New Year's Resolution 2015

12
New Year’s January 22, 2015 How to make your resolutions stick Tips on getting into shape Don’t neglect your teeth or fashion in 2015 Getting healthy by quitting smoking Add, don’t subtract, from your savings account A massage can go a long way Time to trade in that old car for a new set of wheels

description

The Cheshire Herald New Year's Resolution Special Section 2015

Transcript of New Year's Resolution 2015

Page 1: New Year's Resolution 2015

New Year’s

RESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSRESOLUTIONSJanuary 22, 2015

How to make your resolutions stick — Tips on getting into shape Don’t neglect your teeth or fashion in 2015 — Getting healthy by quitting smoking

Add, don’t subtract, from your savings account — A massage can go a long way Time to trade in that old car for a new set of wheels

Page 2: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsTwo

Wayne Patrick’s A Salon264 QUEEN STREET � SOUTHINGTON

(860) 426-3232

WAYNE FRETZAND

TRACEY KOLLAR formerly of

Cosmopolitan Hair Designswould like to thank the

residents of Cheshire and surrounding towns for their loyalty and support all these years. You are appreciated.

To show our appreciation, we would liketo invite you to our new location:

Here Are A Few Tips To Make Sure Your Resolutions StickA new year often begins with

good intentions, as thou-sands resolve to make positive changes in their lives. Resolu-tions are easy to make when one is toasting at midnight and ready to take on the world. But resolu-tions can be harder to keep as the days turn into weeks and weeks become months.

Researchers at the Univer-sity of Minnesota found that 80 per-cent of resolu-tion-makers have given up by Val-entine’s Day. A January 2012 poll conducted in Eng-land found that, of the 3,000 respon-dents, roughly three-quarters of them admitted they were no lon-ger confi dent they would stick to their resolutions for the rest of the month.

There are several different rea-sons why resolutions fail, and recognizing potential pitfalls can help people stick with their posi-tive changes throughout the new year. The following are a few ways to ensure your resolutions last the year.

•Don’t make an unrealistic reso-lution. Losing weight is a popular

resolution. Some resolve to drop dozens of pounds in an effort to completely transform their bod-ies. However, when the weight doesn’t magically come off, it can be easy to grow discouraged. Weight loss is not instantaneous, and healthy weight-loss plans ad-vocate gradual weight loss, such as one to two pounds per week. It can take several months to see a

considerable dif-ference if you’re aiming to lose 50 pounds. Instead of setting such a lofty weight-loss goal, estab-lish incremental milestones with tangible dates. For example, your resolution may be to lose 10 pounds by March 1. That is an at-

tainable goal.•Don’t go it alone. You’re more

likely to have success with keep-ing a resolution if you have out-side support. Enlist a buddy to go to the gym with you or provide support as you attempt to quit smoking. Having a support sys-tem in place can motivate and inspire, knowing someone will be keeping tabs on you may in-still enough anxiety to propel you

through your resolutions.•Make resolutions for the right

reasons. Making resolutions for the wrong reasons can be coun-terproductive. If you want to lose weight for cosmetic reasons and not to improve your overall health, you may fi nd your motiva-tion waning as the weeks turn into months. Making resolutions for the right reasons often provides ample motivation.

•Avoid boring resolutions. Many people make boring reso-lutions that often focus on the mundane instead of more posi-tive things. Resolutions need not be changes that profoundly alter your mental or physical well-be-ing. Making fun resolutions will probably help you stick to them. Perhaps you will resolve to spend more time with the kids or prom-ise to try more adventurous activ-ities. Maybe you decide it’s time pursue a hidden passion, such as music or art. Enjoyable resolu-tions are much easier to keep.

•Avoid expensive resolutions. Before making a resolution, re-search how much a resolution might cost. Gym memberships or new hobbies may stretch your budget, and if you cannot afford a resolution, how can you keep it? If money is a concern, choose res-olutions that are fi scally possible.

•Keep resolutions private if you

so prefer. Many people are com-pelled to share their resolutions with friends and family. How-ever, that can lead to feelings of competition or animosity if some-one is realizing goals before you. Feel free to keep your resolution private as you go through the process. Once you have met your goal, then you can share your suc-cess with others.

•Don’t give up too easily. Some people are up for a challenge and others are not. Resolutions typi-cally require a little extra effort, especially in the early stages. Resolutions will not necessarily be easy to keep, but the longer you stick to a resolution the easier it becomes to make it a reality, so resist the temptation to throw in the towel too early.

When planning your

resolutions, it’s important to

make sure they are not boring, expensive, or

too ambitious.

Sign-up to receive

our weekly ad via email• Mobile Rewards Sign-up to get coupons sent to your mobile phone. Get One FREE 1 Liter Btl of Clear & Natural Sparkling Water Or Adirondack Seltzer, just for signing up.

• Weekly Ad view our weekly ad and build and print your shopping list at your fingertips for any occasion.

• Gift & Party Ideas Bakery, Party Trays, Fruit Baskets, Wedding Cakes & Gift Certificates.

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITECHECK OUT OUR WEBSITEwww.topsmarket.com

Pick up our complete flyer in store or visit our website www.topsmarket.com

Rt. 322 • South End Rd. • Plantsville (860) 621-5837Prices good thru 1/29/15

BRING THIS COUPON IN FOR$5.00 OFF YOUR $50

PURCHASE

$AVINGSCertified AngusBeef Loin • Bone-In

New YorkStrip Steaks

Farm Raised 31 To 40 CtSold In A 2 Lb Bag

Nautilus LargeCooked Shrimp

$ 99 $1998lb. ea.lb.9996

Lean & MeatyPreviously Frozen

Baby BackPork Ribs

$299lb.

Certified AngusBeef RoundBoneless

Sirloin Tip Roast

4$ 99lb.

< - - CLIP - - >

Page 3: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015 ThreeEd

The Treeman, LLC

NO JOB

TOO SMALL

OR TOO LARGE

AVAILABLE

365 DAYS A YEAR

Large Take Down Specialist#1 Customer Satisfaction

WE WORK YEAR-ROUND

Residential ª Commercial

CT Lic. Arbor #S-5765

WE DO GREAT WORK ALL THE TIME• Bucket Truck Service • Chipper Service

• Stump Grinding • Storm Cleanup• Tree & Shrub Fertilization

• Pesticide Management ProgramFREE ESTIMATES

Tel: 203-758-0261PROSPECT • Ed Brasche, Owner/Operator

LICENSED • FULLY INSURED904 Main Street • Watertown • (860) 945-1312 • www.controlpros.net

Upgrade your old tube or Flat Screen to a new smart LED or Plasma TV. Prices are at an all-time low!

