How will having a trampoline affect the cost of my homeowners insurance policy? In the US alone, the number of trampolines in use is approximately 3 million, which means roughly 3% of all American homes have a trampoline somewhere on their property. Unfortunately, many of those 3 million trampolines will be responsible for numerous injuries. When you take into account that an estimated $280 million dollars a year is spent by insurance companies to treat injuries caused by trampoline use, the consumer can begin to understand why insurance companies are becoming increasingly reluctant to insure homes with a trampoline.

Trampoline related injuries tripled in the years from 1991-1999, and in 1999 over 100,000 incidents of hospital emergency room visits were for trampoline related injuries. (Two-thirds of all injuries were in the age group 6-14.) Although 40% of all trampoline injuries are to the leg and foot area, some injuries such as paralysis have occurred and the resulting lifelong condition has caused the medical cost for treatment of these injuries and the long care assistance to go far above the policy limits set by most homeowners insurance companies. In addition, the number of trampoline related deaths since 1999 is 11.

That is the down side of trampoline use. There is also an upside that is often overlooked. And although there have been numerous injuries as a result of trampoline use, there are also many households who have owned a trampoline for many years, gotten nearly daily use out of it, and never had a single injury. These homes have supervised trampoline activity, set up some basic guidelines for its use (the number of people permitted to jump at a time, no flips allowed, no pushing, etc.), and have installed a safety net that prevented jumpers from falling off the trampoline.

Trampoline manufactures also have done much in recent years to improve the safety of their product. The smaller, round units with padding covering the springs and the availability of an affordable net system all are meant to help the user avoid injuries. (Of all the people I’ve spoken to who own a trampoline, all insist that they would not own one if there was not a safety net enclosing their trampoline.) There are also many health benefits associated with the trampoline. In the age of video games and television, a trampoline offers the opportunity to play in the sunshine, get involved in muscle building exercise, and encourages the kids to do something together. And for some reason its appeal does not seem to wane, even after many years of use.

“TRAMPOLINE EXCLUSION”

Many homeowners insurance policies contain what is called a “Trampoline Exclusion” clause. If you own a homeowners insurance policy with them they will cover liability for injuries that occurred to others while on your property, but they will not cover trampoline related injuries. If you have set up your trampoline after you purchased homeowners insurance policy, you may not know if you have coverage. Most insurance companies in their paperwork ask if you have a trampoline on your property.

With some insurers this is an issue and they may ask you to remove the trampoline or have your insurance policy canceled. Also, in the event that a guest is injured while jumping on your trampoline, and you are uncertain whether you have liability coverage in that area, you may find out the hard way that you are responsible for some hefty medical bills. It would be best to find out now, and not after the fact and take the necessary steps in order to be held financially responsible.

“ATTRACTIVE NUISANCE”

Another problem with trampolines is that they are considered an “attractive nuisance”. Just as with a swimming pool they “beg” to be tried out. People, regardless if permission has been given, are tempted to try them out. You may even have signs warning against trespassing, but if someone ignores those warnings, jumps on your trampoline and injurers himself, you may be subject to a lawsuit. ( I know, go figure.) You may not be found liable in court, but the cost of going to court and the attorney fees still means that the insurance company has had to pay out some big bucks and this is another strike against the use of backyard trampolines.

MAJOR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COMPANIES AND THEIR POLICIES REGARDING TRAMPOLINES

Although there may be certain variations from state to state, Allstate, Farmers Insurance, and SF Insurance have the three basic approaches to trampoline coverage.

Farmers Insurance – HOMEOWNERS WITH TRAMPOLINES MAY BE DENIED COVERAGE

In Pennsylvania, owners of trampolines cannot get coverage through Farmers Insurance. Other states, have different parameters and a call to Farmers will inform you if they will give you coverage and what qualifications might be attached to the policy.

Allstate – COVERAGE WITH CERTAIN SAFETY PRECAUTIONS IN PLACE

Allstate offers coverage as long as certain safety precautions are adhered to. Their policy requires that the trampoline be enclose by a safety net and that it also be located within a fenced enclosure that is at least 4 feet high. The gate to the fence must also have a lock on it and the lock must be in use.

