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13 homemade weed killers that work

Don’t want to use chemicals on your garden? You don't have to! Mix up these handy helpers in the kitchen. 1. Boiling water Homemade treatments don’t come much cheaper than this. Put the kettle on, boil a pot of water and then pour it straight over the weeds – just make sure to avoid any surrounding plants. This works especially for small weed coming up through the cracks in pavement or in brickwork. 2. White vinegar Is there anything white vinegar can’t do? You can use regular old kitchen vinegar or get the heavy duty stuff from gardening stores. Spray directly onto the leaves of the weeds and watch them fade away. 3. Salt Another kitchen staple that can do double duty in the garden. You can either sprinkle rock salt or basic table salt directly around garden beds where weeds usually appear or create a 3:1 solution of water and salt to spray onto the leaves. 4. Salt & vinegar Combine the two and you’ll get even better results! Mix a cup of table salt with a litre of vinegar, then brush directly onto the leaves of the weeds. It’ll kill anything it touches, so avoid other plants. 5. Vegetable oil For bulbous weeds, like onion weed and oxalis, you can inject vegetable oil into the ground surrounding the bulbs. The oil will coat the bulbs so they suffocate and will then rot into the soil. 6. Cornmeal This won't kill existing weeds but is great for preventing them from sprouting in the first place. Cornmeal is a pre-emergent, meaning it stops seeds from growing, so it’s best for using around established plants. 7. Clove or citrus oil Mix 15 to 20 drops of clove or citrus oil with a litre of water and spray or brush directly onto the leaves. This works best on small, actively growing seedlings rather than more established weeds. 8. Rubbing alcohol Grab that bottle of rubbing alcohol out of the bathroom cabinet and mix two tablespoons with a litre of water. Pour it into a spray bottle and spray directly onto the weeds. The alcohol removes moisture so the weeds will quickly dry out and die. 9. Baking soda Baking soda is sodium bicarbonate (essentially a salt), so increases the salinity of the ground to a point where the weeds cannot survive. Use around a teaspoon per weed to cover the entire plant, especially the stem. It’s also great for weeds in cracks. 10. Bleach This one couldn’t be simpler. Pour undiluted bleach straight over the top of mature weeds at the hottest part of the day, then let the sun do its work. You should be able to pull the dead weeds out the next day. Plus the bleach stays in the soil and prevents new growth. 11. Newspaper Rather than killing the weeds, you can smother them with leftover newspaper. Lay down at least four sheets (though the thicker the better) and the lack of sun means the weeds won’t be able to sprout. 12. Mulch Another one from the smothering camp, a good layer of mulch will keep your soil moist, healthy and weed-free. It also blocks out the sunshine weeds need to grow while leaving the surrounding plants untouched. Elbow grease Ok, so this isn’t actually something you put on the weeds, but it’s all you really need to get rid of most of them. Roll up your sleeves, put on some gloves and get pulling. Make sure you get the roots so they don’t grow straight back. Image: Unsplash / Josue Michel

Home & Garden

13 signs of cancer men are likely to ignore

<h2>Difficulty urinating</h2> If it’s consistently difficult to urinate, or there’s blood in your urine or semen, or if you experience unexplained erectile dysfunction, see your doctor; these could be symptoms of prostate cancer. “Unfortunately, there aren’t noticeable symptoms of prostate cancer until the aggressive stages,” says gastroenterologist Dr Moshe Shike. Dr Shike says he frequently sees patients who ignore these symptoms for up to six months before they seek help, but the sooner you check out your symptoms, the better. <h2>Testicular changes</h2> Just as women should be familiar with how their breasts look and feel, men should pay attention to their testicles. If you notice changes in size (to one or both), if they feel swollen or extra heavy, or if you feel a lump, these symptoms could indicate testicular cancer, says Dr Maurie Markman, an oncologist. Testicular cancer is most common in young and middle-aged men. <div> </div> <h2>Noticeable skin changes</h2> Men over 50 are more likely to die from skin cancer than women in the same age group; young men have a higher probability of developing deadly melanoma (the most serious skin cancer) than any other cancer, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. It’s easy to miss the early warning signs of cancer in men, says Dr Richard Wender, a cancer specialist. “Many people think freckles, moles, or a darker age spot is just like the others they’ve had,” he explains. If you notice a mole getting darker, larger, or becoming raised, get it checked. With melanoma, spots are often irregularly shaped (not round), significantly darker in colour, or even two distinctly different colours within one spot, he says. “Melanoma is far less common than other skin cancers, but has the potential to be more deadly,” says Dr Wender. “However, many melanomas have a long period where they’re not invasive and easy to cure, as long as they’re caught early.” <h2>Sores or pain in your mouth</h2> A cold sore that heals is probably nothing to worry about, nor is a toothache that goes away after a trip to the dentist. But if you notice sores that don’t heal, pain that sticks around, white or red patches on the gums or tongue, and any swelling or numbness of the jaw, it could be a sign of some mouth cancers. Men who smoke or use chewing tobacco have an increased risk of developing mouth cancer, says Dr Markman. “More men smoke than women. Smokers and users of chewing tobacco need to be far more concerned with sores in their mouth that do not heal quickly, compared to non-smokers,” he says. <h2>Chronic coughing</h2> A cough that lasts three weeks or more – without other symptoms, such as a cold or allergies – could be an early symptom of lung cancer. Leukaemia can also lead to bronchitis-like symptoms. “If it’s different than your regular cough and if it persists, or you cough up a little blood, that’s significant,” says Dr Markman. Some lung cancer patients report chest pain that extends up into the shoulder or down the arm. <h2>Blood in your stool</h2> It could be haemorrhoids or something benign – but it could also be a symptom of colon cancer. Routine screening typically starts at age 50, but cases are becoming more common in younger adults, which is why it’s important to see a doctor for any suspicious symptoms. “It’s easy to dismiss it as haemorrhoids or constipation, and if the problem comes and goes, people reassure themselves that nothing’s wrong, especially younger people,” says Dr Wender. “But blood in a bowel movement is never normal, so get it checked out.” <h2>Stomach pain or nausea</h2> Everyday digestive distress is rarely cancer – but you should see a doctor if you notice persistent stomach cramps or are starting to feel nauseated all the time. It could be something as simple as an ulcer, but it could also signal leukaemia or oesophageal, liver, pancreatic, or colorectal cancer. <h2>Frequent fevers or infections</h2> If you’re usually healthy but notice yourself getting sick or feverish more frequently, it could be an early sign of leukaemia. This blood cancer triggers the body to produce abnormal white blood cells, which weakens the body’s infection-fighting abilities. Be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms that don’t go away. <h2>Difficulty swallowing</h2> A sore throat that persists for a few weeks and gets worse could be a symptom of throat or stomach cancer, as well as an early sign of lung cancer. <h2>Excessive bruising</h2> A random bruise is probably nothing to worry about. However, if you start to notice bruises popping up all the time, especially in places you wouldn’t normally get them, like your hands or fingers, see a doctor. Unusual bruising can be a symptom of leukaemia, according to Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Over time, leukaemia impairs the blood’s ability to carry oxygen and clot. <h2>Unexplained weight loss</h2> “If you have less appetite when you usually have a good appetite, and there’s no big life event or problems happening to cause that, get it checked out,” says Dr Markman. Losing weight can be a side effect of many different cancers such as oesophageal, pancreatic, liver, and colon, but it’s an especially common symptom of leukaemia or lymphoma, says Dr Wender. <h2>Persistent fatigue</h2> Everyone has low-energy days. However, if you feel tired every day for more than a month, or experience shortness of breath when you didn’t before, see a doctor, says Dr Wender. Leukaemia and lymphoma commonly cause persistent fatigue. “Most of the time it won’t be cancer, but get it checked because you never know,” he says. <h2>Chronic headaches</h2> If you’re not prone to migraines and never get headaches, but suddenly find yourself popping pain meds all the time, it could be a sign of a brain tumour, which causes pain by pressing on nerves. Image credit: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/13-signs-of-cancer-men-are-likely-to-ignore" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Body

