Stick to the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends.
This helps to regulate your body's clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep for the night.Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual.
A relaxing, routine activity right before bedtime conducted away from bright lights helps separate your sleep time from activities that can cause excitement, stress or anxiety which can make it more difficult to fall asleep, get sound and deep sleep or remain asleep.Avoid naps, especially in the afternoon.
Power napping may help you get through the day, but if you find that you can't fall asleep at bedtime, eliminating even short catnaps may help.Exercise daily.
Vigorous exercise is best, but even light exercise is better than no activity. Exercise at any time of day, but not at the expense of your sleep.Evaluate your room.
Design your sleep environment to establish the conditions you need for sleep. Your bedroom should be cool – between 60 and 67 degrees. Your bedroom should also be free from any noise that can disturb your sleep. Finally, your bedroom should be free from any light. Check your room for noises or other distractions. This includes a bed partner's sleep disruptions such as snoring. Consider using blackout curtains, eye shades, ear plugs, "white noise" machines, humidifiers, fans and other devices.Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows.
Make sure your mattress is comfortable and supportive. The one you have been using for years may have exceeded its life expectancy – about 9 or 10 years for most good quality mattresses. Have comfortable pillows and make the room attractive and inviting for sleep but also free of allergens that might affect you and objects that might cause you to slip or fall if you have to get up during the night.Use bright light to help manage your circadian rhythms.
Avoid bright light in the evening and expose yourself to sunlight in the morning. This will keep your circadian rhythms in check.Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals in the evening.
Alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine can disrupt sleep. Eating big or spicy meals can cause discomfort from indigestion that can make it hard to sleep. It is good to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Sleep Tips for Anybody
Why do we need to sleep when we are so busy and could use more hours in the day just to accomplish what needs to be done? Sleep is a very important part of your life, without it you cannot function properly. Here are some sleep tips for anybody thanks to sleepfoundation.org.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Your Brain Doesn't Stop When You're Asleep
Did you know that your brain does not stop when you're sleeping? Research has shown that your brain is very active while you're sleeping. Here are just some of the things that your brain focuses on.
Your brain processes information and prepares for actions during sleep. A recent study found the brain processes complex stimuli during sleep and then uses the information to make decisions while awake.
Another thing your brain does while you're asleep is form new memories, consolidate older ones and linking memories together. This happens during REM and non-REM sleep. Have you ever heard that sleep is highly important when it comes to learning? A teacher has probably told you that before, and now studies have shown that sleeping before you learn will help your brain prepare for initial formation of memories. Sleep after you learn is important to help save new information as well. Without sleep, your ability to learn information can drop up to 40%.
Your brain doesn't stop when you're asleep, because it is also clearing out toxins at the same time. During sleep, the brain clears out damaging molecules associated with neurodegeneration.
If these are not good enough reasons to convince you of the importance of sleep, then read on for more information on what your brain does while you're asleep: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/28/brain-sleep-_n_5863736.html?ir=Healthy+Living
Your brain processes information and prepares for actions during sleep. A recent study found the brain processes complex stimuli during sleep and then uses the information to make decisions while awake.
Another thing your brain does while you're asleep is form new memories, consolidate older ones and linking memories together. This happens during REM and non-REM sleep. Have you ever heard that sleep is highly important when it comes to learning? A teacher has probably told you that before, and now studies have shown that sleeping before you learn will help your brain prepare for initial formation of memories. Sleep after you learn is important to help save new information as well. Without sleep, your ability to learn information can drop up to 40%.
Your brain doesn't stop when you're asleep, because it is also clearing out toxins at the same time. During sleep, the brain clears out damaging molecules associated with neurodegeneration.
If these are not good enough reasons to convince you of the importance of sleep, then read on for more information on what your brain does while you're asleep: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/09/28/brain-sleep-_n_5863736.html?ir=Healthy+Living
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Did you Catch That Nasty Cold?
You might have heard that there is a respiratory illness sending many children to hospitals this season. It is a severe illness that has taken over many other states besides Colorado, starting as a common cold but continuing into something much worse. What are some things you can do to avoid this nasty cold for you and for your family?
1. If you or a loved one has a respiratory problem to begin with, such as asthma, make sure you are taking all medications necessary. This will help if you do catch a cold to lessen the harshness of the illness.
2. As always, wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. After every time you use the rest room, cook a meal and sneeze, you should be washing your hands to ensure that this cold doesn't spread, especially if you already show signs of a cold.
2. People who are already sick are the ones you should avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups and eating utensils with.
3. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. This includes things from doorknobs, toys, Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. A good cleaning around the house with disinfectant can help with any frequently touched surfaces.
4. With kids, make sure vaccinations are up to do. The influenza vaccine is one that is highly important since it can help avoid the flu any time of the year.
By taking these steps you can help avoid that cold that could knock you out and keep you from work for a few days. As winter nears us, it's important that we keep our health in check.
1. If you or a loved one has a respiratory problem to begin with, such as asthma, make sure you are taking all medications necessary. This will help if you do catch a cold to lessen the harshness of the illness.
2. As always, wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. After every time you use the rest room, cook a meal and sneeze, you should be washing your hands to ensure that this cold doesn't spread, especially if you already show signs of a cold.
2. People who are already sick are the ones you should avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups and eating utensils with.
3. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces. This includes things from doorknobs, toys, Washing hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. A good cleaning around the house with disinfectant can help with any frequently touched surfaces.
4. With kids, make sure vaccinations are up to do. The influenza vaccine is one that is highly important since it can help avoid the flu any time of the year.
By taking these steps you can help avoid that cold that could knock you out and keep you from work for a few days. As winter nears us, it's important that we keep our health in check.
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
Prepare Your Home for Fall
Did you notice the leaves changing colors and you have slowly been adding more layers to your outfits? It's that time of the year again; the time where you dreadfully are aware that winter is upon us. Here are some ways you can prepare your home for fall.
1. It's important to always think of that one way you keep warm in your house every winter: the furnace. Without heat you are going to be pretty miserable, so to avoid being miserable look up your favorite professional that will inspect your furnace and provide you with the comfort in knowing you will stay warm and cozy this winter. It's always best to hire a professional instead of trying to inspect your furnace yourself so you know it is working as efficiently and effectively as possible.
2. One thing you can do for your furnace is change the filter. A fresh filter will help your furnace run smoothly as well.
3. If you have a fireplace, make sure you have a professional clean the chute and make sure nothing is clogging the fireplace as well. You will want your fireplace to produce a warm atmosphere, not a smoky and hazardous atmosphere.
4. Do a home safety check. This means checking all of the smoke and CO detectors, fire extinguishers should be full and get rid of any fire dangers such as old newspaper. Making your home as safe as possible should always be a priority. Your home needs to be prepared for fall before it becomes an issue.
5. Make sure outside is safe as well. Gutters can easily get clogged from all of the falling leaves as well as downspouts. You don't want to be dealing with anything outdoors such as your gutters when it's the middle of winter and a blizzard is blowing through.
6. Inspect your roof for any leaks, damage and corrossion. A faulty roof can be a huge problem in the winter time, so make sure that none of the summer storms caused any substantial damage.
These are just a few of the ways you can prepare your home for fall. Fall is a great time of the year and a time where you should be spending your time carving pumpkins, going to corn mazes and other fun events, not a time where you should be dealing with issues because you ignored them to begin with!
1. It's important to always think of that one way you keep warm in your house every winter: the furnace. Without heat you are going to be pretty miserable, so to avoid being miserable look up your favorite professional that will inspect your furnace and provide you with the comfort in knowing you will stay warm and cozy this winter. It's always best to hire a professional instead of trying to inspect your furnace yourself so you know it is working as efficiently and effectively as possible.
2. One thing you can do for your furnace is change the filter. A fresh filter will help your furnace run smoothly as well.
3. If you have a fireplace, make sure you have a professional clean the chute and make sure nothing is clogging the fireplace as well. You will want your fireplace to produce a warm atmosphere, not a smoky and hazardous atmosphere.
4. Do a home safety check. This means checking all of the smoke and CO detectors, fire extinguishers should be full and get rid of any fire dangers such as old newspaper. Making your home as safe as possible should always be a priority. Your home needs to be prepared for fall before it becomes an issue.
5. Make sure outside is safe as well. Gutters can easily get clogged from all of the falling leaves as well as downspouts. You don't want to be dealing with anything outdoors such as your gutters when it's the middle of winter and a blizzard is blowing through.
6. Inspect your roof for any leaks, damage and corrossion. A faulty roof can be a huge problem in the winter time, so make sure that none of the summer storms caused any substantial damage.
These are just a few of the ways you can prepare your home for fall. Fall is a great time of the year and a time where you should be spending your time carving pumpkins, going to corn mazes and other fun events, not a time where you should be dealing with issues because you ignored them to begin with!
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
Do you sleep walk?
Do you or somebody you know suffer from sleep walking? Sleep walking is a serious issue because it can cause harm. Although mostly children suffer from sleep walking, adults can also have the problem as well. Let's learn more about sleep walking.
Approximately 15% of children between 4-12 years of age will experience sleepwalking. Genetic tendencies could be the cause, but scientists are not positive that genetics have anything to do with sleep walking. It is also much more likely to occur if a person is sleep deprived because when they are sleep walking they remain in a deep sleep, so when someone is sleep deprived it makes it harder to wake them.
Most people do not remember sleep walking. Since it is a deep sleep, other complex behaviors can happen such as talking and sitting up in bed. Many people have been told not to wake a sleep walker as it could be dangerous, but it can be even more dangerous not to wake a sleep walker.
Between 1 and 15% of people sleep walk. There is no association with psychiatric or psychological problems, but common triggers include sleep deprivation, sedative agents, febrile illness and certain medications.
Sleep walkers might also experience:
American Down and Feather can help you find the best products to provide you with the best night of sleep possible! Contact us today.
Approximately 15% of children between 4-12 years of age will experience sleepwalking. Genetic tendencies could be the cause, but scientists are not positive that genetics have anything to do with sleep walking. It is also much more likely to occur if a person is sleep deprived because when they are sleep walking they remain in a deep sleep, so when someone is sleep deprived it makes it harder to wake them.
Most people do not remember sleep walking. Since it is a deep sleep, other complex behaviors can happen such as talking and sitting up in bed. Many people have been told not to wake a sleep walker as it could be dangerous, but it can be even more dangerous not to wake a sleep walker.
