Hello, Yahoo Life readers! I’m Kaitlin, and I’m bringing you this week’s health and wellness tips you need to know.
It’s Labor Day weekend, which means the final days of barbecue season are here. Wondering if you should opt for the vegan hot dog barbecue this time around? Experts tell Yahoo that it might be a good idea. If you’re lucky enough to be lounging by a pool this weekend, be sure to follow our tips for staying safe in the water, especially if you have pool-loving kids you need to watch out for.
Check the weather in your area and, if you’re looking for some expert advice, your horoscope. Then, dive into these feel-good bites!
Connect with new friends
Friends are super important, but it can be difficult to form new relationships as an adult due to factors like changing priorities and increased family responsibilities. Luckily, it’s not impossible: Experts spoke to Yahoo Life about how to find and cultivate real connections. One important tip? Don’t limit yourself to the superficial. Engaging in meaningful conversations and finding shared experiences can build trust and emotional intimacy. Another surprising tip is to ask budding friends for favors when you really need them. This helps us build trust in our relationships.
Don’t Worry About Perfect Posture for Back Pain – Do This Instead
Are you trying to sit up straighter to relieve your back pain? According to experts, poor posture, such as slouching, may be a reaction to your back pain, not its cause. Instead of focusing on perfect posture, try taking breaks after sitting for long periods of time. Get up and move around every hour you’re sitting: Take work calls while walking, try a treadmill desk or walking machine, or just do some light stretches if you can only move for a few minutes. Not only will your back thank you, but you’ll also avoid the unpleasant health consequences of being too sedentary, which include an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and cancer.
Tell yourself something positive
Affirmations are statements you say to yourself to challenge your negative thoughts and replace them with positive ones. While it may seem silly to repeat “I am strong” in your head, research shows that it can make a big difference in your behavior by reshaping your internal dialogues. To get started, write down a few positive statements that reflect your personal goals (like “I face challenges with confidence”) and say them out loud during quiet moments throughout your day. For added impact, you can set reminders on your phone to repeat them, or write your affirmations on notes around your home to remind yourself that you are strong and capable—or whatever you aspire to be!
Don’t let the potatoes go by
Potatoes get a bad rap, probably because they’re usually eaten fried. However, there’s a lot to love about this potato, which is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium (more than bananas!), fiber, and even some…
