This plant is a great option for a north-, east-, or west-facing window; the harsh direct light of a south-facing window can be too strong.

Soil: Calathea ornata will grow best in a loose, well-draining potting mix that holds onto moisture. A peat-based mix is ideal—you can make your own by combining 2 parts peat moss, 2 parts orchid bark, 2 parts perlite, and 1 part organic compost. Some growers prefer to use a ready-made potting mix designed for African violets for their calatheas.

Water: Water your Calathea ornata consistently so that the soil stays moist but not soggy. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Avoid letting the soil dry out beyond the top inch or so between waterings.

Temperature and Humidity: Keep this tropical plant in a place with moderate temperatures and lots of humidity. If your space is particularly dry, group your plant in with other plants in your collection to help create a more humid microclimate, or run a humidifier nearby to add moisture to the air.

Fertilizer: Feed your Calathea ornata with an organic liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength every two weeks during spring and summer. Stop fertilizing in the fall, when the plant goes dormant for the winter. Resume fertilizing the following spring.

Pruning: Use sharp, sterilized shears or scissors to cut away any brown or shriveled leaves at the base to keep your Calathea ornata looking healthy. You can also trim away any browned or dried-out leaf margins while leaving the rest of the leaf on the plant. Take care not to cut away more than about a third of your plant's leaves to avoid damaging its growth.

How to Treat Pests  

Calathea ornata generally isn't prone to many issues but it can be affected by houseplant pests like spider mites, thrips, whiteflies, and scale. The best way to avoid pests is to prevent them with a few best practices: Examine plants carefully for signs of pests before buying, quarantine plants that show signs of an infestation, and keep an eye on your plants to spot pests and eliminate them early. Treat insect pests with organic pesticides like neem oil or remove them with horticultural soap. Cut away badly affected portions of the plant, bag them up, and put them in the trash outside to keep them from affecting your other plants.

Common Problems With Calathea Ornata 

Calatheas aren't the easiest houseplants to please, but most issues can be remedied by adjusting the plant's environmental conditions or watering more consistently. Here are some common problems with Calathea ornata and their causes.

Curling Leaves: Curling leaves are your plant's way of telling you it needs a drink. If your plant's leaves are curling, give it a good soaking. Keep an eye on the soil moisture to avoid drying out.

Leaves Turning Brown: Browning leaves can indicate a few different issues, including cold drafts, dry air, or too much sun. Consider your plant's conditions and make adjustments.

Leaves Turning Yellow: Yellowing leaves can mean your plant is getting too much water. In severe cases, they can be a sign of root rot. Cut back on watering immediately. If that doesn't help, repot your plant in fresh soil and cut away any black, rotten roots in the process.

[justsumtransdude2000]

Healthy BitchKiller Head Canons

Okay so ik I yap a lot about bitchkiller being this like toxic unhealthy mess of insecurities and shit, but sometimes, I just like to imagine the dynamic of healthy bitchkiller (which I will admit is hard for me bc rosekiller is always my endgame).

So, I present to you; healthy bitchkiller head canons.

-Barty cooks waffles, always with chocolate chips because that's the way Sirius likes them best.

-They go clubbing a lot, like, so much so they've learned to stop asking their friends if they wanna come with bc unlike them they have lives.

-But, none of their dates are at clubs. Their always super chill an cozy and at home with like Barty making Italian food and Sirius baking brownies they'll have to throw away that bc they taste so bad.

-Sirius actively gets clothes in smaller sizes so that Barty won't drown in them bc he's scrawnier (don't take this for twinkifiaction, he's still built, but think more canon Barty right after he's had a stint in Azkaban, and canon in OotP)

-Sirius "Let Me Spoil You" Black and Barty "I Only Accept Apologies in Cash" Crouch Jr.

-Sirius insists on vacationing at least once a year, and Barty insists that the once a year trip be during the winter months. He says it's because he likes the cold (he doesn't, he fucking hates the cold, he's a complainer, and he hates not being able to feel the tip of his nose, and how his face blushes in the winter. The real reason is bc Sirius has seasonal depression and keeping him in the house all winter to see him wither away hurts Barty deeply).

