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5 Tips for Shoulder and Arm Mobility

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Staying on top of your shoulder and arm mobility is important to avoid injury, support improved physical performance, and maintain an overall healthy lifestyle. Here are 5 tips that can help you achieve better shoulder and arm mobility:

1. Warm-up

Warm up before any exercise or activity. Warm up by doing dynamic stretching such as arm circles, jumping jacks, and shoulder rolls. This will help to prepare your body for more intense physical activity by increasing circulation, lubricating joints, and aiding in overall flexibility.

Without a proper warm up, your body is more prone to injury due to lack of circulation, lubrication, and flexibility. Without dynamic stretching before engaging in physical activity, your muscles can become tight and inflexible leading to strains or tears.

Your muscles are less responsive to the stress of exercise when they are not properly warmed up and this can lead to shoulder and arm mobility issues.

2. Work On Strength

Strengthen the muscles that support your shoulders and arms with exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, planks, burpees, lunges and squats. This will help improve the stability and mobility of your shoulder and arm joints.

Are you bored with push-ups and pull-ups? Resistance training is an effective way to strengthen arms and shoulders.

Exercises such as shoulder presses, lateral raises, bicep curls, tricep extensions, rows, and pull-ups are all great exercises to improve shoulder and arm strength. These exercises target specific muscles in the arms and shoulders to help improve mobility.

3. Stretching Exercises

Stretch regularly, focusing particularly on postural corrections like shoulder squeezes, child’s pose, shoulder stretching with a band, chest stretches, and more. These stretches should target all muscles around the shoulder area to ensure proper flexibility of these muscles.

Another good way to focus on stretching is by doing Yoga.

Yoga can be a great way to improve shoulder and arm mobility. Yoga poses, such as the Downward Facing Dog, Child’s Pose, and Cat-Cow Pose, are particularly beneficial for stretching out tight muscles in the shoulders and arms. Regular yoga practice can help to increase flexibility and strengthen muscles in the shoulder region.

4. Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can help to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, improve mobility and relax tense muscles. A professional massage therapist can also help target certain areas of your body that need special attention to reduce pain or increase your range of motion.

Don’t be afraid to use all the resources you need to get your motion and mobility back.

5. Visit a Shoulder Specialist

A shoulder specialist is a great resource to use for preventive care in order to avoid injury or pain. They can provide advice on proper posture, stretching routines, strengthening exercises, and massage therapy – all of which can help to prevent future issues. A shoulder specialist can also assess the range of motion in your shoulders and arms and identify any restrictions.

If you are experiencing shoulder pain or injury, it is important to seek professional help. A shoulder specialist can diagnose and treat any underlying condition that may be causing your pain or mobility issues. They can also provide advice on how to prevent future injury or pain.

By following these 5 tips, you can help to improve your shoulder and arm mobility while reducing the risk of injury.

It is important to remember that prevention is better than cure, so always be mindful of how you move and take care of your body. A shoulder specialist can provide invaluable advice on how to keep your shoulders healthy.

5 Tips for Better Cybersecurity

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Small and mid-size businesses are prime targets for cybercrime. According to a study by Symantec, 43% of all cyberattacks in 2016 were aimed at businesses with fewer than 250 employees. And that number is only going to increase as more and more businesses move their operations online.

So how can small and mid-size businesses protect themselves from cybercrime? Here are five tips:

1. Implement a secure firewall:

Firewalls are key in protecting your network from malicious attacks. By using a managed IT service provider, you can ensure that your firewall is always up to date and configured correctly. Managed IT services also help monitor incoming traffic, blocking suspicious activity before it has the opportunity to cause damage.

2. Utilize multi-factor authentication:

Multi-factor Authentication (MFA) is an important tool for preventing unauthorized access to accounts, systems, and networks. By using MMS, you can ensure that all users are required to authenticate their identity before being allowed access. This helps protect against hackers trying to gain access to your systems.

