How to Make Sure Your Bicycle Helmet Fits

Helmets come in all kinds of different sizes and you need to fit them, just like hats. Hat sizes can be different depending on the manufacturer. The Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute (BHSI) has the most complete list of helmet sizes according to the manufacturers.

To fit a helmet you need to measure your head to find out your approximate size. Make sure you try the helmet on to make sure it fits snugly. When it is sitting on top of your head make sure it does not rock from side to side. There are sizing pads inside new models; you can use them to make sure the helmet is tucked securely on your head. Some helmets also have something called a universal sizing ring inside that can help fit the helmet on the head.

Make sure the helmet sits level on your head and low on the forehead which means that it is sitting one or two finger widths above your eyebrows.

You can center the left buckle under the chin by pulling it from the back of the helmet to lengthen or shorten the chin straps. You can do this most precisely when the helmet is off the head. There are sliders on both straps; make sure you tighten them so the fit is quite snug. A good fit is attained when you can fit no more than one or two fingers under the strap.

To find out if the helmet is fitting right give a big yawn. While you are doing this the helmet should pull down on the head. If it is not then you have to go back and tighten the chin strap even more.

If your helmet rocks back and forth on the top of your head then you might want to shorten the front strap by moving the slider forward. To prevent the buckle on the band from slipping be sure to roll it as close as you can to the band.

Helmets can be damaged if you drop them. Be sure to replace any helmet that has been damaged.

If you are buying for a kid do not buy a helmet that will be “grown into.” The helmet must fit like it is.

The helmet should fit now. Buy a helmet that fits your head now, not a helmet to “grow into.” Replace any helmet that has been outgrown immediately so your child or you are never riding without one.
Remember … a helmet will only be of use to you if it actually fits your head.

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As Good As Taking A Chill Pill

If life has you feeling irritable and edgy there is no need anymore to ask the doctor for a valium. Mother Nature has a pharmacy full of natural cures for nervous tension, worry and other problems.

When people are worried they tend to turn to foods that are high in carbs and sugars. That is when it becomes time to consume some yams. These work as powerful stress-busters. They are high in fiber and full of vitamins that support the nervous system such as Vitamin A and E.

Peanut butter can help you if you feel irritable and exhausted from a lack of good sleep. Peanuts are high in Vitamin B6 which helps regulate blood sugar and stabilize mood. It is best eaten on whole wheat toast so that it breaks down slowly in your body. The reason you want to have it on whole wheat toast is because this type of bread contains complex carbohydrates. This is known as the 'feel-good hormone.' If you want to enhance your mood even more try eating a peanut butter, banana, honey and whole wheat bread sandwich.

If you feel as if you cannot get your body to settle down and relax then drink some chamomile tea. It has been shown especially effective when it comes to suppressing muscle spasms.

Dark chocolate is another stress reliever. Just 1.4 ounces of dark chocolate can lower the stress hormones of cortical and ctecholamines in the body. This helps relieve anxiety.

St. John's Wort is a herb that is sometimes called 'The Break Up Remedy. It is useful for treating mild to severe depression. It can be taken in pill form as a supplement or you can take it as a tea.

If you are having trouble falling asleep then try having a few slices of turkey. Turkey contains tryphotan which helps people doze off. However although it may help people fall asleep it does not necessarily help them stay asleep.

Another herbal tea that can help with anxiety, especially the kind that has you worrying about finances or health, is Passionflower. It is very common and is a well –recognized over the counter sedative.

Valerian root is another common herb used to calm people down and put them right to sleep… You can but it as jukes, tablets, teas, tinctures. It is known as Nature's Valium.

Of course before taking any herb or any food in excess you really do need to consult with your doctor to make sure it will not conflict with any existing health conditions or mediations you are taking.

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