health and wellness
Tips to Be Prepared for Cooler Weather
Cooler weather fosters the spread of germs and illnesses, so it’s essential to protect your immune system by maintaining healthy habits, practicing good hygiene, and staying hydrated. Spending time outdoors can boost vitamin D levels and mood, while managing congestion through humidifiers or products like Mucinex can relieve symptoms. Engaging with these practices aids in staying healthy during colder months.
(Family Features) Although cold weather isn’t directly to blame when you get sick, it creates an environment that makes it easier for germs and illnesses to thrive. In fact, understanding how cooler temperatures affect your chances of getting sick may be your best approach for preventive care.
Despite the old adage that “you’ll catch your death of cold,” the cold itself doesn’t cause illness. More accurately, the cold is more hospitable to viruses, making it easier for them to spread. While you can’t control Mother Nature, you can take steps to protect your health when temperatures drop.
Protect Your Immune System
A weakened immune system makes it harder for your body to ward off intrusive germs. If you’re otherwise healthy, protecting your immune system can be as simple as stepping up typical healthy habits, like eating plenty of nutrient-rich produce, getting enough sleep and exercising. Managing stress and limiting alcohol consumption are also helpful in managing your body’s immune response.
If your immune system is compromised by an underlying condition, it’s a good idea to talk with your doctor about what you can do to add an extra layer of protection during the cooler months, including any vaccines that may help boost immunity.
Combat Congestion
Cool, dry conditions can wreak havoc on your nasal passages, drying them out and reducing the protective layer of mucus that helps fight infection. Sinus pressure and congestion are often some of the first warning signs you’re coming down with something.
To treat your congestion symptoms, you can use a non-medicated option like Mucinex Sinus Saline Nasal Spray. This is the first-ever saline product with a nozzle that lets you switch between two spray pressures. The “gentle mist” helps clear everyday congestion and soothes the nose while the “power jet” helps clear tough nasal congestion often associated with colds. An added benefit is that the product can be used for children 2 years of age and older on the gentle mist setting and children 6 years of age and older on the power jet mode.
Spend Time Outdoors
People naturally spend more time indoors when temperatures drop, but there are some benefits to getting outdoors. One is the natural exposure to vitamin D. Sunlight is a natural source of this important vitamin, which plays a pivotal role in immunity. Sunlight also triggers the body to produce serotonin, which boosts your mood, and multiple studies show a strong correlation between mental and physical health.
Fresh air and exercise are also good for your overall health, and exposure to daylight can help keep your circadian rhythms regulated, which in turn promotes better sleep. What’s more, acute exposure to cold can trigger your body to produce infection-fighting cells, so you’re less prone to illness.
Practice Good Hygiene
It may seem overly simple, but the everyday act of washing your hands can play a big role in preventing illness, especially after you spend time in public places. While out and about, you likely come in contact with many surfaces others may have touched, including door handles, shopping carts, touch screens and menus.
Washing your hands frequently can help prevent you from transferring germs to your body when you touch your eyes, mouth or nose. Also make a habit of wiping down surfaces you touch frequently, such as your keyboard and phone, with disinfectant wipes.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping your body well-hydrated throughout the day can help ensure all your body’s systems are functioning as they should. If you’re dehydrated, your body can’t use the nutrients you consume properly, which affects your immunity. In addition, drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins out of the body before they can cause an infection.
Find more practical tips and products to help manage your health during the colder months at Mucinex.com.
How to Relieve Nasal Congestion
Normally your sinuses are empty except for a thin layer of mucus. When you’re exposed to irritating triggers, like bacteria, a cold or flu virus, allergies or environmental triggers like tobacco smoke and dry air, your body responds by mounting an immune response.
The delicate tissues lining your sinuses start to swell, and this, in turn, puts pressure on the underlying tissues in your face, causing painful sinus pressure.
You can relieve sinus pressure symptoms in several different ways, including:
- Using a humidifier or vaporizer.
- Taking a long, hot shower; it may have the same effect as using a humidifier if one is not available.
- Drinking plenty of fluids.
- Using a warm compress on your face; resting a warm towel over your sinuses may provide relief.
- Irrigating your sinuses. Using a neti pot; saline nasal spray, such as Mucinex Sinus Saline Nasal Spray; or syringe with salt water may help flush debris from your sinuses to relieve sinus congestion.
- Sleeping with your head elevated.
If these steps don’t work, the next approach is typically over-the-counter medicine. When trying to relieve sinus pressure and nasal congestion, look for a decongestant. A decongestant can help shrink mucus membranes that have swollen in your sinuses, allowing the trapped mucus to drain.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Mucinex
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Community
Mariska Hargitay and Purina Team Up to Help Domestic Violence Survivors Keep Their Pets Safe
Mariska Hargitay and Purina are raising awareness about a heartbreaking reality: Many domestic violence survivors delay escaping abuse because they cannot bring their pets. Discover how the Purple Leash Project is helping families and animals find safety together.