SF Insurance – NO EXCLUSIONS

Under a traditional homeowners policy, there are no exclusions for trampoline owners.

The above are just three major insurers, but there are many more along with smaller independent insurance companies that should be considered for homeowners insurance coverage. The important point is to make sure that YOUR homeowners policy covers liability cost for trampoline related injuries. If not, then it’s time to start shopping again.

Whether your homeowners insurance policy already covers trampolines or not – it is always a good idea to shop around every 6 months and compare rates from top companies side by side. Be sure that you are not paying more for homeowners insurance coverage than you should.

It may look like they’re not doing much on the field, but catchers have an important role in softball. Along with the pitcher, the catcher is one of the main operators of the defensive aspect of the game.

So if you want to be a softball catcher, congratulations, first of all, for wanting to take on this very challenging position. That said, let me share with you some of the essential qualities that you need to imbibe in order to become a good softball catcher.

Here they are:

Have Good Leadership Skills. Being behind the home plate gives you a complete view of the field. With this view, you can see whether someone will attempt to steal the base, where the ball is going, and what you’re probably doing wrong in your defense if your team’s experiencing a slump.

Because of this, you need to be able to gather your team together in coming up with an overall strategy in playing the game. That includes directing the pitcher in what type of pitch to throw at a particular situation, alert the pitcher that a baserunner looks like she’s going to steal the base, among other things.

Have Good Legs

When you look at the stance of a catcher, you can only begin to imagine how difficult it is to be in that kind of position.

Most of the time, catchers are squatting while waiting for the pitch. And when they catch the ball, they usually need to quickly rise from their position to throw the ball to other defensive players on the field.

That is why you also need to strengthen your legs if you want to be a good catcher. Squatting for most of the 7 innings is no fun at all if you can’t support your body and are unable to get up from your position quickly.

There are specific drills that will help you do this. Ask your training coach for these drills to help you play this position.

Have a Good Throwing Arm

As I mentioned earlier, being a catcher also involves a good amount of throwing the ball to other defensive players. Because of this, you might have to throw the ball to the 2nd base which is pretty far if your throwing arm is weak.

That’s why you also need to strengthen your throwing arm to play this position. As with being able to endure squatting while on the field, you should also ask your coach for recommendations on drills and exercises that will help you in this aspect of your game.

But What If You’re Inexperienced?

Every one of us has to start somewhere. So, if you really want to be a catcher, make every effort to become one. That will include doing the drills and exercises you need to become a good catcher.

But you also have to keep in mind not to rush things at first. For one, it will take time before your body is accustomed to the squatting position. So, try to limit your games in this position until you can already play it confidently.

To be a good softball catcher is definitely not easy as it takes a lot of time, dedication and skills to become one.  But if you are able to follow the softball tips I gave you above, you would be a good one in no time.

Sleep is a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. But for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression and other mood disorders falling asleep does not come easy. Night cramps and other neurological disorders can also make it hard to get the rest we need. One of the most common causes of insomnia is a dysfunction in the production and release of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Depression and insomnia can both result from imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter synthesized from L-tryptophan. This chemical messenger is important in the production of the sleep hormone melatonin and, among other functions, plays a major role in regulating sleep, alleviating depression, controlling mood, appetite, and sensitivity to pain. Serotonin regulation is the basis for the action of anti-depressant medications like Prozac, Paxil and Effexor.

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin. A profound malfunctioning of the central nervous system, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia can result from a deficiency of this crucial nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, in terms of decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening of the periods of deep sleep.

Vitamin B6 has been found to be effective in the treatment of night leg cramps. One study showed significant remission and reduction in frequency, intensity and duration of leg cramps in 86% of patients taking B complex capsules. The study concluded that B complex supplements are a relatively safe and effective alternative to prescription drugs in the treatment for nocturnal leg cramps.

