The world of cannabis is certainly complicated for a newbie, with all sorts of variations to experiment with. In this article, our focus will not just be on non-psychoactive cannabidiol (CBD) products, but those that are made from the hemp plant. These are legal in all 50 US states, unlike cannabis-derived CBD products which can only be purchased by the public in states that have enacted recreational legislation.

An introduction to hemp-based CBD

Hemp is a plant from the cannabis family, but it has a markedly different cannabinoid profile to the strains that we are most familiar with. Hemp contains very low concentrations of THC, but more substantial amounts of CBD – products, therefore, only have therapeutic and dietary uses, and cannot be recreationally abused. When the Farm Bill was passed in the United States in 2014, allowing the sale of hemp products with a maximum of 0.3 percent THC, the CBD market was born – and it has since grown tremendously.

Before going further, it should be noted that hemp-based CBD products are unregulated, which makes quality that much more important. The best companies seek to assure customers by having products tested by a third-party laboratory – companies who don’t do this, or claim to carry out testing themselves, should cause alarm. Moreover, products made using the supercritical CO₂ extraction method are likely to be safer and of higher quality, as this process more effectively filters heavy metals and toxins from the extract. These unwanted substances build up in the hemp plant as it grows because the plant is a bio-accumulator – they are picked up more quickly than they can be excreted.

Now let’s take a closer look at the most popular hemp-based CBD products, and how they can be used beneficially.

Full-spectrum hemp-based CBD products

These tend to be the most popular hemp-based CBD products as they offer the maximum therapeutic potential possible sans THC. Research from Dr Ethan Russo and others has shown that cannabis is more effective when a full extract is used, rather than isolated cannabinoids. For instance, the psychoactive effects of THC are not as extraordinary when CBD is also taken, as the CBD reduces the strength of the bind that THC makes with the CB₁ receptor.

Hemp contains an array of non-psychoactive cannabinoids, in addition to THC, and also some useful terpenes, such as pinene and linalool. Pinene has traditionally been used to treat wounds and infections, while linalool can help to counteract anxiety.

The vape industry is thriving among ex-smokers and also cannabis users, and hemp-based CBD vape oil and e-liquid is very popular. New CBD users are advised to start on the weaker potency bottles, as this helps them to become familiar with the effects, and also to establish how much is necessary to treat a certain ailment. Some conditions require small doses, others require bigger doses. Due to a lack of clinical research on CBD for most illnesses, it can be a case of trial and error.

To avoid confusion, writing a journal on each CBD dose can help with settling on a preferred dosage. Some opt for refillable cartridges, which allow for short and long vapor draws, but those who want an exact dosage could try CBD cartridges. These are designed to only release a specific quantity of CBD with each draw.

CBD-isolate products

Despite full-spectrum CBD products arguably having more therapeutic value, there remains a big market for CBD-isolate products. As the name indicates, these are made to only contain CBD, and none of the other cannabinoids and terpenes found in a full-plant hemp extract.

CBD-isolates are perfect for those who know that they only need CBD to treat their condition, or for those who have concerns about drugs tests at work, or elsewhere. It’s important to note that testers only look for THC and not CBD, but since full-spectrum products may have traces of THC, the amount in the system can accumulate if taking high doses multiple times per day. Thanks to the much-higher amount of CBD entering the body, there still won’t be any psychoactive effects, but in an unfortunate scenario, where the test has a low THC threshold, there is some scope for a failure. This can be enough to encourage users to switch to CBD-isolates to eliminate that risk entirely.

It’s no surprise that CBD concentrates are some of the best-selling CBD-isolate products, as this the fastest way to take a huge dose. Concentrates are usually dabbed but can be mixed into vape oil and even ingested – the effects will be slower but last for longer if ingested.

CBD products infused with terpenes

CBD products are sometimes tagged with a “hybrid,” “sativa” or indica” description – and these aren’t for show. These products are normally CBD-isolates, that have been enhanced with a specific array of terpenes, to encourage a certain reaction.

This can be useful in a few ways. An indica for example, will provide more sedation, which is suitable if using CBD as a sleeping agent. These relaxing terpenes have a soothing influence on the muscles and the mind, promoting rejuvenating sleep. CBD works to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, boosting the amount of deep sleep where the most significant regeneration takes place.

On the other hand, a CBD product with a sativa slant is great in the mornings, or for a mid-afternoon slump. The pick-me-up effect is akin to that of caffeine, without the headache later on. Patients with depression who take CBD for the chemical adjustments which facilitate a mood boost may be benefitted further by the energizing nature of a sativa-dominant CBD product.

Final thoughts on hemp-based CBD

Most cannabis activists rightly call for all components of the plant to be legalized, at least for medicinal use, but the rich list of benefits that can be derived from hemp-based CBD means many have to suffer no longer. If anxiety is holding you back from enjoying your best life, then vaping CBD to release calming GABA neurotransmitters into the brain will break the shackles. If chronic pain is proving troublesome, then vaporizing or applying CBD cream to the most painful spots will deliver much-needed relief.

