Organize, Organize, Organize...

I was reading an article recently about not being organized or the lack of a clean environment and the affect it can have on us.  Did you know that being organized can not only improve your mental health it can also improve your physical health?  If you think about it, this makes perfect sense!  If your home is cluttered or your 'To-Do' list keeps growing without accomplishment, this leads to exhaustion and higher stress.  In fact, research suggests that a cluttered home or feeling unorganized leads to higher levels of Cortisol, the stress hormone!  This alone can affect your sleep, your mood, and your health!  As Hidradenitis Suppurativa sufferers, anything we can do to decrease our stress levels will help.

My husband and I recently moved and we all know how quickly things begin to pile up and the 'To-Do' list continues to grow while trying to get organized and balance our everyday lives.  I have finally began to regain order and thought I would share some of my progress with you.

I am so excited about all my drawer dividers.  I made these out of foam board and cabinet shelf adhesive paper.  I then went on Pinterest and found ways to fold socks, pants, etc. to create more space in a drawer.

For my linen closet, I used baskets and made labels.  I love that everything has a place!  

An organized kitchen is crucial for me, since eating healthy is such a big piece of staying flare-up free.  I made some more dividers for my spice drawer and made some sticky labels for the spices.  

Organize, Organize, Organize...

Take a Vacation

I was very blessed to be able to spend the month of August in Maui, Hawaii! It had been quite awhile since I got away.  According to an article posted in USA Today, taking a vacation can be good for your health by allowing the body to unwind, replenish and repair itself.  Not to mention, lower stress levels (nudge, nudge....a trigger for Hidradenitis Suppurativa).

While a month may not be doable, a week away can do us a lot of good. Start saving now! Aloha!

Your Choice

On Thursday night my husband and I went out to dinner.  We went to a restaurant that we frequent often.  In this particular visit; we had a new waitress, our order took longer than normal and when my food came out the waitress stated that my husbands order was mistakenly taken to another persons table.  Slowly but surely his meal was brought out to him one item at a time, literally one item at a time.  My husband is slow to anger and he has a tendency to find humor in these types of situations.  The waitress was very apologetic and it was clear she felt horrible.  The manager came over as well to apologize and make sure we were okay.  To be completely honest, I was quite surprised when the bill came and nothing was taken off of the bill.

Last night we went out to eat again (by the way, we don't usually go out two nights in a row).  We went to a different restaurant that we had never been to before.  The food was great and our waitress and service was fantastic.  When our waitress was about to bring us our bill she said "I have a surprise for you" and walked away to retrieve our surprise.  My husband and I talked about what this "surprise" could be.  We assumed it was some kind of awards program or other promotional offer.  Our waitress came back and said "we have a waitress (Anna) that works here and recognized both of you from your dinner last night".  She went on to say "she was actually your waitress last night (at the other restaurant) and she feels horrible about the service you received and it has been bothering her since".  Our waitress told us that Anna wanted to use her employee discount for our meal.

Your Choice

I was so touched by her kindness!  I even found her in the restaurant and went and gave her a hug and thanked her!  She literally had tears in her eyes.

This experience just reminded me that everyone has a story and we have no idea what is going on in peoples lives that we come into contact with.  When life presents us with moments of the 'not-so-good', the only thing we can control is our response to the situation and our attitudes.  What is the point of getting agitated?  Agitation just leads to increased stress levels.  As I have mentioned in several posts, stress is an absolute trigger to many illnesses including Hidradenitis Suppurativa.  It's your choice, so why not choose a positive response in these moments?  Life is too short to get agitated.

Get Lost in a Book

Managing stress is a key factor in controlling Hidradenitis Suppurativa.  I have learned that getting lost in a book is a highly effective way to help me destress.  Research suggests that reading helps distract us from our everyday worries and relaxes the body.  One study showed a 68 percent stress reduction in participants when they read.

Get Lost in a Book

About an hour before bed, I like to take a hot Epsom salt bath and read.  This completely relaxes my body and quiets my mind.  Not to mention, it helps me get a great night sleep.  