13 Titanic mysteries that may never be solved

Was it even the Titanic? Everyone agrees that a luxury liner set sail on April 10, 1912, and sank five days later, taking the lives of around 1500 of the 2223 passengers aboard. But that’s pretty much where the consensus ends. Some insist the ship that sank wasn’t the Titanic, but rather, the nearly identical R.M.S. Olympic. As the story goes, the Olympic had been damaged in an accident the year before, but in order to score a bigger insurance payoff, the ships’ common owners passed off the Olympic as the Titanic and then deliberately sank it. While there are lots of holes in this Titanic theory, serial numbers found on parts of the ship that didn’t sink support it. Did a fire actually seal the ship's fate? A recent documentary offers credible evidence that the Titanic (let’s just call it that, for argument’s sake) had been damaged by a coal fire, which had been raging for three weeks before the ship even set sail. The damage would have weakened the hull of the ship, thus hastening the ship’s sinking when it collided with an iceberg. (If it collided with an iceberg, which is another Titanic mystery we discuss below.) Why was the captain speeding? For decades, people believed that Captain Smith was speeding through the iceberg-heavy waters of the North Atlantic because he wanted the Titanic to cross the Atlantic faster than her sister ship, the Olympic. But in 2004, the Geological Society of America published an academic paper by engineer Robert H. Essenhigh with a different theory: It claimed the real reason the Titanic’s captain was speeding was to burn coal as quickly as possible in order to control the coal fire mentioned above. What caused the ship to break into two pieces? On September 1, 1985, oceanographer Robert Ballard discovered the wreckage four kilometres below the ocean surface, along with the surprising news that the ship had broken in two before sinking. Previously, everyone had thought that the ship sank intact after colliding with an iceberg while speeding recklessly through icy waters near the coast of Newfoundland. Ballard’s discovery led to a new theory: that the ship’s splitting into two pieces, which “may have been the difference between life and death,” was the result of design flaws and the skimping on quality materials by the owners and/or builders. Did a torpedo sink the Titanic? Most believe that the Titanic sank after hitting an iceberg on April 14 (regardless of other contributing factors). But not everyone. Some think that the Titanic was torpedoed by a German U-boat. This theory doesn’t seem all that far-fetched considering that three years later in 1915, a German U-boat did sink a passenger ship, the Lusitania. However, it’s possible that torpedo theorists are confusing the Titanic with the Lusitania. It’s also possible that they’re confusing the Titanic with the Olympic, which had sustained damage after colliding with a military vessel in 1911. Still, the presence of several other ships in the vicinity of the Titanic’s sinking leaves the question open. Was there even an iceberg? Assuming the Titanic didn’t collide with, and wasn’t torpedoed by, another ship, it’s safe to believe that it hit an iceberg, right? Not necessarily. Professional mariner Captain L.M. Collins maintains that if the Titanic had hit an iceberg, it would have gone down in mere minutes. Instead, Collins and his followers believe that the Titanic must have hit a hidden floe of “pack ice” (multi-year-old sheets of ice floating near the ocean surface) that had made its way into the Atlantic from the Arctic Ocean. Collins points out discrepancies in eyewitness accounts, which may actually be due to various natural optical illusions. If only the crew had binoculars, right? Why didn't the crew have binoculars? Surely, if the crew had binoculars, they would have seen the danger in time to change course. But the Titanic’s entire supply of binoculars was locked away in a storage compartment. And a crew member who had been transferred off the ship just before it set sail had the key. The crew member later claimed he “forgot” to hand over the key. But did he forget? Or did he deliberately hold onto it? And if so, was it to further the insurance fraud mentioned above? Or was it something else entirely? If there was a warning, why didn't anyone take it seriously? Even without binoculars, the Titanic might have had time to change course before its collision if someone had warned the crew. But here’s the thing: Someone did warn the crew. An hour before the collision, a nearby ship, the S.S. Californian, had radioed to say that it had been stopped by “dense field ice.” However, the Titanic’s radio operator, Jack Phillips, never conveyed the warning to Captain Smith. Some say the message was deliberately conveyed as “non-urgent,” but we will never know for sure since Phillips went down with the ship. Did the Californian have something to do with it? This cruise liner was less than 20 kilometres away from where the Titanic sank. It sent a warning to the Titanic about the dangerously icy conditions, which may have been relayed as a non-urgent matter. Later, the Californian crew reportedly ignored the Titanic’s distress signals, although they claimed they were not aware of those signals because their radio operator had gone off duty. Did the Californian really not notice what was happening within plain view? The "third" ship The Californian may not have been the only ship that ignored the Titanic’s distress signals. A Norwegian ship, the Samson, may have been nearby as well. In fact, some believe that the Samson was closer to the Titanic than the Californian but ignored her distress signals in order to avoid prosecution for illegal seal-hunting. This is a popular theory among defenders of the Californian’s captain, but whether it’s true remains a mystery. Did J.P. Morgan plan the whole thing? Some who believe the Titanic took the place of the damaged Olympic blame financier J.P. Morgan, who was one of the owners of the company that owned both ships. Morgan was one of the wealthiest people on the planet at the time, and he wielded considerable power. In addition, he was a last-minute no-show on the Titanic’s sole voyage. Why did Morgan – and his entire family – not end up on the ship? Did he know what was going to happen? Did he plan it? Was it a murder plot? Some believe the sinking had nothing to do with insurance money, but rather that J.P. Morgan engineered the sinking to kill off his rivals: Jacob Astor, Isidor Straus, and Benjamin Guggenheim, all of whom perished aboard. But how did Morgan plan to pull it off? Neither the insurance theory nor the murder theory takes that into account. Why weren't there enough lifeboats? “No matter what caused the Titanic to sink, such a massive loss of life could probably have been avoided if the ship had carried sufficient lifeboats for its passengers and crew,” notes History.com. So then why did the uber-luxury liner have only 20 lifeboats, the legal minimum? Why did the ship’s owners decide to ignore recommendations to carry 50 per cent more lifeboats? If the sinking were “merely” an insurance scam, how can the devastating lack of lifeboats be explained? This seems to dovetail more with a murder plot. But it also could be nothing more than cost-cutting on the part of the ship’s owners. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/13-titanic-mysteries-that-may-never-be-solved-2?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Cruising

13 unusual uses for coffee filters

If you enjoy a cup of the caffeinated stuff of a morning, chances are good you probably have a packet or two of coffee filters knocking around in the pantry. While essential for creating the perfect brew, the simple shape and lint-free design of this beverage essential makes them useful in plenty of other places around the house. <ol> <li>Use them to protect your dishes – Protect your favourite plates or good china from chipping and scratches by slipping a single filter in between each when stacking.</li> <li>Savvy snacking – If you’re serving up something greasy or even a finger food snack, a coffee filter makes the perfect snack bowl. Added bonus? No washing up!</li> <li>Sparkling windows and mirrors – The lint-free design of coffee filters make them perfect for cleaning fragile surfaces.</li> <li>In the garden – When filling up pots with soil, place a filter in the bottom, over the water hole. This allows water to filter through but stops soil seeping out.</li> <li>Smart storage – Lots of loose odds and ends floating around? Corral them all together by using a filter to group similar objects.</li> <li>Clean your screens – Dusty TV or computer screen? A coffee filter is great for grabbing dust and grime from smooth surfaces.</li> <li>The key to micro-sieving – If you’re baking and need a super fine sieve, line your standard utensil with a filter to catch even the smallest particles of food.</li> <li>Ice block savior- Stop sticky fingers in the grandkids by snipping a hole in the centre of a filter and pushing the stick through to create a little “drip dish”.</li> <li>Grease your baking utensils – Ensure a lint free, well-greased surface by using a filter to grease your baking tins or trays.</li> <li>Create spotless glassware – Prevent unsightly streaks by using a filter to dry your glassware.</li> <li>Keep your microwave clean – Use a filter when heating leftovers in the microwave to prevent splatter.</li> <li>Absorb oil – Cooking bacon? Pop the finished product onto a filter to drain away excess oil.</li> <li>Streak free stainless steel – Filters work like magic on stainless steel appliances like your toaster as well as taps and fixtures.</li> </ol> Image credits: Getty Images

Home & Garden

13 things psychologists wish you knew about happiness

<h2>Listen to melancholy music</h2> You heard that right! You officially have another excuse to listen to Adele on repeat (as if you even needed one anyway). Studies suggest that blasting some depressing and sappy tunes can actually help boost positive and peaceful feelings, which can be therapeutic, cathartic, and calming. <h2>Actually speak to the person next to you on the train or bus</h2> People are happier during their commutes when they chat up their seat neighbour, even if they think it will make the trip less positive and productive, according to a study in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. Try to get over your fear of speaking to strangers or worrying that you’re bothering them – you could bring some joy to both of you! “The biggest source of misery in the workplace is actually getting there and back,” says Dr Art Markman, PhD, author of Brain Briefs. “People are generally unhappy when forces outside their control are affecting their lives.” Obviously, you can’t control other drivers or the schedule of public transportation, so it helps to find aspects of your commute that you can control. “Get in conversations with random strangers on the train or bus,” says Dr Markman. “The more you take control of the situation, the happier you’ll be.” <h2>Know that money sometimes can buy happiness</h2> “They say money can’t buy happiness,” says Dr Nancy Etcoff, PhD, an assistant clinical professor at Harvard Medical School. “But it can if what you buy is extra time, or pay to delegate tasks.” So don’t feel guilty ordering in Chinese food or hiring a house cleaner. A study found that people who spend money to save time tend to be happier than those who don’t. Yes, it might be overkill to order takeout for breakfast, lunch and dinner every day, or to have someone clean your home more than once a week. But consider sending out your dry cleaning this week to save you the time of ironing yet another shirt. <h2>Call your mum </h2> When was the last time you picked up your smartphone to actually make a call? Research has found that hearing your mum’s voice can help reduce stress, which means a happier you. Talking on the phone was found to reduce a key stress hormone and release the feel-good brain chemical oxytocin that is thought to play a key role in forming bonds. It goes without saying that you’ll also make Mum’s day. <h2>Hang out with happy people</h2> Yawns aren’t the only things that are contagious. Research has found that the more you surround yourself with positive people, the happier you’ll feel. Go ahead and enjoy a round of drinks with your girl squad, grab coffee with that woman at school pickup who’s always smiling, or schedule a visit with your cheery hairdresser. <h2>Daydream about your upcoming holiday</h2> Do you yearn to be lying on the beach, exploring the mountains, trekking in the jungle, or touring a museum – right this minute? Believe it or not, getting out of town won’t necessarily make you happier, a study found. But thinking about going out of town is another story. The fact is that we get an extra boost of joy if we delay pleasure. We build positive expectations, imagining how amazing the experience will be. That warm sun or the frozen strawberry daiquiri by the pool? It’s just an added bonus. <h2>Speak to the person behind you in the supermarket</h2> Research has found that making friends – not just online – boosts our spirits. “Face-to-face, human interactions are the elixir for nearly everything that ails us,” says Dr Kit Yarrow, PhD, a consumer psychologist, professor, author, consultant, and speaker. “Though every interaction may not create happiness, in the long run, [it’s] the sense of community that’s created will.” Say hello to the mum next to you on the sideline at the soccer game. Chat up your new co-worker in the lunchroom. You never know who you’ll meet and what kind of connections you’ll make. <h2>Dust off your yearbook</h2> It’s time to reminisce about fond memories from the past, so dig up your wedding album or high school yearbook, and then call or email your high school or childhood besties. Research published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin has found that feeling nostalgic about the past will increase optimism about the future and make you happier. <h2>Hang out with man’s best friend</h2> Power to the pets! Studies show that playing fetch with your dog or cuddling up with your cat does the body good. Interacting with pets has been found to release oxytocin, and you’ll be left with a joyous feeling. <h2>Be a little selfish</h2> “Being selfish is sometimes the best thing for yourself and others,” says Antonia Hall, MA, a psychologist, relationship expert, and author of The Ultimate Guide to a Multi-Orgasmic Life. Self-care may cause disappointment to others, like when you decline an invitation or cancel plans, Hall says. “But your wellbeing is more important.” If you’re unhappy, it won’t be a positive experience for either of you anyway, she says. Image credit: Shutterstock This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/conditions/mental-health/13-things-psychologists-wish-you-knew-about-happiness" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Mind

Airline sends woman 13 brand new suitcases as compensation

A woman has been left shocked and confused after being sent 13 brand new suitcases as compensation. Giséle Rochefort was flying with Delta Airlines in the US when her luggage was badly damaged on her flight. "Delta destroyed my suitcase. I filed a claim, they agreed to replace it," Rochefort explained in a now-viral TikTok video. Giséle’s suitcase had some of the fabric ripped off the cover, while one of the wheels had been completely knocked off. Soon after filing her claim with the airline, Rochefort received a notification that she had been issued a replacement for her luggage and it was ready to be picked up. However, she was greeted with 13 boxes, each one containing a new suitcase in varying sizes and designs: all the same brand of her destroyed luggage. <div class="embed" style="font-size: 16px; box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; outline: none !important;"><iframe class="embedly-embed" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border-width: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 610px; max-width: 100%; outline: none !important;" title="tiktok embed" src="https://cdn.embedly.com/widgets/media.html?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2Fembed%2Fv2%2F7205751910886837547&display_name=tiktok&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tiktok.com%2F%40gisele_rochefort%2Fvideo%2F7205751910886837547%3Fq%3DGis%25C3%25A9le%2520Rochefort%26t%3D1678421013573&image=https%3A%2F%2Fp16-sign.tiktokcdn-us.com%2Fobj%2Ftos-useast5-p-0068-tx%2F0c0dca39b4c14fafa59759c9312e38ad%3Fx-expires%3D1678442400%26x-signature%3DnoEZd10erItVG8BuGildr1uEaAk%253D&key=59e3ae3acaa649a5a98672932445e203&type=text%2Fhtml&schema=tiktok" width="340" height="700" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></div> "I was crying laughing, It felt like an April Fools' prank. I thought I was done, only to realise 3 of the large bags had small ones inside them," she added in the comments section of her video. "I think they made a mistake," she added. Rochefort said the bags, which retail for as much as $300 (AUD) each, are currently stacked up on a wall at her home. "It's called interior design sweetie, look it up," she joked, adding, "Thanks Delta!" Her video has been viewed one million times, with many of her followers wondering how they can get their hands on such a haul. "I think I know what everyone is getting for their bday or the holidays," one commented. "Keep two and sell the rest," another suggested. "And here's an extra 12 Incase we break anymore," another joked. Image credits: TikTok

Travel Tips

Is 13 too young to have a TikTok or Instagram account?

