Relax & Reclaim

Most people have dealt with at least one bad sunburn, and it’s not just about red skin or feeling sore.  There’s a deeper process going on underneath.  A sunburn is your skin’s reaction to intense ultraviolet (UV) rays, usually from the sun. The damage begins even before the redness shows up, and the full effects can take several hours—or even longer—to develop. Sometimes you’re only in the sun for 10 or 15 minutes and don’t think much of it. But later that day, your skin starts stinging, burning, or peeling. That’s because UVB rays break down skin cells and DNA, triggering the body’s immune system to respond by sending in inflammatory chemicals. sunglasses left on a beach  What you see and feel—redness, heat, swelling, tenderness—is all part of the healing process. In mild cases, it’s uncomfortable but manageable. In more serious situations, it can cause dehydration, fever, or even medical complications.  And in every case, treating it quickly and gently can make a big d...

Let’s face it—ditching that morning coffee? Not happening for most of us.  You probably already knew this but, around 90% of Americans start their day with some form of caffeine, whether it's coffee, an energy drink, or a scoop of pre-workout.  The upside? That daily ritual could actually be working with your body, especially if you’re active and mindful about your health. Sure, scientists used to call it “trimethylxanthine” (sounds like something out of a Marvel movie), but luckily “caffeine” stuck.  And when used right, it’s more than just a wake-up call—it can give your workouts a legit boost, help with soreness, and speed up recovery.  Let’s break down what the newest studies are saying—and how to use caffeine in a way your body will thank you for. Black coffee in a cup  Updated Benefits of Caffeine (Backed by Science) 1. Go Longer, Go Harder Caffeine helps delay fatigue by increasing the fatty acids in your bloodstream, which your body can tap into for energy—sav...

Yeah, you read that right...   Go eat a rainbow!  This summer, a colorful plate might be the easiest health hack ever. Believe that! Why eating colors is so important  Summer’s here.  Long days, iced drinks, and sandals everywhere. Colors are popping—on dresses, in sunsets, even in our cocktails.   But take a quick glance at your plate… does it look like it belongs in the season? If not, it’s time for a change. And no, not the sugary kind. Think real color. Think fruits and veggies. The kind of colors that do more than just look pretty on your feed. They feed your brain, fuel your body, and lift your mood. Let’s get into what those colors actually mean. man eating a rainbow in a diner 🥦 Green: Protects Your Sight, Calms Your Gut Spinach, broccoli, kale, kiwi, green grapes yeah, those guys. They’re full of lutein and zeaxanthin, which shield your eyes from harsh light and lower your risk of eye diseases down the line. And leafy greens like bok choy a...

Summertime is almost here, folks! Time to break out the new summer recipes for your enjoyment! We've got a couple of really good ones for you.  They are delicious and (of course) full of vitamins and necessary nutrients to help you stay on target with your healthy lifestyle goals! As with all our recipes here on Relax and Reclaim , you'll be getting the easiest preparation instructions to make sure that you can duplicate the recipe(s) and (if you like) modify it to your own taste! Try preparing them (or have someone else do it for you) & let everybody know what you think. Comments are always welcome. A Simple Summer Salad 3 cups chicken stock 1 cup wild rice 1 tablespoon of lemon juice 1 tablespoon of lime juice 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil 3  kiwi fruit , peeled and diced 1 cup seedless red or green grapes ,  halved 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts Preparation: Place broth i...

What if I told you that two of the tiniest seeds known to humanity have more nutrients in them than you ever thought possible? What if these seeds were readily available for purchase and are so common you could literally find them anywhere? What are these amazing seeds you might ask?  Sunflower and Black sesame seeds! Check it out below! 👇  What Makes These Seeds Special? Sunflower and sesame seeds are small but mighty when it comes to nutrition! Packed with essential vitamins , minerals, and fiber, they’re a simple, natural way to support your overall health—especially digestion. Let’s break down why they’re worth adding to your diet. sunflower seeds  🌞 Sunflower Seeds: Nutritional Highlights Loaded with Vitamins: Vitamin E (antioxidant hero), manganese, magnesium, and selenium. Rich in Fiber: Up to 12 grams per serving—great for keeping things moving! Protein Power: About 5.5 grams per ounce. Healthy Fats: High in omega-6 fatty acids, perfect in moderation. * We ...

Curious About Going Raw? Here's What to Know Before You Dive In “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates  We’ve all grown up hearing it: eat your vegetables! But for some folks, that message goes a step further—into the realm of raw food. If you're wondering what it's about or thinking of giving it a shot, let’s break it down in everyday language. Eat your vegetables! So, What Is a Raw Food Diet? At its core, a raw food diet means eating mostly (or entirely) uncooked and unprocessed stuff. Think fresh fruits, crisp veggies, sprouted grains, nuts, seeds, and fermented treats. The key idea? Keep your food under about 117°F (47°C) to preserve its natural enzymes. These enzymes might help with digestion and nutrient absorption—but your body already does a solid job of making its own. Worth noting: Some foods are actually better for you when cooked. Cooked tomatoes, for instance, pack a more powerful antioxidant punch, and steamed s...