Although this nutrient can be obtained from food sources such as chicken, eggs, fish, yeast, carrots, avocados, bananas, brown rice and whole grains, a supplement containing 10 to 75 mg of vitamin B6 is often recommended for those suffering from sleep disorders.

Since this is one of the few vitamins that can have toxic side effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when taken in high doses above 2 grams per day, it should be consumed after consultation with your physician. It is contraindicated for use in those with Parkinson’s disease who are on L-dopa treatment as it can reduce the effectiveness of the drug.

Other Nutrients That Can Help

Although Vitamin B6 is can relieve insomnia, it is best taken in combination with other B-vitamins that affect brain and neurotransmitter function like B12 (cobalamin) and B1 (thiamine). Vitamin B12 promotes sleep and modulates the circadian rhythm and brain temperature. It has been used to successfully treat serious circadian disorders. B12 is best consumed as methylcobalamin, a form that supports and maintains the nervous system and promotes healthy levels of brain chemicals.

Thiamine deficiency can also cause sleep disturbances. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is also very important for maintenance of nervous system integrity and, when taken along with other vitamins, can regulate serotonin production and mood. Calcium and magnesium are important for regulation of nerve and muscle impulses and supplementation can prevent muscle cramps, and promote relaxation.

Besides these nutrients, there are a number of herbs that reduce anxiety, nervous tension and promote relaxation. Taking all these elements in a well-formulated sleep supplement can help you avoid addictive prescription medications that cause side effects and substance dependence.

Hunger pangs are one of the primary reasons so many dieters cannot stay on their weight loss plan. To help control these pangs, try some L-glutamine. L-glutamine is an amino acid that is found naturally in many foods including beef, chicken, eggs, and dairy products. It is also the most abundant amino acid found in human muscle and blood.

L-glutamine Uses

As a supplement, it has been used for treatment in serious injuries such as wound healing in postoperative patient, burns, and serious illnesses. This is because during these times supplies of the amino acid diminishes. Its main popularity is with bodybuilders and endurance athletes. This has to do with its ability to help speed recuperation after heavy workouts, which is accomplished by keeping muscle from being catabolized, that is eaten up for energy.

L-glutamine and Weight Loss

As for its importance to those looking to lose weight, it is its potential to suppress hunger that is most appealing. This effect has to do with the amino acid function in your brain. Besides glucose, l-glutamine can readily enter the brain where it can be utilized for energy and also act as a precursor to nerve transmitters. To my knowledge no studies have been done to test its effect on ghrelin, a hunger hormone. But since the amino acid supplies energy to the brain, it may also serve to suppress ghrelin or other signals from the brain that tell you that your are hungry. Whatever the reason, it may be just what you need to provide you with that extra boost to keep you from overindulging. Plus, it has also been reported that l-glutamine helps to control sugar cravings.

How Much and When to Take

As for dosage, just take around a 1000 milligrams or about 1 heaping teaspoon, in the afternoon. You can take it earlier if you like, but since the afternoon is when many people experience their cravings, it is best to take it then. You can find it in any health food store, but from my experience, the best prices are found online, shipping cost included. In short, by adding l-glutamine to your diet, it may help to control your hunger pangs, thus enabling you to better stick to your weight loss plan.

Set objectives on your own

Before you begin, have a clear goal in mind of exactly what you desire to achieve. Do you want to develop muscle or lose weight or perhaps both!

Take your Measurements

Take measurements before you begin your workout program then as soon as a month while you are doing it. If you are losing inches or getting inches in the locations you desire, this method you can correctly track. Compose whatever down as well as take photos, so you have a visual referral for your development.

Arrange your exercises

Similar to you set up service conferences and time with your household, it is critical to organize your activities. As you would not cancel an essential conference; very same method exercises are similarly critical. Put it on the calendar and adhere to it.

Start of Slow

Begin out sluggish and then development if you are brand-new to working out. Pressing too hard prematurely might lead to you hurting yourself and ending up on the sofa and not able to work out.