The surgeon general is the “<a href="https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/index.html">nation’s doctor</a>” in the United States. They are tasked with giving Americans the “best scientific information” about their health. Late last month, the current US surgeon general, Vivek Murthy, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2023/01/29/health/surgeon-general-social-media/index.html">warned</a> 13 is too young to join social media. He said it poses a risk to young people’s “self-worth and their relationships”, adding, "I, personally, based on the data I’ve seen, believe that 13 is too early […] the skewed and often distorted environment of social media often does a disservice to many of those children." Is 13 too young? What should parents think about when it comes to their kids and social media accounts? <h2>Why are we talking about 13?</h2> Major social media platforms, including <a href="https://help.twitter.com/en/managing-your-account/account-restoration">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://about.instagram.com/blog/announcements/new-ways-to-verify-age-on-instagram">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/help/157793540954833">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/guardians-guide/">TikTok</a>, require users to be at least 13. This includes those in Australia and New Zealand. This minimum age requirement stems from <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/rules/childrens-online-privacy-protection-rule-coppa">1998 US legislation</a> which banned the collection of children’s personal data without parental consent. For many parents, schools and cybersafety experts, this minimum age has become something of a benchmark. Many assume it comes with the implicit assurance social media platforms are appropriate and safe for children once they turn 13. Conversely, they also assume they are unsafe for children under 13. But this is not necessarily the case. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> When I speak with kids & parents about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YouthMentalHealth?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YouthMentalHealth</a>, the number one question I get is if social media is harming our kids. Based on the data I’ve seen and the conversations I’ve had, I believe 13 is too young for our kids to start using social media. <a href="https://t.co/vpBEcWySFc">https://t.co/vpBEcWySFc</a> — Dr. Vivek Murthy, U.S. Surgeon General (@Surgeon_General) <a href="https://twitter.com/Surgeon_General/status/1621644953347563526?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2023</a></blockquote> <h2>What does the evidence say?</h2> Social media platforms do present some risks for young people. These include <a href="https://theconversation.com/cyberbullying-among-teens-our-research-shows-online-abuse-and-school-bullying-are-often-linked-119442">online bullying</a> and harassment, exposure to misinformation and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2022/dec/15/tiktok-self-harm-study-results-every-parents-nightmare">inappropriate content</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/children-can-be-exposed-to-sexual-predators-online-so-how-can-parents-teach-them-to-be-safe-120661">grooming</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/dozens-of-us-schools-universities-move-to-ban-tiktok-197393">privacy breaches</a> and excessive use. Stories documenting the potentially harmful effects of social media are rarely out of the news. Studies claim links between social media and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/science/2022/mar/28/social-media-may-affect-girls-mental-health-earlier-than-boys-study-finds">poor mental health</a> and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jan/01/social-media-triggers-children-to-dislike-their-own-bodies-says-study">low self-esteem</a>. These findings are concerning, and there is no doubt social media may negatively affect some young people’s wellbeing. However, it is not a straightforward question. While these studies might find a correlation or link between excessive social media use and poor self-esteem, for example, they rarely point to direct causation. Young people already experiencing low self-esteem and depression may use social media significantly more than others. <h2>So why don’t we just increase the age?</h2> Murthy acknowledges it is difficult to keep kids off their devices and social media. But he suggests parents band together, "and say you know, as a group, we’re not going to allow our kids to use social media until 16 or 17 or 18." But any increase in the age - whether formal or informal – will not necessarily keep children safer online. Children can easily falsify their ages (<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jcmc/article/18/3/303/4067510">many already do</a>). And young people are good at finding creative and secretive ways of doing what they want regardless. <h2>Why can’t parents just say no?</h2> It is often suggested – by cyber safety experts – that parents <a href="https://www.cybersafetysolutions.com.au/top-tips/">just say no</a>. This message has been reinforced by celebrity commentators such as British actress Kate Winslet, who recently told the BBC, "My children don’t have social media and haven’t had social media." While these approaches may work with younger kids, older children are unlikely to simply comply. Blanket bans and restrictions not only lead to <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1461444816655099?casa_token=q7SXs7TW4vMAAAAA:F8rirALQj6c2dGZb3pH8OHPbfy7zqwG-pkktOkU6H7Ig6MKg1jmbVNBHFt17bCOh8IfGOsVpsw5aPg">family conflict</a>, but are also more likely to lead to children using social media without parental consent or <a href="https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/parenting4digitalfuture/2017/02/07/digital-skills-matter-in-the-quest-for-the-holy-grail/">knowledge</a>. This is a problem because parents play an important role in helping children navigate online spaces, including the sometimes fraught nature of peer relationships on social media. If a child has a social media account without parental permission, they are much less likely to seek out their parents for help if they have a problem online, for fear of getting into trouble or having their device taken away. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cl3aWdyPqGw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/Cl3aWdyPqGw/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by BBC Woman's Hour (@bbcwomanshour)</a> </div> </blockquote> <h2>Children also have a right to be online</h2> Discussion about risks also tends to ignore the <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/internet/2022/11/16/connection-creativity-and-drama-teen-life-on-social-media-in-2022/">potential benefits</a> of being online. Social media is incredibly important for many young people. It keeps them connected with friends and extended family, provides a platform for creativity and self-expression, and enables civic participation and activism. Social media also provides access to like-minded individuals and communities who may provide solidarity and support, especially for marginalised teens. Children, particularly teenagers, also have a right to participate in online spaces, including use of social media. The United Nations’ Committee on the Rights of the Child <a href="https://docstore.ohchr.org/SelfServices/FilesHandler.ashx?enc=6QkG1d%2FPPRiCAqhKb7yhsqIkirKQZLK2M58RF%2F5F0vEG%2BcAAx34gC78FwvnmZXGFUl9nJBDpKR1dfKekJxW2w9nNryRsgArkTJgKelqeZwK9WXzMkZRZd37nLN1bFc2t">notes</a> children have the right to “meaningful access to digital technologies” as a way of realising the full range of their civil, political, cultural, economic and social rights. <h2>So, when should my child get a TikTok account?</h2> There is no one-size-fits-all approach here. Children vary tremendously in terms of their maturity, skills, life experience and judgement. On top of this, online risk is not equally distributed, as children who are <a href="https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/parenting4digitalfuture/2019/02/20/vulnerable-offline-and-at-risk-online/">more vulnerable offline are more vulnerable online</a>. For example, children with mental health problems, learning difficulties, a disability or who have problems at home are more likely to experience high-risk situations online. In deciding whether your child is ready for a social media account, parents might consider: <ul> <li> Is my child especially vulnerable to online harms? </li> <li> Does my child have the required maturity and resilience to manage potentially negative online social interactions? </li> <li> Does my child listen to advice and follow rules? </li> <li> Is my child aware of the risks, and do they have strategies for managing them? </li> <li> Will my child come to me with any problems they encounter online? </li> </ul> Parents might also consider their children’s offline lives, as these often carry over into online spaces. This includes what their friendships are like, their propensity for taking risks, and their ability to consider the consequences of their actions. <h2>Start talking early</h2> The best thing that parents can do is initiate conversations about social media and the internet early and often. Many issues that play out on social media are extensions of young people’s existing peer relationships. Parents can talk to their children about their friends and peers, show an interest in their child’s online activities, and openly discuss their child’s rights and responsibilities online. Some parents may wish to set reasonable expectations and rules about appropriate use of social media. Documenting these expectations through a “family technology agreement” that is negotiated <a href="https://eprints.lse.ac.uk/106403/1/parenting4digitalfuture_2020_08_19_parenting_for_a_digital_future.pdf">democratically</a> as a family, rather than through top-down rules, is more likely to succeed. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/is-13-too-young-to-have-a-tiktok-or-instagram-account-199097" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>.

Technology

13 things neurologists do to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease

