Our body is a natural marvel and it is at its best form when it is surrounded by nature. And horticultural therapy facilitates to recreate that missing connection. So, what is exactly horticultural therapy? A horticultural therapy, unlike the regular therapy uses plants and gardening activities to engross an individual to accomplish specific recovery objectives, with the help of a qualified therapist. This form of therapy uses physical presence of flora to induce the human body to feel healthier, which eventually leads to an improvement in the mental state. The main aim of horticultural therapy is to aid the person to accept their inhibitions naturally and help them resolve whatever ordeals they are dealing with. It is an effective healing technique which can bring a purpose and a sense of belonging to the person. How does it work? This therapy encourages people to take up planting and gardening activities which creates a positive and a fulfilling ambience. It increases outdoor activities, concentration, motor skills, and regulates the heartbeats and blood pressure as well. Besides fostering psychological and physiological benefits, it also aids the person to boost communication in a social setting. There are certain group activities conducted which are specially designed to bring people together, which promotes the ethic of collaboration, friendship and respect. And obviously as horticulture is an opportunity to learn a new skill, it increases cognitive capabilities, happiness and self-esteem. Who can participate in a horticultural therapy program? Horticultural therapy is valuable for elderly, disabled, felons, and people suffering from mental disorders or terminal illnesses, and also for individuals recovering from physical trauma. But anyone can participate in the horticultural therapy to escape the maddening stress and tensions of the routine. It's effective and safe for people of all background and ages. Apart from the fact that it uses plants to re-establish a sense of spiritual harmony, horticultural therapy is extremely inclusive about its learners. You will find that this therapy is practiced in various sorts of social settings such as hospitals, senior citizen homes, correction centers, rehabilitation homes, botanical gardens, foster homes, etc. Are there any educational courses to be a professional horticultural therapist? Unlike the past, horticulture in the present has evolved on a drastic level. There are many channels which have opened to make horticulture an accessible recovery program. If one is aspiring to become a horticultural therapist, there are many college programs and certifications for which one can enroll. As a horticultural therapist, individuals will get an opportunity to work in retirement centers, schools, hospitals, correctional programs, etc.

Nature provides us with everything we need to lead a comfortable life. However, there are certain elements which mean more harm than good. Insects are one such element of nature that though are miniature in size can cause great unease. There are instances where people have been rushed to the emergency room because of vicious insect bites. The most common cases of a bad encounter with insects include bee stings, wasp stings, chigger bites, flea bites, spider bites, etc. Bee stings cause one of the worst inflicted pain ever. When one is stung by a bee, the pain and the swelling is what causes maximum misery. So, what would you do if you are stung by a bee? The obvious answer would be to seek a bee sting treatment. A bee sting can cause excruciating pain, but it can be treated. The best part of the medical treatments available for bee stings is that the same treatment can be used as wasp sting treatment, chigger bite treatment, flea bites treatment, etc. This is possible because the symptoms caused by each of these insect bites are almost similar. If you are ever stung by a bee, here are some bee sting medical treatments available at your disposal.

• Wound care is the first bee sting treatment you receive if you haven't developed an allergic reaction. Also, the stingers will be removed from the affected area to ensure that the swelling subsides. The wound is cleaned, and antiseptic ointment is applied to the wound. In addition to this, the doctor would recommend you to opt for a tetanus shot since it would keep further problems at bay.
• If the bee sting causes a mild allergic reaction, the bee sting treatment would involve the doctor treating you with an antihistamine. This proves beneficial if rashes appear on the skin and when one experiences itching sensation all over the body. Bee sting treatment also involves using steroids or adrenaline injections to combat the damage caused by a bee sting. This form of treatment is also used as a form of wasp sting treatment.
• In case of allergic reactions which involve breathing problems, this bee sting treatment method consists of the doctor administering antihistamines, epinephrine, and steroids to curb the symptoms of the bee sting. These injections come in handy in allergies caused by tick bites and chigger bites as well.
• When the bee sting causes severe allergic reactions such as low blood pressure, inability to breathe due to the swelling, or other life-threatening reactions, the bee sting treatment would involve administering intravenous fluids and antihistamines, steroids and epinephrine.

If you are ever stung by a bee, do not let the agony override your senses, seek immediate treatment.