Stretch

It’s consistently high to extend in the past and after an exercise, to avoid injury. If you want to get a great stretch and increase your versatility, attempt a yoga class.

Get the correct Devices

Whatever exercise you opt to do, you are going to require some devices. It might be a brand-new set of running shoes, comfy clothing, and sets of weights or treadmill. Do not lose your cash on things you do not require and just purchase exactly what you need to the exercise.

Exercise with a Pal

All of us understand how hard it can be to stay with a routine exercise regimen, however, if you have a pal that is relying on you to be there, you will not wish to let them down and cancel.

Working out with a buddy is enjoyable, and you’ll inspire each other to keep going. You will likewise challenge yourself to keep up with them if you have a good friend that is in shape than you are.

Work with a Fitness Instructor

Do not think about this as an expense, consider this as a financial investment in your health and wellness. Employing an individual fitness instructor is an excellent method to do it if you are severe about getting in shape. He or she will encourage you and keep you responsible.

Have a good time

You are not going to desire to keep doing it; so pick activities that you delight in if you are not having enjoyable with your workout regimen. There are numerous methods to obtain an excellent exercise in without feeling dullness, and you simply need to be creative; by doing this, you will burn lots of calories and have fun doing it!

For serious triathletes and those of us who just happen to cycle and run, the Garmin Forerunner 310XT is a great choice. But once you’ve purchased the 310XT, how can you maximize its value? Here are five tips to get the most out of your investment.

1. Read the manual: this may seem like common sense, but if you are like me, you will be so excited about your new toy that you will toss the manual aside when you open up the box the first time. However, the 310XT is fairly complicated to use, and has tons of great features. The only way you will know which ones are relevant to you, and how to use them, is if you read the manual. It will be worth your time.

2. Purchase the heart rate monitor. Yes, it is too bad that you have to pay extra for it, but tracking your heart rate allows you to train much more efficiently. And the 310XT connects wirelessly to the heart rate monitor, so you can see exactly how your body is performing. Do note, however, that the heart rate monitor will not work in the water.

3. Understand the device’s limitations: You won’t be frustrated that you can’t get an accurate reading in the water if you understand that GPS signals don’t penetrate water. Also, you’ll need to purchase additional pieces if you want to attach the 310XT to your bike or to track foot cadence. Also, the 310XT’s screen is glass, so dropping it could result in the screen breaking.

4. Learn how to use Garmin Connect. Garmin Connect is a site created by Garmin that can upload, store, and analyze the data the watch collects. Knowing how to use it properly will allow you to ‘use’ the 310XT long after you’ve finished your training session. The Garmin Connect site also features a report making tool and a map searching function. You can also talk to other Garmin Connect users. You can connect your device via USB cable or wirelessly via a ANT agent.

5. Get out there and train! Most of you won’t have too much trouble with letting the 310XT collect dust in the drawer, but for those of you who do, this is your wake-up call. The Forerunner 310XT is only useful if its user actually uses it. So make the most of this great GPS watch by training long and hard.

Teaching is considered to be one of the noblest professions in the world. Teachers are perceived to be a determined and patient lot, not because of teaching skills, but mainly because of their personality skills. As a teacher, you will have to deal with various types of pupils. The most difficult type of pupil is the one who has an inbuilt violent or disruptive attitude. This pupil hinders your pace of teaching and poses a huge challenge to your patience. It goes without saying that these kinds of pupils should be treated with extra care and a different approach. Do you have such kids at your class? Here are some tips to control them.

More interaction

A child with a disruptive or distractive attitude seeks attention always. Therefore, you need to move around the class and keep coming back to the kid to know about his ideas about the session and what could have been done better in your way of teaching. When you value his opinions, he feels quite important, and his violent behaviour gets suppressed automatically.

Non-compulsion

When a kid is irritated or violent, he may not be ready to enter your class. He may have an air or anger or negativity around him. One of the most professional tips to deal with such a kid is to allow him to be in his current frame of mind. Never force such kids to attend your class. When you compel them, they get more violent and may go to the extent of hitting other kids. You will not have any other option except to intervene and stop that behaviour physically.