And researchers have barely scratched the surface. Just recently, a study from the University of British Columbia found that there may be more cannabinoids in cannabis, and therefore hemp, than we originally thought, after discovering 21 compounds that were yet to be identified. This throws up a new set of interactions and possibly new cannabis-based products in the future. It also suggests that the effects of cannabis on the body are even more complex.

It’s estimated that 115 people per day die in the US per day from opioid overdoes. The economic burden for opioid abuse alone costs the United States $78 billion per year. If you factor in alcohol and illicit drug use that number totals around $740 billion per year. Needless to say, this is a significant epidemic in American society that currently lacks a practical solution. 10% of American adults have a substance use disorder that they struggle with yet 75% of them never receive any form of treatment.

Removing the Stigma of Addiction

Much of the reluctance from those suffering from substance abuse disorders to seek treatment stems from the stigma associated with drug and alcohol abuse. Many view addicts as lacking moral character and those with substance abuse issues often experience deep-seeded feelings of shame and guilt. Emerging science and research has pointed to a number of physiological and genetic differences that play a significant factor is a likelihood of developing a substance abuse disorder. In addition to epigenetics and physiological traits, childhood trauma and painful life experiences also play a significant role in someone’s likelihood to abuse drugs or alcohol. Shaming or stigmatizing addicts fails to offer a solution to the drug epidemic and only seems to serve as a deterrent from seeking the treatment they need.

Addiction Treatment

Many options exist for those that do decide to seek treatment. Depending on the severity of the substance abuse issue, there are different levels of care best suited for the condition. The first step for someone who has been abusing drugs intensively or for an extended period is typically detox. Detoxing from drugs that the body has become adapted to can be a dangerous process which is why this form of treatment usually takes place in a medical setting for a short term of a few days to a week. In-patient or residential treatment is the next level of care where someone usually spends 30+ days living on-site at a facility where they abstain from drugs and alcohol and receive some form of counseling along with a wide range of complementary treatments depending on the facility. These types of facilities often come with a very high price tag, making them inaccessible for a large part of the population who either can’t afford them or don’t have insurance that will cover treatment. An outpatient rehab may be an alternative for someone who requires a lower level of care and who doesn’t have the time to spend living on-site for a month-long residential program. Outpatient rehabs allow you to live at home and attend to work or family obligation while still receiving treatment.

Methods for Treating Substance Abuse

Conventional – Medication Assisted Treatment

The current existing model for treating drug addiction involves the use of psychotropic pharmaceutical drugs that activate much of the same circuitry as illicit street drugs. These drugs are often seen as a much safer alternative to street drugs, however still only really serve as a band-aid for a deeper underlying condition. With the rise of medical assisted treatment (MAT) (MAT) pharmaceuticals have taken the forefront of drug addiction treatment. Many addicts come into therapy in bad shape and pharmaceuticals can be incredibly useful in adding detox, and to help get someone back to an even baseline; however the long-term consumption of these substances can create mental and physical imbalances, and come with many side effects.

Holistic – Whole Person Treatment

Addiction can be viewed as a complex disorder that affects the mind, body, and spirit. It is in many ways the symptom of a deeper underlying condition. A holistic drug rehab model that treats the whole-person may be the best option for addressing the multitude of factors that contribute to addiction by offering a wide range of tools that treat the whole person vs. isolating symptoms.  Holistic drug treatment combines traditional interventions and modalities for treating substance abuse disorders and combines them with alternative and complementary therapies that help heal underlying physical health conditions, help reduce stress and help reestablish balance to the mind and body. There a number of physiological issues that can contribute to addiction such as nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, imbalanced gut bacteria, food allergies, and heavy metal toxicities. Holistic addiction treatment looks to correct these issues which in turn helps to establish a more balanced mood state.

The need for more resources.

Taking measure to offer education, prevention tools, and affordable treatment options need to be made a bigger priority in the US. The statistics regarding drug abuse in American are shocking, yet there is still a large part of the population that remain unaware of the severity of an issue that is occurring right in their own backyard.  Substance abuse is an issue that affects all walks of life and those suffering with it are not merely a “junkie,” “alcoholic,” or “crackhead,” but possibly a neighbor, friend, or loved one. Shame and guilt will never take the place of effective measures for treating and preventing drug abuse.

There’s nothing as fun or exciting as free online slot games. This is why we have a great selection of free online slot machines that don’t need downloading or any registration. You can just open these games on your browser and spin for free! Not only are these games free and require no download, they’re incredibly fun and exciting! None of these free online slot machines are boring. We found for you a range of free games that go from simple classic slot machines to impressive and exciting full 3d free online slot machines. These will be sure to excite you and offer you hours of slot machine fun. You will be hitting jackpots in no time.

