Regular exercise is essential to healthy living. However, past injuries and general discomfort can make it more difficult to make physical activity an everyday priority. Thankfully, there are products out there that make it easier to exercise, and they can provide support and help to speed up the recovery process. Kinesiology tape and compression wear are two common methods used by physiotherapists for those who want to begin exercising after recovering from sports injuries or inflammatory conditions.

Let's take a closer look at the differences between kinesiology and compression, plus a new option that combines the benefits of kinesiology tape and compression products.

Kinesiology tape vs. compression

According to the Ontario Kinesiology Association, kinesiology is defined as the science of human movement that uses evidence-based research to develop a solution that revolves around the idea of improved health, wellness and function for all. Kinesiology is used to prevent and reduce risk factors associated with serious medical conditions and also builds strong bones and joints.

Specifically, kinesiology tape is designed to move with the body while providing muscle support and swelling reduction, as well as accelerating healing from injury and inflammatory conditions.

Compression, on the other hand, places mass pressure on the area of distress. Compression clothing comes in the form of sleeves, socks, shorts and full body guards. These pieces are designed to increase blood flow and improve performance to shorten recovery time for athletes and those who exercise regularly.

The drawback of kinesiology tape

While kinesiology tape has been used by physical therapists for years as a method for speeding up recovery, there are multiple drawbacks to this tool. First, there are specific techniques for taping, which gives this product a learning curve that the average user may not be accustomed to. There's also the general discomfort of having tape adhered to the skin – not to mention the pain and annoyance that comes with removing it, as well as the sticky residue that's left behind after the fact.

Combine compression and kinesiology with Spark Kinetic Sleeves

Instead of relying on such tape, why not try a more intuitive option that combines the science of kinesiology with the ease of compression wear? Spark Kinetic Sleeves, the newest product offered by Brownmed, use patent-pending technology to combine kinesiology tape and compression to enhance performance and provide comfortable support.

The Spark Kinetic Knee Sleeve (available now) and Spark Kinetic Ankle Sleeve, Kinetic Elbow Sleeve and Kinetic Shin Sleeves (launching in Spring 2019) are all designed with grip-track banding to stay in place, moisture-wicking fabric to enhance comfort, advanced support kinesiology taping patterns and high performance compression. With Spark Sleeves, you can turn your focus away from pain and discomfort caused by chronic inflammation or sports-related injuries. Instead, add some Spark to your next activity and focus on continuing to make moves toward improved health and wellness.

Learn more about Spark Kinetic Sleeves and browse other Brownmed compression products available today.

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While summer offered ample opportunity to get out and soak up the sun, the autumn season is just as thrilling for those who love to be outside. With fall in full swing, now's a great time to enjoy the vibrant foliage while dressed in cozy layers. You can go on a hike and take in everything nature has to offer before the snow rolls in.

Hiking offers more than breathtaking sights – it's great for the mind, body and soul.

Reasons to go on a hike this fall

Whether you're jogging flat trails or navigating though rough terrain, hiking offers a multitude of benefits.

1. Strengthen your core
It's no surprise that hiking builds strong leg muscles. But it's also a great form of cardiovascular fitness and core exercise that helps you improve your balance skills, especially when your hike includes elevated landscape or uneven trails that make it more difficult, according to Julie Corliss, executive editor of the Harvard Heart Letter.

2. Clear your mind
There's something relaxing about escaping the hustle and bustle of a normal workday: unplugging from all of your devices and letting the great outdoors embrace you. In fact, a study by Stanford University researchers published in the journal "Proceedings of the National Academy of Science" found that people who spent just 90 minutes in a natural area rather than an urban setting experience a reduction in rumination, which is repetitive negative thought.

"These results suggest that accessible natural areas may be vital for mental health in our rapidly urbanizing world," said co-author Gretchen Daily, a professor of environmental science. "Our findings can help inform the growing movement worldwide to make cities more livable, and to make nature more accessible to all who live in them."

3. Get the family together
While hiking can be a great individual escape from your normal day-to-day agenda, it's also a fun activity to enjoy with family or friends. Social isolation has a major impact on your overall health, making it essential to get out and hang out with others on a regular basis. This fall, invite a group of people to go on a bi-weekly hike until the snow begins to fall or the temperatures become too crisp.

