All Good Great

Category: Wellness

  • Nucu Pad: Review of the Multisensory Sleep Pad for Babies

    Nucu Pad: Review of the Multisensory Sleep Pad for Babies

    In partnership with Nucu Oy

    The Finnish Nucu Pad is a multisensorysleep pad for babies, designed to support the sleep of the whole family. The second-generation Nucu Pad is coming to Finland this summer.

    In this article, we’ll go through what Nucu is, what it’s for and what first-time users’ experiences of Nucu have been. I’ve been involved in Nucu myself for a couple of years now, so this article includes views and experiences from the inside as well.

    The Nucu Pad can be installed in a bassinet or crib. Photo: courtesy of Nucu Oy

    The Nucu Pad in a nutshell

    • Multisensory sleep pad developed, designed and manufactured in Finland
    • Size: 417x337x17 mm (slightly larger than A3 paper)
    • Put under the baby’s mattress (bassinet or crib)
    • Soothes the baby with feelscapes (sounds and vibration)
    • Monitors the baby’s sleep (timings, in the first versions of the app)
    • Package includes: Nucu Pad, controller and app (plus frame and mattress for installation)
    • Initially only available for iOS (Android support coming later)
    • Monthly paid app (subscription includes 1 year free)
    The gentle feelscapes (sounds and vibrations) of the Nucu Pad can also be felt through the mattress.

    What is the Nucu Pad used for? Who is it for?

    The first generation Nucu Pad was developed to support and comfort premature babies in NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) incubators. Its purpose was to create a sense of togetherness in the clinical environment, which is important for the baby.

    The second-generation Nucu Pad is designed for ordinary families: to support sleep, well-being and good sleep routines. This is how early users have been using the Nucu Pad:

    • Soothing the baby when moving from the parent’s arms to the bed (either sleeping or calm)
    • Improving the solidity of the night’s first sleep session
    • To help the baby fall asleep independently
    • Giving parents peace of mind as the baby falls asleep to a familiar heartbeat

    The Nucu Pad is intended for use up to 24 months – and that age will rise as the app continues to develop. The Nucu Pad supports babies of different ages in different ways:

    • In newborn babies, womb-like feelscapes are important
    • Slightly older babies usually calm down to the natural white noise of the Nucu Pad (rain and storm)
    • For older children, songs and stories are important and can be recorded on the Nucu Pad using the Nucu app.
    • The Nucu app can also be used to monitor your child’s sleep development (at first at a more general level and then more and more as the app develops).
    The Nucu Basic set is intended for use in bassinets and sidesleepers. It comes with a foam frame (white in the picture) to place the Nucu Pad on the bottom of the bassinet. The bassinet is not included in the product set. Photo courtesy of Nucu.

    Will the Nucu Pad solve all your baby’s sleep problems?

    The Nucu Pad is designed to support your family’s own sleep routines and habits. It is not a medical device and is not intended to treat or diagnose diseases or conditions.

    Throughout product development, we have seen that babies’ reactions to the Nucu Pad are very varied:

    • Some families report that they have been able to get their baby to sleep more peacefully the first time they use Nucu, which is of course a huge relief.
    • Other families say that Nucu has had no effect at all
    • There are also experiences in between: sometimes Nucu helps, sometimes not. Sometimes there is sickness, sometimes there are difficult developmental phases.

    We’ve found that the Nucu Pad is most supportive of everyday life when it’s introduced early and at a calm stage. Familiarize the baby with the Nucu Pad gently and as a part of your other sleep routines.

    Nucu is not meant to be a magical baby soother that calms the baby down instantly – at any time and in any situation. Nucu is also no substitute for togetherness and touch.

    Nucu provides comfort and safety for both the baby and the parent who knows that their baby is all right.

    The Nucu Pad is made with safety first. The device’s battery and connections such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are in the controller, which you can put outside your child’s crib. The controller can also be disconnected from the wire for charging.

    What is the Nucu Pad based on? Is it safe?

    The Nucu Pad is based on the same phenomenon as kangaroo care, that is, skin-on-skin contact. In English, it is called multisensory stimulation. Your baby’s senses are developing at a tremendous rate and they experience the world very differently. Multi-sensory experiences support your baby’s development.

    The Nucu Pad creates the same sense of security and familiarity as holding the baby close: with the sounds and vibrations of the chest and womb. The sound levels of the feelscapes are safe and gentle.

    The first-generation Nucu Pad has also been successfully used at Oulu University Hospital NICU to support the most fragile premature babies.