Tone of speech

This is one of the most basic tips that you have to work on when you are dealing with violent kids. Speak in a firm yet soft tone, so that you come across as an approachable person. Be friendly and make your sessions more attractive so that these difficult kids feel comfortable around you. When your tone is loud and strict, you intimidate the kids, and they go into their shell. It is very tough to pull them out of it when you don’t reduce your volume.

Calm and positive approach

It is a huge challenge to deal with violent kids. At times, you get so frustrated and angry that all you want to do is just throw your stuff and walk out of the class. However, you need to understand that when you behave aggressively, you are encouraging the already-violent kid to adopt the same approach. This is where having a calm and positive approach works wonders for you at work. Irrespective of the situation at class, have a smile on your face and explain things calmly to the kid. Encourage him to do certain things and help him to be occupied by giving him personalised attention.

In a nutshell, you need to act as a friendcum philosopher when you are teaching kids with violent or disruptive behaviour. This will help them improve their personalities to a large extent and behave normally like other kids in their class.

Most people are not very familiar with all of Bruce Lee’s workouts and training programs.

And while Lee changed and modified his training programs. The one that continued to be part of his training method till the very end was — Bruce Lee dynamic tension. (BLDT)

From the very beginning of his training Bruce used dynamic tension.

You see, dynamic tension or isometric exercise as it’s also referred to has been part of traditional Chinese martial arts from its very inception.

Bruce Lee dynamic tension— as this method is called — consists of movements performed against imaginary resistance and utilizes controlled breathing techniques.

The main concept behind Bruce Lee dynamic tension is to train the muscles using static resistance. This method causes the muscle to produce a force without movement. In later years, Bruce added and created isometric compression devices.

One of these isometric/dynamic tension training devices was called the Tensolatorr.

It was later on mass-produced and sold mostly in the United Kingdom and the United States, even though it had worldwide distribution… these were the two countries in which it was most popular.

The Tensolator was also sold under the name — Macho Power and later on became known as the Bullworker.

Bruce Lee dynamic tension was modified to incorporate these compression devices as he referred to them. In the book — The Art of Expressing the Human Body — John Little the author, breaks down the complete Tensolator training program that Lee used.

After reading some of Bob Hoffman’s work (Bob Hoffman was the United States Olympic weightlifting coach of that.) He realized the need to move away from free hand isometric exercise and to apply the same principle towards these — “Compression Exercisers”

The one thing about Lee that never changed is the fact that he was an obsessed researcher… his philosophy was simply — take what works and use– take what doesn’t work and throw it out.

While some people may dismiss the dynamic tension training concept, the mere fact that Lee continued to use it till his death indicates that he felt that it had a strong influence on his speed, power and strength.

“Holistic” is derived from the Greek word holos which means “whole”. And so the aim of a holistic health practitioner is to focus not on disease, but rather mind, body, emotional and spiritual wellness. The difference between what an Allopathic, conventional professional does and what a holistic practitioner does is simple to explain. Orthodox, allopathic medicine has its focus on treating the symptoms of disease whereas holistic therapies focus on preventing or getting to the cause of illness. The one treats sections or parts of the body whereas the latter treats the person as a whole; proper nutrition, healthy mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of self.

A holistic practitioner uses non-invasive, drugless healing methods to help facilitate in bringing a state of homeostasis to the client. The great benefit about being a holistic health practitioner is that you can never get bored of your practice because there are numerous methods in holistic medicine that aim at focusing on the whole person. It is an enjoyable process to keep adding to your knowledge base. Some of the methods used depending upon credentials; acupuncture, homeopathy, nutrition, self care, energy medicine, spiritual counseling, Reiki, meditation, sauna therapy, catalytic herbs, Chinese herbal medicine, hair analysis, using ancient wisdom principles, power of intention, quantum physics, brain reprogramming to name a few.