Purple Leash Project takes center stage at U.S. Women’s National Team match, raising awareness about a heartbreaking choice facing abuse survivors and their beloved pets.
By STM Daily News | Lifestyle & Pets | October 12, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — For many people, pets are more than companions. They’re family, providing comfort, unconditional love, and emotional support during life’s most difficult moments. But for survivors of domestic violence, the bond with a beloved pet can create an unexpected obstacle when trying to escape an abusive environment.
Actress and longtime domestic violence advocate Mariska Hargitay joined Purina and the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team on October 10, 2026, to shine a spotlight on this often-overlooked issue.
During the team’s match against Spain at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., Hargitay served as Purina’s Honorary Captain, helping promote the company’s Purple Leash Project, an initiative designed to help domestic violence survivors find safety without leaving their pets behind.
The appearance was part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, observed every October.
When Escaping Abuse Means Leaving a Pet Behind
For someone experiencing domestic violence, leaving an abusive relationship can be dangerous and emotionally overwhelming. The situation becomes even more complicated when pets are involved.
According to statistics cited by Purina:
- Only 20% of domestic violence shelters allow pets.
- 48% of survivors delay leaving an abusive situation because they cannot take their pets with them.
These figures illustrate a significant barrier to safety.
For survivors whose pets provide emotional stability and companionship, the possibility of abandoning an animal can be devastating. Some may also fear that an abusive partner will harm a pet left behind.
The Purple Leash Project seeks to eliminate that difficult choice by helping domestic violence shelters become more accommodating to animals.
What Is the Purple Leash Project?
The Purple Leash Project is a partnership between Purina and RedRover, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping animals and strengthening the human-animal bond.
Through grants and financial assistance, the initiative supports domestic violence shelters and social service organizations by funding:
- Renovations that make shelters pet-friendly.
- On-site and off-site housing for survivors’ pets.
- Essential pet supplies and accommodations.
- Necessary veterinary services for animals entering shelter programs.
According to Purina, the initiative has already provided nearly 70 grants totaling more than $2.2 million across over 30 states.
The company has also established a goal of helping provide one million safe nights for survivors and their pets by the end of 2030.
The ultimate objective is simple: Nobody should have to choose between personal safety and protecting a beloved animal.
Mariska Hargitay Brings the Message to the Soccer Field
Hargitay, widely recognized for portraying Olivia Benson on Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, has spent years advocating for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Her participation in the U.S. Women’s National Team event brought additional visibility to the Purple Leash Project.
During the pre-match ceremonies, Hargitay participated in the ceremonial coin toss alongside Cassidy, a 75-pound Golden Retriever therapy dog, and Cassidy’s handler, Patrice “Pat” Eller.
Cassidy and Eller are part of a Pet Partners therapy team that helps provide comfort to children who may be required to testify in court.
Their presence illustrated the important role animals can play in helping people cope with traumatic experiences.
“Seeing the Purple Leash Project take the field helped turn the stadium into a powerful show of support for survivors and the pets they love,” Hargitay said in a statement released by Purina.
She also emphasized the importance of reducing the stigma surrounding domestic violence and creating more safe spaces where survivors and their pets can recover together.
A Special Soccer Scarf Supporting Survivors and Pets
To encourage fans to participate in the initiative, Purina and U.S. Soccer introduced a limited-edition Courageous & Comfy Soccer Scarf.
The officially licensed scarf is available through the Purple Leash Project’s online store.
According to Purina, 100% of every scarf purchase is donated to RedRover, supporting the effort to help survivors and their pets remain together.
Fans interested in supporting the initiative can visit:
Purple Leash Project Scarf Store
Additional information about the initiative is available at:
Bringing Pets Into the Soccer Experience
Beyond raising awareness for domestic violence survivors, Purina used the event to highlight the relationship between sports fans and their pets.
At Audi Field, the company introduced the Purina Club, a temporary pet-friendly seating area where fans could attend the match with their dogs.
The initiative reflects Purina’s growing involvement in soccer, including collaborations with U.S. Soccer and pet-centered activities associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While these efforts celebrate the companionship pets bring to everyday life, the Purple Leash Project addresses a more serious reality: For some individuals, the ability to remain with their animals can influence whether they can safely leave an abusive situation.
Why the Human-Animal Bond Matters
Anyone who has experienced the companionship of a dog, cat, or another beloved pet understands how deeply animals can become part of a family.
Pets offer familiarity, routine, comfort, and emotional connection. During times of uncertainty, those relationships can become especially meaningful.
For survivors of domestic violence, maintaining that bond can provide an important source of reassurance while rebuilding their lives.
The Purple Leash Project recognizes that protecting survivors and protecting their animals are often interconnected needs.