This amazing selection of free spins on slot machines is available online. Go to: Best Free Slots Online ᐈ No Download ᐈ Casino Slot Machines and from the home website follow the simple directions. It’s very simple and you will be playing the best free online slot machine games in no time at all! Take your time and look through the long selection of hundreds of the best online games with free spins. Or dive right into the first game that grabs your interest on the page, all of the games are of great quality and will be sure to be very fun and interesting. You’ll have a great time with any of the hundreds of high quality and free online slot machine games that need no download and don’t need you to sign up, so that you will be spinning and hitting jackpots in absolutely no time.

Don’t think that just because these online slot games are free that they are low quality or won’t be as fun. Many of these games are some of the highest quality online slot machine games available to anyone. Many well-known slot machine game developers have created many of these games. And the list is picked by dedicated gamers who really care about the quality of these games. The games are very varied too. Some are traditional three slot games with excellent animation and great quality, others are exciting and innovative games that work with interesting mechanics and exciting animations. One thing you can be absolutely sure of is that none of these games are the same; each one is sure to bring you a new exciting experience. Don’t be afraid though- that does not mean that these free online slot machines are complicated or difficult to play. The games are pretty easy to follow and, what is more, each game has clear rules that will help you get those jackpots as soon as possible. Most importantly, most of these games can be easily played on your mobile phone or tablet, meaning that you can enjoy these free online slot machine games on the go and wherever you would like to. You have the complete freedom to enjoy these slot games and hit your jackpots at any time and any place.

There you have it. Free, downloadable games that you can play whenever and wherever that can help you win the big bucks. Does it get any better than that?

2017 was a HUGE year for virtual reality. Products like the HTC Vive and the Oculus Rift has been taking off as has console platform VR like Playstation VR, which is finally starting to release good games like “DOOM” and “Gran Turismo”. I would say that 2017 has easily been the year of VR…but it is only the start. 2018 has been taking off with new tech like the Oculus Quest and Go stand alone products revealed! Now is the time for VR

Virtual reality is not limited to gaming though, even theme parks are adapting this technology into their locations. SeaWorld in Orlando, FL recently revamped its classic rollercoaster “Kraken” and it now has VR option added to the ride, which adds A LOT of replay value to this ride. If you have ever wanted to go behind the sea and battle a real monster all while being twisted and turned on a rollercoaster, then you need to experience this coaster. Other theme parks, including Legoland Florida, as well are developing and implementing these new features as well.

If you are asking what are VR games, you will not have to look far for answer because it is becoming more mainstream every day.  You will find it even crossing over into your Smartphones with using devices like Google Cardboard and Samsung Gear VR, which can be used with your devices at home. Personally, I have tried this and I am not too thrilled of having to take off my phone case each time in order to use it but I can see that in the future this is easily going to be able to fixed.

Visiting IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions), which is a global amusement-industry trade show, which also took place in Orlando, FL in November of this year, it was filled with new VR technology. I do not see this technology getting old anytime soon in fact I only see it getting bigger and bigger each year.

From wearing VR glasses during rollercoaster, playing at home with your handheld devices, there is some great ways to get ready for the new year and enjoy this new technology. Some people thing that VR might be a bit of a gamble since it is still new but you will be amazed at the features available to you. Being a gamer, whether you are enjoy online casino sites like, https://www.casino.com/ca/, or the future of VR is not a gamble. This is ia sure win. How awesome would it be to see online gamling in VR, man I would definitely pay to experience that.

I am just waiting for the day when this technology is implementing future into school or even movie theaters. Imagine seeing a movie like “Avatar” or something where it is fully immersive experience with all the senses including touch and smell within the VR world. I can see that easily being the future.

The use of CBD has gained popularity in the past few years. This can be attributed to the many proven health benefits CBD oil packs for users. With this in mind, there has also arisen businessmen who are all about minting money and not providing a pure product. This is a comprehensive CBD review to help you understand what to look for when purchasing your precious oil.

Do Your Own Research

Don’t just look at the cheapest CBD oil and decide that’s what to buy. It’s wise to research about the particular CBD product you want to purchase as well as the store that’s stocking the product. Weigh the benefits against the side effects to determine if you should proceed with the purchase.

Quality

If a product sounds too good to be true, tread carefully. Settle on a product that’s been proven to be effective for your particular needs. Another thing you need to look at is the pricing. In this case, cheap is expensive. If a product is too cheap, chances are it’s substandard.

CBD concentration

This is the most important aspect you should examine. Look at the labeling in a product. You should opt for a product that contains a high level of CBD because it will be more effective.

Extraction process

Different manufacturers use different methods to get their final product-CBD oil. Companies that want to make a quick buck will go for the cheapest method which may be through use of harmful solvents. Before making any, purchase do research to find out whether the method of extraction as well as storage facilities are up to the set standards.

Check the source

Cannabis is grown in either organic or inorganic soil. The type of soil where the cannabis will be grown will determine the quality as well as safety of the CBD oil. Cannabis grown in organic soil will contain little or no health effects and vice versa.

Lab testing

A company that has followed all the laid down procedures of manufacturing and storage won’t be afraid to display their findings on their website on product label. As opposed to taking a blanket approach, each batch of oil should be tested independently.