Keep these safety tips in mind

Ensure your safety while you're on your hike with the following suggestions:

1. Stay hydrated
Even if you're not overheated during your hike, it's important to stay hydrated. A moderate-to-strenuous walk uses up a lot of the body's energy and makes you sweat, so you need to make sure you're refueling your system throughout the hike. Keep a couple of water bottles in your backpack just to be safe.

2. Protect your feet
Beyond wearing hiking boots designed specifically for walking through uneven terrain, foot orthotics can provide comfort through strenuous training like hiking. Specifically, Soft Stride products are designed with viscoelastic polymer that mimics the qualities of soft body tissue and redistributes pressure throughout the foot.

Browse the Soft Stride insoles offered by Brownmed today.

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Stress can come from many places and present itself in complex ways. A single episode of anxiety, anger or fear can be difficult in and of itself. But over time, these negative feelings are quite detrimental. Finding ways to identify and mitigate chronic stress is essential for maintaining a happy mind and body. 

Addressing the issue means being mindful about the things in life that cause us worry or tension. It also means being honest and proactive about making positive changes. Here's a bit more on the risks of chronic stress and ideas for making a meaningful impact:

What are the health risks of chronic stress?
As the Mayo Clinic reported, there are physical symptoms associated with stress. Hormone levels, blood pressure and heart rate can all be negatively affected by negative feelings, and usually, your body returns to normal when anxiety or anger subside.

Unfortunately, prolonged or frequent stress can cause long-term disruptions to daily health. Your emotional and physiological well-being can become compromised.

Symptoms of stress can include depression, headaches, sleep problems, impaired memory and cognition. Likewise, individuals living with chronic stress may suffer from weight loss or diminished cardiovascular health. Talk to a doctor if you believe chronic stress is causing or exacerbating any health problems.

Mitigating stress
Statistic Brain reported that the most common sources of stress include job pressure, financial woes, relationship problems and even too much screen time. Sleep deprivation and nutrition were also found to be key stressors. Spend a week or two logging the things in daily life that bring about negative feelings. Use this data to identify areas that can be improved and things that should be avoided.

In that time, the American Psychological Association suggested taking proactive steps that make your mind and body feel better. This includes prioritizing a consistent sleep schedule, reducing caffeine intake and other positive changes to your daily routine. Exercise can also be a way to improve your mental standing and promote hormonal balance. An IMAK Ergo Stress ball may also be useful for working through bouts of anger or anxiety in the moment while at work or school.

Overall, the best approach to chronic stress is to select small changes you can make in daily life rather than to feel overwhelmed by the negative feelings in the first place. Modern life is full of stressful experiences, and this is a common, normal problem to have. Maintain a positive attitude and a positive outlook for future progress.

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Traveling can be an incredible experience. Whether you're headed to a new part of the U.S. for work or flying overseas on an exotic vacation, there are things to see, foods to try and experiences to be had wherever you're going. But few things can derail your enjoyment of time spent away from home like the exhaustion that inevitably results when you don't sleep well. And unfortunately, traveling is one of the times when interrupted zzz's occur most frequently.  

To maximize the time spent on your trip by getting the best possible rest while you're gone, follow these six tips to enjoy better sleep while traveling: 

1. Book your room carefully
While you can't always ensure that your hotel room will be quiet, there are ways to hedge your odds. When you book your room, ask to avoid the lower floors, as well as hallways near the elevator or vending machines. Avoiding these areas will decrease your odds of getting kept up at night by outside noise. But packing noise-cancelling headphones or a pair of ear plugs just in case is always a good idea, regardless of where you'll be staying. 

2. Get exercise
Even if you're on a luxurious vacation, making time for exercise is a must. Being active during the day will help you fall asleep faster at night. If you have the chance, consider walking to a nearby destination rather than taking a cab. Or if your hotel has a gym, you might want to throw on your sneakers and spend some time on the treadmill. Regardless of what you choose, avoid exercising right before bed. That will likely keep you awake – the exact opposite of what you want. 

3. Drink water
When traveling, hydration is critical. In an article for The Huffington Post, Russell Rosenberg, Ph.D., a board-certified sleep specialist and chairman of the board of the National Sleep Foundation, wrote that dehydration is a cause of fatigue during travel. This is especially true when you fly. The cabins of planes can become fairly dry, so be sure to drink plenty of water before and after your flight. Not only will this help you sleep better, it will also give you more energy during the day to enjoy the activities you have planned.  

