BusinessVoice News Network

As the days get shorter, it can trigger “Seasonal Affective Disorder,” but how do you know the winter blues you’re feeling really is SAD? A diagnosis of seasonal depression can only be made after two consecutive years with depression that begins and ends at the same time each year and with no symptoms during other times of the year. Source Link

You can prepare your car for winter driving with these simple steps. Make sure tires are properly inflated, clean and check your battery and check coolant levels. And you can prevent an icy lockout by lubricating window tracks with spray silicone or dry Teflon spray. You should also lubricate door locks and latches, including the one that opens your car’s hood. Source Link

There are some telltale signs that you may be the target of a scam artist. If someone claiming to be a retailer calls to question about a large order you didn’t make, or says they can connect you directly with your bank, or wants to stay on the line while you go to the bank, you’re probably dealing with a scammer. They may also ask you to buy gift cards to send to them or pretend they are police investigators. Source Link

There are several ways that you can save for your child’s college education. A traditional savings account can be opened by you for your child, and a high-yield savings account will compound your interest earnings faster. Or consider a state-sponsored 529 savings program that gives you tax-free withdrawals for college education expenses. Source Link

You’re drawing a blank while trying to remember something, so it’s time to do some real drawing. Studies have shown that making a drawing of an important thing can help you remember better. It doesn’t have to be a work of art because the process of drawing is what helps your brain lock in on the memory. Source Link

When you need an emotional pick-me-up, try these simple things to help boost your mood. Take a walk with a friend, spend time in nature, turn on your favorite tunes or do deep breathing exercises. Drinking a glass of water can also help, or take a warm bath to soak away the stress. Source Link

Looking for a gift that can also be good for you? An activity tracker is a great choice for the gadget fan and people who exercise might like a new yoga mat, exercise ball or slip-resistant socks. And a juicer can help anyone create a healthy breakfast. Source Link 

No one wants a case of food poisoning during the holidays, so remember these tips to keep things safe to eat. Never wash raw meat before cooking; that can spread bacteria in the sink area and forget the “five-second rule” because germs can get on food in an instant. But you can reheat leftovers multiple times, as long as they’re not left out for more than two hours. Source Link

Some planning before you fly can help to avoid these common ailments that strike airline passengers. If you often get motion sickness, pick a seat over the wing, which is more stable. Changing air pressure on-board means you shouldn’t fly with an ear or sinus infection or an untreated toothache, and avoid carbonated beverages before takeoff because those bubbles can lead to stomach pain. Source Link

Channeling your inner child might give you one of the best ways to exercise and fight the effects of aging. Jumping rope is a great aerobic workout that has other benefits. Perfecting the coordination needed to jump rope can train your mind and muscles to work together and that can lower your risk for slips and falls. Source Link

Eating slower can help you improve digestion and enjoy food more, but how do you break the speed eating habit? Remove all distractions including your cell phone. And look at each bite, noticing the smell and texture before fully chewing it and going on to the next mouthful. A goal for mindful eating is to spend 20 minutes on each meal. Source Link

A video doorbell is a popular option for many homeowners but here are some things to keep in mind before you buy one. There’s a monthly fee to store videos in the cloud but some models let you access recordings for free using a memory card installed in the doorbell. And don’t forget that video doorbells have a battery that needs to be recharged every few months. Source Link

It’s round and holds your food, and could be key to keeping you from overeating. Using a plate for everything you eat including snacks can help prevent mindless eating and extra calories. And using smaller plates can help you eat less because it takes less food to make the plate look full. Source Link

These out-of-the-ordinary upgrades are what more home sellers are adding. Listings are on the rise for homes with solar panels, EV chargers, whole-house batteries and induction cooktops. And on the personal side, more listings are showing homes with spa-inspired wet rooms that combine the shower and bathtub in one waterproof space. Source Link

You may want to unplug that clever voicemail greeting to protect yourself from identity theft. Hackers can copy that recording to clone your voice for illegal use. A safer choice is using the generic voicemail outgoing message that’s available from all wireless carriers. Source Link

Here’s how to dry your laundry faster by putting in more than clothes just out of the washer. Adding a clean, dry towel to a load for about 15 minutes will absorb moisture from wet clothes. You can do the same by adding a few white tennis balls, and remember to wring out any dripping wet clothes before they go into the dryer. Source Link

A home warranty can save money on unexpected repairs but be sure to read the fine print. Some warranty companies charge a service call fee each time you file a claim and other plans may only offer a basic replacement or a refurbished model. And getting that installed may take significantly longer than if you paid for it yourself. Source Link

You don’t want to depend on the hotel house cleaning staff when it comes to these items in a room. Coffee makers often just get a quick external wipe down and that ice bucket is used for many things and might not be sanitized even with a plastic liner. And unless there’s a visible stain, blankets, duvets and bedspreads may only be laundered once a year. Source Link