Understand Alzheimer's disease Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia. But all dementia is not Alzheimer’s, says Dr David Knopman, a neurologist at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. Dementia is a general term used to describe a set of symptoms that may include memory loss and difficulties with thinking, problem-solving or language. Alzheimer’s is a physical disease that targets the brain, causing problems with memory, thinking and behaviour. It is also age-related (symptoms usually start at age 65) and progressive, as symptoms usually worsen over time. Research shows that plaques and tangles two proteins that build up and block connections between nerve cells and eventually kill nerve cells in the brain, cause Alzheimer’s symptoms. Get enough sleep When you toss and turn all night, levels of brain-damaging proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid can rise: A 2017 study in Brain suggests that those with chronic sleep problems during middle age may increase their risk of Alzheimer’s later in life. “You have to commit to the importance of sleep,” says neurologist Dr Gayatri Devi. “I prioritise sleep as one of the most important activities I do – I will leave a party early in order to get a good night’s sleep.” Stay socially active Say yes to those social invitations! A 2019 study published in PLOS Medicine found that social activity with friends in your 60s could lower your risk of dementia by 12%. “There is something intrinsically valuable about social engagement,” says Dr Knopman. “It makes sense that those who are more engaged, especially socially, will think more positively and have a better outlook on life.” Keep learning People with advanced degrees have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s, according to 2017 research published in the BMJ. Education seems to build a ‘cognitive reserve’, which enables the brain to better resist neurological damage. “Higher education has a powerful effect,” says Dr Knopman. It’s never too late, check out the continuing education courses offered online or near you. Learn a second language Speaking more than one language can protect against Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia, according to 2017 research published in Clinical Interventions in Aging. While no one is sure why a second language helps so much, Dr Knopman theorises that the effort to communicate bilingually is like a workout for the brain, helping preserve grey matter and neurons. Do it yourself Challenging your brain in new ways can enhance memory as you age. Dr Devi has her own take on this: “If there is a problem with the phone or the plumbing, I will try to fix it,” she says. “If I try to figure out how to fix this on my own, it is good for my brain.” Right now she’s designing and building a window seat. “It is a way to keep different parts of my brain thriving.” Stay active Exercise is crucial to your wellness and your brain. Research published in Cureus in 2020, found that people who exercise regularly can slow cognitive decline. According to the Alzheimer’s Society, the combined results of 11 studies indicate that regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing dementia by about 30%; it drops the risk of Alzheimer’s by 45%. “When you are physically active, you burn more calories and you’re less likely to be obese,” explains Dr Knopman. “You’ll have better cardiovascular health because you are pushing your heart rate.” Take care of your heart “What is good for the heart is good for the brain,” says Dr Devi. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, may also increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s, and a 2017 study in JAMA found that middle-aged people with risk factors for heart attacks and stroke are also more likely to develop changes in the brain that can lead to the disease. “Anything that keeps the heart healthy is directly related to brain health,” Dr Devi says. It also reduces the risk of stroke, which can cause its own kind of dementia – vascular dementia. Lower your stress levels Persistent stress can take a toll on the brain, and 2018 research published in Neurobiology of Stress indicates that chronic stress can accelerate Alzheimer’s disease. When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol, a hormone linked to memory trouble. In addition, experts have found that stress can lead to conditions such as depression and anxiety, which also increases the risk for dementia, according to research in Current Opinion in Psychiatry. “Eliminating stress helps reduce the amount of cortisol and optimises glucose utilisation, which your brain needs for food,” says Dr Devi. Try the MIND diet A combination of the Mediterranean diet and the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, the MIND diet is designed specifically for brain health. (MIND is short for Mediterranean-DASH Diet Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay.) The diet is pretty pleasant: you eat at least three servings of whole grains a day, two portions of vegetables (one of which must be a leafy green), snack on nuts, eat lean proteins like chicken and fish, berries, and have a glass of wine a day. According to research in Alzheimer’s & Dementia, those who adhered to the diet rigorously were able to lower their risk of cognitive decline later in life. You can’t trust all diets, warns Dr Knopman, but he likes this approach: “I tell my patients that if you follow a reasonable diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetable that balances different food groups, and avoid obesity, you will be okay.” Get your snoring checked out Another way to wreck your sleep without realising it is with sleep apnea. According to the US National Institutes of Health, sleep apnoea occurs when a person’s upper airway becomes blocked repeatedly during sleep, reducing or completely stopping airflow. Many factors – from obesity to large tonsils to neuromuscular disorders – can cause sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea not only prevents restful sleep, but untreated it can increase the risk of developing certain health conditions. “If left untreated, sleep apnoea has significant cardiovascular consequences and consequences of mental function,” says Dr Knopman. Protect your head According to the Alzheimer’s Association, there is a strong link between serious head trauma and developing Alzheimer’s later in life, especially if the injury involves loss of consciousness. A 2017 review of research in PLOS One suggests head injuries that require medical attention may increase the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Wear a helmet while cycling, make your home fall-proof, and always use a seat belt to help protect your noggin. Drink a cup of tea Green tea has loads of health benefits – including some for your brain. A 2019 systematic review in Nutrients found that green tea might reduce the risk of dementia. And research in the Journal of the American Chemical Society found that it’s a compound in the beverage that can disrupt the formation of toxic plaques that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/conditions/13-things-neurologists-do-to-help-prevent-alzheimers-disease?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Mind

13 fascinating facts about the world’s oceans

The reason it’s blue The ‘deep blue sea’ – and our ‘blue planet’ along with it! – owe their iconic colour to the light of the sun. When the sun shines on the ocean, the water absorbs the longer red and orange wavelengths of light while reflecting blue light back. This will only happen, though, with a large amount of water; the more water you have, the bluer it is. This is why the water you drink out of a glass doesn’t appear ocean-blue. This process of light absorption and reflection is also the reason the sky is blue – but the blue colour of the ocean is not because it’s reflecting the colour of the sky, as many people believe. The ocean is full of gold The phrase ‘liquid gold’ was never so applicable. Believe it or not, every drop of ocean water contains a teeny-tiny bit of real gold. It’s such an inconsequential amount that you’re not going to get rich by scooping up seawater – there are about 13 billionths of a gram of gold in every litre of seawater. But when you consider just how much ocean water there is on the entire planet, that does add up to a lot of gold. About 20 million tonnes of it, to be specific! Considering that that amount would be worth hundreds of trillions of dollars, the ocean’s hidden gold is truly an unattainable fortune. It comprises 99 per cent of the planet’s habitable space Wait, what happened to only 70 per cent? Well, there’s a difference between the amount of the Earth’s surface covered by ocean (that’s 70 per cent) and the total amount of space. With the depths of the oceans taken into account, the ocean comprises a whopping 99 per cent of all habitable space on the planet. Despite all that open space, though, the ocean isn’t as populated as the land is, in part because the deepest parts of the ocean are inhospitable to all but a few life forms. Someone once free dived 253 metres into the ocean Compared to the actual deepest point of the ocean (the Mariana Trench stretches down nearly 11 kilometres), 253 metres may not seem that deep. But when you consider that this intrepid diver was accompanied only by a wetsuit, a weighted sled and an air balloon to help him float back to the top – without even scuba gear – his accomplishment seems a lot more noteworthy. It’s the deepest part of the ocean ever reached by a free-diving human (as opposed to a human inside a machine). The diver, Herbert Nitsch, completed his historic feat in 2012, and he currently holds 33 separate world records in free diving. Through rigorous training, he’s been able to increase his lung capacity to more than twice the usual amount of air. The pressure at the bottom of the ocean is extreme… …it’s like being-crushed-under-a-pile-of-elephants extreme. At the bottom of the Mariana Trench, the pressure is about eight tonnes per 6.5 square centimetres, the equivalent of about 100 fully grown elephants. It’s so intense that, while we do have machines capable of withstanding it, equipment has simply imploded under that amount of pressure. It helps power the internet The next time you’re watching a funny cat video or enjoying a Netflix binge, make sure you thank the ocean. The vast majority of the cables that power the internet, allowing access to it across the entire globe, are underwater. Wires called ‘submarine communications cables’ crisscross the ocean floors and were put in place by boats built solely for that purpose. To ensure that the cables remain undisturbed, they have to be placed on relatively flat stretches of the ocean floor, away from ocean ecosystems or shipwrecks. Some of the cables even have a coating that protects them from being damaged, should a hungry shark come across them. The biggest waterfall in the world is underwater… It might seem counter-intuitive to think that there are bodies of water within the oceans, but it’s true! Deep within the ocean, caverns and fissures on the ocean floor form when water oozes through the layers of salt beneath it. This water, filled with dissolved salt, is denser than the water around it and settles into the fissures. It’s this type of dense water that forms the Denmark Strait, a massive cascade of water that plummets 3500 metres. This is because the colder water of the strait sinks when it collides with the less dense water around it. …and so is the world’s tallest mountain (partly, at least) With 70 per cent of Earth’s surface covered by oceans, it makes sense. But that doesn’t make it any less mind-boggling to learn that in Hawaii, there is a mountain that would make Mount Everest look like a bunny hill if they were side-by-side. Mauna Kea is half under the water and half above it, and, from top to bottom, it stretches a whopping 10,000 metres. That’s more than a kilometre taller than Mount Everest! We consider Mount Everest the tallest mountain because it reaches the highest distance above sea level, but in terms of height from top to bottom, this half-submerged Hawaiian volcano is the champion. There’s a spot in the Pacific where you’re closer to space than anywhere on Earth This unique spot, the furthest on the entire planet from land, goes by the name ‘the oceanic pole of inaccessibility’, or, more concisely, ‘Point Nemo’. We know what you’re thinking – its name does not come from a cartoon fish but from the hero of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. It’s located smack in the southern Pacific Ocean, and you’d have to travel 1600 kilometres from even the closest points of land to reach it. Those points of land are Motu Nui, far off the western coast of Chile; Ducie Island, one of the Pitcairn Islands between South America and Australia; and Maher Island, off the coast of Antarctica. And it’s at least 1600 kilometres from each of them. That’s so far that the closest people to Point Nemo are often up in space! The International Space Station orbits just 400 kilometres above Earth’s surface. Now that gives ‘finding Nemo’ a whole new meaning. Most of Earth’s oxygen comes from the oceans And no, it’s not the ‘O’ of H2O. When it comes to ocean facts, most people don’t know about 70 per cent of our planet’s entire supply of oxygen is a waste product created by marine-dwelling plankton. These minuscule creatures take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen during photosynthesis, and this oxygen plays a vital role in the life of every oxygen-breathing creature on the planet. According to National Geographic, one type of plankton called Prochlorococcus produces so much oxygen that it’s most likely responsible for one of every five breaths we take. No one knows for sure what made this mysterious undersea noise In 1997, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration detected a mysterious undersea sound – incredibly loud and at a very low frequency – and puzzled for years over its origin. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZA2wY5-yiGY">Take a listen here</a>. It may sound a little bit like your stomach when you’re hungry, but scientists have theorised that everything from a massive marine animal to a shifting iceberg is responsible. Icebergs cracking and shifting on the ocean floor produce a similar sound, so that’s the most likely explanation, but there’s no definite answer yet as to what it is. A rubber duck accident helped researchers understand ocean currents We’re used to ‘spills’ in the ocean having disastrous effects, but this one proved to be something of a happy accident. In 1992, a crate of bath toys on its way from China to the United States broke, spilling thousands of rubber ducks and other floating toys into the Pacific. Oceanographers seized the opportunity to learn more about the movements of the ocean. Oceanographer Curtis Ebbesmeyer headed up the research efforts, asking beachgoers all over the world to report sightings of the ducks and their floating friends. The ducks travelled far and wide, ending up everywhere from Europe to Alaska to Hawaii and continuing to be spotted well into the 2000s. The fleet of toys became affectionately known as ‘the Friendly Floatees’. Antarctic-dwelling fish have a protein that keeps them from freezing Unsurprisingly, the water around the poles can get pretty chilly. Yet there are still plenty of fish that make their home there. A group of fish called notothenioidei comprises over 120 species all native to the Southern Ocean near Antarctica. The water in that area hovers around temperatures of -2° and 10° Celsius. Even when it’s technically below freezing, the dissolved salts in the seawater keep it from doing so. But how does marine life possibly stay alive there? Well, these fish have a biological component called a glycoprotein that allows them to live where they do; it acts as a natural antifreeze, essentially. The protein prevents ice crystals from forming in their blood, allowing it to flow normally. Written by Meghan Jones. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/true-stories-lifestyle/science-technology/13-fascinating-facts-about-the-worlds-oceans" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> Image: Getty Images