Source of the oil

Depending on the type of oil you choose, they will have different origin. Some come from flowers and others marijuana. If you’re looking for a product with a higher percentage of CBD, go for one obtained from flowers.

Compare the products and pricing

Before making the final decision on purchase, visit different manufacturers or suppliers to compare what each has to offer. There are awesome brands with awesome deals. For example, CBDistillery coupon codes and reviews help you save on products that are high quality and 3^rd party lab tested.

Don’t believe in false claims or medical claims about CBD oil. These aren’t approved by the FDA and don’t follow guidelines. It can be a tedious process searching for quality brands but there’s great resources out there.

Who’s more difficult to find a gift for: your mother-in-law, or the guy who has everything? Okay, so both are pretty hard. But honestly, just get your mother-in-law a photo album and a subscription for a fresh bouquet every month, and you’re golden. As for the impossible guy, the whole gift-giving world is your oyster. That’s right—there’s actually a whole treasure trove of gifts out there you can choose from for that extra-picky man you want to impress.

A Donation

Sometimes, a graceful way to show someone you care about them is to make a charitable donation in their name. This is such a win-win because you both get those warm-fuzzies that come from selfless giving, and your guy doesn’t have to worry about accruing more stuff that he doesn’t want or need. Plus, if he’s already involved in charity work, you can donate to the organization that’s close to his heart. Even the guy who has everything can’t get enough of giving back to a cause he’s passionate about.

A Dedication

Similar to a donation, there are countless adoption/dedication programs to choose from. You can get your guy anything from a star in the sky, a tree in the Amazon, or a snow leopard on the endangered list. Many of these programs provide periodical updates or facts about the object or creature you’re helping support—plus they usually come with fun little goodie bags. This is a nice, wholesome way of showing how much you care and how well you know him without having to get him another gadget he’ll only use once.

A Timepiece

Is there anything classier than a well-dressed guy with a slick new watch? No, there is not. If you absolutely have to get your everything-man something wearable, please let it be a watch. Look no further than these classic men’s watches from MVMT—their elegance will certainly delight the high-class tastes of your man. A sophisticated watch will help him get to all his appointments on time, but the best part? He’ll always think of you when he checks the time so you’re never far from his thoughts.

Nostalgia

Perhaps the solution is right in front of you. There’s no one in the world who doesn’t appreciate a thoughtful gift from the heart meant to remind you of happy times. The possibilities are endless. Yes, a photo album is always a crowd pleaser, but who says it has to be cute? It can be all funny pictures, embarrassing moments, or selfies (it is 2018, after all). But, photos are not the only way to a sentimental man’s heart. You can find a vintage hoodie from his alma mater, a pair of sunglasses that look just like the ones his grandpa used to wear, or some old baseball cards from when he used to trade them around with friends. Get creative, and do some digging. You can find some real treasures when you make an effort to remind your impossible-guy of the good ole’ days.

A Vacation

Don’t worry, there’s no need to plan a luxury trip to the Maldives for two weeks. A weekend trip is a great gift to share together that will spark plenty of new memories. Maybe you could take a little road trip or even opt for a staycation in your own city. Splurge for a nice hotel, get a reservation at that restaurant you keep talking about, book massages, and check off those touristy things you’ve been meaning to do for years. A lot of times, the best gift is just good company and happy memories to be made.

A New Hobby

Guys that have everything usually love to try new things and expand their horizons– otherwise they wouldn’t have so much cool stuff. Ask him about his interests and his schedule, and then do some research on classes in your area. Maybe it’s a cooking class, or he can learn how to brew beer, or maybe even a dance or art class. Trying something new is always exciting and gives you an excuse to get out together.

The man who has everything can be hard to shop for, but with a little creativity and thoughtfulness, you’re bound to find a gift that he’ll cherish for years to come.

Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash

43 million people are classed as avid movie-goers, according to the Motion Picture Association of America. Of these movie-obsessed individuals, 11.1 million are aged between 25 and 39 years old. But, what about if you’re more than a lover of the flicks and you need to get your movie fix by attending the latest premieres? Despite these events costing thousands, it is possible to attend so long as you’re smart with your money.

Setting a limit

777 movies were released last year. No matter how much of a film buff you are, it would be practically and financially impossible to attend this many premieres. Therefore, at the start of each year, it’s wise to sit down and review the movies set to be released throughout the year and shortlist the ones that you’re most looking forward to. Set yourself a limit on the number of premieres you’ll attend, as well as the maximum amount of cash you’ll spend on your hobby.

Getting the most for your money

According to 1BoxOffice, it costs between $1,500 and $6,000 to attend a movie premiere. The cost varies greatly depending on the movie title, and the cast and crew involved in the production. Understandably, if you select to attend the premiere of several top movies, then the cost soon adds up. Therefore, it’s likely you’ll need to cover this costly expense via a credit card. To ensure you get the most for your cash, opt for a card which provides additional benefits, such as cashback or reward points. It’s worth utilizing unlimited movie passes for all the other movies you want to see throughout the year. For as little as $29.99 per month, you can watch as many movies as you want and save yourself a small fortune in the process.