Between 1 and 15% of people sleep walk. There is no association with psychiatric or psychological problems, but common triggers include sleep deprivation, sedative agents, febrile illness and certain medications.
Sleep walkers might also experience:
- Sleeptalking
- Little or no memory of the event
- Difficulty arousing the sleepwalker during an episode
- Inappropriate behavior such as urinating in closets (more common in children)
- Screaming (when sleepwalking occurs in conjunction with sleep terrors)
American Down and Feather can help you find the best products to provide you with the best night of sleep possible! Contact us today.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
I'm sure you've heard of it by now - the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. It's a great way to raise money for a terrible disease and everyone is posting their videos up on Facebook. If you haven't seen them yet, a few great ones to watch are Mark Zuckerberg, Chris Pratt, Conan O'Brien and Bill Gates. Those are just some videos to give you a feel for what the Ice Bucket Challenge is although anybody can do it!
So what is ALS? ALS, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS eventually leads to death when the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. Patients in later stages may become totally paralyzed when voluntary muscle action is affected. Jean-Martin Charcot found the disease in 1869, but it wasn't brought to attention until 1939 when it ended the career of Lou Gehrig, a famous baseball player.
This disease does not have a cure which is why so many people have participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge. If you haven't, do the Ice Bucket Challenge, donate to http://www.alsa.org/about-als/ and upload your video to Facebook! Share with American Down and Feather so we can see them all!
So what is ALS? ALS, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS eventually leads to death when the ability of the brain to initiate and control muscle movement is lost. Patients in later stages may become totally paralyzed when voluntary muscle action is affected. Jean-Martin Charcot found the disease in 1869, but it wasn't brought to attention until 1939 when it ended the career of Lou Gehrig, a famous baseball player.
This disease does not have a cure which is why so many people have participated in the Ice Bucket Challenge. If you haven't, do the Ice Bucket Challenge, donate to http://www.alsa.org/about-als/ and upload your video to Facebook! Share with American Down and Feather so we can see them all!
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Why is Denver so great?
Denver, Colorado is known for many great things. Awesome outdoor activities, amazing weather, incredible craft beer and the economy is only improving. Let's talk more about what makes Denver such a great place for you.
1. If you like sports then Denver is the place for you. Not only does Denver have the great Broncos NFL team, but they actually do have four major sports teams including the Avalanche, Nuggets and Rockies. There's also two professional lacrosse teams to entertain you as well.
2. For music lovers, there is no better place to go for a concert than Red Rocks. Just a little outside of Denver, Red Rocks hosts many famous musicians as well as comedians, movies, work out groups and even church services.
3. The food is phenomenal. Denver is known for the green chili which is used makin hatch chiles from New Mexico and typically comes smothering a burrito or tamale.
4. Mentioned earlier, Denver is known for its craft beer. Many cities have the saying that you can't walk a block without running into a Starbucks or McDonalds, well in Denver the saying is that you cant walk a block without running into a brewery. You really can't go wrong with any of them either.
5. Just as there are breweries, there are parks as well! Denverites love to spend time outdoors and if they can't make it to the mountains there is still a numerous amount of parks that you can go to whether it's for a good workout, play some sports, have a picnic or just spend some time outside reading a book.
6. Love riding your bike? Denver has the Cherry Creek Bike Path which is a 40-mile route that starts Downtown Denver and goes all over to suburbs such as Aurora, Centennial and Parker.
Have you fallen in love with Denver yet?! If you haven't, consider the museums, the mountains that are oh-so-close, and the great variety of people that you'll meet. Denver is a mecca for greatness and will continue to be so as it grows. We're proud to be a Denver-based business!
1. If you like sports then Denver is the place for you. Not only does Denver have the great Broncos NFL team, but they actually do have four major sports teams including the Avalanche, Nuggets and Rockies. There's also two professional lacrosse teams to entertain you as well.
2. For music lovers, there is no better place to go for a concert than Red Rocks. Just a little outside of Denver, Red Rocks hosts many famous musicians as well as comedians, movies, work out groups and even church services.
3. The food is phenomenal. Denver is known for the green chili which is used makin hatch chiles from New Mexico and typically comes smothering a burrito or tamale.
4. Mentioned earlier, Denver is known for its craft beer. Many cities have the saying that you can't walk a block without running into a Starbucks or McDonalds, well in Denver the saying is that you cant walk a block without running into a brewery. You really can't go wrong with any of them either.
5. Just as there are breweries, there are parks as well! Denverites love to spend time outdoors and if they can't make it to the mountains there is still a numerous amount of parks that you can go to whether it's for a good workout, play some sports, have a picnic or just spend some time outside reading a book.
6. Love riding your bike? Denver has the Cherry Creek Bike Path which is a 40-mile route that starts Downtown Denver and goes all over to suburbs such as Aurora, Centennial and Parker.
Have you fallen in love with Denver yet?! If you haven't, consider the museums, the mountains that are oh-so-close, and the great variety of people that you'll meet. Denver is a mecca for greatness and will continue to be so as it grows. We're proud to be a Denver-based business!
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Cities with the most sleep
Everywhere you live there is a different lifestyle. Whether you live somewhere where people go on hikes after work or you live somewhere where you find there is nowhere to go spend time outside so you spend the time watching television. A new study just came out showing what cities get the most amount of sleep.
Jawbone, the makers of UP, which is a digitized wristband tracking how users move and sleep, released a new dataset to determine who gets the most sleep. Melbourne is where people get the most sleep with Tokyo getting the least amount of sleep. Overall, Americans just need more sleep overall.
Although Up users might not show are very accurate reading, it can show that people tend to need more sleep. What else did this study reveal?
People in areas with a large population like New York have a grid-routine where they get up early on weekdays, move little during the day and sleep in more on weekends. They go to bed later every weekday and go to sleep the earliest on Sundays. Orlando and Beijing there is a distinction between how users sleep on weekends and weekdays compared to places such as New York.
Do you think that where you live determines how much sleep you get every day?
Jawbone, the makers of UP, which is a digitized wristband tracking how users move and sleep, released a new dataset to determine who gets the most sleep. Melbourne is where people get the most sleep with Tokyo getting the least amount of sleep. Overall, Americans just need more sleep overall.
Although Up users might not show are very accurate reading, it can show that people tend to need more sleep. What else did this study reveal?
People in areas with a large population like New York have a grid-routine where they get up early on weekdays, move little during the day and sleep in more on weekends. They go to bed later every weekday and go to sleep the earliest on Sundays. Orlando and Beijing there is a distinction between how users sleep on weekends and weekdays compared to places such as New York.
Do you think that where you live determines how much sleep you get every day?
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Waking up Sore
You know there has been at least one time that you have woken up after a whole night of sleeping full of aches and pains. Waking up sore is a terrible feeling and there are many reasons for you to wake up feeling sore. Here are some of those reasons you might be waking up sore.
1. Illness is largely a reason to wake up sore, or to feel sore in general. When you come down with a cold or the flu your body is trying to fight to get you back to healthy mode. This means your body is never fully resting, hence the feeling of being sore when you wake up.
2. Exercise can oftentimes cause you to wake up feeling sore as well. Although this is a soreness that you generally feel great about, it can be annoying to feel sore after having a great workout session. This soreness will go away once your body gets used to you working out.
3. Anxiety can also cause you to wake up feeling sore. Many of us suffer from anxiety for a wide variety of reasons such as our jobs, finances, relationships and more. Anxiety can cause your muscles to tighten up, giving you a sore feeling after a night of sleep.
4. An underlying disease can also cause soreness in the morning. Fibromyalgia is a common cause of soreness, which is a chronic widespread pain that a doctor can help you diagnose. A vitamin deficiency and sleep disorders can also cause you to wake up not feeling well rested.
If you are consistently waking up sore, talking to your doctor is the best way to go about solving the problem at hand. It could be any one of the issues stated above, but before you jump to conclusions analyze your daily routine and see if you can find what could be causing the issue to begin with.
1. Illness is largely a reason to wake up sore, or to feel sore in general. When you come down with a cold or the flu your body is trying to fight to get you back to healthy mode. This means your body is never fully resting, hence the feeling of being sore when you wake up.
2. Exercise can oftentimes cause you to wake up feeling sore as well. Although this is a soreness that you generally feel great about, it can be annoying to feel sore after having a great workout session. This soreness will go away once your body gets used to you working out.
3. Anxiety can also cause you to wake up feeling sore. Many of us suffer from anxiety for a wide variety of reasons such as our jobs, finances, relationships and more. Anxiety can cause your muscles to tighten up, giving you a sore feeling after a night of sleep.
4. An underlying disease can also cause soreness in the morning. Fibromyalgia is a common cause of soreness, which is a chronic widespread pain that a doctor can help you diagnose. A vitamin deficiency and sleep disorders can also cause you to wake up not feeling well rested.
If you are consistently waking up sore, talking to your doctor is the best way to go about solving the problem at hand. It could be any one of the issues stated above, but before you jump to conclusions analyze your daily routine and see if you can find what could be causing the issue to begin with.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Great Apps to Improve your Sleep
We're all attached to our phones. I know it sounds crazy, but it's true. We use our phones for work, to keep in touch with long distance family and friends, check our social media accounts and play games. Maybe you also use your phone to track your nutrition, read the news and for your daily routines. Another reason to use your phone is to help improve your sleep. Here is a list of great apps to improve your sleep.
1. Sleep Cycle Alarm Clock. We've all heard it a million times: getting into a sleep cycle is one of the best ways to ensure you feel well rested. This app analyzes and graphs your sleep quality, lets you add sleep notes and wakes up at your lightest sleep time by using soft tones to wake you. Now doesn't that sound great?! For the real deal, it'll cost you 99 cents, but you can find trial apps and ones like it for free.
2. Sleep. By using soothing lullabies and relaxing music, this app will help release all of the tensions from the day and relax your mind. This one also costs 99 cents.
3. Feeling like an insomniac? Insomnia Cure has all of the information you need to help battle insomnia from learning tips and tools that will help you form a stress-free natural sleep. A little more costly, but rated highly, this will cost you $2.99.
4. Sleep Pillow. This white noise app has 70 high-quality sounds such as bubbling streams, wind chimes, rain and much more. You can mix any of these into personalized combinations to help calm you into a great sleep. This app runs at $1.99, with a trial run that is free!