    Despite the safety of the Nucu Pad, the family plays a major role:

    • In your baby’s sleep environment, follow the same good practices as usual: no extra objects in the bed, no loose fabrics, clothes or toys. For example, you can read more about safe sleep for babies on the American Academy of Pediatrics website.
    • The Nucu Pad slips under the mattress and comes with a foam frame to hold the Nucu Pad level. When installing the Nucu Pad, make sure that the mattress is level and that there are no gaps between the mattress and the edge.
    • The cable of the Nucu controller must be pulled from under the mattress and the crib or bassinet, and must not remain inside the bed. The controller must be attached to the outside of the crib so that it cannot fall into the bed.
    • Nucu is in no way a substitute for normal family closeness and parental control

    Your own heartbeat feelscape on the Nucu Pad

    A selection of feelscapes is immediately available on the Nucu Pad: a sound that reproduces the uterine heartbeat and soundscape of the womb, and natural white noise sounds like rain and storm.

    You can record your own heart rate with the Nucu app. Photo courtesy of Nucu Oy

    With the Nucu app, you can record your own heartbeat and transfer it to the Nucu Pad, so your baby can fall asleep to a familiar and safe feelscape. Recording is done with the Nucu app:

    • Nice quiet place
    • Semi-sitting relaxed position
    • A few minutes of relaxed breathing with the Nucu app open on your phone, which is on your chest.
    • Transferring your own heart rate to the Nucu Pad

    Experiences with the Nucu Pad: what families are saying

    The Nucu Pad has been tested with babies of different ages and in different situations. Here are direct quotes from families’ experiences:

    • “It was wonderful that my baby slept better and didn’t wake up right after being laid in the crib.” – Marjo, mom with a 4-month-old baby
    • “When put to bed, the baby listened to the familiar sound of mom’s heartbeat and fell asleep.” – Iida, mom with a 3-week-old baby
    • “Our baby falls asleep best and sleeps more peacefully next to mom or dad, rather than in their own bed. With Nucu, it hasn’t felt so bad putting the baby down in the crib, since they can still fall asleep to the comforting sound of mom’s heartbeat there too.” – mom with a 2-month-old baby
    • “It was a huge relief not to always have to move the baby from my arms to the bed and worry about waking them up. With Nucu, the baby would fall asleep in their bed, cutting down on the time it took to get them to sleep, especially in the evenings.” – dad with a 3-month-old baby
    • “Sometimes getting the baby to calm down for sleep takes a while, but with Nucu, the baby can settle down gently even when a parent isn’t constantly by their side.” – Mariella, mom with a 4-month-old baby
    • “With Nucu, we can have a moment of respite in the evenings, when we don’t have to worry about whether the baby will settle down to sleep and feel safe, without mum or dad being there to watch over them.” – mother, baby 2 months

    Positive user feedback is mainly divided into three categories:

    • facilitating the transition to bed
    • help with sleep routines
    • peace of mind for parents

    In terms of negative feedback, the main points are:

    • Some families would like to have a SIDS monitor (i.e. a warning if the baby stops breathing). There is no breating alerts coming to Nucu, at least not initially. Rather the product will focus on supporting children and families in a positive way.
    • The Nucu Pad does not always provide the desired help: When families are under pressure and sleep-deprived, their expectations for the instant effect of the Nucu Pad may not be in line with the actual effect. Babies’ reactions to the Nucu Pad are individual and also vary from one developmental stage to another. We respond to this in two ways: 1) we try to be open about what parents can expect and 2) we make it as easy as possible to return and resell your product.

    Where can I buy a Nucu Pad? How much does it cost?

    The Nucu Pad will be available on Nucu’s own online shop. It is also the only place where you can buy it.

    There is currently a Nucu Family early access program. The first product drops in Finland will be available in the summer only for members. So it’s worth becoming a member so you can find out when, what and at what price Nucu is coming to your country.

    This is how the drops work:

    • Pre-registered members get the chance to buy the Nucu Pad
    • 20% discount on normal prices for members
    • Product drops are limited (due to low initial production volumes) so products can sell out very quickly
    • Information on the progress of the campaign will be sent to members
    • Membership costs nothing and is not binding (you only get to know about new patterns and can decide what you do).

    The prices of Nucu are not yet public. There are three product ranges: the Basic set for bassinets, the Plus set for cribs and the Plus Pro with an extra breathable mattress and frame. The Nucu Pad and controller are the same for all product sets. That is, the Nucu Pad is always the same size in all sets. All the product sets are on display in the Nucu shop.