“At Purina, we believe survivor safety shouldn’t require sacrifice,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO of Purina, in the company’s announcement.
That philosophy is at the heart of the initiative’s mission to expand access to safe, pet-friendly shelter accommodations.
How You Can Help
Supporting survivors and their pets doesn’t necessarily require a major financial commitment.
Individuals can learn more about the Purple Leash Project, support participating organizations, share information about pet-friendly domestic violence shelters, or contribute to nonprofit programs that help families and animals in crisis.
Organizations such as RedRover also provide resources designed to strengthen the human-animal bond and assist animals during emergencies.
Learn more at RedRover.org.
For anyone currently experiencing domestic violence in the United States, confidential assistance is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or TheHotline.org. If immediate danger exists, call 911.
A Safer Future for Survivors and Their Pets
The partnership between Purina, Mariska Hargitay, RedRover, and U.S. Soccer demonstrates how public awareness campaigns can help bring attention to problems that often remain unseen.
For survivors of domestic violence, the path to safety should not mean having to abandon a loyal companion.
And for the pets who depend on their families, remaining together can mean everything.
By helping shelters accommodate animals, the Purple Leash Project is working toward a future where survivors and their pets can escape dangerous situations, find stability, and begin healing together.
More Lifestyle & Pet Stories From STM Daily News
At STM Daily News, we believe stories about pets are also stories about people, families, communities, and the powerful connections that make life meaningful.
Explore more stories about animal welfare, pet care, family life, and community initiatives in our Lifestyle section at STM Daily News.
Stay informed. Stay connected. Discover stories that matter.
Sources and Additional Resources
- Purina — Purple Leash Project
- RedRover — Animal Welfare and Crisis Support
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- U.S. Soccer
Source: Nestlé Purina PetCare press release, October 11, 2026. Statistics and grant figures attributed to Purina.
(Feature Impact) Menopause is a phase of life every woman knows will come eventually yet few are truly prepared for. Beyond stereotypical symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, the other realities of menopause can be mysterious, taking women by surprise when their experiences differ from expectations.
Rather than being a single event, menopause involves a gradual transition that happens as estrogen production changes – meaning symptoms can appear and evolve unpredictably. According to a survey commissioned by the National Menopause Foundation, 63% of U.S. women ages 35-54 experienced symptoms they believed may be related to perimenopause or menopause, yet nearly half (49%) said they weren’t prepared for the changes beforehand.
When women and their loved ones understand what they’re facing, they can approach this time with patience and compassion, which can make a real difference to the 71% of women who wished the people in their lives understood more about perimenopause or menopause. Consider these five facts to help fill in the menopause knowledge gap.
Perimenopause Can Start Years Before Menopause
The physiological transition to menopause can happen up to 10 years before a woman’s final menstrual period, although the average length of perimenopause is about four years. Symptoms may quietly begin in a woman’s 30s, 40s or 50s, and what might look like an isolated problem at first – like brain fog, a night of insomnia or an irregular monthly cycle – could be connected to broader hormonal changes.
Menopause Is More Than Just “Hot Flashes”
Since more than half of women surveyed were already aware of menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, anxiety and fatigue, these may not take them by surprise. Little-known symptoms are a different story – the majority of respondents didn’t anticipate menopausal issues like rage, inner-ear itching or reduced joint mobility. According to the National Menopause Foundation, women may also experience sleep disturbances, sweating, changes in libido, vaginal dryness, incontinence, weight changes and more.
Every woman’s experience is unique, so these symptoms could present in different combinations and intensities during menopausal years or may not appear at all.
Talking About Menopause Can Be Difficult
Even as women go through these physical and emotional shifts, many struggle to open up about their experiences. In fact, women rank menopause symptoms (17%) more difficult to discuss than hot-button topics like political views (13%), weight (13%) and religious beliefs (10%).
However, suffering in silence can lead to feelings of isolation, relationship misunderstandings and hesitation to seek help, which is why 66% of women said the lack of open discussion about menopause makes the experience worse.
Menopause Isn’t All Bad News
Although this season of life comes with challenges, there are joys to embrace as well. Women navigating midlife can come out the other side with more resilience, emotional awareness and a stronger sense of self. In fact, 44% of women surveyed said their outlook on life became more positive since their transition.
What Loved Ones Can Actually Do
Menopause is a highly individual experience, but that doesn’t mean women have to navigate it alone. Support from partners, families and friends can lift women up during difficult moments, and it can be as simple as taking the time to ask questions, listen and learn about how menopause is affecting their lives. With 30% of women in the U.S. labor force – approximately 15-16 million – in the age range corresponding to menopausal transition (ages 45-60), workplaces can also take steps to become more menopause friendly.