Cut-price premiere tickets

Some movie companies offer free premiere tickets to avid movie fans. Therefore, before you fork out your hard earned cash on a ticket, contact the movie studio who made the movie and ask if they have any tickets to the premiere available. Another option is to sign up to a specialist movie club which offers their members the option of buying discounted premiere tickets. Some charities will also hold auctions where premiere tickets can be bid on. So, keep your eyes peeled for low cost ways of bagging a spot at the hottest premiere.

A movie obsession can set you back thousands. This is especially the case if the desire to attend the latest premieres won’t leave you. However, by setting yourself a strict limit and budget, seeking out the best payment options and hunting for great deals, you can continue to fuel your movie addiction and save cash.

When you’ve moved into the home of your dreams, you want to make sure everything is just right. You want an efficient kitchen, comfortable guest rooms and bedrooms, a nice garage for your vehicles and outdoor equipment, and maybe even a nice study or the games room for entertaining friends and family. One thing you may want as a centerpiece for your games room is a nice pool table. Something that is not only a conversation piece but, provides fun and entertainment for many years or comes.

With that in mind, here are a few things to keep in mind when buying that pool table for movie nights, family get-togethers and other special occasions:

Quality. A good pool table should have good hardwood construction. You want it to last for years, so don’t settle for shoddy construction or workmanship. Solid hardwood pool tables with interlocking support beams may be a little more expensive, but the cost is well worth it in the long run.

Slate. Look for a pool table that has matched pieces that are all cut from the same slab. The best slate should be about three-quarters of an inch thick with a diamond-honed surface.

Felt. Look for a pool table that has the felt glued and screwed in place. This lasts longer than felt that is just tacked or stapled into place. Also, look for a good felt covering that has good wool content. The higher the percentage of wool that is used in the covering, the better because this is generally more durable and longer-lasting.

Railings, cushions, and pockets. A good pool table should have hardwood or laminate railings, canvas-backed cushions, and pockets made of rubber or soft plastic. Hardwood railings are less likely to break and crack over time and cause less vibration during gameplay. Cushions made of canvas or similar materials are less likely to break or separate over time. Pockets made of rubber or soft plastic are resistant to scuffs, scrapes, and damage.

Don’t forget about the accessories! You can’t play the game if you don’t have the right equipment. You’ll need to stock up on:

• Pool cues or cue sticks
• billiard balls
• A pool cue or cue stick rack or holder
• billiard sticks

You may also want to add optional items such as table brushes, cue chalk or talcum powder, cue repair kits, additional billiard balls or pool cues and a good pool table cover.

Most pool tables are delivered unassembled. You can tackle the assembly yourself, or you can leave it to an expert installer from the store you purchased it from. It might cost a little more, but takes an expert pool table installer to take care of the busy work for you can save you time and the worry over missing pieces or having the table assembled incorrectly.

View this post and other informational websites for helpful hints about important factors to consider when buying your pool table. Do your research, read reviews and product specifications. You want your pool table to be the cornerstone of your entertainment room, so make the right choice and you’ll have something that will be a highlight of entertaining your family and friends for many years to come.

Image Source

Did you know that you can install your tile yourself? You’ve probably seen this process being done dozens of times on home improvement shows. It’s fairly easy to do on your own, even if you have little DIY knowledge or experience. All that you need is a set of easy to follow instructions, courtesy of tile floor installation Dallas.

Start By Prepping the Surface

Of course, this assumes that the old flooring has already been removed. If it hasn’t, do that first, and then begin to prep your surface. In order for the tile to sit evenly and adhere properly, your subfloor must be perfectly even, free of damage, and clean, smooth and dry. You’ll also need to take out any molding or trimming, as well as any appliances that will be in your way. Also, check your doorjambs to ensure that the tile won’t interfere with the movement of the door. You don’t want to find out too late that your door will drag on the tile, scratching it in the process.

Layout Your Tile

You’ll need a few things for this step, including a yardstick and a chalk line snapping device. Determine where the center point in the room is located and snap several chalk lines leading from the center out to each of the walls. Make sure that those lines are straight because you’ll be using them to align your tile. You don’t want to have a crooked floor! If the room is fairly large, arrange it into two foot by three-foot sections with the chalk lines. These will make it much easier to manage. Once the chalk lines are in place, start laying out tile along them, beginning at the center and radiating out towards the walls.

Image Source

Apply Adhesive

Generally, you want only to apply 30 minutes worth of adhesive. However many tiles you can lay in 30 minutes, use that much adhesive. Otherwise, you’ll end up with lumpy adhesive in the areas where you had to go back over the subfloor. It is okay if you can only lay a few tiles in 30 minutes. There’s no rush. Apply the adhesive to the floor in thin, even coats, and then press the tiles into it, following your grid pattern and chalk lines. Continue until your floor is covered, and cut the tiles as necessary as you go along.