-Barty and Sirius friend groups simply do not mix, and they like it that way. The only exception is Lily and Pandora and its because they love each other (I don't see Jegulus happening in the same universe that Bitchkiller is happening, idk, maybe its because I'm not about that Jegulus life).

-Barty's love language is acts of service - he cleans the house and folds laundry and does dishes and when he's done and Sirius says thank you all he says is, mhmm. Sirius love language is buying shit. Barty will come home to his favorite work boots that were dying being replaced, or new gardening gloves.

-Leeching off that last one - they try to garden, and it looks like shit, but still refuse to give up gardening because they wanna make it work.

-Barty will sometimes bum a skirt off of Sirius to see if he likes wearing it (he never does, but it never stays on for long anyways bc Sirius).

[skin-care-news]

8 Skincare Hacks a Dermatologist Recommended for Winter Radiance

As the winter chill sets in, our skin often undergoes various challenges that can leave it feeling dry, dull, and irritated. To combat these seasonal skincare woes, I recently had the privilege of consulting a dermatologist who shared invaluable tips to keep skin healthy and radiant during the colder months. Here are eight expert-approved skincare hacks to incorporate into your winter routine.

Hydration is Key: One of the fundamental principles emphasized by the dermatologist was the importance of hydration. Cold weather, indoor heating, and hot showers can strip the skin of its natural moisture. Combat this by incorporating a rich, hydrating moisturizer into your daily routine. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to lock in moisture and keep your skin supple.

Gentle Cleansing: Avoid harsh cleansers that can further dry out your skin. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that effectively removes impurities without compromising your skin's natural barrier. Consider cleansing your face with lukewarm water to prevent excessive drying.

Humidify Your Space: Combat the dry indoor air caused by heaters by using a humidifier in your living space. This simple addition helps maintain optimal moisture levels in the air, preventing your skin from becoming overly dry.

Protective Layers: Don't skimp on sunscreen just because it's winter. Harmful UV rays are still present, and snow can reflect sunlight, intensifying its effects. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it to exposed areas, including your face, neck, and hands.

Exfoliate Wisely: Exfoliation is essential to slough off dead skin cells and encourage cell turnover, but too much can exacerbate winter dryness. Opt for a gentle exfoliant with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) once or twice a week to maintain a healthy glow.

Lip Care: Chapped lips are a common winter woe. Combat this by using a nourishing lip balm containing ingredients such as shea butter, beeswax, or coconut oil. Apply it regularly to keep your lips soft and hydrated.

Invest in a Night Cream: Nighttime is when the skin undergoes repair and regeneration. Enhance this process by using a richer night cream during the winter months. Look for formulations with ingredients like retinol, peptides, or ceramides to promote overnight rejuvenation.

Stay Hydrated from Within: Hydrating your skin goes beyond topical treatments. Ensure you're drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day to maintain overall skin health. Herbal teas and water-rich fruits and vegetables can also contribute to your hydration levels.

As winter brings its unique challenges to skincare, implementing these dermatologist-approved hacks can help you achieve a radiant complexion despite the harsh weather conditions. Remember, a consistent and thoughtful skincare routine is the key to keeping your skin healthy and glowing throughout the winter months.

[dragon-in-the-woods]

Tips for regressors/dreamers with religious trauma, as the holiday season comes up. And tips for regressors/dreamers with seasonal depression.

(DNI: Pro/com shippers/anti antis, and/or if you sexualize regression in any capacity.)

SFW only, under the cut for space.

First and foremost, "christmas" is an entirely stolen holiday. Most of it is stolen from Yule, a Norse holiday, but other elements come from Winter Solstice, Saturnalia, and other winter holidays. So don't feel bad about not celebrating! Now, for tips:

-If the ideas about Santa Claus cause any anxiety, write a letter to Odin instead! Odin (Norse mythology) was the original Santa, before christians stole the holiday. He's very kind and fatherly, and he won't be offended, so don't worry about making any "mistakes" in your letter.