These four apps will help you improve your sleep, all at a cost lower than trying a new thing and having it not work for you. Everybody has their own method to improving their sleep, finding what works best for you is the sure way to do it! Keep in mind most of these apps do offer free trial periods, so you don't have to buy until you know that's what you want. Happy sleeping!
1. Sleep Cycle Alarm Clock. We've all heard it a million times: getting into a sleep cycle is one of the best ways to ensure you feel well rested. This app analyzes and graphs your sleep quality, lets you add sleep notes and wakes up at your lightest sleep time by using soft tones to wake you. Now doesn't that sound great?! For the real deal, it'll cost you 99 cents, but you can find trial apps and ones like it for free.
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| photo credit: http://www.justbedding.com.au/blog/could-your-iphone-help-you-to-sleep-better/ |
2. Sleep. By using soothing lullabies and relaxing music, this app will help release all of the tensions from the day and relax your mind. This one also costs 99 cents.
3. Feeling like an insomniac? Insomnia Cure has all of the information you need to help battle insomnia from learning tips and tools that will help you form a stress-free natural sleep. A little more costly, but rated highly, this will cost you $2.99.
4. Sleep Pillow. This white noise app has 70 high-quality sounds such as bubbling streams, wind chimes, rain and much more. You can mix any of these into personalized combinations to help calm you into a great sleep. This app runs at $1.99, with a trial run that is free!
These four apps will help you improve your sleep, all at a cost lower than trying a new thing and having it not work for you. Everybody has their own method to improving their sleep, finding what works best for you is the sure way to do it! Keep in mind most of these apps do offer free trial periods, so you don't have to buy until you know that's what you want. Happy sleeping!
Monday, July 28, 2014
Lack of Sleep Hurts Memory
Have you ever found yourself struggling to remember certain things when you've had a rough night of sleep? A recent study shows that lack of sleep can hurt your memory. Misidentifications are thought to be the leading cause of wrongful convictions in areas such as criminal justice in the U.S.
People are getting less sleep each night than they ever have before, which is causing for these issues. Participants in the study who were kept awake for 24 hours, or got five or fewer hours of sleep, were more likely to mix up event details than those who were well rested. Memory distortion is more likely to form in people who repeatedly get low amounts of sleep every night.
Lack of sleep can hurt your memory, making it even more important that you get your full night of sleep every night. American Down and Feather can help you by providing you with comfortable pillows, comforters and more! Contact us today to learn about our products.
People are getting less sleep each night than they ever have before, which is causing for these issues. Participants in the study who were kept awake for 24 hours, or got five or fewer hours of sleep, were more likely to mix up event details than those who were well rested. Memory distortion is more likely to form in people who repeatedly get low amounts of sleep every night.
Lack of sleep can hurt your memory, making it even more important that you get your full night of sleep every night. American Down and Feather can help you by providing you with comfortable pillows, comforters and more! Contact us today to learn about our products.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Sleep Disorders Raise Risk of Alzheimer's
A recent study has shown that sleep disorders might increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Copenhagen is set to introduce the findings over six days.
Sleep plays a crucial role in the aging brain's health. Those who have been diagnosed with sleep disorders are 30 percent more likely to suffer dementia than those without sleep disorder issues.
Alzheimer's has been a growing diseases as it affects more than 5 million Americans and the number is expected to continue to rise to 16 million people by 2050.
Read more about Alzheimer's and sleep disorders being related here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/sleep-disorders-may-raise-risk-of-alzheimers-new-research-shows/2014/07/13/acce3d9e-0a09-11e4-a0dd-f2b22a257353_story.html.
Sleep plays a crucial role in the aging brain's health. Those who have been diagnosed with sleep disorders are 30 percent more likely to suffer dementia than those without sleep disorder issues.
Alzheimer's has been a growing diseases as it affects more than 5 million Americans and the number is expected to continue to rise to 16 million people by 2050.
Read more about Alzheimer's and sleep disorders being related here: http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/sleep-disorders-may-raise-risk-of-alzheimers-new-research-shows/2014/07/13/acce3d9e-0a09-11e4-a0dd-f2b22a257353_story.html.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
The History of Sleep Pillows
It's something you have probably never, ever thought about. The history of sleep pillows. You lay your head down, go to sleep and that's it. Maybe you consider how much money you want to spend on that pillow, but have you ever thought about where pillows originate from? Well, after reading this you will be able to educate all of your friends with the history of sleep pillows!
Wealthy men in Asia were the first to actually use pillows. Using sophisticated dyes and sewing techniques made the pillows to be viewed as prized commodities in China and Persia, later followed by Medieval Europe. Ancient Asian cultures believed that a soft pillow would steal energy from your body while you slept, so they used hard pillow blocks with a half-moon cut out for the neck.
A traditional Chinese pillow are hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal or porcelain. Stone blocks kept the head off the ground and prevented bugs from entering your ears.
In England pillows were used by women giving birth, and only by them. King Henry VIII banned the use of pillows because they were seen as a status symbol. The Industrial Revolution provided a high rise in decorated pillows as they became more affordable with mass production. These pillows can still be found and purchased in antique shops.
So if you are ever thinking that your "soft" pillow just isn't soft enough, consider an ancient pillow used of stone. Or if you're worried about bugs getting in your ears, know that stone is the way to go. Although American Down and Feather does not carry any stone pillows, we can find the perfect pillow for you!
Wealthy men in Asia were the first to actually use pillows. Using sophisticated dyes and sewing techniques made the pillows to be viewed as prized commodities in China and Persia, later followed by Medieval Europe. Ancient Asian cultures believed that a soft pillow would steal energy from your body while you slept, so they used hard pillow blocks with a half-moon cut out for the neck.
A traditional Chinese pillow are hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal or porcelain. Stone blocks kept the head off the ground and prevented bugs from entering your ears.
In England pillows were used by women giving birth, and only by them. King Henry VIII banned the use of pillows because they were seen as a status symbol. The Industrial Revolution provided a high rise in decorated pillows as they became more affordable with mass production. These pillows can still be found and purchased in antique shops.
So if you are ever thinking that your "soft" pillow just isn't soft enough, consider an ancient pillow used of stone. Or if you're worried about bugs getting in your ears, know that stone is the way to go. Although American Down and Feather does not carry any stone pillows, we can find the perfect pillow for you!
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Pillows
were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia. They were also
found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes
and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form,
with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China
and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows
became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men
should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of
decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows
are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead
of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of
stone. - See more at:
http://www.pillowloft.com/pillow-facts/fun-facts-about-pillows#sthash.obrtqKzx.dpuf
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
What are YOUR fourth of July plans?
The fourth is just in a few short days. It's a great holiday meant for spending time with family and friends, grilling, being by a body of water and soaking up the sun. It's also popular for watching a fireworks show! What are your fourth of July plans? Here are some ideas if you're looking for things to do this upcoming holiday.
If you're a baseball fan, The Rockies always play a fourth of July game with fireworks to follow. Although the tickets are more than a typical game it's a great way to spend the day outside with a good group of people and seeing fireworks before the night is over.
Cherry Creek North has an arts festival with international art, fun games for kids, music dance and theater. It's a great opportunity for you to let out the artsy side of you. The event is free so it's even something that won't destroy your budget!
Music lovers can go to one of the best venues in America for some music on the fourth. Sugar Ray, Uncle Cracker and Smash Mouth are set to perform at Red Rocks on the fourth. Red Rocks concerts can be more on the pricy side.
Theme parks are even celebrating the fourth with a fireworks show at Elitch Gardens. Not only is this great if you love roller coasters and other thrilling rides but they also have water slides to keep you cool! Tickets start at $34.99.
There are numerous amounts of parades all throughout Denver and the suburbs. Look in your local newspaper or search online to find times of parades!
There you have it. If there isn't something here that you will enjoy, maybe a day out in the wilderness is perfect for you, or catching a new movie! Spend your fourth of July in a way that it will be remembered. Happy Fourth of July!
If you're a baseball fan, The Rockies always play a fourth of July game with fireworks to follow. Although the tickets are more than a typical game it's a great way to spend the day outside with a good group of people and seeing fireworks before the night is over.
Cherry Creek North has an arts festival with international art, fun games for kids, music dance and theater. It's a great opportunity for you to let out the artsy side of you. The event is free so it's even something that won't destroy your budget!
Music lovers can go to one of the best venues in America for some music on the fourth. Sugar Ray, Uncle Cracker and Smash Mouth are set to perform at Red Rocks on the fourth. Red Rocks concerts can be more on the pricy side.
Theme parks are even celebrating the fourth with a fireworks show at Elitch Gardens. Not only is this great if you love roller coasters and other thrilling rides but they also have water slides to keep you cool! Tickets start at $34.99.
There are numerous amounts of parades all throughout Denver and the suburbs. Look in your local newspaper or search online to find times of parades!
There you have it. If there isn't something here that you will enjoy, maybe a day out in the wilderness is perfect for you, or catching a new movie! Spend your fourth of July in a way that it will be remembered. Happy Fourth of July!
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
How to Choose a Pillow
Pillows. They're the last thing you feel before you fall asleep. Since we spend a third of our lives sleeping, it's important that you have a pillow that is comfortable and provides you with a great night of sleep. Here are some tips on choosing a pillow:
First, determine what your sleeping position is. Do you sleep on your back, side or stomach? The way you sleep is going to give you an idea of the firmness the pillow needs to be. Back sleepers need medium support that provides the perfect position for your head and neck. Side sleepers need firm pillows that will provide an even sleeping surface. Stomach sleepers should have a soft pillow to ensure that the head and neck stays at a natural and comfortable angle. If you find you change your sleeping position throughout the night the best route is a medium pillow that can fit all positions.
Decide what you would like the fill to be. If you are concerned about any allergies, avoid down and feather as they can cause an allergic reaction. There are plenty of alternatives when it comes to pillow fill.
Did you know that there are multiple pillow sizes to choose from? Just like a bed, pillows come in a variety of sizes. Typical sizes are standard, queen, king and Euro. Euro sizes are square and are typically pillows that you don't sleep on, they're there for looks. King pillows and long and require a king size pillow case, perfect for king size beds. Queen pillows go well with a full or queen bed, using a standard pillow case. Standard pillows work well on twin beds or with two on a full or queen bed.
Now that you know a little more about pillows it will be easier for you to know which route to take when you are choosing a pillow.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
How Exercise Benefits Your Sleep
You've heard it before: exercise has many great benefits for your mind and your body. It's easier said than done to get off that couch and get exercising. Exercise benefits your sleep in many ways, making you feel more energetic and positive every day. Here are some ways that exercise benefits your sleep.