International Travel

13 nifty uses for magnets around the house

Magnets are a really useful tool for organising your bits and pieces around the house. Try some of our tips to see if they can help you. 1. Install magnets in your bathroom cabinet for storing things like bobby pins, nail scissors and nail files. 2. Glue a small magnet to the bottom of your hammer to hold onto nails. 3. Mount a magnetic strip near the front door to hold onto your keys. 4. Use magnetic paint to make a bulletin board for bills and reminders (rather than overloading your fridge door). 5. Install a magnetic knife block inside a cupboard to store things like scissors or metal kitchen utensils. 6. Keep a magnet in your desk drawer to hold onto paper clips or staples. 7. Use magnets to keep your shower curtain closed and avoid slippery floors. 8. Find a wall stud by sliding a strong magnet along the wall until you feel the pull. 9. Save sore fingers and easily remove stuck batteries by placing a magnet near the battery. 10. Screw a magnet onto your broom handle to keep it attached to the side of your fridge. 11. Make a fridge pen by gluing a magnet to a pen so that you are always ready to make a note. 12. Save a key or earring from a drain by dangling down a magnet tied to a piece of string. 13. Clean an aquarium without removing the fish and water by embedding a magnet inside a sponge. You can guide the sponge around the glass from the outside with another strong opposing magnet. Image credits: Getty Images

Home & Garden

You’re wasting your money if you’re buying these 13 things in brand-new condition

Exercise equipment There’s a good chance exercise equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and dumbbells, are still in good condition. “Many people buy these items with the intentions of starting a regimen but fall off quickly and then try to unload these bulky goods that take up too much room,” says consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch. Just make sure to research the brand and test the equipment before you buy, she says. In addition to the usual spots like garage sales, a local gym that’s getting renovated might be selling old equipment at killer prices, says Woroch. Hand tools There are so many used hand tools like hammers and wrenches on the market that there’s no reason to buy new, says Shelton. If you’re on the market, he recommends checking out a surprising spot. “Pawnshops are a great place for used tools,” says Shelton. “A lot of times they’re coming from trade because people change jobs.” Gift cards “Buying gift cards used may seem like an unusual idea, but it’s actually becoming more mainstream as a unique way to save money,” says Woroch. You can save 10 to 30 percent on store credit at your go-to shops, or gift cards to give as presents, she says. Tech gadgets At the rate new technology comes out, a used phone or laptop from five years ago probably isn’t worth the buy. But last year’s model could be a great value without making you feel like a dinosaur. For instance, Apple sells certified refurbished laptops and computers with limited warranties. Head to a big-box store or phone carrier for a refurbished smartphone, which are usually good quality, says Shelton. Beware of buying used tech from companies you don’t know though. “It’s already an off-brand, cheaply made product,” he says. “If it’s been refurbished, it’s already had an issue, so there’s a pretty good chance it won’t last very long.” Sports gear Equipment for specific sports, like skis or golf clubs, are also a good idea to pick up used, says Shelton. Beginners often buy the items but don’t stick with the sport, meaning the gear is still in great condition. And if you don’t want to be that person shelling out hundreds on a sport you or your kid doesn’t love, you won’t lose much on a used version. “If you find out you don’t like it, you could sell it to someone else and save money in the process,” says Shelton. Vehicles “New cars lose considerable value as soon as they leave the dealership’s lot, so it’s always best to buy used,” says Woroch. Find a model that’s a year old and doesn’t have many miles for a like-new ride that costs way less. You can even find cars on sites like Gumtree or eBay, but don’t take the price at face value. Always negotiate with the seller. Furniture You can save tons of cash on furniture by buying preowned instead of new, especially if you shop at the right time. Tax season, spring-cleaning time, and the holidays usually have the best prices and most options because people are often trying to downsize or sell those big-ticket items, says Shelton. Clothing Thrifting your clothes can save you up to 90 percent on everything from jeans to tuxedos, says Woroch. Baby clothes are especially good to buy used. “They’re going to outgrow it so fast,” says Shelton. There’s a good chance the original buyers over-bought or received the outfits as gifts, so items are often like-new or even unworn. Low price tags make consignment shops a good way to test-run trends that you’re not sure you’ll stick with, says Shelton. Even if you get sick of that pair of jeans by next year, you won’t waste much money. Footwear is the one exception. Shoes tend to wear around a person’s specific foot shape, so a used pair probably won’t be too comfy, says Shelton. Cleaning antique clothing is an exercise in avoiding modern conveniences, which are generally too harsh for fragile fabrics. Musical instruments Older models of musical instruments might actually be better quality than the ones you’ll find new on the shelf. “Corporations find ways to cut corners and use plastic vs. metal,” says Shelton. “Newer technology doesn’t have the same kind of tonal quality and build.” Do a bit of research before you buy, and test the instrument if you can. Large appliances Ask the sellers how long they’ve been using it, and test it to make sure it works before you put any money down. You could also head to an appliance repair shop to see if they’re selling refurbished items. “That’s a good buy if it’s a good price, because it’s been looked over by a technician who knows what they’re doing and can make sure it will work for you,” says Shelton. As a bonus, those shops will probably take your old one off your hands when they deliver the new-to-you one, so you don’t have a bulky appliance lying around. Textbooks “The unwritten rule is never buy textbooks new,” says Shelton. “Sometimes you find nice little gems in there, like people highlighted things on your test or let good notes.” Buying used textbooks used to be a wild race, but with eBooks surging, it’s easier to find what you want, he says. Bikes A new bicycle can cost hundreds of dollars, but a used one will cost a fraction of the price. You can even buy just the frame, and beef it up with more expensive parts from another seller, she says. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/money/youre-wasting-your-money-if-youre-buying-these-13-things-brand-new-condition?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

You’re wasting your money if you’re buying these 13 things in brand-new condition

Used items can be the same great quality at a fraction of the price. Let someone else do all the hard work breaking these things in. Exercise equipment There’s a good chance exercise equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and dumbbells, are still in good condition. “Many people buy these items with the intentions of starting a regimen but fall off quickly and then try to unload these bulky goods that take up too much room,” says consumer and money-saving expert Andrea Woroch. Just make sure to research the brand and test the equipment before you buy, she says. In addition to the usual spots like garage sales, a local gym that’s getting renovated might be selling old equipment at killer prices, says Woroch. Hand tools There are so many used hand tools like hammers and wrenches on the market that there’s no reason to buy new, says Shelton. If you’re on the market, he recommends checking out a surprising spot. “Pawnshops are a great place for used tools,” says Shelton. “A lot of times they’re coming from trade because people change jobs.” Gift cards “Buying gift cards used may seem like an unusual idea, but it’s actually becoming more mainstream as a unique way to save money,” says Woroch. You can save 10 to 30 percent on store credit at your go-to shops, or gift cards to give as presents, she says. Tech gadgets At the rate new technology comes out, a used phone or laptop from five years ago probably isn’t worth the buy. But last year’s model could be a great value without making you feel like a dinosaur. For instance, Apple sells certified refurbished laptops and computers with limited warranties. Head to a big-box store or phone carrier for a refurbished smartphone, which are usually good quality, says Shelton. Beware of buying used tech from companies you don’t know though. “It’s already an off-brand, cheaply made product,” he says. “If it’s been refurbished, it’s already had an issue, so there’s a pretty good chance it won’t last very long.” Sports gear Equipment for specific sports, like skis or golf clubs, are also a good idea to pick up used, says Shelton. Beginners often buy the items but don’t stick with the sport, meaning the gear is still in great condition. And if you don’t want to be that person shelling out hundreds on a sport you or your kid doesn’t love, you won’t lose much on a used version. “If you find out you don’t like it, you could sell it to someone else and save money in the process,” says Shelton. Vehicles “New cars lose considerable value as soon as they leave the dealership’s lot, so it’s always best to buy used,” says Woroch. Find a model that’s a year old and doesn’t have many miles for a like-new ride that costs way less. You can even find cars on sites like Gumtree or eBay, but don’t take the price at face value. Always negotiate with the seller. Furniture You can save tons of cash on furniture by buying preowned instead of new, especially if you shop at the right time. Tax season, spring-cleaning time, and the holidays usually have the best prices and most options because people are often trying to downsize or sell those big-ticket items, says Shelton. Even if your buy doesn’t look the right colour at first, you can easily treat and stain it. Clothing Thrifting your clothes can save you up to 90 percent on everything from jeans to tuxedos, says Woroch. Baby clothes are especially good to buy used. “They’re going to outgrow it so fast,” says Shelton. There’s a good chance the original buyers over-bought or received the outfits as gifts, so items are often like-new or even unworn. Low price tags make consignment shops a good way to test-run trends that you’re not sure you’ll stick with, says Shelton. Even if you get sick of that pair of jeans by next year, you won’t waste much money. Footwear is the one exception. Shoes tend to wear around a person’s specific foot shape, so a used pair probably won’t be too comfy, says Shelton. Cleaning antique clothing is an exercise in avoiding modern conveniences, which are generally too harsh for fragile fabrics. Musical instruments Older models of musical instruments might actually be better quality than the ones you’ll find new on the shelf. “Corporations find ways to cut corners and use plastic vs. metal,” says Shelton. “Newer technology doesn’t have the same kind of tonal quality and build.” Do a bit of research before you buy, and test the instrument if you can. Large appliances Ask the sellers how long they’ve been using it, and test it to make sure it works before you put any money down. You could also head to an appliance repair shop to see if they’re selling refurbished items. “That’s a good buy if it’s a good price, because it’s been looked over by a technician who knows what they’re doing and can make sure it will work for you,” says Shelton. As a bonus, those shops will probably take your old one off your hands when they deliver the new-to-you one, so you don’t have a bulky appliance lying around. Textbooks “The unwritten rule is never buy textbooks new,” says Shelton. “Sometimes you find nice little gems in there, like people highlighted things on your test or let good notes.” Buying used textbooks used to be a wild race, but with eBooks surging, it’s easier to find what you want, he says. Bikes A new bicycle can cost hundreds of dollars, but a used one will cost a fraction of the price. You can even buy just the frame, and beef it up with more expensive parts from another seller, she says. Written by Marissa Laliberte. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/money/youre-wasting-your-money-if-youre-buying-these-13-things-brand-new-condition" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.co.nz/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> Image: Getty Images