We stock Samsung, Panasonic, Sharp, LG and Sony.

The Freedom of WirelessSounds Beautiful.

Use your iPhone or iPad to control whole houseaudio system. Save on all introductory offers.

Save on our Entire Stock!• Home Theater • Whole House Audio

• TVs and Projectors • Wireless Products• New Home & Pre-wire Construction• Commercial Project Development

FOR ALL YOUR ENTERTAINMENT NEEDS

Upgrade your old tube or Flat Screen to a new smart LED

FREE IN-HOME

CONSULTATION

FINANCING AVAILABLE **Some restrictions apply

It’s our 29th year of business

Don’t Make These Mistakes When Starting Your WorkoutThose already a month into

their New Year’s resolu-tion to get fi t may fi nd that all the effort at the gym is not paying off as they had expected. Although exercise results vary, certain be-haviors could impact just how much weight a person can lose and how effi cient their workouts may be.

For those who want to increase the measurable results of their workouts, try to avoid these com-mon mistakes.

•Not giving it enough time. Many people want to see immedi-ate results when they begin a new exercise regimen. While such in-stant gratifi cation is possible, it’s foolish to expect to wake up and look in the mirror after a week’s time and see a complete body transformation. Many health ex-perts say a safe weight loss goal is one to two pounds each week. For each pound of fat to burn, you need to shed 3,500 calories weekly. Do this by exercising and reducing caloric intake. Don’t give up prematurely. After a few months your clothes may fi t bet-ter and you can see a change in muscle tone and overall fi tness.

•Sticking with the same rou-tine. Routines can make it easier to manage everyday life. For ex-ample, waking up and going to bed at the same time each day helps many people maintain the energy they need to live life to the fullest. But routine is not always a friend with regard to exercise. When you do the same exercise routine over and over, your body becomes acclimated to that rou-tine and your muscles recognize the motion. As a result, your body doesn’t have to work as hard to do the workout. Altering your routine means you’re essentially

keeping your body on its prover-bial toes. This will help you to burn more calories and even pre-vent you from getting bored with your workout.

•Skipping strength training. Cardiovascular activities like running on the treadmill can certainly burn calories, but car-diovascular exercise alone is not enough to achieve optimal health. Strength training helps build lean muscle and strengthen bones, so it’s important to make both car-diovascular and strength-training

exercises a part of your workout routine.

•Maintaining a moderate pace.

Much like doing the same ex-ercises over and over, sticking to the same pace will lull your body into complacency. Vary the pace of your workout so that you move through intense, moderate and slow movements. Higher-intensity parts of the workout will get your heart pumping and burn calories.

•Making unnatural body move-ments. Movements that mimic the body’s natural movements will be more effective at toning muscles. These movements include bend-ing, stepping, jumping, and run-ning. Unnatural movements may not be practical, and they may in-crease your risk of injury.

New Year’s resolutions are a tradition that many em-

brace but few stick with as the year progresses. The most successful res-olutions are often those that make the most positive impacts on peo-ple’s lives, such as improving their overall health or altering their ca-reer paths. Resolu-tions that save men and women money also are likely to prove successful. Though saving money might not be the primary goal of many resolutions, savings can be an added benefi t for those who resolve to make the follow-ing changes.

Let Your Resolutions Save Your Money In 2015

•Quit smoking. Many people resolve to quit smoking to im-

prove their overall health, as smoking has been linked

to a number of health problems, includ-ing cancer. But quitting smok-ing also benefi ts your bottom line.

Smokers who smoke a pack of

cigarettes each day can expect to spend

several thousand dollars a year on their habit. The cost of a pack of cigarettes depends on where a smoker lives, but a smok-er who pays $10 per pack and smokes one pack each day will spend $3,650 in a year. Quitting

See ADD, page 12

See ELIMINATE, page 12

New Year’s Resolutions

Page 4: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsFour

Start aNew Year’sResolution!

Purchase 11 facials(one each month)

and receive12th facial free!

Skin CareCenter Day Spaon

�2�0�1�4

�C�i�t�i�z�e�n�’�s� �N�e�w�s

Reader’sCHOICE�C�i�t�i�z�e�n�’�s� �N�e�w�s�C�i�t�i�z�e�n�’�s� �N�e�w�s�C�i�t�i�z�e�n�’�s� �N�e�w�s

Find us on

Conveniently located in the center of Prospect

40 Center Street, Prospect, CT 06712

203-758-0709 www.skincareoncenter.com

Get Control Of Your Finances In 2015Resolutions abound come

the dawn of a new year. Fitness and fi nances tend to dom-inate many people’s resolutions, with the goals of shedding a few pounds and saving more money both being popular resolutions.

For those whose focus will be on fi nances in the coming year, establishing a budget for the new year is a good place to start. The following are a few tips for men and women that should help them plan budgets for the new year and reach their fi -nancial goals over the next 12 months.

•Start with your income. How much money is being brought into the household will go a long way to-ward determining your budget. The fi rst month of the year, when people will receive their earn-ings statements from the previous year, should provide a clear-cut picture of just how much income the household is generating. Once you have that information, you can begin to establish a budget.

•Make a list of your bills. Knowing what’s coming in is important when establishing a budget, but so is having a fi rm grasp of what’s going out. Make a list of all of your monthly ex-penses, from the big ones like a

mortgage payment to the smaller ones like how much you spend on a cup of coffee each day. When making a list of these expenses, make note of the day bills are due each month. This can help you determine which weeks of each month you’ll be able to save more money and which weeks you will need to tighten your belt and pay existing bills.

Such knowledge will help you establish a budget.

•Make a list of anticipated ex-penses. Some expenses are there every month. Others are those you expect, such as home improve-ment projects you plan to fi nance in the coming year. Make a list of these anticipated expenses. This may involve taking some inven-tory of things around the house, such as any appliances that may be on their last legs, or bigger is-sues like a roof that may need to be replaced or a bathroom you fi -nally plan to remodel. Once you have compiled this list, research how much each project fi gures to

cost you. This should give you an idea of how realistic each project is for you, and whether or not you will be able to tackle multiple projects in the coming year.