    Other questions and answers

    The product is new, so there are many questions. Here’s a collection:

    Why is there a cord in Nucu?

    The Nucu Pad and the Nucu controller always work together. Between them is a cable, one end of which is detachable from the controller. One option would have been to make a pad that goes under the mattress with (battery and all), but we decided to do this for these reasons:

    • Security. Only the Nucu Pad is under the baby. The battery and wireless communications are in the controller and the controller can be placed outside the bed.
    • Use without a phone: the Nucu Pad can also be operated in the dark, without a phone.

    Why is Nucu only coming to iOS initially?

    The Nucu app is indeed coming initially only for the iPhone, i.e. iOS. An Android app is coming later (not necessarily in 2024). In particular, recording your own heart rate is easier in an iOS environment, so limited development resources are being spent on iOS first.

    Is the battery in a Nucu Pad safe?

    Nucu is designed with safety first. The controller’s battery is a stable and reliable LFP battery.

    Do I need a subscription for the app?

    A Nucu subscription is required to use all the features of Nucu. Buyers get a 1-year free subscription with their purchase from the Nucu Shop.

    Is Nucu right for you?

    We have found that the Nucu Pad is particularly relevant in two situations:

    • During the third trimester, you can order a Nucu Pad at the same time you’re getting the other baby gear you need. You can transfer your own heart rate to the Nucu Pad and mount it, so it’s there to support you when you come home with your baby.
    • When you need support with your baby’s sleep. Situations vary and many parents have found the Nucu Pad to be a daily helper that provides security, comfort and a sense of control for both baby and parent.

    Feel free to ask for more in the comments or visit the Nucu website. It’s also worth joining Nucu Family early access program as it’s not binding and allows you to decide for yourself whether a Nucu Pad would suit your family.

  • Acoustics at Home: Less Echo, More Comfort

    Acoustics at Home: Less Echo, More Comfort

    Partner links marked with *.

    Improving the acoustics at home can have a big effect on the quality of life. And it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The main objective of improving the acoustics is to reduce echo and attenuate disturbing sounds. An additional goal could be, for example, to acousticize a home theater or TV room.

    You can get a feel for the normal, acoustically bare conditions of your home when you’re just moving in. The empty apartment echoes with normal conversation and it feels like all the sounds from outside are coming right in. Once the furniture has been brought inside and put in place, a lot has already been done for the acoustics:

    • The carpets have been put in place
    • Large furniture, such as sofas, absorbs sound
    • Large surfaces on the walls have been (acoustically) broken up by boards or shelves
    • Curtains are put up to cover the windows

    In this article, we’ll go over some tips for home acoustics beyond those basics. We’ve been improving the acoustics of our home a little more than usual, because we’ve been using two different rooms in our apartment as a podcast studio.

    Reducing echoes in the home with acoustics

    Clap your hands together in the middle of the room and listen to the echo of the sound. Do it in different rooms and listen to the differences. In the bathroom, for example, the echo is often more noticeable because there are no soft surfaces to absorb the sound.

    Unpleasant echoes make for a less comfortable living environment. Instead of poor acoustics, it’s easy to blame the source of the sound: children, the television, family hobbies or a neighbour. So if you notice that the echo in a room is particularly disturbing, you can start with these tips:

    Absorb the sound with soft textiles

    Imagine that sound is light emanating from your hands in all directions. Where does it bounce and where does it collect? For example, two hard surfaces facing each other will reflect the sound, making it feel louder. Soft carpets, rugs, tapestries or softer building materials will reduce sound echo.

    Soft materials and curtains absorb echoes.

    Suck out the sound with furniture

    Your interior design choices can have a big impact on the acoustics of your home. Soft furniture such as sofas, chairs or armchairs absorb sound and improve acoustics. Glass tables, glass boards and other hard materials reflect sound and make the situation worse.

    Create uneven surfaces in your home

    Uneven surfaces disperse sound and dampen echoes. Create a variety of uneven surfaces in your home. For example, a bookshelf is an excellent acoustic element because books are naturally of different sizes and form a random and uneven surface. Minimalist interior design, on the other hand, requires different solutions, as there are no everyday objects available to create acoustic surfaces.