For more resources to help understand symptoms and discuss the transition with loved ones, visit nationalmenopausefoundation.org.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Consumer Corner
Cold cities are the most ready for winter, with one exception. See where your city ranks
Cold cities? Every neighborhood has a mix of homeowners who approach seasonal home maintenance differently – there are the people who stay on schedule, and on the other end, the procrastinators. There are the dedicated DIYers, and those who have their favorite maintenance pro saved as a favorite contact in their phone. As it turns out, cities are no different. Some metropolitan areas keep their neighborhoods in tip-top shape, while others are a little more slow-going.
Cold cities are the most ready for winter, with one exception. See where your city ranks
(Sheeka Sanahori) Every neighborhood has a mix of homeowners who approach seasonal home maintenance differently – there are the people who stay on schedule, and on the other end, the procrastinators. There are the dedicated DIYers, and those who have their favorite maintenance pro saved as a favorite contact in their phone. As it turns out, cities are no different. Some metropolitan areas keep their neighborhoods in tip-top shape, while others are a little more slow-going.
New data from home services company Angi, covering fall maintenance activity in August, reveals which U.S. metropolitan areas are the most proactive with fall maintenance. Washington, D.C., tops the ranking with the strongest demand for fall maintenance in the country, followed by Columbus, Ohio, and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Northern cities dominate the rest of the list.
Cleveland, Ohio, and Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York, round out the top five. Cold-weather markets dominate the ranking, accounting for eight of the 10 most-prepared metros. Rochester, New York; Charlotte, North Carolina; Chicago; Indianapolis; and Pittsburgh complete the top 10.
Least fall-ready metros
Fewer than 1 in 5 American cities is prepping for fall at an above-average rate. Among the 66 metros that recorded at least 100 fall maintenance service requests during the analysis period, Los Angeles had the lowest level of per-capita activity, followed by Oklahoma City and Riverside, California. California accounts for four of the bottom 10 markets, with Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego and San Francisco all appearing on the list. These metros historically don’t experience the colder winter climates of the Northeast and Midwest, making fall maintenance less of an imperative.
Grand Rapids, Michigan, stands out as the only clearly cold-weather metro among the 10 least-prepared large metros. The New York City metro, which includes Newark and Jersey City, ranked just outside the 10 least-prepared large metros, coming in at number 11. Other New York state metros, including Syracuse, Rochester and the Albany metro area, were on the most prepared list.
Homeowners are choosing upkeep over upgrades
Sixty-three percent of homeowners who have recently hired a professional completed maintenance work, and 58% completed repairs. Although they may be waiting to do that dream kitchen or bath renovation, they’re focusing for now on the maintenance that keeps their homes in order.
The most common fall maintenance projects focus on outdoor upkeep. Nationally, tree trimming was the most popular, followed by lawn and yard waste cleanup and shrub care.
What homeowners should do now
When tackling a home maintenance list, start at the top of the home by inspecting the roof and gutters. Look for loose or damaged shingles, and make sure gutters are debris-free. It’s also a good idea to ensure downspouts direct water far away from the foundation. Homeowners should inspect these areas from the ground or hire a professional if the work requires climbing or feels unsafe.
Next, check for drafts around the windows and doors. Replacing worn weatherstripping and damaged caulk in the fall can prevent warm air from escaping once the heat comes back on. Homeowners should also inspect their HVAC filters and have the heating system checked before the temperatures drop.
Every home’s maintenance needs will vary, depending on the age and condition of the house and where it’s located. Whether homeowners hire a professional or safely address small issues, making the fixes can prevent larger and more expensive problems later.
The ranking: Metros from most to least prepared
America’s 10 Most Fall-Prepared Metros
1. Washington, D.C.
2. Columbus, Ohio
3. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
4. Cleveland, Ohio
5. Albany-Schenectady-Troy, New York
6. Rochester, New York
7. Charlotte, North Carolina
8. Chicago, Illinois
9. Indianapolis, Indiana
10. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
10 Metros With the Most Opportunity to Get Fall-Ready
1. Los Angeles, California
2. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
3. Riverside, California
4. Miami, Florida
5. San Diego, California
6. Houston, Texas
7. Grand Rapids, Michigan
8. San Francisco, California
9. Austin, Texas
10. Memphis, Tennessee
Methodology
The rankings are based on fall maintenance activity recorded on Angi during August 2026. Projects included yard cleanup, winterization, roofing and gutters, heating systems, water and drainage, outdoor plumbing, fireplaces and chimneys, pest prevention, and snow and storm preparation. U.S. metropolitan areas were ranked by activity per 100,000 residents using 2020 U.S. Census population data. To qualify for the least-prepared ranking, metros were required to have at least five service requests or jobs during the analysis period. The rankings reflect activity on Angi’s platform and are not a complete measure of all home-maintenance activity within each metro. These rankings reflect activity observed on Angi’s platform and should not be interpreted as a complete measure of all home-maintenance behavior within a metro area.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Angi
