All posts by Sassy

Health & Fitness

TMS Therapy For Depression

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If you or someone you know is living with depression, then you may have heard of TMS therapy. TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is an alternative to medications and psychotherapy for treating depression and has been found to be effective for many individuals. Let’s take a closer look at what TMS therapy is, who it helps, and why it could be beneficial. 

The Origin of TMS 

The concept of Transaction Management System originated in the early 1960s when computer technology first began to be used for business applications. The first TMS system was created by International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) and marketed as the IBM Transaction Processing Facility (TPF). This system was designed to provide a reliable platform for performing financial transactions such as payments, transfers, and deposits. 

The Evolution of TMS 

Since its inception, TMS systems have undergone several iterations and advancements. As technology advanced, so did the capabilities of these systems. In the 1970s, IBM released its first true transaction processing system which allowed customers to access their accounts from remote terminals using dedicated software packages such as CICS/VSAM.  This marked the beginning of a new era in transaction processing technology where businesses were able to securely process financial transactions with greater efficiency. 

Types of TMS Technology Available Today 

Today there are several types of TMS technology available including repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). rTMS is used to target specific parts of the brain while dTMS is used to stimulate deeper structures within the brain. Both types have been found effective in treating depression with few side effects reported. 

How Does TMS Therapy Work? 

TMS therapy works by sending magnetic pulses into certain areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. These pulses help to normalize the activity of neurons in these areas, which can lead to an improvement in symptoms such as sadness and fatigue associated with depression. The process is painless and usually takes about 40 minutes per session. Depending on the patient’s needs, treatments are typically administered over a period of four weeks with three sessions per week. 

Who Can Benefit from TMS Therapy? 

TMS therapy is used primarily for people who are dealing with major depressive disorder (MDD). It can also be helpful for those who have not responded well to antidepressant medications or psychotherapy. It is important to note that this type of treatment should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified medical professional. 

What Are the Benefits of TMS Therapy? 

One of the main benefits of TMS therapy is that it does not involve any kind of medication, so there are no potential side effects like nausea or weight gain associated with taking antidepressants. 

Additionally, because it targets specific areas of the brain rather than affecting all parts equally as medications do, it can provide more targeted relief from symptoms while avoiding any potential negative effects on other parts of the brain that could otherwise occur when taking drugs. Finally, it has been shown to have lasting results; research has found that many patients experience long-term improvements in their symptoms even after the treatment has ended.  

Overall, TMS therapy can be a great option for those looking for an alternative approach to treating depression without having to rely on medication or psychotherapy alone. If you or someone you know may benefit from this type of treatment, make sure to speak with your doctor about whether or not this type of therapy would be right for you. 

While there are some risks involved in undergoing this procedure—such as headaches and hearing loss—the potential benefits far outweigh them when administered by a qualified medical professional under proper supervision. With proper care and attention paid to your mental health needs, TMS therapy could be just what you need to start feeling better again!

Travel

A Classic American Road Trip: Best Stops on Route 20

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Route 20 is a road that stretches across the United States from Boston, Massachusetts, to Newport, Oregon. It is the longest roadway in the United States and is ranked number 8 on the list of longest roadways in the world.  Several stops are worth making if you are planning a road trip along Route 20, let’s take a look at the best ones.

Boston, Massachusetts

As the capital and largest city of Massachusetts, Boston is a vibrant and cultural hub. In addition to the popular tourist attractions mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Boston include the Boston Common, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. The city is also known for its excellent seafood, so try some lobster or clam chowder there. As the starting point of Route 20, Boston is a fantastic place to begin your journey. The city is rich in history and is home to many popular tourist attractions, such as Fenway Park, the Freedom Trail, and the New England Aquarium.

Lake Erie, Pennsylvania

Being in the northwest corner of the state, Lake Erie is the among the largest of the Great Lakes and a popular outdoor destination. In addition to the water sports and state parks mentioned earlier, the lake is also home to Presque Isle State Park, which features a beautiful sandy beach and is a popular spot for birdwatching. 

Cleveland, Ohio

Being on the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is a city with a rich history and a thriving arts and culture scene. In addition to the museums and cultural institutions mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Cleveland include the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the Cleveland Orchestra, and the West Side Market, a historic indoor/outdoor market featuring a wide variety of food and merchandise.

Chicago, Illinois

As the third largest city in the United States, Chicago is a major transportation hub and a diverse and vibrant city. In addition to the landmarks and museums mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in Chicago include the Willis Tower, the Chicago Theatre, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. The city is renowned for its delicious food, with a wide variety of cuisines, from classic Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza to world-class fine dining.

Yellowstone, Montana

Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonder home to an array of wildlife and breathtaking natural features. In addition to the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone mentioned earlier, other must-see destinations in the park include the Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, and the Norris Geyser Basin. The park is also home to various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.

In conclusion, Route 20 is a great road for a cross-country trip. It offers a diverse range of experiences and destinations, from the historical and cultural attractions of Boston and Chicago to the natural beauty of Lake Erie and Yellowstone National Park. Despite what your interests are, there is something to see and do along every stretch of Route 20. So get prepared and hit the road for an unforgettable journey across the United States.