    Interior products to improve acoustics

    Here are a few different products that can give you ideas for improving acoustics with small interior design choices:

    • Rugs
    • Pillows and blankets
    • Curtains
    • Acoustic elements (lighting fixtures, for example)
    • Acoustic panels

    Home acoustics with acoustic panels: panels for ceilings and walls

    Acoustic panels have had the biggest impact in our home: a dozen acoustic panels have been installed on the ceiling of our study and bedroom, effectively dampening echoes. Opposite them, there is a wide bed in one room and a carpet that covers almost the entire floor in the other, so the sound doesn’t echo.

    Curtained acoustic panels add a touch of flair and acoustics.
    Curtained acoustic panels add a touch of flair and acoustics.

    Acoustic tiles on the ceiling of a room are a long-term and permanent solution. We’re used to texture and geometry in the ceiling, but it’s worth trying to design the right panelling for your home.

    The acoustic panels shown in the picture are Parafon Royal 60x120x3 cm. They are installed with a thin layer of mounting adhesive. Here are some tips for those considering acoustic panels:

    • Use mounting adhesive. At first we tried taping but the panels came down before long.
    • Accept that the ones with mounting adhesive will stick in place. We installed fabric-covered panels on the wall, which we later wanted to move. The paint came off with the adhesive and there were holes behind the panels.
    • Call a professional to install. Installing panels on the ceiling is both a painstaking and precise job. The easiest way is to get a professional to install the panels. He has the skills and the tools.
    • Do not accept broken acoustic panels. The downside of panels is that they take a hit reasonably easily. Do not install a panel on the ceiling if the corner is bumped or if the inside is peeking out from the edge. The panel is difficult to get off after installation and a bad-looking panel will haunt your thoughts as well as your eyes.
    • With fabric upholstery, you can decorate and accentuate at the same time. We upholstered a few Royal Parafon panels ourselves with Marimekko fabric and we have liked the result. Pre-patterned acoustic panels are also available.

    These tips to make your home more cosy

    Use the tips in this article to improve the acoustics of your home. I recommend walking around your home giving yourself a round of applause, so you can see where the acoustics need to be improved. The echoes reduce the comfort of living, especially in large and high spaces.

    Also share your own tips for improving acoustics in the comments!

  • How to Remove a Stuck Ring

    How to Remove a Stuck Ring

    Your finger’s changing colors like it’s fall in Vermont. Your blood pressure is rising and you don’t have time to read stories about the history of rings or fingers. You’re in the right place, because here are a few ways to try to unstick a stuck ring.

    Sometimes the situation is so serious that only professionals can help. Please note that these tips are not meant to replace expert help. Take care of yourself and use your best judgement. If the situation becomes unmanageable, it’s OK to call for help. Your local emergency number can provides guidance on how to assess the situation, especially if the finger changes color or there is a loss of sensation. The right place to call will depend on your country and locality.

    In most cases, the ring will come off at home. The trick of the Three C’s may help:

    • cold
    • ceiling
    • cream (hand cream)

    You can try them separately or all together.

    How to remove a stuck ring: 3 tricks of the trade

    Grease up the finger by applying a lubricant, such as hand cream or moisturiser, between the finger and the ring. In an emergency, you can use butter, for example.

    Then take a bag of something cold from the freezer, such as a bag of frozen vegetable stir-fry. Using a kitchen towel for protection, let the cold act on your finger without freezing the skin.

    Raise your hand above your heart – towards the ceiling – and hold it in the air for 5–10 minutes.

    The cold and elevated position will reduce swelling and the grease will help to roll the ring off smoothly.

    Cold: Cool your hand with something cold

    You can try holding your hand in cold water to reduce swelling. However, the idea is not to freeze your hand, so don’t keep it cold for too long.

    Ceiling: Raise your arm up to reduce swelling

    When the arm is upright, the swelling goes down. Hold your hand towards the ceiling, at least above your heart, for several minutes and then try to remove the ring again.

    Hand cream: grease it up

    While you hold up your hand, you can look around your home or workplace for suitable slippery substances to lubricate the ring with. These include:

    • Hand cream
    • Moisturiser
    • Soap
    • Lubricant
    • Margarine
    • Rapeseed oil
    • Butter

    Removing the ring with a string or shoelace

    Sometimes the ring can be removed using a thread or shoelace. First, the thread is tied around the finger, then it is slipped under the ring, after which the ring is rolled off.

    The best way to get an idea of what this trick is like is to watch this video:

    What if the ring doesn’t come off with these either?

    Hopefully the ring has already come off at this stage and the finger is usable again. In emergencies, you should seek professional help. The emergency room has ring cutters, for example, which can be used to cut off a ring. For hard titanium rings, more rigid tools may be required.