4.  Pamper yourself
Traveling can take a lot out of you. Whether you had to deal with the hassle of a delayed flight or lost luggage, that stress can keep you from enjoying a pleasant night's sleep. Get rid of that tension by taking time to pamper yourself. Depending on the options offered at or near your hotel, schedule a massage or indulge in a spa package to help you get the zzz's you need to make the most of your trip. Even if you're traveling for work, finding time for yourself will likely make you more productive when it's time for meetings. 

5. Personalize your room
Being away from home can make things a little disorienting when it's time to sleep. In an article for Conde Nast Traveler, The Benjamin Hotel's sleep expert, Rebecca Robbins, recommended making your room feel a bit more like the space that you're used to by bringing a few select touches. Choose items that are easy to pack, like a picture of your family, a favorite pair of fuzzy socks or your personal alarm clock. Having these items on hand at bedtime may help you relax and fall asleep. If you usually use a certain type of pillow, such as foam as opposed to feather, call the hotel in advance to see if it can send one to your room. 

6. Keep a bedtime routine
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, chances are that you have a packed itinerary. While it might be tempting to stay out until the last possible moment to make the most of your time away, you should be sure to give yourself enough time to indulge in your normal bedtime routine. If you usually read for half an hour before falling asleep or grab a quick snack prior to getting in bed, try to stick as closely as possible to those habits. Your body is likely accustomed to your normal routine, so altering that routine may make it harder for you to fall asleep. 

7. Skip the alcohol
When you have trouble falling asleep a nightcap might be tempting, but Robbins advised staying away from alcohol. While it's true that an alcoholic beverage will make you sleepy, it's also a REM sleep inhibitor, Robbins reported, which means you won't rest well even when you fall asleep. If you want a drink before you climb into bed, consider a glass of warm milk or herbal tea instead. Your body will thank you in the morning. 

8. Pack your IMAK®Compression mask

Finally, be sure to pack a sleep mask to use when you're ready to snooze. The IMAK® Compression Eye Pillow is a comfortable way to block out the light in a hotel room, on a plane or anywhere else your travels take you. The mask is filled with smooth ergoBeads for a massaging effect around the eyes and it can be placed in your mini fridge to provide cool relief as you unwind before bed. No matter where you're headed, pack your IMAK® mask to help you sleep better while away from home.   

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Whether you love your job or count down the hours until 5 p.m. every day, your office probably isn't as comfortable as your favorite spot at home. After all, the workspace isn't really your own. It's an area that's meant for productivity and achievement. However, surrounding yourself with a more pleasant environment can go a long way in improving how you feel about your job. And that's pretty important considering the fact that you probably are there for 40 hours or more each and every week. 

While you can't necessarily bring a couch and your favorite sweats to the office, you don't have to be completely uncomfortable during the 9 to 5. Make the workday more enjoyable by improving the comfort of your desk with these five tips: 

1. Choose the right chair
If you spend a lot of time at your desk every day, you probably also spend a decent amount of time sitting down. That's why the right chair can make a big difference in your level of comfort. The perfect choice for your desk will depend on a variety of factors, including your weight, height and build. But finding a comfortable chair can be a game changer.

Lumbar support is an important part of the decision. According to Spine-health by Veritas Health, a chair with lumbar support promotes good posture, which can help prevent pain, especially if you're seated for long periods of time. 

Some people skip the chair altogether and opt for a standing desk. If that interests you, consider asking your employer if it's an option. It's likely not a change you can make on your own. 

2. Check your keyboard
Working in an office, chances are that you also spend significant periods of time typing on a keyboard at your desktop or laptop. The position of this tool – as well as your mouse – could be contributing to your discomfort. According to Mayo Clinic, when you sit at your desk to type, your wrists should be straight and your hands should be at or below elbow level. To attain that position, you may need to install a keyboard tray. 

Another simple way to improve your comfort is by supporting your wrists with the IMAK® ERGO Wrist Cushion for Keyboard. Filled with massaging ergoBeads, this product provides comfortable ergonomic wrist support while you type at your desk.  

Supporting your wrists, back and neck with the right desk accessories can make your workspace more comfortable.