•Don’t forget about debts. Many people plan a budget more to get out of debt than to save for a rainy day. When establishing a budget for the year ahead, calcu-late how much debt you’re cur-

rently carrying. Though you can do so if you pre-fer, it’s best to exclude existing installment loans like a mortgage or a car note from your list of debts. Though those can be considered money you owe, they are more in line

with the monthly expenses you need to live than credit card debts you simply need to get rid of. If your debt is considerable or even small, see if there is anything you can remove from your list of monthly expenses (i.e., cable television or streaming video sub-scription) so you can devote that money to eliminating your debt. In addition, those with consider-able debt should prioritize ending that debt over projects you want to tackle that aren’t exactly neces-sities. For example, if your kitch-en is outdated but still safe and functional, postpone the kitchen

Illnesses seem to peak during the winter months. A tapped-out im-

mune system as well as dry, cold air may en-courage the spread of common viruses and bacterial infections more easily. As a result, it’s important that men, women and children take every step possible to ward off sickness when the temperatures drop. Dietary changes can make a world of dif-ference, and more and more people are including these proven superfoods in their winter diets.

•Avocado: Avocado has high levels of essential fatty acids and vitamin B6, which is important in the biosynthesis of im-portant neurotransmitters. Foods high in B vitamins may be able to counteract some of the symptoms of winter-related de-pression.

•Pomegranate: This quirky fruit has vitamins C and K, folate and potassium and is a good source of fi ber. Pomegranate has anti-infl ammatory properties, which can help in reducing joint pain and preventing strokes. Pomegranate may also help the body fi ght viruses.

•Cinnamon: Cinnamon has high levels of antioxidants, and some studies point to cinnamon as a natural antibacterial agent. Cinnamon also can help regulate blood-glucose levels, which is benefi cial for those with diabetes.

•Prunes: Now widely referred to as “dried plums,” prunes are an important source of boron, which could prevent osteoporo-sis. High in antioxidants, prunes help the body fi ght a variety of illnesses.

•Cabbage: Cabbage may be a key element in the fi ght against can-cer. Cabbage has phytochemicals that can protect the body against cancer-causing free radicals. It’s also a good source of dietary fi ber, which can stimulate a sluggish di-gestive system.

•Butternut squash: This food is packed with carotenoids, which are stellar antioxidants. The starches in this squash also have been found to have anti-infl ammatory properties.

•Chestnuts: Chestnuts are worthy of inclusion in anyone’s diet. Unlike many nuts, chestnuts are relatively low in fat but have high levels of protein. They’re also packed with vitamin C and B vitamins.

These Super Foods Can Keep You Healthy

Cut costs, anticipate expenses, make a list of debts

in order to get a handle on your 2015 budget.

The CHESHIRE CAT& DOG, Too LLC

All Natural and Holistic Pet Food

1320 Waterbury Road, Rt. 70, Cheshire • 203.439.0707

[email protected] | www.cheshirecatanddog.com

We carry RAW, Dehydrated, Canned and Kibble

Supplements, Treats & Toys

1320 Waterbury Road, Rt. 70, Cheshire • 203.439.0707

Cheshire’s 1st All Natural & Holistic

Pet Food Store

Voted “BEST” Supply for 3 Years2012•2013•2014

Pets Welcomed

See DECIDE, page 9

Page 5: New Year's Resolution 2015

the cheshire herald, January 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsFive

203-272-4512 Judith Shea, Au. D., Doctor of AudiologyClaire McChesney, Au.D., Doctor of Audiology

415 Highland Avenue (Rt. 10) Cheshirewww.comprehensivehearing.com

Hours: Mon.-Wed. 9-5; Thurs. 9-6; Fri. 9-4

“Your Hearing Healthcare Professionals”

2015 Your Time for Health, Wellness & Healthy Aging

We Believe That Everyone In Our Community Over the Age of 50

Should Have Their Hearing Screened

We will:Check your ears for waxProvide a Complimentary hearing screening and consultation with a doctor of audiologyProvide better hearing recommendations

Appointment With A Coach

Sign Up On Our Website

Buy One Get One On All Group Class Month Packages

New Members Only - Ends 1/31/15

1156 Meriden-Waterbury Tpke. Plantsville, CT

Don’t Just Make Another Resolution,Make A Real Change!!

www.AreYouRugged.comwww.AreYouRugged.com

Manage Your Stress Better In 2015For many adults, stress is an

ever-present part of life. though statistics on stress can be easily manipulated, it’s safe to assume many men and wom-en experience significant stress, especially when the economy is struggling, as it has been over the last several years.

the prevalence of stress serves to highlight the emphasis men and women must place on reducing it and, whenever possible, prevent-ing it. though it might prove

impossible to eliminate stress, learning to manage that stress can improve your quality of life significantly. When attempting to manage stress, it can help to ask yourself the following questions.

What is the cause of my stress?stress can be caused by a num-

ber of things, but for many peo-ple, the main cause of their stress is work. in fact, a report from the national institute for Occupation-al safety and health found that

40 percent of workers found their job was very or extremely stress-ful. stress at the workplace has become even more overwhelm-ing in recent years as the econo-my has sagged and workers who managed to keep their jobs were asked to do more to make up for smaller staffs.

if work isn’t stressing you out, then it might help to maintain a stress journal, where you can track stressful incidents in the hopes of identifying just what it might be that’s stressing you out.

How can I manage this stress?stress levels can worsen de-

pending on how you respond to stressful incidents. For many peo-ple, effective stress management revolves around finding healthier ways to cope. unfortunately, it’s common to respond to stress in a host of negative ways. Overcon-sumption of alcohol, smoking, over- or undereating, withdraw-ing from friends and family, and sleeping too much are common, yet very unhealthy, ways to re-spond to stress.

Managing and coping with stress involves finding solutions that benefit your emotional and physical health. drinking too much or avoiding family and friends certainly won’t accom-plish either of those things, so find healthier responses, which

can include a better diet, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol con-sumption, and exercising more. if your solution to stress improves your overall health and involves something that makes you feel better both emotionally and phys-ically, then you might begin to notice that the stress is no longer so overwhelming.

Can I prevent stress?Stress prevention can be diffi-

cult, though it’s not impossible. since so many people cite work as their primary cause of stress, it might be impossible to eliminate stress entirely. But there are ways to prevent unnecessary stress from overtaking your life.

•Recognize you have limits. high rates of unemployment have left many working men and wom-en feeling as though they need to

keep stretching themselves at work in order to keep their job and stay afloat. But you must learn to say “no” if stress has be-come overwhelming.

don’t take on added respon-sibilities if your workload is al-ready excessive.

•Avoid the source of stress. When possible, avoid the source of your stress. For example, if you spend ample time each day sitting in a traffic jam, consider an alternate route to work or even public transportation.