1. Researches say that people who exercise on a regular basis report better quality of sleep. This is because your body is burning calories and energy, causing you to feel more relaxed and tired at the end of the day.
2. Exercise boosts your mood and causes less sleepiness during the day. Many people find working out in the morning helps them stay awake throughout the day rather than rolling out of bed and going to work.
3. Depressive symptoms are reported in fewer people who exercise. Depression can cause many sleep issues, therefore if a person exercises they are less likely to feel depressed and lose out on valuable sleep time.
4. When you sleep better you are more willing and able to get up in the morning and exercise. A great night of sleep can equal to a great morning with a work out to help you start your day correctly.
5. Exercise benefits your sleep because your body feels healthier and your metabolism is on the right track as well. When you feel healthy, your body is healthy and you are able to sleep better.
All in all, exercise and sleep go hand in hand. If you want a great night's sleep, get some exercise is. Exercise does not have to be something you force yourself to do, even going on a morning walk through the park can be just what you need!
1. Researches say that people who exercise on a regular basis report better quality of sleep. This is because your body is burning calories and energy, causing you to feel more relaxed and tired at the end of the day.
2. Exercise boosts your mood and causes less sleepiness during the day. Many people find working out in the morning helps them stay awake throughout the day rather than rolling out of bed and going to work.
3. Depressive symptoms are reported in fewer people who exercise. Depression can cause many sleep issues, therefore if a person exercises they are less likely to feel depressed and lose out on valuable sleep time.
4. When you sleep better you are more willing and able to get up in the morning and exercise. A great night of sleep can equal to a great morning with a work out to help you start your day correctly.
5. Exercise benefits your sleep because your body feels healthier and your metabolism is on the right track as well. When you feel healthy, your body is healthy and you are able to sleep better.
All in all, exercise and sleep go hand in hand. If you want a great night's sleep, get some exercise is. Exercise does not have to be something you force yourself to do, even going on a morning walk through the park can be just what you need!
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Why am I still tired?
Did you wake up after eight hours of sleep only to still feel tired? It's something everyone deals with almost every day. Our bodies feel tired, your brain feels like it never stopped and all you want to do is lay in bed all day, right? There are many reasons why you might be feeling tired even after a full night of sleep.
Fatigue affects everyone at some point in their life. Lack of sleep is one of the main reasons you will still feel tired. About one third of us deal with insomnia, a serious sleep issue that causes it hard for you to get to sleep or to stay asleep. You might think eight hours is enough sleep for you, but you might need to adjust the amount of hours you sleep for.
The food you eat before bed, or lack of food you eat, can also cause you to still feel tired. By not eating enough or eating the wrong foods, your energy levels will fluctuate throughout the day and by the end of the day when it's time to go to bed you will find it hard to get that sleep.
Depression has a large affect on your sleep as well. Known for causing emotional pain, depression also causes physical pain as well. Lack of sleep can be a sign of poor mental health, something that you should seek medical advice for.
There are many health issues that can also cause you to still feel tired. Diabetes, heart disease, urinary tract infections, underactive thyroid and anemia are just some of the examples when health issues can harm your sleep.
It is important that if you are experiencing a continuous period where you are feeling tired and down that you seek medical advice to find the cause. We all have crazy lives where sleep might not be at the top of your list, however it is important that you are well rested so you can carry on with your life.
Fatigue affects everyone at some point in their life. Lack of sleep is one of the main reasons you will still feel tired. About one third of us deal with insomnia, a serious sleep issue that causes it hard for you to get to sleep or to stay asleep. You might think eight hours is enough sleep for you, but you might need to adjust the amount of hours you sleep for.
The food you eat before bed, or lack of food you eat, can also cause you to still feel tired. By not eating enough or eating the wrong foods, your energy levels will fluctuate throughout the day and by the end of the day when it's time to go to bed you will find it hard to get that sleep.
Depression has a large affect on your sleep as well. Known for causing emotional pain, depression also causes physical pain as well. Lack of sleep can be a sign of poor mental health, something that you should seek medical advice for.
There are many health issues that can also cause you to still feel tired. Diabetes, heart disease, urinary tract infections, underactive thyroid and anemia are just some of the examples when health issues can harm your sleep.
It is important that if you are experiencing a continuous period where you are feeling tired and down that you seek medical advice to find the cause. We all have crazy lives where sleep might not be at the top of your list, however it is important that you are well rested so you can carry on with your life.
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Sleeping in Summer Heat
The 90+ degree days are upon us, which means there's plenty of time to be spent outside. This also means you are going to worn down a lot quicker and feel the need to hit the pillow earlier every night. However, when it's so warm and you don't want to crank the air conditioning, how can you possibly fall asleep?! Here are some ways to help you sleep comfortably in the summer heat.
1. Keep your windows and shades closed during the day. At night, open as many as possible.
2. Change your sheets to materials that retain less heat. Light colored, lightweight cotton is a perfect example for this.
3. Adjust fans to run counter-clockwise to pull the hot air up.
4. Wear loose-fitting clothes. Or don't wear any clothes at all.
5. Take a cool shower right before bed.
6. Sleep on lower levels.
These six tips will help you sleep comfortably in the summer heat. You will find the best way possible for you to sleep, whether it is taking a shower, having lighter sheets or adjusting the fans. Happy sleeping!
1. Keep your windows and shades closed during the day. At night, open as many as possible.
2. Change your sheets to materials that retain less heat. Light colored, lightweight cotton is a perfect example for this.
3. Adjust fans to run counter-clockwise to pull the hot air up.
4. Wear loose-fitting clothes. Or don't wear any clothes at all.
5. Take a cool shower right before bed.
6. Sleep on lower levels.
These six tips will help you sleep comfortably in the summer heat. You will find the best way possible for you to sleep, whether it is taking a shower, having lighter sheets or adjusting the fans. Happy sleeping!
Thursday, May 29, 2014
How much sleep do you need?
Ever wonder what the magic number is for being able to wake up and feel completely refreshed, ready to start your day? Typically, we'll quote that we need eight hours of sleep every night to get this refreshed, revitalized feeling. However, the amount of sleep you need depends on one thing: you.
Every person is going to feel differently after they get six, eight, ten or another amount of hours of sleep. This is what makes it hard to figure out how much sleep you need. Age, lifestyle and health are just some of the factors that contribute to the amount of sleep you need every night. By understanding sleep and your body you will be able to find that perfect amount so you don't wake up tired or like you overslept.
The average adult sleeps less than seven hours per night, according to the National Institutes of Health. Most healthy adults need between seven and a half to nine hours of sleep every night to function at their best. However, this does depend on your health, age and lifestyle. That's why there is such a large gap between seven and half hours and nine hours of sleep. Some of us might feel that nine hours is perfect, while others might think seven and a half is the perfect amount for them.
So how do you figure out the right amount for you? Take a look at your typical day, where you get up and go to bed around the same time. If you got enough sleep the night before, you should feel alert and ready to go for the entire day. If you're feeling slow and dragging on your day, you didn't get enough sleep.
Take it as a step by step process. Every day consider how much you slept and how tired you feel throughout the day. That night, add more or less time to your sleep, depending on how your day went. Eventually you will find a good number of hours that is optimal for you.
Every person is going to vary with their sleep schedule and amount of sleep they need. Just because someone says that you need eight hours doesn't mean you need eight hours. Take the time to understand your sleep needs and you will find yourself being able to function throughout your entire day.
Every person is going to feel differently after they get six, eight, ten or another amount of hours of sleep. This is what makes it hard to figure out how much sleep you need. Age, lifestyle and health are just some of the factors that contribute to the amount of sleep you need every night. By understanding sleep and your body you will be able to find that perfect amount so you don't wake up tired or like you overslept.
The average adult sleeps less than seven hours per night, according to the National Institutes of Health. Most healthy adults need between seven and a half to nine hours of sleep every night to function at their best. However, this does depend on your health, age and lifestyle. That's why there is such a large gap between seven and half hours and nine hours of sleep. Some of us might feel that nine hours is perfect, while others might think seven and a half is the perfect amount for them.
So how do you figure out the right amount for you? Take a look at your typical day, where you get up and go to bed around the same time. If you got enough sleep the night before, you should feel alert and ready to go for the entire day. If you're feeling slow and dragging on your day, you didn't get enough sleep.
Take it as a step by step process. Every day consider how much you slept and how tired you feel throughout the day. That night, add more or less time to your sleep, depending on how your day went. Eventually you will find a good number of hours that is optimal for you.
Every person is going to vary with their sleep schedule and amount of sleep they need. Just because someone says that you need eight hours doesn't mean you need eight hours. Take the time to understand your sleep needs and you will find yourself being able to function throughout your entire day.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Memorial Day Fun Facts
Memorial Day is upon us. It's a day where we get together with friends and family, grill out, spend time outside and have a great time. Here are some Memorial Day fun facts for you to impress your family and friends with.
1. It is always celebrated on the last Monday in May.
2. Waterloo, New York is the birthplace of Memorial Day.
3. We celebrate Memorial Day to remember those who died in any war while serving with the United States.
4. Congress passed a law in 2000 for Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.
5. Over 35 million Americans will travel over Memorial Day.
6. Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day.
7. The American flag is raised to the top of the staff and then lowered to half-staff until noon, where it is the raised full-staff for the rest of the day.
Now when you are bar-b-queuing on Memorial Day, you can think of these Memorial Day fun facts and spend some time remembering those who have fallen and thank the ones that are around you. Happy Memorial Day, have a safe and fun holiday!
1. It is always celebrated on the last Monday in May.
2. Waterloo, New York is the birthplace of Memorial Day.
3. We celebrate Memorial Day to remember those who died in any war while serving with the United States.
4. Congress passed a law in 2000 for Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and honor the fallen.
5. Over 35 million Americans will travel over Memorial Day.
6. Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day.
7. The American flag is raised to the top of the staff and then lowered to half-staff until noon, where it is the raised full-staff for the rest of the day.
Now when you are bar-b-queuing on Memorial Day, you can think of these Memorial Day fun facts and spend some time remembering those who have fallen and thank the ones that are around you. Happy Memorial Day, have a safe and fun holiday!
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Eating Before Bed
You've had those nights where you stay up later than usual and find yourself hungry. So you go to the fridge, grab whatever you have and chow down, then head to bed. You don't think anything of it, but by eating right before bed you are harming your sleep and your health at the same time.
