Category Archives: Health/Wellness

Student Accommodation and Coronavirus. What to Look Out For?

Given the current climate with regards to the Covid-19 pandemic, there are many areas of our lives which won’t be the same for some time. One particular group of people who were particularly affected are students, many of whom will be going back to university under altogether different circumstances. Although we know that most of these young men and women are not at high risk from the virus, there is always the chance that they can get it. Additionally students can pass that virus onto more vulnerable people and, until the vaccine program is fully rolled out, students will have to tread with caution.

Student accommodation in particular is something which will be impacted, and many students are nervous about the prospect of living in close quarters with so many others.

Putting Rules in Place

Uni accommodation on campus will see new rules in place with regards to the wearing of face masks, as well as the addition of sanitization stations. This emulates many of the same precautions currently in place across many businesses & institutions and whilst students are being invited back, they have to be careful and mindful of these new rules & measures.

Staying Inside

Across many universities teaching will either be in socially distanced spaces or through the use of video calling software. There is no doubt that there will be a much bigger focus on students staying inside their dorms than previous years. This will also go beyond the classroom and will most likely be the case for many social areas on campus, which will remain closed for the foreseeable future. Whilst this is not great news for students, they will still be able to continue their studies and there will still be other opportunities to socialise with fellow students.

Private Accommodation

Those who live in private uni accommodation have been contacted by universities, who have laid out the best action plans to keep students safe. In these types of accommodation it is expected to see similar rules enforced as seen across private rentals. This will include the availability of hand sanitisers and enforcing of social distancing where possible.

Cleaning of Accommodation

On-campus student accommodation would usually have been cleaned on occasion, but most of the time it was up to the students to keep their own living space clean and tidy. Given the importance of keeping the infection rate down, universities will have to use private cleaning companies to regularly sanitize the accommodation. This should be expected by every single student heading to campus, and it will be critical in making sure that there is no rise in fast transmission figures.

These are certainly testing times and whilst there is a low danger to students regarding mortality, the risk of COVID-19 to a large group of people in one space cannot be ignored. For this reason a variety of changes have to be made at university, especially when it comes to the management and the cleaning of uni accommodation. It is also recommended that students also look to keep themselves prepared & bring masks, avoid unnecessary contact with others & santise whenever possible.

6 Things to Learn When Facing Radiation Therapy Treatment

Some people get worried when they hear that they have to undergo radiation treatment. This is because people will tell you some terrifying stories about the operation. Radiation therapy is a process involving x-rays of high-energy and even some particles used to eliminate cancer cells. We all know how dangerous cancer is. Now, let’s see 6 things to expect during radiation treatment.

Expect To Be Tattooed

Your affected area will be marked by a few dots. These dots look like tattoos, so if you have not been tattooed before you have to be ready for this. The dots will help the care team identify the affected area during the operation. Additionally, the dots will help the team line up the machine well with your tumour.

They will use a needle-like object which can be hurt. However, don’t worry because it does not hurt that much. You can live with the dots for the rest of your life. If you don’t like tattoos, this will be a must if you will undergo the operation.

It Hurts

Anything involving cutting is expected to hurt, and so is radiation therapy. This is one aspect that worries people the most. The interesting thing is that it does not hurt like cancer. So there is still some encouragement.

However, you need to have the courage to undergo the treatment for your good. The body will still hurt even after the treatment. The reason is that it’s like a wound and so obvious the wound hurts. Therefore don’t expect the pain to end at the operation centre.

Expect Side Effects

Though some side effects will remain in the rest of your life, it is better than to live with the deadly disease. The doctors may leave some implants in your body, which you will feel almost all the time. Some of the effects will involve some swelling which can be painful. You can even experience some blood and fluid flow.

Sometimes your skin can start to break down. The skin can even become sensitive. Sometimes the skin can even become red and have some open burns. However, this is not much price compared to the effects of cancer.

Visit Your Oncologist

It is good to know how your body reacts. This will determine if you can undergo radiation therapy treatment. Don’t listen to people too much because our bodies react in different ways. The doctor will give you details about the operation, and if you are right then you sign a document for the operation.