Moving to a new place or downsizing the size of your house can be a tedious task. The process becomes tougher if you are in the midst of the moving process and need to temporarily store your precious belongings someplace else. Asking a friend or relative to store your belongings might not be a comfortable option for you. Instead, you can store your belongings safely in storage units that are meant exclusively for these purposes. Storage facilities offer a dedicated space to their customers who seek to store their belongings in that space for a set period of time. You can think of the storage facility as your landlord. The only difference here is that you have to deal with this “landlord” once or twice when you sign up and move your possessions. As long as you adhere to the contract and pay your rent on time, you have the storage unit all to yourself. However, choosing a reliable, reasonable storage facility is not an easy task. There are several factors you need to consider before you decide to trust the company with your belongings. It is easy to get swayed by low prices, but there are other factors involved as well. It is essential to consider the options with due diligence as you will be entrusting the storage company with your precious belongings. Which is why you will need all the help you can get, especially if you are a novice at this. Rest assured, as help is on its way. This will ensure that you are up-to-date with all the parameters of making the right choice. The two major types of storage options Before you decide on renting a storage space, it is sensible to explore the various options at hand. There are two major types of storage options, and they are:

• Full-service storage: In this type of storage option, the storage company will offer “valet-style” services to you. Everything, right from picking up your belongings to ensuring that they safely reach the storage unit, is managed by the storage company. Top full-service storage providers even let their customers pick the date and time for moving their belongings. The customers can request and schedule the pick-up or return as per their convenience. Full-service storage options are fast gaining popularity as they save the customer from a great deal of hassle. Moreover, all the belongings will be delivered safely to the storage unit. These service providers even take pictures of the storage unit and document your belongings. So, even if you don’t remember which items were moved into the storage unit, the photos will prove helpful. In such cases, checking your online inventory list will also reveal the contents of the storage unit.
• Self-storage: Self-storage units are, undoubtedly, the most popular storage unit option among the general public. Though people have to undertake the major responsibilities, the affordable rent structure makes it a feasible option. Such facilities offer a safe, secure, and inexpensive way of storing your extra personal belongings; you can store your furniture or other large items. Self-storage unit providers spell it out clearly to the customers that they have to move their belongings to the storage unit on their own. Moreover, if they wish to pick an item from the storage, they have to do so themselves. In fact, even documenting the belongings is the customer’s responsibility.

Full-service vs. self-storage: What a dilemma! This is a tough call as both types of storage services have their own perks. Usually, customers opt for self-storage as it is affordable and easier to use. They prefer transporting their own belongings. This allows them the luxury to decide the time and day convenient for dropping off their belongings in the storage unit. So, if you have complete access to a car and aren’t planning on storing a lot of things, you can consider opting for the self-storage unit. However, self-storage is not always a viable option for those living in large urban areas as driving and parking can be an issue. In such cases, opting for a full-service storage provider is a sensible move. Also, for city-dwellers who stay in apartments with elevators or stairs, full-service storage services come in handy. They’ll help you move and handle all your belongings with care. In such cases, you will be relieved as the vital responsibility of moving and dropping off your belongings is done by the company. Steel or wooden storage units: Which should I choose? Most storage units are made either of steel or wood. However, opting for steel-framed storage units is hands down the most popular choice. In addition to being sturdy, steel storage units are the most weatherproof type of storage pod. If you decide to opt for an outdoor storage unit, it is advisable to choose a metal storage unit for obvious reasons. However, if your budget doesn’t permit renting a steel storage unit, you still have the option of choosing a wood storage unit with a waterproof covering on top. Finding a storage unit near you is easy-peasy Finding a reliable storage unit provider can be an overwhelming task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. Fret not as there are thousands of good storage unit facilities located throughout the country. You can find the nearest storage unit facility near you by using the store locators on the Internet. All you have to do is type in your zip code or your city and state of residence, and hit the “find storage” button. The store locator will pull up quotes from the storage unit facility near your location. All you have to do is compare the quotes and read their contract diligently. Some of the popular storage facilities include Extra Space Storage, Public Storage, CubeSmart, and U-Haul. Choosing the right-sized storage unit is necessary There are three types of storage unit sizes: small storage units, medium storage units, and large storage units.

