The past two years have been tough for many of us. From a pandemic to political unrest, events near and far can take their toll on our mental and physical health. But improving those – even with small changes – can make a big impact.
Consumer Reports has some novel gadgets that can shake up your routine and make 2022 healthier and happier.
Feeling worried and nervous? You’re not alone. In a recent Consumer Reports survey, 42% of Americans said they’re experiencing more anxiety than they did before the pandemic.
Self-care is important, because stress and anxiety can cause, among other things, difficulty sleeping, shortness of breath, even chest pain.
A stress-free day often begins the night before. If you’ve been feeling a bit anxious, especially at night, a weighted blanket, which is filled with tiny glass or plastic beads, might help you relax into a restful sleep.
Several studies suggest weighted blankets can help ease anxiety and reduce insomnia and fatigue in some people
“What the heavy blanket does is it causes a relaxation of the muscles and it sort of puts you in that relaxed phase,” said Dr. Fariha Abbasi-Feinberg, Sleep Medicine
Interested in trying one? Not surprisingly, weighted blankets are sold by weight. You should look for a blanket that’s about 10 percent of your body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, you’d need a 15 pound weighted blanket.
CR found the YNM Weighted Blanket for about $60 is a good option to try.
Add in a meditation app like Calm, Pzizz or Headspace, and you might get the best night’s sleep you’ve had in years.
Even a good night’s sleep can’t cure stiff and sore muscles, but one of those massage guns that are advertised on social media might help.
“Some people can use them as a warmup device before exercise, or after a workout to help reduce soreness. They’re also a way to stimulate muscles that feel stiff after sitting all day long,” said Kevin Loria, of Consumer Reports.
At $100, the Renpho R3 Massage Gun is a good choice for most people. If you’re not ready to invest in a massage gun, foam rollers are a great affordable option. Simply lie on the floor with the roller beneath you and roll on the area that needs relief.
So, with some newly found rest and relaxation in your life, 2022 may be your healthiest and happiest yet.
CR said it’s not surprising that sales of houseplants are booming right now. The greenery can keep indoor air cleaner, and seeing and nurturing it can help you feel more tranquil and more connected to nature.
If you looking for best ways to renew your mind and body, Consumer Reports has more information, HERE.
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