You have to know that radiation therapy treatment is a process of risk, and you have to consult your doctor first. Radiation therapy treatment should be taken very seriously to avoid further complications. Most people prefer to go for private radiation therapy treatment because they view it as safer. However, it will depend on your preparedness and your body reactions.

Punctuality and Timely

The radiation therapy process takes place differently according to how the patient is affected, and therefore the treatment process will also take different duration. It will be better to be punctual and timely. Additionally, since our bodies react and behave differently, this means the process will also be the same.

If your friend took a specific time, don’t expect yours to be the same. The doctor may tell you to arrive early to test some operation gowns, and you should not delay.

Special Considerations

There are some things you must not do when waiting for radiation therapy treatment. For instance, a woman is not expected to be pregnant during the operation. Furthermore, sexual activities are prohibited for both men and women even after the operation for some time.

5 Things to Know About Cannabis Before Medicating

Medical cannabis research is still hampered by its Schedule I classification. But the DEA has recently taken steps to make cannabis research easier. Medical cannabis and its compounds, called cannabinoids can have several different effects on the body. Let’s take a look at some things you should know before medicating.

Different Strains Have Different Effects

One key thing to be aware of is that there are two subspecies of the cannabis plant. Indica strains are known for their calming properties and helping achieve deep sleep. Sativa strains are better known for their uplifting and emotional properties. For that reason, Indica strains are recommended for night-time use, while Sativa’s are reserved for day-time use. Sativa plants can help with anxiety, depression, and attention disorders. They also tend to have a higher concentration of terpenes than Indica plants.

Hybrid strains are a combination of Indica and Sativa plants that may feature a mixture of effects. Some strains may be Indica or Sativa-dominant that’s why it’s essential to track a strain’s effects on your body.

Medical Reactions

Be careful when medicating with any strain, since it may impact other medications you are taking. Some medicines you should avoid mixing with medical marijuana include SSRIs and SNRIs. Other medications like anti-anxiety meds can create an adverse effect if both are consumed at the same time. These medicines react with the same receptors in the body that are impacted by cannabis use. You should speak with your doctor before self-medicating with cannabis if you take any prescription medication.

What Conditions Can It Treat?

Many people’s first introduction to cannabis is through self-medication for a variety of symptoms. But medical marijuana can be prescribed for a variety of medical conditions. Cannabis is most often prescribed for patients with severe health conditions like multiple sclerosis or cancer.

Medical marijuana may help reduce spasticity and pain associated with multiple sclerosis. Cancer can’t be cured with marijuana use, but it can help reduce symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life. People living with Arthritis have also found relief in consuming medical marijuana with high CBD a cannabinoid that may help reduce inflammation. CBD-dominant strains can also help reduce the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures.

Tracking Strain Efficacy

Tracking the efficacy of certain strains requires massive data input. Apps can use user-generated data for hundreds of cannabis strains to help pinpoint the most effective of those for any given condition. Tracking medicating sessions and symptoms is as easy as tapping a few buttons. This user-generated data will help users pinpoint which strains are most effective for their combination of symptoms.

Any Side Effects?

The main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is THC. THC’s impacts on the brain have yet to be thoroughly researched due to the plant’s federal classification. But we do know it can cause some people to feel anxious, paranoid, or afraid. These symptoms may be worse in patients that already exhibit signs of a mental disorder. You should also know that consumption can heighten your senses, distort your sense of time, and impair your motor skills. All of these side effects may impact your ability to drive.

9 Ways to Be the Best Version of Yourself

If there is any doubt about it, you are one of a kind, amazing and incredible. You have unique ideas to share and important things to say. Simply put: You are a wonderful addition to the world. However, nothing ever starts out as a polished gem. Even a diamond starts out as black, sooty piece of coal. Putting some work into becoming the best version of yourself can help you shine like the shining star you’re meant to be.

1. Be There

So much about life is just showing up. This could mean being there for a friend or family member during a difficult time or transition. It could also mean being involved in the community by serving as a mentor, volunteering or simply setting a good example. Showing stoicism in relationships is a good way to be a rock for those people that need it. Being a person who shows up is a person who cares deeply about others.

2. Learn Something New Every Day

Learning something new every day keeps you interesting, relatable, intelligent and a lifelong learner. You can learn anything from a new word in a new language to a easier way to complete a difficult task. Learning new things also pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you to grow. Learning something new every day really adds up quickly over time. Making it a habit now can make a huge difference in your life.