• Small storage units: The small storage units are sized 5’x5’ and 5’x10’. The 5’x5’ units are the size of a small walk-in closet and are meant for storing personal items, clothes, boxes, skis, small furniture, children’s toys. The 5’x10’ units are meant for small furniture, sofas, chairs, box spring and mattress, chest of drawers, business supplies and records, and small items and boxes.
• Medium storage units: There are two types of medium storage units — 7.5’x10’ units and 10’x10’ units. The  7.5’x10’ storage units can store furniture and other items that 5’x10’ units can store, and the 10’x10’ storage units can unit store the contents of a one-bedroom apartment along with all major appliances, boxed items, furniture, and other supplies.
• Large storage units: There are three variants available if you opt for large storage units: 10’x15’ units, 10’x20’ units, and 10’x30’ units. The 10’x15’ units will allow you to store items of a two-bedroom apartment along with the appliances, furniture, boxed items, and supplies. If you opt for the 10’x20’ storage unit, you can store the contents of a three-bedroom apartment along with all its contents. The 10’x30’ storage unit is the largest storage unit you will come across. Such storage units can hold the contents of a four-to-five bedroom home along with all the home appliances. Moreover, these storage units are even used for storing commercial equipment as well.

Now that you are acquainted with the differently sized storage units, it becomes easier for you to make a decision. You will have to base your decision on the basis of which items you wish to store. Key features of the ideal storage unit Before you decide on a particular storage unit provider, you need a checklist to ensure that you are making the right decision. There are several factors that need to be crossed off the list before you sign the dotted line. Storage units are equipped with certain features and the best ones will offer almost each one of these to their customers. So, look for these key features while looking for a storage unit near you.

• Degree of accessibility
• Number of locks
• Climate control
• Video monitoring
• In-person surveillance
• Sizes offered
• Overall safety and the security of the facility

In addition to these essential features, another factor that vouches for the storage facility’s credibility is the reviews it received online. To determine whether a particular storage unit facility is the right one for you, visit online consumer forums. The reviews are mostly accurate and will help you make the right call. Dos and don’ts for storing items Though you will be paying for the entire storage unit, you shouldn’t stuff it with all your belongings. There are certain items that shouldn’t be stored in storage units. It is dangerous to store flammable items like fireworks, chemicals, fertilizers, paint, narcotics, gasoline, and propane tanks. Also, it is advisable to not use the storage units for perishable items like food, medicines, and plants. It is essential that you familiarize yourself with the various rules and regulations of the storage facility before loading up the unit. Usually, the storage facility provides its customers with a list of items that they can and cannot store in the storage unit. Chalking out money matters Price is one of the major determining factors in your quest to find the right storage unit. According to the online storage marketplace SpareFoot, the average monthly price of all unit sizes is $87.15 a month. This amount is calculated considering the average price per square foot to be $0.97. However, there are several other factors that affect the rent of the storage space. They are:

• Location: Like every other piece of real estate, the rent of the storage spaces varies according to their location. Those living in large urban areas might find the storage facilities to be more expensive than the ones on the outskirts of the city. If you aren’t keen on paying a lot of money on renting a storage unit, then try opting for storage facilities in a nearby suburb.
• Time: The amount of time you will be renting the storage place also determines the overall price. Usually, self-storage facilities are more flexible when it comes to allocating storage spaces; they even allow you to store your belongings for a week! Whereas, with full-service storage facilities, the rentals will be leased out on a monthly basis.
• Size of the storage unit: As established earlier, the number of items you wish to store will determine the size of the storage unit best suited for you. However, even the storage size has a major role in deciding the rent of the storage space. It is common knowledge that the bigger the storage space, the higher the monthly cost. So, it is essential to determine which items go into the storage facility as this will be the deciding factor here.
• Services offered: Self-service storage facilities are cheaper than full-service storage facilities. As full-service storage facilities take the entire responsibility of moving your belongings and storing it, you will be shelling out more money.
• Essential features: If you wish to store items that can succumb to extreme temperature, you will have to opt for climate-controlled storage units. Such storage units cost 15 percent more than the regular ones. Also, if you wish to access your storage unit any time of the day, you will have to find 24/7 storage unit facilities near you. Such storage facilities charge more money than the ones that offer limited access. Also, if you are using the storage unit for storing valuable items, you will need to consider a storage facility that offers impeccable security features. However, even if the storage facility is completely secure, there are chances of a break-in. Which is why most storage facilities require the customer to have insurance. It is a sensible decision to insure your items as it comes in handy while replacing broken or stolen items. However, you need to check the policies of the storage facilities as some of them offer protection for items against damage or loss, free of charge. Your preferences for certain features in the particular storage unit will play a major role in determining the rent.