  • Pomodoro Timer for Work, Hobbies and Productivity

    Pomodoro Timer for Work, Hobbies and Productivity

    Block out work time with the All Good Great Pomodoro Timer. Set the timer for 25 minutes and feel free to concentrate on whatever you want. You can also see the number of pomodoros you’ve achieved and track your harvest for the day. Have a great time!

    Set the timer for 25 minutes for one pomodoro, or tomato.

    Pomodoro Timer



    Today’s harvest

    Add or remove tomatoes collected elsewhere.


    How to use the Pomodoro Timer?

    In the Pomodoro method, work is divided into a work phase and a break. The work phase always lasts 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. After four 25-minute periods, or pomodoros, you can take a longer break.

    Press Start on the timer and the displayed time will start to run. Remember to reset the timer by pressing Reset if the time has elapsed. You can also press Stop to stop the time from running.

    The timer works best on your computer. When using the phone, you may not hear the completion tone.

    Tips for using the Pomodoro method

    Here are some tips on how to use pomodoros for productivity.

    • Choose one topic to focus on for one pomodoro, or 25 minutes.
    • Remember to take breaks in between. You should also take a longer break after the four pomodoros, for example 15-30 minutes.
    • If you think of something that needs to be done, write it down on paper or on your computer. But don’t start doing it yet.
    • If you find that you don’t finish many pomodoros during the working day, it could be a sign that you’re not getting the chance to do the tasks that require concentration. Try reorganizing your day a bit.
    • The intention is not to collect tomatoes for the whole village. The days are different and some days there are more tomatoes than others. It’s part of the job.

    Is there still room for improvement in the Pomodoro Timer?

    This counter is built on top of Andy Roche’ s counter and modified to fit All Good Great. Do you need a feature for this tomato calculator? Write it in the comments.

  • What’s It Like to Dance Lindy Hop?

    What’s It Like to Dance Lindy Hop?

    Lindy hop is an energetic partner dance. It is full of rhythm, movement, freedom and versatility.

    The Lindy hop is a dance that developed in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s, named after the pilot Charles Lindbergh. Lindy Hop can be danced to a wide variety of music and is popular enough that swing dances can be found all over the world – especially in summer.

    What does Lindy Hop look like?

    You’ve probably seen Lindy Hop, even if you don’t necessarily know what the dance is called. In many larger cities, for example, you can come across gatherings with people bouncing rhythmically to swing music or the latest hits.

    This is what lindy hop looks like:

    Why Lindy Hop?

    If you’re looking for a new dance activity, follow your heart. All dance is good for the mind and body. You can also try out different genres, for example flamenco, tango and polka.

    A vibrant dance community in your area will keep you in the dance loop, so a good place to start is with the dance that is taught where you live. The good things about Lindy Hop are:

    • Lindy hop is clearly rhythmic
    • Suitable for both fast and slow tempo
    • The basics are easy to learn, but the learning never stops
    • If necessary, it can be spectacular

    You can usually go to Lindy Hop classes without a partner, but you can often secure your place by signing up with a partner. Dance classes are a great way to get to know yourself and your partner, so Lindy Hop is also recommended for couples. Once you get over the awkward initial phase and get the hang of dancing, you can dance lindy through the summers of your life.

    Where can I learn Lindy Hop?

    Lindy Hop has been popular enough, at least in recent years, that beginner courses are available at least in the major cities. Throughout the year, there are also dance camps to get you started.

    In Oulu, Finland, you can dance lindy at SwingO courses and events. To find associations in other cities, Google “lindy hop (name of your town)”.

    Starting to dance can be daunting and exciting, but Lindy Hop gives more than it takes. So it’s worth letting the bounce get under your feet and taking the plunge.

  • What Is Forest Lounging and Does It Work?

    What Is Forest Lounging and Does It Work?

    Forest lounging is both totally ancient and totally new. The aim of forest lounging is to enjoy the forest and nature by lying down somewhere green.

    When was the last time you lay down in nature? Watched the clouds, listened to the sounds of the forest and felt the earth beneath you? Recently I went picking lingonberries and tried forest lounging.

    What is Forest Lounging?

    Forest lounging is just that: lounging in the forest for some time. Someone somewhere is probably still working for the dictionary definition for it.

    Being in nature restores the body and mind, but could resting in nature restore you even better? We sat down for lingonberry picking coffee break and I saw my opportunity: a bed of soft moss. I have often tried meditation, but as a Stressed Out Office Raisin, I find myself mostly hoping that the meditation session would be over as soon as possible so that I can “relax” by staring at my smartphone.