Home Decor, Home Improvement, DIY

How to Invest in Solar Power for Your Home

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Most people don’t view solar energy as an investment due to its high installation costs and the fact that it doesn’t run like a business. However, if you consider the massive savings on your energy costs and the overall improvement on your home’s valuation, then solar energy is a great investment in the future of your home. With an installation cost as high as $45000 to $100000, solar energy will give you freedom on your energy needs and also give you a chance to redesign your home’s energy needs. This article will guide you on how to make the most of your solar energy investment. 

Why Solar Is a Great Alternative

Grid energy has been around for long and even though it has continued to serve a great purpose of powering our homes, the rising energy costs and the toll on the environment is too great a cost to bear. Most energy companies use fossil fuels to generate electricity and this is negatively affecting the environment. Global warming is therefore a reality we cannot ignore and solar energy offers the next best alternative due to its availability, simplicity, ease of use and longevity. 

Extra Advantages of Solar Energy

Another advantage of solar energy is that you can rely on its availability so long as there is sunlight. Advanced solar panels don’t require intense or direct sunlight throughout the day. They can easily convert daylight into electricity and with even more advanced batteries, you can store this energy for much longer than before. Certain battery packs can serve you for 2 days without any solar energy. You simply need to adjust your energy needs so that the output from your solar panels can meet your daily needs. 

Steps to Finding a Great Installer

For a good installation you need professionals to handle every aspect of the installation process. The best solar companies retain several professionals to help you in assessing your property and measure the possible energy output. California solar panels companies rarely offer such services since their main business is in selling solar panels and solar panel accessories. A solar company should have the right permits, licenses and professionals to handle the work.

Ensure you check on the installer’s credentials since this will ultimately affect the quality of the solar system you install. A good installer will take their time to assess and give you the cost implications of the installation. They will also let you know whether there are incentives and discounts on offer to help you reduce the overall spend. Most solar companies will have affiliate networks with solar components manufacturers and this is good for you since any component will have a quality assurance from the manufacturer and you can expect the best solar companies to always have most components on time as soon as they order. 

Conclusion

Investing in solar energy for your home should be a positive step. Ensure you properly maintain the solar panels and other components so that they can outlive their warranty period of 25 years. Also ensure you routinely check on the system to see whether it is working optimally.

General

Important Do’s and Don’ts When Using Pest Control in Your Home

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Have you grown sick and tired of pests bothering you and your family? The first move to make is to have proper pest control to deal with these bugs completely. Whether a pest infestation is just getting started or already at its worst, there’s always a pest control solution guaranteed to get the job done. 

However, you have to understand that there are a lot of rules to this guaranteed solution. Making pest control mistakes can at best, result in damage to your environment, while at worst, present a risk to your health. 

To ensure you properly use your pest control products, here are basic pest control dos and don’ts to follow: 

Do’s

  • Do identify your problem properly

There are as many extermination products and methods as there are types of pests. No miracle solution works for all pests. 

So, to ensure that your pest control process succeeds, you have to identify the pest you are dealing with first. In fact, you have to do this before you begin asking yourself; “what are the reliable pest control solutions near me?” 

  • Do ensure that your home is well-maintained and clean

Nothing attracts insects and pests like unwashed dishes, overly filled trash cans, standing rainwater, and poorly maintained lawns and gardens. These are things you have to keep in check if you don’t wish to share your home with different kinds of pests. 

Therefore, it’s also an important step to take in pest control because it keeps these irritating creatures from ever returning. 

  • Do notify your neighbors of the infestation

Whenever you identify a pest infestation in your home — whether it’s rodents, cockroaches, termites, or even bed bugs — your duty as a homeowner is to alert your neighbors of this problem. Speed is essential to pest control. 

Once pest problems begin, they can spread quite easily like wildfire and affect the entire neighborhood. If it gets to this point, it will become more difficult to get rid of this problem and you wouldn’t want fingers to be pointed at you for not properly dealing with the problem. 

  • Do get expert help

If you are facing a persistent pest problem, you might have to consider calling in the pros. DIY solutions might be effective for minor pest issues, but nests and infestations need a more professional and permanent solution. 

A pest control expert is way more experienced than a common homeowner and will have access to better pest control products and methods. For pest-prone environments, it’s worth scheduling monthly checks. 

  • Do dispose of leftovers properly

Many pest control products are considered hazardous wastes, and therefore, must be safely disposed of. Check the product’s label for the safest and best way to dispose of any containers or leftovers. 

Furthermore, you can also find out if your neighborhood has a hazardous waste disposal system that takes proper care of leftover pesticides. 

Don’ts

  • Don’t mix pest control products up

Think your pesticide needs a bit more kick? Well, don’t try mixing up numerous chemicals in an attempt to make it a more effective and powerful solution. It will never work and can be extremely detrimental to your health. Twice as much doesn’t translate to twice as effective. 