3. Consider a headset
If you spend a lot of time calling clients, vendors or other contacts, one of the recurring annoyances of your day is likely the continual effort to balance the phone while taking notes, looking up information and performing other tasks. An article in Women's Day magazine recommended investing in a headset if you speak on the phone for an hour or more each day. Not only will this tool make juggling multiple tasks easier, Tamara James, director of ergonomics at Duke University Health System, told Women's Day that a headset "prevents awkward neck positions from cradling the phone." This kind of awkward position can cause long-term neck pain. 

4. Reduce the clutter
Finally, improve your peace of mind by reducing the clutter on your desk. According to Jacqueline Whitmore, author of Business Etiquette Expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach, this is an important step for productivity.  

"Clutter and dirt can create distractions, or white noise, and can take your mind away from the task at hand," she wrote in an article for Entrepreneur. "Clear surfaces, walls and floors of extraneous items. Only display what you consciously choose. Clean up your space every evening so that you return to a pleasant office each morning."

Keeping your desk organized will also ensure that you are able to find important paperwork and other physical documents more easily, decreasing your workplace stress. 

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Compression clothing is beneficial in the battle against chronic discomfort. Socks, gloves, sleeves and other types of clothing warm a targeted part of the body, promote blood circulation and offer soothing relief. This can be used for athletes, those living with arthritis and other conditions, or when rehabilitating a mild injury. 

Sometimes, however, manufacturers may waiver from this mission by using fancy, unproven technologies or gimmicks that undermine comfort and quality. IMAK's simple approach makes it a more reliable option compared to other options like Copper Fit.  

The limited power of Copper Fit
One of the main appeals of Copper Fit compression clothing is that each item is lined with small pieces of copper. The metal has long been known to kill microorganisms and is used in areas such as bathrooms and kitchens to kill bacteria and other germs. In compression clothing, the idea is that copper ions in the maternal can reduce odor and preserve the garment's life.

Unfortunately, Consumer Reports found that any other claims suggesting that copper has therapeutic qualities are grossly misleading. The site Highya, meanwhile, found that Copper Fit's approach ultimately undermines not only the quality of compression but also the durability of the garment overall. Instead of purchasing an item that is designed to maximize comfort and pain relief, consumers end up paying for unproven technology and a recognizable moniker.

The reliability of IMAK Compression
A more straightforward technique helps to make IMAK Compression a dependable option when it comes to reducing discomfort. Masks, gloves, socks and other items are comprehensive and rely on a unembellished, proven framework to offer real help. Breathable cotton is soft and gentle. Likewise, the material is easy to clean. 

Because the garments are made with a cotton spandex blend, they can be worn for hours on end without irritating the skin. And unlike Copper Fit's polyester design, you won't get too sweaty either. IMAK products offers continued relief from mild pain or discomfort while at work or school in a subtle and understated solution.

The IMAK Compression Eye Pillow is just as intelligible, leveraging the same comfortable cotton to aid with headaches and pain or to provide a better night's sleep. Smooth ergoBeads create a gentle massaging effect, and the mask can be frozen for extra relief.

When selecting the right compression garment, always opt for comfort, and avoid claims that appear too good to be true. For that reason, IMAK's quality can't be beat.

The post Why IMAK Compression trumps Copper Fit in terms of quality appeared first on Brownmed.

Getting a bad night's sleep is tough enough, but struggling with this problem consistently can be an impediment on your daily life. Being overly tired makes it hard to have a balanced, enjoyable day, and a lack of sleep is linked to poor health as well. 

There are a few ways you can improve the quality of your sleep, and the IMAK® Compression Eye Pillow is the perfect tool for helping you enjoy a restful night. Here's why it's so valuable to get your Z's and how this eye pillow is an essential ally in that pursuit.

The importance of sleep
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that as many as 70 million Americans live with a sleep or wakefulness disorder. This compromises the immune system, can increase stress and makes it difficult to lead a healthy lifestyle. As a result, individuals who have chronic issues getting a good night's sleep are at an elevated risk of everything from hypertension and obesity to diabetes and cancer. A lack of sleep can also contribute to depression and a lower quality of life overall.