•Learn to manage your time more effectively. Many over-stressed people find there simply isn’t enough time in the day to get things done. Managing time more effectively, which includes planning ahead and not procras-tinating, can help turn a hectic,

Massage Offers Many Benefits

Advertisements for vacation destinations often paint

couples’ massages as the premier romantic activity. it’s true that massages can be relaxing and sensual, making such sessions ideal gifts come Valentine’s day. yet, massages aren’t just sultry oils and new age music. they can actually be very good for overall health.

Massage therapy is beneficial in various ways. Massage is no longer just available in upscale health clubs or luxury spas. Mas-

sage spas have cropped up in malls, hospitals, clinics, and even office buildings, making massage therapy that much more acces-sible.

the Mayo clinic notes that while more research is needed to confirm the benefits of massage, it may be helpful for a variety of health ailments. in addition to easing sore muscles, reducing joint pain and helping soft tis-sue strains or injuries, massage can promote relaxation, reduce

See SET, page 12

See MASSAGE, page 8

Page 6: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsSix

Robert I. Leventhal, MD

Paolo Mapelli, MD

Thomas A. Rockoff, MD

Anthony Schore, MD

NVGC Services:

• High Definition Endoscopy/Colonoscopy

• Capsule endoscopy, Bravo pH monitoring

• Colon Cancer Screening

• Breath testing for IBS, lactose intolerance & bacterial overgrowth

• Management of GERD, Peptic Ulcer disease

• Management of Liver Disease

• Management of inflammatory bowel disease including remicade infusions

• Non surgical treatment of hemorrhoids

1312 West Main Street, Waterbury CT 06708 • P: 203.756.6422

www.planetgi.com • [email protected]

385 Main Street, So., Southbury, CT • 22 Old Waterbury Road, Southbury, CT Affiliated with Naugatuck Valley Surgical Center, St. Mary’s Hospital, Waterbury Hospital

Can E-Cigarettes Help You Quit Smoking? The Debate RagesQuitting smoking is some-

thing that requires a tre-mendous amount of discipline. In an effort to stop smoking, a growing number of smokers are turning to electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, to help them quit once and for all. Although e-ciga-rettes are not currently regulated, the U.S. Food and Drug Admin-istration is weighing regulations in a market that estimates suggest could be as big $5 billion in 2015. But are these devices safe? Or even effective?

There is mixed information regarding the effi cacy of e-cigarettes to help a person quit smoking. Some studies point to e-cigarettes as a good method of

smoking cessation, while others say there’s limited evidence to support those claims.

E-cigarettes typically contain liquid nicotine, which is inhaled as vapor. The vapor resembles smoke and can mimic the look and feel of smoking traditional cigarettes. But e-cigarettes typi-cally do not contain any of the additional chemicals, such as tar and other potentially toxic in-gredients, found in traditional cigarettes. Nicotine cartridges for e-cigarettes also come in vari-ous concentrations and fl avors, and smokers can even purchase nicotine-free replacement car-tridges. Much like users of nico-tine patches or chewers of nico-

tine gum, e-cigarette smokers can gradually lower their nicotine doses over time.

The American Lung Associa-tion currently has not approved any e-cigarette as a safe or ef-fective method to help smokers quit. They cite a study that esti-mates there are nearly 500 dif-ferent e-cigarette brands today with varying levels of nicotine and the possible presence of other chemicals. These e-cigarettes are unregulated. The ALA says there is a great deal more to learn about these products before they can be recommended as a safe and ef-fective way for smokers to wean themselves off of smoking.

E-cigarettes may contain addi-

tional chemicals besides nicotine. Studies have found detectable levels of chemicals used in anti-freeze in two leading brands of e-cigarettes. Formaldehyde and benzene have been detected in some e-cigarette emissions. Other studies have found secondhand emissions from e-cigarettes can prove harmful to nonsmokers.

While some organizations do not endorse e-cigarettes, others state that they shouldn’t be ruled out just yet. A 2014 study by Brit-ish researchers and published in the journal Addiction found peo-ple were 60 percent more likely to succeed in quitting smoking using e-cigarettes compared to would-be quitters who tried a nic-otine patch or gum. Background information in the report suggests that, since the e-cigarette vapor only contains nicotine and not tobacco smoke, e-cigarettes may help reduce cravings and with-drawal symptoms.

Although some e-cigarettes may contain harmful byproducts, toxicity tests indicate they are saf-er than regular cigarettes. Some health experts believe the benefi ts of quitting traditional cigarettes outweigh the risks posed by e-cigarettes.

The American Heart Associa-tion agrees. In a policy statement released in August 2014, the American Heart Association said physicians shouldn’t discourage e-cigarette use as a last resort to stop smoking.

“If people cannot quit at all and have tried everything in the fi eld, we would not discourage them,” said Aruni Bhatnager, the state-ment’s lead writer. “It’s not some-thing we would suggest.”

The AHA recommends e-cig-arettes only if smokers refuse or are intolerant of other options.

People who desire to quit smoking may look to e-cigarettes to help their fi ght. Although the safety and effi cacy of e-cigarettes remains open to debate and can-not be proven, many former smokers feel e-cigarettes played a signifi cant role in helping them to quit once and for all.

Page 7: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsSeven

$3999Clinic Name1234 Street Name, Ste #123This Street and That Street(555) 555-5555

+ $10 off your first massage*

* See clinic for details. Rates and services vary by location and session. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2014 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.

Convenient Hours · Franchises Available

With regular massages, facials and exclusive

member benefits, you can start living healthier

in the New Year. Take the first step today at

MassageEnvy.com/membership.

Your membership toYour membership to

a Happy New You

(203) 281-3689

Open 7 Days: M-F 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm

HAMDEN

59

2300 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden,In the Hamden Mart

$3999Clinic Name1234 Street Name, Ste #123This Street and That Street(555) 555-5555

+ $10 off your first massage*

* See clinic for details. Rates and services vary by location and session. Each location is independently owned and operated. ©2014 Massage Envy Franchising, LLC.

Convenient Hours · Franchises Available

With regular massages, facials and exclusive

member benefits, you can start living healthier

in the New Year. Take the first step today at

MassageEnvy.com/membership.

Your membership to

a Happy New You

(203) 281-3689

Open 7 Days: M-F 9am-9pm, Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 10am-6pm

HAMDEN

59

2300 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden,In the Hamden Mart

It’s A New Year. Time For A New Car?Many people like to begin the

new year with a fresh start, making resolutions to change bad habits improve their overall health. Others may be interested in changes they can make that will present new opportunities, such as career goals or relocating.