Why does eating before bed hurt your sleep? When you eat before bed you can develop insomnia. Insomnia is the most common sleep complaint among Americans, and often times it is caused because you ate too much before you went to bed.
Eating before bed also causes heartburn. Lying down after you eat causes the acidic contents of what you ate to go back up into your esophagus, creating a burning sensation in your chest.
You might notice weight gain if you continuously eat before bed. Oftentimes what you eat before bed is not healthy and is snack foods such as chips and cookies. It's easy to overeat these snack foods, causing you to gain more weight.
You can avoid these problems not by going to bed hungry. Having a light evening snack that has carbohydrates and protein will help to promote calmness instead of harming your sleep. Avoid highly spicy and garlic-flavored foods later in the day and do not eat highly acidic or fatty foods to avoid heartburn.
Eating before bed does not mean you have to go to bed hungry. By watching what you eat and avoiding certain types of food before bed you will have less of a risk of disrupting your sleep and harming your overall health.
Why does eating before bed hurt your sleep? When you eat before bed you can develop insomnia. Insomnia is the most common sleep complaint among Americans, and often times it is caused because you ate too much before you went to bed.
Eating before bed also causes heartburn. Lying down after you eat causes the acidic contents of what you ate to go back up into your esophagus, creating a burning sensation in your chest.
You might notice weight gain if you continuously eat before bed. Oftentimes what you eat before bed is not healthy and is snack foods such as chips and cookies. It's easy to overeat these snack foods, causing you to gain more weight.
You can avoid these problems not by going to bed hungry. Having a light evening snack that has carbohydrates and protein will help to promote calmness instead of harming your sleep. Avoid highly spicy and garlic-flavored foods later in the day and do not eat highly acidic or fatty foods to avoid heartburn.
Eating before bed does not mean you have to go to bed hungry. By watching what you eat and avoiding certain types of food before bed you will have less of a risk of disrupting your sleep and harming your overall health.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
How Does Alcohol Affect Your Sleep?
After a night of drinking it might be easy to crawl into bed and immediately fall asleep. You feel like you fall asleep and don't wake up for eight or so hours, yet when you do wake up you feel like you slept for half an hour. Why is this? How does alcohol affect your sleep?
Alcohol is sometimes known as a "night cap," but too many drinks and that alcohol is going to interfere with your normal sleep process. You skip the first stage of sleep and go right into a deep sleep. Deep sleep is meant to help the body restore itself, however since you are skipping the light sleep, once the alcohol starts to wear off you are going to get into the light sleep, waking up easier.
So even though you get that deep sleep right away you are going to find yourself waking up more consistantly.
You are also going to find that if you drink a lot, you have to get up more frequently to use the toilet. Since alcohol is a diuretic, the body is trying to lose the extra fluid so you are going to sweat more and become dehydrated.
Ever felt so relaxed after a night of drinking? Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your body, including your throat, mouth and nose. This makes air flowing smoothly a difficult process, causing you to snore more loudly, often waking you up.
Avoiding alcohol too close to bedtime can help give your body time to process all of the alcohol before you go to sleep. It typically takes an hour to process one unit of alcohol.
By avoiding alcohol before bed, you are going to have a more restful sleep and you will find that you will wake up more refreshed than if you were to continue drinking right until you went to bed. Alcohol affects your sleep and can harm you overall health.
Alcohol is sometimes known as a "night cap," but too many drinks and that alcohol is going to interfere with your normal sleep process. You skip the first stage of sleep and go right into a deep sleep. Deep sleep is meant to help the body restore itself, however since you are skipping the light sleep, once the alcohol starts to wear off you are going to get into the light sleep, waking up easier.
So even though you get that deep sleep right away you are going to find yourself waking up more consistantly.
You are also going to find that if you drink a lot, you have to get up more frequently to use the toilet. Since alcohol is a diuretic, the body is trying to lose the extra fluid so you are going to sweat more and become dehydrated.
Ever felt so relaxed after a night of drinking? Alcohol relaxes the muscles in your body, including your throat, mouth and nose. This makes air flowing smoothly a difficult process, causing you to snore more loudly, often waking you up.
Avoiding alcohol too close to bedtime can help give your body time to process all of the alcohol before you go to sleep. It typically takes an hour to process one unit of alcohol.
By avoiding alcohol before bed, you are going to have a more restful sleep and you will find that you will wake up more refreshed than if you were to continue drinking right until you went to bed. Alcohol affects your sleep and can harm you overall health.
Wednesday, April 30, 2014
Brand Name versus Non-Brand Name
How many times have you opted out of a brand name product and found the results to be substantially better than you expected? This might not happen every time you decide to purchase something other than brand name, but it happens more than you would think. There is comfort in buying brand name, but that doesn't always mean that you will be comfortable with the product. Take brand name beds for example.
Many people have noticed that certain brand name beds do not seem to last the expected amount of time they are given. Although this can be the case when it comes to non-brand name as well, if so many people have experienced poor quality products, then why do they continue to purchase them? It's simple. Brand names have the marketing, advertising and promoting ability to make their products look more outstanding than others. If you see a commercial a million times that name sticks with you more than a name that you hear once. It's common sense.
Brand names have the capability to put their name in front of your face. This does not mean that their product is the only, or the best, product out there. Non-brand names can be just as well, if not better, built as a brand name product.
The best thing for you to do: research. Google is a powerful tool, and although you will see those brand names at the top (paid advertising!!), reading blogs and forums can help guide you in purchasing the right product for you, not the right product with the brand name that sounds the best. If you are looking for quality bedding and soft products, American Down and Feather guarantees your satisfaction and we will help you find what is best for you.
Many people have noticed that certain brand name beds do not seem to last the expected amount of time they are given. Although this can be the case when it comes to non-brand name as well, if so many people have experienced poor quality products, then why do they continue to purchase them? It's simple. Brand names have the marketing, advertising and promoting ability to make their products look more outstanding than others. If you see a commercial a million times that name sticks with you more than a name that you hear once. It's common sense.
Brand names have the capability to put their name in front of your face. This does not mean that their product is the only, or the best, product out there. Non-brand names can be just as well, if not better, built as a brand name product.
The best thing for you to do: research. Google is a powerful tool, and although you will see those brand names at the top (paid advertising!!), reading blogs and forums can help guide you in purchasing the right product for you, not the right product with the brand name that sounds the best. If you are looking for quality bedding and soft products, American Down and Feather guarantees your satisfaction and we will help you find what is best for you.
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
How to Clean your Down and Feather
Spring allergies can be a pain in the butt, but what is worse than waking up in the morning with scratchy eyes and itchy skin caused by your comforter or pillow? Overtime, dust mites can accumulate in your bedding, something that over 20 million Americans suffer from. By cleaning your down and feather products you are going to reduce your allergies and sleep comfortably! Here's how you can clean your down and feather at home without them getting destroyed.
Remove pillowcases and duvet coverings. Ensure that all seams and stitching are tight and that everything is in pristine condition. You do not want to have any fill spilling out of the bedding before you throw it into the washer to properly clean your down and feather.
Don't overfill the washer. A typical washer can hold a comforter or two pillows, but a comforter and one pillow is too much. Use a tiny amount of laundry detergent. Since you are using fluffy products, it is easy for the washer to over-foam with too much detergent, so use less than you would if you were doing a load of clothing. Use the gentle cycle on your washer to prevent the items from getting ripped or unbalanced.
By using a high heat hotter than 130 degrees Fahrenheit in the dryer you are going to kill dust mites and get rid of those morning allergies. However, if you are concerned about color fading dry the bedding at the hottest dryer setting, which will be lower than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also hang your bedding on a clothesline on a nice summer day to avoid any high temperatures or risk of fading colors.
Which ever way you decide to dry your bedding, take the time to break up clumps of bedding so that it can dry properly. As always, follow the instructions on the bedding for proper cleaning and maintenance to be sure that you clean your down and feather properly.
Remove pillowcases and duvet coverings. Ensure that all seams and stitching are tight and that everything is in pristine condition. You do not want to have any fill spilling out of the bedding before you throw it into the washer to properly clean your down and feather.
Don't overfill the washer. A typical washer can hold a comforter or two pillows, but a comforter and one pillow is too much. Use a tiny amount of laundry detergent. Since you are using fluffy products, it is easy for the washer to over-foam with too much detergent, so use less than you would if you were doing a load of clothing. Use the gentle cycle on your washer to prevent the items from getting ripped or unbalanced.
By using a high heat hotter than 130 degrees Fahrenheit in the dryer you are going to kill dust mites and get rid of those morning allergies. However, if you are concerned about color fading dry the bedding at the hottest dryer setting, which will be lower than 130 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also hang your bedding on a clothesline on a nice summer day to avoid any high temperatures or risk of fading colors.
Which ever way you decide to dry your bedding, take the time to break up clumps of bedding so that it can dry properly. As always, follow the instructions on the bedding for proper cleaning and maintenance to be sure that you clean your down and feather properly.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Repairing your Soft Products
After years of use, your comforter, upholstery and other soft products are going to become worn down and old. Those beloved materials can only withstand time for so long, so what are you to do when you get to that dreaded point of deciding whether to throw them away or repair them? Repairing your soft products does not have to be time consuming or a hassle.
At American Down and Feather we have the tools and means to repair your soft products. A repair could mean replacing old fill that has become flat, fix leaks, make a new cover or even completely change the size of your soft product.
Repairing your soft products requires you to send your product to us and we will do what is necessary to make your product just like brand new. Using quality polyester fibers we can blow over 1200 pounds an hour of blowable fiber.
If you have products that require a repair we will work with you to fit your price desires and product needs. Contact us at 1.866.601.3696 today to discuss repairing your soft products!
Repairing your soft products requires you to send your product to us and we will do what is necessary to make your product just like brand new. Using quality polyester fibers we can blow over 1200 pounds an hour of blowable fiber.
If you have products that require a repair we will work with you to fit your price desires and product needs. Contact us at 1.866.601.3696 today to discuss repairing your soft products!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
What is Polyester?
The material in your bedding is an important part of what makes your bed comfortable for you. There are a wide variety of materials that can be included, polyester being one of them. Polyester is different than a lot of the materials, here's how:
1. Many people mistake polyester and silk because both fabrics are sheen and silky. Silk is a natural fiber and polyester is a man-made product that was created from chemicals. Both are used to make clothing and other such items, but you will be able to tell the difference between the two of them, such as polyester does not have any flaws whereas silk can have tiny flaws in the material.