Inquire for rental specials and discounts A cardinal rule to follow when you are out shopping for anything is to always try bargaining or look for discounts. This is applicable to your storage unit as well. Before you decide on the final figure, you should inquire whether the storage facility offers any rental specials or discounts. Usually, storage companies offer the first month free or for $1! However, it is essential to read the contract carefully as the meager rent might lock you into a 3- or 6- month deal. Pay attention to the gate and office hours When you finally find the right storage facility, compare the gate and office hours. It is a common practice for storage facilities to post only their gate hours. This is done with the intention of making people think that their storage facility is open beyond office hours. However, there’s a catch here; the gate hours are usually the hours in which you can access your storage unit, but the office hours are shorter. Longer gate hours are suitable for those who wish to have more flexible access to their storage units. However, if you wish to speak to someone for addressing any issue, you can do that only during the office hours. So, ensure that you check the gate and office hours before you finalize the deal. It is essential to have reasonable access to your storage unit and subsequent assistance from the office staff. Choosing the right storage unit is indispensable to your desire to keep your belongings safe. Moreover, you shouldn’t compromise on the security and other features for saving money. In fact, doing so might actually turn into a costly affair if your belongings break or are stolen. Since you are a part of the technologically-inclined 21st century, you will have access to all the information pertaining to your task of locating the best storage unit facility near you. Also, while you are at it, some security measures from your end can never go waste. So, go ahead, consider spending money on a strong lock. At the end of the day, your quest for the perfect storage unit is guided by the desire for peace of mind. And, this will surely help you attain it. Tags- Storage Units, storage units near me, monthly storage units near me, storage units near my location, 24hr storage units near me

Have you just started your business? Are you looking to set up a new office? We are sure an office phone system is on your to-do list. Small business phone systems are offered in an assortment of arrangements, presenting an ever-growing series of structures and advantages. Most current phone systems for small business these days work on IP (Internet Protocol) systems—the same system used to link personnel, devices, and data resources. The question is how will you find the right phone system for your business? And what could be the top way to install it? Here are a few key things you must look for when you are assessing and installing a small business phone system at your new office. Know what your workers need: A small business phone system can offer your staff the tools that are essential to be more effectual. Does your staff need easy access to video communications or mobile? Does your team need a single number that rings on multiple devices at the same time? Structures and abilities to look for:

• Option of using the computer as a phone
• Capacity to use tablets or smartphones to make and receive calls.
• A virtual assistant
• Web or video conferencing facility
• Facility to call out and use the intercom
• Ability to send out mass messages with options for notifications through SMS, or E-mail.
• IM systems and presence technology, which helps you know who is available within your business so that you can reach them whenever you need to.

Decrease Your IT Expenses: Most small business phone systems using IP can combine vital infrastructures and collaboration proficiencies into one server resolution. This helps to cut down the intricacies in IT, thereby reducing interaction expenses. Be Ready for Transformation: Some of the best phone solutions for a small business can alter the way your staff works and conducts business transactions every day. For e.g. with a video system, you can interact with your consumers, staff, contractors to improve crucial relations anywhere in the world. Lastly, check with your resident facility provider to know, which small business phone system will meet your company's business goals.

When it comes to choosing corporate phone systems, businesses have a myriad of alternatives. Various vendors offer these services and provide advanced features like call transferring, call metering, and conference calling. So, how do you narrow down the hundreds of options available? For any company, the procedure can be time-consuming and difficult. Here are the top five tips to help you select the best phone service provider and plan for your organization. Check the plan features thoroughly The first thing to consider is the features in the chosen package. Does it have everything that could help your company? Some benefits may be excluded if you subscribe to a basic plan. A few features to look for are call forwarding, call logs, online meetings, and other useful connectivity tools. Some of these might cost extra depending on the size of your organization, so clarify with the provider before signing up. Estimate the total ownership cost No doubt, cloud phone plans for small enterprises are affordable. However, while the package price appears low, consider the entire cost of ownership (TCO). How much will the additional equipment and phones cost? What will be the price of upgrading your data network? Also, remember that some of your staff may require training to use the new system. These minor expenses can add up to a sizable portion, so evaluate your return on investment (ROI) for the long term. Analyze your current infrastructure Evaluate whether the business phone system you are considering will function with your current infrastructure. Is there any older equipment that needs to be replaced or upgraded? Perhaps you will need a second internet connection just for VoIP. Making these modifications requires both time and money. A Private Branch Exchange (PBX) may be required to route calls to the appropriate destination. PBX systems are typically housed in a server room or closet. If you do not have in-house experts, you may need to hire someone to evaluate your current network and install the necessary equipment. Some vendors will provide this function for a minimal fee or even free. Allocate plenty of time and resources to assess (and update) your current arrangement. Access your current and future requirements Determine whether the phone solution meets your present and future needs. Your company may be small right now, but you never know what will happen in the future. Over the next few years, you could see remarkable growth and expansion. Or, your company could remain stable for the next decade with no significant changes. Consider both scenarios when subscribing to a phone system. With cloud VoIP, you can effortlessly add and remove lines as needed, and new employees can be assigned numbers in minutes. Check for mobile support Many people work remotely and keep moving from one location to another. Your phone system must accommodate commuting and remote workers. So consider a mobile-friendly plan. Your staff should be able to work on the go with cell phones, tablets, and laptop computers. Upgrading to VoIP business phone systems may be the best thing you can do for your company right now. Your monthly bills will be reduced instantly. These phone systems are also highly beneficial for improving employee productivity and collaboration. So, contact a service provider and begin the procedure right away to reap the benefits!