    Testing the Effects of Forest Lounging

    Relaxation is a full-body phenomenon: heart rate, heart rate variability, and whole cardiovascular system. I’ve been wearing the Oura ring before I started working there, so Oura’s Moment meditation mode was already familiar to me. Moment measures the body’s responses to breathing exercises or meditation, for example, for a certain period of time, say, 10 minutes.

    So I lay myself down among the lingonberries and let Oura record the effects of forest lounging. I watched the clouds, I felt the earth under my palms. A few mosquitoes came to say hi, but luckily September had already dulled their thirst for blood.

    Watching the clouds, it occurred to me that an enterprising Finn could combine a floating tank and watching the clouds. Someone else could add the northern lights. Northern Float. Aurora Floatiensis. OK, you might want to hire a brand agency to brand it better.

    Forest lounging felt good, but as usual, after twenty seconds, I was already starting to think when 10 minutes would be full. I began to imagine the results: would my heart rate decrease, would my heart rate variability increase?

    Relaxation Takes Practice

    In elementary school, I started practicing cross-country skiing the day before the race. I walked around the apartment and did biceps curls with a 1.5-pound dumbbell. I came in last usually, although one Italian exchange student one time beat me to that.

    But there I was, 23 years later. Ten minutes of forest lounging was up and I looked at the results from Oura’s app: my heart rate had started quite low but soared towards the end. Heart rate variability had dropped. Skin temperature had risen, which can be thought to be due to relaxation. Or from the sunshine that had started halfway through.

    So forest lounging was no panacea. I felt cheated. Then again, my expectations probably had been too high. That I could undo years of laptop angst with 10 minutes of looking at the clouds.

    The fact is that relaxation takes practice. Nobody thinks that one run will make them ready for a marathon. So why would I be zen after my first try at forest lounging?

    Forest Lounging: 4 Stars

    Despite the fact that I was not able to fully relax during the forest lounging, I give the experience 4 stars. Staring at the clouds on my back, soft forest floor under the back of my head… It made me think that there’s more to life than deadlines, roadmaps, or the need to align with

    I recommend giving forest lounging a shot. If you do try it, come back and share your thoughts in the comments!

  • Smart Scale Reviewed: Hands-On With Withings Body+

    Smart Scale Reviewed: Hands-On With Withings Body+

    A smart scale, a smartphone, a smart home … How much sense does it have that a scale – a fairly simple thing – be a smart scale? In this article, we’ll review my experiences with the Withings Body Plus smart scale and what kind of information you can get out of it compared to a regular scale.

    The name of this smart scale is also written as Withing Body+.

    Stylish design fits home

    In summary, a smart scale under a hundred euros be many times worth the price – but only if you like measuring and tracking things. I’ve been measuring different things about my body and hobbies for a long time, so measuring my own weight and body composition is just a natural continuum.

    I liked

    • Stylish design
    • A functional Healthmate app
    • Easy data sync to the app

    I didn’t like

    • Slightly expensive price tag

    What is a Smart Scale?

    A smart scale is a scale that transfers the measured data via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to an application. In addition to weight, Withings Body Plus measures body composition, such as fat percentage, bone mass, muscle mass, and the amount of fluid in the body.

    The Withings scale was easy to set up and the data has been transferred to the application after the morning weighing without a hiccup. The only break was when the wi-fi was off one morning and the data couldn’t be transferred.

    A smart scale is practically as smart as pen and paper. Withings Body Plus costs around € 70, so the price is right below too expensive (from my POV). However, I specifically wanted to buy a smart scale that automatically syncs data into an app where I can track it. The Withings scale does what I needed it to.

    Smart Scale Reliability: Can the Results Be Trusted?

    One evening I did ten pushups and the next morning I had dropped 0.7 kilos of fat  – according to the scale. I was planning my bestseller (The 10-Push-Up Training Regimen, or similar) but then decided that any individual measurement of the smart scale is not the absolute truth.

    That doesn’t mean they’re not useful. They just need to be treated the right way.

    Painon pudottaminen sovelluksessa
    The Healthmate app makes it easy to see changes over time

    I have measured my weight every morning after a trip to the loo, wearing the the same clothes, i.e. boxers.  (Or should I say, the same type of clothes, I change boxers every day.) This is how I have standardized what the scale measures and what is stored in the application. The variation between days is substantial, but that is to be expected. The most important thing is what happens in the long run over weeks and months.