While health- and career-related resolu-tions are popular come the dawn of a new year, many men and women also ponder the ben-efi ts of buying a new car when the calendar year starts anew. Professionals in the automotive industry do not al-ways agree as to when is the best time to buy a new or pre-owned car. Some will tell you to shop on rainy days or near closing time from the dealership, and some shoppers insist that they will only buy a new car at the end of a month.

Unfortunately, there is no mag-ical day when buyers are guaran-teed to get the best bargains on new or pre-owned automobiles. Oftentimes, the best time to buy a new car is when buyers are in the best fi nancial position to make such purchases.

For a variety of reasons, the dawn of a new year may be a good time to buy a new ve-hicle. With the holidays behind them, buyers may have more disposable in-come to put toward down payments. Cash

gifts received from friends and family during the holidays can go a long way toward fi nancing a new vehicle purchase. What’s more, many businesses give their employees year-end bonuses as a token of appreciation for a year of hard work. When all of these fi nancial factors are put together,

buyers may fi nd the new year is a great time to buy a new car.

New model year vehicles will need homes on dealers’ lots, mo-tivating dealers to mark down last year’s models at consumer-friendly prices. Dealerships often slash prices on older models be-ginning in October and Decem-ber, but such discounted vehicles are often still available at even greater discounts come January.

Promotions and holidays seem to go hand-in-hand. In the United States, Presidents’ Day, which oc-curs in mid-February, is a prime time for manufacturers to drum up business during a traditionally slow buying time. Prospective buyers can do their research now and begin comparing car features and pricing, and then be ready to take advantage of sales once they are announced.

As a new year begins, many consumers consider buying new cars. But before signing on the dotted line, buyers should exam-ine their fi nances and study the automotive industry to ensure they get an affordable bargain.

New inventory usually means better deals on last year’s cars for interested buyers looking for bargains.

Page 8: New Year's Resolution 2015

the cheshire herald, January 22, 2015

New Year’s Resolutionseight

Don’t Forget About Your Home When Making Plans For 2015Many people feel a new cal-

endar year symbolizes a fresh start. Often times, however, those plans focus almost solely on the individual and not on any exterior items.

yet, there are a lot of other things people can do to improve their life that doesn’t involve more exercise or budget-crunch-ing. homeowners can make reso-lutions for their homes as well. the following are some resolu-tions to ensure your home has as good a year as you do over the next 12 months.

•Clear away clutter. Spring is the season most people associate with clearing a home of clutter, but the immediate aftermath of the holiday season marks a great time to begin tidying up. during the holiday season, homeowners often arrive home to a mailbox filled with holiday catalogs. In addition, extra rolls of wrapping paper, packaging tape and holi-day cards can transform a nor-mally neat and airy home into a cluttered space with little room to breathe. instead of waiting for spring to clear out clutter, resolve to spend some time each month getting rid of any unnecessary items. not only will less clutter make a home less stuffy (par-ticularly during winter when the

windows are closed), it will also make spring cleaning that much easier.

•Reduce the energy bill. Few people are in a position to scoff at ways to save money, and reduc-ing energy costs is a great way to do just that. this year, resolve to turn the lights off when you leave a room, lower the temperature on the thermostat during daytime hours when no one is home, and consider alternative methods of saving energy as well.

Most homeowners might be surprised to learn their set-top cable or satellite boxes, when coupled with a digital video re-corder, are quite possibly gob-bling up more energy than their refrigerator. Such was the find-ings in a 2011 study conducted by the natural resources de-fense council, which found that a high-definition cable or satellite set-top box, when combined with a dVr, used more kilowatt hours per year than a new energy star rated 21 cubic-foot refrigerator. While few homeowners are likely willing to give up their cable ser-vice or dVr, you can ask your service provider for energy star 4.0-rated devices to help reduce energy consumption.

•Grow a green thumb. A lawn is the first thing passersby notice

about a home. no matter how beautiful the home itself is, if the lawn is not well-maintained that

is what most people are going to remember. this year, resolve to grow a green thumb. though

spring and summer are considered the seasons for lawn care, winter is not necessarily a bad time to get started. clear away any fallen branches and rake away the last of the leaves, which can be used to create a compost pile that can benefit the lawn throughout the year. depending on the type of grass you have, late winter and early spring can be a great time to fertilize.

•Make your home safer. Im-proving safety around the house should not have to be a new year’s resolution, but for busy homeowners it’s easy to overlook safety around the house. this year, resolve to make your home safer and keep it safe and secure. have the home tested for radon if you haven’t already, and inspect all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing any ones that are no longer operating at full ca-pacity. if there are any safety haz-ards around the house, such as a loose step or handrail on the stair-case or a leaky gutter that makes it easy for ice patches to form after winter rain or snowstorms, then address these issues before they cause serious injury.

Make the most of this year’s fresh start by making your home a happier, healthier place to live. this year and in the years to come.

anxiety and calm feelings of stress. Massage reduces levels of the stress hormone cortisol. this helps to lift spirits and can often lower blood pressure. Mas-sage also may help to boost the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which are associated with depression.

according to health magazine, massage also can help promote healthy sleep. it has something to do with the effect of massage on delta waves, which are the brain waves connected to deep sleep. there is some evidence that massage can also increase white blood cell counts, promoting im-proved immunity.

Many people rely on massages to relieve pain. according to a report published in 2011 in the american college of Physicians’ “annals of internal Medicine,” massage helps people in pain feel and function better than those who do not receive treatment. Massage can alleviate stiffness and pain and promote a better range of motion. and pain relief is not just for the back, arms and legs. Massage can reduce risk for migraines and decrease pain from tension headaches.

Massage even has beauty ben-

efits. Rubbing the face and scalp can promote blood flow and en-courage lymphatic drainage. this can add vitality to the complexion and plump up the skin. dull hair may appear more shiny and revi-talized.

People can explore different types of massage and experiment with what works best for their ail-ments. everything from swedish massage to reflexology is offered at massage clinics.

Because massage involves be-ing partially or completely un-dressed and having a massage therapist touch various areas of the body, it is important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. Make sure that the therapist is fully certified and qualified. It also helps if he or she is properly vetted by the spa or clinic. therapists will heed a per-son’s preferences with regard to the massage, only concentrating on the areas specified. If anything feels uncomfortable or a client prefers not to have an area of the body touched, he or she simply needs to address that with the therapist at the beginning of the session.

the gift of a massage session can be romantic and improve one’s overall health.

Massage Can Relieve Pain, Lift Spirits

continued from page 5

Page 9: New Year's Resolution 2015

the cheshire herald, January 22, 2015

New Year’s Resolutionsnine

“Expect the Best”That’s All We Carry!