-In the same category, leave cookies and milk for Odin instead. They're a great offering for most other deities as well, for any pagan regressors.

-Make new associations with "christmas" items. Cinnamon, oranges, mistletoe, pine trees, etc are all associations with Yule. The items were to bring joy and abundance during the dark and cold winter months.

-Warm drinks! Hot cocoa, tea, coffee, warm milk- find something you like and put it in your sippy cup. For littles without gear, the coffee lids used at most coffee shops are a good mimic- just wash and save the cups and lid for later.

-Listen to different music. I hate christmas music so if a store I go into is playing it, I'll pop in my earbuds while I shop. In the car, I choose a different radio station or use my own music.

-If you're required to do any holiday activities you don't want to do, imagine your caregiver F/O being there with you, also wanting to leave but having to stay. Maybe they're cracking jokes to make you laugh, or making fun of someone you don't like at the event to make you laugh.

Tips for seasonal depression:

-My therapist recommended this one! Do an activity sitting by a window where the sunlight is coming in. The warmth will help any cold in your body, and you'll get the Vitamin D from the sun, all while being inside and out of the cold.

-Keep moving your body. Stretches, exercises in one spot, and other things like that to stay indoors in the warmth. If you feel up to it, go outside and walk or jog.

-Healthy foods! With depression it's easy to slack on this, but at least try to make an effort. Meats are best for health and for energy levels. Fruits and veggies are getting expensive as the go out of season, so don't be afraid to get canned stuff if you can't afford fresh. My favorite veggie snack: canned green beans, either cooked on the stove with butter and salt, or if you're short on time, drained then microwaved on a plate with just salt.

-Imagine your caregiver F/O cuddling you as you rest. Imagine what nice and encouraging things they'd say. They love you and want you to feel better.

[pinksoullesswench]

Cute, cozy ways to survive winter

- buy a winter-ish tea to warm you up in the morning and the evening. You can also make your own mix (I love cranberry and elderberry)

- take vitamin D3 to boost your mood and prevent seasonal depression

- take beta carotin to have a glowy, tanned skin even without the sunlight

- get a good quality jacket from a material like wool or hemp (eco), and yes, it will cost a lot, but it's worth it. It keeps your warmer than any cheaper jacket and will last longer. A tip from a broke girl: I started to save up money in June. Also I search only in second-hand stores. I also recommend a faux fur. You can already find nice finds for 90€

- few times a week, make yourself a little bath for your feet. After a cold day, pour hot water into a bowl and put some nice bathing salts or etheric oils, I usually do smth that smells like pine trees. Super relaxing and warms your feet ^^

- read winter-ish books. They help to romanticize the cold time and make the season much more special

- get yourself a nice thick pair of socks that you will enjoy wearing during the winter

- dress warm. I have a special thermal set that I always put under my clothes. Avoid wearing jeans, for they will only make you freeze. Wear thick sweaters (I love cashmere, I bought one cheap in a second hand store), or long warm skirts or dresses (they make me feel girly and special during the cold time) remember, when you buy expensive, good quality clothes keep them in natural colors so they're universal and timeless. Remember: the time of cute outfits is over, now we're in the survival mode

- you can add yourself some color with pretty gloves and hats. I love wearing slavic scarves during the winter to honor my heritage

- when buying a shower gel, perfume, shampoo or body lotion peak smells that remind you of winter. I go for mandarine/ orange scents 😊🍊

- drink vitamin c in the morning!!!

- choose a thicker cream for your face, nothing water-based. Your skin needs special care and protection during the winter. I have an acne prone, oily skin, and I still choose thicker creams, so don't be afraid to do the same. My go-to for winter is a levera cream for sensitive skin and a black cumin seed oil. I also like products from PinusVital.

- uv still exists during winter so don't forget a sunscreen!

- decorate your apartment, room or house with winter decor. I'd defiently focus more on winter related things since they will last until March. Christmas things tend to be thrown away much quicker after Christmas. There's so many cute ideas!