2. Polyester has naturally occurring chemicals such as cutin. It also has synthetics that can be biodegradable, although not all are.
3. Polymer units are linked by ester groups to create a synthetic resin for polyester. This is what creates the fibers in the material.
4. Polyester is extremely strong and durable. It is resistant to most chemicals, will not stretch or shrink and is resistant to mildew.
5. This material is very quick drying, which makes it excellent for unslation.
6. It is often used in outdoor clothing and gear because it will retain its shape and is great for harsh climates.
7. Polyester is one of the easiest types of material to wash and dry. Most of the time it can be washed and dried without any hassles.
Polyester is a great material and provides a great level of comfort. We provide many polyester bedding products. Go to www.americandownandfeather.com to learn more.
1. Many people mistake polyester and silk because both fabrics are sheen and silky. Silk is a natural fiber and polyester is a man-made product that was created from chemicals. Both are used to make clothing and other such items, but you will be able to tell the difference between the two of them, such as polyester does not have any flaws whereas silk can have tiny flaws in the material.
2. Polyester has naturally occurring chemicals such as cutin. It also has synthetics that can be biodegradable, although not all are.
3. Polymer units are linked by ester groups to create a synthetic resin for polyester. This is what creates the fibers in the material.
4. Polyester is extremely strong and durable. It is resistant to most chemicals, will not stretch or shrink and is resistant to mildew.
5. This material is very quick drying, which makes it excellent for unslation.
6. It is often used in outdoor clothing and gear because it will retain its shape and is great for harsh climates.
7. Polyester is one of the easiest types of material to wash and dry. Most of the time it can be washed and dried without any hassles.
Polyester is a great material and provides a great level of comfort. We provide many polyester bedding products. Go to www.americandownandfeather.com to learn more.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Spring Clean Your Room!
Now that it's spring time, baseball is back, the snow is melting and you no longer have to wear multiple layers of clothing. Here are some tips for thoroughly spring cleaning your room.
First off, get all of your cleaning supplies ready. Window cleaner, furniture polish, floor cleaner, etc. are just a few examples of the type of cleaning supplies you might want. Ensure that all of your cleaning supplies will not irritate your skin and that you aren't allergic to any of it.
Focus on one area in your room at a time. Whether you start with your desk, bed or closet, start in one area and clean that area first instead of trying to tackle your whole room at one time. This will help keep you focused and motivated as you see parts of the room starting to look sharp and clean.
Spring clean your room by getting rid of the clothes that you no longer wear. This is a great way to clean out your room because your clothes clutter up and overtake much of what can be a nice, clean room. There is nothing better than getting rid of stuff you no longer need, this goes along with items other than clothing.
Change your sheets, which you should already be doing frequently, and this is going to make your bed fresh and comfortable. This can be the last thing you do, completing the whole spring cleaning process. Spring clean your room to get you started for the spring and summer, providing you with a comfortable bedroom. Consider getting new bedding to complete the new feel of your room!
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| http://www.healthyhomecleaning.com/category/spring-cleaning-2/ |
First off, get all of your cleaning supplies ready. Window cleaner, furniture polish, floor cleaner, etc. are just a few examples of the type of cleaning supplies you might want. Ensure that all of your cleaning supplies will not irritate your skin and that you aren't allergic to any of it.
Focus on one area in your room at a time. Whether you start with your desk, bed or closet, start in one area and clean that area first instead of trying to tackle your whole room at one time. This will help keep you focused and motivated as you see parts of the room starting to look sharp and clean.
Spring clean your room by getting rid of the clothes that you no longer wear. This is a great way to clean out your room because your clothes clutter up and overtake much of what can be a nice, clean room. There is nothing better than getting rid of stuff you no longer need, this goes along with items other than clothing.
Change your sheets, which you should already be doing frequently, and this is going to make your bed fresh and comfortable. This can be the last thing you do, completing the whole spring cleaning process. Spring clean your room to get you started for the spring and summer, providing you with a comfortable bedroom. Consider getting new bedding to complete the new feel of your room!
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Sleep Disorder: Restless Leg Syndrome
Restless Leg Syndrome, RLS for short, occurs in 2 to 5 percent of all adults. Although that does not effect many people, if you have ever suffered from RLS you know that it is a sleep disorder that can make it extremely difficult to sleep.
What is RLS?
RLS is an unpleasant sensation in your legs in which the only relief is to move your legs. This neurological disorder occurs at night when you are relaxing and the uncomfortable feeling can cause exhaustion and fatigue throughout the day, making daily activities difficult.
What Causes RLS?
Oftentimes, the cause of RLS is unknown. Low levels of iron in the brain can be responsible, as can a specific genetic component. Disruption of the brain's basal ganglia circuits (needed to produce smooth muscle activity and movement) can also be related to RLS.
Some factors can also relate with RLS, such as chronic diseases, certain medications and pregnancy. Researches do not know if they specifically cause RLS but many people have suffered from RLS with these conditions.
Diagnosing RLS
A physician will do a series of tests to rule out any underlying issues when diagnosing RLS. The symptoms are the basic way to diagnose the condition.
Treating RLS
By moving the affected limbs you will find temporary relief from RLS. If there is an underlying condition that can be causing RLS, controlling that condition can help the RLS symptoms. Making lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms as well, such as decreasing caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, changing your sleep pattern, increasing exercise, taking a hot bath or using a heating pad. Some medications are helpful but are not effective for everyone suffering from RLS.
Restless Leg Syndrome can be managed when you find what it is that is causing the symptoms. It is not something that has to control your life; if you suffer from RLS, consult your doctor to find a solution that is perfect for you.
What is RLS?
RLS is an unpleasant sensation in your legs in which the only relief is to move your legs. This neurological disorder occurs at night when you are relaxing and the uncomfortable feeling can cause exhaustion and fatigue throughout the day, making daily activities difficult.
What Causes RLS?
Oftentimes, the cause of RLS is unknown. Low levels of iron in the brain can be responsible, as can a specific genetic component. Disruption of the brain's basal ganglia circuits (needed to produce smooth muscle activity and movement) can also be related to RLS.
Some factors can also relate with RLS, such as chronic diseases, certain medications and pregnancy. Researches do not know if they specifically cause RLS but many people have suffered from RLS with these conditions.
Diagnosing RLS
A physician will do a series of tests to rule out any underlying issues when diagnosing RLS. The symptoms are the basic way to diagnose the condition.
Treating RLS
By moving the affected limbs you will find temporary relief from RLS. If there is an underlying condition that can be causing RLS, controlling that condition can help the RLS symptoms. Making lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms as well, such as decreasing caffeine, alcohol and tobacco, changing your sleep pattern, increasing exercise, taking a hot bath or using a heating pad. Some medications are helpful but are not effective for everyone suffering from RLS.
Restless Leg Syndrome can be managed when you find what it is that is causing the symptoms. It is not something that has to control your life; if you suffer from RLS, consult your doctor to find a solution that is perfect for you.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
How do YOU Fall Asleep?
Some nights you lay in bed trying to count sheep, hum yourself to sleep, try to clear your mind, listen to the quiet, and you just cannot fall asleep fast enough! What's the deal with that? Everybody has been there done that and everybody has a method that works the best for them. Here are some ideas to help you fall asleep at night when you have a restless mind.
Count backwards from 100. If you've ever gone into surgery, or watched any movie that involves someone going in for surgery, they tell you to count backwards from 100. Next thing you know, you're awake in a terrible hospital bed and you have no idea how far you got from 100. Try this when you have a restless mind and you might find yourself waking up in your comfortable, warm bed wondering how long that took you!
Before you go to bed put everything in order (in your mind). Calming your mind before bed will ensure you fall asleep quicker. There is nothing worse than finally getting to bed and then staring at the ceiling, wide awake, because your brain doesn't want you to sleep. Your mind is a restless part of your body and the more you have going on, the longer you will stay awake for.
For a restless mind, try drinking tea (non-caffeine) before bed. This will soothe you and it also is a great way to relax before going to bed! Don't go to bed until you feel like you are going to be able to fall asleep, or you'll be awake for hours.
Do you have any tips and tricks that help you fall asleep quicker?
Count backwards from 100. If you've ever gone into surgery, or watched any movie that involves someone going in for surgery, they tell you to count backwards from 100. Next thing you know, you're awake in a terrible hospital bed and you have no idea how far you got from 100. Try this when you have a restless mind and you might find yourself waking up in your comfortable, warm bed wondering how long that took you!
Before you go to bed put everything in order (in your mind). Calming your mind before bed will ensure you fall asleep quicker. There is nothing worse than finally getting to bed and then staring at the ceiling, wide awake, because your brain doesn't want you to sleep. Your mind is a restless part of your body and the more you have going on, the longer you will stay awake for.
For a restless mind, try drinking tea (non-caffeine) before bed. This will soothe you and it also is a great way to relax before going to bed! Don't go to bed until you feel like you are going to be able to fall asleep, or you'll be awake for hours.
Do you have any tips and tricks that help you fall asleep quicker?
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
A Startup Created No. 1 Mattress on Amazon
You always hear about major companies that once were startups, starting out working out of someone's basement or garage and later turned into multimillion dollar businesses. Here is one success story of a startup making a change in the mattress industry.
Tuft and Needle started with this idea: that it’s possible to make money producing a better, more affordable product by cutting out the middlemen and controlling prices. With that said, they created mattresses that range in price from $200 to $500, five inches thick and made out of foam. The density of the foam and the way that it is layered will provide its consumer with seven to 10 years of daily use.
Read more about this startup here: http://recode.net/2014/03/05/how-a-startup-created-the-no-1-rated-mattress-on-amazon-com/.
What other startup success stories have you heard of?
Tuft and Needle started with this idea: that it’s possible to make money producing a better, more affordable product by cutting out the middlemen and controlling prices. With that said, they created mattresses that range in price from $200 to $500, five inches thick and made out of foam. The density of the foam and the way that it is layered will provide its consumer with seven to 10 years of daily use.
Read more about this startup here: http://recode.net/2014/03/05/how-a-startup-created-the-no-1-rated-mattress-on-amazon-com/.
What other startup success stories have you heard of?
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Make your Bedroom The Best Room
Your bedroom might have multiple different uses, whether you use it as a home office, a place to get away from roommates or family, do your morning yoga, or just to relax. You have probably heard that your bedroom should be used for one thing and one thing only: sleep. So how can you make your bedroom comfortable for you?
