Everyone uses gestures, and they are one of the key ways in which humans communicate, not only with each other, but with other animals, plus they serve another purpose which is as a tool used by speech therapists. The beauty of gestures is that everyone can make them, they are simple, and that is why parents of children with language difficulties are encouraged to use them to help that child.

This follows from the fact that not all speech and language support and therapies come in the form of spoken words. Children learn language and communication skills in several non-verbal ways which include looking at images, watching videos or movies, and watching the gestures that others make.

What Are Gestures?

It might seem like a simple question because everyone should know what gestures are, given that they make them themselves as well as understand the gestures that others make. However, ask anyone to define gestures and you will get a variety of answers. The simplest we can think of is that gestures are a physical means of communicating messages.

As for what constitutes those physical means we have to differentiate the several ways we can use our body to communicate nonverbally. These can include facial expressions and eye movements, however, in the strictest sense speech pathologists would not define these as gestures.

We have all heard of IBS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome. It tends to be diagnosed when no other reason can be found for the symptoms that are occurring. The most common symptoms being bloating, pain, swinging bowel movements, uncomfortable feelings after eating and even fatigue. People experience a range of diverse symptoms which can be attributed to IBS.

Many people who have IBS-like symptoms may find they are caused by food intolerance.

Many of these symptoms can be greatly reduced and even eliminated by identifying the food intolerance culprits for that individual. Big attackers like gluten and dairy are not always the cause and avoiding these foods is a blanket fix which does not suit everyone. Have you tried cutting one or both of these out, only to find your symptom picture stay the same or even become worse? What if you swapped cow milk products over to almond milk and were intolerant to almonds in the first place? Your symptoms would certainly worsen.

It is also important to consider if there is enough good bacteria in your tummy; if there are adequate digestive enzymes to break down the food so it does not sit and ferment and cause bloating; and why food is stagnating in your stomach and not being digested and moved through as it should. If this is occurring it is unlikely you will be getting all the nutrients out of your food, making you tired, irritable and with possible vitamin or mineral deficiencies.

At home there are actions you can take to ensure that you remain healthy such as eating the right foods and exercising, but have you ever considered that carpet cleaners might also help you maintain good health? What we are not talking about here is the physical effort required to use your vacuum cleaner, although we cannot deny that it will indeed help you burn off a few calories.

Instead, what we are referring to when we say that carpet cleaning can help you maintain good health is that it will remove many undesirables that all have several things in common, and one above all is that they can be harmful to your health. Add to that the fact they are also all minute and in some cases so small that they cannot be seen by the human eye, it then follows that many of these nasties will be in your carpets, and you will not even know they are there.

Whether visible or not, they most certainly are in your carpets, but the good news is you can get rid of them with effective carpet cleaning. As to what they are, we have summarised them under seven headings below so that you know that the next time you vacuum or hire a professional carpet cleaning company you know what health risks are being eradicated.

Whilst many people will arrange for professional carpet cleaners to ensure that their carpets remain looking good for as long as possible, there are other essential reasons why carpet cleaning is so important. One of those reasons is to ensure that the carpets you and your family walk on each day do not present health hazards for each of you.

Now, some of you might think the only health hazards a carpet might present are carpet burns and excruciating pain if you do not wear footwear, you stand on something sharp lurking within the carpet’s fibers. As undesirable as those two are, and also pointing out that regular vacuuming will ensure the aforementioned sharp objects are removed, there are, in fact, numerous other health hazards that an unclean carpet can create.

These health hazards stem from the many undesirable nasties within carpets. That list includes but is not limited to bacteria, mold, pollen, dust mites, mildew, germs, and fleas. These, and the other microscopic unwelcome guests, can cause allergies, hay fever, respiratory problems, and, worst cases, infections. So, if you want to avoid any and all of these and thus ensure your carpets are not health hazards,  here is how to do so.

Simplicity in Farewells: The Essence and Importance of Funerals

In life’s journey, farewells are an inevitable chapter, and funerals play a pivotal role. Embracing simplicity in these moments resonates with many. When it comes to goodbyes, simplicity often speaks volumes. This straightforward and affordable approach is crucial, yet even the simplest ceremony offers closure. As detailed in Psychology Today, funerals hold psychological importance, aiding in the grieving process and community support.

The Living’s Tribute: A Funeral’s True Purpose

Funerals serve the living, a concept echoed across cultures. They signify our need to acknowledge the departed’s impact and ensure respectful remembrance. The Smithsonian Magazine offers insights into how various cultures approach mourning, highlighting the universal need for these rituals. We must say our goodbyes, go through the motions of grief, be there for one another, and somehow find a way to cope. It’s easy to underestimate how much a funeral can mean to us.

When someone passes away, the funeral isn’t really for them – it’s about them. It’s a collective moment for everyone who knew, loved, and connected with that person. It’s a shared time to remember.

And for those who cringe at the word ‘funeral,’ no worries. Call it whatever feels right – a gathering, a tribute, a farewell, a ceremony, a send-off or maybe just a get-together.

Living with someone with a drug addiction can put you in a better position to establish that they might need to go into drug rehab. In saying that, living with someone doesn’t mean it’s easier to spot that they have an addiction.

Addicts can be the masters of hiding their problems, and that’s why it’s essential to be aware of any signs of drug or alcohol problems that can require intervention. Read on to find out ways to know your loved one might need drug rehab.

They Are Trying to Hide their Addiction

The last thing your spouse wants to do is hurt you, so hiding addiction is a classic sign that they might require a rehab facility – or at least some professional help. You may notice bottles of alcohol hidden around the house or multiple prescription bottles from various doctors.

Some people also noted that their loved ones would come home smelling like alcohol, only for them to deny having had anything to drink. Those with drug problems can hide an addiction successfully, so it pays to look for signs if you suspect a problem.

Food is a necessity of life, but it’s also something you can get creative with for entertaining loved ones. Some people don’t like inviting people over for meals because they don’t feel they can get creative with recipes. Fortunately, it’s a lot easier than you might think. Head to the supermarket for wine and ingredients, and consider these standout side dishes below.

Honey Glazed Carrots

While you could roast carrots on their own and let their flavours speak for themselves, there’s no harm in upgrading them a little. Melt butter, honey, garlic powder, and rosemary together and drizzle it over your carrot sticks on a baking tray. Roast until they are beautifully glazed and caramelised.

Lemon and Herb Couscous

Couscous makes a delicious side dish, but it’s often forgotten about. This easy-to-prepare dish is bound to become a family favourite. Rinse your couscous under cold water, then bring chicken broth to the boil before adding your couscous.

Cover the pot with a lid and remove it from the heat. Let it sit for ten minutes and fluff it with a fork. You can then add flavours of your choice once it’s cooked, such as parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Green Beans and Bacon

Who would have thought that green beans could be so exciting? It doesn’t matter what your main meal is – a roast or barbecued meat – you can create a side dish from bacon and green beans.