- get yourself a sun clock. It's a lamp you put by your bed, which imitates the sunshine. It's especially useful in early mornings since we humans aren't programmed to be waking up in full darkness. It helps to wake up your body :)

- get yourself a bunch of candles and light them in the evening. Element of fire has always been crucial for our ancestors during these trying times

- every single week plan to do something new. It can be finding a new song or new album, going to a restaurant or a coffee shop you've never been to before, learning something new, visiting a place you haven't seen yet, trying out a new recipe, even taking a different rode back from work/school, write a new poem, start a new book, watch a new movie, keep yourself entertained by little things

- out of the same principle, try to redecorate or change placement of furniture from time to time. Our brains get easily bored and especially during winter it can be very depressing. Brains need the change to stay healthy and fit

- especially during cold times, a community is really important. Even if you're an introverted person, it doesn't mean you should stay alone all the time. Humans are social beings, and we need contacts to one another. During winter months and long evenings, loneliness can be very hard. Try looking for a local book club or knitting club or any other club you'd enjoy. Download Bumble BFF it's an app that helps you to find friends! Volunteer at your local senior house or even your local dog shelter. Being constantly alone has literally never done anyone any good.

- burn incenses to boost energies in your household (any time it's needed, of course if you believe in stuff like this :) ) I recommend orange incense (brings luck and happiness)

- spend time outside. During the week I barely have time but every weekend I try to go on a walk possibly out in the nature. Your mental state regulates this way. Just 15 minutes of walk outside each day can boost your mood. Believe me, it comes from a person who struggled a lot with depressions.

- don't forget to eat well. You burn more calories during the winter because your body uses lots of energy to keep itself warm. Eat regular, well-balanced food portions. I love vegetarian food magazines that offer amazing seasonal recipes, so you cook with vegetables and fruits that actually grow during the winter. I think it adds more magic and meaning to the season to cook with seasonal food.

- wake up early. And early can be different for every person, but sleeping in every day is not proven to be healthy. Sleeping in causes chronic diseases, slows down your metabolism, and can cause social problems. Of course, there's nothing wrong with having one slower day, but having a crazy sleeping schedule can get you in sleep debt that will not result in anything productive.

- pick projects you want to accomplish during winter like for example my projects are: learn about local birds and mammals, make a little house in my local forest, learn how to diy fairy houses, learn how to knit :)

❄️Remember that winter time is the time to slow down and relax. Look around at nature and see how everything is seemingly dead and waiting for the spring. Don't worry if you're not being great all the time or constantly achieving new milestones because it's totally fine to calm down after many months of work. I know that the capitalism convinced us that we should always work, no matter what, but I just want you to remember that nature intended otherwise and of you're more tired and sleepy during these months that's totally normal. Just be kind to yourself.❄️

[candlecoo]

for the Destructive Force AU:

cuddling is something that always takes place after training.

After a while, Izuku uses the Dekusquad as his main source of quirk energy (after Katsuki, of course) This has led to the entire squad becoming really physically affectionate as a side effect

I don't think I've mentioned this yet, but Izuku no longer relies on Katsuki to replenish his stock. Due to Katsuki's possessive and controlling behavior since Izuku's quirk manifested Izuku has become rather uncomfortable with Katsuki's behavior and barely draws any energy from contact with his childhood friend.

Not that he confessed that to Bakugou in fear of making the behavior worse.

But in order for the two to become close again and for contact with Kacchan to store energy, they need to distance themselves from each other and for Izuku to have some freedom away from Bakugou.

During most of middle school his stockpile mostly comes from Inko and during third year All Might as well. Maybe five percent is actually from Bakugou.

Which leads to confrontation when Izuku starts to slowly distance himself from Bakugou (for his own mental health) and shit hits the fan in UA when Izuku immediately goes to Uraraka and Iida instead of Bakugou. It continues to fester as the Dekusquad grows and Bakugou finds the Izuku isn't relying on him and hasn't actually relied on him for a long time.