It’s Time for Grout

Once your tile adhesive fully dries, it’s time to grout. The grout should be applied with a trowel in between the tiles. Use a cloth to wipe away any excess grout that ends up on the tiles. Leaving any of these marks behind will make your flooring look like an amateur did it. Even though one did, you still want it to look as professional as possible. Give the grout plenty of time to dry, and then you’re done!

If you have any questions about the tile installation process, click here to get some advice from the experts: tile floor installation Dallas.

Without the right equipment and proper assembly, drumming can suck for both the drummer and their audience. Whether you’re in the practice room, the recording studio or in a live performance, having the right tools and equipment in your arsenal will make your practice, recording or performance a great deal of fun. However, having the basic hardware with a kit, a set of cymbals, some drumsticks, and some hearing protection may not be enough for a great experience, especially for the novice and nearly seasoned pro.

As we advance in technology, a lot of resourceful drumming accessories have been produced over the past few years. Some of these accessories have become huge trends in the world of drumming today and professional drummers can no longer approach their performances and practice sessions without them.

Read more about these new trends below on the 4 innovative drum accessories drummers must have.

1. A double bass drum pedal

As you may have noted from the best drumming review sites such as Begin Your Drumming, most modern high-quality drum kits come with this accessory included in the package. Especially for drummers who are more into heavy music, a double bass pedal is an accessory that shouldn’t miss in your arsenal, especially when going for a live performance. The double bass pedal eliminates the need to have two bass drums in your kit setup.

It allows you to hit the bass drum from either foot, thus allowing you to add power to your music without straining too much. It also allows you to play rudiments that can hardly be achieved when using a single pedal. Nonetheless, double bass pedals come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and qualities depending on the brand and manufacturer. Additionally, not all double bass pedals may be compatible with your current drum kit or bass drum.

2. Drummer metronome

Any intermediate or professional drummer, especially for those who play in a band will tell you just how important timing is in the art of drumming. A metronome is a device that allows you to stay up to speed. In layman terms, you can also refer to it as a timekeeper for drummers. A metronome allows you to stay on time not only during performances but also when practicing to perfect your drumming skills. The device plays a click track at a certain BPM or tempo (preset by the drummer), which helps you to keep pace and not go off-beat. Metronomes come in a wide variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, meaning that it is highly important to conduct research on some of the best drumming metronomes before investing in one.

3. Drummer headphones

Drumming headphones are another highly resourceful accessory in the art. They allow you to hear yourself play the drums as you protect your ears from the loudness. They come in a wide variety of options, including in-ear and full-size headphones, as well as earbuds. Some of them come with highly advanced features such as noise cancelling, impedance, comfortable fit, and high-quality sound.

4. Bass drum microphone

Yes, you can actually use a microphone when drumming without moving your lips. A drumming bass mic can come in handy when you need to amplify your bass drum sound for more thickness and texture.

With a double bass pedal, a drum mic, a metronome, and a quality set of drumming headphones added to your drumming arsenal, there’s literally nothing stopping you from making great music or practicing to do so. Other seemingly resourceful accessories to consider include drum bags, stick holders, cymbal locks, and drum rags.

AFL is one of Australia’s most loved and celebrated sports and it is happening very soon – if you and your buddies or special someone are looking forward to it as well, then you should book a room near the area in advance. DriveNow made a list of accommodations for AFL finals so you can easily secure the best seats while at the same time still have the chance to stroll the beautiful Melbourne before the grand finals.

Here are some awesome things to do in Melbourne as you look forward to AFL Grand Finals.

Federation Square

Just opened in 2002 and located in the centre of Melbourne, the Federation Square is an awesome place to meet-up as it is in the heart of the city. The square is where you’ll find the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI) as well as the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), both of which are nice location to check out.

The big stage and screen are typically used for big events. Moreover, free Wi-Fi is offered for anyone who needs to go online. It’s a fantastic place to relax in the summer if you don’t enjoy the beach. Particularly since there a few bars and cafes close by!

Royal Botanic Gardens

While the place is not as famous as the Botanic Gardens in Adelaide, this version is still great place to check out! You can find a wide variety of flora and fauna here spanning 363 hectares or 897 acres!

The Botanic Gardens is a nice place to go and explore if you’re looking to get close to nature inside the city. There’s lots of space for relaxation and it rarely feels too crowded.

Old Melbourne Gaol

One of the famed and intriguing places in Melbourne, the Old Melbourne Gaol is seriously worth your visit if you love history. As its name suggests, the place was once a jail that’s now converted into a museum. It shows a lot about the early history of both Victoria and Melbourne.

One good reason to check out the gaol is because the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly was hung for murder here back in 1880. Kelly become a cult figure in recent years as well, and this is the best place to know about his past! It’s surely one of the top things to see in Melbourne!

Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

The MCG, or the G, as the locals refer is the biggest stadium in Australia and a haven for cricket fans. It is home to the National Sporting Museum. Even if you’re not much of a sports fan, it’s recommended to visit MCG.