Money & Banking

13 clever house-cleaning hacks from professional cleaners

Don't forget the doormat Doormats are your best friend when it comes to trapping dirt, so make sure you have two – one outside the house and one inside. This tip is especially helpful when there’s a lot of rain and you have wet, muddy shoes going in and out of the house. Just be sure to clean the mats regularly as dirty mats contribute to the mess. Combine tasks Kill two birds with one stone by doing similar cleaning tasks at the same time. “Clean your baseboards when you are vacuuming or washing floors, clean blinds when you are cleaning windows, etc,” suggests Becky Rapinchuk, owner of <a href="https://www.cleanmama.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">CleanMama.net.</a> Skip the bucket Sometimes moving around the mop bucket only makes more of a mess thanks to the dirty water splashing around. Leslie Reichert, founder of The Green Cleaning Coach and author of The Joy Of Green Cleaning, has a bucket-less mopping technique that works wonders: a spray bottle filled with diluted cleaning solution and a microfibre mop. Or choose a mop that allows you to fill the base with water and a little floor cleaner and spray from the handle as you go. Stock up on products No, a bathroom tile cleaner shouldn’t be used to wipe down your mirrors. “The right products that actually clean go a long way to getting the job done more effectively and efficiently for you,” says McGee. Buy a soap dispenser dish brush According to Dana White, founder of <a href="https://www.aslobcomesclean.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A Slob Comes Clean</a>, you can use a soap dispenser dish brush in your shower. “Mark it for the bathroom only with a permanent marker, and fill it with your favorite dish soap,” she says. “Hang it in the shower, and you can scrub the shower while you’re in it anyway. Dish soap does a great job cleaning the bathroom!” Vacuum the right way Rapinchuk recommends first vacuuming a room horizontally and then vertically to get all of the trapped dirt. Most cleaning experts agree that vacuuming slowly is also very important to ensure that vacuum picks up all the dirt particles. Define "clean" Everyone has a different idea of what “clean” actually means. Some think a sparkling floor is clean, while others are happy with just doing a load of laundry. Beth McGee, author of Get Your House Clean Now: The Home Cleaning Method Anyone Can Master, suggests asking yourself questions like how much stuff do I have and what type of home do I have to determine what clean and organised really means to you. A pillowcase can be a cleaner Obviously, you don’t want to use the pillowcase you sleep on every night, but using a pillowcase to clean your ceiling fans is a hack that you need to try ASAP. “The pillowcase holds the dust so it doesn’t fall on a table or bed,” says Reichert. “A very clean way to dust a fan.” Create a cleaning plan We all have those random cleaning bursts, but having a plan beforehand will make your cleaning process smoother. “Cleaning is really like a dance. You start high, work down and around, and carefully observe anything that needs attention,” says McGee. “As you move around, wipe light switches, door frames, baseboards, walls, working in a circle around a room and not back and forth from one thing across the room to another. Don’t get distracted, keep a smooth motion around your home.” Use your dishwasher Dishwashers are for so much more than just washing dishes. Reichert recommends using yours to dust off knickknacks like jars, toys and glass candle globes. Pretty much anything glass or ceramic should be fine going in the dishwasher, but you do want to stay away from putting meltable plastics. DIY cleaning solutions Want to know the secret to streak-free mirrors and windows? Well, it’s an easy at-home solution you can make yourself. According to Rapinchuk, all you need is: <ul> <li>1 1/2 cups water</li> <li>1 1/2 tablespoons white vinegar</li> <li>1 1/2 tablespoons rubbing alcohol</li> <li>3 drops peppermint essential oil</li> </ul> Place in a spray bottle, and away you go. Clean the toilet daily If you swish your toilet every day with your cleaning brush, you’ll keep it relatively clean without a ton of hard labour. Use the water already in the toilet to swish the entire toilet bowl. Your bathroom probably gets dirtiest the fastest and is the hardest to clean. Skip the polish Of course, you need to polish your wooden furniture and hardwood floors every once in a while (once or twice a year, or when they begin to look foggy), but all you really need to keep them shiny is a dry microfibre cloth. “Your furniture will actually get less dusty without using furniture polish,” says Reichert. Prioritise “[Start] with scrubbing areas such as kitchens and baths, then moving on to de-cluttering, dusting, bedding, and finally floors,” McGee advises. “Look at your home carefully to determine what needs most attention to bring it to your idea of clean.” Speed clean Maybe you just found out your in-laws are coming over and you need to quickly tidy up the place – knowing how to speed clean will be your saviour. Make sure you hit the places that are most visible first like kitchen countertops and the bathroom. You can skimp on things like the top of the fridge and behind the coffee maker. Purchase a paintbrush Reichert uses a stiff paintbrush around her furniture to pull the dirt out without having to move all the furniture around. “You are brushing it out away from the furniture so the vacuum can suck it up,” she says. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/home-tips/clever-house-cleaning-hacks-professionals-swear?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

13 budget beauty tricks

There are plenty of beauty tips that are not worth listening to. Who actually throws out their mascara after three months? Do you really need to buy enough make-up brushes to rival an artist's palette? And will putting strawberries all over your teeth really give you a smile to rival Lucille Ball’s? It’s all a bit too hard. Use these simple, DIY tricks to save your time, money and effort. <ol> <li>To avoid lipstick on your teeth, after applying your lippie stick your finger in your mouth and pull it out. This way your finger will take the excess product, not your teeth. </li> <li>Concoct your own plumping lip venom (and save yourself $30) by adding a drop of cinnamon or peppermint oil to your lip colour.</li> <li>Vaseline costs you pocket change and has to be the most hard-working beauty products out there. Apply to lashes before bed to make them grow longer and thicker over time, use it to tame unruly eyebrows, apply to pulse points before spritzing your perfume to make the scent last longer, combine with sea salt to make a scrub and mix with lipstick to make a subtle cream blush.</li> <li>Don't have a curler? Give yourself groovy, long-lasting waves by flat-ironing your braids with your hair straightener. Avoid making the braids too tight lest you like the crimped look.</li> <li>Don't listen to Sally Hansen when she says you need to buy cuticle cream. Eye cream applied to your nail beds serves the same purpose.</li> <li>While towels cause static and friction, drying your hair with a cotton T-shirt eliminates the frizz factor completely.</li> <li>A light dusting of baby powder between coats of mascara creates fullness you have not dared to even dream of.</li> <li>There's nothing worse than blotches of dry shampoo that could be mistaken for dandruff. Always apply it the night before, not the morning of, to prevent product build-up.</li> <li>Want to give your lipstick long-wear power? After applying, hold a tissue over your lips and lightly dust with translucent powder to set the colour.</li> <li>Got a spot of foundation on your white shirt? A touch of shaving cream on a damp cloth should clear it right up.</li> <li>You can reduce hair static and fly-aways by slicking it with a dryer sheet.</li> <li>There's no tougher wait than the time it takes your conditioner to work or your manicure to dry. Cut that drying time in half by dunking your nails in a bowl of cold water for two minutes shortly after painting.</li> <li>Had a messy experience with leaky products in your suitcase? Hasn't everyone? Just unscrew the caps, place a layer of cling film over the top and screw them back to prevent any liquid from ruining your trip.</li> </ol> Written by Kathleen Lee Joe. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Image credits: Getty Images

Beauty & Style

13 ways you’re shortening the life of your vacuum cleaner

You don't remove clogs Do a quick visual check for clogs to the hose and wand after every time you use your vacuum cleaner. Unclogging your hoses not only improves suction power, but it can help the vacuum run more efficiently and last longer. If you can’t reach the jammed debris with your hand, use a mop handle or a gardening stake to push it through. An easy test: After detaching the hose and wand, try sliding a coin through them. If it gets stuck, you know it’s clogged. Not winding up the cord after you've finished It’s easy to get lazy and leave the power cord out to get stepped on by family and pets. But by winding the cord into a tidy coil after vacuuming, you can prevent damage, while also avoiding potential hazards including electrocution for family pets or inquisitive crawlers who like to chew. If you don’t have time to wrap up the cord, at the very least, you should always unplug it. You're not detangling brushes Most vacuum cleaners have rotating brushes at the intake port that kick dust and dirt loose from the carpet so they can get sucked up by the air stream. But when hair, pet fur, or loose string gets trapped in the brushes, they can’t work as effectively. Using a small pair of scissors, gently cut through the debris to free up the brushes, then use a comb to smooth them out. Not replacing the bag or emptying the canister Whether your vacuum uses a bag, canister, or cup, an overfilled unit will run less efficiently and not last as long. While it’s easy to tell when a bagless unit is full, it can be harder to tell when a vacuum bag needs replacing. If you notice a drop in suction, it could be a sign it’s full of lightweight, fluffy material such as pet hair. For maximum performance and to make your vacuum last longer, replace the bag or empty the canister or cup when it is half to two-thirds full. You're not changing out or cleaning the filters Each vacuum is different, but your manual should indicate how often filters need to be replaced or cleaned. Many vacuum models come with an accordion-shaped paper filter and a sponge-like ring filter. For units with washable filters, be sure to follow the washing guidelines from the manual. Of course, the frequency will vary depending on how often you vacuum and how messy your floors are. If the filter looks dirty, it’s time to switch it out or clean it. You're not replacing the drive belt This belt wraps around the beater brush allowing it to turn. If it’s not working correctly, the beater brush won’t loosen dirt and debris from the carpet fibres. By flipping the power-head over, you can glance at the belt, looking for tears or cracks. If the belt looks loose, that’s another sign it’s time for a new belt. Using the wrong setting Most vacuum cleaners have different settings depending on the type of flooring you are cleaning, i.e. wood or carpet. If you’re using the wrong setting, this can render the vacuum cleaner less effective and may shorten the life of your unit. “Setting your vacuum on the lowest setting may not be the best option to get enough airflow for the suction action,” reports Angie’s List. Storing attachments separately Attachments usually come with a storage spot, either on the vacuum itself or in a separate box or bag, yet it’s easy to get lazy. Sometimes, we leave a dusting brush or an upholstery tool on the side table instead of walking it down to the hall cupboard. Not that big of a deal, right? Until it gets lost or stolen by your puppy for her new chew toy. By storing the attachments together with the vacuum cleaner in a safe spot, parts are less likely to be damaged or get lost. Not pre-cleaning the areas To stretch out the life of your vacuum cleaner, give the room a once-over. Move backpacks, socks, or clothing with drawstrings to prevent them from catching in the belt. While you can turn off the vacuum and pull them out, over time it could loosen the belt and shorten the life of your vacuum cleaner. Next, check for fallen food items like chips or cookies or small toys like building bricks. Scoop them before vacuuming the area. Not stopping when there's smoke This might seem really obvious, but sometimes we get into turbo-mode – pushing the vacuum beyond its limits. Then even when we smell smoke, we optimistically assume we can fit in just one more room before problem-solving. But prevention is key. “When stress to the motor is present, the motor heats up and usually burns the belt, causing smoke,” suggests Do It Yourself. They advise cutting the burnt belt off with scissors, then replacing it before continuing to vacuum. Using it too often Think about what’s making your floors dirty in the first place, then try to circumvent it so you can use your vacuum cleaner less frequently. Try storing your shoes in a bin by the front door, for instance. Other tricks: Instead of taking snacks to your TV-room, eat at your kitchen table so you don’t get crumbs everywhere, and brush pets outdoors on a regular basis to decrease the amount of pet hair on your floors and furniture. Not using a surge protector These aren’t just for your computers or TVs. A surge protector can “prevent an electronic shortage from spurts of electricity that go beyond the voltage limits.” The stronger the burst, the more likely your vacuum can get damaged. Causes of power surges vary from downed power lines to lightning storms. Not reading the manual Many people skip reading the manual until there is a problem, but by then it might be too late. Each company’s manual contains important safety instructions and warnings, such as “Do not handle the machine or plug with wet hands.” Pretty obvious – sure – but it could save your life. They also give troubleshooting tips for how to care for and maintain your vacuum cleaner along with warranty information, which is especially important if you are switching to a new brand. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/food-home-garden/home-tips/13-ways-youre-shortening-the-life-of-your-vacuum-cleaner?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Home & Garden