3. The Future Test

When you encounter bumps in the road it is so easy to become discouraged. It doesn’t matter if it’s a personal or professional issue, it can all seem earth-shattering in the moment. And maybe it is, but all too often when you are in the moment, you lose perspective. If you slow down for a second and ask yourself, “Will this be important in 10 days? 10 weeks? 10 years?” Oftentimes you realize that what you’re spending so much time worrying about isn’t really worth it.

4. Morning Exercise

Simply changing the time of day you do your workout can really change the impact. Exercising in the morning can give you more energy during the day, and it can contribute to better overall health. Not to mention, that people who work out in the morning state that throughout the day they are more relaxed and focused.

5. Prioritize

It is so easy to get distracted as your day unfolds. New complications and distractions start presenting themselves at every turn. That’s why it is important to make a list at the very beginning of the day of the top three things you want to get done before the day’s end. Having a list helps you to focus on those tasks and not get distracted.

6. Talk to Your Family

A relationship with your family is important, but also, they have information and insight you will never find on Google or in a book on any shelf. They have known you your whole life, they know you better than anyone, they know your strengths and weakness and they can help guide you to your best self.

7. Drink your Fruits and Veggies

Have a green smoothie at breakfast every day. It’s good for you. It’s fast. It’s easy. And it is a great way to get most of your fruits and veggies for the day. Keep your veggies and fruits in the freezer for a better texture and to make them last longer.

8. Be Thankful

Instead of always wanting what you don’t have, try being thankful for all the people and things you do have. You will be surprised at how much that simple change in perspective will change your happiness level. Pick a time every day to choose five things, people or pets you are thankful for. You can write down things you are thankful for daily and place each one in a jar. When you are having a tough day, read through the papers for an instant mood boost.

9. Be Yourself

In the quest to become the best version of yourself, make sure you don’t become someone else. Stay true to your vision and unique voice. Other people are always going to have ideas of what you should be or what they want you to be. Don’t waste precious time and energy trying to become someone else’s idea of what the best version of you is. Remember this is your journey and your journey alone.

 

Preparing Yourself to Take a Cold Shower

One of the many reasons why some people don’t want to head to the shower room in the morning is because the water is too cold. Unfortunately, not all showers have a temperature control you can adjust. You have no choice but to bathe using the water that comes out regardless of the temperature.

If you are heading to a shower room with cold water, these are the tips to help you face the challenge.

Prepare yourself mentally

You already know what to expect when your shower has no temperature control. You need to condition yourself because your body will be shocked by the cold water. It could still shock you, but it won’t hurt as much.

Rinse your hair first

The head is the least sensitive to cold showers. You can bend over to allow water only to hit your hair. Rinse it thoroughly and slowly let the water drip onto your body. Then, you will start to get used to the low temperature.

Shampoo your hair

After bending over to rinse your hair and you are still not ready to have cold water on your body, the next thing to do is shampoo your hair. Take your time while doing it. You can even make silly shapes with your hair up until you are ready for the challenge of having cold water on your body.

Use a loofa

If you want to avoid volumes of cold water on your body, use a loofa. You can scrub your body with the loofa and a shower gel. You won’t feel too cold because you only have a small amount of water on your body. Once it is time to rinse off, you will have adjusted to the temperature.

Hurry up

You only need to have cold water on your body when it is time to rinse your hair and remove the soap. You can hurry things up, so you don’t need to feel the low temperature for a long time. You can also gradually rinse your hair without touching your body so that you can speed things up.

Install a hot shower

Although it is possible to survive a cold shower, you don’t need to suffer. You can buy a steam shower if you want to adjust the temperature based on how hot you want it to be. Some people have a high tolerance to heat while others are tolerant to low temperatures. It is okay either way because you can adjust the temperature of a steam shower. When you don’t have one, you have no choice but to use the water regardless of its temperature.

Steam showers are not too expensive. You can also buy a shower cabin if you want more privacy when you bathe. With the steam shower plus the cabin, you will feel excited about bathing, regardless of the time of the day. You won’t need to stress about the low temperature anymore. You will even receive the benefits of showering at high temperature.