A study from Microsoft revealed that multi-factor authentication (MFA) can help drastically reduce the number of cyberattacks. It found that 80% of successful cyberattacks could be prevented if MFA was used. That makes MFA a powerful tool for protecting small and mid-sized businesses from hackers.

Moreover, the right MMS provider can set up and manage MFA for you, so it’s easy to start using this powerful cyber defense tool.

3. Educate employees:

One of the most important ways to protect against cybercrime is by educating your employees on best security practices. MMS can help with this by providing training, seminars, and other resources to help ensure all employees are aware of the potential risks and how to protect themselves from them.

Managed IT services can play a key role in educating employees about cybersecurity. By providing training and seminars, companies can help ensure all employees have a thorough understanding of the risks associated with cybercrime and how to protect themselves from it.

For example, managed IT services can provide security awareness training that covers topics such as passwords, phishing attacks, and more.

4. Monitor for suspicious activity:

Monitoring your network for suspicious activity is essential for keeping it secure. MMS can provide real-time monitoring and alert you to any potential threats so that they can be dealt with quickly.

This helps ensure that any malicious activity is detected as soon as possible before it has the opportunity to cause damage.

5. Develop a data backup plan:

Data backup is an important step in protecting your business from cybercrime. MMS can help develop a backup plan and implement it to ensure that all of your data is securely backed up and easily recovered if needed.

By following these five tips, you can help protect your small or mid-size business from cybercrime. With the help of a managed IT service provider, you can be sure that your business is secure and protected.

With the right resources in place, you can rest assured that your small or mid-size business is well-prepared to handle any cyber threats that may arise. Taking these steps now can help save your business from costly cyberattacks in the future.

Are Expensive Toilets Really Worth the High Price Tag?

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When it comes to the bathroom, you don’t always think of splurging on a higher-end toilet. After all, with so much money already spent in remodeling and updating, why would you want to invest more? Expensive toilets are often touted as being superior to more affordable models, with features such as heated seats and air purifiers that promise improved comfort and hygiene. But are these costly lavatories really worth the cost?

To answer this question, it’s important to take into account the features offered by luxury toilets and compare them to more budget-friendly models.

What do Luxury Toilets offer?

Luxury toilets offer a variety of features including dual flush systems for greater water efficiency, heated seats, air purifiers to reduce odors, self-cleaning functions and adjustable sprays for a more customized experience. These features can be incredibly convenient and can make a long bathroom session far more comfortable and enjoyable.

Durability

The main benefit of an expensive toilet is often durability. Top-of-the-line models are usually made from high quality materials that won’t wear down over time or malfunction as easily as cheaper toilets. This means that investing in a luxury toilet could save you money in the long run, as these models usually require less frequent repairs and replacements.

Cost of Luxury Toilets

To determine if an expensive toilet is worth the cost, you need to consider a few factors. Firstly, the type of toilet you want and how much water it uses will determine the price tag. The more efficient models are often more expensive as they reduce water consumption by up to 30%.

Additionally, the design of the toilet could have a significant impact on its price tag as well, with luxury models often featuring more intricate designs and finishes.

Budget friendly Toilets

If you’re on a tighter budget, then there are still plenty of options available. Basic toilets can be just as reliable and efficient as luxury models without breaking the bank – it’s just important to make sure you choose one with good reviews and a solid warranty.

How to choose what toilet is best for your home

When choosing a toilet for your home, it’s important to consider your budget and what features you need. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, then there are plenty of basic models available that still offer excellent performance. However, if you have the extra cash to invest in a luxury model, then you can enjoy the added features and increased durability that come with these toilets. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of toilet is best for your home.

No matter which type of toilet you decide to go with, it’s important to take into account all the factors involved and make an informed decision.  With a bit of research, you can ensure that your new toilet is both effective and affordable – and one that will serve you well for many years to come.