Complete Service from Design to Installation

G RANITE F ABRICATION C USTOM M ARBLE & � ���� ���

� ���� ���

� ���� ���

G LASS B LOCK & P AVERS

BATHROOM REMODELING BY IN-HOUSE PROFESSIONAL INSTALLERS

625 Wolcott St., WTBY203 757-4100

OPEN TUES-SAT (Call for Hours)CT Lic #0535250

of WaterburyAnthony J. Daddona, Owner

Cortina TileCortina TileCelebrating 25 Years

Winter Discounts!Reasonable Rates

EMERGENCY SERVICEBruce Abate, Owner

203-272-1396

CALL NOW FOR FREE QUOTE!

EZ Tree andBrush Removal LLC

PROFESSIONAL TREE REMOVALOvergrown Shrub Removal • Brush Chipping

Stump Grinding • Skilled Climbers

Fully Insured

License #583726

Take Care Of Your Teeth And Improve Your Overall HealthOf all the plans people make

at the dawn of a new year, getting healthier is often at the top of the list. although many indi-viduals are concerned about shed-ding a few pound, there are many other ways to focus on health in the upcoming months, including paying more attention to dental hygiene. Proper dental care can not only keep a smile bright, it can affect other areas of the body.

Fluoride BenefitsOne of the keys to oral health

is the use of fluoride to prevent dental caries. in fact, many health professionals will say that expo-sure to fluoride, whether through use of toothpaste or fluoridated water supplies, is probably the most effective cavity-prevention treatment available. Fluoride helps the teeth in a number of

ways.Fluoride can promote tooth

remineralization. this means it attracts other minerals, par-ticularly calcium, to the areas of the teeth where tooth decay can form, helping to strengthen teeth. Fluoride also helps to make teeth more resistant to decay. new tooth mineral created when fluo-ride is present helps to make teeth harder, making it more difficult for acids and bacteria to penetrate the enamel of the teeth and cause damage.

Another advantage is that fluo-ride helps to inhibit acid creation. dental researchers have found that fluoride can inhibit bacteria living in the mouth. that’s an im-portant finding, as such bacteria can contribute to the formation of damage-causing acids that are

notorious for wearing down tooth enamel, causing spots for more bacteria to congregate and form cavities.

according to the american dental association, individuals who find themselves prone to cavities or whose dentists have deemed them at elevated risk for developing cavities may benefit from fluoride application beyond the norm. this may include pre-scription fluoride applied directly to the teeth at home or procedures where dentists apply the fluoride in their offices.

recent clinical recommenda-tions from a multi-disciplinary expert panel convened by the ADA Council on Scientific Af-fairs suggest that topical fluo-ride, used in conjunction with drinking optimally-fluoridated

water and using toothpaste with fluoride, can prevent tooth decay. these clinical recommendations cover professionally-applied and prescription-strength home-use topical fluoride agents for cavity prevention.

the panel concluded that addi-tional research is needed, but rec-ommended the following prod-ucts for patients at elevated risk of developing cavities.

•Professionally-applied 2.26 percent fluoride varnish or a 1.23 percent fluoride gel every three to six months.

•Home-use prescription-strength 0.5 percent fluoride gel or paste or 0.09 percent fluoride mouth rinse (for patients six years old or older).

•A 2.26 percent professionally-applied fluoride varnish every

three to six months for children younger than six years old.

Application of additional fluo-ride should not replace daily oral hygiene habits. it is still vital to brush twice a day, floss daily, eat a balanced diet, and visit the den-tist regularly for checkups.

Heart Disease and Oral Health

the millions of bacteria that proliferate inside of the mouth and contribute to dental caries also can affect other areas of the body. evidence suggests the same bacteria that can cause plaque and gum disease may lead to cardio-vascular problems. according to information from harvard Medi-cal school, several species of bacteria that cause periodontitis have been found in the athero-sclerotic plaque in arteries in the heart and elsewhere. this plaque can lead to heart attack.

although research is ongoing, there is reason to believe that oral bacteria could also harm blood vessels or cause blood clots by re-leasing toxins that resemble pro-teins found in artery walls or the bloodstream.

When the body’s immune sys-tem responds to these toxins, blood clots may form more easi-ly. some evidence also points to a correlation between inflammation in the mouth and inflammation in the body.

With the new year upon us, now may be the ideal time for men and women to take inventory of their personal health. schedule a physical examination with a doctor, visit an optometrist or op-thalmologist for an eye exam and remember to visit the dentist for a cleaning, checkup and a possible fluoride treatment to protect the mouth and body.

remodel until you have eliminat-ed your debt.

•Decide where you can cut costs. chances are you’re es-tablishing a budget because you have a specific financial goal in mind or because you examined last year’s financial statements and realized you fell short of your savings goals. so you likely know you need to cut some costs, and part of establishing a budget is deciding which costs you can cut. some of the more common ways people cut costs at the dawn of a new year includes deciding to dine out less, canceling a cable television subscription or remov-ing premium channels from their package, driving less to save money on fuel and forgoing store-bought coffee for java they make at home. each of these budget cuts can lead to substantial sav-ings over a full year, and none of them are life-altering to the point of lowering a person’s quality of life.

•Include savings into your bud-get. living on a budget is not always easy, especially for those people who are not used to doing so. When establishing your bud-get, include weekly, bi-weekly and monthly savings goals.

if you stick to this plan, you will have something to show for your financial discipline at the end of each month, and light at the end of the tunnel can be a mo-tivating factor as you adapt to liv-ing on a budget.

the new year is a great time to turn over a new financial leaf, and establishing a budget is a great way to get started.

Decide On What To Cut

Before Setting Your Budget

continued from page 4

Page 10: New Year's Resolution 2015

the cheshire herald, January 22, 2015ten

Phone: 203-598-PAIN (7246) • www.ctspinedoc.com

Dr. Patel is pleased to now be able to offer his patients ultrasound-guided peripheral joint injections and plasma rich protein (PRP) injection therapy. These state-of-the-art treatments provide a painless, low-radiation option and excellent therapeutic results for pain in joints including shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, ankles and feet. Injections are used to treat inflammation from bursitis, carpal tunnel and joint pain relief.

Accepting New Patients!

