North County Water and Sport Therapy Center - February 2024

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PILLOW FOR A PAIN-FREE MORNING

Back Sleepers: A Balancing Act Back sleepers need a pillow that supports the natural curve of their neck. A too-high pillow can strain neck muscles, while a too-flat one can cause your head to fall back, both leading to morning discomfort. Ideally, a medium-thick pillow, preferably memory foam, works best. It cradles your head and neck, providing a balanced alignment. Side Sleepers: Height Matters Side sleepers have a larger gap to fill between their head and the mattress. A firm, high pillow is essential to align your head and neck with your spine. Memory foam or a high-fill down pillow are excellent choices as they conform to the shape of your neck and head, ensuring optimal support. Stomach Sleepers: The Flatter, the Better Stomach sleeping is generally not recommended due to the strain it puts on your neck and back.

Waking up with a stiff neck or a throbbing headache is the worst way to start your day. Often, the culprit is as simple as the pillow you rest your head on. Choosing the right pillow based on your sleeping position is not just about comfort but neck health and sleep quality. Here are three options for your best pillow based on how you sleep.

However, if this is your preferred position, choose a flat or no pillow. This helps keep your neck as straight as possible. A soft down pillow or a thin memory foam can work wonders in providing just the right amount of comfort without compromising your neck’s position. If you’re unhappy with your sleep position, gradually shift your sleep position. For instance, if you’re a stomach sleeper, try moving to side sleeping with body pillows for support. Remember, changing habits takes time, and comfort is the key to a good night’s sleep. Your pillow plays a pivotal role in ensuring a pain-free wake-up call. Choosing the right one for your sleeping position enhances your sleep quality and invests in your neck’s long-term health. Say goodbye to those pesky neck pains and unwelcome headaches, and embrace mornings filled with pain-free vitality.

LAUGH THERAPY

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DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Unfold the puff pastry and use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut into heart shapes. 2. On a baking sheet, place puff pastry hearts and bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown. 3. In a standing mixer, whip the cream on medium-high speed for 2–3 minutes. Add the powdered sugar and beat on high for 30 more seconds or until thick and fluffy. 4. Remove hearts from the oven and allow to cool completely. Slice each heart in half between pastry layers to create 2 hearts. Top the bottom half with whipped cream and berries, and place the other half on top to form a sandwich.

Valentine’s Day means heart- shaped everything, even desserts! Bake these puff pastry berry hearts for Valentine’s Day or any other day.

INGREDIENTS •

1 package frozen puff pastry, defrosted

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp powdered sugar

1/2 cup fresh raspberries (or berries of your choice)

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