Whether I make it because he wants to prove himself as the strongest and someone to rely on or a one-sided attraction(I really hate the ship but the concept of it being one-sided on Bakugou's part would make sense for this au.(this au is endgame Tododeku though)) I haven't decided.

But either way cuddling is absolutely a must have after training for Izuku. So it's not uncommon for Izuku to be curled up with one or more of the Dekusquad.

Uraraka is all for it and is an absolute cuddle bud herself so she is the first to offer. Not even saying a word, she'll just open her arms and Izuku will fall in.

Iida takes it as another duty as class president! He has to make sure his classmates are healthy and in tip top shape, and if that means Izuku latching onto his arm while he quietly reads. Then so be it!

Tsu will bring out blankets and they'll just cuddle and stay warm, this happens more often in winter.

Todoroki is unsure at first, never really receiving positive touch before but really wanting to help in some way. But then realizing how nice it is and how touch starved he is, he jumps at the opportunity. At first only Izuku initiates it until Todoroki slowly grows used to it. If he gets a lil jealous whenever someone outside of the Dekusquad (and sometimes the Dekusquad) touch Izuku, then that's all the more reason to get accustomed to it faster so he can be his crushes go to for affection.

[hedgehog-rehab-by-the-levee]

This is Velma.

Velma came to me with her sister Flea and her brother Freddy in 2021.

I treated Velma and her siblings against parasites when they first came to me and then after they reached the appropriate weight for a juvinilehog, hibernated in the safety of my garden shed.

Did you know, in Europe where the brownchested hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is native the appropriate weight for hibernation is considered to be around 700-750g?

A hoglet is born weighing around 12 grams in July to September. The hoglets stay with their mother who cares for them alone, until they weigh around 150g when they start going on outings with their mother. During this time, she teaches them what is good to eat, what is bad to eat, and where good food spots are. At around 180g the hoglets disperse and find their own territories and continue living their lives in solitude.

So hoglets have a very short period of time to gain enough weight to be strong enough to survive the winters and hibernate.

Velma has been a regular guest at the feeding station ever since she was released, also often sleeping on one of the houses in the garden. Velma might have had her first babies last year, though at no time she seemed to be nursing, but often it is very hard to tell on some females.

This year, Velma has not ben spotted yet, which could also be due to her markings vanishing (can be seen in the video, very subtle orange tips of her quills on her forehead). Hopefully Velma will return and have a healthy litter of hoglets.

[vimdrugs]

Navigate winter travel health with our pharmacy's guide. Top tips and essentials for a healthy and stress-free journey. Plan your winter travel wisely.

Do Read: https://vimdrugs.com/index.php/blog/post/pharmacys-guide-to-winter-travel-health-top-tips-and-essentials

[mrtanan]

Tips for Staying Active and Healthy During Winter Months

The colder weather and shorter days can make it tough to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle during the winter months. But with a little bit of effort and some smart planning, you can stay on track with your fitness goals and feel great all season long. Here are a few tips to help you stay active and healthy during the winter:

Find indoor activities: When it's too cold to exercise outdoors, look for indoor activities that you enjoy.

Bundle up and get outside: While it may be chilly, don't let the cold weather keep you from getting outside. Bundle up in warm layers and go for a brisk walk or run, or try a winter sport like skiing or ice skating.

Stay hydrated: It can be easy to forget to drink enough water during the winter, but staying hydrated is essential for maintaining good health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day,

By following these tips, you can stay active and healthy throughout the winter season. Remember, staying motivated and focused on your goals is key to success. So, find activities you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine.

[hedgewitchgarden]

With the recent warm weather and native plants starting to emerge from their winter slumber, folks may be eager to do some spring cleaning in their gardens.

For the sake of pollinators and insects, though, it’s best to hold off until the weather is steadily in the 50's during the day. Many beneficial insects and pollinators overwinter in garden debris. Luna moths, mourning cloak butterflies and native bees, to name a few, rely on things in your garden that some might consider unsightly, like dead leaves and plants.