■ Non-Operative Orthopedic Care■ Spine & Sports Medicine■ Spinal Injection Therapy■ Electrodiagnostic Medicine (NCS/EMG)

■ Radiofrequency Ablation■ Ultrasound Guided Joint Injections■ Minimally Invasive Spinal

Procedures

■ In Office Fluoroscopy “Spine

Suite”

Pond Place Medical Center166 Waterbury Road, Suite 204

Prospect, CT 06712

Turnpike Office Park leveL rewoL ,ekipnruT stiartS 9751

Middlebury, CT 06762

Introducing Our New Physician to the Practice!Todd P. Beery, DO

Board Certified inPhysical Medicine

& Pain Medicine

Bhavesh R. Patel, M.D.Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Pain Medicine

■ Plasma Rich Protein (PRP) Injection Therapy

Turnpike Office ParkS9751Bhavesh R. Patel, M.D.

Board Certified in Physical Medicine & Pain Medicine

Injection Therapy

Named “TOP DOC”2010 - 2014

by Connecticut Magazine

Give Your Wardrobe Staying PowerGlamorous models strut

their stuff at fashion shows around the world, and many women and men hope to emulate the latest styles debuting on the runway. no matter what stella Mccartney, Burberry or Phil-lip lim is showcasing this sea-son, outfitting a wardrobe means blending trendy pieces with items that will stand the test of time.

A closet filled with trendy clothes may find you catching eyes this season, but come next season you may regret break-ing the bank for a new wardrobe that is already outdated. a better approach may be to purchase some classic piec-es before embellishing them with current looks.

Menevery man should own a clas-

sic, well-tailored suit. it’s a busi-ness or special event staple, and

the jacket can be dressed down over jeans and loafers. it pays to spend a little more money now on a suit that will last. Make sure it fits well by having a tailor adjust hems and sleeve lengths accord-ingly. swimming in an oversized suit or squeezing yourself into a suit that’s too small won’t provide the look you’re going for, so find a suit that fits you right

so your investment pays off when the

time comes to look dapper.

this sea-son’s fash-

ion trends lean heavily on knits for men and women. cable

knits and Fair isle sweaters will always have their place, but more mock turtlenecks and oversized pieces are show-ing up. Knits can be worn over button-down shirts to the office or paired with distressed jeans and boots for a casual night on the town.

Jeans and slacks are impor-

tant components of any classic wardrobe. straight-leg cuts will not go out of style as quickly as tapered legs or wide-hemmed op-tions. Pants in neutral colors can be mixed and matched for endless wardrobe possibilities.

tartan plaid, made popular in the scottish highlands, is trend-ing in women’s fashion this sea-son, but it’s also a look men can achieve quite easily. a tartan plaid tie is a statement piece that can brighten up any wardrobe without overwhelming it. checks, gingham and plaids are back in a big way, but it’s best to use them in moderation.

Womenneutral foundation pieces, such

as a black pencil skirt, slim slacks or soft, jersey pants, are items to include in any woman’s ward-robe. these staples are easy to pair with some winter trends as you look to put your most fash-ionable foot forward.

to recreate the “mod squad” trend that is growing in popular-ity, pair a skirt with a turtleneck

or mock-neck sweater and knee-high boots. each piece can be worn separately with other acces-sories should the mod look fall out of favor down the road.

tomboy looks were another runway trend at recent fashion shows. Wider-cut “boyfriend” jeans, oxford shoes and boxy blazers can make it look like you borrowed items from your fa-vorite guy without investing too much in over-the-top looks.

an easy way to make any out-fit look more hip is to pair it with

sneakers. From dresses to blazers to slacks, sneakers peeking out below can add street credibility to any look. sneakers add a touch of whimsy to even the most con-servative items in your closet. in-vesting in a good pair of sneakers also will serve you well as you head to the gym or take a lunch-hour stroll.

Fashion trends come and go, but with practice anyone can find a blend of pieces that will provide bang for your buck for years to come.

New Year’s Resolutions

Page 11: New Year's Resolution 2015

THE CHESHIRE HERALD, JANUARY 22, 2015

New Year’s ResolutionsEleven

 

LOVE SHOPPING? LOVE FASHION?HOW ABOUT GREAT DEALS?

COME TO CONSIGNMENT ORIGINALS! WE HAVETHE LATEST NAME BRAND FASHIONS AROUND!

WE HAVE ALL DEPARTMENTS (MISSES, JUNIORS, PLUS, PETITES, MENS, CHILDRENS, DESIGNER

PURSES, SHOES, JEWELRY, HOUSEWARES,FURNITURE AND MORE...)

COME SEE WHY WE HAVE BEEN INBUSINESS FOR 32 YEARS! WE ARE THE“ORIGINAL” CONSIGNMENT ORIGINALS!

20% OFFYOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE

(Not to be combined with any other offer)Expires 1/31/15.

959 S. Main Street, Cheshire | 320 Boston Post Rd., Orange2139 Silas Deane Hwy., Rocky Hill • www.consignit.com

Is A Cleansing Diet For You? Here Are The Pros And ConsThe most popular New

Year’s resolution each and every year is to lose weight. After several months of over-indulgence in rich foods, many people fi nd themselves battling the bulge. But as spring draws near, the time to get in shape and shed some pounds has arrived. Those considering a cleansing diet should weigh the pros and cons before beginning.

Turning to a cleansing, or detox, diet after a period of unhealthy eating may seem like a good idea. These types of diets have become quite popular in recent years, and many are endorsed by celebrities who routinely detox to look svelte and feel good. Cleansing diets typically involve restricting food and beverage choices to a few different options and eliminat-ing certain foods, notably dairy products, some types of grains, caffeine, alcohol, and sugar. The benefi ts range from clearer skin to weight loss to reduced symptoms of certain health ailments.

As with any type of diet, it is best to consult with a physician before beginning a cleansing diet. After speaking with your physi-cian, consider the pros and cons before making a fi nal decision.

Pros•Reduced bodily toxins: While

there is no scientifi c proof that cleansing diets actually rid the body of harmful microorganisms, the nature of these diets suggests that cleansing may take place. Many of the diets concentrate on eating natural, whole fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water and fruit juices. The in-crease in vegetable fi ber helps to fl ush out the digestive system, and the infl ux in liquid consump-tion can cause you to visit the bathroom more frequently, rid-

ding the body of substances in the blood and urine. Eating organic foods will reduce the consump-tion of chemical pesticides and preservatives, which can have various benefi ts on the body.

•Weight loss: One reason peo-ple are drawn to detox diets is the potential to lose weight. Re-stricting certain foods will result in reduced caloric intake, par-ticularly if you’re moving away from high-fat foods to fruits and vegetables. A certain amount of water weight also will come off, which is a temporary benefi t to a detox diet. If a healthy eating plan is implemented after the short-term cleansing diet, it may be possible to keep the weight off permanently.