It is an impressive stadium that can accommodate over a 100,000 people and is impressive when it’s full. If you have the time, don’t forget to check out an Aussie Rules or cricket match to experience this first-hand!

The Grand Finals

The AFL grand final stays in Victoria until 2057, so if you’re looking to catch the action year after year, then you need to have a solid grasp of where you should go for accommodation. DriveNow made a list of accommodations for AFL finals for your consideration. To make the most out of your stay, be sure to also book a car in advance to get places faster.

What are you waiting for? Time to invite your buddies or special someone and start creating your AFL Grand Finals itinerary!

LED lights have become extremely popular in the recent years. Grow lights consist of artificial light that is designed in a unique way to support plant photosynthesis. It’s normally used by farmers to grow a variety of crops because they offer a light spectrum just like the sun. LED lights usually provide much needed energy and heat to crops. However, if not taken care of, grow lights could get damaged and lose their value. That’s why it is crucial to offer proper care and maintenance of your LED grow lights to ensure they continue offering proper service to your crops.

If you’re wondering how to grow crops using grow lights, check out ledgrowlightshq.com to get a wide assortment of insightful information about this issue. Remember to keep the appropriate distance between your plants and the grow lights to ensure they thrive.

Here are three ways to take care of your LED grow lights:

• Clean the glass properly

A dirty glass will prevent light from penetrating and reaching your plants. Therefore, it would be a great idea to clean the glass regularly. It’s easy to forget about the dust and moisture that normally accumulates within the grow light. Ensure you clean the grow lights at least once every two months with an appropriate cleaner. This will guarantee that you get maximum light from the LED. Before you begin cleaning, unplug the light and use a soft cloth to remove dust and particles that might cause the glass to be scratched.

• Ensure the fans are dusted

Grow light fans usually collect a lot of fibers, dust and particles when operating to cool the lights. These little particles should be removed using an efficient air spray duster similar to that used for electronics. Avoid disassembling the grow light when dusting the internal fan. After all, assembling it back together might prove to be a complicated affair. If you can’t clean the fan by yourself, it’s best to contact a professional to do this for you. Therefore, ensure your fans are dusted as often as possible.

• Keep the grow lights away from water

Grow lights contain circuits that could short circuit when they come into contact with water. Therefore, it’s best to avoid water when operating them. In addition, it’s a terrible idea to place these lights in places that are filled with moisture. Power stabilizers help to reduce maintenance costs because they offer precise heat that enables your plants to grow. These stabilizers usually regulate voltage and wattage, thus reducing energy consumption and protecting your grow lights from damage that could result from power surges. Therefore, always ensure that your grow lights are kept far away from moisture.

A clean grow light will work very efficiently to ensure your crops grow well. Therefore, cleaning the glass regularly will ensure you don’t have to worry about stunted crop growth. Dusting your fans will keep your grow lights cool and functioning properly. Keep the LED light away from moisture.

Alcohol and drug abuse remain a source of concern in the United States and the world at large. The American economy loses over $740 billion annually to alcohol and drug abuse. With an aim to control the drugs situation, the government and employers have come together to help fight the scourge by encouraging people to partake in drug testing.

Below are essential things you should know about drug testing.

1. Various methods of testing for drugs

There are multiple methods of drug testing including blood, saliva, hair, sweat and urine tests. Urine test ranks as the most common of the tests mentioned above, thanks to its convenience, effectiveness, and speed in giving results.

2. Drug testing calculators

Most of us feel dread at the mention of a drug test. A failed drugs test may taint your reputation permanently or lead to the loss of your job. To help you get by with the anxiety of an impending drug test, you may employ a drug test calculator to know your status.

The calculator is a quiz-based application that requires you key in information concerning your drug or alcohol use. Among the questions you must answer include; the last time you used a drug and frequency.

Upon answering all the questions, the calculator determines your chances of passing or failing a drug test beforehand.

3. Purpose

We undergo drug tests for various reasons including; a requisite to join school, random requirement for professional athletes, commercial driving among other careers. Anyone suspected of causing a severe or fatal accident while on the job is also likely to undergo a drug test. Some employers conduct random or scheduled drug tests to ascertain their personnel remains drug-free.

4. The period for outcomes varies with the type of test

Upon undergoing a test, you may receive results immediately, within a few hours or after a few days, hinging on the drug you’re being tested on and the method employed. For instance, workplace negative drug test results take 24 hours to obtain results. However, positive results take longer – a few days or a week – as further tests are done to ascertain accuracy.

5. Tests aren’t 100% accurate

It’s possible to obtain false drug test results – although it seldom happens. Inaccuracies mostly occur during the initial screening; however, confirmatory testing follows.

It does happen that people who abused drugs to test negative depending on; the drug in question, the frequency of drug use, quantity, and age, health, weight, metabolism, among other factors.