A holistic practitioner understands that the body has an innate capacity and intelligence to heal when given the proper tools – exercise, inner reflection, nutrition, rest and social interaction. When holistic medicine is used in conjunction with conventional, allopathic medicine, we normally call that Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM).

The key is to be able to balance the body – mind – spirit connection by integrating practices from all of these standpoints. Holistic health emphasizes prevention, health maintenance, longevity and wellness. A practitioner in a sense, also becomes an intuitive life coach, addressing the clients entire world including family, job, health and spiritual needs. A holistic practitioner knows that the client is fully responsible for their own healing and views them as an active participant in the healing process.

Allopathic medicine is reactive whereas holistic is proactive. Holistic medicine works best for prevention of disease as well as relieving and getting to the cause of chronic disease. A practitioner can check for toxicity levels and set a plan in place to help the body help itself by gently removing the toxins and then employing an entire program to help build the immune system.

What do holistic health practitioners find themselves doing once they complete a holistic health practitioner program? The ideas and opportunities are endless; from manufacturing or formulating nutritional supplements to holding health seminars, tele-classes, writing articles, books or workbooks, or educating others, owning their own business or consulting practice – you can see the list is endless depending upon how creative you want to get. The great thing about HHP’s is that they can successfully work from home and create their own hours, as well as cost per client session.

If you are interested in enrolling in a home study, correspondence HHP program and would like to apply for board certification as an HHP through the American Association of Drugless Practitioners, consider taking a look at our HHP preset programs or choose five courses to create and build your own HHP program. Visit here to browse our Natural Health, Energy Healing and Spiritual Counseling programs http://www.holistichealersacademy.com.

As you celebrate the holidays and plan for a healthier more active you in the new year, give yourself a timeout. Take time to step away from the frenetic hustle and bustle and think seriously about gratitude during the year that is ending. One of my many caveats with my clients is to remind them that the well-being life has many facets and gratitude is one of the important elements.

Dr. Robert A. Emmons, psychology professor at UC Berkley and leading scientific expert on gratitude shares that gratitude heals, energizes and transforms lives. In researching gratitude, Emmons found that those who keep a gratitude journal, recording the things they are grateful for have a lower dietary fat intake, lower levels of stress hormones such as cortisol, and may actually reduce the effects of aging on the brain.

Other benefits of reflecting on those things that you are appreciative of are well-being, quality sleep and an optimistic outlook.

Well-Being

People, who have embraced gratitude as a state of mind, take better care of themselves. They engage in regular physical activity, maintain a healthy diet and get regular physical exams. Additionally research on patients with heart damage found that higher gratitude scores were linked to a better outlook, more quality sleep and less inflammation which can worsen the symptoms of heart failure.

Better Sleep Health

For folks who struggle with getting to sleep, taking 15 minutes to write down a couple of things you are grateful for can aid in quieting busy minds and reducing worrisome thoughts that often kick in as you try to go to sleep. Take a new tactic in the sleep countdown-count your blessings, not those sheep!

Optimistic Outlook

In focusing on gratitude and the positive things in your universe, you can easily develop or change your outlook to one of positivity. Studies have found that an optimistic outlook can aid in reducing stress, boosting the immune system and lowering blood pressure. Research has found that optimism or seeing the glass half full early in life is a predictor of better health.

Embracing and practicing gratitude is not difficult; you can practice gratitude by:

• Being aware and acknowledging what other people do for you
• Expressing appreciation for opportunities
• Communicating appreciation by thanking people and doing nice things for others

An attitude of gratitude is one of the easiest and economical things to do. Here are a few ideas to get started on gratitude goals:

• Volunteer in your community.
• Hand write a thank you note
• Share a healthful recipe with your walking group or exercise class.
• Smile when you answer the phone to communicate that you are pleased to hear from the person calling.
• Give at least one compliment daily.

In thinking about the plans and goals you’d like to accomplish in the coming year, add a healthy dose of gratitude which will benefit each step you make on the path to well-being.

Take Away: Be grateful and express gratitude, as a key ingredient for a health and well-being.