Likewise, avoid putting pest control chemicals in canisters other than their original, which have all the important information on them. Doing so will result in accidents, which can be quite fatal. 

  • Don’t utilize outdoor chemicals indoors 

You might be feeling indifferent about purchasing separate chemicals for both outdoors and indoors, especially if you are battling the same pests inside and out. However, outdoor and indoor chemicals are produced differently to be as effective as possible in their respective environments. 

Outdoor chemicals are much stronger than indoor ones and are designed to remain toxic for longer. This can be quite dangerous to you, your kids, and any pets, so it’s advised you use indoor chemicals, which break down faster. 

  • Don’t leave chemicals and traps in children’s reach 

Leaving insecticides, pesticides, and traps out is a major hazard, especially if you have kids in the house. The little ones will always be curious and they will touch, use, and even taste anything they can. 

Regardless of how carefully you monitor them, you can never be too sure of what will happen immediately after you turn your back for even a minute. So, to completely avoid any accident, simply ensure that these harmful chemicals are out of their reach. 

Key Takeaway

There you have it. Those are the dos that you have to adhere to, and the don’ts you must avoid to guarantee your family’s safety, as well as to ensure that the issue is resolved permanently. 

Family & Love

7 Tips to Get Your Teenager Ready for a Trip

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Children are often creatures of habit. And this is particularly true for children who think and learn differently. They frequently enjoy following a regimen. They might not appreciate sudden or last-minute plans. 

So, whether you’ve planned the trip of a lifetime or are simply going to Grandma’s for a long weekend, it is crucial to give your child the additional time and space to get ready for a journey. As a bonus, this preparation period can also help your youngster feel less stressed about the entire schedule and encourage positive excitement for a holiday. Here are seven ways you can prepare your teenager. 

  • Discuss the Details of Your Trip

By describing where you’re going and why, you can help your child feel less anxious. Clearly state your destination and the mode of transportation you’ll be using to get there, such as your own car or rideshare vehicles. Include information like the time you’ll leave home and what you’ll see when you get there. Describe sensory elements like sand beaches, loud amusement parks, or chilly ski slopes. Talk to your youngster about the weather forecast and any anticipated visitors, such as familiar relatives or theme park characters.

  • Help them Envision the Journey 

It works wonders to give them a few flyers, webpages, or images to help them picture the vacation. If your child is capable of reading, check out some instruction manuals from the library. Make a schedule of your daily activities using a calendar. Create a pictorial schedule for the trip if your child uses one at home.

Showing your youngster YouTube videos can be beneficial for new experiences like the first time on a roller coaster or a boat. This will educate them about different activities and reduce your anxiety. 

  • Prepare them for Emergencies 

Preparing your kids for different sorts of emergencies is important before taking them on a trip. From teaching them to behave decently during traveling and throughout the trip to guiding them about possible unseen dangers – prepare them beforehand. Moreover, tell them why it is important to stay vigilant during traveling as chances of accidents are very common. 

And if you’re traveling in a rideshare vehicle like Uber or Lyft and get into an accident due to the driver’s fault, tell them there are attorneys for rideshare accidents who can help you claim compensation. Educating them about these rights will not only enhance their knowledge but will also teach them how to handle such situations. 

  • Make a List 

Kids may find it challenging to foresee their needs in an unfamiliar environment. You may obtain printable packing lists for many destinations and age ranges by searching online. Together, you and your child should create a list of things you absolutely must bring and things you should consider bringing. 

Encourage your kid to take charge of packing and marking off everything on the list. You may verify that everything has been included by checking. Then, pack the list itself so you may refer to it while you’re packing again after your vacation.

  • Pack Snacks 

Whatever your mode of transportation, pack some snacks. Invite your child to assist you in choosing and packing up some of their favorites. Tell them that the purpose of these is to prevent anyone from becoming hungry while on the trip and that you won’t be bringing much food.

It’s crucial to pack food that you know your child will eat if they have sensory processing disorders that restrict their diet. This is especially true if you anticipate having trouble locating certain foods once you get there.

  • Don’t Forget Toiletries and Medication

Bringing the same toiletries that you use at home, whether in full size or travel version, can make some kids feel more at ease. Don’t forget to bring first aid supplies, sunscreen, and bug repellent. 

Carry-on liquids for flights must adhere to Transportation Security Administration requirements. Medication should always be kept in carry-on luggage. Medication doses may be missed if checked luggage is lost or delayed.

  • Make them feel Comfortable 

Keep an eye out for any indications of nervousness in your youngster in the days before departure. Do you have any more items to bring or information to offer that might help your youngster feel better? Keep in mind that your child will probably notice if you become anxious, so try to maintain your composure and go with the flow. They might feel anxious to share their feelings, make sure you give them a comfortable space to speak up. 

The Bottom Line 

Taking your teenager on a trip can be an exciting experience for them and a little bit worrisome for you. After all, they are still adolescents and aren’t mature enough to handle unforeseen circumstances, which can be a possibility during long trips. Teaching them these things can help them envision the trip beforehand and become mentally prepared for a lot of things.