13 stylist-approved tricks for having the shiniest hair ever

Rinse with cold water Perhaps you’ve heard that cold water helps constrict pores. Well, it has a similar effect on your hair. According to stylist, Stefani Padilla, cold water seals and smooths the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and adding shine. After using shampoo and conditioner, finish with a blast of cold water. Give gloss a try (at the salon) At your salon appointment, ask your stylist for a gloss treatment. “A clear gloss, with a little gold colour in it, delivers the ultimate shine,” says colourist, Will Francis. “I like to leave it on for at least ten minutes.” The way the light reflects off hair post-gloss makes it look super lustrous. Minimise heat styling Heat styling can wear away hair’s cuticles, so it becomes dry, frizzy and breakage-prone. Padilla advises giving your hairdryer and flat iron a rest in favour of air-drying, at least a day or two a week. Invest in an ionic hairdryer Of course, there will be occasions when you want a bouncy blow-dry. So it’s important to invest in the right type of tool – specifically an ionic blow-dryer, which dries the hair faster than alternatives and helps reduce static. One major blow-dry mistake that may be sabotaging your style? Ignoring the nozzle attachment. It’s there for a reason and that’s namely to smooth strands and enhance shine. Blow-dry like a pro Remember, it’s not just about the tool, but how you use it. Be sure to hold the hairdryer a few centimetres away from your head to moderate heat damage. “Always blow dry from root to end – in the direction of the cuticle,” says celebrity colourist, Michael Canalé. “Keep the brush moving while doing so. The continuous, fluid motion smooths and flattens the cuticle, resulting in shiny hair.” Opt for protective products When it comes to heat-styling, you already know that protecting your tresses is a must. But what you might not realise is that pollution and UV rays also damage hair. The right formula can shield against heat and environmental damage. A nourishing oil “is great because it protects hair from thermal stress, UV, colour fade and environmental aggressors. I always use it on my clients,” says Francis. Slather on some oil Restore radiance with a nourishing oil. Use it as a weekly treatment (massage into scalp and strands) or smooth a few drops daily on the ends to enhance hydration and sheen. Padilla recommends using a lightweight oil, like a nutrient-rich jojoba oil infused with shine-boosting rosemary, protective Ayahuasca plant essence, and moisturising vitamin E. Up your omega intake Certain nutrients are shown to improve hair health – chief among them omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. “Your body needs these to produce lustrous locks, from the inside out,” says Padilla. Load up on fish, like mackerel and sardines. Don’t love seafood? Consider a fish oil capsule. Other omega-rich foods include walnuts, flaxseeds (and oil), avocado and tofu. Shampoo less frequently You’ve certainly heard this before, but it bears repeating… stylists are begging you to stop shampooing your hair every day. Washing less actually preserves shine by allowing natural oils to do their job, according to Francis. Try to limit cleansing to two or three times a week, and make sure you know how to properly wash your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo - in moderation Clarifying hair is important to avoid build up, which can deplete the shine. Want squeaky clean strands? Consider adding a clarifying shampoo into your rotation once a month (but not weekly as it can dry out your tresses). When it comes to picking the right formula, Padilla recommends steering clear of chemicals and sulphates, which can strip the hair as well as open the cuticle. “The key to shine is to keep cuticle closed and protected,” she says. DIY an apple cider vinegar rinse Another in-shower, shine-booster is a weekly apple cider vinegar rinse – it’s basically a DIY version of a clarifying shampoo. Combine two tablespoons apple cider vinegar with one cup water. After shampooing, saturate strands. Rinse thoroughly, and follow with conditioner on the ends only. “The citric acid in the apple cider vinegar dissolves root build up and any other follicle-clogging bacteria that dulls the hair,” explains Canalé. Try a weekly treatment Topical hydration is so important to maintain hair’s natural gleam. “I suggest my clients use a treatment or mask once a week, as a self-care ritual to heal and preserve hair health,” says Padilla. To use, simply massage into the scalp and pull through dry hair. For maximum hydration, keep it on overnight and wash out in the morning. The natural oils in these formulas lock in moisture and make hair shiny. Brush daily Channel your inner Marcia Brady. Well, not quite. While you don’t need to brush your strands 100 times, Padilla does suggest daily brushing. “Brushing pulls natural oils from the scalp down into the hair, which acts as a natural moisturiser,” she says. Be sure to choose a brush with natural or boar bristles, which are a gentler and less damaging alternative to metal and synthetic. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/13-stylist-approved-tricks-for-having-the-shiniest-hair-ever?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Beauty & Style

13 tricks to make your makeup last all day, according to pros

Start with a good base Prepping your skin before you apply makeup is key, says makeup artist Lucy Halperin. Start by washing your face so it’s sparkling clean, then apply a quick face mask – Halperin loves REN Flash Rinse 1 Minute Facial, which does its job in a mere 60 seconds – before applying moisturiser. “The skin is plump, it’s moisturised, and it’s even-toned,” she says. “I end up putting on less foundation on than I would.” Prime your face Even if you’re using a product with built-in primer like BB cream or tinted moisturiser, starting with a primer will even out the texture of your skin and keep your makeup in place, says Jessica Mae, founder, creative director and makeup artist of WarPaint International Beauty Agency. “Putting primer down first gives an additional layer of something to hold on to,” she says. Pick one to match your skin type: a smoothing one for large pores or fine lines, a mattifying one for oily faces, or a hydrating one for dry skin. Apply with a brush No matter how tempted you are to ignore your brushes and apply foundation with your fingers, this has to be a hands-off process if you want your look to stay. Otherwise the oil from your fingers could transfer to your face, and you’ll use more product than you need, Mae says. “Brushes apply the product evenly, which is the key to longevity of it,” she says. “You aren’t having a thicker layer on one side vs thinner on the other. You’ll have consistency with how the natural oils of your face mix with the product.” Apply in layers Use a light hand to apply powder blushes and bronzers. “Sweep it lightly and layer it on,” Halperin says. “Really blend it in.” Smudging away any harsh lines will make it less obvious if your makeup does start to melt away, she says. Prep your eyes An eye cream will help get rid of dark circles and leave you ready for concealer. Halperin suggests Clinique Even Better Eyes, which has a metal applicator that cools the skin while you apply it. “It really smooths out the skin,” she says. But only apply under your eye – if you put it on your eyelids, the moisture will cause your eyeshadow to slip into your creases, Mae says. Pick the right eye primer You may have heard concealer is a good substitute for eye primer, but Mae says she’s found that isn’t the case. “Concealer is usually creamy in consistency, which is more emollient,” she says. “If you’re using it on the eyelid, it can cause creasing and cause eye shadow to not blend as well.” She says the best results come from a product specifically designed to prime eyes. Choose waterproof eyeliner For a long-lasting liner, opt for a waterproof formula, or use a regular one and go over it with a powder of the same colour to set it, Halperin says. If your eyes start to get moist, put a bit of powder underneath to keep a runny mess from forming, she recommends. Or skip the eyeliner If you’re notorious for runny eyeliner, sometimes the best strategy is to stop working against nature. “If someone’s eye is waterlogged, just skip it,” Halperin says. “Just use waterproof mascara to accentuate the lashes.” Find the right mascara Mascaras tend to be personal, and finding the right formula for you will help you get a lasting wear. People with watery eyes should opt for waterproof, but other than that, it’s trial and error, Mae says. “Get samples sizes from your favourite makeup counter and try a few to find the perfect one that works for you,” she says. To avoid ruining your makeup before you’re even done applying, avoid getting mascara transfer on your eyelids. Mae recommends starting with bottom lashes and let them dry before adding product to the top. Use lip liner as a base A lot of lipsticks marketed as long-lasting can be drying, Halperin says. Start by filling in your lips with lip liner before applying your lipstick, which will give a waxiness that the lipstick can grip on. “It gives it a longevity because the lips have already been based with that colour,” Halperin says. Lock in your lip colour After applying lipstick, Mae suggests laying a tissue on your lips, then lightly dusting translucent powder over the tissue to seal in the colour. “It acts as a setting powder for lipstick,” she says. Set your makeup Once you’ve finished your look, use a setting spray to lock it in place. Mae likes to use setting spray after applying foundation, then applying powder after it’s dried, finishing the rest of her makeup, and adding with one more layer of setting spray. “As you layer the products, it lasts longer,” she says. “It creates a barrier between the natural skin and the product.” Between skin cream and a moisturising primer, you’ll already have plenty of hydration, so choose a setting spray that doesn’t moisturise – any more could cause your makeup to slip, Mae says. Keep your hands off Don’t let the rest of your day ruin the hard work you put in to your makeup. “Avoiding touching your facing as much as you can will help keep makeup on longer,” Mae says. That means to stop resting your hand on your face and holding your phone against your cheek. If you’re acne-prone, try cleaning bacteria off your work phone and cell phone regularly to prevent breakouts, Mae says. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/healthsmart/beauty/13-tricks-to-make-your-makeup-last-all-day-according-to-pros?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Beauty & Style

These 13 bizarre facts about dreams might keep you up at night

We all do it Dreaming is a natural brain function, and all human beings do it. But some people never remember their dreams, according to experts. Your dreams have meanings as well. You become sexually aroused Psychologists say that both men and women become sexually aroused while dreaming (even if the dream has no sexual content). Smoking can affect your dreams People who have quit a longtime smoking habit report having very vivid dreams for several weeks after stopping. Time spent dreaming Average amount of time spent dreaming per night: 1.5 to 2 hours. Some people dream during the day as well. Schizophrenics experience ‘waking dreams’ Scientists believe schizophrenics suffer from irregular REM sleep, and that the hallucinations and delusions they experience may actually be ‘waking dreams.’ Nightmares during pregnancy are good Studies show that women who experience nightmares during pregnancy have easier births than women who don’t. Dreams tend to be negative Negative emotions, such as anxiety, are more commonly felt during dreams than positive ones. Joy, mirth, music The Old English word dream, which etymologists believe is the origin of our word dream, meant ‘joy,’ ‘mirth,’ or ‘music.’ The soul is awake The Raramuri people of northern Mexico believe that dreams are the result of one’s soul ‘waking’ or ‘sobering,’ and seeing the world more clearly than usual. (Raramuri families often wake up and discuss their dreams during the night.) The longest dreams happen in the am The longest dreams – up to 45 minutes long – usually occur in the morning. Birds also dream Birds, like humans, experience rapid eye movement (REM) during sleep and show brain wave activity similar to that of humans. This suggests that birds dream. Reptiles also dream Reptiles also experience brain activity during sleep that suggests they too may dream. (Fish do not.) One US president dreamed that he was paralysed For most of his life, US President Lyndon Johnson had nightmares that he was paralysed. Maybe it was hinting at something? Written by Bathroom Readers Institute. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/healthsmart/conditions/sleep/these-13-bizarre-facts-about-dreams-might-keep-you-up-at-night" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> Image: Shutterstock