Here is a list of some of the books I read in 2014 that I feel are worth the read.

• The One & Only (Emily Giffin)
• Something Borrowed (Emily Giffin)
• Something Blue (Emily Giffin)
• The Longest Ride (Nicholas Sparks)
• The Best of Me (Nicholas Sparks)
• Divergent Series (Veronica Roth)
• Insurgent
• Allegiant
• The Promise (Robyn Carr)
• Sing You Home (Jodi Picoult)

Organize My Tea

When I see clutter or I feel unorganized, I will be the first to admit that I get stressed out.  With stress being a cause of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, I try to focus on ways to minimize my stress.  Being organized is a sure way to relieve my stress.  Actually, there is something soothing about organizing, call me crazy!  My dream job would be to go to people's homes and organize their living space.  

On 'Day 4' I posted a picture of my hall closet that I recently organized.  The sense of accomplishment inspired me to slowly, and I mean slowly, organize little areas in my home.  Baby steps right!?  

I drink tea every day and wanted to find an easy access and organized place for my tea.  I made an area in my cabinet, right above my coffee maker that seemed to be the most logical space for my tea and coffee.  

Organize My Tea

I used inexpensive glass containers to put my loose leaf Yerba Mate and coffee in.  I stumbled upon the other glass containers for my tea bags and they could not have fit more perfectly.  To the left of the tea (not pictured) are all of my coffee mugs.  Along the way, I have obtained quite the collection. Viola!  It was that simple!  I now have my own little tea station.   

Stretch

When I found out that stress could be a trigger for Hidradenitis Suppurativa, I started taking a mental note of the things I could do to relieve stress in my day.  While I have found several stress relievers, starting my day with an exercise routine and ending it with stretching has worked wonders.  Of course there are many benefits to stretching such as increasing circulation and improving posture; however, the way I feel after stretching is priceless.

Stretch

I have never been flexible; however, stretching relaxes me and the more I stretch, the better I feel.  It gives me a chance to recharge and reduces areas of aches and pains.  I try to hold each stretch for 30 seconds and remember to breath.  The deeper I breath, the more relaxed I feel.  I move in to the stretch slowly and come out of the stretch slowly.     

Here is just another way to reduce my stress and start the morning off right! 

Spread Kindness

The simple act of kindness can bring so much joy to others.  There is something very powerful about bringing happiness to other peoples lives!  Ian Maclaren said "Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle." 

Simple acts of kindness are a win-win!  It is not just others you are helping.  I am sure that it comes as no surprise that spreading kindness adds many health benefits.  Did you know research suggests that acts of kindness actually improves the immune system?  Not to mention, it can instantly improve your mood.  Research also suggests that generosity can make you less stressed and make you feel happier.  Additionally, people experiencing problems had a greater sense of resiliency when they gave to others.  The list goes on and on!

Day 13: Spread Kindness

Instead of giving out a handful of change to the needy on the street, put together a little care packet and keep it in your car for the right opportunity. You can even put a couple dollars in with all the supplies.  I live in Colorado where the weather can get quite chilly, so I also put in some gloves and warm socks as well.  My challenge to you is to look for opportunities in your day where you can spread a little kindness. 

What Are You Grateful For?

As a Hidradenitis Suppurativa sufferer it may be hard to find things that we are thankful for.  However, even in the midst of our pain, there is beauty everywhere.  Sometimes we may have to dig a little deeper to find it.

What Are You Grateful For?

I am sure you have all heard of a gratitude journal.  If not, it is quite simple.  You start a journal writing down things you are grateful for.  We have so many negatives that surround us in a day, so why not begin focusing on the positive.  Actually, there have been a multitude of research studies surrounding gratitude.  These studies suggest that when we think positive and express gratitude we lower our stress, sleep better, and have happier lives.  Not to mention that expressing gratitude also improves our health, showing fewer symptoms of illness!  So what are you waiting for?  Simply write down at least 3 things you are grateful for a couple times a week.  As times goes on, try to elaborate on why you are grateful.  There is only one rule; you can't repeat the things you mentioned the previous week.