When in Doubt, Consult an Expert

If you’re still unsure which type of toilet is right for you, then it may be wise to consult a plumber or other bathroom expert. These professionals can help you determine the best model for your needs, as well as provide guidance on installation and maintenance. With their expertise, you can be sure to find the perfect toilet for your home.

How to Optimize Your Storage Unit Space

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If you’re looking for a way to maximize the space in your storage unit, there are a few tips and tricks that can help. A properly organized storage unit can make all the difference when it comes to finding what you need quickly and easily. Here are five tips on how to optimize your storage unit space:

1. Make a Plan:

Before you start moving items into storage, it is important to have a clear plan for how the items will be stored. Visualize the different types of objects that need to fit and determine the best way to arrange them. Consider using shelving or plastic bins with labels to help keep things organized and easy to find.

Before moving all your items to your storage unit, it is helpful to measure a few times. Visualize where you will stack your boxes, where you will store furniture, and where you will store more special items.

Walking through this process and measuring along the way will help you make the most of your storage unit and not waste space.

2. Take Inventory:

Keep track of what you have in storage, so you know exactly what needs to be accessed. Make a list of all the items that are in your unit and mark them according to categories or sections for easy reference.

You can’t use your space if you don’t know where things are. It can become a massive clean-out-the-basement project every time you use your storage unit if you don’t keep track of what you are storing.

3. Use Space Efficiently:

When packing for storage, utilize every inch of available space. Use large items as a base for smaller items and group similar items together. Folding or rolling larger items can also help to make the most of your storage unit space.

4. Choose the Right Size:

Make sure you pick the right size storage unit for your needs. If you are storing a large amount of furniture, choose a larger unit. If you are storing boxes and other smaller items, a smaller unit may suffice.

If you have questions on what size storage unit might work best, go visit the storage unit in person and look around. Sometimes seeing a space up close and in person can help us make these kinds of calls.

5. Keep it clean:

Store your items in a way that makes them easy to access and prevents damage or contamination from dirt and dust. Place protective covers over furniture, use airtight containers for clothing, and store items off the ground if possible.

A storage unit is a great way to keep your belongings organized and safe. By following these tips, you can make the most of your space and ensure that you have everything you need when it comes time to access them.

With a little planning and organization, your storage unit can be an efficient and convenient place for all of your belongings. Without careful planning, however, it can become yet another project that needs spring cleaning. Plan ahead and you can make it happen!

5 Tips for Fitting Large Furniture in Your Storage Unit

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When you’re downsizing, it’s important to make the most of your storage unit. You want to be able to fit as much furniture and belongings in as possible to avoid having to pay for another unit. Here are five tips for fitting large furniture in your storage unit.

1. Measure Twice and Cut Once:

Before attempting to move any furniture into your storage unit, measure twice and cut once. This means that before moving your furniture, you should measure both the furniture and the storage unit to make sure that it’ll fit. Measure both width, length, and height of your furniture pieces. This ensures that everything you plan on storing will fit in the space allowed.

This will help you avoid running out of space or not having enough room for everything. Be sure to make note of the size of all doors opening into the storage area as well as any corners that might be difficult to maneuver around.

2. Break it Down:

If possible, disassemble larger pieces of furniture into more manageable parts. This will make the process much easier and will also allow for more items to fit in the space. Place hardware such as screws and bolts into labeled plastic bags so you know what goes with what when it comes time to reassemble.

Breaking down bigger furniture will give you the option of storing more furniture in your storage unit and it won’t be as tight for all your other items!

3. Use Blankets for Padding:

When placing furniture into the storage unit, make sure to layer blankets or sheets on the bottom of each piece before setting it down. Doing this will help protect your furniture from scratches and nicks while also keeping them in place while you’re moving other items around.

4. Shield from the Elements:

Moisture is the enemy when it comes to furniture storage, so make sure to protect your pieces from any potential damage. If possible, use a plastic moving cover or tarp to keep moisture and dust away from your furniture. This will also help keep all of your belongings in one place for easy access.