There are a number of reasons it can be hard to fall asleep.Conditions such as insomnia or sleep apnea create serious difficulties, but general lifestyle factors can also play a role. A hectic work schedule and stress make it challenging to comfortably fall asleep, and being over-stimulated from caffeine and technology also upend natural sleep patterns. This might also make you more prone to disruptions from outside lighting, noise or even mild discomfort.

A bad night's sleep can ruin your regular daily life.

Why the IMAK® Compression Eye Pillow can't be beat
For every reason you might have trouble falling asleep, there are just as many home remedies for mitigating the problem. It's wise to power down electronics and to limit any snacking before bed, but to really get a few restful winks, the IMAK® Compression Eye Pillow is an option many people swear by.

Made of breathable cotton, this mask is comfortable. Full of massaging ergo beads it applies a gentle amount of soothing pressure that aids relaxation. Other eye masks can be bothersome and catch on your eyelashes at night, but a patented design ensures that this model is devoid of such a problem. An oversized mask and comfortable strap makes it possible to fully block out light without being too tight. This also means the mask is perfect for sleeping on your side or stomach. It's also  freezable to provide soothing relief without the shock of ice or gel masks.

Because the pillow was designed by an orthopedic surgeon, it's also great for anyone recovering from surgery or struggling with persistent headaches. You can use it for getting a good night's sleep, but also to simply unwind with a moment of Zen following a stressful day of work. It's also very useful when it comes to calming meditation or when traveling. 

The IMAK® Compression Eye Pillow is available at Walmart and other neighborhood stores. If you're having trouble getting a full rest, be sure to grab one of these masks and get back a better night's sleep.

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The next time you're sitting at your work desk, look around. You likely have a stapler, a few pens and perhaps a framed photo or two. Outside of that, however, there may be plenty of space for extra goodies and helpful items. Some office employees spend hours at their desk, and you may benefit from a minor upgrade. Consider these great items that can make your work space more comfortable and make sure you have everything you need.

1. Tissues
This can be easy to overlook, but a box of tissues can make a big difference when sitting at your desk. You never know when you might have the sniffles or spill your coffee. Even a small pack can be useful to have, and the Huffington Post found that this little addition to your desk can benefit your co-workers as well. 

It's never fun to be caught without a tissue.

2. Healthy snacks
A bowl of fruit or stash of granola bars is another key item to get for your desk. Opting for a an apple or banana is much more preferable than a sugary candy bar or soda that will leave you feeling tired. Likewise, vending machines or corner stores that do offer healthy snacks usually do so at inflated prices. There's nothing worse than trying to finish a project on an empty stomach, and it pays to stock up.

3. A reusable water bottle
Being dehydrated can also make you feel sluggish or even irritable, and sometimes you might reach for a snack when you really need a sip of water. Bring a reusable water bottle each day and remember to stay hydrated. 

Importantly, Eco Watch reported that the vast majority of trash in the ocean is plastic, with as many as 46,000 pieces of plastic per square mile floating in the sea. Opting for a reusable water bottle can help reduce your impact.

4. An IMAK Ergo Wrist Cushion
It's important to take breaks every so often to give your eyes and legs a break from long hours of sitting. One thing you may overlook, however, is the effect so much time on a computer can have on your wrists and hands.

The IMAK Ergo Wrist Cushion lowers your risk of carpal tunnel and other conditions that can be brought about by an office job. It gently supports and massages your wrists in a way that reduces pain and long-term damage.

Typing all day can lead to serious discomfort.

5. Breath mints
You never know when you may have an impromptu meeting with your boss or an important client. A tin of mints is great for emergencies if you get caught with coffee breath.

6. Your cell phone charger
Odds are you use your smartphone quite frequently throughout the day. You might be checking the weather, downloading a new podcast or sneaking on to social media for a quick break from your work. Instead of bringing your charger back and forth from home to the office, it's probably easier to get one to leave at your desk. 

7. A leafy plant
The right potted plant can make your desk feel a little more calm and relaxing. Likewise, it gives your work space a bit of personality. There are many types that do quite well in an office setting and don't require too much watering or other maintenance. Find one or two that you particularly enjoy and use them to give your desk some life.

8. Headphones
Sometimes your co-workers may not be as focused as you are, and distracting office banter or phone calls can make it hard to stay on top of your work. A pair of comfortable headphones is great for listening to music or anything else that helps you concentrate and avoid unnecessary disturbances.

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