Over-the-counter or prescription medications are widely reported to give false positive drug test results owing to their cross-reactivity with other substances. We, therefore, recommend that you mention the use of OTC drugs before a drugs test.

The above five points rank as the most important things we deem a must-know for anyone keen on undergoing a drugs examination. Supposing you hold fears of failing a test whose results may taint your name, consider employing a drug test calculator to determine the possible outcome.

Photo by Chris Liverani on Unsplash

August was a stellar month for online casinos in New Jersey. In total, regulated online casinos in the state generated $25.89 million in gross revenue, which was a jump of more than $3 million compared to July. In comparison, real life casino, Bally’s in Atlantic City was in negative territory during August after falling 10.7% to $18.7 million. Therefore, with online casinos accessible on phones, at work and even on vacation, can they ever live up to the real thing?

The mindset of a gambler

The psychology of gambling has been studied for many years, with many researchers concluding that most gamblers are driven by the prospect of a life-changing win. While, economists cite profit as the leading reason why gamblers head to the casino, Griffiths & Delfabbro’s study revealed that showing off following a win or making a successful bluff also plays a factor in gambling activity. Of course, this is easier when surrounded by other gamblers in a casino, however, greater satisfaction may be received with loved ones at home. However, it’s the brain’s response to gambling that plays a key role in why gamblers take the actions that they do. When something good happens, such as a win, the brain sends pleasure signals via neurotransmitter chemicals around the body which puts gamblers on a high and thus persuades them to invest more time and money.

Offers convenience & flexibility

The online gambling market has grown steadily since 2009, according to Statista. By 2020, the market is expected to be worth $59.79 billion. Having interviewed a number of online gamblers, Psychology Today states that most cite convenience as a leading reason as to why they choose an electronic casino over one made of bricks and mortar. The flexibility that comes with online casinos benefit players, however, it can have consequences for the casino owner. The distractions of everyday life mean that gamblers aren’t always fully committed to the game, meaning they’re more likely to jump ship when winnings are slow, thus revenue is impacted. But, gamblers gain as there’s greater opportunity to save their cash and walk away.

Feeling the atmosphere

Despite online gamblers stating that online casinos offer greater value for money, a larger variety of games and anonymity, more than one-third of Americans visit casinos each year, according to the AGA. There’s no denying that the atmosphere in a land casino is one that can’t be replicated on an online casino. Professor Karen Finlay, who has studied the psychology of gamblers since 2004 states that casinos work hard to create an environment which encourages individuals to “stay and play”. Her research has revealed that relaxing and opulence surroundings can keep even those who don’t usually gamble to stay. Meanwhile, she states that “Gamblers report feeling like the space is a ‘refuge’ and their stress levels are reduced,” which can only benefit the emotional wellbeing of those who gamble.

The number of land based casinos have dwindled in recent years, largely due to the rise in online casinos. Online casinos come packed with various benefits including being more convenient and offering flexibility to individuals. However, the atmosphere that physical casinos offer may provide an all round better sense of achievement.

Games that are played on computers are very popular. These games are produced and introduced on a daily basis. Once you have the game of your choice, work on your skills so that you can enjoy playing the game.

The below guidelines of I want cheats website can help you to improve your gaming skills at the end of the day.

1. Be familiar with the controls that come with the video game

When you are playing these games, it may be prudent to understand as well as familiarize yourself with the controls. Know the functions of every key so that you can be a professional. It may be necessary to carry out an investigation before you start playing the game.

• Investigate the controls – The controllers of every game function differently. It will be prudent to know how each of them work so that you can be good to go.
• Change the settings of your game – You can adjust the sensitivity and brightness of your game through the settings. If you want to change the sound levels, going to the settings will be your way out.

2. Observe how other individuals play the game

You will not master how the game plays if you just dive into it. Consider guides online, who can give you directories you require to become a good player. Also, if you have friends, who are good at it, then you may consider observing them to get the insight as well as tips.

3. Keep on practicing the game

If you can practice the game often, then you will be able to perfect your skills. Taking more than a week before you play the game may rust out your skills. When practicing the games, make sure you consider the following.

• Start with the single player approach – In case the game you have installed in your computer lacks the multiplayer options, then worry not. Starting with the single player is always the best way to improve your skills. Practice with the computer’s enemies before you move to other modes.
• Play with the other individuals online – Once you gain the confidence of playing your game, ensure you find other people, who you may play online. This will help you to determine if your skills have improved or not. With time, you will master all the moves and tricks that will make you the expert.

4. Always be calm when playing the game

People believe that games are perfect stress relievers, but it is important to note that it may not be a good idea to play when you are stressed out, especially when you are aiming at becoming a professional. If you choose to play the game with stress, you may end up being disappointed. You may also have low self-esteem and have negative feelings at the end of the day. Take a break and save the energy for another day.

People play games so that they may have a good experience of their lifetime. Putting that aside, if you decide to take part in the game, ensure you aim at improving your skills. If you make mistakes, take them positive and come up with a way of improving them. As long as you consider these tips, you will surely succeed.