Making your bedroom as comfortable as possible can drastically improve your overall sleep. One way you can do that is by making the lighting in your room as dim as possible. Dim lighting is easier on your eyes and will not cause your eyes to strain. Your body is trained to sleep when it's dark, so dim lighting will give your body the hint that it's time for sleep. Make sure to avoid any of those bright lights from alarm clocks, televisions and cell phones as the lighting from those can make it harder for you to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Keep your bedroom cool. Your body naturally cools down when you are sleeping, so a colder temperature will help get you to sleep a lot faster. It is advised to aim for 5 to 10 degrees cooler than what you set your temperature for during the day. You will find that a cooler temperature is a lot more comfortable for sleeping.
Avoid as much noise as possible. Some people prefer to sleep with music on or a fan blowing because the sound puts them to sleep easier and this is because it is soothing. However, if you have a train going by every couple of hours or other disrupting sounds try to find a way to block out that unwanted noise.
Get rid of anything in your room that does not involve sleep. That television, computer and treadmill are all stress factors and can make it harder for you to fall asleep. Your bedroom is meant for sleeping and nothing else.
If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep and to stay asleep every night, consider changing some of the factors. Adjust the temperature, remove any light and noise and you might find yourself sleeping comfortable throughout the night.
Making your bedroom as comfortable as possible can drastically improve your overall sleep. One way you can do that is by making the lighting in your room as dim as possible. Dim lighting is easier on your eyes and will not cause your eyes to strain. Your body is trained to sleep when it's dark, so dim lighting will give your body the hint that it's time for sleep. Make sure to avoid any of those bright lights from alarm clocks, televisions and cell phones as the lighting from those can make it harder for you to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Keep your bedroom cool. Your body naturally cools down when you are sleeping, so a colder temperature will help get you to sleep a lot faster. It is advised to aim for 5 to 10 degrees cooler than what you set your temperature for during the day. You will find that a cooler temperature is a lot more comfortable for sleeping.
Avoid as much noise as possible. Some people prefer to sleep with music on or a fan blowing because the sound puts them to sleep easier and this is because it is soothing. However, if you have a train going by every couple of hours or other disrupting sounds try to find a way to block out that unwanted noise.
Get rid of anything in your room that does not involve sleep. That television, computer and treadmill are all stress factors and can make it harder for you to fall asleep. Your bedroom is meant for sleeping and nothing else.
If you find yourself struggling to fall asleep and to stay asleep every night, consider changing some of the factors. Adjust the temperature, remove any light and noise and you might find yourself sleeping comfortable throughout the night.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
How to Cure the Winter Blues
Are you in the middle of trying to manage the winter blues? Hopefully you live somewhere where you can escape into an activity that can help you out of those winter blues. Here are some ways to cure the winter blues.
Get outside. Even if it's cold, snowy, wet, miserable outside you can still try to get outdoors and active. Getting your body moving with during the daylight can extremely boost your mood and energy. Try a new sport, or something that you love just to get yourself doing something instead of sitting around.
Go somewhere new. Take a short weekend trip to a place you have not been to before. The excitement of a new place will keep you busy. You can find a new place to eat at, a new museum to spend a day at, and do many more entertaining activities in this new location to get your mind off of your daily tasks.
Do something to relax. This could be going to a spa, getting a massage, going to see a movie, or whatever it is that helps you to relax. Having a day to relax can not only get your body to relax but your mind will be put to ease as well. It's easy to get caught up in work every day and to find yourself with more stress in the winter. Relaxing will help you to cure the winter blues.
If you feel like you are stuck in the same routine and are experiencing the winter blues, find something to get yourself to relax, get outside and experience something new. Curing the winter blues will make the cold weather seem shorter and you will find that we are that much closer to spring!
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| image credit: http://www.orthomolecularhealth.com/ask-the-expert-tackling-winter-blues |
Get outside. Even if it's cold, snowy, wet, miserable outside you can still try to get outdoors and active. Getting your body moving with during the daylight can extremely boost your mood and energy. Try a new sport, or something that you love just to get yourself doing something instead of sitting around.
Go somewhere new. Take a short weekend trip to a place you have not been to before. The excitement of a new place will keep you busy. You can find a new place to eat at, a new museum to spend a day at, and do many more entertaining activities in this new location to get your mind off of your daily tasks.
Do something to relax. This could be going to a spa, getting a massage, going to see a movie, or whatever it is that helps you to relax. Having a day to relax can not only get your body to relax but your mind will be put to ease as well. It's easy to get caught up in work every day and to find yourself with more stress in the winter. Relaxing will help you to cure the winter blues.
If you feel like you are stuck in the same routine and are experiencing the winter blues, find something to get yourself to relax, get outside and experience something new. Curing the winter blues will make the cold weather seem shorter and you will find that we are that much closer to spring!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Down and Feather: Do you know the difference?
Did you know that there IS a difference between down and feather? Many people assume it is the same, mostly because retailers will say "down and feather," even if they mean just "down" or "feather." It's an easy misconception and one that might not matter to you. However, if it means spending hundreds of dollars on a pillow versus spending 30-40 dollars, it can be a huge difference.
So, what is the difference? Let's talk about down. Down is the part of the bird that is underneath the exterior feathers. Young birds are covered in down until they grow in their exterior feathers. That really soft stuff that you see and feel on a bird is considered down. Down does not have a stem to it like the feathers do, making it really fluffy, soft and warm. Down insulates really well, which is why a lot of outdoor gear is made from down.
Feathers are springy and have a stem to them. They are what causes your pillow to stay springy instead of flat. Although some people prefer the really soft pillows that are made just with down, feathers add more to a pillow and make them more resistant.
Some feathers have down on them, which is where the term, "down and feather" comes from. However, if there is a stem it is still considered a feather and not down. This is what confuses people the most and why some manufacturers just use the term "down and feather" instead of separating the two.
If your pillow is all down, that is going to be the expensive pillow. Down is more expensive than feathers, no matter the type of bird. This pillow will be flatter and soft. A feather pillow will have a springy-ness to it. Pillows made with down and feather will be soft but still springy.
Do you prefer a down pillow, feather pillow, or one that includes both? It depends on your sleep style, as every person's desire varies from the next.
So, what is the difference? Let's talk about down. Down is the part of the bird that is underneath the exterior feathers. Young birds are covered in down until they grow in their exterior feathers. That really soft stuff that you see and feel on a bird is considered down. Down does not have a stem to it like the feathers do, making it really fluffy, soft and warm. Down insulates really well, which is why a lot of outdoor gear is made from down.
Feathers are springy and have a stem to them. They are what causes your pillow to stay springy instead of flat. Although some people prefer the really soft pillows that are made just with down, feathers add more to a pillow and make them more resistant.
Some feathers have down on them, which is where the term, "down and feather" comes from. However, if there is a stem it is still considered a feather and not down. This is what confuses people the most and why some manufacturers just use the term "down and feather" instead of separating the two.
If your pillow is all down, that is going to be the expensive pillow. Down is more expensive than feathers, no matter the type of bird. This pillow will be flatter and soft. A feather pillow will have a springy-ness to it. Pillows made with down and feather will be soft but still springy.
Do you prefer a down pillow, feather pillow, or one that includes both? It depends on your sleep style, as every person's desire varies from the next.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
What is Kapok?
Kapok is a popular material used in a lot of soft products. Here is all you need to know about kapok and kapok soft products.
Kapok comes from the seeds of kapok, or ceiba, trees which grow in tropical locations. The kapok is silky fibers within the seeds and are often used for mattresses, sleeping bags, insulation, life preservers and even as a cotton substitute in surgery. The trees are commonly found in Asia and Indonesia, frequently being called silk cotton or java cotton.
At American Down and Feather, we use kapok in a variety of our products. Why do we use it? We use kapok because it is moisture-resistant, quick-drying and resilient. Since man-made fibers, plastics and foam rubber have grown in popularity, kapok has not been as popular in soft products.
We love kapok because it has a naturally silky feel to it. It's great for a pillow as it will last longer than other materials and it looks great as well! Contact us to find out more about kapok and how it can enhance your soft products all around the house.
Kapok comes from the seeds of kapok, or ceiba, trees which grow in tropical locations. The kapok is silky fibers within the seeds and are often used for mattresses, sleeping bags, insulation, life preservers and even as a cotton substitute in surgery. The trees are commonly found in Asia and Indonesia, frequently being called silk cotton or java cotton.
At American Down and Feather, we use kapok in a variety of our products. Why do we use it? We use kapok because it is moisture-resistant, quick-drying and resilient. Since man-made fibers, plastics and foam rubber have grown in popularity, kapok has not been as popular in soft products.
We love kapok because it has a naturally silky feel to it. It's great for a pillow as it will last longer than other materials and it looks great as well! Contact us to find out more about kapok and how it can enhance your soft products all around the house.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Making Valentine's Day Memorable
Valentine's Day is coming up, a day to make your loved one know how much you care whether it is with flowers and chocolates, a romantic evening out, or a unique way that shows them you appreciate them. Here are some ideas of gifts to give your loved one to make this Valentine's Day memorable.
1. Things from tickets to their favorite sporting event, concert, movie, musical, etc. are perfect for Valentine's Day. Nothing means more than a gift that was well thought out and meaningful.
2. Set up a scavenger hunt. Take that person back to all of the special places you have experienced in your relationship, or take them somewhere new that they have always wanted to go to. Pick things that go along with their hobbies and interests and you'll have a great scavenger hunt.
3. Go on a trip together. A road trip, a cruise, or something that you both will enjoy together is a great Valentine's Day gift. This year, Valentine's Day is on Friday which means you can take off early that day and spend the weekend together.
4. Personalize your gift. If you want to stick to basics, flowers, chocolates and dinner make it unique in some way. Get their favorite flowers, go to a new restaurant that you both have wanted to go to, figure out their favorite chocolate or candy. Personalizing the gifts will make them more moemorable rather than if you just do the basics.
These are just some ideas for a way to make Valentine's Day memorable for you and for your significant other. Be well prepared and start planning your day now!
1. Things from tickets to their favorite sporting event, concert, movie, musical, etc. are perfect for Valentine's Day. Nothing means more than a gift that was well thought out and meaningful.
2. Set up a scavenger hunt. Take that person back to all of the special places you have experienced in your relationship, or take them somewhere new that they have always wanted to go to. Pick things that go along with their hobbies and interests and you'll have a great scavenger hunt.