•Indifference to once-loved foods: After one week on a re-stricted diet, you may no longer crave the foods you thought you needed on a daily basis. You may

actually fi nd that certain junk food is no longer appealing. The diet may serve as a catalyst for a change in eating habits.

•More energy: Some people re-port that cleansing the body gives them more energy from the natu-ral foods they are eating.

Cons•Nutrition defi ciencies: Some

doctors argue that a detox diet

is not as healthy as it sounds be-cause it can lead to health prob-lems resulting from nutrition de-fi ciencies. By limiting the foods you eat, you may not be getting all of the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs to function and repair itself.

•Changes in metabolic rate: If the goal from a cleansing diet is to lose weight, restricting food intake could backfi re. That’s be-

cause if the body feels it is be-ing starved by a lack of eating, it could actually go into a “power-saving mode,” just like your com-puter or phone does. Your me-tabolism slows down to conserve the amount of fat stored you have. Therefore, eating less may actu-ally not cause any weight loss. Or it may lead to binge eating after the cleanse.

•Feeling unhealthy: Although the goal is to have more energy and have a body that feels good, some side effects of a detox diet could be off-putting. Fatigue, confusion, dizziness, headaches, and general malaise may occur from calorie or food restriction. These symptoms may abate when you include more foods in your daily diet.

•Potential development of un-healthy habits: It may be possible to develop an eating disorder if the results of a cleansing diet are positive. Instead of engaging in the diet for a limited period of time, you may be tempted to continue in a strict restriction of food, which may be unhealthy in the long run.

It is important to research a cleansing diet and weigh all of its advantages and disadvantages before making a fi nal decision. Talking to a doctor can also help people decide on a diet.

It’s the time of year when people make resolutions to be a better and healthier version of themselves. So why not make resolutions

that will mutually benefi t you and your pet? Here are some ideas to help you and yours have the best year yet.

•Eat more fresh food. This may seem like an easy resolution. However, it takes time and prep-aration. For humans, this means incorporating more fruits and veggies into your diet while for pets this means ensuring that their pet food uses ingredients such as fresh turkey, salmon

and duck, fresh omega 3 and 6 oils, wholesome berries and fruits and vegetables like peas, spinach and

carrots. There are several brands on the market so it is best to speak with your veterinarian about which would be right for you.

•Get more exercise. Did you know pets can decrease our blood pres-sure and cholesterol levels and increase our opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization? Exercising together will not only help optimize your health but also allow you to spend more time to-gether.

•Use that agenda. This doesn't seem like a resolution, but sometimes making a plan is the only way resolutions will come to life. Most of us schedule time for other appointments and meetings, so why not set aside some priority time for pets too?

Resolutions To Help You And Your Pet

Page 12: New Year's Resolution 2015

the cheshire herald, January 22, 2015

New Year’s Resolutionstwelve

Expires 2-15-2015 • ALLSTAR APPLIANCE

Expires 2-15-2015 • ALLSTAR APPLIANCE

Expires 2-15-2015 • ALLSTAR APPLIANCE

Expires 2-15-2015 • ALLSTAR APPLIANCE

smoking can put that money back in your pocket, potentially lower your insurance costs (the na-tional association of health un-derwriters estimates that smokers will spend 50 percent more on life insurance policies than nonsmok-ers) and improve your overall health considerably.

•Eat right and exercise. Mak-ing exercise a part of your weekly routine is another way to save money over the long haul. ac-cording to the national asso-ciation of health underwriters, men and women who combine a healthy diet with exercise three times per week can decrease their prescription medications costs by 70 percent and their overall medi-cal costs by 30 percent. Exercise greatly reduces a person’s risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart dis-ease. each of those conditions is not only unhealthy but costly as well. But each is also largely pre-ventable when men and women adhere to a healthy diet and exer-cise regularly.

•Eliminate debt. Debt costs money, and research has shown

that debt can negatively affect quality of life. the longer men and women carry balances on their credit cards, the more inter-est they’re paying on those debts. the dawn of a new year marks a great time to resolve your debt is-sues.

if your debts are substantial, contact your creditors to discuss a payment plan that may help lower your obligations. some credit card companies are will-ing to work with cardholders who are overwhelmed by their debts. such companies may devise pay-ment schedules that keep interest from accruing on existing debts so long as cardholders make pre-determined minimum payments on time each month.

•Start saving more money. Re-solving to set more money aside for savings can save men and women money over the long haul. When they have more money in savings accounts, men and wom-en are more capable of handling emergencies or other unforeseen expenses on their own rather than relying on credit cards or lend-ers to help them make it through rough patches. credit cards or

stressful schedule into one that’s far more manageable.

•Make time to relax. Part of stress management and preven-tion is making time to relax and have fun. spend time outdoors and don’t skip outings with fam-ily and friends. use your allotted vacation time even if you just stay at home and relax. Taking time out for yourself can help you recharge and put you in a better position to cope with stress when it returns.

•Working out alone. When you workout alone, you do not have the benefit of friendly competi-tion to motivate you as you exer-cise. With no one to egg you on, you may be content to stick to a certain number of repetitions in-

living with stress is something with which men and women have grown accustomed. But employ-ing some management and pre-

stead of trying a little harder. a partner can provide camaraderie and help you make the most of your exercise regimen.

•Ignoring possible injury. No one is immune to injury, which can result from lifting weights that are too heavy or using im-

bank loans come with interest charges, which will only make emergencies more expensive. If

you are in a position to handle such emergencies on your own, then you won’t feel the finan-

cial pinch like you would if you needed to borrow or take on debt to handle such situations.

proper form. if you feel you are hurt, don’t make things worse by ignoring an injury. the body needs time to recover from injury, and ignoring an injury can lead to additional problems that will only extend that recovery time. Be smart and listen to your body.

vention strategies can help you avoid succumbing to stress and can improve your quality of life as well.

Eliminate Debt And Add To Your Savings Account This Year

Add A Friend To Your Workout And Stay Motivated

Set Aside Enough Time Each Day To Relax And Destress

though laughter is often referred to as “the best medicine,”no definitive study has been conducted to determine the effects of

laughter on overall human health, leaving open the possibility that maintaining a good sense of humor and a positive attitude

are just as important, if not more important, than finding time to laugh each day. But even if laughter is not medicinal, its benefits can mimic those of exercise. When a person laughs, his or her pulse and blood pressure increase, and people tend to breathe faster when they laugh.

Is Laughter Really The Best Medicine?

continued from page 5

continued from page 3

continued from page 3