Here are some tips on spring cleaning for insects and pollinators.

Leaf Litter

It's OK to leave the leaves! Although it's called leaf “litter,” leaves are actually an important part of a healthy garden. Leaving your leaves in the garden allows them to decompose into healthy mulch for your soil.

In addition, many spring wildflowers need a good layer of leaf litter to emerge. If you still want to remove dead leaves from your garden or yard, wait until temperatures are consistently in the 50's to give insects in your garden a chance to wake up and emerge for the spring. Another option is mulching the leaves with your lawn mower and then blowing them back into your garden beds to decompose and provide nutrients for your garden.

Soil

It's not a bad idea to leave some bare soil spots in your garden. Bare soil is important for ground-dwelling insects as well as bumblebees and hummingbird moths.

Stems

Later this month, when temperatures stay consistently above 50 degrees, trim stems of last year’s plants to 15 inches long. Leave those stems standing to allow native bees to emerge and use next winter.

Once the new growth begins, you won't even see the stems you left standing. Chop and drop is a good method to use when trimming stems. Simply cut up the removed stems and leave them in your garden bed to decompose and turn into nutrients for the soil.

Pruning Shrubs

Prune your shrubs carefully and look for any cocoons or chrysalises that may be attached. Leave any branches that have these insects attached until they emerge. They can always be trimmed later in the season.

Also watch out for bird nests that may be in or under your shrubs before pruning. If it's a new nest, it is best to leave the area alone for a few weeks until the eggs have hatched and babies have fledged.

If you find a nest from last year, you can throw it in your compost or leave it in your garden to decompose. If you're not sure if there are birds nesting in your garden already, sit quietly outside for a period of time. Birds that are building or tending to a nest will visit the same spot multiple times in an hour. A very noisy bird in a particular spot is another signal you may have bird tenants who are unhappy with your presence.

To mulch or not to mulch?

When planting a new garden bed or area, I recommend initially using some mulch to help hold the weeds back. After a garden is established, I use the leaves and stems from my yard on garden beds as a mulch by throwing them on top and supplementing it with wood chip mulch, if needed.

If your garden bed is bare and in desperate need of a mulch cover, wait until temps are above 50 degrees and the soils dry out a little bit to give insects that overwintered as eggs, pupae or adults a chance to emerge from the soil. If you mulch, it doesn’t need to be more than 2 - 3 inches deep. An alternative to mulching is creating more tighter plantings to help keep weeds at bay. Each yard and garden has its own unique situation, so feel free to tailor these tips to suit your needs. Over time, these steps may save you time and money over a traditional spring cleanup, and local wildlife will most definitely benefit.

[hijabirealms]

Simple and Effective Weight Loss Tips for Cold Weather

Losing weight in the cold weather doesn’t have to be complicated. Check out these straightforward tips to help you stay warm and healthy during the winter: 1. Warm drinks Photo by Ioana Motoc on Pexels.com Enjoy herbal teas or broths to warm up and curb your appetite. They’re cozy and can make you feel full without extra calories. Try different tea flavors like cinnamon or chamomile. It’s a…

[cmasociety]

Surviving and Thriving: CMAS’s Top 5 Tips for the School Year

Whether you’re a first year, fourth year, someone who has lost count, or someone who still walks aimlessly around BSB looking for their classroom. The school year is always a daunting one– especially with midterm season creeping up on us. Our goal at CMAS is to be there for everyone. That’s why for our very first blog post, we have created our Top 5 Tips for the School Year so that we can all survive and thrive! 

Get to know your authors:

Anastasia Arps (Social Media & Web Copywriter)

Hey friends! I am a fourth year Honours Communication Studies student, I enjoy cycling and writing horror stories!

Jacqueline Pham (Communications Officer)

Hi everyone, so happy you are here! I am a fourth year Communication Studies student here at Mac, some of my favourite hobbies include embroidery and baking!