3. Go on a trip together. A road trip, a cruise, or something that you both will enjoy together is a great Valentine's Day gift. This year, Valentine's Day is on Friday which means you can take off early that day and spend the weekend together.
4. Personalize your gift. If you want to stick to basics, flowers, chocolates and dinner make it unique in some way. Get their favorite flowers, go to a new restaurant that you both have wanted to go to, figure out their favorite chocolate or candy. Personalizing the gifts will make them more moemorable rather than if you just do the basics.
These are just some ideas for a way to make Valentine's Day memorable for you and for your significant other. Be well prepared and start planning your day now!
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
How gross is that hotel's bed?
Inevitably you will be staying at a hotel and sleeping in that bed that isn't your own. Some people might jump for joy, excited for a good night of sleep. Some will cringe at the sight of a bed that you are not sure was properly cleaned. Hotel beds are not the most pleasant.
Sheets are changed in between every visitor, right? Although many hotels really do change the sheets every time, there is always the question of whether or not those sheets really are clean. How can you tell? Sometimes it could be obvious with a stain or the bed doesn't seem to be properly made. Your best bet is to ditch the sheets and provide your own if you're worried about dirty sheets.
You can also forget about the bed spread and use your own blankets. Yes, it is not fun to travel with blankets and sheets but if you are someone that will lose a perfectly good night of sleep because you are worried about dirty sheets and bed spreads, you might as well bring your own.
Bed bugs are commonly spread through hotel beds. Bed bugs are so tiny that they can easily go unnoticed. Don't put any of your baggage or belongings on the bed to reduce the chance of getting bed bugs. You might be able to see bed bug waste or dander if you look close enough around the baseboards and the creases of the mattress. If you suspect bed bugs, tell the hotel and when you get home wash everything that you brought with you including your suitcase.
Let's face it, it is not always the cleaning person's fault if your bed is not up to par with your standards. They are only given a set time for every room they have to clean and can become rushed. And just because that hotel is a four-star doesn't mean that it is any cleaner than a one-star hotel.
You're better off assuming that the bed you are going to be sleeping in still has the remnants of the person that was in the bed before you. Nothing will ever be as good as your own bed. Have you had any terrible experiences with a hotel bed?
Sheets are changed in between every visitor, right? Although many hotels really do change the sheets every time, there is always the question of whether or not those sheets really are clean. How can you tell? Sometimes it could be obvious with a stain or the bed doesn't seem to be properly made. Your best bet is to ditch the sheets and provide your own if you're worried about dirty sheets.
You can also forget about the bed spread and use your own blankets. Yes, it is not fun to travel with blankets and sheets but if you are someone that will lose a perfectly good night of sleep because you are worried about dirty sheets and bed spreads, you might as well bring your own.
Bed bugs are commonly spread through hotel beds. Bed bugs are so tiny that they can easily go unnoticed. Don't put any of your baggage or belongings on the bed to reduce the chance of getting bed bugs. You might be able to see bed bug waste or dander if you look close enough around the baseboards and the creases of the mattress. If you suspect bed bugs, tell the hotel and when you get home wash everything that you brought with you including your suitcase.
Let's face it, it is not always the cleaning person's fault if your bed is not up to par with your standards. They are only given a set time for every room they have to clean and can become rushed. And just because that hotel is a four-star doesn't mean that it is any cleaner than a one-star hotel.
You're better off assuming that the bed you are going to be sleeping in still has the remnants of the person that was in the bed before you. Nothing will ever be as good as your own bed. Have you had any terrible experiences with a hotel bed?
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Do you suffer from a sleep disorder?
Are you one of the 40 million Americans who suffer from a sleep disorder? If you think you might be suffering from a sleep disorder but are not sure it is always best to schedule a visit with your doctor to discuss your problems. Here are some of the most common sleeping disorders.
1. Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder. This disorder makes it hard for you to wake up at normal times for activities. When you do fall asleep, it is restful and uninterrupted, but when you try waking up at a normal time it is extremely hard. Only about 2% of people suffering from a sleep disorder is diagnosed with this disorder.
2. Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder. This condition involves falling asleep before 9 p.m. and waking earlier in the morning without being able to fall asleep. It is most common in older people, with some doctors saying it is more of an aging process than a disorder.
3. Shift Work. If you are someone who works different shifts at your job, you could be suffering from shift work disorder. With the constant changing of sleep patterns you can experience an increase in alcohol and tranquilizer use as well as chronic sleep disorders. About 22% of U.S. workers are shift workers and suffer from shift work disorder.
4. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. When you have a temporary blockage of the upper airways during sleep, your breathing stops and interrupts your sleep. You most likely don't remember these short awakenings but you will notice that it affects the quality of your sleep. Loud, consistent snoring is a major sign of obstructive sleep apnea and about 4% of men and 2% of women suffer from this disorder.
5. Narcolepsy. This is one of the most extreme sleep disorders as it involves an incredible amount of sleepiness during the day. You could be falling asleep mid-sentence, at work or while driving. Sudden loss of muscle tone and vivid hallucinations while you are falling asleep are some other signs of narcolepsy. This is not a very common sleep disorder with only about 1 in 100,000 Americans suffer from narcolepsy.
These five sleep disorders are not the only ones that people suffer from, but they are the ones that doctors will rule out when they suspect a common sleep disorder. Make sure you are getting the sleep that you need and making your bedroom as comfortable as possible.
1. Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder. This disorder makes it hard for you to wake up at normal times for activities. When you do fall asleep, it is restful and uninterrupted, but when you try waking up at a normal time it is extremely hard. Only about 2% of people suffering from a sleep disorder is diagnosed with this disorder.
2. Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder. This condition involves falling asleep before 9 p.m. and waking earlier in the morning without being able to fall asleep. It is most common in older people, with some doctors saying it is more of an aging process than a disorder.
3. Shift Work. If you are someone who works different shifts at your job, you could be suffering from shift work disorder. With the constant changing of sleep patterns you can experience an increase in alcohol and tranquilizer use as well as chronic sleep disorders. About 22% of U.S. workers are shift workers and suffer from shift work disorder.
4. Obstructive Sleep Apnea. When you have a temporary blockage of the upper airways during sleep, your breathing stops and interrupts your sleep. You most likely don't remember these short awakenings but you will notice that it affects the quality of your sleep. Loud, consistent snoring is a major sign of obstructive sleep apnea and about 4% of men and 2% of women suffer from this disorder.
5. Narcolepsy. This is one of the most extreme sleep disorders as it involves an incredible amount of sleepiness during the day. You could be falling asleep mid-sentence, at work or while driving. Sudden loss of muscle tone and vivid hallucinations while you are falling asleep are some other signs of narcolepsy. This is not a very common sleep disorder with only about 1 in 100,000 Americans suffer from narcolepsy.
These five sleep disorders are not the only ones that people suffer from, but they are the ones that doctors will rule out when they suspect a common sleep disorder. Make sure you are getting the sleep that you need and making your bedroom as comfortable as possible.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Why does my bed cause a rash?
Have you been waking up lately and felt the insane urge to scratch your skin off it was so itchy? Or many not so extreme, but you've woken up with a rash on your body and you're asking yourself, 'Why does my bed cause a rash?"
There can be many reasons why you wake up with a rash. The number one concern is always bed bugs. Bed bugs feed on human blood and are most active at night when you are sleeping. Anybody can get bed bugs because they infest in luggage, backpacks, bedding, shoes, clothing and they can hide anywhere.
Some ways you can tell if you have bed bugs are if you have itchy skin welts, small blood smears on your bedding from crushed bugs, tiny dark spots on your sheets, or dried remains of shed bed bug skins. If you have any of these and suspect bed bugs, you will need to hire a pest control company to ensure you kill all of the bugs.
If you have another form of welt or something that looks like a bite it could be a spider or other insect bite. Keeping your bedroom and your bed clean is going to help reduce the number of insects that could be crawling around your bed.
Unlike bed bugs and insect bites, another cause for a bed rash is hives. Hives can be anywhere on your body and are typically due to an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction could be from your sheets if your skin is sensitive to different materials. It could also be from the detergent used to clean your sheets or any lotion you might apply to your skin before bed. To find out the cause, eliminate one of the culprits and determine if that is what is causing the hives. Find organic, all natural bedding to help reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
Figure out why your bed is causing a rash by taking simple steps to solve the problem. By changing one thing at a time you will find the cause and be able to control any rashes you currently have. If you have any questions about your bedding please contact us at info@americandownandfeather.com.
There can be many reasons why you wake up with a rash. The number one concern is always bed bugs. Bed bugs feed on human blood and are most active at night when you are sleeping. Anybody can get bed bugs because they infest in luggage, backpacks, bedding, shoes, clothing and they can hide anywhere.
Some ways you can tell if you have bed bugs are if you have itchy skin welts, small blood smears on your bedding from crushed bugs, tiny dark spots on your sheets, or dried remains of shed bed bug skins. If you have any of these and suspect bed bugs, you will need to hire a pest control company to ensure you kill all of the bugs.
If you have another form of welt or something that looks like a bite it could be a spider or other insect bite. Keeping your bedroom and your bed clean is going to help reduce the number of insects that could be crawling around your bed.
Unlike bed bugs and insect bites, another cause for a bed rash is hives. Hives can be anywhere on your body and are typically due to an allergic reaction. This allergic reaction could be from your sheets if your skin is sensitive to different materials. It could also be from the detergent used to clean your sheets or any lotion you might apply to your skin before bed. To find out the cause, eliminate one of the culprits and determine if that is what is causing the hives. Find organic, all natural bedding to help reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
Figure out why your bed is causing a rash by taking simple steps to solve the problem. By changing one thing at a time you will find the cause and be able to control any rashes you currently have. If you have any questions about your bedding please contact us at info@americandownandfeather.com.
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
We're Opening an Online Retail Store!
This online store is going to provide you with a wide variety of options for pillows, comforters, pillow inserts and more! These products will be standard sizes and we will continuously be adding new products to the online store as time progresses. It will be a quick and easy way to purchase those comfortable soft products that you have been seeking for.
American Down and Feather is excited about this new opportunity as we have noticed many of our customers would love to see an online retail store for our products. As always, feel free to contact us at 1.866.601.3696 or info@americandownandfeather.com if you have any questions or any specific products that you are searching for. Please let us know what you would like to see in our online retail store!
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