Watch a Sunrise

Look at the beauty around us!  When you look, really look - you will see it everywhere.  This morning I woke up early and watched the sunrise.  To me, there is an absolute magic to the mornings. It is peaceful, calm and quiet.  More than anything, I love being able to give myself time to think and clear my mind for the day ahead.

Watch a Sunrise

If you struggle with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, take time to clear your mind.  Find the beauty in the world.  As the saying goes, when nothing goes right, go left!

A Good Belly Laugh

Who doesn't love a good laugh?  I don't know who told me this, but I remember being told that "your day is not complete without 3 belly laughs".  What is a belly laugh?  It is a loud laugh from your deep belly that is often uncontrollable.  Not only do belly laughs make you feel good, laughter is good for your health!  Researchers suggest that laughter helps lower stress levels and believe it or not, it strengthens your immune system, helping to fight off disease!

A Good Belly Laugh

I know that Hidradenitis Suppurativa can be very painful.  Well guess what?  If you can manage a few good belly laughs, research also suggests that laughter helps lessen pain due to the release of endorphins.  

So today, start your morning off right and try not to take yourself so serious.  Focus on 3 belly laughs today and see how you feel.  Surround yourself with good humored people.  Let the joy and laughter of today lighten your burdens, relieve your stresses and inspire you for tomorrow.

Play an Instrument

One year ago, I bought a cheap keyboard along with a beginners guide to playing piano.  In May, I upgraded from a keyboard to a piano (thanks to my wonderful mom who bought me a piano for completing my Master's degree).  While I am not great (self-taught), I have to say that playing this instrument has become one of my greatest stress relievers.  There is something about playing a piece of music (as slow as I might be) and it creating a sense of calm.

Play an Instrument

We all know how bad stress can be for our health in general.  Numerous studies have been conducted relating stress to many different diseases.  I have talked to several HS sufferers who have learned that stress is their main trigger.  There is not a time better than now to find things in your life that allow you to de-stress.  You owe it to yourself!

Get Off Your Booty

As soon as my alarm goes off, I go into the bathroom where I have prepared my workout clothes the night before.  Half asleep I put on my workout clothes and go to my basement and squeeze in a 30-45 minute workout routine.  Nothing starts my day off better than a workout!  Besides the health benefits, it gives me energy for my day and makes me feel good about myself.  Not to mention, research suggests that losing weight can significantly reduce the amount of Hidradenitis Suppurativa flare-ups.

Get Off Your Booty

I have been very blessed because a good workout does not exacerbate my Hidradenitis Suppurativa.  I have read forums in which this is the case for some HS sufferers.  I make sure to stay hydrated and shower immediately following my workout.  Additionally, I use a 5% benzoyl peroxide daily (see benzoyl peroxide post).  If you have followed my other posts, you know that I have also completely changed my diet.  I believe the combination of all of this has allowed me to remain flare-up free.

Start with a warm-up.  I like my stationary bike.  After a warm-up try this.

• Jumping Jacks (1 minute)
• Plank (30 seconds)
• Rest
• Squats (1 minutes)
• Bicycle crunch (30 seconds)
• Rest
• Mountain climbers (1 minutes)
• Toe-touch crunch (30 seconds)
• Scissors (30 seconds)
• Rest
• Start again

Get Organized

Being stressed out can be a trigger for so many diseases including Hidradenitis Suppurativa.  Knowing this, I always look for ways to reduce stress in my life.  One way that works for me is getting organized!  I know this picture does not look like much, but 24 hours ago this hall closet was a disaster!  It was a combination of all my jewelry, piles of junk on the shelf, the broom and vacuum.  There was no rhyme or reason.  Every time I would walk by the closet door there was a little voice saying "please clean me out!".  No joke, opening the door was like a booby trap! Obviously this is a project I have continually put off, but yesterday I decided to conquer it.

Get Organized

 Now everything has its place and I am able to breath a sigh of relief!  Sometimes it is those simple projects that can make your day feel complete.  Now anytime I walk by the closet door I open it...ha!  Oh, the little things in life!