    I chose Withings Body Plus as my smart scale precisely because of its body composition measurement. It was different enough from the standard scale, i.e. the stupid scale, and I felt that because of the body composition measurement, it was worth the investment.

    Tips for Measuring Body Weight

    If you don’t take into account the mental aspects of weight measurement (for example, the fact that weight measurement can become a burden or anxiety) and talk specifically about getting the most reliable measurement you can, then here are some tips for measuring body weight:

    • Always measure at the same time of day
    • Always measure in similar clothing (barefoot)
    • Measure no more than once a day

    You can also measure whenever you want, for example once a week or once a month. Personally, I’ve found that when I add a morning weigh-in to my routine, it slips well into everyday life. It also results in a long series of information that I can return to later. If I measured only once a week, there would be significantly fewer data points.

    Experiences with the Withings Body Plus Smart Scale

    This review is based on the use of only one smart scale for a few weeks, so there are no reference points other than a standard scale. The Withings scale was easy to set up and the device could be easily connected to an iPhone. The Healthmate app is available on both Android and iOS.

    Mitä älyvaaka mittaa
    Check the weather with the Withings Body Plus smart scale

    The scale looks good, but we keep it under the bed, so in our case, so appearances don’t matter too much – except for the monsters under the bed.

    The application allows you to specify what information you want to see on the scale screen during weighing. You can choose from e.g.

    • Weight
    • Weight change trend
    • The amount of fat
    • Waterweight
    • BMI
    • Bone Mass
    • Muscle Mass
    • Weather

    Showing the weather seemed pointless at first, but now that I’m used to it it seems to fit my morning routine really well. In addition, my favorite data point is the weight change trend, that is, how much my weight has changed since the previous day.

    Smart Scale Information in Healthmate

    The data is viewed in the Healthmate app, which is a bit bland for my taste, but reasonably easy to use. Weight data and body composition can be seen on a monthly, quarterly and annual basis or for the entire period of use. The most important thing is the trend in the long run and the application seems to be quite good at showing it.

    The data has been automatically transferred to the application. It works as it should and I haven’t had any Bluetooth induced bouts of tech rage.

    Conclusion: Smart or Not?

    The boring answer is that the usefulness of any smart scale depends on you and your goals. It alone does not improve anyone’s health and may even cause anxiety.

    My goal was to drop the weight closer to 70 kg and I changed my diet in the direction of intermittent fasting. I eat reasonably healthy between 11am and 7pm as before. I endure hunger well anyway, so fasting hasn’t felt bad at all.

    Withings Body Plus maksaa noin 70 €.
    Withings Body Plus costs about 70 €.

    I wanted a smart scale so that I could accurately measure the effects of my lifestyle change. I also knew that I would be motivated by seeing the numbers change. And I also knew that I wouldn’t be seriously affected if the numbers didn’t go down. Therefore, I was happy to buy a smart scale. I also feel that it’s been well worth it.

    If you’ve been thinking about buying a smart scale, first ask yourself: Am I at a point in my life and soul that a smart scale is right for me . If you like data, applications, and measuring life then I can recommend getting a smart scale.

    Withings Body Plus has been the answer to what I was looking for. I wouldn’t get hung up on exact body composition measurement but rather look at the long-term trends.

  • How to Protect Yourself from the Sun in Finland

    How to Protect Yourself from the Sun in Finland

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    In this article, we’ll go through the different types of UV radiation, their side effects, and ways to protect yourself from the sun. For those who are looking for a candidate for the best sunscreen, the summary is this.

    The best sunscreen is:

    • SPF30+ protection factor
    • Broad-spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB radiation)
    • Suits you so well that you actually use it

    Here are a few of our own favorites that meet those three requirements:

    There are other good sunscreens out there, and the most important thing is that you protect yourself. If you’re wondering if you should put sunscreen on, that’s how you know that you should.

    Tanning doesn’t protect you from the sun. Rather, it’s a sign of DNA damage. The sun is not as harsh in Finland as in other countries closer to the Equator but it can still harm your skin if you stay out for long without protection.

    Why Protect Yourself from the Sun?

    UV radiation from the sun causes cancer and ages the skin. To protect yourself from the sun:

    • Avoid direct sunlight
    • Protect yourself with clothing
    • Use sunscreen

    Ultraviolet radiation is invisible to the human eye. You can get sunburn on a cloudy day, too. The UV Index is an easy-to-read way to estimate the amount of harmful UV radiation. When the UV index is above 3, you should protect yourself. In Finland, the UV index is higher during the day than from 3 May to August between about 10 am and 5 pm, in northern Finland for a slightly shorter period.