Mind

13 things that will happen now that Charles is king

The next monarch As we pay tribute to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II after the news of her passing at the age of 96, all eyes now inevitably turn to her son, Prince Charles, who has immediately succeeded her place on the throne to become King Charles III. Unlike his mother, who unexpectedly became queen at just 25 years old when her father, King George VI, died suddenly, 71-year-old Prince Charles has spent his entire life in preparation to wear the crown. He’s the longest waiting heir apparent and will be the oldest British monarch to ever take the throne. Following Queen Elizabeth's death, Prince Charles immediately became king At the moment of Queen Elizabeth’s death, Prince Charles became king. An ‘<a href="https://www.royal.uk/accession" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Accession Council</a>’, consisting of the group of advisors to the sovereign known as the Privy Council, will convene at St James’s Palace, London, to formally recognise the transition and to proclaim Charles as the monarch. The King will then take an <a href="https://privycouncil.independent.gov.uk/privy-council/the-accession-council/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">oath</a> to, interestingly enough, preserve the <a href="https://www.royal.uk/queens-relationship-churches-england-and-scotland-and-other-faiths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Church of Scotland</a> (this is because the sovereign is only the head of the Church of England, not the Presbyterian Church of Scotland). Parliament will then be recalled for its members to take oaths of allegiance. It wasn't a given that Prince Charles would become King Charles ‘Charles’ was an interesting choice for Queen Elizabeth to name her future heir, because the first two King Charles are associated with the 17th-century English Civil War, when the monarchy was ousted for the first and only time in <a href="https://www.royal.uk/kings-and-queens-1066" target="_blank" rel="noopener">British history</a>. Charles I was beheaded, although Charles II was eventually restored to the throne and well-liked. But Elizabeth, who kept her given name as Queen, was actually unusual in doing so: most other British monarchs changed their names upon taking the throne. For example, Queen Victoria’s first name was Alexandrina. That said, given the Prince of Wales was known by the public as Prince Charles his whole life, it makes sense for him to retain Charles as his regnal name as King, making him King Charles III. Charles may change one of his titles His first name isn’t the only part of his title Charles has the potential to change now that he is King. Queen Elizabeth II’s full title was “Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and of Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith.” That’s a mouthful, but there’s one part of it – one little word, actually – Charles has an issue with. “Prince Charles has taken a strong interest in interfaith dialogue, and there has been speculation that he would prefer the title of Defender of Faiths [or Faith] rather than Defender of the Faith,” Harris says. Charles has since rolled back his initial statements on the wording, though. “I said I would rather be seen as Defender of Faith all those years ago because…I mind about the inclusion of other people’s faiths and their freedom to worship in this country,” he told the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/feb/08/prince-charles-expresses-alarm-about-radicalisation-in-britain" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC</a>. “And it always seems to me that while at the same time being defender of the faith you can also be protector of faiths.” Charles does have a say in the <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unit/research/monarchy-church-and-state/accession-and-coronation/planning-next-accession-and-coronation#Q11" target="_blank" rel="noopener">wording</a>, UCL says, so we’ll have to wait until his coronation to see what he finally settles on. The coronation may be different Speaking of the coronation, which is a religious ceremony, Prince Charles may adapt this ritual as well. This ceremony is traditionally presided over by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Westminster Abbey and takes place several months after the last monarch’s death to allow for a period of mourning. At the ceremony, the new sovereign takes the coronation oath, which includes a promise to maintain the Church of England, and is ‘anointed, blessed and consecrated’ by the Archbishop,” the royal family’s <a href="https://www.royal.uk/coronation" target="_blank" rel="noopener">official website</a> states. But what about Charles? “The coronation will continue to be an Anglican service, but finding a place for other Christian denominations and other religions, as happened at the recent royal wedding,” UCL’s <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/constitution-unit/research/monarchy-church-and-state/accession-and-coronation/planning-next-accession-and-coronation#Q11" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Constitution Unit</a> says. “Such people may be invited to give readings; and religious leaders other than Anglicans are likely to be seated prominently, as happened at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee service at St Paul’s in 2012.” All eyes will also be on Prince William With Charles becoming King, Prince William will take on new titles, including the traditional styling given to the king-in-waiting. William becomes Duke of Cornwall with Charles becoming King, and will be formally named as Prince of Wales. But that’s not the only way William’s role will change: because his father is already 73, it might not be long before Prince William takes the throne himself. There will likely be a lot of public interest in William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and how William will be preparing to eventually assume the throne. Charles will likely be a more outspoken monarch The sovereign is supposed to be above politics, but Charles is actually somewhat of a rebel in his <a href="https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1206933/prince-charles-news-royal-family-queen-elizabeth-ii-monarchy-collapse-spt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tendency</a> to express his views on social and environmental issues. “Charles is known to hold firm opinions on a variety of subjects including organic farming, architecture and sustainable development,” says Carolyn Harris, PhD, historian and author of <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1459735692/?tag=readerwp-20" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Raising Royalty: 1000 Years of Royal Parenting</a>. “Climate change and environmental conservation are key political issues in the 21st century, and Charles will certainly not be seen as an impartial figure on these subjects, as his views are well-known.” But, he may temper his opinions Prince Charles noted in a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-46133114" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC</a> interview, though, that his vocal manner would be toned down when he became king. “The idea somehow that I’m going to go on in exactly the same way, if I have to succeed, is complete nonsense,” he said. “I do realise that it is a separate exercise being sovereign.” But, he also expressed that the line between charitable works and “meddling” in politics isn’t always clear; for example, when he created the Prince’s Trust in 1976 to help underprivileged youth. “I’ve always been intrigued, if it’s meddling to worry about the inner cities as I did 40 years ago,” he said. “If that’s meddling, I’m very proud of it.” Plus, the Prince’s candidness over the years may only be unusual when compared to his mother’s approach. “Queen Elizabeth II has reigned for such a long time, that her approach to her duties has become synonymous with constitutional monarchy in the popular imagination – her predecessors sometimes expressed open political opinions, but the Queen has been careful to remain above politics in the United Kingdom,” Harris says. Even so, “Charles will likely moderate his own approach to public duties to follow the Queen’s example, as the public expects the monarch to remain above politics.” The monarchy may shrink Another change that the new king reportedly will institute has had royal watchers buzzing: he may trim down the monarchy in terms of the number of royals actively carrying out official responsibilities. “Prince Charles favours a more streamlined royal family with fewer people undertaking public duties,” Harris says. “In the Queen’s reign, her cousins the Duke of Kent, the Duke of Gloucester and Princess Alexandra undertake public duties, and the entire extended family gathers for pre-Christmas lunch and at Trooping the Colour in June. In Charles’s reign, there will be a strong focus on the monarch’s immediate family – his sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren – and less of a public role for the extended royal family.” The sounds and sights of Britain will be different In accordance with the normal changes that occur when a new British monarch takes the throne, certain differences will be apparent in the United Kingdom – including the wording of the national anthem. Instead of ‘God Save the Queen’, the wording of the national anthem will be ‘God Save the King’. The royal family’s <a href="https://www.royal.uk/national-anthem" target="_blank" rel="noopener">official website</a> states that although there’s no authorised version of the national anthem, “words are a matter of tradition…substituting ‘Queen’ for ‘King’ where appropriate.” In addition, the royal cypher (basically a fancy monogram), which appears on England’s iconic red postal boxes, will change from ‘ER’ for ‘Elizabeth II Regina’ to the new King’s cypher. <a href="https://www.postalmuseum.org/blog/royal-cypher-appearances/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Postal Museum</a> notes that this will only happen when new postal boxes are added; old ones won’t change. In addition, new stamps and banknotes will bear the <a href="https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/830010/banknotes-when-queen-elizabeth-dies-prince-charles-new-10-ten-note" target="_blank" rel="noopener">King’s likeness</a>. Image credits: Getty Images This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/culture/13-things-that-will-happen-when-prince-charles-becomes-king" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.

Family & Pets

13 joys of travelling solo

If you travel solo or are thinking about it, you’re not alone. The number of solitary explorers is on the rise. Here’s a list of reasons why travelling solo is actually quite amazing. 1. Making plans each day that include ONLY the things and places you want to do and go. 2. Eating all of the food you want to eat. Whenever you want to eat it. 3. The freedom to change your plans on a whim and no one will even know the difference. 4. Never having to wait for anyone, especially if you’re anxious about timekeeping. 5. Getting lost and finding your way all by yourself. 6. Reading for hours in a park or cafe. 7. Spending hours browsing market stalls and shops. 8. Not having anyone to answer to anyone if you decide you want to scrap your plans one day or do something you shouldn’t do on holidays like stay in bed all day or go to the movies. 9. Walking around museums at your own pace. 10. Not having to talk to anyone all day if you’re not in the mood. 11. Speaking to random people in random places. 12. Faffing and not feeling bad about it. 13. Sleeping as late as you like Image: Getty

Domestic Travel

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13 things that will happen now that Charles is king

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13 homemade weed killers that work

13 signs of cancer men are likely to ignore

13 Titanic mysteries that may never be solved

13 unusual uses for coffee filters

13 things psychologists wish you knew about happiness

Airline sends woman 13 brand new suitcases as compensation

Is 13 too young to have a TikTok or Instagram account?

13 things neurologists do to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease

13 fascinating facts about the world’s oceans

13 nifty uses for magnets around the house

You’re wasting your money if you’re buying these 13 things in brand-new condition

You’re wasting your money if you’re buying these 13 things in brand-new condition

13 clever house-cleaning hacks from professional cleaners

13 budget beauty tricks

13 ways you’re shortening the life of your vacuum cleaner

13 stylist-approved tricks for having the shiniest hair ever

13 tricks to make your makeup last all day, according to pros

These 13 bizarre facts about dreams might keep you up at night

13 things that will happen now that Charles is king

13 joys of travelling solo

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