Wooden furniture is particularly susceptible to dust, as dust can gather in the grooves and crevices of the wood grain. This type of furniture tends to attract more dust than fabrics or metals, making it important to pay special attention when cleaning and storing. Dust can cause the wooden furniture to become discolored and dull over time, so make sure to use a damp cloth or vacuum regularly.

If you shield your furniture from the elements, you’ll be more than ready to use it when it’s time to break it out of storage.

5. Make an Inventory:

Make sure to keep a list of all items you’re storing in the unit, including what pieces of furniture and how many boxes are included. This will help make it easier for you when it comes time to take everything out later down the line.

By following these tips, you can make sure your furniture lasts for years to come and that it fits neatly inside your storage unit. Be sure to double-check measurements and use padding wherever possible to protect your pieces. With a bit of planning and organization, you’ll be ready to start downsizing in no time!

The Benefits of Influence Networks

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Did you know that 98% of Fortune 500 companies have some form of an alumni program? This is due to the fact that a strong and reliable network can lead to greater opportunities to those seeking higher education or new job opportunities.

Influence networks can help to establish meaningful relationships within professional and educational communities. Access to expertise from alumni mentors can be an invaluable experience for those who are looking for career changes or just looking to improve their professional skill set. For managers and directors, networking events can provide opportunities to meet and recruit the best candidate for their companies.

Keeping an engaged alumni network can lead to better opportunities not only for individuals, but for businesses as a whole. Companies that actively engage alumni see up to 44% increase in net new business, and a 10% increase in brand sentiment. Sharing news, spotlighting other alumni accomplishments, or providing networking opportunities are great ways for companies to keep their alumni engaged and reap the benefits from that engagement. 
Being a part of an active alumni network can lead to great opportunities for students, employees, and business owners alike. Learn more about the benefits of these networks in the infographic below:

The Power of Influence Networks
Infographic provided by: AcademicInfluence.com

Cold Weather Hiking Gear You Shouldn’t Hike Without

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Have you ever been underprepared and it shows? Maybe you didn’t practice your lines enough for a work presentation. Maybe you planned dinner without making sure you had all the ingredients. Whatever the case–we have all been there.

But a situation you can’t afford to be underprepared? On an icy mountain with below-freezing temperatures. The right kind of preparation won’t only be nice or make things more comfortable–it could save your life.

When hiking in cold weather, it is essential to have the right gear. Without the proper items, you may be putting yourself at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, or other serious conditions. Here are five must-have pieces of equipment for cold-weather hikes:

1. Insulated Jacket:

An insulated jacket is an essential piece of cold-weather hiking gear. It is designed to protect the body from extreme cold by providing extra layers of warmth, while also staying lightweight and breathable. Insulated jackets are usually made from synthetic or down materials, both of which provide excellent insulation and protection against the cold.

Synthetic materials are especially useful because they dry quickly, have a great warmth-to-weight ratio, and resist moisture. Down jackets tend to be lighter but may not keep you warm as long as it gets wet from rain or snow.

Insulated jackets are a must for cold-weather hiking.

2. Waterproof Pants:

If you plan to hike in wet conditions, waterproof pants are essential to keep out moisture and keep your legs warm. Look for a pair that is breathable and offers good movement.

3. Hats, Scarves, and Gloves:

These are the most important items to pack for cold-weather hikes. Look for warm hats with ear flaps, thick scarves, and gloves made from wool or synthetic materials.

4. Thermal Base Layer:

A thermal base layer is a type of clothing worn directly against the skin to retain body heat, preventing the wearer from becoming chilled.

Thermal base layers are made of lightweight, breathable fabrics that trap small pockets of air for insulation, helping keep the wearer warm even in extreme cold weather conditions. These garments also wick moisture away from the skin, helping reduce the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

Look for items that are lightweight yet offer good warmth, such as merino wool or synthetic fabrics.