    At the end of this Duodecim article, they summarize the reasons and tips for protecting yourself from the sun:

    • Ultraviolet radiation causes skin cancer and aging
    • Avoiding the sun and protective clothing are better ways to protect yourself than sunscreen
    • A good sunscreen is broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB radiation
    • Sunscreen is a great extra layer of protection when you apply it it properly

    Here are some tips: Use quality sunscreen in fair amounts and don’t rely on it for doing all the protecting.

    What Does the Sunscreen Protection Factor Mean?

    Sun protection factor 15. Sun protection factor SPF 50 + … Sunscreens almost always have an SPF protection factor somewhere on the label, usually between 10 and 50.

    The SPF ( sun protection factor ) reflects the protection provided by sunscreen against UVB radiation, which causes reddening of the skin. The SPF protection factor does not yet indicate protection against UVA radiation, i.e. protection against skin aging.

    The SPF protection factor is easier to understand when looking at the protection it provides against UVB radiation.

    • A cream with an SPF 50 lets through 2% of UVB radiation.
    • SPF30 lets through 3%
    • SPF15 lets through 10%
    • A cream with no SPF at all can transmit 100% of UVB radiation (at least close to 100%)

    Suojakertoimella aurinkoa vastaan The difference between SPF30 and SPF50 is thus quite small (letting through 2% vs 3% of harmful radiation). Whereas the difference between SPF15 and SPF50 is considerable (letting through 10% vs 2% of harmful radiation). The difference between unprotected and even small factor (SPF15) is huge (lets through almost all harmful radiation (100%) vs only 10%).

    When sunscreen rubs off it no longer provides protection and should be added at regular intervals (every other hour) and more often if you sweat, swim or otherwise rub off the protection.

    Here is the price difference between SPF30 and SPF50 as actual products:

    Thus, the difference in price per liter may not be very large even if the product provides slightly better protection.

    UVA and UVB Radiation Are Not the Same

    The ultraviolet radiation of the sun has two significant wavelengths: UVA and UVB. UVC radiation filters out in the earth’s ozone layer, so sunscreen is not needed to protect against it.

    Most of the energy in the sun’s UV radiation is UVA radiation. As we saw above, the sun protection factors indicate the effectiveness of sunscreen against UVB radiation. Therefore, a good sunscreen is broad-spectrum, meaning it also protects against UVA rays.

    UVA Radiation

    UVA radiation is long-wave (320–400 nm) radiation that penetrates deeper into the skin than short-wave UVB radiation. UVA radiation ages the skin and causes wrinkles.

    UVB Radiation

    UV radiation is (280–320 nm) medium-wavelength radiation that affects the surface layer of the skin and causes DNA damage and thickening of the skin. UVB radiation causes sun burns.

    UVB radiation in particular increases the risk of skin cancer. Tanning is a sign of DNA damage.

    The Best Sunscreens for the Face

    Good sunscreens applied to the face are light, inconspicuous and also suitable for the skin around the eyes. Other good properties include non-gloss, good spreadability and the fact that they do not clog up skin pores.

    The same general guidelines apply to sunscreens for the face: that is, protection against both UVA and UVB rays should be provided, as well as an adequate protection factor (at least SPF30).

    Sunscreen Under Makeup

    Makeup alone does not protect you from UV radiation, so it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen before you put on makeup. Light and easy-to-apply sunscreens are suitable for this.

    We’re a big fan of this sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Invisible Fluid Ultra-Light SPF50 + 50 ml*

    Don’t Forget: Sunscreen for Lips

    It is also good to protect the lips from the sun. There are sunscreens and lip balms specifically made for this purpose. Sunscreens for the skin are not designed to taste good, so a lip balm or lip balm is more comfortable to use.

    Here are some examples:

    The Best Sunscreens for Kids

    The effects of UV radiation accumulate on the skin during life, so protecting children’s skin from the sun is extremely important. Sunscreens are not recommended for babies, so avoiding the sun in other ways is the way to go. Sun-protective clothing and sunscreen are recommended for play-aged children.

    Enjoy the Outdoors – Safely!

    Summer is my favorite time in Finland and Scandinavia. Enjoy the outdoors more by protecting yourself from the sun!

    This article is not medical advice. Consult an expert if you have any questions related to your skin and sun protection.