The Basics 

Embarking on the student journey is an exciting yet demanding phase of life. To navigate its various challenges successfully, building a solid foundation for self-care is absolutely vital. Here are the 3 non-negotiable aspects that’ll help you power through even the toughest of times:

Proper nutrition - Maintaining a healthy diet doesn't have to be an intimidating task; it can be surprisingly simple! Incorporating essential nutrients into your routine, like kick starting your day with a nutritious smoothie jam-packed with greens and goodness, is a great way to get those vitamins in. However, when time is tight, supplements can be a lifesaver, especially during those dark winter months when we need that extra boost of vitamin D. 

Regular physical activity - Staying active doesn't mean spending hours at the gym. It's all about finding enjoyable ways to keep your body moving, even in the midst of a busy academic season. Take a stroll around campus to get your steps in or opt for biking along the scenic trails in Hamilton. Studies have consistently shown that even simple activities like walking can significantly contribute to overall health and well-being. 

Engaging in feel-good personal activities - Amidst the academic hustle, don't forget to indulge in activities that bring you joy! Whether it's playing your favourite video games, a bit of retail therapy, savouring a meal at your favourite restaurant, or experimenting with cooking. Integrating hobbies and entertainment into your routine is essential for a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle.

2. McMaster Resources

Struggling with student life? Need support academically? Mentally? In my four years at McMaster, the one thing I wish I utilized more was the amazing resources that McMaster has to offer. I know you probably see these resources posted all the time around Mac but I highly suggest you take advantage of the resources that will best support you! Some upcoming programs include: 

ACT on Anxiety 

DBT: Interpersonal Effectiveness 

Managing Your Worry and Anxiety 

Mend Your Mood

SWC offers FREE Fruit Fridays ! A great way to sneak in those extra vitamins. 

The Student Wellness Centre also offers additional programs and advice columns relating to personal finances, relationships, and cooking. Visit the McMaster Wellness Centre website to register for these programs. 

3. Keep Organized

Assignments, tests, quizzes, essays, oh my! When midterm season rolls around, if you find that you struggle with keeping mental tabs of what and when something is due, look towards organization tools to help out. There are lots of different ways to stay on track with due dates so don’t worry, we’re here to help. Here are a few organizational suggestions to never miss a due date ever again:

Notion -  An application that allows you to create your own personal webpage where you can input anything ranging from links to course readings or calendars with assignment due dates. Check out this YouTube video that links you to aesthetic templates and how to utilize Notion!

Phone Calendar - For the minimalistic approach, simply input when a specific assignment is due and set an alert for a set amount of time. This alert will go off, reminding you that this assignment is due soon and you should start working on it!

Daily/Weekly/Monthly To Do Lists - Having one or all three will keep you on your feet and ahead of those pesky due dates. Look at stationery stores that may have specific to-do list calendars in stock or print out a free version of one you like and decorate it yourself. 

Affirmation Board - A cute board or reminder that keeps you motivated will encourage productivity and promote being nice to yourself during stressful times. 

4. Connect with your Faculty

Introducing yourself and getting to know your professors, Teaching Assistants, and fellow classmates is a great way to develop a sense of community and open new doors. While it may seem nerve-wracking, developing a professional relationship with faculty and friends in your programs will help you in the long run– or at the very least, the entirety of the course. Additionally, when you head into a new class– whether it be next semester or next school year– and you’re able to recognize someone’s friendly face, it will always ease your nerves because you have an already established relationship with that individual. 

5. Attend CMAS Events 

Come out to our CMAS events! At CMAS, we love to encourage those in Communications, Media Arts, or Humanities to come out, socialise, and create bonds with your fellow Hum students (not to mention the awesome CMAS team that will be there to support you!). This is a great opportunity to meet new people, strengthen friendships, and develop connections. Keep an eye on our Instagram (@cmasmcmaster) for upcoming events! We have an event coming up in late October and we hope that we’ll see lots of you there as a way to decompress after midterms.

A huge thank you for reading through our very first blog post! We hope you stay tuned for more exciting and insightful content! Check us out on Instagram for future events / updates and TikTok for your late night scrolls.  

Until next time, Anastasia & Jacqueline