5. Gaiters:

Gaiters are an important piece of cold-weather hiking gear. Gaiters are protective clothing items that cover the feet and lower legs. They provide protection from snow, rain, and other elements.

Gaiters are usually made from waterproof fabrics like nylon or polyester and have a tight fit around the calf to keep out moisture and debris. If you are going on a serious cold-weather hike, you will want to invest in a nice pair of gaiters.

These five items of cold-weather hiking gear are essential for keeping you safe and comfortable on your next expedition in frigid temperatures. Without them, you may be putting yourself at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, or worse. So make sure to pack all the necessary items before heading out into the cold–don’t be underprepared. Stay safe, and happy trails!

How To Know It’s Time to Scale Up Your IT Services 

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Businesses of all sizes are increasingly reliant on information technology (IT) services to help them run smoothly and efficiently. However, as businesses grow, so too does their need for more robust and sophisticated IT services. When is it time to scale up your IT services? Here are three signs that it might be time to make the switch.

Is It Time To Scale Up?

1. Your business is expanding rapidly and you’re struggling to keep up with demand using your current infrastructure.

2. You’ve outgrown your current IT system and are experiencing performance issues or data loss.

3. You need access to more advanced features and functionality that your current system can’t provide.

The Benefits of Upscaling Your IT Services

As a business grows, its needs change and evolve. That’s why it’s important to have an IT service provider who can grow with you, providing the support and solutions you need as your business expands.

  • Increased efficiency: A larger, more sophisticated IT system will help you run your business more smoothly and efficiently, handling increased traffic and volume without any slowdown or glitches.
  • Enhanced security: With sensitive data being accessed and shared more often, you must have a secure IT system in place. Upscaling your IT services will help protect your data while providing more robust security measures.
  • Improved customer experience: With access to the latest technologies and features, you can provide better service and support to customers, making them more satisfied and more likely to return.

What IT Services Can Do at a Higher Level

When you upgrade your IT services, you can take advantage of the latest features and technology to help your business run more smoothly. Here are just a few of the things that an upgraded IT system can do:

  • Automation: Automating tasks like data entry or customer service will help you reduce costs and boost efficiency.
  • Analytics: Advanced analytics tools can help you identify areas of opportunity and growth, as well as potential problems before they arise.
  • Cloud storage: With cloud storage, you can access your data from anywhere and ensure that it is always backed up securely.
  • Mobile accessibility: Upscaling your IT services will give you access to mobile solutions that allow users to access and manage their data from any device.

Scaling up your IT services is an important step in ensuring the success of your business. By taking advantage of the latest technologies, features, and security measures, you can ensure that your business is well-equipped to handle the demands of the modern world.

By staying up-to-date with your IT services, you can ensure that your business is always one step ahead of the competition. With access to all of the features and tools available, you can make sure that your business runs as smoothly and efficiently as possible. Upscaling your IT services is an important step in maintaining long-term success.

With a larger, more sophisticated IT system in place, you can make sure that your business is well-equipped for cybersecurity threats and stay ahead of the competition. Investing in quality IT services will help ensure that your business is prepared for whatever comes its way.

5 Bad Technology Habits Your Staff Probably Has Right Now

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As a business owner, you rely on your staff to use technology efficiently and effectively—but do they have the right habits?

Unfortunately, many people in the workplace can develop bad technology habits that can not only harm their productivity but also put your business’s data at risk. Here are five of the most common bad technology habits of staff people and how to address them:

1. Not Updating Software:

Many staff members fail to update their computer’s software on a regular basis, leaving the company vulnerable to security risks due to having older versions of programs that are no longer supported.

To help ensure everyone updates their software, remind them regularly and set up automatic updates to ensure that everyone has the most recent versions of their software.

2. Not Backing Up Data:

Another bad technology habit that staff may have is not backing up data regularly. It’s essential to set up a system for regularly backing up your company’s data to protect against any unexpected disasters such as a server crash or ransomware attack.