Organize My Kitchen

If you have read my previous posts, you know that I have completely changed my diet to help with my Hidradenitis Suppurativa.  It can be a little bit overwhelming when you decide to change your diet.  I remember thinking 'where do I start'.  I thought I would share some of things I did to help me with this lifestyle change starting in the kitchen.

I got rid of my "bad" foods.  I went through my entire pantry and refrigerator, looked at food labels, and got rid of everything that I could no longer have.  My husband is a very good sport and will try everything I cook; however, he still has a sweet tooth and has certain foods he can't live without.  I bought two wicker baskets to put on top of our fridge.  This is where I put "his" food.  I figured it would make my life easier 'out of sight, out of mind'.

I made a list of allowable foods.  Before going to the grocery store, I create a list of everything I need and do not sway from this list.  I make sure to always pick up a healthy amount of fruits such as red apples, blueberries, figs, etc.  I also stay focused on my greens and veggies.

I prepare all my food in advance.  Throughout the week, I don't want to stress about what to take to work for lunch or what to cook for dinner.  I have found that cutting up all of my fruits and vegetables and organizing my cabinets has made my life easier.  As soon as I get home from the grocery store, my first task is to chop up all my vegetables and put them in Tupperware in the refrigerator.  It makes it so much easier to grab-n-go.  To save time, I also prepare all my snacks and lunches for the week.  It starts like this.....

and ends like this (don't look too close, my refrigerator could use a good cleaning)...... 

         

     

On the top shelf I have some cucumber in a Tupperware and asparagus is in the jar.  On the middle shelf (far left) is my fresh fruit.  This week I have cherries and black grapes.  I have red apples in the crisper on the bottom.  The middle and far right Tupperware has my veggies.  I have baby carrots, celery, snap peas, and broccoli.  On the bottom shelf is my salad mix far right and in the middle is left overs.  On the far right is my chopped parsley for my parsley tea.  I try and switch up my vegetables and fruits on a weekly basis.  

I organized my spice drawer.  I use a lot of spices in my recipes.  I can't handle the on-the-counter spice organizer.  It takes up too much space on my counter top.  I wanted my spices to be in a place with easy access, that is why I selected a drawer.  

Click Here and Buy Now!

I put my measuring spoons and cups in an easy to reach place.  My measuring spoons and cups used to be buried in a drawer.  It was always so much work to dig and find them.  I have put little sticky back hooks on the inside of my cabinet door to hang my measuring spoons.  I then bought little screw hooks for my measuring cups.

    

Click Here to Buy Now!

Let the new lifestyle begin!  Changing your diet can be a very challenging journey; however, if I can do it anyone can do it.  Please don't hesitate to contact me with questions or comments.  I hope this will make your life easier.  It did mine!

Epsom Salt Bath

Epsom salt baths are nothing new!  They have been used for many, many years for many different remedies.  When I was first diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa, my dermatologist recommended Epsom salt baths.  I started talking them almost every single day.  Once my flare-up went away, I continued taking these baths about once a week.  Why?  I believe Epsom salt baths help detoxify the body.  Not to mention, they relax me and I seem to get a better night sleep when I take baths right before bed.  A little word of caution here, check with your doctor to make sure Epsom salt baths are right for you.

So what are the benefits?  Epsom salt baths are made of magnesium sulfate.  When you soak in Epsom salts the body absorbs these minerals.  There are many benefits to magnesium sulfate.  Benefits of magnesium include boosting the immune system, detoxification and energy production.  It is said that a very high percentage of adults are deficient in magnesium.  In general, a high consumption of sugar, a poor diet, stress and alcohol can deplete the body of magnesium.  Soaking in an Epsom salt bath may help boost our magnesium levels.  While soaking in an Epsom salt bath helps our body absorb magnesium, it also pulls toxins out of body.  Magnesium is also known to reduce inflammation and may protect our bodies from chronic diseases.  

A little side note, stay hydrated!  Make sure to drink plenty of water before and after your Epsom salt bath.