Defecation is a natural process of the body. When you eat your stomach full, and it is digested and absorbed by the body for producing energy, the leftovers that cannot be used by the body come out in the form of poop. Most of the people are uncomfortable talking about this natural process, but the fact is that there are a lot of factors that can govern the health of your gut and defecation formulates as one of the most critical factors that can help you determine if everything is right with the digestive system of your body. Hence, it is imperative to understand the stool color chart so that you can follow the digestive system better. What are the factors that determine the health of the gut? Various criteria can determine if you had a normal poop. Some of these factors are as follows: Color

• The standard color of the poop is brown like the bark of the tree, and it is due to the pigment called bilirubin. The other colors of the poop can be because of the food that you take or other factors. It is best to determine the same with the help of a stool color chart.
• As per the stool color chart, the green color of the poop could be because of the green vegetables and the presence of iron in the food. If you have had spinach or kale a night before, you might be able to witness a green stool.
• If you have had a lot of fat in your last meal then you poop may smell bad and could be yellow. It might take more than one time to clear out the stomach properly.

Appearance A straight log or snake-like poop is supposedly the standard way of pooping. If you feel a lot of pressure while defecating and do not feel comfortable even after you are done with the process, then you indeed are suffering from a digestive issue and must consult a doctor. Size The average size of the poop is about the size of your hand. Consistency If you are defecating in bits and pieces, you may be suffering from an infection in your gut, and it should be consulted with the doctor. Time How many times do you go to pass a stool will determine if you are in sync with the stool color chart. Therefore, it is needless to say that talking about poop is definitely a no-shame business and must be encouraged to discuss and thus avoid any kind of issues in the gut. It is advisable that you visit a doctor if you are suffering from gut issues and understand the tool chart to be on the safer side.

Flea bites are rare with humans. They mainly affect your pets. The flea bites cause itchiness, redness, and swelling. It is essential that you take care and precautions to prevent the breeding and spreading of fleas. There are some good home flea treatments, which you can use for treating fleas. Baking soda Sprinkle baking soda on the carpets and the furniture, the places you will find the most infestation of fleas. Once you have sprinkled baking soda, brush it into the strains of the carpet thoroughly. The baking soda should reach inside the hair of the carpet. Once satisfied, vacuum the carpet well. This will boost the vacuuming process of getting rid of fleas from carpets and furniture. Dish soap This is quite an effective home flea treatment and easy too. Take some dish soap and mix it in warm water. Now pour the liquid into a dish and keep it in the room where you receive the most amount of flea activity. Do this in the nighttime as fleas are nocturnal creatures. The viscosity of the liquid traps the fleas and prevents them from spreading around. Change the liquid each day for better results. Lemon spray Boil a thin slice of lemon with a pint of water. Let the solution sit overnight and then pour it in a spray bottle. This solution is one of the easiest techniques of home flea treatment. Ensure you spray the liquid all over the house or the furniture and carpet and curtains, which witness the most flea activities. Rosemary Rosemary is an amazing natural flea repellant. Mix rosemary with some rue, wormwood, fennel, and peppermint into a pestle and mortar and grind into a powder. Now sprinkle this powder on carpets, furniture, window sills and doors to prevent any fleas to enter your house. It is always advised that you should stay away from chemicals and pesticides as they are more harmful than fleas. So take these natural DIY steps for home flea treatment.