A ransomware attack is when malware is installed on a computer or network that restricts access to the data until a ransom is paid.

If you don’t have a system for regularly backing up your data, a ransomware attack can easily damage or destroy your files, rendering them unusable. To protect your business from ransomware, make sure you have a reliable backup system in place and update your software regularly.

Managed IT services can also help protect your business from ransomware attacks by providing regular updates to your software and monitoring your network for any signs of malware.

3. Not Securing Devices:

Leaving devices such as laptops, tablets, or phones unlocked for long periods or in public places could put your business’s data at risk. Make sure to remind your staff to always set up a password and not leave their devices unsecured in public places.

4. Not Deleting Old Data:

Storing old data on devices or servers takes up valuable space, leading to slower speeds and problems with the systems. This can allow time and space for hackers to work to destroy your systems. Remind your staff to delete files they no longer need and properly store important documents in the correct folders.

5. Not Protecting Privacy:

Your staff should also be aware of how to protect their privacy when using company devices or networks. Remind them not to share sensitive info, such as passwords or account numbers, with anyone outside the organization and that anything they post online is public.

Managed IT Services Can Help

While it can be difficult for business owners to stay on top of their staff’s technology habits, managed IT services can help. Managed IT services providers will work with you to ensure your devices and networks are secure and running optimally. They can also provide education and training for your staff on the importance of good technology habits, as well as how to practice them.

These are just a few of the bad technology habits that can cause serious problems for businesses—so make sure your staff is aware of them and how to correct their behavior. With proper education and support from managed IT services, you can keep your business’s data safe and secure.

5 Tips for Buying a New Fence

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A new fence is a great way to upgrade your home and add extra security for you and your family. With so many materials, sizes, styles, and other options available, it can be difficult to decide which fence is the best fit for your needs. To help you make an informed decision when buying a new fence, here are five tips that may come in handy.

1. Decide on the type of fence

When shopping for a new fence, you’ll need to decide which material and style are best for your home and needs. Popular materials include wood, vinyl fencing, aluminum, wrought iron, and chain link. Different styles have different advantages – wood may be more attractive but could require more maintenance than metal fencing, for example. It’s important to consider strength, durability, maintenance costs, and aesthetic appeal when selecting the type of fence.

2. Measure and plan out your fence

Before buying your new fence, you’ll need to take precise measurements of the area where you’ll be installing it. It’s also important to consider how your neighbors’ properties may affect your fencing plans, so make sure to check local zoning laws and regulations. Different municipalities may have different requirements, so it’s worth looking into before proceeding with the project.

3. Consider your budget

Fence installation can be a costly investment, so it’s important to plan ahead and make sure you have enough in your budget for the project.

Consider the overall cost of installation and materials. Installing a new fence can be expensive, so you’ll need to budget accordingly. Make sure to factor in the costs of fencing materials, professional installation fees, and any other necessary labour or supplies. Check out local home improvement stores or online retailers for competitive prices on materials and installation.

Be realistic with your budget – it’s better to invest in quality materials that will last for years than to cut corners and end up needing to replace the fence sooner.

4. Consult with professionals

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a professional. Fence installation companies can provide invaluable advice and help you find the best fence for your needs. Look for someone who is experienced in the type of fencing you need and has good reviews from past clients. Ask about their workmanship guarantees and other details before agreeing to move forward.

5. Choose quality materials

When selecting materials for your new fence, make sure that they’re of high-quality and will last for years to come. Do research to make sure you’re buying materials from reputable manufacturers, and check out customer reviews to get an idea of how long their products typically last.

Maintain Your Fence

Even once your fence is installed, you’ll need to maintain it in order to keep it looking its best and functioning properly. Make sure to regularly check for loose boards or other signs of wear and tear, and repair any issues as soon as possible. Regular cleaning can also help extend the life of your fence. Follow these tips and you’ll be sure to end up with a beautiful, durable fence that will last for years to come.